LODGE WORK IN THE EARLY FUTURE. ...









    LODGE WORK IN THE EARLY FUTURE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    E have been preoccupied in recent issues, in this column, with the bearing and effect of world events


    on the situation of the Craft in general. The time is now approaching, and indeed has arrived, when it


    is expedient to devote some attention to probable developments in our own territory as we reabsorb our


    returning servicemen back into civilian life. People soon get used to a new situation; and it is not always


    fully realised that while the present war has in many respects followed the pattern of the first world war in its


    effects on the Craft, it has in some directions, superficially perhaps, affected our Lodge practices more than


    was the case a generation ago.


    The war took out of Lodge work, for the time being, many active members and many actual and potential


    officers, thus forcing a measure of improvisation as regards degree working, creating some difficulties in


    providing officers, and perhaps leaving some problems of adjustment for the time when such brethren as had


    to drop out come back and equitably seek for reinstatement on the ladder and opportunities of further


    advancement. So far as wartime vacancies were filled by past masters coming forward to assist, and this was


    possible in many cases, there should be no difficulties on this score; and in other cases 'patience and -a sense


    of justice should suffice to meet reasonable claims. This is not a matter that should be overlooked, as it is


    important that returning brethren should not have any legitimate grounds for feelings of frustration or


    injustice.


    The war also affected both the hours of meeting of many Lodges and the traditional costume in which


    brethren are accustomed to attend. Fire watching and home guard duties (how distant they fortunately seem


    now) meant calls upon many members at short notice and unpredictable times, and generally a cut into


    evening time formerly free. In these circumstances some Lodge meetings were altered to an hour


    intermediate between former business and evening leisure time. The change was perhaps unavoidable, but its


    psychological effects were unsatisfactory, and, indeed, it is remarkable that so little harm was caused by the


    change.


    Most Lodges, if not all, have now resumed their meetings in the evening. There can be no doubt that this


    reversion has been entirely desirable. It is not a good thing that the Lodge meeting should come to be


    regarded as an episode; an interlude, and perhaps a tedious interlude, between business and the subsequent


    evening activity. After all, the average brother is expected to devote only one evening in the month to Lodge


    attendance, and it seems only in harmony with the importance and dignity of the Craft that this should be the


    exclusive purpose of the evening in question, and should be noted and looked forward to as such.


    For very similar reasons, during the war period, the traditional evening dress attire was suspended at Lodge


    meetings, as the inconveniences of any other course, in the case of brethren liable to service calls, was too


    serious to be overlooked. We are sorry to learn that many Lodges are showing some reluctance to return to


    the former custom in respect to Lodge attire. Some have done so, but many have not, and show no intention


    of so doing. This is, we think, a matter for regret. There are sound reasons for the return to evening dress,


    based on restoration of long tradition in this territory.


    When brethren are all similarly attired, that is a visible symbol of masonic equality. It also has the further


    effect of producing a more pleasing aesthetic impression than when the assembly is clothed in motley and


    variegated garments. There appears to be no reason for the refusal to go back to evening dress, except plain


    laziness. It is easier not to dress than to dress, but this should not affect the position now that the need for


    saving time has passed. We sincerely hope that all Lodges will follow the good example of Grand Officers in


    this respect, so that the dignity of our ceremonies can be enhanced by uniformity of clothing as of yore.


    Brethren who remember the last world war will recollect that in some respects masonic history in this


    territory shows signs of repeating itself. During the 1914-1918 war admissions to the Craft slowed down


    somewhat, but Freemasonry was not seriously affected; while as soon as the war was over, the Craft


    experienced a burst of prosperity and expansion. Returned servicemen joined our ranks in large numbers, and


    W




    many new Lodges were chartered, several composed mainly of returned soldiers. For some years the Craft


    expanded its numbers, and its Lodges, at an unprecedented rate.


    There were some brethren who felt a measure of anxiety at the pace set, but subsequent events showed these


    apprehensions to be groundless. The expansion period tapered off, without any ill effects being manifested.


    The new Lodges proved vital, stable and vigorous, notably the service Lodges; and while it may be that some


    of the flood of new members admitted eventually drifted out of active masonic life, there is no evidence that


    this occurred to any abnormal extent. The growth was in the main healthy and permanent, and black sheep


    did not gain admittance to the fold.


    There is no reason, if we are as wise as the brethren of a generation ago, why we should not be able to cope


    with the post-war situation as it is beginning to emerge today. It is important to bear in mind that in no


    circumstances should gratitude to our servicemen allow us to relax the moral standards of admission to the


    Craft. Admission to the Craft cannot be regarded as a routine rehabilitation measure to be applied


    indiscriminately. The Craft is a morally selective organisation, and its future and usefulness depend upon its


    standards being rigidly maintained. It also seems desirable that new Lodges should not be chartered unless


    they are reasonably assured of permanence. This is a matter that can safely be left to the Provincial Grand


    Masters and the Board of General Purposes. What we are contending for, in the main, on this occasion, is the


    maintenance of standards of admission and performance in circumstances in which, perhaps, there might be


    some temptation towards relaxation.


    ———————


    SUPREME GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


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


    presiding.


    The chairman reported the deaths of V.E. Comps. J. McArdle, T. H. R. Boon, P.D.G.Cs., and V.E. Comp. W.


    A. Watt, P.G.Swd.Br., and the members stood in- silence for a few moments in tribute to their memory.


    The action of the Acting-Grand Scribe E. in transferring the sum of £100 from the P.O.S.B. Account to the


    1945 Victory Loan was confirmed.


    Grand Offices, 1946: The sub-committee submitted a suggested scheme of distribution of the Grand Offices


    for the year 1946, and after due deliberation the following scheme was adopted:—Grand Z., Canterbury;


    Depute Grand Z., Hawkes Bay; Grand H., Wellington; Grand J., Ruapehu; Grand Scribe N., Auckland; G.D.


    of C. (6), Nelson and Marlborough, Westland, Southland, North Auckland, Ruapehu, Wellington; Grand


    Chancellor, Hauraki; 1st Grand Sojourner, Otago; 2nd Grand Sojourner, Taranaki; 3rd Grand Sojourner,


    Hauraki; G.Supt. of Works (2), Taranaki, Auckland; G.Sword Bearer (2), Otago, Wellington; G.Std. Bearer


    (2), Auckland, North Auckland; G. Organist, Hawkes Bay; Chairman Supreme Committee, G. Treasurer, G.


    Registrar, and five elective members of S.C., Canterbury.


    H. J. Williams Annuity: After due consideration it was decided to renew the annuity of £21 p.a. to Mrs,


    Oldham for a further period of twelve months.


    It was decided that the next meeting would be held in Dunedin on Wednesday, 3rd October, at 7.15 p.m. and


    no further notice will be given to ex officio members.


    ———————


    FIFTY YEARS OF FREEMASONRY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    R. W. BRO. R. A. GILLESPIE, P.G.W.


    ———


    At the regular meeting of Lodge Rawhiti, No. 66, held on 21st June, opportunity was taken to celebrate 50


    years of service to Freemasonry by R.W. Bro. R. A. Gillespie, who was initiated on 21st June, 1895, the


    occasion being unique in that the celebration took place on the actual date of the completion of his 50th


    anniversary. The meeting was well attended by visiting brethren, also by Masters and brethren from Lodges


    Ruahine, No. 80, Lion, No. 114, and Puketoi, No. 149.


    The following resolution was carried unanimously:


    "That the Lodge convey to R.W. Bro. R. A. Gillespie its heartiest congratulations on the occasion of his


    having attained the 50th anniversary of his entry into Freemasonry, and further that the Lodge places on




    record its highest appreciation of the valuable and unselfish service that he has given to the Craft in general


    and Rawhiti in particular during these many years. The Lodge also conveys to R.W. Bro. R. A. Gillespie its


    sincere wish that T.G.A.O.T.U. will be pleased to spare him for many years to come in order that he may


    further enjoy his happy associations with his brethren and friends."


    The Masters of the visiting Lodges and visiting brethren extended H.G.W. and congratulations to R.W. Bro.


    R. A. Gillespie, all wishing him many more' years of useful service to the Hawkes Bay District and the Craft


    in general.


    At the refectory proceedings the principal toast of the evening, that of R.W. Bro. Gillespie, P.G.W., was


    proposed by V.W. Bro. F. Craven, P.G.D.C., who touched briefly on the R.W. Brother's activities in the


    Craft and Capitular Freemasonry, in which he holds the office of P.G.Z. Bro. Craven had then the pleasure of


    presenting him with an envelope containing a tangible recognition of the happy occasion.


    In responding feelingly to the toast and acknowledging the gift the recipient gave many interesting and


    amusing reminiscences of his Masonic career. Included among the many letters and telegrams received was


    one from the Grand Secretary conveying congratulations and wishes for continued good health and


    happiness on behalf of Grand Lodge, also his personal greetings. Thus concluded a very happy and enjoyable


    evening.


    ———————


    LODGE ARAWHAITI, No. 267, COMES OF AGE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    To celebrate the completion of 21 years of Masonic labour, Lodge Arawhaiti, No. 267, held a special


    anniversary meeting at the Auckland Masonic Temple on 18th July. After the W.M., W. Bro. W. A. Donald,


    had received a number of visiting Lodges, the Provincial Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson,


    P.G.M., and 23 other Grand Lodge Officers were received.


    At the request of the W.M., the Secretary, W. Bro. W. S. Spence, read the following short history:—"This


    Lodge was consecrated by M.W. Bro. Oliver Nicholson on July 31st, 1924, being formed by 35 members of


    the Ara Lodge, No. 1, resident in Remuera, Parnell, and Epsom, and seven other brethren, personal friends of


    the No. 1 members. The Lodge was the second offshoot, from No. 1, Lodge Maungawhao, No. 168, at


    Mount Eden, being the first. The first meeting place was St. Mark's Hall, Remuera Road, and instruction


    meetings were held in a very small Church building at the top of Bassett Road.


    "All the first officers presented the insignia of their respective offices to the Lodge—the Master's collar and


    chain now in use being presented later by V.W. Bro. Vialoux during his term in the chair. Various articles of


    Lodge furniture were presented to Lodge Orakei, No. 270, by its members. The remaining equipment was


    purchased in partnership by the two Lodges, which had started at the same time and met in the same hall.


    Most of the furniture was presented to the Masonic Temple when the two Lodges shifted here in 1930, and is


    now in use in the Corinthian Room.


    "The name, `Arawhaiti,' which means 'the narrow path,' was chosen from a list of Maori names containing


    the word `Ara' selected for the purpose by Bro. Peter Buck.


    "An attempt was made in 1926 to find a suitable site in the near part of Remuera or Epsom, or the upper part


    of Parnell, to build a lodgeroom of our own, but without success.


    "The Lodge can look back upon many notable and happy meetings, of which I refer now to two only. In


    March, 1928, M.W. Bro. Sir Charles Fergusson, then Grand Master, visited us at St. Mark's Hall, and


    thoroughly enjoyed his sojourn with us in the refectory under the hall stage. The brethren felt great pleasure


    in having his company and hearing his extremely interesting and enlightening lecture on the Second Degree.


    In June, 1937, the Lodge acted as host to the Auckland Lodges when the late M.W. Bro. Viscount Galway


    paid an official visit to the city as Grand Master.


    "The Lodge may justly be proud of its efforts on behalf of the Widows', Orphans and Aged Masons' Fund, as


    on several occasions it has raised the largest amount


    per capita of any Lodge in this district, and has also


    had the honour of heading the list for the Dominion.


    "This is the 221st meeting of the Lodge, which has


    grown from its foundation membership of 42 to 110


    members.




    "More incidents in the life of the Lodge, and more figures and details, will be found in the booklet issued this


    evening, which we trust will make interesting reading for our members and guests. It is intended to keep the


    remaining copies for presentation to future members until the supply is exhausted. In 1974, when we


    celebrate our Jubilee, the information now put into permanent form will doubtless be incorporated in a


    history of the fifty years.


    "Reference will probably be made downstairs to the social side of the Lodge's 21 years of life, but I may


    draw your attention now to the fact that some record of that side is included in the printed history.


    "The final item in the booklet is a complete list of the present members with the year of their admission. All


    who are not shown as Founders or Joining members are of course initiates of the Lodge.


    "And finally, brethren, the Lodge is proud to pay tribute to those of its members who have answered the call


    of King and country and rendered service in the time of conflict. A list of brethren who have served is


    included in the history. We rejoice that many have completed their duty and returned to their homes, and we


    look forward to welcoming others back, but we mourn one who has made the supreme sacrifice, Bro. Gilbert


    Rushton."


    M.W. Bro. Nicholson addressed the brethren, and after 11 congratulating the Lodge, in which, as the


    Consecrating 1 Officer and a Founder, he had taken a paternal and fraternal concern, he exhorted the


    brethren to help the community by the practice outside the Lodgeroom of the principles they were taught


    inside.


    The proceedings were interspersed with the singing of appropriate Masonic Odes.


    In the refectory the W.M., in proposing the toast of Grand Lodge, referred to the sorrow felt by all Auckland


    Freemasons in the impending retirement from office of M.W. Bro. Nicholson, and expressed good wishes for


    the years of his retirement. After paying tribute to the work of Grand Lodge Officers generally, W. Bro.


    Donald expressed the pride of the Lodge in numbering so many among its members—although it could not


    lay full claim to them all, as several had served and were serving in other Lodges. He mentioned as members


    holding Grand Rank, M.W. Bro. Nicholson, R.W. Bros. A. G. Graham and Arch. Burns, V.W. Bros. E. R


    Davis, Arch Burns, Jnr., and H. R. A. Vialoux, and W. Bros. J. Cowley, B. C. Chilwell, and E. W. Inder.


    The toast of the Lodge was proposed in felicitous terms by M.W. Bro. Nicholson, and responded to in a


    happy, reminiscent mood by R.W. Bro. Graham. The toast of "Master Masons" was ably proposed by V.W.


    Bro. Vialoux and suitably replied to by Bro. E. R. Porter. The proceedings were terminated by an appropriate


    speech by W. Bro. R. King, P.M., in proposing the toast of "The Visitors," and suitably replied to by W. Bro.


    W. S. Home, W.M. of Lodge Orakei, No. 270.


    Vocal items were given by W. Bro. Frank Sutherland, W.M. of Lodge No. 202, and the Lyric Four.


    The printed history contains photographs of M.W. Bro. Nicholson, and the first W.M., R.W. Bro. A. G.


    Graham, P.D.G.M., and also a group photograph of the first 21 Masters.


    ———————


    CIVIC NIGHT AT LODGE PAPATOETOE, No. 227.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    A most unique and happy occasion was the regular meeting of Lodge Papatoetoe on the 21st June, when one


    hundred visitors were welcomed by the W. Master, W. Bro. W. A. Cairns, amongst whom the following


    were present:—Their Worships the Mayor of Wellington, Bro. Will Appleton; the Mayor of Auckland, Bro.


    J. A. C. Allum; the Mayor of Northcote, Bro. M. Pearn; the Mayor of Ellerslie, W. Bro. H. White; the Mayor


    of Otahuhu, W. Bro. J. Murdoch; the Mayor of Manurewa, W. Bro. W. Barnard. Bro. Appleton, being a


    close personal friend of the Worshipful Master, journeyed North especially to visit Lodge Papatoetoe during


    the Master's term of office, and W. Bro. Cairns invited the other Mayoral brethren along to meet him.


    The degree work was an initiation, which was carried out with great credit to the officers of the Lodge; and


    afterwards a very enjoyable time was spent in the refectory, where a sumptuous repast was prepared for the


    visitors. Bro. O. C. Mason contributed to the musical portion of the programme, and his singing was greatly


    appreciated by the brethren.


    The W. Master, in proposing the toast to the visitors, stressed the necessity of Freemasons to enter into the


    work of civic duties in the future if stability was to prevail, and thereby create a further good impression of


    the members of the Craft in the outside world, and Bro. Appleton in responding also endorsed these


    sentiments.




    The following Lodges were represented by their W. Masters at the gathering: Ara, No. 1; Ara, No. 348, I.C.;


    Selwyn, No. 274; Arawhaiti, No. 267; Wairoa, No. 55; Manukau, No. 24; Ponsonby, No. 708, S.C.; Lodge of


    Harmony, No. 2180, E.G.; and Lodge Orakei and Lodge St. James by Past Masters.


    Proceedings were brought to a close by the Tyler's Toast and Auld Lang Syne, thereby ending a very happy


    and memorable evening.


    ———————


    MASONIC BRETHREN IN WELLINGTON HOSPITALS.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    COMMITTEE REPORT No. 15.


    ———


    Public Hospital.—Victoria Ward: Bro. E. Harris, Lodge Karori, No. 247. Ward 2: Bro. G. Hall, Lodge


    Brooklyn, No. 132; Bro. T. Wells, Lodge Brooklyn, No. 132. Ward 3A: Bro. J. G. Macaw, Lodge Brooklyn,


    No. 132; Bro. C. Hood, Lodge Brooklyn, No. 132. Ward 4: Bro. W. Nix, St. John's Lodge, No. 37; Bro. G.


    A. Clark, Lodge Empire, No. 225; Bro. Rbt. Matheson, Lodge Empire, No. 225. Ward 5: W. Bro. R. E.


    Dovey, Russell Lodge, No. 254. Ward 10: Bro. H. Clelland, Mt. Ida, No. 97 (Naseby); Bro. F. M. Sherwood,


    Hinemoa Lodge, No. 122. Ward 10A: Bro. J. W. Leask, Russell Lodge, No. 254. Ward 22: Bro, F/O James,


    Taia Lodge, No. 229; Bro. S. Clements. Ward 27: W. Bro. A. McLaren, Lodge Leinster, No. 44.


    Private Hospitals.—Bowen Street: W. Bro. J. P. Cottier, Takaka; Bro. P. Harvey, Lodge Mokoia, No. 213;


    W. Bro. E. E. Brooking, Renown Lodge, No. 218. Lewisham: Bro. McWilliam, Southland; Bro. R. Hobbs,


    Lodge Connaught, No. 187. Has been transferred to Belmont Hospital.


    Since our last report the following brethren have been discharged from hospital:—Bro. Pearce and Bro.


    Morrison, Coronation Lodge, No. 127; W. Bro. Geo. King, Lodge St. Andrew, No. 32; Bro. D. Howatson,


    Hataitai Lodge, No. 285; Bro. W. Rowe, Lodge Renown, No. 218; Bro. K. L. Livingston, Lodge Hataitai, No


    285; W. Bro. A. Martin, Lodge Hinemoa, No. 122.


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


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


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


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


    best interests of the Craft.


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


    (To the Editor)


    Dear Sir and Brother,—Having read the June issue of the "Craftsman." I feel that through the courtesy of


    your journal I would like to comment on two statements which appear in the Otago Notes on page 13. The


    first statement is that 14 propositions were put forward at one meeting—surely a record number, and if


    correct must, stand as almost a record for any Lodge. This leads to the second statement that certain Grand


    Lodge officers expressed the hope that more Lodges would be formed as there was such an influx of new


    members. I cannot understand this hope, as, while it is true that any one or more of the various Lodges may


    be busier than others from time to time, to say that they are all busy is not the truth. It must be remembered


    that Grand Lodge officers do not, as a rule, visit Lodges other than at Installations—very seldom at regular


    meetings do we see them, and as I am in the habit of doing a small amount of visiting, I definitely fail to see


    the good in forming more Lodges. The attendance at some meetings, including my own Lodge, would


    convince any Grand Lodge officer on that point. Furthermore, on looking at the Year Book, 1943, I find that


    in the Dunedin district we have 17 Lodges, with a membership of 1788. Surely not such a rosy position as to


    warrant talk of more Lodges. And I would go so far as to say that for every 25 members who attend the


    regular meetings at least 75 do not do so. And I think that it would be a better plan if Grand Lodge limited


    the number of Lodges—and the membership of individual Lodges to no more than a certain number, such as,


    say, 140—and attempted to help each Lodge to build its strength up to this figure. A closer application of


    clauses in the Book of Constitution would ensure this last point being carried out in a better manner than it is


    at present.


    Hoping I have not encroached too much on your space,


    I am, yours fraternally,


    W. SHEPHERD, P.M.




    THE SECOND DEGREE.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By V.W. Bro. Dr. Ross Hepburn, P.M., Grand Lecturer, Secretary and Editor Masters'


    and Pastmasters' Lodge, No. 130.)


    ———


    INTRODUCTORY.


    The Symbolism of the Three Degrees.


    The First Degree represents birth and youth.


    The Second Degree represents manhood and the prime of life.


    The Third Degree represents old age, death and resurrection.


    While symbolically building King Solomon's Temple we are really building character.


    Origin of Masonry.


    Freemasonry did not originate at King Solomon's Temple but in England among the operative Masons of the


    Middle Ages, who built the cathedrals, castles and abbeys for which England is famed.


    In operative times there appear to have been only two Degrees, namely those of Apprentice, and Fellow or


    Master. The original English term was Fellow or Fellow of the Craft, and the present term Fellow-Craft


    seems to have been introduced from Scotland.


    The Symbols of the Three Degrees.


    In going into the symbols of the Three Degrees, I have listed no less than sixty, and there are probably others


    to be found as well. I divided these into four lists:-


    1. 19 symbols common to all the Degrees, though many of them are introduced in the First Degree
    Tracing Board, e.g., Bible and Ashlars.


    2. 15 symbols of the First Degree, e.g., Cable-tow.


    3. 10 symbols of the Second Degree, e.g., Winding Stair.


    4. 16 symbols of the Third Degree, e.g., Coffin. It is thus obvious that it is impossible to deal at length
    with all the symbols of any one Degree in the space of a short paper.


    Brief Outline of Symbolism.


    What I propose to do is to give a brief outline of the general symbolism of Masonry and then proceed to the


    consideration of a few of the symbols of the Second Degree.


    First of all I would observe that Masonry does not dogmatise about its symbols. Every brother is at liberty to


    put his own interpretation on them in accordance with his own views and outlook. Personally I prefer a


    commonsense interpretation which is in accord with the facts of history, rather than one which is fanciful or


    romantic. Most of the fanciful interpretations are modern inventions not justified by the facts.


    The newly raised brother finds much in the Craft that is strange and bewildering. He has come into an


    entirely new world. The Lodge with its peaceful calm, its ritual couched in archaic language, its furnishings


    reminiscent of a builder's workroom, and its teachings veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbol, all


    impress him deeply.


    He asks, "What is it all about?"


    He is the heir to a rich tradition and is given access to something that was not put together in a day. It will


    profit him little if he makes no attempt to enter into his heritage. He must learn something of the History of


    Masonry, of its achievements, its ideals, its principles and its spirit. Receiving the Degrees alone does not


    confer this knowledge; the member must himself strive to make his own the inexhaustible riches of the Craft.


    It is necessary to emphasise the need for proper instruction in the symbolism and meaning of Masonry. An


    army that devoted the whole of its time to enrolling recruits and did not train them when they were enrolled


    would fail in a crisis. So will Masonry fail if the Craft does not teach its candidates the real significance of


    the truths set forth in the ritual and the need for carrying out the principles of tolerance, charity and brotherly


    love in everyday life as well as in the Lodge itself. The individual brother must think these things out for


    himself, but the Craft must provide him with the facilities for so doing.







    Spiritual Building.


    Bro. C. C. Hunt defines Freemasonry as follows:—


    "Freemasonry is an organised society of men symbolically applying the principles of operative Masonry and


    architecture to character (spiritual temple) building."


    He says: "There has always been in man's mind a connection between material and spiritual building."


    Again he says: "No sooner had the necessities of man's physical nature impelled him to provide shelter from


    the inclemency of the weather than the growing needs of his soul caused him to recognise the symbolical


    relation between his physical and spiritual development, and that the principles which govern in the


    construction of material buildings also hold good in the building of his spiritual temple.


    "This fact must be borne in mind if we would understand Masonic symbolism."


    The Importance of the Second Degree.


    We are inclined to neglect the Second Degree and to regard it as unimportant. Yet it contains many important


    truths, and one of the greatest of these is the need for education. Masonic writers all emphasise that Masters


    and brethren alike prefer the First and Third Degrees to the Second. Indeed the Second Degree is often


    treated , with scant respect. The First Degree naturally makes a profound impression on the mind of the


    initiate, while the Third Degree is rightly described as sublime.


    In the Obligation in the. Second Degree the candidate promises to "maintain the principles inculcated in the


    First Degree."


    In the Address at the South East Corner he is told "and as I trust the import of the address in the First Degree


    has not been and never will be effaced from your memory," etc.


    The Second Degree is thus confirmatory of the First—. the candidate confirms his former obligation with the


    knowledge of what the Craft is and stands for instead of entering into his obligation as in the First Degree,


    without that knowledge.


    The Second Degree is educational. The candidate is further instructed in his duty to his God, his neighbours


    and himself. In the Prayer he is specially instructed to be obedient to the Divine precepts.


    In the South East Corner he is instructed to extend his researches into the hidden mysteries of nature and


    science, and the address on the Working Tools is most instructive.


    First and Second Degrees Combined.


    Originally in many Lodges the First and Second Degrees were conferred on the same evening.


    In the Old Dundee Lodge, London, from 1748 to 1809, when they made a Mason they gave him the first two


    Degrees as one ceremony on the same evening as a matter of course. The By-laws of Old Dundee stated that


    when a man wished to be made a Mason, that is to receive merely the First and Second Degree combined, he


    was charged only £2121-. To be raised Master he was charged a further fee of 5/-, showing clearly that it was


    optional whether he took the Third Degree or not.


    In Prichard's Masonry Dissected, 1730, we find the words of both the First and Second Degrees given in the


    First Degree, and the penalties of all three Degrees combined in three other Exposures, namly, The Mason's


    Confession, The Grand Lodge of Tennessee M.S., and Solomon in all His Glory.


    Present Second Degree.


    Prichard's Masonry Dissected, 1730, the first of the so-called Exposures in which the Three Degrees


    appeared, contains a version of the Second Degree very different from our own. The First and Third Degrees,


    on the other hand, as given by Prichard, are very similar to what we have now.


    The Second Degree according to Prichard consists largely of a doggerel rhyme on the letter G.


    Thirty years later the three Degrees are entirely sepaated, each with its own Obligation and word.


    By 1813 the Second Degree had been re-written more in harmony with the other two Degrees. The following


    is an extract from Prichard's version of the Second Degree:


    In the midst of Solomon's Temple there stands a G,


    A letter fair for all to read and see;


    But few there be who understands


    What means the letter G.







    The Operative Fellow.


    In the old days of English Operative Masonry, a Mason was first made an Apprentice by being bonded or


    indentured (probably at the age of twelve to fifteen) to a Master Mason for a period usually of seven years.


    During this period, as a rule, he lived in his Master's house and received no pay except his board, clothing


    and lodging—and, what is most important, he learnt the trade and was trained as a competent stonemason.


    During this period he had many duties, few rights and little freedom. At the end of his apprenticeship he was


    examined in Lodge and usually had to present an essay or masterpiece—a practical piece of work to prove


    his proficiency. If satisfactory he was admitted as a Fellow of the Craft, and was then competent to travel,


    undertake work for employers, and in time to become contractor and an employer of labour himself.


    The Letter G.


    The original signification of the letter G was Geometry. The present meaning is a modern alteration or gloss.


    Geometry was the foundation of operative Masonry, hence we can readily believe that in early times G stood


    for Geometry. Though it is now used to refer to the G.G.O.T.U., the significance is the same, as the letter has


    reference to Him who is the origin of order in the Universe.


    The Winding Stair.


    The Winding Stair is essentially the central feature of the Second Degree. Before considering it further, it is


    convenient to point out at this stage that the story of the Fellow Crafts ascending the Winding Stair, giving


    the Pass Word and Word to the Junior and Senior Wardens and receiving their wages in the Middle Chamber


    is pure legend, and cannot be regarded as historically true. Neither is there any Scriptural or other authority


    for the statement that the Entered Apprentices received their wages in corn, wine and oil, while the Fellow


    Crafts were paid in money.


    Nevertheless the Winding Stair represents a fine piece of symbolism and should therefore be regarded as


    purely symbolic. The legend of the Winding Stair has been described as containing the core and essence of


    the Degree.


    Wherever we may fancy the Middle Chamber in regard to the Temple—whether in the walls of the Temple


    itself or more consistently in the Outer, Court—it is evident that owing to the extraordinary number of


    workmen said to have been employed, it would have been impossible for them to have been sent up the


    Winding Stair. The story is pure legend, but it is also symbolic and conveys an important lesson and should


    be so regarded.


    The Symbolism of the Winding Stair.


    The Winding Stair is typical of human progress and teaches us that as we put our foot on the first step while


    its highest flight is out of sight, so in life when we set forth on our quest, the end of our labours is beyond our


    vision. The pursuit of duty, of knowledge and virtue, is ever an upward striving. It represents the toil and


    labour which study and the acquisition of knowledge entail. As our ancient brethren according to our tradi-


    tions received their wages in the Middle Chamber, so in like manner all honest work and all noble endeavour


    must surely be certain of recognition in the end.


    That for which we strive is hidden from our view till we prove our worthiness to receive it by overcoming


    difficulties and proving masters of ourselves.


    The following definition of the Symbolism of the Winding Stair sums the matter up briefly:


    "It is as a symbol, and a symbol only, that we must study this beautiful legend of the Winding Stair . . . an


    allegory to teach us the ascent of the mind from ignorance, through all the toils of study and the difficulties


    of obtaining knowledge, receiving here a little and there a little, adding something at each step, until, in the


    middle chamber of life—in the final fruition of manhood—the reward is obtained and the purified and


    elevated intellect is invested with the reward, in the direction how to see God and God's truth." (Mackey


    quoted by Inman Masonic Problems and Queries, No. 982, p. 241.)


    The Middle Chamber.


    The Middle Chamber symbolises the goal of life. As we ascend the winding path of life the goal is out of


    sight, in fact we cannot even see what is just round the corner. The Second Degree indicates progress and the


    Winding Stair symbolises ascent to higher things, when we metaphorically enter the Middle Chamber and


    receive our wages with the words "Well done, good and faithful servant."


    The Middle Chamber, too, may be said to symbolise education. Knowledge can only be obtained by


    submitting to a long and painful apprenticeship—the Winding Stair which leads to the Middle Chamber.


    Each man must learn by his own efforts, and knowledge when gained is valuable not for its own sake alone,




    but for what it will enable us to do—to enjoy the beauties of religion, brotherhood, citizenship, science and


    literature.


    Three, Five and Seven Steps.


    According to our traditions the Winding Stair was divided into three flights, respectively of three, five and


    seven steps, symbolising the three who rule a Lodge, the five who hold a Lodge, and the seven who make it


    perfect.


    The three who rule a Lodge are the Master and his two Wardens, the three principal officers.


    The five who hold a Lodge needs some explanation. As far as can be ascertained, it appears to be a reference


    to the fact that under the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of England (now Rule 188) a Lodge cannot hold


    its Charter if the number of subscribing members falls below five. The number required to hold a Charter


    under the Grand Lodge of New Zealand is seven.


    In the Second Degree Lecture the five who hold a Lodge is used as a peg on which to hang a long lecture on


    the Five Orders of Architecture. It is also stated in American and certain Scottish workings to refer to the


    Five Senses, namely, Hearing, Seeing, Feeling, Smelling and Tasting, and each is explained at some length.


    Seven is the number required to form a quorum at a meeting of a Lodge according to recognised


    constitutional practice. It is also stated to refer to the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.


    The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.


    The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences are Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and As-


    tronomy.


    In Freemasonry the Liberal Arts and Sciences symbolise education. In Operative times they were regarded as


    constituting a liberal education, Nowadays we treat them as a symbol for education.


    Geometry.


    We enjoin on our candidates the study of the Liberal Arts and Sciences, especially the study of Geometry,


    which is established as the basis of our art. Geometry is the science which particularly leads to accuracy and


    exactness in everything it deals with. Its application to the Craft may be read as indicating that we are to


    apply the principles set forth in Geometry to our everyday life.


    In the Fourth Section of the Second Lecture, Geometry is defined as follows:—


    Geometry "Treats of the powers and properties of magnitude in general, where length, breadth and thickness


    are separately and collectively considered. By this science the architect is enabled to form his plans, the


    general to arrange his soldiers, the engineer to mark out the ground for encampment, the geographer to give


    us the dimensions of the world, to delineate the extent of the seas, and specify the divisions of empires,


    kingdoms and provinces. By it also the astronomer is enabled to make his observations, calculate and fix the


    duration of time, seasons, years, and circles—in fine, Geometry is the foundation of architecture and the root


    of mathematics."


    This rather antiquated and ponderous definition covers the subject very fully. Most of us have our own idea


    of what Geometry is, and to the majority of the brethren it probably consists of the 47th Proposition of


    Euclid depicted on the Past Master's Jewel, or in practice a triangle made of three pieces of wood,


    respectively three, four and five feet (or a proportion of those lengths) used to prove a right angle between


    the two shorter sides when constructing a concrete foundation or some other structure which requires a right


    angle to be proved.


    Second Degree as Representing Middle Life.


    The Entered Apprentice represents a youth standing at the portals of life, his pathway lighted by the rays of


    the rising sun. The Master Mason represents the man of years already on the farther slope of the hill with the


    setting sun in his eyes. The Fellowcraft is a man in the prime of life—experienced, strong, resourceful, able


    to bear the heat and burden of the day.


    The Fellowcraft represents man in the middle years of life. The man in his middle years carries the responsi-


    bilities. On his shoulders rest the burdens of business and the destinies of the State. He has left the illusions


    of life behind and sees life as it is. Now he must bend his back and bear the load. He understands fully the


    size of the tasks before him and approaches them with the joy of one about to overcome difficulties. The


    business world looks to him for keen judgment and steady guidance. The country needs his aid and advice in


    promoting the moral and spiritual welfare of the people. He is patron of the Arts and Sciences. He is untiring


    in his zeal for religion. There stands the Fellowcraft fit in body and soul and spirit to cope with the realities




    of life. The Fellowcraft is so to equip himself that he will prove adequate to the tasks that will be laid on him.


    He must gain experience, education and wisdom.


    The Globes.


    Some English versions of the Second Tracing Board Lecture refer to two Globes on the top of the Pillars at


    King Solomon's Temple.


    "They were further adorned with two spherical balls, on which were delineated maps of the celestial and


    terrestrial globes, and which point out to us Masonry as being universal."


    This statement is a modern innovation with no historical foundation, The Globes Celestial and Terrestrial are


    considered by Bro. H. L. Haywood (Symbolical Masonry, pages 209 and 214) to have been introduced into


    modern Masonry possibly by William Preston, the author of famous Illustrations of Masonry, who, he


    suggests, desired to turn the Craft into a school and consequently required symbols for Geography and


    Astronomy.


    The V.S.L., 1 Kings 7, Verse 16, refers to Chapiters, but just what they were is not known. They were,


    however, not Globes. The reference to Celestial and Terrestrial Globes is incorrect as, according to Bro. Rev.


    J. T. Laurence in "The Perfect Ashlar," at page 152, the first Terrestrial Globe on record was that made by


    Anaximander of Miletus, about 580 B.C., that is, some four centuries after the building of the Temple.


    Spherical balls are constantly depicted on the top of the pillars and said to represent the Celestial and


    Terrestrial Globes, but they are pure fiction and without the slightest foundation in any part of the sacred


    records. Yet so prevalent are they that we scarcely ever see an illustration of the Pillars without the Globes


    on their summit.


    Another modern fiction is the statement in the English version of the Second Tracing Board Lecture that the


    two Pillars "were formed hollow the better to serve as archives to Masonry, for therein were deposited the


    constitutional rolls." Masonry did not exist at the time of K.S.T. It was established in England in


    comparatively modern times. In any case the idea of depositing rolls inside huge metal pillars which are


    ponderous and difficult to move, is manifestly absurd. The matter is well summed up by Wor. Bro. W. W.


    Covey Crump in Miscellanea Latomorum, Volume 28, at page 62, where he says (after quoting the statement


    regarding constitutional rolls):


    "Whatever may have been meant by these said rolls, the idea of providing accommodation thus for a few


    manuscripts occupying a few cubic inches and weighing a few ounces—either at the bottom of a hole thirty


    feet deep, or in a cavity at the top (more than thirty feet from the ground), rendered yet more inaccessible by


    the superincumbent weight of massive chapiters and chains—is one that could never have been suggested by


    anyone who realised what he was talking about, unless he had his tongue in his cheek at the time."


    Statements about the Pillars such as those quoted from the Second Tracing Board Lecture are merely


    intended to give a spurious air of antiquity to the Craft. Hence these references are omitted in the New


    Zealand Ritual version of the Second TB.


    Education.


    The keynote of the Second Degree is Education. The human being must at last become a man, full-grown


    and equipped to do his share of the world's work, live his life as a. man should, and act as an intelligent


    being. Education bridges the gap between childhood and manhood and enables him to fit himself for the


    responsibilities of life.


    Let us not neglect the Second Degree because it is a short Degree. It has many lessons to teach us.


    —Contributed by the Masters' and Pastmasters' Lodge, No. 130.


    ———————


    REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


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


    ———


    OREGON-1944.


    170 Lodges, 25,982 members, a gain of 1231.


    94th Annual Communication held at Portland, 14th, 15th and 16th June, M.W. Bro. Kenneth M. Robb, G.M.,


    presiding.




    In the course of his address the Grand Master said:—"We have all heard the expression, 'Once a Mason,


    always a Mason,' and I subscribe to that theory. The trouble is that some members who are initiated, passed


    and raised are not really made Masons in spirit, but in name only. They are 'escorted' through the ceremonies


    of the three degrees, but never really pass the 'North-East Corner.'


    "After the influx of candidates into 'our Order following World War No. 1, a great many lost interest and


    dropped out. It was thought by some that we were not careful enough in making our examinations and that


    unworthy men were admitted. I do not agree with that theory. I feel that we did not sufficiently impress


    them, and that they were never really initiated in the true sense of the word."


    The Grand Orator, W. Bro. Raymond B. Walker, de livered an Oration, "Citizens of Tomorrow," in which he


    said: "All our methods for fostering world friendship and understanding failed. In 1936 we held our last


    Olympic Games in Berlin, and planned the next for Tokyo. But it takes something deeper than sports to hold


    the world together, something more than business and trade, than education and science, than art and


    literature and music There must be a spiritual revolution before any other kind will be effective. Only


    brotherhood can hold the world together! Brotherhood is not primarily a problem to be discussed, but a


    feeling to be experienced in the mind and heart—a living, vital fellowship. And there can be no ‘firmer


    foundation,' as the Greek statesman put it to my professor friend, if we leave God out! At the portal of


    Masonry, every man learns that he cannot go forward without faith in God. The world must learn that


    lesson."


    1409 Brethren were raised, 241 admitted, and 416 reinstated, while 148 transferred and demitted, 144 were


    dropped N.P.D., 17 withdrew, and 526 died.


    During the year 24 Fifty-Year Buttons were presented to Masons who were members of Oregon Lodges and


    who had received their Master Mason degree more than fifty years before.


    There were 22 men and 43 women in the Masonic and Eastern Star Home, and 17 on outside maintenance.


    Grants for educational assistance to 53 children amounted to $6193.


    The Constitution was amended to include as entitled to attend the Grand Lodge "The Masters and Wardens


    and Secretaries of its constituent Lodges for the time being or their legally appointed proxies."


    Grand Master: M. W. Bro. Harry D. Proudfoot, Wasco.


    Grand Secretary: R.W. Bro. D. Rufus Cheney, Portland.


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. Charles Whittlesey, Portland.


    Grand Representative at N.Z.: R.W. Bro. Roy P. Furness, P. Prov.G.M., Blenheim.


    ———


    PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND-1944.


    15 Lodges, 1068 members, a gain of 19.


    69th Annual Communication held at Charlottetown. 29th June, M.W. Bro. T. Arthur Dawson, G.M.,


    presiding.


    After the opening, V.W. Bro. Rev. W. A. MacQuarrie, Grand Chaplain, conducted a very impressive service


    of worship.


    The following amendments to the Constitution were carried:—


    "Section 64 (1)—Any brother who has completed thirty-five years' membership with one or more Lodges


    may upon application to his Lodge (being clear on the books) receive an associate membership, without


    further payment of dues; provided always that any period or periods spent on demit shall not count as


    membership.


    "Section 65—Any brother who has completed twenty-five years' membership in one or more Lodges may by


    the payment of the sum of thirty dollars ($30.00) into the funds of his Lodge become a life member. For each


    life member a Lodge shall pay into Grand Lodge the sum of $10.00, which payment shall exempt the Lodge


    from further tax on his behalf; provided always that any period or periods spent on demits shall not count as


    membership."


    Two brethern received Fifty Year Membership Buttons.


    47 were initiated, 4 affiliated, and 5 reinstated, the losses being 21 deaths, 4 demitted and 6 suspended,


    N.P.D.


    Grand Master: M.W. Bro. Waldin H. Darrach, Kensington.


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


    Grand Representative of N.Z.: W. Bro. John C. Matthews, 1 P.G.D., Albertan.


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




    ———


    QUEBEC-1944.


    94 Lodges, 13,893 members, a gain of 319.


    74th Annual Communication held at Montreal, 11th October, M.W. Bro. H. A. Mitchell as G.M. presiding,


    M.W. Bro. William Carswell, G.M., being absent on account of sudden illness.


    R.W. Bro. Rev. C. Ritchie Bell, District Grand Chaplain, delivered an address entitled "Foundations."


    651 were initiated, 73 affiliated and 73 were restored, as against 257 deaths, 145 withdrawals and 76


    suspensions. 50 Year Veterans' Medals were presented to 23 brethren , during the year.


    The Committee on Benevolence and Charity granted $2609 for the assistance of twenty applicants.


    The sum of $2500 was contributed to the Canadian Red Cross Society.


    The Grand Secretary, who celebrated his Diamond Jubilee as a Mason and his Silver Jubilee as Grand Sec-


    retary, presented a very interesting "Seventy-five Years' Historical Review." The Grand Lodge, which started


    in 1869 with a membership of 1379, reached its peak membership of 16,114 in 1930.


    Grand Master:—M.W. Bro. D. G, P. Sanderson, Donnacona.


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


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


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


    ———————


    CLASSES OF WORKMEN AT K.S.T.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    (By B. Chaikin.)


    ———


    It seems surprising that in the description in the Old Testament of the Building operations at King Solomon's


    Temple there should not be, as W. Bro. W. W. Covey-Crump points out, a clear distinction between


    quarryman and stonemason, either in the Authorised or Revised Versions. But building customs and terms


    change; the story of the erection of the Temple was chronicled long after its erection; and the translations of


    these chronicles were made centuries afterwards. It is therefore not surprising that the original distinctions of


    the different classes of workmen in those days should be almost lost. To get as near to the old conditions as


    is today possible, the original Hebrew text must be carefully considered. The following remarks, which are


    based on the original Hebrew text and early Aramaic translations, should help to differentiate more clearly


    the various types of workers engaged in the building of Solomon's Temple, and in its repair in the reign of


    Jehoash.


    1. The khotzeb, plural khotzbim, were but slightly skilled, being the quarrymen, or hewers, in the
    mountains. The root of the word, khotzeb, means to split, hew, or break in pieces with axe or sword—rough


    operations. The translation hewer is apt when applied to these men, but misleading when used with reference


    to the mason who shapes the stone. In I Kings, v. 15, and II Chronicles, ii, 2 and 18, the khotzeb are fully


    described as khotzeb bahar, hewers in the mountain. The marks left by these workmen may be seen today


    in the quarries of Solomon, which are situated under one of the hills on which Jerusalem is built. (A Lodge


    under the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England meets in these quarries.) The hewing was


    apparently done with a pickaxe having a curved cross-piece with a broad edge.


    2. Posel, plural poslim. It is in the translation of this word as hewer, both in the Authorised and Revised
    Versions, that we are misled. The root of the word posel to shape, form, carve, chisel or sculpture, in stone or


    metal, and there are numerous cases where this word is clearly so translated; e.g., Exodus, xx, 4, Leviticus,


    xxvi, 1. The passage in. I Kings, v. 18, "And Solomon's builders and ' Hiram's builders did hew them" should


    be translated "did shape them"--a very skilled operation. The posel also prepared the abnei gazith, loosely


    translated in I Kings, v. 17, as hewed stones, but more exactly in I Chronicles, xxii, 2, as wrought stones.


    Unfortunately, there are no remains of the stones of Solomon's Temple to be seen. If any exist, they are


    either covered by many feet of rubbish or are built over. There are, however, in Phoenicia, a few visible


    remains of the masonry of King Solomon's contemporary, King Hiram. There are also, in Jerusalem, some


    stones of the period of the Temple of Zerubabel, completed in 516 B.C. From a study of both of these, and


    the references in the Old Testament, an idea may be formed of the workmanship of the wrought stones of


    Solomon's Temple.




    The stones of the remains above referred to are of enormous dimensions and weight. They have a margin,


    slightly set back from the main surface of the stone. This margin is termed in Hebrew gebul, or border.


    The mason in Palestine today, who produces similar work, is considered, as the mason of those days


    probably was, a highly skilled craftsman, and to call him a hewer would be degrading. The tools used today


    for such work, viz., the small chisel pick and the mashey, a short-handled hammer with a heavy iron head,


    have traditionally been so used for centuries.


    3. Giblim. We are told, quoting the literal translation from the Hebrew text of I Kings, v. 18, "And
    Solomon's builders and Hiram's builders did shape them, and the giblim. . . . " A renowned grammarian of


    the Old Testament, Rabbi David Kimchi, 1160-1235 A.D., is of opinion that the giblim were the masons who


    squared stones, and relates that they shaped them by firstly incising or drawing a line near the edges, forming


    a border or margin, or gebul, which was squared and to which the rest of the faces was worked. Hence,


    probably, the rendering of Giblim as stonesquarers.


    On the other hand, even a greater authority, Jonathan ben Uziel, who, at the end of the first century B.C.,


    translated into Aramaic the books of the Prophets and the Writings, gives as the Aramaic for Giblim,


    "Argublaija," the meaning of which as used in the Talmud is a master builder who undertakes building


    operations. Who in David's and Solomon's times would undertake building operations? As the local


    population was mainly agricultural and as all the strangers were, we are told in II Chronicles, ii, 17, 18, set to


    work as bearers of burdens, hewers and overseers, the building contractors would obviously be the


    neighbouring Phoenicians, including the Giblites mentioned in Joshua, xiii, 5. The land of the Giblites was in


    the highlands of Phoenicia, between the sites of Tripoli and Beyrut, and between the Lebanon Mountains and


    the Mediterranean Sea. Here are to be seen today the remains of large temples. We know that the


    Phoenicians sent out skilled men to build temples in Babylon. Ezekiel, in xxvii, 9, refers to the wise men of


    Gebal, the seaport town and capital of the land of the Giblites, working as caulkers in Tyre. This implies the


    knowledge of construction, of which caulking was only a branch. They were not sailors, or merchants, as the


    same chapter quotes other Phoenicians for these occupations.


    4. Charash, plural Charashim. An artificer or craftsman generally in stone, wood or metal. This term is
    applied to a smith in Genesis, iv 22, and in I Kings, vii, 14, to an engraver in stone in Exodus xxvii, 11; to an


    engraver generally in Exodus, xxxv, 35; to a craftsman of graven or molten images in Deuteronomy, xxvii,


    15; to craftsmen in wood in II Samuel, v, 11 (translated as carpenters); to craftsmen in stone in the same


    verse, aptly translated as masons; to craftsmen generally in II Chronicles, xxiv, 12 (incorrectly translated as


    carpenters); to such as wrought iron and brass, in the same verse; to craftsmen in wood in II Kings, xii, 11,


    translated as carpenters; and to artificers generally in II Chronicles, xxxiv, 11.


    5. Goder, plural Goderim. He who erects a fence, not necessarily of stone. This term does not appear in
    the description in the Old Testament of the building of Solomon, but occurs in the repairing operations


    mentioned in II Kings, xii, 12, where the term is translated, by inference perhaps, in both the Authorised and


    Revised Versions, as masons. Similarly in II Kings, xxii, 6, the work of erecting stone fences in those days,


    unlike the present, appears to have been one of skill. Rashi (1040-1105 A.D.), in his renowned commentary


    on the Old Testament, remarks that they were builders of walls and the pupils of the bonim.


    6. Boneh, plural Bonim. A builder generally, but, in connection with the Temple, a master builder.
    Jonathan ben Uziel, the authority above referred to, gives as the Aramaic for bonim, adricalim, which


    means architects or master builders.


    7. Nosel Sabal. "That bare burdens." These were unskilled labourers employed in transport and other
    works of drudgery.


    "And Solomon had threescore ten thousand that bare burdens," I Kings, v, 15.


    8. The Menatzeach, plural Menatzechim. Prefects or overseers. In the description of the building of
    Solomon's Temple in II Chronicles, ii, 2 and 18, they were conscripted from the strangers in the land, and


    their duty was to set the bearers of burdens, and the hewers in the mountains, a work.


    They were not craftsmen, and it appears did not supervise the work of the poslim, giblim, charashim, and


    goderim, and one can imagine the incident of certain evilly disposed overseers attempting to obtain, by


    force, the secrets of the Master.


    In the days of King Josiah (circa B.C. 700), however, the overseers are mentioned by name, certain Levites,


    and apparently skilled, as they were over the "bearers of burdens." and were overseers of all that wrought the


    work in any manner of service. (II Chronicles, xxxiv, 12, 13.)


    —"Miscellanea Latomorum."




    ———————


    GRAND COMMANDER'S MESSAGE: "HUMILITY"


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    "Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth."


    ———


    Of the many qualities that constitute man's character, one of the most attractive is humility. There is a charm


    about the man or woman who is skilled in some profession or craft or branch of learning, and yet so conducts


    himself or herself that he or she is content to let the work speak for itself—such as persons who do not


    nauseously and ostentatiously strut their accomplishments with all that vulgar pomposity that has come to be


    known in popular, everyday language as "Hollywood ballyhoo."


    And this has a far wider application than merely the individual conduct of isolated persons. It applies to


    nations as well, and these, of course, are composed of an aggregate of individuals, and thus will be no better


    and no worse than the average thinking and conduct of the individuals making up the aggregate.


    Humility of thought and conduct has a vital bearing at the present time on our international relations. We


    need the confidence and co-operation of other nations while the war is on. It is equally true that we shall


    need their confidence and co-operation in the post-war era if we are to have a warless world of free men.


    True humility in such a matter would call for a readiness to concede the many splendid contributions made to


    this war by all members of the United Nations. No nation has a monopoly on bravery. In all the many


    discussions over lend lease, there are many in our country who forget that this policy is not a one-way street,


    but a two-way thoroughfare and that it also operates in reverse, our Allies aiding us with material and


    services just as we aid them.


    This being true, we are not going to increase friendliness of feeling between us and our wartime colleagues


    by assuming any holier-than-thou attitude. Let us remember the heroism that has been displayed by the


    underground of the conquered countries, nor can we ever forget the services rendered by China and Russia


    and the British. Before we entered the war with our Armed Forces, these nations were facing fearful odds


    and unflinchingly stood up to the mightiest military machine the world had known up to that time.


    These facts should make us all humble of spirit. If America's contribution in material, men and technical


    ability has been great, and its contribution in these fields has been great without a doubt, nevertheless it is


    also true that to the people of the United States of America has been given abundance, and with that


    abundance goes vast responsibility for its rightful use. Likewise must we remember that our Allies have shed


    their blood freely for the preservation of those principles which all civilised peoples cherish. "What doth the


    Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"—"The New


    Age."




    ———————


    OBITUARY.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    W. BRO. GEORGE HUGH HARRIS, P.G.STWD.


    After a lengthy illness extending upwards of two years, during the latter portion of which period he was


    almost completely blind, W. Bro. Harris passed away on 30th June. The late W. Bro. Harris was initiated in


    Lodge Rawhiti in 1913, and was installed as Master in 1920, having worked himself up from the lowest rung


    of the ladder of office, and until illness overtook him continued his active interest in his Lodge, being


    invariably present at its monthly meetings participating in the ceremonial work. W. Bro. Harris took an


    especial interest in Lodges of Rehearsal, and year after year, until unable to do so, he put in a weekly


    appearance and was a tower of strength to succeeding Masters, to many of whom he was Deputy.




    In 1939 W. Bro. Harris was appointed a G. Steward and with characteristic energy accompanied the Prov.


    G.M. to annual meetings throughout the Hawkes Bay district, maintaining his interest in this respect after his


    year of office expired.


    V.E. Comp. Harris was exalted in Rawhiti Chapter, No. 30, in 1915, and was enthroned as First Principal in


    1922, in which year he had a most serious illness which confined him to hospital for some months, and in


    view of his great interest in the Chapter he was asked and consented to continue in office of Z. the following


    year. Comp. Harris took with him into Capitular Freemasonry the zeal and energy he manifested in Craft


    Masonry, and was always ready to deputise for any missing officer in any one of the various ceremonies. He


    was particularly interested in the Side Degrees. V.E. Comp. Harris was appointed G.D.C. in 1941, and in that


    capacity he accompanied the then Grand Superintendent of the Hawkes Bay District, R.E. Comp. C. J.


    Hansard, to each annual convocation of all the Chapters in the District, including Gisborne, No. 36. His


    interest in his Chapter continued almost to the end, even when owing to loss of sight he had perforce to sit


    and listen to ceremonial work which in happier days he was prominently associated with.


    ———


    V.W. BRO. J. S. DUNCAN, P.ASST.PROV.G.M.


    The brethren of North Otago mourn the loss of a beloved brother in the passing to the Grand Lodge Above of


    V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, P.Asst.Prov.G.M. of Otago. By his death the Craft has lost a true and practical


    exponent of its teachings and Lodge of Waitaki, No. 11, one of its cornerstones. During the past three years


    he suffered very indifferent health, yet during the whole of that period he never spared himself in carrying


    out his Masonic duties. He was an exquisite architect, for ever building up castles of fraternal happiness out


    of all the crosses that Fate had caused him to carry. He was one who always saw the silver lining in every


    cloud, one who could poinard his own sorrows and pain in order to share with others in their joys, one who


    could be content and keep up the fight till his life's journey ended.


    Our late brother had been a tower of strength to the Prov.G.M., the latter relying upon Bro. Duncan's leader-


    ship and knowledge of local affairs; and he will be greatly missed for this part of his activities.


    At the service held at the Crematorium, Grand Lodge was well represented, R.W. Bros. J. G. Dykes, H. A.


    Lamb, V.W. Bros. G. Crawford, H. Archbold, C. G. Hedge and H. S. Bingham acting as pall-bearers.


    ———


    W. BRO. A. S. GRESHAM, P.G.B.B.


    The recent sudden death of our W. Brother marks the passing of a prominent citizen and one who has spent


    over a quarter of a century in the activities of the Craft in this district. W. Bro. Gresham was born at Te


    Awamutu 64 years ago. He was educated at the Auckland Grammar School, and after studying dentistry in


    England and America returned in 1907 to practise in Te Kuiti, where he has resided ever since.


    Our late W. brother was a Warden of St. Luke's Church, Te Kuiti, and was connected for many years with


    the Te Kuiti Football Club and Maniapoto Rugby Union. He was also an executive member of the Te Kuiti


    District Winter Show Association.


    A large number of brethren from town and district attended the Lodge of Sorrow held in the Temple of


    Plunket Lodge, No. 163, and the following tribute to .his memory was delivered in the Lodge by His


    Worship the Mayor, Bro. K. W. Low, J.W.:—


    "We are assembled today in a Lodge of Sorrow to pay our last respects to a departed brother whose sudden


    death has cast a gloom upon us all. No longer will we see him in his accustomed place at all our meetings,


    for in his long Masonic career of 25 years and upwards he has never been absent from a single regular


    meeting of this Lodge except on two occasions when he was away on the express business of the Lodge. It is


    pleasant to think that his zeal for Freemasonry and the truly Masonic virtues which were exemplified in his


    life and character met with their due reward in his lifetime. In all our Lodges he has held the highest office;


    he has been W.M. of this Lodge, First Principal of the Royal Arch Chapter, and attained the highest office


    conferred in the 18th Degree in the Rose Croix Chapter, and ever mindful of his faithful service to the Craft,


    Grand Lodge bestowed upon him the high honour of Grand Bible Bearer. To him passion and prejudice were


    strangers and it can truly be said of him that in all his life he steered his course over the seas of passion


    without once quitting the helm of rectitude—the highest ideal to which mankind can attain. In the midst of


    life we are in death, and now he has been summoned to the Grand Lodge above—an house not made with


    hands, eternal in the heavens.


    "We who remain at this solemn hour with the memory of our departed brother about us bow our heads to the


    command of T.G.A.O.T.U.




    "We mourn his loss as a friend, his deep sincerity, his cheerfulness of disposition, his true kindliness of


    character. Words of rashness or of anger never crossed his lips. He has gone to his long home and left not a


    single enemy, not one that would say a word against him, but a memory that is precious to all who knew


    him.


    "Our thoughts go out in heartfelt sympathy to his sorrowing widow and to his son and daughter and all the


    members of his family in their irreparable loss. May the united sympathy of the brethren assembled at this


    hour in the Lodge he loved so well be some solace to their grief."


    A Masonic service at the graveside was conducted by the W.M. of Plunket Lodge assisted by Past Masters.




    ———————


    HAWKES BAY NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The Installation of Bro. W. A. Painter as Worshipful Master of Scinde Lodge, No. 5, was held on 19th June,


    when R.W. Bro. Edgar C. Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., was the Installing Master, assisted by R.W. Bros. J. J.


    Pickett, P.D.G.M., and P. H. Harris, P.G.W., V.W. Bro. E. E. Bott, G.C., W. Bros. A. A. Hastings, Asst.


    G.D.C., T. Rowe. G.S., J. Hobson, P.G.D., A. J. Turville, P.G. Supt. W., A. J. Turville, P.G. Supt. W., G. B.


    Young, P.Asst.G.D.C., P. W. Tombs, P.G.D., P. J. S. George, P.G.Std.B. Despite weather conditions, there


    was a large attendance to pay tribute to the newly-installed Master.


    At the Installation meeting of Ruahine Lodge, No. 80, on 27th June, Bro. L. P. Coker, S.W., was installed


    into the chair of K.S., when the Prov.G.M. performed the ceremony, assisted by present and past officers of


    Grand Lodge. The attendance was very good, there being approximately 100 present. It was pleasing to note


    that Lodge Awatea, No. 258, of Ruapehu District. was represented by its W.M.


    The regular meeting of Lodge Te Mata, No. 298, held on 20th June, was exceptionally well attended, there


    also being present quite a number of visitors who came to witness the ceremony of Initiation. An emergency


    meeting was held on 4th July for the purpose of raising a candidate who was home on furlough and who was


    initiated over two years ago, passed when on final leave, and has now finally taken the third step when on


    furlough.


    Despite very inclement weather, the installation of Bro. T. L. Cater as W.M. of Heretaunga Lodge, No. 73,


    Hastings, was exceptionally well attended, both by brethren of his own Lodge and visitors from most sister


    Lodges in the district. Also present were visitors from Otago and Coromandel. The ceremony was conducted


    by R.W. Bro. Edgar C. Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., assisted by W. Bro. A. A. Hastings, Asst.G.D.C., R.W. Bros.


    J. J. Pickett, P.G.W., and P. H. Harris, P.G.W., V.W. Bro. E. E. Bott, G. Chaplain. W. Bros. Thos. Rowe,


    G.S., E. Commin, J. H. Wilkins, P.G.Ss., J. Gordon. P.A.G.D.C., P. W. Tombs, P.G.D., and P. J. S. George,


    P.G.Std.B. The address to the Master was given by R.W. Bro. R. D. B. Waugh, P.Prov.G.M., and to the


    brethren by R.W. Bro. A. W. Parkinson, P.Prov.G.M., both of whom are members of Lodge Heretaunga. W.


    Bro. Cater, the newly-installed Master, is held in high esteem by the brethren of the district, and with his




    team of young officers for the ensuing year he is assured of a very happy term and we hope a very profitable


    one for his Lodge.


    W. Bro. G. H. Voyce, W.M. of Lodge Abercorn, No. 30, Waipawa, is having a very busy term in the Chair


    of K.S. with a number of candidates coming forward. He has paid a number of official visits, and on a recent


    visit to Lodge Bedford resuscitated an old custom prevailing between Abercorn and Bedford, an annual


    interchange of visits.


    In responding to the toast of the Prov.G.M. and G.L. officers at Heretaunga Installation, R.W. Bro.


    Hurdsfield, Prov.G.M., paid tribute to the loyal and consistent support given him by all Grand Officers in the


    district, present and past, as was evidenced by the presence of 25 that evening.


    W. Bro. Barker, of Lodge Coromandel, No. 17, who was present at that Lodge when our ProvG.M. was


    initiated, passed and raised, was introduced to the brethren by R.W. Bro. Hurdsfield at the Heretaunga


    Installation meeting.


    W. Bro. W. E. Wilson, P.M. of Pharmaceutical (?) Lodge, Belfast, who has resided in Napier for the past


    four years, passed to the Grand Lodge above on 9th June, and was cremated at Hastings on 11th June.


    Although our departed W. Bro. did not take an active part in Freemasonry during his short sojourn in N.Z., it


    was very fitting that a burial service was read by W. Bro. Peters, W.M. of Lodge Napier.


    Bro. Bert Coombe, of Lodge Te Mata, is laid aside in hospital at Christchurch, having gone there on account


    of his daughter's indisposition. The brethren of the district regret to hear of Bro. Coombe's sudden illness and


    extend fraternal greetings and best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery.


    W. Bro. Ken Johnston, P.M. Lodge Haeta, is again back at business and attended the last meeting of


    Heretaunga R.A. Chapter. Ken looks well and says he feels so. The brethren and companions in the district


    are extremely glad of this.


    R.W. Bro. R. D. B. Waugh has been confined to his home for some time. He was sufficiently well to attend


    Heretaunga Installation, and we trust his health will continue to speedily improve.


    The brethren and companions of this district have learned with deep regret of the passing to the Grand Lodge


    above on 30th June of W. Bro. H. G. Harris, P.G.S., and P.G.D.C. of Royal Arch. A Masonic funeral was


    held at Dannevirke on 2nd July. Our late W. Bro. took a very keen and active interest in the Craft and


    Capitular Freemasonry, and his passing is a very distinct loss to our noble order.


    The consecration date of the new Services Lodge in H.B. is not yet fixed, but it is hoped this will take place


    at Hastings during August.


    ———————


    TARANAKI NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The event of the month was the Installation meeting of Lodge Hawera. The attendance was very good, equal,


    indeed, to pre-war days. The Prov.G.M., R.W. Bro. Simmons, was in charge and the work was well and


    impressively rendered. The Address to the W.M. was given by I W. Bro. G. B. Edwards, brother of the W.M.


    The arrangement of the address varied somewhat from that usually given in this district, and this difference


    added interest to it. Lodge Hawera's future is decidedly bright, and W. Bro. J. Edwards has a good team of


    officers to assist him to maintain the high standard which characterises the work of the Lodge. Grand Lodge


    was well represented at the Installation.


    A P.M.'s Jewel was presented to W. Bro. Fraser, R.W. Bro. McAllister, P.D.G.M., making the presentation at


    the request of the Prov.G.M.


    Lodge Moa worked a Third Degree at an emergency meeting held on June 6th. At the regular meeting,


    twelve days later, a candidate was initiated. The attendance was very good and included a number of visitors.


    Lodge Ikaroa worked a Second Degree at the June meeting.


    At the July meeting of Lodge Kaponga, No. 208, the officers for the coming year were elected. The W.M.-


    elect will be installed and the officers invested at the August meeting.


    Several Lodges have found it necessary to hold emergency meetings recently, chiefly on account of soldier


    candidates.


    Mt. Egmont Lodge of M.M.M. of England. No. 648. met on July 7th to install Bro. John Buttimore as Master


    and to invest the officers for the coming year.




    The same evening Mt. Egmont Chapter, No. 670, R.A.M. (Eng.), met for the Installation of Ex. Comp. J.


    Buttimore as Z., Ex. Comp. W. M. Smale as H., and Comp. Charles Swanson as J.


    At the regular meeting of the Egmont R.A. Chapter on 2nd July the degree of Council of Red Cross of


    Babylon was worked. As the degree was worked not many months ago only one candidate presented himself.


    V.E. Comp. H. W. Douglas was in the chair and the meeting proved very interesting.


    ———————


    RUAPEHU NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M., installed Bro. H. B. Swales as W.M. of Ohakea Services Lodge last


    month. The Installation was held in the Masonic Temple, Palmerston North. The Wardens, Bros. W. Moeller


    and J. E. Fraser were invested by W. Bro. C. Hausmann, P.G.D., and the other officers by W. Bro. W. P.


    Henderson, P.A.G.D.C. The addresses were given as follows: To the W.M., by W. Bro. W. A. Hampton; to


    the Wardens by W. Bro. W. Carthew, P.G.D., and to the brethren by W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C.


    The June meeting of Lodge Awatea was well attended, including official visitors from Lodge Otangaki. A


    Second Degree was worked and a very interesting hour was spent in the refectory, where W. Bro. W. P.


    Morris, P.A.G.D.C., delivered a very fine address. The W.M., W. Bro. Ray Jordan, is keeping the officers


    and brethren busy and is being well supported on his official visits to other Lodges.


    Speaking of official visits, nothing gives the Worshipful Master more pleasure than to see his officers


    accompany him on these visits, and apart from being the duty of the officers concerned, it gives pleasure to


    the Lodge visited and gratification to those P.Ms. who never fail to support their W.M.


    The Feilding Lodge Installation was held on 9th July. Bro. W. G. Hooper was installed W.M. by the R.W.


    Prov.G.M. The Wardens, Bros. J. Mennie and F. Mills, were invested by the W.M., and the other officers by


    W. Bro. Cook, I.P.M. R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M., addressed the W.M.. W. Bro. C. Hausmann, P.G.D.,


    addressed the Wardens, and W. Bro. P. W. Morris, P.A.G.D.C., delivered the address to the brethren.


    W. Bro. G. M. Rennie presided over the July meeting of the Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge. After the business


    or the evening, two Second Degrees, the brethren were entertained in the refectory by motion pictures taken


    and produced by V.W. Bro. W. A. Waters, P.G.Lect.


    The Installation meeting of St. Andrew Kilwinning Lodge, Wanganui, was held on 12th July. Bro. W. H.


    Rowe was installed as Master. There was a large attendance of brethren and visitors, including R.W. Bro. J.


    A. Nash, Prov.G.M., and other Grand Lodge officers.


    It is pleasing to notice the progress Rangitikei Lodge is making, and I am sure the W.M., W. Bro. W. A.


    Sutherland, must feel very proud to be associated with such stalwarts as W. Bro. F. Purnell, W. Bro. W. D.


    Carson and W. Bro. C. H. Thorby, P.G.S.


    The attendance at the Installation meeting of Lodge Rongotea was good—so much so that it would have


    been impossible to seat any more brethren in the Temple. Bro. W. A. Churchill was installed as W.M. by


    R.W. Bro. J. A. Nash, Prov.G.M., assisted by W. Bros. C. S. Pees, A.G.D.C., S. H. Snell, P.GC, J. M.


    Croucher, P.G.S., H. Thorburn, P.A.G.D.C., and A. N. Morcom, who acted as Grand Lodge officers, whilst


    the following assisted in the investitures and addresses: W. Bros. C. Hausmann, P.G.D., H. B. Thomson,


    P.G.S., W. P. Morris, P.A.G.D.C., and W. J. Croucher, P.G.S.


    There was an excellent attendance of Companions at the July meeting of the Manawatu Royal Arch Chapter.


    V.Ex. Comp. P. W. Morris, 1st Principal, welcomed the 1st Principal, officers and Companions of


    Horowhenua Chapter, and invited them to conduct the ceremony of acknowledgment. Visitors were also


    present from the Wanganui and Rawhiti Chapters. The Installation meeting will be held on Saturday, 22nd


    September.


    The Installation meeting of Lodge Otangaki takes place at Ashhurst on Wednesday, 22nd August.


    ———————


    SOUTHLAND NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The Installation of Bro. G. F. Griffiths as Master of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, on 16th July attracted a large


    attendance of members and visitors. Grand Lodge was represented by M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, Pro G.M.,


    R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M.. and a good following of Grand officers, past and present. The


    ceremony was conducted by the Prov.G.M., with W. Bro. Jas. Stobo carrying out his official duties as




    Asst.G.D.C. The Address to the Master was given by R.W. Bro. G. J. Yule, P.Prov.G.M.; Wardens were


    invested by R.W. Bro. A. Derbie, P.Prov.G.M., and addressed by R.W. Bro. F. A. Steam, P.D.G.M., and the


    brethren by M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, Pro G.M.


    The nomination of M.W. Bro. E. C. Smith, Pro G.M., to the high office of Grand Master is being made by


    many Lodges and W. Brethren throughout the Otago and Southland Districts.


    W. Bro. R. U. Macaulay, Master, together with several officers and a number of brethren of Lodge Southern


    Cross. No, 9, paid an official visit to Lodge Mokoreta, No. 63, at the July meeting, taking with them a


    candidate to be raised to the Third Degree.


    The "Victory" Concert, to be held by Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, on 9th August, in aid of "Peace


    Memorial" funds, promises to be a big success. An excellent programme has been arranged by Bro. Alfred


    Walmsley.


    Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, has decided to hold a monster "ball" in the refectory of the Forth Street Temple,


    Invercargill, on 27th August on behalf of the Hall Company's "Memorial!" Fund.


    W. Bro. H. E. Moore, P.G.S., was recently admitted to hospital in Invercargill.


    V.W. Bro. C. G. Hedge, Pres. Board of General Purposes, attended the recent Installation of Lodge


    Waihopai, No. 189, and explained a number of the activities of the Craft in connection with brethren


    returning from overseas.


    The annual installation of Principals and investiture of officers of Huiroa Royal Arch Chapter, No. 47


    (Gore), will be held early this month.


    R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., recently called a meeting of Masters and Secretaries of the five


    Invercargill Lodges to consider the question of providing comforts for and visiting sick brethren, sick


    returned soldier members and aged brethren, also brethren from other districts who may fall ill and require


    attention. The scheme was well received and will no doubt receive the full support of the city Lodges. A


    committee of two members from each Lodge will be set up to arrange for a monthly system of visiting. Each


    Lodge will contribute 6d. per member for the first year to finance the scheme. It is hoped to secure a subsidy


    from Grand Lodge to place the scheme on a sound basis.


    The death occurred at Dunedin on 6th July of Ex. Comp. Thomas Belworthy, a honorary member of


    Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3. He was also a member of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9, for a


    long period of years. His work as Tyler of the Invercargill Lodges and caretaker of the old Masonic Hall at


    the corner of Nith and Forth Streets is well remembered by the older brethren of the district by reason of the


    exceptionally high standard established and maintained for many years.


    Bro. A. A. Geddes, an old member of Lodge Victoria, No, 147, recently answered the call to the Grand


    Lodge above. A Lodge of Sorrow was held prior to proceeding to the cemetery.


    V. Ex. Comp. E. McK. Lyon, T.I.M., officers and several brethren of Southern Cross Cryptic Council, No. 3,


    visited Gore on 14th July and opened a council by dispensation and received nine Royal Arch companions


    into the three degrees peculiar to this branch of the Royal Craft. There was an attendance of over 40


    companions. M. Ex. Comp. E. C. Smith, P.G.Z., R. Ex. Comp. G. H. Brown, G.Supt., and a number of Grand


    Council officers attended. The degrees of Royal, Select and Super Excellent Masters were conducted in a


    most impressive manner. V. Ex. Comp. Lyon was assisted by V. Ex. Comps. Perkins, R. P. Boyne, W.


    Marshall, G. McLeod, Ex. Comps. F. Logan, G. G. Webb, L. H. Jones, also R. Ex. Comps. A. Scott, S. C. K.


    Smith, and M. Ex. Comp. E. C. Smith. The trip was carried out in spite of the worst climatic conditions


    experienced for some years. Three cars made the trip from and back to Invercargill through several inches of


    snow and in spite of extreme cold.


    Past Principals of Southern Cross Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, will conduct the ceremony of Holy Royal Arch


    this month. The Passing of the Veils was worked on 18th July by W. Ex. Master F. J. Logan and officers.


    R. Ex. Comp. G. H. Brown, G.Supt., supported by several Grand Chapter officers, visited Wallace Royal


    Arch Chapter, No. 34 (Otautau), last month and witnessed a good working of the Royal Arch degree by V.


    Ex. Comp. J. McLindsay, Z., and his officers.


    W. Bro. G. H. Gibbs, the newly-installed Master of Lodge St. John, No. 94, and his officers have settled


    down to their duties in excellent style. The ceremony of initiation was ably conducted at their July meeting.


    The death of Bro. J. Macdonald, of Lodge Waihopai, No. 189, occurred with tragic suddenness on 7th July.


    A well-attended Lodge of Sorrow was held in the Invercargill Temple, with W. Bro. A. Scott, W.M., in the


    chair. The funeral at Eastern Cemetery was one of the largest seen for many years.




    W. Bro. T. Piercy is acting as Master of Lodge Mataura, No. 174, since the death of W. Bro. J. W. Aitken.


    The Past Masters of this Lodge, with W. Bro. Buchanan in the chair, had charge of the ceremonial work at


    the July meeting.


    Several officers and brethren of Lodges Southern Cross, No. 9, and St. John, No. 94, visited Lodge Fortitude,


    No. 64, taking with them one candidate from each Lodge to be raised to the Third Degree.


    R.W. Bro. J. D. Campbell, Prov.G.M., attended the annual meeting of Lodge Edendale, No. 289, and


    conducted the Installation of Master and investiture of officers. He was assisted by W. Bro. Jas. Stobo,


    Asst.G.D.C., and a number of Grand Officers. There was a good attendance of members and visitors.


    Brethren of Lodge Aparima, No. 77, are looking forward to their Installation meeting on 24th inst.


    The death occurred recently at Oamaru with great suddenness of Bro. D. H. Thomson, at one time Treasurer


    of Lodge Southern Cross, No. 9. Our late brother was well known throughout the Dominion as a successful


    bowler and of recent years as a member of the N.Z. Dominion Bowling Council.


    Officers and a number of brethren of Lodge Waikaka, No. 151, paid a fraternal visit to Lodge Otago, No. 7.


    on 14th July and worked the ceremonial of the evening.


    W. Bro. Peter Bayne. P.G.D., is at present indisposed with serious eye trouble.


    ———————


    OTAGO NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    It is pleasing to report that the baby Lodge of Dunedin. Achilles, No. 310, has very successfully reached its


    first milestone, and from the performance of its members there leaves nothing to regret in the formation of


    this Lodge last year. W. Bro. N. Mclsaac has set a firm standard for his successor, and the members duly


    acknowledged his outstanding work during the year at the last meeting he presided over on 13th August.


    A natural brother of our worthy Grand Registrar (V.W. Bro. Thos. O'Shea), when visiting Achilles Lodge


    recently and apologising for not attending in the accepted Masonic dress, twitted the brethren that this was an


    impossibility as it was Achilles meeting and all of the second-hand shops were out of evening dress suits


    when he made enquiries. Bro. John O'Shea scored one of his best jokes that evening.


    The Installation of Ionic Lodge, No. 191, at Green Island, was one of the highlights of the past month. There


    was an excellent attendance of members and visitors, while V.W. Bro. H. Archbold, Asst.Prov.G.M, (in the


    unavoidable absence of R.W. Bro. Prov.G.M.), was supported by eighteen past and present G.L. officers.


    This district heartily welcomes two natural brothers. V.W. Bro. Wm. Martin, P.G.Lec., and V.W. Bro. Jas. S.


    Martin, P.G.D.C., as permanent residents in Dunedin City. The former hails from Masterton and has recently


    retired to live here, while the latter has recently returned to duty from long and distinguished service


    overseas. These two brethren will be a decided acquisition to G.L. ranks in the city.


    During June Lodge Kurow, No. 164, held two meetings, one being an emergency meeting to raise a brother,


    while at the ordinary monthly meeting a candidate was initiated. At the previous meeting in May. this Lodge


    initiated two candidates, so it has plenty of work in hand. The Master of this Lodge, W. Bro. A. H. Chapman,


    has had the pleasing and unusual experience of initiating, passing and raising his own brother. We trust to


    hear more of this Lodge's activities.


    Lodge Oamaru-Kilwinning, No. 82, at its meeting on 20th June, worked the Second Degree. This Lodge


    notifies a remission of six months' dues to Service brethren, from the date of their discharge from the Forces.


    The circular notice of meeting also gives full particulars of the Masonic Scholarships recently decided upon


    by Grand Lodge on a recommendation of the Board of General Purposes.


    A party of Oamaru brethren recently made a visit to Lodge Ngapara. No. 68, which was delighted to receive


    them. This Lodge is having a very lean time and appreciates any help by visits or other means. Our late la-


    mented brother. V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, had arranged the visit, but found himself unable to take part. He


    insisted however in placing his car at the party's disposal, with a well-known W. Bro. in charge. Lodge


    Ngapara has lost its W. Master, W. Bro. T. R. Lennox, by removal from the district, and the I.P.M., W. Bro.


    G. Russell, is in harness again.


    At the monthly meeting of Lodge Oamaru, No. 260, a lecture on the Second Tracing Board was given, the


    By-laws were read, and a lecture on the duties of the I.P.M. was given by W. Bro. J. H. Main, who brought


    out some interesting facts and information in this rather unusual subject. A "Lewis" candidate was also


    proposed for membership.




    The Lodge of Waitaki. No. 11, passed two candidates at its monthly meeting on 11th July. The Lodge was in


    mourning for the late V.W. Bro. J. S. Duncan, and the Master, W. Bro. G. J. Sceats, paid a high tribute to this


    well-known and loved brother. A minute paying tribute to his valuable service as a Freemason and a citizen


    is to be recorded in the books of the Lodge.


    The Waitaki-Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter, No. 8, at its convocation on 27th June, advanced a brother


    under the guidance of Ex. Comp. F. J. D. Blackgrove, 3rd Principal .J.


    ———————


    CHRISTCHURCH NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Lodge Shirley, No. 263, held its Twenty-first Birthday meeting on 10th July, when there was a very large


    attendance. R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, Prov.G.M., attended officially, accompanied by officers of Provincial


    Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge was represented by R.W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu, Past Deputy Grand Master,


    accompanied by R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson P.Prov.G.M., V.W. Bros. Alan F. Fisher, P.G.T., A. H. C.


    Cavell, P.G.R., Dr. Ross Hepburn, G.Lec., Pryce C. Jones, G.D.C., W. Bro. A. E. Brown, G.P., and a large


    number of Past Grand Officers. The W.M., W. Bro. L. W. Barwell handed the gavel to V.W. Bro. C. H.


    Burson, P.G.D.C., the first Master, to conduct the proceedings of the evening. The roll was called—(a) All


    Foundation members. (b) Members of the Lodge—this being conducted by the Secretary, W. Bro. A. M.


    Mollison. A paper on the History of the Lodge was then read by V.W. Bro. Burson and proved extremely


    interesting. A poem. "Tribute and Dedication," was read by Bro. D. C. Haberfield, of Robert Burns Lodge,


    No. 139, after which R.W. Bro. C. S. Thompson, P.Prov.G.M., presented jewels as follows:—V.W. Bro. C.


    H. Burson. first Master, a bar to his P.M. Jewel; W. Bro. A. M. Mollison, Secretary for 13 years, a


    Secretary's Jewel; Bro. John Hayman, Tyler for 19 years now over 80 years of age), a Tyler's Jewel. These


    brethren briefly returned thanks and gave some interesting reminiscences. A sacred solo was sung by Bro. D.


    McCullough, and the W.M. on behalf of the officers presented a banner to the Lodge, together with a


    photograph of the present officers. A cheque was presented by Bro. J. Lorimer, a Foundation member, on


    behalf of the younger members of the Lodge, towards paying off the mortgage on the Lodge building,


    leaving only a small balance now owing. A very happy evening was spent in the refectory, when the


    following toasts were honoured (in addition to formal ones): (1) R.W. Bro. J. N. Du Feu. Past Deputy G.M.;


    (2) R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones, Prov.G.M.; (3) The Lodge and its Founders, responded to by the Master and V.W.


    Bro. C. H. Burson. Special tribute was paid to the assistance received from the brethren of Concord Lodge at


    the time of the formation of Shirley Lodge and from R.W. Bros. J. N. Du Feu and C. S. Thompson in


    particular.


    At the regular meeting of United Forces Lodge, No. 245, on 11th July, the Master, W. Bro. R. C. Hamilton,


    handed the gavel to W. Bro. Walter Johnston, a P.M. in the Lodge, for the purpose of working the Second


    Degree, assisted by the Pastmasters of the Lodge. A feature of the evening was an official visit by W. Bro. G.


    G. Calvert, Master of the Masters' and Pastmasters' Lodge, No. 130, accompanied by a large attendance of


    officers and brethren. W. Bro. Calvert is a P.M. of No. 245 and took the opportunity of paying an official


    visit to his own Lodge.


    At the regular meeting of Lodge Riccarton on 17th July the Master. W. Bro. C. D. Marks, worked the First


    Degree.


    Robert Burns Lodge, No. 139, had a large attendance of visitors at its regular meeting on July 17th, this


    being the occasion of W. Bro. Don Richardson's last night in the chair.


    At the bi-monthly meeting of the Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge, No. 130, a paper was read by W. Bro.


    George Jobberns (Professor of Geography at Canterbury University College) on "The Ritual and Eighteenth


    Century Society." This paper dealt with the social history of England in the eighteenth century, and showed


    how the influence of the Craft tended towards a more humane outlook and probably assisted in relieving the


    sufferings of the poor through the introduction of the ideas of Charity and Tolerance. There was a large


    attendance, such as is usual nowadays at the Masters' and Pastmasters' Lodge.


    The Installation meeting of Lodge Canterbury Kilwinning, No. 23 (Lyttelton), was held on 19th July, When


    Bro. H. R. Sinclair. S.W., was installed as Master, the ceremony being conducted by R.W. Bro. A. J. Jones.


    Prov.G.M., assisted by officers of Provincial Grand Lodge. There was a large attendance.


    At the Installation meeting of the Royal Canterbury Preceptory of Knights Templar, Bro. Kt. James Carter


    was installed as Eminent Preceptor by the Provincial Prior for New Zealand. V.E. Kt. Major W. G. Wray,




    M.C., of Auckland. A special welcome was given to V.E. Kt. Major Wray, this being his first visit to


    Christchurch for four years.


    Lodge Cashmere, No. 271. Lodge Doric, No. 275, and Lodge Riccarton. No. 276, are due to celebrate their


    21st birthdays during the next six months.


    ———————


    NORTH CANTERBURY NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    Everybody is talking group meetings—and the Great North Group meeting, known better as The


    Waimakariri-Hurunui Eight, are going to have their de luxe V.E. annual meeting and reunion under the


    Charter of Cheviot Lodge and in the Cheviot Lodgeroom.


    Cheviot does a great job and will be ready to receive the many visitors expected on Saturday, 25th August, at


    7 p.m. Everybody note the date, place and time, and come and give our group some encouragement and you


    will not regret it. All Lodges are cordially invited. A light snack will be available on arrival and with a


    "Cheviot welcome" you will be warm "inside and out." The meeting will be full of push and pep, no dull


    moments, and a good education awaits you. Grand Lodge and Prov. Grand Lodge will be in attendance and


    the hall will be heated and well lit. There has been very little snow at Cheviot; roads are in good order.


    The Group Publicity Agent or W. Bro. Fred Childs, Sec. of Cheviot Lodge, can give you any information


    and particulars.


    The Waimak. fans will go up thirty-three strong.


    Southern Cross. Ashley and Tawera are doing well, and the big surprise in the Waimak. Four is a rush of


    candidates for Mairaki. W. Bro. Chambers is excited and delighted and will get good support from the


    various Lodges in the district and elsewhere.


    Kaikoura, Acacia and Cheviot are OK, and Cheviot is full of the Group Meeting. They are experts in


    providing the necessary arrangements, and they also had a great welcome at Cashmere. W. Bro. Minson,


    W.M. of Cashmere, and W. Bro. Crossan, W.M. of Cheviot, exchanged greetings and thanks for such a good


    night.


    Bro. Jordan. S.W. of Amuri Lodge, has had a big operation, but is now back at Hanmer making a good


    recovery.


    A son of W. Bro. and Mrs. Galilee received the decoration D.C.M. on the field for bravery in the Middle


    East, and the Group congratulate the happy couple on having produced such a brave son. Two other sons are


    also in the Army.


    The Hanmer Masonic Association meetings are held in Church Hall every Wednesday night, and soldiers,


    sailors and airmen when in Hanmer are invited, where they can spend an enjoyable evening.


    ———————


    NELSON-MARLBOROUGH NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    We have had a very busy Masonic period throughout our Territory during the past month. Meetings have


    been particularly well attended with an excellent representation of visitors, whilst the number of candidates


    coming forward is really most gratifying, and augurs well for the progress and prosperity of the individual


    Lodges and Chapters. It has been necessary for many Lodges to hold emergency meetings, whilst throughout


    the District there has been a general interchange of official visits.


    R.W. Bro. Girling, in his official capacities of Deputy Grand Master and Deputy G.Z., is obviously untiring


    in his Masonic service, and his numerous official visits to both Lodges and Chapters and his inspiring


    addresses on the occasion of such visits are greatly appreciated.


    R.W. Bro. James Baird, Prov.G.M., remarked on the occasion of his recent official visit to Lodge Motueka,


    when he was accompanied by R.W. Bro. Thomson, P.G.S.W., W. Bro. Craighead, P.Asst.G.D.C., and W.


    Bro. Morley, G.P., that the Deputy G.M. delivered a most interesting address entitled "The Apron" on the


    occasion of his official visit to St. Cuthbert's Lodge the previous month. There were four active G.L. officers


    in attendance, namely, the Deputy G.M., the Prov. G.M., the Asst. Prov. G.M., V.W. Bro. Mogridge, and the


    Asst. G.D.C., W. Bro. Cottier, who is a P.M. of St. Cuthbert's, and who, we regret to advise, has recently


    undergone an operation, from which we trust he will make a rapid and complete recovery.




    W. Bro. Budden, P.G.B.B., the highly esteemed chaplain of Lodge Motueka, who has been in ill-health for


    some time, was delighted to receive a visit from the Deputy G.M., the Prov. G.M. and the Asst. Prov. G.M.,


    who called on their way through to Collingwood, and R.W. Bro. Baird reported to Lodge Motueka that W.


    Bro. Budden was maintaining his usual bright outlook on life and was hoping to resume his Lodge


    attendance in time for the Installation meeting.


    The Motueka meeting was particularly well attended, a candidate being initiated and greetings were


    conveyed by visitors from as far away as Gore and Kapanga, Taranaki. R.W. Bro. Baird apologised for the


    unavoidable absence of the Deputy G.M., who had been detained in Blenheim on his official duties as


    acting-Mayor, following the recent sudden passing of the Mayor of Blenheim. R.W. Bro. Girling has since


    been appointed Mayor of Blenheim, and we congratulate him upon his appointment to this further high


    office.


    The Installation of Frederick Charles Brown as Worshipful Master of Wairau Lodge, No. 42, took place on


    23rd June, V.W. Bro. Mogridge, Asst.Prov.G.M., presiding over an attendance of about 180 brethren. The


    following principal officers were also invested:—W. Bro. F. L. Smith, I.P.M.; W. Bro. S. I. Vercoe, D.M.;


    Bro. F. Faulding, S.W.; and Bro. H. A. J. Sowman, J.W. The D.C. is W. Bro. G. Palk, with W. Bro. T.


    Glover as Asst., and Bro. H. H. C. Neal was invested as Secretary. The Deputy G.M. was in attendance, and


    during his address following the official reception referred, among other subjects, to the impending departure


    of the Grand Master upon completion of his term of office as Governor-General. The following brethren


    assisted:—R.W. Bros. Eckford and Rudd, and W. Bro. Whiteford as G.D.C. The W.Ms. of Lodges Havelock,


    Waitohi, Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity, Nelson and Awatere, accompanied by a large number of their


    brethren, were in attendance. Prior to the ceremony, V.W. Bro. Mogridge, on behalf of three members,


    presented a handsome G.L. Baton, which was placed in charge of W. Bro. Whiteford for the ceremony. The


    high light of the refectory proceedings was the most thoughtful and impressive reply delivered by the W.M.


    in response to the Toast proposed in his honour by W. Bro. Smith, I.P.M. The Lodge was Tyled at 3.30 p.m.


    for formal business, also for the special purpose of making presentations in appreciation of past services to


    two highly-esteemed members of the Lodge, namely R.W. Bro. Lucas, P.G.W., who has served as Lodge


    Secretary for 33 years, and W. Bro. W. R. MacKintosh, P.G.D., who has officiated as Treasurer for 25 years.


    The two highly-respected brethren were presented with fountain-pens and were made honorary members of


    the Lodge.


    The regular meeting of Victory R.A. Chapter, No. 12, was held on 28th June, three Companions being


    acknowledged and Exalted. The following high officers attended officially and were received with


    honours:—R.E. Comp. W. J. Girling, Depute G.Z.; R.E. Comp. E. H. Thomson. Grand Supt.; and R.E.


    Comp. J. S. Spence, Depute G.Supt., S.C. Trafalgar Chapter also attended officially and assisted in the


    ceremony by delivering the various Charges, but unfortunately their First Principal, V.E. Comp. Percy


    Webley, was absent owing to indisposition. The Depute G.Z., whose presence was greatly appreciated,


    delivered a most interesting and instructive address in the refectory, following a "Toast" proposed in his


    honour by the Grand Supt. Victory Chapter proposes to officially visit Marlborough Chapter on 28th July,


    and is looking forward to an official visit to be paid at an early date by the First Grand Principal, M.E. Comp.


    W. Reynolds.


    Lodge Nelson, No. 288, "raised" a F.C. on 20th June, Lodges Waimea and Southern Star being in attendance


    officially. Bro. Washbourn, recently returned from the Middle East, received a warm welcome back to his


    Lodge.


    Waimea Lodge, No. 266, met on 4th July, when two candidates were initiated. The Lodge was in mourning


    for its departed Bro. G. 0. Fair, who passed away on 6th June. The funeral service was attended by a number


    of the brethren and the Masonic Service was delivered by V.W. Bro. F. J. Daynes, P.G.C.


    The Victory Lodge, No. 40, Annual Report for 1944-1945, during which year W. Bro. G. S. Stiles was


    Master, has been issued to members and is a most interesting and informative document. Twelve meetings


    were held during the year, the total attendance being 1166, including 415 P.Ms. This was a record attendance


    of P.Ms., whilst the total attendance has been exceeded only once previously—in 1934. The record of


    Degrees conferred during the year discloses a period of progressive Masonic activity, whilst the special


    social activities of the Lodge have been fully maintained.


    It is with considerable regret that he have to record the "passing" of Mrs. Rudd, wife of R.W. Bro. W. G.


    Rudd, Past Prov.G.M. Mrs. Rudd had undergone surgical treatment, from which she did not finally recover,


    although for a time there seemed every prospect of a successful result. The sympathy of all brethren


    throughout the Territory has been extended to her husband. There was a large representation and many floral


    tributes at the funeral, which took place in Blenheim on 12th July.




    ———————


    WELLINGTON NOTES.


    –⸱––÷––÷––⸱–


    The regular meeting of Lodge Karori, No. 247, on 28th June, was marked by a pleasant ceremony when two


    old and esteemed members of the Lodge, W. Bro. John E. Hunt, P.G.S., and Bro. W. Platt made


    presentations of additions to the furniture of the Lodge. W. Bro. Hunt presented an Honours Board on which


    to record the names of brethren of the Lodge who have served overseas in the present war, and Bro. Platt


    presented a ballot box. The Honours Board, constructed of figured Southland beech, was designed by W.


    Bro. Hunt, and embodies the two grand pillars which flank the board proper. The board has a quiet dignity


    well in keeping with its purpose. The ballot box, made and presented by Bro. Platt, is unique in that it is


    constructed of some forty different species of New Zealand timbers, inlaid in contrasting colours. The sides


    each depict the porchway or entrance, showing the steps, tesselated pavement, pillars and archway. The


    dormer is inlaid with paua shell. The top of the box is a replica of the tesselated pavement, whilst the bottom


    is constructed of forty different pieces of New Zealand timber, each piece neatly inscribed with the Maori


    and pakeha names for that particular timber.


    The regular meeting of Whetu Kairangi, No. 201, was held at Seatoun on Saturday, 14th July, when the


    P.Ms. of the Lodge, with W. Bro. J. Williams in the chair, worked the Third Degree. W. Bro. Tweedie,


    W.M., gave welcome to the Past Masters, who were admitted in a body, and the possible number being


    present-21—a very impressive sight was witnessed as they formed around the pavement in close formation.


    except in one position, where a vacant space was left. In reference to this, the W. Master made moving


    reference to the passing, since the last meeting, of W. Bro. T. H. R. Boon, P.G.S. M.W. Bro. Geo. Russell


    and R.W. Bro S. M. Stone, Prov.G.M., were in attendance, accompanied by V.W. Bro. McAllister, G.D.C.,


    and ten officers of G.L. The Lodge felt deeply impressed by this fine array of G.L. officers and were duly


    grateful for their interest. W. Bro. Williams, with the officers, without exception, who supported him during


    his year as Master, carried out the work of the Third Degree in an exemplary manner. A pleasing feature of


    the evening was the attendance of a number of P.Ms., who had occupied the chairs of various Lodges at the


    same time as W. Bro. Williams, who suitably thanked them for a very gracious and thoughtful act. Also in


    attendance were the W. Masters of Ruahine Lodge, No. 80; Raukawa Lodge, No. 224; Island Bay Lodge,


    No. 243; Tutanekai Lodge, No. 156; Kaponga Lodge, No. 208, and numerous other visiting brethren. In the


    refectory, the Lodge being in mourning, only the two loyal Masonic toasts and the Tyler's toast were


    honoured, but R.W. Bro. Stone, Pro G.M., gave a very thoughtful eulogy to the late W. Bro. Boon, with


    whom he had been very closely associated throughout both his Masonic and sporting activities. He recalled


    W. Bro. Boon's prowess as a ritualist, and mentioned that the Masonic world, the sporting world, and the


    district in which he lived would be the poorer for his passing. The Lodge mourns the decease of one of its


    most loved members—a great Mason, a great man, and a great friend.


    The Installation meeting of Lodge Otari, No. 190, took place on 10th July, when Bro. John Hellard Christie,


    S.W., was installed as Master by R.W. Bro. J. H. Jerram, P.Prov.G.M. There was an excellent muster of


    brethren from city and suburban Lodges, the accommodation being taxed to capacity. M.W. Bro. G. Russell,


    P.G.M., and R.W. Bro. S. M. Stone, Prov.G.M., were present, accompanied by G.L. Officers—fifteen in all.


    The Master-elect was O. by the retiring Master, W. Bro. W. Walter Tanner. The Wor. Master then invited


    R.W. Bro. Jerram to take the Chair and continue the ceremony, the following brethren assisting:—W. Bros.


    H. L. P. Smith, Lodge N.Z. Pacific. No. 2, G. Bruce, Coronation Lodge, No. 127, and H. G. Flux, Lodge


    Waiwhetu, No. 176, together with R.W. Bro. S. M. Stone, W. Bros. R. B. Magee, P.G.S., L. L. Hills, J.


    Dougal, J. T. Mair, P.G.Supt.W., and J. Cameron. At the conclusion of the ceremonial work, R.W. Bro.


    Stone presented the retiring Master, W. Bro. W. Walter Tanner, with a P.M. Jewel to mark his year of office,


    which, the Prov. G.M. said, had, from his own observation, been well and worthily carried out in


    representing Lodge Otari on all suitable occasions. A very happy hour was spent in the refectory, where the


    usual loyal toasts were honoured. W. Bro. W. A. Veitch proposed the toast of the R.W.Prov.G.M. and G.L.


    Officers, pointing out the progress that had been made in the working of Lodges during the forty-five years


    he had been in the Craft, and attributing this progress in very large measure to the care and attention which


    Prov.G.Ms. and G.L. Officers paid to Lodges in their frequent attendances. R.W. Bro. Stone suitably


    acknowledged the compliment and gave brief insight into the inner duties of G.L. Officers. The retiring


    Master, W. Bro. W. W. Tanner, proposed the toast of the Wor. Master, W. Bro. Christie in reply


    acknowledged the help and support he had received from his predecessors hitherto, and felt sure it would be


    continued.