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ALLEN  COUNTY  PUBLIC  LIBRARY 


3  1833  01817  0503 


JOURNAL    OF    PROCEEDINGS 


OF    THE 


M.  W.  GRAND  LODGE 


Free  and   /Accepted    Masons 


OF   THE 


STATE  OF  NEW  HAMPSHIRE, 


Semiannual  Pommunicatton,  Dec'r  29,  y^  J^.  5868;  and  at  the 
^nnual  Pommunication,  jIune  9  and  to, 


frb 


5869 


ALEXANDER  M.  WINN,  M.  D.,  Manchester,    .    .   .    M.  W.  Grand  Master. 
Hon.  HORACE  CHASE,  Hopkinton. R.  W.  Grand  Secretary. 


i 


MANCHESTER,  N.  H.  : 
PRINTED  BY  CHARLES  F.  LIVINGSTON. 

1869. 


'<2§l^ 


-e^£ 


■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■ 


dK» 


JOURNAL    OF    PROCEEDINGS 


OF    THE 


M.  W.  GRAND  LODGE 


OF  THE  ANCIENT  AND  HONORABLE  FRATERNITY  OF 


j^ree  and    Accepted   M.asons 


STATE  OF  NEW  HAMPSHIRE, 

AT    THE 

jsemi-^nnual  pommunication  held  pec'r  29,^:.  j^.  5868,  and  at 
the  ^Annual.  Pommunication,  jJune  9  and  io, 


n- 


5869, 


ALEXANDER  M.  WINN,  M.  D.,  Manchester,    .    .   .    M.  W.  Grand  Master. 
Hon.  HORACE  CHASE,  HopkintoD, R.  W.  Grand  Secretary. 


MANCHESTER,  N.  H.  : 
PRINTED  BY  CHARLES  F.  LIVINGSTON. 

1869. 


JOURNAL  OF  PROCEEDINGS, 


DECEMBER,    A.  L.   5868. 


The  semi-annual  communication  of  the  M.  TV.  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  ancient  and  honorable  fraternity  of  Free 
and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire, 
was  held  at  Manchester,  on  Tuesday,  the  29th  day  ot 
December,  A.  D.  1868,  A.  L.  5868. 

GRAND     OFFICERS     PRESENT. 

Alexander  M.  Winn,  3f.  W.  Grand  Master. 

John  K.  Holbrook,   R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

N.  W.  Cumner,  R.  W.  Sen.  Grand  Warden. 

William  Barrett,  R.  W.  Jan.  Grand   Warden. 

Daniel  R.  Marshall,  R.  W.  Grand  Treasurer  yro  tern. 

Horace  Chase,  R.   W.  Grand  Secretary. 

Jeremiah  D.  Parker, 

Clinton  W.  Stanley, 

Nathan  Hutchinson, 

George  P.  Cleaves,      J>  R.  W.  Dis.  JDep.  Grand  Masters. 

J.  W.  Dearborn, 

Jesseniah  Kittredge, 

Mark  S.  Aiken, 

(485  ) 


S-    Grand  Chaplains. 

S-     W.  Grand  Deacons. 


486 

Albert  S.  Waite,       } 

A.  M.  Brackett,  >B.  W.  Grand  Lecturers. 

Chas.  M.  Robinson,     ) 

George  S.  Hill, 

John  D.  Patterson 

Edward  Gustine, 

Andrew  Bunton,  pro  tern 

Joseph  W.  Robinson 

Tobias  D.  Foss, 

John  Clement,  \    W.  Grand  Stewards. 

E.  Ayers, 

Jacob  D.  March, 

John  J.  Bell,  W.  Grand  Marshal  pro  tern. 

Ltjther  W.  Nichols,  W.  Grand  Sword  Bearer. 

Oliver  A.  Medbury,  W.  Grand  Pursuivant. 

George  L.  Reed,  W.  Grand  Tyler. 


PAST     GRAND     OFFICERS. 

John  H.  Rowell,  M.  W.  Past  Grand  Master. 

John  S.  Kidder,  R.  W.  Past  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

J.  M.  Hayes, 

Edward  Gustine, 

Ezra  Huntington,     ]  B.  W.  P.  Dis.  Dep.  Grand  Masters. 

Eli  Dodge, 

Rufus  L.  Bartlett, 


There  being  a  constitutional  number  of  Grand  Officers 
and  representatives  of  subordinate  lodges  present,  the  M. 
W.  Grand  Lodge  was  opened  in  ample  form,  W.'.  and 
Kev.  Bro.  Geo.  S.  Hills,  officiating  as  Grand  Chaplain. 

On  motion,  Voted,  That  all  Master  Masons  in  the  city  in 
regular  standing,  be  admitted  to  seats  in  the  Grand  Lodge 
during  its  present  session. 

The  committee  on  credentials  consisting  of  Brothers 
Edward  Parker  and  A.  S.  Ball  ant  yne,  reported    the 


487 

following  officers  and  representatives  of  subordinate 
lodges  and  visiting  brethren  present,  and  entitled  to  seats 
In  the  Grand  Lodge. 


REPRESENTATIVES   OF  SUBORDINATE  LODGES 

St.    John's    Lodge,    JSTo.    1. 
Samuel  S.  Fletcher,    W.  Master: 

Benevolent  Lodge,  JVo.  7. 
William  Lane,  Representative. 

Hiram  Lodge,  JVo.  9. 
B.  F.  Whitcomb,  Senior  Warden, 

Mount  Cube  Lodge,  JSTo.  10. 

S.  C.  Demick,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
Harvey  Stetson,  Junior  Warden. 

King  Soloman's  Lodge,  JSTo.  14, 

Edwin  A.  Jones,  W.  Master. 

Sumner  E.  Philbrick,  Senior   Warden, 

Richard  O.  Messer,  Representative, 

Mount   Vernon  Lodge,  JSTo.  15. 

Albert  S.  Waite,  W.  Master. 
Hiram  Sargent,  Representative. 

Olive  Branch  Lodge,  JSTo.  16. 
Hiram  Clark,  Senior  Warden, 


488 


Sullivan  Lodge,  No.  19. 

John  L.  Shackford,   W.  Master. 
Henry  F.  Hopkins,  Senior    Warden. 
Gilman  B.  Johnson,  Junior    Warden. 
George  E,  Laavrence,  Representative. 


Humane  Lodge,  No.  21. 
Tobias  D.  Foss,  Representative, 

Mount  Moriah,  No.  22. 
Stephen  Fellows,  Representative. 

Cheshire  Lodge,  No,  23, 

Albion  P.  Wood,  W.  Master. 
Mervin  G.  Day,  Senior   Warden, 

Bethel  Lodge,  No.  24, 
Warren  Pratt,  Representative, 

Altemont  Lodge,  No.  26, 

Isaac  F.  Preston,  W.  Master. 
Nathan  U.  Forbusii,  Senior   Warden. 
James  Templeton,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden, 

St.  Peter's  Lodge,  No.  31. 

"Benjamin  T.  Putney,  W.  Master. 

Robert  Lea^iston,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden, 

John  E,  French,  Representative, 


489 

Mount  Lebanon  Lodge,  No.  32. 

George  B.  Lane,  'proxy  for  W.  Master, 
George  E.  Chase,  Senior   Warden. 
Eazen  Copp,  Representative. 

Harmony  Lodge,  No.  38. 

John  F.  Chase,  W.  Master. 
John  Goodale,  Senior   Warden, 

Rising  Sun  Lodge,  No.  39. 

Edward  Parker,  W.  Master. 
Henry  M,  Davis,  Senior  Warden. 
Frank  A.  McKean,  Junior   Warden, 
Nathan  H.  Foster,  Representative, 

Lafayette  Lodge,  No,  41, 

C.  F.  Warren,  W.  Master. 
Wm.  B.  Lane,  Senior   Warden, 

D.  O.  Furnald,  Junior  Warden. 
Jacob  B.  Hartwell,  Representative, 

Social  Friend's  Lodge,  No.  42, 

• 
Charles  S.  Coburn,  W.  Master, 
Elisha  Ayre,  Senior   Warden. 
Leonard  J.  Ttjttle,  Junior   Warden, 

Aurora  Lodge,  No.  43, 

George  L.  Kimball,  W.  Master, 
Daniel  Johnson,  Senior    Warden, 
Gilman  George,  Junior   Warden. 
John  F.  Jones,  Representative, 


490 

St.  Mark's  Lodge,  No.  44. 

William  H.  Brickett,  W.  Master. 
George  W.  Barker,  Senior    Warden. 
Lewis  S.  Morris,  Junior   Warden. 

Pacific  Lodge,  No.  45. 
Augustus  H.  Bixby,  W.  Master. 

Libanus  Lodge,  No.  49. 
Stephen  S.  Chick,  Representative. 

St.  Andrews  Lodge,  No.  56. 

James  W.  Lord,  W.  Master. 
Henry  C.  Walker,  Senior    Warden. 
Joseph  Cheever,  Junior    Warden. 
Joseph  B.  Adams,  Representative. 

Charter  Oak  Lodge,  No.  58. 
Josephus  L.  Drake,  Representative. 

Star  in  tfye  Last  Lodge,  No.  59. 

Charles  G.  Conner,  W.  Master. 

John  J.  Bell,  proxy  for  Senior   Warden , 

Joseph  S,  Parsons,  Junior   Warden, 

Meridian  Lodge,  No.  60, 

Edwin  C.  Stone,  Senior   Warden. 
Frank  H.  Daniell,  Junior    Warden, 
John  C.  Neal,  Representative. 


491 

Washington  Lodge,  No.  61. 

Isaac  W.  Smith,  W.  Master. 
Joseph  Kidder,  Senior    Warden. 
Andrew  Bunton,  Junior   Warden.  « 

James  M.  Vakntjm,  Representative. 

Unity  Lodge,  JSTo.  62. 

Asa  M.  Bkackett,  W.  Master. 

Herbert  F.  Stevens,  'proxy  for  Senior    Warden. 

George  E.  Cotton,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 


Burns'  Lodge,  JSTo.  66. 

Chauncy  H.'  Greene,  W.  Master. 

James  J.  Barrett,  proxy  for  Senior   Warden. 


Mount  Prospect  Lodge,  JSTo.  69.. 
Joseph  S.  Morrison,  W.  Master. 

Horace  Chase  Lodge,  JSfo.  72. 
Gieman  H.  Dimond,  Junior    Warden. 

Ossipee   Valley  Lodge,  JSTo.  74. 
John  C.  Bickeord,  W.  Master. 


Rockingham  Lodge,  JSfo,  76. 

A.  Frank  Patten,  proxy  for  W.  Master 
Rueus  E.  Patten,  Senior    Warden. 
James  T.  Dudley,  Junior   Warden. 
John  H.  Nutting,  Representative, 


492 

Golden  Rule  Lodge,  JVo.  77. 

Edward  Bishop,  Senior   Warden. 
John  H.  Hillman,  Representative. 

Doric  Lodge,  JVo.  78. 
Adam  S.  Ballantyne,  W.  Master. 

Union  Lodge,  JVo.  79. 
Moses  H.  Meeeow,  W.  Master. 

Monadnock  Lodge,  JVo.  80. 

John  Clement,  W.  Master. 
Reuben  Pbatt,  Junior   Warden. 

Kearsarge  Lodge,  JVo.  81. 

Chablton  W.  Woodbuby,  W.  Master. 
Geobge  F.  Sleepeb,  proxy  for  Senior    Warden. 
Joseph  Bakee,  proxy  for  Junior   Warden. 
Geobge  Sleepeb,  Representative . 

Corinthian  Lodge,  JVo.  82. 

Joseph  P.  Roby,  W.  Master. 
Sylvanus  Smith,  Representative. 

Gideon  Lodge,  JVo.  84. 

Samuel  E.  Woodman,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
Joseph  B.  Cubeiee,  Senior   Warden. 

SpicJcet  Lodge,  JVo.  85. 

Geobge  H.  Whitney,  W.  Master. 
James  A.  Teoy,  Senior    Warden. 
Geobge  C.  Goedon,  Junior   Warden. 
■I  \  m  is  Ayee,  Representative, 


493 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  appointed  Brothers  I.  W. 
Smith  and  Samuel  S.  Fletcher,  to  fill  vacancies  in  the 
committee  on  lodges. 

A  petition  for  the  removal  of  Sullivan  Lodge,  No.  19, 
from  Lee  to  Epping  was  presented,  and  referred  to  the 
committee  on  lodges. 

R.-.  W.-.  Bro.  Jesseniah  Kittredge  offered  the  fol- 
lowing resolution,  which  was  unanimously  adopted : 

Resolved,  That  the  Grand  Secretary  be  requested  to 
procure  a  Steel  Plate  engraving  of  his  Photograph  at  the 
expense  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  obtain  printed  impressions 
from  said  Plate,  and  cause  to  be  bound  as  a  frontispiece 
one  copy  in  each  number  of  the  second  volume  of  the 
reprinted  proceedings  now  in  course  of  publication,  and 
that  he  be  authorized  to  draw  upon  the  Grand  Treasurer 
for  a  sum  sufficient  to  cover  the  expense. 

The  Grand  Secretary  presented  the  bill  of  Bro.  C.  F. 
Livingston,  for  printing  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  for  1868,  amounting  to  $592.01.  Bros.  J.  D. 
Parker  and  O.  C.  Fisher,  were  appointed  substitutes  for 
absent  members  of  the  finance  committee. 

The  Grand  Secretary  presented  a  communication  from 
several  brethren  in  Maryland,  cautioning  the  Lodges  in 
this  jurisdiction  against  imposition  of  one  John  Buxton 
a  resident  of  Chester,  whom  they  represent  as  an  unwor- 
thy character. 

The  Grand  Secretary  then  proposed  to  present  sundry 
other  communications  relating  to  suspensions,  expulsions, 
amendment  of  bylaws  and  other  matters,  which  on 
motion  were  postponed  till  the  annual  communication  in 
June  next. 

Called  from  labor  to  refreshment  until  two  o'clock  p.  m, 


494 


AFTERNOON. 

At  two  o'clock  p.  M.  the  Grand  Lodge  reassembled  and 
resumed  labor. 

Proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  were  suspended  for 
the  purpose  of  exemplifying  the  work  on  the  Entered 
Apprentice  Degree,  when  Bro.  Wm.  Barrett,  R.  W. 
Junior  Warden  was  called  to  the  East,  who  proceeded  to 
open  a  Lodge  of  E.  A.  in  behalf  of  Washington  Lodge, 
No.  61, —  the  following  brethren  officiating  as  officers  of 
the  Lodge.  Bros.  N.  W.  Cumner,  as  /Senior  Warden'; 
A.  M.  Winn,  'as  Junior  Warden;  D.  R.  Marshall,  as 
Treasurer;  C.  F.  Livingston,  as  Secretary;  Charles 
M.  Robinson,  as  Senior  Deacon;  Andrew  Bunton,  as 
Junior  Deacon. 

The  Lodge  being  opened,  Mr.  Henry  J.  Young,  a 
candidate  furnished  by  Washington  Lodge,  was  admitted 
and  made  a  Mason  in  due  and  ancient  form. 

While  the  candidate  was  being  prepared,  Bros.  A.  S. 
Waite  and  A.  M.  Brackett  rehearsed  a  part  of  the 
lecture  in  the  first  degree  of  Masonry. 

The  Lodge  was  then  closed  and  the  Grand  Lodge 
resumed  labor. 

The  committee  on  credentials  in  addition  to  the  fore- 
going Grand  Officers,  Past  Grand  Officers  and  Represen- 
tatives of  lodges,  made  the  following  report  of  visiting 
brethren  in  attendance,  and  entitled  to  seats  in  the  Grand 
Lodge,  which  was  accepted. 

Edward  Aiken,  Benevolent,  No.  7 ;  A.  J.  Hall,  Olive 
Branch,  No.  16;  Cornelius  Cooledge,  Harmony,  No.  38; 
N.  M.  Ames,  Rising  Sun,  No.  39 ;  George  Abbott,  Robert 
G.  Annan,  Henky  A.  Bailey,  Charles  Si  Baker,  Nathaniel 


4&5 


Baker,  Daniel  Balch,  A.  A.  Balch,  Rueus  L.  BartleTT-5 
Otis  Barton,  Stephen  J.  Batchelder,  Joseph  E.  Bennett, 
Nathan  B.  Bickford,  Edward  S.  Blanchard,  Benjamin  P. 
Brooks,  J.  Frank  Brown,  John  N.  Bruce,  Lewis  E.  Bryant, 
David  T.  Burleigh,  Henry  A.  Campbell,  William  N. 
Chamberlin,  Albert  B.  Chase,  Joseph  B.  Cilley,  Harry  M. 
Clark,  Jesse  M.  Coburn,  William  W.  Colburn,  George 
Colby,  Henry  Colby,  J.  Langdon  Cox,  Woodbridge  Cressey, 
David  Cross,  Harvey  L.  Currier,  Emil  Custer,  George  W. 
Dodge,  Beuben  Dodge,  Israel  Dow,  Thomas  Dunlap, 
Joseph  T.  Durgin,  Clarence  M.  Edgerly,  Joseph  G. 
Edgerly,  William  G.  Everett,  John  U.  Farnham,  Gideon 
Flanders,  Matthew  Forsaith,  Samuel  C.  Forsaith,  Joseph 
Freschl,  James  D.  Gage,  William  G.  Garmon,  Matthew 
Gault,  Alpheus  Gay,  Horace  M.  Gillis,  John  Gillis, 
Charles  M.  Gordon,  Sylvester  C.  Gould,  James  Harvell, 
William  E.  Hazen,  Robert  Heath,  Isaac  L.  Heath,  William 
J.  Hickok,  Freeman  Higgins,  Bushrod  W.  Hill,  Edwin  H. 
Hobbs,  John  Hosley,  Ezra  Huntington,  John  Irwin,  Lemuel 
H.  James,  Benjamin  C.  Kendall,  Wtilliam  E.  Killey,  George 
C.  Kimball,  John'W.  Lane,  Thomas  W.  Lane,  Thomas  A. 
Lane,  A.  Judson  Lane,  Henry  Lewis,  George  F.  Lord, 
Samuel  C.  Lowell,  John  C.  Lyeord,  Reuben  S.  Marshall, 
Daniel  H.  Maxeield,  Ira  J.  McAlister,  Charles  F.  McCoy, 
John  K.  McQuestion,  David  A.  Messer,  James  Mitchell,  Jr., 
Robert  F.  Moore,  George  F.  Moore,  Thomas  S.  Montgomery, 
George  Morgan,  Bartlett  A.  Morse,  David  Moulton, 
Emerson  Moulton,  Henry  T.  Mowatt,  George  Murdough, 
Samuel  F.  Murry,  John  P.  Newell,  George  W.  Nichols, 
Thomas  R.  Northrup,  Isaac  C.  Noyes,  Charles  Osgood, 
Charles  Osbrey,  Charles  W.  Paige,  William  S.  Palmer, 
William  B.  Patten,  William  R.  Patten,  John  D.  Patterson, 
John  Pattee,  Moses  O.  Pearson,  William  G.  Perry,  Thomas 
Pillsbury,  Charles  P.  Porter,  William  A.  Potter,  John  B. 
Prescott,  James  W.  Preston,  John  D.  Powell,  George  W. 
Quinby,  Isaac  Quint,  John  H.  Rand,  Frank  H.  Redeield, 
Edwin  P.  Richardson,  Frank  T.  E.  Richardson,  George  W. 
Riddle,  William  P.  Riddle,  Oilman  E.  Riddle,  Benjamin 
W.  Robinson,  George  P.  Rockwell,  Henry  W.  Rowe,  Edson 
W.    Sanborn,    Henry     H.    Scribner,   William     Shepherd, 


496 

William  Short,  Gilmam  Stearns,  Henry  F.  Straw,  Joel 
Taylor,  Andrew  J.  Tebbetts,  M.  G.  J.  Tewksbury,  George 
W.  Thayer,  Moses  Wadleigh,  George  W.  Weeks,  John  K. 
Wilson,  Thomas  Wilson,  George  W.  Witham,  Peter  O. 
Woodman,  Lafayette,  No.  41 ;  Alden  S.  Wood,  Horace  B. 
Johnson,  Dayid  S.  Clark,  John  Campbell,  St.  Maries,  No. 
44 ;  E.  W.  Colburn,  B.  F.  Woodbury,  Pacific,  No.  45 ; 
Nath'l  Faxon,  Carroll,  No.  57  ;  R.  M.  Davis,  George  D. 
Stackpole,  Meridian,  No.  60 ;  Fred'k  B.  Balch,  Fred'k  W. 
Batchelder,    Samuel   N.  Bell,  Chas.  G.  Blake,    Alpheus 

BODWELL,  LORING  B.   BoDWELL,  ThOS.   P.   BADGER,  LUTHER    H. 

Brown,  Chas.  Bunton,  Geo.  B.  Chandler,  John  M.  Chand- 
ler, Bradbury  P.  Cilley,  Nath'l  W.  Cumner,  B.  Frank  Cur- 
rier, Joseph  S.  Doolittle,  Fred.  C.  Dow,  Oscar  G.  Farmer, 
Joseph  W.  Fellows,  Ebenezer  Ferren,  John  W.  Forbes, 
Hiram  Forsaith,  Hazen  K.  Fuller,  J.  Frank  Gordon,  Joseph 
A.  Haines,  E.  W.  Harrington,  Natt  Head,  Albe  C.  Heath, 
Frank  D.  Heath,  Edwin  L.  Hill,  William  H.  Hill,  James 
Holmes,  Benjamin  K.  Hoyt,  Horace  Hubbard,  Nathan  P. 
Hunt,  Wilberforce  Ireland,  Albert  Jackson,  Stevens 
James,  Samuel  W.  Jones,  John  S.  Kidder, 'Samuel  B.  Kidder, 
Ezra  Kimball,  J.  W.  D.  Knowlton,  Daniel  W.  Lane, 
Charles  F.  Livingston,  Frederick  S.  Manning,  Granville 
P.  Mason,  John  Mooar,  Thomas  Morgan,  John  T.  Nesmith, 
A.  P.  Olzendam,  Samuel  A.  Ordway,  John  Patterson,  Wil- 
liam H.  Plumer,  J.  Q.  A.  Sargent,  Charles  H.  Scott, 
Frederick  Smith,  John  T.  Spofford,  John  V.  Sullivan, 
Clinton  W.  Stanley,  Daniel  F.  Straw,  Benjamin  M. 
Tillotson,  George  H.  True,  S.  G.  Walker,  F.  H.  Webster, 
A.  H.  Weston?Jas.  A.  Weston,  Wm.  White,  J.  W.  Wilkins, 
D.  H.  Lang,  James  R.  Batchelder,  Washington,  No.  61;  I.  S. 
Young,  A.  P.  Gilman,  S.  Poor,  A.  W.  Brown,  Rockingham, 
No.  76;  William  Dyer,  A.  P.  Shattuck,  Robert  Ford,  E. 
S.  Dickenson,  J.  H.  Emmons,  Union  No.  .79;  O.  P.  Patten, 
Gideon,  No.  84;  Chas.  C.  Talbot,  D.  N.  Ross,  Levi  Clough, 
Spiclcet,  No.  85;  Henry  Seaman,  Waterloo,  No.  105,  Iowa; 
John  G.  Lane,  Peoria,  No.  15,  Illinois;  J.  H.  Thureee, 
Montgomery  Lodge,  Milford,  Mass. ;  N.  B.  Houghton,  Grecian 
Lodge,  and  F.  E.  Wheeler,  Tuscan  Lodge,  Lawrence,  3Iass. ; 
Alden  S.  Wood. 


49? 

The  committee  on  lodges  then  made  the  following 
report  which  was  accepted,  and  a  resolution  presented  by 
said  committee  was  adopted. 

REPORT. 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New 
Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  committee  upon  lodges,  to  whom  was  referred 
the  petition  of  Sullivan  Lodge,  No.  19,  of  Lee,  for  removal  to 
Epping,  having  attended  to  the  duty  assigned  them,  respectfully 
present  the  following  report : 

Your  committee  met  the  officers  and  several  of  the  members  of 
Sullivan  Lodge,  also  several  of  the  members  of  Star  in  the  East 
Lodge  of  Exeter. 

It  appeared  to  your  committee  that  the  petition  is  signed  by 
nineteen  of  the  twenty-six  members  of  Sullivan  Lodge;  that  a 
special  communication  of  said  lodge  was  holden  on  the  26th  of 
November  last,  of  which  every  member  was  duly  notified,  and  at 
which  it  was  unanimously  voted  to  petition  this  M.  W.  Grand 
Lodge  for  leave  to  remove  said  Lodge  from  Lee  to  Epping;  that 
the  consent  of  Rising  Star  Lodge,  No.  47,  of  New  Market,  was 
granted  March  27,  1868,  and  of  Strafford  Lodge,  No.  29,  of 
Dover,  October  29th,  1868,  they  being  the  two  nearest  lodges,  as 
required  by  article  5,  section  3  of  the  constitution  of  this  Most 
Worshipful  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  the  distance  to  which  it  is 
proposed  to  remove  the  lodge  is  three  and  one  half  miles.  The 
petioners  assign  as  reasons  for  the  removal — 

1st.  That  there  is  no  suitable  place  in  Lee  that  can  be  pro- 
cured for  a  lodge,  the  meetings  of  said  lodge  being  held  in  the 
front  chamber  of  a  farm  house. 

2d.  That  but  few  of  the  members  reside  in  Lee,  and  of  those 
who  do  reside  in  Lee  all  but  two  are  too  old  and  infirm  to  attend 
the  meetings  of  the  Lodge. 

3d.  That  most  of  the  members,  and  nearly  all  of  the  working 
members  reside  in  Epping,  and  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the 
place  where  it  is  proposed  to  locate  the  lodge,  if  removed. 

Your  committee  find  all  these  allegations  proved. 

The  lodge  room  at  Lee  is  15  by  16  feet  in  size,  and  is  in  the 
second   story    of  a   dwelling   house.     If  removed  to   Epping  the 


498 

lodge  would  be  accommodated  in  a  hall  20  by  24  feet  which  can 
be  enlarged  to  20  by  30  feet  with  suitable  ante-rooms,  in  a  good 
and  retired  location. 

At  the  last  annual  communication  of  this  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge 
in  June  last,  the  following  vote  was  passed. 

Whereas,  Sullivan  Lodge,  No.  19,  for  the  year  last  past  has 
neglected  to  meet  for  work  and  the  election  of  officers,  or  to  make 
returns  to  this  Grand  Lodge,  therefore 

Resolved,  That  this  Grand  Lodge  declare  the  charter  of  Sullivan 
Lodge,  No.  19,  forfeited,  and  that  said  Lodge  be  stricken  from  the 
roll  of  subordinate  lodges. 

Some  three  months  since  the  charter  of  said  lodge  was  revived 
by  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  since  which  time  this  lodge  has  made 
some  ten  or  twelve  Masons. 

There  was  no  opposition  before  your  committee  from  any  one 
to  the  removal  asked  for.  Some  of  the  members  of  Star  in  the 
East  Lodge  expressed  a  fear  that  there  might  not  be  suitable 
persons  in  Epping  and  vicinity  of  which  to  make  a  nourishing 
lodge,  and  for  the  lack  of  such,  improper  persons  might  possibly 
in  time  be  received  to  the  detriment  of  the  craft. 

Your  committee  however  find  that  if  removed  it  would  embrace 
within  its  jurisdiction  the  towns  of  Epping,  Lee,  Nottingham, 
Fremont,  and  parts  of  Raymond,  Northwood  and  Brentwood,  and 
from  representations  made  to  your  committee  they  entertain  no 
doubt  that  the  lodge  if  removed  to  Epping  would  be  a  nourishing 
lodge,  and  an  ornament  to  the  frateruity  of  lodges. 

This  is  an  ancient  lodge,  having  been  chartered  in  1807,  and 
has  done  much  valuable  service  to  the  craft.  The  time  for.  its 
usefulness  in  Lee,  however,  seems  to  have  culminated  with  the 
death  and  removal  of  many  of  its  former  members.  The  question 
of  its  continuance  seems  to  have  been  put  at  rest  by  the  act  of 
reviving  its  charter,  and  your  committee  are  of  the  opinion  that 
the  usefulness  of  the  lodge  and  of  the  craft  generally,  will  be  pro- 
moted by  granting  the  prayer  of  the  petition;  ani  they  would 
therefore  recommend  the  passage  of  the  accompanying  resolution. 

Isaac  W.  Smith,  }  Committee 

John  C.  Neal,  >  on 

Samuel  S.  Fletcher,  )      Lodges. 
Manchester,  Dec.  29,  1868. 


499 

Resolved,  That  the  prayer  of  the  petition  of  members  of  Sulli- 
van Lodge,  No.  19,  for  removal  from  Lee  to  Epping,  be  granted. 

The  business  of  the  Grand  Lodge  was  suspended  and  a 
Lodge  of  Fellow  Crafts  opened. 

R.-.  W.*.  N.  W.  Cumner  was  called  to  the  East,  who 
opened  a  Lodge  of  Fellow  Crafts  in  due  form,  assisted  by 
the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  acting  as  Senior  Warden,  R.\ 
W.*.  Wm.  Barrett,  Junior  Warden,  Bros.  I.  W.  Smith 
and  Andrew  Bunton,  Deacons. 

Brother  Frank  Newton,  a  candidate  furnished  by 
Washington  Lodge,  was  passed  to  the  degree  of  Fellow 
Craft,  in  due  and  ancient  form. 

The  Lodge  of  Fellow  Crafts  was  then  closed  in  due 
form. 

The  Grand  Lodge  was  then  called  from  labor  to  refresh- 
ment until  seven  o'clock  in  the  evening. 


EVENING. 

At  seven  o'clock  the  Grand  Lodge  reassembled  and 
suspended  business,  and  a  Lodge  of  Master  Masons  was 
opened  in  due  form  by  R.-.  W.-.  John  R.  Holbrook, 
acting  as  W.  Master,  assisted  by  Bros.  N.  W.  Cumner 
in  the  West,  Wm.  Barrett  in  the  South,  Brothers  E. 
Gustine  and  A.  Bunton  acting  as  Deacons. 

Bro.  George  C.  Kimball,  a  candidate  furnished  by 
Lafayette  Lodge,  No.  41,  was  introduced  and  raised  to 
the  sublime  degree  of  Master  Mason  in  due  and  ancient 
form. 

2 


500 

The  Grand  Officers  repaired  to  their  respective  stations 
and  the  Grand  Lodge  resumed  business. 

Bro.  J.  W.  Dearborn  presented  the  following  resolu- 
tion which  was  adopted. 

Resolved,  That  the  chairman  of  the  committee  on 
clothing  and  furniture,  be  authorized  to  draw  an  order  on 
the  Grand  Treasurer  for  the  amount  of  expenses  incurred 
by  them,  by  order  of  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  June 
session. 

The  Committee  on  Finance  reported  in  tavor  of  allowing 
the  bill  of  Bro.  C.  F.  Livingston  of  $592.01,  which  was 
accepted  and  the  same  ordered  to  be  paid. 

K.-.  W.-.  Rufus  L.  Bartlett  submitted  the  following 
question  for  the  consideration  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Is  it  in  accordance  with  Masonic  law  to  confer  the 
degree  of  E.  A.,  F.  C.  or  M.  M.  upon  more  than  five 
candidates  at  one  and  the  same  communication  ?  Which 
was  referred  to  the  committee  on  jurisprudence. 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  decided  that,  in  the  mean 
time,  no  more  than  five  candidates  shall  be  admitted  at 
the  same  meeting  in  any  degree. 

Bro.  Wm.  Barrett  raised  the  question  whether  a  can- 
didate for  the  honors  of  Masonry  could  be  permitted  to 
withdraw  his  application  after  the  same  had  been  received 
and  placed  on  file  in  the  Lodge,  when  the  M.  W.  Master 
also  decided  that  no  gentleman  could  withdraw  his  appli- 
cation, but  that  all  applications  for  the  honors  of  Masonry, 
after  being  received  and  filed,  must  come  to  a  ballot;  and 
the  Grand  Secretary  was  instructed  to  examine  carefully 


501 

the  records  to  see  if  the  Grand  Lodge  had  taken  action 
upon  this  matter. 

There  being  no  further  business  before  the  Grand 
Lodge,  the  Throne  of  Grace  was  addressed  by  the  Grand 
Chaplain,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  was  closed  in  ample  form. 

A  true  record.     Attest : 

Grand  Secretary. 


JOURNAL    OF    PROCEEDINGS 


OF    THE 


M.  W.  GRAND  LODGE 


OF  THE  ANCIENT  AND  HONORABLE  FRATERNITY  OF 


Free  and    A 


ree  and    Accepted   /Vlasons 


JYL 


OF  THE 


STATE  OF  NEW  HAMPSHIRE. 


AT   THE 


j&NNUAL  pOMMUNICATION,   jJUNE  9  AND    i  O, 


Af 


5869, 


ALEXANDER  M.  WINN,  M.  D.,  Manchester,   .    .   .    M.  W.  Grand  Master. 
Hon.  HORACE  CHASE,  Hopkinton, R.  W.  Grand  Secretary. 


MANCHESTER,  N.  H.  : 
PRINTED  BY  CHARLES  F.  LIVINGSTON. 

1869. 


JOURNAL    OF    PROCEEDINGS 


JUNE,  A.  L.  5869. 


The  annual  communication  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Honorable  Fraternity  of 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  was  held  at  Masonic  Temple 
in  Concord,  on  Wednesday  and  Thursday,  the  10th  and 
11th  days  of  June,  A.  D.  1869,  A.  L.  5869. 

GRAND     OFFICERS     PRESENT. 


Alexander  M.  Winn,  M.  W.  Grand  Master. 
John  R.  Holbrook,  R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master. 
N.  W.  Cumner,  R.  W.  Sen.  Grand  Warden. 
Wm.  Barrett,  R.  W.  Jun.  Grand  Warden. 
John  Knowlton,  R.  W.  Grand  Treasurer. 
Horace  Chase,  R.  W.  Grand  Secretary. 

Rt  W.  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters, 
Jeremiah  D.  Parker, District  No.  1. 


Clinton  W.  Stanley, 

a 

"     2. 

"Matttatc  Hutchinson 

a 

"     4. 

J.  W.  Dearborn, 

a 

"     6. 

a 

"     7. 

Mark  S.  Aiken, 

a 

"     9. 

(  505  ) 


506 

H.  W.  Grand  Lecturers. 

John  A.  Harris, District  No.  5. 

A.  M.  Brackett, <•         "     6. 

Leland   J.  Graves, "         "     7. 

Albert  S.  Waite, "         "     8. 

Hiram  Clark, '•'         "      9. 

Albert  Barker, "         "    10. 

W.  Edward  Gustine,  Sen.  Grand  Deacon. 

"    Daniel  W.  Edgerly, 

"    Joseph  W.  Robinson, 

"    J.  D.  March,  Grand  Stewards. 

"    T.  D.  Foss, 

"    Daniel  R.  Marshall, 

"    Edmund  P.  Hutchinson,  Grand  Marshal. 

"    Luther  W.  Nichols,  Grand  Sword  Bearer 

"    Oliver  A.  Woodbury,  Grand  Pursuivant. 
Bro.  George  L.  Reed,  Grand  Tyler. 


PAST     GRAND     OFFICERS. 

Israel  Hunt,  ~\ 

Horace  Chase,         >  M.  W.  Past  Grand  Masters. 

John  H.  Rowell,    ) 

Josiah  Morse,  P.  Grand  Senior  Warden. 

Lewis  Woodman, 

Charles  Lane, 

David  Murray, 

John  M.  Hunt, 

Abel  Hutchins, 

C.  K.  Drake, 

John  Wilder,        )  E.  W.  Past  D.  D.  Grand  Master, 

Henry  O.  Kent, 

Eli  Dodge, 

Hazen  Bedel, 

J.  B.  Edgerly, 

Chas.  H.  Burns, 

Thos.  J.  Smith, 


507 

OFFICERS  AND  REPRESENTATIVES  OF  SUBORDINATE   LODGES. 

St.  John's  Lodge,  JSTo.  1. 

Chas.  G.  Pickering,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
John  H.  Cheeyer,  Senior   Warden. 
Edwin  D.  Coffin,  Junior  Warden. 
A.  J.  Hill,  Bepresentative. 

Franklin  Lodge,  JSTo.  6. 

Adoniram  Smalley,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
George  F.  Bean,  Junior  Warden. 
A.  W.  Baker,  Bepresentative. 


Benevolent  Lodge,  No.  7. 
J.  L.  Spring,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 

North  Star  Lodge,  No.  8. 

Edward  Sayage,  W.  Master. 

Chas.  L.  Plaisted,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 

W.  Cobleigh,  Junior  Warden. 

L.  H.  Legro,  Bepresentative. 

Hiram  Lodge,  No.  9. 

Francis  Whitcomb,  W.  Master. 
Geo.  O.  Woodcock,  Senior  Warden. 
John  W.  Collins,  'proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 
C.  H.  Long,  Bepresentative. 

Blazing  Star  Lodge,  No.  11. 

John  A.  Harris,  W.  Master. 
Samuel  F.  Morrill,  Senior  Warden. 
Horace  A.  Brown,  Junior  Warden. 
Jona.  F.  Cotton,  Bepresentative. 


508 
Faithful  Lodge,  No.  12. 

George  S.  Bond,  W.  Master. 

Edwin  P.  Ge-roult),  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 

Loeen  H.  Royce,  Representative. 

King  Solomon's  Lodge,  JVo.  14. 

Edwin  A.  Jones,  W.  Master. 

S.  E.  Philbeick,  Senior   Warden. 

M.  L.  Walkee,  Representative. 

Mount   Vernon  Lodge,  JVo,  15. 

Josiah  Tuenee,  Senior  Warden. 
Aethue  H.  Ingeam,  Junior  Warden. 
Daniel  A.  Geoege,  Representative. 

Olive  Branch  Lodge,  JVo.  16. 
Hieam  Claek,  W.  Master. 

Morning  Star  Lodge,  JVo.  17. 

John  W.  Aveey,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 
John  H.  Rust,  Representative. 

Charity  Lodge,  No.  18. 
Feedeeick  W.  Bailey,  Representative. 

Sidlivan  Lodge,  JVo.  19. 

H.  F.  Hopkins,  W.  Master. 

Gilman  B.  Johnson,  Senior  Warden. 

James  M.  Godfeey,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 

John  L.  Shackford,  Representative. 


509 
Humane  Lodge,  JSTo.  21. 

Noah  Tebbetts,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
T.  D.  Foss,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
E.  P.  Hodgdon,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 
Silas  Hussey,  Representative. 


Mount  Moriah  Lodge,  No.  22. 

Stephen  Fellows,  W.  Master. 
Byron  Fellows,  Representative. 


Cheshire  Lodge,  No.  23. 

A.  P.  Wood,  W.  Master. 

Geo.  E.  Hilliakd,  Junior  Warden. 


Bethel  Lodge,  No.  24. 

N.  Y.  Oliver,  W.  Master. 
James  O.  Reed,  Representative. 


Altemont  Lodge,  No.  26. 
Augustus  Fuller,  'proxy  for  W.  Master. 

Strafford  Lodge,  JSTo.  29. 

Geo.  W.  Tash,  W.  Master. 
Wm.  R.  Tapley,  Senior   Warden. 
Chas.  H.  Sawyer,  Junior  Warden. 
Samuel  M.  Wheeler,  Representative. 

St.  Peter's  Lodge,  JSTo.  31. 
JamUs  M.  Sawyer,  Representative. 


r 
510 

Mount  Lebanon  Lodge,  JVo.  32. 

A.  Dolloff,  W.  Master. 
J.  C.  Blake,  Senior  Warden. 
R.  R.  Somes,  Junior  Warden. 
E.  E.  Webster,  Representative. 

Evening  Star  Lodge,  JVo.  37. 

Hazen  Bedel,  W.  Master. 
Wm.  S.  Rolfe,  Representative. 

Harmony  Lodge,  No.  38. 
Abel  Farley,  Representative. 

Rising  Sun  Lodge,  JVo.  39. 

Henry  M.  Dayis,  W.  Master. 
Jacob  Libbey,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
O.  A.  Woodbury,  Junior  Warden. 
John  A.  Spaulding,  Representative. 

Philesian  Lodge,  No.  40. 

Edward  Alexander,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
Ellery  Albee,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 
E.  M.  Forbes,  Representative. 

Lafayette  Lodge,  No.  41. 

Wm.  B.  Lane,  W.  Master. 
C.  F.  Warren,  Representative. 

Social  Friends  Lodge,  JVo.  42. 

Charles  S.  Coburn,  W.  Master. 
Elisha  Ayer,  Senior  Warden. 
Leonard  J.  Tuttle,  Junior  Warden. 
Solon  A.  Carter,  Representative. 


511 
Aurora  Lodge,  JSTo.  43. 

Albert  B.  Johnson,  Junior  Warden. 
Daniel  Johnson,  Representative. 

St.  Mark's  Lodge,  JSTo.  44. 

John  D.  Ordway,  Senior  Warden. 
Greenleap  C.  Bartlett,  Junior  Warden. 

Pacific  Lodge,  No*  45. 

A.  H.  Bixby,  W.  Master. 

S.  D.  Downes,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 

T.  W.  Ordway,  Junior  Warden. 

Grafton  Lodge,  No.  46. 
George  F.  Putnam,  Representative. 

Rising  Star  Lodge,  JSlo.  47. 

Benj.  F.  Watson,  prbxy  for  W.  Master. 

Thomas  Tuttle,  Senior   Warden. 

C.  H.  Trickey,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 

Libanus  Lodge,  JVb.  49. 

James  G.  Young,  Senior  Warden. 
Stephen  S.  Chick,  Representative. 

Social  Lodge,  JVb.  50. 

O.  T.  Cummings,  Senior  Warden. 

Converse  G.  Morgan,  proxy  for  Junior   Warden. 

N.  S.  Wheeler,  Representative. 


512 

Clinton  Lodge,  No.  52. 

George  S.  Neville,  W.  Master. 
Daniel  Cragin,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
D.  W.  Russell,  Junior  Warden. 
A.  E.  Jaques,  Representative. 

Columbian  Lodge ,  No.  53. 

George  Rust,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
George  B.  Holland,  Representative. 

St.  Andrews  Lodge ,  No.  56. 

James  W.  Lord,  W.  Master. 
J.  B.  Adams,  Representative. 

Charter  Oak  Lodge,  No.  58. 
Aldo  M.  Rumney,  Representative. 

Star  in  the  Last  Lodge,  No.  59. 

Charles  G.  Conner,  W.  Master. 
Charles  C.  Hunkins,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 
Eben.  Folsom,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 
John  J.  Bell,  Representative. 

Meridian  Lodge,  No.  60. 

Frank  H.  Daniell,  Senior  Warden. 
John  C.  Neal,  Representative. 

Washington  Lodge,  No.  61. 

JosErn  Kidder,  W.  Master. 
Andrew  Bunton,  Senior  Warden. 
George  B.  Chandler,  Junior  Warden. 
Isaac  W.  Smith,  Representative. 


513 

Unity  Lodge,  No.  62. 

A.  M.  Brackett,  W.  Master. 
Charles  Jones,  Representative. 

Moosehillock  Lodge,  No.  63. 

L.  W.  Currier,  W.  Master. 
Mark  L.  Aiken,  Representative. 

Kane  Lodge,  No.  64. 
Hiram  Noyes,  Representative. 

Granite  Lodge,  No.  65. 
James  Hamilton,  Representative. 

Burns  Lodge,  No.  66. 

C.  H.  Greene,  W.  Master. 

S.  B.  Page,  proxy  for  Senior  Warden. 

Frank  Paddleeord,  proxy  for  Junior  Warden. 

C.  C.  Smith,  Representative. 

Souhegan  Lodge,  No.  67. 
W.  M.  Sanderson,  Representative. 

Bed  Mountain  Lodge,  No.  68. 
E.  Q.  Fellows,  Representative. 

Mount  Prospect  Lodge,  No.  69. 
T.  P.  Cheney,  Representative. 


514 
Eureka  Lodge,  No.  70. 

F.  D.  Woodbury,  W.  Master. 
William  P.  Hoit,  Senior  Warden. 
James  F.  Gordon,  Junior  Warden. 

Fraternal  Lodge,  No.  71. 

Luther  Hayes,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
D.  W.  Edgerly,  Senior   Warden. 
C.  W.  Tapley,  Junior  Warden. 
Charles  H.  Boodey,  Representative. 

Horace  Chase  Lodge,  No.  72. 

Geo.  N.  Herbert,  W.  Master. 
Levi  N.  Barnes,  Senior  Warden. 
John  T.  Nelson,  Junior  Warden. 
R.  D.  Scales,  Representative. 

Gorliam  Lodge,  No.  73. 
Addison  Dalley,  Representative. 

Ossipee   Valley  Lodge,  No.  74. 

J.  C.  Bickford,  W.  Master. 
Frank  R.  Hobbs,  Senior  Warden. 
Frank  H.  Lord,  Representative. 

Winnipissiogee  Lodge,  No.  75. 
George  Montgomery,  Representative. 

Rockingham  Lodge,  No.  76. 

Rufus  E.  Patten,  W.  Master. 
James  Adams,  Representative. 


515 

•      Golden  Bule  Lodge,  Mb;  77. 

H.  F.  Horton,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 

A.  A.  Thayer,  Representative. 

Doric  Lodge,  No.  78. 

George  W.  Morrison,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
J.  M.  Taylor,  Senior   Warden. 

B.  F.  Brown,  Junior  Warden. 

A.  S.  Ballantyne,  Representative. 

Union  Lodge,  No.  79. 

Ira  S.  Chase,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
M.  H.  Merrow,  Representative. 

Monadnock  Lodge,  No.  80. 

John  Clement,  W.  Master. 
Wm.  Butler,  Junior  Warden. 
A.  J.  Blake,  Representative. 

Kearsarge  Lodge,  No.  81. 

C.  W.  Woodbury,  W.  Master. 
John  B.  Wadleigh,  Senior  Warden. 
Joseph  Baker,  Junior  Warden. 

J.  D.  Philbrick,  Representative. 

Corinthian  Lodge,  No.  82. 
Sylvanus  Smith,  Representative. 

Chocorua  Lodge,  No.  83. 

H.  P.  Smith,  proxy  for  W.  Master. 
W.  H.  H.  Fernald,  Senior  Warden. 
T.  C.  Gordon,  Representative. 


516 

Gideon  Lodge,  No.  84.  • 

C.  H.  Smith,  'proxy  for  W.  Master. 
J.  D.  Curbieb,  Senior  Warden. 
A.  Dunn,  Junior  Warden. 
J.  W.  Dudley,  Representative. 

Sipickett  Lodge  >  No.  85. 

G.  K.  Whitney,  W.  Master. 
Geo.  C.  Gordon,  Junior  Warden. 
James  Ayeb,  Representative. 


Visiting  Brethren. 

Brothers  N.  H.  Randlett,  No.  6;     Thomas   Rust,  No.  17 
H.  B.  Stickney,  No.  23;  J.  H.  Steele,  Jonas  Livingston,  No 
26;  Jos.  W.  Welch,  Chas.  A.  Tufts,  Oliver  Wyatt,  No.  29 
Mason  W.  Tappan,  No.  31;     H.  Copp,    G.  P.  Smith,  No.  32 
Charles  Osbrey,  No.  41 ;  A.  S.  Carpenter,  Thos.  E.  Hatch 
D.  H.  Ward,  Horatio  Colony,  J.  S.  Taft,  E.  E.  Lyman,  No 
42;  Allen  Pride,  Benj.  F.  Haley,  No.  47;  Jeremiah  Cross 
John  P.  Jewell,   Ephraim    G.  Wallace,    Frank   S.  Dodge 
George  E.  Fellows,  No.  60;  John  M.  Forbes,  C.  F.  Living 
ston,    J.  W.  Fellows,  No.  61;     John  W.  F.  Locke,    No.  71 
Robert    Ford,     J.  N.  Dickerson,     Stillman    Clark,    O.  F. 
Morse,  No.  79;     John   M.  Shirley,    C.  G.  Peirce,    Nathan 
Woodbury,    Wm.  H.  Huntoon,    H.  A.  Weymouth,   John  P. 
Carr,  D.  C.  Gookin,  No.  81;    S.  N.  Lougee,  No.  82;    Nath'l 
Faxon,  T.  B.  Newby,  W.  C.  Eastman* 


The  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  was  opened  in  ample  form 
with  prayer  by  W.  and  Eev.  James  Adams,  acting  as 
Grand  Chaplain. 

*Rrothers  Faxon,  Nkwby  and  Eastman  were  reported  by  the  committee  as  officers  of  Mt. 
Washington  Lodge,  U.  D.  As  such  they  have  no  vote  in  Grand  Lodge  and  are  recorded  only  as 
visiting  brothers,  not  knowing  of  what  Lodge  they  are  members. 


517 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  appointed  the  following 
standing  committees  : 

Committee  on  Credentials. — Bros.  Edward  Parker, 
Geo.  W.  Tash,  Josiah  B.  Edgerly. 

Committee  on  Unfinished  Business. — Bros.  J.  W. 
Dearborn,  Hazen  Bedel,  Solon  A.  Carter. 

Committee  on  Lodges. — Bros.  Chas.  H.  Burns,  Wm. 
B.  Lane,  John  A.  Harris. 

Committee  on  Finance. — Bros.  Chas.  G.  Pickering, 
John  A.  Spaulding,  Andrew  Bunton. 

Committee  on  Jurisprudence. — Bros.  Clinton  W. 
Stanley,  George  N.  Eastman,  Henry  O.  Kent. 

Committee  on  Returns. — Bros.  Cyrus  K.  Drake,  Noah 
Tebbetts,  Henry  M.  Davis. 

Committee  on  Doings  of  Grand  Officers. — Bros.  Thos. 
E.  Hatch,  Joseph  W.  Fellows,  John  M.  Shirley. 

On  motion  of  R.*.  W.*.  Henry  O.  Kent, 

Voted,  That  the  reading  of  the  proceedings  of  the  last 
annual  and  semi-annual  communications  be  dispensed  with, 
and  that  the  record  of  the  same  as  published  be  approved. 

R.  W.  Bro.  Gustine  offered  the  following  resolution, 
which  was  adopted : 

Resolved,  That  all  Master  Masons  in  the  city  in  regu- 
lar standing,  be  admitted  to  seats  in  the  Grand  Lodge 
during  its  present  session. 

Bro.  Thos.  E.  Hatch  presented  a  petition  for  a  new 
Lodge  at  Keene,  which  was  referred  to  the  committee  on 
Lodges. 


518 

A  petition  for  the  removal  of  Ossipee  Valley  Lodge, 
and  accompanying  papers,  were  presented  and  referred  to 
the  committee  on  Lodges. 

Resolutions  and  papers  of  Social  Friends  Lodge,  No. 
42,  remonstrating  against  the  creation  of  a  new  Lodge  at 
Keene,  were  presented  and  referred  to  the  committee  on 
Lodges. 

The  Grand  Secretary  presented  the  bill  of  Morrill 
&  Silsby,  for  stationery,  &c,  which  was  referred  to  the 
committee  on  finance. 

On  motion  of  Bro.  Barrett,  the  account  of  Morrill 
&  Silsby  for  printing  return  tickets  was  referred  to  the 
committee  on  finance. 

The  Grand  Secretary  presented  a  statement  of  reprint- 
ing, binding  &c,  of  the  second  volume  of  proceedings, 
with  the  account  of  Bro.  Charles  F.  Livingston,  and 
his  own  account  of  money  received,  money  paid  out  by 
him,  and  for  his  services,  which  were  referred  to  the  com- 
mittee on  finance. 

Bro.  Tebbetts  offered  the  following  resolutions  which, 
with  amendments  suggested  and  accepted  by  him,  were 
adopted  in  the  following  form  : 

Resolved,  That  one  copy  of  the  second  volume  of 
reprinted  proceedings  of  this  Grand  Lodge  be  presented 
to  each  Grand  Lodge  in  correspondence  with  this  Grand 
Lodge,  one  copy  to  each  subordinate  Lodge  under  this 
jurisdiction,  one  copy  to  each  Grand  Officer  of  this  Grand 
Lodge,  and  one  copy  to  each  elective  Past  Grand  Officer 
of  this  Grand  Lodge,  free  of  charge,  and  that  the  same 
be  sold  to  such  other  brethren  as  may  Avish  to  purchase 
the  same  at  two  dollars  per  copy. 


519 

Resolved,  That  all  subordinate  Lodges  under  this  juris- 
diction that  have  not  received  the  first  volume  of  reprinted 
proceedings,  shall  be  furnished  with  one  copy  each  with- 
out charge. 

On  motion  of  M.  W.  Bro.  Israel  Hunt, 

Voted,  That  two  o'clock  this  afternoon  be  assigned  as 
the  hour  to  go  into  the  election  of  Grand  Officers. 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  then  read  his  annual  address, 
as  follows  : 


ADDKESS. 

To  tlie  Most  Worshipful  Grand  .Lodge  : 

Bremen: — Precept,  enforced  by  example,  is  the  most 
powerful  instructor  of  mankind,  and  is  at  the  same  time 
the  most  efficient  rebuke  to  offenders  against  the  laws  of 
God  and  man.  If  the  precepts  of  our  institution  teach 
those  principles  which  constitute  the  sum  total  of  sound 
morality,  then  how  important  is  it  that  our  example 
should  shine  forth  a  brilliant  light  to  illumine,  to  guide 
and  to  instruct.  When  the  Fathers  of  our  order  chose 
their  associates,  they  selected  only  those  whose  example 
afforded  abundant  evidence  of  their  being  fitted  for  the 
noble  calling  and  the  elevating  duties  of  the  race  before 
them.  Let  us  imitate  their  example,  otherwise  we  shall 
increase  our  numbers  without  increase  of  character,  use- 
fulness or  influence.  Positive  virtues,  and  not  the  mere 
absence  of  vice,  should  characterize  the  example  of  all 
our  associates. 

The  closing  Masonic  year  brings  us  together  to  take 
counsel  for  the  future  and  to  review  the  past.     In  this 


520 

review  I  could  wish  that  a  better  talent  and  more  time 
might  have  been  brought  to  the  discharge  of  the  duties  of 
the  office  of  Grand  Master.  I  however  feel  assured  that 
in  the  exercise  of  that  Masonic  charity  which  characterizes 
this  jurisdiction,  you  will  pass  lightly  over  the  deficiencies, 
omissions  and  errors  of  action  exhibited,  and  remember 
only  the  very  little  good  I  may  have  done. 

Of  the  three  Lodges  chartered  at  our  last  annual  com- 
munication, I  was  present  at  the  institution  of  Pacific 
Lodge  at  Francestown,  and  installed  their  officers.  By  my 
request,  R.  W.  Bro.  Stanley  instituted  Spickett  Lodge 
at  Salem,  and  installed  their  officers.  I  also  requested  W. 
Bro.  E.  C.  Knight  to  institute  White  Mountain  Lodge,  at 
Whitefield,  and  install  their  officers.  I,  on  the  19th  of 
July,  restored  the  charter  of  Sullivan  Lodge  at  Lee. 

By  my  request,  M.  W.  Bro.  C.  H.  Bell  laid  the  corner 
stone  of  at  Exeter,  on  the  4th  of  July.-    On 

the  same  day  I  dedicated  the  hall  of  Libanus  Lodge,  at 
Somersworth,  and  publicly  installed  their  officers. 

On  December  10th,  I  dedicated  the  hall  of  Social 
Friends  Lodge,  at  Keene. 

By  my  request,  R.  W.  Bro.  Stanley  dedicated  the 
hall  of  Pacific  Lodge,  at  Francestown,  and  M.  W.  Bro. 
Rowell  the  hall  of  Chocorua  Lodge,  at  Meredith. 

I  have  granted  dispensations  to  brethren  of  North  Con- 
way for  a  new  Lodge,  to  be  called  Mount  Washington 
Lodge,  and  to  brethren  of  Keene  for  a  new  Lodge,  to  be 
called  The  Lodge  of  the  Temple,  both  of  which  expire 
and  will  be  returned  at  this  time. 

I  have  installed  the  officers  of  quite  a  number  of  our 
Lodges,  and  visited  many  of  them ;  in  all  of  which  I 
have  been  received  with  a  kindness,  courtesy  and  hospi- 
tality long  to  be  remembered. 

By  consulting  our  constitution,  general  regulations,  and 
proceedings,  I  have  been  enabled  to  decide  all  questions 
presented  during  the  past  year,  and  I  believe  satisfactorily 


521 

to  the  brethren,  with  'one  exception.  In  this  instance, 
brethren  whose  opinion  I  value,  dissenting.  I  have 
referred  the  question  to  your  committee  on  jurisprudence, 
from  whom  I  expect  a  report  at  this  communication. 

Complaint  against  but  one,  Lodge  has  been  brought  to 
the  notice  of  the  Grand  Lodge  during  the  past  year.  In 
company  with  our  K.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master  I  visited 
the  Lodge,  when  we  examined  the  cause  of  complaint, 
heard  the  parties,  and  adopted  such  measures  and  made 
such  suggestions  as  we  at  the  time  thought  would  promote 
the  best  interests  of  our  order. 

To  my  associate  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  I  offer  my 
earnest  thanks,  for  their  very  efficient  assistance  in  the 
discharge  of  the  duties  of  this  office,  and  to  the  brethren 
of  the  jurisdiction  my  grateful  acknowledgement  of  their 
uniform  kindness  and  courtesy,  whenever  and  wherever 
we  met. 

Grateful  for  honors  so  often  by  your  partiality  be- 
stowed, I  now  as  cheerfully  return  the  Grand  Master's 
Gavel  as  I  accepted  it  one  year  since. 

With  ^humble  acknowledgement  to  the  Supreme  Grand 
Master  for  past  blessings  and  enjoyments,  and  devout 
aspirations  for  their  continuance,  let  us  approach  the 
business  before  us. 


Which,  on  motion,  was  referred,  with  the  following 
reports  of  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  to  the  com- 
mittee on  doings  of  Grand  Officers. 


522 


REPORTS  OF  DISTRICT  DEPUTY  GRAND  MASTERS. 


DISTRICT    NUMBER    TWO. 


To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  having  been  honored  by  the  appointment  of 
D.  D.  G.  Master  over  Lodges  Nos.  21,  29,  49,  65,  71,  and  75, 
begs  leave  to  submit  the  following  report. 

January  9th,  1869,  I  visited  Humane  Lodge,  No.  21,  at 
Rochester.  I  found  a  large  number  of  brethren  present,  and  had 
an  opportunity  of  witnessing  the  work  in  the  three  degrees,  which 
was  well  done  in  due  and  ancient  form.  I  examined  their  records, 
which  are  well  and  correctly  kept.  I  am  pleased  to  report  this 
Lodge  in  a  prosperous  condition,  and  they  are  now  fitting  and 
preparing  a  commodious  and  beautiful,  hall  which  will  be  ready 
for  dedication  in  a  few  months. 

January  25th,  1869,  I  visited  Fraternal  Lodge,  No.  71,  at 
Farmington ;  found  a  goodly  number  of  brethren  present,  and  had 
an  opportunity  of  seeing  them  work  in  the  third  degree,  which 
was  well  done.  I  examined  their  records ;  found  them  well  and 
correctly  kept. 

January  28th,  1869,  I  visited  Libanus  Lodge,  No.  49,  at 
Somersworth.  I  found  an  unusually  large  number  of  brethren 
present;  had  an  opportunity  of  seeing  them  work  in  the  third 
degree,  which  was  well  done  in  due  and  ancient  form.  I  examined 
their  records,  found  them  neatly  and  correctly  kept.  The  high 
Masonic  and  personal  character  of  their  present  W.  Master,  is  a 
guarantee  that  during  his  administration  nothing  will  be  left 
undone  which  would  be  for  the  good  and  welfare  of  the  Lodge. 


523 

•  April  22,  1869,  I  visited  Winnipissiogee  Lodge,  No.  75,  at 
Alton.  Here  I  found  a  goodly  number  of  brethren  present;  wit- 
nessed the  work  in  the  third  degree,  which  was  well  done.  I 
examined  their  records ;  found  them  well  and  correctly  kept. 

April  27th,  I  visited  Granite  Lodge,  No.  65,  at  Rollinsford. 
This  being  their  annual  meeting  for  choice  of  officers  they  did 
no  work.  I  examined  their  records,  which  I  found  very  neatly 
and  correctly  kept.  May  11th,  I  again  visited  Granite  Lodge, 
when  I  had  an  opportunity  of  seeing  their  newly-elected  officers 
work  the  E.  A.  degree,  which  was  done  in  due  and  ancient  form, 
and  in  a  manner  highly  commendable  and  praiseworthy. 

Strafford  Lodge,  No.  29,  at  Dover.  I  am  a  member  of  this 
Lodge  and  have  attended  most  of  the  communications  during  the 
past  year.  Their  work  is  well  done,  their  records  are  neatly  and 
correctly  kept.  I  have  granted  four  dispensations  during  the  past 
year  to  advance  candidates  faster  than  our  regulations  allow,  good 
and  sufficient  reasons  having  been  shown  me  therefor. 

In  closing  my  official  communiaction  with  the  several  Lodges 
placed  under  my  care,  I  beg  leave  to  tender  to  them  for  their 
kindness,  attention  and  hospitality,  their  uniform  courtesy  and 
affability,  my  lasting  gratitude. 

In  conclusion,  allow  me  to  say,  so  far  as  I  have  been  able  to 
learn,  the  true  Masonic  spirit  prevails  throughout  this  district, 
and  the  outer  courts  of  our  sanctuary  have  been  well  guarded 
during  the  past  year. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  and  fraternally  submitted, 

JOSEPH   HARTFORD,  D.  D.  G.  M. 


524 

DISTRICT  NUMBER  THREE. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire : 

The  undersigned,  having  been  appointed  District  Deputy  over 
Lodges  Nos.  39,  41,  44,  45,  61,  76  and  85,  herewith  most  respect- 
fully submits  his  annual  report  of  his  doings. 

September  3,  1868,  I  visited,  and  by  order  of  the  M.  W.  Grand 
Master,  and  with  his  assistance,  consecrated,  constituted  and 
installed  the  officers  of  Spickett  Lodge,  No.  85,  at  Salem.  Since 
then  I  have  be£n  unable  to  visit  them,  but  J  learn  from  the  W. 
Master  that  they  have  made  but  two  Masons ;  that  they  have  all 
indebtedness  paid,  and  have  about  forty  dollars  in  the  treasury. 
The  high  character  of  the  W.  Master  and  other  officers  of  this 
Lodge  is  a  sure  guaranty  that  the  wo,rk  will  be  well  done,  and  that 
the  ancient  usages  and  landmarks  of  the  craft  will  be  rigidly 
adhered  to,  and  that  none  but  good  men  and  true  will  ever  be 
admitted  within  their  Lodge  room. 

December  3,  I  visited  St.  Mark's  Lodge,  No.  44,  at  Derry, 
and  witnessed  the  work  on  the  third  degree,  which  in  the  main 
was  well  and  correctly  done.  There  was  a  goodly  number  of  the 
brethren  present,  and  all  manifested  an  earnest  desire  to  promote 
the  harmony  and  prosperity  of  the  institution.  This  Lodge  has  a 
comfortable  lodge  room,  suitably  furnished,  but  its  members  are 
scattered  over  a  large  territory,  and  its  meetings  are  not  so  large  as 
they  would  be  were  it  not  for  this  disadvantage. 

They  have  made,  during  the  past  year,  ten  Masons.  Their 
records  are  very  well  kept.  They  have  in  the  treasury,  $175.00, 
which  is  well  invested,  and  all  their  bills  are  paid.  They  have 
fifty-five  members. 

March  1,  1869,  I  visited  Pacific  Lodge,  No.  45,  at  Frances- 
town,  and  by  order  of  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  dedicated  their 
new  lodge  rooms.  The  weather  was  very  severe  and  the  travel- 
ing bad,  and  there  were  consequently  but  a  few  of  the  brethren 
present.  This  Lodge  appears  to  be  in  a  flourishing  condition,  and 
from  my  acquaintance  with  the  officers  and  brethren,  I  may  safely 
say  that  the  institution  will  suffer  no  detriment  at  their  hands. 
They  have  recently  erected  a  fine  hall,  sufficiently  large  and  com- 
modious for  their  wants,  and  have  furnished  it  with  great  neatness 


525 

and  good  taste.  They  have  made  twenty  Masons  since  their  last 
annual  communication.  They  have  thirty  members.  They  are  owing 
about  seven  hundred  and  fifty  dollars,  which  is  held  among  the 
members  of  the  Lodge.  This  debt  has  been  created  in  conse- 
quence of  building  their  hall  and  furnishing  it.  I  desire  to  tender 
my  grateful  acknowledgments  to  R.  W.  Bro.  Wi.  Bahkett,  and 
the  brethren  who  accompanied  him  from  Nashua,  for  their  valu- 
able assistance  on  the  occasion  of  the  dedication  of  the  new  hall 
of  that  Lodge. 

March  30,  I  visited  and  witnessed  the  work  on  the  first  degree 
in  Rockingham  .  Lodge,  No.  76,  at  Candia.  This  Lodge  con- 
tinues to  prosper  under  the  superintendence  of  W.  Bro.  James 
Adams.  I  was  much  pleased  with  the  strict  conformity  of  their 
work  on  this  degree  with  that  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

May  11th,  I  again  visited  this  Lodge  and  witnessed  the  work 
on  the  third  degree,  and  I  am  pleased  to  say  that  on  the  first  section 
of  this  degree  the  work  was  in  accordance  with  the  requirements 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  but  as  to  the  remaining  work  on  this  degree  I 
cannot  bestow  the  same  commendation.  It  was  in  some  particu- 
lars entirely  different  from  anything  I  had  ever  seen.  Upon  my 
first  visit,  the  night  was  very  stormy  and  the  traveling  bad,  but 
there  was,  notwithstanding  this,  a  good  attendance.  On  my  second 
visit  the  hall  was  well  filled  and  the  brethren,  by  their  presence, 
their  attention  to  the  work,  and  the  order  maintained,  plainly 
showed  that  they  were  imbued  with  the  spirit  of  Freemasonry. 
Their  records  are  very  well  and  correctly  kept.  They  are  in  debt 
about  three  hundred  and  fifty  dollars,  which  is  held  by  one  of  the 
brethren.  Their  bills  are  all  paid,  and  they  have  a  lodge  room 
and  furniture  which  would  be  a  credit  to  any  Lodge.  Their  debt 
was  created  in  fixing  up  their  hall  and  providing  the  furniture. 
They  have  made  twenty-two  Masons  the  past  year. 

May  5,  I  visited  Rising  Sun  Lodge,  No.  39,  at  Nashua,  and 
witnessed  the  work  on  the  third  degree,  which  was  very  well  done. 
This  Lodge  is  in  a  very  flourishing  condition.  They  have  made 
twelve  Masons  during  the  past  year.  They  have  on  hand  a  fund 
of  nearly  twenty-five  hundred  dollars,  which  is  well  invested.  The 
records  are  very  well  kept. 

I  have  frequently  visited  Lafayette  Lodge,  No.  41,  and 
Washington  Lodge,  No.  61,  of  which  latter  I  am  a  member. 


526 

It  gives  me  much  pleasure  to  say  that  there  is  no  abatement  in 
the  zeal  and  fidelity  of  the  officers  and  members  of  these  Lodges. 
They  were  never  in  a  more  prosperous  condition  than  at  this  time. 
The  records  of  both  Lodges  are  neatly  and  accurately  kept,  and 
all  the  officers  have  striven  to  maintain  the  high  reputation  and 
to  deserve  the  high  encomiums  bestowed  upon  them  in  previous 
years.  There  have  been  made  in  Lafayette  Lodge,  twenty-one, 
and  in  Washington,  twenty-five  Masons,  during  the  past  year. 
The  treasurer's  account  shows  that  Lafayette  Lodge  has  on  hand 
about  two  thousand  dollars,  which  is  deposited  in  savings  banks. 
The  treasurer's  account  shows  that  Washington  Lodge  has  on 
hand  about  seven  hundred  dollars,  while  during  the  past  year 
new  collars,  after  the  style  of  those  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  have  been 
purchased  at  an  expense  of  about  one  hundred  and  seventy-five 
dollars,  and  all  bills  paid. 

In  conclusion,  I  would  say  that  harmony  and  prosperity  prevail 
throughout  the  various  Lodges  in  my  jurisdiction.  All  the 
brethren  seem  inbued  with  the  true  spirit  of  the  order,  and  strive 
to  maintain  and  preserve  the  ancient  usages  and  landmarks  of  the 
fraternity,  believing  that  by  so  doing  they  are  but  carrying  out  the 
precepts  of  the  order,  and  that  in  so  doing  they  will  become 
better  men,  better  citizens,  and  truer  and  more  zealous  Christians. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

CLINTON  W.  STANLEY,  D.  D.  G.  M. 
May  15,  1869. 


527 

DISTRICT  NUMBER  FOUR. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire : 

Having  been  appointed  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  for  the 
fourth  Masonic  District,  embracing  Lodges  Nos.  7,  24,  26,  52 
and  67,  I  beg  leave  to  report  as  follows. 

On  January  21st,  in  company  with  several  of  my  Masonic  friends, 
I  visited  Altemont  Lodge,  No.  26,  at  Peterborough.  I  found 
a  good  number  of  brethren  present ;  witnessed  the  work  on  the 
third  degree,  which  was  well  done.  After  which  I  installed  the 
officers.  The  financal  condition  of  this  Lodge  is  sound  and  the 
records  well  kept.  I  can  truly  say  of  this  Lodge,  that  they  are 
in  a  very  nourishing  condition. 

Clinton  Lodge,  No.  52,  Wilton.  I  visited  this  Lodge  on 
February  4th,  installed  the  officers,  and  witnessed  the  work  on  E. 
A.  degree.  This  Lodge  has  made  more  improvement  within  the 
last  year  than  any  other  Lodge  in  this  District.  I  am  happy  to 
say  that  the  officers  of  Clinton  Lodge  are  young  men  of  high 
moral  character,  and  are  full  of  Masonic  zeal;  their  records  are 
neatly  kept. 

Sotjhegan  Lodge,  No.  67,  I  visited  at  a  special  communica- 
tion in  March  last,  and  installed  the  officers,  but  have  had  no 
opportunity  of  witnessing  their  work.  I  found  the  records  neatly 
and  correctly  kept,  and  the  finances  carefully  attended  to. 

On  the  same  evening  I  visited  Bethel  Lodge,  No.  24,  and 
witnessed  the  work  on  the  third  degree.  This  Lodge,  though 
among  the  oldest  in  the  State,  is  at  present  laboring  under  many 
disadvantages.  Its  membership  is  small  and  scattered  over  con- 
siderable territory.  Its  proximity  to  Souhegan  Lodge  is  detri- 
mental to  its  increase,  as  the  latter  is  more  easy  of  access.  Its 
hall  and  furniture  are  in  bad  repair,  and  with  so  many  depressing 
circumstances  it  was  not  to  be  expected  that  the  work  would  be 
done  with  that  enthusiasm  and  zeal  which  should  characterize 
Masonic  work  in  order  to  make  a  proper  impression  upon  the 
candidate.         > 

Benevolent  Lodge,  No.  7,  of  which  I  am  a  member  and  a 
constant  attendant  at  all  communications,  I  take  pleasure  in 
reporting   as   being   in   a   very   healthy   condition,  and   the  best 


528 

working  Lodge  in  the  district,  and  I  think  it  will  compare 
favorably  with  any  in  the  State.  February  last,  I  attended  a 
meeting  of  this  Lodge,  composed  of  its  members,  their  ladies  and 
invited  guests,  and  publicly  installed  the  officers.  After  the 
installation,  a  beautiful  gold  ring  was  presented  to  W.\  M.\ 
Hinds  (in  behalf  of  the  Lodge),  for  the  valuable  services  he  had 
rendered  the  Lodge  during  the  past  two  years.  After  which  the 
company  partook  of  refreshments.  The  evening  was  spent  in  a 
very  pleasant  and  agreeable  manner.  The  specie  basis  of  this 
Lodge  is  sound,  and  the  records  neatly  and  properly  kept. 

I  have  granted  but  few  dispensations  during  the  past  year,  and 
then  only  (for  what  seemed  to  me)  to  be  good  and  sufficient 
reasons. 

In    closing,  allow   me    to  say   that   the  true  spirit  of  Masonry 
reigns    throughout    our    borders,  and   my  earnest  prayer  is,  that 
it  may  so  continue  until  time  shall  be  no  more. 
Fraternally  yours, 

N.  HUTCHINSON,  D.  D.  G.  M. 


DISTRICT    NUMBER    FIVE. 

To  the  M.  W.  Or  and  Master  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire: 

When  you  honored  me  by  appointing  me  District  Deputy  Grand 
Master,  it  was  my  intention  to  attend  to  the  duties  of  the  office 
with  fidelity,  and  to  visit  every  Lodge  within  my  jurisdiction;  but 
sickness  and  absence  from  home,  have  prevented  my  attending  to 
the*  duties  of  the  office  as  I  should  otherwise  have  done.  I  have 
only  been  able  to  visit  the  Lodges  in  my  own  city,  but  from  fre- 
quent inquiry  of  the  officers  and  members  of  oth^  Lodges  in  the 
jurisdiction,  I  am  satisfied  that  they  are  in  a  prosperous  condition. 
I  have  granted  but  three  dispensations  and  those  only  by  and  with 
your  consent  and  advice.     I  am  pleased  to  say  that  the  Lodges 


529 

are  more  careful  and  strict  in  the  examination  of  candidates, 
which  will  result  in  a  great  benefit  to  the  craft.  As  I  shall 
probably  net  be  in  the  jurisdiction  the  coming  year,  I  respectfully 
request  you  to  appoint  some  more  worthy  brother  in  my  place. 

Regretting  my  inability  to  fulfill  the  duties   of  the   important 
office  to  which  you  was  pleased  to  appoint  me, 

I  am  very  truly  and  fraternally  yours, 

GEORGE  P.  CLEAVES,  D.  D.  G.  M. 
Boston,  June  7,  1869. 


DISTRICT  NUMBER  SIX. 


To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  appointed  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  over 
Lodges  Nos.  17,  57,  58,  62,  68  and  74,  submits  the  following 
report. 

Have  visited  all  the  Lodges  above  named.  Was  present  at  the 
regular  communication  of  Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  17,  at 
Wolfeborough,  in  February,  and  witnessed  the  work  in  the  third 
degree,  which  was  performed  in  a  dignified  manner,  and  in  accord- 
ance with  that  of  this  Grand  Lodge.  This  is  really  one  of  our 
best  working  Lodges ;  spirit  of  harmony  prevails ;  lodge  meet- 
ings well  attended;  good  degree  of  interest  manifested;  records 
very  neatly  and  properly  kept  by  our  faithful  and  venerable  Bro. 
Rust,  who  has  long  had  charge  thereof,  and  the  Lodge  seems  to 
be  in  a  very  flourishing  condition,  doing  a  fair  amount  of  work 
upon  well-selected  material.     Finances  well  cared  for. 

Carroll  Lodge,  No.  57,  Freedom.  Was  present  as  its  com- 
munication in  August,  witnessed  work  in  first  and  second  degrees, 
quite  well  performed.  The  finances  are  in  good  condition; 
records  well  made.  Was  present,  and  publicly  installed  its  officers 
on   the    afternoon   of  May   27,  assisted   by   Past    Grand   Master 


530 


Rowell,  whom  I  unexpectedly  met  at  that  place,  and  Brothers 
Emerson  and  Drake,  of  Charter  Oak.  I  am  sorry  to  report  a 
spirit  of  discord  in  this  Lodge ;  should  it  long  continue  the  Lodge 
will  not  only  suffer,  but  Masonry  be  brought  into  disrepute. 

Charter  Oak  Lodge,  No.  58,  Effingham.  Am  a  member  of 
this  Lodge,  and  have  attended  all  its  communications  for  the  past 
year.  There  has  been  but  a  small  amount  of  work  performed, 
but  the  meetings  have  been  well  attended  and  harmony  has  pre- 
vailed. Records  well  kept  by  their  faithful  Secretary,  Bro.  Moore, 
whose  efficiency  was  acknowledged  at  our  last  annual  communica- 
tion by  his  eighth  re-election.  It  is  and  has  ever  been  the  object 
of  the  officers  of  this  Lodge  to  conform  strictly  to  the  phraseology 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  ritual,  and  we  think  their  work  will  bear  a 
favorable  comparison  with  that  of  any  Lodge  in  this  district. 
The  N.  E.  M.  C.  Institute  at  this  place  merits  the  patronage  of 
the  craft.  It  is  under  the  care  of  excellent  teachers,  and  its 
advantages  are  equal  to  those  offered  by  any  of  our  seminaries. 
Charter  Oak  Lodge  has  paid  from  its  charity -fund  the  tuition 
of  all  orphan  children  of  Master  Masons,  who  have  availed  them- 
selves of  the  privileges  conferred  by  the  Institute. 

Unity  Lodge,  No.  62,  Wakefield.  Visited  at  its  regular  com- 
munication in  January,  and  witnessed  work  in  the  third  degree. 
M.  W.  Grand  Master  Winn  was  present,  and  a  large  delegation 
of  visiting  brethren  from  sister  Lodges.  This  Lodge  has  an  effi- 
cient board  of  officers ;  works  well ;  records  and  finances  in  good 
condition;  harmony  prevailing;  attendance  fair;  doing  a  good 
amount  of  work ;  very  cautious  in  its  selection  of  material,  and 
we  entertain  no  fears  of  its  prosperity. 

Visited  Red  Mountain  Lodge,  No.  68,  Sandwich,  at  its  regu- 
lar communication  in  May.  Installed  its  officers  and  witnessed 
work  in  second  and  third  degrees.  This  Lodge,  although  not 
doing  a  large  amount  of  work,  is  yet  very  careful  in  regard  to 
quality  of  material  selected.  Few  Lodges  in  this  particular  can 
produce  so  fair  a  record.  The  meetings  are  not  very  fully  attended 
as  its  members  are  mostly  business  men  and  scattered  over  con- 
siderable territory,  yet  there  is  a  unity  of  effort.  Its  finances 
are  properly  cared  for  and  its  records  a  model.  I  have  the  vanity 
to  believe  that  for  chirography  and  terseness,  no  Lodge  in  the 
State  can  furnish  superior.     They  are,  and  have  ever  been,  in  the 


531 

handwriting   and  under  the  supervision  of  Bro.  C.  C.  Fellows, 
Past  D.  D.  Grand  Master.     This  Lodge  can  but  succeed. 

Ossipee  Valley  Lodge,  No.  74,  Ossipee.  Visited  it  at  its 
regular  communication  in  October,  also  in  December  and  again  in 
February,  when  I  inspected  its  work,  records,  &c.  This  Lodge 
has  been  doing  a  fair  amount  of  work,  yet  that  noble  contention 
or  rather  emulation  of  who  best  can  work  and  best  agree,  does 
not  exist  to  a  very  great  extent.  A  necessity  is  felt  by  the  active 
members  of  infusing  its  disordered  system  with  new  life  and  vigor, 
and  in  accordance  with  this  view,  the  necessary  vote  has  been 
passed  and  consent  of  the  two  nearest  Lodges  obtained,  to  remove 
it  to  another  portion  of  the  town  about  six  miles  distant.  This 
subject  will  come  before  the  Grand  Lodge  at  this  session  for  its 
consideration.  As  matters  now  stand,  not  only  the  Lodge  but 
the  institution  suffers. 

By  request  of  M.  W.  Grand  Master  Winn,  I  visited  Mt. 
Washington  Lodge,  U.  D.,  at  North  Conway,  on  the  3d 
instant,  accompanied  by  Bro.  J.  L.  Drake,  of  Charter  Oak. 
As  the  Master  was  unavoidably  absent,  we  did  not  see  a  specimen 
of  their  work,  but  had  the  pleasure  of  meeting  with  quite  a 
number  of  the  officers  and  members  of  the  Lodge,  viewing  their 
records,  &c.  They  have  done  a  good  amount  of  work;  officers 
and  members  energetic,  yet  cautious ;  anxious  to  know  the  right 
way  and  walk  therein ;  records  systematically  arranged,  and  very 
neatly  and  properly  kept. 

We  believe  that  the  interests  of  Masonry  have  for  some  time 
past  demanded  a  Lodge  at  this  place.  The  territory  is  quite  large 
and  material  good.  They  will  ask  for  a  charter  at  this  communi- 
cation of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

We  believe  most  of  the  Lodges  in  this  district  are  at  fault  in 
regard  to  the  examination  of  candidates  for  advancement,  being 
too  superficial  or  altogether  omitting  the  duty. 

I  hereby  return  my  sincere  thanks  to  the  brethren  of  the  several 
Lodges  in  this  district,  who  have  received  and  treated  me  so 
courteously. 

Respectfully  and  fraternally, 

J.  W.  DEARBORN,  D.  D.  G.  M. 


532 
DISTRICT  NUMBER  SEVEN. 

To  the  M.  W,  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire : 

The  undersigned,  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  District 
No.  7,  comprising  Lodges  Nos.  12,  18,  30,  40,  42,  53,  77  and 
80,  respectfully  submits  the  following  report. 

Charity  Lodge,  No.  18,  Jaffrey,  I  visited  December  23d,  1868. 
The  weather  was  cold  and  unpleasant,  the  attendance  was  conse- 
quently small.  I  witnessed  the  work  on  the  M.  M.  degree,  which 
I  am  sorry  to  say  was  not  very  well  done,  and  which  the  W. 
Master  informed  me  he  did  not  expect  would  be,  for  the  reason 
they  had  not  conferred  the  degree  for  some  time ;  his  S.  W.  had 
recently  died,  and  his  S.  D.  was  absent.  He  felt  as  though  they 
had  been  left  out  in  the  cold,  not  having  been  visited  for  three 
years.  Their  records  are  well  kept  and  their  finances  in  good  con- 
dition, having  a  fund  of  about  three  hundred  dollars.  They  have 
a  very  comfortable  lodge  room,  and  I  see  no  reason  why  they  may 
not  do  good  work  if  they  could  devote  a  little  more  time  to  it. 

Monadnock  Lodge,  No.  80,  at  Troy,  I  visited  January  21st, 
1869.  I  witnessed  the  work  on  the  F.  C.  and  M.  M.  degrees, 
which  was  correctly  and  elaborately  done.  Bro.  Clement  is  now 
serving  his  third  term,  and  is  one  of  the  most  correct  working 
Masters  in  this  district.  This  is  a  new  and  one  of  the  youngest 
Lodges  in  the  State,  and  was  obliged  to  contract  quite  a  large 
debt  to  commence  with,  but  should  they  be  favored  as  they  have 
been,  they  will  in  a  few  years  relieve  themselves  entirely.  They 
have  a  very  pretty  lodge  room,  which  they  fitted  up  at  their  own 
expense,  and  have  a  lease  of  it  for  ten  years,  free  of  rent.  Their 
records  are  well  kept,  and  they  have  one  of  the  most  perfect  set 
of  books  I  have  seen. 

Faithful  Lodge,  No.  12,  at  Charlestown,  I  visited  January 
25th.  This  Lodge  has  an  old  charter,  revived  for  the  third  time 
some  eight  years  since.  Their  first  Master  was  instructed  in  a 
foreign  jurisdiction,  and  brought  with  him  work  differing  from 
that  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  this  State ;  some  of  the 
instruction  given  by  him  still  shows  itself  in  their  work.  The 
officers  of  the  Lodge  are  anxious  to  make  their  work  conform  to 
the  regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge.     I  think  they  have  improved 


533 

within  the  last  two  years,  and  have  no  doubt  they  will  in  due  time 
eradicate  what  is  foreign.  Their  records  are  well  kept  and  their 
finances  in  good  condition,  having  paid  all  their  liabilities  and 
have  a  small  amount  in  the  treasury. 

St.  Paul's  Lodge,  No.  30,  Alstead,  I  visited  February  4th. 
The  day  was  stormy  and  few  were  present.  I  witnessed  the  work 
on  the  M.  M.  degree;  the  work  was  indifferently  done,  not  as  well 
as  usual,  they  informed  me,  for  the  reason  the  Lodge  had  not  been 
in  a  condition  to  work  for  a  long  time.  In  September  they  had  the 
misfortune  to  lose  their  lodge  room,  furniture,  jewels,  charter  and 
in  fact  everything  save  the  records  for  the  past  few  years,  which 
happened  to  be  in  the  hands  of  the  Secretary.  Their  loss  is 
irreparable,  their  records  being  complete  for  nearly  fifty  years, 
not  having  lost  a  communication  during  that  time.  About  three 
years  since  they  built  a  new  and  commodious  hall,  which  involved 
them  in  a  large  debt,  which  they  had  reduced  somewhat,  the 
insurance  on  the  building  hardly  paying  the  balance,  so  that  upon 
the  strictest  search  they  found  themselves  entirely  destitute,  and 
but  for  the  very  generous  present  of  a  set  of  jewels  by  Social 
Friends  Lodge,  No.  42  they  would  have  found  it  difficult  to 
proceed.  It  is  hoped  in  due  time  they  will  be  able  to  procure  a 
new  hall  and  go  on  with  their  work. 

Philesian  Lodge,  No.  40,  at  Winchester,  I  visited  February 
23d.  I  witnessed  the  work  on  all  the  degrees ;  it  was  passably 
done,  but  not  quite  as  well  as  I  should  like  to  see  it.  This  Lodge 
owns  the  hall  in  which  they  meet,  and  have  a  small  amount  in  the 
treasury;  their  records  are  well  kept. 

Columbian  Lodge,  No.  53,  at  Walpole,  I  visited  February 
24th.  This  Lodge  (of  which  I  am  a  member)  at  the  time  of  my 
visit  had  not  done  any  work ;  at  that  time  I  witnessed  the  work 
on  the  E.  A.  degree,  which  was  tolerably  done,  considering  it  was 
the  first  attempt  of  the  present  Master.  The  charter  of  this  Lodge 
was  revived  about  seven  years  since,  and  in  starting  it  was  obliged 
to  contract  quite  a  large  debt,  which  I  am  happy  to  say  is  now 
removed.     The  records  of  the  Lodge  are  well  kept. 

Golden  Rule  Lodge,  No.  77,  Hinsdale,  I  visited  March  11th. 
I  witnessed  the  work  on  the  M.  M.  degree.  This  is  a  young  and 
active  Lodge,  but  for  some  reason  the  work  has  got  strangely 
mixed  up  with  that  of  other  jurisdictions.     It  is  situated  in  the 


534 


corner  of  the  State,  near  Massachusetts  and  Vermont,  which  is 
probably  the  reason.  The  W.  Master  was  not  aware  of  the  fact, 
not  having  a  ritual  of  the  work  in  this  State,  and  not  having  been 
visited,  as  he  informed  me,  for  two  years.  I  have  no  doubt  he 
will  correct  his  work  immediately. 

This  Lodge  has  a  very  pretty  hall  and  own  the  entire  building 
in  which  it  is  situated,  part  of  which  they  rent  for  more  than 
enough  to  pay  the  interest  on  their  debt.  Their  records  are  well 
kept. 

Social  Friends  Lodge,  No.  42,  at  Keene,  I  visited  March 
30th.  This  is  by  far  the  largest  Lodge  in  this  district  and  doing 
the  most  work.  Having  resided  in  this  town  the  past  year,  I 
have  attended  nearly  all  of  their  communications  and  have  had  an 
opportunity  to  see  their  work;  I  think  I  can  see  a  decided  im- 
provement since  I  came  here,  and  should  they  remain  united  I  see 
nothing  why  they  may  not  compare  favorably  with  any  Lodge  in 
the  State.  Within  the  past  year  they  have  removed  from  their  old 
hall,  which  was  rather  small,  to  a  new  and  spacious  one  in  the 
same  building  where  there  is  ample  room ;  they  procured  new  and 
beautiful  jewels  and  entirely  new  furnished  the  hall;  in  so  doing 
they  have  expended  the  funds  they  had  on  hand  and  find  them- 
selves with  a  small  debt,  which  need  not  give  them  any  trouble, 
should  they  have  their  usual  amount  of  work. 

I  have  visited  all  the  Lodges  in  this  district,  officially,  once, 
and  some  of  them  in  a  social  way  more  than  once,  and  it  gives 
me  pleasure  to  say  that  I  have  been  received  with  all  the  respect 
due  to  the  representatives  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  I  have  endeav- 
ored to  correct  such  irregularities  as  I  have  seen,  and  given  such 
information  as  was  wanted,  whenever  called  on. 

This  is  a  large  district,  the  extreme  Lodges  being  nearly  fifty 
miles  apart  and  some  of  them  inconvenient  of  access.  I  have 
found  that  quite  a  number  of  the  Lodges  in  this  district  have 
their  charters  handsomely  framed  and  suspended  in  the  Lodge 
room ;  Is  it  safe  and  proper  to  do  so  ?  Two  Lodges  in  this  vicinity 
have  lost  theirs  by  fire  by  so  doing. 

I  visited  the  Lodge  of  the  Temple,  a  Lodge  under  dispen- 
sation from  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  located  in  this  town,  May 
11th.  I  granted  a  dispensation  to  confer  the  E.  A.  degree,  for  the 
purpose  of  improving  the  officers  in  the    work  and  lectures.     I 


535 

witnessed  the  work,  but  having  no  instructions  from  the  Grand 
Master,  I  considered  my  visit  merely  a  social  one. 

May  18th,  I  visited  Social  Friends  Lodge,  No.  42,  at  a 
special  communication,  and  installed  its  officers  publicly. 

May  19th,  I  attended  the  annual  meeting  of  Columbian 
Lodge,  No.  53,  and  installed  its  officers. 

May  20th,  I  visited  Monadnock,  No.  80,  and  installed  its 
officers  publicly. 

JESSENIAH  kittredge,  d.  d.  g.  m. 

Keene,  May  28th,  1869. 


DISTRICT  NUMBER  EIGHT. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire: 

The  undersigned,  Deputy  of  District  No.  8,  respectfully  reports 
that  in  attending  to  the  duties  of  his  appointment,  he  has  visited 
the  various  Lodges  in  his  district,  most  of  them  at  special  com- 
munications; has  seen  work  performed  or  exemplified  in  them  all, 
with  a  single  exception,  and  is  of  the  opinion  that  Masonry  in  his 
district  is  in  a  prosperous  condition,  that  the  Lodges  are  endeav- 
oring to  work  the  Grand  Lodge  work,  and  are  accomplishing  a 
steady  and  healthy  growth,  and  would  especially  remark  with 
pleasure,  that  there  seems  to  be  generally  a  growing  disposition  to 
scrutinize  carefully  the  character  of  such  as  make  application  for 
membership,  and  to  refuse  admission  to  unsuitable  persons.  The 
strength  and  benefit  of  the  institution  depends  vastly  more  on  the 
character  than  the  numbers  of  its  membership.  The  utmost 
order  and  harmony  prevail  in  the  various  lodge  rooms,  and  the 
closest  attention  was  paid  to  the  work  while  it  was  going  on.  The 
direction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  relation  to  examination  of  candi- 
dates for  advancement,  has  been  generally  complied  with. 
<I  have  been  everywhere  received  with  the  greatest  courtesy,  and 


536 

both  officers  and  brethren  have  rendered  me  every  assistance  in 
their  power,  in  my  examination. 

In  regard  to  individual  Lodges.  I  visited  Mount  Vernon- 
Lodge,  No.  15,  at  Newport,  at  their  regular  communication, 
Monday,  April  26th.  There  was  a  full  attendance  and  much  interest 
manifested;  saw  the  third  degree  conferred.  Bro.  Waite,  Grand 
Lecturer  for  this  district,  is  W.  Master  of  this  Lodge,  and  as  was 
to  be  expected,  the  work  was  done  with  great  accuracy;  the 
records  are  well  kept,  and  the  financial  condition  of  the  Lodge  is 
excellent,  but  they  much  need  a  better  and  more  commodious  hall 
for  meeting. 

Monday,  May  3d,  visited  Cheshire  Lodge,  No.  23,  at  Cornish. 
Found  it  in  good  working  order;  saw  the  third  degree  conferred, 
agreeably  to  the  New  Hampshire  ritual ;  made  examination  of  the 
records  and  general  condition  of  the  Lodge,  and  am  able  to  make 
a  favorable  report  of  the  same. 

Tuesday,  May  4th,  visited  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  6,  at  Lebanon. 
The  officers  of  this  Lodge  are  now  upon  their  third  year  of  service 
in  their  present  positions,  are  wide-awake  active  men,  who  love 
the  institution  for  its  own  sake,  and  make  it  a  rule  to  do  well 
whatever  they  do.  They  have  an  excellent  hall,  fitted  up  in  fine 
style,  and  do  their  work  with  great  promptness  and  accuracy. 
This  Lodge  is  every  way  in  a  very  prosperous  condition,  and 
their  records  are  the  best  kept  of  any  in  the  district. 

Wednesday,  May  5th,  I  visited  Social  Lodge,  No.  50,  at 
Enfield.  The  attendance  at  this  Lodge  is  not  large,  but  they  are 
maintaining  themselves  in  a  good  and  healthy  condition,  and  are 
endeavoring  to  do  their  work  according  to  the  directions  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.       Their  records  are  well  and  tastefully  kept. 

Thursday,  May  6th,  visited  in  the  afternoon  Mount  Moriah 
Lodge,  No.  22,  at  Grafton.  The  members  of  this  Lodge  are  so 
widely  scattered  that  but  few  of  them  assembled  and  but  little 
was  done.  There  is  not  here  a  sufficient  attention  to  the  letter  of 
the  law  and  the  Masonic  ritual.  I  trust  that  the  next  year  may 
witness  an  improvement  in  those  respects. 

On  same  day,  in  evening,  visited  Kearsarge  Lodge,  No.  81, 
at  Andover,  and  found  them  in  excellent  working  order,  doing 
their  work  exactly  according  to  the  directions  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,     The  establishment  of  their  Lodge  is  of  recent  date,  and 


537 

they  have  fitted  up  their  hall  in  fine  style,  making  it  a  very  attract- 
ive place  for  meeting.  There  is  in  this  Lodge  every  indication 
of  prosperity. 

Friday,  May  7th,  visited  King  Solomon's  Lodge,  No.  14,  at 
Wilmot,  and  found  them  under  the  efficient  direction  of  Bro.  E. 
A.  Jones,  their  W.  Master,  doing  an  excellent  work  and  making 
every  effort  for  improvement  in  Masonic  knowledge.  Saw  the 
second  degree  conferred ;  the  work  was  well  done,  and  in  accord- 
ance with  the  directions  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Hiram  Lodge,  No.  9,  at  Claremont,  I  have  not  formally 
visited  as  I  am  a  member  thereof.  This  is  an  old  Lodge,  and  has  a 
large  number  of  members,  but  the  attendance  is  not  so  large  as  is 
desirable.  This  Lodge  labors  under  a  rather  unusual  inconven- 
ience, that  of  having  too  large  a  hall.  It  has  done  considerable 
work  during  the  past  year,  and  I  think  has  endeavored  to  comply 
with  the  requirements  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
Respectfully  submitted, 

IRA  COLBY,  Jr.,  D.  D.  G.  M. 


DISTRICT   NUMBER  NINE. 


To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  having  been  appointed  District  Deputy  Grand 
Master  for  the  Ninth  Masonic  District,  respectfully  submits  the 
following  report. 

I  have  visited  all  the  Lodges  in  this  District  except  Chocortja 
Lodge,  at  Meredith,  which  was  visited  by  P.*.  G.\  M.\  Rowell, 
who  dedicated  their  hall.  From  him  I  learn  that  this  Lodge  is  in 
a  flourishing  condition,  that  they  are  doing  a  fair  amount  of  work, 
and  are  anxious  to  excel. 

Mount  Prospect  Lodge,  No.  69,  at  Holderness.  This  Lodge  I 
visited  at  their  regular  communication  in  January,  accompanied  by 


538 

R.\  W.\  Hiram  Clark,  Grand  Lecturer.  We  found  the  officers 
prompt  at  their  several  stations,  and  a  goodly  number  of  brethren 
present;  all  seemed  to  meet  upon  the  level.  I  witnessed  their 
work  on  the  second  degree,  which  was  correctly  done.  After  con- 
ferring this  degree,  Bro.  Clark  lectured  with  them,  and  I  was 
pleased  to  find  them  so  well  posted  in  the  lectures.  Their  records 
are  well  kept,  and  their  finances  in  a  prosperous  condition.  This 
Lodge  has  done  but  little  work  during  the  past  Masonic  year, 
believing  that  a  slow  and  healthy  growth  is  better  than  a  too  rapid 
one. 

Olive  Branch  Lodge,  No.  16,  Plymouth,  I  visited  January 
26th.  I  did  not  have  the  pleasure  of  seeing  this  Lodge  work. 
They  have  done  but  little  the  past  year,  thinking  it  better  to 
guard  well  the  outer  door,  than  to  find  in  their  building  unsuitable 
material.  I  found  their  records  well  kept,  and  their  lodge  room 
neat  and  commodious. 

Mount  Cube  Lodge,  No.  10,  at  Orford.  This  Lodge  I  visited 
at  their  stated  communication  in  September,  and  also  at  a  special 
meeting,  February  2d,  afternoon  and  evening.  Here  I  found  a 
young  Lodge  working  under  an  old  charter,  and  anxious  to  do 
their  work  in  accordance  with  the  Grand  Lodge  work.  I  had  the 
pleasure  of  seeing  them  work  on  the  three  degrees,  and  was 
pleased  with  the  manner  in  which  they  did  it,  each  officer  at  his 
station,  the  brethren  attentive,  and  the  lectures  given  with  the 
degrees  in  an  impressive  manner.  This  Lodge  has  done  a  large 
amount  of  work,  which  is  not  to  be  regretted  if  they  have  used 
the  right  material;  they  seem  to  guard  well  the  outer  door,  and 
mean  to  admit  none  but  the  worthy.  Their  records  are  well  kept 
and  their  prospects  good  for  the  future. 

•  Grafton  Lodge,  No.  46,  Haverhill,  I  visited  at  their  regular 
meeting  in  February,  but  did  not  have  the  pleasure  of  meeting  with 
them  in  open  Lodge,  owing  to  their  meeting  in  the  afternoon,  and 
I  did  not  arrive  until  the  Lodge  had  closed ;  but  from  conversation 
with  the  Master  and  Wardens,  I  can  report  them  as  doing  well, 
adding  to  their  numbers  good  and  worthy  men. 

Kane  Lodge,  No.  64,  at  Lisbon.  This  Lodge  I  visited  at 
their  regular  communication  in  March.  I  witnessed  their  work  in 
the  second  degree.  I  was  sorry  that  I  could  not  see  them  work 
in  the  three  degrees,  for  I  had  so  often  heard  of  their  good  work 


539 

that  I  was  anxious  to  witness  it.  I  found  their  records  well  kept. 
This  is  a  large  Lodge,  having  over  two  hundred  members,  and 
has  the  largest  fund  on  hand  of  any  Lodge  in  this  district. 

Burns  Lodge,  No.  66,  Littleton,  I  visited  at  their  regular 
meeting  in  March,  and  found  every  officer  at  his  station,  with  a 
large  attendance  of  the  brethren.  I  do  not  wonder  at  the  easy 
and  masterly  manner  in  which  the  work  was  done  here,  for  when 
officers  and  brethren  take  hold  with  the.  zeal  they  did,  it  is  easy 
and  pleasant  for  the  Master  to  work.  I  had  the  pleasure  of 
witnessing  their  work  on  the  second  and  third  degrees,  which  was 
done  in  accordance  with  the  Grand  Lodge  work,  and  I  was 
pleased  W  see  the  promptness  with  which  each  one  did  his  part. 
This  Lodge  is  in  a  pleasant  and  growing  village,  and  is  constantly 
adding  to  its  numbers,  being  careful  to  admit  none  but  the  worthy. 
They  have  a  large  and  splendid  hall,  neatly  and  tastefully  fur- 
nished.    I  found  the  records  in  good  hands,  and  finances  sound. 

Moosehillock  Lodge,  No.  63,  of  which  I  am  a  member,  I 
have  attended  regularly,  unless  absent  from  town.  I  visited  it 
officially  at  their  annual  meeting,  and  installed  their  officers,  who, 
I  am  satisfied,  will  see  to  it  that  this  Lodge  maintains  its  former 
reputation  for  accuracy  in  work  and  zeal  for  the  order.  The 
records  remain  in  the  hands  of  Bro.  S.  G.  Currier,  who  has  for 
many  years  faithfully  and  correctly  recorded  the  doings  of  the 
Lodge,  and  the  finances  are  in  a  prosperous  condition. 

The  Lodges  in  this  district  I  find,  are  generally  anxious  to 
perfect  themselves  in  the  Grand  Lodge  work  and  lectures.  I  have 
endeavored  to  impress  upon  each  Lodge  the  necessity  of  a  uni- 
formity of  work,  and  also  the  importance  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
resolution  requiring  candidates  for  advancement  to  be  examined  in 
open  Lodge.  I  find  a  diversity  of  practice  in  these  examinations, 
some  Lodges  requiring  a  greater  proficiency  than  others,  but  with 
one  exception — the  exception  being  a  Lodge  which  had  not  heard 
of  this  resolution — the  examination  is  made,  and  some  degree  of 
proficiency  required.  I  find  the  custom  of  giving  the  candidate 
the  degrees,  and  promising  him  the  lectures  at  some  future  meet- 
ing, somewhat  prevalent  in  this  district,  which  I  think  is  to  be 
regretted,  and  I  hope  to  see  some  action  taken  in  this  Grand 
Lodge  thereon.  There  seems  to  me  to  be  but  one  time  when  these 
lectures  can  make  the  right  impression. 


540 


All  the  Lodges  in  this  district  are,  I  think,  doing  well.  Perhaps 
they  are  not  adding  to  their  numbers  as  fast  as  in  some  former 
years,  but  they  are  manifesting  a  strong  desire  to  participate  in 
the  higher  principles  of  the  order ;  harmony  prevails,  and  may  we 
all  bear  in  remembrance  and  practice  those  truly  Masonic  virtues, 
temperance,  fortitude,  prudence  and  justice,  ever  remembering 
that  we,  are  "  traveling  upon  the  level  of  time  to  that  undiscov- 
ered country,  from  whose  bourn  no  traveler  returns." 

Respectfully  submitted, 

MARK  L.  AIKEN,  D.  D.  G.  M. 


DISTRICT  NUMBER  TEN. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  having  been  appointed  District  Deputy  Grand 
Master  for  the  10th  Masonic  district,  over  Lodges  Nos.  8,  37,  73 
and  86,  respectfully  submits  the  following  report. 

North  Star  Lodge,  No.  8,  at  Lancaster.  This  is  one  of  the 
oldest  Lodges  in  the  State,  and  has  done  an  average  amount 
of  work  during  the  past  year.  Notwithstanding  the  new  Lodge 
formed  at  Whitefield,  has  taken  quite  a  number  of  members  from 
this  Lodge,  it  still  has  a  large  membership,  and  as  I  learn  from 
W.\  M.\  Savage,  a  state  of  general  good  feeling  and  harmony 
prevails.  I  did  not  arrive  in  season  to  witness  their  work,  but 
from  their  past  record  it  is  not  behind  many  of  the  Lodges  in  this 
respect.  I  examined  their  records,  which  are  well  and  neatly 
kept.     Its  finances,  although  small,  are  well  invested. 

Evening  Star  Lodge,  No.  37,  at  Colebrook.  Owing  to 
unavoidable  circumstances  I  have  not  had  the  pleasure  of  visiting 
this  Lodge  the    past   year.     W.\  M.\  Rolee    informs    me    that 


541 

the  Lodge  was  never  in  better  condition  than  at  the  present  time. 
They  have  done  a  larger  amount  of  work  the  past  year  than  ever 
before.  The  material  worked  has  been  of  the  first  quality. 
Their  motto  is  "slow  and  sure,"  and  as  long  as  they  stand  by  that 
they  are  safe.  Not  having  the  pleasure  of  witnessing  their  work, 
I  cannot  speak  of  the  present,  but  judging  from  the  past  Lhave 
no  hesitation  in  saying  it  is  well  and  correctly  done.  Bro.  Rolee 
informs  me  that  their  records  are  well  kept,  and  their  finances  are 
in  good  condition,  that  union  and  harmony  prevail  among  their 
members. 

Goeham  Lodge,  No.  73,  at  Gorham.  Of  this  Lodge  I  am  a 
member,  and  endeavor  to  attend  its  meetings  when  possible  for 
me  to  do  so.  This  Lodge  has  done  a  large  amount  of  work  the 
past  year,  which  has  been  well  done,  and  of  the  best  material;  its 
records  are  well  kept,  and  its  finances  in  a  good  condition,  they 
being  well  and  securely  invested.  A  general  good  feeling  prevails 
among  its  members  aud  peace  along  its  borders. 

White  Mountain  Lodge,  No.  86,  Whitefield.  I  visited  this 
Lodge,  May  26;  called  a  special  communication  for  that  purpose. 
It  being  a  new  Lodge  I  felt  anxious  to  witness  its  work.  I 
granted  them  a  dispensation  to  confer  the  third  degree  upon  Bro. 
Libby,  who  had  taken  the  first  and  second  degrees  at  regular 
meetings  previously.  I  was  very  much  pleased  to  find  its  mem- 
bers anxious  to  be  sure  they  were  right  and  then  proceed;  that  is 
a  good  motto.  Their  *vork  was  very  well  and  correctly  done, 
records  neatly  and  correctly  kept,  and  their  financial  condition 
very  good.  The  Lodge  is  a  little  in  debt,  it  being  chartered  last 
year.  They  have  a  very  convenient  and  secure  hall,  although  not  yet 
wholly  furnished.  They  have  an  excellent  set  of  jewels,  books, 
&c,  and  bid  fair  to  be  one  of  the  best  Lodges  in  the  State. 

In  conclusion,  I  will  say,  that  I  believe  that  never  in  this  juris- 

•  diction  has  Masonry  been  more  prosperous  than  in  the  past  year, 

and  I  am    happy  to  say  that,  so  far  as    I    am   aware,    not   only 

prosperity,  but  harmony  and  good  feeling  exist  among  the  Lodges, 

and  among  the  members  of  the  several  Lodges  in  this  district. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

U.  SHOREY,  D.  D.  G.  M. 

Gorham,  May  31st,  1869. 


542 

The  committee  on  credentials  made  a  report  embracing 
the  foregoing  list  of  Grand  Officers,  Past  Grand  Officers, 
officers  and  representatives  of  subordinate  Lodges,  and 
visiting  brethren  in  attendance,  which  report  was  ac- 
cepted. 

The  Grand  Lodge  was  then  called  off  for  refreshment 
until  two  o'clock  in  the  afternoon. 


AFTERNOON . 

At  two  o'clock  the  Grand  Lodge  re-assembled  and  was 
called  to  labor.     Present  as  in  the  morning. 

The  hour  assigned  for  the  election  of  Grand  Officers 
having  arrived,  Bros.  John  A.  Harris  and  Thomas  E. 
Hatch  were  appointed  a  committee  to  collect,  count,  and 
declare  the  state  of  the  votes,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  pro- 
ceeded to  ballot  for  Grand  Officers,  when  the  following 
brethren  were  severally  declared  duly  elected. 

ALEXANDER  M.  WINN,  Farmington,  M.  W.  Grand  Master. 
JOHN  R.  HOLBROOK,  Portsmouth,  2^  W.  D.  Grand  Master. 
N.  W.  CUMNER,  Manchester,  R.  W.  Sen.  Grand  Warden. 
WILLIAM  BARRETT,  Nashua,  R.  W.  Jun.  Grand  Warden. 
JOHN  KNOWLTON,  Portsmouth,  R.  W.  Grand  Treasurer. 
HORACE  CHASE,  Hopkinton,  R.  W.  Grand  Secretary. 

W.  B.  Reynolds,  formerly  a  member  of  Unity  Lodge, 
No.  62,  and  expelled  therefrom,  presented  his  petition, 
and  the  petition  of  members  of  said  Unity  Lodge  and 
other  Lodges,  praying  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  to  restore 
him  to  his  former  rights  and  privileges  in  Masonry,  which 
petitions  were  referred  to  a  select  committee,  consisting  of 
Bros.  Hazen  Bedel,  George  Montgomery  and  Stephen 
Chick. 


543 


Petitions  for  new  Lodges  at  North  Conway  and  North 
Strafford  were  presented,  which,  with  accompanying 
papers,  were  referred  to  the  committee  on  Lodges. 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  announced  the  following 
appointments  of  Grand  Officers  : 


District  Deputy  Grand  Masters. 

District  No.  1,  R.  W.  John  J.  Bell,  Exeter,  over  Lodges  Nos. 
1,  19,  47,  56,  59. 

2,  "  "  E.  C.  Kinnear,  Farmington,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  21,  29,  49,  65,  71,  75. 

3,  "  "  Edwaed  Parker,  Nashua,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  39,  41,  44,  45,  61,  76,  85. 

4,  "    "  Charles  H.  Burns,  Wilton,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  7,  24,  26,  52,  67. 

5,  "  "  A.  S.  Ballantyne,  Sanbornton,  over 
Lodges  Nos.  11,  31,  32,  38,  43,  60, 
70,  72,  78,  79. 

6,  "    "J.  W.  Dearborn,  Effingham,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  17,  57,  58,  62,  68,  74,  87. 

7,  "    "  Royal    H.  Porter,  Keene,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  12,  18,  30,  40,  42,  53,  77,  88. 

8,  "    "  Albert  S.  Waite,  Newport,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  6,  9,  14,  15,  22,  23,  50,  81. 

9,  "    "  Henry     L.    George,     Plymouth,     over 
Lodges  Nos.  16,  46,  63,  64,  66,  69. 

10,  "    "  Henry  O.  Kent,  Lancaster,  over  Lodges 
Nos.  8,  37,  73,  86. 


Grand  Lecturers. 

District  No.  1,  R.\  W.\  Oliver  G.  Fernald,  Portsmouth. 

"  "     2,         "         Charles  A.  Tuns,  Dover. 

"  "     3,         "         Charles  M.  Robinson,  Nashua. 

"  "     4,         "         Mortimer  H.  Morrison,  Peterboro'. 

"  "     5,         "         John  A.  Harris,  Concord. 


544 


District  No.  6,  R.\  W.\  Henry  R.  Parker,  Wolfeborough. 
"  "     7,         "         Henry  Abbott,  Winchester. 

"  "     8,         "         Leland  J.  Graves,  Claremont. 

"  "     9,         "         Henry  W.  Smith,  Littleton. 

"  "  10,         "         Albert  Barker,  Colebrook. 


Grand  Chaplains. 
R.  W.  and  Rev.  James  Adams,  Candia. 


<c      a 


Thomas  B.  Newby,  Conway. 
Orin  J.  Waite,  Franklin. 


Grand  Deacons. 

W.\  Edward  Gustine,  Keene. 
"      Clinton  W.  Stanley,  Manchester. 

Grand  Stewards. 

W.\  Daniel  W.  Edgerly,  Farmington. 
"      Daniel  R.  Marshall,  Nashua. 
"      Tobias  D.  Foss,  Strafford. 
"      Jacob  D.  March,  Nashua. 
"      Joseph  W.  Robinson,  Concord. 
"      Charles  S.  Coburn,  Keene. 

W.\  A.  H.  Bixby,  Francestown,  Grand  Marshal. 
"      Luther  W.  Nichols,  Concord,  Grand  Sword  Bearer. 
"       Oliver  A.  Woodbury,  Nashua,  Grand  Pursuivant. 
"      George  L.  Reed,  Concord,  Grand  Tyler. 


REPORT   ON   FINANCE. 

The  committee  on  finance  to  whom  was  referred  the  account 
of  Horace  Chase,  Grand  Secretary  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  respect- 
fully  report,  that    they   find   upon   examination,  that   the  Grand 


545 

Secretary,  has  paid  out  for  the  year  commencing  June  16th,  1868, 
the  sum  of  $616.35,  and  that  during  the  same  period  he  has 
received  the  sum  of  $544.00,  leaving  a  balance  due  him  of 
$72.35. 

We  also  recommend  that  the  sum  of  $150.00  be  paid  the 
Grand  Secretary  for  his  services  in  arranging  and  compiling  the 
second  volume  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  from 
1842  to  1856. 

The  committee  have  examined  the  account  of  Bro.  J.  J.  Bell, 
for  services  as  chairman  of  committee  on  foreign  correspondence, 
amounting  to  $50.00,  and  recommend  that  the  same  be  paid. 

They  have  also  examined  the  account  of  the  R.  W.  Grand 
Treasurer,  and  find  him  charged  as  follows : 

1868,  June,  balance  of  cash  in  his  hands,      $2,048  29 

1869,  June,  to  cash  for  $1000.00  bond  sold,  1,067  50 

To  cash  for  $500.00  bond  sold,       535  00 
To  cash  received  of  Grand  Sec'y,     822  50 

$4,473  29 

Ck. 

1868,  By  Paid  C.  F.  Livingston, $300  00 

"  John  J.  Bell, 50  00 

"  Wm.  Bakkett, 415  37 

"  C.F.Livingston, 250  00 

"  Grand  Secretary  Chase, 100  00 

"  C.F.Livingston, 592  01 

"  Grand  Secretary  Chase, 375  00 

Dec.  "  Bent  &  Bush, 647  40 

1869,  "  Commission, 44  00 

June,  "  Geo.  L.  Reed, 15  00 

"    J.  W.  Deakbokn, 28  00 

"    M.L.Aiken, 18  00 

"    Guild  &  Delano, 839  50 

$3,674  28 


$799  01 


From   which   deduct  the  following  bills  which  the  committee 
recommend  to  be  paid  : 


546 

MoRRILL  &  SlLSBY, $14    55 

John  J.  Bell, 50  00 

N.Hutchinson, 18  50 

Joseph  Hartford, 15  00 

John  J.  Bell, 5  00 

C.  W.  Stanley, 18  00 

Jesseniah  Kittredge, 20  00 

Daniel  R,.  Marshall, 3  00 

Ira  CoLBY,Jr 14  20 

A.M.Winn, 20  00 

Balance  due  the  Grand  Sec'y, 72  35 

C.  F.  Livingston, 377  25 

Amount  allowed  Grand  Secretary  for 
compiling  second  volume  proceed- 
ings Grand  Lodge, 150  00 

$777  85 

The  amount  of  cash  on  hand,  $21   16 

To  which  add  one  $1000.00  5-20   bond  with  one  year  or  more 
interest  balance  in  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer  as  above. 

Charles  G.  Pickering,  for  the  Committee  on  Finance. 


Which  report  was  accepted  and  concurred  in. 

Called  from   labor  to  refreshment  until  seven  o'clock 
this  evening. 


EVENING     SESSION. 

At  seven  o'clock  the  Grand  Lodge  re-assembled  and  was 
called  to  labor. 

The  special  committee  appointed  on  the  petition  of 
Wm.  B.  Reynolds,  made  the  following  report,  which  was 
accepted  and  concurred  in. 

The  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  petition  of  Wm.  B.  Rey- 
nolds, to  be  restored  to  the  rights  and  privileges  of  Masonry, 
from  which  he  has  been  expelled  by  Unity  Lodge,  No.  62,  report 


547 

that  they  have  considered  said  petition  and  a  recommendation 
accompanying  the  same,  of  the  W.  Master,  Wardens  and  Secre- 
tary, and  many  members  of  said  Lodge  and  other  Master  Masons, 
and  are  unanimous  in  recommending  that  the  Grand  Lodge  restore 
said  Wm.  B.  Reynolds  to  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of  Masonry 
that  he  enjoyed  previous  to  his  expulsion,  and  that  he  be  notified 
of  the  same  in  due  form. 

Which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

Hazen  Bedell,  J 

Geokge  Montgomery,    >  Committee. 

Stephen  Chick,  3 


REPORT  ON  LODGE  RETURNS. 

The  Committee  on  Returns  of  Lodges,  having  carefully  ex- 
amined the  returns  made  to  the  Grand  Secretary  at  this  commu- 
nication, submit  the  following  as  the  result  of  their  examination : 

St.  John's,  No.  1,  Benevolent,  No.  7,  Blazing  Star,  No.  11, 
Faithful,  No.  12,  King  Solomon's,  No.  14,  Olive  Branch,  No.  16, 
Morning  Star,  No..  17,  Charity,  No.  18,  Sullivan,  No.  19,  Humane, 
No.  21,  Mount  Moriah,  No.  22,  Cheshire,  No.  23,  Bethel,  No.  24, 
Strafford,  No.  29,  St.  Peter's,  No.  31,  Mount  Lebanon,  No.  32, 
Evening  Star,  No.  37,  Rising  Sun,  No.  39,  Philesian,  No.  40, 
Lafayette,  No.  41,  Social  Friends,  No.  42,  Aurora,  No.  43,  St. 
Mark's,  No.  44,  Pacific,  No.  45,  Grafton,  No.  46,  Rising  Star, 
No.  47,  Libanus,  No.  49,  Social,  No.  50,  Clinton,  No.  52,  Colum- 
bian, No.  53,  St.  Andrews,  No.  56,  Charter  Oak,  No.  58,  Star  in 
the  East,  No.  59,  Meridian,  No.  60,  Washington,  No.  61,  Kane, 
No.  64,  Burns,  No.  66,  Souhegan,  No..  67,  Mount  Prospect,  No. 
69,  Eureka,  No.  70,  Fraternal,  No.  71,  Horace  Chase,  No.  72, 
Gorham,  No.  73,  Ossipee  Valley,  No.  74,  Winnipissiogee,  No. 
75,  Rockingham,  No.  76,  Golden  Rule,  No.  77,  Doric,  No.  78, 
Union,  No.  79,  Monadnock,  No.  80,  Kearsarge,  No.  81,  Corin- 
thian, No.  82,  Chocorua,  No.  83,  Gideon,  No.  84,  Spicket,  No. 
85,  White  Mountain,  No.  86,  Lodge  of  the  Temple,  U.  D.,  all 
correct.  Franklin,  No.  6,  not  footed  correctly;  North  Star,  No.. 
8,  no  return;  Hiram,  No.  9,  fees  to  Grand  Lodge  omitted,  mem- 

5 


548 

bers  not  alphabetically  arranged;  Mount  Cube,  No.  10,  names  of 
members  not  returned ;  Mount  Vernon,  No.  1 5,  number  of  mem- 
bers not  returned;  Altemont,  No.  26,  officers  names  included  with 
members ;  St.  Paul,  No.  30,  no  return ;  Harmony,  No.  38,  num- 
ber of  members  wrong ;  Carroll,  No.  57,  no  return ;  Unity,  No. 
62,  no  return;  Moosehillock,  No.  63,  no  return;  Granite,  No. 
65,  dues  not  footed ;  Red  Mountain,  No.  68,  number  of  members 
wrong,  time  of  communication  not  given. 

All  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

C.  K.  Drake,  "\ 

Noah  Tebbetts,      >   Committee. 

Henry  M.  Datis,    ) 


Which  report  was  accepted. 

On  motion  of  M.*.  W.*.  Israel  Hunt,  Voted,  That  the 
Grand  Secretary  be  instructed  to  collect  the  dues  of  delin- 
quent Lodges,  and  also  to  give  to  the  Lodges  which  have 
made  incorrect  returns  the  opportunity  to  correct  them. 

The  committee  on  foreign  correspondence  offered 
their  report,  and  on  motion  of  Bro.  Wm.  Barrett,  it  was 
voted  that  the  reading  of  the  report  be  dispensed  with, 
and  that  it  be  published  with  the  printed  proceedings. 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master  appointed  Bros.  John  J. 
Bell,  Albert  R.  Hatch  and  Charles  H.  Burns,  com- 
mittee on  foreign  correspondence. 

The  special  committee,  appointed  at  the  last  annual 
communication,  on  the  petition  of  P.  C.  Cambridge,  asked 
for  further  time  to  make  report,  which  was  granted,  and 
his  petition  continued  by  vote  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 


549 
REPORT  ON  DOINGS  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire :  • 

Your  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  doings  of  Grand 
Officers  have  attended  to  the  duties  assigned  them,  and  report  that 
they  have  received  and  examined  the  reports  of  the  District 
Deputy  Grand  Masters  for  all  the  districts. 

In  all  except  number  five,  those  officers  appear  to  have  attended 
to  their  duties  faithfully,  and  to  have  made  particular  exertion  to 
visit  all  the  respective  jurisdictions,  and  to  scrutinize  particularly 
the  condition  and  transactions  of  each. 

The  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  in  district  number  five, 
reports  that  by  reason  of  sickness  and  unavoidable  absence  from 
the  State,  he  has  been  prevented  from  a  more  particular  discharge 
of  his  duties,  but  the  general  condition  of  the  several  Lodges  in 
his  jurisdiction  is  commendable. 

From  these  reports  the  several  Lodges  appear  to  be  approach- 
ing more  nearly  to  a  uniformity  in  work  than  ever  before.  In  a 
few  localities  there  has  been  an  unwarrantable  deviation  from  the 
standard  work ;    the  eause  does  not  appear. 

Financially,  the  Lodges  seem  to  be  in  a  more  prosperous  con- 
dition than  in  previous  years,  and  in  some  instances  there  is  quite 
a  large  amount  of  funds  carefully  invested. 

In  several  cases  new  halls  have  been  erected  and  beautifully 
furnished,  which  your  committee  deem  very  commendable  when- 
ever the  condition  of  the  Lodge  is  such  as  to  warrant  it. 

Generally,  a  spirit  of  harmony  prevails,  promising  the  highest 
degree  of  prosperity  within  this  jurisdiction,  but  we  are  sorry  to 
report  that,  in  a  few  Lodges,  a  spirit  of  discord  has  been 
fomented  wholly  unworthy  of  men,  and  more  particularly  of 
brother  Masons.  Such  conduct  brings  reproach  and  dishonor 
upon  our  institution,  and  we  hope  it  may  never  again  intrude  it- 
self within  the  order. 

We  commend  the  manner  in  which  the  several  District 
Deputy  Grand  Masters  have  attended  to  their  duty,  particularly 
in  those  instances  where  a  detailed  statement  of  the  financial  con- 
dition of  Lodges  in  their  districts  have  been  made,  and  attention 
has  been  given  to  the  manner  and  amount  of  work  done. 


550 

The  eloquent  and  appropriate  address  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Master  deserves  especial  commendation,  as  setting  forth  in 
plain  and  expressive  style  the  condition  of  such  matters  as  has 
been  his  official  duty  to  consider. 

Thomas  E.  Hatch,       ) 

Joseph  W.  Fellows,   >   Committee. 

John  M.  Shikley,        j 


REPORT  ON  LODGES. 

The  committee  to  whom  have  been  referred  the  several  matters 
relating  to  Lodges,  submit  the  following  as  their  report : 

They  recommend  that  a  charter  be  granted  for  a  new  Lodge  at 
North  Conway,  lately  working  under  a  dispensation,  to  be  called 
Mount  Washington  Lodge,  and  numbered  87,  and  that  the  same 
be  assigned  to  District  No.  6. 

In  the  matter  of  the  petition  of  John  C.  Bickford  and  twenty- 
seven  others,  praying  for  permission  to  remove  Ossipee  Valley 
Lodge,  No.  74,  from  Centre  Ossipee  to  West  Ossipee,  the  parties 
having  complied  in  all  respects  with  the  requirements  of  the 
Grand  Constitution,  and  it  appearing  for  the  benefit  of  the  Lodge 
to  make  the  change,  the  committee  recommend  that  the  Lodge 
have  leave  to  make  the  desired  removal. 

The  committee  recommend  that  the  petition  of  Charles  P. 
Shoff  and  nineteen  others,  asking  for  a  new  Lodge  at  North 
Strafford,  be  dismissed,  they  not  deeming  it  expedient  to  grant  a 
charter. 

They  recommend  that  the  by-laws  which  have  been  submitted 
to  them  be  referred  to  the  several  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters. 

The  committee  have  fully  heard  the  parties  in  the  matter  of  the 
petition  of  A.  S.  Carpenter  and  others,  asking  for  a  charter  for 
a  new  Lodge  at  Keene,  lately  working  under  dispensation,  and 
although  they  find  some  informality  in  the  proceedings,  the  com- 
mittee are  of  the  opinion  that  it  will  be  for  the  best  interest  of 
the  order  to  establish  a  new  Lodge  at  that  place. 

They  therefore  recommend  that  a  charter  be  granted  for  a  new 


551 


Lodge   at  said  Keene,  to  be  called  "The   Lodge   of  the   Temple," 
to  be  numbered  88,  and  assigned  to  District  No.  7. 

Respectfully  submitted, 

Charles  H.  Burns,   ) 

John  A.  Harris,        >  Committee. 

Wm.  B.  Lane,  ) 


On  motion,  said  report  was  accepted  and  the  recom- 
mendations of  the  committee  for  granting  a  charter  for  a 
new  Lodge  at  North  Conway,  for  the  removal  of  Ossipee 
Valley  Lodge,  from  Centre  Ossipee  to  West  Ossipee,  and 
for  dismissing  the  petition  for  a  new  Lodge  at  North 
Strafford,  were  concurred  in. 

Brother  Thos.  E.  Hatch  moved  that  that  part  of  the 
report  recommending  the  formation  of  a  new  Lodge  at 
Keene  be  concurred  in,  and  a  charter  for  the  same  issue 
accordingly,  which  motion,  after  a  long  and  animated  dis« 
cussion  in  favor  and  against,  was  put  and  decided  in  the 
affirmative. 

Bro.  Wm.  Barrett,  offered  the  following  resolution, 
which  was  adopted :     . 

Resolved,  That  the  custodian  of  the  Grand  Lodge  library 
be  instructed  to  complete  files  of  proceedings  of  sister 
Grand  Lodges  in  correspondence  with  this  Grand  Lodge, 
so  far  as  practicable,  and  cause  the  same  to  be  bound,  and 
that  he  be  further  instructed  to  procure  suitable  book- 
cases for  the  same ;  and  that  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  be 
authorized  to  draw  his  order  on  the  Grand  Treasurer  for  a 
sum  sufficient  to  pay  the  expense,  when  the  bill  shall  be 
approved  by  the  custodian,  Bro.  John  A.  Harris. 

On  motion,  Resolved,  that  the  dispensations  of  those 
Lodges  whose  charters  are  granted  at  this  session,  be 


552 

extended  until  charters   are   furnished  and  the  Lodges 
duly  constituted. 

The  Grand  Lodge  was  then  closed  until  nine  o'clock 
to-morrow  morning. 


THURSDAY,  June  11th,  1869. 

At  nine  o'clock  in  the  morning  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master 
opened  the  Grand  Lodge  in  due  form. 

The  R.  W.  Grand  Secretary  gave  the  following  notices  : 
of  the  expulsion  of  John  F.  Mouse,  by  Grafton  Lodge, 
No.  46,  January  2d,  1868 ;  of  the  expulsion  of  A.  Tyler 
Palmer,  by  Charity  Lodge,  No.  23,  E.  I.,  June  25th, 
1868 ;  of  the  expulsion  of  Nathan  J.  Crandall,  by 
Warwick  Lodge, ,  September  7th,  1868  ;  of  the  sus- 
pension of  Lockhart  Davenport,  by  Golden  Rule 
Lodge,  No.  77,  October  29th,  1868  ;  of  an  amendment  of 
the  by-laws  of  Cheshire  Lodge,  No.  23,  changing  the 
time  of  stated  communication. 

Bro.  N.  W.  Cumner  offered  the  following  resolution, 
which  was  adopted : 

'Resolved,  That  a  page  in  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  be  inscribed  to  the  memory  of  our  deceased  Bro. 
W.*.  Asahel  Adams  Balch,  and  that  the  Grand  Secretary 
be  instructed  to  forward  a  copy  of  the  same  to  the  widow 
of  the  deceased. 

On  motion  of  Grand  Secretary, 

Voted,  That  all  the  Grand  Officers  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
for  the  past  year  be  presented  with  a  copy  of  the  second 
volume  of  reprinted  proceedings. 

The  revised  Grand  Constitution,  presented  at  the  last 
annual   communication,  the   consideration   of  which  was 


553 

postponed  to  the  second  day  of  this  communication,  at  ten 
o'clock  A.M.,  and  the  day  and  hour  having  arrived,  was 
taken  up,  read  article  by  article  and  section  by  section, 
debated,  amended  and  adopted.  [See  Appendix.] 

The   Grand  Lodge  was  then  called  from  labor  until 
two  o'clock  in  the  afternoon. 


AFTERNOON. 

The  Grand  Lodge  re-assembled  at  two  o'clock  P.  M., 
and  was  called  from  refreshment  to  labor. 

Bro.  William  Barrett,  offered  the  following  resolu- 
tions which  were  read  and  adopted  : 

Resolved,  That  Bro.  John  J.  Bell  be  directed  to  pro- 
cure the  printing  of  one  thousand  (1000)  copies  of  the 
new  Grand  Constitution,  as  soon  as  may  be,  after  this 
session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  forward  the  same  to 
the  Grand  Secretary,  who  shall  immediately  send  four  (4) 
copies  to  each  Lodge,  and  one  copy  to  each  officer  of  the 
Grand  Lodge. 

Resolved,  That  Bro.  Bell  be  authorized  and  directed 
to  prepare  such  forms  as  may  be  necessary  under  the  new 
Grand  Constitution,  and  cause  the  same  to  be  printed  and 
bound  with  the  constitution. 

Bro.  Horace  Chase  proposed  in  writing  to  amend  the 
Grand  Constitution  of  this  Grand  Lodge  by  striking  out 
section  117.,  article  XIV.,  which  reads  as  follows  : 

"  There  shall  be  but  one  ballot  for  all  the  degrees.  If 
objections  are  made  to  a  candidate  after  initiation,  charges 
shall  be  filed  and  a  trial  had,  as  provided  in  article 
XVII." ;  and  inserting  the  following  instead  thereof; 

"No  candidate  for  the  honors  of  Masonry  shall  be  ini- 


554 

tiated  or  advanced  to  any  higher  degree,  but  upon  a  clear 
and  unanimous  ballot  upon  each  degree." 

Which  proposed  amendment  was  ordered  to  be  filed 
with  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  lay  over  for  consideration 
till  the  next  annual  communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Bro.  Hazen  Bedell  offered  the  following  resolution, 
which  was  adopted : 

Resolved,  That  all  candidates  for  the  honors  of 
Masonry,  whose  applications  shall  have  been  received  and 
filed  prior  to  the  adoption  of  the  revised  Grand  Constitu- 
tion, if  admitted,  shall  receive  the  degrees  for  the  fees 
required  under  the  old  constitution. 

On  motion  of  Bro.  John  J.  Bell, 

Voted,  That  the  Grand  Treasurer  be  instructed  to  effect 
an  insurance  on  the  jewels  and  clothing  of  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

E.  W.  Bro.  Barrett  offered  the  following  resolution, 
which  was  adopted : 

Resolved,  That  E.  W.  Bro.  Horace  Chase  be  presented 
with  twenty  copies  of  the  second  volume  of  the  reprinted 
proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

There  being  no  further  business  before  the  Grand 
Lodge,  it  was  closed  by  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  in  ample 
form,  with  prayer  by  E.  W.  and  Eev.  Thomas  B.  Newby, 
Grand  Chaplain. 

A  true  record.     Attest : 

Grand  Secretary. 


Address  of  Grand  Master : 

ALEXANDER  M.  WINN,  M.  D. 

Manchester.  N.  H. 


Address  of  Grand  Secretary  : 

Hon.  HORACE  CHASE, 

IlopJcinton,  iV".  H. 


(  555  ) 


IN     MEMORY     OF 


ASAHEL   A.  BALOH, 

P.  High  Priest  of  Mt.  Horeb  Chapter, 

AND  W.  GRAND  STEWARD 
OP  THE  M.  W.  GRAND  LODGE. 


Born,  June  1, 1826 ;  Died,  January  16, 1869. 


(  557  ) 


LIST  OF  PAST   GRAND   OFFICERS, 

WHO,  BY  THE  CONSTITUTION,  ARE  MEMBERS  OP  AND  ENTITLED  TO  A  VOTE  IN 
THE  GRAND  LODGE,  AS  CORRECTED  JUNE,  A.  L.  5869. 


PAST   GRAND   MASTERS. 


Israel  Hunt, 
John  Christie, 
Horace  Chase, 
Daniel  Balch, 
Ichabod  G.  Jordan, 
Alfred  Greeley, 
George  H.  Hubbard, 
Charles  H.  Bell, 
Jona.  Everett  Sargent, 
John  H.  Rowell, 


Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
St.  Andrew's,  No.  56, 
Aurora,  No.  43, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
Lib  anus,  No.  49, 
Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
St.  Peter's,  No.  31, 
Star  in  the  East,  No.  59, 
Moosehillock,  No.  63, 
Meridian,  No.  60, 


LOCATION. 

Nashua. 

Portsmouth. 

Henniker. 

Manchester. 

Somersworth. 

Nashua. 

Bradford. 

Exeter. 

Wentworth. 

Franklin. 


PAST   DEPUTY   GRAND   MASTERS. 

Jacob  C.  Hanson,  Libanus,  No.  49,  Somersworth. 

Richard  N.  Ross,  Strafford,  No.  29,  Dover. 

John  S.  Kidder,  Washington,  No.  61,  Manchester. 

PAST   GRAND   WARDENS. 


John  H.  White, 
Joshua  Edwards, 
John  Knowlton, 
Josiah  Morse, 
Christopher  Whitney, 
George  W.  Balloch, 
John  B.  Fish, 


Strafford,  No.  29, 
Libanus,  No.  49, 
St.  John's,  No.  1, 
Aurora,  No.  43, 
Bethel,  No.  24, 
Libanus,  No.  49, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
(  559  ) 


Dover. 

Somersworth. 

Portsmouth. 

Henniker. 

New  Ipswich. 

Somersworth. 

Manchester. 


560 


PAST   DISTRICT    DEPUTY    GRAND  MASTERS. 


Thomas  Clapman, 
Charles  Lane, 
Elijah  Bingham, 
Francis  Russell, 
David  Murray, 
Titus  V.  Wadsworth, 
Eliphalet  Lyman, 
John  M.  Hunt, 
Harrison  G.  Harris, 
William  P.  Riddle, 
John  Bennett, 
Jacob  0.  Smith, 
William  D.  McPherson, 
Theodore  T.  Abbot, 
Jonas  Parker, 
Josiah  G.  Hadley, 
Silas  Dinsmore, 
Robert  Dunlap, 
John  J.  Prentiss, 
Josiah  B.  Edgerly, 
Albert  R.  Hatch, 
Hosea  Fessenden, 
Samuel  Dunster, 
John  F.  Duncklee, 
Ira  Rust, 
Cyrus  K.  Drake, 
Abel  Hutchins, 
Lewis  Woodman, 
Edward  H.  Rollins, 
Edward  W.  Harrington, 
James  H.  Edgerly, 
Jared  I.  Williams, 
Thomas  Snow, 
Samuel  M.  Wilcox, 
Elisha  E.  Dodge, 
Philip  H.  Paddleford, 
Isaac  H.  Marshall, 
Charles  G.  Conner, 
William  W.  Bailey, 
Barrett  Ripley, 
Thomas  Spurlin, 


St.  John's,  No.  1, 
Mt.  Lebanon,  No.  32, 
St.  Paul's,  No.  30, 
Mt.  Lebanon,  No.  32, 
Rising  Star,  No.  47, 
Meridian,  No.  60, 
North  Star,  No.  8, 
Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
St.  Peter's,  No.  31, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
St.  John's,  No.  1, 
Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
Mount  Vernon,  No.  15, 
St.  John's,  No.  1, 
Harmony,  No.  38, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
Hiram,  No.  9, 
Humane,  No.  21, 
St.  John's,  No.  1, 
Blazing  Star,  No.  11, 
Strafford,  No.  29, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
St.  Paul's,  No.  30, 
Charter  Oak,  No.  58, 
Blazing  Star,  No.  11, 
Hiram,  No.  9, 
Blazing  Star,  No.  11, 
Washington,  No.  61, 
Humane,  No.  21, 
North  Star,  No.  8, 
Libanus,  No.  49, 
Star  in  the  East,  No.  59, 
Granite,  No.  65, 
Burns,  No.  66, 
Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
Star  in  the  East,  No.  59, 
Rising  Sun,  No.  39, 
Social  Friends,  No.  42, 
Strafford,  No.  29, 


Portsmouth. 

Gilford. 

Alstead. 

Gilford. 

Newmarket. 

Franklin. 

Lancaster. 

Nashua. 

Bradford. 

Manchester. 

Portsmouth. 

Nashua. 

Manchester. 

Manchester. 

Newport. 

Portsmouth. 

Hillsborough. 

Manchester. 

Claremont. 

Rochester. 

Portsmouth. 

Concord. 

Dover. 

Manchester. 

Alstead. 

Effingham. 

Concord. 

Claremont, 

Concord. 

Manchester. 

Rochester. 

Lancaster. 

Somersworth. 

Exeter. 

Rollinsford. 

Littleton. 

Nashua. 

Exeter. 

Nashua. 

Keene. 

Dover. 


561 


John  Wilder, 
C.  C.  Fellows, 
Ezra  C.  Knight, 
Urban  Shorey, 
William  P.  Walker, 
Rufus  L.  Bartlett, 
W.  B.  Clement, 
Edward  Gustine, 
John  Young,  Jr., 
Henry  0.  Kent, 
John  Dame, 
Franklin  McDufpee, 
Ezra  Huntington, 
Charles  H.  Burns, 
Eli  Dodge, 
John  Blackmer, 
Don  H.  Woodward, 
A.  M.  Gove, 
Thomas  J.  Smith, 
Hazen  Bedell, 
Jeremiah  D.  Parker, 
Joseph  Hartford, 
Clinton  W.  Stanley, 
Nathan  Hutchinson, 
Jesseniah  Kittredge, 
Ira  Colby,  Jr., 
Mark  S.  Aiken, 


Altemont,  No.  66, 

Red  Mountain,  No.  68, 

Kane,  No.  64, 

Gorham,  No.  73, 

St.  Andrews,  No.  56, 

Lafayette,  No.  41, 

Meridian,  No.  60, 
Social  Friends,  No.  42, 
Mount  Vernon,  No.  15, 
North  Star,  No.  8, 
St.  John's,  No.  1, 

Humane,  No.  21, 
Lafayette,  No.  41, 
Clinton,  No.  52, 
St.  Peter's,  No.  31, 
Red  Mountain,  No.  68, 
Social  Friends,  No.  42, 
Franklin,  No.  6, 
Moosehillock,  No.  63, 
Evening  Star,  No.  37, 
Star  in  the  East,  No.  59, 
Strafford,  No.  29, 
Washington,  No.  61, 
Benevolent,  No.  7, 
Columbian,  No.  53, 
Hiram,  No.  9, 
Moosehillock,  No.  63, 


Peterborough. 

Sandwich. 

Lisbon. 

Gorham. 

Portsmouth. 

Manchester. 

Franklin. 

Keene. 

Newport. 

Lancaster. 

Portsmouth. 
Rochester. 

Manchester. 

Wilton. 

Bradford. 

Sandwich. 

Keene. 

Lebanon. 

Went  worth. 

Colebrook. 

Exeter. 

Dover. 

Manchester. 

Milford. 

Walpole. 

Claremont. 

Wentworth. 


Note.— All  Past  Grand  Masters,  Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  Past  Grand  War- 
dens, and  Past  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  are  members  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
while  they  remain  members  of  some  subordinate  Lodge  under  its  jurisdiction. 


N.  B.— The  Secretaries  of  subordinate  Lodges  are  respectfully  requested  to  give 
information  of  any  errors  they  may  find  in  the  foregoing  list  of  Past  Grand  Officers, 
or  any  changes  that  may  occur,  that  they  may  be  noted  and  hereafter  corrected. 


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APPENDIX 


REPORT  ON  FOREIGN  CORRESPONDENCE. 


REPORT. 


In  Grand  Lodge  of  New  Hampshire, 
Concord,  June  10,  A.  L.  5869. 

The  Committee  on  Foreign  Correspondence  submit  the  follow- 
ing report : 

We  have  examined  the  proceedings  of  thirty-nine  domestic,  and 
four  foreign  Grand  Bodies,  which  have  been  submitted  to  us,  viz : 

Alabama,  Dec.  7,  5868;  Arkansas,  Nov.  16,  5868;  California, 
Oct.  13,  5868;  Canada,  July  8,  5868;  District  of  Columbia  for 
5868;  Connecticut,  May  13,5868;  Delaware,  June  27,5868; 
Florida,  January  13,  5868;  Georgia,  Oct.  27,  5868;  Idaho,  Dec. 
16,  5867,  June  22,  5868;  Illinois,  Oct.  6,  5868;  Indiana,  May 
26,5868;  Iowa,  June  2,5868;  Kansas,  Oct.  20,5868;  Ken- 
tucky, Oct.  19,  5868;  Louisiana,  Feb.  16,  5868  ;  Maine,  May, 
5868;  Maryland,  Nov.  16,  5868;  Massachusetts  for  5868 ;  Michi- 
gan, Jan.  13,  5868;  Mississippi,  Jan.  20,  5868  ;  Missouri,  Oct.  12, 
5868;  Nebraska,  June  24,  5868;  Nevada,  Sept.  17,  5868;  New 
Brunswick,  Sept.  23,  5868;  New  Jersey,  Jan.  22,  5868;  New 
York,  June  2,  5868;  North  Carolina,  Dec.  7,  5868;  Nova  Scotia, 
June  24,  5868;  Ohio,  Oct.  20,  5868;  Oregon,  June  22,  5868; 
Pennsylvania  for  5868;  Rhode  Island,  May  18,5868;  South 
Carolina,  Nov,  17,  5868;  Tennessee,  Oct.  5,  5868;  Texas,  June 
8,5868;  Vermont,  June  10,  5868;  Virginia,  Dec.  14,  5868; 
Washington,  Sept.  17,  5868;  West  Virginia,  Nov.  10,  5868; 
Wisconsin,  June  9,  5868  ;  Bulletin  du  Grand  Orient  de  France  for 
5868. 

(3) 


ALABAMA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  commenced  its  forty-eighth  annual  communi- 
cation at  Montgomery,  December  7th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
One  hundred  and  ninety-nine  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  George  D.  Norbis,  presented  an 
eloquent  address.     Of  our  order  he  says: 

"  Loaded  with  the  charms  of  antiquity,  interesting  by  a  thousand  associations  of 
history,  heroism,  and  romance,  the  order  yet  possesses  all  the  health  and  life  of 
novelty,  all  the  liberality  and  benevolence  of  reform.  It  exists  in  the  body  and 
bosom  of  the  people  ;  it  catches  their  sentiments,  is  modified  by  their  thoughts,  and 
changes  with  their  manners.  It  partakes  of  their  improvement,  and  adapts  itself  to 
all  the  various  changes  of  man.  Within  its  shadow  the  rich  aud  the  poor  meet  on 
terms  of  equality ;  the  one  forgets  his  wealth  and  his  pride,  and  the  other  forgets 
his  poverty  and  his  sorrow.  Their  sympathies,  ever  otherwise  asunder,  are  here 
mingled  together,  and  they  go  forth  into  the  world  again,  conscious  that  opposition 
in  rank  cannot  with  them  create  hostility  of  feeling.  They  lose  the  artificial  dis- 
tinctions of  society,  and  assume  the  pure,  original  and  kindly  intercourse  of  fellow- 
men.  The  great  man  finds  familiar  friendship  in  walks  of  society  where  his  name 
would  otherwise  never  have  been  uttered,  but  with  awe  ;  and  the  obscure  poor  man 
finds  himself  exciting  interest  and  acquiring  importance  among  those  whose  looks 
hitherto  have  been  bent  upon  him  with  coldness  and  condescension." 

He  thus  disposes  of  that  fruitful  source  of  discussion,  uniformity 
of  work: 

"  The  ritual  is  useful  and  necessary,  but  much  cumbered  with  many  words  ; 
but  it  is  by  no  means  Masonry ;  the  elucidation  of  our  symbols  in  the  search  of 
Truth,  and  the  practice  of  its  deductions  thereby  learned,  I  consider  to  be  in  deed 
and  in  truth,  Masonry  in  its  highest  sense.  As  to  uniformity,  except  in  the 
essentials,  viz. :  the  G.  W.  andS.,  together  with  the  traditions  —  it  is  a  myth,  and 
can  never  be  accomplished." 

He  had  decided  among  other  things,  that  any  member  may  veto 
the  advancement  of  the  candidate  before  the  O.  B.,  and  that  he 
need  not  give  his  reasons;  that  a  member  who  cannot  be  present, 
may  make  his  objection  to  the  affiliation  of  a  brother  known  to 
the  Master,  who  should  withhold  the  ballot ;  that  a  Mason  may 
take  the  benefit  of  the  bankrupt  act;  that  the  minutes  must  always 
be  read  before  closing,  for  correction  and  approval,  and  read  at 
the  next  stated  communication  for  reference  only;  that  maims 
cannot  be  initiated  or  advanced ;  to  all  which  we  say,  amen.  But 
he  also  decided  that  a  Past  Master  who  has  never  received  the 
P.\M.\  degree  may  install,  which,  with  our  understanding  that 
that  degree  is  an  essential  part  of  the  ceremony  of  installation, 
seems  erroneous. 


He  reported  having  granted  nine  dispensations  for  new  Lodges. 
This  Grand  Lodge  has  a  historian,  Bro.  Samuel  H.  Dixon,  who 
thus  states  what  he  hopes  to  accomplish  : 

"  When  I  entered  upon  my  duties  as  Historian  of  Masonry  in  Alabama,  I  deter- 
mined to  compile  a  full  and  complete  history  of  every  Lodge  in  the  State  (defunct 
or  living),  and  the  history  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  with  an  abstract  of  its  most  import- 
ant proceedings.  This  I  find  to  be  a  Herculean  task ;  but  by  diligence  and  perse- 
verance I  hope  to  accomplish  the  desired  object." 

Would  it  not  be  well  for  our  Grand  Lodge  to  attempt  some- 
thing of  the  sort. 

Eight  charters  were  granted  for  new  Lodges,  and  two  were  con- 
tinued under  dispensation.  The  committee  on  jurisprudence  re- 
ported, that  the  right  of  objecting  to  the  admission  of  a  visitor  is 
in  the  Lodge,  and  not  in  any  individual  brother,  and  should  not  be 
exercised  but  for  good  reasons.  The  first  part  of  this  decision  may 
be  doubted.  They  also  decided  that  the  Senior  Warden  succeeds 
to  the  Master,  the  Junior  Warden  succeeds  in  the  absence  of  both 
his  superiors ;  therefore,  a  vacancy  in  the  office  of  Master  cannot 
be  filled  if  there  be  a  Warden,  but  that  the  Junior  Warden  does 
not  succeed  the  Senior,  either  temporarily  or  permanently,  and 
therefore  a  dispensation  may  be  granted  to  elect  a  Senior  Warden 
when  the  office  is  vacant;  they  also  decided  that  a  Mason  cannot 
renounce  Masonry ;  he  may  dimit,  he  may  refuse  to  participate  in 
the  active  work  of  the  craft,  or  to  fulfill  his  obligations,  but  he 
remains  a  Mason,  unless  for  some  Masonic  crime  he  be  expelled ; 
they  also  say  a  dimit  should  be  refused  where  the  object  is  to 
renounce  Masonry.  We  rather  prefer  to  regard  his  membership  as 
voluntary;  if  he  desires  a  dimit,  and  is  clear  of  all  charges,  we 
would  not  hold  him  to  unwilling  membership.  A  Mason  he  is  and 
must  remain,  but  Lodge  membership  is  another  thing.  A  special 
committee  reported  against  the  Grand  Lodge  committing  itself  to 
Masonic  Cooperative  Life  Insurance  Companies, — whatever  these 
last  be, — with  which  the  Grand  Lodge  wisely  concurred. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence,  from  the  pen  of  M.\ 
W.\  W.  C.  Penick,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  forty- two  Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  He  quotes  from  the  Arkan- 
sas report  the  position  that  negro  equality  in  Masonry  would 
make  the  institution  impracticable,  if  not  contemptible,  and  says : 


"  And  what  is  this  all  for?  To  extend  the  institution  to  a  class  of  profanes,  of 
whom,  to  say  the  least  of  it,  it  is  hut  an  experiment  upon  a  servile  race,  not  free 
born  in  the  sense  of  Masonry?  And  it  is  a  question  to-day,  whether  he  is  not  a 
worse  slave  than  before.  Now,  if  the  opinion  of  Brother  Peck,  that  the  negro  is 
capable  of  the  highest  order  of  intellectual  and  social  improvement,  is  right,  time 
will  prove  it ;  but  if  on  the  contrary,  he  is  mistaken,  woe  to  Masonry.  Now,  why 
not  wait  until  a  generation  of  free-born  negroes,  with  culture  and  education,  can 
perhaps  be  safely  trusted,  and  when  prejudices  and  doubts  will  have  passed  away  or 
have  become  solved  in  the  clear  light  of  experience." 

The  experiment  suggested  has  been  tried  already,  under  perhaps 
not  the  most  favorable  circumstances,  and  though  as  a  race,  they 
are  still  far  from  highly  advanced  standing,  individuals  can  be 
found,  who  by  their  talents  and  their  virtues,"  seem  to  render  the 
opinion  of  G.\  M.\  Peck,  to  say  the  least  of  it,  probable.  He 
approves  the  view,  now  becoming  general,  that  fees  upon  affilia- 
tion should  be  abolished.  Of  the  Mormon  question,  our  brother 
thus  delivers  himself: 

"  Well,  we  fear  that  the  Grand  Master  of  Colorado  may  lend  himself  to  the  Mor- 
mon interest  and  be  instrumental  in  permitting  the  Mormons — those  adulterous  biga- 
mites,  to  get  into  and  finally  possession  of  the  Lodge  at  Salt  Lake  City.  We  un- 
hesitatingly sustain  the  action  taken  by  the  Grand  Master  of  Nevada  on  the  Mormon 
question— not  because  of  their  religion,  but  because  of  their  adulterous  proclivities 
and  practices." 

Our  brother  is  a  good  deal  troubled  about  the  "  everlasting 
nigger,"  which,  if  his  view  of  such  of  them  as  he  sees  is  correct, 
is  not  to  be  wondered  at.     He  says  of  them : 

"  We  have  lately  turned  loose  on  us  a  race  of  men  naturally  indolent,  lazy,  and 
depraved  in  morals,  who  will  not  work  and  must  eat,  who  lie  up  and  sleep  by  day  to 
prowl  about  and  steal  by  night.  And  it  requires  as  much  time,  trouble  and  expense 
to  guard  and  save  what  we  make  from  them,  as  it  does  to  make  it.  Many  of  our 
members  and  best  citizens  have  left  and  are  leaving  the  country,  and  thousands 
more  would,  if  they  could  raise  enough  of  means  to  go  with." 

If  he  could  only  see  that  the  question  of  the  negro  in  Masonry 
is  just  now  merely  speculative,  and  will  remain  so,  if  intemperate 
brothers  do  not  get  themselves  warm  about  it ;  that  there  is  no 
likelihood  that  negroes  will  be  made  Masons,  unless  he  and  such 
as  he  stir  up  the  fanatics  he  so  much  dreads, — it  would  be  much 
better  for  the  craft.  He  hauls  us  over  the  coals  for  our  lenient 
treatment  of  certain  brothers  at  Great  Falls,  but  as  he  is  not 
alone  in  this,  we  prefer  to  answer  all  at  once,  which  we  shall  do 
farther  on.  We  had  marked  other  passages  for  quotation,  but 
want  of  space  forbids. 


ARKANSAS. 

The  thirtieth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  com- 
menced at  Little  Rock,  November  16th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D,  1868. 
Ninety-eight  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  E.  .H  English  reports  having 
granted  seventeen  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  thus 
reports  the  action  of  one  of  the  particular  Lodges : 

"  The  Worshipful  Master  of  Shady  Grove  Lodge,  No.  108,  writes  :  '  At  the  last 
session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  there  was  an  edict  passed,  compelling  all  Lodges  to 
provide  themselves  with  a  Lodge  seal — their  returns  to  be  made  out  under  seal  of 
the  Lodge  ;  all  failing  to  do  so  not  to  be  received  (p.  37-8).  We  fully  acknowledge 
the  right  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  do  this,  but  believe  it  to  be  an  abuse  of  power  to 
inflict  burthens  that  would  be  grievous  to  bear.  We,  therefore,  as  per  resolution, 
unanimously  surrender  up  our  charter,'  etc. 

"  Seals  are  of  great  antiquity ;  they  are  perhaps  older  than  the  art  of  writing,  and 
certainly  preceded,  for  many  ages,  the  invention  of  printing.  Tubal-Cain,  the  son 
of  Zillah,  and,  in  his  line,  the  eighth  man  from  Adam,  was  the  first  artificer  in  brass 
and  iron,  and  doubtless  fashioned  seals  for  the  ante-deluvian  patriarchs.  Solomon 
had  a  seal  of  mystic  form  and  devices,  and  the  Arabians,  to  this  day,  attribute  a  tal- 
ismanic  influence  to  the  seal  of  our  ancient  Grand  Master.  The  seal  has  been  used 
in  all  ages  as  a  symbol  of  nationality  and  sovereignty,  and  is  the  most  solemn  evi- 
dence of  the  authenticity  of  legal,  as  well  as  Masonic  transactions.  No  Lodge  or 
intelligent  Mason,  anywhere  on  the  globe,  would  recognize  a  charter,  diploma,  or 
dimit,  without  the  impression  of  the  seal  of  the  Grand  or  subordinate  Lodge  from 
which  it  purports  to  emanate.  In  requiring  her  subordinates,  which  were  delinquent 
in  that  respect,  to  procure  and  use  seals,  this  Grand  Lodge  but  enjoined  the  observ- 
ance of  an  ancient  Masonic  usage.  But  the  Grand  Lodge  did  not  indicate  whether 
the  seals  were  to  be  fashioned  from  metal,  stone,  or  wood.  This  was  left  to  the  taste 
and  means  of  the  Lodges.  If  Shady  Grove  Lodge  had  not  the  means  to  appro- 
priate twelve  or  fifteen  dollars  to  pay  for  a  seal  manufactured  in  the  ordinary  style, 
some  ingenious  brother  might  have  carved  one  on  the  end  of  a  hard  stick,  to  be  used 
by  the  Lodge  until  its  finances  were  in  an  improved  condition.  The  surrender  of 
the  charter  was  a  desperate  remedy  for  the  burthen  complained  of." 

He  reports  St.  John's  College  to  be  doing  well,  and  bespeaks  its 
favorable  consideration  at  the  hands  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
recommends  that  action  be  taken  to  preserve  the  Masonic  history 
of  the  State. 

Sixteen  Lodges  were  chartered,  seven  dispensations  continued, 
and  two  ordered  to  issue.  As  usual,  the  surplus  funds  were 
given  to  St.  John's  College.  The  use  of  Masonic  emblems  upon 
public  signs  or  other  advertisements,  as  a  means  of  inducing  cus- 
tom or  patronage  to  men  in  business  enterprise,  was  unanimously 
condemned.  It  was  ordered  that  no  fee  should  be  charged  for 
affiliation,  if  application  was  made  within  six  months  of  coming 


8 

into  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge,  but  if  not  made  within  that 
time,  "  he  shall  then  pay  an  initiation  fee  of  the  usual  amount." 
The  last  provision  we  should  deem  unwise. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence  was  submitted  by  Bro. 
C.  B.  Moore,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-five  Grand 
Bodies,  including  ours.  We  have  the  Great  Falls  books  again. 
Our  brother  heartily  disapproves  of  Masonic  jewelry,  and  as 
heartily  approves  of  brethren  living  together  in  unity,  and  reads 
Bros.  Guilbert  of  Iowa,  and  Barry,  of  Georgia,  a  lesson  for 
the  hard  names  they  called  each  other;  though,  not  unnaturally, 
he  thinks  Bro.  Barry  has  some  little  palliation,  which  he  cannot 
see  in  the  case  of  Bro.  Guilbert,  while  to  us,  the  provocation 
seems  about  equally  insufficient. 


CALIFORNIA. 

The  nineteenth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
commenced  at  San  Francisco,  October  13th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D. 
1868.     One  hundred  and  forty-nine  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  William  A.  Davis,  G.\  M.\,  in  his  address, 
reports  having  granted  six  dispensations  for  new  Lodges  ;  that  he 
upheld  the  law  against  the  admission  of  maims,  but  permitted 
their  advancement ;  that  some  system  of  annual  inspection  of  the 
Lodges  was  necessary  ;  (our  California  brethren  have  not  hereto- 
fore seen  any  use  for  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters)  ;  he  recom- 
mends action  in  relation  to  San  Francisco  Board  of  Relief. 

This  Grand  Lodge  has  a  valuable  Masonic  library,  and  the 
Grand  Secretary  reports  an  addition  of  thirty-five  volumes  during 
the  year,  on  reading  the  titles  of  some  of  which  we  were  almost 
tempted  to  disobey  the  command,  "  Thou  shalt  not  covet,"  and 
sincerely  wished  that  such  a  library  was  within  our  reach.  We 
wish  to  call  the  attention  of  the  craft  in  this  State  to  the  conclud- 
ing paragraph  of  the  Grand  Secretary's  report;  the  italics  are 
ours. 


"The  only  arrears  for  dues  at  the  date  of  closing  the  financial  portion  of  this 
report  were  $3.75,  being  slight  errors  of  two  Lodges,  which  will  be  corrected  when 
the  accounts  of  the  current  year  are  made  up  ;  and  it  is  pleasant  to  add,  as  usual, 
that  the  returns  of  every  Lodge  in  the  jurisdiction,  for  the  current  year,  have  been 
received." 


9 

The  Masonic  Board  of  Relief,  of  San  Francisco,  reports  an 
expenditure  for  charity  of  $7,461.03,  of  which  twenty  dollars 
was  for  a  brother  hailing  from  New  Hampshire. 

"  Of  the  foregoing  sura  of  $7,461.03,  disbursed  for  the  relief  of  the  sick  and 
needy,  there  was  expended, — 

For  Masons  of  California, $1,714  10 

*f    Masons  of  other  jurisdictions, 2,866  40 

■"    widows  and  orphans  of  Masons  of  California, 658  00 

"  widows  and  orphans  of  Masons  of  other  jurisdictions, . .  2,222  53 

Being  a  total  of $7,461  03 

No  portion  of  the  foregoing  sum  has  been  expended  for  any  member  of  any  of  the 
Lodges  comprising  this  Board,  or  for  his  wife,  widow,  or  orphans,  each  Lodge  in 
the  city  caring  for  its  own  sick,  needy,  or  destitute." 

The  committee  on  address  of  the  Grand  Master  reiterate  his 
demand  for  an  efficient  system  of  inspection  of  the  Lodges.  We 
believe  they  will  find  none  better  than  ours,  of  District  Deputy 
Grand  Masters,  each  having  charge  of  a  number  he  can  fairly 
attend  to.  Six  charters  were  granted  to  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion, and  one  dispensation  ordered  to  issue.  Caucusing  and 
electioneering  for  Masonic  office  was  emphatically  disapproved. 
The  following  shows  the  harsh  and  unjust  manner  in  which  our 
California  brethren  strain  their  laws  to  meet  abuses  which  doubt- 
less press  hard  upon  them.  But,  as  in  the  case  of  suspension  of 
unaffiliated  brothers,  no  fair  construction  of  the  language  of  the  law 
would  make  it  read  as  they  do  ;  and  if  it  were  ever  so  plain,  nothing 
could  justify  the  outrageous  injustice  of  condemning  a  brother 
unheard,  and  without  even  a  pretence  of  an  inquiry  into  his 
guilt.  No  body  of  men,  much  less  of  Masons,  can  do  that 
rightfully . 

"  The  provisions  of  that  section  are,  that  any  member  refusing  or  neglecting  to 
pay  his  dues  shall  be  notified  by  the  Secretary,  that,  'unless  at  the  next  stated  meet- 
ing, either  his  dues  be  paid,  or  sickness  or  inability  to  pay  be  shown  as  the  cause  of 
such  refusal  or  neglect,  he  will  be  suspended  from  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
Masonry.'  And  further,  that '  if  neither  of  these  things  be  done,  he  shall  be  so  sus- 
pended, unless  for  special  reasons  shown,  the  Lodge  may  otherwise  determine.' 
This  seems  to  be  as  plain  as  words  could  make  it.  '  He  shall  be  so  suspended,' 
unless  the  Lodge  otherwise  determine  for  good  reasons  shown.  The  only  discretion 
the  Lodge  can  exercise  is  to  remit  the  dues  or  extend  the  time  for  payment.  If 
neither  of  these  be  done,  he  is  suspended  by  operation  of  the  law,  and  the  Lodge 
has  no  occasion  to  take  any  action  in  the  matter." 

A   brother  pays  his   dues,  but   by  some  error,  the   Secretary 
neglects  to  credit  him ;  such  things  have  happened  with  the  most 


10 

careful  and  honest  of  men ;  he  is  notified  by  the  Secretary 
of  neglect  in  paying  his  dues  ;  he  is  prepared  to  show  the  error, 
but  no,  he  must  pay  his  dues  again,  or  be  suspended  without 
trial.  Such,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  California  declares  to  be  their 
law !  !  Somebody  wanted  to  bury  suicides  with  Masonic  honors, 
but  the  Grand  Lodge,  upon  recommendation  of  a  committee, 

"  Resolved,  That  no  Lodge  in  this  jurisdiction  shall  bury  with  Masonic  honors, 
any  Mason  who  has  committed  suicide." 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  Bro.  William. 
H.  Hill,  and  ably  reviews  the  proceedings  of  forty-two  Grand 
Bodies,  including  ours.  He  reports  the  formation  of  a  Provincial 
Grand  Lodge  for  British  Columbia,  under  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Scotland.  He  disapproves  the  decision  of  the  Grand  Master  of 
Connecticut,  that  an  officer  reelected  need  not  be  again  installed ; 
in  a  sense,  he  need  not,  as  he  holds  the  office  till  his  successor  is 
elected  and  installed,  whether  he  or  some  one  else  be  that  suc- 
cessor ;  but  he  should  be  installed,  and  is  guilty  of  an  irregularity 
if  he  is  not,  and  such  refusal  or  neglect  may  very  properly  be 
regarded  as  a  refusal  to  accept  the  office,  and  justify  a  new  elec- 
tion. Bro.  Hill  doubts  about  suspension  being  a  proper  remedy 
for  non-payment  of  dues.  We  think  we  should,  if  such  a  law  as 
that  of  California  were  offered  us.  He  doubts  if  it  is  so  serious 
a  crime  as  some  regard  it.  That  depends  much  upon  the  circum- 
stances and  the  animus  ;  it  may  be  a  serious  Masonic  crime,  and 
it  may  be  a  very  venial  one ;  the  error  is  in  fixing  an  invariable 
penalty  like  the  law  of  Draco,  and  worse  than  that,  making 
accusation,  conviction.  He  discourses  on  P.\  G.\  M.\  Guilbeet, 
of  Iowa,  after  the  following:  manner ; 


"  When  we  first  opened  this  well  printed  pamphlet,  we  missed,  as  the  features  of 
an  old  friend,  that  well-known  and  extensively  commented  upon  '  spread  eagle  '  style 
of  Past  Grand  Master  Guilbert.  '  Alas  ! :  said  we, '  shall  we  never  gaze  upon  his  like 
again  ?  nor  be  again  carried  several  miles  beyond  the  top  of  Olympus,  and  all  those 
Mounts  of  old?'  But  we  were  mistaken.  Our  well-meaning  but  exceedingly  ec- 
centric brother  has  laid  down  the  Grand  Master's  pen,  but  only  to  spread  himself 
over  additional  acres  (more  or  less),  as  the  chairman  of  the  committee  on  foreign 
correspondence.  His  report  is  in  the  appendix,  and  only  covers  one  hundred  and 
sixty-six  pages !  And  such  a  report,  we  venture  to  say,  was  never  before  written 
by  mortal  man,  be  he  Mason  or  otherwise— no  Grand  Lodge  proceedings  ever  before 
provoked  more  wholesale  laughter  than  this— for  he  who  reads  must  have  the  double- 
di&tilled  blues,  if  he  can  resist  a  prolonged  cachinnation  !  We  would  like  to  quote 
a  few  pages,  just  to  enliven  this  very  dull  and  prosy  essay  of  our  own,  but  must  be 


11 

content  with  a  few  gems  only.  We  hope  our  Iowa  brethren  have  stereotyped  this 
wonderful  report,  that  generations  yet  unborn  may  see  and  read  the  sayings  of  Bro. 
Guilbert  in  the  year  of  Light  5867." 

He  approves  the  action  of  our  Grand  Lodge  in  the  Great  Falls 
matter,  and  on  the  subject  of  army  Lodges,  but  does  not  think  so 
well  of  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters.  If  he  were  here,  he 
would  be  as  well  satisfied  of  their  utility  as  we  are. 

We  fully  endorse  the  following,  from  his  review  of  New  Jersey  : 

"  The  mission  of  Masonry  is  rather  with  the  present  than  with  the  hereafter ; 
rather  with  things  temporal  than  with  things  eternal.  Its  labors  and  influences  are 
directed  to  ameliorate  the  conditions  of  human  life.  It  seeks  to  open  the  fountains 
of  benevolence,  to  make  the  selfish  man  less  selfish,  the  avaricious  man  less  avari- 
cious, to  soften  the  hard  heart,  and  to  bring  the  erring  back  into  the  path  of  duty. 
It  stretches  out  its  hands  to  succor  the  needy  and  the  orphan,  to  dry  the  widow's 
tear,  to  cause  the  sun  to  shine  where  shadow  had  rested,  to  make  life  a  joy  and  not 
a  burden,  and  to  smooth  the  pillow  of  suffering  and  death.  It  concedes  to  the 
Church  the  more  honored,  influential,  and  sacred  position,  but  strives,  in  its  own 
peculiar  way,  and  by  its  own  peculiar  influences,  as  a  handmaid  of  the  Church,  to 
assist  her  in  every  good  and  perfect  work." 

Of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nevada,  and  the  Mormons,  he  says : 

"  Our  Oregon  brother  is  of  the  opinion  that  the  Grand  Master  of  Nevada  was  a 
little  too  severe  in  his  animadversions  upon  Mormons  and  Mormonism,  and  the  un- 
suitableness  of  both  for  Masonic  fellowship.  In  this  we  differ  from  our  worthy 
brother,  and  are  of  the  opinion  that  if  he  were  as  near  this  foul  national  ulcer  as  is 
our  Nevada  brother,  he  would  think  and  speak  about  as  plainly  and  pointedly  of 
its  undesirableness." 


CANADA. 

The  thirteenth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was 
held  at  London,  in  the  Province  of  Ontario,  July  8th,  A.  L.  5868, 
A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred  and  sixty  chartered  Lodges  and  ten 
under  dispensation  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  W.  M.  Wilson,  G.-.  M.-.,  suitably  notices  the 
death  of  distinguished  brethren  of  that  jurisdiction;  alludes  to 
the  murder  of  Thomas  D'Arcy  McGee,  and  the  attempted 
assassination  of  the  Duke  of  Edinburgh,  in  terms,  that  if  the 
Fenians  only  had  a  Grand  Lodge  and  committee  of  correspond- 
ence like  some  we  wot  of,  would  have  brought  a  storm  on  his 
head  for  mixing  politics  with  his  Masonry ;  mentions  the  forma- 
tion of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  Brunswick,  and  recommends  its 
recognition ;  speaks  of  a  General  Grand  Lodge  for  the  Dominion, 


12 

in  terms  that  indicate  little  hope  of  its  establishment.  He  thus 
speaks  of  the  selection  of  Masters,  words  of  troth  and  soberness, 
which  all  Lodges  should  heed,  here  as  well  as  there  : 

"  In  connection  with  these  matters,  there  is  one  evil  existing  to  which  I  trace 
many  of  the  difficulties  which  are  now  of  so  frequent  occurrence ;  I  allude  to  the 
want  of  a  proper  care,  and  to  the  neglect  of  Masonic  law  and  principle,  too  often 
evinced  by  the  members  of  the  craft  in  the  selection  of  those  who  are  to  govern  our 
subordinate  Lodges.  Brethren  are  too  often  selected  as  rulers,  merely  because 
their  social  qualities  may  be  of  a  high  order,  and  often,  also,  from  their  general 
popularity,  without  duly  considering  their  ability  to  work  the  Lodge,  their  adminis- 
trative capacity  to  govern  it,  or  their  possession  of  those  still  higher  qualities  which 
are  so  essential  to  the  successful  carrying  on  of  the  great  work  of  Masonry.  In 
selecting  your  Masters,  let  me  entreat  you,  my  brethren,  always  first  to  consider 
your  duty  to  Masonry  and  to  your  Lodge.  This  important  duty  can  never  properly 
be  performed,  if  you  place  in  the  chair  one  who  has  to  rely  upon  others  fordoing 
that  which  he  is  incapable  of  performing  himself." 

He  reports  having  granted  twelve  dispensations  for  new  Lodges. 
Twelve  warrants  were  ordered  to  issue  to  the  Lodges  working 
under  dispensation.  The  constitution  was  so  amended  as  to 
require  the  board  of  general  purposes,  a  sort  of  committee,  who 
do  all  the  work  here  assigned  to  the  several  standing  committees 
and  some  more,  to  meet  two  days  before  the  meeting  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  to  pay  them  per  diem  and  mileage.  On  the 
recommendation  of  the  board  of  general  purposes,  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  New  Brunswick  was  recognized  and  welcomed  as  the 
only  Masonic  authority  in  New  Brunswick,  Of  the  General 
Grand  Lodge,  the  board  of  general  purposes  say  : 

"  The  question  of  establishing  a  General  Grand  Lodge  being  one  surrounded  with 
issues  that  require  the  nicest  discrimination,  it  is  a  source  of  much  gratification  to 
your  board  to  know  that  the  matter  has  been  treated  with  so  much  judicious  caution 
by  our  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  who  truly  remarks  that  any  precipitate  haste  on  the 
part  of  indiscreet  friends  would  assuredly  retard  the  successful  consummation  of  so 
desirable  an  end." 

The  time  when  such  a  body  coujd  be  established  has  probably 
passed,  and,  with  the  experience  of  such  bodies  this  side  the 
border,  happily  passed. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence  was  submitted  by  Bro. 
Thomas  White,  Jr.,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six 
Grand  Lodges,  one  of  which  was  ours.  The  Grand  Lodge  of 
Connecticut  having  refused  to  recognize  that  of  Nova  Scotia,  on 
the  ground  that  it  was  the  offspring  of  "  secession  and  revolu- 
tion," the  Canada  committee  say : 


13 

"  The  Committee,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  in  accepting  their  report,  appear  to  have 
overlooked  the  fact  that  Nova  Scotia  has  for  years  been  occupied  by  three  distinct 
governing  authorities,  and  was,  in  fact,  in  the  strict  Masonic  sense  of  the  term, '  un- 
occupied territory '  until  the  local  Grand  Lodge  was  established." 

Of  maims,  and  the  opinions  of  authorities  on  the  question  of 
their  admission,  our  brother  says  : 

"  It  is  a  curious  fact  that  the  authorities  on  this  question  are  very  nearly  divided. 
We  are  inclined  to  think  that  but  for  the  peculiar  circumstances  of  the  country, 
there  would  be  no  such  division,  and  that  the  heart,  rather  than  the  head,  prompts 
to  laxity  in  this  respect.  That  men  who,  in  the  nation's  hour  of  great  trial,  went  to 
the  front  and  bore  the  brunt  of  battle,  and  who  have  come  back  bearing  with  them 
the  evidences  of  the  terrible  struggle  they  have  gone  through,  should  have  to  pay  a 
further  penalty  for  their  patriotism  by  being  debarred  from  the  right  to  enter  our 
sacred  portals,  seems  hard.  The  rule,  however,  is  a  clear  one,  and  can  only  be  re- 
laxed by  a  violation  of  an  ancient  landmark." 


DISTRICT    OF    COLUMBIA. 

We  have  received  the  proceedings  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  for  the 
year  of  Light,  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Several  special  communica- 
tions were  held  to  lay  corner  stones  and  perform  similar  ceremo- 
nies. On  the  5th  of  May,  the  Grand  Lodge  met  in  semi-annual 
communication,  all  the  Lodges  in  the  jurisdiction,  sixteen  in 
number,  being  represented.  The  business  was  wholly  of  local 
interest,  and  shows  a  state  of  great  prosperity  among  the  Lodges. 

The  annual  communication  was  held  November  3d,  at  which  all 
the  Lodges  were  again  represented.  The  Grand  Visitor  and 
Lecturer,  R.\  W.\  D.  B.  Searle,  thus  touches  upon  an  evil 
which  is  everywhere  severely  felt : 

"  I  have  been  for  a  long  time  deeply  impressed  with  a  general  want  of  desire 
among  the  body  of  Masons  to  obtain  that  true  knowledge  of  Masonry  that  extends 
beyond  the  ritual,  and  reaches  the  spirit  and  object  of  our  order.  I  regret  that  so 
many  seem  to  be  contented  with  merely  receiving  the  degrees,  or  satisfied  with  per- 
mission to  sit  in  the  Lodge  and  admire  its  workings,  yet  do  not  have  any  desire  to 
search  for  its  hidden  and  beautiful  mysteries  that  lay  buried  in  darkness  and  are  un- 
known to  those  who  do  not  seek  to  obtain  them.  Masons  should  remember  that  by 
merely  taking  the  '  degrees '  they  have  but  reached  the  threshold  of  Masonry,  and 
further,  that  all  the  beauties  of  Masonry  are  afterwards  to  be  discovered  only  by 
those  who  will  apply  themselves  in  studying  that  which  will  disclose  and  bring  to 
light  the  hidden  treasures.  Those  who  have  no  desire  to  obtain  this  knowledge,  I 
believe  are  useless  material  to  the  craft.  By  such  I  mean  the  admission  of  members 
who  have  no  desire  to  become  active  and  bright  workmen." 


14 


An  installation  communication  was  held  December  28th,  at 
which  fifteen  Lodges  were  represented.  M.\  W.\  Benjamin  B. 
French,  Grand  Master,  reports  having  granted  dispensations,  in 
two  instances,  to  Lodges  to  hold  stated  communications  at  different 
times  from  those  provided  in  the  by-laws.  We  cannot  understand 
how  this  can  be.  He  had  also  granted  a  dispensation  to  reconsider  an 
unfavorable  ballot.  As  we  had  learned  the  laws  of  our  institution, 
this  could  not  be  done,  and  we  should  fear  it  would  be  productive 
of  great  injury  to  the  craft.  There  is  too  much  tendency  now  to 
inquire  into  and  question  the  propriety  of  the  use  of  the  black 
ball ;  and  let  it  be  understood  that  there  is  a  loop-hole  to  try  it 
again,  and  such  disposition  will  be  strongly  increased.  The 
Grand  Master  also  reports  two  dispensations  for  new  Lodges. 
He  also  recommends  another  stated  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
in  the  month  of  January. 

Charters  were  granted  to  the  two  Lodges  under  dispensation  ; 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  Brunswick  was  recognized ;  on  recom- 
mendation of  the  committee  on  finance,  the  following  were 
adopted : 

"  Resolved,  That  hereafter  no  gloves  or  aprons  shall  be  furnished  to  any  member 
of  the  Masonic  fraternity  (except  its  Grand  Officers)  by  this  Grand  Lodge. 

"  Resolved,  That  no  member  shall  appear  in  any  Masonic  procession  without 
conforming  to  the  rules  in  relation  thereto,  that  is  to  say  :  he  shall  wear  black  coat 
and  pants,  black  hat,  white  gloves,  and  a  white  lamb-skin  apron. 

"  Resolved,  That  this  Grand  Lodge  recommend  to  each  and  every  brother  to 
purchase,  without  delay,  a  lamb-skin  apron  and  white  gloves,  to  be  worn  by  them 
on  all  public  Masonic  processions." 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence  was  submitted  by  Bro. 
M.  C.  Baxter,  and  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  the  proceedings 
of  thirty-six  Grand  Lodges,  including  ours ;  but  he  only  briefly 
notices  those  of  thirteen,  among  which  ours  is  not. 


CONNECTICUT. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  eightieth  annual  communication  at 
Hartford,  May  13th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Eighty-six  war- 
ranted Lodges  and  two  under  dispensation  were  represented. 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  Wm.  Storer,  commences  his 
address  with  a  beautiful  tribute  to  Masonry,  from  which  we  quote  : 


15 

"  Freemasonry  is  something  more  than  a  mere  system  of  forms  and  ceremonies. 
It  is  a  living  reality, — a  tangible  good ;  and  while  it  does  not  claim  to  be  religion,  or 
even  a  substitute  for  religion,  it  has,  nevertheless,  a  direct  tendency  to  make  all  men 
better  who  will  practice  its  teachings.  It  inculcates  every  virtue,  and  discounte- 
nances every  vice.  It  teaches  its  votaries  to  be  temperate  in  all  things  ;  to  be  fear- 
less, though  not  reckless,  in  maintaining  the  right ;  to  be  cautious  and  prudent  in 
the  indulgence  of  thought,  word  and  action ;  to  practice  the  strictest  and  most  in- 
flexible integrity  in  all  their  dealings.  It  is  a  noble  science,  and  opens  to  the  searcher 
for  truth  an  unfathomable  depth  of  knowledge.  He  who  most  diligently  pursues 
the  profound  study  of  Masonry,  is  most  thoroughly  aware  that  there  is  much  more 
yet  to  be  learned." 

He  reports  having  granted  two  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.' 
Also,  in  two  instances,  dispensations  to  reconsider  an  unfavorable 
ballot.      Where  did  he  get  his  authority  to  do  it,  we  wonder  ? 
He  also,  against  his  own  first  and  better  opinion,  granted  a  dis- 
pensation to  elect  a  new  Master.     He  decided : 

"  Although  a  charter  may  be  voted  to  any  proper  number  of  petitioners  by  the 
Grand  Lodge,  no  Lodge  is  in  existence  under  that  charter,  until  the  instrument 
itself  has  been  delivered  and  the  Lodge  duly  constituted." 

Three  charters  were  granted  for  new  Lodges,  one  of  them  not 
having  worked  under  dispensation.     It  was  then  — 

"  Resolved,  That  the  representatives  present  from  the  several  Lodges,  to  which 
charters  have  been  voted  at  the  present  Grand  Communication,  be  admitted  as 
members  of  this  Grand  Lodge." 

Compare  this  with  the  undoubtedly  correct  decision  of  the 
Grand  Master,  just  quoted.  The  impropriety  and  folly  of  such 
action  is  seen  in  the  subsequent  action  by  whicji  the  vote  granting 
a  charter  to  one  of  the  Lodges  was  reconsidered  and  recommitted 
to  the  committee,  who  made  no  other  report,  and  no  further  action 
taken ;  yet  this  embryo  Lodge,  still-born  as  it  turns  out,  is  ad- 
mitted to  rule  the  craft.  It  was  ordered  that  copies  should  be 
kept  of  all  charters,  and  that  the  Lodges  return  to  the  Grand 
Secretary  copies  of  their  charters,  which  is  an  excellent  idea  we 
might  copy  to  advantage.  The  following  may  produce  good 
results,  and  furnish  a  remedy  for  a  very  common  complaint : 

"  Resolved,  That  whenever  it  shall  come  to  the  knowledge  of  a  subordinate 
Lodge  in  this  State,  that  any  person  shall  have  obtained  the  degrees  of  Masonry 
during  a  temporary  absence  therefrom,  and  in  violation  of  the  regulations  of  this 
Grand  Lodge,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Lodge  in  whose  jurisdiction  said  person 
shall  reside,  without  delay,  to  present  charges  against  him,  and  proceed  with  hia 
trial  in  due  form." 
7 


16 

The  report  on  correspondence,  prepared  by  the  Grand  Secretary, 
Bro.  Jos.  K.  Wheeler,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-eight 
Grand  Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  He  thus  quotes  one 
resolution  passed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Florida,  and  comments 
upon  it : 

"Resolved,    That  this  Grand  Lodge  does  not  recognize  negro  equaity  with  the 
whites. 
"  We  would  ask  here,  what  has  this  to  do  with  Masonry  ?" 

He  understands  G.\  M.\  Peck,  of  Iowa,  to  propose  separate 
Lodges  for  negroes,  and  thus  comments  : 

"  We  are  of  the  opinion  that  the  subject  should  be  disposed  of  in  the  same  manner 
as  the  German  question.  '  Would  not  the  tendency  be  to  separate  '  the  negroes  from 
the  whites, '  whereas  Masonry  ought  to  unite  them/  If  the  negroes  are  worthy  to 
gain  admission,  why  not  receive  them  into  our  own  Lodges,  and  would  they  not  be 
more  benefited  by  the  association  than  if  set  apart  by  themselves.  We  are  opposed 
to  any  caste  in  Masonry,  and  if  they  cannot  be  received  into  our  own  Lodges,  we 
deem  it  unwise  to  establish  negro  Lodges  for  that  purpose,  in  opposition  to  the  feel- 
ings of  a  large  part  of  the  present  members  of  the  institution.  It  is  no  reason  to 
urge  that  because  Lodges  are  in  some  jurisdictions  making  Masons  of  Indians, 
the  negro  should  be  entitled  to  the  same  privilege,  for  Lodges  in  some,  if  not  all 
jurisdictions,  are  making  Masons  of  material  that  should  be  rejected." 

He  emphatically  disapproves  of  dispensations  for  degrees ; 
thinks  those  made  out  of  the  proper  jurisdiction  are  not  clandes- 
tine, but  should  be  refused  recognition  at  home.  Kentucky 
returns  the  number  of  ministers  belonging  to  the  fraternity  in 
that  State,  and  our  Connecticut  brother  asks  them,  next  time,  to 
let  us  know  the  number  of  blacksmiths  in  their  jurisdiction.  In 
his  notice  of  the  address  of  the  Grand  Master  of  Louisiana,  he 


"  He  says  there  seems  to  be  a  pressure  from  several  sources  for  some  modification 
or  evasion,  (by  special  dispensation),  of  that  clause  in  the  constitution,  which  posi- 
tively forbids  the  reconsideration  of  an  unfavorable  ballot,  and  being  well  convinced 
that  it  would  be  unsafe  to  deviate  in  the  least  from  this  regulation,  has  refused  to 
dispense  with  the  requirement.  We  would  copy  his  views  on  the  subject,  had  we 
not  already  alluded  to  the  sacredness  of  the  ballot  in  some  other  place.  We  how- 
ever agree  with  him  fully  in  regard  to  the  subject." 

Of  non-affiliation,  he  thus  writes,  apropos  to  Minnesota ; 

"  The  Grand  Master  recommends  that  the  subject  be  referred  to  a  special  commit- 
tee, to  take  into  consideration  whether  they  should  not  pay  dues  to  the  Lodge  in 
whose  jurisdiction  they  reside,  or  affiliate  within  a  specified  time  or  be  suspended. 


17 

We  fail  to  see  how'  either  of  tie  recommendations  can  do  much  good,  for  the  ma- 
jority of  non-affiliated  Masons  become  so  in  consequence  of  the  non-payment  of 
dues,  and  to  undertake  to  enforce  dues  upon  them,  would  simply  be  ridiculous  ;  to 
suspend  them  lor  non-affiliation  would  be  unjust,  and  to  compel  them  to  affiliate, 
might  be  impossible,  for  they  must  depend  solely  on  the  suffrages  of  their  brethren 
for  this  privilege.  It  is  indeed  a  vexed  question,  and  we  trust  ere  long,  some  satis- 
factory solution  will  be  arrived  at." 


DELAWARE. 

The  sixty-second  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
was  held  at  Wilmington,  June  27th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
Seventeen  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Daniel  McClintock,  Grand  Master,  reports 
that,  although  requested,  he  has  granted  no  dispensations  to  con- 
fer degrees,  and  he  strongly  reprehends  such  dispensations.  He 
decided  that  when  an  applicant  had  been  previously  rejected  in 
another  jurisdiction,  he  could  not  be  received  without  the  consent 
of  the  Lodge  which  rejected  him — of  the  correctness  of  which, 
there  can  be  no  doubt ;  but  when  two  members  of  the  committee 
of  investigation  signed  the  report  in  blank,  supposing  it  was  to  be 
favorable,  but  the  chairman  filled  it  up  unfavorable,  the  Secretary, 
by  mistake  read  it  favorable,  the  objecting  brother  being  absent, 
the  ballot  was  passed  and  the  candidate  elected,  he  decided : 

"  The  candidate  is  duly  and  regularly  elected.  When  a  ballot  is  held  for  a  candi- 
date, all  members  present  taking  part  therein,  the  ballot  fair,  the  candidate  declared 
by  the  W.  M.,  duly  elected,  it  can  only  be  reconsidered  at  the  same  meeting,  when 
all  the  members  who  participated  in  the  first  ballot  must  be  present.  The  law  in 
this  instance  I  refer  to,  so  far  as  the  ballot,  would  be  the  same  whether  the  commit- 
tee's report  is  favorable  or  otherwise. 

"  Should  a  committee  report  unfavorably,  and  none  of  them  be  present  when  the 
report  was  acted  upon,  and  by  any  means  the  candidate  elected,  they  would  have  the 
right,  as  any  member  or  visiting  brother  would,  to  object  to  the  conferring  of  the 
degrees,  but  the  W.  M.  would  be  the  judge  as  to  whether  they  were  valid  or  not,  and 
would  be  presumed  to  take  such  action  as  would  promote  unity  and  harmony." 

We  should  doubt  whether  such  proceedings  could  be  considered 
regular  in  any  view,  but  if  they  were/  we  deem  the  better  view  to 
be,  that  any  member  possesses  the  right  at  any  time,  without 
giving  any  reason,  to  stop  the  candidate  until  he  is  made  a  Mason, 
by  informing  the  Master  of  his  objection,  whose  duty  it  then  is, 
to  state  that  the  candidate  is  rejected,  objection  having  been  made 
to  him,  and  the  name  of  the  brother  making  the  objection  is  one 


18 

of  the  secrets  of  the  chair  which  he  has  no  right  to  reveal.  No 
one,  however  worthy,  should  be  forced  into  the  companionship  of 
a  brother,  against  his  will,  and  the  craft  is  in  much  more  danger 
from  the  introduction  than  the  rejection  of  candidates.  He  thinks 
a  suicide,  if  the  act  was  done  in  a  state  of  insanity,  may  be 
buried  with  Masonic  honors,  but  if  sane,  he  could  not.      » 

One  warrant  was  granted  for  a  new  Lodge,  and  the  proceedings 
show  a  new  life  and  spirit,  and  an  obvious  determination  to  cor- 
rect all  irregularities,  which  induces  us  to  hope  that  the  action 
which  we  condemned  so  heartily  last  year  may  be  corrected  ere 
long. 

The  report  on  correspondence,  from  the  pen  of  the  very  able 
Grand  Secretary,  R.\  W.\  J.  P.  Allmond,  reviews  the  proceed- 
ings of  thirty-five  Grand  Lodges,  including  ours.  He  thus 
criticises  a  practice  which,  however  circumstances  in  sparsely 
settled  communities  may  seem  to  recommend  it,  will  generally  be 
found  to  work  evil : 

"  It  would  appear  from  the  following  resolution  that  Maryland  is  in  the  habit  of 
chartering  traveling  Lodges,  or  Squatters  : 

" '  Resolved,  That  the  resolution  passed  at  the  last  communication,  granting 
permission  to  Mount  Ararat  Lodge,  No.  44,  to  hold  meetings  at  Havre-de-Grace, 
Aberdeen  and  Perrymansville,  be  repealed,'  which  resolution  was  lost.  Would  it 
not  be  well  for  Maryland  to  establish  '  Bush  Meeting  '  Lodges  ?  " 

Our  brother  calls  attention  to  the  fact  that  we  called  their 
annual  communication  for  1866  the  sixteenth,  instead  of  the 
sixtieth,  as  it  should  be.  That  must  have  been  the  fault  of  the 
types,  for  we  could  not  have  knowingly  committed  such  an  error. 


FLORIDA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  convened  in  annual  communication  at  Talla- 
hasse,  January  13,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Thirty-eight  Lodges 
were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Henry  J.  Stewart,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  four  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  and  that  two  Lodges 
have  surrendered  their  charters.  He  announces  the  decease  of 
M.\  W.\  P.*.  G.\  M.\  Thomas  Brown,  whose  reports  on  foreign 
correspondence,  of  which  committee  he  was  for  seven  years 
chairman,  have  made  him  generally  known  to  the  fraternity.     . 


19 

Our  brethren  at  the  South  seem  to  have  their  attention  es- 
pecially directed  to  Masonic  institutions  of  learning;  and  no 
amount  of  failure  seems  to  convince  them  that  Masonic  bodies 
are  not  well  adapted  to  conduct  such  enterprises.  Two  different 
projects  were  presented  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  each  finally 
received  some  measure  of  countenance.  Five  charters  were 
granted  to  new  Lodges,  three  of  which,  however,  seem  to  have 
been  to  take  the  place  of  others,  which  the  devastations  of  war 
had  laid  waste  and  destroyed.  The  other  proceedings  were  of 
merely  local  interest.  There  was  no  report  on  correspondence, 
but  a  new  constitution  was  proposed,  read,  and  printed  for  the 
Lodges,  and  ordered  to  be  considered  at  the  next  annual  commu- 
nication. 


GEORGI  A. 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  convened  at 
Macon,  October  27th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Two  hundred 
and  thirteen  chartered  Lodges  and  three  under  dispensation  were 
represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  John  Harris,  Grand  Master,  states  in  his  ad- 
dress, that  some  want  of  harmony  prevails  in  that  jurisdiction 
from  animosities  growing  out  of  political  excitement,  and  that 
"  bitter  and  vindictive  feelings"  from  that  cause  have  led  "  many 
brethren  to  forget  their  obligations  to  one  another,  and  even  that 
they  were  Masons,"  but  he  hopes  the  good  example  and  wise 
counsel  of  the  more  prudent  brethren,  added  to  the  soothing 
effects  of  time  and  reflection,  will  finally  control  and  remove  feel- 
ings so  much  to  be  regretted.  He  reports  having  granted  one 
dispensation  for  a  Lodge,  to  take  the  place  of  one  whose  charter 
had  been  revoked,  and  that  he  had  not  distributed  the  five  thou- 
sand dollars  his  Grand  Lodge  had  ordered  to  be  distributed  to  the 
poor  and  needy,  because  accompanied  and  hampered  by  conditions 
and  restrictions,  which  would  render  its  distribution  according  to 
the  strict  letter  of  the  vote,  difficult  and  unsatisfactory,  and  so  the 
hungry  went  unfed  and  the  naked  unclothed,  for  all  the  Grand 
Lodge  did  for  them. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  the  first  district,  R.\  W.\  Davis 
N.  Austin,  decided,  "  that  a  candidate   possessing  mental  and, 


20 

physical   abilities   sufficient   to    enable   him    to    discharge    with 
promptness  and  fidelity  all  the  duties  imposed  by  Masonic  obliga- 
tions,   is    not   ineligible    on   account    of  dotage."      He   also  had 
decided  that  a  Mason  might  be  tried  for  offenses  committed  before 
he  was  a  Mason,  if  they  were  such  great  moral  delinquences  as 
to  render  his  connection  with  the  Lodges  injurious  to  the  charac- 
ter and  public  reputation  of  the  craft,  and  also  in  case  of  felonies. 
We  are  not  quite  sure  if  the  last  be  correct ;  we  are  inclined  to* 
the  view  that  the  Mason  may   and  should  be  tried  for  offences- 
before  he  was  a  Mason,  unless  they  were  such  as  were  known  to- 
the  Lodge  at  the  time  of  making,  or  would  have  been  known,  had 
ordinary  inquiry  been  made ;  our  idea  being,  that  our  institution 
should  be  one  of  good  men  only,  and  all  others  should  be  excluded 
as  soon  as  known,  for  the  common  good  as  well  as  common  pro- 
tection,   our    punishments    not    being   intended    to    reform    the 
offender,  but  to  protect  the  craft.     If  this  be  so,  the  injury  to  the 
craft  is  the  same,  and  the  need  of  protection  to  the  body  of  the 
craft,  both  from  the  contamination  of  association  with  the  impure^ 
and  the  loss  of  reputation  from  being  in  bad  company,  is  just  as 
great  whether  the  offense  was  committed  before  or  after  any  given 
date.     If,  however,  the  facts  were  known  to  the   Lodge,  it  has 
already,  in  the  most  solemn  manner,  passed  upon  them,  and  should 
not  go  back  on  its  own  acts. 

The  R.\  W.\  G.  W.  Adams,  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  the 
fourth  district,  reports  having  granted  two  dispensations  for  new 
Lodges ;  that  power  being  given  to  the  four  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ters which  this  Grand  Lodge  finds  it  convenient  to  have. 

A  considerable  portion  of  the  time  of  the  communication  was 
taken  up  with  discussions  upon  educational  matters,  the  Grand 
Lodge  running  one  college,  and  being  called  upon  to  take  charge,  in 
whole  or  in  part,  of  one  or  two  more.  The  Grand  Lodge  refused 
to  take  charge  of  any  more  bantlings  of  the  kind,  and  rather 
turned  the  cold  shoulder  upon  the  Southern  Masonic  College, 
which,  however,  seemed  to  have  made  something  of  a  struggle 
the  previous  year,  and  was  reported  to  be  working  successfully. 
We  know  of  no  instance,  however,  where  such  institutions  have 
not  proved  to  be  uncommonly  large  and  voracious  elephants  to  the 
Lodges  having  them  in  charge.  Four  charters  were  granted  for 
new  Lodges.     Tfrree  colored  persons,  acting  as  a  committee  of 


21 

Eureka  Lodge,  No.  11,  working  under  a  charter  from  "Prince 
Hall  Grand  Lodge,  of  the  State  of  Massachusetts,"  presented  a 
communication,  as  the  Georgia  committee  understand  it,  seeking 
to  learn  the  feelings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  toward  the  colored 
Lodge,  and  advice  about  forming  a  colored  Grand  Lodge ;  and,  for 
a  wonder,  our  brethren  kept  their  temper,  did  not  seem  to  im- 
agine that  any  wrong  was  intended  by  any  legitimate  Masons 
toward  them,  and  the  committee  reported  that  they  did  not  know 
any  such  body  as  Prince  Hall  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  they  felt 
sure  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  would  not  invade  their 
jurisdiction,  and  that  no  body  but  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Georgia 
could  establish  Lodges  in  that  State ;  therefore  they  could  not 
acknowledge  them  as  Masons :  which  was  precisely  what  they 
should  do  ;  if  all  our  southern  brethren  were  as  wise,  we  should 
soon  cease  to  hear  the  subject  of  colored  Masonry  talked  of. 
The  committee  on  jurisprudence  reported,  "  that  it  is  not  in  the 
power  of  a  Grand  Lodge  to  set  aside  the  result  of  a  ballot  once 
declared."  The  correct  rule ;  but,  in  one  or  two  cases,  we  notice 
Grand  Masters  have  assumed  the  pOwer  to  do  it.  Such  a  power 
we  deem  too  dangerous  to  be  entrusted  anywhere.  The  committee 
on  the  address  of  the  Grand  Master  "admire"  the  prudence  of 
the  Grand  Master  in  not  attempting  to  dispense  the  charity  the 
Grand  Lodge  had  directed  him  to  distribute,  holding  : 

"  It  is  on  the  subordinate  Lodges  rests  the  duty  of  dispensing  charity — and  this  from 
their  own  funds.  Certainly  the  funds  of  the  Grand  Lodge  should  not  be  touched  for 
thiu  purpose,  except  perhaps  under  extraordinary  circumstances,  which  circumstan- 
ces do  not  at  this  time  exist.  To  indiscriminately  scatter  the  hard-earned  means 
and  resources  of  the  fraternity  in  the  keeping  of  their  trustees,  the  Grand  Lodge, 
with  no  chance  of  adequate  benefits  to  any,  your  committee  deem  unwise,  unmason- 
ic,  and  tending  to  the  ultimate  poverty  of  the  order." 

Well,  the  dispensing  of  charity  is  their  own  business,  and  no 
one  else  should  interfere.  Steps  were  taken  looking  to  the  erec- 
tion of  a  Grand  Lodge  hall  in  Macon. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  from  the  practised  pen  of 
M.\  W.\  Samuel  Lawrence,  and  is  admirable,  both  in  tone  and 
matter,  reviewing  the  proceedings  of  thirty- four  Grand  Lodges, 
among  which  we  regret  to  find  ours  was  not  one.  He  heartily 
approves  the  ruling  of  G.\  M.\  Preble,  of  Maine,  some  years 
since,  that  any  member  of  a  Lodge  might  inform  the  Master  that, 
if  present,  he  should  vote  against  a  candidate,  and  in  that  case, 


22 

it  is  the  duty  of  the  Master  to  have  the  candidate  entered  on  the 
minutes  as  rejected : 

"  And  would  regard  it  an  outrage  upon  the  fraternity  and  the  entire  spirit  of  its 
landmarks  and  laws,  should  such  protest  of  a  member  in  good  standing,  unable  to 
attend  the  particular  meeting  when  a  ballot  is  to  be  had,  be  disregarded." 

He  thus  wisely,  as  we  think,  touches  the  negro  question : 

"  Brother  Gouley  thinks  '  the  time  has  come  when  every  Grand  Lodge  has  got  to 
define  itself  on  the  subject  of  so-called  negro  Masons.'  Our  Grand  Lodge  has  long 
since  defined  itself  on  this  question,  and  others  have  done  the  same.  But  we  really 
do  not  partake  of  the  fears  some  seem  to  have  on  this  subject.  Except  for  the 
guidance  of  '  young  and  inexperienced  Masons '  it  hardly  needs  that  statutes  should 
be  passed  to  protect  the  craft  against  them.  Save  in  some  rare  cases,  where  politi- 
cal bias  may  temporarily  warp  the  feelings  and  better  judgment  of  brethren, 
negroes  will  hardly  be  recognized  among  Masons  for  some  time  in  this  country— and 
then  under  a  different  status  than  that  they  now  occupy  to  the  fraternity.  Social 
taste  alone  will  be  barrier  enough  for  us  for  long  time  to  come— and '  sufficient  unto 
the  day  is  the  evil  thereof.'  Armed  with  the  ballot  and  the  law  prohibitiug  the  in- 
troduction of  a  visitor  obnoxious  to  any  member  of  the  Lodge,  we  are  sufficiently 
protected,  and  will  be  always,  if  the  landmarks  are  not  innovated  on." 

We  had  marked  several  other  passages  for  quotation,  but  we 
have  no  room. 


IDAHO. 

We  have  the  proceedings  of  the  convention  to  organize  this 
Grand  Lodge,  at  Idaho  City,  December  16,  A.  L.  5867,  and  of 
the  first  annual  communication  at  the  same  place,  on  June  22d, 
A.  L.  5868,  at  both  which  all  the  Lodges  in  the  jurisdiction,  five 
in  number,  were  represented.  In  the  convention,  Owyhee 
Lodge,  under  dispensation  from  the  Grand  Master  of  Oregon,  was 
admitted  with  one  vote.  We  cannot  but  regard  this  as  irregular, 
but  as  all  the  proceedings  seem  to  have  been  unanimous,  no  harm 
arises  but  the  bad  precedent,  which  induces  us  to  mention  it,  in 
hope  to  prevent  its  being  followed  hereafter.  The  constitution 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Oregon,  with  the  necessary  changes,  was 
adopted,  the  officers  elected  and  regularly  installed.  A  charter 
was  granted  to  Owyhee  Lodge.  It  was  ordered  that  the  charters 
and  records  of  all  the  Lodges  should  be  annually  sent  up  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  for  its  inspection ;  what  was  proposed  to  be  gained 


23 

by  this  very  onerous  requirement,  we  do  not  perceive.     They  are 
after  non-affiliated  Masons  with  a  sharp  stick : 

"  Resolved,  That  any  non-affiliated  Mason  living  within  the  jurisdiction  of  this 
Grand  Lodge,  who  shall  fail  or  neglect  to  contribute  a  sum  equal  to  his  monthly 
dues  for  a  loDger  period  than  six  months,  when  able  to  do  so,  shall  not  be  entitled  to 
any  of  the  rights  and  privileges  of  Lodges." 

At  the  annual  communication,  the  following  was  adopted : 

"  Resolved,  That  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Masters  of  this  body  be  required  to 
have  a  life-sized  photograph  taken  of  themselves,  as  soon  as  practicable  after  their 
installation,  for  this  Grand  Lodge  ;  and  the  Grand  Treasurer  is  authorized  to  pay 
for  the  same  upon  the  presentation  of  an  order  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  who  is 
hereby  authorized  to  draw  the  same." 

At  this  rate  they  will  soon  be  far  ahead  of  us.  A  charter  was 
granted  for  a  new  Lodge  at  Silver  City,  the  location  of  Owyhee 
Lodge.  We  know  towns  grow  fast  in  that  country,  but  two 
Lodges  chartered  in  the  same  town  in  less  than  a  year,  looks  as 
though  something  more  than  legitimate  growth  was  at  the  bottom. 
There  was  no  report  on  correspondence  because  of  the  short  time 
since  the  organization. 


ILLINOIS. 

The  twenty-eighth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
convened  at  Springfield,  October  6th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
Four  hundred  and  thirty  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.*.  W.\  Jerome  R.  Gorin,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  thirty-six  dispensations  for  new  Lodges  ;  that  the 
plan  of  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  worked  well;  urges  the 
matter  of  a  Grand  Lodge  hall ;  commends  Bro.  Reynolds,  for 
many  years  Grand  Secretary,  who  had  determined  to  retire  from 
that  post. 

Thirty-six  charters  were  ordered  to  issue,  nine  dispensations 
were  continued,  and  one  new  dispensation  granted,  showing  that 
the  number  of  Lodges  in  Illinois  is  probably  not  decreasing. 
The  recommendation  of  a  committee  to  tax  the  Lodges  for  a  new 
Grand  Lodge  hall  was  rejected,  and  the  subject  laid  over  one 
year.  The  committee  on  the  Grand  Master's  address  suggest  cau- 
tion in  the,  too  great  multiplication  of  Lodges,  as  weakening  the 


24 


old  Lodges,  and  leaving  insufficient  support  for  the  new.  The 
system  of  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  a  new  experiment  in 
this  jurisdiction,  had  worked  so  well  the  past  year  that  their 
number  was  increased  to  twenty-four,  and  measures  were  taken  to 
make  the  office  a  constitutional  one.  The  large  size  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  the  great  difficulty,  if  not  impossibility,  of  transact- 
ing the  business,  should  all  the  Lodges  be  fully  represented,  begins 
to  attract  the  attention  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  and  an  inquiry  was 
ordered  as  to  what  should  be  done.  Probably,  in  several  of  the 
largest  jurisdictions,  Provincial  Grand  Lodges,  like  those  of  Eng- 
land, may  soon  be  found  imperatively  necessary.  This  Grand 
Lodge,  with  a  few  others,  has  a  Grand  Orator,  who  must,  of 
course,  open  his  mouth  and  deliver  an  oration ;  but  our  brethren 
seem  to  have  had  difficulty  in  finding  time  for  him,  and  once  con- 
cluded to  print  his  oration  without  hearing  it,  but  finally,  they 
found  time  to  listen  to  it.  We  should  think,  where  the  time 
for  business  is  so  short  in  proportion  to  the  work  to  be  done,  the 
talk,  however  fine,  had  better  be  dispensed  with.  However, 
tastes  differ. 

The  report  on  correspondence  is  from  the  pen  of  Bro.  Rey- 
nolds, the  Grand  Secretary,  now  Grand  Master,  whom  but  to 
name  is  to  praise,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-nine 
American  and  six  European  Grand  Lodges.  On  the  negro  ques- 
tion, he  thus  replies  to  Bro.  Penick,  of  Alabama,  who  was  much 
horrified  at  the  proposition  of  M.\  W.\  Bro.  Peck,  of  Iowa  : 

"  In  the  review  of  Iowa,  M.  W.  Bro.  Peck  catches  it.  Bro.  Peck  made  a  labored 
argument  in  favor  pf  recognizing  negro  Masons.  His  remarks  were  explicit,  candid 
and  respectful.  What  was  the  result  ?  The  Grand  Lodge  dissented  from  the  views 
of  the  Grand  Master  by  such  a  majority  as  to  settle  the  whole  question.  Here  is  a 
difference  of  opinion;  the  question  is  fairly  presented  and  settled.  Why  is  Brother 
Penick  so  sensitive?  Is  he  disposed  to  agitate,  and  agitate,  for  the  purpose  of 
keeping  alive  the  flame  of  resentment  in  the  South  and  agitation  in  the  North  ?  It 
seems  to  us  like  an  utter  absence  of  either  wisdom,  alas !  or  discretion." 

Our  brother  is 'considerably  stirred  up  by  Bro.  Gouley,  of  Mis- 
souri, who  was  severe  on  the  practice  of  granting  dispensations  for 
degrees,  and  perhaps  in  citing  the  State  of  Illinois  as  an  example, 
said  more  than  was  necessary ;  and  Bro.  Reynolds  hits  him 
back  as  hard  as  he  gives.  "  Let  us  have  yeace."  He  doubts 
whether  the  Wardens  ought  not  to  have  the  Past  Master  degree. 
We  see  in  other  proceedings   allusions  to  such  a  degree,  and  talk 


25 

about  virtual  P.\  M.\,  actual  P.*.  M.\,  and  Chapter  P.\  M.\,  and 
P.\  M.\  not  made  in  the  Chapter.     We  should  like  to  know  what 
a  Lodge  or  a  Grand  Lodge  of  Master  Masons  knows,  or  wants  to 
know  about  any  other  degrees  or  pretended  degrees  in  Masonry 
than   the    three  only  (we    say   only    advisedly)  genuine    Masonic 
degrees  of  E.\  A.'.,  F.\  C.\  and  M.\  M.\     If  there  be  any  such 
other    degrees,   they   are   none    of  our   business    as    Blue  Lodge 
Masons,  and  if  we  attempt  to  legislate  about  them,  we  shall  in- 
evitably blunder  before  we  get  through.     If   there  be   a   degree 
called  P.*.  M.\,  and  the  writer  hereof  thinks  there  is,  as  he  has 
received  it  virtually  and  actually,  in  the  Chapter  and  out  of  it, 
those  who  have  it  are  probably  capable  of  taking  care  of  it,  with- 
out our  assistance   as    Grand  Lodges  of  symbolic  Masonry.     Bro. 
Reynolds  does  the  writer  of  our  report  for  1867  too  much  honor  : 
he  calls  us  P.*.  G.\  M.\     Our  brothers  have  never  conferred  that 
distinguished   honor   upon   that   brother.      Bro.   Reynolds    was 
probably   misled   by   mistaking   him   for   M.\  W.\  Chaeles   H. 
Bell,  who,  some  years  since,  was  Grand  Master.     Our  brother 
thinks  we  were  wrong  in  our  views  of  the  controversy  between 
Lafayette    Lodge,    of  the   District   of  Columbia,    and   Resurgam 
Lodge,  of  Iowa.    Our  view  was  and  is,  that  the  candidate  residing 
in  Indiana  should  not  be  made  elsewhere,  without  the  consent  of 
:the  particular  Lodge  in  whose  jurisdiction  he  resided,  and  of  the 
(Grand  Master  of  Indiana,  neither  of  which  was  formally  obtained. 
But  no  objection  being  made  from  Indiana,  Lafayette  Lodge  may 
be  excused  for  regarding  the  letter  of  the  Master  of  the  Indiana 
Lodge  as  giving  the  needed  consent,  and  if  so    having  commenced 
the  work,  were  then  entitled  to  finish  it   as  against  every  one  else, 
and  if  they  yielded  it,  yielded  it  on  such  terms  as  they  thought 
right.    We  understand  Bro.  Reynolds  to  hold  that  the  candidate, 
having  received  one  degree  in  one  State    and  then  removing  to 
another,  that  the  Lodge  in  the  latter  State,  in  whose  general  juris- 
diction he  resides,  gains  a  right  to  confer  the  remaining  degrees 
upon  him,  while  we  hold  to  the  old  charge,  that  no  Master  shall 
supplant  another  in  his  work,  &c.     Upon  further  reflection,  we 
think,  Bro.  J£eynolps  must  see  that  we  are  right. 


26 

INDIANA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  annual  communication  at  Indi- 
anapolis, May  26th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred  and 
sixty-three  chartered  Lodges  and  twenty-three  under  dispensation 
were  represented. 

The  M.*.  W.\  Harvey  G.  Hazeleigg,  Grand  Master,  replaces 
his  usual  review  of  the  proceedings  of  other  Grand  Lodges,  by  a 
supercilious  and  sneering  notice  of  a  few  of  the  questions  mooted 
in  the  Masonic  world,  and  an  equally  offensive  reply  to  the  sug- 
gestions which  had  been  made,  that  Indiana  should  recede  from 
her  peculiar  laws  and  customs,  which  are  rapidly  separating  the 
institution  in  that  State  from  the  rest  of  the  community  of  Grand 
Lodges  on  this  continent.  Grant  all  that  Indiana  claims,  that  in 
the  particulars  to  which  her  attention  has  been  called,  she  has  in 
nothing  exceeded  the  authority  she  has — it  well  deserves  consid- 
eration, if  it  is  wise  that  she  should  isolate  herself  from  the 
rest  of  the  fraternity.  As  was  well  said  by  Bro.  Caeson  of  Ohio, 
uniformity  of  law  and  usage  is  even  more  desirable  than  uniformity 
of  work,  as  it  is  really  more  vital  to  the  nature  of  our  institution. 
Bro.  Hazeleigg  seems  to  us  to  claim  the  right  to  deny  and  disre- 
gard all  landmarks  except  those  which  he  has  himself  set  up,  but 
he  might  have  done  even  this  in  a  more  courteous  and  fraternal 
manner.  He  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  the  proceedings  of 
thirty-eight  Grand  Lodges.  The  following  extracts  will  show 
something  of  his  manner : 

"  It  would  be  tedious  and  become  uninteresting  should  we  give  the  congratula- 
tions of  each  Grand  Master  to  the  body  over  which  he  presided,  the  number  of  dis- 
pensations granted  and  the  applications  refused— the  number  of  visits  and  the  cordi- 
ality of  his  reception  at  every  place  visited.  These  are  all  appropriate  enough  in 
the  jurisdiction  where  they  occur,  but  nowhere  else.  Nor  is  it  necessary  that  we 
should  say  how  kind  and  lovingly  the  committees  on  foreign  correspondence  admire 
and  tickle  each  other  when  agreeing,  and  how,  unnecessarily  snappish  they  become 
when  they  think  they  have  been  slighted  or  their  track  crossed,  or  something  said 
that  falls  short  of  or  over-tops  their  standard,  while  each  doubtless,  like  ourselves, 
feel  persuaded  that  their  own  course,  if  not  the  best,  is  at  least  as  good  as  others. 
Our  laws  and  practice  is  the  result  of  no  little  reflection,  experience,  and  observa- 
tion ;  we  never  find  fault  with  what  others  do  or  say,  unless  we  are  satisfied  that 
some  fundamental  principle  is  involved,  being  content  that  others  should  govern 
their  internal  police  matters  as  to  them  shall  seem  best." 

"  On  the  right  of  appeal  from  a  decision  of  the  Master  of  a  subordinate  Lodge, 
there  is  some  room  for  doubt.  I  believe  most  all  writers  on  Masonic  jurisprudence 
hold  that  there  is  no  appeal  from  his  decision  to  the  Lodge  ;  but  as  these  writers 


27 

mutually  distrust  and  differ  from  each  other  on  important  points,  thereby  evidencing 
that  all  are  not  right,  I  feel  inclined  to  doubt  the  correctness  of  so  sweeping  a  dec- 
laration, as  that  there  is  no  case  in  which  an  appeal  to  the  Lodge  from|the  decision 
of  the  Master  would  be  allowable.  During  the  ceremonial  work  of  the  Lodge,  there 
are  many  and  satisfactory  reasons  why  an  appeal  should  not  be  entertained ;  but 
there  are  many  and  important  matters  coming  before  a  Lodge  for  its  action  that 
don't  come  under  tha^Blass  called  the  «  work  '  of  the  Lodge,  and  on  such  subjects, 
if  there  is  not,  there  ought  to  be  a  right  to  appeal,  and  Fdoubtjnot  there  is  suchBa 
right." 

"  In  view  of  the  many  differences  of  opinion  about  ancient  laws,  charges  and  regu- 
lations, it  is  but  the  part  of  common  honesty  to  say  that  they  never  were  immu- 
table ;  that  the  changed  condition  of  everything  pertaining  to  the  affairs  of  the  hu- 
man family,  and  the  progress  of  enlightened  civilization  has  necessitated  a  change 
in  these  laws,  while  pure  and  unadulterated  Freemasonry  and  the  ancient  landmarks 
ever  have  and  ever  will  remain  the  same.  The  change  in  its  laws  and  police  regula- 
tions have  no  more  effect  upon  its  stability  and  unchangeable^hieroglyphics  than  has 
the  change  of  language  upon  the  verity  of  eternal  truth.  They  both  are  and  ever 
will  remain  the  same." 

He  reports  having  granted  twenty-two  dispensations  for  new 
Lodges  and  arrested  the  charter  of  a  Lodge  for  making  a  Mason 
of  a  man  with  one  leg,  and  recommends  its  revocation;  the  Grand 
Lodge  however,  restored  it.  He  then  puffs  a  Masonic  history,  of 
which  we  know  nothing  but  his  account  of  it : 

"  If  all  the  Masonic  books  ever  published  were  placed  in  one  pile,  and  Brother 
Mitchell's  in  another,  and  I  were  compelled  to  choose,  I  would  take  Bro.  Mitch- 
ell's. I  do  wish  it  could  be  in  the  hands  of  every  Mason.  It  is  what  we  Avant  to 
show  what  is  ancient  Masonry,  and  what  modern  manufactory.  The  editor  of  The 
Masonic  Trowel  justly  says  :  '  Brother  Mitchell  is  the  only  author  who  has  pre- 
pared a  complete  history  of  the  order.  The  author  assumes  that  Masonry  was  in- 
stituted by  King  Solomon,  and  proves  his  assertion  true,  or  that'our  traditions  are 
false  and  Masonry  a  cheat.  The  Doctor  is  the  first  author  who  has  taken  the  Bible 
as  his  stand -point,  and  attempted  to  prove  therefrom  that  Masonry  was  instituted 
by  Divine  command  for  the  overthrow  of  the  heathen  mythology,  and  to  bring  back 
the  worshippers  of  idols  to  the  knowledge  of  the  true  God.'  Strong  as  this  lan- 
guage is,  I  can  now,  from  having  examined  the  work,  endorse  every  word  of  it  as 
true.  Brother  Mitchell  is  not  only  the  first,  but  the  only  author  who  has  placed 
Freemasonry  upon  its  ancient  rituals  and  traditions— established  their  truth  by  the 
language  and  teachings  of  the  Bible,  and  then  built  thereon." 

Eighteen  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges,  five  dispensa- 
tions continued  and  five  new  dispensations  ordered  to  issue ;  pro- 
vision was  made  to  have  some  of  the  more  important  and  labori- 
ous committees  meet  before  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  get  their  work 
done  before  the  meeting — following  in  that  the  example  of  Illinois. 
It  may  well  deserve  consideration  whether  we  might  not  advanta- 
geously do  the  same. 


28 


IOWA, 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  annual  convocation  at  Des 
Moines,  June  2d,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred  and 
thirty-one  Lodges  were  represented. 

M.-.W.*.  Reuben  Mickel,  Grand  Mas&»,  reports  having 
granted  twenty-one  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  the  members  of 
most  of  which  he  found  to  have  recently  come  from  other  jurisdic- 
tions, from  which  he  concludes  that  the  new  Lodges  were  not 
built  up  by  dividing  the  old  Lodges,  and  were  therefore  indicative 
of  healthy  growth.  He  had  decided  that  a  Mason  suspended  in 
another  State,  whose  Lodge  had  become  extinct,  and  he  himself  a 
reputable  citizen  of  Iowa,  could  only  be  relieved  of  his  suspension 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  his  former  residence ;  and  that  desertion 
from  military  service  was  no  Masonic  crime. 

Measures  were  taken  looking  to  a  permanent  location  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  and  building  a  Masonic  temple,  which  it  was  pro- 
posed to  effect  by  putting  the  location  up  at  auction  to  the  highest 
bidder — a  method  which  does  not  commend  itself  to  our  judgment 
as  suited  either  to  the  dignity  or  harmony  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
Nineteen  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges,  eight  dispensa- 
tions continued  and  one  ordered  to  issue.  It  was  decided  that  a 
Lodge  in  another  jurisdiction  had  no  right  to  try  and  discipline  a 
member  of  a  Lodge  in  Iowa,  which  seems  to  us  too  broad  ;  if  the 
brother  is  a  resident  within  the  jurisdiction  of  a  different  Lodge 
from  that  in  which  he  is  a  member,  the  Lodge  in  whose  jurisdic- 
tion he  is,  may,  it  seems  to  us,  proceed  to  try  him  or  complain  to 
the  Lodge  of  his  membership.  The  Masonic  temple  coming  up 
again,  was  laid  over  to  the  next  annual  communication  for  the 
action  of  the  Lodges.  Bro.  Guilbert  is  said  to  have  read  some 
part  of  his  report  on  correspondence,  but  it  does  not  appear  in 
the  proceedings. 


KANSAS. 

The  thirteenth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was 
held  at  Lawrence,  October  20th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Forty- 
eight  Lodges  were  represented. 

The   M.\\V.\  M.  S.  Adams,    Grand   Master,  reports  having 


29 

issued  ten  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  one  of  which  was  for 
Mt.  Moriah  Lodge,  at  Great  Salt  Lake  City,  Utah.  This  Lodge 
had  formerly  worked  under  a  dispensation  from  the  Grand  Master 
of  Nevada,  but  it  will  be  remembered  that  M.  W.  Bro.  DeBell 
forbade  their  receiving  either  candidates  or  visitors  who  were  Mor- 
mons, which  ruling  was  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nevada. 
Their  dispensation  was  continued  one  year,  when  on  returning  it, 
asking  for  a  charter,  the  petitioners  said  if  they  could  not  have  a 
charter  without  the  prohibition  relating  to  Mormons  they  did  not 
wish  it.  The  Grand  Lodge,  thinking  this  savored  of  dictation, 
promptly  refused  to  give  them  a  charter;  they  then  applied,  stating 
the  fact,  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Montana,  which  refused  to  grant  a 
charter,  but  referred  them  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nevada ;  they 
then  applied  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Colorado,  which  also  refused 
to  interfere;  they  then  asked  the  Grand  Master  of  Kansas  for  a 
dispensation,  as  it  would  appear,  without  saying  anything  of  their 
past  history  and  obtained  it.  We  cannot  avoid  quoting  the  fol- 
lowing from  the  Grand  Master's  address  : 

"  Masonry  supposes  the  candidates  for  its  honors  in  some  degree  intelligent,  and 
requires  them,  if  meaning  to  be  true  men,  to  extend  that  intelligence  steadily  while 
within  an  earthly  Lodge.  In  other  words,  Masonry  is  knowledge,  not  merely  of 
rituals,  but  of  science,  physical,  political  and  moral ;  and  demands  a  fair  share  of 
every  brother's  time  for  its  mastery.  Without  such  attainment,  no  man  can  expect 
to  fulfill  his  duties  to  his  fellow-men,  to  his  family,  or  his  Maker.  Let  the  young 
brother  mark  this,  and  each  day  set  apart  a  portion  of  time  for  that  thorough  self- 
culture  everywhere  inculcated  in  our  instructions,  and  so  vital  to  the  perfection  ex- 
pected  of  him  who  has  thoughtfully  entered  upon  a  Masonic  life.  He  will  find,  let  me 
assure  him,  work  enough  for  his  earlier  years,  enough  for  his  mature  manhood— yes 
work  enough  till  the  last  sand  be  down." 

The  following  decision  of  Grand  Master  Adams,  states  the  law 
as  we  understand  it : 

"The  penal  jurisdiction  of  a  Lodge  extends  to  all  Masons  residing  within  its  geo* 
graphical  jurisdiction,  whether  affiliated  or  not ;  yet  courtesy  would  require  that  in 
case  of  affiliated  Masons,  the  charges  should  be  sent  to  the  Lodge  of  which  the  ac* 
cused  is  a  member ;  then,  if  they  neglect  or  refuse  to  take  cognizance  of  the  case, 
the  Lodge  within  whose  jurisdiction  the  brother  resides  may  proceed  to  try  the 
case.  When  two  or  more  Lodges  have  concurrent  jurisdiction,  each  Lodge  will  take 
exclusive  jurisdiction  of  its  own  members," 

The  B-.\  W.'.D.-.G.-.  M.\,  Edward  A.  Smith,  reports  having 
granted  one  dispensation  for  a  new  Lodge.  Six  charters  were 
granted  and  one    dispensation  continued.     Among   the    charters 


30 

granted  was  one  to  Mt.  Moriah  Lodge.  While  there  is  no  Masonic 
law  which  prohibits  this  course,  courtesy  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Nevada  would  seem  to  have  required  the  action  of  the  Grand , 
Lodges  of  Montana  and  Colorado ;  our  brethren  in  Kansas,  one 
would  suppose,  could  hardly  have  expected  that  brethren  who 
would  be  insubordinate  and  disrespectful  to  their  former  superior, 
would  be  altogether  free  from  such  conduct  toward  their  present 
superior  when  any  occasion  should  arise. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence,  from  the  hand  of  R.\  W.\ 
E.  T.  Cake,  the  Grand  Secretary,  notices  the  proceedings  of 
thirty-five  Grand  Bodies,  including  ours.  On  the  Iowa  decision, 
upon  which  we  have  commented,  he  says : 

"  Upon  this  subject,  we  hold  that  every  Mason  is  amenable  to  the  laws  and  regu- 
lations of  the  Grand  Lodge  jurisdiction  in  which  he  may  reside,  and  a  brother  vio- 
lating these  regulations  may  be  tried  and  disciplined  by  the  Lodge  in  whose  jurisdic- 
tion the  offense  was  committed.  We  believe  we  have  members  of  Iowa  Lodges 
permanently  residing  within  this  jurisdiction,  and  we  hold  them  amenable  to  our 
laws,  but  through  courtesy  we  might  proceed  as  they  prescribe." 

He  quotes  largely  from  G.\M.\  Hazelrigg,  of  Indiana,  in  re- 
lation to  the  powers  of  Masters  and  Grand  Masters,  and  making 
Masons  at  sight,  but  without  expressing  any  opinion.  He  notices 
that  Nevada,  Montana  and  Colorado  had  refused  a  charter  to  Mt. 
Moriah  Lodge,  at  Salt  Lake  City,  but  of  course  makes  no 
comment. 


KENTUCKY. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  annual  communication  at  Louisville, 
October  19th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Three  hundred  and  one 
chartered  Lodges  and  fifteen  under  dispensation  were  represented. 

The  M.\W.\  Elisha  S.  Fitch,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  fourteen  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  one  of  which  he 
afterward  revoked.  He  also  reports  that  "  several"  dormant 
Lodges  had  resumed  work,  and  two  had  surrendered  their  charters. 
He  seems  to  regard  the  Grand  Master  as  merely  the  presiding 
officer  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  a  sort  of  speaker,  and  is  especially 
hard  on  the  assumed  power  of  making  Masons  at  sight.  It  would 
be  easy  to  show  how  the  power  originated  and  that  it  does 
exist  beyond  the  power  of  Grand  Lodges,  or  anything   but  the  as- 


31 

sembly  of  all  the  craft  to  the  youngest  Entered  Apprentice,  to  take 
it  away,  but  it  is  a  power  which  has  no  place  in  Masonry  in  this 
country  and  should  never  be  exercised;  therefore,  we  do  not  deem 
a  discussion  upon  it  useful.  Certain  brethren  composing  the 
Lodge  at  Lexington,  proposed  holding  a  convention  of  the  Lodges 
in  that  part  of  the  State,  to  consider  the  propriety  of  a  division  of 
the  Grand  Lodge.  This  coming  to  the  ears  of  the  Grand  Master  he 
at  once  issued  an  edict  forbidding  the  meeting  of  the  convention, 
and  admonishing  all  concerned  that  such  action  would  subject 
them  and  their  Lodges  to  exemplary  discipline,  which  seems  to 
have  had  the  desired  effect. 

The  Grand  Treasurer  reported  the  resources  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  to  be  $78,006.92.     The  following  order  was  also  adopted: 

"  Resolved,  That  previous  to  the  next  annual  communication,  the  Grand  Steward 
and  Tyler  place  numbers  on  the  seats  in  this  Grand  Lodge,  according  to  seniority,  in 
order  that  Representatives  may  have  desirable  seats  in  preference  to  visiting 
brethren  ;  and  that  in  arranging  the  hall,  the  Grand  Master's  seat  be  moved  to  the 
center  of  the  east  side  of  the  hall." 

Where  was  the  Grand  Master's  seat  before,  we  wonder  ? 

Fourteen  charters  were  granted,  five  dispensations  continued, 
and  six  ordered  to  issue.  A  committee  could  see  no  reason  why 
Lodges  might  not  be  incorporated,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  recom- 
mended its  subordinates  not  to  obtain  civil  charters,  and  appointed 
a  committee  to  see  if  the  act  of  incorporation  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  could  not  be  made  to  cover  all  that  is  desired  in  that 
respect. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  the  Grand  Sec- 
retary, Bro.  J.  M.  S.  McCokkle,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of 
twenty-eight  American  and  three  European  Grand  Bodies.  Mas- 
sachusetts had  provided  that  the  acceptance  of  a  civil  charter 
should  "operate  as  a  surrender  and  revocation  of  its  Masonic 
charter  or  warrant  from  this  Grand  Lodge."  Bro.  McCokkle 
protests  against  this,  if  it  is  thereby  intended  that  the  charter 
shall  be  arrested  without  trial,  and  correctly,  for  nothing  can  be 
more  unjust  than  to  condemn  a  Lodge  or  individual  unheard ;  but 
we  see  no  reason  why  the  Grand  Lodge  may  not  declare  any  act  it 
deems  improper  shall  amount  to  a  surrender  of  the  lodge  warrant. 
If  the  Lodge  afterward  does  the  act,  knowing  the  law,  they  cannot 
complain,  and  the  only  question  to  be  tried  is,  whether  the  for- 
bidden act  has  been  committed. 


32 

LOUISIANA. 

The  fifty-sixth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was 
held  at  Louisville,  February  10th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Eighty 
chartered  Lodges  and  four  under  dispensation  were  represented. 

The  Grand  Master  seems,  from  his  address,  to  have  turned  over 
most  of  the  duties  of  the  office  to  his  Deputy,  whose  residence  in 
New  Orleans  rendered  him  more  accessible  to  the  craft.  The  D.\ 
D.\G.\M.\,R.\  W.\  Henry  R.  Swasey,  reports  having  granted 
three  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  as  well  as  performed  a  great 
number  of  other  official  acts. 

Four  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion. Three  thousand  dollars  was  voted  to  Louisiana  Relief 
Lodge,  to  aid  in  building  a  tomb  on  the  new  lots  the  Grand  Lodge 
had  donated  in  the  Masonic  cemetery.  Bro.  H.  Hamburger 
presented  the  report  of  the  Relief  Lodge,  by  which  it  appears  that 
83398.  had  been  expended  for  the  relief  of  stranger  brethren 
during  the  preceding  year.  The  Grand  Lodge,  the  year  before, 
had  ordered  the  sale  of  the  Grand  Lodge  hall  and  the  purchase  of 
a  lot  on  which  to  erect  a  Masonic  temple;  the  sale  was  not  made 
but  the  purchase  was,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  was  divided  on  the 
expediency  of  proceeding  with  the  new  building,  and  after  two 
reports  from  committees,  one  either  way,  the  subject  wras  con- 
tinued a  year.  A  mania  seems  to  exist  just  now  for  the  erection 
of  magnificent  edifices  for  Masonic  halls,  which,  with  the  ordinary 
magniloquence,  are  denominated  Temples.  They  are  apt  to  cause 
great  embarrassment  by  the  taxation  which  they  almost  inevitably 
cause,  and  in  some  instances  great  dissatisfaction,  almost  insub- 
ordination, is  caused  by  remote  Lodges  feeling  that  they  are 
taxed,  and  more  heavily  in  proportion  to  their  means,  to  erect 
palaces  for  others  to  enjoy.  Still  it  seems  probable  that  most  of 
our  great  cities  are  to  have  such  buildings  erected  by  the  craft. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  R.  W.  Bro. 
James  B.  Scot,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six  Grand 
Lodges,  not  including  New  Hampshire.  He  is  strenuous  against 
the  advancement  of  maims ;  he  considers  the  resolution  about 
negroes,  passed  in  so  many  southern  Grand  Lodges,  works  of 
supererogation,  which,  so  far  as  the  admission  of  colored  men  to 
the  Lodges  is  considered,  is  no  doubt  true,  but  they  are  mis- 
chievous in  that  they  deny  the  fundamental,  basis  of  the  fraternity, 


33      . 

which  is  that  of  a  society  designed  to  unite  men  of  every  nation, 
sect,  and  opinion,  its  real  basis  being  the  universal  brotherhood  of 
man.  True,  Masonry  seeks  none  but  good  men,  but  the  internal 
qualifications  existing,  the  external  accidents  form  no  legal  ground 
of  objection,  and  when  Grand  Lodges  and  respectable  brethren 
attempt  to  undermine  and  overthrow  the  entire  fabric  of  our  insti- 
tution, on  account  of  some  fancied  fear  that  they  may  be  required 
to  associate  with  persons  disagreeable  to  them,  when  to  every  dis- 
passionate observer  it  is  obvious  that  no  chance  of  such  a  thing 
exists,  it  is  then  the  duty  of  every  true  Mason  to  rebuke  the  false 
sentiment.  It  is  said  negroes  are  not  free  born;  where  true,  it  is 
a  valid  objection,  which  very  few,  if  any,  would  disregard.  It  is 
said  they  are  degraded  and  brutal,  unfit  for  association  with 
Masons.  If  any  man  is  so,  he  ought  not  to  be  made  a  Mason, 
whether  white  or  colored.  Some  have  even  gone  so  far  as  to  say 
that  the  negro  never  can  be  educated  to  be  fit  to  be  made  a 
Mason.  If  unfit,  he  should  not  be  made  ;  why  not  then  rest  sat- 
isfied with  what  are  undoubted  and  unquestioned  objections  ?  Why 
abandon  all  these  and  attempt  to  stand  on  the  entirely  indefensible 
ground,  that  the  man  is  not  white  f  Suppose  a  man  to  be  every- 
thing that  is  desirable,  but  the  one  thing,  that  is,  color,  is  not  like 
the  majority  of  Masons  ;  born  free,  as  his  ancestors  for  generations 
were  before  him,  educated,  talented,  adorned  with  all  Christian 
virtues,  a  refined  gentleman,  but  black.  Can  it  be  pretended  that 
in  such  case  he  is  ineligible  for  the  mysteries  of  Masonry  ?  If  it 
be  said  there  are  none  such,  there  can  be  none  such,  then  place 
your  objection  on  the  safe  ground  of  valid  and  well  known  objec- 
tions :  he  is  not  free  born,  ignorant,  brutal,  bad,  or  no  gentleman, 
— not  urge  the  mere  accident  of  color.  Bro.  Scot  rebukes  the  in- 
temperance of  Bro.  Barry,  of  Georgia,  extracts  from  whose 
report  we  gave  in  a  former  report  of  our  own.  In  truth,  the  sen- 
timent of  almost  all  our  southern  brethren  is  opposed  to  Bro. 
Barry's  report,  as  that  of  all  the  northern  brethren  is  to  the 
somewhat  similar  intemperance  of  Bro.  Guilbert,  the  almost  uni- 
versal feeling  being  one  of  brotherhood,  full  of  that  charity  which 
neglects  to  see  the  inevitable  foibles  of  human  nature.  So  may  it 
ever  be  among  the  craft.  Bro.  Scot  defends  the  committees  on 
foreign  correspondence  against  Bro.  Hazelrigg,  of  Indiana,  but 
it  is  hardly  necessary — tlMr  utility  is  too  generally  acknowledged. 
He  quotes  the  same  history  of  the  clandestine  negro  Lodges  which 


"34 

we  quoted  in  a  former  report,  which  is  erroneous  in  some  particu- 
lars.    The  charter  of  African  Lodge,  No.  459,  was  not  in  usual 
form,  although  after  reading  the  published  copy  of  it,  we  fail  to 
see  that  it  grants  the  powers  which  have  been  assumed  under  it. 
It  was  not  granted  in  violation  of  the  rights  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Massachusetts,  for  the  two  Provincial  Grand  Lodges  had  each 
become  defunct,  or  at  least  dormant,  and  the  present  Grand  Lodge 
of  Massachusetts  had   not  been    constituted.     When    the   Grand 
Lodge  of  Massachusetts  was  formed,  no  notice  was  taken  of  this 
Lodge,  holding  a  charter  from  the  same  source  that  many  of  the 
other  Lodges  did,  and  this  might  raise  the    question    as    to  the 
status  of  a  legal  Lodge  existing  in  a  territory  before  the  formation 
of  a  Grand  Lodge,  but  which  the  other  Lodges  refuse  to  receive 
into  the  Grand  Lodge  upon  its  formation.     This  charter  was  never 
returned,  but  is  still  held  in  Boston  by  the  so-called  negro  Grand 
Lodge.     Its  being  dropped  from  the  register  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  England  took   place   upon   the   union   of  the  "ancients"  and 
"moderns."     We  think  also,  that  it  is  claimed  that  some  Lodge 
chartered  by  some  Masonic  power,  true  or  false,  in  Hayti,  joined 
African  Lodge  in  the  formation  of  the  first  negro  Grand  Lodge. 
These  do  not,  of  course,  show  that  these  Lodges  as  now  existing, 
are  legal,  or  anything  other  than  clandestine,  but  having  given  the 
report,  truth  requires  that  we  should  correct  such    errors  as  we 
find.     On  work  he  says : 

"  Proficiency  in  the  work  is  greatly  to  be  desired,  for,  in  the  present  rush  of  ap- 
plicants for  admission,  the  degrees  are  too  frequently  conferred  in  a  hurried  and  im- 
perfect manner.  But  even  when  properly  conferred,  the  degrees  are  not  complete 
without  the  lectures,  or  at  least  so  much  of  them  as  will  impress  the  newly  made 
brother  with  the  import  and  solemnity  of  our  ceremonies.  As  to  the  lecture,  we 
have  never  admired  the  catechetical  form,  except  so  far  as  it  is  useful  to  post  up  the 
candidate  ;  but  no  degree  should  be  conferred  without  the  lecture  being  given  either 
in  that  mode  or  in  the  form  of  a  narrative.  As  to  obtaining  complete  uniformity  in 
the  verbiage  of  the  lectures,  we  consider  the  idea  wholly  chimerical.  No  arbitrary 
system  can  long  be  preserved  without  resort  to  modes  which  are  unlawful — for  the 
most  retentive  memory  will  sometimes  be  at  fault.  One  man  is  gifted  with  a  fluency 
of  language,  while  another  expresses  himself  in  a  terse  and  concise  style,  hence  no 
two  persons  employ  the  same  words  to  convey  the  same  idea.  Thus,  while  there 
are  differences  in  the  verbiage  of  the  different  systems,  the  great  essentials  are  pre- 
served in  all.  We  have  never  been  able  to  appreciate  the  benefits  which  the  frater- 
nity have  derived  from  the  wranglings  and  bickerings  of  the  advocates  of  the  differ- 
ent systems,  and  consider  the  rule  of  our  Grand  Lodge,  requiring  uniformity  in  the 
ties  which  bind  us  together  and  the  modes  of  recognition,  as  the  only  one  which  can 
satisfactorily  settle  the  much-vexed  question  of  ^>rk  and  lectures.  It  gives  an  intel- 
ligent Master  full  scope  to  explain  and  illustrate  the  symbolism  of  the  degrees,  and 


35 

thus  incite  the  initiate  to  explore  the  esoteric  meaning  of  our  ceremonies  and  sym- 
bols, which,  even  with  the  fullest  explanation  of  their  lawfully  accepted  teachings 
that  can  be  given  in  the  Lodge,  are  still  the  veils  which  conceal  the  hidden  glories  of 
Freemasonry  from  those  who  consider  that  a  mere  proficiency  in  the  work  makes 
them  '  bright '  Masons." 

We  had  marked  several  passages  of  this  very  able  report  for 
quotation  or  comment,  but  the  growing  length  of  our  report  calls 
upon  us  to  stay  our  hand. 


MAINE. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  annual  communication  at  Port- 
land, May  5th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred  and  twenty- 
nine  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.-.W.-.  Timothy  J.  Murray,  Grand  Master,  reports 
jhaving  granted  three  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  decided 
that  an  officer  reelected  should  be  reinstalled;  as  if  not,  as  no 
officer  can  act  until  installed,  he  would  continue  to  act  under  his 
former  election  or  appointment,  and  not  under  the  latter.  On  the 
^subject  of  threatened  attack  upon  our  institution,  he  says : 

"  This  condition  of  affairs,  however,  places  upon  us  a  responsibility ;  and  the 
proper  manner  in  which  to  meet  this  issue  is  of  much  importance.  We  should  all 
bear  in  mind  that  ours  is  not  a  controversial  or  belligerent  institution ;  that  its 
spirit,  as  well  as  teachings,  forbid  us  to  wrangle  or  dispute  about  it ;  and  that  the 
best  answer  we  can  make  to  '  railing  accusations '  is  to  point  to  the  lives  and  con- 
versation of  those  whom  we  delight  to  honor.  While  no  inducement  ought  to  lead 
us  into  argument  with  those  who  may  ridicule  and  falsify  the  character  of  our  insti- 
tution, there  is  a  work  for  every  Mason  to  do,  that  may  redound  to  its  lasting  good 
and  honor." 

Five  charters  were  granted  and  three  dispensations  ordered  to 
issue  to  new  Lodges.  Lodges  were  prohibited  from  obtaining  acts 
of  incorporation,  and  Bro.  Josiah  H.  Drummond  was  appointed 
a  committee  to  prepare  a  plan  for  the  incorporation  of  trustees  to 
hold  the  property  and  secure  the  supposed  advantages  of  acts  of 
incorporation. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence  was  prepared  by  Bro.  J. 
H.  Drummond,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  forty-four  Grand 
.Bodies,  including  all  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  United  States  but 
three.  Bro.  Drummond  thus  argues  the  question  of  the  pro- 
priety of  the  surrender  of  charters  upon  the  formation  of  a  new 
Grand  Lodge,  and  sas  it  seems  to  us,  conclusively.     The  surrender 


36 

of  the  charters  in  such  cases,  is  quite  a  modern  idea  and,  though 
doubtless  well  meant,  is  a  mistaken  one. 

"  This  action  is  founded  upon  the  idea,  that  when  a  new  Grand  Lodge  is  formed, 
its  constituents  must  surrender  their  old  charters  and  take  new  ones.  This  is  not 
according  to  the  ancient  practice,  and  is  erroneous  in  principle.  The  proper  course 
is  to  have  the  charters  endorsed  by  the  new  Grand  Lodge.  The  Lodges  should  con- 
tinue their  existence.  If  they  surrender  their  charters  they  at  once  cease  to  exist. 
They  cannot  have  two  charters  at  the  same  time  ;  and  it  inevitably  follows  that  if 
they  surrender  their  charters,  they  put  an  end  to  their  existence  as  Lodges,  and  the 
new  charters  are  for  new  Lodges.  When  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maine  was  formed, 
the  subordinates  retained  their  charters,  and  are  still  working  under  them. 

"It  is  not  necessary,  in  order  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  govern  a  subordinate  that  it 
should  also  give  the  subordinate  existence.  When  Lodges  are  chartered,  they  are 
created  for  an  indefinite  time.  Lodges  thus  created  may  transfer  their  allegiance,  in 
case  of  the  formation  of  a  Grand  Lodge  in  their  territory,  and  become  a  constituent 
of  a  new  Grand  Lodge.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  be  created  without  subordinate 
constituents.  And  it  is  a  curious  idea,  and  quite  absurd ,  that  after  it  has  been 
created,  its  constituents  must  immediately  die  and  receive  new  life  from  it !  When 
they  die,  does  it  net  die  also  ?  The  true  idea  is,  that  the  constituents  from  their  lo- 
cation have  the  right  to  form  a  new  Grand  Lodge  for  their  own  government. 

"  The  regularity  of  a  Grand  Lodge  may  be  questioned.  If  not  formed  by  at  least 
three  regular  Lodges,  it  is  irregular.  The  Lodges  forming  it  should  retain  their  old 
charters,  in  order  to  have  the  proper  evidence  of  their  regularity,  and  the  conse- 
quent regularity  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  If  their  charters,  for  other  causes,  are  ever 
surrendered,  the  new  Grand  Lodge  should  retain  them  for  the  same  reason.'7 

"  The  endorsement  of  the  charter  is  well  enough,  but  not  necessarij.  The  Grand 
Lodge  takes  jurisdiction  of  all  Lodges  in  the  State,  whether  they  will  or  not ;  and 
no  act  of  that  kind  is  necessary  to  show  that  any  particular  Lodge  is  under  its 
authority.  When  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maine  was  formed,  all  the  Lodges  had  Massa- 
chusetts charters;  and  they  have  them  yet,  without  endorsement  or  alteration. 
This  whole  matter  was  then  examined  by  Simon  Greenleaf  and  his  associates,  and 
the  course  indicated  above  adopted.  We  must  say  that  it  seems  to  us  the  only 
course  consonant  with  reason  and  common  sense." 

Of  the  Past  Master's  degree  he  says : 

"  The  installation  of  a  Master  is  conclusive  evidence  to  a  Master's  Lodge,  that  he- 
has  received  all  the  necessary  instructions  and  qualifications.  We  believe,  therefore , 
either  that  the  installing  officer  should  be  authorized  to  give  him  all  these  instruc- 
tions, or  if  more  Past  Masters  are  required  to  give  him  any,  the  same  number  should 
be  required  to  install.  But  as  our  laws  authorize  and  require  a  Master  to  install  his 
successor,  he  is  thereby  invested  with  full  power  to  do  so  in  every  respect. 

"If  the  installation  does  not  include  the  conferring  of  the  P.  M.  degree,  there 
should  be  a  record  of  it.  Accordingly,  we  have  seen  a  few  instances  in  which  there 
appears  upon  the  records  of  a  Lodge  a  certified  copy  of  the  proceedings  of  a  Lodge 
of  Past  Masters,  certified  by  order  of  the  installing  officer.  But  these  instances  are 
rare  and  of  recent  date.  The  record,  therefore,  of  an  installation  must  have  inclu- 
ded in  ancient  times,  by  force  of  the  term,  the  conferring  on  the  Master  of  the  P.  M. 
degree.  And  we  believe  that  the  old  practice  was  for  the  installing  officer  alone  (if 
necessary)  to  confer  this  degree  ;  that  such  should  be  the  practice  now  ;  and  that 


37 

the  practice  of  requiring  a  convocation  of  three  Past  Masters  to  confer  this 
degree— [the  decision  in  Minnesota  (1865)  which  Bro.  Paul  was  criticising]— is 
modern,  and  was  borrowed  from  another  organization." 

Of  making  Masons  at  sight : 

"  We  hold  that  this  prerogative  of  the  Grand  Master  cannot  be  taken  from  him  by 
a  regulation ;  but  we  hope  that  the  universal  sentiment  of  the  fraternity  against  its 
exercise  will  be  sufficient  to  prevent  its  frequent  use.'-" 

Bro.  Deummond  reviews  the  whole  question  relative  to  West 
Virginia,  and  holds  that  Grand  Lodge  regular,  answering  each  ob- 
jection that  has  been  made  to  it,  in  all  which  we  fully  agree  with 
him.     Of  negro  Lodges  and  negro  Masons  he  says: 

"  This  settles  the  status  of  all  these  bodies  and  their  members ;  they  can  receive 
'  no  countenance '  whatever,  not  because  of  their  race  or  color,  but  because  they  are, 
at  best,  but  clandestine  Masons. 

"  Another  question,  however,  has  been  agitated.  Will  regular  Lodges  receive 
negroes  ?    And  if  so,  must  other  Lodges  recognize  them? 

"Let  us  go  back  to  the  landmarks  again.  A  candidate  must  he  free  born,  and 
elected  by  the  unanimous  vote  of  the  Lodge  ;  and  no  visitor  can  be  admitted  to  a 
Lodge  against  the  objection  of  a  single  one  of  its  members  ;  and  no  new  Lodge  can 
be  formed  without  permission  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

"  These  would  seem  to  be  all  that  is  required  for  this  generation,  at  any  rate ;  the 
law  is  simple,  But  comprehensive." 

"Whoever  sits  in  the  Grand  Orient  of  France  must  ordinarily  sit  with  a  negro 
brother  ;  and  it  is  useless  to  undertake  to  say,  that  the  law  of  Masonry  excludes  a 
man,  physically,  mentally,  and  morally  qualified,  because  of  his  race,  or  color. 
Lodges  may  not  choose  to  receive  a  man  of  another  race  ;  that  is  their  prerogative  ; 
but  to  allow  political  questions  to  cause  innovations  in  Masonry  will  quickly  destroy 
it.  And  we  frankly  but  fraternally  suggest  to  our  Southern  brethren,  that  their 
course  in  endeavoring  to  change  the  old  rule  opens  the  door  to  changes  in  the  other 
direction.  Let  us,  therefore,  adhere  to  the  landmarks,  and  sail  our  good  old  ship 
with  even  keel,  avoiding  Scylla  on  the  one  hand,  and  Charybdis  on  the  other," 


MARYLAND. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  annual  communication,  in  Bal- 
timore, November  16th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Fifty-eight 
Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  "YW.  John  Coates,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  four  dispensations  for  new  Lodges ;  also  a  bequest  of 
nearly  twenty-five  thousand  dollars,  by  the  will  of  Bro.  Samuel 
Pickering,  formerly  a  member  of  Baltimore  City  Lodge. 

The  income  of  the  grand  charity  fund  for  the  last  six  months 


38 

was  $1870. ;  but  the  widows  and  orphans  and  the  decayed  brethren 
get  none  of  it,  the  Grand  Lodge  itself  seeming  to  be  in  the  great- 
est need,  and  investing  the  whole  income  in  Masonic  temple 
stock.  Five  charters  were  granted  to  Lodges  working  under  dis- 
pensation.    The  charter  of  one  Lodge  was  declared  forfeited. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  again  from  the  pen  of  Bro.- 
William    J.    Wroth,   and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  forty-one 
Grand  Lodges,  including  ours.     He  suggests  whether,  as  the  ballot 
for  initiation  is  on  the  admission  of  the  candidate  to  the  fraternity, 
any  Master  Mason  present  ought  not  to  vote.     The  reasons  for 
such  view  appear  strong  to  us,  and  at  one  time   it  seemed  not  un- 
likely that  such  might  become  the  law ;  but  the  final  agreement 
of  authority  confined  the  right  to  members   of  the   Lodge,  and 
when  anything  is   settled,  we  say  let  it  stay  settled.     Like  the 
Louisiana  committee,  Bro.  Wkoth  regards  a  dimit  as  necessary 
to  affiliation,  but  we  fail  to  be  convinced.     It  is  the  duty  of  the 
Lodge  to  make  certain  that  the  brother  who  proposes  to  affiliate 
with  them  is  what  he  professes,  and  is  free  from  prior  duties  to 
any  other  Lodge ;  of  this  the  dimit  forms  the  best  and  most  con- 
venient evidence,  but  failing  that,  we  see  no  reason  why  all  the 
facts  should  not  be  substantiated  in  some  other  way,'  and  if  the 
applicant  is  a  Master  Mason  and  free  from  all  duties  and  obliga- 
tions to  any  other  Lodge,  the  whole  object  of  requiring  the  dimity 
except  "red  tape,"  has  been  attained.     He  inquires  if  it  would 
not  be  better  to  deprive  all  who  remain  unaffiliated  for  a  year,  of 
all  the  rights  and  privileges  of  Masons  ?     Now,  in  this  case,  a 
brother  removes  from  one  town  to  another ;  desirous  of  doing  his 
duty  to  the   craft,  he  dimits  from  the  Lodge  he  left,  and  from 
jealousy  or  spite,  he  is  rejected  on  his   application  for  membership 
in  the  place  of  his  new  residence.     Shall  he  be  punished  because: 
the  Lodge  won't  let  him  affiliate  ?     He  asks  the  question,  "  Has  a 
Lodge  under  dispensation  the  right  to  affiliate   members  ?"     As 
we  understand  it,  Lodges  under  dispensation  have  very  different 
powers  in  different  jurisdictions ;  we  suppose  it  to  be  competent 
for  Grand  Lodges  to  grant  such  powers  to  these  Lodges  as  they 
may  deem  best,  so  that  what  a  Lodge  under  dispensation  rnay  or 
may  not  do,  can  only  be  learned  by  reference  to  the  laws  of  the 
jurisdiction  where  the  Lodge  is.     We,  in  New  Hampshire,  give 
no  such  power  to  these  Lodges. 


39 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

From  this  Grand  Lodge,  we  have  an  abstract  of  proceedings  in 
the  year  1868.  At  the  quarterly  communication,  March  11th, 
eighty-eight  Lodges  were  represented.  F.our  charters  were  granted 
to  Lodges  under  dispensation.  One  of  the  Lodges  having  com- 
plained that  certain  individuals  living  in  their  jurisdiction,  had  ob- 
tained the  degrees  in  another  jurisdiction,  our  venerable  mother, 
thus  unpleasantly  made  aware  that  there  is  something  not  right  in 
Massachusetts,  opened  one  eye  partially,  and  directed: 

"  That  whereas  such  a  course  is  subversive  of  all  good  discipline,  and  dangerous  to 
the  safety  and  best  interests  of  Freemasonry,  we  do  hereby  recommend  that  the  M. 
W.-  Grand  Master  be  requested  to  communicate  with  the  Grand  Masters  of  other 
Grand  Lodges,  and  request  them  to  unite  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  in 
adopting  such  measures  as  shall  hereafter  prevent  such  irregularity,  and  thereby  en- 
hance the  safety  of  our  beloved  order." 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  June  10th,  seventy-five  Lodges, 
were  represented.  It  was  ordered  that,  Roxbury  and  Boston  be- 
ing united  by  the  civil  power,  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodges 
became  concurrent  over  the  whole  united  city.  The  power  of  the 
civil  government  to  affect  Masonic  jurisdiction,  has,  in  some  other 
quarters,  been  disputed. 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  September  9th,  forty-six 
Lodges  were  represented.  Three  charters  were  granted  to  Lodges 
under  dispensation. 

At  the  annual  communication,  December  9th,  one  hundred  and 
thirty-four  Lodges  were  represented.  At  each  of  the  other  com- 
munications, the  committee  on  the  Grand  Master's  address  had 
further  time  given  to  make  a  report,  and  now,  a  new  address  be- 
ing delivered,  the  committee  and  their  report  appear  to  be  for- 
gotten. The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  Chahles  C.  Dame,  reports 
having  granted  four  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  Of  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  New  Brunswick  and  Nova  Scotia,  he  says  : 

"  I  am  not  aware  that  these  brethren  have  yet  succeeded  in  accomplishing  their 
wishes  in  their  respective  Provinces,  and  I  would  caution  this  Grand  Longe  to  con- 
sider well  the  rights  of  all  parties,  as  well  as  the  great  principles  of  our  order,  before 
making  themselves  a  party  to  the  questions  in  issue  between  these  brethren  and  their 
parent  Grand  Lodges.  Sundry  documents  received  by  me,  relating  to  this  matter, 
accompany  this  address." 

A  considerable  part  of  the  address  is  taken  with  the  great  debt 


40 

caused   by    building   the    Masonic   Temple,    and    the    difficulties 
caused  by  the  extra  taxation  required  to  provide  for  it. 
In  the  proceedings,  we  note  the  following : 

"  A  petition  signed  bj7  Lewis  Hayden  and  several  others,  claiming  to  be  Ancient 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  and  asking  to  be  recognized  as  such,  was  received, 
read,  and,  on  motion  of  R.  W.  Bro.  John  T.  Heard,  was  referred  to  R.  W.  Brothers 
John  T.  Heard,  George  W.  Warren,  Bradford  L.  Wales,  Isaac  Hull  Wright, 
Charles  Levi  Woodbury,  Tracy  P.  Cueever,  and  Charles  W.  Moore." 

This  is  the  negro  Grand  Lodge,  and  we  shall  look  for  the  report 
of  the  committee  with  interest. 

At  the  stated  communication,  December  29th,  it  does  not  ap- 
pear that  any  one  was  present  but  the  Grand  Officers,  permanent 
members,  and  the  Grand  Master  of  Rhode  Island.  The  officers 
elected  at  the  annual  communication  were  installed,  and  the  new 
Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  William  Sewall  Gardner,  delivered 
his  inaugural.  It  is  largely  occupied  with  endeavoring  to  remove 
the  ill  feeling  caused  by  the  increased  taxation. 

If  the  Grand  Lodge  would  follow  the  example  of  the  other 
Grand  Lodges,  and  let  the  brethren  know,  not  only  the  few 
extracts  from  its  records  which  it  now  publishes,  but  the  whole  of 
its  proceedings,  and  something,  through  a  committee  on  foreign 
correspondence,  of  what  was  doing  outside  of  Massachusetts,  it 
would  render  their  task  much  lighter,  and  would,  no  doubt,  be  of 
use  to  the  craft  elsewhere.  As  it  is,  the  brethren  in  Massachu- 
setts, knowing  nothing  of  the  Grand  Lodge  except  from  the  im- 
perfect recollection  of  those  representatives  who  may  be  present, 
naturally  feel  that  it  is  something  of  which  they  are  no  part,  and 
merely  telling  them  that  they,  by  their  representatives,  are  part  of 
it,  will  not  relieve  the  feeling  that  it  is  a  Boston  notion,  and  that, 
after  fitting  up  their  own  halls,  at  their  own  expense,  they  arc 
heavily  taxed  to  fit  a  magnificent  edifice  for  the  Boston  Lodges. 
Enlighten  them,  as  the  experience  of  other  Grand  Lodges  has  led 
them  to  do  to  their  subordinates,  and  a  large  part  of  the  present 
unwillingness  to  be  taxed  would  be  likely  to  disappear. 

MICHIGAN: 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held  at 
Detroit,  January  13th,  A.  L.  5869,  A.  D.  1869.  Two  hundyed, 
and  twenty  Lodges  were  represented. 


41 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  S.  C.  Coffinbttr Y,  reports  having 
granted  twelve  dispensations  for  new  Lodges ;  that  a  "brother  in 
one  of  the  Lodges  desired  to  withdraw  from  the  crafty  saying  that 
"it  is  not  possible  for  me  to  endorse  the  institution,  or  to  feel 
bound  by  its  obligations  ;"  that  he  would  pledge  his  honor  never 
to  claim  anything  of  the  craft.  The  Lodge  referred  the  question 
to  the  Grand  Master.  He  decided  that  the  Lodge  could1  /iot 
accept  such  withdrawal ;  that  the  mutual  rights  and  duties  of  th  Q 
fraternity  and  the  individual  brother  could  only  be  dissolved  by 
the  expulsion  of  the  brother  for  Masonic  crime ;  but  that  a 
brother  who  declared  that  he  could  not  endorse  the  institution, 
nor  be  bound  by  its  obligation,  might  and  should  be  expelled 
from  the  craft.  All  of  which  seems  to  us  right.  Bro.  Coffin- 
bue,y  presents  to  his  Grand  'Lodge  a  magnificent  scheme  to  erect 
a  Masonic  temple,  to  cost  $600,000,  including  land;  to  be  paid  for 
by  tax  on  the  members  and  by  the  rents,  which  he  concludes 
could  be  done  in  twelve  years.  It  would  then  yield  an  income  of 
thirty  thousand  dollars,  which  he  then  proposes  to  apply  in  a 
munificent  manner.  ("  Green  suits  my  complexion  best,  green  it 
shall  be.")  He  also  argues  in  favor  of  some  system  of  so-called 
Masonic  life  insurance,  which  we  fear  uppdd  not  be  likely  to  work 
well.  T 

Bro.  Blanchakd,  the  Grand  Visitor  and  Lecturer  for  twelve 
years,  reports  : 

"  Go  into  the  two  hundred  and  forty-four  Lodges  reported  within  this  jurisdiction 
at  the  last  communication,  and  those  working  since  under  dispensations— question 
the  Masters,  the  Wardens,  and  the  brethren  from  the  borders  of  our  lower  lakes,  all 
over  this  Peninsular,  and  onward  to  the  rugged  shores  of  Lake  Superior,  where  the 
Lodges  are  springing  up  amid  their  picturesque  scenery,  under  the  supervision  of 
our  worthy  Brother  Planner,  E.  W.  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  for  the  Upper 
Peninsular,  and  everywhere  you  will  find  order  and  uniformity  in  the  lectures,  work, 
and  minor  details  of  the  Lodges,  as  far  as  human  imperfection  will  permit." 

If  true,  this  is  really  a  wonderful  result  of  the  energy  and  devo- 
tion of  Bro.  Blanchakd,  but  we  fear  our  venerable  brother  has 
allowed  the  wish  to  be  father  to  the  belief. 

The  committee  on  the  new  temple  made  a  report  recommending 
action  of  a  much  more  moderate  character  than  the  scheme  of  the 
Grand  Master,  but  it  was  laid  on  the  table  till  the  next  annual 
communication. 

Bro.  Clemmeb  offered  the  following,  which  was  adopted  : 


42 

"  Wliertas,  Many  subordinate  Lodges  in  this  Grand  Jurisdiction,  either  from 
want  of  a  proper  knowledge  of  the  work  and  several  lectures  adopted  by  this  Grand 
Lodge,  or  in  willful  neglect  of  the  same  do  not  comply  with  resolution,  No.  20,"— 

Followed  by  a  resolution  for  the  appointment  of  assistant  Lec- 
turers, which  confirms  our  doubt  of  the  accuracy  of  Bro.  Blan- 
chard's  faith  in  uniformity  of  work. 

Fourteen  charters  were  granted,  and  two  dispensations  con- 
tinued. 

The  report  on  correspondence,  prepared  by  R.  W.  Bro. 
Fenton,  the  Grand  Secretary,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty- 
seven  Grand  Bodies,  including  New  Hampshire,  but  is  chiefly  a 
compilation  of  matters  of  interest  in  that  jurisdiction. 


MINNESOTA. 

The  sixteenth  annual  convocation  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held 
at  St.  Paul,  January  12th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Sixty-one 
Lodges  were  represented. 

The  first  business  seifcs  to  have  been  to  dedicate  the  new 
Masonic  hall,  which  had  been  fitted  up  to  replace  one  destroyed 
by  fire.  At  this  time,  an  address  was  delivered  by  W.  Bro.  S.. 
Y.  McMasters,  D.  D.  LL.  D.,  Grand  Chaplain. 

The  M.\  W.\  C.  W.  Nash,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  seven  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  and  renewed  three 
others.  In  accordance  with  the  vote  of  his  Grand  Lodge,  he  had 
appointed  five  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  who  are  also  Grand 
Lecturers,  for  terms  of  from  one  to  five  years ;  had  called  them 
together,  made  strict  search  for  the  true  light  and  the  ancient 
work  ;  the  result  of  which  is  thus  announced : 

"  The  Deputies  will  present  a  report  to  this  Grand  Body,  of  their  action  in  pro- 
curing the  '  ancient  work,'  and  they  are  prepared  to  exemplify  the  same  at  such 
time  as  the  Grand  Lodge  may  designate. 

"  I  have  made  it  a  study,  to  examine  and  closely  investigate  this  work,  and  as  far 
as  in  my  power,  to  obtain  its  history,  origin  and  authenticity  ;  and  from  all  the  light 
and  information  that  I  can  obtain  from  experienced  and  eminent  Masons,  I  am  fully 
satisfied,  that  it  is  the  genuine  ancient  work. 

"  My  conclusions  are  as  follows :  That  this  work  is  that  which  Bro.  Wilson  re- 
ceived from  Bro.  Barney  in  1817— Barney  from  Webb  in  1815— Webb  from  Preston 
about  1795— Preston  from  his  predecessors  about  1775." 


43 

"This  result  is  wonderful,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  Preston's 
work  was  almost  wholly  new,  and  his  own,  in  all  but  the  essential 
landmarks ;  that  Webb  adapted  his  work  from  Preston  with 
changes  greater  than  are  found  in  the  most  diverse  work  used  in 
this  country,  leaving  out  Pennsylvania,  in  which  the  Preston- 
Webb  work  was  never  adopted ;  that  Webb  himself  continually 
changed  his  work,  as  did  his  successors,  Gleason,  Cross,  Bar- 
ney, Wilson,  and  numerous  others.  The  truth  is,  this  search 
for  an  ancient  work  in  which  the  exact  language  to  be  used  shall 
be  discovered,  is  wholly  illusory.  There  is  no  such  work.  Penn- 
sylvania has  deviated  less  from  the  work  of  a  century  ago  and 
above,  than  any  of  the  rest  of  us,  and  the  result  is,  the  great 
difficulty  which  exists,  in  a  Mason  made  elsewhere  and  with  only 
ordinary  instruction,  working  into  Pennsylvania  Lodges,  and  of 
Pennsylvania  Masons  working  into  Lodges  in  other  States.  The 
Hemming  work  of  the  United  Grand  Lodge  of  England  is  still 
more  different,  yet  no  one  doubts  the  right  of  that  Grand  Lodge 
to  teach  it.  The  mode  of  work  derives  its  sole  authority  from  the 
edict  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  not  from  antiquity,  real  or  only 
supposed,  and  no  Grand  Lodge  ever  attempted  to  establish  uni- 
formity, that  was  not  always,  openly  or  tacitly,  tinkering  it. 
Whatever  work  any  Grand  Lodge  sees  fit  to  require  (preserving 
the  landmarks)  is,  within  that  jurisdiction,  the  only  correct  work, 
to  which  every  Mason  is  bound  to  adhere.  The  work  which  the 
Grand  Master  thus  lauds,  is  the  Rob.  Morris,  Conservator,  work, 
of  which  the  claims  to  veneration  for  antiquity  were  so  success- 
fully dissipated,  in  the  report  of  the  committee  of  our  Grand 
Lodge,  some  years  since. 

A  committee  make  a  long  report  on  unaffiliated  Masons,  con- 
cluding with  the  following  resolution,  which  was  adopted  : 

"  Resolved,  That  all  non-affiliated  Masons  who  are  permanent  residents  within 
this  jurisdiction,  be  notified  by  the  oldest  Lodge  within  whose  jurisdiction  they 
reside,  to  apply  for  membership  in  some  Lodge  within  one  month  after  such  notice 
shall  be  given,  and  any  non-affiliated  Mason  who  does  not  make  such  application 
after  such  notice,  shall  be  deemed  guilty  of  unmasonic  conduct,  and  shall  be  liable 
to  suspension ;  and  it  is  hereby  made  the  duty  of  the  oldest  Lodge  having  jurisdic- 
tion where  such  non-affiliated  Mason  resides,  to  prefer  charges  against  such  Mason, 
and  try  him  for  such  unmasonic  conduct ;  and  that  the  W.  M.  of  the  Lodge  having 
jurisdiction  be  required  to  enforce  this  resolution." 

The  writer  of  this  report  has  satisfied  himself  that  these 
attempts  to  change  the  voluntary  character  of  the  fraternity  are 


44 

ill-advised,  and  will  be  finally  productive  of  evil.  If  a  brother, 
for  any  reason,  ceases  to  desire  to  maintain  his  relationship  with 
us,  no  good  will  arise  from  attempting  to  force  him  to  do  so,  and 
no  advantage  to  the  craft  from  the  instant  infliction  of  severe 
penalties. 

The  committee  on  ancient  landmarks  reported  against  a  uniform 
code  of  by-laws,  enacted  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  and,  as  we  think, 
wisely ;  the  Grand  Lodge  should  make  such  general  regulations 
as  are  deemed  necessary,  and  then  leave  each  Lodge  to  make  such 
local  regulations  as  it  needs.  The  difficulty  is,  that  too  many 
brethren,  when  preparing  Lodge  by-laws,  deem  it  necessary  to 
legislate  upon  all  subjects,  without  reference  to  what  the  Grand 
Lodge  has  done.  Let,  however,  the  Grand  Lodge  strike  out  of 
such  codes,  when  presented  for  approval,  everything  for  which 
provision  is  made  in  the  Grand  Constitution  and  General  Regula- 
tions, and  this  evil  will  soon  disappear. 

Ten  charters  were  granted  to  the  Lodges  under  dispensation. 
"Upon  recommendation  of  a  committee,  it  was  resolved,  "  That 
the  granting  of  a  charter  to  open  a  new  Lodge,  does  not  dimit 
the  members  thereof  from  the  Lodge  to  which  they  formerly 
belonged."  Which  is  contrary  to  the  usually  received  doctrine. 
It  was  also  resolved  that  a  candidate  rejected  in  one  Lodge  of 
concurrent  jurisdiction,  might  apply  to  the  other.  We  had  sup- 
posed that  the  old  law, -that  no  Master  should  supplant  another  in 
his  work,  was  not  yet  obsolete. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  M.\  W.\  A.  T. 
C.  Pierson,  and  ably  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six  Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  G.\  M.\  English,  of  Arkan- 
sas, having  wondered  what  Methuselah  did  in  the  long  winter 
nights  of  his  almost-a-thousand  years,  Bro.  Piekson  thus  assists 
him : 

"  Tradition  says  that  Adam  wrote  books,  that  Seth  made  quite  a  number— that 
Noah  preserved  them  in  the  Ark.  Where  did  Moses  get  the  data  for  his  history  but 
from  the  books  that  had  come  down  to  him— the  first  chapter  of  Genesis  is  evidenl  ly 
copied. 

"  Col  made  man  perfect  and  '  in  His  own  image  made  He  him.'  If  he  was  perfect 
he  had  all  the  knowledge  which  the  finite  mind  was  capable  of  receiving  ;  as  he  lost 
his  original  state  of  perfection,  it  was  natural  that  he  should  place  on  record  the 
history  of  his  time  for  the  information  of  his  successors.  But  perhaps  Methuselah 
was  not  a  reading  man.'' 


45 

We  never  heard  of  the  traditions  referred  to,  but  suppose  it  is 
all  right.  Apropos  to  the  approval  of  a  case .  of  discipline  for 
slander,  he  thus  criticizes  the  zeal  of  his  Grand  Master  for  the 
ancient  work  : 

"The  conclusions  of  the  committee  were  based  upon  the  rules  of  old  fashioned 
Masonry  ;  they,  with  Grand  Master  English,  of  Arkansas,  who  says,  'that  it  is  un- 
masonic  for  one  brother  to  speak  ill  of  another,  though  in  so  doing  he  may  speak 
the  truth,'  will  be  classed  as  old  fogies— behind  the  age — outlived  their  time,  &c. 
The  doctrine  is  too  practical  to  suit  Young  America,  and  consequently  in  the  new, 
ancient,  genuine,  printed  work  that  requires  a  perfect  uniformity  in  letters,  all  that 
about '  speaking  ill '  of  a  brother,  or  '  sustaining  his  good  name,'  &c,  is  omitted  in  the 
0.  B.  In  these  latter  days,  you  will  hear  the  instruction— and  particular  stress  laid 
thereon — '  you  must  say  at  Jerusalem,'  not  of  or  in  but  at  j  it  is  very  important  that 
you  remember  this  exact  language  ;  but  where  or  how  often  is  the  instruction  given, 
or  if  given,  is  it  heeded  :  '  If  a  brother  has  faults,  let  the  world  know  them  by  some 
other  tongue  than  yours.'  " 

One  of  the  greatest  mischiefs  our  Lodges  have  to  encounter, 
is  the  disposition  of  indiscreet  brethren  to  grumble  at,  or  even 
endeavor  to  penetrate  the  mystery  of  the  black  ball ;  to  all  such 
brethren  we  recommend  the  following,  told  by  Bro.  Pierson,  on 
the  authority  of  P.*.  G.\  M.\  Tucker,  of  Vermont: 

"  An  application  had  been  made  by  a  well-known  and  very  popular  young  man. 
On  the  evening  that  the  petition  was  to  be  acted  upon,  there  was  an  unusually  large 
attendance.  The  ballots  were  spread,  and  to  the  surprise  of  all  his  friends  a  negative 
appeared;  a  second  ballot  was  had,  with  a  like  result,  but  before  the  W.  M.  could, 
declare  it,  several  of  the  brethren  had  simultaneously  risen,  each  declaring  that 
there  was  either  a  mistake,  or  personal  pique  had  operated,  and  demanded  another 
ballot ;  the  W.  M.  weakly  alloAved  the  remarks,  and  ordered  a  third  ballot ;  at  the 
word*  dark  in  the  south,'  brethren  sprung  to  their  feet  declaring  that  it  must  be  a 
personal  pique ;  that  the  young  man  was  well-known,  and  his  character  above 
reproach;  so  brother  after  brother  was  allowed  to  make  remarks,  until  the  circle 
from  which  the  negative  must  have  come,  was  narrowed  to  but  three  or  four ; 
another  ballot  was  demanded  and  conceded  by  the  W.  M. ;  the  ballot  was  had,  each 
of  the  friends  of  the  applicant  watching  closely  those  who  had  not  spoken  ;  as  the 
word  dark  was  again  pronounced,  a  scene  of  confusion  ensued  very  seldom  wit- 
nessed in  a  Masonic  Lodge.  Reasons  were  demanded,  and  even  the  W.  M.,  giving 
way  to  the  storm,  requested  of  the  brother  who  had  been  signaled  as  casting  the 
negative,  to  give  his  reasons  for  so  doing.  The  storm  was  hushed  as  an  old  brother, 
a  physician,  arose,  and  protesting  against  such  a  violation  of  the  rights  of  a  Mason, 
avowed  that  he  did  it;  he  had  hoped  and  desired  to  exercise  his  rights  unknown  and 
unquestioned.  As  he  resumed  his  seat,  other  than  complimentary  remarks  were  in- 
dulged in  by  brethren.  Finally  the  W.  M.  interposed,  requesting  of  the  brother, 
for  the  satisfaction  of  the  Lodge,  to  assign  his  reasons.  Amidst  profound  silence  the 
old  brother  again  arose,  and  after  rebuking  the  brethren  for  their  unmasonic  course, 
said :  '  I  had  hoped  to  keep  my  reasons  a  perpetual  secret,  but  you,  brethren,  and 
you  W.  M.,  will  ever  remember  that  you  have,  as  it  were,  forced  me  to  speak.  I 
know  this  young  man  to  be  a  libertine.  I  know  that  he  has  seduced  the  daughter; 
of  a  member  of  this  Lodge  ;  the  father  does  not  know  it—he  is  your  W.  M !" 


46 

Bro.  Pierson,  evidently,  is  not  pleased  at  G.\  M.\  Nash's 
attempt  to  produce  uniformity  of  work,  and  flings  at  it  in  several 
places.  As  we  have  already  said,  while  we  do  not  believe  in  the 
necessity  or  utility  of  such  attempts  to  produce  uniformity,  we 
hold  every  Mason  should  bow  to  the  decree  of  his  Grand  Lodge 
on  that  subject.     Of  non-affiliation,  he  says  : 

"  Grand  Lodges  are  very  much  exercised  about  the  question  of  non-affiliation,  and 
what  to  do  to  compel  affiliation.  We  have  known  high-toned  gentlemen,  and  even 
ministers,  not  that  they  are  always  better  than  other  men,  to  be  refused  affiliation. 
Masons,  who  before  and  after  their  rejection  never  failed  liberally  to  contribute  when 
called  upon,  and  yet  they  could  not  join  the  nearest  Lodge  !  Must  they  be  kept  out 
in  the  cold?  We  say  no;  apply  where  you  please.  In  the  present  age,  if  it  ever 
was,  rejection  is  no  evidence  of  unfitness,  in  either  candidates  or  for  membership." 

"  In  Nevada,  affiliation  may  be  a  question  of  dollars  and  cents,  but  we  venture  the 
assertion  that  it  would  make  no  difference  in  Minnesota.  All  that  is  said  and  written 
upon  the  subject  of  non-affiliation  is  predicated  upon  the  presumption  that  every 
Mason  can  become  a  member  of  a  Lodge,  which  we  all  know  is  not  a  fact.  We  know 
Masons  of  unimpeachable  moral  character,  of  high  social  standing,  who  are  non- 
affiliates  by  compulsion— have  applied  and  been  rejected.  Is  it  fair  to  deny  many 
such  Masons  '  all  Masonic  privileges,  rites  and  charities  V  " 

In  our  report,  last  year,  we  doubted  the  propriety  of  the  dis- 
pensation for  Northern  Light  Lodge,  at  Fort  Garry,  in  British 
America,  as  we  had  previously  done  of  a  Lodge  chartered  by  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Washington  Territory,  in  British  Columbia,  and 
upon  the  ground  that  the  British  Possessions  were  properly 
within  the  province  of  the  British  Grand  Lodges,  as  the  Terri- 
tories of  the  United  States  were  of  American  Grand  Lodges. 
And  as  we  then  supposed  no  American  Grand  Lodge  would  concede 
to  foreign  Grand  Lodges  the  privilege  of  erecting  Lodges  in  our 
Territories,  so  we  thought  we  should  respect  the  rights  of  the 
British  Grand  Lodges  in  the  dependencies  of  the  British  Crown. 
To  this  view,  Bro.  Pierson  replies : 

"The  American  dogma  of  the  exclusive  jurisdiction  of  a  Grand  Lodge  within 
certain  territory,  we  recognize  and  approve.  But  none  of  the  Grand  Lodges 
in  the  old  world  recognize  the  doctrine.  We  also  claim  that  our  Grand  Lodge  has 
concurrent  jurisdiction  in  territory  anywhere  where  there  is  no  Grand  Lodge.  We 
never  heard  that  the  world  had  been  divided  up  into  Masonic  districts,  and  parceled 
out  among  Grand  Lodges.  We  do  not  believe  that  the  usefulness  of  a  Masonic  Lodge 
depends  upon  the  political  government  of  the  country  from  whence  its  authority 
emanates. 

"We  do  not  believe  that  Northern  Light  Lodge  would  have  made  any  better 
Masons  for  having  gone  to  England— some  5000  miles— for  a  charter,  than  they  now 
do,  having  received  a  charter  from  a  Grand  Lodge  some  300  miles  distant,  and  with 
the  members  of  which  they  are  in  constant  communication." 


47 

Bro.  Piekson  thinks  a  candidate  may  be  received  on  affirma- 
tion, agreeing  with  Maine.  Most  of  the  other  Grand  Lodges 
think  differently,  and  we  suppose  we  must  assent  to  the  general 
opinion,  though  we  confess  not  to  be  entirely  convinced.  He 
approves  the  decision  of  G.\  M.\  Furnas,  of  Nebraska,  that 
notice  to  the  W.  Master,  by  a  member,  that  he  objects  to  the 
candidate  and,  if  present,  would  black-ball  him,  is  a  rejection. 

We  had  marked  other  passages  for  quotation,  but  we  have 
already  given  Minnesota  a  large  share  of  notice,  and  want  of 
space  forbids. 

MISSISSIPPI. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  its  fiftieth  annual  communica- 
tion at.  Natchez,  January  20th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One 
hundred  and  forty-nine  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  John  T.  Lamkin,  Grand  Master,  alludes  to  the 
completion  of  the  half  century  of  his  Grand  Lodge ;  deplores  the 
destitute  condition  of  the  people  of  that  State,  at  that  time,  and 
calls  for  a  full  manifestation  of  "that  brightest  ornament  of  our 
profession — charity."  He  had  decided  that  when  a  Lodge  had 
elected  an  ineligible  brother,  as  Master,  and  the  election  had  been 
returned  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  but  he  had  not  been  installed,  that 
a  dispensation  should  not  issue  for  a  new  election,  but  the  Lodge 
remain  for  the  year  subject  to  the  Senior  Warden.  Why,  we  do 
see. 

The  Grand  Secretary  reports  having  issued  one  dispensation  for 
a  new  Lodge,  by  direction  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  ten  more  by 
direction  of  the  Grand  Master.  One  Lodge  reported  that  they 
had  borrowed  money  at  three  and  one-half  per  cent,  a  month, 
which  was  eating  them  up  (and  no  wonder),  and  asking  for  as- 
sistance. The  committee  on  jurisprudence  reported,  that  in  the 
vacation  they  had  decided  that  a  dimit  was  not  essential  to 
gaining  membership,  but  that  the  facts  usually  substantiated  by 
it,  might  be  established  in  other  ways.  The  practice  of  having 
this  committee  answering  questions,  during  recess,  to  whomsoever 
may  ask,  which  seems  to  obtain  favor  in  Mississippi,  does  not 
strike  us  as  a  good  one.  Nine  charters  were  granted  to  new 
Lodges,  one  dispensation  was  continued,  and  one  new  one  ordered 
to  issue.     There  was  no  report  on  correspondence, 


48 

MISSOURI. 

The  forty-eighth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
was  held  at  St.  Louis,  October  12th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
One-hundred  and  forty-six  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  William  E.  Ditnscomb,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  forty-two  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  had 
made  the  following  decisions,  among  others : 

"  Any  member  of  a  Lodge  has  the  right  to  object  to  a  degree  being  conferred  upon 
an  elected  candidate  at  any  time  previous  to  his  introduction  into  the  Lodge,  and  the 
Master  is  bound  to  respect  his  objection  ;  nor  can  the  degree  be  conferred  until  said 
objection  be  withdrawn." 

"  A  Lodge  has  the  right  to  discipline  a  member  for  an  unmasonic  offense  commit- 
ted previous  to  his  initiation.  When  he  petitioned  the  Lodge  for  initiation,  if  he  had 
been  guilty  of  a  crime  which  the  investigating  committee  failed  to  ascertain,  he  prac- 
ticed a  fraud  upon  the  fraternity  in  presuming  to  make  his  application  for  the 
degrees,  and  for  this  fraud,  as  well  as  for  the  offense  itself,  he  is  certainly  amenable 
to  his  Lodge.  I  am  aware  that  a  different  ruling  prevails  in  some  other  jurisdictions, 
but  my  decision  seems  to  be  in  full  accordance  with  the  spirit  and  object  of  our  in- 
stitution." 

"A  member  suspended  for  a  definite  time  for  non-payment  of  dues  is  not  dis- 
charged therefrom  upon  its  expiration,  but  is  liable  to  be  suspended  again  for  the 
same  amount  for  which  he  was  originally  suspended  if  he  fail  to  liquidate  it." 

The  two  latter  are  not  uniformly  decided  in  different  jurisdic- 
tions, and  the  law  can  hardly  be  regarded  as  settled.  The  Grand 
Secretary  reports  having  issued  fifty-four  dispensations  for  new 
Lodges,  fourteen  by  order  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  forty  by 
order  of  the  Grand  Master. 

This  Grand  Lodge  once  owned  an  elephant  in  the  shape  of  a 
Masonic  College,  but  traded  it  off  to  the  State,  which  assumed  its 
obligation  to  maintain  a  first-class  school,  which  it  had  not  done. 
(The  buildings  were  at  Lexington,  where  a  portion  of  the  late  un- 
pleasantness culminated,  and  little  but  the  walls  were  left.) 
Measures  were  taken  to  stir  up  the  State  to  do  its  duty  to  that  in- 
stitution. The  following  resolution  was  adopted,  the  reason  for 
which  we  cannot  understand  : 

"Resolved,  That  during  the  sitting  of  this  Grand  Lodge  no  subordinate  Lodge 
under  this  jurisdiction  can  be  legally  opened,  or  any  business  transacted  therein, 
without  special  permission  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  except  to  perform  funeral  services, 
as  provided  by  sec.  19,  art.  XVI,  by-laws  of  Grand  Lodge." 


49 

Fifty  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges ;  five  dispensations 
were  continued,  and  five  more  ordered  to  issue. 

The  report  on  correspondence  is  from  the  pen  of  the  Grand  Sec- 
retary, Bro.  Geo.  Frank  Gotjley,  and  reviews  the  proceedings 
of  thirty-seven  Grand  Bodies,  not  including  #Jew  Hampshire. 
He  believes  in  standard  by-laws,  and  complains  of  the  reports  of 
committees  on  that  subject,  because  they,  although  intelligible  to 
those  interested,  are  not  so  to  him.  We  suppose  a  man  bound 
hand  and  foot,  and  chained  to  the  wall,  would  not  travel  far  out 
of  the  way,  but  would  that  be  better  than  to  be  at  liberty,  even  if 
he  did  sometimes  get  out  of  the  path?  Our  brother  seems  to  have 
an  especial  spite  at  the  'Ancient  and  Accepted  Scotch  rite,  and 
whenever  he  sees  anything  which  looks  to  him  like  that  rite,  it 
has  an  effect  similar  to  that  which  scarlet  has  upon  some  animals, 
and  he  immediately  dashes  at  it.  It  is  said  it  was  not  always  so. 
Now,  however,  he  is  offended  that  Grand  Lodges  should  recognize 
Supreme  Councils  and  Grand  Orients  of  that  rite,  even  when 
there  is  no  other  Masonic  organization.  He  would  permit  for- 
eign Grand  Lodges  to  establish  Lodges  in  our  Territories,  in 
which,  we  cannot  but  think,  he  stands  in  a  small  minority. 


NEBRASKA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  eleventh  annual  communication  at 
Bellevue,  June  24th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Fourteen  Lodges 
were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  0.  H.  Irish,  Grand  Master,  reported  having 
granted  six  dispensations  for  new  Lodges ;  had  refused  to  grant 
any  for  conferring  degrees  ;  and  highly  commends  the  orphans' 
school  fund. 

The  Grand  Secretary  had  commenced  a  grand  library,  and  was 
much  encouraged  by  the  success  of  his  efforts.  Six  charters  were 
granted  to  new  Lodges,  whose  representatives  were  admitted  to 
seats  but  not  to  votes.  Subsequently,  however,  a  motion  was 
made  and  entertained  to  amend  the  constitution  so  as  to  make  the 
Masters  and  Wardens  elect  of  Lodges  to  whom  charters  may  be 
granted,  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  A  step  in  the  wrong 
direction,  it  seems  to  us.  The  committee  on  jurisprudence  re- 
ported : 


50 

"  The  right  of  a  brother  Master  Mason  to  object  to  the  admission  of  an  applicant 
for  membership,  or  for  the  several  degrees  conferred  in  a  Master  Mason's  Lodge,  can- 
not be  denied  ;  and  that  where  objection  is  made  to  the  Worshipful  Master,  it  is  his 
doty  to  declare  the  brother  or  candidate  rejected  -without  a  ballot,  Hnless  the  objec- 
tion be  withdrawn,  eren  if  the  objecting  brother  be  absent  from  the  Lodge  at  the 
time  of  making  the  obPction,  or  when  the  balloting  is  ordered." 

The  report  on  correspondence,  prepared  by  the  Grand  Secretary, 
Bro.  J.  N.  Wise,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six  Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  Of  Masonic  life  insurance 
projects,  he  says : 

"  Now,  we  would  not  raise  our  voice  against  so  laudable  a  proceeding  as  life  insur- 
ance ;  it  is  a  good  and  wise  provision  on  the  part  of  all  who  take  out  policies ,  and 
your  committee  are  all  policy  holders  in  various  good  companies,  but  we  look  upon 
this  system  in  Masonry  as  totally  foreign  to  its  work.  As  well  might  we  endeavor 
to  introduce  other  mercantile  and  financial  pursuits  within  the  sacred  walls  of  the 
Lodge  for  the  purpose  of  pecuniary  benefit.  To  us  it  seems  that  if  a  Mason  is 
anxious  to  insure  his  life  for  the  benefit  of  his  wife  or  children,  he  can  do  so  very  easily 
in  any  of  the  old  solid  insurance  companies,  where,  we  have  no  doubt,  he  can  find  a 
brother  who  will  act  squarely  with  him.  The  work  before  the  fraternity  to-day  is  of 
that  character  which  should  purge,  purify  and  guard  the  order,  and  nothing  should 
be  introduced  which  might  ever  savor  of  discord.  Popularizing  Freemasonry  is  like 
spanning  a  chasm— the  material  may  not  sustain  its  own  weight,  unless  the  work- 
men follow  the  designs  on  the  trestle-board.  We  are  opposed  to  all  innovations. 
Our  work  has  withstood  all  the  convulsions  incident  to  the  past,  as  it  is,  and  as  it  is, 
it  will  endure  through  the  future." 

He  thus  discourses  of  Lodges  under  dispensation : 

"  The  only  remedy  for  the  evils  resulting  from  Lodges  under  dispensation  is,  in  our 
opinion,  a  cessation  of  such  work.  It  has  always  appeared,  at  least,  very  singular, 
to  draw  it  mildly,  that  so  much  empressement  should  suddenly  develop  itself  in  por- 
tions of  the  fraternity,  that  no  patience  could  be  exercised,  no  waiting  for  the  next 
grand  communication,  nothing  short  of  dispensation,  in  every  case,  answering  the 
Masonic  zeal  (?)  of  the  eager  petitioners  for  a  new  Lodge.  On  the  heels  of  the  ap- 
plication, and  ofttimes  before,  the  applicants  and  most  of  the  Masons  in  the  neighbor- 
hood of  the  new  Lodge  ask  for  dimits  from  the  regular  Lodge  to  which  they  belong, 
and  thus  too  often  a  wide  swath  of  unaffiliated  Masons  is  very  injudiciously  made  by 
the  ill-directed  feelings  of  generosity  on  the  part  of  regular  Lodges.  This  whole 
matter  merits  the  earnest  attention  of  the  fraternity,  and  we  sincerely  hope  some 
decisive  action  may  be  had  to  check  a  growing  evil." 

These  views  will  hardly  find  general  acceptance. 

Bro.  Wise,  too,  don't  like  thirty-second  and  thirty-third  degrees. 
He  holds,  that  in  the  absence  of  the  Master  and  both  Wardens, 
no  Past  Master  or  private  member  can  open  the  Lodge.  Which 
is  correct  doctrine. 


51 

NEVADA. 

The  fourth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  con- 
vened at  Virginia  City,  September  15th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 

Ten  chartered  Lodges,  and  two  under  dispensation  were  repre- 
sented. 

The  M.\  W.'.John  C.  Currier,  Grand  Master,  reported 
having  granted  two  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  thinks  the 
abolition  of  fees,  on  affiliation,  and  the  life-membership  plan,  are 
both  working  well.  He  disapproves  of  testimonials  to  eminent  (?) 
Masons,  and  calls  upon  those  who  really  deserve  them  to  refuse 
to  receive  them,  that  the  fashion  thus  set  may  prevent  their  being 
given  to  unsuitable  persons.  He  probably  will  not  succeed  in 
this. 

The  committee  on  jurisprudence  decided  that  speaking  disre- 
spectfully of  the  Holy  Bible  is  a  Masonic  offence.  Two  charters 
were  granted  to  the  Lodges  under  dispensation. 

The  report  on  correspondence,  prepared  by  Bro.  Robert  H. 
Taylor,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-two  Grand  Lodges,  in- 
cluding New  Hampshire.  He  thinks  that  in  the  formation  of  a 
new  Grand  Lodge,  a  majority  of  the  particular  Lodges  in  the 
territory  should  unite,  although  he  can  find  nothing  in  the  old 
constitutions  and  regulations  about  it.  We  agree  with  him,  and 
should  not  expect  those  old  constitutions  to  provide  for  a  state  of 
things  which  scarcely  arose  before  the  present  century.  Like 
numerous  other  western  brethren,  our  brother  is  dissatisfied  with  the 
ancient  regulation,  that  no  Master  shall  supplant  another  in  the 
work,  and  is  unwilling  to  lose  the  chance  of  making  a  man  a 
Mason,  because  at  some  former  time,  in  another  jurisdiction,  he 
has  been  rejected.  He  thinks  that  only  members  present  should 
have  the  right  to  object  to  the  reception  of  a  candidate,  but  a 
majority  of  Grand  Lodges  hold  to  the  safer  and  more  conserva- 
tive rule,  that  a  brother  may  object,  though  absent.  He  thinks 
affirmation  won't  do. 


NEW    BRUNSWICK. 

The  first  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held 
at  St.  John,  September  23d,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Twenty- 
three  Lodges  were  represented. 


52     ' 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  B.  Lester  Peters,  congratulates 
his  Grand  Lodge  that  but  two  Lodges  in  the  jurisdiction,  both 
Scotch,  have  failed  to  unite  with  the  new  Grand  Lodge.  He 
reports  the  action  of  the  board  of  general  purposes,  relative  to  a 
Masonic  temple,  and  commends  that  enterprise. 

The  Grand  Lodge  fixed  the  first  day  of  January,  1869,  as  the 
time  within  which  all  Lodges  in  the  Province  should  unite  with 
the  Grand  Lodge,  or  be  proceeded  against  for  contumacy.  The 
remaining  proceedings  were  local  in  their  character  and  interest. 
There  was  no  report  on  correspondence. 

NEW    JERSEY. 

A  special  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held  at 
Trenton,  July  31st,  A.  L.  5867,  A.  D.  1867,  for  the  purpose  of 
making  financial  arrangements  consequent  upon  the  defalcation  of 
the  Grand  Treasurer. 

At  the  annual  communication,  also  at  Trenton,  January  22d,  A. 
L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868,  seventy-six,  out  of  the  eighty  Lodges  in  the 
jurisdiction  were  represented. 

The  Grand  Master,  M.\  W.\  William  Silas  Whitehead, 
reports  that  he  had  granted  five  dispensations  for  new  Lodges. 
He  had  decided : 

"  No  dimit  can  be  granted  without  the  affirmative  vote  of  the  Lodge.  A  majority 
has  therefore  the  power  to  deny  a  dimit.  Having  the  power,  the  question  of  right  is 
for  the  consciences  of  the  members." 

We  think  all  membership  should  be  voluntary,  and  a  brother 
has  the  right  to  withdraw  his  membership  from  his  Lodge,  pro- 
vided he  is  in  good  standing,  and  clear  on  the  books.  He  thus 
discourses  of  the  nature  of  our  institution : 

"  In  the  first  place,  that  the  Masonic  Lodge  is  not  the  church,  nor  a  substitute  for 
it. 

"  Secondly.  It  is  not  the  sole,  primary,  and  fundamental  object  of  the  Masonic  in- 
atitution  to  enforce  personal  morality. 

"  Thirdly.    The  Masonic  fraternity  is  not,  primarily,  a  charitable  society. 

"  What,  then,  is  the  true,  fundamental,  and  essential  idea  of  our  institution? 

"  I  hold  that  the  central  idea  of  Masonry,  the  foundation  stone  upon  -which  the 
superstructure  rests,  is  the  recognition  and  practical  application  of  the  great  prin- 
ciple of  the  universal  brotherhood  of  man.  Whether  he  drew  his  first  breath  amid 
polar  snows  or  under  the  burning  sun  of  the  tropics  ;  whether  he  owe  political  alle- 


53 

giance  to  an  empire,  a  kingdom  or  a  republic  ;  whether  he  be  clad  in  the  purple  of 
Dives  or  the  rags  of  Lazarus  ;  whether  his  skin  be  bleached  with  the  hue  of  the  Cau- 
casian or  be  clouded  with  the  '  shadow'd  livery  of  the  burnish'd  sun  ; '  whether  he 
worship  his  God  in  a  Methodist  meeting-house,  an  Episcopal  church,  a  Catholic 
cathedral,  a  Jewish  synagogue,  or  a  Mohammedan  mosque  ;  the  great  lesson  which 
Masonry  teaches  to  its  votaries  is,  that '  a  man's  a  man  for  a'  that.'  Creeds  and 
forms  of  faith  are  good  things  in  their  place's.  I  have  but  little  faith  in  the  professor 
of  religion  without  a  creed.  Love  of  country  is  a  glorious  and  beautiful  thing  in  its 
place,  and  one  of  the  noblest  passions  that  can  animate  the  human  breast.  '  If  I 
forget  thee,  oh  Jerusalem  !  let  my  right  hand  forget  her  cunning.  If  I  do  not  re- 
member thee  in  the  time  of  my  trouble,  let  my  tongue  cleave  to  the  roof  of  my 
mouth.'  Political  preferences  and  affiliations  are  good  things  in  their  places.  He  is 
unworthy  of  his  birthright  as  a  citizen  of  this  republic,  who  has  not  fixed  views  upon 
the  great  questions  of  public  policy,  which  agitate  the  state  and  country.  But  the 
great  heart  of  humanity,  weary  of  the  unceasing  and  harassing  strife  of  this  busy 
and  selfish  world,  where 

1  The  natural  bond 
Of  brotherhood  is  severed  as  the  flax 
That  falls  asunder  at  the  touch  of  fire,' 

longs  for  some  common  platform,  where  rumors  of  contentions  on  these  and 
kindred  subjects  can  never  reach  it  more.  And  this  eager  longing  of  the  human 
heart,  the  Masonic  institution  alone  can  satisfy.  Here,  we  are  all  citizens  of  one 
country,  which  is  the  great  globe  itself:  members  of  one  family,  which  is  the  entire 
human  race ;  children  of  one  Father,  which  is  God.  And  this,  as  I  conceive,  is  the 
true  idea  of  the  institution  of  Masonry." 

"  And  now,  my  brethren,  I  glean  for  every  one  of  you,  from  these  remarks,  a 
lesson  for  the  year.  Deal  gently  with  thy  brother.  If  temptation  overcome  him, 
deal  gently  with  thy  brother.  If  the  frailty  of  human  nature  cause  him  to  deviate 
from  the  path  of  rectitude,  deal  gently  with  thy  brother.  If,  amid  the  busy  scenes 
of  the  outer  world,  the  excitement  and  turmoil  of  life's  battle,  or  under  the  burden 
of  pressing  cares,  or  in  the  relaxation  of  social  intercourse,  he  shall,  for  the  moment, 
forget  his  obligations  and  duties  to  the  craft,  deal  gently  with  thy  brother.  There  is 
much  that  is  good  in  the  world.  Be  generous  in  your  judgment  of  all ;  be  hopeful 
in  your  hopes  of  all." 

A  candidate  was  proposed,  it  being  known  that  objection  existed, 
and  that  he  would  be  black-balled ;  the  petition  was  put  over 
from  time  to  time ;  finally,  the  Lodge  voted  that  he  might  have 
leave  to  withdraw  his  petition,  with  leave  to  apply  to  either  of 
two  other  Lodges,  and  the  objecting  brethren  left  the  Lodge ; 
which  then  rescinded  the  leave  to  withdraw,  balloted  for  and 
elected  the  candidate,  and  gave  him  the  first  degree ;  the  Grand 
Master  decided  the  election  was  irregular,  but  the  committee  on 
jurisprudence  reported : 

"  Your  committee  are  of  opinion  that  the  irregularity  in  the  proceedings  of  the 
Lodge  was  in  permitting  the  withdrawal  of  the  petition  of  the  candidate  in  the  way 
it  was  done,  and  that  action  was  therefore  void ;  this  proceeding  being  irregular. 


54 


did  not  affect  the  standing  of  the  candidate,  and  his  election  was  valid,  and  he  is  en- 
titled to  advancement  in  the  usual  order,  although  the  sharp  practice  of  the  Lodge 
toward  those  who  objected  to  his  admission,  is  open  to  censure." 

This,  the  Grand  Lodge  would  not  agree  to,  but  do  not  appear 
to  have  done  anything  more  about  it.  The  cnarter  should  have 
been  taken  from  the  offending  Lodge,  and  the  Master  expelled. 
Eleven  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges.  The  total  loss  from 
the  dishonesty  of  the  Grand  Treasurer  was  $5,146.37.  The 
report  on  correspondence  was  from  the  pen  of  Bro.  Joseph  H. 
Hough,  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of 
thirty-seven  Grand  Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  Of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  West  Virginia,  he  says : 

"  The  subject  of  Grand  Lodge  jurisdiction  is  here  involved  to  a  very  great  extent, 
and  we  cannot  see  but  that  they  [the  Grand  Lodge  of  Virginia]  still  have  the  exclu- 
sive control  of  their  original  territory,  as  always  heretofore  acknowledged,  and  we 
believe  that  they  have  done  nothing  to  forfeit  that  right.  The  fact  of  the  federal 
government  having  seen  fit  to  divide  the  territory  into  two  States,  does  not  change 
the  matter  at  all." 

If  this  be  so,  there  is  no  legal  Grand  Lodge  in  the  United 
States.  The  Grand  Lodges  of  England  stood  relative  to  this 
country  just  as  Virginia  does  to  West  Virginia,  but  the  political 
power  having  maintained  a  separation,  it  was  held,  and  rightfully, 
that  independent  Grand  Lodges  might  and  should  be  formed,  and 
since,  no  doubt  has  been  entertained  in  this  country,  that  upon  the 
separation  of  the  political  government  a  new  Grand  Lodge  was  a 
necessity.  In  the  case  of  Maine,  that  course  was  pursued,  and 
no  one  seems  to  have  thought  of  the  need  of  the  consent  of 
Massachusetts,  or  of  surrendering  charters;  their  dues  they  did 
pay,  and  so  should  the  West  Virginia  Lodges.  Bro.  Guilbert 
has  touched  our  New  Jersey  brethren,  too ;  he  spoke  of  the 
"  Commonwealth  of  Camden  and  Amboy,"  and  called  them  "Blue 
Hen's  Chickens,"  which  they  say  belongs  to  Delaware.  Now, 
Bro.  Guilbert  "ortn't  orter"  said  so,  but  we  suspect  if  he  had 
not  flown  his  spread  eagle  quite  so  high  in  other  places,  Bro. 
Hough  would  have  overlooked  this. 


55 

NEW    YORK. 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held  in 
New  York,  June  2d,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Four  hundred  and 
ninety-one  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Stephen  H.  Johnson,  Grand  Master,  reports  to 
the  Grand  L6*dge  the  death  of  those  eminent  Masons,  James 
Herring,  Reuben  Hyde  Walworth,  and  Finlay  M.  King. 
Of  the  complaints  of  the  violation  of  jurisdiction  by  New  York 
Lodges,  he  says : 

"  Difficulties  of  this  character  too  frequently  occur,  much  to  the  annoyance  and 
disquiet  of  all  the  parties  concerned ;  and  yet  we  know  that  in  most,  if  not  in  all 
cases,  they  arise  from  inadvertence,  and  not  from  any  disposition  to  commit  an  in- 
tentional wrong. 

"  Our  laws  on  the  subject  are  sufficiently  stringent,  and  if  duly  observed  cannot 
fail  to  put  an  end  to  their  recurrence  in  the  future." 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York  and  its  officers  have  uniformly 
agreed  to  the  right  rule  on  this  subject,  but  the  violations  of  juris- 
diction still  continue.  We  fear  the  truth  is,  the  Grand  Lodge 
has  no  actual  authority  (which  it  dare  exercise)  over  its  subordi- 
nates in  the  city  of  New  York,  where  these  violations  of  known 
duty  occur.  If  she  has  such  authority,  let  her  arrest  the  charter 
of  the  next  Lodge  that  offends,  and  the  whole  difficulty  is  gone ; 
we  shall  hear  no  more  complaints.  As  it  now  is,  her  subordinates 
care  nothing  for  her  discipline,  more  than  they  do  for  the  well-un- 
derstood Masonic  law,  which  they  have  so  long  violated  with 
impunity. 

The  Grand  Secretary  reports  having  issued  twenty-eight  dispen- 
sations for  the  formation  of  new  Lodges.  The  trustees  report  the 
hall  and  asylum  fund  as  amounting  to  $284,167.87.  Nothing 
was  done  further  about  a  Masonic  temple.  P.*.  G.\  M.\  Lewis 
proposed  a  plan  for  six  District  Grand  Lodges  similar  to  the  Pro- 
vincial Grand  Lodges  of  the  British  system ;  but  this  and  other 
projects  to  relieve  the  Grand  Lodge  were  all  postponed.  The 
large  business  of  this  Grand  Lodge  will  soon  render  some  scheme 
like  that  of  Bro.  Lewis's  necessary.  The  New  York  City  Board 
of  Relief  report  having  expended  in  charity,  the  past  year, 
$5,969.11,  distributed  among  applicants  from  eight  foreign 
countries,  and  twenty-six  States  and  Territories  of  this  Union. 
The  negotiation  with  the  People's  College,  at  Havana,  still  drags 


56 

on,  but  legal  difficulties  prevent  its  final  consummation.  Twenty- 
seven  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges,  and  one  dispensation 
continued. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  M.\  W.\  John 
L.  Lewis,  and  fully  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six  domestic 
and  seventeen  foreign  Grand  Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire. 
Of  the  address  of  G.\  M.\  English,  of  Arkansas,  he  says  : 

"He  notes,  as  most  other  Grand  Masters  have  done,  that  there  is  not  an  over- 
whelming degree  of  knowledge  on  the  subject  of  Masonic  law  prevalent  among 
Masters  of  Lodges, — not  enough,  in  fact,  to  produce  fatal  consequences  if  it  should 
strike  in." 

Of  the  resignation  or  dimission  of  Masters  or  Wardens  during 
their  term,  he  says  : 

"  In  this  latitude  it  is  understood  that  no  one  is  obliged  to  be  elected  to  office,  but 
that  having  accepted  an  election,  he  also  accepts  the  responsibilities  attached  there- 
to ;  one  of  which  is  a  solemn  promise  to  faithfully  discharge  his  official  duties  during 
the  official  term.  He  cannot  apply  for  a  dimit  during  his  term  without  violating  his 
official  pledge  ;  and  although  instances  might  arise  in  which  the  officer  might  over- 
look this  fact,  the  Grand  Lodge  does  not  propose  to  give  him  the  opportunity,  and 
therefore  wisely  provides  that  he  cannot  resign.  As  a  general  thing,  there  are  more 
aspirants  for  office  than  there  are  brethren  qualified  to  discharge  the  duties  thereof, 
and  it  cannot  be  wise  to  increase  the  opportunity  of  unqualified  brethren  by  facilita- 
ting their  rotation  into  and  out  of  office." 

Of  Lodges  under  dispensation,  and  the  views  of  G.\  M.\  Spar- 
row, of  Ohio,  who  derived  them  from  the  power  of  the  Grand 
Master  to  make  Masons  at  sight,  he  says : 

"  On  this  point  we  venture  to  differ  from  our  distinguished  friend  and  brother,  and 
to  submit  that  the  power  of  Grand  Masters  as  now  exercised,  to  grant  dispensations 
to  open  and  hold  Lodges,  does  not  rest  on  any  prerogative  whatever,  but  on  the  will 
and  pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  expressed  in  its  constitution  and  regulations,  of 
which  the  Grand  Master  is  the  executive  agent. 

"It  is  an  undoubted  prerogative  of  the  Grand  Master,  derived  from  immemorial 
usage,  to  summon  seven  brethren,  congregate  them  into  a  Lodge, and  there  make 
Masons  at  sight,  as  it  is  termed  ;  although  this  prerogative  is  now  limited  to  making 
at  sight  in  the  body  of  a  Lodge  already  regularly  constituted,  which  is,  in  fact, 
nothing  more  than  granting  a  dispensation  to  shorten  the  time,  or,  as  it  is  phrased, 
to  confer  the  degrees  in  cases  of  emergency ;  but  the  occasional  or  emergent  Lodges 
contemplated  in  the  exercise  of  this  prerogative,  never  had  and  never  were  intended 
to  have  a  continuous  existence.  Their  object  being  accomplished  by  the  making, 
the  act  of  closing  dissolved  the  temporary  organization  into  its  original  elements. 
Such  Lodges  were  formed  previous  to  the  revival  in  1717  by  the  sheriff's  warrant, 
and  after  that  time  by  the  authority  of  the  Grand  Master.  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion are  an  entirely  different  affair.    They  are  created  for  the  purpose  of  continued 


57 

existence,  and  with  the  expectation  that  after  they  have  exhibited  their  skill  by 
labor  under  dispensation  they  will  receive  an  unlimited  lease  of  life  by  a  warrant  of 
constitution.  In  erecting  such  Lodges  the  Grand  Master  acts  as  the  agent  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  by  its  delegated  authority  ;  his  discretion  being  called  into  action 
only  to  decide  whether  in  allowing  such  Lodge  to  be  organized  he  will  be  promoting 
the  interests  of  his  principal,  the  Grand  Lodge.  These  be  plain  words,  but  a  brief 
examination  of  and  reflection  upon  the  facts  involved  will  show  that  they  are  true, 
and  then  it  will  also  be  seen  that  the  powers  of  subordinate  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion are  just  those  allowed  to  them  by  regulation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  they 
neither  partake  of  nor  depend  upon  any  prerogative  of  the  Grand  Master." 

Of  the  rights  of  a  brother  under  charges,  he  says : 

"  He  .decided,  and  seems  to  regard  the  decision  as  indisputable,  that  a  brother 
under  charges  is  not  entitled  to  any  privileges  whatever,  except  that  of  an  impartial 
trial. 

"  We  are  aware  that  this  opinion  was  in  former  years  quite  extensively,  if  not  uni- 
versally, held,  but  we  had  indulged  the  hope  that  discussion  had  thoroughly  exploded 
it.  We  grieve  to  see  it  again  announced,  regarding  it  as  we  do  in  opposition  to 
every  idea  of  justice  and  fair  play.  To  prefer  charges  against  a  brother  is  one 
thing,  to  prove  them,  very  often,  quite  another.  Suppose  that  under  this  ruling  a 
brother  should  be  deprived  of  all  his  privileges,  and  at  his  trial  it  should  be  proven 
that  the  charges  had  no  foundation  in  fact,  who  is  to  compensate  the  brother  for  the 
flagrant  wrong  done  him?  Punishment  should  follow,  not  precede  trial,  and  no 
Mason  should  be  punished  until,  after  an  impartial  trial,  he  has  been  proved  guilty. 
As  a  sequence  to  this  ruling,  Bro.  Anderson  decides  that  a  brother  under  charges 
having  cast  a  black-ball,  the  election  of  the  candidate  is  not  thereby  invalidated, 
and  he  may  be  initiated.  From  our  point  of  view,  the  proposition  and  its  sequence 
are  too  outrageous  for  serious  consideration." 

Bro.  Lewis  thus  notices  our  report  for  1867  : 

"  In  his  notice  of  New  York  he  speaks  of  our  review  of  European  Grand  Lodges 
as  containing  but  little  to  interest  his  constituents.  And  he  further  remarks,  that 
but  few,  if  any,  of  these  bodies  would  escape  a  rough  overhauling  from  committees 
on  foreign  correspondence,  were  they  American  bodies  and  acting  as  they  do.  Our 
distinguished  brother  knows  his  own  people  better  than  we  do  ;  but  his  estimate  of 
what  is  interesting  to  them  does  not  limit  the  area  of  what  they  ought  to  be  inter- 
ested in.  We  are  all  of  us  too  much  given  to  the  idea  that  Masonry,  as  we  see  it 
in  our  immediate  neighborhood,  or  as  we  know  it  to  be  practiced  in  our  own  juris- 
diction, is  as  near  perfection  as  can  reasonably  be  expected  ;  and  yet  no  reflecting 
man  can  deny  that  perfection  is  not  given  to  man,  and  there  is  always  something  for 
the  wisest  to  learn.  There  are,  too,  many  brethren  in  all  jurisdictions  who  think 
that  Masonry  is  the  same  in  France  or  Germany  as  in  New  Jersey,  bating  the  differ- 
ence of  language  ;  and  that  in  those  countries  Grand  Lodges  are  occupied  as  in  this, 
in  deciding  questions  of  Lodge  jurisprudence.  It  ought  to  be  a  matter  of  interest  to 
these  brethren,  wherever  they  may  be,  to  rise  to  a  higher  knowledge  of  the  institu- 
tion, and  not  only  to  discover  the  differences  that  do  exist,  but  the  reasons  why,  the 
spirit  being  the  same,  the  forms  should  so  widely  differ.  It  seems  to  us  that  the  an- 
nual review  given  in  connection  with  this  report  is  a  means  of  education  that  should 
not  be  neglected,  and  that  the  brethren  would  find  their  profit  in  giving  it  attentive 
perusal  and  consideration." 


58 

As  we,  last  year,  came  to  much  the  same  conclusion,  we  again 
give  our  brethren  the  benefit  of  the  New  York  committee's  labors 
on  the  European  proceedings,  and  bespeak  the  careful  reading  of 
it.  We  have  omitted  so  much  as  relates  to  the  internal  affairs  of 
the  late  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover : 

EUROPEAN  GRAND  LODGES. 

FRANCE. 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Orient  was  held  in  the  city  of  Paris  on 
the  10th  day  of  June  last,  2S2  subordinate  bodies,  of  various  grades,  being  repre- 
sented by  269  brethren. 

Grand  Master  Mellinet  presided  and  opened  the  session  by  a  brief  address,  in 
which  he  congratulated  the  brethren  upon  the  continued  prosperity  attending  their 
labors. 

The  finances  are  declared  to  be  in  a  most  satisfactory  condition. 

Speaking  of  the  debates  on  the  regulations  about  to  be  adopted,  he  reminds  the 
Grand  Orient  that  sound  reasons  are  to  be  offered  rather  than  fine  speeches. 

He  refers  to  the  disposition  made  manifest  by  some  Lodges  to  admit  atheists  to 
initiation,  and  invites  such  a  formal  declaration  on  the  subject  as  shall  forever  set 
the  question  at  rest  and  maintain  the  true  character  of  the  institution. 

At  a  subsequent  period  the  Grand  Orient,  by  an  overwhelming  majority,  gave  the 
required  vote. 

The  session  was  taken  up  with  the  discussion  and  amendment  of  the  regulations 
(three  hundred  and  thirty-three  articles)  auxiliary  to  and  explanatory  of  the  consti- 
tution, and  the  discussion  and  adoption  of  the  financial  budget. 

On  the  15th,  the  legislative  assembly  having  been  closed,  the  international  ban- 
quet was  held,  at  which  there  were  present  the  representatives  of  thirty-two  foreign 
Grand  Lodges  and  Grand  Orients,  besides  many  visiting  brethren  having  no  official 
character. 

After  the  customary  honors  had  been  rendered  these  brethren,  and  acknowledged 
in  their  behalf  by  one  of  their  number,  Bro.  Battaille,  from  the  Committee  on 
"  Recompenses,"  made  a  report  worthy  in  every  sense  of  its  distinguished  author. 
After  a  glowing  and  brilliant  tribute  to  the  labors  of  Masonry  in  general,  and  a  state- 
ment of  its  undying  principles,  he  proceeded  to  name  the  several  recipients  of  the 
medal  of  honor  awarded  by  the  Grand  Orient  to  those  who  had  deserved  well  of 
Masonry.  Each  award  was  accompanied  by  a  statement  of  the  act  or  acts  which 
had  led  to  its  presentation.  We  have  not  space  for  the  details,  but  we  gladly  repro- 
duce the  names,  as  follows : 

1.  Reunion  Lodge  at  Toulon,  for  devoted  and  courageous  service  during  the  visita- 
tion of  cholera  in  1865. 

2.  Bro.  Morvan,  for  devotion  to  those  stricken  with  cholera,  at  Lorient,  in  the 
same  year. 

3.  Capt.  Mitciiel,  an  English  brother,  for  saving  the  lives  of  twenty  French  sea- 
men, in  Mexico,  in  1862. 

4.  Bro.  Montdesik,  for  eminent  services  during  the  earthquake  at  Point  a  Pitre,  in 
1843. 

5.  Bros.  Kebmovan,  Canonville,  and  Icery,  for  eminent  services  to  Masonry  in 
Mauritius. 


59 


6.  Bra.  Fremier,  for  having  saved  the  Lodge  archives  from  fire  at  Valparaiso,  in 
1862,  at  the  risk  of  his  own  life. 

7.  Bro.  Cohen,  of  Constantine,  for  long- continued  services  to  humanity  against 
fire,  flood,  and  epidemic. 

8.  Bro.  Auguste  Lafage,  of  Rochelle,  for  saving  a  man  from  drowning,  in  the 
night,  at  the  imminent  risk  of  his  own  life. 

9.  Bro.  Vuitton,  founder  of  a  Lodge,  and  for  seventeen  consecutive  years  its 
Master,  and  during  all  that  time  a  firm  and  consistent  champion  of  Masonry. 

10.  Bro.  Bremond,  for  defending  at  his  own  risk,  a  Lodge  mistakenly  accused  by 
t  he  civil  authorities. 

11.  Bro.  Labbe,  for  courageous  defense  of  the  liberty  of  conscience. 

We  may  remark  that  these  awards  are  made  periodically  —once  in  ten  years,  we 
believe— and  are  held  up  by  the  Grand  Orient  as  an  inducement  to  all  its  disciples  to 
illustrate  by  practice  the  teachings  of  our  Craft. 

We  know  of  no  reason  why  a  similar  institution  might  not  furnish  incentives  to 
our  brethren  to  merit  its  awards,  and  leave  to  their  generations  the  medal  of  honor 
as  a  precious  inheritance. 

Then  followed  the  banquet,  at  which  about  one  thousand  brethren  sat  down,  but 
which,  beyond  the  fact  of  so  many  nations  being  represented,  presented  nothing  of 
note. 

Among  the  memorials  referred  to  the  Grand  Council  for  future  action  were  two, 
praying  the  Grand  Orient  to  use  its  influence  to  cause  a  change  in  the  laws  of  foreign 
Grand  Orients  where  the  initiation  of  persons  of  Israelitish  faith  is  forbidden. 

During  the  year  several  distinguished  members  of  this  Grand  Orient  have  been 
called  to  the  silent  land.  Among  them  we  note  Bro.  Heuillant,  a  Past  Deputy 
.Grand  Master,  and  Bro.  Lengle,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  charged  with  the  foreign 
correspondence  of  the  Grand  Orient. 

To  those  unacquainted  with  the  social  condition  of  France,  a  correct  estimate  of 
the  difficulties  under  which  the  Masonic  Institution  labors  could  hardly  be  arrived  at. 
Opposed,  harassed,  and  misrepresented  at  every  turn  by  the  representatives  of  a 
religious  body  drawing  apart,  at  least,  of  its  support  from  the  State,  and  thus  from 
the  toil  of  Masons  themselves,  the  infirmities  of  human  nature  may  plead  for  them 
if  occasionally  they  forget  Masonic  inspirations,  and  turn  upon  those  who  seek  to 
rend  them.  Generally  throughout  France  the  religious  institution  alluded  to  refuses 
the  rite  of  sepulture  to  Masons  except  upon  condition  of  ante-mortem  renunciation, 
and  it  forbids  its  temples  to  the  brethren  who  would  fain  pay  the  last  tribute  of 
respect  to  the  fraternal  dead.  In  other  cases,  and  when  this  obstacle  is  not  inter- 
posed, they  are  obliged  to  obtain  a  permit  from  the  civil  authorities  to  surround  the 
grave  of  a  brother  and  bid  adieu  to  his  remains  with  the  accustomed  formalities  of 
the  Craft.  The  lack  of  educational  facilities  among  the  people,  and  the  inviting 
field  thus  left  to  superstition  and  prejudice,  add  to  the  difficulties  in  the  way  of  the 
Craft,  and  make  the  devotion  of  the  brethren  an  act  of  true  heroism.  It  is  always 
easier  to  criticise  the  faults  and  shortcomings  of  others  than  it  is  to  resist  temptation 
when  we  ourselves  are  exposed  to  it ;  and  we,  secure  in  the  popular  esteem,  enjoying 
our  portion  of  popular  freedom  of  thought  and  speech  and  action,  and  safe  in  this 
strong  defense  against  the  futile  envy  of  fanaticism,  may  well  find  a  large  share  of 
allowance  for  those  who  seek  to  maintain  our  cause  and  uphold  its  banners  in  a 
land  where  men  have  conscience-keepers,  fed  by  the  State  to  torture  and  misrepre  • 
sent  the  acts  and  designs  of  their  fellows.  Our  brethren  in  France,  fortunately  for 
themselves  and  for  the  institution  in  their  charge,  perceive  that  the  strong  point  of 
their  enemies  is  in  the  want  of  education  among  the  masses,  and  they  wisely  seek  to 
counteract  it,  not  by  a  weak  resort  to  vituperation  and  abuse,  but  by  disseminating 
intelligence  among  the  people,  and  thus  preparing  them  to  resist  error  and  become 


60 

disciples  of  the  truth.    la  due  time  they  will  succeed,  and  then  Masonry  will  flour- 
ish, as  it  always  flourishes  where  mind  is  untrammeled  by  superstition. 

It  is  worthy  of  note  that  the  Grand  Orient  publishes  each  year  a  full  report  of  the 
debates  at  its  annual  assemblies ;  many  of  the  speeches  giving  evidence  of  superior 
cultivation  and  profound  appreciation  of  the  essential  doctrines  of  the  Craft. 


GRAND  LODGE  OF  SAXONY. 

This  Grand  Lodge  transmits  to  us,  with  accustomed  regularity,  its  Protocols  Nos. 
77, 78,  79,  80  and  81,  respectively  dated  April  27,  August  17,  September  15,  Novem- 
ber 9, 1867,  and  February  15, 1868. 

The  enlightened  and  true  Masonic  spirit  displayed  by  our  sister  of  Saxony  is  in 
glaring  contrast  with  the  narrow-minded  sectarian  ideas  pursued  by  some  of  her  im- 
mediate neighbors.  It  is  fully  and  truly  illustrated  in  an  occurrence  which  took 
place  on  the  17th  of  February,  1868,  in  the  Lodge  Zu  den  drei  Schwertern  und  As- 
tr&a  zur  grunenden  Raute,  at  Dresden.  On  that  day  a  Mohammedan,  by  the  name 
of  Gatha  Sadik,  a  merchant  of  Dresden,  was  made  a  Mason.  True  to  the  faith  of 
his  fathers,  the  candidate  appeared  in  his  national  dress,  and  after  answering  the 
three  questions  usually  propounded  in  a  satisfactory  manner,  in  the  Arabic  language , 
he  was  initiated. 

We  rejoice  that  our  brethren  of  Saxony  are  so  fully  in  accord  with  ourselves. 
For  one  of  our  own  daughter  Lodges  has  a  similar  instance  on  record.  It  seems  that 
a  Mohammedan,  by  the  name  of  Mahmoun  Jdmah,  First  Lieutenant  of  a  frigate  of 
the  Imaum  of  Muscat,  lying  at  anchor  in  the  harbor  of  New  York,  petitioned  St. 
John's  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  New  York,  to  be  made  a  Mason.  He  was  initiated  on  the 
11th  of  June,  1839.  It  was  impossible  to  procure  a  Koran  for  the  occasion.  The* 
candidate,  on  being  informed  of  this,  inquired  whether  the  book  used  by  the  Lodge 
contained  the  doctrine  of  a  belief  in  a  Supreme  Being.  Assured  of  this,  he  ex- 
pressed himself  satisfied,  remarking  that  that  was  a  good  enough  Koran  for  him. 

The  Supreme  Conseil  of  Louisiana,  at  New  Orleans,  by  letter  of  May  2d,  ex- 
pressed a  desire  to  form  closer  relations  with  the  Grand  Lodge.  It  was,  however, 
concluded  to  await  further  information  before  appointing  a  representative. 

The  manifest  of  the  Verein  deutscher  Freimaurer  was  read  and  referred  to  a  com 
mittee  for  investigation. 

We  are  under  renewed  obligations  to  our  representative  near  the  Grand  Lodge, 
R.  W.  Bro.  Von  Mensch,  who  presented  an  excellent  and  elaborate  abstract  from  our 
transactions  for  1866  and  1867. 

The  annual  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge  took  place  September  15, 1867.  Four- 
teen Lodges  were  represented  by  their  Masters.  M.  W.  Bro.  Warnatz  addressed 
the  Grand  Lodge  as  follows : 

"  Worshipful  and  Beloved  Brethren  .-—Saluting  you  in  the  name  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  extending  to  you  the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  we  welcome  you  in  the 
hall  which  has  been  placed  at  our  disposal  by  the  Lodges  Zu  den  drei  Schwertern 
and  Zum  goldnen  Apfel  for  a  great  number  of  years.  From  our  circle  we  miss 
many  dear  brethren,  who  have  departed  for  the  eternal  East.  Let  us  arise,  as  a 
tribute  of  respect  to  their  honored  memory.  With  much  pleasure  we  salute  the 
brethren,  who  have  never  before  attended  a  Grand  Lodge  communication  ;  and  we 
rejoice  to  see  in  our  midst  to-day  the  Deputy  Grand  Master,  as  well  as  the  W.  Rep- 
resentatives of  foreign  Grand  Lodges  who  are  in  friendly  relations  with  us. 

"The  Lodges  have  resolved  that  an  annual  communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
shall  take  place  in  future.  May  this  result  beneficially  for  us  and  Masonry  generally  ; 
may  it  strengthen  the  confidence  of  the  Lodges  in  their  representatives  and  in  the 


61 

officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge ;  and,  above  all,  may  it  lead  to  the  recognition  of  the 
principal  aim  of  Masonry,  to  the  cementation  of  brotherly  love  on  the  principle  of 
humanity  in  the  warm  ways  of  a  united  family  circle,  where  every  one  is  willing  to 
lend  a  portion  of  his  strength  for  a  great  purpose,  in  which  we  all  have  the  glorious 
aim  of  being  recognized  as  true  priests  in  the  service  of  Wisdom  and  Love. 

"  It  is  known,  my  brethren,  that  new  regulations  are  not  always  easily  put  in  op- 
eration. They  require  practice,  and  must  be  adjusted  as  necessity  demands.  It 
would  be  no  easy  task  to  select  subjects  for  discussion  ;  and  experience  will  have  to 
teach  whether  an  annual  communication  would  be  preferable  to  one  to  be  held  bien- 
nially or  triennially. 

"  The  Lodges  represented  here  will  have  to  decide  what  subjects  shall  be  brought 
up  for  discussion.  All  propositions  will  have  to  be  seconded,  and  if  not  sufficiently 
seconded,  the  regular  order  of  business  will  be  taken  up.  A  motion  in  order  to  be 
brought  up  for  discussion  will  have  to  be  seconded  by  five  Lodges.  According  to  the 
statutes,  the  vote  is  taken  by  Lodges,  and  from  this  no  deviation  can  be  made  to- 
day. The  votes  will  be  cast,  where  Lodges  are  represented,  by  their  Masters ;  and 
if  those  are  not  present,  by  the  next  officer  in  succession  ;  and  when  no  deputies 
are  present,  by  proxy.  For  a  final  disposition  of  all  matters  discussed,  it  will  be 
ascertained  by  vote  whether  the  subject  is  to  be  laid  before  the  Lodges  for  considera- 
tion, and  eventually  for  adoption  in  the  Grand  Lodge. 

"  But,  my  brethren,  all  subjects  and  all  business  would  not  make  this  a  day,  as  it 
should  be  to  us,  of  joy  for  brother  Masons,  if  we  have  not  brought  with  us  the  spirit 
of  brotherly  love  and  Masonic  intelligence. 

"  Beloved  brethren,  we  have'  for  a  long  time  past,  after  the  sifting  of  some  very 
questionable  propositions,  amended,  in  part,  our  Constitution,  for  which  we  may 
congratulate  ourselves.  Old  and  tested  forms  have  been  preserved  to  us,  the  great 
liberties  of  the  Lodges  have  not  been  circumscribed  by  our  Union ;  the  tried  form  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  which  only  executes  in  a  brotherly  way  the  wishes  of  the  Lodges, 
has  been  sustained.  Let  us  preserve  this  happy  moderation  in  future  whenever 
necessary.  It  has  contributed  to  our  cementation,  and  heightened  and  secured  for 
us  the  respect  of  the  Masonic  world  and  of  foreign  Grand  Lodges  even  across  the 
ocean.  Let  us,  to-day,  also  show  an  unbroken  chain,  united  by  a  common  enthusi- 
asm for  Masonry,  the  glory  of  which  will  reflect  upon  the  Lodges  of  our  Union. 
Let  us  enthusiastically  and  cordialy  represent  the  Masonic  family  of  our  immediate 
fatherland.  Keeping  steadily  in  view  our  Masonic  duties,  let  us  approach  the  ques- 
tions to  be  brought  before  us  to-day.  It  is  not  a  labor  which  will  improve  and  in- 
struct us  in  the  ritual ;  it  is,  like  all  Grand  Lodge  labors,  of  a  purely  business  nature. 
But  it  must  be  permeated  by  the  spirit  of  Masonry,  as  it  is  the  labor  of  Master 
Masons,  whose  Masonic  intelligence  shall  illumine  Lodge  life,  which  sometimes  is  not, 
very  recreative.  It  is  an  assembly  of  brethren  who  are  the  light  of  Lodges.  There- 
fore, let  us  courageously  begin  our  labors!  " 

A  proposition  to  abolish  the  right  of  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  was  unani- 
mously voted  down. 

The  Grand  Orient  of  Italy  at  Florence,  Grand  Master  Frapoli,  has  expressed  the 
desire,  in  a  letter  of  August  21, 1867,  to  enter  into  closer  relations  with  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Saxony.  The  Grand  Master  remarked  that  it  was  to  be  feared  that,  with 
the  present  political  and  church  movements  in  Italy,  there  might  be  danger  that  the 
Italians  would  not  be  able  to  steer  clear  of  entanglements.  A  fundamental  principle 
of  Masonry  would  be  violated  thereby.  It  was  also  desirable  that  further  information 
should  be  obtained  as  to  the  relations  which  the  two  Grand  Lodges  of  Italy  bore  to 
each  other.  He  also  remarked  that  Grand  Master  Frapoli  had  replied  to  the  ques» 
tions  in  the  second  number  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Bulletin,  as  follows  : 

"  In  regard  to  the  questions  which  you  propound,  we  will  answer  frankly. 


62 

1.  "  That  the  Lodges  affiliated  with  the  Grand  Orient  of  Freemasons  in  Italy  are 
strictly  forbidden  to  occupy  themselves  with  political  debates ;  but  that  in  our 
writings,  we  accord  the  same  liberty  of  the  press  that  is  conceded  to  our  citizens  by 
the  laws  of  the  State. 

2.  "  That  inasmuch  as  we  have  not  succeeded,  after  weeding  out  the  irregular  ele- 
ments of  Milan  and  Palermo,  in  forming  one  National  Grand  Lodge,  with  the  desir- 
able part  thereof,  we  have  to  acknowledge  the  necessity  of  keeping  our  Lodges  from 
contact  with  irregular  brothers ;  the  more  so,  as  those  few  Lodges  were  riot  suffi- 
ciently careful  in  the  selection  of  their  material. 

"  The  so-called  Masonic  Lodges,  formed  by  speculators  or  impostors  at  Naples,  we 
need  not  mention  here. 

"  We  shall  be  very  happy  to  enter  into  a  closer  alliance  with  your  brethren,  as  it 
seems  to  us  to  be  the  principal  aim  of  Freemasonry  to  bring  together  all  nations  in 
brotherly  relationship." 

The  Grand  Lodge  resolved  to  ask  the  Lodges  for  instructions  in  the  matter.  Pro- 
tocol No.  81,  however,  informs  us  that  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy, 
at  Florence,  had  been  received,  and  the  principles  therein  laid  down  being  deemed 
satisfactory,  the  Grand  Lodge  entered  into  closer  relationship  with  the  Grand  Orient 
of  Italy  by  mutual  representation. 

Peace  and  harmony  prevail  with  our  sister  of  Saxony,  and  her  daughter  Lodges 
appear  to  be  in  a  prosperoas  condition. 

GRAND  LODGE  ZUR  SONNE,  AT  BAYREUTH. 

This  Grand  Lodge  met  May  28, 1867.  The  Lodge  Zum  Morgenstem  offered  a 
resolution, "  that  the  Grand  Lodge  should  use  its  influence  to  induce  the  three  Grand 
Lodges  at  Berlin,  and  also  the  Grand  Lodges  at  Hanover  and  Darmstadt,  to  declare 
themselves  in  favor  of  the  initiation  of  non-Christians."  The  presiding  officer  re- 
marked, that  however  well  intentioned  this  proposition  might  be,  and  however  much 
in  consonance  with  that  of  the  Grand  Lodge  as  well  as  his  own,  yet  from  existing 
circumstances  the  effort  would  prove  futile.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  had 
formerly  made  numerous  efforts  in  that  direction,  and  lately  the  occasion  of  the  in- 
troduction of  a  representative  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Zu  den  drei  Welt-Kugeln,  in  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  New  York,  had  called  out  a  similar  motion  in  the  latter  body.  So 
far,  the  efforts  made  had  only  resulted  in  the  admission  of  non-Christian  brethren  as 
visitors  to  the  labors  of  the  Prussian  Lodges.  He  doubted,  however,  whether  the 
unanimously  adopted  motion  of  this  Grand  Lodge  would  meet  with  any  better 
success,  and  thought  that  it  would  be  preferable  to  modify  the  motion,  so  as  to 
recommend  it  warmly  to  the  consideration  of  the  sister  Grand  Lodges  of  Berlin. 

The  indefatigable  Dr.  Leutbecher,  of  the  clandestine  Lodge  Licht,  Liebe,Leben, 
is  continually  vibrating  between  the  Grand  Lodges  Zur  Sonne  and  Zur  Eintracht, 
for  recognition.  No  sooner  does  he  receive  his  quietus  in  one,  than  he  turns  up  in 
the  other.  In  a  letter  of  March  3, 18G7,  he  again  repeats  the  question,  whether  and 
under  what  conditions  the  Grand  Lodge  would  be  inclined  to  grant  to  his  irregular 
association  a  charter  as  a  regular  Lodge.  The  matter  was  laid  before  all  daughter 
Lodges,  which  declared  that  they  were  opposed  to  recognizing  him  and  his  associ- 
ates as  a  lawful  Lodge,  inasmuch  as  the  three  principal  officers  of  that  clandestine 
body,  who  had  been  dishonorably  discharged  from  a  Lodge  years  ago,  could  have  no 
authority  to  form  a  Lodge ;  that  they  were  not  under  the  tongue  of  good  report,  and 
their  association  did  not  rest  upon  the  indispensably  necessary  moral  foundation. 
The  request  was  refused. 

There  remains,  therefore,  but  one  way  open  to  the  persevering  applicant.  Let 
him  apply  to  the  Grand  Master  of  Hamburg. 


63 

A  resolution  was  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  that  "  every  brother  who  has  been 
initiated  in  a  Lodge  of  Baden,  must,  if  he  change  his  residence  to  a  place  where 
another  Lodge  of  that  jurisdiction  is  located,  affiliate  with  and  pay  his  dues  to  that 
Lodge." 

GRAND  LODGE  ZUR  EINTRACHT. 

We  are  not  in  possession  of  the  protocols  of  this  Grand  Lodge.  The  only  subject 
of  interest  that  reaches  us  from  other  sources  is  in  reference  to  an  agreement  which 
this  Grand  Lodge  endeavored  to  enter  into  with  the  Grand  Orient  of  France. 

It  seems  that  the  Grand  Lodge  last  year  adopted  a  resolution  expressing  its  desire 
to  enter  into  an  arrangement  with  the  Grand  Orient  of  France  relative  to  the  initia- 
tion of  strangers  in  French  Lodges.  M.  W.  Bro.  Leykam:  reported  that  he  had  ad- 
dressed a  letter  to  M.  W.  Bro.  Mellinet,  the  Grand  Master  of  France,  on  the  25th  of 
May,  1867,  at  the  same  time  transmitting  to  him  a  draft  for  the  agreement.  On  the 
20th  of  June  he  received  an  answer,  in  which  Bro.  Mellinet  states  that  he  was 
fully  aware  of  the  evils  resulting  from  the  initiation  of  strangers  in  various  French 
Lodges,  and  that  his  views  on  the  subject  fully  coincided  with  those  of  Bro.  Leykam  ; 
but  that  to  his  regret  the  proposition  could  not  be  carried  into  effect  in  France,  as 
he  had  no  power  to  prohibit  the  initiation  in  French  Lodges  of  persons  from  the 
Duchy  of  Hesse,  or  the  city  of  Frankfort,  without  previous  inquiry  into  their  char- 
acter at  their  place  of  residence.  The  French  Lodges  would  consider  such  a  prohi- 
bition an  attack  on  their  liberties,  but  that  he  would  not  fail  to  enjoin  officially  upon 
the  Lodges  the  necessity  of  an  inquiry,  and  he  had  no  doubt  a  satisfactory  result 
would  be  arrived  at. 

The  Lodge  Ludwig  zu  den  drei  Sternen,  at  Friedberg,  has  petitioned  the  Grand 
Lodge  that  she,  like  the  newly  instituted  Lodges  at  Bingen,  may  be  permitted  to 
suspend  Section  116  of  the  Constitution,  which  interdicts  the  initiation  of  non-Chris- 
tians, and  at  the  same  time  make  a  corresponding  change  in  her  Ritual.  The  Lodge 
places  herself  on  the  platform  of  the  Ancient  Regulations,  and  deems  the  abolition 
of  the  so-called  Christian  principle  the  more  necessary,  as  the  civil  government  has 
long  ago  recognized  as  equal  people  of  all  religious  confessions. 


MOTHER  GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  ECLECTIC  UNION,  FRANKFORT- 
ON-THE-MAIN. 

This  Grand  Body  was  in  session  December  8,1865,  January  12,  February  23,  March 
11,  May  25,  August  31,  December  7, 1866,  and  February  22,  March  IS,  May  31, 1867. 

Bro.  Danker  was  re-elected  Grand  Master  for  1866  and  1867.  At  the  session  of 
May  31st,  Grand  Master  Bro.  Danker  made  the  following  remarks  in  regard  to  the 
publication  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  Masonic  journals. 

"  Of  late  the  transactions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  have  found  publicity  through  the 
Masonic  press.  However  well-intentioned  this  may  be,  and  although  the  Grand 
Lodge  does  not  feel  called  upon  to  explain  and  correct  officially  publications  of  the 
kind,  in  order  to  remove  erroneous  impressions  of  existing  relations  and  facts,  she 
cannot  omit  declaring : 

1.  That  the  Constitution  of  an  Eclectic  Lodge  in  the  Orient  of  Berlin,  has  nowise 
been  the  subject  of  discussion  in  this  Grand  Lodge. 

2.  That  up  to  the  present  time  no  movement  has  been  deemed  necessary  on  the 
part  of  the  Eclectic  Union  to  secure  its  continued  existence,  as  it  has  not  been  en- 
dangered, or  in  any  way  questioned. 

3.  That  the  private  and  confidential  correspondence,  which  the  then  presiding 

10 


64 

officeijof  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover  had  requested,  would  not  lead  to  an  endanger- 
ing of  the  eclectic  principle,  or  to  an  eventual  discontinuance  of  her  activity ;  and 
that  the  publication  of  an  isolated  sentence  leads  to  altogether  erroneous  conclusions." 
For  the  revision  of  the  Constitution,  which  is  to  take  place  in  1870,  the  Grand 
Lodge  has  taken  the  necessary  steps,  and  the  daughter  Lodges  are  invited  to  forward 
any  propositions  for  amendments  they  may  desire.  These  are  to  be  systematized 
and  revised  by  a  committee  appointed  for  the  purpose.  The  result  of  its  labors  is 
then  to  be  laid  before  the  Grand  Lodge  for  consideration. 


GRAND  NATIONAL  MOTHER  LODGE  ZU  DEN  DREI  WELTKUGELN  (THREE 
GLOBES),  AT  BERLIN. 

The  protocols  of  this  Grand  Lodge  in  our  possession  are  dated  March  22,  May  2, 
June  24,  September  5,  November  2,  7  and  22,  and  December  5,  1867. 

The  meeting  of  March  22d  was  for  the  purpose  of  celebrating  the  birthday  of  the 
King  of  Prussia,  the  protector  of  the  Order  in  his  States.  The  regular  quarterly 
assembly  of  May  2d  was  opened  by  the  Grand  Master,  Bro.  Messerschmidt,  who 
expressed  his  gratification  at  meeting  in  Grand  Lodge  the  Masters  of  Lodges  located 
outside  of  Berlin.  The  Grand  Lodge,  on  the  7th  of  March,  had  expressed  the  desire 
that  the  legal  representatives  of  her  daughter  Lodges  (Masters  or  Deputy  Masters) 
when  they  had  received  the  Fourth  Degree,  should  be  present  at  the  session  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  in  May  of  every  year,  in  order  to  take  part  in  the  discussion  and  vote 
upon  any  proposed  changes  of  the  general  laws.  He  remarked,  that  past  experience 
taught  them  that  correspondence  with  the  Lodges  and  explanations  were  of  little 
use,  and  that  the  representatives  of  the  Lodges,  chosen  from  the  members  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  were  rarely  in  possession  of  sufficient  information  to  speak  under- 
standing^ of  the  affairs  of  the  Lodges  they  represent.  The  Grand  Lodge,  therefore, 
had  appointed  a  special  Committee  to  draw  up  fresh  instructions  for  the  last  men- 
tioned representatives,  and  had  caused  them  to  be  printed  for  the  use  of  the  mem- 
bers of  the  present  session,  as  the  instructions  of  February  9, 1801,  were  no  longer 
applicable  to  present  circumstances.  It  could  not  be  doubted  that  these  steps  are 
properly  appreciated  by  all  daughter  Lodges,  and  would  be  beneficial  to  the  future 
prosperity  of  the  Institution.  The  Grand  Lodge,  therefore,  was  rejoiced  that  in 
consequence  of  this  invitation,  several  Masters  and  Deputy  Masters  of  Lodges  had 
taken  their  seats  as  representatives." 

For  the  clearer  understanding  of  the  present  mode  of  representation  of  the  Lodges 
in  the  Grand  Lodge,  we  will  state  that  the  latter  is  composed  of  the  members  of  the 
four  daughter  Lodges  at  Berlin,  who  have  attained  a  higher  degree  than  that  of 
Master  Mason,  and  if  elected  as  representatives  by  daughter  Lodges  outside  of  Berlin 
are  obliged  to  accept  the  same.  Any  Lodge  affiliating  with  the  National  Mother 
Lodge  Zu  den  drei  Weltkugeln  must  choose  a  representative  from  the  members  of 
the  four  Berlin  daughter  Lodges,  proposed  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  Lodge,  in  all 
probability,  has  never  seen  its  representative,  and  is  unacquainted  with  his  views. 
Nor  is  he  acquainted  with  the  affairs  of  the  Lodge  he  represents,  except  by  corres- 
pondence. To  effect  a  change  in  this  defective  system  of  Lodge  representation,  the 
following  proposition  was  offered  at  the  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  December  6, 
1866: 

"  To  enable  every  daughter  Lodge  outside  of  Berlin  to  participate  in  the  delibera- 
tions of  proposed  laws  in  Grand  Lodge  through  their  Master  or  Deputy  Masters,  it 
is  recommended  that  all  discussions  and  action  upon  amendments  of  the  Constitu- 
tion and  Statutes  are  to  be  had  at  a  session  appointed  for  that  purpose  by  the  Grand 
Lodge.    The  last  quarterly  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  the  month  of  May  would 


65 

be  the  most  desirable  for  that  purpose,  as  that  season  of  the  year  would  offer  the 
least  obstacle  to  the  travel  of  brethren  residing  outside  of  Berlin.  The  May  session 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  when  the  election  of  Grand  Officers  takes  place,  would  thereby 
acquire  the  desirable  character  of  a  principal  annual  session,  and  it  might  be  at- 
tended by  the  Masters  or  Deputy  Masters  of  the  Lodges  as  their  representatives,  not 
only  to  consult  on  Masonic  legislation  and  the  election  of  officers,  but  also  to  discuss 
particular  occurrences,  make  known  the  views  of  the  Lodges,  prepare  questions  of 
reform,  create  more  intimate  relations  between  the  National  Mother  Lodge  and  her 
daughters,  and  also  to  lessen  the  correspondence  between  the  Directory  and  the 
Lodges." 

Nineteen  Masters  and  Deputy  Masters  of  Lodges  attended  the  session  of  May  2d, 
and  seventeen  forwarded  excuses  for  non-attendance.  The  revision  of  the  law  in 
regard  to  instruction  for  the  representatives  of  Lodges,  as  reported  by  the  committee 
was  adopted ;  the  report,  however,  does  not  state  what  the  amended  law  now  is. 
The  communication  of  June  24th  was  devoted  to  the  celebration  of  St.  John's 
Day. 

The  Grand  Lodge  has  60  active,  and  659  honorary  members.  104  active  Lodges, 
with  a  membership  of  11,800,  are  affiliated  with  her.  The  condition  of  the  Lodges 
seems  to  be  satisfactory  to  the  Grand  Lodge. 

The  Grand  Lodge,  from  its  various  charity  funds,  dispensed  to  the  poor  4,186 
thalers  during  1866. 

The  Supreme  Conseil  of  Louisiana,  at  New  Orleans,  communicated  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  by  letter  dated  May  2, 1867,  that  it  had  resolved  to  admit  negroes,  who  had 
been  initiated  in  lawful  Lodges,  as  visitors  to  their  labors,  and  that  it  was  its  desire 
to  open  more  intimate  relations  with  the  Grand  Lodge  by  the  appointment  of  mutual 
representatives.    The  Grand  Lodge  approved  the  proposition. 

Two  of  the  daughter  Lodges  of  the  former  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover  have  applied 
for  affiliation  with  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  were  accepted. 

The  Lodge  Ernst  zum  Compass,  at  Gotha,  has  forwarded  a  number  of  propositions 
to  amend  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  one  of  them  as  follows  : 

"  The  Lodge  Ernst  zum  Compass  is  convinced  that  the  requirement  of  a  confes- 
sion of  faith  is  not  in  accordance  with  the  spirit  or  history  of  Freemasonry.  She 
desires  that  all  daughter  Lodges  may  take  this  question  into  serious  consideration, 
and  moves  that  the  question  may  be  brought  up  for  discussion  in  the  Grand  Lodge." 
The  Lodge  "  Georg,"  etc.,  at  Arolsen,  made  similar  propositions. 

On  the  22d  of  November  the  Grand  Lodge  celebrated  its  Seventieth  Anniversary. 
M.  W.  Bro.  Von  Messerschmidt  delivered  an  address,  giving  a  condensed  history  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  ;  but  as  we  propose  to  give  a  full  abstract  from  the  history  pub- 
lished by  the  Grand  Lodge,  of  which  a  copy  has  been  kindly  transmitted  to  us,  we 
will  merely  cite  a  few  points  from  the  address.  He  says  :  "  At  the  beginning  of  the 
nineteenth  century  there  were  affiliated  with  the  Grand  Lodge  34  daughter  Lodges, 
numbering  1,780  members,  which  now  have  increased  to  105  active  Lodges  with  a 
membership  ot  11,844.  The  present  Grand  Master  has  wielded  the  gavel  since  1848 
without  intermission." 

The  address  is  accompanied  by  the  reports  of  the  different  Grand  Officers.  The 
Grand  Stewards'  Lodge  has  charge  of  the  economical  department  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  It  is  divided  into  four  departments,  which  have  charge  of  the  following 
branches : 

1.  The  care  of  the  table  and  its  utensils. 

2.  Supervision  over  the  furniture. 

3.  Providing  and  distributing  the  dresses  of  the  Order  and  of  wine. 

4.  Providing  light  and  playing-cards. 


66 

To  meet  expenses,  the  Treasurer  of  the  Stewards'  Lodge  draws  upon  the  funds  of  - 
the  Grand  Lodge.  But  as  the  duties  of  the  Stewards'  Lodge  became  more  and  more 
extended,  several  of  its  duties,  such  as  the  charge  of  the  Grand  Lodge  library,  etc., 
were  transferred  to  separate  commissions.  In  1807  its  expenditures  amounted  to 
828  thalers ;  in  1810,  to  1,612  thalers  ;  whilst  the  present  estimate,  made  triennially, 
is  14,850  thalers. 

A  Grand  Censorship  is  also  one  of  the  features  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  This  office 
formerly  devolved  upon  the  Grand  Stewards'  Lodge,  but  was  separated  from  it  in 
1803. 

Its  duties  are  to  settle  disputes  between  brethren.  An  insult  to  the  Grand  Censors 
is  deemed  equivalent  to  one  offered  to  the  Grand  Lodge  itself.  In  18G5  their  duties 
were  still  further  defined,  and  they  now  are : 

1.  To  see  that  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge  are  supported. 

2.  To  keep  watch  over  the  moral  conduct  of  the  brethren. 

3.  To  try  Masonic  offenders  and  pronounce  judgment. 

One  of  the  Grand  Censors  is  in  duty  bound  to  be  present  at  the  meetings  of  the 
Lodges.  The  Grand  Censorship,  however,  has  charge  of  the  four  Berlin  Lodges 
only. 

The  report  of  the  Grand  Librarian  is  very  interesting.  The  plan  for  establishing 
a  library  originated  in  1773  by  twenty-four  Masons.  In  1776  the  Grand  Lodge  issued 
the  first  catalogue.  The  number  of  volumes  then  on  the  shelves  was  75G.  In  1834 
the  library  contained  4213 ;  in  1855,  6,047 ;  and  at  present,  7,266  volumes.  The  last 
acquisition  is  that  of  a  part  of  the  collection  made  by  F.  Nicolai,  comprising  1,640 
works,  in  1,150  volumes  and  95  manuscripts,  treating  on  Masonry,  including  Knights 
Templar,  Rose  Croix,  Illuminates,  Cabala,  etc. 

The  Grand  Almoner  reports  on  the  charities  dispensed  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  At 
present  he  disburses  2,000  thalers  annually.  Up  to  1866, 155,953  thalers  were  dis- 
tributed in  charities. 

Orphans  are  under  the  charge  of  another  department.  The  aim  is  to  give  to 
orphans  of  deceased  brethren  a  proper  education.  It  was  at  first  intended  to  es- 
tablish an  Orphan  Asylum;  but  it  was  finally  resolved  to  leave  the  children,  who 
have  lost  their  father,  with  the  mother,  and  grant  necessary  assistance  ;  or  where 
both  parents  are  dead  to  place  them  in  some  respectable  private  family. 

From  January  1857,  to  July  1, 1867,  thirty-seven  children  were  supported,  during 
which  time  9,034  thalers  were  expended.  On  the  1st  July,  1867,  the  funds  on  hand 
of  that  department  amounted  to  6,996  thalers.  At  present  there  are  twenty  children 
of  deceased  brothers  remaining  with  their  mothers,  and  for  their  support  500  thalers 
are  set  aside.  It  is  stated  that  this  has  proved  to  be  the  most  efficient  way  of 
granting  support. 

There  is  also  a  Pension  Fund,  to  aid  students,  from  which  16,687  thalers  were  ex- 
pended from  1814  to*  1867.  This  branch  of  the  fund  is  supported  by  collections  in 
the  four  Berlin  Lodges.  Besides  this,  there  are  funds  created  by  donations,  etc., 
which  have  the  same  aim.  During  the  seventy  years  of  existence  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  32,000  thalers  have  been  disbursed  in  that  direction. 

The  total  of  the  Grand  Lodge  funds  amounts  now  to  270,707  thalers. 

The  Grand  Lodge  entered  into  a  mutual  representation  with  the  Grand  Lodge, 
Dos  Benedictinos,  at  Rio  Janeiro,  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy,  at  Florence,  and  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Denmark. 

The  manifest  issued  by  the  Verein  deutsclier  Freimaurer  of  June  9,  1867,  was 
received  and  placed  on  file. 

With  its  protocols  the  Grand  Lodge  transmits  to  us  a  handsomely  printed  octavo 
volume  of  364  pages,  containing  a  complete  and  valuable  history  of  that  body  from 


67 

its  origin  to  the  close  of  the  year  1866.  The  first  portion  of  this  history  was  written 
by  Bro.  O'Etzel,  a  former  Grand  Master,  and  printed  in  1840,  to  commemorate  the 
centenary  existence  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  In  issuing  the  second  edition,, the  Directory 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  revised  the  original  of  Bro.  O'Etzel,  and  brought  the  history 
down  to  the  close  of  the  year  1866.  The  history  contains  the  origin  of  the  "  Three 
Globes  of  Berlin,"  and  possesses  some  very  interesting  information  on  this  point. 
We  deem  this  a  sufficient  excuse  for  the  extensive  abstract  we  make  therefrom. 

The  volume  opens  with  the  information  that  Frederic  the  Great,  then  heir 
apparent  to  the  throne  of  Prussia,  formed  a  Masonic  Lodge  in  his  palace  at  Rheins- 
berg,  over  which  Bro.  Von  Oberg,  Master  of  a  Lodge  at  Hamburg,  presided.  On 
the  return  of  Bro.  Von  Oberg  to  Hamburg  in  November,  1739,  the  Crown  Prince 
assumed  the  government  of  the  Lodge,  and  after  ascending  the  throne  removed  it  to 
his  palace  at  Charlottenburg.  This  Lodge  was  without  name,  but  is  subsequently 
alluded  to  as  Loge  Premiere,  also  as  Loge  au  Roi  noire  Grand  Maitre. 

In  1740  a  small  number  of  Masons  applied  to  the  King  for  permission  to  form  a 
Lodge.  They  received  a  charter  November  9th,  of  that  year,  by  the  name  of  Aux 
trois  Globes,  and  adopted  a  Constitution  modeled  after  that  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
England.  The  latter  acknowledged  the  Lodge  at  once,  under  the  plea  that  the 
King,  being  naturally  Grand  Master  in  his  own  dominions,  was  fully  authorized  to 
constitute  Lodges  therein.  The  Lodge  soon  gained  in  extent  by  affiliation  of  the  Loge 
Premiere,  which  ceased  to  exist  in  December,  1740,  and  also  by  initiations,  so  that 
in  1741  it  already  numbered  ninety-six  members.  In  1744  the  Lodge,  by  consent  of 
the  King,  assumed  the  title  of  Grand  Royal  Mother  Lodge,  Zu  den  drei  Waltkugeln 
(Three  Globes) ,  yet  its  presiding  officer  continued  to  be  designated  as  Master  only. 
Up  to  1747  the  Lodge,  with  the  consent  of  the  King,  had  granted  charters  to  six 
daughter  Lodges.  To  that  period,  and  for  some  time  thereafter,  these  charters 
were  generally  granted  to  a  well-informed  brother,  who,  after  receiving  it,  pro- 
ceeded to  form  a  Lodge.  It  was  but  of  rare  occurrence  that  a  number  of  brethren 
united  in  forming  a  Lodge,  and  to  apply  for  a  charter.  The  mother  Lodge  exercised 
an  indifferent  supervision  over  her  daughters,  and,  in  fact,  she  had  little  or  no 
authority  over  them.  The  Ritual  and  Instruction,  which  are  now  written  or  printed 
for  the  use  of  the  Lodges,  were  at  that  time  communicated  orally,  and  underwent 
many  changes,  particularly  as  they  were  translated  from  one  language  into  another. 
With  this  they  also  received  the  imprint  of  the  prevailing  customs  of  the  different 
nationalities  through  which  they  were  transmitted.  At  first  the  mother  Lodge 
essentially  practiced  the  old  English  work.  Up  to  1747  the  King  seems  to  have 
been  considered  Grand  Master,  although  he  had  ceased  to  take  any  interest  in  the 
Lodge.  With  pecuniary  embarrassments  dissensions  arose,  and  in  order  to  produce 
greater  harmony  it  was  decided  to  elect  a  Deputy  Grand  Master,  which  was  done  in 
that  year.  The  Lodge,  however,  still  continued  to  elect  a  Master  annually.  With 
better  regulations,  peace  and  prosperity  returned  and  Lodges  increased  in  numbers. 
Up  to  1754  the  membership  of  the  mother  Lodge  was  limited  to  forty-five,  but  in 
that  year  it  was  determined  that  all  who  were  initiated  therein  should  be  entitled  to 
membership  without  further  ballot.  A  new  Lodge,  by  the  name  of  La  petite 
Concorde,  was  formed  in  Berlin  during  that  year,  and  received  a  charter  from  the 
mother  Lodge,  with  the  following  peculiar  restrictions  :  Its  membership  was  con- 
fined to  twelve  ;  no  visitor  was  to  be  admitted  in  it  unless  previously  introduced  in 
the  mother  Lodge  ;  the  Lodge  was  not  permitted  to  initiate,  pass,  or  raise  any  one, 
the  mother  Lodge  reserving  that  privilege  to  herself;  the  new  Lodge  also  agreed 
never  to  celebrate  St.  John's  Day  by  herself.  In  1755  dissensions  arose  in  the  new 
Lodge,  which  led  to  its  withdrawal  from  the  mother  Lodge.  At  the  request  of  the 
latter  the  civil  authorities  interdicted  the  meeting  of  the  Lodge  Concorde,  but  Field 


68 

Marshal  Lord  Keith,  Governor  of  Berlin  at  that  time,  and  Deputy  Grand  Master  of 
the  North  German  Lodges  under  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  permitted  the  re. 
sumption  of  her  labors,  and  promised  to  procure  for  her  a  charter  from  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  England. 

The  ancient  law  that  a  candidate  for  initiation  "must  be  *  *  *  hale  and 
sound,  not  deformed  or  dismembered  at  the  time  of  making,  but  no  woman,  no 
eunuch,"  was  singularly  interpreted  by  the  mother  Lodge.  We  are  informed  that, 
in  December,  1755,  Liuni,  a  singer,  was  proposed  in  the  mother  Lodge.  Doubts 
arose  in  the  minds  of  the  brethren  as  to  the  propriety  of  initiating  him,  he  being  a 
eunuch.  By  some  it  was  considered  a  violation  of  the  Ancient  Constitution,  which 
prohibited  the  initiation  of  a  mainedman.  The  mother  Lodge,  therefore,  resolved 
to  ask  the  advice  of  the  Lodge  Absalom  at  Hamburg.  The  latter  replied,  "  that 
eunuchs  might  be  initiated  without  hesitation,  if  otherwise  possessing  the  essential 
qualifications  for  making  a  good  and  upright  Mason,  and  if  free  from  vices."  Liuni 
was  accepted. 

The  origin  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Royal  York  of  Prussia  dates  from  the  year  1760. 
During  that  year  the  mother  Lodge  granted  a  charter  to  the  Lodge  Aux  trois 
Colombes  (The  Three  Doves) ,  from  which  subsequently  sprang  the  before-named 
Grand  Lodge.  In  1761  this  Lodge  changed  her  name  to  De  VAmitie  aux  troix 
Colombes.  In  1761  the  Lodge  Concorde,  which  had  been  chartered  by  the  mother 
Lodge  in  1747,  granted  a  charter  for  the  formation  of  a  new  Lodge  against  the 
earnest  remonstrance  of  the  mother  Lodge.  Unfriendly  feelings  resulted  therefrom. 
A  reconciliation,  however,  took  place  between  the  three  Berlin  Lodges  during  the 
same  year.  The  Lodge  Concorde  agreed  to  return  to  the  mother  Lodge,  and  abstain 
in  future  from  granting  charters  to  new  Lodges.  The  year  1761  also  witnessed  for 
the  first  time  the  election  of  a  Grand  Master  in  the  mother  Lodge. 

In  1762  the  higher  degrees  of  the  Clermont  System  were  introduced  in  the  mother 
Lodge  and  in  two  of  her  daughter  Lodges.  This  was  soon  followed  by  the  intro- 
duction of  other  high  degrees.  Dissensions  resulted  therefrom,  and  for  the  first  time 
the  term  "System"  was  used  to  designate  the  various  rites  which  had  sprung  into 
existence.  The  Lodge  V  Union,  chartered  by  the  mother  Lodge,  worked  according 
to  the  Scottish  Rite.  Hund,  with  his  System  of  Strict  Observance,  became  promi- 
nent in  1765,  and  the  mother  Lodge  gave  her  adhesion  to  it  through  the  influence 
of  Bro.  Zinnendorf,  who  had  been  elected  Master.  He,  however,  could  not  agree 
with  Hund  as  to  the  position  he  should  occupy  in  the  Order  in  Germany,  and  there- 
fore sent  a  brother  to  Stockholm,  in  order  to  obtain  the  Ritual  of  the  Swedish 
System.  Retiring  from  the  chair  the  year  following  his  election,  and  claiming  to  be 
vested  with  power  to  charter  Lodges,  he  instituted  several  and  furnished  them  the 
new  Masonic  Ritual  imported  by  him  from  Sweden,  and  on  St.  John's  Day,  1770, 
instituted  a  new  Lodge,  which  he  called  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Germany.  The  Grand 
Lodge  of  England  recognized  the  latter  in  1773. 

The  Lodge  De  PAmitie  separated  from  the  mother  Lodge  in  1765,  initiated  the 
Duke  of  York,  the  oldest  brother  of  King  George  I.  of  England,  and  through  his 
influence  obtained  a  charter  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  on  the  24th  day  of 
June,  1767,  under  the  name  of  La  Royal  Yoi^k  de  VAmitie,  No.  330,  adopted  the 
English  Ritual,  but  also  worked  the  higher  degrees  according  to  the  French  Rite. 
Almost  simultaneously  with  this  a  Bro.  Koppen  severed  his  connection  with  the 
mother  Grand  Lodge  and  instituted  the  Order  of  the  African  Builders.  He  found  a 
number  of  adherents,  but  finally  disappeared  from  view,  after  a  precarious  existence 
of  twenty  years. 

Dissensions  naturally  followed  the  introduction  of  these  various  Rites.  Brethren 
of  one  system  were  interdicted  fi'om  holding  communication  with  those  of  other 
systems.    Particular  signs  were  introduced  in  the  Lodges,  and  these  clashings  were 


69 

only  harmonized  when  Bro.  Wallnee  was  installed  Grand  Master  of  the  united 
Lodges,  practicing  the  Scottish  Rite.  Kind  feelings  took  the  place  of  old  animosi- 
ties, and  when  Prince  Frederic  August  of  Brunswick  was  installed  National  Grand 
Master  of  the  Prussian  States,  the  mother  Lodge  assumed  the  title  of  Grand  National 
Mother  Lodge  of  the  Prussian  States.  Amicable  relations  were  also  restored  with 
the  Lodge  Royal  York. 

In  1783  the  National  Mother  Lodge  cut  herself  loose  from  the  Rite  of  Strict  Observ* 
ance,  declared  herself  independent,  and  in  1797  established  a  Directory  for  the 
conduct  of  her  business  and  that  of  her  daughter  Lodges.  The  government  also 
bestowed  upon  her  the  powers  and  privileges  of  a  corporation. 

New  difficulties,  however,  loomed  up,  by  the  withdrawal  from  Berlin  of  the  Na- 
tional Grand  Master  Duke  Frederic  Augustus,  and  the  change  in  the  Masonic  views 
of  Bro.  Wallner  in  1797.  A  conference  was  called  of  the  four  daughter  Lodges 
at  Berlin,  and  it  was  concluded  to  reinstitute  a  Directory  which  should  govern  in 
the  name  of  the  mother  Lodge.  The  same  Directory  also  constituted  the  Orient, 
whose  duty  it  also  is  to  keep  the  system  free  from  all  foreign  admixtures.  All 
resolutions  adopted  by  the  mother  Lodge  as  well  as  the  election  of  Masters  by  the 
daughter  Lodges,  had  to  be  approved  by  this  Directory.  Both  the  Grand  Master 
and  his  Deputy  were  shorn  of  all  their  power.  The  Directory  acts  in  the  name  and 
place  of  the  mother  Lodge,  but  has  to  receive  the  assent  of  the  mother  Lodge  to 
anything  for  which  the  latter  may  become  liable.  On  the  other  hand,  the  Directory 
became  responsible  to  the  State  for  all  resolutions  adopted  by  the  National  Mother 
Lodge,  and  it  was  therefore  necessary  that  all  regulations  of  the  National  Mother 
Lodge  should  receive  the  approval  of  the  Directory. 

The  Lodge  Royal  York  divided  herself  into  four  Lodges,  in  1798,  and  with  other 
daughter  Lodges  which  she  had  previously  chartered,  formed  a  Grand  Lodge  under 
the  name  of  Grand  Lodge  of  Freemasons  Royal  York  zur  Freundschaft.  The 
National  Grand  Lodge  of  Germany,  at  Berlin  (Swedish  system),  violently  opposed 
the  new  Grand  Lodge,  but  without  success.  On  the  20th  October,  1798,  the  King 
issued  an  edict  forbidding  all  secret  societies,  exempting  therefrom,  however,  the 
then  existing  three  Grand  Lodges  of  Berlin,  viz.,  the  National  Mother  Grand  Lodge 
Zu  den  drei  Weltkugeln,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Germany,  and  that  of  Royal  York, 
with  their  daughter  Lodges.    Other  Lodges  were  prohibited  by  this  edict. 

In  1799  the  Grand  Master  and  Deputy  of  the  Three  Globes  resigned  their  offices, 
and  the  mother  Lodge  concluded  not  to  elect  a  Grand  Master  for  the  present.  The 
Master  of  the  mother  Lodge  for  the  time  being  was  recognized  as  temporary  Grand 
Master. 

In  1807,  a  convention  was  agreed  upon  between  the  three  Berlin  Grand  Lodges, 
according  to  which  a  monthly  conference,  composed  of  four  members  from  each 
Grand  Lodge,  was  held,  whose  duty  it  was  to  consult  on  subjects  of  common  inter- 
est  to  German  Freemasonry.  This,  however,  was  abolished  in  1823,  in  consequence 
of  dissensions  between  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Swedish  System  and  Royal  York. 
In  1839,  a  Grand  Masters'  Union,  which  still  exists,  was  established,  having  for  its 
object  a  consultation  on  common  Masonic  subjects,  and  the  cementing  of  friendly 
relations  between  the  Lodges  of  the  "  Fatherland." 

In  1833,  changes  in  the  Ritual  were  proposed,  when  it  was  laid  down  as  a  leading 
principle  that  everything  that  rested  upon  an  historical  foundation,  or  had  become 
sacred  by  time  and  dear  to  the  brethren  by  usage,  should  be  preserved  ;  changes 
only  should  be  made  which  the  spiritual  necessities  of  an  advanced  age  seemed  to 
require. 

In  1840,  the  present  King,  then  Crown  Prince  of  Prussia,  was  initiated  into  Ma- 
sonry, in  the  presence  of  the  three  Grand  Lodges  of  Berlin,  according  to  the 
Swedish  System,  and  immediately  assumed  the  Protectorate  over  all  the  Lodges  in 


70 

Prussia.  When  he  ascended  the  throne,  the  Protectorate  devolved  upon  his  son, 
the  Crown  Prince,  who  was  initiated  in  1853.  Nothing  of  general  interest  seems  to 
have  transpired  to  1866,  with  which  year  the  history  closes. 

In  the  course  of  this  history  a  subject  is  discussed  on  which,  inasmuch  as  it  was 
at  one  time  the  cause  of  a  remonstrance  on  the  part  of  our  Grand  Lodge  with  those 
of  Berlin,  we  cannot  forbear  to  make  a  few  remarks,  particularly  as  a  principle  of 
vital  importance  to  the  institution  is  involved  therein.  In  1844  the  three  Grand 
Lodges  of  Berlin  made  the  following  declaration  : 

"  The  three  Grand  Lodges  have  the  same  aim  as  regards  the  Order ;  they  labor  for 
the  ennobling  of  their  members  and  the  happiness  of  mankind,  according  to  the 
principles  of  Christianity,  but  without  any  tendency  to  politics  or  sectional  con- 
fession," etc. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Three  Globes  states  that  her  Statutes  of  1790  are  based 
upon  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  of  1723,  and, in  consequence, 
has  engrafted  the  following  among  her  laws  : 

"  Chap.  IV.,  Sec.  1 — A  Freemason  must  be  an  upright  and  candid  professor  of 
the  Christian  religion." 

An  appendix  to  the  Statutes  adopted  in  1808  further  prescribes  : 

"  Sec.  20. — A  Jew  can  not  be  initiated,  affiliated,  or  be  admitted  a  visitor." 

In  1841,  however,  this  section  was  stricken  out,  in  consequence  of  a  remonstrance 
by  a  Lodge  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Holland,  one  of  whose 
members,  being  an  Israelite,  was  refused  admission  as  visitor  to  a  Berlin  Lodge. 

But  Section  166  of  the  same  Revised  Statutes,  adopted  during  that  year,  contains 
the  following  : 

"  Sec.  166. — Those  persons  only  can  be  proposed  for  initiation  in  Freemasonry 
who 

"  1.  Profess  Christianity,  without  regard  to  particular  creed,"  etc. 

"  Sec.  201 Every  brother  who  desires  to  be  affiliated  with  any  Lodge  under  our 

jurisdiction  must  be  a  professor  of  Christianity." 

A  commission  for  the  revision  of  the  Statutes  of  the  Three  Globes  declared,  in 
1840,  "that  the  initiation  in  and  affiliation  with  the  daughter  Lodges  of  the  National 
Mother  Lodge  of  non-Christians  was  an  impossibility."  This  declaration  was  unani- 
mously adopted  by  the  mother  Lodge.  The  Commission,  however,  declared  "  that 
all  brethren  who  prove  themselves  members  of  regularly  constituted  Masonic 
Lodges,  recognized  by  the  Berlin  Grand  Lodges,  can  be  admitted  as  visitors,  as  it 
seems  a  contradiction  to  recognize  a  Lodge,  and  yet  refuse  its  members  admission." 

To  justify  its  requirements,  a  profession  of  Christianity  in  a  candidate,  or  for 
affiliation,  the  Grand  Lodge  cites  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England, 
of  the  year  1723,  as  follows: 

Section  1  of  that  instrument  says:  "But  though  in  ancient  times  Masons  were 
charged  in  every  country  to  be  of  the  religion  of  that  country  or  nation,  whatever 
it  was,  yet  it  is  now  thought  more  expedient  only  to  obligata  them  to  that  religion 
in  which  all  men  agree,  leaving  their  particular  opinions  to  themselves— that  is,  to 
be  good  men  and  true  *  *  *  by  whatever  denominations  or  persuasions  they 
may  be  distinguished,"  etc. 

Which  the  mother  Grand  Lodge  explains  :  "  By  '  religion  in  which  all  men  agree  ' 
is  to  be  understood  the  Christian  religion  solely." 

To  support  its  views,  the  Grand  Lodge  refers  to  VI.,  3  (should  be  2),  of  the  An- 
cient Charges,  where  it  speaks  of  the  "  behavior"  of  the  brethren  after  the  Lodge 
in  the  following  language  :  "  Therefore  no  private  piques  or  quarrels  must  be 
brought  within  the  door  of  the  Lodge,  far  less  any  quarrels  about  religion,  or  na- 
tions, or  State  policy,  we  being  only,  as  Masons,  of  the  Catholic   religion  above 


71 

mentioned ;  we  are  also  of  all  nations,  tongues,  kindreds,  and  languages,  a  nd  are 
resolved  against  all  politics  as  what  never  yet  conduced  to  the  welfare  of  the  Lodge , 
nor  never  will.  This  charge  has  been  always  strictly  enjoined  and  observed ;  but 
especially  ever  since  the  Reformation  in  Britain,  or  the  dissent  and  secession  of  these 
nations  from  the  communion  of  Rome." 

"  This,"  the  Grand  Lodge  continues,  "alludes  directly  to  the  religion  mentioned 
(Section  1)  in  the  Ancieat  Charges,  where  it  is  designated  as  'Catholic,"  and  points 
to  the  Church  entanglements  during  the  English  Reformation.  This,  therefore 
teaches  us  that  the  term  of  'Catholic  religion'  does  not  mean  the  Roman  Catholic 
Church,  but  those  doctrines  only  which  all  professors  of  Christianity  possess  in 
common.  *  *  *  It  can  not  be  at  all  doubted  that  these  laws  were  made  for  Chris- 
tians only,  as  they  were  drawn  up  by  Bro.  Anderson,  a  clergyman  of  the  Church  of 
England,  and  approved  by  Bro.  Desagulier,  a  clergyman  of  the  Reformed  Church, 
and  Deputy  Grand  Master,"  etc.  *  *  *  "  For  these  reasons,"  the  mother  Grand 
Lodge  continues,  "it  is  to  be  assumed  that  the  initiation  in  Freemasonry  was  con- 
ditioned upon  a  profession  of  Christianity,  according  to  the  Constitution  of  1723. 
The  Masonic  Institution,  according  to  the  Constitution,  is  to  be  made  a  society  for  the 
whole  human  family,  resting  upon  a  Christian  basis — the  supporter  and  transplanter 
of  original  Christianity,  free  from  all  priestcraft.  On  the  15th  November,  1723, 
the  following  important  resolution  was  adopted  (General  Regulation  XXXIX.)  : 
'  Every  annual  Grand  Lodge  has  an  inherent  power  and  authority  to  make  new 
regulations,  or  alter  these,  for  the  real  benefit  of  this  ancient  Fraternity,  provided 
always,  that  the  old  landmarks  be  carefully  preserved,'  etc.  This  power  was  ex- 
ercised by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  in  1738,  when  the  Constitution  was  amended . 
The  section  on  religion,  as  amended,  read  as  follows  :  '  A  Mason  is  obliged,  by  his 
tenure,  to  obey  the  moral  law  ;  and  if  he  rightly  understands  the  art,  he  will  never 
be  a  stupid  atheist  nor  irreligious  libertine.  He,  of  all  men,  should  best  understand 
that  God  seeth  not  as  man  seeth  ;  for  man  looketh  at  the  outward  appearance, 
but  God  looketh  to  the  heart.  A  Mason  is,  therefore,  particularly  bound  never  to 
act  against  the  dictates  of  his  conscience.  Let  a  man's  religion  or  mode  of  worship 
be  what  it  may,  he  is  not  excluded  from  the  order  provided  he  believe  in  the  glorious 
Architect  of  heaven  and  earth,  and  practice  the  sacred  duties  of  morality.  Masons 
unite  with  the  virtuous  of  every  persuasion  in  the  firm  and  pleasing  bond  of  fraternal 
love ;  they  are  taught  to  view  the  errors  of  mankind  with  compassion,  and  to  strive, 
by  the  purity  of  their  own  conduct,  to  demonstrate  the  superior  excellence  of  the 
faith  they  may  possess.  Thus  Masonry  is  the  centre  of  union  between  good  men 
and  true,  and  the  happy  means  of  conciliating  friendship  among  those  who  must 
otherwise  have  remained  at  a  perpetual  distance.' " 

The  constitution  of  1738  was  revised  by  its  author,  Anderson.  This  section, 
however,  remained  intact  in  the  constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  in  its 
several  editions  of  1815, 1827, 1841  and  1855. 

The  Grand  Lodges  of  Prussia  themselves  seem  to  be  fully  aware  that  this  forced 
construction  placed  by  them  upon  that  part  of  the  Ancient  Charges  is  with  the 
intent  of  making  them  conform  to  the  principles  they  have  adopted.  The  address 
delivered  by  the  Grand  Master  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Royal  York,  at  Berlin,  on  St. 
John's  Day,  ISCu,  which  lies  before  us,  expresses  it  very  clearly.  He  says  therein  : 
"  Suffice  it  to  state  that  the  Grand  Lodge  has  labored  faithfully  and  effectively  ac- 
cording to  the  doctrines  transmitted  to  her  by  her  English  mother.  If,  in  some 
respects,  she  has  traveled  paths  diverging  from  her— if,  for  instance,  she  has  planted 
herself  upon  a  Christian  platform —  it  is  not  the  result  of  accident  or  arbitrariness, 
but  it  is  just  as  indigenous  to  our  country  as  the  enlarged  tendencies  in  England 
are  to  that  country.    In  our  fatherland  the  religious  differences  have  never  terra- 


72 


inated  in  bloody  persecutions  or  in  splits  of  sectarianism,"  etc.  The  last  sentence 
certainly  shows  a  strange  oversight  on  the  part  of  the  M.  W.  brother.  Has  he  for- 
gotten that  it  took  thirty  long  bloody  years  before  the  Catholic  Church  was  forced 
to  tolerate  the  Protestant  Church  ?  It  was  not  by  their  free  will  that  religious 
liberty  was  allowed.  The  whole  continent  was  strewn  with  slain ;  and  they  only 
yielded  the  point  when  they  could  fight  no  longer.  Their  hate  still  remained ;  the 
sword  was  only  sheathed  for  the  time,  to  be  drawn  again  when  opportunity  offered. 

But  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Three  Globes  also  asserts  that  the  principle  of 
Christian  faith  has  been  sanctioned,  in  its  original  form,  by  nearly  all  Grand  Lodges 
of  Europe  and  North  America. 

We  fail  to  discover  that  the  principle  of  Christianity  is  at  all  alluded  to  in  the  last 
cited  section,  and  furthermore  assert  that  it  is  entirely  ignored  by  a  very  over- 
whelming majority  of  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  world.  In  Germany,  the  constitu- 
tions of  the  Grand  Lodges  of  Saxony,  Zur  Sonne,  at  Baireuth,  the  Eclectic  Union  of 
Frankfort-on-the-Main  and  Hamburg,  have  for  their  foundation  the  constitution  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  of  1723.  In  direct  contradiction  with  it  are  the  con- 
stitutions of  the  three  Grand  Lodges  of  Prussia  at  Berlin,  (Royal  York,  Three 
Globes,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Germany).  The  Grand  Lodge  Zur  Eintrackt,  at 
Darmstadt,  presents  a  divided  house,  four  of  her  daughter  Lodges  adhering  strictly 
to  the  constitution  of '1723,  whilst  the  laws  of  the  other  four  do  not  rest  upon  that 
basis.  These,  with  the  Grand  Lodges  of  Sweden  and  Denmark,  have  engrafted 
upon  it  the  principle  of  a  profession  of  Christianity.  The  Grand  Lodges  of  the  rest 
of  the  world  adhere  strictly  to  the  ancient  law,  and  rest  upon  the  principle  of 
universality. 

In  the  constitution  of  1723  the  principle  of  universality  of  the  institution  was  laid 
down  as  the  foundation  stone.  It  was  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Ireland  in 
1730,  by  that  of  Scotland  in  1761,  by  Holland  in  1761,  by  France  in  1771,  by  Ham- 
burg in  1801.  Even  the  more  modern  Grand  Lodges  of  Italy  and  South  America, 
sprung  from  France,  are  based  upon  the  principle  of  freedom  in  religious  belief,  as 
laid  down  in  the  ancient  charges.  It  is  engrafted  on  the  constitutions  of  all  the 
Grand  Lodges  of  the  world,  and  only  Sweden  and  Denmark  and  a  part  of  Germany 
adopt  the  exclusive  principles.  Of  the  seventy-five  Grand  Lodges  of  the  world,  six 
only  recognize  the  so-called  Christian  principle.  The  great  majority  of  the  eight 
thousand  Lodges  of  the  world  countenance  the  initiation  of  non-christians,  whilst 
on  the  other  hand,  the  puny  minority  of  only  two  hundred  and  twenty-three 
Lodges  cultivate  the  so-called  Christian  principle.  Again  and  again  war  has 
been  made  upon  it,  and  it  has  been  discussed  in  all  its  bearings.  Theoretically,  it 
has  been  overpowered. long  since;  In  practice  it  has  been  retained,  however,  with 
a  zeal  worthy  of  a  better  cause.  The  day  is  not  far  distant,  when  this  unmasonic 
and  illiberal  idea  will  be  dispelled  by  the  sun  of  enlightenment.  The  boundaries 
of  exclusiveness  are  becoming  more  circumscribed  day  by  day.  The  question  has 
been  already  virtually  decided  by  an  immense  majority  vote. 

The  Grand  Lodge  to  the  Three  Globes  explains  that  the  term  "  Catholic  Religion  " 
means  not  the  Church  of  Rome,  but  Christianity  generally.  All  Lodges  of  the 
world  originally  sprung  from  those  of  England,  Ireland,  and  Scotland  ;  they  agree 
in  their  fundamental  principles,  in  the  peculiarities  and  essentials  of  Masonry,  in 
the  principle  of  universality,  and  interpret  the  word  catholic,  what  it  was  intended 
to  convey,  "universality,  general.''''  If  the  Masonic  institution  is  founded  for  the 
purposes  of  Christianity,  then  its  necessity  is  more  than  problematical.  It  would 
be  altogether  unnecessary  and  superfluous. 

Originally,  there  was  no  Masonry  in  Germany  but  what  was  transplanted  by  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  England.  When  Masonry  in  Germany  began  to  worship  strange 
gods,   the  Lodges  ignored  and  abandoned   the  ancient   landmarks  and  usages. 


73 

Many  of  them  have  returned  to  the  ancient  faith.  But  the  three  Prussian  Grand 
Lodges  and  those  of  Sweden  and  Denmark  still  worship  around  the  strange  altar. 
These  bodies,  in  reality,  exclude  themselves  from  the  rest  of  the  Masonic  family, 
although  they  have  much  in  common  with  them  in  regard  to  principles,  symbols, 
forms,  and  constitution  ;  but  in  this  one  essential  they  certainly  differ  from  the  rest. 
The  Masonic  institution,  in  ideal  elevation,  stands  far  above  all  contingencies  of 
human  life,  far  above  all  severing  barriers,  far  above  all  other  societies.  The  Prus- 
sian, Swedish,  and  Danish  Lodges  lack  these  essentials.  They  are  a  union  of  pro- 
fessing Christians,  a  community  professing  a  certain  faith.  Masonry  esteems  man 
according  to  his  moral  worth ;  they  take  in  consideration  accidental,  external  cir- 
cumstances. Masonry  selects  the  pure  man,  as  he  came  from  the  hands  of  his 
Creator ;  the  Prussian  Lodges,  as  accident  of  birth  or  society  has  formed  him,  the 
Christian.  The  structure  of  true  Freemasonry  is  perfect  and  consistent  in  itself , 
that  of  Prussian  Masonry  is  contradictory  and  imperfect.  In  Prussian  Lodges  the 
character  of  candidates  of  the  Jewish  faith  is  investigated,  their  names  are  placed 
on  the  lists  of  candidates,  and  occasionally  they  are  very  warmly  recommended 
for  initiation  to  Lodges  outside  of  Prussia,  whilst  they  themselves  refuse  to  bring 
them  to  Masonic  light.  They  admit  them  as  visitors,  yet  make  a  distinction  between 
those  whom  they  treat  as  brethren,  and  those  whom  they  recognize  as  such  in  name 
only.  They  do  not  concede  to  them  the  right  of  initiation  and  affiliation  in  their 
Lodges,  and  refuse  to  be  just  and  practice  tolerance. 

Bat  ancient  prejudices  must  give  way  before  education  and  the  enlightenment 
of  the  age.  The  Prussian  Government  now  admits  its  Jewish  subjects  to  seats  in 
its  Parliament  and  in  liberality  and  enlightenment,  in  freedom  from  prejudices, 
Masons  should  lead  and  not  follow.  They  should  not  be  Sons  of  Light  in  name 
merely.  We  look,  at  no  distant  day,  for  a  change  in  the  views  of  our  sister  Grand 
Lodges  of  Prussia.  Already  the  signs  prognosticating  this  change  appear  here  and 
there  on  the  horizon.  We  will  only  refer  to  the  circular  letter  issued  on  St.  John's 
Day,  1867,  by  the  Lodge  Ernst  Zum  Compass,  at  Gotha,  a  daughter  Lodge  of  the 
Three  Globes.  Gladly  would  we  transfer  the  whole  of  it  to  our  pages,  but  our 
limits  forbid.  Let  the  following  points,  offered  as  amendments  to  the  constitution, 
therefore  suffice  to  show  the  sentiments  of  that  enlightened  Prussian  Lodge. 

1.  The  right  of  an  unrestricted  vote  by  the  Lodge  in  the  Grand  Lodge  is  asked 
for. 

3.  The  requirement  of  a  confession  of  faith  as  a  condition  for  the  reception  of  a 
candidate  is  not  in  accordance  with  the  principles  of  Masonry,  does  not  rest  upon 
an  historical  foundation,  and  should  therefore  be  abolished. 

We  do  not  at  all  doubt  that  the  propositions  of  this  Lodge  will  be  looked  up  n  by 
many,  and  perhaps  by  a  majority,  of  the  Prussian  Lodges  as  having  a  de-christian- 
izing tendency,  whilst  those  of  liberal  and  cosmopolitan  views  will  regard  them  as 
a  sign  of  the  revival  of  pure  Masonry,  as  transmitted  to  us  all  by  our  common 
mother,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England.  The  propositions  of  the  Lodge  at  Gotha 
are  unquestionably  of  vital  importance  to  Masonry  in  Prussia.  A  profession  of 
religion  ;  the  excessive  control  of  the  Prussian  Grand  Lodges  over  their  daughter 
Lodges,  extending  itself  heretofore  even  to  the  approval  of  the  officers  elected  by 
the  Lodges ;  no  voice  or  vote  in  legislation  or  the  election  of  Grand  Lodge  officers 
except  through  representatives  appointed  from  the  Berlin  Lodges  by  the  Grand 
Master  ;  in  fact,  a  complete  control  in  every  respect,  falls  with  strange  effect  upon 
the  ears  of  an  American  Mason.  The  sun  of  enlightenment  is  already  piercing  the 
clouds  that  overhung  the  sky  of  Prussian  Masonry.  The  indications  are  encouraging. 
We  have  it,  although  not  from  official  sources,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  has  it  under 
serious  contemplation  to  repeal  that  part  of  its  constitution  which  requires  a  pro- 
fession of  Christianity  of  the  candidate.    Let  them  remember  the  memorable  words 


74 

on  religious  belief  of  their  King,  Frederic  the  Great,  whose  memory  is  deeply 
venerated  by  every  Prussian,  and  who  is  the  father  of  Masonry  in  that  country.: 
"  Let  every  one  be  happy  after  his  own  fashion.''  In  the  spirit  of  Masonic  kindness, 
we  can  only  wish  our  Prussian  brethren,  God-speed. 

GRAND    LODGE    OP    PRUSSIA,  ROYAL    YORK    ZUR    FREUNDSCHAFT, 

BERLIN. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  quarterly  meetings  January  21  and  March  4,  September 
2  and  December  2, 1867. 

In  regard  to  the  recognition  of  the  Grand  Orient  of  Belgium,  the  Grand  Lodge 
declared  itself  in  accord  with  the  other  two  Grand  Lodges  of  Berlin,  to  the  effect 
that  "if  the  Grand  Orient  would  see  fit  to  readopt  the  clause  in  her  laws  prohibit- 
ing the  discussion  of  religious  and  political  questions  in  the  Lodges,  the  Grand 
Lodge  would  be  willing  to  resume  brotherly  intercourse  with  it,  and  admit  the 
members  of  that  Orient  as  visitors  to  her  daughter  Lodges." 

The  "  Manifest  to  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  world  "  issued  by  the  Verein  deutscher 
Freimaurer,  and  the  fundamental  laws  adopted  by  it,  were  placed  on  file. 

The  exchange  of  representatives  asked  for  by  the  Supreme  Conseil  of  Louisiana, 
at  New  Orleans,  was  disposed  of  by  a  motion  to  ascertain  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Louisiana,  with  which  a  mutual  representation  already  exists,  what  relations  the 
Supreme  Conseil  occupies  to  the  latter. 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  HANOVER. 

After  an  active  existence  of  forty  years  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover  had  ceased 
to  exist.    It  held  its  last  session  on  the  28th  of  March,  1868. 

The  war  of  1866  between  Austria  and  Prussia  resulted  in  the  annexation  of  the 
kingdom  of  Hanover  to  Prussia,  and  in  its  train  followed  the  question  of  the  future 
existence  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  According  to  an  edict  issued  by  a  former  King  of 
Prussia,  October  20, 1798,  three  Grand  Lodges  only  are  permitted  to  exist  in  his 
dominions.  It  was  supposed  by  many,  however,  that,  inasmuch  as  Hanover  pos- 
sessed an  independent  Grand  Lodge  before  its  annexation  to  Prussia,  its  quiet  con- 
tinuance would  be  permitted,  particularly  as  the  edict  before  alluded  to  seemed  to 
have  been  modified  in  1848,  by  the  enactment  of  a  law  permitting  Prussian  subjects 
to  assemble  without  arms  in  closed  rooms  and  form  societies  not  prohibited  by  law. 
This  anticipation  was  not  realized.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover  was  swept  away 
by  a  cabinet  order  of  February  17,  1867,  whether  justly  or  otherwise,  or  how  much 
the  dissensions  which  sprung  up  in  the  Grand  Lodge  itself  contributed  to  this  deplor- 
able result,  we  will  not  undertake  to  discuss. 

GRAND   LODGE    OF    HAMBURG. 

At  the  session  of  May  4,  1867,  the  annual  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  only  six 
daughter  Lodges  outside  of  Hamburg  were  represented  by  their  Masters.  The 
resolution  adopted  August  5, 1865  (see  Transactions,  New  York,  1866,  p.  186)  was 
repealed,  against  which,  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  New  York,  entered  a  protest. 
The  following  amendment  to  Section  130  of  the  constitution  was  adopted  by  a  vote 
of  seventy  to  nine  : 

"  The  meeting  in  May  is  the  annual  communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  which 
time,  all  important  discussions  and  the  enactment  of  laws  affecting  the  general  in- 
terest of  Masonry  or  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Union,  are  to  be  deferred,  if  otherwise  not 


75 

incompatible  with  the  interest  of  Masonry.  This  meeting  is  to  be  attended,  as  far 
as  possible,  by  all  daughter  Lodges  through  their  Masters,  Deputy  Masters,  one  of 
the  Wardens,  or  by  one  or  more  Master  Masons,  not  exceeding  three,  who  are  mem- 
bers of  the  Lodge  and  appointed  for  that  purpose.  Daughter  Lodges,  which,  by  too 
great  a  distance,  or  for  other  reasons,  are  prevented  from  participating  in  the  annual 
meeting  by  direct  deputies,  may  forward  their  votes  in  writing,  on  subjects  sub- 
mitted to  them,  at  least  four  weeks  previous  to  it,  or  they  m  ay  be  represented  y 
their  (local)  representatives,  or  by  any  brother  Master  Mason.  The  latter  two, 
however,  in  order  to  participate  in  the  deliberations,  must  be  furnished  with  written 
instructions,  or  be  authorized  for  the  occasion  by  a  written  proxy." 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  August  17, 1867,  a  letter  dated  May  2, 1867, 
addressed  to  the  Grand  Lodge  by  the  Supreme  Conseil  of  Louisiana,  at  New  Orleans, 
was  laid  before  the  Grand  Lodge,  asking  for  recognition  and  mutual  representation. 
The  letter,  similar  to  the  one  addressed  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Saxony,  stated  that 
the  Supreme  Conseil  had  adopted  a  resolution  to  admit  as  visitors  to  her  daughter 
Lodges  brethren  of  lawful  Lodges,  without  reference  to  race  and  color.  A  declara- 
tion was  inclosed,  dated  May  1, 1867,  in  which  a  Bro.  Dunn,  Grand  Master,  and 
Bank,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  of  the  (colored)  Grand  Lodge  of  Louisiana,  and  twenty- 
six  other  (colored)  brethren  of  various  Lodges,  certify  that  they  were  invited  by 
Bro.  Chassaignac,  Grand  Master  of  the  Supreme  Conseil,  and  Master  of  the  Lodge 
La  Liberie,  No.  19,  to  visit  that  Lodge,  and  that  they  had  been  received  in  a  most 
brotherly  manner.  Dr.  Buek  remarked  that  this  was  very  gratifying,  inasmuch  as 
it  was  the  first  instance  of  a  recognition  of  colored  Lodges  and  brethren  by  a 
Masonic  authority  in  North  America.  It  therefore  should  incline  them  favorably 
toward  that  Grand  Body.  Nevertheless,  he  felt  some  hesitation  in  recommending  a 
closer  alliance.  The  proposition  did  not  come  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Louisiana, 
which  is  recognized  by  all  American  Grand  Lodges,  but  from  a  body  of  which  we 
have  no  knowledge  ;  that  they  were  not  informed  whether  it  and  its  daughter  Lodges 
are  universally  acknowledged,  particularly  as  there  existed  in  North  America 
several  Supreme  Conseils,  which  did  not  consider  each  other  legitimate. '  Our  Grand 
Lodge  had  reason  to  be  cautious  in  her  conduct  toward  American  Lodges.  He 
therefore  recommends  that  the  Grand  Lodge  should  express  its  regret  at  being 
compelled  to  decline  the  alliance,  which  was  assented  to. 

Heretofore  the  conduct  of  the  Grand  Master  of  Hamburg  has  not  been  remarkable 
for  caution,  if  he  thought  his  ambitious  schemes  could  be  advanced  thereby.  The 
colonization  of  his  two  clandestine  Lodges  in  New  York  is  evidence  thereof.  With 
age,  perhaps,  his  bump  of  caution  may  become  more  fully  developed.  We  can  wish 
him  no  greater  enjoyment  than  to  meet  his  twenty-eight  above-mentioned  "  colored 
brethren  "  in  a  close  room,  during  the  summer  solstice  in  New  Orleans.  The  worthy 
Doctor  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  declines  for  the  present  to  enter  into  any 
relationship  with  the  Supreme  Conseil  of  Louisiana,  for  fear  that  that  body  may  not 
be  universally  recognized  by  the  North  American  Grand  Lodges.  He,  however,  has 
not  the  least  compunction  in  associating  with  the  clandestine  negro  Lodges  of  North 
America,  not  one  of  which  was  ever  recognized  by  any  regular  Lodge  of  white 
Masons  in  these  United  States.  "  Consistency,  thou  art  a  jewel,"  but  thy  name  is 
not  Buek.  We  have  always  insisted,  and  it  now  becomes  more  apparent  day  by  day, 
that  it  was  neither  philanthropy  nor  principle  that  induced  him  to  take  the  clandes- 
tine negro  Masons  under  his  protecting  wing.  There  are  other  reasons  for  the  course 
pursued  by  him.  If  we  had  recognized  the  two  clandestine  bodies  he  has  planted 
in  our  midst,  if  we  were  to  throw  open  the  territory  we  Masonically  occupy  as  a 
Grand  Lodge  to  his  machinations  and  colonization  schemes,  the  benign  smile  of 
the  M.  W.  Doctor  would  never  have  gladdened  the  heart  of  the  clandestine  negro 
Mason. 


76 

la  Protocol  No.  118,  of  May  3, 1867,  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg,  we  find  the 
following  report. 

Doctor  Barthelmess,  of  Brooklyn,  who  attended  that  Grand  Lodge  session,  made 
the  following  remarks : 

"  Two  reasons  impelled  him  to  speak  : 

"1.  He  desired  to  express  his  sincere  thanks  to  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
who  had  shown  him  attentions  beyond  his  expectations. 

"  2.  To  meet  the  prejudices  which  had  occasionally  manifested  themselves  in  the 
Masonic  press,  as  well  as  in  private,  in  regard  to  the  position  of  Pythagoras  Lodge, 
No.  1,  and  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  in  America,  and  also  in  Europe.  Especially  was 
he  informed  by  Bro.  Rose,  Past  Master  of  Pythagoras  Lodge,  that  he  had  found 
very  erroneous  impressions  prevailing,  particularly  in  Dresden.  It  had  been  re- 
ported there  that  it  was  merely  stubbornness  on  the  part  of  Pythagoras  Lodge,  that 
she  had  not  reaffiliated  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York.  The  idea  also  pre- 
vailed in  some  places  that  the  position  of  Pythagoras  Lodge  was  very  disagreeable, 
onerous,  and  l-etarding  her  prosperity.  He,  however,  could  give  the  assurance 
that  the  Lodge  was  perfectly  happy  and  contented  with  the  position  she  occupied, 
and  for  that  reason  had  no  desire  to  take  the  step  indicated.  The  enmity  which  had 
manifested  itself  against  her  was  based  only  upon  the  opinion  of  a  portion  of  the 
Masonic  press  hardly  to  be  noticed,  or  upon  the  attacks  of  a  few  members  of  the 
Masonic  Fraternity  in  America.  The  majority  of  the  brethren,  as  well  as  a  portion 
of  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  there,  were,  although  not  strictly  Masonically,  yet 
in  personal  friendly  accord  with  the  members  of  Pythagoras  Lodge.  As  far  as  it 
was  possible  for  him  to  predict  the  future,  Pythagoras  Lodge  would  never  return  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York  ;  that  was  a  matter  of  conviction  with  her  members, 
of  which  they  were  now  even  more  firmly  convinced  than  they  were  sixteen  years 
ago.  It  can  no  longer  be  deemed  stubbornness  on  the  part  of  the  Grand  Master,  or 
a  blind  persistency  in  the  course  taken.  If  a  change  should  ever  be  deemed  neces- 
sary, that  change  will  be  made  in  another  direction  than  by  an  affiliation  with  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  New  York. 

"The  presiding  officer  returned  his  thanks  to  Bro.  Barthelmess  for  the  joyful 
communication,  which  only  confirmed  the  favorable  view  which  he  had  for  a  long 
time  entertained  of  the  relations  in  New  York.  He  could  assure  the  beloved  Lodges, 
Pythagoras,  No.  1,  and  Franklin,  No.  2,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  would 
never  abandon  her  two  beloved  daughters  in  New  York,  provided  they  themselves 
did  not  desire  to  withdraw  from  her.  He  begged  Bro.  Barthelmess,  on  his  return, 
to  make  this  assurance  of  the  Hamburg  Grand  Lodge  known  to  the  beloved  brethren 
in  Brooklyn  and  New  York." 

We  owe  it  to  the  indefatigable  exertions  of  our  faithful  and  esteemed  representa- 
tive of  Dresden,  R.  W.  Bro.  Von  Mensch,  that  the  machinations  of  the  Hamburg 
Grand  Master  and  his  consort  on  this  side  of  the  ocean  are  so  well  understood  by 
the  Grand  Lodges  of  Germany ;  and  we  again  express  to  him  our  grateful  acknowl- 
edgements for  his  labors. 

The  addresses  were  gotton  up,  as  Dr.  Barthelmess  himself  states,  for  the  purpose 
of  changing  the  settled  opinions  of  all  Grand  Lodges  in  the  United  States,  and  of  an 
overwhelming  majority  of  those  of  Europe.  The  Masonically  demagogic  tendencies 
and  efforts  of  the  supervisor  of  the  New  York  daughters  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Hamburg,  and  of  the  presiding  officer  of  the  latter  body,  are  too  well  understood  on 
both  sides  of  the  Atlantic,  and  it  will  take  something  more  than  the  uttering  of  the 
word  "  presto"  by  Dr.  Barthelmess  to  produce  a  change.  His  assurances  will  be 
taken  for  what  they  worth,  and  that  is  little  indeed. 

The  rabid  reformers  and  uprooters  of  established  and  universally  acknowledged 
laws  will,  however,  unhesitatingly  approve  them.    Dr.  Barthelmess'  remarks  may 


77 

leave  the  impression  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York  had  extended  an  invitation 
to  him  and  his  Lodges  to  return  to  the  fold  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York,  which 
certainly  is  not  a  fact.  He  expresses  himself  perfectly  satisfied  with  the  position 
they  occupy,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York  has  no  reason  to  be  less  contented 
with  her  own.  Dr.  Barthelmess'  assurance  that  the  course  pursued  by  the  Grand 
Master  of  Hamburg  was  only  condemned  by  a  very  small  portion  of  American  Ma- 
sons is  singularly  void  of  truth ;  Hamburg  Masons  are  not  recognized  by  any  of  the 
legal  Grand  Lodges  in  this  country.  He  also  seems  to  lay  great  stress  upon  the 
fact,  that  in  common  life  Hamburg  Masons  hold  friendly  intercourse  with  American 
Masons.  It  would  be  strange  were  it  otherwise.  Masonically,  Hamburg  Masons 
are  dead  to  us ;  outside  of  Masonry  our  laws  permit  an  interchange  of  courtesies 
and  civilities.  Dr.  Barthelmess  also  asserts  that,  as  far  as  his  power  of  prophecy 
enables  him  to  look  into  the  future,  in  case  of  a  separation  from  Hamburg  by  her 
two  New  York  Lodges,  they  will  not  rejoin  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York.  The 
meaning  of  that  assurance  has  since  become  more  apparent.  For  a  resolution  has 
been  adopted  by  the  so-called  Ve.re.in  deutsch-amerikanischer  Freimaurer  (Society 
of  German-American  Freemasons) ,  which  has  its  seat  in  New  York,  to  the  follow- 
ing effect :  "  The  officers  of  the  society  are  directed  to  prepare  a  manifest  inviting 
all  German  Lodges  and  all  German  brethren  to  attend  a  Masonic  Congress  by 
deputies,  for  the  purpose  of  consulting  on  the  formation  of  an  independent  Lodge 
Union  for  the  United  States,"  which,  if  successful,  will  be  guided  and  governed  by 
Dr.  Barthelmess.  It  remains  to  be  seen  whether  the  German  Masons  of  America 
are  willing  to  assume  an  isolated  position  in  this  country.  We  have  too  much  faith 
in  the  good  sound  sense  of  the  great  majority  of  our  German  brethren,  to  believe 
that  they  are  willing  to  do  the  bidding  of  the  rabid  reformers,  or  that  they  can  be 
cajoled  to  forward  the  designs  of  a  few  ambitious  leaders. 

In  the  Protocol  No.  122,  of  November  16,  1867,  Dr.  Buek  acknowledges  the 
receipt  of  the  Transactions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Texas  with  the  remark,  "  that 
this  brotherly  advance  made  by  that  Grand  Lodge  deserves  to  be  the  more  gratefully 
acknowledged  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg,  as  it  was  unexpected  on  the  part 
of  a  Grand  Lodge  in  the  United  States."  He  was  satisfied  that  the  Grand  Lodge 
would  consent,  in  acknowledgment  of  this  act  of  friendship,  to  forward,  with  its 
thanks,  to  the  beloved  sister  at  Houston,  the  list  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

We  are  satisfied  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Texas  will,  sooner  or  later,  discover  the 
iron  hand,  at  present  so  carefully  concealed  in  a  velvet  glove. 

In  the  same  Protocol  Dr.  Buek  also  acknowledges  the  receipt,  through  Dr. 
Barthelmess,  of  several  numbers  of  the  "Reform  "organ  of  the  Verein  deulsch' 
amerikanischer  Freimaurer,  from  which  he  is  rejoiced  to  learn  that  among  the 
seven  newly  joined  members  some  belonged  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York,  and 
also  a  Bro.  Ray,  the  Master  of  a  colored  Lodge  at  Brooklyn.  We  are  only  sur- 
prised that  the  Triangle,  heretofore  the  organ  of  Dr.  Buek,  has  been  so  very 
unceremoniously  discarded. 

The  same  Protocol  also  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  a  letter  from  Pythagoras 
Lodge,  No.  1,  Brooklyn,  in  which  it  is  stated  that  she  has  unanimously  approved 
the  fundamental  laws  adopted  by  the  Verein  deutscher  Freimaurer,  at  Worms, 
June  8  and  9,  1867,  and  that  the  Lodge  would  be  guided  by  them  in  its  future 
actions.  They  therefore  propose  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  should  also 
express  herself  in  favor  of  the  same  fundamental  laws. 

It  is  certain,  however,  that  both  the  happy  New  York  daughters  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Hamburg  do  not  look  upon  these  fundamental  laws  of  the  Worms'  con* 
vention  through  the  same  spectacles,  as  appears  from  the  following  abstract,  which 
we  do  not  find  mentioned  in  the  Hamburg  protocol. 


78 


Franklin  Lodge,  No  -2,  of  New  York,  adopted  the  following  resolutions  at  her 
meeting  of  October  21, 1867  : 

"  In  consideration  of  the  fundamental  Masonic  law  projected  at  the  Masonic  con- 
gress of  June  8  and  9,  1867,  at  Worms,  and  the  manifest  addressed  to  all  Grand 
Lodges  of  the  world,  which  accompanied  it : 

"  In  consideration  that  we  also  are  called  upon  to  indorse  the  said  manifestation  ; 

"  In  consideration  that  the  present  prevailing  rhetorical-declamatory  tendency 
of  the  Masonic  institution  is  one  of  the  chief  causes  of  its  decay,  and  of  its  limited 
influence  on  the  practical  life  of  the  present  time ; 

"In  just  surprise  that  the  Verein  deutscher  Maurer,  in  contradiction  to  its 
antecedents  and  its  heretofore  pursued  course,  in  order  to  carry  out  its  intended 
reforms,  has  addressed  itself  to  Masonic  institutions,  the  absolute  abolition  of  which 
must  be  the  first  effective  and  real  problem  of  honest  reform  efforts  ; 

"  With  regret  that  by  means  of  that  manifest  the  Masonic  world  of  Germany  is  to 
be  made  tributary  to  the  prevailing  deceptive  syllogism,  to  effect  a  unity  at  the 
expense  of  liberty,  by  a  centralization  alike  objectionable  in  principle  and  in  expe- 
rience ; 

"In  view  of  the  frequently,  clearly,  and  definitely  expressed  opinions  of  our 
Lodge  in  regard  to  necessary  and  indispensable  reforms  in  Masonry  ; 

"  With  particular  reference  to  Sections  4,  5, 10, 15  and  16  of  the  mentioned  plan, 
which  are  diametrically  opposed  to  the  fundamental  idea  of  liberty  and  sovereignty 
of  Lodges ; 

"  With  the  conviction  that  the  course  taken  by  the  Verein  deutscher  Maurer,  at 
Worms,  will  not  lead  to  agreeable,  practical  reform  results; 

"  The  Lodge  Franklin,  No.  2,  resumes  the  order  of  business." 

There  certainly  exists,  to  say  the  least,  a  great  inconsistency  between  the  pro- 
fession and  practice  of  Franklin  Lodge.  Considering  as  she  does  the  rhetorical- 
declamatory  tendency  of  Masonry  one  of  the  chief  causes  of  its  decay,  and  its 
limited  influence  on  practical  life,  it  would  be  difficult  to  produce  a  set  of  resolu- 
tions of  a  higher  bombastic  order  than  those  above  quoted.  Considering  as  she 
does,  the  abolition  of  Grand  Lodges  the  first  and  greatest  aim  of  the  reformers,  she 
adheres  with  peculiar  tenacity  to  her  connection  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg, 
disregarding  even  the  gentle  hints  so  frequently  thrown  out  of  late  by  Dr.  Bdek 
that  his  daughters  of  New  York  might  depai't  in  peace  as  soon  as  they  pleased. 

The  protocol  of  Hamburg  contains  the  letter  of  Pythagoras  Lodge  approving  the 
fundamental  laws  and  manifest  of  the  Verein  deutscher  Maurer.  Why  does  it  omit 
this  "  hifalutin  "  production  of  Franklin  Lodge,  disapproving  the  same?  Perhaps 
the  diversity  of  views  in  the  happy  New  York  family  of  the  M.  W.  Doctor  of  Ham- 
burg is  the  cause  of  his  wish  for  a  quiet  and  peaceable  separation. 

We  must  confess  that  we  have  just  the  slighest  curiosity  to  learn  how  the  Grand 
Master  of  Hamburg  will  relish  being  "  abolished  "  by  his  daughter  Lodge. 

The  Grand  Lodge  has  appointed  a  representative  near  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy, 
at  Florence. 

VEREIN  DEUTSCHER  FREIMAURER  (Society'  op  German  Freemasons)  OF 

GERMANY. 

We  have  received  the  report  of  the  Verein  for  the  year  1867.  The  political 
occurrences  in  Germany  prevented  the  meeting  of  the  Society  in  1866.  On  the  8th 
and  9th  of  June,  1867,  it  held  a  session  at  Worms,  adopted  what  they  call  fundamen- 
tal laws,  and  at  the  close  of  the  session  issued  the  following : 


79 

"Manifest  to  all  the  Geand  Lodges  of  the  World. 

"  Most  Worshipful  and  Beloved  Brethren : — If  Freemasonry,  to  -which  we  are  all 
attached  with  enthusiasm  and  love ,  has  not  to  its  full  extent  succeeded  in  fulfilling 
its  exalted  mission  to  ennoble  and  conciliate  mankind,  and  to  make  it  happier,  and 
crown  with  success  all  that  is  good,  it  is  mainly  to  be  attributed  to  its  imperfect 
organization. 

"  Freemasonry  is  universal,  and  all  Lodges,  wheresoever  dispersed  around  the 
globe,  constitute  but  one  Lodge.  This  clearly  and  distinctly  expresses  the  exalted 
idea  that  our  Union  is  a  unit,  which  as  yet  awaits  realization. 

"  However  great  and  manifold  may  be  the  merits  due  to  the  first  Grand  Lodge- 
that  of  England— for  her  Masonic  labors,  and  however  much  entitled  to  our  grati- 
tude, still  it  can  not  be  denied  that  she  has  not  sufficiently  guarded  the  general 
unity  of  the  institution.  It  therefore  could  not  fail  that  the  institution,  in  the  course 
of  its  expansion  and  development  in  various  countries,  would  to  some  extent  assume, 
not  only  other  forms  and  laws,  but  also  different  characteristics,  according  to  the 
spirit  of  nationality  and  the  peculiar  necessities  and  tendencies  of  the  age. 

"  In  the  course  of  the  last  century  a  centrifugal  movement  took  place,  which  more 
or  less  led  to  a  formation  of  the  Grand  Lodges,  according  to  geographical  and  politi- 
cal boundaries.  In  its  train  followed  divisions  and  isolations ;  the  various  Grand 
Lodges  adopted  different  constitutions,  doctrines,  usages,  and  systems ;  and  are  not 
at  all,  or  at  best  but  loosely,  united  to  each  other. 

"  Freemasonry  must  be  a  unit,  a  confederation  of  and  for  humanity.  This,  how- 
ever, is  not  yet  the  case,  in  the  full  sense  of  the  word ;  neither  will  it  be,  so  long  as 
its  unity,  as  heretofore,  is  only  an  ideal,  produced  by  the  ties  of  a  spirit  of  brother- 
hood and  the  form  of  its  rites  ;  nor  until  it  has  received  externally  a  corresponding 
expression  by  a  formal  representation  through  universal  laws  and  regulations. 

"  The  Verein  deutscher  Freimaurer,  animated  by  a  desire  to  reunite  the  Order  in 
freedom  and  love,  according  to  the  organic  nature  of  the  institution  and  the  pro- 
gressive idea  and  tendencies  of  the  times,  has  industriously  occupied  itself  for  years 
with  a  draft  of  universal  laws  for  the  institution,  and  after  conscientious  delibera- 
tion, has  adopted  the  same  at  the  annual  meeting  held  at  Worms,  on  the  8th  and  9th 
of  June,  in  the  form  accompanying  this.  The  undersigned  officers  have  received 
the  honorable  commission  to  lay  before  you,  honored  and  beloved  brethren,  these 
fundamental  laws  for  examination  and  adoption.  It  cannot  escape  your  attention 
that  a  unity  in  essentials  only  is  aimed  at,  uniting  with  what  already  exists,  and 
aiming  at  that  which  is  attainable.  In  other  respects,  it  absolutely  adheres  to  the 
Masonic  principles  of  freedom,  equality  and  brotherly  love,  self-administration,  and 
universal  priesthood  ;  and  this  every  Grand  Lodge  may  adopt. 

"  It  would  be  unnecessary  for  us  to  point  out  in  particular  how  desirable  and 
beneficial  in  its  consequences  for  the  institution  and  the  human  race  the  result  would 
be,  if  all  Grand  Lodges  would  unite  in  a  call  for  an  International  Masonic  Congress, 
and  the  formation  of  an  administrative  committee  for  the  whole  union  (Universal 
Grand  Lodge).  Bold  as  this  idea  may  appear,  its  realization  is  no  longer  chimeri- 
cal, since  communication  has  become  so  extended  everywhere,  since  nations  have 
drawn  closer  to  each  other  by  international  industrial  exhibitions— it  already  is  a 
reality.  And  what  has  been  possible  for  material  interests,  can  and  must  also  be 
attainable  for  the  spiritual  and  moral  interests  of  the  human  race  !  It  is  only  neces- 
sary that  every  individual  and  every  corporation  should  manifest  the  good-will 
so  proper  in  view  of  so  great  and  good  a  cause :  to  go  to  work  courageously  and 
free  from  prejudice,  and  to  sacrifice  willingly  personal  inclinations  and  opinions. 

"  If,  therefore,  the  influence  of  the  Lodges  has  been  generally  beneficial ;  and  if, 
wherever  they  have  labored  in  the  true  spirit,  they  have  promoted  and  extended 
11 


80 

morality,  brotherly  love,  and  the  welfare  of  the  human  race,  how  much  more  will 
this  be  the  case  if  the  single  links  of  the  union  are  drawn  closer  to  each  other  ;  if 
they  shall  improve  their  internal  arrangements,  breathe  new  life  into  the  Masonic 
body,  keep  step  with  the  progressive  tendencies  of  the  times,  and  labor  everywhere 
according  to  one  plan  and  in  the  same  spirit. 

"  Under  the  full  expectation  that  you,  honored  and  beloved  brethren,  will  willingly 
unite  with  us  to  produce,  as  far  as  possible,  an  internal  and  external  unity,  and  an 
organic  bond  of  the  union,  and  thereby  call  into  existence  the  golden  age  of  Mason- 
ry, we  confidently  ask  you  to  accept  and  favor  the  following,  in  the  spirit  of  and 
resting  upon  the  fundamental  laws  of  the  Ancient  Charges  of  1723,  which  would 
serve  to  produce  an  internal  bond  between  all  Lodges  and  Masons  of  the  world. 

"  In  this  hope  we  salute  you  with  respect  and  brotherly  love. 

"  By  order  of  the  Verein  deutscher  Maurer, 

(The  officers). 

"  Worms,  June,  1867." 

To  give  the  laws  adopted  by  the  society,  and  alluded  to  in  the  foregoing  manifest 
in  extensio,  would  require  too  much  of  our  space ;  we  will,  therefore,  merely  give 
what  appears  to  us  to  be  their  principal  points. 

"Every  association  adopting  these  fundamental  laws  for  its  guidance,  becomes 
a  recognized  part  of  the  Masonic  Union,  that  is  to  say,  a  just  and  perfect  Lodge, 
as  soon  as  the  officers  of  a  confederation  of  Lodges  (Grand  Lodges),  or  three  recog- 
nized Lodges,  have  examined  their  laws  and  regulations,  and  certified  to  their 
Masonic  correctness. 

"  Isolated  Lodges  should  not  exist.  Lodges  and  Grand  Lodges  should  be  organ- 
ized into  National  Grand  Lodges,  and  assemble  periodically.  These  should  be  com- 
posed of  representatives  of  all  the  Lodges,  and  elect  their  own  officers.  Wherever 
this  can  not  be  carried  out,  all  Grand  Lodges,  who  have  adopted  the  same  funda- 
mental laws,  should  assemble  in  one  body.  In  the  latter  case,  every  individual 
Lodge  of  the  nation  must  belong  to  one  of  these  Grand  Lodges. 

"  By  means  of  this  national  confederation,  all  Lodges  become  a  part  of  the  Uni- 
versal Grand  Lodge,  which  receives  its  vitality  in  the  Universal  (international) 
Masonic  Congress,  and  the  Supreme  College  of  officers  to  be  elected  therein. 

"  Even  where  National  Grand  Lodges  exist,  Confederations  of  Lodges,  as  above 
described,  may  exist,  if  they  adopt  the  laws  of  the  National  Grand  Lodge.  In  the 
same  manner  the  National,  as  well  as  every  other  Grand  Lodge,  is  subject  to  the 
laws  of  the  Universal  Grand  Lodge :  and  every  individual  Lodge  to  those  of  the 
Lodge  Confederation  to  which  it  belongs. 

"Special  laws  are  enacted  in  individual  Lodges  by  its  members,  in  the  Lodge 
Confederations  by  the  assembled  deputies  of  the  Lodges  composing  the  same. 

"Every  five  or  seven  years  the  National  Masonic  Congress,  or  the  Grand  Lodge 
occupying  that  position,  elect  deputies  to  the  International  Masonic  Congress.  The 
latter  has  the  sole  right  to  change  any  laws  which  may  have  been  adopted,  by  a 
two-thirds  vote. 

"  The  International  Masonic  Congress,  under  direction  of  its  elected  officers, 
whose  powers  it  prescribes,  enacts  special  laws,  etc.  It  is  the  Supreme  Court,  en- 
forces the  general  laws,  and  has  power  to  punish  violations  of  the  same,  by  censure 
or  by  withdrawal  of  Masonic  recognition.  This  Congress  is  also  the  Supreme  Court 
of  Appeals  in  case  of  differences  between  the  subordinate  parts  of  the  Confedera- 
tion. 

"Every  part  of  the  Union  is  subject  to  the  laws  of  the  Confederation,  and  to  those 
of  the  State  Government  in  which  it  is  located.'4 


81 

This,  then,  is  the  result  of  the  labors  of  the  Verein,  or  rather  of  its  recognized 
leaders.  The  first  meeting  of  the  Verein  was  held  in  May,  1861,  and  others  were 
held  annually  thereafter,  excepting  in  1866.  This  self-constituted  body  proclaimed 
at  its  birth  that  it  aimed  at  the  abolition  of  Grand  Lodges,  and  at  a  change  of  all 
ritualistic  forms,  which  latter  would  necessarily  result  in  a  change  of  the  spirit  of 
the  Masonic  Institution.  Having  placed  itself  at  first  upon  a  level  with  Lodges  and 
Grand  Lodges,  it  now  even  takes  a  step  in  advance  of  that  position,  issues  a  manifest 
to  all  Grand  Lodges  of  the  world,  and  calls  upon  them  to  adopt  its  proposed  funda- 
mental laws. 

A  self-constituted  Masonic  Lodge  has  ever  been  deemed  clandestine,  and  commu  - 
nication  with  it  interdicted.  Single  members  or  a  congregation  of  them  cannot  act 
independently ;  they  must  have  the  approval  of  constituted  authority,  and  every 
effort  that  does  not  rest  upon  a  legal  foundation  must  be  held  to  be  uncalled  for  and 
unlawful.  The  position  of  this  body  claiming  to  be  Masonic  is,  to  say  the  least, 
anomalous.  The  annual  assemblies  of  Masons  of  former  times  was  superseded  by 
formation  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  the  peculiar  features  of  which  are 
generally  engrafted  in  some  form  upon  almost  all  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  world. 

Whilst,  however,  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  United  States  are  composed  of  the 
representatives  (Master  and  Wardens)  of  the  daughter  Lodges,  who  annually  elect 
the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  from  among  their  own  number,  this  is  not  the  case 
in  all  the  Grand  Lodges  of  Europe.  In  some  of  the  Grand  Lodges  of  Germany,  for 
instance,  Lodges  are  denied  the  privilege  of  direct  representation  from  among  their 
own  members.  They  are  compelled  to  nominate  their  representatives  from  the  mem- 
bers of  a  Lodge  located  at  the  seat  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  defects  of  that  system 
it  is  unnecessary  for  us  to  point  out.  If  the  reformers  had  confined  their  efforts  to 
bring  about  a  change  in  that  system  by  lawful  means,  they  would  have  had  a  plausi- 
ble pretext  for  their  movement.  But  having,  like  all  reformers,  aimed  at  the  up- 
rooting of  all  that  has  been  heretofore  held  sacred  and  inviolable,  a  total  failure  of 
their  plan3  could  have  been  foreseen.  Discovering  that  the  great  body  of  the  Fra- 
ternity in  Germany  remained  aloof,  they  have  changed  base.  Their  former  watch- 
word "  Abolition  of  Grand  Lodges  "  is  changed  to  "  Confederacy  of  Lodges,  Grand 
Lodges,  National  Grand  Lodges,  and  Universal  Grand  Lodges."  Instead  of  depriv- 
ing Grand  Lodges  of  all  power,  they  propose  to  create  a  Universal  Grand  Lodge, 
with  power  of  making  laws  to  govern  and  control  the  Masonic  Fraternity  of  the 
world.  To  speculate  upon  the  result  which  the  realization  of  this  chimerical  and 
impracticable  idea  would  produce,  we  consider  a  waste  of  time.  And  if  the  plan 
could  be  carried  into  effect,  what  position  would  this  Universal  Grand  Lodge  occupy 
in  regard  to  the  three  Prussian  Grand  Lodges  and  their  King  Protector  ?  Would  or 
could  he  or  they  submit  to  an  "  authority  "  over  them  ?  And  how  would  an  edict  of 
this  "Supreme  Grand  Lodge"  be  respected  in  France,  in  case  of  disagreements 
among  the  brethren  in  that  country,  such  as  have  occurred  within  the  last  decade, 
when  Napoleon  the  Third  forced  upon  them  as  Grand  Master  a  man  who  was  not 
then  even  a  Mason?  And  as  to  the  adoption  of  the  plan  in  this  country,  we  can 
only  predict  its  utter  failure.  The  formation  of  a  General  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  has  been  as  often  defeated  as  it  was  attempted.  Neither  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  this  country  nor  those  of  Europe  are  ready  or  willing  to  renounce  their 
independence  and  subject  themselves  to  a  superior  authority. 

Reforms  to  be  successful  should  originate  in  legal  Lodges  or  Grand  Lodges.  The 
members  of  these  bodies  are  the  most  competent  judges  of  necessary  changes. 
Whensver  attempts  for  that  purpose  were  made  outside  of  this,  they  have  invaria- 
bly resulted  in  failure.  We  need  only  point  to  the  efforts  for  Masonic  reform  in 
Germany  itself,  during  the  latter  part  of  the  last  century.  Not  only  did  these 
attempts  not  lead  to  a  closer  union  of  the  Fraternity,  but  rather  to  the  estrangement 
of  its  several  parts. 


82 

However  well-meaning  the  propositions  of  these  "  Reformers  "  may  be,  their  final 
effect  upon  our  institution  should  be  well  considered.  A  change  of  our  vital  prin- 
ciples cannot  be  made,  unless  the  whole  Fraternity  consents  thereto.  No  portion  of 
the  great  family  has  the  right  to  lay  them  aside  in  part  or  whole.  Such  a  step 
can  only  lead  to  the  downfall  of  the  institution.  New  principles  may  be  adopted, 
new  forms  set  up,  new  tendencies  followed,  but  whenever  that  takes  place,  it  will 
cease  to  be  Masonry.  Let  us  hold  firmly  to  that  which  has  been  handed  down  to 
us,  disturb  not  that  which  has  heretofore  been  and  is  now  considered  sacred.  If 
changes  of  a  local  nature  are  necessary  to  our  brethren  of  Germany,  let  them  effect 
them  in  a  legitimate  way,  but  let  them  beware  how  they  remove  the  ancient  land- 
marks. 

That  there  is  danger  threatening  Masonry  here  and  everywhere  from  the  facility 
with  which  the  profane  gain  admission,  cannot  be  denied.  Wholesale  initiations 
and  the  too  rapid  increase  of  Lodges  are  not  conducive  to  the  health  and  prosperity 
of  the  institution.  Our  numbers  should  not  be  recruited  from  those  who  are  led 
within  our  circle  by  motives  of  selfish  ambition,  social  enjoyment,  or  curiosity. 
With  the  gratification  of  their  object,  their  interest  vanishes.  The  higher  spirit  of 
Masonry  has  never  unfolded  itself  to  them,  because  they  never  sought  it.  Self-im- 
provement, a  self-sacrificing  love  for  the  brotherhood, reflection  on  the  life  hereafter, 
and  an  elevation  of  soul,  was  not  their  aim.  They  merely  sought  for  material  ad- 
vantages. Hence  the  material  that  offers  itself  for  the  building  of  our  temple 
should  be  closely  scrutinized,  and  the  standard  of  acceptance  raised.  But  the 
greatest  danger  lies  hidden  in  a  change  of  the  principles  that  underlie  our  institu  - 
tion. 

If  reforms  are  necessary,  let  them  be  directed  to  a  change  of  obsolete  usages,  to 
the  pruning  of  abuses,  to  a  careful  scanning  of  the  candidates'  moral  and  mental 
qualifications.  An  entire  change  is  neither  called  for  nor  necessary.  It  is  not  a 
principle  of  Masonry  to  force  its  spread.  Let  it  be  permitted  to  expand  itself 
naturally.  Let  us  preserve  the  liberty  of  religious  faith.  Let  us  foster  a  spirit  of 
brotherly  love  among  its  members,  a  duty  of  self-knowledge,  a  spirit  of  humility, 
the  practice  of  virtue,  and  imprint  upon  the  minds  of  its  votaries  the  necessity  of 
laboring  for  the  welfare  of  all.  If  Masonry  cannot  effect  this,  it  has  outlived  its 
object  and  utility. 

The  Vercin  now  has  about  three  hundred  members,  comparatively  a  small  number 
when  we  consider  that  it  has  existed  seven  years,  and  that  Germany  has  twenty- 
five  thousand  Masons.  It  had  selected  Elberfield  (Prussia)  as  the  place  for  its  meet- 
ing this  year.  This,  however,  we  are  now  informed,  has  been  vetoed  by  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  Prussia. 

ITALY. 

Masonry  in  Italy  seems  still  to  be  in  a  somewhat  unsettled  condition.  There  exist 
in  that  country  four  Grand  Lodges,  viz.,  at  Turin,  Milan,  Palermo,  and  Florence. 
The  Grand  Lodge  at  Florence,  the  largest  of  the  four,  has  one  hundred  and  thirty- 
nine  Lodges  under  her  jurisdiction,  which  includes  those  located  in  Turkey,  etc. ; 
that  at  Palermo  thirty-nine  Ledges,  and  the  other  two  a  small  number  only.  A  de- 
sire for  a  union  of  some  of  the  Italian  Grand  Lodges  had  manifested  itself,  to  which 
we  alluded  in  our  report  of  186G,  which,  however,  seems  to  have  been  frustrated. 
Dissensions  sprung  up,  and  publicity  was  given  to  these  animosities  in  the  papers  of 
the  day,  which  furnished  rich  materials  to  the  enemies  of  Masonry.  Not  a  voiee 
seems  to  have  been  raised  to  correct  the  wrongful  impressions  created  thereby. 

The  Bolletino  del  Grande  Oi^iente  della  Massoneria  in  Italy  contains  a  circular 
letter  of  the  first  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Bro.  Frapoli,  of  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy, 
in  which,  among  other  things,  he  says  that  the  aim  of  Masonry  is  threefold :    1.  The 


83 

study  of  nature,  and  the  peaceable  promotion  of  universal  progress.  2.  The  brother- 
hood and  solidarity  of  the  people.  3.  The  instruction  and  welfare  of  all  members 
of  the  national  family. 

The  Grand  Orient  has  entered  into  closer  relations  with  foreign  Grand  Lodges  by 
the  appointment  of  mutual  representatives.  In  a  letter  addressed  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Hamburg,  Bro.  Frapoli  says:  "In  answer  to  the  questions  which  you 
propound,  I  will  freely  state  :  1.  That  the  Lodges  affiliated  with  the  Grand  Orient  of 
Italy  are  strictly  prohibited  to  discuss  political  questions  ;  but  in  writing,  we  permit 
the  same  freedom  that  is  conceded  to  every  citizen  by  the  State.  2.  That  after  the 
late  failure  to  form  a  united  National  Grand  Lodge  by  excluding  the  irregular  ele- 
ments of  Milan  and  Naples,  we  are  of  necessity  obliged  to  guard  our  Lodges  from 
contact  with  irregular  brethren,  the  more  so  as  these  Lodges,  although  not  numerous , 
are  too  indifferent  in  regard  to  the  reception  of  material  that  offers  itself.  The 
Lodges  formed  by  speculators  or  impostors  at  Naples  and  elsewhere  we  need  not 
mention  here." 

The  following,  in  regard  to  the  Grand  Orient  at  Florence,  is  from  the  procotols  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  : 

The  Grand  Orient  of  Italy,  at  Florence,  called  together  by  Garibaldi  and  De- 
Lucca,  met  in  convention  of  all  Italian  Lodges,  on  the  24th  June,  at  Naples. 

Several  important  resolutions  were  adopted,  among  which  are  the  following :  A 
reduction  of  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  from  forty  to  twenty-four  ;  the  elec- 
tion of  a  Grand  Master  for  five  years ;  a  reformation  in  the  Ritual ;  prohibition  to  all 
daughter  Lodges  to  discuss  politics  and  church  affairs ;  and  an  interdict  to  print 
Masonic  articles  without  the  sanction  of  the  Grand  Orient. 

Bro.  Garibaldi  was  elected  Honorary  Grand  Master  for  life,  and  De  Lucca  for 
the  year  1867.  Bro.  Th.  Cordova  was  elected  Grand  Master,  and  Bro.  Ludovico 
Frapoli  First  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

The  Bolletino  Officiate  del  Gran  Consiglio,  at  Milan,  contains  the  edicts  and  also 
a  report  of  the  annual  communication  of  the  Grand  Orient  at  Naples.  At  the  an- 
nual communication  of  July  15  and  16,  1867,  at  Milan,  eight  Lodges  were  rep- 
resented. The  proposition  for  a  union  of  all  Italian  Grand  Lodges  into  one  body 
was  discussed,  but  a  union  with  the  Grand  Orient  at  Florence  and  the  Scottish 
Rite  was  declined.  Bro.  Ansonio  Franchi  was  made  honorary  presiding  officer 
for  life.  Bros.  Reineri  and  Aglebert  second  and  third  honorary  presiding  officers. 
Bro.  Guiliano  Guastalla  was  elected  presiding  officer  of  the  Grand  Council. 
Bros.  Cremona  and  Luzzati,  Deputies,  and  Samuel  Segre,  Grand  Secretary. 

A  Lodge  has  sprung  into  existence  whose  members  belong  to  different  Italian 
Lodges.  They  propose  to  remain  independent  from  all  Grand  Lodges.  Their  aim 
s  expressed  in  the  name  they  have  selected  for  themselves,  "  Propogandists  of 
Masonic  Unity."    Their  head  is  Bro.  D.  Sampieri,  33d.\ 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  NETHERLANDS. 

The  annual  assembly  of  that  Grand  Body  took  place  on  the  25th  of  November,  1866. 
The  fiftieth  Masonic  anniversary  of  the  Grand  Master,  Prince  Frederic,  of  the 
Netherlands,  was  celebrated  by  the  Grand  Lodge  with  great  splendor  on  that  day. 
Deputations  from  forty-two  Lodges  participated  therein.  To  commemorate  the 
event,  the  Grand  Master  presented  to  the  Grand  Lodge  his  rich  collection  of  Ma- 
sonic works,  manuscripts,  etc.,  formerly  the  property  of  Bro.  Kloss,  deceased. 

A  provincial  Grand  Lodge  of  South  Africa  was  instituted  at  Cape  Town.  Four 
new  Lodges  were  chartered  in  South  Africa. 

From  the  report  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  June  16, 1867,  it  appears  that  the  Grand 


84 

Master  has  appointed  Bro.  Van  Lennep  as  Deputy  Grand  Master,  in  place  of  Bro. 
Van  Rappard,  deceased. 

The  Grand  Lodge  has  affiliated  with  her  fifty  active  and  sixteen  dormant  Lodges, 
and  eighteen  of  which  no  information  has  been  received  for  some  time  past. 

From  the  decennial  report  of  Bro.  Willekes  Macdonald,  it  appears  that  during 
that  time  the  membership  in  the  Netherlands  has  increased  by  400.  In  the  Nether- 
lands, excepting  therefrom,  however,  the  colonies,  there  were  on  the  31st  March, 

1866,  1,862  Masons  ;  and  according  to  the  latest  information,  they  had  increased  to 
1,907. 

According  to  a  report  from  Alexandria,  a  Lodge  has  been  instsituted  in  the  valley 
of  the  Nile  by  the  name  of  "Abraham  Lincoln,"  working  under  a  charter  of  the 
Grand  Orient  of  Italy. 

The  Grand  Lodge  exchanged  representatives  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Lusitania 
(Portugal). 

The  Buitenland'sche  Cwrespondentie  discusses  the  allocution  of  the  Pope  very 
thoroughly,  and  winds  up  the  article  as  follows  "  If  the  question  is  asked  how  the 
allocution  was  received  in  different  countries,  the  answer  may  be  given  as  follows  : 
In  Italy  with  derision,  in  France  with  an  apology,  in  England  with  contempt,  in 
Germany  with  grief." 

GREECE. 

Whilst  we  deeply  regret  the  discontinuance  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hanover,  we 
rejoice  over  the  formation  of  a  Grand  Lodge  in  ancient  Greece.  Athens  was  here- 
tofore the  seat  of  a  Directory  under  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy,  with  the  following 
eight  Lodges  under  its  jurisdiction :  1.  Panhellenium,  at  Athens;  2.  Possidonia,  in 
Pereo ;  3.  Scufas,  at  Calcio ;  4.  Corcyros,  at  Corfu  ;  5.  Archimedes,  at  Patrasso  ; 
6.  Figli  di  Leonida,  at  Syra ;  7.  Rhigas  de  Pherreen,  at  Lamia  ;  8.  Progresso,  at 
Argos. 

The  Directory  and  Lodges  petitioned  the  Grand  Orient  of  Italy  to  assent  to  a 
severance  of  the  connection,  to  which  the  latter  gave  its  consent  on  the  7th  April, 

1867,  at  the  same  time  granting  permission  to  form  a  Grand  Lodge. 

A  constituting  assembly  of  the  Greek  Freemasons  accordingly  met  on  the  18th 
day  of  May,  and  continued  in  session  until  the  2d  of  June.  A  constitution  was 
formed,  which  is  soon  to  be  published.  Bro.  Nicholas  Damashino  was  elected  and 
installed  Deputy  Grand  Master,  to  conduct  the  affairs  of  the  Grand  Lodge  until  a 
Grand  Master  is  elected.  An  exchange  of  representatives  was  effected  with  the 
Grand  Orient  of  Italy. 

The  pleasure  with  which  we  greet  this  news  is  marred  by  occurrences  which  have 
since  taken  place  in  that  country.  A  letter  dated  June  17, 1867,  at  Patras,  brings 
the  sorrowful  news  that  on  the  16th  of  June,  after  the  close  of  divine  service,  incen- 
diary placards  against  Freemasonry,  invoking  God's  wrath  against  them,  were  dis- 
tributed among  the  people.  At  twelve  o'clock  M.  a  rabble,  numbering  two  or  three 
hundred,  attacked  the  house  of  a  quiet,  peaceable  man,  a  photographic  artist  by  oc- 
cupation, because  he  was  supposed  to  be  the  head  of  Freemasons.  Windows,  furni- 
ture, etc.,  were  smashed,  and  his  house,  with  one  adjoining,  burned  to  the  ground. 
By  the  greatest  exertions  only,  and  with  the  aid  of  faithful  friends,  the  photogra- 
pher sueceeded  in  making  his  escape  from  the  daggers  of  his  persecutors.  He  was 
hunted  for  in  every  direction,  and  would  have  undoubtedly  fallen  a  victim  to  the 
wrath  of  the  mob  had  he  not  succeeded  in  reaching  a  foreign  steamer  lying  at 
anchor  in  the  port.  Half  an  hour  after  the  occurrence,  the  police  and  armed  men 
made  their  appearance  on  the  scene  of  the  riot,  whereupon  the  mob  dispersed.  It 
was  the  intention  of  the  rabble  to  fire  the  dwelling  of  every  Freemason  in  the  place. 


85 

On  the  day  following  a  demonstration  was  made  to  raze  the  house  of  another  Free- 
mason, which,  however,  were  frustrated  by  the  timely  arrival  of  the  police.  A 
young  man  was  most  brutally  beaten  in  his  own  house,  and  another  escaped  a  simi- 
lar fate  by  presenting  a  pistol  and  threatening  to  shoot  down  the  first  man  who  at- 
tempted to  lay  hands  upon  him.  Since  then  the  foreigners  have  called  upon  their 
consuls  for  protection  for  themselves  and  their  property.  The  police  also  took  pre- 
cautionary measures,  and  peace  has  not  since  been  disturbed.  The  chief  mover  in 
this  persecution  of  Freemasons  is  said  to  be  the  son  of  a  Greek  ex-Minister  of  State, 
because  he  was  rejected  by  a  newly  constituted  Lodge  on  account  of  his  notoriously 
bad  and  immoral  character.  It  is  also  stated  that  incendiary  articles  published  in  a 
public  journal  in  Athens,  and  the  fanaticism  of  a  physician  and  a  lawyer,  contribu- 
ted to  incite  the  populace.  They  insist  that  the  Freemasons  were  in  league  with  the 
devil,  that  they  were  conspiring  to  overthrow  the  orthodox  church,  etc.  The  authori- 
ties are  said  to  have  taken  the  matter  very  coolly,  and  it  is  reported  that  an  officer 
of  high  position  has  expressed  himself  "  that  he  greatly  regretted  that  one  house 
only  was  burned  to  the  ground." 

If  scenes  like  these  had  occurred  when  Greece  was  under  the  heel  of  the  Turk,  it 
might  have  been  attributed  to  the  barbarism  of  the  people.  But  what  palliation  is 
there  for  regenerated  Greece  ?  They  are  a  disgrace  to  the  nation.  Even  the  authori- 
ties looked  on  apparently  with  complacency,  and  mob-law  was  rampant  and  su- 
preme. The  laws  of  the  land  and  of  society  are  violated  with  impunity,  and  the 
rabble  stride  through  the  streets  with  murder  and  arson  inscribed  upon  their 
banner. 

But  if  it  is  claimed  that  the  rioters  were  the  dregs  of  the  town,  what  explanation 
can  be  made  of  the  following  article  which  appeared  in  a  public  journal  of  the  day, 
and  which  reads  as  follows  : 

"  I  assume  that  the  people  of  Patras  have  burned  the  Lodge  and  killed  all  the 
Masons.  Where  is  the  law  that  condemns  him  who  has  killed  the  wolf?  Has  not 
Christ  himself  said  of  those  who  give  offense  to- their  brethren, '  that  it  would  be 
good  for  them  if  a  mill-stone  was  tied  around  their  neck,  and  they  were  drowned  in 
the  depths  of  the  sea.'  Would  they  not  have  benefited  humanity  and  performed  a 
work  of  love,  if  they  had  done  what  Christ  has  taught  ?  Such  a  work,  according  to 
Christ's  teachings,  would  have  been  wholesome  for  the  Masons  themselves,  because 
it  stops  their  bad  acts,  that  are  a  vexation  to  the  souls  of  the  brethren,  and  which 
will  be  the  more  punishable  in  the  judgment  to  come." 

Can  it  be  believed  that  the  above  is  written  in  the  present  age  of  civilization  ? 
The  auto  da  fes,  the  rack  of  the  Inquisition,  never  proclaimed  murder  and  rapine 
with  more  boldness.  But  where  such  doctrines  are  openly  and  boldly  proclaimed 
and  taught,  where  the  mob  is  permitted  to  walk  about  unpunished  and  unmolested, 
and  where  it  is  unblushingly  asserted  that  such  acts  are  not  crimes,  but  God-pleas- 
ing deeds,  and  that  it  is  a  religious  duty  to  burn  down  the  dwellings  of  their 
neighbors  who  differ  with  them  in  opinion,  where  it  is  proclaimed  that  murder 
resounds  to  the  glory  of  God  and  truth,  can  it  be  said  that  justice  exists?  Deep 
must  be  the  social  degradation  of  a  people  that  upholds  such  a  government  and 
such  doctrines.    Its  moral  sense  is  at  a  low  ebb. 

BRAZIL. 

The  Grand  Lodges  Dos  Benedictinos  and  Do  Lavradio,  at  Rio  be  Janeiro,  are  still 
occupying  their  former  antagonistic  position.  The  Grand  Lodge  Dos  Benedictinos 
has  published  a  report,  in  which  she  states  that  she  is  now  recognized  by  the  Grand 
Orient  of  France,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Lusitania  and  Hanover,  and  the  Supreme 


86 

Councils  of  New  York  and  Cuba.    She  has  thirty-five  daughter  Lodges  under  her 
jurisdiction,  of  which  seventeen  are  at  Rio  and  eighteen  in  the  provinces. 

Bro.  Joaquim  Saldenha  Morinho  is  Grand  Master  ;  Bro.  Joaquim  Joze  Ignacio  , 
Deputy  Grand  Master ;  and  Bro.  Joao  Soverino  da  Silva,  Grand  Secretary.  At  a 
festival  Lodge,  held  by  the  Grand  Lodge  on  the  16th  of  May,  1865,  the  Grand  Master 
addressed  the  brethren.  In  the  address  he  alluded  to  the  aims  which  the  Grand 
Lodge  had  set  before  itself,  among  which  is  the  abolition  of  slavery  in  Brazil ,  and 
the  education  of  the  masses. 


MISCELLANEOUS. 

In  closing  our  report  upon  European  Grand  Lodges,  we  desire  to  mention  a  part 
of  the  Masonic  family  with  which  heretofore  our  acquaintance  has  been  very 
slight.  In  Wallachia  and  Roumania,  the  country  which  lately  chose  a  new 
ruler  in  Prince  Charles,  of  the  House  of  Hohenzollern,  we  are  informed,  consider- 
able agitation  is  perceptible  among  the  members  of  Lodges  now  working  under  the 
Grand  Orient  of  France.  The  brethren  of  the  Lodges  Les  Disciples  de  Pythagore, 
at  Galatz,  and  Le  Phare  Hospitalier,  at  Braila,  are  agitating  the  question  of  severing 
their  connection  with  the  Grand  Orient  of  France,  and  forming  a  Grand  Lodge  of 
their  own,  under  the  name  of  Ghrand  Orient  de  Roumaine,  with  its  seat  at  Bucharest, 
now  the  capital  of  the  country.  The  German  brethren  at  Galatz,  said  to  number 
about  forty,  have  it  under  consideration  to  apply  for  a  charter  to  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Hamburg.  It  is,  however,  stated  that  the  German  element  is  at  present  too 
weak  to  promise  success. 

Upon  the  whole,  the  tidings  that  come  to  us  from  that  region  are  not  very  en- 
couraging. The  brethren,  as  a  body,  residing  there,  lack  the  zeal  necessary  to  pro- 
mote the  interest  of  the  institution.  The  attendance  of  the  Lodge  meetings  are 
reported  to  be  very  slim  and  the  diversity  of  opinions  prevailing  among  the  brethren 
seems  to  be  retarding  the  development  of  sociality  and  the  progress  of  Masonry. 

Some  of  the  government  officers,  particularly  in  the  telegraph  offices,  who  were 
Masons,  have  been  dismissed.  It  is,  however,  reported  that  this  is  done  without 
the  knowledge  and  against  the  wishes  of  Prince  Charles.  Let  us  hope  that 
Masonry  will  also  there  find  a  genial  soil. 

From  Egypt  the  news  comes  to  us  that  the  Lodge  Luce  d' Orient,  at  Cairo,  has 
called  a  convention  of  Lodges.  The  following  responded  to  the  call :  Les  Pyra- 
mides,  Regeneration  de  la  Grece,  Cajo  Graces,  Ecossais,  and  St.  John's,  of  Alexan- 
dria, Bulwer,  Sphynx,  Grecia  and  Luce  d'Oriente,  of  Cairo,  and  Mont  Sinai,  of 
Suez. 

The  object  of  the  convention  was  to  effect  a  closer  alliance  among  the  Lodges  of 
that  country,  and  to  advance  the  interest  of  Masonry. 

A  number  of  resolutions  were  adopted,  some  of  which,  according  to  our  ideas, 
are  foreign  to  the  spirit  of  Masonry. 

Whilst  Masonry  in  Europe,  during  the  past  year,  has  been  generally  prosperous , 
it  has  not  escaped  vituperations  and  persecutions.  Ancient  Rome,  the  metropolis 
of  a  priestly  hierachy,  sounds  the  key-note  as  usual.  Untiring  in  its  efforts  to 
bring  to  servitude  the  free  spirit  of  God-worship,  it  encompasses  the  world  with  its 
emissaries,  for  the  purpose  of  retarding  the  efforts  made  for  the  education  and  en- 
lightenment of  the  people.  But  its  days  are  numbered  ;  it  must  crumble  to  ruins. 
Not  the  Rome  with  its  palaces  and  art  treasures ;  but  Rome  the  seat  of  an  hierarchy, 
whose  success  lies  in  the  ignorance  of  the  masses.  Papal  bulls  and  anathemas  have 
lost  their  terror.  No  longer  do  they  shake  thrones,  no  longer  do  they  draw  pilgrim 
penitent  potentates  in  ashes  and  sackcloth  to  the  feet  of  the  Pope,  and  no  longer 


87 

does  he  dispense  crowns,  no  longer  make  and  unmake  emperors  and  kings.  The 
spell  is  broken  and  dispelled. 

In  Italy,  where  Masonry,  but  a  few  years  ago,  was  prohibited  under  the  severest 
penalties,  and  where  our  rites  were  practiced  in  secret,  it  has  found  a  permanent 
abiding  place,  and  the  Masonic  gavel  resounds  even  within  hearing  of  the  Vatican. 

Portugal  and  Greece  now  have  their  Grand  Lodges.  The  annexation  of  Hesse  to 
Prussia  has  opened  that  country  also  to  our  Royal  Art.  Austria,  where  from  1780 
to  1790  Masonry  enjoyed  great  prosperity,  but  where  in  1795  the  Lodges  were  closed 
by  the  Imperial  Government,  is  now  compelled  to  make  concessions  to  its  people. 
It  has  already  enacted  laws  regulating  the  rights  of  associations  and  the  assembling 
of  societies,  and  the  day  is  not  remote  when  that  country  will  again  see  prosperous 
Lodges  within  its  boundaries.  Already  the  organ  of  the  Archbishop  of  Vienna  ex- 
presses the  fear  that  the  radicals  of  that  city  are  determined  to  establish  Masonic 
Lodges. 

Russia  and  Spain  cannot  much  longer  remain  so  far  in  the  rear  of  progressing  en- 
lightenment. And  although  the  Belgian  Senator  Baron  Della  Failla,  the  presid- 
ing officer  of  a  Catholic  Congress  that  met  at  Mechlen,  proclaims  in  his  harangue  to 
that  body,  "  that  they  are  the  sons  of  the  crusaders,  they  also  must  undertake  a 
crusade  against  the  damned  unbelievers,"  comparing  the  Freemasons  to  the  Moham- 
medans and  Masonry  to  the  Islam,  thereby  showing  that  the  old  hatred  is  still  rank- 
ling in  the  bosom  of  some,  who  should  rise  above  it  by  means  of  their  education  ;  it 
is,  on  the  other  hand,  not  without  interest  to  know  that,  under  the  Prussian  Govern- 
ment, slanders  against  Freemasonry  will  no  longer  go  unpunished.  For  we  are  in- 
formed that  the  rector  of  a  Catholic  Church  at  Cologne  was  condemned,  by  the  Cor- 
rectional Court,  to  pay  a  fine  of  25  thalers  and  to  imprisonment  for  ten  days,  for  an 
article  insulting  to  Masonic  Lodges,  which  he  published  in  his  paper,  and  for  spread- 
ing falsehoods  that  would  expose  them  to  the  hatred  and  contempt  ©f  the  public. 

The  prophet  says  :  "Watchman,  what  of  the  night?  "  The  Watchman  replies  : 
"It  is  still  night,  but  the  morning  is  dawning."  And  the  morning  is  dawning  for 
Masonry  in  those  countries. 

IN   CONCLUSION 

W-5  have  but  a  word  to  add,  and  that  is  to  say,  that  we  have  endeavored  with  an 
impartial  hand  and  in  the  spirit  of  fraternal  love  to  give  such  a  sketch  of  the  trans- 
actions of  our  great  Brotherhood  as  may  fairly  represent  its  status  at  the  time  of  re- 
view. While  it  is  impossible,  within  any  reasonable  limit,  to  reproduce  all  the  good 
things  that  have  passed  under  our  notice  in  the  thousands  of  pages  before  us,  it  has 
been  a  matter  of  no  small  difficulty  to  keep  our  report  within  its  present  bounds,  and 
yet  do  moderate  jnstice  to  our  cotemporaries.  That  the  brethren  of  our  jurisdiction 
will  read  it,  we  have  a  right  in  their  interest  to  ask.  That  the  same  prosperity  which 
has  thus  far  attended  the  doings  of  the  Craft  may  be  continued,  and  that  it  may  be 
given  to  us  all,  humbly  acknowledging  the  Source  of  the  many  blessings  vouchsafed 
us,  wisely  to  profit  by  our  opportunities,  we  earnestly  pray. 


JOHN  L.  LEWIS, 
JOHN  W.  SIMONS,  ] 
M.  PINNER. 


'} 


88 
NORTH    CAROLINA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  commenced  its  eighty-second  annual  commu- 
nication, at  Raleigh,  December  7th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
One  hundred  and  seventy-one  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  R.  W.  Best,  Grand  Master,  has  no  mercy  for 
the  drones  and  parasites,  which  he  says  got  into  the  Lodges 
during  the  war.  He  says,  "  We  repeat,  cut  them  off,  for  they  are 
as  much  out  of  place  in  a  Masonic  Lodge,  as  a  viper  in  a  nursery." 
He  was  much  exercised  about  the  work,  fearing  that  Bro.  Stev- 
enson, the  Grand  Lecturer,  had  lost  the  true,  simon-pure  "  Stev- 
enson work "  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  So  he  called  a  convention, 
convinced  the  aged  brother  of  his  errors,  and  established  what 
some  brother  called  the  "  best  work,"  and  was  at  rest.  He  had 
decided  that  a  candidate  could  be  stopped  till  the  degree  was  con- 
ferred, and  that  the  objecting  brother  need  not  give  his  reasons. 
He  recommended  omitting  printing  the  names  of  all  the  brethren 
with  the  proceedings,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  thought  differently, 
so  we  have  one  hundred  and  forty-eight  pages  of  them.  He 
reports  having  granted  sixteen  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He 
also  recommends  a  Masonic  Congress  of  all  Grand  Lodges  in 
America,  to  settle  the  work,  which  he  thinks  needs  settling  as 
much  now  as  it  did  in  1843.  Does  our  brother  suppose,  we 
wonder,  that  all  other  Grand  Lodges,  like  North  Carolina,  believe 
in  the  Baltimore  work  ? 

On  the  recommendation  of  a  committee  who  had  applied  to  all 
the  Grand  Lodges  for  copies  of  any  written  work  which  might  be 
permitted  in  their  respective  jurisdictions,  but  had  been  able  to 
hear  of  none  but  a  proposal  to  have  one  in  Rhode  Island,  appar- 
ently not  yet  carried  out,  the  following  was  adopted : 

"  Resolved,  That  the  making  or  using  of  any  letter  or  cypher  to  the  true  Masonic 
work  and  mysteries,  is  not  authorized  by  the  ancient  customs  of  the  order,  is  con- 
trary to  its  principles  and  teachings  and  cannot,  therefore,  be  sanctioned  by  this 
Grand  Lodge. 

Resolved,  That  the  true  Masonic  mysteries  should  be  taught  and  handed  down  by 
oral  teaching  alone,  as  has  been  done  from  remote  ages,  and  that  any  departure 
from  this  principle  is  fraught  with  danger  to  the  institution." 

The  experience  of  the  committee  in  search  of  such  light  to  the 
contrary  notwithstanding,  we  believe  no  Grand  Lodge  exists, 
which   works    any   modification   of    the    Preston-Webb  or   the 


89 

Hemming  work  and  lectures,  in  which  some  such  work,  in  writing 
or  print,  cannot  be  found,  and  is  not  relied  upon;  the  truth 
being,  no  human  memory  can  be  relied  upon  to  retain  and  per- 
petuate so  much  of  verbal  accuracy  as  either  of  these  systems 
demands.  Twelve  charters  were  granted,  and  three  Lodges  con- 
tinued under  dispensation.  The  committee  to  whom  was  referred 
the  Grand  Master's  proposal  for  a  National  Congress  on  the  work, 
reported  in  favor,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  determined  that  it  was 
inexpedient. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  from  the  pen  of  Bro.  Robert 
B.  Vance,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  forty-three  domestic 
and  three  foreign  Grand  Bodies.  G.\  M.\  Williams,  of  Ala- 
bama, had  decided  that  when  the  W.  Master  prefers  charges,  he 
should  not  preside  at  the  trial,  and  that  the  Senior  Warden  should 
preside  although  the  W.  Master  be  present.  Bro.  Vance  does 
not  concur,  holding,  as  we  think  correctly,  that  in  the  presence 
of  the  W.  Master,  no  one  can  take  the  East  from*  him  but  the 
Grand  Master  or  his  Deputy.  He  also  holds  that  the  W.  Master, 
in  the  case  supposed,  may  preside,  which  we  doubt.  The  W. 
Master  should  not  prefer  charges,  for  it  places  him  in  inconsistent 
positions.  If  he  feels  compelled  to  do  so,  the  Grand  Master 
should  be  requested  to  preside  himself  or  by  Deputy.  Bro. 
Vance  is  one  of  the  last  who  alludes  to  the  political  situation  in 
the  late  war,  and  not  without  some  bitterness,  which,  however  we 
might  have  looked  for  it  a  few  years  ago,  is  now  inexcusable.  He 
seems  quite  pleased  with  the  report  of  Bro.  Barry,  of  Georgia, 
from  which  we  quoted  in  a  former  report.  In  two  instances,  our 
North  Carolina  brethren  have  gone  off  at  half-cock :  in  charging 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York  with  instituting  negro  Lodges, 
and  in  charging  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  with  the  improper 
conduct  of  two  Lodges  at  Halifax,  then  working  under  Scotch 
charters.  We  should  have  been  glad  if,  when  they  had  learned 
their  error,  they  had  more  frankly  admitted  it.  In  the  first 
instance,  without  any  apology  for  the  wrong  done  New  York — a 
wrong  which  very  slight  knowledge  of  current  Masonic  intelli- 
gence should  have  prevented — they  shift  their  complaint  to  the 
charge,  that  New  York  should  have  told  them  of  the  existence  of 
the  clandestine  negro  Lodges ;  the  puerility  of  which  is  apparent. 
The  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  having  courteously  examined 
into  the  complaint  made  to  it,  and  shown  that  in  this  matter,  at 


90 

least,  it  had  done  no  wrong,  our  North  Carolina  brethren,  instead 
of  making  an  apology  for  the  charge,  complain  of  the  Colonial 
Board  of  England,  because  it  takes  the  occasion  to  reiterate  the 
views  of  that  Grand  Lodge  on  the  subject  of  jurisdiction  —  views 
universally  condemned  on  this  continent,  but  generally  acted  upon 
in  Europe. 

NOVA     SCOTIA. 

From  this  Grand  Lodge  we  have  proceedings  of  several  quar- 
terly communications,  and  the  annual  communication,  at  Halifax, 
June  24th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  September  13th,  A.  L.  5867, 
eight  Lodges  were  represented.  The  only  matter  of  interest  was 
the  passage  of  a  resolution  that  a  Fellow  Craft,  who  by  sickness 
had  been  deprived  of  the  full  use  of  his  limbs,  might  be  raised  to 
the  third  degree . 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  December  13th,  A.  L.  5867, 
eleven  Lodges  were  represented.  At  this  communication,  G.\ 
M.*.  Davis  recommended  that  the  Grand  Lodge  should  fix  a  time, 
within  which  all  Lodges  in  the  Province  should  unite  with  it  or  be 
declared  clandestine.  The  committee  on  the  Grand  Master's 
address,  while  concurring  generally  in  his  views,  recommended 
that  action  be  deferred  until  the  next  communication.  A  charter 
was  granted  to  Scotia  Lodge,  before  on  the  registry  of  Scotland. 
The  Grand  Master,  from  impaired  health,  was  compelled  to  leave 
the  Province,  whereupon  an  address  and  a  piece  of  plate  were 
presented,  in  token  of  the  appreciation  of  the  brethren  of  his 
labors  in  behalf  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  which  he  made  a  suitable 
reply. 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  March  15th,  A.  L.  5868, 
eleven  Lodges  were  represented.  The  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
R.\  W.\  S.  R.  Sircom,  reported  that  he  had  granted  three  dis- 
pensations for  Lodges,  one  of  which  was  to  a  Lodge  formerly 
under  Scottish  jurisdiction;  to  all  of  which  charters  were  granted. 

An  emergent  communication  was  held  May  15th,  A.  L.  5868, 
at  which  nine  Lodges  were  represented.  The  Deputy  Grand 
Master  stated  the  object  to  be,  to  appoint  a  committee  to  confer 
with  one  appointed  by  the  District  Grand  Lodge  under  English 
authority ;  which  committee  was  appointed. 


91 

At  the  quarterly  communication,  June  12th,  A.  L.  5868,  twelve 
Lodges  were  represented.  The  Deputy  Grand  Master  reported 
having  issued  a  dispensation  for  Acacia  Lodge,  formerly  under  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  England.  The  committee  appointed  to  confer 
with  District  Grand  Lodge  reported  that  the  English  Lodges  pro- 
posed the  following : 

"  The  committee  from  the  District  Grand  Lodge  propose  to  the  committee  from 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nova  Scotia,  that  a  convention  of  all  the  Masonic  bodies  as 
Lodges  in  the  Province,  be  called  at  some  convenient  place  for  the  purpose  of  form- 
ing a  United  Grand  Lodge,  under  one  head,  to  be  called  the  United  Grand  Lodge  of 
Nova  Scotia.  That  at  said  convention  all  superiority  be  left  aside,  and  that  the 
parties  there  present,  form  themselves  into  a  Grand  Lodge,  and  there  make  choice 
of  Grand  Lodge  officers,  issue  warrants,  &c." 

To  which  they  made  the  following  counter  proposition : 

"  In  order  to  a  thorough  consolidation  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nova  Scotia,  the 
Grand  Lodge  are  desirous  to  accomplish  the  same,  and  the  committee  of  the  said 
Grand  Lodge  propose  that  the  Lodges  under  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  be  wel- 
comed into  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nova  Scotia,  should  an  application  be  made,  either 
through  the  Secretary  of  the  District  Grand  Lodge,  or  directly  by  the  Lodges  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Nova  Scotia.  That  then  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Nova  Scotia  issue 
such  authority  to  said  Lodges  as  will  entitle  them  to  all  their  Lodge  rights,  such  as 
their  funds,  the  position  of  their  Past  Masters,  and  other  matters,  and  full  repre- 
sentation in  Grand  Lodge  under  the  constitution. 

That  charters  be  granted  to  said  Lodges  at  or  after  the  quarterly  meeting  in  Sep- 
tember, and  at  such  meeting  the  roll  of  said  Grand  Lodge  be  revised,  and  the 
Lodges  shall  be  numbered  and  placed  on  the  roll  according  to  the  seniority  of  such 
Lodges,  by  satisfactory  proof  of  the  date  of  the  original  organization  of  the  several 
Lodges  on  the  list  at  such  period." 

The  following  resolution  was  adopted : 

"  That  should  an  application  be  received  from  any  Lodge  under  English  jurisdic- 
tion for  a  warrant,  during  recess  of  Grand  Lodge,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  be  em- 
powered to  grant  a  working  warrant  upon  receipt  of  the  application,  and  that  the 
confirmation  of  the  same  be  made  the  first  business  of  the  annual  communication, 
and  that  said  Lodge  be  entitled,  at  said  communication,  to  a  full  representation." 

A  charter  was  granted  to  Acacia  Lodge. 

At  the  annual  communication,  thirteen  Lodges  were  represented. 
The  Deputy  Grand  Master  reported  having  granted  a  dispensa- 
tion for  a  Lodge  at  Barrington ;  that  he  had  attempted  a  corres- 
pondence with  the  Grand  Master  of  Scotland,  but  no  action  YiM 
been  taken  by  that  Grand  Lodge  because  of  the  absence  of  the 
Grand  Master,  who,  through  indisposition,  had  been  compelled  to 
retire  to  the  south  of  France.      He  refers  to  the   report  of  the 


92 


committee  of  conference,  for  the  progress  of  matters  in  the 
Province. 

The  Grand  Secretary  reports  a  long  circular  which  he  had  sent 
to  all  Lodges  in  the  Province,  giving  the  circumstances  attending 
the  formation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  the  negotiations  with  the 
English  District  Grand  Lodge,  with  their  failure,  and  urging  all 
the  Lodges  not  already  affiliated  with  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  do  so. 
Notice  was  given  by  a  brother  that,  at  the  next  communication, 
he  should  move  that  all  Lodges  in  the  Province  not  uniting  with 
the  Grand  Lodge  should  be  declared  clandestine.  The  new  Grand 
Officers  were  installed  by  M.\  W.\  Hiram  Chase,  Past  Grand 
Master,  of  Maine.  The  difficulties  under  which  this  Grand  Lodge 
has  labored,  prove  the  necessity  of  the  law,  which  should  be  ad- 
hered to,  that  all  the  Lodges  within  the  political  division  in  which 
it  is  proposed  to  establish  a  new  Grand  Lodge,  should  be  invited, 
and  that  at  least  a  majority  of  them,  not  less  than  three,  should 
unite  in  its  formation.  We  deem  it  probable  the  Grand  Lodge 
will  be  able  to  sustain  itself,  and  finally  obtain  exclusive  jurisdic- 
tion in  the  Province,  but  if  they  had  acted  with  the  discretion  and 
good  judgment  of  their  neighbors  in  New  Brunswick,  the  craft 
would  have  been  spared  a  too  scandalous  struggle  for  authority, 
the  influence  of  which  can  hardly  be  other  than  injurious  to  the 
institution. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  Bro.  William 
Taylor,  and  notices  the  proceedings  of  twenty-eight  Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.     He  commences  by  saying: 

"  We  deem  this  department  highly  requisite.  This  is  about  the  only  way  that  our 
Lodges  can  obtain  a  general  idea  of  what  takes  place  in  the  Masonic  world,  and 
how  very  many  important  points  that  we  are  in  doubt  and  uncertainty  about,  are 
disposed  of  in  older  and  more  experienced  jurisdictions.  Your  committee  have 
carefully  kept  this  object  in  view  in  their  extracts.  We  have  refrained  from  any 
criticisms  of  our  own,  wishing  rather  to  learn  well  and  truly  the  workings  of  our 
venerable  institution  themselves,  and  having  our  brethren  of  the  jurisdiction  en- 
lightened by  the  opinions  and  decisions  of  those  who  have  labored  long  to  good 
effect  in  placing  the  order  in  so  efficient  and  honorable  position  as  it  now  occupies." 

What  the  committee  propose  to  themselves,  they  appear  to 
trave  done  well,  but  we  deem  something  more  than  this  the  duty 
of  committees  of  correspondence. 


93 

OHIO. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  fifty- ninth  annual  communication  at 
Dayton,  October  20th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Two  hundred 
and  sixty-five  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Howard  Mathews,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  twenty  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  seems 
to  doubt  the  necessity  of  so  many  new  Lodges,  but  considered 
himself  bound  to  grant  the  dispensation  if  the  necessary  forms 
had  been  gone  through,  and  the  proper  papers  presented.  This, 
if  the  correct  view  of  his  power  and  duty  under  the  laws  of  his 
Grand  Lodge,  shows  a  most  unsound  condition  of  things.  The 
Grand  Lodge  should  at  once  place  a  share  of  the  responsibility 
upon  the  Grand  Master  by  placing  the  final  granting  of  dispensa- 
tions at  his  discretion.  He  reports  that  in  one  Lodge,  a  brother 
having  presented  a  written  protest  against  the  advancement  of 
two  Entered  Apprentices,  the  Lodge  ordered  it  to  be  laid  "  under 
the  table,"  which  coming  to  his  ears,  he  had  arrested  the  charter 
of  the  Lodge,  and  he  recommended  it  should  be  declared 
forfeited.  He  refers  to  a  growing  disposition  to  cultivate 
androgynous  degrees,  notwithstanding  an  edict  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  prohibiting  side  degrees.  He  recommends  that  Lodges 
be  allowed  to  create  emeritus  members  of  those  who,  by 
age  or  infirmity  are  no  longer  able  to  participate  in  all  the  active 
work  of  the  Lodge ;  honorary  membership  to  be  conferred  on 
those  who  have  rendered  valuable  service  to  the  craft ;  not  active 
members  of  the  Lodge  conferring  it. 

The  proposal  to  amend  the  constitution,  by  confining  the  repre- 
sentation of  the  Lodges  to  the  W.  Masters,  having  failed  to 
obtain  the  necessary  majority  of  the  Lodges,  was  ordered  to  be 
again  submitted.  Twenty-six  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to 
new  Lodges,  and  two  dispensations  were  granted.  A  proposition 
was  made,  from  a  committee  appointed  the  year  before,  to  provide 
a  mode  of  commutation  of  dues,  which  was  referred  to  the  com- 
mittee on  by-laws,  to  report  next  year.  Adoptive  side  degrees 
were  expressly  forbidden,  and  Lodges  forbidden  to  allow  their 
halls  to  be  used  to  confer  them.  The  arrest  of  the  charter  of  the 
Lodge  that  threw  a  brother's  protest  under  the  table,  was  ap- 
proved, and  the  Grand  Master  authorized  in  his  discretion  to 
restore  it.  • 


94 

The  report  on  correspondence,  from  the  pen  of  Bro.  Wm.  M. 
Cunningham,  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-two  Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.  He  has  something  to  say 
about  the  Great  Falls'  books. 


OREGON. 

This  Grand  Lodge  held  its  eighteenth  annual  communication  at 
Portland,  June  22d,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Twenty-six  Lodges 
were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Avery  A.  Smith,  Grand  Master,  thus  admon- 
ishes his  brethren  : 

"I  would,  however,  admonish  my  brethren  that  we  as  Masons  have  other  and 
higher  duties  to  perform  than  the  transaction  of  the  simple  business  of  the  Lodge 
and  learning  scanty  portions  of  our  ritual ;  that  we  are  not  Masons  simply  because 
we  have  been  regularly  initiated,  passed  and  raised  in  a  just  and  legally  constituted 
Lodge  of  such.  We  can  only  become  such  by  learning  to  subdue  our  passions,  act- 
ing upon  the  square,  keeping  a  tongue  of  good  report,  practicing  charity  and  con- 
forming to  all  the  excellent  rules  and  requirements  Masonry  inculcates." 

He  reports  having  granted  four  dispensations  for  new  Lodges. 
He  had  decided : 

"  A  brother  must  have  sat  in  open  Lodge  with  another  within  one  year,  before  he 
can  properly  vouch  for  him  ;  otherwise  he  should  be  examined." 

We  can  see  no  reason  for  the  limit,  and  the  committee  on  juris- 
prudence, to  whom  it  was  referred,  say  they  "  know  of  no 
Masonic  law  to  sustain  it,  although"  they  "consider  it  a  safe 
rule."  He  had  also  decided  that  an  unfavorable  report  did  not 
reject  a  candidate,  but  a  ballot  must  be  had.  The  committee  on 
jurisprudence,  on  the  authority  of  Mackey,  reported  against  this, 
and  the  Grand  Lodge  ordered  it  stricken  out.  The  general  con- 
sent of  Grand  Lodges  had  settled  this  question  against  Bro. 
Mackey,  very  illogically,  as  it  seems  to  us,  but  when  anything  is 
settled,  we  prefer  to  have  it  stay  settled. 

Four  charters  were  granted  to  new  Lodges,  and  a  charter  re- 
stored which  had  been  surrendered,  as  the  committee  say,  to : 

"  Establish  the  precedent  that  the  Grand  Lodge  is  but  the  custodian  of  the  char- 
ter of  a  subordinate  Lodge,  and  the  same  can  be  returned  at  any  time  when  the 
disability  under  which  it  was  surrendered  no  longer  exists,  subject  at  all  times  to 
the  decision  of  the  Grand  Lodge."  m 


95 

The   report   on   correspondence   was   prepared  by  Bro.   S.  F. 
Chadwick,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-eight   Grand 
Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire.     He  takes  exception  to  our 
regulation  requiring  a  rejected  applicant  for  membership  to  wait 
a  year  before  making  a  new  application.     We  understand  him  to 
admit   the  rule  to  be  proper  as  to  petitions  for  initiation,  but 
thinks  the  Master  Mason  should  be  at  liberty  to  apply  as  often  as 
he   pleases.     We   admit  that  the  Master  Mason  has  rights  far 
superior  to  the  profane,  but  not  that  one  of  those  rights  is  that  of 
membership  in  any  particular  Lodge,  until  he   shall  have  been 
received  by  the  members  thereof,  while  we  think, —  and  upon  that 
our  regulation  is  based, — that  the  harmony  of  the  Lodge  is  best 
promoted  by  requiring  him,  in  case  of  rejection,  to  wait  till  the 
feelings  which  are  apt  on  such  occasions  to  arise,  have  had  time 
to  fade  away ;  and  also  because  when  the  application  is  immedi- 
ately renewed  it  is  apt  to  give  rise  to  canvassing,  on  the  part  of 
friends,  to  secure  his  election,  which  almost  necessarily  leads  to 
trouble.     Our  law  does  not  proceed,  as  Bro.  Chadwick  seems  to 
suppose,  upon  any  idea  that  the  brother  is  unworthy,  but  upon 
the    entirely   different   one    of    preserving   the   harmony   of   the 
Lodge,  nor  do  we  conceive  that  any  wrong  is  done  the  brother, 
who,  we  are  confident,  is  more  frequently  the  one  chiefly  benefited 
by  the  regulation.     Much  of  the  brother's  reasoning  seems  to  us 
based   on   the   new-fangled    California  notion,  that  non- affiliates, 
although  their  position  as  such  is  against  their  will,  are,  without 
trial   and  without  guilt,   to   be   indefinitely  suspended.     As  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  New  Hampshire  has  not  yet  adopted  this  new 
notion,  and  probably  never  will,  the  wrong  our  brother  anticipates 
in  that  way  is  not  likely  to  occur. 


PENNSYLVANIA. 

From  this  Grand  Lodge,  we  have  an  abstract  of  proceedings 
for  the  year  5868. 

A  quarterly  communication  was  held  at  Philadelphia,  December 
2d,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868,  at  which  one  hundred  and  thirty 
Lodges  were  represented. 

The  committee  of  finance  reported  the  Grand  Lodge  charity 
fund  to  amount  to  855,322.39,  and  the  Girard  trust  to  $52,035.64. 
12 


96 

They  also  report  the  whole  amount  expended  on  the  new  temple 
to  be  $209,344.77. 

The  annual  communication  was  held  at  Philadelphia,  December 
28th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  The  "abstract"  does  not  show 
that  any  Lodges  were  represented.  We  formerly  saw  remarks 
upon  the  unnecessary  number  of  Grand  Chaplains  our  Grand 
Masters  had  appointed,  but  G.\  M.\  Vatjx  has  gone  farther  in 
that  direction  than  ever  was  done  here ;  he  appointed  and  in- 
stalled no  less  than  fifteen. 

The  R.\  W.\  Richard  Vatjx,  Grand  Master,  in  his  address, 
congratulates  his  brethren  that  they  are  so  well  contented  with 
their  isolation  in  the  matter  of  work,  that  used  in  that  State  being 
different  from  that  in  use  in  any  other  part  of  the  world.     He 


"  The  attachment  to  Pennsylvania  work  has  been  revived  ;  its  simple  but  impres- 
sive ceremonies  are  viewed  and  understood  as  the  true  symbolization  of  those  great 
truths  and  eternal  principles  of  Freemasonry  which  exist  in  their  grandeur  and 
beauty  when  freed  from  all  extrinsic  and  mere  ostentatious  clothing,  intended  too 
often  as  attractive  for  those  who  are  never  Masons,  though  members  of  the  craft. 
The  esoteric  mysteries  which  Freemasonry  holds  enfolded  within  its  sealed  and  se- 
cured enclosures,  can  only  be  comprehended  by  their  own  light.  Their  perpetuity 
in  their  original  character  can  only  be  maintained  by  the  most  unyielding  opposi- 
tion to  every  innovation.  If  the  mind  and  heart  of  a  brother  need  modern  novelties 
to  clothe  these  mysteries  with  that  which  is  an  innovation,  to  be  more  comprehensi- 
ble or  commanding,  he  has  mistaken  an  ignis  fatuus  for  Masonic  light,  and  great 
will  become  his  blindness." 

He  repeats  his  request  of  last  year,  that  Pennsylvania  brethren 
be  not  too  strictly  examined ;  but  if  our  brethren  there  insist  upon 
having  a  work  different  from  everybody  else,  we  can  see  no  in- 
justice in  requiring  them  to  learn  at  least  so  much  of  what  all 
other  Masons  deem  desirable,  if  not  essential,  as  shall  enable 
them  to  prove  themselves  to  us.  He  truly  says,  the  danger 
to  Masonry  now  is  from  within,  not  from  without.  He  reports 
having  constituted  thirty-one  new  Lodges  the  past  year.  He 
argues  that  committees  of  investigation  should  report  unani- 
mously ;  such  is  not  our  practice,  nor  do  we  see  any  good  reason 
for  it.  A  large  part  of  the  pamphlet  is  taken  up  with  the  cere- 
monies and  address  at  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone  of  the  new 
temple,  June  24th. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  Bro.  J.  R. 
Fisher,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-five  domestic  and 


97 

four  foreign  Grand  Bodies.  The  committee  and  the  Grand  Master 
make  great  point  of  what  they  call  the  Pennsylvania  doctrine, 
that  each  Grand  Lodge  is  absolutely  supreme  in  its  own  jurisdic- 
tion. Hence,  the  committee  decline  to  criticise  the  action  of 
their  neighbors,  which  seems  to  us  a  perfect  non  sequitur;  for, 
admitting  the  supremacy  and  independence  of  each  Grand  Lodge, 
friendly  and  kindly  criticism  is  in  no  way  inconsistent  therewith, 
and  furnishes  the  most  ready,  if  not  the  only,  method  of  securing 
that  degree  of  uniformity  which  is  essential,  if  we  would  have  our 
institution  the  same  in  substance  in  each  jurisdiction,  —  differ- 
ences in  details  there  will  always  be.  They  do,  however,  give  us 
the  benefit  of  their  disapproval  of  our  action  in  the  Great  Falls' 
matter.     Of  Nova  Scotia  and  West  Virginia,  the  committee  say : 


"  The  rule  adopted  with  such  general  approval  of  its  Masonic  justice,  and  indeed 
as  Masonic  law  in  regard  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Canada,  must  govern  in  both  these 
cases.  That  rule  strictly  stated  is  this  :  A  Grand  Lodge,  to  be  so  considered,  must 
be  the  only  supreme,  sovereign  Masonic  authority  within  its  boundaries.  In  both 
Nova  Scotia  and  West  Virginia,  there  is  a  conflict  of  Masonic  authority  as  to  this 
very  question." 


That  is,  there  was  no  Grand  Lodge  (legal  one,  we  suppose  is 
meant)  in  England  from  1735  to  1813 ;  in  Massachusetts,  till  the 
union  in  1792;  there  is  now  none  in  Prussia,  Italy,  Brazil,  and, 
we  believe,  some  other  countries  where  two  Grand  Lodges  ami- 
cably divide  the  jurisdiction.  And  how  about  Pennsylvania  her- 
self? There  are,  as  it  is  reported,  two  other  Grand  Lodges 
claiming  to  be  Masonic,  in  that  State.  Would  the  legitimate 
Grand  Lodge  there  be  entirely  satisfied  if  her  sister  Grand  Lodges 
should  refuse  her  recognition,  because  of  these  spurious  and  clan- 
destine bodies.  Until  recently,  both  Virginia  and  West  Virginia 
claimed  that  the  jurisdiction  there  belonged  to  themselves,  each 
to  the  exclusion  of  the  other ;  and  because  of  the  dispute,  Penn- 
sylvania would  not  decide.  Would  she  like  her  own  doctrine 
applied  to  herself?  The  committee  disapprove  of  the  incorpora- 
tion of  Lodges.  They  hold  the  correct  doctrine  on  the  subject  of 
maims.  They  approve  the  system  of  Grand  Lodge  representa- 
tives, the  utility  of  which  has  not  been  apparent  to  us,  it  seeming 
to  be  chiefly  a  way  of  multiplying  high-sounding  titles  to  some  of 
our  brethren  who  have  a  taste  that  way. 


98 

The  almoners  of  the  Grand  Lodge  charity  report  having  dis- 
tributed $2,675  to  one  hundred  and  fifty-three  applicants,  from 
ten  States  and  one  foreign  country;  and  the  stewards  of  the 
Girard  trust,  that  they  had  distributed  $2,784.50  to  one  hundred 
and  six  brethren  from  fifteen  States  and  nine  foreign  countries. 


RHODE    ISLAND. 

We  have  the  proceedings  of  this  Grand  Lodge  for  the  year 
ending  May  18th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 

At  the  semi-annual  communication  held  at  Providence,  Novem- 
ber 13th,  sixteen  chartered  Lodges  and  two  under  dispensation 
were  represented.     The  proceedings  were  entirely  local. 

At  the  annual  communication,  held  at  Providence,  May  18th, 
twenty  Lodges  were  represented,  with  two  under  dispensation. 

A  committee,  appointed  to  investigate  the  case  of  Bro.  Over- 
ton G.  Langley,  who,  it  was  alleged,  was  improperly  made  a 
Mason  in  a  Lodge  in  the  District  of  Columbia,  while  a  resident  of 
Newport,  R.  I.,  reported,  that  at  the  time  Bro.  Langley  was  an 
actual  resident  of  Washington  and  not  of  Newport,  and : 

"  That  Centennial  Lodge  has  acted  in  the  case  in  all  particulars  in  accordance 
with  Masonic  usage. 

The  M.\  W.\  Thomas  A.  Doyle,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  two  dispensations  for  two  new  Lodges,  and  one  permit- 
ting Pawcatuck  Lodge,  No.  90,  on  the  registry  of  Connecticut, 
to  hold  its  meetings  in  the  village  of  Westerly,  but  without  juris- 
diction in  Rhode  Island ;  Pawcatuck,  Connecticut,  and  Westerly, 
Rhode  Island  being  in  truth  one  village,  and  the  hall  jointly  fitted 
up  by  Pawcatuck  Lodge,  Connecticut,  and  Franklin  Lodge,  Rhode 
Island,  on  the  Connecticut  side  of  the  river,  and  which  was  to 
have  been  occupied  by  the  two  Lodges,  by  consent  of  the  two 
Grand  Lodges  concerned,  having  been  burned.  The  Grand 
Master  also  reports  that  he  had,  upon  complaint  in  due  form,  and 
after  trial  by  a  committee,  deposed  and  suspended  the  Master  of 
one  of  the  Lodges,  which  action  was  confirmed  at  nie  semi-annual 
communication.  Charters  were  granted  to  the  two  Lodges  work- 
ing under  dispensation. 

There  was  no  report  on  correspondence. 


t 
99 

SOUTH      CAROLINA. 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held  at 
Charleston,  November  17,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred 
and  six  Lodges  were  represented. 

In  the  absence  of  the  Grand  Master,  we  learn  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  was  opened  in  ample  (?)  form  by  the  Deputy  Grand  Master. 
How  is  that  Bro.  Bhuns  ? 

The  committee  on  grievances  reported,  that  the  accuser  should 
have  no  right  of  appeal,  which  was  sustained  by4 the  Grand  Lodge. 
This  ruling  was  supported  by  reference  to  the  civil  law,  which  fails 
to  satisfy  us;  the  object  of  Masonic  trial  is  to  elicit  the  truth,  and 
if  it  is  hidden  by  any  mistake  or  false  action  of  the  particular 
Lodge,  it  should  be  corrected,  no  matter  by  whom  it  is  brought  to 
the  notice  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  We  cannot  see  but  that  Lodges 
are  as  likely  to  err  in  acquitting  as  in  convicting  the  accused. 
The  civil  law  is  based  upon  other  considerations,  which  have  no 
weight  in  a  Masonic  Lodge.  The  Grand  Lodge,  on  report  of  a 
committee  appointed  the  year  before,  declared  lotteries  a  violation 
of  the  great  principles  of  the  order.  Twelve  charters  were 
ordered  to  issue  to  new  Lodges.  The  Grand  Lodge  also  adopted 
a  report  in  favor  of  "Masonic  Mutual  Life  Insurance  Companies, 
whose  object  is  to  insure  the  lives  of  Master  Masons  of  good 
standing  in  their  respective  Lodges,  without  respect  to  age,  &c." 
We  fear  evil  from  the  introduction  of  this  project,  which  seems  to 
have  become  general  in  the  southern  states. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  prepared  by  the  Grand  Sec- 
retary, Bro.  R.  S.  Bkuns,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  twenty- 
three  Grand  Lodges,  including  ours.  Bro.  Beuns  stands  almost 
if  not  quite  alone  in  his  approval  of  the  temper  of  some  parts  of 
the  report  on  foreign  correspondence  of  Bro.  Barky,  of  Georgia, 
from  which  we  quoted  in  a  former  report;  probably  even  he  will 
soon  be  ashamed  of  it.  Apropos  to  the  celebration  of  St.  John's 
day,  Bro.  Brtjns  says : 

"  The  Grand  Master  suggests  that  this  festival  be  abandoned  altogether,  and  I  ap- 
prove of  the  suggestion.  In  fact,  the  time  is  not  far  off  when  Masonry  will  need  to 
abandon  St.  John  himself  altogether ;  for  what  is  the  necessary  connection  between 
himself  and  Masonry  ?  It  is  not  easy  to  discover.  Masonry  may,  indeed,  recognize 
great  and  good  men,  patriots,  patriarchs  and  prophets,  as  excellent  models  for 
study,  but  to  adopt  the  representatives  of  any  religion,  specially  in  their  religious  or 


100 

sectarian  character,  is  clearly  in  conflict  with  one  of  the  most  essential  and  abso . 
lutely  saving  landmarks  of  the  fraternity  from  the  beginning." 

This  is  not  a  singular  attempt  to  reduce  Masonry  to  a  mere 
Deism ;  as  such  attempts  have  failed  in  the  past,  so  probably  will 
they  in  the  future.  Masonry  never  was  and  is  not  now  a  system 
of  religion,  but  everywhere  it  recognizes  the  religion  of  the 
country  where  it  is  established,  provided  it  be  based  upon  the 
worship  of  one  God,  but  it  is  not  Deism,  the  difference  between 
which  and  Atheism  is  but  a  vanishing  point.  Of  the  rights  of  a 
brother  under  changes  he  says  : 

"  As  a  general  rule  it  must  be  remembered  that  neither  God,  nor  society,  nor 
social  institutions  of  any  kind  ever  confer  rights,  except  upon  conditions.  The 
conditions  involve  the  moral  law  in  the  case.  If  the  conditions  are  not 
complied  with,  the  individual  forfeits  his  rights,  has  no  rights,  and  until  his  own 
case  is  decided,  is  in  a  state  of  abeyance,  as  a  criminal  himself,  and  cannot  become 
an  accuser,  still  less  one  to  sit  in  judgment  upon  any  other  accused." 

Bro.  Bruns  is  a  great  stickler  for  the  rights  of  parent  Grand 
Lodges,  and  would  refuse  recognition  to  both  Nova  Scotia  and 
West  Virginia,  because  of  the  want  of  assent  of  the  parent  Grand 
Lodge.  Will  he  be  kind  enough  to  inform  us  when  and  in  what 
manner  that  consent  was  given  to  the  formation  of  his  own  Grand 
Lodge.  He  thinks  we  need  greater  uniformity  of  laws  and  decis- 
ions, and  suggests  a  work  on  Masonic  jurisprudence;  such  a  work 
would  at  present,  and  probably  always,  be  more  or  less  local,  and 
would  not  acquire  any  universal  authority :  indeed,  just  now  the 
tendency  is  to  have  such  a  work  in  each  jurisdiction,  and  of  course 
to  perpetuate  local  views  and  usages. 

TENNESSEE. 

The  fifty-fifth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was 
held  at  Nashville,  October  oth,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Two 
hundred  and  thirty-four  chartered  Lodges  and  twenty-four  under 
dispensation  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Joseph  M.  Anderson,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  twelve  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  and  that  he 
had  suspended  a  Master  of  a  Lodge  for  drunkenness. 

Twenty-six  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  for  Lodges  under  dis- 
pensation, and  one  new  dispensation  was  ordered  to  issue,  although 
the  committee  say  of  them : 


101 

"  The  committee  farther  recommends  that  charters  be  issued  to  the  other  Lodges 
before  named,  rather  because  they  have  been  correctly  and  earnestly  working  under 
dispensations  granted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  at  its  last  annual  communication  and  by 
the  Grand  Master  in  the  interim,  than  that  the  good  of  Masonry  in  this  jurisdiction 
required  their  organization." 

This  want  of  reason  ought  never  to  be  urged  as  cause  for 
granting  a  charter,  and  the  action  of  Tennessee  requires  the  pro- 
test of  all  true  Masons  against  such  evident  abuse  of  power. 

The  question  was  submitted  to  the  committee  on  jurisprudence : 

"  Has  a  member  of  a  subordinate  Lodge  a  right  to  vote  in  the  Lodge  while  he  is 
under  charges  for  unmasonic  conduct?" 

The  majority  of  the  committee  say  no,  but  the  minority : 

"  He  has.    He  is  entitled  to  the  presumption  of  innocence  until  proven  guilty." 

Which  last  was  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

This  Grand  Lodge  has  a  fashion  of  holding  what  it  calls  a  Lodge 
of  Sorrow ;  we  wish  somebody  would  tell  us  what  they  are  ?  and 
what  they  have  to  do  with  Masonry  ?  and  what  authority  a  Grand 
Lodge  of  Blue  Masons  has  to  institute  them  ?  They  seem  to  us 
an  attempt  to  borrow  something  from  the  quasi  deistic  neologisms 
which  hang  upon  the  skirts  of  the  Grand  Orient  of  France. 

The  report  on  foreign  correspondence  was  from  the  pen  of  Bro. 
George  S.  Blackie,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-six 
Grand  Lodges,  including  ours.  Of  the  prevalent  desire  to  compel 
affiliation  he  says : 

"  We  wish  we  could  establish  some  such  plan,  and  that  the  unaffiliated  would  agree 
to  it.  But  it  is  useless  to  talk  of  such  matters  as  long  as  trivial  or  party  prejudices 
lead  brethren  to  reject  any  candidates  for  affiliation  in  any  Lodge.  We  have  heard 
that  such  is  the  case  in  our  jurisdiction,  and  we  warn  those  guilty  of  such  practices, 
that  however  "bright"  they  may  be,  they  are  not  true  Masons  — they  hit  the 
power  of  the  craft  a  cowardly  blow  in  the  dark,  and  should  themselves  be  tried  for 
anti-masonic  conduct.  The  liberty  of  the  ballot  is  not  questioned,  but  such  views 
are  no  matters  to  affect  it.  The  very  fact  of  a  brother  desiring  affiliation  is  in  his 
favor,  and  should  be  so  regarded.  Such  a  compulsion,  however,  as  is  recommended, 
would  be  an  infringement  on  the  rights  of  Lodges  and  the  constitution." 

Bro.  Blackie  thinks  we  ought  to  discipline  deserters  from  the 
army,  because,  as  he  says,  they  forfeit  their  honor,  and  break  their 
oath.  We  think  he  is  wrong,  and  such  has  been  the  almost  uni- 
versal decision.  He  unhesitatingly  answers  no,  to  the  making  by 
affirmation. 


102 

TEXAS. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  its  thirty-second  annual  com- 
munication at  Houston,  June  8th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One 
hundred  and  fifty-two  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  John  R.  Fretwell,  Grand  Master,  reports  that 
he  had  not  issued  a  single  dispensation  for  a  new  Lodge  for  the 
year,  although  quite  a  number  of  petitions  had  been  presented  to 
him.  The  Deputy  Grand  Master,  however,  reports  that  he  had 
granted  three  and  extended  one. 

Eleven  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to  Lodges  under  dispen- 
sation, two  dispensations  continued,  and  three  new  dispensations 
granted ;  so  we  think  the  Craft  there  are  not  likely  to  suffer  from 
the  refusal  of  the  Grand  Master.  The  committee  on  jurisprudence 
thus  reported  on  unaffiliates  : 

"  Your  committee  on  Masonic  jurisprudence  ask  leave  to  report  that  we  have  ex- 
amined the  inquiries  referred  to  us  as  to  what  the  rights  of  a  dimitted  Mason  are  ; 
and,  in  reply,  say  that  a  dimitted  Mason  has  no  rights.  He  is  not  entitled  to  charity 
or  any  of  the  rights  and  privileges  of  a  contributing  member.  His  position  is  fully 
and  clearly  defined  by  our  constitution,  article  V.,  chapter  5,  sections  1,  20,  21.  In 
answer  to  the  question,  "  Should  not  all  unaffiliated  Masons  be  required  to  pay,  at 
least,  the  sum  of  one  dollar  annually  to  the  Grand  Lodge  fund  ?"  we  say  this  Grand 
Lodge  has  not  the  power  to  levy  such  a  tax,  even  if  disposed  so  to  do." 

But  no  action  was  taken  upon  it  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

The  report  on  correspondence  was  presented  by  Bro.  W.  B. 
Botts,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-four  Grand  Lodges, 
including  New  Hampshire.  California  had  decided,  as  we  think 
correctly,  that  a  Master  cannot  refuse  admission  to  a  member  of 
his  Lodge ;  the  Texas  committee  seem  to  doubt  it : 

"  From  some  of  the  results  of  this  decision,  we  beg  leave  to  differ  with  the  com- 
mittee. It  is  the  duty  of  the  Master  to  govern  his  Lodge  with  regularity,  and 
preserve  its  harmony.  For  this  he  alone  is  responsible,  and  it  is  reiterated  at  every 
meeting  that  peace  and  harmony  must  prevail.  The  Master  being  thus  responsible 
for  the  preservation  of  harmony  in  his  Lodge,  we  think  it  not  only  his  right,  but  his 
duly,  to  prevent  anything  calculated  to  interrupt  this.  For  this  purpose,  we  believe 
that  he  has  the  right  to  deny  admission  to  any  brother,  if  he  has  good  reason  to 
believe  that  such  brother  will  interrupt  the  harmony,  or  be  the  means  of  destroying 
the  good  feeling  so  necessary  in  all  well-governed  Lodges." 

They  think  the  West  Virginia  Lodges  should  have  paid  up  their 
dues  before  forming  a  new  Grand  Lodge.  We  do  not  see  that  it 
was  essential  for  them  to  do  it  before  taking  that  action. 


103 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg  had  claimed  a  correspondence 
with  that  of  Texas ;  the  committee  say  : 

"  We  hold  no  correspondence  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg,  and  desire  to 
hold  none.  Neither  will  we  recognize  any  of  her  subjects  until  she  has  properly 
recognized  the  rights  of  our  sister  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York.  If  one  of  our 
reports,  or  circulars,  found  their  way  through  the  mail  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Ham- 
burg, it  was  the  result  of  accident  and  not  design.  We  take  our  stand  in  this  matter 
with  the  other  Grand  Lodges  of  the  United  States." 


VERMONT. 

The  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was  held  at  St. 
Johnsbury,  June  10th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Seventy-four 
chartered  Lodges  and  seven  under  dispensation  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Levekett  B.  Englesby,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  eleven  dispensations  for  new  Lodges ;  that  in  one 
or  two  instances  he  had  allowed  a  reconsideration  of  the  ballot, 
which  he  admits  to  be  wrong,  and  promises  if  entrusted  with  the 
power,  he  never  would  do  it  again.  We  do  not  believe  that  any 
earthly  power  can  entrust  him  with  that  authority. 

A  resolution  was  adopted  providing  for  schools  of  instruction  in 
each  district,  to  be  called  by  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

Eleven  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion and  two  new  dispensations  granted.  Our  brethren  across  the 
river  are  troubled  about  the  work,  largely  arising  from  their  old 
boast  that  they  had  the  original  simon-pure  Jacobs ;  and  a  long 
protest  from  the  former  Grand  Lecturer  Samuel  Wilson,  is  ap- 
pended to  the  proceedings.  Bro.  Wilson  ought  to  know  that 
there  is  no  authority  for  any  lectures  but  the  order  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  which  has  the  authority  to  change  them  even  to  the  extent 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  did,  in  adopting  the  Hemming  work 
and  lectures. 

The  report  on  correspondence  is  from  the  able  pen  of  the  Grand 
Secretary  Bro.  Henry  Clark,  and  reviews  the  proceedings  of  six 
Grand  Lodges,  one  of  them  New  Hampshire.  We  fully  assent  to 
the  following : 

" '  That  no  profane  person  has  any  rights  in  Masonry.  The  election  of  an  appli- 
cant merely  invests  him  with  the  privilege  of  being  admitted  into  the  fraternity  — 
which  privilege,  for  good  cause,  can  be  withheld.' 

The  above  is  the  right  view  of  the  case,  and  the  fraternity  would  be  far  better  off 


104 

should  Masters  follow  it  strictly,  for  oftentimes  they  initiate  applicants  because  the 
Lodges  have  so  voted,  when  from  their  own  knowledge  it  will  be  detrimental  to  the 
interests  of  Masonry,  and  their  own  Lodge  in  particular." 

And  the  following : 

"  We  commend,  as  eminently  correct,  and  should  be  a  universal  regulation  among 
Masonic  Lodges,  the  decision  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Ohio,  that  is  quoted  by  our 
Wisconsin  brethren,  that: 

'  A  person  who  is  engaged  in  any  business  or  occupation  which  is  forbidden,  and 
against  the  exercise  of  which  penalties  are  denounced  by  any  law  of  this  State,  or 
of  the  United  States,  cannot  be  made  a  Mason.' 

We  would  go  further  and  require  that  charges  be  preferred  against  a  brother  who 
is  already  a  Mason,  and  enters  into  any  traffic  forbidden  by  the  laws  of  the  State  or 
United  States." 

We  wish  Bro.  Clark  would  give  us  the  statistics  of  his  Lodges ; 
it  would  greatly  assist  in  preparing  our  table. 


VIRGINIA. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  annual  communication  at  Rich- 
mond, December  14th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One  hundred 
and  two  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  William  Terry,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  fourteen  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  thus  dis- 
courses on  the  qualifications  of  candidates  : 

"  It  is  not  enough  that  you  do  not  know  anything  against  the  candidate,  but  you 
must  know  enough  of  him  to  satisfy  you  that  he  is  every  way  qualified  and  worthy 
of  the  honor  you  propose  to  confer.  It  is  easy  to  prevent  the  admission  of  an  un- 
worthy candidate,  but  once  admitted,  a  great  deal  of  trouble  may  be  given  and  much 
injury  done.  The  admission  of  the  unworthy  is  to  us 
'  The  direful  spring 
Of  woes  unnumbered.' 

And  what  are  the  qualifications  of  candidates  ? 

1st.    Their  circumstances : 

According  to  the  ancient  charges,  the  candidate  must  be  "  of  limbs  whole,  as  a 
man  ought  to  be."  In  the  language  of  our  own  Grand  Lodge,  not  "  so  maimed  that 
they  cannot  conform  to  the  ritual,"  and  capable  of  "  pursuing  their  worldly  avoca- 
tions" if  "  necessitated  so  to  do  ;"  thus  clearly  contemplating  a  conformity  to  "law 
and  usage,"  and  guarding  against  the  admission  of  persons,  who,  in  all  reasonable 
probability,  would  become  a  burden  to  the  fraternity.  Masons  should  be  charitable, 
but  their  obligations  neither  require  them  to  assume  the  peculiar  and  responsible 
relation  of  Masons  to  these  charitable  objects,  nor  indeed,  are  they  permitted. 

2d.    Their  connections : 

According  to  the  ancient  charges,  the  candidate  must  be  "  no  bastard  "—he  must 
be  "  free-born,  of  good  kindred,  true  and  no  bondsman ;"  and  agreeably  to  the  regu- 
lations of  the  general  assembly  of  1663,  the  candidate  must  be  "  of  able  body,  honest 


105 

parentage,  good  reputation  and  an  observer  of  the  laws  of  the  land.''  It  thus  ap- 
pears that  it  is  not  alone  sufficient  that  the  candidate  should  be  personally  unexcep- 
tionable ;  his  connections  must  be  such  as  will  not  bring  reproach  upon  the  fraternity. 
When  we  admit  a  person  into  our  order,  we  assume  certain  relations,  not  only  to  the 
initiate,  but  to  certain  of  his  kindred,  and  it  is  evidently  not  only  proper,  but  even 
required  that  this  kindred  should  be  such  as  we  are  willing  to  assume  these  responsi- 
ble relations  to,  but  feel  justified  in  imposing  them  upon  others. 

3d.    Moral  qualifications : 

While  I  urge  the  brethren  to  give  strict  attention  to  the  moral  qualifications  of 
candidates,  yet  I  will  not,  in  this  paper,  undertake  to  discuss  this  branch  of  the 
subject,  as  it  opens  too  wide  a  field  for  the  limits  I  have  prescribed  to  myself. 

4th.    The  intellectual  endowments : 

A  candidate  must  not  only  possess  the  requisites  of  "  circumstances,"  "  connec- 
tions," and  "  moral  qualifications,"  but  he  must  be  possessed  of  sufficient  mental 
capacity  to  enable  him  clearly  to  understand  and  discharge  the  "  functions  and 
duties  "  devolving  upon  him  in  this  relation ;  he  must  have  such  mental  culture 
that  he  "be  capable  of  reading,  that  he  may  enrich  his  mind  ;  of  writing,  that  he 
may  communicate  his  thoughts  to  others,"  and  for  a  more  comprehensive  view  of 
these  matters,  I  would  call  the  attention  of  brethren  to  pages  84  and  232  of  our 
Text  Book,  edition  1866.  A  proper  observance  of  these  requirements  and  discharge 
of  our  duty  in  the  premises  would  preserve  for  honor  and  usefulness  our  ancient  and 
honorable  order  ;  but  a  neglect  of  them  brings  its  fruits  in  the  shameful  conduct  of 
many  who  have  gained  admittance  among  us." 

Thirteen  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to  Lodges  under  dispen- 
sation and  two  dispensations  continued. 

The  most  important  business  of  the  communication,  was  the 
amicable  adjustment  of  all  difficulties  with  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
West  Virginia,  by  the  adoption  of  the  following  : 

"  The  committee  appointed  to  confer  with  the  commissioners  from  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  West  Virginia  to  this  Grand  Lodge,  in  reference  to  the  differences  existing 
between  these  Grand  Bodies,  beg  leave  to  report  that  they  have  had  a  full  and 
free  conference  with  said  commissioners,  and  take  great  pleasure  in  stating  that  the 
spirit  manifested  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  West  Virginia  toward  this  Grand  Lodge 
is  fully  appreciated  by  your  committee ;  and  while  it  is  a  source  of  deep  regret, 
that  circumstances  have  occurred  which,  in  the  opinion  of  our  brethren  of  West 
Virginia,  justified  them  in  forming  a  Grand  Lodge,  yet,  in  the  spirit  of  fraternal 
feeling,  and  with  an  ardent  desire  to  cultivate  peace  and  harmony  with  all  Grand 
Bodies,  we  are  willing  to  recognize  the  Grand  Lodge  of  West  Virginia  as  a  legally 
constituted  body  upon  their  complying  with  the  conditions  heretofore  prescribed 
by  this  Grand  Lodge ;  and  the  said  commissioners  being  present  and  having  satis- 
fied this  Grand  Lodge  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  West  Virginia  has  fully  complied 
with  the  conditions  aforesaid,  or  is  now  ready  and  willing  to  comply  with  the  same; 
be  it  therefore 

1st.  Resolved,  That  this  Grand  Lodge  hereby  recognizes  the  said  Grand  Lodge 
of  West  Virginia,  and  extends  to  her  our  fraternal  and  Masonic  recognition,  and 
cordially  recommend  her  to  all  other  Grand  Masonic  Bodies  in  correspondence  with 
this  Grand  Lodge. 

2d.  Resolved,  That  the  political  boundaries  of  a  State  being  definitely  given  and 
decided  upon,  fixes  the  Masonic  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  that  State, 
except  in  so  far  as  rights  may  have  vested  under  charters  theretofore  lawfully  issued. 


106 

3d.  Resolved,  That  the  political  status  of  the  counties  of  Jefferson  and  Berkeley, 
being  at  this  time  undetermined,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Virginia  will  for  the  present 
retain  her  jurisdiction  over  such  Lodges  in  said  counties  as  desire  to  report  to  this 
Grand  Lodge  ;  but  will  authorize  the  opening  of  no  new  Lodge  in  either  of  said 
counties  until  their  status  is  definitely  settled,  it  being  understood  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  West  Virginia  shall  on  their  part  be  subject  to  the  like  restrictions. 

Ith.  That  inasmuch  as  the  original  charters  which  emanated  from  this  Grand 
Lodge  to  the  subordinate  Lodges  in  West  Virginia,  have  been  formally  surrendered 
to  this  Grand  Lodge,  but  the  said  subordinate  Lodges  having  earnestly  asked  that 
they  may  be  returned  to  them  to  be  laid  up  in  their  archives  as  mementos  of  the 
past ;  therefore, 

Resolved,  That  the  said  subordinate  Lodges  be  permitted  to  retain  the  said  old 
charters. 

5th.  Resolved,  That  this  Grand  Lodge  recommend  to  all  of  its  subordinate 
Lodges  in  the  territorial  limits  of  West  Virginia,  to  surrender  their  present  charters 
to,  and  ask  new  charters  from,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  West  Virginia." 

We  congratulate  our  brethren  of  both  jurisdictions  upon  the 
happy  settlement  of  this  affair,  and  in  doing  so  desire  to  bear  wit- 
ness especially  to  the  uniform  good  temper  and  true  Masonic  spirit 
manifested  on  both  sides,  in  a  matter  so  likely  to  have  engendered 
heated  discussion.  Our  brethren  of  both  jurisdictions  have  done 
honor  to  the  craft  as  well  as  to  themselves  by  their  conduct  of 
this  delicate  matter. 

There  was  no  report  on  correspondence,  but  the  Grand  Secre- 
tary acknowledges  the  receipt  of  the  proceedings  of  forty-three 
Grand  Bodies,  including  New  Hampshire. 

We  wish  Bro.  Dove  would  fix  up  his  statistics  for  the  informa- 
tion of  his  brethren. 


WASHINGTON. 

The  eleventh  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  was 
held  at  Olympia,  September  17,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  Ten 
chartered  Lodges,  and  one  under  dispensation,  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  James  Biles,  Grand  Master,  reported  having 
granted  two  dispensations  for  new  Lodges,  one  of  them  for  Alaska 
Lodge,  at  Sitka,  Alaska  Territory. 

A  charter  was  granted  to  Blue  Mountain  Lodge,  and  the  dispen- 
sation of  Alaska  Lodge  continued. 

A  report  on  correspondence  was  submitted  and  read,  and  the 
Grand  Secretary  authorized  to  print  such  part  as  he  might  deem 
advisable.     Upon  which  he  says  : 


107 

"  The  Grand  Secretary  (being  the  chairman  of  the  committee  on  foreign  corres- 
pondence) "  deems  it  advisable,"  in  view  of  the  "  situation,"  not  to  "  push  things  " 
at  the  present,  gladly  awaiting  a  more  favorable  exhibit  of  the  credit  side  of  our 
balance  sheet  before  incurring  the  heavy  expense  of  printing  a  long  report,  much  of 
which  doubtless  would  be  "  dead  weight"  and  of  doubtful  expediency  or  value  to 
the  Grand  Lodge." 

He  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  proceedings  from  thirty-four 
Grand  Lodges,  including  ours,  and  recommends  that  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  Idaho  and  New  Brunswick,  and  the  Provincial  Grand 
Lodge  of  British  Columbia  on  the  Scottish  Register  be  recognized. 
This  last  Grand  Lodge  was  organized  December  24th,  5867,  at 
Victoria.  R.\  W.\  J.  W.  Powell,  M.  D.,  Victoria,  Provincial 
Grand  Master. 


WEST     VIRGINIA. 

The  fourth  annual  communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge  assem- 
bled at  "Wheeling,  November  10th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868. 
Twenty-four  Lodges  were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  William  J.  Bates,  Grand  Master,  reports 
having  granted  six  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  also  calls 
attention  to  the  relations  with  Virginia  which  a  few  weeks  later 
were  so  harmoniously  arranged. 

The  following  report  was  received  and  adopted  : 

"  The  grand  committee,  to  which  was  referred  the  proposed  amendment  to  the 
general  regulations,  providing  for  the  appointment  of  a  committee  to  examine  into 
and  report  upon  the  character  of  candidates,  would  respectfully  report,  that  in  their 
judgment,  it  is  not  expedient  to  make  such  amendment. 

Under  the  existing  regulations,  it  is  the  duty  of  every  brother  to  inquire  for  him- 
self, in  regard  to  the  character  of  those  seeking  admission  to  our  institution ;  and 
no  regulation  should  be  adopted  which  would  seem  to  teach  that  this  duty  and  re- 
sponsibility may  be  transferred  from  the  individual  Mason  to  a  committee." 

Four  charters  were  granted  to  Lodges  under  dispensation,  and 
commissioners  appointed  to  visit  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Virginia  to 
arrange  all  matters  in  controversy. 

The  report  on  correspondence  presented  by  Bro.  T.  H.  Logan, 
reviews  the  proceedings  of  thirty-four  domestic  and  four  foreign 
Grand  Bodies.  Of  the  inclination  to  pry  into  the  secret  ballot  he 
says : 

"  It  happens,  too  frequently,  that  we  are  more  jealous  of  what  we  call  the  rights 
of  a  profane  friend,  than  we  are  of  the  rights  of  the  brethren.    We  should  be  careful 


108 

not  to  incur  obligations  to  a  friend  not  a  Mason,  which  would  embarrass  us  in  our 
relations  with  those  who  are  more  than  friends.  Don't  ask  your  friend  to  "join  the 
Masons."  Don't  tell  him  that  he  "  ought  to  be  a  Mason."  If  he  moves  in  that 
directon  let  him  be  able  to  say,  truthfully,  that  it  is  of  his  own  free  will  and  accord. 
Above  all,  do  not.  by  any  act  or  word  of  yours,  convey  to  him  the  impression  that 
you  are  to  act  as  his  champion,  and  that  possibly  he  has  enemies  in  the  Lodge. 
There  is  a  wonderful  amount  of  unmasonic  opinion  and  feeling  prevalent  among 
Masons  upon  these  subjects.  We  think  that  about  the  most  important  lesson  to  be 
taught  the  young  Mason,  in  these  days,  is  that  he  is  not  to  regard  himself  as  a 
Masonic  missionary  ;  that  he  is  not  to  go  out  into  the  lanes  and  streets  and  bring  in 
the  "  lame  and  the  halt  and  the  blind,"  thinking  that  because  they  are  his  friends, 
the  door  of  the  Lodge  must  open  to  them  as  it  did  to  him." 

We  also  quote  the  following  with  approbation : 

"  The  remarks  of  Bro.  Sanders  in  regard  to  politics  in  Montana  gives  us  the 
opportunity  to  make  a  statement  which  will,  we  trust,  correct  impressions 
which  seem  to  exist  in  certain  quarters,  in  regard  to  our  own  Grand  Lodge.  Its 
organization  has  been  regarded  by  a  few  as  a  political  movement.  There  is  no 
foundation  for  such  an  opinion,  outside  of  the  act  of  congress  constituting  the  State 
of  West  Virginia.  We  can  say  (and  our  opportunities  for  knowing  the  facts  have 
been  ample),  that  political  questions  and  prejudices  have  never  presented  themselves 
in  our  Grand  Lodge.  In  the  first  board  of  Grand  Officers,  elected  in  1865,  both 
sections  in  political  opinion  and  sympathy  of  our  then  distracted  country  were  rep- 
resented. Since  then,  as  in  Montana,  both  armies  have  been  represented,  not  only 
in  the  membership,  but  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  in  the  board  of  Grand  Officers. 
Nor  was  this  state  of  facts  the  result  of  special  arrangement  or  deliberation  in  any 
case.  Masonic  considerations,  swayed  only  by  fraternal  good  will  and  affection, 
have  ever  been  paramount.  As  a  result,  although  representing  outside  of  the 
Lodge  all  shades  of  political  opinion,— inside,  as  brethren,  we  "  dwell  together  in 
unity." 

Our  proceedings  do  not  seem  to  have  reached  the  committee. 


WISCONSIN. 

This  Grand  Lodge  assembled  in  its  twenty-fifth  annual  commu* 
nication  at  Milwaukee,  June  9th,  A.  L.  5868,  A.  D.  1868.  One 
hundred  and  thirty-eight  chartered  Lodges  and  three  under  dis- 
pensation were  represented. 

The  M.\  W.\  Hablow  Pease,  Grand  Master,  reports  having 
granted  three  dispensations  for  new  Lodges.  He  also  calls  atten- 
tion to  the  continued  annual  deficit  in  the  finances,  and  recom- 
mends retrenchment  in  the  cost  of  Grand  Lecturers  and  in  print- 
ing; if  they  would  omit  the  worse  than  needless  printing  the 
names  of  all  the  members,  they  would  help  the  matter  a  great 
deal. 


109 

Four  charters  were  ordered  to  issue  to  Lodges  under  dispensa- 
tion. The  report  on  correspondence  was  from  the  pen  of  Bro. 
Gabe  Botjck,  and  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  proceedings  of 
forty  Grand  Lodges,  including  New  Hampshire,  but  does  not  re- 
view, but  in  thirteen  pages  he  attempts  to  give  the  substance  of 
what  he  regards  as  interesting.  He  spends  three  of  his  pages  on 
the  question  of  the  advancement  of  maims,  and  comes  to  the  con- 
clusion that  they  should  be  advanced.  A  resolution  submitted  by 
the  committee  to  that  effect  was  sent  to  the  committee  on  juris- 
prudence, to  report  next  year.  He  thinks  we  are  growing  too 
fast ;    he  says  : 

"And  we  are  fearful  that  if  our  brethren  in  that,  and  some  other  jurisdictions, 
continue  for  a  few  years  longer  to  increase  so  rapidly,  they  will  find  themselves  in 
that  lamentable  position  so  forcibly  expressed  by  the  two  following  simple  words, 
viz:  'Powerful  weak.' 

"We  are  of  opinion  that  the  present  form  of  petition  is  inadequate  ;  it  might 
embrace  much  information  which  the  applicant  should  be  compelled  to  disclose  in 
his  petition,  and  which  would  form  a  groundwork  upon  which  the  committee  could 
make  a  more  thorough  investigation.  If  the  petition  should  give  the  place  of 
residence,  or  residences,  of  the  applicant  for  some  years  previous  to  the  application  ; 
his  occupation,  or  occupations,  during  that  time,  it  would  be  the  means  of  affording 
valuable  assistance  to  the  committee  in  their  investigation.  A  history  of  the  appli- 
cant's life,  both  as  to  residence  and  occupation  for  some  years,  would,  upon  its  face, 
afford  some  light  as  to  his  character  —  whether  he  was  a  man  fixed  and  stable  in  his 
purposes,  or  fickle  and  uncertain.  One  of  the  great  difficulties  that  a  committee 
now  encounter  is  to  find  any  substantial  information  upon  which  to  make  any  report, 
and  are  compelled,  when  interrogated,  to  admit  that  they  could  find  nothing  par- 
ticularly in  favor  of  or  against  the  petition." 

Of  the  trial  of  Masters  and  the  Indiana  new  lights : 

"  We  do  not  propose  to  discuss  the  question  as  to  the  right  of  a  Grand  Lodge  to 
change  this  ancient  law ;  but  in  a  fraternal  spirit,  and  with  candor,  we  would 
suggest  to  our  generous  brethren  of  the  jurisdiction  of  Indiana,  whether  it  is  proper 
or  in  good  taste,  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  change  a  long-established  law,  without  the 
approval  of,  or  consulting  with  any  other  of  the  Grand  Lodges. 

And  we  would  respectfully  suggest,  if  it  would  not  be  the  better  rule,  if  any 
Grand  Lodge  is  of  the  opinion  that  any  rule  or  law  (not  a  landmark),  which  has 
been  long  in  force  among  the  craft,  should  be  amended  or  changed,  not  to  take 
the  responsibility  upon  itself  to  repeal  or  change  the  same,  but  to  call  the  matter 
to  the  attention  of  the  several  Grand  Lodges,  get  a  general  expression  of  opinion 
from  all,  and  if  such  repeal  or  change  is  pretty  generally  recommended,  then  go 
on  and  do  it,  but  if  the  opinion  is  generally  unfavorable,  then  abandon  it ;  sacrifice 
your  own  opinion  and  judgment  to  that  of  the  general  wishes  of  the  craft." 


110 

CONCLUSION. 

Several  Grand  Lodges,  through  their  committees  of  correspond- 
ence, have  criticised  the  action  of  our  Grand  Lodge  on  the  subject 
of  the  Great  Falls  printed  books.  It  is  of  course  too  late  for  us 
now  to  change  the  action  which  has  been  taken,  yet  we  may  well 
consider  whether  we  have  proceeded  correctly,  that  in  future  we 
may  avoid  the  errors  of  the  past ;  not  that  we  are  likely  to  have 
the  same  case  again,  but  the  general  question  of  discipline  seems 
to  be  included.  One  Grand  Lodge  approves  our  course,  while 
eight  condemn,  generally  in  pretty  pointed  language.  That  the 
offence  was  one  which  would  have  justified  the  Grand  Lodge  in 
revoking  the  charter  of  Libanus  Lodge  and  expelling  those 
brethren  immediately  concerned,  is,  no  doubt  true,  but  the  view 
of  the  committee  who  had  that  subject  in  charge,  and  no  doubt  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  was,  that  the  only  true  ends  of  Masonic  punish- 
ments are  :  to  reform  the  offender,  and  to  protect  the  craft  from 
the  then  offender,  or  others  in  like  case.  It  is  true  every  Mason 
must  know  that  such  books  are  a  direct  violation  of  Masonic  obli- 
gations ;  but  no  more  so  than  written  ones,  which  have  been  used, 
at  least,  ever  since  the  Prestonian  lectures  were  invented  (about  a 
century),  and  probably  before,  as  we  learn  that  when  Anderson 
first  published  his  Constitutions,  many  brethren  committed  manu- 
scripts to  the  flames  in  their  zeal  against  so  much  printing  of  the 
nature  and  character  of  the  fraternity.  Let  that  be  as  it  may,  in 
this  country  the  Preston-Webb  lectures  have  always  been  commu- 
nicated and  preserved  in  written  books.  Rob  Morris  printed  a 
compilation  of  such,  the  celebrated  Mnemonics  of  the  Conserva- 
tors, which  is  now  used,  printed  books  and  all,  by  several  Grand 
Lodges.  We  did  not,  therefore,  deem  the  plea  of  ignorance  to  be 
entirely  objectionable,  nor  the  guilt  of  the  brothers  so  entirely 
without  extenuation,  as  some  committees  on  foreign  correspondence 
would  seem  to  regard  it.  We  were  also  satisfied  that  the  brothers 
chiefly  concerned  were  convinced  of  their  error,  and  would  not  be 
liable  to  be  caught  committing  the  like  offense  again.  In  the 
same  manner,  we  were  satisfied  that  the  course  recommended  and 
adopted  would  preserve  the  craft  as  effectually  as  any  that  could  be 
taken,  both  from  the  injury  already  effected  and  from  any  future 
attempt  of  like  character.  We  therefore  deemed  that  all  legiti-. 
mate  ends  of  punishment  were  attained.     We  believe  that  those 


Ill 

books,  some  copies  of  which  the  Grand  Lodge  did  not  get  hold  of, 
are  effectually  suppressed,  and  we  are  in  no  danger  from  that 
source,  or  from  any  liability  to  further  injury  from  the  same  direc- 
tion. The  writer  of  this  report,  who  was  also  on  the  committee 
who  examined  the  Great  Falls  matter,  thinks  the  Grand  Lodge 
should  have  gone  farther  in  one  direction  and  included  written 
books  with  the  printed  ones.  This,  however,  the  Grand  Lodge 
refused  to  do,  and  is  supported  therein  by  the  actual  practice  of 
the  craft  everywhere,  probably  from  the  earliest  times.  Upon  re- 
flection, therefore,  we  fail  to  see  any  legitimate  object  which  is  not 
attained  by  the  course  pursued. 

Among  the  subjects  mooted  in  the  craft,  the  negro  question 
seems  to  have  met  with  a  lull,  but  indications  exist  that  it  is  to  be 
revived  with  more  intensity  than  ever.  We  regard  it  ag  indis- 
putable that  it  is  an  utter  overthrow  of  the  foundation  on  which 
Masonry  is  built,  to  deny  to  the  colored  man  admission  to  the 
craft  by  any  general  law  on  account  of  his  race  or  color  only,  he 
being  otherwise  liable  to  no  objection.  Tf  any  individual  brother 
chooses  to  exercise  his  veto  at  the  ballot  box,  his  motives  are  be- 
tween him  and  his  God  alone.  It  is  clear  also,  that  no  Lodge  is 
bound  to  receive  any  visitor  whose  sitting  in  the  Lodge  would 
bring  discord  into  the  Lodge.  So  much  for  the  question  as  it  re- 
lates to  the  negro  in  regular  and  legitimate  Lodges. 

There  is,  as  is  well  known,  an  extensive  organization,  perhaps 
more  than  one,  of  colored  men  claiming  to  be  Masons,  which  has 
always  been  declared  clandestine  by  all  legitimate  Grand  Lodges  on 
this  continent.  The  members  of  these  Lodges  we  have  refused  to 
recognize,  not  because  of  their  color  but  on  account  of  their  clan- 
destine making.  Facts  are  coming  to  light  which  tend  to  show 
that  the  true  history  of  these  Lodges  has  not  been  told.  They 
are  said  to  derive  their  authority  from  the  charter  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  England  to  African  Lodge  ;  it  has  been  said  that  this 
was  in  violation  of  the  jurisdictional  rights  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Massachusetts.  The  American  doctrine  of  Grand  Lodge  jurisdic- 
tion has  grown  up  since  then,  and  is  not  elsewhere  fully  received 
even  now ;  besides,  there  was  then  no  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachu- 
setts, or  in  that  State,  whose  rights  could  be  interfered  with ;  for 
notwithstanding  the  claim  to  antiquity  of  that  Grand  Lodge,  it 
was  not  formed  till  1792,  and  the  two  Provincial  Grand  Lodges 


112 

before  existing  in  that  colony  both  expired  in  1775,  by  the  death 
of  their  Provincial  Grand  Masters.  The  Massachusetts  Grand 
Lodge  did  not  pretend  to  meet  after  the  death  of  Warren,  and 
although  St.  John's  Grand  Lodge  did  have  some  sort  of  meetings, 
probably  no  law  that  has  ever  existed  in  Masonry  anywhere  would 
hold  such  meetings  regular.  It  has  been  also  said  that  the  original 
warrant  of  African  Lodge  was  returned  to  England  and  the  Lodge 
revived  with  a  copy  of  it ;  this  has  been  shown  to  be  an  error,  the 
warrant  never  was  returned,  and  is  now  in  possession  of  the  so- 
called  negro  Masons.  Other  questions  relating  to  these  Lodges 
are  mooted,  but  as  we  are  likely  soon  to  have  many  more  facts 
from  the  investigations  of  committees  in  Georgia  and  Massachu- 
setts, we  are  inclined  to  reserve  any  farther  views  we  may  have 
until  next  year.  In  the  meanwhile,  we  have  seen  nothing  yet  to 
cast  any  doubt  over  the  correctness  of  the  decision  that  these  or- 
ganizations are  spurious  and  clandestine. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Louisiana  seems  to  be  threatened  with 
trouble  from  the  actions  of  a  body  claiming  to  be  a  Supreme 
Council  of  the  A.*,  and  A.*.  Scotch  rite.  Of  its  regularity,  as 
such,  of  course  we  can  know  nothing.  It  has  been  declared  spuri- 
ous by  a  Balustre  of  the  Sovereign  Commanders  of  the  Supreme 
Councils,  at  Charleston  and  Boston,  but  we  know  (as  Master 
Masons)  as  little  whether  these  latter  bodies  are  genuine,  nor 
need  we  care  so  long  as  they  do  not  interfere  in  symbolic  Masonry. 
This  Council  at  New  Orleans  has  attempted  to  create  Lodges  of 
the  first  three  degrees  in  Louisiana  ;  now  we  do  know  that  no 
Council  or  other  body  or  individual  of  that  rite  under  any  circum- 
stances whatever,  has  the  right  in  the  United  States,  or  anywhere 
else  where  a  Grand  Lodge  exists,  to  create  any  such  Lodges  ;  and 
should  any  Supreme  Council  attempt  to  do  anything  of  the  kind, 
every  Mason  who  adheres  to  such  Council  should  be  expelled  from 
Masonry  at  once,  without  any  parley  ;  and  if  there  be  any  legiti- 
mate Masons  in  Louisiana  who  adhere  to  this  Council,  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Louisiana  owe  it  as  a  duty  to  the  craft,  to  see  that  they 
are  cut  off  at  once  and  without  mercy.  This  body  has  also  been 
attempting  some  kind  of  fraternization  with  the  spurious  negro 
Grand  Lodge  in  Louisiana,  and  has  in  some  way  engaged  the 
Grand  Orient  of  France  to  give  it  some  recognition.  We  trust 
the    Grand    Orient    will  retract    any    such  unadvised  and  illegal 


113 

action,  so  far  as  it  relates  to  symbolic  Masonry.  As  to  what  it 
may  do  with  the  so-called  High  Grades  part  of  it,  we  are  not  in- 
terested. All  the  Grand  Lodges  have  common  interest  with  that 
of  Louisiana,  in  both  the  establishment  of  Lodges  by  this  Council, 
and  the  recognition  of  spurious  and  clandestine  Masons.. 

The  subject  of  advancement  of  maims,  and  what  shall  be  done 
with  unaffiliated  Masons,  are  still  discussed,  but  seem  to  come  no 
nearer  a  conclusion. 

Peace  and  prosperity  seem  to  be  the  lot  of  the  craft  everywhere. 
In  fact,  the  multiplication  of  Lodges  and  the  increase  of  Masons 
is  almost  too  great  for  belief;  yet  it  is  believed  that  greater  and 
more  careful  scrutiny  is  given  to  candidates  than  ever  before  ;  still 
in  the  great  crowd  who  now  approach  the  portals  of  our  Lodges, 
many  unworthy  must  probably  be  received.  It  therefore  behooves 
us  to  redouble  our  diligence  to  stop  as  many  unworthy  as- 
possible. 

JOHN  J.  BELL,  for  the  Committee. 


114 


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:  2  'S  p 


CONSTITUTION 


AND 


GENERAL    REGULATIONS 


OF    THE 


tmh  A®bp 


OF 


THE    ANCIENT   AND    HONORABLE   FRATERNITY 


OF 


Free  and    Accepted    Masons 


OF 


THE  STATE  OF  NEW  HAMPSHIRE. 


Adopted  June  10th,  A.  L. 


MANCHESTER,  N.H.  : 
PRINTED     BY     C.     F.     LIVINGSTON 
1869. 


INTRODUCTION 


At.  the  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  June,  A.  L.  5867,  numerous 
amendments  to  the  Constitution  having  been  proposed,  which  seemed  to  iudicate  a 
desire  and  necessity  for  a  thorough  revision  of  that  instrument,  the  following  reso- 
lution was  moved  by  the  then  Deputy  Grand  Master,  M.  W*.  Alexander  M.  Winn, 
and  was  adopted : 

"  Resolved,  That  a  Committee  of  three  be  appointed  to  revise  the  Grand  Constitu- 
tion and  General  Regulations  of  tbis_Grand  Lodge,  and  report  at  the  next  Semi- An- 
nual Communication  ;  and  that  all  amendments  now  pending,  or  that  may  be 
proposed  at  this  Communication,  be  referred  to  said  Committee." 

Bros.  John  J.  Bell,  John  A.  Harris  and  William  Barrett  were  appointed  the 
Committee  for  that  purpose. 

No  report  was  made  at  the  Semi- Annual  Communication,  but  at  the  Annual  Com- 
munication in  June,  A.  L.  5868,  the  Committee  submitted  their  report  in  print, 
which  was  read  and  copies  thereof  distributed  to  the  members  present.  The  con- 
sideration of  the  proposed  new  Consthution  was  postponed  to  the  Annual  Commu- 
nication, A.  L.  5869,  and  made  the  special  order  for  10  o'clock  a.  m.,  of  the  second 
day  of  the  session,  at  which  time  it  was  taken  up  and  carefully  considered,  such 
amendments  made  thereto  as  seemed  to  be  required,  and  finally  adopted. 

By  a  subsequent  resolution,  the  undersigned  was  appointed  a  Committee  to 
procure  the  printing  and  distribution  to  the  Lodges  of  a  sufficient  number  of  copies 
of  the  Constitution,  and  was  also  requested  to  prepare  forms  and  directions  for  the 
use  of  the  Lodges  under  the  new  Constitution,  to  be  printed  as  an  appendix  to  the 
Constitution. 

I  have  endeavored,  in  pursuance  of  that  request,  to  prepare  such  forms  and  direc- 
tions as  are  necessary  to  the  proper  discharge  of  the  duties  required  by  the  Consti- 
tution. 

An  index  has  also  been  prepared,  which,  it  is  hoped,  will  render  all  parts  of  the 
Constitution  readily  accessible  to  all. 

JOHN  J.  BELL,  Committee. 


[3  ] 


CONSTITUTION 


PART     I. 


OF   THE   GRAND  LODGE. 

Article     I.  Style  and  Title. 

II.  Officers  and  Members,  their  style  and  title. 

III.  Communications. 

IV.  Powers  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

V.  Qualification,  Election  and  Installation  of  Officers. 

VI.  Powers  and  Djities  of  Grand  Officers. 

VII.  Stations,  Jewels  and  Clothing. 


ARTICLE    I. 

STYLE     AND     TITLE. 

Section  1.  The  style  and  title  of  the  Grand  Lodge  is  :  "  The 
Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and 
Honorable  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of 
the  State  of  New  Hampshire." 

ARTICLE    II. 
OFFICEKS   AND   MEMBERS,    THEIR    STYLE   AND    TITLE. 


Section— 

2.  Grand  Lodge,  how  constituted. 

3.  Officers,  their  style  and  title. 

4.  Appointment  of  Proxies. 


Section— 

5.  Qualification  of  Members. 

6.  Master  or  Warden  not  to  be  Rep- 

resentative. 


Section  2.  The  Grand  Lodge  consists  of  its  Officers,  and  the 
Worshipful  Masters  and  Wardens,  for  the  time  being,  of  the 
several   subordinate  Lodges  under  its  jurisdiction,  or  their  legally 

[5  ] 


appointed  Proxies,  and  one  Representative  of  each  Lodge,  to  be 
elected  by  its  members  ;  together  with  all  Past  Grand  Masters, 
Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  Past  Grand  Wardens  and  Past 
District  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  while  they  retain  their  allegiance 
to  this  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  3.     The  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  are,  in  addition 
to  the  Grand  Master,  whose  style  is  Most  Worshipful : 

a  Deputy  Grand  Master, 

a  Senior  Grand  Warden, 

a  Junior  Grand  Warden, 

a  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  in  each  District, 

a  Grand  Treasurer, 

a  Grand  Secretary, 

a  Grand  Lecturer  in  each  District, 

two  Grand  Chaplains,  whose  style  is  Right  Worshipful : 

a  Senior  Grand  Deacon, 

a  Junior  Grand  Deacon, 

a  Grand  Marshal, 

four  Grand  Stewards, 

a  Grand  Sword  Bearer, 

two  Grand  Pursuivants,  whose  style  is  Worshipful ; 

a  Grand  Tyler,  who  is  not  entitled  to  any  vote  in  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

Section  4.  The  appointment  of  the  Proxy  of  the  Master  or 
Warden  of  a  particular  Lodge  to  represent  him  in  Grand  Lodge 
shall  be  in  writing,  signed  by  the  Principal,  and  shall  designate  at 
what  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge  the  Proxy  shall  act,  and 
shall  be  for  one  Communication  only,  and  shall  be  void  if  the 
Principal  appear  in  person. 

Section  5.  All  Officers  and  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
must  be  Master  Masons,  holding  allegiance  to  this  Grand  Lodge. 
Representatives  of  particular  Lodges  must  be  members  of  the 
Lodges  they  respectively  represent. 

Section  6.  No  Master  or  Warden  of  a  particular  Lodge  can 
be  cliosen  the  Representative  of  said  Lodge  in  the  Grand  Lodge. 


ARTICLE     III. 


COMMUNICATIONS 


Section— 

7.  Annual. 

8.  Semi-Annual. 

9.  No  Business  at  Semi-Annual. 


Section — 

10.  If  St.  John  Evangelist  fall  on  Sat- 

urday, Sunday*or  Monday. 

11.  Special. 


Section  7.  The  Annual  Communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
shall  be  holden  in  Concord  on  the  third  Wednesday  of  May,  at 

11   o'clock  A.  M. 

Section  8.  The  Semi -Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  shall  be  holden  on  the  Festival  of  St.  John  the  Evangelist, 
at  such  place  as  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  at  the  Annual  Communi- 
cation direct.  If  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  give  no  direction,  the 
Semi -Annual  Communication  shall  be  holden  at  Manchester,  at 
11  o'clock  A.  M. 

Section  9.  At  the  Semi -Annual  Communication  no  business 
shall  be  ^  transacted  but  the  Exemplification  of  the  Work  and 
Lectures. 

Section  10.  If  the  Festival  of  St.  John  the  Evangelist  shall 
fall  upon  Saturday,  Sunday  or  Monday,  the  Semi- Annual  Commu- 
nication shall  be  held  on  the  Tuesday  following. 

Section  11.  Special  Communications  may  be  called  as  the 
Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Master  may  direct. 

ARTICLE     IV. 

POWERS     OF     THE     GRAND     LODGE. 


Section  12.  The  Grand  Lodge,  by  the  ancient  Constitutions 
and  usages  of  the  Fraternity,  is  invested  with  certain  original  and 
essential  powers  and  privileges  belonging  to  the  ancient  Craft,  and 
shall  have  power  especially — 

First.  —  To  enact  and  enforce  all  Laws  and  Regulations  for  the 
government  of  the  Fraternity,  and  to  alter,  amend  and  repeal  the 
same  at  pleasure. 

Second.  —  To  constitute  new  Lodges,  by  granting  Dispensations 
and  Warrants  under  seal ;  and  for  good  cause,  to  suspend,  revoke 
or  annul  the  same  at  pleasure. 


Third.  —  To  establish  and  preserve  a  uniform  mode  of  Work- 
ing and  Lectures,  under  the  sanction  of  the  ancient  landmarks 
and  customs  of  Masonry. 

Fourth.  —  To  assess  and  collect  from  the  several  Lodges  under 
its  jurisdiction,  such  sums  of  money  as  may  be  deemed  necessary 
for  the  benefit  of  the  Craft.    * 

Fifth. —  To  hear  and  determine  all  questions  of  dispute  between 
two  or  more  Lodges. 

Sixth. —  To  hear  and  decide  all  cases  of  appeal  from  the 
decision  of  particular  Lodges. 

Seventh. —  To  demand  and  receive  such  fees  and  charges  for 
granting  Dispensations,  Warrants,  Certificates  and  Diplomas,  as 
may  be  reasonable. 

Eighth. —  To  hear  and  decide  all  charges  and  complaints  against 
any  Officer  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  inflict  such  punishment 
on  the  delinquent  and  guilty  as  may  appear  just  and  proper. 

Ninth. —  To  exercise  all  such  powers,  and  perform  all  such  acts, 
as  by  custom  are  exercised  and  performed  by  Grand  Lodges.  But 
in  no  case  to  alter,  deface  or  remove  the  ancient  established  land- 
marks of  Masonry. 

ARTICLE     V. 

QUALIFICATION,  ELECTION    AND  INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


Section— 

13.  Eligibility  to  certain  offices. 

14.  Election    and    appointment     of 

Officers. 

15.  Installation,  when,  by  whom. 

16.  If  Grand  Master  absent. 


Section— 

17.  Installation  of  other  Officers. 

18.  Obligation. 

19.  Proclamation. 

20.  No  Officer  to  act  until  installed. 


Section  13.  No  Brother  shall  be  eligible  to  the  office  of 
Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Warden,  or  District 
Deputy  Grand  Master,  unless  he  shall  have  been  regularly  elected 
and  duly  installed  Master  of  a  duly  constituted  Lodge,  and  faith- 
fully discharged  his  duties  in  such  office  for  the  term  for  which  he 
was  elected.  And  no  one  of  the  Officers  above  named,  during 
his  continuance  in  office,  shall  be  Master  or  Warden  of  a  par- 
ticular Lodge.  Nor  shall  the  Master  of  any  particular  Lodge  be 
eligible  to  either  of  the  above-named  offices  in  the  Grand  Lodge, 
during  his  continuance  in  office  as  Master. 


9 


Section  14.  The  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand 
Wardens,  Grand  Treasurer  and  Grand  Secretary  shall  be  chosen 
by  ballot.  The  other  Officers  shall  be  appointed  by  the  Grand 
Master.  In  all  cases  of  ballot,  a  majority  shall  be  necessary  to 
make  a  choice. 

.  Section  15.  The  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  elected  and 
appointed,  shall  be  installed  at  the  Annual  Communication  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  as  soon  after  their  election  and  appointment  as  may 
be.  The  Grand  Master  shall  be  installed  by  his  immediate 
predecessor ;  or,  in  his  absence,  by  the  senior  Past  Grand  Master 
present,  and  in  the  absence  of  such  Past  Grand  Master,  by  the 
senior  Past  Master  present ;  preference,  however,  being  given  to 
Past  Grand  Officers,  according  to  their  rank. 

Section  16.  In  case  the  Grand  Master  elect  be  absent  at  the 
time  of  installation,  he  may  be  installed  at  such  time  and  place, 
and  by  such  person,  as  the  Grand  Lodge  may  specially  authorize 
and  appoint,  unless  he  declines  to  accept  said  office. 

Section  17.  All  elected  or  appointed  Grand  Officers,  if 
present,  shall  be  installed  in  open  Grand  Lodge.  If  any  elected 
or  appointed  Grand  Officer  be  absent  at  such  time  of  installation, 
he  may  be  installed  by  some  person  specially  authorized,  in  manner 
provided  for  the  installation  of  the  Grand  Master,  as  set  forth  in 
the  preceding  section.  No  Officer  required  by  the  Constitution  to 
take  an  obligation  prior  to  his  installation,  can  be  installed  by 
proxy. 

Section  18.  The  several  Grand  Officers,  previous  to  their 
installation,  shall  make  the  following  declaration : 

"I,  A.  B.,  do  solemnly  promise,  on  the  honor  of  a  Mason,  that 

I  will  perform  the  duties '  of  the  office  of ,  to  the  best  of 

my  abilities,  agreeably  to  the  Constitution  of  this  Grand  Lodge, 
and  the  ancient  usages  and  landmarks  of  Masonry." 

Section  19.  All  Grand  Officers,  elected  or  appointed,  when 
installed,  shall  be  proclaimed  by  the  Grand  Marshal,  and  shall 
hold  their  respective  offices  until  their  successors  are  duly  elected 
and  installed. 

Section  20.  No  elected  Officer  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  of 
any  particular  Lodge,  can  act  as  such  until  he  is  duly  installed. 


10 
ARTICLE     VI. 

POWER    AND    DUTY    OF    GRAND    OFFICERS. 


Section — 

37.  Compensation   of   Grand  Treas- 

urer. 

38.  Duties  of  Grand  Secretary. 

39.  Grand  Secretary  to  notify  chair- 

men of  Committees. 

Grand  Secretary  to  forward  edicts 
and  list  of  Officers. 

Grand  Secretary  to  print  and  dis- 
tribute proceedings. 

Grand  Sec'y  to  distribute  blanks. 

43.  Grand  Secretary  to  collect  fees 
and  dues  and  give  bond. 

44.  Grand  Secretary  to  make  report 
and  statement  of  accounts. 

45.  D.  D.  G.  Masters  to  visit  and  in- 
spect Lodges. 

46.  D.  D.  G.  Masters  to  communicate 
edicts  &c,  and  report  to  the 
Grand  Master  before  Mayl, 
and  be  paid  their  expenses. 

47.  D.  D.  G.  Masters  to  keep  records. 

48.  Visitation  of  Lodges. 

49.  Duties  of  Grand   Lecturers 
compensation. 

50.  Duty  of  Grand  Chaplains. 

51.  Duties  of  Grand  Deacons. 


40. 


41. 


i'J. 


and 


Section— 

21.  Grand  Master  shall  preside. 
•22.  Grand  Master  may  grant  Dispen- 
sations, arrest  Warrant,  sus- 
pend Brother  or  Lodge,  and 
convene  the  Grand  Lodge. 

23.  Grand  Master  may  convene  any 

Lodge. 

24.  Grand  Master  shall  visit  Lodges. 

25.  Grand  Master  to  divide  the  State 

into  Districts  and  assign  limits. 

26.  Grand  Master  may  appoint  spe- 

cial Deputies. 

27.  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  all 

Committees  and  give  the  cast- 
ing vote. 

28.  Grand  Master  may  grant  Dispen- 

sations for  processions,  con- 
ferring degrees,  and  all  other 
acts  belonging  to  his  office. 

29.  Grand  Master  to  cause  Exemplifi- 

cation of  work  at  Semi- An- 
nual Communication. 

30.  Deputy  Grand  Master  to  assist 

Grand  Master  and  preside  in 
his  absence. 

31.  Deputy  Grand  Master  to  succeed 

Grand  Master,  when. 

32.  Duties  of  Grand  Wardens. 

33.  Succession  of  Grand  Wardens. 

34.  Grand  Treasurer  to  have  charge 

of  funds  and  give  bonds. 

35.  Grand  Treasurer  to  exhibit  state- 

ment of  accounts. 

36.  Grand  Treasurer  to  receive   all 

money  from  Grand  Secretary, 
keep  all  property  deposited, 
exhibit  accounts,  have  charge 
of  jewels  and  take  receipts 
for' those  delivered. 


Section  21.  The  Grand  Master  shall  preside  over  and  govern 
the  Grand  Lodge  at  all  its  Communications. 

Section  22.  The  Grand  Master  has  power  and  authority, 
during  the  recess  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  grant  Dispensations  to 
new  Lodges,  to  continue  in  force  until  the  next  Annual  Communi- 
cation of  the  Grand  Lodge;  to  arrest  the  Dispensation  or  Warrant 
of  any  Lodge,  for  good  cause,  until  the  next  Communication  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  ;  and  for  dereliction  of  duty,  or  other  unmasonic 
conduct,  he  may  suspend  a  Brother  or  Lodge  until  the  next 
Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  when  he  shall  present  the 
reason  for  such  arrest  or  suspension,  in  writing.  He  may  convene 
the  Grand  Lodge  at  pleasure,  giving  reasonable  notice  thereof  to 


Duty  of  Grand  Marshal. 
Duty  of  Grand  Stewards. 
Duty  of  Grand  Sword  Bearer. 
Duties  of  Grand  Pursuivant. 
Duty  of  Grand  Tyler. 


11 

the  Lodges  and  members,  of  the  time  and  place  intended  for  the 
meeting,  and  stating  therein  the  object  of  it. 

Section  23.  The  Grand  Master  may  convene  any  Lodge 
within  his  jurisdiction,  preside  therein  (with  his  Officers  or  other- 
wise), inspect  their  proceedings,  and  require  their  conformity  to 
the  regulations  and  edicts  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  24.  The  Grand  Master  shall,  at  least  once  in  a  year, 
by  himself,  his  Deputy  or  District  Deputy,  visit  all  the  Lodges 
under  this  jurisdiction,  examine  into  their  conduct,  their  records 
and  proceedings  ;  correct  irregularities  and  prevent  innovations  ; 
and  make  a  report  of  his  doings  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  its  Annual 
Communication. 

Section  25.  The  Grand  Master  has  authority  from  time  to 
time,  as  he  may  think  for  the  good  of  Masonry,  to  divide  the 
State  into  Districts,  and  assign  their  Kmits.  Every  newly- consti- 
tuted Lodge  shall  be  assigned  by  him  to  some  District,  and  notice 
given  to  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  the  same. 

Section  26.  The  Grand  Master  may  appoint  a  special  Deputy 
or  Deputies,  to  constitute  a  new  Lodge  or  Lodges,  or  for  any 
other  purpose  to  be  specified  in  such  appointment. 

Section  27.  The  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  ail  Committees 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  when  presiding  therein,  unless  otherwise 
ordered,  and  shall  give  the  casting  vote  whenever,  in  any  question 
before  the  Grand  Lodge,  there  shall  be  an  equal  number  of  votes. 

Section  28.  The  Grand  Master  may  grant  Dispensations  for 
processions  and  for  conferring  Degrees,  and  do  all  other  acts  and 
deeds  that  are  warranted  and  required  of  him  by  the  regulations 
and  ancient  customs  of  the  Fraternity. 

Section  29.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Master,  or 
presiding  Officer,  at  the  Semi -Annual  Communications  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  to  give,  or  cause  to  be  given,  Exemplification  of 
the  Work  and  Lectures  in  each  Degree. 

Section  30.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Deputy  Grand  Master 
to  attend  all  the  Communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to 
render  to  the  Grand  Master  such  assistance  as  may  be  required  of 
him ;  and  in  the  absence  of  the  Grand  Master  he  shall  preside  in 
Grand  Lodge,  and  perform  such  duties  and  possess  such  authority, 
while  presiding,  as  appertain  to  the  Grand  Master. 


12 


Section  31.  In  case  of  the  death,  or  removal  from  the  State, 
of  the  Grand  Master,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  shall,  ex  officio, 
exercise  all  the  powers  and  perform  all  the  duties  of  the  Grand 
Master,  as  herein  provided,  until  the  next  Annual  Communication 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  ;  and  during  the  temporary  absence  of  the 
Grand  Master,  he  shall  exercise  and  perform  like  powers  and 
duties. 

Section  32.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Wardens  to 
assist  the  Grand  Master  in  the  Grand  Lodge;  and,  when  required, 
they  are  to  attend  in  the  examination  of  any  particular  Lodge,  and 
act  as  his  Wardens. 

Section  33.  In  the  absence  of  the  Grand  Master  and  the 
Deputy  Grand  Master,  the  Senior  Grand  Warden  shall  preside 
over  the  Grand  Lodge ;  and  in  his  absence,  the  Junior  Grand 
Warden ;  and  in  the  absence  of  all  these,  then  the  Past  Grand 
Masters,  Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  and  Past  Grand  Wardens, 
according  to  seniority ;  and  if  no  Officer  of  either  grade  be 
present,  the  senior  Past  Master  is  to  preside,  unless  he  waive  his 
right  to  another  Brother  who  is  Past  Master.  In  either  of  these 
cases  the  presiding  Officer,  unless  he  be  Past  Grand  Master,,  shall 
wear  the  jewel  of  the  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

Section  34.  The  Grand  Treasurer  shall  have  the  custody  and 
charge  of  the  Funds  of  the  Grand  Lodge ;  and  shall,  before  he 
enters  upon  the  duties  of  his  office,  give  bond  with  surety  or 
sureties,  to "  the  satisfaction  of  the  Grand  Master  and  Grand 
Wardens,  conditioned  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  his  trust ;  and 
shall,  from  time  to  time,  invest  all  unappropriated  Funds  in  his 
hands,  in  such  manner  as  the  Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Master  may 
direct. 

Section  35.  He  shall  lay  before  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  the 
first  day  of  the  Annual  Communication  thereof,  a  statement  of 
his  accounts,  exhibiting  the  amount  received  and  paid  o,ut,  and  on 
what  account,  with  the  respective  dates  of  receipts  and  disburse- 
ments. 

Section  36.  He  shall  receive  all  moneys  from  the  Grand 
Secretary,  as  well  as  all  other  moneys  paid  to  the  Grand  Lodge; 
shall  pay  all  bills  passed  by  the  Committee  of  Finance,  shall  have 
in  his   careall   Warrants,  Records,  Seals,  and  Clothing  returned  to 


13 

the  Grand  Lodge,  shall  annually  render  to  the  Grand  Lodge  a 
statement  of  his  accounts,  together  with  the  vouchers,  wi,th 
schedule  of  the  funds  of  the  Grand  Lodge;  and  shall  deliver 
to  his  successor  in  office  the  funds  and  other  property  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  taking  duplicate  receipts  therefor,  one  of  which 
he  shall  deposit  with  the  Grand  Secretary.  He  shall  also  take 
charge  of  the  Jewels,  Furniture,  and  Clothing  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  keep  a  record  of  the  Officers  to  whom  any  of  the 
Jewels,  Clothing,  &c,  shall  be  delivered,  and  shall  take  a  receipt 
therefor  in  such  form  as  the  Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Master  may 
direct. 

Section  37.  The  Grand  Treasurer  shall  receive  annually,  as  a 
full  compensation  for  his  services,  one  per  cent,  upon  all  moneys 
in  the  Treasury. 

Section  38.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  attend  upon  the 
Communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  observe  and  record  the 
proceedings  thereof,  and  preserve  the  same  in  suitable  books  kept 
for  that  purpose.  He  shall  summon  the  members  to  attend 
all  meetings  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  in  such  manner  as  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  Grand  Master  may  direct.  He  shall  receive  all  peti- 
tions, applications,  and  appeals,  and  lay  them  before  the  Grand 
Master.  He  shall  have  the  custody  of  the  Seal  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  He  shall  engross,  attest,  and  affix  the  Seal  to  all  War- 
rants, Commissions,  Diplomas,  and  Certificates,  when  ordered  by 
the  Grand  Master  or  the  Grand  Lodge.  He  shall  keep  a  list  of 
all  the  Lodges  under  this  jurisdiction,  according  to  seniority. 

Section  39.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  furnish  the  Chairman 
of  every  Committee  with  a  copy  of  the  vote  of  his  appointment, 
and  attend  all  Committees  with  the  records  and  papers  of  his 
office,  when  required ;  and  shall  record  all  reports  of  Committees 
which  may  be  accepted  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  40.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall,  as  soon  as  may  be, 
after  its  several  Communications,  forward  to  each  member  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  such  number  of  copies  of  the  Edicts  and  Regu- 
lations of  the  Grand  Lodge,  including  a  list  of  the  Grand 
Officers  for  the  time  being,  as  shall  be  directed  by  the  Grand 
Master;  and  all  such  other  transactions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  as 
may  be  necessary  for  the  information  and  regulation  of  the 
particular  Lodges. 


14 


Section  41.  The  Grand  Secretary,  when  required,  shall  cause 
a  transcript  of  the  Journal  of  the  Proceedings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  to  be  printed,  as  soon  after  the  Annual  Communication  as 
the  same  can  be  done,  and  shall  forward  a  copy  thereof  to  each 
of  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  United  States,  and  also  to  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  such  foreign  States  as  may  be  in  communication  with 
this  Grand  Lodge,  and  one  copy  to  each  member  of  this  Grand 
Lodge,  and  one  copy  also  to  each  particular  Lodge. 

Section  42.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  transmit  to  the 
Secretaries  of  the  particular  Lodges  all  the  necessary  blanks  and 
instructions  for  their  use;  and,  during  the  intervals  of  the  Commu- 
nications of  the  Grand  Lodge,  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand 
Master,  answer  all  communications  addressed  on  the  subject  of 
Masonry. 

Section  43.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  collect  and  receive  all 
fees  and  sums  of  money  which  shall  become  due  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  and  pay  the  same  over  to  the  Grand  Treasurer ;  shall  open 
and  keep  an  account  with  each  particular  Lodge,  and  report  a 
statement  thereof  at  each  annual  communication  of  the  Grand 
Lodge;  and,  before  entering  upon  the  duties  of  his  office,  shall 
give  bond,  with  sufficient  surety  or  sureties  to  the  satisfaction  of 
the  Grand.  Master  and  Grand  Wardens,  conditioned  for  the 
faithful  discharge  of  his  trust. 

Section  44.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall,  at  the  Annual  Com- 
munication, make  a  report  of  his  doings  in  his  office  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  with  a  statement  of  his  accounts. 

Section  45.  The  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  shall  visit 
the  several  Lodges  in  their  respective  Districts  once,  at  least,  in 
every  year ;  preside  in  the  same,  when  present ;  and  shall  inspect 
their  by-laws,  the  state  and  condition  of  their  finances,  records 
and  mode  of  working;  but  if  unable  to  visit  any  Lodge,  they 
may  appoint  some  suitable  Brother  to  perform  that  duty. 

Section  46.  The  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  shall  com- 
municate to  the  Lodges  all  such  Edicts  and  Regulations  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  as  may  be  received  by  them  from  the  Grand  Secre- 
tary ;  shall,  on  or  before  the  first  day  of  May  in  each  year,  make 
a  detailed  report  of  their  doings  to  the  Grand  Master;  and 
they   shall  attend  annually  in  the  Grand  Lodge.     They  shall  be 


15 


reimbursed   their    expenses    in    visiting    Lodges,    their    accounts 
being  first  examined  and  passed  by  the  Committee  of  Finance. 

Section  47.  Each  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  shall  keep  a 
book  of  records  in  which  he  shall  record  every  official  act  per- 
formed by  him  with  the  date  thereof. 

Section  48.  It  shall  be  incumbent  on  the  Grand  Master, 
Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Wardens,  District  Deputy  Grand 
Master  and  Grand  Lecturers,  severally  to  improve  and  perfect 
themselves  in  the  Sublime  Arts  and  Work  appertaining  to  the 
several  Degrees  of  Entered  Apprentice,  Fellow  Craft,  and  Master 
Mason;  and  to  make  themselves  masters  of  the  several  Masonic 
Lectures  and  ancient  Charges  belonging  to  those  Degrees;  to 
consult  with  each  other  and  with  Masters  of  particular  Lodges  for 
the  purpose  of  adopting  measures  suitable  and  proper  for  diffusing 
a  knowledge  of  said  Lectures  and  Charges,  and  a  uniform  mode 
of  Working  in  the  several  Lodges  throughout  this  jurisdiction; 
and  the  better  to  effect  this  laudable  purpose,  the  Deputy  Grand 
Master  and  Grand  Wardens  are  severally  hereby  authorized  and 
empowered  to  visit  and  preside  in  every  and  any  Lodge  in  this 
State;  and  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  are  hereby 
severally  required  to  visit,  as  often  as  practicable,  the  several 
Lodges  within  their  respective  Districts,  and  are  hereby  author- 
ized and  empowered  to  preside  in  the  same  ;  all  the  above-named 
Officers  are  authorized  to  examine  the  doings  of  the  several 
Lodges,  correct  irregularities,  and  give  such  directions  and 
instructions  as  the  good  of  the  Fraternity  may  require;  always 
adhering  to  the  ancient  landmarks  of  the  Order  and  the  require- 
ments of  this  Constitution. 

Section  49.  The  Grand  Lecturers  are  to  instruct  the  several 
Lodges  within  their  respective  Districts  in  the  Work  and 
Lectures  of  the  several  Degrees ;  and  shall  once  in  each  year  visit 
the  same  for  that  purpose,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  pay  the 
expenses  the  Grand  Lecturer  may  necessarily  incur  in  visiting  and 
instructing  the  Lodges. 

Section  50.  The  Grand  Chaplains  shall  attend  the  Commu- 
nications of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  perform  such  clerical  duties  as 
may  be  suitable  to  the  occasion,  and  as  are  established  by 
Masonic  usage. 


16 


Section  51.  The  Grand  Deacons  shall  assist  within  the  Grand 
Lodge  in  such  duties  as  appertain  to  their  office,  and  attend  the 
Grand  Master  in  processions. 

Section  52.  The  Grand  Marshal  shall  direct  the  organization 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  before  it  is  opened;  collect  from  the  members 
and  petitioners  in  the  Grand  Lodge  all  communications,  and  place 
them  before  the  Grand  Master;  shall  introduce  visitors;  shall 
direct  the  formation  of  processions ;  regulate  all  festivals  and 
refreshments,  and  shall  communicate  or  execute  all  commands  of 
the  Grand  Master  not  otherwise  provided  for. 

Section  53.  The  Grand  Stewards  shall  properly  distribute 
the  Jewels  and  Clothing,  and  collect  the  same  at  the  closing  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  place  them  in  charge  of  the  Grand. Treasurer ; 
and  shall,  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal,  provide 
suitably  for  the  Grand  Lodge  at  every  Communication. 

Section  54.  The  Grand  Sword  Bearer  is  to  attend  the  Grand 
Master,  and  assist  the  Grand  Marshal  in  the  discharge  of  his 
duties. 

Section  55.  The  Grand  Pursuivants  are  to  attend  to  the 
Officers,  members  and  visitors  ;  to  see  that  they  appear  in  Grand 
Lodge  suitably  clothed,  and  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand 
Marshal,  that  they  take  their  proper  stations.  In  all  public 
processions  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  they  shall  precede  and  assist  the 
Grand  Marshal. 

Section  56.     The  Grand  Tyler  shall  guard  the  outer  door. 

ARTICLE     VII. 
STATIONS,   JEWELS,    AXD   CLOTHING. 

Section—  j  Section— 

57.  Stations.  59.  Clothing. 

f  58.  Jewels. 

Section  57.     The  stations  of  the  Officers  in  Grand  Lodge  are 

as  follows: 

The  M.\  W.\  Grand  Master, 

In  the  East,  at  the  head  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

The  R.\  W.\  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
In  the  East,  next  to  and  left  of  the  Mr.  W.\  Grand  Master. 


17 

The  R.\  W.\  Senior  Grand  Warden, 

In  the    West. 

The  R.\  W.\  Junior  Grand  Warden, 
In  the  South. 

The  M.\  W.*.  Past  Grand  Masters, 

In  the  East,  at  the  right  of  the  Mr.  W.\  Grand  Master,  and  the 
Junior  Past  Grand  M aster  next  to  the  Grand  Master. 

The  R.\  W.\  Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters, 

In  the  East,  at  the  right  of  the  Past  Grand  Masters. 

The  R.\  W.\  Past  Grand  Wardens, 

In  the  East,  at  the  right  of  the  Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters, 

The  R.\  W.\  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters, 
In  the  East,  on  the  left  of  the  Deputy  Grand  Master, 

The  R.\  W.\  Past  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters, 
In   the  East,  on  the  left  of  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters* 

The  R.\  W.\  Grand  Treasurer, 
On  the  right,  in  front  of  the  Grand  Master. 

The  R.\  W.\  Grand  Secretary, 
On  the  left,  in  front  of  the  Grand  Master. 

The  R.\  W.\  Grand  Lecturers. 
In  the  East,  in  front  of  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters* 


1 


The  R.\  W.\  and  Rev.  Grand  Chaplains, 

In    the    East,  the     Senior    in  front  upon  the  right  of  the   Grand 

Master,  and  between  him  and  the  Past  Junior  Grand  Master; 

and   the   Junior   in  front   upon   the   left   of  the  Grand 

Master,  and  between  him  and  the  Dr.  G.\  Master. 

The  W.\  Grand  Marshal, 

Upon    the    left    of    the    Grand    Master,  in  front   of    the     Grand 

Secretary. 

The  W.\  Senior  Grand  Deacon, 

Upon    the    right    of  the    Grand    Master,  in  front    of  the    Grand 

Treasurer . 


The  W.*.  Junior  Grand  Deacon, 
In  the  West,  on  the  right  of  the  Senior  Grand  Warden. 

The  W.\  Grand  Stewards, 

In   the    South,  two  upon  the  right,  and  two    upon  the  left    of  the 
Junior  Grand  Warden,  one  Steward  in  front  of  the  other. 

The  W.\    Grand   Sword  Bearer, 
At  the  left  of  the  Grand  Marshal. 

The  W.\  Grand  Pursuivants. 
Near  the  doors  of  entrance  to  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  58.     The  Jewels  of  the  Grand  Officers  are: 
The  Grand  Master :     The    Compass    extended   upon    the    sex- 
tant of  a  circle,  to    the  angle  of  45°,  with  the  Square  within  the 
Compass,  and  above  the  Square  an  Eye  irradiated,  within  a  Tri- 
angle, also  irradiated,  upon  an  Oval  within  the  Compass. 

Past  Grand  Blasters:     The  same  as  the  Grand  Master,  except 
the  Square. 


19 

Deputy  Grand  Master :  The  Compass  opened  to  the  angle  of 
45°  athwart  the  Square ;    within  the  Compass  a  Pentalpha. 

Senior  Grand  Warden :     The  Level. 

Junior  Grand  Warden:     The  Plumb. 

District  Deputy  Grand  Masters :  The  Compass  opened  to  the 
angle  of  45°  athwart  the  Square ;  within  the  Compass,  a  Sun 
irradiated. 

Grand  Treasurer:     Cross  Keys. 

Grand  Secretary  :     Cross  Pens. 

Grand  Lecturers:  The  47th  proposition  of  Euclid  in  silver 
upon  a  Triangle  in  gold ;  within  the  Square  a  letter  G. 

Grand  Chaplains:     The  open  Bible  upon  a  Triangle  irradiated. 

Grand  Deacons:     The  Dove  and  Olive  Branch. 

Grand  Marshal :     Cross  Batons. 

Grand  Stewards:  The  Cornucopia  athwart  the  Compass,  open 
to  the  angle  of  45°. 

Grand  Sword  Bearer :     Cross  Swords. 

Grand  Pursuivants :     Sword  and  Baton  crossed. 

Grand  Tyler:     A  Sword  pendent. 

All  the  Jewels,  except  those  of  the  Grand  Master,  Past  Grand 
Masters,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  and  District  Deputy  Grand 
Masters,  to  be  placed  within  a  Circle. 

Section  59.  The  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  wear 
their  appropriate  Jewel  appended  to  a  purple  velvet  collar,  and  a 
white  apron  trimmed  with  purple.  The  Masters  and  Wardens  of 
particular  Lodges  shall  wear  their  appropriate  Jewels  appended  to 
a  blue  velvet  collar  and  a  plain  white  apron.  Representatives  of 
Lodges  shall  wear  a  white  apron,  which  may  be  trimmed  with 
purple.  And  no  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  be  allowed  to 
speak  or  vote  in  Grand  Lodge  unless  he  be  properly  clothed. 


PART       II 


OF      PARTICULAR      LODGES. 

Article    VIII.  Dispensations  and  Warrants  for  new  Lodges. 

IX.  Of  Removal  of  Lodges. 

X.  Surrender,  Forfeiture  and  Revocation  of  Warrants. 

XL  Renewal  of  Warrants. 

XII.  Powers  and  Duties. 

XIII.  Officers. 


ARTICLE      VIII. 


DISPENSATIONS   AND   WARRANTS  FOR  NEW  LODGES. 


Section- 


60.  Dispensations,  by  whom  issued. 

61.  Dispensations,  requisites  for. 

62.  Dispensations,  Grand    Lecturer's 

certificate. 

63.  Dispensations,  Sanction  of  Master 

and  Wardens. 

64.  Dispensations  and  Warrants,  fees 

for. 


Section — 

65.  Dispensation,  Petition  for. 

66.  Dimits  to  be  received  before  con- 

stitution. 

67.  Lodges,  by  whom  constituted. 

68.  Lodges  must  be  constituted. 


Section  60.  Dispensations  for  holding  new  Lodges  may  be 
issued  by  the  Grand  Master,  or  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  the  petition 
of  not  less  than  seven  Master  Masons  of  known  skill  and  good 
standing. 

Section  61.  Every  petition  for  a  Dispensation  or  Warrant  to 
form  a  new  Lodge,  shall  be  accompanied  by  the  approbation  and 
recommendation  of  the  two  Lodges,  subordinate  to  this  Grand 
Lodge,  nearest  the  place  where  the  new  Lodge  is  to  be  held,  by 
vote  of  said  Lodges  at  stated  Communications,  notice  having  been 
given  at  previous  stated  Communications,  and  of  the  District 
Deputy  Grand  Master  of  the  District,  vouching  for  the  moral  and 
Masonic  ability  of  the  petitioners,  and  recommending  the  Grand 
Lodge  to  grant  them  a  Dispensation  or  Warrant. 

Section  62.  Every  petition  for  a  new  Lodge  shall  also  be 
accompanied  by  the  Certificate  of  the  Grand  Lecturer  of  the 
District,  that  he  has  examined  the  Master  and  Wardens  nomin- 
ated in  the  petition,  and  found  them  well  skilled  in  the  entire 
Work  and  Lectures  of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry. 

[  20  ] 


21 

Section  63.  If  a  majority  of  the  petitioners  are  members  of 
a  regularly  constituted  Lodge,  under  the  jurisdiction  of  this 
Grand  Lodge,  they  shall  also  obtain  a  Certificate  from  the  Master 
and  Wardens  of  the  Lodge  of  which  they  are  members,  sanction- 
ing the  separation  and  their  erection  into  a  new  Lodge. 

Section  64.  The  fee  for  such  Dispensation  shall  be  twenty- 
five  dollars,  to  be  paid  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  every 
Dispensation  shall  be  returned  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  next 
Annual  Communication,  together  with  an  attested  transcript  of  all 
the  proceedings,  and  the  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge  working  under 
the  same.  If  these  be  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  a  Warrant 
of  Constitution  may  be  issued  to  the  petitioners,  bearing  even 
date  with  the  Dispensation,  for  which  they  shall  pay  to  the  Grand 
Secretary  the  further  sum  of  fifty  dollars,  seven  of  which  shall  be 
for  the  Grand  Secretary.  ;  . 

Section  65.  The  form  of  a  Petition  for  Dispensation  shall  be 
in  substance  as  follows : 

"  To    the  Most    Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  Ancient,    Free    and 
Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire. 

"We,  the  undersigned,  being  Master  Masons  of  good  standing, 
and  having  the  prosperity  of  the  Craft  at  heart,  are  anxious  to 
exert  our  best  endeavors  to  promote  and  diffuse  the  genuine 
principles  of  Freemasonry;  and  for  the  convenience  of  our 
respective  dwellings,  and  other  good  reasons,  we  are  desirous  of 
forming  a  new  Lodge,  to  be  named Lodge.  We,  there- 
fore, with  the  approbation  of  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
and  the  two  Lodges  nearest  the  place  where  the  new  Lodge  is  to 
be  held,  respectfully  pray  for  a  Dispensation  empowering  us    to 

meet  as  a  regular  Lodge  at ,  and  there  discharge  the  duties 

of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry,  in  a  constitutional  manner,  according 
to    the    forms    of  the    Order,  and  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

And    we    have    nominated  and  do  recommend  Brother  A 

B- to  be  the  first  Master;  Brother  C D to  be 

the  first  Senior  Warden,  and  Brother  E F to  be  the 

first  Junior  Warden  of  said  Lodge.  The  prayer  of  this  petition 
being  granted,  we  promise  strict  obedience  to  the  commands  of 
the  Grand  Master,  and  the  laws  and  regulations  of  the  Grand 
Lodge." 


22 


Section  66.  Before  a  new  Lodge  shall  be  constituted,  the 
Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  who  shall  be  appointed  to  constitute 
such  Lodge,  shall  receive  the  dimits  or  recommendations  of  all 
Brothers  who  shall  become  members  of  such  new  Lodge. 

Section  67.  Every  new  Ledge  shall  be  solemnly  constituted, 
dedicated,  and  consecrated,  by  the  Grand  Master  and  his  Officers, 
or  by  some  competent  Brother  especially  appointed  by  him  for  the 
purpose. 

Section  68.  No  new  Lodge  is  recognized,  or  its  Officers 
entitled  to  vote  in  this  Grand  Lodge,  unless  it  be  regularly 
constituted,  solemnly  dedicated,  and  consecrated,  and  no  Officer  of 
a  Lodge  working  under  Dispensation  is  entitled  to  a  seat  as 
Representative  in  the  Grand  Lodge. 

ARTICLE       IX. 

OF     REMOVAL     OF     LODGES. 


Section— 

69.  Lodge  to  be  summoned. 

70.  Vote  of  Lodge  and  Certificate  of 

nearest  Lodges. 


Section— 

71.  Consent  of  Grand  Lodge. 


Section  69.  Whenever  the  members  of  a  Lodge  wish  to 
remove  it  from  one  town  to  another,  or  more  than  two  miles  from 
where  the  meetings  have  usually  been  held,  the  Master  shall 
summon  every  member  of  the  Lodge  to  attend  a  stated  communi- 
cation, notice  having  been  given  at  a  previous  stated  communica- 
tion, for  the  express  purpose  of  taking  the  ^subject  of  removal 
into  consideration. 

Section  70.  If  the  Lodge  shall  deem  such  removal  expedient, 
they  shall  present  a  petition  for  that  purpose  to  the  Grand  Lodge, 
which  petition  shall  be  signed  by  not  less  than  three-fourths  of 
the  members  of  the  Lodge  desiring  a  removal,  and  shall  be 
accompanied  with  certificates  from  the  two  nearest  Lodges, 
testifying  their  approbation  of  the  proposed  measure. 

Section  71.  If  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  such  petition,  shall 
deem  it  proper  to  grant  the  prayer  of  the  petition,  the  Warrant 
of  the  Lodge  to  be  removed  shall  be  presented  to,  the  Grand  Secre- 


23 


tary,  who  shall  indorse  on  it  the  vote  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
removing  the  particular  Lodge,  which  vote  shall  be  signed  by  the 
Grand  Master  and  countersigned  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  for 
which  the  Lodge  to  be  removed  shall  pay  to  the  Grand  Secretary 
the  sum  of  ten  dollars. 

ARTICLE      X. 

SURRENDER,  FORFEITURE,  AND    REVOCATION    OF  WARRANTS. 


Section — 

72.  On    surrender    of  Warrant    all 

property  to  be  given  up  to 
Grand  Lodge. 

73.  Funds  to  belong  to  Grand  Lodge. 

74.  Lodges  neglecting    to  Work  or 

make  Returns,  their  Warrants 
forfeited. 

75.  Upon    revocation    or   forfeiture, 

books,  papers  and  property  to 
be  given  up  to  Grand  Lodge. 


Section— 

76.  Warrants  restored,  how. 

77.  Members  implicated,  disqualified. 
•    78.  Mason  assisting  in  Work  of  sus- 
pended or  cancelled  Lodge  to 
be  expelled. 

79.  Warrant  not  surrendered  if  seven 

adhere  to  it. 

80.  Master  and  Wardens  refusing  to 

obey  summons,  punishment. 


Section  72.  If  any  particular  Lodge  shall  see  fit  to  surrender 
its  Warrant,  whether  or  not  with  the  intention  of  resuming  it  at  a 
future  period,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  last  Master,  Treasurer, 
and  Secretary  of  such  Lodge,  to  deliver  to  the  Grand  Treasurer, 
with  the  Warrant,  the  by-laws,  records,  seal,  clothing,  funds, 
and  other  property  of  the  Lodge  of  every  description;  and  all 
the  property  of  a  Lodge  surrendering  its  Warrant,  with  the 
intention  of  resuming  it,  shall  be  held  by  the  Grand  Lodge  in 
trust  until  such  time  as  the  Warrant  shall  be  restored,  or  the 
intention  of  reclaiming  it  abandoned. 

Section  73.  The  interest  of  all  funds  and  property  of  a 
Lodge  whose  Warrant  is  surrendered  with  the  intention  of 
resuming  it,  and  all  funds  or  property  of  a  Lodge  whose  Warrant 
is  surrendered  absolutely,  belong  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  for  such 
uses  as  it  may  direct. 

Section  74.  Every  Lodge  that  shall  neglect  or  refuse  to  pay 
its  dues  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  to  make  regular  returns,  or  to  be 
represented  in  the  Grand  Lodge  for  two  years,  or  shall  neglect  to 
assemble  for  Work  for  the  space  of  one  year,  shall  be  stricken 
from  the  Grand  Lodge  books,  be  deprived  of  the  benefits  of 
Masonry,  and  its  Warrant  forfeited. 


24 


SECTION  75.  Upon  the  revocation  or  forfeiture  of  the 
Warrant  of  any  Lodg3,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  last  Master, 
Treasurer,  and  Secretary  thereof,  to  surrender  to  the  Grand 
Treasurer  the  Warrant,  books,  papers,  jewels,  and  furniture  of 
said  Lodge,  within  six  months  from  the  time  of  such  revocation  or 
forfeiture;  and  all  members  of  a  Lodge  who  shall  refuse  to  make 
such  surrender,  or  who  shall  vote  to  divide  the  funds  among 
themselves,  or  to  appropriate  them  in  any  other  way  than  is  here 
designated,  shall  be  deemed  guilty  of  a  violation  of  the  rules  and 
regulations  of  Masonry. 

Section  76.  No  Warrant  which  has  been  surrendered, 
(whether  with  the  intention  of  resuming  it  or  not,)  forfeited,  or 
revoked,  shall  be  restored,  unless  upon  the  petition  of  seven 
Master  Masons,  of  whom  four  at  least  of  the  petitioners  for  its 
restoration  were  members  of  the  Lodge  at  the  time  of  its 
surrender.  And  "it  shall  be  the  duty,  of  the  petitioners  to  notify 
the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  the  District,  and  the  two 
Lodges  nearest  their  residence,  of  their  intention  to  petition  for 
the  restoration. 

Section  77.  If  at  any  time  it  shall  be  found  necessary  to 
suspend  or  cancel  the  Warrant  of  any  Lodge  for  irregular  or 
unmasonic  conduct,  the  members  of  said  Lodge  who  were  impli- 
cated in  such  irregular  or  unmasonic  conduct  at  the  time  of  its 
having  incurred  such  penalty,  shall  be  disqualified  to  join  or  visit 
any  other  Lodge,  without  special  permission  from  the  Grand 
Lodge,  obtained  on  memorial. 

Section  78.  Any  Mason  assisting  at  the  work  of  a  Lodge, 
knowing  its  Warrant  to  have  been  suspended  or  cancelled,  shall 
be  liable  to  expulsion  from  the  rights  of  Masonry. 

Section  79.  Every  Warranted  Lodge  is  a  constituent  part  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  in  which  body  all  the  power  of  the  Fraternity 
resides;  and  no  authority,  except  that  possessed  by  the  Grand 
Lodge,  can  annul,  abrogate,  or  destroy  the  power  of  a  Warrant. 
If,  therefore,  the  majority  of  a  Lodge  should  determine  to  leave 
the  institution,  or  that  Lodge,  the  Constitution,  or  power  of  assem- 
bling, remains  with  the  rest  of  the  members  who  adhere  to  their 
allegiance.  If  the  number,  however,  be  reduced  to  less  than 
seven,  the  Warrant  shall  be  returned,  agreeably  to  the  regulation 
in  such  cases  provided.  ' 


25 


Section  80.  If  the  Master  and  Wardens  of  any  Lodge  be 
summoned  to  attend,  or  to  produce  the  Warrant,  books,  papers,  or 
accounts  of  their  Lodge  to  the  Grand  Master,  or  the  District 
Deputy  Grand  Master  within  whose  jurisdiction  it  is  located,  or 
to  any  Committee  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  shall  refuse 
to  comply,  or  give  satisfactory  reasons  for  non-compliance,  they 
may  be  suspended,  and  the  proceedings  shall  be  notified  to  the 
Grand  Lodge,  when,  in  case  of  contumacy,  expulsion,  suspension, 
or  revocation  of  Warrant  shall  be  the  penalty. 

ARTICLE      XI. 

RENEWAL      OF     WARRANTS. 

Section  81.  If  the  Warrant  of  any  Lodge  shall  accidentally 
be  destroyed  by  fire,  or  otherwise,  the  Grand  Secretary  shall,  by 
authority  of  the  Grand  Master,  on  application  of  said  Lodge, 
furnish  a  new  Warrant,  or  a  certified  copy  of  the  original;  said 
Lodge  paying  the  necessary  expense  for  preparing  the  same. 

ARTICLE      XII. 

POWERS     AND      DUTIES. 


Section— 

82.  General  Powers. 

83.  Master    to    convene    Lodge    to 

receive  D.*.  D.\  G.\  M.\   * 

84.  Dues  to  Grand  Lodge. 

85.  Returns. 


86. 


87. 


Must    have    Warrant    from  this 

Grand  Lodge. 
Fees. 

Degrees,  how  conferred. 
Fuuds  for  Masonic  purposes  only. 
Business  in  Master's  Lodge. 


Section— 

91.  Unauthorized  Lectures  forbidden. 

92.  Discussions  not  Masonic   forbid- 

den. 

93.  No    public    procession    without 

Grand  Master's  permission. 

94.  Funerals. 

95.  By-Laws  to   be  approved  by  the 

Grand  Lodge. 
9G.  By-Laws,  how  amended. 
97.  Blank  Returns  and  Diplomas. 


Section  82.  All  Lodges  under  this  jurisdiction  have  a  right 
to  convene  as  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  to  receive  and  enter 
Apprentices,  pass  Fellow  Crafts,  and  raise  Master  Masons,  and 
establish  fees  therefor ;  to  choose  Officers  annually,  establish  funds 
for  charitable  purposes,  and  transact  all  matters  appertaining  to 
Masonry,  agreeably  to  their  Warrants,  the  laws  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  the  ancient  usages  of  the  Craft. 


26 


Section  83.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  every  Master  or  presiding 
Officer  of  a  Lodge,  when  notified  of  the  intended  official  visit  of 
the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master,  to  convene  his  Lodge,  receive 
him  as  the  Representative  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  resign  to  him  the 
Chair  while  making  his  official  communication,  and  submit  to  his 
inspection  the  By-Laws,  Records,  and  mode  of  Working. 

Section  84.  Every  Lodge  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  shall  pay  for  the  support  thereof,  into  the  Grand  Treasury, 
the  sum  of  two  dollars  for  each  and  every  candidate  initiated  in 
such  Lodge. 

Section  "85.  Every  Lodge  shall  annually  make  a  return  of 
its  Officers  and  members,  the  names  of  those  who  have  been 
made  Masons,  passed  to  the  degree  of  Fellow  Craft,  and  raised  to 
the  sublime  degree  of  Master  Mason  in  such  Lodge,  during  the 
year  ending  April  fifteenth  next  preceding,  with  the  date  thereof; 
and  of  such  other  matters  as  may  be  required  byathe  Grand 
Secretary ;  which  shall  be  returned  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  with 
the  dues  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  or  before  the  first  day  of  May. 

Section  86.  No  Lodge  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons  can  legally  assemble  in  this  State  under  a  Warrant 
granted  by  any  foreign  Masonic  power. 

Section  87.  The  fee  demanded  by  a  Lodge  for  conferring  the 
degrees  of  Entered  Apprentice,  Fellow  Craft,  and  Master  Mason, 
shall  not  be  less  than  twenty-five  dollars,  including  the  fee  to  the 
Grand  Lodge;  and  no  Lodge  under  this  jurisdiction  shall  take 
notes  of  hand  for  fees,  or  grant  any  time  of  credit  therefor. 

Section  88.  No  Lodge  shall  confer  either  of  the  degrees  of 
Ancient  Craft  Masonry  upon  more  than  one  candidate  at  the  same 
time  and  by  the  same  ceremony,  or  more  than  five  degrees  at  the 
same  Communication,  or  on  the  same  day. 

Section  89.  No  Lodge  shall  appropriate  or  use  its  funds,  or 
any  part  thereof,  for  any  other  object  than  charitable  or  other 
Masonic  purposes. 

Section  90.  No  business  shall  be  transacted  in  a  Lodge  of 
Entered  Apprentices  or  of  Fellow  Crafts,  except  that  pertaining  to 
the  WTork  and  Lectures  of  those  degrees.  All  general  business, 
such  as  the  election  and  installation  of  Officers,  the  discussion  of 
questions  relating  to  the  general  interests  of  the  Fraternity,  and 


the  local  affairs  of\the  Lodge,  shall  be  transacted  in  a  Master's 
Lodge. 

Section  91.  No  Lodge  shall  encourage,  promote,  or  permit 
the  delivery  of  any  Masonic  Lectures  which  have  not  been 
sanctioned  and  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  Nor  shall  any 
Mason  be  permitted  to  deliver  such  Lectures  under  this  jurisdic- 
tion. 

Section  92.  The  discussion  of  any  subject  not  of  a  strictly 
Masonic  character  is  prohibited  in  every  Lodge  under  this 
juridiction. 

Section  93.  No  Lodge  shall  form  a  public  procession, 
funeral  processidhs  excepted,  without  permission  from  the  M.\ 
W.\  Grand  Master. 

Section  94.  No  one  beneath  the  degree  of  Master  Mason, 
shall  be  buried  with  Masonic  honors  and  the  formalities  of  the 
Order.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  Lodge  of  which  a  Brother  is  a 
member,  or ;  the  nearest  Lodge,  to  attend  and  perform  the  usual 
Masonic  burial  service  over  deceased  Master  Masons,  when 
requested  so  to  do  by  the  deceased,  or  his  nearest  relatives. 

Section  95.  Every  Lodge  shall  transmit  to  the  Grand 
Secretary,  immediately  after  their  adoption,  a  copy  of  its  By- 
Laws,  for  the  examination  of  the  Grand  Lodge;  and  whenever 
the  By-Laws  of  any  Lodge  shall  be  altered  or  amended,  a  copy  of 
the  same  thus  altered  or  amended  shall  be  transmitted  as  above 
directed.  In  the  recess  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  By-Laws  of  any 
Lodge,  or  any  amendment  or  alteration  of  them,  may  be  submitted 
to  the  Grand  Master,  and  if  approved  by  him,  shall  be  in  force 
until  the  next  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  96.  No  Lodge  shall  have  power  to  suspend  tempora- 
rily anv  of  the  provisions  of  its  By-Laws,  nor  alter  or  amend  the 
same,  unless  such  suspension,  alteration  or  amendment  shall  have 
been  proposed  and  entered  on  the  records  of  the  Lodge  at  a 
previous  regular  Communication;  and  in  no  case  shall  any  such 
proposed  suspension,  alteration,  or  amendment  be  acted  upon 
except  at  a  stated  Communication. 

Section  97.  Every  Lodge  shall  be  furnished  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  with  necessary  blank  Returns,  on  making  due  application 
therefor   to  the  Grand  Secretaiy.     Blank  Diplomas  shall  also  be* 


28 


furnished  to  the  particular  Lodges  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  as  the 
Lodges  may  severally  require,  they  paying  the  Grand  Lodge  for 
each  Diploma,  the  sum  of  one  dollar,  or  the  cost  thereof.  The 
Grand  Secretary  shall  receive  from  the  hands  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
the  sum  of  fifty  cents  for  each  Diploma  furnished  a  particular 
Lodge,  as  his  fee  for  sealing  and  certifying  the  same. 

ARTICLE       XIII. 

OFFICERS. 


Section- 
OS.  Must  be  members. 
99.  Master  must  have  been  Warden. 

100.  Master,  how  installed. 

101.  Wardens     cannot     Work  unless 

Past  Master  present. 

102.  Special      Communication,     how 

called. 


Section— 

103.  Master  responsible  for  Warrant, 

and    to    have    it  present   at 
opening. 

104.  Constitution  and  By-Laws  to  be 

read  before  election. 


Section  98.  No  Brother  can  be  elected  or  appointed  an 
Officer  of  a  Lodge,  unless  he  be  a  member  of  such  Lodge, 
except  the  Tyler,  who  shall,  however,  be  a  member  of  some 
Lodge. 

Section  99.  No  Brother  is  eligible  to  the  office  of  Master  of 
a  Lodge  who  has  not  served  acceptably  as  a  Warden  in  some 
regularly  constituted  Lodge  under  the  jurisdiction  of  this  or  some 
other  Grand  Lodge,  at  least  six  months;  except  where  a  new 
Lodge  is  to  be  formed,  or  where  no  such  Warden  can  be  found. 

Section  100.  The  Master  of  every  Lodge  under  this  juris- 
diction shall  be  installed  by  some  Officer  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
who  is  authorized  by  this  Constitution  to  preside  in  a  particular 
Lodge,  or  by  some  regular  Past  Master. 

Section  101.  No  Lodge,  in  the  absence  of  the  Master,  shall 
Initiate,  Craft,  or  Raise,  unless  a  Past  Master  is  present. 

Section  102.  No  special  Communication  of  a  Lodge  shall  bo 
called  without  the  order  of  the  Master;  in  his  absence,  that  of 
the  Senior  Warden ;  in  the  absence  of  both,  that  of  the  Junior 
Warden ;  or  in  the  absence  of  these  three  Officers,  that  of  the 
three  oldest  Master  Masons,  members  of  the  Lodge. 

Section  103.     The  Master  of  a  Lodge  has  the  special  charge  of 


29 

its  Warrant,  and  it  is  his  duty  to  see  that  it  is  carefully  preserved. 
It  must  be  present  when  the  Lodge  is  opened. 

Section  104.  The  Constitution  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  and  the 
By-Laws  of  each  particular  Lodge,  so  far  as  they  relate  to  the 
election  and  qualification  of  Officers  of  particular  Lodges,  shall 
be  read  at  every  Annual  Communication  of  each  Lodge  prior  to 
the  choice  of  its  Officers. 


PART     III 


OF      INDIVIDUALS 


Article    XIV.    Of  Candidates  and  Balloting. 

XV.    Of  Advancement  and  Dispensations. 
XVI.    Of  Members. 


ARTICLE      XIV. 


OF    CANDIDATES    AND    BALLOTING. 


Section  — 

105.  Physical  qualifications. 

106.  Petition,  requisites  of. 

107.  Petitions  and  ballots  to  be  at 

stated  Communications,  to  lay 
over  four  weeks,  and  inquiry 
made. 

108.  Fees  to  be  paid  before  applica- 

tion. 

109.  Candidates  must  apply  to  near- 

est Lodge. 

110.  Candidates  must  have  been  in 

jurisdiction  twelve  months. 


Section— 

111.  Candidate    from  jurisdiction  of 

another  Lodge  in  this  State. 

112.  Candidates  from  out  the  State. 
113.. Petitions  not  to  be  withdrawn. 


114. 


116. 
117. 
118. 


Rejected    candidate  must  wait 

twelve  months. 
Rejected  candidate  not  to  apply 

to  any  other  Lodge  without 

consent. 
Ballot  unanimous. 
One  ballot  for  the  degrees. 
Declaration  of  candidates. 


Section  105.  By  the  ancient  regulations,  the  physical 
deformity  of  an  individual  operates  as  a  bar  to  his  admission  into 
the  Fraternity.  But  as  this  regulation  was  adopted  for  the 
government  of  the  Craft,  at  a  period  when  they  united  the 
character  of  operative  with  that  of  speculative  Masons,  this  Grand 
Lodge  authorizes  such  a  construction  of  the  regulation  as  that, 
when  the  deformity  of  the  candidate  is  not  such  as  to  prevent  him 
from  being  instructed  in  the  arts  and  mysteries  of  Freemasonry, 
and  does  not  amount  to  an  inability  honestly  to  acquire  the  means 
of  subsistence,  the  admission  will  not  be  an  infringement  upon 
the  ancient  landmarks,  but  will  be  consistent  with  the  spirit  of 
our  Institution. 

Section  106.  The  petition  of  every  candidate  for  initiation 
in  any  Lodge,  must  be  printed  or  in  writing,  signed  by  the   appli- 

[  30  ] 


31 

cant,  stating  his  age,  residence,  occupation,  and  whether  he  has 
ever  made  application  to,  and  been  rejected  by,  any  other  Lodge; 
and  be  accompanied  by  the  recommendation  of  not  less  than 
two  members  of  the  Lodge. 

Section  107.  No  candidate  for  initiation  shall  be  proposed 
or  balloted  for  at  a  special  Communication,  nor  be  balloted  for, 
until  his  application  has  laid  over  for  the  consideration  of  the 
members  at  least  four  weeks,  without  first  obtaining  a  Dispensa- 
tion therefor;  nor  shall  a  candidate  in  any  event  be  balloted  for, 
into  whose  moral  character  a  strict  inquiry  has  not  been  made. 

Section  108.  No  Lodge  under  this  jurisdiction  shall  receive 
the  application  of  any  one  to  be  made  a  Mason,  or  to  be  Passed, 
or  Raised,  unless  the  prescribed  fee  for  said  degree  has  been 
previously  deposited  in  the  hands  of  the  Secretary.  If  the  candi- 
date for  the  degrees  when  balloted  for,  be  rejected,  the  sum  so 
deposited  shall  be  returned  to  him. 

Section  109.  Every  candidate  must  apply  to  the  Lodge 
nearest  his  residence,  by  the  nearest  traveled  way. 

Section  110.  No  application  of  any  person  for  the  degrees 
shall  be  entertained  by  any  Lodge,  unless  he  shall  have  resided 
within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge  to  which  application  is  made 
at  least  twelve  months  next  preceding  said  application,  except 
as  provided  in  the  two  following  sections. 

Section  111.  If  any  person  wishes  for  initiation  in  any 
Lodge,  who  resides  without  the  jurisdiction  of  such  Lodge,  but 
in  this  State,  he  shall  first  obtain  the  unanimous  consent  of  the 
Lodge  within  whose  jurisdiction  he  resides,  by  vote  of  the  Lodge, 
at  a  stated  Communication,  notice  thereof  having  been  given 
at  a  previous  stated  Communication,  which  consent,  under  seal  of 
the  Lodge,  shall  be  annexed  to  his  application. 

Section  112.  If  any  person  wishes  for  initiation  in  any 
Lodge,  who  resides  without  the  State,  he  shall  first  obtain  the 
consent  of  the  Lodge  within  whose  jurisdiction  he  resides,  by 
unanimous  vote,  at  a  stated  Communication,  and  the  permission  in 
writing  of  the  Grand  Master  within  whose  jurisdiction  he  resides, 
which  consent  and  permission  shall  be  annexed  to  his  application. 

Section  113.  No  petition  for  initiation,  or  application  for 
membership,  shall  be  withdrawn. 


32 


Section  114.  A  rejected  applicant  for  the  degrees  cannot 
again  present  his  petition  to  any  Lodge  within  twelve  months  of 
his  rejection. 

Section  115.  No  candidate  whose  application  may  be  rejected 
by  a  Lodge,  shall  be  initiated  in  any  Lodge  other  than  the  one 
which  rejected  him,  unless  the  Lodge  recommend  him  to  another 
Lodge  by  a  unanimous  vote — the  vote  to  be  taken  by  the  secret 
ballot,  at  a  stated  Communication,  notice  thereof  having  been 
given  at  a  previous  stated  Communication.  And  the  Master  and 
Wardens  shall  cause  all  rejections  to  be  communicated  to  the 
Grand  Secretary,  who  shall  immediately  communicate  the  same 
to  all  the  Lodges  under  this  jurisdiction.  And  if  any  Mason 
knowingly  assist,  or  recommend  for  initiation,  to  any  Lodge 
whatever,  any  candidate,  rejected  as  aforesaid,  except  as  above 
provided,  such  Mason  shall  be  expelled  from  the  Institution. 

Section  116.  The  general  rule  which  governs  the  Order  in 
the  admission  of  members  and  candidates,  is,  that  such  admission 
is  to  be  sanctioned  by  entire  unanimity ;  and  so  sacred  and 
fundamental  does  the  Grand  Lodge  conceive  this  rule  to  be,  that 
no  candidate  shall  be  initiated  in  any  Lodge  without  a  clear  and 
unanimous  ballot  in  his  favor.  Every  member  present  shall 
ballot  on  the  application,  unless  excused  by  the  Lodge. 

Section  117.  There  shall  be  but  one  ballot  for  all  the 
degrees.  If  objections  are  made  to  a  candidate  after  initiation, 
charges  shall  be  filed  and  a  trial  had,  as  provided  in  Article  XVII. 

Section  118.  Every  candidate  for  Masonry  shall,  before 
initiation,  give  an  unqualified  affirmative  answer  to  the  following 
questions  : 

"  Do  you  sincerely  declare  upon  your  honor,  before  these 
witnesses,  that,  unbiased  by  friends,  and  uninfluenced  by 
mercenary  motives,  you  freely  and  voluntarily  offer  yourself  a 
candidate  for  the  mysteries  of  Masonry  ? 

"Do  you  sincerely  declare,  upon  your  honor,  before  these 
witnesses,  that  you  are  prompted  to  solicit  the  privileges  of 
Masonry  by  a  favorable  opinion  conceived  of  the  institution,  a 
desire  of  knowledge,  and  a  sincere  wish  of  being  serviceable  to 
your  fellow  creatures  ? 

"Do    you    sincerely    declare,  upon   your   honor,    before    these 


witnesses,  that   you  will,   cheerfully  conform  to    all   the    ancient 
established  usages  and  customs  of  the  Fraternity  ?" 


ARTICLE     XV. 


OF     ADVANCEMENT     AND     DISPENSATIONS. 


Section— 

119.  Candidate  to  be  examined  as  to 

proficiency. 

120.  Time  of  Work  before  advance- 

ment. 


Section— 

121.  Advancement  in  another  Lodge. 

122.  Fees  for  Dispensation. 


Section  119.  No  Brother  shall  be  advanced  to  a  higher 
Degree  in  Masonry,  without  having  been  first  examined  by  the 
Master  in  open  Lodge  as  to  his  proficiency  in  the  preceding 
Degree. 

Section  120.  No  candidate  can  be  admitted  to  more  than 
one  degree  at  the  same  time,  except  by  Dispensation.  All 
Entered  Apprentices  must  work  one  month  as  such  before  they 
can  be  passed  to  the  degree  of  Fellow  Craft.  All  Fellow  Crafts 
must  work  in  a  Lodge  of  Crafts  one  month  before  they  can  be 
raised  to  the  sublime  degree  of  Master  Mason. 

Section  121.  When  application  for  the  degree  of  Fellow 
Craft  or  Master  Mason  is  made  to  any  Lodge,  other  than  that  in 
which  the  applicant  was  initiated  or  passed,  it  shall  be  accom- 
panied by  the  consent  of  the  Lodge  in  which  he  was  initiated 
or  passed,  by  unanimous  vote,  at  a  stated  Communication,  which 
consent  shall  be  under  seal  of  the  Lodge,  and  shall  be  annexed 
to  the  application. 

Section  122.  Whenever  a  Dispensation  is  granted  for 
conferring  degrees,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Officer  granting  the 
same,  to  require  and  receive  of  the  Lodge  to  whom  the  same  may 
be  granted,  the  sum  of  five  dollars  for  the  Dispensation,  which 
shall  be  paid  to  the  Grand  Secretary  for  the  use  of  the  Grand 
Lodge ;  and  the  Lodge  shall  require  of  the  candidate  ten  dollars 
in  addition  to  their  usual  fee. 

3 


34 


ARTICLE    XVI. 


OF     MEMBERS. 


Section— 

123.  Admission  of  members. 

124.  In  one  Lodge  only. 

125.  Of  changing    membership    from 

one  Lodge  to  another. 
12G.  Removal  alone  does  not  justify 
striking  name  from  roll. 


Section— 

127.  Discharged  not  to  be  members  of 

another  Lodge. 

128.  Visitor  may  call  for  Warrant, 


Section  123.  No  Brother  shall  be  admitted  a  member  of  any 
particular  Lodge,  until  he  has  been  raised  to  the  sublime  degree 
of  Master  Mason.  Every  Master  Mason  raised  in  any  Lodge,  may 
become  a  member  thereof  by  signing  the  By-Laws.  Every  candi- 
date for  membership  not  raised  in  the  Lodge,  or  raised  more  than 
six  months  before,  must  be  proposed  at  a  stated  Communication, 
and  be  balloted  for  at  a  subsequent  stated  Communication  of 
the  Lodge,  and  accepted  by  unanimous  ballot. 

Section  124.  No  Brother  shall  be  a  member  of  more  than 
one  Lodge,  nor  shall  he  hold  more  than  one  office  in  the  same 
Lodge,  at  the  same  time. 

Section  125.  Any  Brother  desiring  to  change  his  member- 
ship from  one  particular  Lodge  to  another,  shall  apply  to  the 
Lodge  for  a  recommendation  to  such  other  Lodge,  which  if  no 
sufficient  objection  appears  shall  be  granted,  and  shall  be  in 
writing  under  seal  of  the  Lodge,  and  shall  be  presented  with  his 
application  for  membership  to  such  other  Lodge,  when,  if  elected 
to  membership  in  the  new  Lodge,  his  membership  in  his  old 
Lodge  shall  cease  from  that  time ;  if  not  elected,  his  membership 
in  the  old  Lodge  shall  remain  unaffected. 

Section  126.  The  removal  of  a  Brother  into  another  juris  - 
diction,  does  not,  of  itself,  authorize  his  name  to  be  stricken  from 
the  roll  of  the  Lodge  of  which  he  is  a  member. 

Section  127.  Any  Brother  who  has  been  discharged  from 
membership  for  the  non-payment  of  dues,  shall  not  be  admitted  to 
membership  in  any  other  Lodge,  until  the  same  are  paid  or 
remitted. 

Section  128.  A  visiting  Brother  has  a  right  to  call  for  the 
Warrant  of  the  Lodge  he  desires  to  visit. 


PART     IV. 

TRIALS     AND     PENALTIES 

Article    XVII.    Trials  and  Penalties. 


ARTICLE      XVII. 


TRIALS     AND     PENALTIES. 


Section— 

129.  Rules  for  trials. 

130.  Form  of  voting. 

131.  Punishments. 

132.  Restoration,  how. 

133.  Application  for  restoration. 

134.  Lodges  to  watch  the  conduct  of 

their  members. 

135.  Sojourners. 

136.  If  no  penalty  affixed,  what  pun- 

ishment. 


Section— 

137.  Trial  of  Master. 

138.  Effect  of  suspension  or  expulsion 

by  R.  A.   Chapter  or  Com- 
mandery. 

139.  Non-pnyment  of  dues. 

140.  Effect  of  reversal  of  sentence  by 

Grand  Lodge. 

141.  Trials  in  Grand  Lodge. 

142.  Publication  of  expulsions. 


Section  129.  Whenever  a  member  of  a  Lodge,  or  a  Brother, 
shall  be  accused  of  any  offence,  which,  if  proved,  would  subject 
him  to  suspension  or  expulsion,  he  shall  have  a  fair  and  impartial 
trial,  and  the  proceedings  shall  be  conducted  substantially  as 
follows  : 

Rule  1.  The  accusation  shall  be  made  in  writing,  under  the 
signature  of  a  Master  Mason,  and  given  in  charge  to  the  Secretary 
of  a  Lodge,  who,  under  the  direction  of  the  Master,  shall  serve, 
or  cause  the  accused  to  be  served  with  an  attested  copy  of  the 
charges,  and  shall  give  him  seasonable  notice  of  the  time  and 
place  of  hearing,  if  his  residence  be  known. 

Rule  2.  The  examination  of  the  charges  shall  be  had  in  a 
Lodge  specially  notified  and  convened  for  the  purpose,  at  which 
none  but  members  of  the  Lodge,  or  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall  be 
admitted,  except  as  counsel  or  witnesses. 

[35] 


36 

Rule  3.  The  accused  may  select  any  Brother  for  his  counsel, 
and  the  witnesses  shall  testify  on  their  honor,  and  if  Masons, 
on  their  honor  as  such.     Hearsay  evidence  shall  be  excluded. 

Rule  4.  If  the  witnesses  can  not  or  will  not  attend  the  Lodge, 
their  depositions  may  be  taken  and  read  as  evidence.  Reasonable 
notice  of  the  time  and  place  of  taking  each  deposition  shall  be 
given  in  writing  to  the  opposite  party,  by  the  person  appointed  to 
take  the  same;  the  deponent  shall  give  his  testimony  on  his 
honor;  both  parties  may  be  present  with  their  counsel,  and  put 
such  questions  to  the  deponent  as  they  please  and  are  relevant. 
The  deposition,  having  been  reduced  to  writing,  shall  be  read  to, 
and  then  signed  by,  the  deponent,  and  sealed  up  in  his  presence, 
and  returned  unopened  to  the  Lodge. 

Rule  5.  The  question,  " 7s  the  accused  guilty  or  not  guilty?" 
shall  be  distinctly  put  to  each  member  of  the  Lodge,  by  name, 
commencing  with  the  youngest.  The  Secretary  shall  record  the 
answer  as  given. 

Rule  6.  If  the  accused  shall  be  found  guilty,  the  question 
shall  then  be  taken  on  the  grade  of  punishment  in  the  following 
order : 

1st.  "Shall  the  accused  be  expelled?"  If  two-thirds  of  those 
voting  do  not  vote  for  expulsion  — 

2d.  "Shall  the  accused  be  suspended?"  If  two-thirds  of  those 
voting  do  not  vote  for  suspension,  the  punishment  of  reprimand 
by  the  Master  shall  be  imposed  as  of  course  without  further  vote 
of  the  Lodge,  and  the  Master  shall  proceed  at  once  to  administer 
the  reprimand  in  open  Lodge. 

Rule  7.  If  the  verdict  be  suspension  or  expulsion,  an  attested 
copy  of  the  proceedings  shall  be  sent  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the 
next  ensuing  meeting  thereof  for  examination  and  final  action. 

Rule  8.  A  sentence  of  suspension  or  expulsion  shall  not  take 
full  effect  until  confirmed  by  this  Grand  Lodge ;  but  shall  operate 
as  suspension  of  the  delinquent  in  the  mean  time. 

Rule  9.  The  Lodge  shall  appoint  some  Brother  to  take 
minutes  of  the  evidence,  which  shall  be  preserved  on  the  files  of 
the  Lodge,  but  not  entered  upon  the  records. 

Rule  10.  The  Secretary  shall  keep  a  full  record  of  all  pro- 
ceedings, and  shall  transmit  within  thirty  days,  and  before  the 
meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  the  Grand  Master,  a  full  copy  of 


37 

all  the  evidence,  charges,  specifications,  notices,  services  of  same, 
and  of  all  things  in  any  way  pertaining  to  the  trial,  which  copy 
shall  be  signed  by  the  Master  and  attested  by  the  Secretary,  under 
seal. 

Rule  11.  Either  party  may  appeal  from  the  decision  of  the 
Lodge  or  rulings  of  the  Master,  which  appeal  must  be  in  writing, 
signed,  by  the  appellant  and  filed  with  the  Secretary  of  the  Lodge 
within  one  month  of  the  decision,  and  must  set  forth  the  reason 
why  he  makes  the  appeal.  The  appellant  shall  give  at  least  ten 
days'  notice  in  writing  to  the  other  party  of  such  appeal,  prior  to 
the  next  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  133.  In  taking  the  vote  upon  the  questions,  "Is  the 
accused  guilty  or  not  guilty?"  "Shall  the  accused  be  expelled?" 
"  Shall  the  accused  be  suspended?"  every  Brother  present  must 
vote  unless  excused  by  unanimous  vote  of  the  Lodge. 

Section  131.  Masonic  punishments  are  expulsion,  suspension, 
which  must  be  indefinite,  and  reprimand,  which  shall  be  admin- 
istered by  the  Master  in  open  Lodge. 

Section  132.  No  Mason,  whose  suspension  or  expulsion  has 
been  confirmed  by  this  Grand  Lodge,  shall  be  restored  to  the 
privileges  of  Masonry,  except  by  a  unanimous  vote  of  the 
members  present  when  such  restoration  may  be  acted  on,  of  the 
Lodge  by  which  he  was  so  expelled  or  suspended,  and  with  the 
consent  and  approbation  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  133.  The  application  for  restoration  shall  be  in 
writing,  signed  by  the  applicant,  presented  to  the  Lodge  at  a 
stated  Communication,  when  a  time  shall  be  appointed  by  the 
Lodge  for  its  consideration  at  some  stated  Communication. 

Section  134.  Every  Lodge  is  required  to  keep  a  careful 
watch  over  the  conduct  of  its  members ;  and  should  any  member 
of  a  Lodge  be  addicted  to  profanity,  intemperance,  lewdness  or 
gambling,  or  be  charged  with  any  other  violation  of  his  Masonic 
duties  and  obligations,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  such  Lodge  imme- 
diately to  institute  an  inquiry  into  the  facts  of  the  case,  and  if 
the  Brother  charged  with  offending  be  found  guilty,  the  Lodge  is 
required,  as  justice  shall  demand,  to  reprimand  the  offender, 
suspend  or  expel  him  from  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
Masonry,  until  a  thorough  reformation  takes  place. 


38 

Section  135.  Particular  Lodges  have  power,  and  may  take 
cognizance  of  any  immoral  or  unmasonic  conduct  of  a  sojourning 
Brother ;  that  is,  in  cases  where  the  offender  is  a  member  of  any 
Lodge  within  the  United  States,  the  Lodge  in  whose  precinct  he 
may  be  accused  of  immoral  or  unmasonic  conduct,  may  inquire 
into  and  report  the  same  to  the  Lodge  whereof  he  is  a  member, 
that  he  may  be  there  tried ;  and  in  cases  where  the  accusecLis  not 
a  member  of  any  such  Lodge,  the  Lodge  within  whose  jurisdic- 
tion the  offence  shall  have  been  committed,  may  proceed  as 
against  a  member  thereof,  and  censure,  suspend,  or  expel  the 
offender,  as  the  nature  of  the  offence  may  require. 

Section  130.  A  Lodge  or  Brother  offending  against  any  law 
or  regulation  of  the  Craft,  or  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  the  breach 
of  which  no  penalty  is  attached,  shall,  at  the  discretion  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  or  particular  Lodge  having  jurisdiction  of  the  case, 
be  subject  to  admonition,  suspension  or  expulsion. 

Section  137.  It  shall  not  be  competent  for  a  Lodge  to  try  its 
Master.  Any  five  members  of  the  Lodge,  or  the  District  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  may  impeach  him  before  the  Grand  Master,  who 
shall  order  an  investigation  of  the  charges ;  and  if  in  his  opinion 
they  are  well  founded,  and  of  a  character  to  justify  the  proceeding, 
he  may  suspend  the  delinquent,  and  summon  him  to  appear  at  the 
next  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  show  cause  why  he 
should  not  be  dealt  with  according  to  the  regulations  and  usages 
in  such  cases  established. 

Section  138.  An  expulsion  or  suspension  of  a  Brother  from 
a  Royal  Arch  Chapter,  or  a  Commandery  of  Knights  Templar, 
shall  not  operate  as  an  expulsion  or  suspension  from  the  Lodge  of 
which  he  is  a  member. 

Section  139.  No  Lodge  shall  suspend  or  expel  a  member 
from  the  rights  of  Masonry  for  non-payment  of  dues.  The 
penalty  of  such  delinquency  shall  be  forfeiture  or  suspension  of 
membership;  and  that  only  after  due  trial,  as  in  other  Masonic 
misdemeanors. 

Section  140.  Whenever  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  reverse  or 
abrogate  the  decision  of  a  particular  Lodge,  suspending  or 
expelling  a  Brother,  and  shall  restore  him  to  the  benefits  and 
privileges    of    Masonry,  he    shall    not     thereby    be    restored    to 


39 

membership  within  the  body  from  which  he  was  suspended  or 
expelled,  without  its  unanimous  consent.. 

Section  141.  The  Grand  Lodge  has  power  to  try  and  punish 
its  own  members  for  any  offence.  In  case  of  complaint  against 
any  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  Master  of  any  particular  Lodge, 
or  any  Lodge,  the  Grand  Master  may  refer  the  same  to  a 
Committee  of  five  Past  Masters,  by  a  commission  under  his 
hand  and  seal,  who  shall  notify  the  parties  and  proceed  with 
the  hearing  agreeably  to  the  rules  for  the  regulation  of  particular 
Lodges,  so  far  as  the  same  may  be  applicable,  and  shall  forth- 
with return  to  the  Grand  Master,  with  the  commission,  attested 
copies  of  all  their  proceedings,  together  with  their  findings  in  both 
matters  of  law  and  fact,  with  any  recommendation  they  deem 
proper.  Upon  such  return  the  Grand  Master  may  restore  the 
accused  or  suspend  him  till  the  pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge  be 
known,  and  shall  submit  all  the  papers  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the 
next  Annual  Communication,  for  their  action. 

Section  142.  No  Lodge,  or  any  member  thereof,  shall,  with- 
out permission  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  publish,  or  in  any  way  make 
known  the  expulsion  of  a  Brother,  except  to  the  Fraternity,  or 
within  the  Lodge,  farther  than  to  state  verbally  the  fact,  whenever 
the  honor,  interests  or  reputation  of  Masonry  may  seem  to 
demand  it. 


P  A  RT   V 


MISCELLANEOUS     REGULATIONS. 


Article    XVIII.    Of  Committees,  «!x. 

XIX.    Rules  for  government  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
XX.    Amendments. 


ARTICLE      XVIII. 

OF     COMMITTEES,      ETC. 

Section —  Section — 

143.  Committee  of  Charity.  148.  Chairmen  and  reports. 

144.  No   certificate  to   be  granted  to  149.  Expenses  how  paid. 

solicit  charity.  150.  Reconsideration. 

145.  Standing  Committees.  151.  Members  to  have  only  one  vote. 

146.  G.\  M  *.  may  refer  any  question  152.  Records  to  be  read. 

in    recess  to  Committee    on  153.  No  funds   of  Grand  Lodge  to  be 

Jurisprudence.  used  except  for  Masonic  pur- 

147.  None  but  members  on  Commit-  poses. 

tees. 

Section  143.  The  Grand  Master  and  Grand  Wardens,  for  the 
time  being,  shall  constitute  a  Committee  of  Charity. 

Section  144.  No  Lodge,  or  Officer,  or  member  of  a  Lodge, 
shall,  undsr  any  circumstances,  give  a  certificate  or  recommen- 
dation to  enable  a  Mason  to  go  from  Lodge  to  Lodge  as  a  pauper, 
or  in  an  itinerant  manner  to  apply  to  Lodges  for  relief. 

Section  145.  The  Grand  Master,  or  presiding  Officer,  shall, 
at  each  Annual  Communication,  nominate  the  following  Commit- 
tees, to  consist  of  three  each,  to  be  confirmed  by  the  Grand  Lodge, 
and  continue  in  office  until  the  next  Annual  Communication, 
namely  : 

A  Committee  on  Credentials; 
on  Finance  ; 

on  Foreign  Correspondence ; 
on  Unfinished  Business ; 
on  Lodges ; 
on  Returns ; 

on  Doings  of  the  Grand  Officers ; 
on  Trials  and  Appeals, 
on  Jurisprudence. 
I    10  ] 


41 


Section  146.  The  Grand  Master  may  refer  any  question  of 
law  or  usage  arising  in  the  recess  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  the 
Committee  on  Jurisprudence,  who  may  report  to  the  Grand  Master, 
or  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  its  next  Annual  Communication. 

Section  147.  No  Brother,  not  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
shall  be  appointed  on  any  Committee  therein.  This,  however,  is 
not  intended  to  militate  against  the  right  of  the  Grand  Master  to 
commission  any  Brother  in  writing,  for  a  specific  purpose. 

Section  148.  All  Committees,  chosen  or  appointed,  shall 
report  their  proceedings  in  writing,  at  the  same  Communication 
with  their  appointment,  unless  otherwise  directed  by  the  Grand 
Lodg3.  The  first  Brother  chosen  or  appointed,  shall  be  chairman, 
and  shall  duly  notify  each  of  the  Committee  of  the  time  and 
place  of  meeting. 

Section  149.  The  expenses  of  all  Committees  shall  be  paid 
by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  150.  No  vote  passed  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  in  a 
particular  Lodge,  can  be  reconsidered  by  a  less  number  than  were 
present  when  the  vote  was  passed. 

Section  151.  No  Officer  or  member  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
shall  be  entitled  to  more  than  one  vote,  either  in  his  own  right  or 
as  proxy. 

Section  152.  At  every  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
the  records  of  the  preceding  Communication  shall  be  read  by  the 
Grand  Secretary  before  the  Lodge  proceeds  to  business,  unless 
otherwise  ordered  by  vote  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  153.  No  portion  of  the  funds  of  this  Grand  Lodge 
shall  be  appropriated  or  used  for  any  purpose,  except  for  defray- 
ing the  necessary  expenses  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  promotion  of 
the  interests  of  the  Institution,  and  the  relief  of  distressed  worthy 
Brethren,  their  widows  and  orphans. 

ARTICLE     XIX. 

RULES  FOR  THE  GOVERNMENT  OF  GRAND  LODGE. 

Section  154.  Rule  1.  None  but  members  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  Past  Officers    of  other  Grand  Lodges  excepted,  shall  be 


42 


present  at  the  opening  of  the  same,  nor  shall  any  visitor  be 
admitted  during  the  session  except  by  permission  of  the  Grand 
Master,  and  by  vote  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Rule  2.  Members  and  visitors  shall  keep  the  seats  assigned 
them,  except  the  Grand  Marshal,  and  Officers  whose  duties  may 
call  them  about  the  Lodge. 

Rule  3.  All  resolutions  shall  be  submitted  in  writing,  before 
there  shall  be  any  debate  upon  them ;  as  shall  all  motions,  if  the 
presiding  Officer,  or  any  Brother,  desire  it. 

Rule  4.  In  all  elections,  and  upon  every  question  which  may 
come  before  the  Grand  Lodge  for  decision,  each  member  present 
shall  be  entitled  to  one  vote  only,  except  upon  a  call  of  any  five 
members,  in  which  case  the  vote  shall  be  taken  by  Lodges,  and 
each  Lodge  represented  shall  then  be  entitled  to  four  votes,  all  of 
which  shall  be  on  the  same  side ;  and  the  representatives  of  each 
Lodge  respectively  may  decide  on  which  side  of  the  question  the 
votes  of  their  Lodge  shall  be  cast.  The  other  members  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  shall  be  entitled  to  one  vote  each.  A  member 
cannot  delegate  his  right  of  voting  to  another. 

Rule  5.  Each  member  shall  vote  on  all  questions,  unless 
excused  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Rule  6.  Every  member  who  speaks  shall  rise,  and  remain 
standing,  addressing  himself  to  the  Grand  Presiding  Officer ;  nor 
shall  he  be  interrupted  unless  by  a  call  to  order  from  the  presid- 
ing Officer,  or  from  some  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Rule  7.  When  a  question  is  under  debate,  no  motion  shall  be 
received,  except  to  lay  on  the  table,  to  commit,  to  amend,  or  to 
postpone,  which  motions  shall  take  precedence  in  the  order  above 
named. 

Rule  8.  A  motion  to  amend,  until  decided,  shall  preclude  all 
other  amendments  of  the  main  question. 

Rule  9.  Any  member  may  call  for  a  division  of  the  question, 
where  the  same  will  admit  of  it. 

Rule  10.  No  new  motion,  which  totally  changes  the  subject 
matter  on  which  the  original  motion  was  intended  to  operate, 
shall  be  admitted,  under  color  of  amendment,  as  a  substitute  for 
the  motion  under  debate. 

Rule  11.     No    member,  except    one    of    the    majority    which 


43 

decided  the  question,  shall  be  allowed  to  move  for  a  reconsidera- 
tion. 

Rule  12.  After  a  motion  is  stated  by  the  Grand  Presiding 
Officer,  it  shall  be  deemed  to  be  in  the  posession  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  but  may  be  withdrawn  by  the  mover  at  any  time  before 
decision  or  amendment. 

Rule  13.  There  shall  be  no  debate  upon  any  question  after  it 
has  been  put  by  the  Grand  Presiding  Officer. 

Rule  14.  All  motions  and  reports  may  be  committed  at  the 
pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Rule  15.  While  the  Grand  Presiding  Officer  is  addressing  the 
Grand  Lodge,  or  putting  a  question,  or  a  Brother  is  speaking,  no 
member  shall  entertain  any  private  discourse,  or  pass  between  the 
speaker  and  the  chair. 

Rule  16.  No  Brother  shall  leave  the  Grand  Lodge  during  the 
session,  without  permission  of  the  Grand  Master. 

Rule  17.  No  Brother  shall  speak  more  than  twice  upon  the 
same  question,  unless  to  explain,  without  permission  from  the 
Grand  Lodge. 

ARTICLE    XX. 

AMENDMENTS. 

Section  15.5.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  have  full  power  and 
authority  to  make  such  amendments,  alterations  and  additions  to 
this  Constitution,  at  any  regular  Communication,  as  they  shall 
think  proper  and  expedient  for  the  benefit  of  the  Craft ;  provided 
such  amendment,  alteration  or  addition,  be  preposed  in  writing,  at 
an  Annual  Communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  be  filed  with  the 
Grand  Secretary,  and  lay  over  for  consideration  till  the  next 
Annual  Communication;  and  such  proposed  amendment,  altera- 
tion, or  addition,  when  acted  upon,  may  be  amended  as  the  Grand 
Lodge  shall  deem  proper;  provided,  also,  that  the  ancient  land- 
marks of  Masonry  be  carefully  preserved. 


APPENDIX, 


FOBMS    AND    INSTRUCTIONS 

Prepared   by    order    of  the    Grand    Lodge,    and    directed    to    be 
printed  with  the  Constitution. 


[i] 

FORM    OF    APPOINTMENT    OF  PROXY,  IN    GRAND  LODGE,  OF  MASTER 
OR   WARDEN    OF    A    PARTICULAR   LODGE. 

(  Section  4. ) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Hon- 
or  able  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State 
of  New  Hampshire  : 

I  hereby  appoint  Brother  my  proxy,  to  represent  me, 

as  of  Lodge,  No.  ,  at  the  (semi-)  Annual  Com- 

munication of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  be  holden  at  ,  on 

the         day  of  ,  18 

Witness  my  hand  and  seal  at  ,  this  day  of  , 

A.'.  l.\  58      ,  a.  d.  18      . 

[l.  s.]  A.  B.,         of        Lodge,  No.     . 


[2] 

FORM     OF     DEPUTATION     BY     THE     GRAND     MA.STER. 

(  Section  26. ) 

To  all  the  Fraternity  to  whom  these  Presents  shall  come : 

Know  ye.  That  I,  ,  Most  Worshipful  Grand 

Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire, 
reposing  full  trust  and  confidence  in  the  care,  skill  and  good  con- 

(l) 


duct  of  our  (B.\  W.\)  Brother  ,  do  hereby  appoint  and 

depute  the  said  (R.\  W.\)  Brother  ,  in  my  name  and 

place,  to  fully  constitute,  solemnly  consecrate,  and  dedicate 
Lodge,  No.     ,  to  whom  a  Warrant  of  Constitution  has  been  issued 
by  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  install  its  Officers  in 
(due)  form,  according  to  the  ancient    usages  and   customs   of  the 
Craft ;  at  such  time  within  days  hereof,  as  the  said 

shall  appoint,  and  for  so  doing  this  shall  be  his  sufficient  warrant. 
Given  under  my  hand  and  seal,  at  ,  this  day 

of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  D.  18     . 

[e.  s.  ]  A.  B.,  Grand  Master. 

In  place  of  the  clause  in  italics,  clauses  may  be  inserted  :  To  dedicate  a  Hall, 
lay  a  Corner  Stone,  or  perform  any  other  act,  which  it  may  be  the  desire  of  the 
Grand  Master  to  have  done. 


[3] 

FORM     OF     GRAND     TREASURER'S     BOND. 
(  Section  34. ) 

Know  all  Men  by  these  Presents  : 

That  we,  of  ,  in  the  County  of  ,  and  State  of 

New  Hampshire,  as  Principal ;  and  ,  and  , 

of  ,  as  Sureties,  are  holden  and  stand  firmly  bound 

unto  ,  Grand  Master  of  Masons  in  New  Hampshire,  in 

trust  for  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and 
Honorable  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State 
of  New  Hampshire,  in  the  sum  of  dollars,  to  the  pay- 

ment whereof,  we  hereby  jointly  and  severally  bind  ourselves  and 
our  heirs  respectively,  firmly  by  these  Presents,  sealed  with  our 
seals,  and  dated  this         day  of         ,  A.  D.  18 

The  condition  of  this  obligation  is  such,  That  if  the  said  , 

who  has  been  elected  Grand  Treasurer  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Lodge  aforesaid,  shall  well  and  truly  discharge  and  per- 
form all  the  duties  of  Grand  Treasurer  of  said  Grand  Lodge,  for 
the  term  of  one  year,  and  for  such  farther  term  or  terms  as  he 
may  be  re-elected,  according  to  the  Constitution  and  General 
Regulations  of  said  Grand  Lodge,  and  especially  shall  safely  keep 
all  funds  and  other  property  of  said  Grand  Lodge,  or  which  may 
be  deposited  with  said  Grand  Lodge,  shall  keep  true  and  just 
accounts  of  the  same,  pay  such  orders  as  may  be  drawn  upon  him 
agreeably  to  said  Constitution  and  Geneial  Regulations,  or  the 
vote  of  said  Grand  Lodge,  and  annually,  and  at  such  other  times 
as  may  be  required  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  the  Grand  Master,  lay 
before  said  Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Master,  a  particular  statement 
of  his  accounts,  and  of  the  funds  and  property  in  his  hands,  and 


at  the  close  of  his  term,  shall  pay  over  and  deliver  to  his  successor 
in  said  office  of  Grand  Treasurer,  all  books,  papers,  funds,  or 
property  of  any  kind  in  his  possession  as  Grand  Treasurer,  then 
this  obligation  to  be  void. 


A.  B. 

'•L.  S. 

CD. 

^L.  S. 

E.  F. 

*L.  S. 

[4] 

FORM     OF     GRAND     SECRETARY'S     BOND. 
(  Section  43. ) 

Know  all  Men  by  these  Presents  : 

That  we,  ,  of  ,  in  the  County  of  , 

and  State  of  New  Hampshire,  as  Principal,  and  ,  and  , 

of  ,    ,as  Sureties,  are  holden  and  stand  firmly  bound 

unto  ,  Grand  Master  of  Masons  in  New  Hampshire,  in 

trust  for  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and 
Honorable  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State 
of  New  Hampshire,  in  the  sum  of  dollars,  to  the  payment 

whereof,  we  hereby  jointly  and  severally  bind  ourselves  and  our 
heirs  respectively,  firmly  by  these  Presents,  sealed  with  our  seals, 
and  dated  this         day  of  ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The  condition  of  this  obligation  is  such,  That  if  the  said  , 

who  has  been  elected  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Lodge  aforesaid,  shall  well  and  truly  discharge  and  perform 
all  the  duties  of  Grand  Secretary  of  said  Grand  Lodge,  for  the 
term  of  one  year,  and  for  such  farther  term  or  terms  as  he  may  be 
re-elected,  according  to  the  Constitution  and  General  Regulations 
of  said  Grand  Lodge,  and  especially  shall  receive  all  moneys  that 
may  be  paid  to  him  as  Grand  Secretary,  and  pay  the  same  over  to 
the  Grand  Treasurer,  keep  accurate  accounts  between  said  Grand 
Lodge  and  the  Particular  Lodges,  and  annually,  and  at  such  other 
times  as  may  be  required  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  Grand  Master, 
lay  before  said  Grand  Lodge,  or  Grand  Master,  a  statement  of  his 
accounts,  and  of  the  accounts  between  said  Grand  Lodge  and  the 
particular  Lodges,  and  at  the  close  of  his  term,  deliver  to  his  suc- 
cessor in  said  office  of  Grand  Secretary s  all  books,  papers,  funds 
or  property  of  any  kind  in  his  possession  as  Grand  Secretary,  then 
this  obligation  to  be  void. 

A.  B.  [l.s.] 
CD.  [l.s.] 
E.  F.     [l.s.] 


The  Constitution  requires  certain  steps  to  be  taken  before  a  Dispensation  shall  be 
granted  for  a  new  Lodge.  It  is  believed  that  the  Forms  following  contain  nothing 
but  what  is  essential  should  appear  before  the  Dispensation  be  granted. 

The  Brethren  desirous  of  forming  a  new  Lodge,  first  prepare  and  sign  a  petition 
therefor,  in  the  form  prescribed  in  Sec.  65  of  the  Constitution;  this  petition  is  then 
submitted  to  the  two  nearest  Lodges  subordinate  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  for  their 
approbation  and  recommendation,  at  stated  communications  of  such  Lodges,  notice 
thereof  having  been  given  at  previous  stated  communications. 


[5] 

FORM     OF     APPROBATION      AND       RECOMMENDATION     BY     NEAREST 

PARTICULAR     LODGE. 

(  Section  61. ) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.        ,  holden 

at  ,  on  the         day  of         ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     : 

The  petition  of  several  Brethren,  praying  for  a  Dispensation  to 
open  a  new  Lodge  at  ,  in  the  County  of  ,  was 

duly  laid  before  the  Lodge,  pursuant  to  notice  given  at  a  stated 
Communication  on  the  day  of  ,  a.'.  l.\  58     ,  A.  D.  18     , 

when  it  was 

Resolved,  That  this  Lodge,  being  fully  satisfied  that  the  peti- 
tioners are  Master  Masons  in  good  standing,  and  being  prepared 
to  vouch  for  their  moral  character  and  Masonic  abilities,  does 
approve  the  formation  of  such  new  Lodge,  and  recommend  that 
the  Dispensation  prayed  for  be  granted  them. 
A  true  copy  of  the  record. 

[  L.  s.  ]  A.  B.,    Secretary, 

Lodge,  No. 

Having  obtained  such  approbation  and  recommendation  from  the  two  nearest 
Lodges,  the  petition  and  recommendations  should  be  submitted  to  theD.\D.\ 
G.\M.\  of  the  District,  for  his  approval  and  recommendation. 

[6] 

FORM     OF    APPROVAL    AND    RECOMMENDATION    BY    D.'.D.'.&.'.M.'. 

(  Section  61.  ) 

The  petition  of  several  Brethren,  praying  for  a  Dispensation  to 
open  a  new  Lodge  at  ,  in  the  County  of  ,  with 

the  approbation  and  recommendation  of  Lodge,  No.       , 

holden  at  ,  miles  from  the  proposed  location  of  said 

new  Lodge,  and  of  Lodge,  No.      ,  holden  at  ,         miles 

from  said  proposed  location,  has  been  laid  before  me  ;  and  being 


fully  satisfied  that  the  petitioners  are  Master  Masons,  and  being 
prepared  to  vouch  for  their  moral  character  and  Masonic  abilities, 
and  believing  such  new  Lodge  will  be  for  the  good  of  the  Craft,  I 
approve  the  formation  of  such  new  Lodge,  and  recommend  that 
the  Dispensation  prayed  for  be  granted  to  them. 

Dated  this         day  of         ,  a.'.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,     D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  —th  Masonic  Dist. 


If  a  majority  of  the  petitioners  are  members  of  a  regular  Lodge  under  the  juris- 
diction of  the  Grand  Lodge,  they  must  also  have  the  certificate  of  the  Master  and 
Wardens  sanctioning  the  separation. 

m 

FORM     OF     SANCTION     OF     MASTER     AND     WARDENS.  » 

(  Section  63. ) 

The   petition    of  several   Brethren,    a   majority    of    whom    are 
members  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  praying  for  a  Dispensation  to 

open  a  new  Lodge  at  ,  in  the  County  of  ,  has 

been  laid  before  us,  and  having  considered  the  same,  we  hereby 
sanction  and  approve  the  separotion  of  said  Brethren  from 
Lodge,  No.     ,  and  the  formation  of  such  new  Lodge. 

Given  under  our  hands  at        ,  this        day  of       ,  a.-.  l.\  58     , 
a.  D.  18     . 

A.  B.,    W.\  Master,       \ 

C.  D.,  Senior  Warden,   >    Lodge,  No. 

E.  F.,  Junior  Warden,  ) 


The  Master  and  Wardens  named  in  the  Dispensation,  then  go  before  the  Grand 
Lecturer  of  the  District,  and  are  by  him  examined  as  to  their  skill  in  the  Work  and 
Lectures,  which  should  be  entire  familiarity  with  all  the  Work  and  Lectures  in  the 
three  degrees. 

[8] 

FORM     OF     GRAND     LECTURER'S     CERTIFICATE. 

(  Section  62.  ) 

In  accordance  with  the  provisions  of  Sec.  62  of  the  Constitution 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  1  have  carefully  and  fully  examined  , 

recommended  to  be -Worshipful  Master,  and  ,  and  , 

recommended  to  be  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens,  of  a  new  Lodge, 
to  be  opened  at  ,  in  the  County  of  ,  and  find 

them  well  skilled  in  the  entire  Work  and  Lectures    of  Ancient 
Craft  Masonry. 


6 


Given  under  my  hand  at         ,  this        day  of        ,  a.-.  l.\  58 
a.  D.  18     . 

A.  B.,   Grand  Lecturer,  — th  Masonic  Dist. 


These  several  papers  having  been  procured,  should  be  forwarded,  with  the  re- 
ceipt of  the  Grand  Secretary  for  the  Dispensation  fee,  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  will 
consider  the  same,  and  if  he  deem  it  best  for  the  interests  of  the  whole  Craft,  he  will 
issue  his  Dispensation,  which  may  be  in  the  following  form  : 


[9] 

FORM     OF     DISPENSATION. 
\  (  Sections  22  &  60. ) 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern : 

Know  ye,  That  I,  ,  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  ot 

Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire,  having 
received  a  petition  from  a  constitutional  number  of  Brethren,  who 
have  been  properly  vouched  for  as  Master  Masons  in  good  standing, 
setting  forth,  that  having  the  honor  and  prosperity  of  the  Craft  at 
heart,  they  are  desirous  of  establishing  a  new  Lodge  at  ,  and 

requesting  a  Dispensation  for  the  same  ;  which  petition  is  accom- 
panied by  the  approbation  and  recommendation  of  the  two  Lodges 
subordinate  to  this  Grand  Lodge  nearest  the  place  where  the  new 
Lodge  is  to  be  held,  and  of  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  of 
that  District,  and  the  certificate  of  the  Grand  Lecturer,  that  he 
has  examined  the  Master  and  Wardens  nominated  in  the  petition, 
and  found  them  well  skilled  in  the  entire  Work  and  Lectures  of 
Ancient  Craft  Masonry,  and  the  sanctum,  of  the  Master  and 
Wardens  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  of  which  a  majority  of  the  peti- 

tioners are  members :  and  good  and  sufficient  cause  appearing  to 
me  for  granting  the  prayer  of  said  petition :  I  do,  by  virtue  of 
the  power  in  me  vested  by  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  New  Hampshire,  and  the  ancient  usages  of  the  Craft,  grant 
this  my  Dispensation,  empowering  Brothers  ,  ,  , 

to  meet  as  a  regular  Lodge  at  ,  by  the  name  of 

Lodge  ;  and    I    do    hereby    appoint    Brother  ,  to    act   as 

Worshipful  Master,  Brother  ,  to  act  as  Senior  Warden, 

and  Brother  ,  to  act  as  Junior  Warden  of  the  said  Lodge : 

and  I  do  further  authorize  the  said  Brethren  to  enter  Apprentices, 
pass  Fellow  Crafts,  and  raise  Master  Masons,  according  to  the 
ancient  usages  and  landmarks  of  the  Craft,  and  the  Constitution 
and  Regulations  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  New 
Hampshire,  and  not  otherwise. 


And  this  my  Dispensation  shall  continue  in  force  until  the  next 
Annual  Communication  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of 
New  Hampshire,  at  which  time  I  require  and  enjoin  the  said 
Brethren  to  return  this  Dispensation  to  the  Grand  Lodge  aforesaid, 
together  with  an  attested  transcript  of  all  their  proceedings  under 
the  same,  and  their  By-Laws,  that  the  said  Grand  Lodge  may 
advise  thereon. 

Given  under  my  hand,  and  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
at  ,  this         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

[l.  s.  ]  A.  B.,  Grand  Master. 

C.  D.,  Grand  Secretary. 


At  the  next  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  new  Lodge  returns 
to  the  Grand  Lodge  the  Dispensation,  with  an  attested  transcript  of  their  pro- 
ceedings under  it,  and  the  By  -  Laws  they  have  adopted.  It  is  not  absolutely  re* 
quired  that  they  should  present  a  petition  for  a  Warrant,  yet  that  course  would  seem 
advisable,  and  such  petition  may  be  in  the  following  form  : 


[10] 

FORM     OF     PETITION     FOR    WARRANT     OF     CONSTITUTION. 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Hon~ 
orable  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
New  Hampshire : 

The  undersigned  respectfully  represent,  that  they  have,  for  some 
time  past,  met  as  a  regular  Lodge  at  ,  under  the  name 

of  Lodge,    by   virtue    of    a    Dispensation    from    Most 

Worshipful  ,  Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted 

Masons  in  New  Hampshire,  which  Dispensation  with  an  attested 
transcript  of  our  proceedings,  and  our  By  -  Laws,  is  herewith 
returned. 

We  would  therefore  pray,  that  a  Warrant  of  Constitution  be 
granted  us  for  the  said  Lodge,  which  prayer  being  granted,  we 
promise  strict  obedience  to  the  Constitution  and  Regulations  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  and  regular  attendance  on  its  Communications. 

Dated  the  day  of        a.-.  l.\  53     ,  a.  d.  18     . 


If  a  Lodge  vote  to  remove,  in  accordance  with  Sections  G9  and  70  of  the  Con- 
stitution, the  following  forms  may  be  used. 

[ii] 

FORM     OF     PETITION     FOR     REMOVAL     OF     A    LODGE. 

(  Section  70. ) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Hon- 
orable Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
New  Hampshire: 

The  undersigned  respectfully  represent,  that  Lodge, 

No.     ,  has  heretofore  met  at  ,  in  the  County  of  , 

that  we  are  desirous  to  remove  said  Lodge  to  ;    that  at  a 

stated  Communication  of  said  Lodge,  held  on  the  day  of         , 

a.*.  l.\  58  ,  notice  of  our  desire  to  remove  was  openly  given  in 
said  Lodge ;  that  every  member  of  said  Lodge  was  specially 
summoned  to  attend  a  stated  Communication  of  said  Lodge,  held 
on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  for  the  express  purpose  of 

taking  the  subject  of  removal  into  consideration,  at  which  last 
Communication  the  Lodge  deemed  such  removal  expedient ;  that 
there  are  members  of  said  Lodge  :  wherefore,  we  pray  for 

permission  to  remove  said  Lodge  to 

Dated  the  day  of  a.4.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 


This  petition  should  be  accompanied  by  a  copy  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Lodge 
in  the  matter,  attested  by  the  Secretary,  and  the  certificate  of  the  Master  and 
Secretary  of  the  number  of  members.  It  must  also  be  accompanied  by  the  appro- 
bation of  the  two  nearest  Lodges. 


[12] 

FORM      OF      APPROBATION      FOR      REMOVAL      OF     LODGE     BY     THE 

NEAREST     PARTICULAR     LODGES. 

(  Section  70. ) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.        ,  holden 

at  ,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The  vote  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  heretofore  meeting  at  , 

in  the  County  of  ,  deeming  its  removal  to  expedient, 

was  duly  laid  before  the  Lodge  ;  when  it  was 

Resolved,    That   this    Lodge    approve    the  removal   of 
Lodge,  No.     ,  from  ,  to 

A  true  copy  of  the  records. 
[  l.  s.  ]  A.  B.,   Secretary. 


If  it  is  desired  to  revive  a  dormant  Lodge  in  accordance  with  the. provisions  of 
Sec.  76  of  the  Constitution,  the  following  forms  may  be  used. 

[13]       . 

FORM     OF     PETITION     FOE      RESTORATION     OF     WARRANT     WHICH 

HAS     BEEN     SURRENDERED     WITH     THE     INTENTION    OF 

RESUMING     IT. 

(  Section  76.) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and 
Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire : 

The  undersigned,  Master  Masons,  respectfully  represent,  that  on 
the         day  of         ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  Lodge,  No.     ,  holding 

a  Warrant  of  Constitution  from  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  New  Hampshire,  for  certain  reasons  surrendered  their 
Warrant  to  the  said  Grand  Lodge,  with  the  intention,  expressed 
in  said  surrender,  of  resuming  the  same  at  some  future  and  more 
auspicious  period;  that  we  are  now  desirous  of  resuming  the 
said  Warrant,  and  of  working  under  the  same ;  wherefore  we  (the 
first  having  been  members  of  said  Lodge  at  the  time  of  such 

surrender),  pray  that  the  said  Warrant,  together  with  the  By- 
Laws,  records,  seal,  clothing,  funds  and  other  property  of  said 
Lodge,  may  be  restored  to  us,  and  we  be  authorized  to  meet  and 
work  as  a  regular  Lodge,  agreeably  to  the  Constitution  and 
General  Regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  the  ancient  land- 
marks of  the  Craft. 

Dated  at  ,  this         day  of         ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

To  be  signed  by  at  least  seven  Master  Masons,  at  least  four  of  whom  were 
members  of  the  Lodge  at  the  time  of  its  surrender  of  the  Warrant. 

[14] 

FORM      OF      PETITION     FOR     RESTORATION     OF     WARRANT     WHICH 

HAS      BEEN      SURRENDERED      ABSOLUTELY,     FORFEITED, 

OR     REVOKED. 

(  Section  76. ) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Hon- 
orable Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  Master  Masons,  respectfully  represent,  that 
on  the  day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58  ,  the  Warrant  of  Constitution 
of  Lodge,  No.       ,  was  {surrendered  to  said  Grand 

Lodge),  {declared  to  he  forfeited  by  said  Grand  Lodge),  {revoked 


10 


by  said  Grand  Lodge).  That  we  are  desirous  of  reviving  the 
said  Lodge:     Wherefore  we  (the  first  having  been  members 

of  said  Lodge  at  the  time  of  such  [surrender  ],  [forfeiture,  and  not 
having  been  implicated  in  any  improper  or  unmasonic  conduct^, 
[revocation,  and  not  having  been  implicated  in  any  improper  or  un- 
masonic conauct~\),  pray  that  the  said  Warrant  may  be  restored  to 
us,  and  we  be  authorized  to  meet  and  work  as  a  regular  Lodge, 
agreeably  to  the  Constitution  and  General  Regulations  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  the  ancient  landmarks  of  the  Craft. 

Dated  at  ,  this         day  of         ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 


To  be  signed  by  at  least  seven  Master  Masons,  at  least  four  of  whom  were 
members  of  the  Lodge  at  the  time  of  the  surrender,  forfeiture,  or  revocation  of  its 
Warrant. 

Under  the  new  Constitution,  it  is  believed  this  can  only  be  done  by  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  not  by  the  Grand  Master, 

Accompanying  either  of  the  above  petitions,  should  be  the  approval  of  the  two 
nearest  Lodges  in  this  State,  and  of  the  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\ 


[15] 


FORM      OF      APPROBATION     FOR     RESTORATION     OF     WARRANT     BY 
NEAREST     PARTICULAR     LODGES. 
,  (  Section  76. ) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.       ,  holden 

at  ,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18 

The  petition  of  several  Brethren,  at  least  four  of  whom   were 
members    of  Lodge,  No.     ,  whose    Warrant    has   been 

[surrendered),  {forfeited),  {revoked),  praying  for  the  restoration 
of  such  Warrant,  was  duly  laid  before  the  Lodge,  when  it  was 

Resolved,    That   this     Lodge    approve    the    restoration    of    the 
Warrant  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  to  the  petitioners  therefor. 

A  true  copy  of  the  records. 
[  l.  s.  ]  A.  B.,   Secretary. 


[16] 


FORM     OF     APPROVAL     BY     D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  OF     RESTORATION      OF 


WARRANT. 

(  Section  76.  ) 


The  petition  of  several  Brethren,  at  least  four  of  whom  were 
members  of  Lodge,  No.       ,  whose     Warrant   has    been 

[surrendered),  {forfeited),  {revoked),  praying  for  the  restoration 


11 

of  such  Warrant,  with  the  approbation  of  Lodge,  No.      , 

holden  at  ,  miles  from  said  Lodge,  and 

Lodge,  No.     ,  holden  at  ,  miles  from  said 

Lodge,  No.         ,  has  been  laid  before  me,  and  being  satisfied  that 
the  petitioners  are  Master  Masons,  of  whom  the  first  were 

members  of  said  Lodge,  No.     ,  and  believing  such  res- 

toration will  be  for  the  good  of  the  Craft,  I  approve  the  restoration 
of  said  Warrant. 

Dated  this  day  of-  ,  a.\  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18 

A.  B.,  Dr.  Dr.  Gr.Mr.  —th  Masonic  Dist. 


The  form  of  return  is  to  be  prescribed  by  the  Grand  Secretary  from  time  to  time, 
and  as  the  necessary  blanks  are  furnished  the  Lodges,  it  is  deemed  unnecessary  to 
give  any  form  here.  The  return  should  give  the*  exact  date  of  every  degree  con- 
ferred in  the  Lodge  for  the  year,  in  the  order  in  which  the  degrees  were  conferred, 
and  this,  although  the  candidate  was  returned  the  previous  year,  as  having  received 
a  lower  degree.  It  should  contain  the  full  name  of  each  Officer  and  member,  and 
the  names  of  the  Officers  should  not  be  repeated  among  the  members.  It  should  be 
made  out  and  sent,  with  the  dues,  to  the  Grand  Secretary  immediately  after  the  15th 
of  April,  and  in  no  event  should  it  be  retained  till  the  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 


[17] 

FORM     OF     PETITION     TO     BE     MADE     A     MASON. 
(  Section  106. ) 

To  the  Worshipful  Master,  Wardens,  and  Brethren  of 

Lodge,  No.     ,  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  : 

The  petition  of  the  subscriber,  respectfully  represents,  that 
having  long  entertained  a  favorable  opinion  of  your  ancient  Insti- 
tution, he  is  desirous,  if  found  worthy,  of  being  admitted  a 
member  thereof. 

His  age  is  years,  his  place  of  residence  ,  his  occu- 

pation .     He  has  never  before  made  application  as  a 

candidate  to  any  Lodge. 

(  Signed).  A.  B. 


If  he  has  before  been  a  candidate,  in  place  of  the  last  clause  should  be  the 
following : 

He  has  on  the         day  of         ,  made  application  to  Lodge, 

No.     ,  and  been  (  accepted  or  rejected  as  the  case  may  be  ). 


12 

[18] 

FORM      OF     RECOMMENDATION     OF     CANDIDATE. 

(  Section  106. ) 

We  are  personally  acquainted  with  the  above  applicant,  and 
from  a  confidence  in  his  integrity,  and  the  uprightness  of  his  in- 
tention, recommend  and  propose  him  as  a  proper  candidate  for  the 
mysteries  of  Masonry. 

A.  B. 

C.  D. 


It  will  be  found  convenient  to  have  printed  with  the  petition,  a  receipt  for  the 
Initiation  fee,  certificate  of  reference  to  Committee,  and  their  report,  which  will 
then  present  the  whole  transaction  in  one  document. 


[19j 

FORM     OF     CONSENT     BY     A     LODGE,   THAT    A    CANDIDATE     WITHIN 
THEIR     JURISDICTION     MAY     APPLY     TO     ANOTHER     LODGE. 

(  Sections  111  and  112. ) 

At  a  stated  communication  of  Lodge  No.     ,  {on  the  registry 

of  the  Mr.   Wr.  Grand  Lodge  of  ,)  holden  at  ,  on 

the  day  of         ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The  application  of  (lately)  resident  of  ,  within  the 

jurisdiction  of  this  Lodge,  for  the  consent  of  this  Lodge,  that  he 
may  apply  for  and  receive  the  degrees  of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry 
in  Lodge  No.  ,  holden  at  ,  was  duly  laid  before  the 

Lodge,  when  it  was  unanimously 

Resolved,  That  this  Lodge  consent,  that  may  apply  for  and 

receive  the  degrees  of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry  in  Lodge,  No. 

,  holden  at  ,  they  making  due  inquiry  into  his  character. 

A  true  copy  of  the  records. 

[  l.  s.]  A.  B.,    Secretary. 


The  words  in  the  first  parenthesis  to  be  inserted  when  the  Lodge  is  not  subordi- 
nate to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New  Hampshire,  otherwise  omitted. 

The  word  "  lately  "  in  the  second  parenthesis,  to  be  inserted  when  the  candidate 
has  not  resided  in  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge  twelve  months. 

This  consent  should  be  inexorably  refused  when  any  doubt  exists  of  the  worthi- 
ness of  the  candidate,  and  if  the  least  doubt  occurs,  the  Worshipful  Master  should 
order  the  secret  ballot  thereon, 


13 

■    [20] 

FORM     OF  .  PERMISSION,     BY     THE      GRAND     MASTER     OE     ANOTHER 
■       STATE,  EOR     THE     APPLICATION     EOR     THE     DEGREES     IN 
ANY     LODGE     IN     THIS     STATE. 

(  Section  112. ) 

To  all  to  whom  these  Presents  shall  come  : 

Whereas,  application  has  been  made  to  me,  by  , 

(lately)  a  resident  of  ,  within  the  jurisdiction  of         Lodge, 

No.  ,  on  the  Registry  of  the  M.\  W.\  Grand  Lodge  of  , 

for  permission  to  apply  for  and  receive  the  degrees  of  Ancient 
Craft  Masonry  in  Lodge,  No.  ,  on  the  Registry  of  the 

Grand  Lodge  of  New  Hampshire,  which  application  is  accom- 
panied by  the  consent  of  said  Lodge,  No.  ,  granted  at  a 
stated  Communication,  which  consent  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge 
is  hereto  annexed. 

Therefore,  Know  ye,  that  I,  ,  Most  Worshipful 

Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  , 

hereby  grant  this,  my  permission,  that  the  said  ,  may 

apply  for  and  receive  the  degrees  of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry  in 
said  Lodge,  No. 

In  witness  whereof  I  have  hereto  set  my  hand  and  private  seal, 
this         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18 

[l'.  s.  ]  A.  B.,    Grand  Master. 


[21] 

FORM     OF     CONSENT     THAT     A    REJECTED    CANDIDATE    MAY    APPLY 

TO     ANOTHER    LODGE. 

(Section  115.) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.  ,  holden 

at  ,  on  the         day  of         ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The  application  of  ,  who  was  rejected  in  this  Lodge 

on  the  day  of  ,  a.  l.  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  on  his 

application  to  be  made  a  Mason,  for  the  recommendation  of  this 
Lodge  to  Lodge  No.  ,  was  duly  laid  before  the  Lodge, 

pursuant  to  notice  given  at  a  stated  Communication  on  the 
day  of         ,  a.',  l.".  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  when  the  secret  ballot  hav- 
ing been  passed,   he  was  thereby  unanimously    recommended  to 
said  Lodge  No. 

A  true  copy  of  the  records. 
[  I"  s.  ]  A.  B.,   Secretary, 


11. 

[22]      .  • 

FORM      OF      CONSENT      THAT      E.\      A.*.     OR      F.\    C.V   MAY      APPLY 

FOR      AND      RECEIVE      THE       REMAINING       DEGREES       IN 

ANOTHER     LODGE. 

(Section   121.) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge  No.  •,  holden 

at  ,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The  application  of  ,  who  was  initiated  as  an  E.\  A.*. 

on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  and  passed  to 

the  degree  of  F.\  G.'.  on  the  day  of  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d. 

18     ,  in  this  Lodge,  for  the  consent  of  this  Lodge,  that  he  may 
apply  for  and  receive  the  remaining  degrees  in  Lodge, 

No.  ,  was  duly  laid  before  the  Lodge,  when  it  was 

Resolved,  That  this  Lodge  consent  that  ,  an  E.\  A.*. 

(or  a  F.\  C.\),  may  apply  for  and  receive  the  remaining  degrees 
in  Lodge,  No.  ,  they  making  due  inquiry  into  his 

character. 

A  true  copy  of  the  records, 
[  l.  s.  ]  .  A.  B.,  Secretary. 


[23] 

FORM     OF     RECOMMENDATION     TO     JOIN     ANOTHER     LODGE. 
(Section  125.) 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern  : 

This    is    to    certify   that   Brother  is,  at    the  date  of 

these  presents,  a  Master  Mason  in  good  and  regular  standing,  and 
a  member  of  Lodge,  No.  ,  and  having  paid  all  dues, 

and  being  free  from  all  charges,  he  is,  at  his  own  request,  by  vote 
of    said    Lodge,   recommended   to  Lodge,   No.  ,  for 

membership  therein ;  if  elected  and  received  in  said  Lodge, 

No.  ,  then  his  membership  in  this  Lodge  shall  cease  from  the 

date  of  such  reception ;  if  not  received  by  said  Lodge,  then 

his  membership  in  this  Lodge  remain  unaffected  hereby. 

Given    under    my    hand  and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  at  , 

this  day  of         ,  A.-.  L.\  58      ,  A.  d.  18      . 

[  l.  s.  ]  A.  B.,  Secretary, 

Lodge,  No. 


The  above  should  be  used  whenever  it  is  desired  to  change  the  membership  from 
one  Lodge  to  another.  If  it  is  desired  to  retire  from  the  Lodge  membership  alto- 
gether, the  following  may  be  used. 


1.5 

[24] 

FORM     OF     DIMIT. 

To  whom  it  may  concern: 

This  is  to  certify  that  Brother  is,  at  the  date  of  these 

presents,  a  Master  Mason  in  good  and  regular  standing,  and 
having  paid  all  dues,  and  being  free  from  all  charges,  he  is,  at  his 
own  request,  by  vote  of  the  Lodge,  dimitted  from  membership 
in  Lodge,  No.  ,  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand 

Lodge  of  New  Hampshire. 

Given   under    my   hand  and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  at  , 

this  day  of  ,  A.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18      . 

[l.  s.]  A.  B.,  Secretary, 

Lodge,  No. 


In  thepreparation  of  the  Forms  and  Instructions  under  Art.  XVII.,  I  am  greatly 
indebted  to  R.\W.\  Brother  William  Barrett,  who  prepared  complete  Forms  and 
Instructions  for-trials  by  Commissioners,  under  the  New  York  practice,  which  the 
Committee  on  the  Constitution  were  not  inclined  to  recommend.  But  Bro.  Bar- 
rett kindly  placed  his  manuscript  in  my  hands  for  use  in  preparing  the  following, 


FORMS     OF     TRIALS     AND     APPEALS. 

(Section  129.  ) 

The  first  step  toward  a  Masonic  Trial  is  to  prefer  charges,  or  make  a  complaint. 
Tbe  requisites  of  a  complaint  are,  that  it  be  brief,  and  yet  definite  ;  clearly  pointing 
out  the  nature  of  the  offense  charged,  with  an  accurate  specification  of  the  time, 
place  and  circumstances  of  its  commission.  This  may  be  preferred  by  any  Brother, 
but  more  appropriately,  by  the  Junior  Warden,  under  whose  charge  the  Brethren 
are  when  at  refreshment. 

[25] 

FORM     OF    COMPLAINT. 
(Rule  1.) 

To  the  Worshipful  Master,  Wardens,  and  Brethren  of  Lodge, 

No.     . 

Brother  is  hereby  charged  with  immoral  and  unma- 

sonic  conduct  in  the  matters  following : 

First  specification,  That  the  said  ,  on  the  day 

of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  in  a  public  street  at  ,  was  in  a  state 

of  intoxication  from  the  use  of  strong  and  spirituous  liquors,  in 
violation  of  his  duty  as  a  Mason,  and  to  the  scandal  and  disgrace 
of  the  Craft. 


16 

Second  specification,  That  the  said  on  the  day 

of  ,  a.\  l.\  58      ,  at  said  ,  and  at  divers  other  times 

and  places  between  that  time  and  the  date  of  these  charges,  was 
intoxicated  by  strong  and  spirituous  liquors,  although  admonished 
therefor  by  the  Master  and  Wardens  of  this  Lodge,  in  violation  of 
his  duty  as  a  Mason,  and  to  the  scandal  and  disgrace  of  the  Graft. 

It  is  therefore  demanded,  that  the  said  be  tried  for 

the  said  offenses  according  to  Masonic  law  and  usage. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.l.\   58     ,  A.  D.  18 

A.  B.,  Junior  Warden. 

A  new  specification  should  be  added  for  each  separate  state  of  facts  constituting 
a  Masonic  offense.  The  specification  should  be  stated  as  it  is  expected  to  be  proved , 
with  reasonable  certainty  as  to  time,  place  and  circumstances,  shortly,  but  distiuctly 
A  few  forms  are  given,  but  it  is  obviously  impossible  to  prepare  a  form  for  each  case 
that  may  occur ;  it  is  hoped,  as  no  technicality  is  required,  the  forms  given  may 
suggest  the  form  in  other  cases. 

[26] 

FOR    SLANDER. 

That  the  said  did,  on  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\ 

58     ,  at  ,  in  the  presence  and  hearing  of  and 

others,  use  the  following  slanderous  words  of  and  concerning 
(here  insert  the  name  of  person  or  Lodge  slandered),  (then  set  out 
the  words  used  as  near  as  possible). 

[27] 

FOR    CHEATING. 

That  the  said  ,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\ 

58     ,  at  ,    did   wrong,   cheat   and   defraud   (here  insert  the 

name  of  the  person  or  Lodge  defrauded),  by  (here  insert  a  descrip- . 
tion  of  the  method  of  cheating  used). 

[28] 

FOR     THREATENING     TO     INJURE     THE    LODGE    BY     BLACKBALLING 
CANDIDATES. 

That  the  said  ,  on  the  day  of         ,  a.\l.\  58     , 

at  ,  did  threaten  to  impede  the  work  of  the  Lodge,  by  an 

improper  use  of  the  blackball,  in  the  following  language  (here 
insert  the  language  used  as  perfectly  as  possible). 


17 

The  charge  should  be  given  to  the  Secretary ;  the  Master  then  directs  a  special 
Communication  of  the  Lodge  to  be  called  to  act  upon  the  subject,  and  also  directs 
the  Secretary  to  notify  the  accused,  by  serving  him  with  an  attested  copy  of  the 
charges  and  specifications,  and  a  summons  for  his  appearance  before  the  Lodge. 

g  [29] 

FORM    OF    NOTICE    TO    THE    ACCUSED. 
(  Rule  1. ) 
To  Brother  , 

Take  notice,  that   the    within  (or  foregoing)  is  a  copy  of  the 
complaint  and  specifications  preferred  against  you  in 
Lodge,  No.    ;  and  that  the  Worshipful  Master  has  called  a  special 
Communication  of  said  Lodge,  to  be  held  on  the         day  of  , 

a.\l.\  58  ;  a.  d.  18  ,  at  o'clock,  p.m.,  to  consider  said 
charges,  and  you  are  summoned  and  required  to  be  present  at  the 
Lodge-room  of  said  Lodge  at  that  time,  to  make  answer  to  said 
complaint  and  specifications,  and  receive  the  award  of  the  Lodge 
thereon. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Secretary, 
Lodge,  No. 

The  Constitution  requires  the  notice  to  be  a  seasonable  one,  —  that  is,  such  notice 
as  will  give  the  accused  time  to  obtain  counsel,  if  he  desires,  to  answer  the  charges, 
and  to  procure  his  evidence  ;  no  absolute  rule  as  to  time  can  be  given,  as  what  would 
be  seasonable  would  vary  with  the  nature  of  the  charge,  and  the  distance  of  the 
accused  and  witnesses  from  the  Lodge.  It  should  always  be  such  that  the  same 
may  be  fairly  heard. 

The  Secretary  should  keep  a  duplicate  copy  of  the  notice  to  the  accused,  which 
should  be  attached  to  the  original  complaint  and  specifications,  and  upon  which  he 
should  make  a  return  of  the  time  and  manner  of  service. 

[30] 

FORM     OF 


RETURN     OF 

SERVICE     OF     NOTICE     TO     THE    ACCUSED. 

(RtLK  1.) 

that  on  the 

day  of            ,  A.\  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

(I  gave  the  within-named  ,  in  hand),  a  notice,  of 

which  the  above  is  a  true  copy,  together  with  a  true  and  attested 
copy  of  the  charges  and  specifications  hereto  attached. 
Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Secretary 

Lodge,  No.     . 


18 

In  place  of  the  clause  in  parenthesis  may  be  either  of  the  following,  as  the  truth 
may  be : 

[31] 

(I  left  at  the  abode  of  the  within-named  ,  enclosed  in 

an  envelope,  securely  sealed  and  directed  to  him). 

[32] 

(I  deposited  in   the   post-office    at  ,  enclosed   in  an 

envelope,  securely  sealed,  and  directed  as  follows  (give  the  direc- 
tion on  the  letter  exactly  as  sent),  "  If  not  called  for  within  ten 
days  return  to  ,  ,  N.  H.,"  and  paid  the  postage 

thereon,  which  letter  has  [not]  been  returned  to  me). 

The  Secretary  should  also  notify  the  Complainant. 

[33] 

FOKM    OF    NOTICE    TO    COMPLAINANT. 

To  Brother  , 

Take  notice,  that  the  Worshipful  Master  has  called  a  special 
Communication  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  at  the  Lodge-room  of 

said  Lodge,  on  ,  the  day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     , 

a.  D.   18     ,   at  o'clock,  p.  m.,  to    consider    the    charges    and 

specifications  made  by  you  against  Brother  ,  and 

Brother  has  been  duly  notified  to  be  present. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a/.l.\  58     ,  a.  r>.  18     . 

A,  B.,  Secretary, 

Lodyes  No.     . 

To  this  a  return  should  be  made  in  the  same  manner  as  of  the  notice  to  the 
accused,  the  form  of  which  may  be  altered  for  the  purpose. 

The  accused  should,  at  the  day  of  hearing,  make  answer  to  the  charges.  It  is 
not  essential  that  this  should  be  in  writing,  but  that  ihe  record  may  be  fully  made 
up,  the  following  form  is  recommended  : 

[34] 

FORM    OF    ANSWER    BY    ACCUSED. 

A.  B.,  in  answer  to  the  charges  and  specifications  against  him, 
says,  that  he  is  not  guilty  of  either  of  them  as  set  forth  by  the 
accuser. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B. 


19 

The  answer  may  vary  according  to  the  facts  in  each  case.  The  specifications  may 
be  admitted  in  part,  and  denied  in  part,  or  admitted  and  other  matters  pleaded  in 
extenuation  or  mitigation.  But  as  any  advantage  of  that  kind  can  as  well  be  had  at 
the  trial  on  a  general  denial  of  the  whole  charge,  it  will  usually  be  found  that  the 
form  given  will  be  most  convenient. 

To  procure  the  attendance  of  witnesses  on  either  side,  if  they  are  Masons,  the 
Master  will  issue  a  summons  to  compel  their  attendance,  which  they  are  bound  to 
obey,  and  should  they  refuse,  without  sufficient  excuse,  they  may  be  punished 
therefor,  as  guilty  of  unmasonic  conduct.  They  may  attend  voluntarily,  when  of 
course  no  summons  is  necessary.  If  they  are  not  Masons,  their  attendance  is  of 
course  wholly  voluntary. 


[35]        • 

FORM    OF    SUMMONS    TO    MASON    AS    WITNESS. 

To  Brother 

.  You  are  hereby  summoned  and  required  to   attend  a  special 
Communication  qf  Lodge,  No.     ,  to  be  held  at  their 

Lodge-room,  on  the     day  of         a.'.l.*.  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

at       o'clock,  p.  m.,  and  there  testify  what  you  know  relative  to  a 
complaint  made  by  Brother  against  Brother 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.'.l.*.  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Master, 

Lodge,  No.     . 

The  person  serving  the  summons  should  make  upon  a  copy  of  it  a  return  of  the 
tine  and  mode  of  service. 


[36] 

FORM    OF    RETURN    OF    SERVICE    OF    SUMMONS    OF    WITNESS. 

I  certify  that  on  the       day  of  ,  a.*,  l  *.  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

I  gave  to  the  within^named  ,  in  hand,  a  summons, 

of  which  the  above  is  a  true  copy. 

A.  B> 


If  the  service  Was  made  in  any  other  mode,  as  by  leaving  it  at  his  house,  &c,  the 
return  should  state  the  exact  mode  of  service. 

Should  occasion  arise  foi*  taking  the  deposition  of  a  witness,  the  Master  should 
issue  a  commission  to  some  suitable  person,  if  possible  a  Master  Mason,  to  take  such 
deposition. 


20 

[37] 

FORM    OF    COMMISSION    TO    TAKE    DEPOSITION. 
(  Rule  4. ) 

To 

You  are  hereby  authorized  to  take  the  deposition  in  writing 
of  ,  of  what  he  knows  relating  to  a  complaint  and 

specifications  made  to  Lodge,  No.     ,  by  Brother 

against  Brother 

You  will  give  reasonable  notice,  in  writing,  to  both  parties,  of 
the  time  and  place  appointed  by  you  for  taking  such  deposition  ; 
the  deponent  will  testify  upon  his  honor ;  both  parties  may  be 
present  with  their  counsel,  and  put  such  questions  as  they  may 
please  and  are  relevant.  If  any  question  be  proposed  to  the  pro- 
priety or  relevancy  of  which  objection  is  made,  you  will  write  the 
question  at  length  as  asked;  you  will  then  write  the  objection, 
after  which  you  will  propose  the  question  to  the  deponent,  and 
write  his  answer,  in  the  exact  words  used  by  him  as  near  as  possi- 
ble. The  deposition  being  completed,  you  will  read  the  same  to 
the  deponent,  and  after  he  has  signed  it,  you  will  securely  seal  the 
same,  together  with  this  commission  and  your  return  of  your 
doings  thereon,  in  an  envelope  in  his  presence,  and  return  the 
same  to  Lodge,  No. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.'.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18 

A.  B.,  Master 

Lodge,  No.     . 

[38] 

NOTICE    TO    PARTIES    OF    TAKING    DEPOSITION. 
(  Rule  4. ) 
To  Brother  ,  and  Brother 

Take  notice,  That  on  the  day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58       , 

a.  D.  18     ,  at  ,  in  ,  at         o'clock  in  the  noon, 

by  virtue  of  a  commission  sent  to  me  from  Worshipful  Brother 
,  Master  of  Lodge,  No.       ,  I  shall  take  the 

deposition  of  ,  of  what  he  knows  relating  to  a  com- 

plaint and  specifications  made  to  Lodge,  No.  ,  by 

Brother  against  Brother 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18 

A.  B.,  appointed  to  take 

such  deposition. 


A  return  of  the  service  should  be  made  as  in  other  cases. 


21 


No  particular  form  is  necessary  in  the  deposition,  the  only  object  being  to  give,  so 
far  as  practicable,  the  language  and  manner  of  the  witness.  If  either  party  desires 
it,  the  questions  and  answers  may  both  be  written.  If  objection  is  made  to  any 
question  as  leading  or  irrelevant,  or  for  any  other  cause,  the  question,  the  objection, 
and  the  answer  should  each  be  written,  that  the  Lodge  may  judge  of  the  propriety  of 
the  question  and  answer.  If  any  objection  is  made  to  the  person  appointed  to  take 
the  deposition,  or  to  any  other  part  of  the  proceedings,  it  should  be  made  and  noted 
in  the  return  to  the  commission.  The  commencement  of  the  deposition  may  be  aa 
follows : 


[39] 

POEM    OP    COMMENCEMENT    OE   DEPOSITION. 
(Rule  4.) 

I,  ,  of  ,  on  my  honor  (as  a  Mason), 

depose  and  say,  &c.  &c. 

[40] 

FORM    OF    RETURN    ON    COMMISSION   TO    TAKE    A   DEPOSITION. 
(Rule  4.) 

Pursuant  to  the  annexed  commission,  on  the         day  of  , 

a.-.  l.\  58  ,  a.  D.  18  ,1  notified  both  the  parties  in  writing, 
that  on  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  at  , 

in  ,  at  o'clock,  in  the  noon,  I  should  take  the 

deposition  of  the  said  ,  and  at  said  time  and  place 

the  appended  deposition  was  given,  the  parties  being  present  and 
putting  such  questions  as  they  pleased.  After  such  deposition 
had  been  reduced  to  writing,  it  was  by  me  read  to  said  deponent, 
who  afterward  signed  the  same. 

(The  accused  objected  to  the  person  appointed  to  take  the  deposi- 
tion, because  he  was  not  a  Mason). 

(The  complainant  objected  to  the  caption,  because  the  notice  given 
him  was  too  short  to  enable  him  to  get  his  counsel  present). 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  appointed  to  take 

such  deposition. 


If  either  party  was  hot  present,  the  return  should  show  who  was  present  and  who 
absent. 

If  any  other  objection  is  made  to  the  deposition,  or  any  part  of  it,  the  person 
appointed  to  take  it  will  not  attempt  to  judge  of  the  validity  of  the  objection,  but 
will  return  it,  with  such  facts  as  may  be  necessary  to  the  proper  understanding  of  it, 
to  the  Lodge  for  their  judgment.    He  should  place  the  commission,  copy  of  notice 

ft 


22 

to  the  parties,  return  of  service  thereon,  and  the  deposition,  in  an  envelope,  securely 
seal  the  same,  and  direct  it  as  follows  : 


[41] 

FORM      OF      DIRECTION      ON      SEALED      ENVELOPE     CONTAINING 
DEPOSITION    AND    OTHER    PAPERS. 

To  Lodge,  No.     ,  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  : 

Enclosed  is  the  deposition  and  accompanying  papers  of  , 

taken  to  be  used  in  the  matter  of  the  complaint  of  Brother 
against  Brother  ,  now  pending  in  said  Lodge.     Taken  and 

sealed  up  by  me,  in  the  presence  of  the  deponent,  this  day  of 

,  A.*.  l.\  58     ,  A.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  appointed  to  take 

such  deposition. 

If  any  papers  are  produced,  they  should  be  marked  with  letters  or  numbers,  and 
referred  to  thereby  in  the  deposition,  and  then  attached  to  it. 

On  the  day  appointed,  the  W.\  Master  opens  a  special  Communication  of  the 
Lodge  on  the  third  degree,  when  the  complaint,  specifications,  notices  to  the 
accused  and  to  the  complainant,  and  the  answer  of  the  accused,  are  read.  If  any 
objection  exists  to  the  regularity  of  any  of  the  proceedings,  it  should  then  be  made, 
when  the  Lodge  will  proceed  to  determine  it.  There  being  none,  or  having  been 
Overruled,  the  evidence  is  then  presented.  If  any  objection  is  made  to  any  part  of 
the  evidence,  the  Lodge  will  by  vote  determine  upon  it.  The  evidence  having  all 
been  presented,  the  counsel  or  the  parties  will  be  permitted  to  make  such  remarks, 
pertinent  to  the  case,  as  they  may  wish,  when  the  parties  with  their  counsel  will 
retire,  and  the  Lodge  will  then  proceed  to  determine  the  question  of  guilt  and  the 
nature  of  the  punishment. 


[42] 

FORM      OF      RECORD      OF      SPECIAL      COMMUNICATION      FOR     THE 

PURPOSE    OF    MASONIC    TRIAL. 

(Rule  10.) 

A  special   Communication  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  of 

A.  F.  and  A.  M.,  was  held  at  ,  on  ,  the 

day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  at         o'clock,  p.  m. 

Present :     W.\  A.  B.,  Master,  &c. 

[The  full  Christian  and  surname,  with  the  initials  at  least  of  all 
middle  names,  of  all  Officers  and  members  should  appear.  If 
there  are  visitors,  as  none  can  be  admitted  but  members  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  the  record  should  show  their  rank,  and  their  right  as  mem' 
bers  of  the  Grand  Lodge). 


23 

The  Lodge  was  opened  in  due  form  on  the  third  degree  in 
Masonry. 

This  Communication  was  called  for  the  special  purpose  of  con- 
sidering the  complaint  and  specifications  made  by  Brother 
against  Brother 

The  complaint,  specifications,  notices,  returns,  and  answer  of  the 
accused,  having  been  read, 

Brother  was  appointed  to  take  minutes  of 

the  evidence,  &c,  to  be  preserved  on  the  files  of  the  Lodge. 

The  evidence,  as  well  on  the  part  of  the  accused  as  on  that  of 
the  complainant,  was  then  presented  and  heard  by  the  Lodge. 

The  parties  with  their  counsel  then  retired. 

The  question,  "  Is  the  accused  guilty  or  not  guilty  ? "  was  then 
distinctly  put  to  each  member  of  the  Lodge  present,  by  name, 
commencing  with  the  youngest,  when  the  following  Brethren  said 
he  was  guilty  :     {Here  give  the  names  of  all  those  who  voted  guilty). 

And  the  following  Brethren  said  he  was  not  guilty :  {Here 
give  the  names  of  all  those  who  voted  not  guilty). 

A  majority  of  the  members  present  find  the  accused  to  be 
guilty. 

The  question,  "  Shall  the  accused  be  expelled?"  was  then  put 
in  the  same  manner,  when  the  following  Brethren  voted  yes : 
[Here  give  the  names  of  those  in  the  affirmative). 

And  the  following  Brethren  voted  no  :  {Here  give  the  names  of 
those  in  the  negative). 

Two  thirds  not  having  voted  in  favor  of  expulsion,  the  question, 
"  Shall  the  accused  be  suspended  ? "  was  then  put  in  the  same 
manner,  when  the  following  Brethren  voted  yes :  {Here  give  the 
names  of  those  in  the  affirmative). 

And  the  following  Brethren  voted  no  :  {Here  give  the  names  of 
those  in  the  negative). 

Two  thirds  not  having  voted  in  favor  of  suspension,  the  Master 
then  ordered  that  the  accused  be  reprimanded. 

Brother  was  then  introduced,  when  the  Master 

proceeded  to  administer  the  reprimand  in  open  Lodge. 

There  being  no  farther  business,  the  Lodge  was  closed  in  due 
form  and  in  harmony,  until  the  next  stated  Communication. 

Attest:  A.  B.,  Secretary. 


If  two  thirds  vote  for  either  expulsion  or  suspension*  of  course  the  Lodge  proceeds 
no  farther  with  the  question  of  the  grade  of  punishment 

The  Constitution  requires  that  some  Brother  be  appointed  to  take  minutes  of  the 
evidence,  &c.  The  record  of  the  evidence  should  also  show  all  objections  to  the 
regularity  of  the  proceedings,  or  to  the  admission  of  evidence. 


24 

[43] 

FORM    OF    RECORD    OF    EVIDENCE,    ETC.,    ON    THE    TRIAL. 
(  Rule  9. ) 

At  a  special  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.      ,  held 

at  ,  on  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

for  the  purpose  of  considering  the  complaint  and  specifications 
made  by  Brother  against  Brother  , 

the  following  complaint  and  specifications  were  read  : 

{Here  copy  the  complaint  and  specifications). 

The  notices  to  the  accused  and  the  complainant,  with  the  returns 
to  the  same,  were  then  read,  as  follows : 

(Here  copy  the  notices  and  returns). 

Brother  ,  being  then  asked  what  answer  he  had  to 

make  to  the  said  complaint  and  specifications,  submitted  the 
following  answer : 

(Here   copy   the  answer). 

Brother  requested  that  ,  not 

a  Mason,  might  be  admitted  to  assist  him  as  his  counsel,  which 
was  refused  by  the  Lodge,  it  being  contrary  to  Masonic  usage 
to  admit  as  counsel  any  person  not  a  Mason. 

Brother  then  requested  Brother 

to  assist  him  as  his  counsel,  who  consented  to  do  so. 

Brother  then  objected  to  the  second  specification 

as  not  being  sufficiently  definite  and  certain,  which  was  overruled 
by  the  Lodge. 

Brother  was  then  called  as  a  witness  by  the 

complainant,  in  support  of  said  charges,  and  testified  as  a  Master 
Mason  as  follows  :     I  reside  in  ,  am  a  member 

of  Lodge,  No.  ,  in  good  and  regular  standing.  I  am 
acquainted  with  Brother  ;    I  saw  him  on  Main 

street  in  ,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58 

I  was  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  street ;  he  appeared  to  be  much 
intoxicated, 

Objection  was  made  to  witness  testifying  as  to  the  appearance 
of  the  accused,  saying  that  he  should  state  what  the  accused  did, 
and  how  he  acted ;  stating  his  appearance  being  but  stating  his 
conclusion  from  what  he  saw ;  but  the  objection  was  overruled. 

I  saw  him  five  or  ten  minutes;  he  reeled  as  he  walked,  &c, 
(as  the  facts  may  be). 

On  cross-examination  he  further  testified  :     I  knew  that  Brother 
had  been  sick  for  several  days.     Am  a  physician ; 
do  not  think  Brother  's  reeling  and  staggering  while 

walking,  was  the  result  of  weakness  caused  by  his  sickness.  Can 
conceive  of  a  man's  being  so  weak  from  sickness  long  continued, 
as  to  reel  like  a  man  intoxicated.  Am  certain  this  could  not  have 
been  the  case  with  Brother  .     Have  none  but  the 


25 

kindest  feelings  towards  Brother  .     May  have  said 

he  was  drinking  too  much  of  late,  &c. 

The  Lodge  having  been  properly  cautioned,  Mr. 
was  then  called  as  a  witness  by  the  complainant,  and  testified  on 
his  honor,  as  follows  :     {Here  give  the  testimony  as  in  the  case  of 
the  first  witness). 

On  cross-examination  Mr.  further  testified,  &c. 

(Here  give  the  cross-examination). 

The  complainant  then  offered  the  deposition  of  Brother 

Objection  was  made  to  this  deposition,  because  the  person  ap- 
pointed to  take  it  was  not  a  Mason,  which  was  overruled  by  the 
Lodge. 

Objection  was  further  made  because  the  notice  given  the  accused 
was  too  short  to  enable  him  to  get  his  counsel  present,  which 
appearing  to  be  the  fact,  the  deposition  was  rejected. 

(Or)  it  appearing  that  the  counsel  relied  on  was  not  a  Mason, 
and  could  not  have  appeared,  and  that  the  accused  was  present 
and  asked  such  questions  as  he  saw  fit,  the  objection  was  over- 
ruled, and  the  deposition  was  read  and  is  hereto  annexed, 
marked  (A). 

The  evidence  on  the  part  of  the  complainant  here  closed. 

Brother  ,  in  behalf  of  Brother  , 

then  offered  the  affidavit  of  Mr.  ,  to  which  the 

complainant  objected,  on  the  ground  that  Mr. 
should  be  produced  for  cross-examination,  and  the  affidavit  was 
rejected  by  the  Lodge. 

The  Lodge  having  been  properly  cautioned,  Mr. 
was  then  called  as  a  witness,  and  the  complainant  then  consented 
that  the  affidavit  might  be  read,  which  was  read  accordingly,  and 
is  hereto  annexed,  marked  (B). 

On  cross-examination  Mr.  further  testified,  &c. 

The  evidence  was  then  closed. 

Attest :  A.  B.,  appointed  to  take 

minutes  of  the  evidence. 

These  minutes  are  thus  given  in  a  somewhat  extended  form,  because  they  present 
a  convenient  way  of  calling  attention  to  certain  facts  and  proceedings  in  the  coarse 
of  a  trial.  Thus,  the  statement  of  objections  by  either  party,  and  the  grounds  of 
them,  and  the  decision  of  the  Lodge  thereon,  both  of  which  should  always  be 
stated ;  that  a  person  not  a  Mason  was  not  permitted  to  act  as  counsel,  but  that  the 
accused  had  or  had  not  counsel ;  that  the  first  witness  testified  in  his  character  as  a 
Master  Mason  ;  that  the  Lodge  was  properly  cautioned  before  the  admission  of  the 
second  witness,  who  was  not  a  Mason,  and  made  his  statement  on  his  honor  ;  that 
the  testimony  is  taken  down  as  near  as  practicable  in  the  words  of  the  witness,  &c; 
that  an  affidavit  taken  without  the  knowledge  of  the  other  party  was  not  admitted, 
&c,  &c. 

In  case  the  accused  is  suspended  or  expelled,  it  may  be  desirable  that  he  should 
be  officially  informed  of  it. 


26 

[44] 

FORM    OF    NOTICE    OF    CONVICTION. 

To 

Take  notice,  that  at  a  special  Communication  of  Lodge, 

No.     ,  held  at  ,  on  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     , 

A.  d.  18  ,  upon  consideration  of  the  complaint  and  specifications 
made  by  Brother  against  you,  it  was  adjudged 

and  determined  by  the  Lodge  that  you  are  guilty  of  the  offence 
charged  in  said  complaint  and  specifications,  and  that  you  be 
expelled  (or  suspended)  from  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
Masonry. 

Attest:  A.  B.,  Secretary 

Lodge,  No. 

It  is  the  duty  of  the  Secretary,  within  thirty  days,  and  before  the  meeting  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  to  transmit  full  copies  of  everything  relating  to  the  trial  to  the  Grand 
Master.  This  is  required  to  enable  the  Grand  Master  to  examine  them,  and  if  any 
informality  exists,  send  them  back  to  the  Lodge  for  correction.  If  the  Secretary 
omits  therefore  to  put  in  everything,  he  will  be  called  upon  to  furnish  the  whole 
series  anew,  and  corrected. 


[45] 

FORM    OF    REPORT    TO    GRAND    MASTER. 
(  Rule  10. ) 

To   the   Most    Worshipful   Grand   Master    of   Ancient   Free    and 
A  ncepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire  : 

The  following  are  true  copies  of  all  the  papers  and  proceedings, 
in  and  by  Lodge,  No.       ,  in  the  matter  of  the  complaint 

made  by  Brother  against  Brother 

(Here  copy  everything). 

%[>.  s.]  A.  B.,  Master 

Attest :  Lodge,  No.     . 

C.  D.,  Secretary  .  Lodge,  No.     . 

If  the  Grand  Master  discovers  no  informality,  or  after  such  errors  as  are  pointed 
out  by  him  have  been  corrected,  a  copy  of  all  the  proceedings  are  sent  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  at  the  next  Annual  Communication, 


27 

[46] 

FORM  OF  RETURN  TO  GRAND  LODGE. 

(  BULE  9.  ) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Honora- 
ble Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
New  Hampshire  : 

The  following  are  true  copies  of  all  the  papers  and  proceedings 
in  and  by  Lodge,  No.       ,  in  the  matter  of  the  complaint 

made  by  Brother  against  Brother 

(Here  copy  everything  as  before). 

[l.  s.  ]  A.  B.,  Master 

Attest :  Lodge,  No.     . 

C.  D.,  Secretary  Lodge,  No. 

If  no  appeal  has  been  taken  by  either  party,  the  Committee  on  Trials  and  Appeals, 
to  whom  the  papers  will  be  referred,  will  not  ordinarily  hear  anything  from  any  one, 
but  will  examine  the  papers  to  see  that  everything  has  been  done  in  a  formally  cor- 
rect manner,  and  that  the  conclusion  is  justified  by  the  evidence,  and  if  so  they  will 
recommend  its  confirmation,  otherwise  they  will  send  the  matter  back  to  the  Lodge 
for  correction. 

If  either  party  desires  to  be  heard  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  he  should  appeal  from  the 
decision  or  ruling  which  he  deems  wrong. 


[47] 

FORM    OF   APPEAL. 
(  Rule  11. ) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Ancient  and  Honora- 
ble Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned  appeals  to  you,  from  the  decision  of 
Lodge,  No.      ,  made  on  the  day  of  ,  a.\  l.\  58       , 

a.  d.  18       ,  in  passing    sentence    of   suspension   upon   him,    and 
specifies  the  following  as  the  grounds  of  his  appeal : 

1st.  Because  the  Lodge  erred  in  not  permitting  Mr. 
to  appear  and  assist  him  as  his  counsel. 

2d.  Because  the  second  specification  of  the  charge  is  not  suffi- 
ciently definite  and  certain. 

3d.  Because   the    Lodge    erred   in   receiving    testimony   as    to 
appearances  of  intoxication. 

4th,  Because   the    Lodge    erred   in    admitting   the  deposition 


28 


of  ,  which  was  taken  before  a  person  not  a  Mason. 

5th.  Because  the  Lodge  erred  in  admitting  the  same  deposition, 
although  no  seasonable  notice  was  given  the  accused  of  the  taking 
thereof. 

6th.  Because  the  Lodge  erred  in  rejecting  the  affidavit  of 
Mr. 

7th.  Because  the  evidence  was  not  sufficient  to  warrant  the 
verdict  of  the  Lodge. 

8th.  Because  the  Lodge  erred  in  fixing  the  penalty  of  suspen- 
sion by  a  mere  majority  vote. 

All  of  which  appears  by  the  papers,  proceedings  and  evidence 
in  the  case. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B. 

This  appeal  must  be  filed  with  the  Secretary,  within  one  month  of  the  decision, 
and  is  returned  by  him  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  with  the  other  papers  and  proceedings 
in  the  case. 

It  may  be  desirable  for  the  appellant  to  retain  a  copy  and  have  it  at  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

[48] 

NOTICE    OF   APPEAL. 
(Rule  11.) 

To 

Take  notice,  that  I  have  taken  an  appeal  from  the  decision 
of  Lodge,  No.       ,  in   the  matter  of  the   complaint   and 

specifications  made  by  you  against  me,  and  that  I  shall  prosecute 
the  same  at  the  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  on 
the         day  of  ,  a.\  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B. 

This  notice  should  be  served  as  other  notices,  and  a  return  made,  which  the  appel- 
lant should  have  with  him  at  the  Grand  Lodge. 

The  appeal  by  the  complainant,  and  notice,  should  be  like  the  above,  with  the 
necessary  alterations,  which  can  easily  be  made. 


[49] 

FORM    OF    PETITION   FOR   RESTORATION. 
(  Section  133. ) 
To  the  Worshipful  Master,  Wardens  and  Brethren  of 
Lodge,  No. 

Respectfully  represents  ,  that  on  the         day 


29 

of  ,  a.'.  l.\  58       ,  a.  d.  18       ,  he  was' expelled  (or  sus- 

pended) from  all  the  rights  and  privileges  of  Masonry,  by    said 
Lodge,  No.     ,  and  he  now  prays,  that  with  the  consent  and 
approbation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  he  may  be  restored  to  his  rights 
and  privileges  as  a  Master  Mason. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d,  18     . 

A.  B. 


Should  the  ballot  be  favorable,  a  copy  of  the  petition  and  action  of  the  Lodge 
thereon,  should  be  communicated  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  at  its  next  Annual  Coramu* 
nication. 


[50] 

EORM     OF     RECOMMENDATION     TO     THE     GEAND     LODGE     OE     THE 

EESTOEATION    OE    AN   EXPELLED    OR    SUSPENDED    MASON. 

(  Sections  132  and  133. ) 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.       ,  held 

at  ,  on  the         day  of  ,  A.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

the  following  petition  was  presented :  (Here  copy  the  petition  for 
restoration).  Which  was  received,  and  the  stated  Communication 
on  the         day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  was  appointed 

for  its  consideration,  and  it  was  referred  to  a  Committee  consisting 
of  Brothers  ,  ,  and 

Attest :  A.  B.,  Secretary 

Lodge,  No. 

At  a  stated  Communication  of  Lodge,  No.       ,  held 

at  ,  on  the         day  of  ,  A.'.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

The    Committee,  to    whom   had   been   referred    the  petition  of 
,  for  restoration  to  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
Masonry,  made  their  report  as  follows:     (Sere  copy  their  report). 
Whereupon,  the  ballot  being  passed,  the  Lodge  voted  unanimously 
in  favor  of  such  restoration,  and  it  was  : 

Voted,  That  it  be  recommended  to  the  Grand  Lodge  to  consent 
to  and  approve  the  restoration  of  to  the  rights  and 

privileges  of  Masonry. 

A.  B.,  Secretary 

Lodge,  No. 


30 

[51] 

FORM    OF    IMPEACHMENT    OF    MASTER    OF    A    LODGE. 

(  Section  137. ) 

To    the    Most    Worshipful    Grand    Master    of  Ancient    Free    and 
Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire  : 

The  undersigned,  ,  ,  , 

,  ,five  members  in  good  and  regular 

standing  of  Lodge,  No.     ,  (or  District  Deputy  Grand 

Master  of  the         th  Masonic  District),  hereby  impeach  W.\  Bro. 
,  Master  of  (said)  Lod^e,  No.       ,  of 

unmasonic  conduct  in  the  matters  following  :      (Here  insert  specifi- 
cations of  the  conduct  complained  of). 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.'.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

(To  be  signed  by  the  Impeachers.) 


The  complaint  against  any  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  by  an  individual  Brother 
against  a  Lodge,  or  by  one  Lodge  against  another,  may  be  in  similar  form  to  the 
complaint  in  a  particular  Lodge  (Form  25),  except  the  address,  which  should  be, 
"  To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons 
in  New  Hampshire."  Upon  receiving  the  impeachment  of  a  Master,  or  the  com- 
plaint against  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  a  particular  Lodge,  the  Grand 
Master  issues  a  commission  for  trial. 


[52] 

FORM    OF    COMMISSION    FOR    TRIAL    IN    GRAND    LODGE. 

(  Section  141. ) 

To  B.  W.  Brothers  ,  ,  , 

Know  ye,  That  I,  ,  Most  Worshipful  Grand 

Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire, 
by  virtue  of  the  provisions  of  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  ancient  Masonic  usage,  hereby  appoint  and  commis- 
sion you  to  examine  and  try  the  matters  named  in  the  annexed 
impeachment  (or  complaint  and  specifications).  In  performing 
this  duty,  you  will  cause  the  accused  to  be  served  with  an  attested 
copy  of  the  complaint  and  specifications,  and  notify  both  parties 
of  the  time  appointed  by  you  for  hearing  the  matter,  a  reasonable 
time  before  such  hearing.  You  will  proceed  with  the  trial, 
according  to  Masonic  law  and  usage,  agreeably  to  the  rules  for  the 
regulation  of  trials  in  particular  Lodges,  so  far  as  the  same  may 
be  applicable,  and  return  to  me,  with  this    commission,  attested 


31 

copies  of  all  your  proceedings,  together  with  your  findings  in  both 
matters  of  law  and  fact,  with  any  recommendations  you  may  think 
proper. 

Witness  my  hand  and  private  seal,  this  day  of  , 

A.*.  &.'.  58     ,  a.  D.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Grand  Master, 

[53] 

FORM    OF    NOTICE    TO    THE    ACCUSED. 

To  (insert  proper  name  and  title  of  the  accused). 

Take  notice,  that  the  annexed  is  a  true  copy  of  the  complaint 
and  specifications  preferred  against  you  to  the  Most  Worshipful 
,  Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons  in  New  Hampshire,  on  the  day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\ 

58  ,  a.  d.  18  ,  and  that  we  have  been  appointed  by  him  a 
Committee  to  hear  and  try  the  same,  and  that  we  will  meet  for 
that  purpose  at  ,  on  ,  the         day  of  , 

A.'.  e.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  at         o'clock  in  the  noon,  at  which 

time  you  are  hereby  summoned  and  required  to  appear,  and  then 
and  there  make  answer  to  said  complaint,  and  be  heard  thereon. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\  58,  a.  d.  18     . 

(To  be  signed  by  the  Committee.) 


[54] 

FORM    OF    NOTICE    TO     THE    COMPLAINANT. 

To 

Take  notice,  that  we  have  been  appointed  by  the  Most  Wor- 
shipful Grand  Master  of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in 
New  Hampshire,  a  Committee  to  hear  and  try  the  complaint  and 
specifications  preferred  by  you  against  ,  on  the 

day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\   58     ,  a.  d.  18     ,  and  that  we  will  meet 

for  that  purpose  at  ,  on  ,  the         day  of  , 

a.*.  e.\  58       ,  a.  d.  18       ,  at  o'clock  in  the  noon,  and 

the  accused  has  been  notified  to  be  present. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

(Signed  by  the  Committee.) 


The  names  of  all  may  be  signed  by  the  Chairman,  he  adding,  "  By 
Chairman." 

Returns  should  be  made  of  the  service  of  these  notices,  as  in  Form  30, 


32 

The  accused  having  received  notice  of  the  complaint,  &c,  and  of  the  appointment 
of  the  Committee,  if  he  has  any  objection  to  either  of  the  Committee,  should  make 
his  challenge,  that  the  Grand  Master,  if  satisfied  there  is  ground  for  it,  may  supply 
the  vacancy.  If  there  be  probable  ground  of  objection,  the  Brother  challenged 
should  remove  all  question  by  resignation. 

The  answer  of  the  accused  may  be  as  in  Form  34,  or  may  be  more  particular. 
Se^  the  directions  following  Form  30. 

The  summons  of  witnesses,  and  depositions,  may  be  similar  to  the  forms  in  par- 
ticular Lodges,  and  be  issued  by  the  Chairman  of  the  Committee. 

At  the  time  appointed,  the  Committee  meet  and  appoint  one  of  their  number  to 
act  as  Clerk.  The  Constitution  provides  that  the  first  named  shall  be  Chairman . 
The  trial  will  then  proceed  as  in  a  particular  Lodge. 


[55] 

FORM    OF    RETURN    TO    COMMISSION. 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  ,  Grand  Master  of 

Ancient  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  New  Hampshire : 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  annexed  commission,  having 
caused  the  accused  to  be  served  with  an  attested  copy  of  the  com- 
plaint and  specifications,  and  notified  both  parties  of  the  time  and 
place  appointed  by  them  to  hear  and  try  the  cause,  as  will  appear 
by  the  notices  and  returns  hereto  annexed,  marked  "A"  and  "B", 
met  at  ,  on  ,  the         day  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     , 

A.  d.  18     ,  at  o'clock  in  the 

Present — 

B,.-.  W.\  Bro. 


noon. 


Brother  was  appointed  to  act  as  Clerk  of  the 

Committee. 

The  complaint  and  specifications  annexed  to  the  commission 
were  then  read. 

The  notices  to  the  accused  and  to  the  complainant,  with  the 
returns  to  the  same,  hereto  annexed  and  marked  "A"  and  "B," 
were  then  read. 

The  accused,  being  then  asked  what  answer  he  had  to  make  to 
the  said  complaint  and  specifications,  submitted  the  answer, 
hereto  annexed,  marked  "  C." 

(The  record  of  the  trial  is  then  given  as  in  Form  43). 

The  evidence  being  closed,  after  hearing  both  parties,  we  have 
found  and  determined  (here  insert  the  findings  both  of  law  and 
fact). 


» 


33 

We  therefore  recommend  (here  insertf  such  recommendations  of 
punishment,  as  to  the  Committee  seem  just). 
All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 
Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*,  l.'.  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,> 
C.  D.,| 

E.  F.,\  Committee. 

G.H. 

J.  L.„ 

Should  the  Committee  fail  to  finish  the  hearing  at  one  sitting,  the  return  should 
show  at  what  hour,  and  to  what  time  and  place,  the  hearing  was  adjourned,  and  at 
the  commencement  of  the  next  sitting,  the  hour  and  place,  when  and  where,  it  was 
recommenced,  and  who  were  present. 


[56] 

FORM  OF  ADJOURNMENT,  ETC.,  OF  HEARING. 

The  Committee  then  at         o'clock,      m.,  adjourned  till 
at         o'clock,       m.,  at  the  same  place. 

On  ,  the  day  of  ,  a.m.".  58     ,  a.  d.  18     , 

at  o'clock  in  the  noon,  the   Committee  met  pursuant  to 

adjournment. 

Present — 

R.\  W.\  Bro.  ,  &c 

If  the  Committee  recommend  the  suspension  or  revocation  of  the  Warrant  of  a 
Lodge,  they  will  also  return  the  names  of  those  members  whom  they  find  were  con- 
cerned in  the  irregular  or  unmasonic  conduct.    See  Section  77. 


[57] 

FORM      OF     NOTICE      BY      GRAND      MASTER      OF      SUSPENSION,     AND 

SUMMONS    TO    ATTEND    THE    NEXT    GRAND    LODGE. 

(  To  Individual.  ) 

To  Brother  , 

Take  notice  that  the  Committee  appointed  to  hear  and  try  the 
complaint  made  against  you  on  the  day  of  ,  a.-.  l.\ 

58       ,  a.  d.  18       ,  by  ,  having  fully  heard  the 

matter,  have  found  and  determined  (here  insert  so  much  of  the  find- 
ings as  is  necessary),  and  recommend  (here  insert  the  recommend- 
ation). 

You  are  therefore  suspended  from  all  the  rights  and  privileges 
of  Freemasonry,  till  the  pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge  be  known, 


D 


I 


and  are  summoned  and  required  to  attend  the  Annual  Communi 
cation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  the         day  of  May  next. 
Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.\  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 


A.  B.,  Grand  Master. 


[58] 

FORM      OF     NOTICE      BY      GRAND      MASTER      OF      SUSPENSION,     AND 

SUMMONS    TO    ATTEND    THE    NEXT    GRAND    LODGE. 

(  To  a  Lodge.  ) 

To  the    Worshipful  Master,  Wardens  and  Brethren  of 
Lodge,  No     . 

Take  notice  (as  in  Form  57  to  the  close  of  the  recommendation). 

The  Warrant  of  your  Lodge  is  therefore  suspended,  till  the 
pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge  be  known,  and  you  are  summoned 
and  required  to  attend  the  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  on  the  day   of  May  next,   and    to  bring  with   you 

the  Warrant  and  records  of  your  Lodge,  with  all  books  and  papers 
in  any  wise  relating  to  the  said  complaint,  or  referred  to  in  the 
hearing  before  the  said  Committee. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Grand  Master. 


[59] 

FORM    OF    SUMMONS    TO    MEMBERS    IMPLICATED. 
(  Section  77. ) 

To  Brothers  (here  insert  all  the  names  returned  by  the   Committee). 

Take  notice,  that  by  the  return  of  the  Committee,  duly  commis- 
sioned to  hear  and  try  the  complaint  made  by 

against  Lodge,  No.       ,  it  appears  that  you  and  each  of 

you  were  implicated  in  the  irregular  and  unmasonic  conduct  com- 
plained of.     You  are  therefore  summoned  and  required  to  attend 
the  next  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  the 
day  of  May  next,  at  which  time  the  Grand  Lodge  will  act  on  such 
return. 

Dated  the         day  of  ,  a.*.  l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B.,  Grand  Master. 

A  return  of  the  service  of  each  of  the  last  three  notices  should  be  made  to 
the  Grand  Master,  to  be  by  him  returned  to  the  GraDd  Lodge  with  the  other  papers. 


35 

At  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Committee  on  Trials  and  Appeals,  to  whorh  the  papers 
will  be  referred,  will  not  ordinarily  hear  any  further  testimony  than  appears  in  the 
return  to  the  Commission,  unless  notice  has  been  given  that  such  evidence  will  be 
offered,  but  will  determine  the  matter  upon  the  evidence  already  taken. 


[60] 

NOTICE    OF    INTENTION    TO    OFFEK    NEW    TESTIMONY. 

To 

Take  notice,  that  upon  the  hearing  of  the  complaint,  and  return 
of  the  commission  issued  thereon,  by  against 

,  the  undersigned  will  offer  evidence  to  prove 
(here  state  what  it  is  intended  to  prove). 

Dated  the         dav  of  ,  a.\l.\  58     ,  a.  d.  18     . 

A.  B. 

If  new  evidence  is  offered,  of  course  rebutting  evidence  will  be  received  without 
notice. 


Although  not  coming  strictly  within  the  scope  of  my  appointment,  the  following 
form  of  records  has  been  prepared,  at  the  suggestion  of  many  Brethren,  who  have 
had  occasion  to  observe  the  loose  way  in  which  the  records  of  some  Lodges  are 
kept.  No  obligation  exists  upon  any  Lodge  to  observe  this  form ;  and  perhaps 
other  forms  may  be  in  use  equally,  and  perhaps  more,  distinct.  Nor  is  it  supposed 
that  all  the  business  here  given  could  ever  occur  at  any  one  Lodge  meeting.  It  is 
hoped  that  it  will  furnish  to  Secretaries  a  model,  which  may  assist  many  of  them  in 
what  is  to  them  an  unaccustomed  duty.  One  or  two  general  suggestious  may  be 
pardoned.  It  is  to  be  presumed  that  all  Lodge  meetings  are  regular,  although  some 
of  them  are  statedly  held  in  pursuance  of  the  By-Laws,  and  others  specially  called 
by  the  Master.  To  distinguish  a  meeting  therefore,  as  "regular,"  means  nothing. 
The  full  Christian  and  surnames,  with  initials  of  all  other  names,  of  every  Brother 
present,  should  appear.  If  there  be  two  of  the  same  name,  the  whole  of  the  middle 
name  should  be  given,  or  the  individuals  otherwise  distinguished.  The  capacity  in 
which  Brothers  appear,  as  Officers,  members  or  visitors,  should  also  be  designated. 
If  a  Brother  is  temporarily  acting  in  an  office,  it  is  neater  and  better  to  place  "  as," 
or  *'  acting  as,"  before  the  name  of  the  office,  than  2?.  t.,  or  pro  tern.,  after  it.  The 
record  should  show  all  money  received  at  that  Communication,  which  includes  all 
received  by  the  Secretary  since  the  last  Communication. 


[61] 

FORM    OF    LODGE    KEOOltD. 

A  stated  Communication  of  Strict  Observance  Lodge,  No.  100} 
Of  A.  F.  and  A.  M.,  was  held  at  Freemasons'  Hall,  in  Kilkenny 5 
On  Thursday,  the  twenty-fourth  day  of  June,  A.\  L.\  5869,  A.  £. 
1869,  at  7 J   o'clock  V.  x. 


36 


PRESENT. 


Officers. 


W.\  Benjamin  F.  Preston,  M. 
Bro.  Joseph  W.  Webb,  S.  W. 

"     James  Anderson  as  J.  W. 

11     John  Knovvlton,  Treas.'. 

"     Horace  Chase,  Sec.*. 

"     John  Dean  Oliver,  S.  D. 

"     Anthony  Sayre,  J.\  D.\ 

"     Emanuel  Rebold,  Chap.-. 

"     Christopher  Wren,   Mar. 

"     Charles  E.  Starr,  S.  Stew. 

M     Amos  Dermott,  J.  Stew. 

"     John  Doe,  Tyler. 

W.\  George  Payne,  P.\  M.\ 
"     Stephen  Morin,  P.-.  M.\ 


Members. 

Bro.*.  William  Morgan. 
"  John  Davis  Oliver. 
"  J.  T.  Desaguliers. 
"  Frederic  Dalcho. 
"  Moses  M.  Hayes. 
"     Isaac  DaCosta. 

Visitors. 

M.\  W.\  A.  M.  Winn,  G.-.M.- 

Fraternal  Lodge,  No.  71, 

Farmington. 
R.\  W.\  Henry  O.Kent, 

D.-.D.-.G.-.M.-.  10th  Dist. 

North  Star  Lodge,  No.  8, 

Lancaster. 
Bro.  Jeremy  Cross,  Solar  Lodge, 

No.  14,  Bath,  Me. 


The  Lodge  was  opened  in  due  form  on  the  third  degree  in 
Masonry. 

The  records  of  the  stated  Communication,  May  27th,  and  of 
the  special  Communications,  June  10th  and  19th,  were  read  and 
approved. 

The  petition  of  Mr.  Andrew  Jackson  to  be  made  a  Mason, 
recommended  by  Brothers  Anthony  Sayre  and  Emanuel  Rebold, 
and  accompanied  by  the  deposit,  was  received  and  referred  to  a 
Committee  consisting  of  Brothers  Horace  Chase,  Frederic  Dalcho 
and  William  Morgan. 

The  petition  of  Mr.  Abraham  Lincoln  to  be  made  a  Mason, 
recommended  by  Brothers  John  Knowlton  and  James  Anderson, 
accompanied  by  the  consent  of  Rising  Virtue  Lodge,  No.  10,  Ban- 
gor, Maine,  and  the  permission  of  M.\  W.\  John  H.  Lynde, 
Grand  Master  ot  Masons  in  Maine,  and  by  the  deposit,  was 
received,  and  referred  to  a  Committee,  consisting  of  Brothers  John 
Dean  Oliver,  John  Davis  Oliver,  and  Lawrence  Dermott. 

The  petition  of  Brother  Joseph  Balsamo,  an  Entered  Apprenj 
tice,  for  advancement,  recommended  by  Brothers  Charles  E.  Starr 
and  Horace  Chase,  accompanied  by  the  consent  of  St.  John's 
Lodge,  No.  1,  in  which  he  was  initiated,  and  the  deposit,  was 
received,  and  referred  to  a  Committee  consisting  of  Brothers 
Joseph  W.  Webb,  Stephen  Morin  and  Christopher  Wren. 

The  Committee  on  the  petition  of  Mr.  Albert  Pike  to  be  made 
a  Mason,  reported  unfavorably,  whereupon  he  Was  balloted  for  and 
rejected;  and  the  W.\  Master  directed  his  deposit  to  be  returned. 


3? 

The  Committee  on  the  petition  of  John  Q.  A.  Fellows  reported 
favorably,  whereupon  he  was  balloted  for  and  elected. 

The  Committee  on  the  petition  of  Brother  Henry  Fowle,  to  be 
admitted  a  member  of  this  Lodge,  reported  favorably,  whereupon 
he  was  balloted  for  and  duly  elected. 

A  communication  from  the  R.\  W.\  Grand  Secretary,  giving 
notice  of  rejections,  was  read  and  ordered  to  be  placed  on  file, 
and  the  names  entered  on  the  black  book. 

A  communication  from  Rising  Sun  Lodge,  No.  39,  at  Nashua, 
asking  information  about  one  James  Buchanan,  was  read  and 
referred  to  a  Committee  consisting  of  Brothers  George  Payne, 
Emanuel  Rebold  and  John  Knowlton. 

A  communication  from  Mrs.  Martha  Jones,  the  widow  of  our 
late  Brother  John  Jones,  was  read. 

Voted,  That  the  W.\  Master  draw  his  order  on  the  Treasurer 
for  the  sum  of  twenty-five  dollars,  and  pay  the  same  to  Mrs. 
Martha  Jones. 

A  communication  from  Pythagoras  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  New  York, 
on  the  register  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Hamburg,  was  read  and 
ordered  to  be  placed  on  file. 

The  Committee  appointed  at  the  special  Communication,  June 
19th,  to  prepare  resolutions  expressive  of  the  feelings  of  this 
Lodge,  on  the  death  of  our  late  Brother,  John  Jones,  submitted 
the  following  :   (here  insert  the  resolutions),  which  were  adopted. 

The  Committee  appointed  at  the  last  stated  Communication,  to 
agree  with  the  owner  for  the  use  of  Freemason's  Hall,  reported  : 
That  they  had  taken  a  lease  of  the  Hall  for  five  years,  at  the  rate 
of  fifty  dollars  a  year, — which  report  was  accepted  and  the  lease 
ratified. 

The  bill  of  Wood  &  Hall,  for  sundry  articles  furnished  the 
Lodge,  amounting  to  $23.65,  was  presented,  when  it  was — 

Ordered,  That  the  bill  of  Wood  &  Hall  be  paid. 

The  bill  of  Kilkenney  Cornet  Band,  for  services  June  19th,  was 
presented,  and  referred  to  a  Committee  consisting  of  the  Master 
and  Wardens. 

The  bill  of  the  Tyler,  for  washing  aprons,  amounting  to  $1.87, 
was  presented,  when  it  was — 

Ordered,  That  the  bill  of  John  Doe  be  paid. 

The  Lodge  of  Master  Masons  was  then  closed,  and  a  Lodge  of 
Entered  Apprentices  opened  in  its  stead. 

Mr.  John  Q.  A.  Fellows,  a  candidate  for  initiation,  being  In 
waiting,  was  duly  prepared,  brought  forward,  and  initiated  as  an 
Entered  Apprentice,  in  due  and  ancient  form. 

Brother  Arthur  Craig,  an  Entered  Apprentice,  was  then  exam- 
ined as  to  his  proficiency  in  the  first  degree,  which  being  satis- 
factory : 

The  Lodge  of  Entered  Apprentices  was  closed,  aao!  a  Lodge  of 
Fellow  Crafts  opened  in  its  stead. 


88 

Brother  Arthur  Craig,  an  Entered  Apprentice,  being  in  wait- 
ing, was  duly  prepared,  brought  forward,  and  passed  to  the  degree 
of  Fellow  Craft,  in  due  and  ancient  form. 

Brother  William  Martin,  a  Fellow  Craft,  was  then  examined  as 
to  his  proficiency  in  the  second  degree,  which  being  satisfactory  : 

The  Lodge  of  Fellow  Crafts  was  closed,  and  a  Lodge  of  Master 
Masons  opened  in  its  stead. 

Brother  William  Martin,  a  Fellow  Craft,  being  in  waiting,  was 
duly  prepared,  brought  forward,  and  raised  to  the  sublime  degree 
of  Master  Mason,  in  due  and  ancient  form. 

The  application  of  Brother  John  Q.  A.  Fellows,  an  Entered 
Apprentice,  for  advancement,  accompanied  by  the  fee,  was  received 
and  placed  on  file. 

The  application  of  Brother  Arthur  Craig,  a  Fellow  Craft,  for 
advancement,  accompanied  by  the  usual  fee,  was  received  and 
placed  on  file. 

Brother  William  Martin  signed  the  By-Laws,  and  became  a 
member  of  this  Lodge. 

The  records  of  the  evening  were  then  read  for  correction,  and 
approved. 

There  being  no  further  business,  the  Lodge  was  closed  in  due 
form,  and  in  harmony,  till  the  next  stated  Communication. 

Receipts  : 

Mr.  Andrew  Jackson,  deposit,  $10.00 

"     Abraham  Lincoln,  "  10.00 

Bro.\  Joseph  Balsamo,  "  5.00 

John  Q.  A.  Fellows,     "  5.00 

"        Arthur  Craig,  "  10.00 

"        Isaac  Da  Costa,  dues,  1.00 

Frederic  Dalcho,  "  1.00 


A  true  record.     Attest : 


$42.00 
Horace  Chase,  Secretary, 


INDEX. 


SEC.  PAGE* 

Accusation i.**n...i>.  Rule  1,  129  35 

Accused  to  be  notified  and  have  copy  of  charges Rule  1,  129  35 

to  have  counsel Rale  3,  129  36 

Advancement  in  another  Lodge : ; . . . » . .  121  33 

objection  to i 117  32 

only  after  examination : 119  33 

time  of  waiting  for 120  33 

Amendment,  only  one  at  a  time Rule  8,  154  42 

changing  subject  matter s Rule  10,  154  42 

of  Constitution 155  43 

Annual  Communications  of  Grand  Lodge 7  7 

"  of    particular    Lodges,    Constitution    and 

By-Laws  to  be  read 104  29 

Appeal,  how  taken Rule  11,  129  37 

Appeals,  &c,  to  be  received  by  Grand  Secretary,  &c, 38  13 

Ballot,  members  must  vote  on 11*5  32 

must  be  at  stated  Communication 107  31 

must  be  unanimous 116  32 

single  for  all  the  degrees. .    117  32 

Blanks,  &c,  furnished  by  Grand  Secretary 42  14 

Bond  of  Grand  Secretary 43  14 

of  Grand  Treasurer 34  12 

Brothers  must  all  vote  in  trials 130  37 

Business  to  be  done  in  Master's  Lodge 90  26 

not  at  Semi- Annual 9  7 

By-Laws,  amendments,  how  made — 96  27 

cannot  be  suspended 96  27 

may  be  temporarily  authorized  by  G.\  M/ 95  27 

to  be  approved  by  Grand  Lodge 95  27 

&c,  to  be  read  before  election 104  29 

to  be  returned  with  Dispensation 64  21 

Candidate  advanced  in  another  Lodge,  when 121  33- 

from  out  the  State 112  31 

must  apply  to  nearest  Lodge 109  3^. 

( m 


•  40 


SEC. 

Candidate  must  have  resided  in  jurisdiction  12  months 110 

must  be  proposed  four  weeks 107 

must  be  proposed  at  stated  Communication 107 

not  to  be  balloted  for  till  strict  enquiry 107 

only  one  at  a  time 88 

only  one  degree  at  a  time 120 

out  of  the  jurisdiction  but  in  the  State Ill 

requisites  of  petition  of 106 

to  assent  to  questions 118 

Casting  vote  of  Grand  Master,  when. . .   27 

Certificate  to  seek  relief  forbidden 144 

&c,  Grand  Secretary  to  engross  &c, 38 

Chairman  of  Committees 148 

Chapter  or  Commandery,  expulsion  or  suspension  in 138 

Charge Rule  1,  129 

Charity,  Committee  on 143 

Clothing  in  Grand  Lodge 59 

Commandery  or  Chapter,  expulsion  or  suspension  in 138 

Commissions,  &c,  Grand  Secretary  to  engross,  &c, 38 

Committees,  expenses  of 149 

Chairman 148 

on  Charity! 143 

must  be  members 147 

on  Jurisprudence 146 

Standing 145 

to  be  appointed  by  the  Grand  Master 27 

when  to  report 148 

Communication    Annual,  of  particular  Lodges  — Constitution  and 

By-Laws  to  be  read 104 

of  Particular  Lodge,  how  called 102 

Communications  of  Grand  Lodge 7-11 

Compensation  of  Grand  Treasurer 37 

Complaint Rule  1,  129 

Consent  for  advancement  in  another  Lodge 121 

of  Lodge  that  another  Lodge  may  do  Work 111-112 

that  rejected  applicant  may  apply  elsewhere  —  how  given . .  115 

Constitution,  &c,  to  be  read  before  election  104 

Counsel  of  accused Rale  3,  129 

Copy  of  proceedings  in  expulsion  or  suspension  to  be  sent  to  Grand 

Lodge Rule  7,  129 

Copies,  in  trials,  to  be  sent  Grand  Master Rule  10,  129 

Credit  for  fees  forbidden S7 

Degrees,  fees  for 87 

limit  of,  on  the  same  day 88 

only  one  at  a  time 120 

Depositions  in  trials Rule  4,  129 

Deputy  Grand  Master  cannot  be  Master  or  Warden 13 

Grand  Master,  duties  of 30-31 

Grand  Master,  eligibility  for 13 

Grand  Master,  if  G.\  M.\  dead,  &c,  to  act 31 

.Grand  Master  to  act  during  temporary  absence  of  G.\  M.\. .  31 


PAGE. 

31 
31 
31 
31 
26 
33 
31 
30 
32 
11 
40 
13 
41 
38 
35 
40 
19 
-  38 
13 
41 
41 
40 
41 
41 
40 
11 
41 

29 

28 

7 

13 
35 
33 
31 
32 
29 
36 

36 
36 
26 

26 
26 
33 
36 

8 
11-12 

8 
12 
12 


41 


SEC.  PAGE. 

Deputy  Grand  Master  to  assist  Grand  Master 30  11 

Grand  Master  to  preside  in  absence  of  Grand  Master 30  11 

Grand  Master  to  visit  Lodges 48  15 

Destruction  of  Warrant 81  25 

Dimits  of  petitioners  for  new  Lodge 66  22 

Diplomas,  blank,  to  be  furnished 97  27 

Grand  Secretary's  fee  for 97  28 

a &c,  Grand  Secretary  to  engross,  &c.,. . .      ...    38  13 

Discussions  prohibited 92  27 

D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  cannot  be  Master  or  Warden 13  8 

duties  of 45-48  14-15 

eligibility  for 13  8 

Lodge  to  be  convened  to  receive 83  26 

may  appoint  special  Deputy  when 45  14 

reimbursed  their  expenses 46  14 

to  communicate  Edicts,  &c, 46  14 

to  keep  records *.  47  15 

to  report  before  May  1st  to  G.\  M.* 46  14 

to  visit  Lodges,  &c, 45  14 

Dispensation,  fee  for,  for  degrees 122  33 

for  processions  and  degrees  to  be  granted  by  the  Grand 

Master 28  11 

fee  for,  for  new  Lodge 64  21 

for  new  Lodge,  accompanied  by  recommendation  of 

two  nearest  Lodges,  &c, 61  20 

for  new  Lodge,  by  whom  issued 60  20 

for  new  Lodge,  requisites  for 60-65  20-21 

Grand  Master  may  arrest 22  10 

granted  by  Grand  Master  to  new  Lodges 22  10 

petition  for 65  21 

sanction  of  Master  and  Wardens  for 63  21 

to  be  returned  to  Grand  Lodge,  &c 64  21 

Disqualification  of  members  implicated  on  revocation  of  warrant. .  77  24 

Districts  assigned  by  Grand  Master 25  11 

Division  of  question Rule  9,  154  42 

Dues,  member  discharged  for  non-payment  of,  not  admitted   to 

any  other  Lodge 127  34 

to  Grand  Lodge 84  26 

Duty  of  Grand  Chaplains 50  15 

of  Deputy  Grand  Master 30-31  11-12 

of  Grand  Deacons 51  16 

of  D.\D.\  G/.M.- 45-48  14-15 

of  Grand  Lecturers 49  15 

of  Grand  Marshal 52  16 

of  Grand  Master ,,..    , 21-29  10-11 

of  Grand  Pursuivants 55  16 

of  Grand  Secretary , 38-44  13-14 

of  Grand  Stewards 53  16 

of  Grand  Sword  Bearer , , 54  16 

of  Grand  Treasurer , 34-37  12-13 

of  Grand  Tyler , 56  16 

of  Grand  Wardens. .,.,,..,...,,/,,..,,,, , 32-33,  \% 


42 


Elicts,  &c.  to  be  sent  to  members  by  Grand  Secretary 

Election  of  Officers  in  Grand  Lodge— majority  elects 

Constitution  and  By-Laws  to  be  read  before 

Eligibility  to  be  Master  of  Lodge 

to  office  in  Grand  Lodge 

Examination  for  advancement 

of  charges Rule  2, 

Exemplification  of  Work  at  Semi- Annual 

Expenses  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  to  be  reimbursed 

of  Committees 

Expulsion  or  suspension,  copy  of  proceedings  to  be  sent  to  Grand 

Lodge, Rule  7, 

Expulsion  or  suspension,  to  be  confirmed  by  Grand  Lodge.  .Rule  8, 

or  suspension,  effect  gf  before  confirmation Rule  8, 

not  to  Joe  published 

Fee  must  be  paid  before  application  received 

Fees  for  degrees. 

Forfeiture  of  Warrant 

of  Warrant,  members  implicated,  disqualified 

of  Warrant,  property,  &c,  surrendered  to  Grand  Lodge, 
of  Warrant,  refusal  to  surrender  property,  or  vote  to 

divide,  penalty 

Funds,  by  whom  invested 

for  charitable  purposes  only 

for  what  purposes  used 

Funerals 

Grand  Chaplains,  duty  of 

Deacons,  duty  of 

Lodge ,  dues  to  

Lodge,  how  constituted 

Lodge,  Officers  of 

Lodge,  Officers  and  members  of,  must  be  Master  Masons, 

holding  allegiance  to  Grand  Lodge 

Lodge,  powers  of    

Lodge,  style  and  title  of 

Lodge,  trials  in   

Lodge  to  try  its  own  members,  &c 

Lecturers,  their  duties 

Lecturers  to  visit  Lodges 

Marshal,  duty  of 

Marshal  to  proclaim  Officers  installed 

Master,  by  whom  installed 

Master  cannot  be  Master  or  Warden 

Master,  duties  of 

Master,  eligibility  for 

Master,  if  absent,  how  installed 

Master,  in  recess  of  Grand  Lodge  may  approve  By-Laws 

Master  may  appoint  special  Deputies 

Master  may  convene  particular  Lodge,  <Vc 

Master  mav  convene  the  Grand  Lodge,  how , , . 


SEC. 

PAGE. 

40 

13 

14 

9 

104 

29 

99 

28 

13 

8 

119 

33 

129 

35 

9 

7 

46 

14 

149 

41 

129 

36 

129 

30 

129 

30 

142 

39 

108 

31i 

87 

26- 

74 

2$ 

77 

24 

75 

24 

75 

24 

34 

12 

89 

20 

153 

41 

94 

27 

50 

15 

51 

10 

84 

20 

2 

5 

3 

0 

5 

0 

12 

7 

1 

5 

141 

39 

141 

39 

49 

15 

48-49 

15 

52 

It 

19* 

9, 

W 

9. 

13- 

8: 

21-29. 

10-11; 

13 

8; 

10 

9. 

95 

27 

20 

11 

23 

11 

22 

10, 

43 


SIC.  PAGE 

Grand  Master  may    grant  Dispensations   for  processions  and  for 

conferring  Degrees    28  11 

Master  may  refer  to  Committee  on  Jurisprudence 146  41 

Master  may  suspend  a  Brother  or  Lodge 22  10 

Master  to  appoint  all  Committees 27  11 

Master  to  arrest  Dispensation  or  Warrant 22  10 

Master  to  assign  Districts 25  11 

Master,  to  assign  every  new  Lodge  to  some  District 25  11 

Master  to  exemplify   Work  and  Lectures  at    Semi-Annual 

Communications 29  11 

Master  to  grant  Dispensations  to  new  Lodges 22  10 

Master  to  give  casting  vote,  when 27  11 

Master  to  give  reason  for  suspensian 22  10 

Master  to  preside  in  Grand  Lodge 21  10 

Master  to  visit,  &c,  Lodges  each  year 24  11 

Officers,  Jewels  of 58  18 

Officers,  stations  of 57  16 

Officers  to  hold  until    their  successors  are  appointed  and 

installed 19  9 

Pursuivants,  duty  of 55  16 

Secretary,  bond  of 43  14 

Secretary,  duties  of 38-44  13-14 

Secretary  to  answer  communications 42  14 

Secretary  to  attend  Committees  with  records,  &c 39  13 

Secretary  to  collect  money  and  pay  to  Grand  Treasurer 43  14 

Secretary  to  engross,  &c,  all  Warrants,  &c 38  13 

Secretary  to  furnish  Chairmen  of  Committees  with  copy  of 

vote  of  appointment 39  13 

Secretary  to  furnish  necessary  blanks,  &c 42  14 

Secretary  to  have  custody  of  the  Seal 38  13 

Secretary  to  keep  account  with  particular  Lodges . .  43  14 

Secretary  to  keep  list  of  Lodges 38  13 

Secretary  to  make  report 44  14 

Secretary  to  observe  and  record  proceedings 38  13 

Secretary  to  print  and  distribute  proceedings 41  14 

Secretary  to  receive  all  petitions,  &c 38  13 

Secretary  to  record  reports  of  Committees 39  13 

Secretary  to  send  Edicts  and  Regulations  and  list  of  Officers 

to  each  member 40  13 

Secretary  to  summon  meetings  of  Grand  Lodge 38  13 

Stewards,  duty  of 53  16 

Sword  Bearer,  duty  of 54  16 

Treasurer,  compensation  of 37  13 

Treasurer,  duties  of 34-37  12-13 

Treasurer  to  deliver  property  to  successor  and  take  receipts  36  13 

Treasurer  to  have  charge  of  funds  34  12 

Treasurer  to  have  charge  of  Jewels,  &c,  of  Grand  Lodge. . .  36  13 

Treasurer  to  give  bond 34  12 

Treasurer  to  invest  funds 34  12 

Treasurer  to  receive  money  and  pay  bills 36  12 

Treasurer  to  report  his  accounts . , . . .  35-36  12-13 

Treasurer  to  take  care  of  all  Warrants,  records,  &c. ,. ,,,,...  36  12 


44 


Grand  Treasurer  to  take  receipt  for  Jewels,  &c,  delivered 

Tyler,  duty  of 

Tyler  has  no  vote  in  Grand  Lodge 

Wardens  cannot  be  Master  or  Warden 

Wardens,  duties  of 32-33 

Warden,  eligibility  for 

Wardens  to  assist  Grand  Master 

Wardens  to  succeed,  when 

Wardens  to  visit  Lodges 

Hearsay  evidence  excluded Rule  3,        129  36 


Initiation,  objection  after 

&c,  none,  unless  Past  Master  present. 

questions  to  candidate 

Installation  of  Grand  Master  —  by  whom 

of  Grand  Master,  if  absent,  how 

of  Master  of  Lodge 

no  Officer  to  act  till  installed 

not  to  be  by  proxy 

obligation 

of  Grand  Lodge,  when 


Jewels  of  Grand  Officers 

&c,  of  Grand  Lodge  to  be  in  charge  of  Grand  Treasurer. 

&c,  Grand  Treasurer  to  take  receipt  for 

Jurisdiction  of  Lodge  —  Candidates 

Jurisprudence,  Committee  on 


8KC. 

PAGE. 

36 

13 

56 

16 

3 

6 

13 

8 

1-33 

12 

13 

8 

32 

12 

33 

12 

48 

15 

Lectures  and  Work,  Grand  Master  to  exemplify  at  Semi-Annual 

Communications 

none  not  authorized  by  Grand  Lodge 

Limitation  of  conferring  degrees 

List  of  Lodges  to  be  kept  by  the  Grand  Secretary 

of  Officers  to  be  sent  to  members  by  Grand  Secretary 

Lodge  cannot  suspend  or  expel  for  non-payment  of  dues 

cannot  try  its  Master 

Communication  —  how  called 

forfeiture  of  warrant 

neglecting  or  refusing  to  pay  dues  or  make  returns,  &c, 
two  years 

neglecting  work  for  year 

new  —  see  new  Lodge 

not  to  assemble  under  foreign  Warrant 

not  to  receive  application  till  fee  paid 

not  to  use  funds  but  for  Masonic  purposes 

not  to  work  unless  Past  Master  present 

of  Masters  alone  can  transact  business 

powers  of 

removal  of 69-71 

returns  of 

revival  of , . , . ,   


117 

32 

101 

28 

118 

32 

15 

9 

16 

9 

100 

28 

20 

9 

17 

9 

18 

9 

15 

9 

58 

18 

36 

13 

36 

13 

109 

31 

146 

41 

29 

11 

91 

27 

88 

26 

38 

13 

40 

13 

139 

38 

137 

38 

102 

28 

74 

23 

74 

23 

74 

23 

86 

26 

108 

31 

89 

26 

101 

28 

90 

26 

82 

25 

i-71 

22-23 

85 

26 

76 

24 

45 


SEC. 

Lodge,  surrender  of  Warrant  of. 72-73 

suspended,  &c,  penalty  for  Work 78 

suspension  or  amendment  <jf  By-Laws 96 

to  be  convened  to  receive  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.* 83 

to  pi-eserve  discipline 134 

to  transmit  Bjr-Laws  for  approval 95 

blank  returns  to  be  furnished 97 

Officers  of,  must  be  members 98 

Maims 105 

Master,  by  whom  installed 100 

cannot  be  Grand  Master,  &c, 13 

eligibility  for 99 

how  tried 137 

Lodge  cannot  try 137 

not  Representative 6 

or  Wardens  refusing  to  obey  summons,  &c, 80 

proxy  of,  for  one  Communication  only 4 

proxy  of,  to  be  in  writing 4 

proxy  void  if  principal  appear 4 

to  convene  Lodge  to  receive  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.* 83 

to  have  charge  of  Warrant,  &c 103 

Masters  only  to  be  buried  with  Masonic  honors 94 

Member  discharged  for  non-payment  of  dues  not  admitted  to  any 

other  Lodge 127 

Members  must  vote  on  ballot  for  initiation 116 

must  vote  on  trials 130 

of  Grand  Lodge  can  have  but  one  vote 151 

of   Grand  Lodge,  Master  Masons  holding  allegiance  to 

Grand  Lodge 5 

of  Lodge  or  Grand  Lodge  only  present  at  trials Rule  2,  129 

and  visitors  to  keep  their  seats Rule  2,  154 

Membership  can  be  in  one  Lodge  only 124 

how  obtained 123 

mode  of  changing 125 

not  lost  by  removal 126 

of  Officers  of  Lodges 98 

Minutes  of  trial  to  be  kept Rule  9,  129 

Motions,  precedence  of Rule  7,  154 

to  be  in  writing Rule  3,  154 

Name  of  Grand  Lodge 1 

New  Lodge,  dimits  of  petitioners  for 66 

dispensations  for,  by  whom  granted 60 

Grand  Lecturers'  certificate  for 62 

petition  for 65 

not  represented  till  constituted 68 

not  recognized  till  constituted 68 

recommendations  for 61 

requisites  for  dispensation  for 60-68 

sanction  of  Master  and  Wardens  for 63 

to  be  assigned  to  some  district , 25 


23 
24 
27 
26 
37 
27 
27 
28 

30 

28 

8 

28 

38 

38 

6 

25 

6 

6 

6 

26 

28 

27 

34 
32 
37 
41 

6 
35 
42 
34 
34 
34 
34 
28 
36 
42 
42 


22 
20 
20 
21 
22 
22 
20 
20-21 
21 
11 


46 


New  Lodge  to  be  constituted  and  by  whom 

Non-payment  of  dues,  member  discharged  for,  not  admitted  to  any 

other  Lodge 

of  dues,  penalty  for 

Notice  to  accused,  &c, Rule  1, 

of  appeal Rule  11, 

Obligation  on  installation  in  Grand  Lodge 

Office,  no  Brother  can  hold  more  than  one 

Officers  in  Grand  Lodge,  how  elected  or  appointed 

in  Grand  Lodge,  when  installed 

in  Grand  Lodge,  when  and  how  installed 

of  Grand  Lodge,  Master  Masons  holding  allegiance  to 
Grand  Lodge 

must  be  members  of  their  Lodges 

not  to  act  until   installed 

of  the  Grand  Lodge 

of  Grand  Lodge  proclaimed  

Opening  of  Grand  Lodge,  none  but  members  present Rule  1, 

Particular  Lodge  may  be  convened,  &c,  by  Grand  Master 

Past  Master  must  be  present  for  Work 

Permission  of  Grand  Master  to  confer  degrees 

Penalty  for  assisting  in  Work  of  forfeited  Lodge 

for  recommending,  &c,  rejected  applicant 

if  Master  or  Wardens  refuse  to  obey  summons 

Petition    for    new    Lodge    accompanied    by  certificate  of   Grand 

Lecturer 

for  removal  of  Lodge 

for  restoration   of  Warrant 

must  be  received  at  stated  Communication 

not  received  before  fee  is  paid 

not  to  be  withdrawn 

of  candidates,  requisites  of 

&c,  to  be  received  by  Grand  Secretary,  &c, 

Physical  disqualification  of  candidates 

Powers  of  Grand  Lodge 

of  Lodges 

Processions  prohibited  without  dispensation 

Proceedings,  Grand  Secretary  to  print  and  distribute 

how  distributed 

Proxy  of  Master  or  Warden •.   ... 

of  Master  or  Warden  for  one  Communication  only 

of  Master  or  Warden  to  be  in  writing  

of  Master  or  Warden  void  if  principal  appear 

of  Officer  to  be  installed  forbidden 

Publication  of  expulsions 

Punishment,  how  determined Rule  6, 

Punishments 131 


67 


Qualifications,  physical,  of  candidates. 
Question,  division  of 


Rule  0, 


127 

34 

139 

38 

129 

35 

129 

37 

18 

9 

124 

34 

1-4 

9 

15 

9 

17 

9 

5 

6 

98 

28 

20 

9 

3 

6 

19 

9 

154 

41 

23 

11 

101 

28 

112 

31 

78 

24 

115 

32 

80 

25 

62 

20 

70 

22 

76 

24 

107 

31 

10S 

31 

113 

31 

106 

30 

38 

13 

105 

30 

12 

7 

82 

25 

93 

27 

11 

14 

41 

14 

2 

5 

4 

6 

4 

6 

4 

6 

17 

9 

142 

39 

129 

36 

-136 

37-3S 

105 

30 

154 

42 

47 


SEC.  PAGE. 

Question,  in  trials,  mode  of  taking. , Rule  5,  129  36 

on  punishment,  how  taken Rule  6,  129  36 

put  to  candidate - 118  32 

Recommendation  for  new  Lodge,  requisites  of. 61  20 

for  relief  forbidden 144  40 

for  removal  of  Lodge. 70  22 

to  change  membership 125  34 

Reconsideration  of  vote 150  41 

who  may  move Rule  11,  154  42 

Records,  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.- 47  15 

to  be  read 152  41 

Receipt  for  Jewels,  &c,  to  be  taken  by  Grand  Treasurer 36  13 

Refusal  of  Master  and  Wardens  to  obey  summons 80  25 

to  surrender  property  on  surrender  or  forfeiture  of  warrant  75  24 

Regulations  to  be  sent  to  members  by  Grand  Secretary 40  13 

Rejected  applicant  can  only  apply  to  same  Lodge 115  32 

applicant,  consent  to  apply  elsewhere  — how  given 115  32 

applicant  must  wait  twelve  months 114  32 

Removal  does  not  forfeit  membership 126  34 

of  Lodge 69-71  22-23 

of  Lodge  —  consent  of  nearest  Lodges 70  22 

of  Lodge  —  every  member  to  be  summoned 69  22 

of  Lodge,  fee  for 71  23 

of  Lodge  must  be  by  vote  of  Grand  Lodge 71  22 

of  Lodge,  petition  for 70  22 

of  Lodge  to  be  acted  on  at  stated  Communications,  after 

notice 69  22 

of  Lodge  to  be  endorsed  on  Charter 71  22 

Reports  of  Committees 148  41 

of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M/ 46  14 

of  Committees  to  be  recorded 39  13 

of  Grand  Secretary 44  14 

of  Grand  Treasurer 35-36  12-13 

of  trial,  Secretary  to  send  Grand  Master Rule  10,  129  36 

Representatives  members  of  Lodge  they  represent 5  6 

not  Master  or  Warden 6  6 

Residence  of  candidate  out  cf  jurisdiction .  .111-112  31 

of  twelve  months  required 110  31 

Resolutions  and  motions  to  be  in  writing . Rule  3,  154  42 

Restoration 132-133  37 

of  Warrant 76  24 

Returns,  blanks  to  be  furnished 97  27 

of  Lodges 85  26 

and  dues  not  paid  for  two  years 74  23 

Reversal  of  decision  does  not  restore  to  membership 140  38 

Revival  of  Lodge 76  24 

Revocation  —  see  forfeiture 74  23 

Rules   of  order .  154  41 

Sanction  of  Master  and  Wardens  for  new  Lodge 63  21 

Seal  of  Grand  Lodge  in  custody  of  Grand  Secretary 38  13 


48 


SEC.  PAGE. 

Secretary  to  notify  accused,  &c, Rule  1,  129  35 

to  transmit  report  of  trial  to  Grand  Master Rule  10,  129  36 

Semi- Annual  exemplification  of  Work .  9  7 

Communication,  no  business  at 9  7 

Communication,  time  of 8  7 

Sojourners,  trial  of 135  38 

Speaker  to  rise  and  remain  standing .Rule  6,  154  42 

Special  Communications 11  7 

Communications  of  Grand  Lodge  to  be  called  by  Grand 

Master  —  when  and  how . . . ._ 22  10 

Communications  of  particular  Lodge  —  how  called 102  28 

Deputies,  Grand  Master  may  appoint 26  11 

Standing  Committees 145  40 

Stations  of  Grand  Officers 57  16 

Style  and  title  of  Grand  Lodge 1  5 

and  title  of  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge 3  6 

Succession  in  office  33  12 

Surrender,  not  while  seven  adhere 79  24 

of  Warrant 72-73  23 

of  Warrant —  Grand  Lodge  entitled  to  property,  &c. . .  73  23 
of    Warrant  —  Master    and  Secretary    to    deliver    up 

property,  &c, 72  23 

of  Warrant  —  refusal  to  surrender  property  or  vote  to 

divide 75  24 

of  Warrant  to  be  resumed 72  23 

Suspension  by  Grand  Master 22  10 

or  expulsion  —  copy  of  proceedings  to  be  sent  to  Grand 

Lodge Rule  7,  129  36 

or  expulsion  —  effect  of  before  confirmation Rule  8,  129  36 

or  expulsion  to  be  confirmed  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  .Rule  8,  129  36 

Time  of  Annual  Communication 7  7 

of  Semi-Annual  Communication 8  7 

Transcript  of  proceedings  to  be  returned  with  dispensation 64  21 

Trials,  rules  for 129  35 

every  brother  must  vote 130  37 

of  sojourners 135  38 

in  Grand  Lodge 141  39 

Tyler,  membership  of 98  28 

Visitation  of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M/ 45-48  14-15 

of  Lodges 48  15 

Visiting  brother  may  call  for  Warrant 128  34 

Visitors  —  when  admitted  in  Grand  Lodge Rule  1,  154  41 

Vote,  every  member  must Rule  5 ,  154  42 

how  taken  in  Grand  Lodge Rule  4,  154  42 

to  divide  funds  on  surrender  or  forfeiture  of  Warrant 75  24 

Warden  not  representative 6  6 

proxy  of,  for  one  Communication  only 4  6 

proxy  of,  to  be  in  writing 4  6 

proxy  void  if  principal  appear 4  6 


49 


SEC.  JPAGE. 

Warrant,  fee  for i 64  21 

Grand  Master  may  arrest 22  10 

&c,  Grand  Secretary  to  engross,  &c 38  13 

in  charge  of  Master 103  28 

lost  or  destroyed 81  25 

must  be  present  at  opening 103  28 

not  lost  while  seven  adhere 79  24 

not  from  any  foreign  power. . .   86  26 

records,  &c,  Grand  Treasurer  to  take  care  of 36  12 

restoration  of 76  24 

surrender  of —  see  surrender 72-73  23 

visiting  brother  may  call  for 128  34 

when  granted , 64  21 

Witnesses Rule  3,  129  36 

may  give  deposition,  when Rale  4,  129  36 

Withdrawal  of  petition  forbidden 113  31 

Work  and  Lectures,  GrandMaster  to  exemplify,  at  Semi- Annual 

Communications 29  11 

neglected  for  one  year 74  *23 

of  forfeited  Lodge,  penalty  for  assisting  in 78  24 


INDEX    TO    FORMS. 


fcAGE. 

Accused,  answer  by. ... . ; ; 18 

notice  to ; 17-31 

Adjournment  of  hearing  in  trial  before  commission  from  Grand  Lodge 33 

Answer  by  accused ; .  lg 

Appeal 27 

notice  of . . , ; 8 . .  28 

Appointment  of  proxy ; .  i 

Approbation  of  D.\  D.\  G.'.  M»\  for  new  Lodge  4 

of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  for  restoration  of  Warrant io 

of  nearest  Lodge  for  new  Lodge , ,  4 

of  nearest  Lodge  to  removal  of  Lodge 8 

of  nearest  Lodge  for  restoration  of  Warrant. 10 

Bond  of  Grand  Secretary 3 

of  Grand  Treasurer 2 


■50 


PAEG. 

Caption  of  deposition 21 

Candidate,  consent  that  be  may  apply  to  another  Lodge 12 

permission  of  Grand  Master  to  receive  degrees  in  this  State. ...  13' 

petition  to  be  made  a  Mason 11 

recommendation  of 12 

rejected,  consent  to  apply  to  another  Lodge 13 

Charges 15 

Commencement  of  deposition 21 

Commission  by  Grand  Master 1 

for  trial  in  Grand  Lodge 3d 

for  trial  in  Grand  Lodge,  adjournment  of  hearing 33 

for  trial  in  Grand  Lodge,  return  to 32 

of  proxy 1 

to  take  deposition 20 

Complaint  and  specifications 15 

in  Grand  Lodge 30 

Complainant,  notice  to. i 18-31 

Consent  that  candidate  may  apply  to  another  Lodge 12 

0  that   E.\   A/,   or  F.\  C.\    may  apply  to  another    Lodge    for 

advancement 14 

that  rejected  candidate  may  apply  to  another  Lodge 13 

Conviction,  notice  of 26 

Deposition,  commencement  of 2l 

commission  to  take 20 

direction  on  back  of  envelope  containing 22 

notice  of,  taking  to  parties 20 

return  on  commission  to  take 21 

Deputation  by  Grand  Master 1 

Dimit. ; 15 

Direction  on  back  of  envelope  containing  deposition .;...;..  22 

Dispensation  for  new  Lodge 0 

D.*.  D.\  G.\  M.\,  approval  and  recommendation  of,  for  new  Lodge 4 

approval  of  restoration  of  Warrant 10 

Entered  Apprentice,  consent  that  he  may  apply  to  another  Ledge  for 

advancement 14 

Evidence*  &Ci,  record  of,  on  trial 24 

Fellow  Craft,  consent  that  he  may  apply  to  another  Lodge  for  advancement,  14 

Grand  Lecturer's  certificate  of  qualification   of  Master  and  Wardens  of 

new  Lodge 5 

Lodge,  commission  for  trial  in 30 

Lodge,  return  to  commission  for  trial  in 32 

Master,  notice  of  suspension  by,  and  summons  to  attend  Grand 

Lodge,  to  individual 33 

Master,  notice  of  suspension  by,  and  summons  to  attend  Grand 

Lodge,  to  Lodge 34 

Secretary's  bond 3 

Treasurer's  bond 2 


51 


Inipeachment  of  Master  of  a  Lodge . 


Lecturer',  Grand,  certificate  of  qualification  of  Master  and  Wardens  of  new 

Lodge 5 

Lodge,  approval  of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  for  restoration  of  Warrant  of 10 

approval  of  nearest  Lodge  for  removal  of.    . .' 8 

approbation  of  nearest  Lodge  for  restoration  of  Warrant  of 10 

consent  that  candidate  may  apply  to  another  Lodge 12 

consent  that  E.\  A.\  or  F.\  C.\  may  apply  to  another  Lodge  for 

advancement 14 

consent  that  rejected  candidate  may  apply  to  another  Lodge 13 

petition  for  removal  of 8 

petition  for  restoration   of  Warrant  surrendered  with  intention  of 

resuming  it 0 

petition  for  restoration  of  Warrant  surrendered  absolutely,  forfeited 

or  revoked 9 

recommendation  to  join  another  Lodge 14 

record 35 


Master  of  a  Lodge,  impeachment  of 30 

Members  implicated  in  unmasonic  conduct,  summons  to 34 

Membership,  recommendation  to  change 14 

New  Lodge,  approbation  and  recommendation  of  nearest  Lodge 4 

Lodge,  approval  and  recommendation  of  D.\  D.\  G.*.  M.\  for 4 

Lodge,  dispensation  for 6 

Lodge,  Grand   Lecturer's  certificate   of  qualification  of  Master  and 

Wardens 5 

Lodge;  petition  for  Warrant  for 7 

Lodge,  sanction  of  Master  and  Wardens  for 5 

New  testimony,  notice  of  intention  to  offer ; 35 

Notice  to  accused : .  ■  •      17-31 

of  appeal 28 

by  Grand  Master  of  suspension,  &c,  to  individual 33 

to  complainant 18-31 

of  conviction > 26 

by  Grand  Master  of  suspension,  &c,  to  Lodge 34 

of  intention  to  offer  new  testimony 35 

to  parties  of  taking  deposition 20 

Permission  by  Grand  Master  that  candidate  may  receive  degrees  in  this 

State 13 

Petition  to  be  made  a  Mason 11 

for  removal  of  Lodge 8 

for  restoration 28 

for  restoration  of  Warrant  surrendered  with  intention  to  resume  it,  9 
for  restoration  of  Warrant  surrendered  absolutely,  forfeited,  or 

revoked 9 

for  Warrant  for  new  Lodge 7 

Proxy,  appointment  of 1 


52 


PACK. 

Recommendation  of  candidate : ..  i 12 

of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M.\  for  new  Lodge 4 

to  join  another  Lodge 14 

of  nearest  Lodge  for  new  Lodge 4 

for  restoration,  to  Grand  Lodge 29 

Record  of  Lodge 35 

of  special  Communication  for  trial 22 

of  evidence,  &c,  on  trial 24 

Rejected  candidate,  consent  to  apply  to  another  Lodge 13 

Removal  of  Lodge,  approbation  of  nearest  Lodges 8 

of  Lodge,  petition  for 8 

Report  to  Grand  Master,  of  trial 26 

Restoration,  petition  for 28 

recommendation  to  Grand  Lodge  for 29 

of  Warrant,  approval  of  D.\  D.\  G.\  M/ 10 

of  Warrant,  approbation  of  nearest  Lodge 10 

of  Warrant,  petition  for  when  surrendered  with  intention  to 

resume 9 

of  Warrant,  petitition  for  when  surrendered  absolutely,  for- 
feited or  revoked 9 

Return  of  service  of  notice  to  accused,  personal 17 

of  service  of  notice  to  accused,  by  leaving  at  abode 18 

of  service  of  notice  to  accused,  by  mail 18 

of  service  of  summons  of  witness 19 

on  commission  to  take  deposition 21 

to  commission  for  trial  in  Grand  Lodge . .  4 32 

to  Grand  Lodge,  of  trial,  &c 27 

Sanction  of  Master  and  Wardens  to  formation  of  new  Lodge 5 

Specifications  of  complaint  or  charges. .  > ; 15-16 

Summons  to  Mason  as  witness 19 

&c,  by  Grand  Master,  to  attend  Grand  Lodge,  to  Lodge 34 

&c,  by  Grand  Master,  to  attend  Grand  Lodge,  to  individual 33 

to  members  implicated  in  uhmasonic  conduct 34 

Trials 15 

Trial  in  Grand  Lodge,  commission  for 30 

Warrant  for  new  Lodge,  petition  for ...  7 

Witness,  summons  for,  if  Mason , 19 


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