THE
PRACTICAL MONITOR,
CONTAINING THE
MONITORIAL INSTRUCTIONS USED IN THE DEGREES
OF
ENTERED APPRENTICE, EELLOW CRAET, AND
MASTER MASON,
WITH A
COMPEND OF MASONIC LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE,
ALL IN A
Concise and Convenient Form for Beady Eeference,
' WOT
MJ WOLCOTT REDDING.
NEW YOEK
REDDING & CO.
73 1 Broadway
1876.
^
v ^
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1879^
Bv M. Wolcott Redding,
Jn the OfSce of the Librarian of Congress, at Wasbingto®.
PKEFACE,
To officers and members who desire to
have a practical manual, in which the
monitorial pertaining to the first three
degrees is contained unencumbered with
matter not practiced with the work, this
Monitor will commend itself, as every-
thing not used in connection with the
work and lectures is excluded, while the
monitorial that is practiced is arranged in
the exact order in which it occurs in the
ritual ; thus rendering the information
on any point readily accessible.
The Author.
CONTENTS
Entered Apprentice.
Proposal of candidate 7
Interrogation of candidate 9
Prayer at initiation 10
Scripture reading 10
Bringing to light 11
The Lambskin, or white leather apron 12
Presentation of the working-tools 13
Changing and Redeeming 14
Badge of a Mason — The Lamb has in all ages,
etc 15
Manner of constituting, and proper authority
for holding a Lodge ; its Form, Support,
Covering, Furniture, Ornaments, Lights, and
Jewels 16
Dedication of Lodges 22
The tenets of a Freemason's profession —
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth 24
The four cardinal virtues, Fortitude, Prudence,
Temperance, and Justice 26
How entered aprentices served their masters. . 29
Charge to the candidate 30
11 CONTENTS.
Fellow Craft.
Scripture reading — "Thus he shewed me," etc. 34
Presentation of the working-tools — plumb,
square, and level 34
Operative and speculative masonry 37
The Jewish sabbath, etc 38
The globes, their use 39
Order in architecture, — of its antiquity 40
The five orders — The Tuscan, the Doric, etc . . 41
The orders of architecture revered by Masons. 46
The five senses of human nature — Hearing,
seeing, etc 47
The seven liberal arts and sciences — Grammar,
rhetoric, etc 53
The symbols — Peace, unity, and plenty 59
The moral advantages of geometry 59
Charge to the candidate 62
Master Mason.
Scripture reading 65
Presentation of the working-tools 66
Prayer at raising a brother 68
Particulars relative to the building of K. S.
Temple, where located, how supported, num-
ber of men employed in building it, etc 70
The three steps 71
The pot of incense, the bee -hive, the book of
constitutions, etc 72
The third and last class of emblems 78
Charge to the candidate 78
Symbolism of the three degrees 81-2-3
Burial service 87
CONTENTS. 11]
Compend of Masonic Law and Jurispru-
dence.
General Powers of Grand Lodge Ill
Representation in Grand Lodge 112
Proxies 112
Quorum in Grand Lodge 113
Dispensations 114
Charter, surrender of 117
Charter, restoration of 117
Property of extinct lodges 115, 118
Jurisdiction Concurrent — Territorial and pe-
nal 119-120
Over- entered Apprentices 120
Petitioners, number of, for a dispensation or
charter 120
Before initiation 121
Quorum in subordinate lodge, etc 122
Eligibility to office 123
Voting 123
Elections 124
Majority necessary 125
Installed, must be 125
Who may instaU 126
Tenure of office 126
Resign, cannot 127
Who presides : 127
Authority of Master 128
Appeals from decisions of Master. 129
Vacancies in office 130
Calling off 131
Special meetings 131
By-laws, suspension of 132
Qualifications, requisite. . . .» 132
IV CONTENTS.
Petitions for the degrees 134
Ballot 135
Who can ballot 138
Residence 140
Previous notice 140
Time between degrees 141
Proficiency 142
Objections 142
Rejected applicants 144
How many may be made at one meeting 145
Membership 146
Dimitting 147
Removal 148
Non-affiliated Masons 149
Visiting, right of 149
Examination of visitors 150
Offences, Masonic 151
Dues, payment of 152
Trials, Masonic 152
Service of notice 154
Testimony 156
Judgment , 156
Appeal 157
Penalties — Fines, Reprimand, Suspension, Ex-
pulsion 159, 160, 161, 162
Miscellaneous.
Emergencies 165
Business 166
Clandestine Lodges 167
Irregular work 167
Charter, presence of, in the Lodge 167
Ritual, abridgment of 168
CONTENTS. >
Processions 168, 169
Lodge Records 17i
G. L. Certificates 172
Degree of Past Masters 173
Conferring Degrees 1 73
Widows and orphans of Masons J 74
Itinerant lecturers 175
Summons 175
Affirmation — Seal — Reconsidering 176
From New York Masonic Code.
Intemperance, relative to 177
Due proficiency 178
Non- affiliated Masons 178
Work and lectures 179
Affiliation 182
Information, lawful Masonic • 182
ENTERED APPRENTICE.
ENTERED APPKEOTICE.
PROPOSAL AND ADMISSION OF CANDIDATES.
A candidate f or the mysteries of Mason-
ry cannot be initiated in any regular lodge
■rithout having stood proposed one regular
meeting, unless a dispensation be obtained
in his favor. All applications for initia-
tion should be made in writing, giving
name, residence, age, occupation, and ref*
erences.
FORM OF APPLICATION.
To the W. Master, Wardens and Brethren of
Lodge, No. , of Free and Accepted Masons.
The subscriber, residing in , of lawful age,
and by occupation a , begs leave to state.
that, unbiassed by friends, and uninfluenced by mer-
cenary motives, he freely and voluntarily offers
8 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
himself as a candidate for the mysteries of Mason
ry, and that he is prompted to solicit this privilege
by a favorable opinion conceived of the institutiox; ,
a desire of knowledge, and a sincere wish of bein^
serviceable to his fellow-creatnres. Should his
petition be granted, he will cheerfully conform to
all the ancient established usages and customs of
the Fraternity.
[Signed] A. B.
The following recommendation must be signed
by two members of the lodge to which the applica-
tion is made :
This may Certify, That we, the subscribers,
are personally acquainted with Mr. ; and,
from a confidence in his integrity, and the upright-
ness of his intention, do cheerfully recommend and
propose him as a proper candidate for the mysteries
of Masonry.
Recommended by A. B.
Avouched for by C. D.
After the petition has been read in open
lodge, it is placed on file. A committee
is then appointed to investigate the char-
acter and qualifications of the petitioner.
If, at the next regular meeting of the
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 9
lodge, the report of the committee be fa-
vorable, and the candidate is elected, he
is required to give his free and full assent
to the following interrogatories :
1. "Do you seriously declare, upon your honor,
before these gentlemen, tha,t, unbiassed by friends,
and uninfluenced by mercenary motives, you freely
and voluntarily offer yourself a candidate for the
mysteries of Masonry ?
2. "Do you seriously declare, upon your honor,
before these gentlemen, 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 ?
3. "Do you seriously declare, upon your honor,
before these gentlemen, that you will cheerfully
conform to all the ancient established usages and
customs of the Fraternity ? "
After which, if no objections are urged
to the contrary, the candidate is intro-
duced in due and ancient form.
10 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
MONITORIAL PERTAINING TO THE FIRS1
DEGREE.
SECTION I.
PRAYER AT INITIATION.
Vouchsafe thine aid, Almighty Father
of the Universe, to this our present con-
vention ; and grant that this candidate for
Masonry may dedicate and devote his life
to thy service, and become a true and
faithful brother among us. Endue him
with a competency of thy Divine Wisdom,
that, by the influence of the pure princi-
ples of our Order, he may be the better
enabled to display the beauties of holiness,
to the honor of thy holy name. Amen.
Response — So mote it be !
SCRIPTURE READING.
" Behold ! how good and how pleasant it
is for brethren to dwell together in unity ;
" It is like the precious ointment upon
the head, that ran down upon the beard,
SectioD I.
Section II.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 11
even Aaron's beard, that went down to
the skirts of his garment :
" As the dew of Hermon, and as the
dew that descended upon the mountains
of Zion : for there the Lord commanded
the blessing, even life for evermore."
(Or an Ode may be sung, for which
see Appendix.)
BRINGING TO LIGHT.
W. M. In the beginning God created
the Heaven and the Earth. And the
Earth was without form and void ; and
darkness was upon the face of the deep,
and the Spirit of God moved upon the
face of the waters. And God said, Let
there be light, and there was light.
In humble commemoration of that great
and august event, I now say. * * * *
THE THREE GREAT LTS.
The three great Its. in Mnry. are the
Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.
12 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
The Holy Bible is given us as the rule
and guide of our faith and practice ; the
Square to square our actions ; and the
Compasses to circumscribe our desires,
and keep our passions in due bounds with
all mankind — especially with the Breth-
ren.
THE THREE LSR. LTS. ARE the Su-., Mil.
and Ms of the fPpj, and are thus xpln—
As th Su-. rls. th d'y, an' th Mn. gvs. th
nt.? so shd. th W. M. wth. eql. rglrt. rl.
an' gv. th jPp|.
PRESENTATION OF THE LAMBSKIN, OR WHITE
LEATHER APRON.
It is an emblem of innocence, and the
badge of a Mason ; more ancient than the
Golden Fleece or .Roman Eagle ; more
honorable than the Star and Garter, or
any other order that can be conferred
upon you at this or any future period,
by king, prince, potentate, or any other
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 13
person, except he be a Mason. Ca' it
t. th. Sw. i th. W. wh-. wl th. u hw.
t. wr i-t a5 an Ep. It is hoped u
will wear it with pleasure t ys'l and
honor to the fraternity.
PRESENTATION OF THE WORKING-TOOLS OE
AN ENTERED APPRENTICE.
The twenty -four-inch gauge is an instru-
ment made use of by operative masons to
measure and lay out their work ; but we,
as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught
to make use of it for the more noble and
glorious purpose of dividing our time.
It being divided into twenty-four equal
parts is emblematical of the twenty-four
hours of the day, which we are taught
to divide into three equal parts ; whereby
are found eight hours for the service of
God and a distressed worthy brother;
eight for our usual vocations ; and eight
for refreshment and sleep.
11 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
The common gavel is an instrument
made use of by operative masons to break
off the corners of rough stones, the better
to fit them for the builder's use ; but we,
as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught
to make use of it for the more noble and
glorious purpose of divesting our hearts
and consciences of all the vices and super-
fluities of life ; thereby fitting our minds,
as living stones, for that spiritual building
— that house not made with hands eternal
in the heavens.
SECTION II.
THIS SECTION RATIONALLY ACCOUNTS FOR
THE FORMS AND CEREMONIES OF INI-
TIATION.
CHANGING AND REDEEMING.
We read in the Book of Ruth, concern-
ing the manner of changing and redeem-
ing, that to confirm all things, a man
plucked off his shoe and gave it to his
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 15
neighbor ; and that was testimony iu
Israel. * * * * *
The right has in all ages been deemed
the seat of fidelity ; the ancients worship-
ped a Deity named fides, sometimes rep-
resented by two right hands joined; at
others, by two human figures holding
each other by the right hand.
The right, therefore, w-e. us' i ths. grt.
an' impt. undtkg. tstfng. * * * * *
the badge of a mason. — See second sec-
tion of the Lecture.
The Lamb has, in all ages, been deemed
an emblem of innocence ; he, therefore,
who wears the lambskin or white leather
apron as the badge of a Mason, is continu-
ally reminded of that purity of life and
rectitude of conduct, which is so essential-
ly necessary to his gaining admission into
the Celestial Lodge above, where the Su-
preme Architect of the Universe presides.
16 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
SECTION III.
This section fully explains the manner of con
stituting, and the proper authority for holding a
lodge. Here, also, we learn where lodges were
anciently held ; their form, support, covering, fur-
niture, ornaments, lights, and jewels ; how situated,
and to whom dedicated, as well in former times as
at present.
f A certain number of Free Masons duly
assembled, furnished with the Holy
Bible, square, and compasses, together
with a charter or dispensation* from some
grand Body of competent jurisdiction, em-
powering them to work, constitute a jPflj.
Our ancient brethren held their lodges
on high hills and in lw. vis. * * * *
Lodge meetings, at the present day, are
usually held in upper chambers — proba-
bly for the better security which such
places afford. The custom might have
had its origin in a practice observed
* In some Jurisdictions warrant. •
t See Appendix.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 17
by the ancient Jews, of building then
temples, schools, and synagogues on high
hills — a practice which seems to have met
the approbation of the Almighty, who
said unto the prophet Ezekiel, " Upor
the top of the mountain, the whole limit
thereof, round about shall be most holy."
EORM OF THE JPp.
Its form is an ob sq. In length, from
east to west, in breadth, between north
and south. As high as the heavens and
as deep as from the surface to the centre.
A Lodge is said to be thus extensive to
denote the universality of Free Masonry,
and teach us that a Mason's charity should
be equally extensive.
SUPPORTS.
A Lodge is metaphorically supported
by three great pillars, or columns which
are denominated Wisdom, Strength, and
Beauty ; because there should be wisdom
18 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
to contrive, strength to support, and heau*
ty to adorn all great and important under-
takings. The universe is the temple of
the Deity whom we serve : Wisdom,
Strength, and Beauty are about His
throne as pillars of His work; for His
wisdom is infinite, His strength is omni-
potent and His beauty shines forth
through all His creation in symmetry and
order.
These pillars also represent the three
prncpl. of cs of the flft *''*■• *
THE COVERING OF THE LODGE.
Its covering* is no less than the clouded
canopy, or starry-decked heaven, where
all good Masons hope at last to arrive, by
the aid of that theological ladder which
Jacob in his vision saw extending from
earth to heaven ; the three principal
rounds of which are denominated Faith,
Hope, and Charity; which admonish us
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 19
to have faith in God, hope in immortality,
and charity to all mankind. The great-
est of these is Charity; for our faith
may be lost in sight ; hope ends in frui-
tion; but charity extends beyond the
grave, through the boundless realms of
eternity.
THE FURNITURE OF THE LODGE.
Consists of the Holy Bible, Square
and Compasses.
The Bible is dedicated to the service of
God, because it is the inestimable gift of
God to man, an' o-n. i- we obgt ou' nwly
md Bn. ; the Square to the Master, because
it is the proper Masonic emblem of his
office ; and the Compasses to the craft, be-
cause, by a due attention to their use, they
are taught to circumscribe their desires,
and keep their passions within due bounds.
ORNAMENTS.
The ornaments of a lodge are the Mo-
20 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
saic Pave?nent, the Indented Teasel, 07
tesselated border, and the Blazing Star.
The Mosaic Pavement is a representa*
tion of the ground floor of King Solo-
mon's Temple ; the Indented Tessel, of
that beautiful tesselated border or skirting
which surrounded it. The Mosaic Pave-
ment is emblematical of human life,
checkered with good and evil ; the In-
dented Tessel, or tesselated border, of the
manifold blessings and comforts which
constantly surround us, and which we
hope to enjoy by a firm reliance on Di-
vine Providence, which is hieroglyphically
represented by the Blazing Star in the
centre.
LIGHTS.
A JPp| has three symbolic lights situated
E. W. and S. — thr is none in th N". be-
cause K. S. T. was situated so far north of
the Ecliptic, &c.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 21
JEWELS.
A. Jjp has six jewels — three movable
and three immovable.
The immovable jewels are the Square,
the Level, and the Plumb* The Square
inculcates morality; the Level equality;
and the Plumb rectitude of conduct.
The movable jewels are the Sough
Ashlar, the Perfect Ashlar, and the Tres-
tle-Board.
The Rough Ashlar is a stone, as taken
from the quarry in its rude and natural
state ; the Perfect Ashlar is a stone made
ready by the hands of the workmen, to be
adjusted by the working tools of a Fellow
Craft ; and the Trestle-Board is for the
Master workman to draw his designs upon.
By the Rough Ashlar we are reminded
of our rude and imperfect state by na-
* In England, and in some jurisdictions in this country, the
immovable jewels are the Rough Ashlar, Perfect Ashlar, an<i
Trestle-Board.
22 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
ture ; by the Perfect Ashlar ', of that state
of perfection at which we hope to arrive
by a virtuous education, our own endeav-
ors, and the blessing of Deity. And as
the operative workman erects his temporal
building in accordance with the designs
laid down upon the Trestle-Board by the
Master workman, so should we, both
operative and speculative, endeavor to
erect our spiritual building in accordance
with the designs laid down by the Supreme
Architect of the universe, in the great book
of nature and revelation, which is our spir-
itual, moral, and masonic trestle-board.
SITUATION* OF THE f^.
The Lodge is situated due east and west,
because K. S. T. was so situated.
DEDICATION.
Lodges were anciently dedicated to King
Solomon, as he was our first Most Ex-
MOVABLE*
m f ' I 1TT
V
V
pttfOiMUC;
^]^^^,
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 28
cellent Grand Master ; but Masons pro-
fessing Christianity, dedicate theirs to
St. John the Baptist and St. John
the Evangelist, who were two eminent
patrons of Masonry ; and, since their time,
there is represented, in every regular and
well-governed lodge, a certain point with-
in a circle: — the point representing an
individual brother ; the circle, the boun-
dary-line of his conduct to God and man,
beyond which he is never to suffer his
passions, prejudices, or interest to betray
'him, on any occasion. This circle is em-
bordered by two perpendicular parallel
lines, representing those saints, who were
perfect parallels in Christianity, as well
as in Masonry ; and upon the vertex rest?
the Holy Scriptures, which point out the
whole duty of man. In going around this
Krcle we necessarily touch upon these two
lines as well as upon the Holy Scriptures ;
and while a Mason keeps himself thus
24 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
circumscribed, it is impossible that he
should materiaiy err.
TENETS.
The principal tenets of our profession
are threefold, including the inculcation
and practice of those truly commendable
virtues, Brotherly Love, Belief, and
Truth.
BROTHERLY LOYE.
By the exercise of Brotherly Love, we
are taught to regard the whole human
species as one family — the high, the low,
the rich, the poor — who, as created by
one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants of
the same planet, are to aid, support, and
protect each other. On this principle,
Masonry unites men of every country,
sect, and opinion, and conciliates true
friendship among those who might other-
wise have remained at a perpetual di&-
taiice.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 25
RELIEF.
To relieve the distressed, is a duty in-
cumbent on all men, but particularly on
Masons, who are linked together by an
indissoluble chain of sincere affection.
To soothe the unhappy; to sympathize
with their misfortunes ; to compassionate
their miseries, and to restore peace to theii
troubled minds, is the great aim we have
in view. On this basis, we form our
friendships and establish our connections.
TRUTH.
Truth is a divine attribute, and the
foundation of every virtue. To be good
and true, is the first lesson we are taught
in Masonry. On this theme we contem-
plate, and by its dictates endeavor to regu-
late our conduct. Hence, while influ-
enced by this principle, hypocrisy and
deceit are unknown among us; sincerity
and plain dealing distinguish us; and
26 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
the heart and the tongue join in promot-
ing each other's welfare, and rejoicing
in each other's prosperity.
THE PEFC PNTS O' ENTRC.
FORTITUDE.
Fortitude is that noble and steady pur-
pose of the mind, whereby we are enabled
to undergo any pain, peril, or danger,
when prudentially deemed expedient.
This virtue is equally distant from rash-
ness or cowardice ; and should be deeply
impressed upon the mind of every Mason,
as a safeguard or security against any il-
legal attack that may be made, by force
or otherwise, to extort from him any of
those valuable secrets with which he has
been so solemnly intrusted, and which
was emblematically represented upon
his first admission into the lodge. — Whr
u wr * * * * *
B. L.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 27
PRUDENCE.
Prudence teaches us to regulate our
lives and actions agreeably to the dictates
of reason, and is that habit by which we
wisely judge, and prudentially determine,
on all things relative to our present as
well as to our future happiness. This
virtue should be the peculiar charac-
teristic of every Mason, not only for the
government of his conduct while in the
lodge, but also when abroad in the world.
It should be particularly attended to, in
all strange and mixed companies, never
to let fall the least sign, token, or word,
whereby the secrets of Masonry might be
unlawfully obtained. — evr brng in rm-
TEMPERANCE.
Temperance is that due restraint upon
our affections and passions which renders
28 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
the body tame and governable, and frees
the mind from the allurements of vice.
This virtue should be the constant prac-
tice of every Mason; as he is thereby
taught to avoid excess, or contracting any
licentious or vicious habit, the indulgence
of which might lead him to disclose some
of those valuable secrets which he had
promised to conceal and never reveal,,
and which would consequently subject
him to the contempt and detestation of
all good Masons. — if nt to th * * * * *
JUSTICE.
Justice is that standard, or boundary
of right, which enables us to render to
every man his just due, without distinc-
tion. This virtue is not only consistent
with divine and human laws, but is the
very cement and support of civil society ;
and as justice, in a great measure, consti-
tutes the really good man, so should it be
ENTERED APPKENTICE. 29
the invariable practice of every Mason,
never to deviate from the minutest prin-
ciples thereof. — evr rmmbrng tht whn
EP SRVD THE MSTS WTH FRDM FKC. AND ZL.
Whch are represented by
vv w w w
Our mother Earth, for it is that alone,
of all the elements, which has never
proved unfriendly to man : the bodies
of water deluge him with rain, oppress
him with hail, and drown him with
inundations. The air rushes in storms,
prepares the tempest, and lights up the
volcano; — but the earth, ever kind and
indulgent, is found subservient to his
wishes. Though constantly harassed,
more to furnish the luxuries than the
necessaries of life, she never refuses her
accustomed yield ; spreading his path
with flowers, and his table with plenty;
though she produces poison, still she
30 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
supplies the antidote, and returns with
interest every good committed to her care ;
and when at last he is called upon to pass
through the " dark valley of the shadow
of Death," she once more receives him,
and piously covers his remains within her
bosom ; this admonishes us that from it
we came, and to it we must shortly re-
turn.
Such is the arrangement of the different sections
in the first lecture, which, with the forms adopted
at the Opening" and Closing of a Lodge, comprehends
the whole of the first degree of Masonry. This
plan has the advantage of regularity to recommend
it, the support of precedent and authority, and the
sanction and respect which flow from antiquity.
CHAEGE TO THE CANDIDATE.
Brother : As you are now introduced
into the first principles of Masonry, I con-
gratulate you on being accepted into this
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 31
ancient and honorable Order: — ancient,
as having subsisted from time immemo-
rial ; and, honorable, as tending, in every
particular, so to render all men who will
be conformable to its precepts. ISTo in-
stitution was ever raised on a better prin-
ciple, or more solid foundation ; nor were
ever more excellent rules and useful max-
ims laid down than are inculcated in the
several masonic lectures. The greatest
and best of men, in all ages, have been
encouragers and promoters of the art ;
and have never deemed it derogatory to
their dignity to level themselves with the
fraternity, extend their privileges, and
patronize their assemblies. There are
three great duties, which, as a Mason, you
are charged to inculcate — to God, your
neighbor, and yourself. To God, in never
mentioning His name, but with that rever-
ential awe which is due from a creature
to his creator; to implore His aid in
32 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
all your laudable undertakings, and to
esteem Him as the chief good ; to your
neighbor, in acting upon the square, and
doing unto him as you wish he should do
unto you ; and to yourself, in avoiding all
irregularity and intemperance, which may
impair your faculties, or debase the digni-
ty of your profession. A zealous attach-
ment to these duties will insure public
and private esteem.
In the State, you are to be a quiet and
peaceful citizen, true to your government,
and just to your country; you are not to
countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but
patiently submit to legal authority, and
conform with cheerfulness to the govern-
ment of the country in which you live.
In your outward demeanor, be particular-
ly careful to avoid censure and reproach.
Although your frequent appearance at
our regular meetings is earnestly solicited,
yet it is not meant that Masonry should
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 33
interfere with your necessary vocations /
for these a/re on no account to he neglect-
ed / neither are you to suffer your zeal for
the institution to lead you into argument
with those who, through ignorance, may
ridicule it.
At your leisure hours, that you may
improve in masonic knowledge, you are
to converse with well-informed brethren,
who will be always as ready to give, as
you will be to receive, instruction.
Finally, keep sacred and inviolable the
mysteries of the Order; as these are to
distinguish you from the rest of the com*
munity, and mark your consequence
among Masons. If, in the circle of your
acquaintance, you find a person desirous
of being initiated into Masonry, be parti-
cularly careful not to recommend him,
unless you are convinced he will conform
to our rules; that the honor, glory, and
reputation of the institution may be firm-
34 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
ly established, and the world at large con-
vinced of its good effects.*
FELLOW CKAFT.
SCRIPTURE READING.
" Thus he shewed me : and behold, the
Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb-
line, with a plumb-line in his hand. And
the Lord said unto me, Amos, what seest
thou? and I said, A plumb-line. Then
said the Lord, Behold, I will set a plumb-
line in the midst of my people Israel ; I
will not again pass by them any more."
— Amos, vii. 7, 8.
PRESENTATION OF THE WORKING TOOLS.
The Plumb is an instrument made
use of by operative Masons, to try per-
pendiculars ; the Square, to square their
* For Symbolism of the three degrees, see pages 81, 82, 83,
-m
mmKW.
FELLOW CRAFT. 35
work, and the Level^ to prove horizontals ;
but we, -as free and accepted Masons, are
taught to make use of them for more no-
ble and glorious purposes ; the Plumb
admonishes us to walk uprightly in our
several stations before God and man,
squaring our actions by the Square of
Virtue, and ever remembering that we.
are travelling upon the Level of Time, to
"that undiscovered country, from whose
bourne no traveller returns."
THE PROS. JLS.
I als' prsn. u. wth. the thr' prs. jls.
of a F.cf wch. ar' th. atnt. ea. th. in-
stv tn. an5 th. fthfl. bs., &c.
section n.
The second section of this degree has re-
course to the origin of the Institution, and
views Masonry under two denominations —
Operative and Speculative. These are sepa-
rately considered, and the principles on which
both are founded, particularly explained.
36 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
Their affinity is pointed out, by allegorical
figures and typical representations. The
period stipulated for rewarding merit is fixed,
and the inimitable moral to which that cir-
cumstance alludes is explained ; the creation -
of the world is described, and many other par-
ticulars recited, all of which have been careful-
ly preserved among Masons, and transmitted
from one age to another by oral tradition.
Circumstances of great importance to the
fraternity are here particularized, and many
traditional tenets and customs confirmed by
sacred and profane record. The celestial and
terrestrial globes are considered with a min-
ute accuracy ; and here the accomplished
craftsman may display his talents to advant-
age, in the elucidation of the Orders of Ar-
chitecture^ the Senses of human nature, and
the liberal Arts and Sciences, which are sev-
erally classed in a regular arrangement. In
short, this sectiou contains a store of valuable
knowledge, founded on reason and sacred
record, both entertaining and instructive.
FELLOW CRAFT. 37
OPEEATIVE MASONKY.
By Operative Masonry we allude to
a proper application of the useful rules
of architecture, whence a structure will
derive figure, strength, and beauty, and
whence will result a due proportion and
a just correspondence in all its parts. It
furnishes us with dwellings and conve-
nient shelters from the vicissitudes and
inclemencies of seasons; and while it
displays the effects of human wisdom, as
well in the choice as in the arrangement
of the sundry materials of which an
edifice is composed, it demonstrates that
a fund of science and industry is im-
planted in man, for the best, most salutary
and beneficent purposes.
SPECULATIVE MASONRY.
By Speculative Masonry, we learn to
subdue the passions, act upon the square,
keep a tongue of good report, maintain
38 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
secrecy, and practice charity. It is so far
interwoven with religion, as to lay us
under obligations to pay that rational ha
mage to the Deity, which at once consti-
tutes our duty and our happiness. It leads
the contemplative to view, with reverence
and admiration, the glorious works of
creation, and inspires him with the most
exalted ideas of the perfection of his Di
vine Creator.
JEWISH SABBATH.
The second section of this degree also
refers to the origin of the Jewish Sabbath,
as well as to the manner in which our
ancient brethren kept the same.
In six days God created the heavens
and the earth, and rested upon the seventh
day ; the seventh, therefore, our ancient
brethren consecrated as a day of rest from
their labors, thereby enjoying frequent
opportunities to contemplate the glorious
• »*##« 9
Fl
* * « «
KT%
FELLOW CRAFT. 39
works of the creation, and to adore their
great Creator.
*******
OF THE GLOBES.
These pillars are surmounted by two ar-
tificial spherical bodies representing the
Globes — celestial and terrestrial, on the
convex surface of which are delineated
the countries, seas, and various parts of the
earth, the face of the heavens, the plane-
tary revolutions, and other important par-
ticulars.
USE OF THE GLOBES.
The principal use of the globes, besides
serving as maps to distinguish the outward
parts of the earth, and the situation of the
fixed stars, is to illustrate and explain the
phenomena arising from the annual revo-
lution, and the diurnal rotation of the earth
40 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
round its own axis. They are invaluable
instruments for improving the mind, and
giving it the most distinct idea of any
problem or proposition, as well as enabling
it to solve the same. Contemplating these
bodies, we are inspired with a due rever-
ence for the Deity and his works, and
are induced to encourage the studies of
astronomy, geography, navigation, and
the arts dependent on them, by which
society has been so much benefited.
ORDER IN ARCHITECTURE.
By order in architecture is meant a
system of all the members, proportions,
and ornaments of columns and pilasters ;
or, it is a regular arrangement of the pro-
jecting parts of a building, which, united
with those of a column, form a beautiful,
perfect, and complete whole.
FELLOW CRAFT. 41
ITS ANTIQUITY.
From the first formation of society,
order in architecture may be traced.
When the rigor of seasons obliged men to
contrive shelter from the inclemency of
the weather, we learn that they first
planted trees on end, and then laid others
across, to support a covering. The bands
which connected those trees at top and
bottom, are said to have given rise to the
idea of the base and capital of pillars;
and, from this simple hint, originally
proceeded the more improved art of ar-
chitecture.
The five orders are thus classed: the
Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and
Composite.
the tuscan
Is the most simple and solid of the five
orders. It was invented in Tuscany,
whence it derives its name. Its column
42 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
is seven diameters high ; and its capital,
base, and entablature have but few mould-
ings. The simplicity of the construction
of this column renders it eligible where
ornament would be superfluous.
THE DORIC
Which is plain and natural, is the most
ancient, and was invented by the Greeks.
Its column is eight diameters high, and
has seldom any ornaments on base or
capital, except mouldings; though the
frieze is distinguished by triglyphs and
metopes, and triglyphs compose the orna-
ments of the frieze. The solid compo-
sition of this order gives it a preference,
in structures where strength and a noble
simplicity are chiefly required. The
Doric is the best proportioned of all the
orders. The several parts of which it ia
composed are founded on the natural posi
FELLOW CRAFT. 43
tion of solid bodies. In its first invention
it was more simple than in its present
state. In after times, when it began to
be adorned, it gained the name of Doric ;
for when it was constructed in its primi-
tive and simple form, the name of Tuscan
was conferred on it. Hence the Tuscan
precedes the Doric in rank, on account
of its resemblance to that pillar in its
original state.
THE IONIC
Bears a kind of mean proportion between
the more solid and delicate orders. Its
column is nine diameters high; its capi-
tal is adorned with volutes, and its cornice
has dentils. There is both delicacy and
ingenuity displayed in this pillar, the in-
vention of which is attributed to the
Ionians, as the famous temple of Diana,
at Ephesus, was of this order. It is said
to have been formed after the model of
44 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
an agreeable young woman, of an elegant
shape, dressed in her hair ; as a contrast
to the Doric order, which was formed
after that of a strong, robust man
THE CORINTHIAN,
The richest of the five orders, is deem-
ed a master-piece of art. Its column is
ten diameters high, and its capital is
adorned with two rows of leaves, and
eight volutes, which sustain the abacus.
The frieze is ornamented with curious
devices, the cornice with dentils and rao-
dillions. This order is used in stately
and superb structures.
It was invented at Corinth, by Calli-
machus, who is said to have taken the
hint of the capital of this pillar from the
following remarkable circirm stance. Ac-
cidently passing by the torn b of a ycnng
lady, he perceived a basket of toys, cov-
FELLOW CRAFT. 45
ered with a tile, placed over an acanthus
root, having been left there by her nurse.
As the branches grew up, they encompass-
ed the basket, until arriving at the tile,
they met with an obstruction and bent
downwards. Callimachus, struck with
the object, set about imitating the figure ;
the base of the capital lie made to repre-
sent the basket ; the abacus the tile, and
the volutes the bending leaves.
THE COMPOSITE
Is compounded of the other orders, and
was contrived by the Romans. Its capi-
tal has the two rows of leaves of the
Corinthian and the volutes of the Ionic.
Its column has quarter-rounds, as the
Tuscan and Doric order ; is ten diameters
high, and its cornice has dentils, or sim-
ple modillions. This pillar is generally
found in buildings where strength, ele-
gance, and beauty are displayed.
46 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
THE ORDERS OF ARCHITECTURE REVERED B\
MASONS.
The ancient and original orders of ar-
chitecture, revered by Masons, are no m,ore
than three, the Doric, Ionic, and Corinth-
ian, which were invented by the Greeks.
To these, the Komans have added two,
the Tuscan, which they made plainer
than the Doric, and the Composite, which
was more ornamental, if not more beauti-
ful, than the Corinthian. The first three
orders alone, however, show invention
and particular character, and essentially
differ from each other; the two others
have nothing but what is borrowed, and
differ only accidentally ; the Tuscan is
the Doric in its earliest state ; and the
Composite is the Corinthian enriched
with the Ionic. To the Greeks, there-
fore, and not to the Romans, we are in-
debted for what is great, judicious, and
distinct in architecture.
FELLOW CRAFT. 47
THE FIVE SENSES OF HUMAN
NATDKE.
HEARING
Is that sense by which we distinguish
sounds, and are capable of enjoying all
the agreeable charms of music. By it
we are enabled to enjoy the pleasures of
society, and reciprocally to communicate
to each other our thoughts and intentions,
our purposes and desires; and thus our
reason is rendered capable of exerting its
utmost power and energy. The wise and
beneficent Author of Nature intended, by
the formation of this sense, that we should
be social creatures, and receive the great-
est and most important part of our know-
ledge from social intercourse with each
other. For these purposes we are endowed
with hearing, that, by a proper exertion
of our rational powers, our happiness may
be complete.
48 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
SEEING
Is that sense by which we distinguish ob-
jects, and in an instant of time, without
change of place or situation, view armies
in battle array, figures of the most stately
structures, and all the agreeable variety
displayed in the landscape of nature. Bj
this sense we find our way on the pathless
ocean, traverse the globe of earth, deter-
mine its figure and dimensions, and deline-
ate any region or quarter of it. By it we
measure the planetary orbs, and make new
discoveries in the sphere of the fixed stars.
Nay, more, by it we perceive the tempers
and dispositions, the passions and affec-
tions of our fellow-creatures, when they
wish most to conceal them ; so that,
though the tongue may be taught to lie
and dissemble, the countenance will dis-
play the hypocrisy to the discerning eye.
In fine, the rays of light which administer
to this sense, are the most astonishing
FELLOW CRAFT. 49
parts of the animated creation, and ren-
der the eye a peculiar object of admiration.
Of all the faculties, sight is the noblest.
The structure of the eye, and its appurte-
nances, evince the admirable contrivance
of nature for performing all its various
external and internal motions ; while the
variety displayed in the eyes of different
animals, suited to their several ways of
life, clearly demonstrate this organ to be
the masterpiece of nature's works.
FEELING
Is that sense by which we distinguish the
different qualities of bodies ; such as heat
and cold, hardness and softness, roughness
and smoothness, figure, solidity, motion
and extension.
These three senses, hearing, seeing, and
feeling, are deemed peculiarly essential
among Masons. Le' us mk a stl fth adv.
50 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
SMELLING *
Is that sense by which we distinguish
odors, the various kinds of which convey
different impressions to the mind. Ani-
mal and vegetable bodies, and indeed
most other bodies, while exposed to the
air, continually send forth effluvia of vast
subtlety, as well in a state of life and
growth, as in the state of fermentation
and putrefaction. These effluvia, being
drawn into the nostrils along with the air,
are the means by which all bodies are dis-
tinguished. Hence it is evident, that
there is a manifest appearance of design
in the great Creator's having planted the
organ of smell in the inside of that canal,
through whicli the air continually passes
in respiration.
TASTING
Enables us to make a proper distinction
* A description of these two senses is seldom given.
FELLOW CRAFT. 51
in the choice of our food. The organ of
this sense guards the entrance of the ali-
mentary canal, as that of smelling guards
the entrance of the canal for respiration.
From the situation of both these organs,
it is plain that they were intended by na-
ture to distinguish wholesome food from
that which is nauseous. Everything that
enters into the stomach must undergo the
scrutiny of tasting ; and by it we are ca-
pable of discerning the changes which the
same body undergoes in the different com-
positions of art, cookery, chemistry, phar-
macy, &c.
Smelling and tasting are inseparably
connected, and it is by the unnatural kind
of life men commonly lead in society, that
these senses are rendered less fit to per-
form their natural offices.
The proper use of these five senses ena-
bles us to form just and accurate notions
of the operations of nature ; and when we
52 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
reflect on the objects with which our sen-
ses are gratified, we become conscious of
them, and are enabled to attend to them, till
they become familiar objects of thought.
On the mind all our knowledge must
depend ; what, therefore, can be a more
proper subject for the investigation of
Masons ?
To sum up the whole of this transcend-
ent measure of God's bounty to man, we
shall add, that memory, imagination, taste,
reasoning, moral perception, and all the
active powers of the soul, present a vast
and boundless field for philosophical dis-
quisition, which far exceeds human inqui-
ry, and are peculiar mysteries, known only
to nature, and to nature's God, to whom
all are indebted for creation, preservation
and every blessing we enjoy.
FELLOW CRAFT. 53
THE SEVEN LIBERAL ARTS AND
SCIENCES,
GRAMMAR, RHETORIC, LOGIC, ARITHMETIC^
GEOMETRY, MUSIC, AND ASTRONOMY.
GRAMMAR
Is the key by which alone the door can
be opened to the understanding of speech.
It is grammar which reveals the admira-
ble art of language, and unfolds its vari-
ous constituent parts, its names, defini-
tions, and respective offices ; it unravels,
as it were, the thread of which the web
of speech is composed. These reflections
seldom occur to any one before their ac-
quaintance with the art; yet it is most
certain, that, without a knowledge of
Grammar, it is very difficult to speak
with propriety, precision, and purity.
RHETORIC
It is by Rhetoric that the art of speak
54 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
ing eloquently is acquired. To be an elo
quent speaker, in the proper sense of the
word, is far from being either a common
or an easy attainment : it is the art of be-
ing persuasive and commanding ; the art,
not only of pleasing the fancy, but of
speaking both to the understanding and
to the heart.
LOGIC
Is that science which directs us how to
form clear and distinct ideas of things,
and thereby prevents us from being mis-
led by their similitude or resemblance.
Of all the human sciences, that concern-
ing man is certainly most worthy of the
human mind, and the proper manner of
conducting its several powers in the at-
tainment of truth and knowledge. Thia
science ought to be cultivated as the foun-
dation or ground- work of our inquiries ;
particularly in the pursuit of those sub-
FELLOW CRAFT. 55
lime principles which claim oar attention
as Masons.
ARITHMETIC
Is the art of numbering, or that part of
the mathematics which considers the pro-
perties of numbers in general. We have
but a very imperfect idea of things with-
out quantity, and as imperfect of quantity
itself, without the help of Arithmetic.
All the works of the Almighty are made
in number, weight, and measure ; there-
fore, to understand them rightly, we
ought to understand arithmetical calcula-
tions; and the greater advancement we
make in the mathematical sciences, the
more capable we shall be of considering
such things as are the ordinary objects of
our conceptions, and be thereby led to a
more comprehensive knowledge of our
great Creator, and the works of the crea
tion.
56 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
GEOMETRY
Treats of the powers and properties of
magnitudes in general, where length,
breadth, and thickness are considered —
from a point to a line, from a line to a
supe/fices, and from a superfices to a solid.
A point is the beginning of all geome-
trical matter.
A line is a continuation of the same.
A superfices is length and breadth with-
out a given thickness.
A solid is length and breadth, with a
given thickness, which forms a cube and
comprehends the whole.
THE ADVANTAGES OF GEOMETRY.
By this science the architect is enabled
to construct his plans, and execute his
designs ; the general, to arrange his sol-
diers ; the engineer, to mark out grounds
for encampments ; the geographer, to give
us the dimensions of the world, and all
FELLOW CRAFT. 57
things therein contained ; to delineate the
extent of seas, and specify the divisions
of empires, kingdoms, and provinces. By
it, also, the astronomer is enabled to make
his observations, and to fix the duration
of times and seasons, years and cycles. In
fine, Geometry is the foundation of archi-
tecture, and the root of the mathematics.
MTSIO
Is that elevated science which affects the
passions by sound. There are few who
have not felt its charms, and acknowledg-
ed its expressions to be intelligible to the
heart. It is a language of delightful sen-
sations, far more eloquent than words ; it
breathes to the ear the clearest intima-
tions ; it touches and gently agitates the
agreeable and sublime passions ; it wraps
us in melancholy, and elevates us in joy ;
it dissolves and inflames ; it melts us in
tenderness, and excites us to war. This
58 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
science is truly congenial to the nature of
man ; for by its powerful charms the
most discordant passions may he harmo-
nized and brought into perfect unison ;
but it never sounds with such seraphic
harmony as when employed in singing
hymns of gratitude to the Creator of the
universe.
ASTRONOMY
Is that sublime science which inspires the
contemplative mind to soar aloft, and read
the wisdom, strength, and beauty of the
great Creator in the heavens. How nobly
eloquent of the Deity is the celestial hem
isphere ! — spangled with the most magni-
ficent heralds of his infinite glory ! They
speak to the whole universe ; for there is
no speech so barbarous but their language
is understood ; nor nation so distant but
their voices are heard among them.
u The heavens proclaim the glory of God ;
The firmament declareth the works of his hands,*
FELLOW CRAFT. 59
Assisted by Astronomy, we ascertain
the laws which govern the heavenly
bodies, and by which their motions are
directed ; investigate the power by which
they circulate in their orbs, discover their
size, determine their distance, explain
their various phenomena, and correct the
fallacy of the senses by the light of truth.
EMBLEM OF PLENTY.
An emblem of plenty is here intro-
duced and explained. It is represented
by a sheaf of corn suspended near a water
ford. * * * *
WAGES.
Our anct Bru red thr wags constg of
crn. wn and oi wh a'e 'mblmticl of nou-
rishm5 etc.
the moral advantages of geometry.
Geometry, the first and noblest of sci-
ences, is the basis on which the super-
60 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
structure of Freemasonry is erected. By
Geometry we may curiously trace nature
through her various windings, to her most
concealed recesses. By it, we discover
the power, wisdom, and goodness of the
Grand Artificer of the universe, and
view with delight the proportions which
connect this vast machine. By it, we
discover how the planets move in their
respective orbits, and demonstrate their
various revolutions. By it we account
for the return of the seasons, and the
variety of scenes which each season dis-
plays to the discerning eye. Numberless
worlds are around us, all framed by the
same Divine Artist, which roll through
the vast expanse, and are all conducted
by the same unerring law of nature.
A survey of nature, and the observation
of her beautiful proportions, first deter-
mined man to imitate the divine plan, and
study symmetry and order. This gave
FELLOW CRAFT. 61
. ase to societies, and birth to every useful
art. The architect began to design ; and
the plans which he laid down, being im-
proved by time and experience, have pro-
duced works which are the admiration of
every age.
The lapse of time, the ruthless hand of
ignorance, and the devastations of war
have laid waste and destroyed many val-
uable monuments of antiquity, on which
the utmost exertions of human genius
have been employed. Even the Temple
of Solomon, so spacious and magnificent,
and constructed by so many celebrated
artists, escaped not the unsparing ravages
of barbarous force. Freemasonry, not-
withstanding, has still survived. The at-
tentive ear receives the sound from the
instructive tongue, and the mysteries of
Masonry are safely lodged in the reposi-
tory of faithful breasts. Tools and im-
plements of architecture, and symbolic
62 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
emblems, most expressive, are selected by
the fraternity, to imprint on the mind
wise and serious truths ; and thus, through
a succession of ages, are transmitted un-
impaired the most excellent tenets of our
institution.
Thus end the two sections of the second lecture,
which, with the ceremony used at opening and
closing the lodge, comprehend the whole of the
second degree of Masonry. This lecture contains a
regular system of science, demonstrated on the
clearest principles, and founded on the most stable
foundations.
CHAEGE TO THE CANDIDATE.
Brother: — Being passed to the sec-
ond, degree of Freemasonry, we congratu-
late you on your preferment. The inter-
nal, and not the external qualifications of a
man, are what Masonry regards. As you
increase in knowledge, you will improve
in social intercourse.
FELLOW CKAFT. 63
It is unnecessary to recapitulate the
duties which, as a Fellow Craft, you are
bound to discharge, or to enlarge on the
necessity of a strict adherence to them, as
your own experience must have establish-
ed their value. Our laws and regulations
you are strenuously to support ; and be
always ready to assist in seeing them duly
executed. You are not to palliate, or ag-
gravate, the offences of your brethren ;
but in the decision of every trespass
against our rules, you are to judge with
candor, admonish with friendship, and
reprehend with justice.
The study of the liberal arts, that valu-
able branch of education, which tends so
effectually to polish and adorn the mind,
is earnestly recommended to your consid-
eration ; especially the science of Geome-
try, which is established as the basis of
our art. Geometry, or Masonry, original-
ly synonymous terms, being of a divine
64 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
and moral nature, is enriched with the
most useful knowledge; while it proves
the wonderful properties of nature, it de-
monstrates the more important truths of
morality.
Your past behavior and regular deport-
ment have merited the honor which we
have now conferred ; and in your new
character, it is expected that you will con-
form to the principles of the Order, by
steadily persevering in the practice of
every commendable virtue. Snch is the
nature of your engagements as a Fellow
Craft, and to these duties you are bound
by the most sacred ties,
MASTER MASON. 65
MASTEE MASOK
SECTION I.
SCRIPTURE READING.
"Remember now thy Creator in the
days of thy youth, while the evil clays
come not, nor the years draw nigh, when
thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them ;
while the sun, or the light, or the moon,
or the stars, be not darkened, nor the
clouds return after the rain ; in the day
when the keepers of the house shall trem-
ble, and the strong men shall bow them-
selves, and the grinders cease because they
are few, and those that look out of the
windows be darkened, and the doors shall
be shut in the streets, when the sound of
the grinding is low, and he shall rise up
at the voice of the bird, and all the
daughters of music shall be brought low ;
abo, when they shall be afraid of that
66 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
which is high, and fears shall be in the
wajr, and the almond-tree shall flourish,
and the grasshopper shall be a burden,
and desire shall fail ; because man goeth
to his long home, and the mourners go
about the streets : or ever the silver cord
be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken,
or the pitcher be broken at the fountain,
or the wheel broken at the cistern. Then
shall the dust return to the earth as it
was ; and the spirit shall return unto God
who gave it."
PRESENTATION" OF THE WORKING TOOLS.
The working tools of a Master Mason
are all the implements in Masonry, indis-
criminately, but more especially the trowTel.
THE TROWEL
Is an instrument made use of, by opera-
tive Masons, to spread the cement which
unites the building into one common
MASTER MASON". 67
mass ; but we, as Free and Accepted Ma-
sons, are taught to niake use of it for the
more noble and glorious purpose of
spreading the cement of Brotherly Love
and affection ; that cement which unites
us into one sacred band, or Society of
Friends and Brothers, among wThom no
contention should ever exist but that
noble contention, or rather emulation, of
who best can work and best agree.
section n.
This section recites the historical traditions of the
Order, and presents to view a picture of great moral
sublimity. It exemplifies an instance of virtue and
firmness seldom equalled and never excelled.
FUKERAE DIRGE.
Solemn strikes the fun'ral chime,
Notes of our departing time ;
As we journey here below,
Thro1 a pilgrimage of woe.
Mortals, now indulge a tear,
For mortality is near I
68 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
See how wide her trophies wave
O'er the slumbers of the grave !
Here another guest we bring ;
Seraphs of celestial wing.
To our fun'ral altar come,
Waft this friend and brother home.
There, enlarged, thy soul shall see
What was veiled in mystery ;
Heavenly glories of the place
Show his Maker face to face.
Lord of all ! below — above —
Fill our hearts with truth and love ;
When dissolves our earthly tie,
Take us to thy Lodge on high.
PRAYER USED AT RAISING A BROTHER TO
THE SUBLIME DEGREE OF MASTER MASON.
Thou, O God ! knowest our down-sit-
ting and onr up-rising, and understandest
our thoughts afar off. Shield and defend
us from the evil intentions of our enemies,
and support us under the trials and afflic-
MASTER MASON. 69
tions we are destined to endure, wlrile
travelling through this vale of tears. Man
that is born of a woman is of few days,
and full of trouble. He cometh forth as
a flower and is cut down ; he fleeth also
as a shadow, and continueth not. Seeing
his days are determined, the number of
his months are with thee ; thou hast ap-
pointed his bounds that he cannot pass ;
turn from him that he may rest, till he
shall accomplish his day. For there is
hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it
will sprout again, and that the tender
branch thereof will not cease. But man
dieth and wasteth away ; yea, man giveth
up the ghost, and where is he ? As the
waters fail from the sea, and the flood de-
cayeth and drieth up, so man lieth down,
and riseth not up till the heavens shall be
no more. Tet, O Lord ! have compassion
on the children of thy creation ; adminis-
ter them comfort in time of trouble, and
70 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
save them with an everlasting salvation.
Amen. So mote it be.
the broken monument.
An' ovr hs remns ws erectd a mnmt o'
th finest p-rin mrble on wh ws delnatd a
brkn elm. * * * * *
section m.
This section illustrates certain hieroglyphical
emblems and inculcates many useful and impres-
sive moral lessons. It also details many particulars
relative to the building of the Temple at Jerusa-
lem.
This magnificent structure was founded in the
fourth year of the reign of Solomon on the second
day of the month Zif, being the second month of
the sacred year. It was located on Mount Moriah,
near the place where Abraham was about to offer
up his son Isaac, and where David met and ap-
peased the destroying angel. Josephus informs
us, that although more than seven years were oc-
cupied in building it, yet, during the whole term,
it did not rain in the day time, that the workmen
might not be obstructed in their labor. From sa-
1,453 Columns. §,300 Overseers,
&906 Pilasters £0,000 Peje&sst Cmm>
3 Grand Masters, 7&000 Entered &£vrwi&ssL
k
%
f^
im
^w^
»ii
*l\
>
3
MASTER MASON. 71
cred history we also learn, that there was not the
sound of ax, hammer, or any tool of iron heard in
the house while it was building1.
It is said to have been supported by
fourteen hundred and fifty -three columns,
and two thousand nine hundred and six
pilasters, all hewn from the finest Parian
marble. There were employed in its
building; three Grand Masters ; three
thousand and three hundred Masters or
Overseers of the work ; eighty thousand
Fellow Crafts ; and seventy thousand En-
tered Apprentices, or bearers of burdens.
All these were classed and arranged in
such manner, by the wisdom of Solomon,
that neither envy, discord, nor confusion,
was suffered to interrupt or disturb the
peace and good fellowship which prevail-
ed among the workmen.
THE THREE STEPS
Usually delineated upon the Master's car-
72 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
pet are emblematical of the three princi-
pal stages of human life, viz : youth,
manhood., and age. In youth, as Entered
Apprentices, we ought industriously to
occupy our minds in the attainment of
useful knowledge ; in manhood, as Fellow
Crafts, we should apply our knowledge to
the discharge of our respective duties to
God, our neighbor, and ourselves; that
so, in age, as Master Masons, we may en-
joy the happy reflection consequent on a
well-spent life, and die in the hope of a
glorious immortality.
THE POT OF INCENSE
Is an emblem of a pure heart, which is
always an acceptable sacrifice to the
Deity ; and, as this glows with fervent
heat, so should our hearts continually
glow with gratitude to the great and be-
neficent Author of our existence, for the
manifold blessings and comforts we enjoy.
MASTER MASON. 73
THE BEE HIVE
Is an emblem of industry, and recom-
mends the practice of that virtue to all
created beings, from the highest seraph in
heaven, to the lowest reptile of the dust.
It teaches us, that as we came into the
world rational and intelligent beings, so
we should ever be industrious ones ; never
sitting down contented while our fellow-
creatures around us are in want, especially
when it is in our power to relieve them,
without inconvenience to ourselves.
When we take a survey of nature, we
view man in his infancy, more helpless
and indigent than the brute creation;
he lies languishing for days, months, and
years, totally incapable of providing sus-
tenance for himself, of guarding against
the attack of the wild beasts of the field,
or sheltering himself from the inclemen-
cies of the weather. It might have
pleased the great Creator of heaven and
74 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
earth, to have made man independent of
all other beings; but as dependence is
one of the strongest bonds of society,
mankind were made dependent on each
other for protection and security, as they
thereby enjoy better opportunities of ful-
filling the duties of reciprocal love and
friendship. Thus was man formed for
social and active. life, the noblest part of
the work of God ; and he that will so de-
mean himself as not to be endeavoring
to add to the common stock of knowledge
and understanding, may be deemed a
drone in the hive of nature, a useless
member of society, and unworthy of our
protection as Masons.
THE BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS, GUARDED BY
the tyler's sword,
Reminds us that we should be ever watch-
ful and guarded in our thoughts, words,
and actions, particularly when before the
MASTER MASON. 75
enemies of Masonry ; ever bearing in re-
membrance those truly masonic virtues,
silence and circumspection.
THE SWORD, POINTING TO A NAKED HEART,
Demonstrates that justice will sooner or
later overtake us; and although our
thoughts, words, and actions may be hid-
den from the eyes of man, yet that
ALL-SEEING EYE,
whom the Sltn, Moon, and stars obey, and
under whose watchful care, even Comets
perform their stupendous revolutions, per-
vades the inmost recesses of the human
Heart, and will reward us according to
our merits.
THE ANCHOR AND ARK
Are emblems of a well-grounded hope,
and a well-spent life. They are emble-
matical of that divine Ark, which safely
wafts us over this tempestuous sea of
76 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
troubles, and that Anchor, which shall
safely moor us in a peaceful harbor, where
the wicked cease from troubling, and the
weary shall find rest.
THE FORTY-SEVENTH PROBLEM OF EUCLID.
This was an invention of our ancient
friend and brother, the great Pythagoras,
who, in his travels through Asia, Africa,
and Europe, was initiated into several
orders of priesthood, and raised to the
sublime degree of Master Mason. This
wise philosopher enriched his mind abun-
dantly in a general knowledge of things,
and more especially in Geometry, or Ma-
sonry. On this subject he drew out many
problems and theorems ; and among the
most distinguished, he erected this, which,
in the joy of his heart, he called Eureka,
in the Grecian language signifying I
have found it / and upon the discovery
of which, he is said to have sacrificed a
MASTER MASON. 77
hecatomb. It teaches Masons to be gen-
o
eral lovers of the arts and sciences.
THE HOUR-GLASS
Is an emblem of human life. Behold !
how swiftly the sands run, and how rapid-
ly our lives are drawing to a close ! We
cannot without astonishment behold the
little particles which are contained in this
machine ; — how they pass away almost
imperceptibly ! and yet, to our surprise,
in the short space of an hour they are all
exhausted. Thus wastes man! To-day,
he puts forth the tender leaves of hope ;
to-morrow, blossoms, and bears his blush-
ing honors thick upon him ; the next day
comes a frost which nips the shoot ; and
when he thinks his greatness is still as-
piring, he falls, like autumn leaves, to
enrich our mother earth.
THE SCYTHE
Is an emblem of time, which cuts the
78 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
brittle thread of life, and launches us into
eternity. Behold ! what havoc the scythe
of time makes among the human race!
If by chance we should escape the nu-
merous evils incident to childhood and
youth, and with health and vigor arrive
to the years of manhood ; yet, withal, we
must soon be cut down by the all-devour-
ing scythe of Time, and be gathered into
the land where our fathers have gone be-
fore us.
The thrd an' lst. cls. o' Emblems a'e
th. S'.m. S'. cf, an5 Spg o' ac— * * * *
CHARGE TO THE CANDIDATE.
Brother: — Tour zeal for the institu-
tion of Free Masonry, the progress you
have made in our mysteries, and your con-
formity to our regulations, have pointed
you out as a proper object for our favor
and esteem.
MASTER MASON. 79
Ton are now bound by duty, honor, and
gratitude to be faithful to your trust ; to
support the dignity of your character on
all occasions ; and to enforce, by precept
and example, obedience to the tenets of
the order. Exemplary conduct on your
part will convince the world that merit is
•the just title to our privileges, and that on
you our favors have not been undeserv-
edly bestowed.
In the character of a Master Mason you
are authorized to correct the errors and ir-
regularities of your uninformed brethren,
and to guard them against a breach of
fidelity. To preserve unsullied the repu-
tation of the fraternity must be your con-
stant care ; and for this purpose it is your
province to recommend to your inferiors
obedience and submission ; to your equals,
courtesy and affability ; to your superiors,
kindness and condescension. Universal
benevolence you are always to inculcate ;
80 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
and by the regularity of your own behav-
ior afford the best example for the con-
duct of others less informed. The ancient
landmarks of the order intrusted to your
care you are carefully to preserve and
never suffer them to be infringed, or
countenance a deviation from the estab-
lished usages and customs of the frater-
nity.
Your virtue, honor and reputation are
concerned in supporting with dignity the
character you now bear. Let no motive,
therefore, make you swerve from your
duty, violate your vows, or betray your
trust ; but be true and faithful, and imi-
tate the example of that celebrated artist
whom you have this evening represented.
Thus you wrill render yourself deserving
of the honor which we have conferred,
and merit the confidence we have reposed
in you.
MASTER MASON. 81
SYMBOLISM OF THE FIEST
DEGREE.
The first degree of Masonry is intended
symbolically to represent the birth of man
into the world, in which he is afterwards
to become a living and thinking actor.
Coming from the ignorance and darkness
of the outer world, his first craving is
for light — not that physical light which
springs from the great orb of day as its
fountain, but that moral and intellectual
light which emanates from the primal
Source of all things — from the Grand
Architect of the Universe — the Creator
of the sun and of all that it illuminates.
Hence the great, the primary object of
the first degree is to symbolize that birth
of intellectual light into the mind ; and
the Entered Apprentice is the type of
nnregenerate man, groping in moral and
mental darkness, and seeking for the
light which is to guide his steps and
82 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
point him to the path which leads to duty
and to Him who gives to duty its reward.
ON THE SYMBOLISM OF THE SECOND DEGREE.
If the object of the first degree be to
symbolize the struggles of a candidate
groping in darkness for intellectual light,
that of the second degree represents the
same candidate laboring amid all the dif-
ficulties that encumbers the young begin-
ner in the attainment of learning and
science. The Entered Apprentice is to
emerge from darkness to light — the Fel-
low Craft is to come out from ignorance
into knowledge. This degree, therefore,
by fitting emblems, is intended to typify
these struggles of the ardent mind for the
attainment of truth — moral and intellec-
tual truth — and above all, that Divine
truth, the comprehension of which surpass-
eth human understanding, and to which,
standing in the middle chamber, after his
MASTER MASON. Oo
laborious ascent of the winding stair, he
can only approximate by the reception of
an imperfect and yet glorious reward, in
the revelation of that " hieroglyphic light
which only craftsmen ever saw."
SYMBOLISM OF THE THIRD DEGREE.
There is not an observance in Free-
masonry which has not a deep signifi-
cance ; seek diligently and you will find
the illustrations of its symbolic teach-
ings almost infinite. The ancient land-
marks, as presented to your view in the
ceremonies of each degree, even with
the fullest exposition of their lawfully
accepted meaning, can be but the barest
skeleton, the dry bones of the varied
shapes of strength and beauty which
each succeeding age has framed in ac-
cordance with its own peculiar cast of
thought, and which imagination can
awaken into countless forms of graceful
84 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
life. I trust you will earnestly search for
a deeper meaning beneath the instruction
already given. Thus you will realize how
the founders of the various ancient mys-
teries, amidst universal idolatry, by adopt-
ing the unity of the system, even in the
infinity of its elements, prepared their
minds to receive the revelations of its
divine author. How, in viewing the
beneficent adaptation of all its parts to
the wants of every creature, finding in
external nature a visible emblem of
every great moral truth, and a type of
each mysterious emotion of the soul,
the conclusion broke upon them irresist-
ibly that the author of this harmonious
creation must be infinitely good and wise,
and that he is the only Grod. It will
not, therefore, be amiss to direct your at-
tention to a single example, not as an
anciently received explanation of the ob-
ject of the degree, but as one among the
MASTER MASON. 85
mass of illustrations which our symbols
will suggest. Your representation of our
Grand Master Hiram Abif is a type of the
upright man in his progress through life,
endowed, like the widow's son, with intel-
lect and power to carry out the designs
of the Grand Architect of the universe.
He enters at the South gate upon the
sunny period of youth, he here meets with
allurements which, like the ruffian, would
turn him from the path of duty, but deaf
to the Syren tones, sustained by the unerr-
ing dictates of the monitor within, he
moves on to the "West gate, or Middle
period of life ; here he is again assailed by
misfortunes, disease, and trials, tempting
him to betray his trust ; but, with integ-
rity too deeply rooted to be shaken by
the vicissitudes of fate, he treads the wray
of life unf alteringly, and arrives in age at
the East gate, that opening through which
he looks out upon a brighter and better
86 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
world ; here he meets with the inexorable
enemy to whom all must yield. At the
fatal blow of death he sinks to dust, and
is buried in the rubbish of his earthly
nature ; but not forever, for by the sprig
of acacia wTe are reminded that there is a
spiritual part within us, which will never
die ; and as the remains of our lamented
Grand Master were raised from their
humble resting-place, and conveyed as
near the Sanctum Sanctorum as the
Jewish law would allow, so may we,
when called from our graves by the all-
powerful voice of the Great Architect of
the Universe, be conducted to the Holy of
Holies, there to rest secure on the pro-
tecting love of our heavenly Father,
through the boundless ages of a never"
ending happiness.
MASTER MASON. 87
MASONIC BUEIAL SEEYICE AC-
CORDING TO ANCIENT
CUSTOM.
No Freemason can be interred with the
formalities of the Order unless it be by his
own request, or that of some member of
his family,* communicated to the Master
of the lodge of which he died a member ;
nor unless he is a Master Mason, and from
this restriction there is no exception. Fel-
low Crafts and Entered Apprentices are
not entitled to masonic funeral obsequies,
nor to participate in the ceremonies on
such occasions.
The Master of a lodge, having received
notice of a Master Mason's death, and of
his request to be interred with the Ceremo-
nies of the Order, fixes the day and hour
for the funeral (unless previously arranged
* Foreigners and sojourners excepted.
88 PRACTICAL MOKETOE.
by the relatives or friends of the deceased)v
and issues his command to the Secretary
to summon the lodge. He may invite as
many lodges as he thinks proper, the
members of which may accompany their
officers in form ; but the whole ceremony
must be under the direction of the Master
of the lodge to which the deceased be-
longed, and he and his officers must be
duly honored and obeyed on the occa-
sion ; * but in case the deceased was not a
member of either the attending lodges
the procession and ceremony must be
under the direction of the Master of the
oldest lodge.
The brethren who walk in procession
should observe a uniformity in their dress,
which should be decent mourning — with
white gloves and aprons — a band of black
crape around the left arm above the el-
* Except where the Grand or Deputy Grand Master is present
and exercises his authority.
MASTER MASON. S9
dow, and a sprig of evergreen on the left
breast.
THE FUNERAL SERVICE.
The brethren being assembled at the
lodge room (or other convenient place),
the Master presiding, opens the lodge on
the third degree, with the usual forms ;
and having stated the purpose of the
meeting, the service commences.
Master — What man is he that liveth,
and shall not see death ? Shall he de-
liver his soul from the hand of the grave ?
Response* — Man walketh in a vain
shadow ; he heapeth up riches, and can-
not tell who shall gather them.
Master — When he dieth, he shall carry
nothing away ; his glory shall not descend
after him.
Response — Naked came he into the
world, and naked he must return.
Master — The Lord gave, and the Lord
: By Sen. Warden or Brethren.
90 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
hath taken away ; blessed be the name of
the Lord !
(The private grand honors are then
given, and certain forms used, which can-
not be here explained.)
The Master (then, taking the Sacred
Roll in his hand) continues : —
Let us die the death of the righteous ;
and let our last end be like his !
Response — God is our God forever and
ever ; he will be our guide even unto death !
The Master then records the name and age of
the deceased upon the roll, and says,
Almighty Father! into thy hands we
commend the soul of our loving brother.
The brethren answer, — " The wiU of God is ac-
complished," giving the grand honors at the same
time.
The Master then deposits the roll in the archives,
and repeats the foHowing or other appropriate
prayer : —
Most Glorious God! Author of all
good, and giver of all mercy ! pour down
MASTER MASON. 91
thy blessings upon us, and strengthen our
solemn engagements with the ties of sin-
cere affection ! May the present instance
of mortality remind us of our approaching
fate, and draw our attention toward Thee,
the only refuge in time of need! that
when the awful moment shall arrive, that
we are about to quit this transitory scene,
the enlivening prospect of thy mercy may
dispel the gloom of death ; and after our
departure hence in peace and in thy favor,
we may be received into thine everlasting
kingdom, to enjoy, in union with the souls
of our departed friends, the just reward
of a pious and virtuous life. Amen !
A procession is then formed, which moves to the
house of the deceased, and thence to the place of
interment. The different lodges rank according'
to seniority, excepting that the lodge of which the
deceased was a member, or within whose jurisdic^
tion he died, walks nearest the corpse. Each lodge
forms one division, and the following order is ob-
served :
92 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
ORDER OF PROCESSION AT THE FUNERAL.
Tyler with a drawn Sword ;
Stewards, or Masters of Ceremonies, with
White Eods ;
Musicians (if they are Masons, otherwise
they follow the Tyler) ;
Master Masons ;
p Secretary and Treasurer ;
I Senior and Junior Wardens ;
6 Past Masters ;
The Holy Writings,
On a Cushion covered with Black Cloth, carried by
the Oldest Member of the Lodge.
The Master ;
Supported by two Deacons with white rods ;
Clergy;
The Bj& Body,
with the flf^lf Insignia
placed I i thereon.
Pall Bearers. lif Pall Bearers.
Mourners.
MASTER MASOIST. 93
When the procession arrives at the church-yard,
the members of the Lodges form a circle around the
grave. — the officers of the acting lodge and clergy-
men take their station at the head of the grave,
and the mourners at the foot ; the service is re-
sumed, and the following exhortation is given
AT THE GRAVE.
Here we view a striking instance of the
uncertainty of life, and the vanity of all
human pursuits. The last offices paid to
the dead are only useful as lectures to the
living ; from them we are to derive in-
struction, and consider every solemnity of
this kind as a summon to prepare for our
approaching dissolution.
^Notwithstanding the various mementos
of mortality with which we daily meet — ■
notwithstanding Death has established his
empire over all the works of nature — yet,
through some unaccountable infatuation,
we forget that we are born to die. We
go on from one design to another, add
hope to hope, and lay out plans for the
94 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
employment of many years, till we ar&
suddenly alarmed with the approach of
Death when we least expect him, and at
an hour which we probably conclude to be
the meridian of our existence.
What are all the externals of majesty,
the pride of wealth or charms of beauty,
when nature has paid her just debt? Fix
your eyes on the last sad scene, and view
life stripped of her ornaments and ex-
posed in her natural meanness ; you will
then be convinced of the futility of those
empty delusions. In the grave all falla-
cies are detected, all ranks are levelled,
and all distinctions done away.
While we drop the sympathetic tear
over the grave of our deceased friend, let
charity incline us to throw a veil over his
foibles, whatever they may have been, and
not withhold from his memory the praise
that his virtues may have claimed. Suffer
the apologies of human nature to plead in
MASTER MASON. 95
his behalf. Perfection on earth has never
been attained ; the wisest as well as the
best of men have erred.
Let the present example excite our most
serious thoughts, and strengthen our reso-
lutions of amendment. As life is uncer-
tain, and all earthly pursuits are vain, let
us no longer postpone the all-important
concern. of preparing for eternity; but
embrace the happy moment, while time
and opportunity offer, to provide against
the great change, when all the pleasures of
this world shall cease to delight, and the
reflections of a virtuous life yield the
only comfort and consolation. Thus our
expectations will not be frustrated, nor
we be hurried unprepared into the pres-
ence of an all-wise and powerful Judge,
to whom the secrets of all hearts are
known.
Let us, while in this state of existence,
support with propriety the character of
96 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
our proiession, advert to the nature ol ouj
solemn ties, and pursue with assiduity the
sacred tenets of our Order. Then, with
becoming reverence, let us supplicate the
divine grace to ensure the favor of that
Divine Being, whose goodness and power
know no bound; that when the awful
moment arrives — be it soon or late — we
may be enabled to pursue our journey,
without dread or apprehension, to that far
distant country whence no traveller re-
turns.
The following invocations are then made by the
Master : —
Master — May we be true and faithful,
and may we live and die in love !
Answer — So mote it be.
Master — May we profess what is good,
and always act agreeably to our profes-
sion.
Answer — So mote it be.
Master — May the Lord bless us and
MASTER MASON, 97
prosper us ; and may all our good inten-
tions be crowned with success !
Answer — So mote it be.
Master — Glory be to God on high ! on
earth peace ! good will towards men !
Answer — So mote it be now, from
henceforth and for evermore.
The Master then presents the apron and contin-
ues : —
The lambskin, or white apron, is an
emblem of innocence, and the badge of a
Mason. It is more ancient than the gol-
den fleece, or Roman eagle ; more honor-
able than the star and garter, when worth-
ily worn.
He then deposits it in the grave saying : —
This emblem I now deposit in the grave
of our deceased brother. By it we are
reminded of the universal dominion of
Death. The arm of friendship cannot in-
terpose to prevent his coming ; the wealth
of the world cannot purchase our release ;
nor will the innocence of youth, or the
98 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
charms of beauty propitiate his purpose.
The mattock, the coffin, and the melan-
choly grave, admonish us of our mortality,
and that, sooner or later, these frail bodies
must moulder in their parent dust.
Taking the evergreen, he continues: —
This evergreen, which once marked the
temporary resting-place of the illustrious
dead, is an emblem of our faith in the
immortality of the soul. By this we are
reminded that we have an immortal part
within us, that shall survive the grave,
and which shall never, never, never die.
By it we are admonished that, though
like our brother, whose remains lie before
us, we shall soon be clothed in the habili-
ments of Death, and deposited in the si-
lent tomb, yet, through the merits of a
divine and ascended Saviour, we may con-
fidently hope that our souls will bloom in
eternal spring.
He then deposits the sprig of evergreen in the
grave, exclaiming, " Alas, my Brother! "
MASTER MASON. 99
The brethren then move in procession round the
place of interment, and severally drop the sprig of
evergreen into the grave ; after which the public
grand honors are given. (See Appendix.) The
Master then continues the ceremony in the follow-
ing words : —
From time immemorial, it has been the
custom among the Fraternity of Free and
Accepted Masons, at the request of a
brother, to accompany his corpse to the
place of interment, and there to deposit
his remains with the usual formalities.
In conformity to this usage, and at the
request of our deceased brother, whose
memory we revere, and whose loss we now
deplore, we have assembled in the charac-
ter of Masons, to offer up to his memory,
before the world, the last tribute of our
affection ; thereby demonstrating the sin-
cerity of our past esteem for him, and our
steady attachment to the principles erf the
Order.
The Great Creator having been pleased,
100 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
out of his infinite mercy, to remove our
brother from the cares and troubles of
this transitory existence to a state of end-
less duration, thus severing another link
from the fraternal chain that binds us to-
gether; may we, who survive him, be
more strongly cemented in the ties of
union and friendship ; that, during the
short space allotted us here, we may wise-
ly and usefully employ our time ; and, in
the reciprocal intercourse of kind and
friendly acts, mutually promote the wel-
fare and happiness of each other. Unto
the grave we have consigned the body of
our deceased brother; earth to earth,
ashes to ashes, dust to dust ; there to re-
main till the trump shall sound on the
resurrection morn. We can cheerfully
leave him in the hands of a Being who
has done all things well ; who is glorious in
holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders.
To those of his immediate relatives and
MASTER MASON. 101
friends, who are most heart-stricken at
the loss we have all sustained, we have
but little of this world's consolation to
offer. We can only sincerely, deeply, and
most affectionately sympathize with them
in their afflictive bereavement. But, in
the beautiful spirit of the Christian's
theology, we dare to say, that He who
" tempers the wind to the shorn lamb "
looks down with infinite compassion upon
the widow and fatherless, in the hour of
their desolation ; and that the same bene-
volent Saviour, who wept while on earth,
will fold the arms of his love and protec-
tion around those who put their trust in
Him.
Then let us improve this solemn warn-
ing, that at last, when the " sheeted dead "
are stirring, when the "great white
throne " is set, we shall receive from the
Omniscient Judge the thrilling invitation,
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit
102 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world.
The following, or other suitable Ode, may be
sung :
(SCOTLAND.) \
Thou art gone to the grave ; but we will not de-
plore thee,
Though sorrow and darkness encompass the tomb ;
The Saviour has passed through its portal before
thee,
And the lamp of his love is thy guide through the
gloom.
Thou art gone to the grave ; we no longer behold
thee,
Nor tread the rough paths of the wortd by thy side ;
But the wide arms of mercy are spread to enfold thee,
And sinners may hope, since the Saviour hath died.
Thou art gone to the grave ; and its mansion for-
saking,
Perchance thy weak spirit in doubt lingered long ;
But the sunshine of heaven beamed bright on thy
waking,
And the sound thou didst hear was the seraphim's
song.
MASTER MASON. 103
Thou art gone to the grave ; but we will not
deplore thee ;
Since God was thy Kansom, thy Guardian and
Guide ;
He gave thee, he took thee, and he will restore thee :
And death has no sting, since the Saviour hath died.
The service is here concluded with the follow-
ing, or some suitable
PRAYER :
Almighty and most merciful Father,
we adore thee as the God of time and of
eternity. As it has pleased thee to take
from the light of our abode, one dear to
our hearts, we beseech thee to bless and
sanctify unto us this dispensation of thy
providence. Inspire our hearts with wis-
dom from on high, that we may glorify
thee in all our ways. May we realize that
thine All-seeing Eye is upon us, and be
influenced by the spirit of truth and love
to perfect obedience — that we may enjoy
the divine approbation here below. And
104 PRACTICAL MONITOR.
when our toils on earth shall have ceased,
may we be raised to the enjoyment of
fadeless light and immortal life in that
kingdom where faith and hope shall end,
and love and joy prevail through eter-
nal ages. And thine, O righteous Father,
shall be the glory forever. Amen.
The procession then returns in form to the
place whence it set out, where the necessary-
duties are complied with, and the business of
Masonry is renewed. The insignia and ornaments
of the deceased, if an officer of a lodge, are re-
turned to the Master, with the usual ceremonies,
and the Lodge closed in form.
AJPPENDIX.
In some G. Jurisdictions the following form is
used : —
A Lodge is an assemblage of Masons duly congre-
gated, having the Holy Bible, Square, and Com-
passes, and a charter or warrant authorizing them
to work.
In conformity with Webb work — A Lodge is a
certain number of Masons duly assembled, with the
Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, and a charter or
warrant empowering them to work.
Mass. — A Lodge is a certain number of Masons
duly assembled, legally constituted, haying the Holy
Bible, Square, and Compasses, with a charter or
warrant empowering them to work.
SOMETIMES SUNG IN PLACE OF SCRIPTURE READ-
ING IN THE FIRST DEGREE.
Music — Auld Lang Syne.
Behold ! how pleasant and how good,
For brethren such as we,
Of the " Accepted " brotherhood
To dwell in unity !
Tis like the oil on Aaron's head
Which to his feet distils ;
Like Hermon's dew so richly shed
On Zion's sacred hills !
106 APPENDIX,
For there the Lord of light and love
A blessing- sent with power ;
Oh, may we all this blessing prove,
E'en life for evermore !
On Friendship's altar, rising here,
Our hands now plighted be,
To live in love, with hearts sincere,
In 'peace and unity.
SECOND DEGREE.
Come, Craftsmen, assemble, our pleasure to share,
Who walk by the plumb, and who work by the square.
While trav'ling in love on the level of time,
Sweet hope shall light on to a far better clime.
We'll seek, in our labors, the Spirit Divine,
Our temple to bless, and our hearts to refine !
And thus to our altar a tribute we'll bring,
While, joined in true friendship, our anthem we
sing.
See Order and Beauty rise gently to view,
Each Brother a column, so perfect and true !
When Order shall cease, and when temples decay,
May each, fairer columns, immortal, survey.
GRAND HONORS.
The grand honors practiced among Mason?,
during the burial ceremonies, either in public or
private, are given in the following manner : Both
arms are crossed on the breast, the left upper-
most, and the open palms of the hands striking
the shoulders; they are then raised above the
head, the palms striking each other, and then
made to fall sharply on the thighs, with the
head bowed. This is repeated three times.*
While the honors are being given the third time, the
brethren audibly pronounce the following words
— when the arms are crossed on the breast: —
" We cherish his memory here ; " when the hands
are extended above the head — " We commend his
spirit to God who gave it ; " and when the hands
are extended toward the ground — "And consign
his body to the earth."
* Webb — each of the honors being accompanied by
fche words — The will of God is accomplished — Amen.
So mote it be, audibly pronounced by the Brethren,
COMPEND
MASONIC LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE.
COMPEND OF
MASONIC LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE.
Containing a Practical Compend of Masonic Law and
Jurisprudence, with Rulings and Decisions Of
the Different Grand Lodges in this
Country, on all Points and
Questions.
BY
M. WOLCOTT REDDING.
GENERAL POWERS OF GRAND
AND SUBORDINATE LODGES.
The supreme masonic authority in a
Grand Jurisdiction is vested in its Grand
Lodge. Its powers are — legislative, ju-
dicial, and executive. Legislative — it
has the power of enacting laws and regu-
lations for the government of the craft,
and of altering, repealing, and abrogating
them. Judicial — it has the power of in-
vestigating, regulating, and deciding all
matters relative to the craft, or to particu-
lar lodges, or to individual masons, which
it may exercise, either of itself, or by such
delegated authority as it may appoint.
Executive — it has the power of erasing
lodges, and expelling brethren from the
craft, " provided always that the old
LANDMARKS BE CAREFULLY PRESERVED,"
112 MASONIC LAW AND
REPRESENTATIVES IN GRAND LODGE.
A lodge has the right to be represent-
ed in Grand Lodge by its Master and
Wardens ; and no Grand Lodge, in our
opinion, can restrict or interfere with
that right, it being, as ancient and sacred
as the law regulating their own existence.
The Master and Wardens are bound,
on all questions that come before the
Grand Lodge, truly to represent their
lodge, and vote according to its instruc-
tions.— Macket, P. M. Z., 106.
PROXIES. *
Every lodge is entitled to representa-
tion in its Grand Lodge, and, since
1718, the Master and Wardens are by
common consent its legal and proper
representatives. Should either of them
be unable to attend, a brother or brothers
may be appointed in their place, and
JURISPRUDENCE, 113
succeed to all the powers and privileges
of their principal.
The Master and Wardens of every
warranted lodge are, of right and inalien-
ably, representatives in, and members of
the Grand Lodge ; and, in case they do
not attend the Grand Lodge, a proxy may
be appointed by the lodge to represent it
in the Grand Lodge, who, in such case,
shall have three votes. — Const. JV. Y.
A proxy is as much a member, for the
time being, as would be the principal, if
present. — 0. "W. Moore, 1848.
QUORUM IN GRAND LODGE.
In the absence of any constitutional
provision, a majority of all the lodges
under a jurisdiction constitute a quorum
for business.
In Connecticut, New Jersey, North
Carolina, and Nebraska, the representa-
tives of three lodges are sufficient to con-
114 MASONIC LAW AND
stitute a quorum tor business, in JSew
York, ten lodges are necessary, except on
occasions of ceremony.
DISPENSATIONS.
Granting dispensations is confided to
the Grand Master, or his representative.
The dispensing power is confined to four
circumstances : 1. Empowering a consti-
tutional number of brethren to open and
hold a lodge until the next communica-
tion of the Grand Lodge. 2. Empower-
ing a lodge to initiate more than five
candidates at the same communication.
3. Allowing a brother to belong to more
than one lodge. 4. Empowering a lodge
to hold an election for officers at some
other than the constitutional time. —
Mackey, Lexicon , 114.
Formerly it was the prerogative of the
Grand Master to issue a warrant or char-
ter for new lodges, at his discretion, but at
JTJRtSPRUDENCE 115
esem tlie privilege is restricted to Ins
granting a letter of "dispensation" to
certain brethren, to meet as a lodge for a
specified time, usually until the next suc-
ceeding annual meeting of the Grand
Lodge, when they may grant or withhold a
charter at their discretion.
The officers do not receive installation
under a dispensation — Hatch, G. F. G. of
¥. Y., 1851.
The brother appointed to fill the office
of Master may lawfully take the chair
without any further qualification. He
cannot be installed. — C. W. Mooke, 1846.
Officers working under dispensation
should never be installed, but are author-
ized to work without. — Stoeee, G. F. G.
Ct., 1853.
No election should take place in a lodge
under dispensation. — 12 eg. III.
Lodges under dispensation have not
power to admit members. — Minn., 1857,
116 MASONIC LAW AND
None but those recorded in the dispen
sation are members of a lodge under dis-
pensation.— Morris, Am. K M., ii., 18.
Cannot admit members. — Mackey.
In our opinion, no one can ballot but
the persons named in the dispensation. —
King, G. R G of N. Y, 1855.
A lodge under a dispensation is but a
temporary and inchoate body, and is not
entitled to representation in Grand Lodge.
— Const If. T.
By courtesy, the petitioners of a lodge
under dispensation are permitted to take
seats in Grand Lodge ; but are not per-
mitted to vote, they not being yet mem-
bers of that body.— Haswell, G K G
Vt., 1851.
Those who work it (a lodge U. D.) do
not forfeit their membership thereby in
any other lodge while it so continues ; but
such membership is thereby suspended. — ■
Gonsts. JV. Y. and Mm.
JURISPRUDENCE. 117
SURRENDERING A CHARTER.
A lodge may at any time surrender
its charter to the Grand Lodge, unless
seven or more members refuse to give
their consent.
The Grand Lodges of New York and
Missouri (1856) decided that, so long as
seven members remained opposed to a
dissolution, a charter could not be sur-
rendered.
A motion to surrender a charter cannot
Lcome before the lodge without previous
notice, — C. "W. Moore.
RESTORATION OF CHARTER.
If the Grand Master, or the Grand
Lodge, arrest the charter of a lodge they
may restore it at their pleasure. But the
restoration of a charter voluntarily sur-
rendered, requires a petition from at leasf
seven of the original members.
118 MASONIC LAW AND
PROPERTY OF EXTINCT LODGES.
The general rule is that, when a lodge
forfeits or surrenders its charter, all its
property immediately vests in its Grand
Lodge. But should the lodge ever be
resuscitated or reinstated, its property
should be returned to it.
The surrender or forfeiture of a war-
rant, when declared by the Grand Lodge,
shall be conclusive upon the lodge and
its members, and carries with it all the
property of the lodge, which becomes the,-
property of the Grand Lodge. — Consts.
JST. Y., Minn.
TERRITORIAL JURISDICTION.
The geographical jurisdiction of a lodge
extends, in every direction, half way to
the nearest lodge, but not beyond that of
its own Grand Lodge. — Mackey, U. M,
Z,., xvii., 335.
I URISPRUDENCE. 1 1 d
The territorial jurisdiction o± a, lodge
extends to a point half way between it
and the nearest lodge in the same State. —
Lewis, G. M. of N. T., 1858.
JURISDICTION CONCURRENT.
Where two or more lodges are located
in the same town or city, they hold con-
current jurisdiction over non-affiliated
masons, and residents or sojourners who
are members of some other lodge ; yet it
would seem proper that the senior lodge
should take precedence in jurisdiction.
PENAU JURISDICTION.
Each lodge has penal jurisdiction over
all masons residing or sojourning within
its geographical jurisdiction. Yet, as a
general rule, such lodge should not pro-
ceed to trial of the offender until after
due notice to, and in default of action of
the lodge to which he belongs.
120 MASONTC LAW ANL
OYER ENTERED APPRENTICES AND FELLOW
CRAFTS.
A lodge of master masons has entire
jurisdiction over all the degrees it is
authorized to confer ; and as it admits
apprentices and fellow crafts, it may, for
sufficient cause, expel them. — C. W.
Moore, 1846.
number of petitioners for a charter
or dispensation.
The petition of seven master masons,
in good standing, is required in all ex-
cept the following Grand Jurisdictions,
viz. :
In Pennsylvania, a warrant is granted
on petition oifive or more master masons,
on the recommendation of at least three
master masons.
In Ohio and Nebraska, the petition of
at least eight master masons is required,
one of whom must be a Past Master.
JURISPRUDENCE. 121
In Connecticut, charters are granted
on petition oifive or more master masons.
BEFORE INITIATION.
It is held, by the best authorities, that
a lodge is not in general required, nor
would it be justified, in going behind the
brother's initiation, to find subjects for
charges. — Morris, Am. F. M., iii., 129.
By the concurrent authority of all the
Grand Lodges in this country, every lodge
is forbidden to initiate any person whose
residence is nearer to any other lodge. —
Mackey, P. M. £., 232.
No subordinate lodge should confer any
of the degrees on citizens of another juris-
diction, without consent of such jurisdic
lion first obtained. — 'Reg. 111.
No lodge within this jurisdiction shall
initiate a person not an inhabitant of this
State. — Res. Conn.^ 1803.
It is not legal for a lodge to receive
122 MASONIC LAW AND
petitions from applicants in adjoining
States. — Morris, Am. F M., ii., 15.
QUORUM FOR BUSINESS INSTALLATION.
A lodge must be duly constituted be-
fore it can commence work under its
charter. Previous to which the petition-
ers can meet, simply as masons, and not
as a lodge.
No lodge is authorized to commence
work under its charter, until the officers
thereof have been regularly installed.—
Consts. Ohio , Indiana, Nebraska.
After a dispensation has been returned
to the Grand Lodge, and a charter grant-
ed, a lodge cannot work until the officers
are installed. — Morris, Am. F M., iii.,
177.
No ballot shall be taken for initiation
or membership, unless there are at least
seven members of the lodge present.—
Const, Me,
JURISPRUDENCE. 123
No ballot or vote shall be taken on any
subject unless there are present seven
members of the lodge. — Const. Mo.
ELIGIBILITY TO OFFICE.
No brother can be a Warden until he
has passed the part of a fellow-craft ; nor
a Master, until he has acted as a Warden ;
nor Grand Warden, until he has been
Master of a lodge. — Ancient Charges,
IV.
No member can be Master of a lodge
unless he has previously been installed,
and served as an elected Warden for one
year, except at the institution of a new
lodge, when no Warden or Past Master is
found to serve as Master. — Const, of
jsr. r.
VOTING.
For candidates for the degrees for
membership, elections of officers, and in
124 MASONIC LAW AND
masonic trials, the mode is by balls or
square blocks. On all other questions by
a show of hands.
Yoting by ayes and noes is contrary to
ancient usage. The true masonic mode of
voting, when ballots are not required, is
by show of hands.— 6?. M. of JV. JZ,
1858.
A two-thirds vote shall be required to
inflict the penalty of expulsion. — Const.
Min.
No one can be indefinitely suspended,
unless after due trial, and upon at least a
two-thirds vote of the members present. —
Mackey, U. M. Z., xvii., 315.
The usage has obtained, of requiring a
two-thirds vote to secure a conviction, in
masonic trials. — Mackey, U. M. Z., xvii.,
324.
ELECTIONS.
No election of officers can take place at
any other time than that prescribed by
JURISPRUDENCE. 125
the Grand Constitutions, or by the by-
laws of the lodge.— C. W. Moore, 1849.
Lodges are bound to elect their officers
at the prescribed time ; nor can they
anticipate or postpone it, unless by dis-
pensation from the Grand Master. — Mac-
key, P. M. £., 112.
MAJORITY NECESSARY TO ELECT.
The general usage is that a majority
of all the ballots or votes are sufficient to
elect to any office in a Grand or Sub-
ordinate lodge.
MUST BE INSTALLED.
JSo officer of the Grand Lodge, or of
any subordinate lodge, shall act as such
until he is duly installed. — Const. Vt.
Officers elect cannot do any business,
as such, until they are installed. — Hub-
bard, Ohio, 1853.
If the present Master is re-elected, he
126 MASONIC LAW AND
needs no more installation. Re- instal-
lation is unnecessary. If one or more
terms intervene, he must be re-inducted.
— Gedge, G. M. La., 1852. N. F.
If re-elected, a re-installation is un-
necessary and superfluous, though not
illegal. — Morris, Am. K M., v., 92.
WHO MAY INSTALL.
A Past Master should install the Mas-
ter. A Master has the right to install his
subordinate officers.
Any Past Master, if regularly invited,
may install the officers elect of a lodge,
whether he be a member of that lodge or
not.—SwiGERT, G. M. Ky., 1858.
TENURE OF OFFICE.
An officer in a Grand or Subordinate
lodge holds his office until his successor
is installed.
The rule of the craft is, that the old
JURISPRUDENCE. 127
officer holds on until his successor is in-
stalled ; and this rule applies to officers of
every grade. — Mackey, P. M. Z., 104.
CANNOT RESIGN.
The principal officers, elected and in-
stalled, cannot and should not resign. —
Hubbard, G. M. Ohio, 1851.
No officer can resign his office after he
has been installed. — Mackey, P. M. Z.,
120.
The Master and Wardens of every
warranted lodge, if installed, cannot
resign. — Const. JV. Y.
WHO PRESIDES.
First — the Master ; in the absence of
the Master, the Senior Warden ; and, in
the absence of both, the Junior Warden.
The Senior or Junior Warden succeeds
to all the powers and performs all the
duties of his principal, in his absence,
128 MASONIC LAW AND
whether a Past Master is present or not.—
Morris, Am. K M., ii., 97.
In case of the death, absence, or inability
of the Master, or a vacancy in his office,
the Senior and Junior Wardens will, in
succession, succeed to his prerogatives
and duties for all purposes. — Const. JV. Y.
In the absence of the Master, the
Senior and Junior Wardens, according to
rank, shall succeed to the duties of. his sta-
tion.— Consts. Ohio and Indiana.
RIGHTS AND AUTHORITY OF THE MASTER.
' The Master of a particular lodge has
the right and authority of congregating
the members of his lodge, at pleasure,
upon any emergency or occurrence, as
well as to appoint the time and place of
their usual forming. — Old Heg., 1720, ii.
The Master has no power to put off
the stated monthly communication of
his lodge. He is bound to support the
JURISPRUDENCE. 129
by-laws of his lodge. — C. W. Moore,
1845.
The decisions of the Master upon
questions of masonic law and usage are,
with respect to his own lodge, absolute. —
Miss., 1850.
Within the limits of the ancient charges
and regulations of the order, the rules
and constitutions of the Grand Lodge, and
the by-laws of his lodge, the authority of
the Master is supreme during his term of
office. — Heard, Mass., 1856.
APPEALS FROM THE DECISION OF THE MASTER.
No appeal to the lodge can be taken
from the decision of the Master, on the
Warden occupying the chair in his ab-
sence.— Consts. N~. Y. and Min.
ISTo appeal lies from the decision of a
Master of a subordinate lodge, or his
Wardens, in the chair, except to Grand
Lodge.— O. F. am JZ, 1852.
130 MASONIC LAW AND
There can be no appeal from the
decision of the Master, except to the
Grand Lodge. — Standard By-laws^ 8. C,
1856. Miss., 1850.
Appeals from the decision of the Master
are not in conformity with masonic usage.
The decision of the Master is final, except
as to the Grand Lodge, to which body he
is amenable. — 0. W. Moore, 1850.
VACANCIES IN OFFICE HOW FILLED.
On the death, resignation, or removal
from the commonwealth, of any elective
Grand officer, the Grand Lodge may be
convened for the purpose of filling the
vacancy by election. — Const. Penn.
In case of the death of the Master and
Wardens, or their removal from the juris-
diction, the Grand Master may, by dis-
pensation, permit a special election, to
fill their places until the next stated
election, ^-Ibid.
J URISPRTTDENCE. 131
A lodge may fill vacancies in office, ex-
cept those of Master and Wardens, by bal-
lot, at any stated communication, upon
full notice to the members ; but in case
of vacancy in the office of Master, an
election can only be held by virtue of a
dispensation from the Grand Master.—
Const JV. Y.
CALLING OFF.
Adjourning a lodge is irregular. A
masonic lodge should be closed, or the
craft should be called from labor to re-
freshment— G. M. of JT. H., 1850.
Calling off, from one date to another,
is clearly not warranted by the usages of
Masonry, as practiced by the early lodges
of England, and by the first lodges in this
country.— C. W. Moore, F.Mag.,idi.,290.
SPECIAL MEETINGS.
The general rule is that no business
132 MASONIC LAW AND
can be transacted at a special meeting,
except that for which it was called.
No petition for initiation, or for mem-
bership, can be received, nor ballot had
thereon, at any special communication of
any lodge, except on dispensation. — Res.
Me., 1858.
BY-LAWS, SUSPENSION OF.
No lodge can suspend the operation of
a by-law. — C ousts. Me. and Mass.
It has ever been considered here, as a
principle of masonic law, that a lodge
cannot, under any circumstances, dispense
with, or suspend any portion of, its by-
laws.— Mackey, S. C., 1855.
REQUISITE QUALIFICATIONS.
According to the ancient landmarks
and general usage, a man to be made a
mason must be freeborn, twenty-one years
of age, of good report ; hale and sound.
J UKISPJKUDENCE. 133
By the ancient regulations, the physi-
cal deformity of an individual operates
as a bar to his admission into the frater-
nity. But in view of the fact that this
regulation was adopted for the govern-
ment of the craft, at a period when they
united the character of operative with
that of speculative masons, this Grand
Lodge, in common, it is believed, with
most of her sister Grand Lodges in this
country and in Europe, has authorized
such a construction of the regulation as
that, where the deformity does not amount
to an inability to meet the require-
ments of the ritual, and honestly to ac-
quire the means of subsistence, it consti-
tutes no hindrance to initiation. — Const.
Mass.
No individual, physically so deformed
as to disable him from honestly acquiring
the means of subsistence, or who may be
incapacitated to become a useful member
134 MASONIC LAW AND
shall be initiated in any lodge. — Const
jr. a
RELIGIOUS QUALIFICATIONS.
It is anti-masonic to require any religi-
ons test, other than the candidate should
believe in a God, the Creator and Gov-
ernor of the universe. — Res. Ala., 1848.
The religious views of a candidate are
not to be regarded at all. It is sufficient
if he believes in the existence and provi-
dence of God.— C. W. Moore, 1849.
PETITIONS FOR THE DEGREES
Must be made in writing, signed by the
applicant, recommended by one or more
members of the lodge to which such appli-
cation is made, and presented at a stated
meeting.
A petition to be made a mason, after
being presented and referred, cannot be
withdrawn, but must be acted upon by re-
JURISPRUDENCE. 135
port of committee and ballot. — Const.
K Y.
A petition cannot be withdrawn after
an unfavorable report. — Morris, Am. F
Mv ii., 3.
A rejected candidate must present a
new petition upon a second application
to be made a mason, his first petition hav-
ing been rejected ; it being a petition that
is rejected or accepted, and not a candi-
date. —Lewis, G. M. of JV. Y, 1858.
There is no general law relative to the
time a rejected applicant must wait be-
fore he can renew his application. The
more common usage is twelve months. — ■
Morris, Am. F M., iv., 92.
THE BALLOT
To ballot upon the application of a
candidate for the degrees or for member-
's
I ship, is the right and duty of every mem*
I ler of the lodge.
136 MASONIC LAW AND
This is strictly secret ; it is inviolable ;
it is without question, except on the
ground of an unintentional or suspected
mistake.— Hatch, C. F G. of JV. Y.,
1851.
We hold the secrecy of the ballot un-
questionable, and admit of no call for
reasons.— Hatch, G. F. O. of K Y., 1850.
No candidate shall be initiated in any
lodge under this jurisdiction, without a
clear and unanimous ballot in his favor.
— Consts. Me. and Mass.
A candidate can only be accepted by
the scrutiny of a secret ballot, and an
unanimous vote. — Const. JV. Y.
Nor shall an unfavorable ballot in any
case be reconsidered. — Res. N. JT., 1854.
An unfavorable ballot for degrees or
membership cannot be reconsidered. —
Lewis, G. M of JST. F., 1858. Fuller,
C. F. C. of Tenn., 1858.
Where a member was known to have
.JURISPRUDENCE. 137
repeatedly blackballed applicants, with-
out good cause, and for immasonic rea-
sons , held, that the lodge had the right
to proceed against, and expel him. — C.
W. Moore.
A lodge cannot reconsider the ballot.
— C. W. Moore, 1849.
On the ground of mistake, the ballot
may be passed the second, or even third
time; but no more than three times. —
Hatch, C.F C. of N. Z., 1851.
A Master has the prerogative of order-
ing a further ballot for a candidate, when
he knows the result of the first to be un-
favorable.—Lewis, G.M.ofJF. Z., 1858.
In any case, the result of the third
ballot is final ; nor can it be set aside or
reversed by the action of the Grand Mas-
ter or Grand Lodge. — Mackey, P. M. X.,
201.
A mason has the inherent rio^ht to
deposit his negative on the application oi
138 MASONIC LAW AND
a person for initiation in his lodge, as
well as on an application for membership.
Of this right no masonic power can de-
prive him. — C. Moore, Mas. Rev., iii.,
202.
Every member present shall ballot on
the application, unless excused by the
lodge. — € ousts. Mass. and Wis.
In balloting for a candidate for initia-
tion, every member is expected to vote.
No one can be excused from sharing the
responsibility of admission or rejection,
except by the unanimous consent of the
lodge. * * * * — Mackey, Lexicon,
52.
WHO CAN BALLOT.
Only master masons and those who are
members of the particular lodge to which
the candidate makes application, have
the privilege of balloting upon such ap-
plication.
JURISPRUDENCE. 139
No mason under the degree of Mastei
is entitled to a vote in a subordinate
lodge.— Res. Ohio, 1823.
Nor shall any ballot be taken for
either of the three degrees, except in a
master mason's lodge. — Const. Conn.
Visiting brethren have no right to vote
on the admission of candidates for initia-
tion. Such a claim is inadmissible. — ■
C. W. Moore, 1848.
No mason can be called to an account
for the vote which he has deposited.
The very secrecy of the ballot is intended
to secure the independence and irrespon-
sibility to the lodge of the voter. Mac-
key, P. M. Z., p. 193.
There is no law in the whole jurispru-
dence of the institution clearer than this :
that neither the Grand Lodge nor the
Grand Master can interfere writh the
decision of the ballot box. — Mackey,
P. If. Z.5 208.
140 MASONIC LAW AND
RESIDENCE.
No lodge under the j urisdiction of thia
Grand Lodge, shall initiate, pass, or raise
airy candidate from another jurisdiction,
until he has been a resident within this
State for twelve months, without the re-
commendation of the lodge or Grand
Lodge within whose jurisdiction he last
previously resided. Provided, that this
rule shall not be construed to apply to
applications from sea-faring or military
men. — lies. New York, 1853.
PREVIOUS NOTICE.
One month's previous notice is neces-
sary before a man can be made a mason,
except a dispensation be obtained from
the Grand Master.
No candidate for initiation shall be
balloted for until his application has laid
over for the consideration of the members
JURISPRUDENCE. 141
at least four weeks, unless by a dispen-
sation for that purpose. — Const, N. II
A candidate must be proposed in open
lodge, at a stated meeting, and can only
be accepted at a stated meeting following.
•Const. N. Y.
TIME BETWEEN THE DEGREES.
Nor shall the third degree ever be
conferred in a less interval than four
weeks from the time of initiation, except
by dispensation from the Grand Master
or his Deputy, nor without proof of pro-
ficiency before advancement. — Const.
JV. Y.
A candidate shall not receive more
than one degree on one day ; nor a subse-
quent degree at a less interval than one
month from his reception of a former de-
gree, without dispensation from the Grand
Master. — Const. Penn.
A ballot for each degree, separately, is
142 MASONIC LAW AND
an undeniable right, when demanded.--
Const. N. Y.
Balloting for all the degrees given in
the lodge at one and the same time, is the
practice in this commonwealth ; and we
think it the proper practice, as it certainly
is the oldest we have in this country. —
0. W. Moore.
PROFICIENCY.
The masonic ritnal requires that candi-
dates for advancement should have made
"suitable proficiency in the preceding
degrees."
Before a subordinate lodge advances a
candidate from one degree to a higher
degree, the Master of the lodge shall be
satisfied that the candidate has made suit-
able proficiency in the preceding degree.
—Res. N. Y., 1857.
OBJECTIONS.
A member of the lodge has the Tight
JURISPRUDENCE. 143
to object to the admission of a candidate,
at any time before the O. B. ; and such
objection is sufficient to bar the progress
of the candidate.
Any member of a subordinate lodge
may object to the initiation, passing, or
raising of a candidate, at any time before
the degree is conferred ; and it shall be
the dutv of the lodge to investigate such
objections before proceeding further with
the candidate. — Const. Mass.
It is a settled principle in Masonry, that
one black ball rejects without a question,
except a second ballot may be called, to
be satisfied of no mistake. — Com. Mel.,
1849.
Any member may object to the initia-
tion, passing, or raising a candidate, at
any time before the degree is conferred. —
Reg. Term., 1857.
It is a violation of the Constitutions of
Masonry to call upon a brother to state
144 MASONIC LAW AND
his reasons for casting a black ball. —
Iowa, 1849.
A ballot should be had in all cases,
whatever the report of the committee may
be. The candidate cannot be recorded as
rejected until the ballot is cast, and the
result officially declared. It is the busi-
ness of the committee to investigate ; it
is for the lodge to decide. — 0. Moore,
Mas. Rev., xiii., 304.
REJECTED APPLICANTS FOR ADVANCEMENT.
We cannot admit that the rejection of
an application for advancement implies
masonic censure. Nor does it deprive
him of any privilege to which, as a mason,
he was before entitled. — C. W. Moore,
1848.
Rejecting candidates in chapter or en-
campment does not necessarily imply mo-
ral turpitude or criminal delinquency. —
C. W. Moore.
JURISPRUDENCE. 145
Rejecting an application for advance-
ment is not necessarily a stigma upon the
character of an applicant; nor is his
standing or rights at all affected. — Mack-
ey, P. M. Z., 242.
HOW MANY MAY BE MADE AT ONE MEETING-.
According to the General Regulations
of 1720 no more than five new brethren
shall be made at one time.
A lodge has power to make but five
new brethren at the same time. — Consts.
JV. Y. and Min.
It is in accordance with correct usage
to initiate or craft more than one candi-
date at the same time ; but I recommend
much caution in the exercise of such
right. — Hubbard, Ohio, 1852.
It is unmasonic to confer degrees upon
more than one candidate at the same
time. — Clark, G. M. Conn., 1854.
It shall not be regular to give more
146 MASONIC LAW AND
than one degree to the same indi vidua
on the same day, unless a dispensation
shall have been obtained therefor. — G. L.
J/ ass.
This Grand Lodge prohibits its subor-
dinates conferring more than one degree
upon the same candidate at one and the
same communication. — lies. Conn., 1858.
MEMBERSHIP.
A candidate for the degrees must make
application to the nearest lodge, but
having received them, he may join any
lodge that will receive him.
A master mason is not restricted in his
privilege of application for membership
within any geographical limits. He has
the right of applying for membership to
any lodge that he may select. — Mackey,
P. M. Z., 250.
No brother shall be a member of more
than one lodo;e at the same time. — Const.
JURISPRUDENCE. 147
i\T F:? 1822. Const. Mo., 1846. Const
Mass., 1792.
It is a well-settled rule, that a mason
cannot be a member of two lodges at one
and the same time. — 0. Moore, and Ohio,
1848.
DIMITTING.
A dimit having been voted, neither
the Master nor Secretary can refuse to
deliver the brother a certificate of the
same, if he requests it. Still the act of
the lodge severs the membership — not the
issuing of the certificate ; the certi-
ficate being only evidence of the dimis-
sion.
The Grand Lodges of Wisconsin and
Mississippi (1854) allow a dimit as a
matter of right to a brother in good
standing, who has paid his dues.
Your committee are inclined to sub-
scribe to the opinion, that every membei
148 MASONIC LAW ATsTD
has the right to dimit without giving any
reason ; and, when requested, it is the
duty of the lodge to grant the request. —
C. F C. of N.H., 1858.
I cannot deny to any man the right of
withdrawing whensoever he pleases, from
a voluntary association. The laws of the
land would not sustain us in the enforce-
ment of such a regulation, and our own
self-respect should prevent us from at-
tempting it. — Mackey.
REMOVAL.
The removal of a brother into another
jurisdiction does not, of itself, authorize
his name to be stricken from the roll of
the lodge of w^hich he is a member. —
Consts. Mass. and Me.
Mere removal, or change of residence,
does not forfeit or destioy the member-
ship of a brother ; but it ceases only by
dimitting, expulsion, or death - 0. F O
of R> Z, 1850.
JURISPRUDENCE. 149
NON-AFFILIATED MASONS.
A non-affiliated mason is one who has
.been dimitted from his lodge. Suck
brethren are subject to the lodge in whose
jurisdiction they reside. They cannot
claim any of the benefits or privileges of
the lodge organization ; but are entitled,
and subject, to all the rights and privi-
leges, claims and duties, belonging to
them as individual members of the fra-
ternity.
RIGHT OF VISITING.
The right to visit, masonically, is an
absolute right, but may be forfeited or
limited by particular regulations. — Const.
JV. Y.
The right to visit masonically is an ab-
solute right and duty of masons. — Const.
Min.
Every master mason, who is an affili-
ated member of a lodge, has the right tc
150 MASONIC LAW AND
visit any other lodge as often as he maj
desire to do so. — Mackey, P. M. Z., 257.
No member of another lodge, or noil
affiliated mason, has a right to visit a
lodge, if any member of that lodge who
is then present shall object to it. — C.
Moore, Mas. Rev., x., 364.
It is the right of a brother, in good
standing, to visit all regular lodges ; but
it is also the right of a lodge to refuse
such visit, if, in their opinion, their peace
and harmony may be disturbed. — JV. Y.,
1858.
EXAMINATION OF VISITORS.
A brother must have sat in open lodge
with another, before he can properly
avouch for him. — Smith, G. M. Ark.,
1856.
If a positive rule is to be ]aid down, it
would be better to say, that no visitor
shall be admitted into a lodge, except
JURISPRUDENCE. 151
with the avouchment of a well-known
and skilful mason, or upon examination
by a committee. — Mackey, S. C, 1856.
MASONIC OFFENCES.
INTEMPERANCE, PROFANITY, DUELLING, SLAN-
DER, AND GAMBLING.
A brother is amenable to discipline,
for the above offences, and, if found guilty,
may be punished, even to expulsion from
the order.
Retail traffic in intoxicating drinks is
demoralizing in its tendency, opposed to
the principles of the order, and incon-
sistent with the masonic character. — Ala.,
1856.
For engaging in traffic in intoxicating
liquors, liable to strict discipline. — lies.
Oregon, 1857.
Lodges are recommended to use their
utmost influence to suppress the use of
152 MASONIC LAW AND
ardent spirits by members of the frater-
nity, and others. — Res. Ltd., 1828,
Lodges may reprimand, suspend, or ex-
pel, for intemperance, profanity, or gam-
bling.— Res. Ill, 1857. Res. Ark., 1856
High offences in Masonry. Deserve se-
vere discipline. — Or. Chap. JV. Y., 1854.
PAYMENT OF DUES.
A member may be suspended but not
expelled for non-payment of dues.
Expulsion for non-payment of dues is
unauthorized by usage, or the general
laws of the craft. An unjust practice. —
C. W. Moore.
Any lodge shall have the right to re-
mit to indigent members all dues what
ever. — Reg. III.
MASONIC TEIALS
Genera] rules governing subordinate
lodges, in conducting masonic trials,—
JURISPRUDENCE. 153
which may be classed as follows : —
Charges ; Service of notice ; Examination ;
Testimony ; Judgment ; Punishment ;
Appeals ; Restoration.
All charges must be made in writing,
signed by the accuser, delivered to the
Secretary, and read by him at the next
regular communication of the lod^e. —
Const. S. C.
Such brother shall be furnished in wri-
ting with a copy of the charges against
him. — Reg. Tenn.
ISTo brother of this lodo;e shall be sus-
pended or expelled from membership,
unless charges be preferred, duly specify-
ing his offence, presented by a brother in
good standing, and the accused being
allowed full opportunity to make his de-
fence.— Standard By-laws of N. Y.,
1858.
It is desirable that charges be preferred
by a member, rather than by the Master ;
154 MASONIC LAW AND
though, in certain cases it may be the
duty of the latter to do so. — C. W". Moore,
1848.
Charges for unmasonic conduct must
be accompanied with specifications, 01
there can be no trial. — Swigert, G. M.
Ky., 1855.
Charges against a brother do not, be-
fore trial, render him ineligible to office,
or suspend him from office, he being enti-
tled to the presumption of innocence till
the charges be proved. — Lewis, G. M. of
m Y., 1858.
SERVICE of notice.
The Secretary of the lodge, 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. — Oonsts. Me. and R. I.
JURISPRUDENCE. 155
A brother who is under charges can
bring charges against his accuser, if the
lodge choose to receive them. — Morris,
Am. F. M., iii., 33.
Such brother shall be duly notified, and
furnished, in writing, with a copy of the
charges against him. * * ** Due notice
shall be given, as far as practicable, to all
the members of the lodge, of the time
and objects of said meeting. — Reg. Tenn.
The testimony of uninitiated witnesses
may be taken in the ante-room, before a
committee, or in any other convenient
place.— C. W. Moore.
The lodge should be opened in the
highest degree to which the accused has
attained ; the accused and accuser should
be present (if the latter be a mason), and
also be present at all examinations of
witnesses. — Mackey, U. M. Z., xvii., 323.
156 MASONIC LAW A "NT)
TESTIMONY.
The accused may select any brother for
his counsel, and the witnesses shall testify,
if masons, on their honor as such. Hear-
say evidence shall be excluded. — Consts.
Me., Vt., Mass., R. 1., Wis., Mo., Gal.,
and Kansas.
The testimony of a person who is not a
mason, is generally admissible. Such
testimony is always to be taken by a com-
mittee, and on oath administered by a
competent legal officer. — Mackey, U. M.
L., xvii., 328.
Any testimony that would convict a
mason of immoral conduct is lawful tes-
timony.—Morris, Am. F. M., v., 100.
JUDGMENT.
The question: "Ts the accused guilty,
or not guilty ? " shall be distinctly put to
each member of the lodge, by name, -com-
mencing with the youngest. The Secre
JURISPRUDENCE. 157
tary shall record the answer as given. —
Const. Me.
To the above, the Constitutions of
Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Rhode Island
and California, add : " the answer shall
be given standing, and in a distinct and
audible voice."
It is proper that all matters in mitiga-
tion of punishment should be heard after
the verdict. — C. W. Moore.
If the verdict is " guilty," the presiding
officer must put the question as to the
nature and amount of punishment. He
will commence with expulsion, and, if
necessary, proceed to propose indefinite,
and then definite suspension, exclusion,
public or private reprimand, and censure.
— Mackey, U. M. Z., xvii., 324.
appeal from sentence.
Any brother who may feel aggrieved
by the decision of any lodge, or other
158 MASONIC LAW AND
masonic authority, in this jurisdiction,
may appeal therefrom to the Grand
Lodge, which appeal shall be in writing,
specifying particularly the grievance com-
plained of. — Const. Vt.
Any brother who may feel aggrieved
by the decision of any lodge, or other
masonic authority, acting under this
jurisdiction, may appeal to the Grand
Lodge against such decision. — Const.
Mass.
The right of appeal to the Grand
Lodge, from the decision of the subordi-
nate lodge, in cases of discipline, is guar-
anteed to every mason, by the ancient
usages and laws of the fraternity ; and
this right supposes the existence of a
power in the Grand Lodge to confirm,
modify, or reverse the decision of the
subordinate. — 0. W. Moore, 1851.
Which appeal shall be in writing,
specifying particularly the grievance com-
JURISPRUDENCE. 159
plained of, and shall be, by the appellant,
sent by mail to the Grand Secretary. —
Const s. Vermont and Mass*
In Ohio, Indiana, and Nebraska, one
year is allowed in which to take an appeal
to Grand Lodge.
In Vermont, Florida, and Oalifor
nia, the appeal must be taken to the next
Annual Communication of Grand Lodge.
In New York, Maryland, Mississippi,
and Minnesota, an appeal must be taken
within six months after sentence.
PENALTIES.
The penalties imposed by masonic law,
are fines, reprimand, suspension, and ex-
pulsion.
* This Grand Constitution adds to the above :
11 A notice and copy of the appeal must also, and
at the same time, be sent by the appellant to the
party against whose decision the appeal is made."
160 MASONIC LAW AND
FINES.
It is contrary to the principles of Free
masonry, to inflict pecuniary fines for
non-attendance. — Mackey, Lexicon, 15.
Fines and pecuniary punishments, in
Masonry, are illegal. — Morris, Aon. F.
M., ii., 170. Fines are unmasonic. — Lb.,
iii., 168.
REPRIMAND.
A reprimand is the mildest masonic
penalty except that of a fine. It is ad-
ministered for light offences, and where
suspension would be too severe. It may
be private — where no one is present, ex-
cept the Master and the offending brother,
or in the presence of the whole lodge, and
it may be administered by a majority
Tote, without a formal trial.
SUSPENSION OF MEMBERSHIP.
Although this deprives the suspended
JURISPRUDENCE. 161
brother of all his rights and privileges in
the lodge suspending him, yet it does not
affect his general standing otherwise, or
right of visiting the suspending lodge.
DEFINITE SUSPENSION.
The brother returns to his former rights
and privileges at the expiration of the
time for which he was suspended.
INDEFINITE SUSPENSION
Places a brother in the same position,
for the time being, as an expelled mason.
He can only be reinstated by the lodge
which suspended him.
A limited suspension is a different
thing ; then the person suspended be-
comes restored on the expiration of his
sentence, without any action on the part
of the lodge, or the body inflicting the
punishment. This principle, we believe,
is recognized by all who are entitled to be
regarded as authority, and it is based up-
1G2 MASONIC LAW AND
on the fact, tliat the offending brother has
paid the penalty of his delinquency. —
King, O. F O. of N. Y., 1853.
Striking name from the roll of mem-
bers, does not affect standing, nor debar
from any privilege, except membership in
the particular lodge. — G. M. La., 1858.
A sentence of suspension can be recon-
sidered at any time, by the proper author-
ity.— Mojrkis, Am. F. 3L, iii., 82.
Suspension from the lodge does not
abrogate the connection between the
member and his lodge, but places his
rights in abeyance only. — Mackey, U. M.
Z., xvii., 311.
Suspension from the rights and benefits
of masonry includes also a suspension
from the payment of arrears. — Mackey,
U. M. Z., xvii., 315.
EXPULSION.
An expelled mason is divested of his
JURISPRUDENCE. 163
rights and privileges as a mason; and his
family also cease to have any claim upon
masonic charity. A person in this situ-
ation can only be restored by the Grand
Lodge, with the consent of the lodge which
expelled him.
A sentence of expulsion takes effect
when it is confirmed by the Grand Lodge,
and operates as a suspension in the mean-
time.
We doubt whether a lodge can expel
forever ; that is, so expel that he can
never be restored. — C. M oore, Mas. Rev.,
xiv., 115.
The only proper tribunal to impose
this heavy punishment, is a Grand Lodge.
The sentence of the subordinate lodge is
of no force until its Grand Lodge has
confirmed it. — Mackey, Lexicon, 145.
A lodge cannot expel a suspended ma-
son without first reinstating him. — Mor-
ris, Am. F. M., ii.j 178.
164 MASONIC LAW AND
No lodge under this jurisdiction, 1101
any member thereof, shall publish, or in
any way make known, except to the fra-
ternity, or within the lodge, the expulsion
of a member, further than to state verbally
the fact of expulsion, whenever the in-
terest of masonry may seem to demand
it— Res. iY. II, 1820.
When a member of a lodge has been
tried upon charges preferred against
him, and has been found guilty, and
suspended or expelled by a vote of his
lodge, from that time his right to ma-
sonic intercourse ceases; the judgment
of the lodge remains in full force and
effect, until reversed on appeal. — J¥. Y.,
1857.
Suspension or expulsion from a chap
ter, or encampment, does not disturb
membership in the lodge.
I understand the masonic law to be,
that a chapter has not the power to sus-
JURISPRUDENCE. 165
pend a member from the privileges of the
lodge. — Hubbard, Ohio, 1851.
No business can be done at special
meetings, save that specific business foi
which the lodge was called, or adjourned.
— C. Moore, Mas. Rev., viii., 368.
No business shall be transacted by such
special meeting but that for which it was
called. — Standard Bydavjs, N. Y., 1858.
EMERGENCIES.
The acting Grand Master is sole judge
of what constitutes a case of emergency ;
but in some jurisdictions the power is
granted to other Grand officers.
According to the Constitution of Ne-
braska, three-fourths of the members
present may decide any application to
be a case of emergency.
Cases of emergency, warranting haste
in acting on a petition for initiation, must
be real, not imaginary. There must be a
166 MASONIC LAW AND
necessity for immediate action. — ArJc^
1855.
BUSINESS.
The general rule is, that all business
of masonry, except conferring the first
two degrees, must be transacted while
the lodge is opened on the third degree.
Elections, and all other business and
work, are done in a master mason's lodge,
excepting only such business or work as
shall strictly belong to the lesser degrees.
— Const. Penn.
All business of a lodge must be trans-
acted in the master's degree, for the
reasons, that none below that degree have
a right to know what is done in a mas-
ter's lodge ; and members of a lodge,
that is, master masons, can only partici-
pate in its business. — Lewis, G. M. of
If. Y., 1858.
JURISPRUDENCE. 167
CLANDESTINE LODGES — IRREGULAR WORK.
A body of masons, or pretended 01
clandestine masons, meeting as a lodge,
without a legal warrant or dispensation,
is termed a "clandestine" lodge; and
work done by them is termed " clandes-
tine work." A regular mason visiting, or
holding masonic communication with such
body or its members, or initiates, subjects
himself to the severest penalties.
Any lodge may do irregular work, but
none but a clandestine lodge (that is, one
having no legal charter), can do clandes-
tine work. — Morris, Am. F. M., iii., 124.
THE CHARTER PRESENCE OF IN THE LODGE.
The Master of a lodge has the special
charge of its charter, and it is his duty to
see that it is carefully preserved. It
must be present when the lodge is open*
ed — Consts. Me. and If ass.
168 MASONIC LAW AND
I do not believe that the charter ia
the authority, but merely the evidence
of vested authority, and its presence is
not indispensable. — Gray, Miss. Acacia,
1855.
ABRIDGMENT OF THE RITUAL.
A lodge has no right to abridge or omit
any part of the Ritual belonging to any
of the degrees, when conferring them
upon a candidate. The candidate having
complied with all the obligations and
forms required of him, is entitled to re-
ceive the whole of the Ritual, and it is
masonically and grossly unjust to deprive
him of any part thereof. A lodge, having
undertaken to confer a degree, is bound
to complete it in a workmanlike manner.
Every word of every degree should be
given to the candidate, and that, too, at
the time he takes the degrees. — Morris,
Am. F. M.y ii., 131.
JURISPRUDENCE. 109
In conferring the degrees, the lectures
appertaining thereto shall indispensably
be delivered ; and it shall be considered
irregular, in the opening or closing of a
lodge, to waive any portion of the cere-
monies.— Const, N. C
MASONIC PROCESSIONS.
The general rule in regard to subordi-
nate lodges, is, that no procession can be
had * without a special dispensation there-
for, from the Grand Master, or one of
the principal Grand officers.
No lodge shall form a public procession
(funeral processions excepted), without
permission from one <of the first four
Grand officers, or the Disrict Deputy
Grand Master within whose district it is
located. — Const. Me.
No lodge shall form a public proces-
* Funeral procession excepted.
170 MASONIC LAW AND
sion, without permission from the Grand
Master (or, in his absence, the Deputy
Grand Master), or the District Deputy
Grand Master within whose district it is
located. — Const. Mass.
WHO MAY JOIN IN A MASONIC PROCESSION.
Master masons only can join in a ma-
sonic burial procession. Entered ap-
prentices and fellow crafts may join in
processions on festival occasions, laying
corner stones, &c.
None but master masons can be allowed
to walk in funeral processions as masons.
— C. W. Moore, 1845.
In the processions for dedications, and
laying corner stones, entered apprentices
and fellow crafts may be present and take
the place assigned them ; but as none
but master masons can be buried with
masonic honors, so none but master masons
can be permitted to join the procession. —
Haswell, G. F. C. Vt.y 1849.
JTBISPRUDEXCE. 171
Kon-affiliated masons cannot join in
masonic processions. — Mackey, U. M. Z.5
xviii., 295.
COXCEBNENG LODGE BECOEDS.
It is the duty of the Secretary to record
the truth, and of the lodge to see that
the record conforms to the truth.
The signature of the Master is not
necessary to give validity to the proceed-
ings of the lodge. The approval of the
lodge, and the signature of the Secretary,
make the records complete. — 0. W.
Moobe, 1846.
The names of all the officers, members,
and visitors, should be given at length at
called or stated meetings. — Iowa, 1851.
The lodge has no right to change its
minutes after once regularly approving
them. — Moebis, Am. K J/"., iii.; 65.
172 MASONIC LAW AND
GRAND LODGE CERTIFICATES.
Iii some jurisdictions they are required
of every visitor not known to the lodge
to be a worthy brother; in others, they
are only required of those hailing from
fort !<jn jurisdictions ; and in others, they
are seldom required.
Ordered, That no mason be admitted
to any subordinate lodge, under the juris-
diction of this Grand Lodge, or receive
the charities of any lodge, unless he shall,
on such application, exhibit a Grand
Lodge certificate, duly attested by the
proper authorities, except lie is known to
the lodge to he a worthy brother. — N. Y.,
1843. The proper stand. — Mackey, Lex-
icon, 78.
The certificate is, by no means, intended
to act as a voucher for the bearer, nor can
it be allowed to supersede the necessity
of a strict examination. — Mackey, Lex
icon, 78.
JURISPRUDENCE. 173
A. diploma is a mere certificate, of-
ficially issued by the lodge, that A. B. has
regularly received the several degrees,
and is, at the date of the certificate, a
worthy member of the lodge. — C. Moore,
Mas. Rev., xiv., 116.
THE DEGREE OF PAST MASTER.
A master must receive the honorary
degree of Past Master before installation.
—Lewis, O. M., JST. T., 1858.
The Past Master's degree is not neces-
sary to qualify a Master to preside. —
Mich., 1855.
CONFERRING DEGREES, WITHOUT FEE.
A lodge has not the right to receive
members free of dues, except they be in
indigent circumstances — if the by-laws
prescribe payment of dues. — Hubbard,
Ohio, 1851.
Clergymen approbated by competent
174 MASONIC LAW AND
authority to preach the gospel, may be
initiated, crafted, and raised, without any
fee whatever.— Comt Me., 1820.
Voted, That the fees payable to the
Grand Lodge, on the initiation of or-
dained and permanently settled clergy-
men, be in future remitted. — Mass.,
1812.
mason's widow and orphans.
Upon the death of any master mason,
in good standing, and a member of any
lodge under this jurisdiction, such lodge
shall furnish to the widow and orphans
of the deceased a certificate of his mem-
bership, standing, and death, under seal,
without any charge therefor. — Reg. Ark.
Lodges are required to furnish the
widow or the orphans of each deceased
brother master mason who was in good
standing, with a certificate of such broth-
er's standing, at his death. — Res. 111.,
1847. Res. Tenn., 1853. Texas, 1849.
JURISPRUDENCE. 1 75
ITINERANT MASONIC LECTURERS.
The Grand Lodge deems it improper
and unmasonic for the subordinate lodges
to permit any itinerant masonic lecturer
to visit their lodges for the purpose of
lecturing. — lieg. Miss.
Kb lodge shall encourage, promote, or
permit, the delivery of any masonic lec-
tures, which have not been sanctioned
and authorized by the Grand Lodge.
Kor shall any mason be permitted to de-
liver such lectures under this jurisdiction.
— Consts. Mass., Maine, R. Z, and Wis.
SUMMONS.
Every mason is bound to obey the
summons of a lodge of master masons,
whether he be a member or otherwise.
The obligation is general. — C. W. Moore,
K Mag., i., 36.
The refusal to obev the lod^e summons
176 MASONIC LAW AND
is an offence in Masonry, which demands
stringent discipline. — Swigert, G. If.
K>j., 1858.
AFFIRMATION.
The committee, to whom was referred
the question, whether the masonic degrees
can be conferred on affirmation, without
oath, reported : that it would not violate
any masonic principle, or remove any
landmark, to confer the degrees on affir-
mation. {Report Accepted]. — Me.y 1823.
— Res. of Vt.
SEAL.
No document issued over the signature
of the Secretary is valid without a seal.
—Morris, Am. F. M., ii., 66.
RECONSIDERING PROCEEDINGS.
Proper notice having been given, a
motion to reconsider, ordinary business,
(except balloting) at the ensuing meeting,
JURISPRUDENCE. 177
* would generally be in order. — C. W
Moore.
FEOM NEW YOKK MASONIC
CODE.
RELATIVE TO INTEMPERANCE.
Resolved, That it is the duty of all
subordinate lodges under this jurisdiction
to restrain intemperance among their
members, if there be any guilty of this
practice, and to correct the evils thereof
to the extent of their authority.— Pages
173 and 175—1854.
Resolved^ That this Grand Lodge
ought not to exercise original jurisdiction
to try a member of a subordinate lodge
which is in good standing, and which is
not acting in hostility to the Order, con-
stitution or jurisdiction of this Grand
Lodge, for any Masonic offence other
than offences against this Gaand Lodge,
178 MASONIC LAW AND
when such member is subject to trial by
the subordinate lodge to which he be-
longs.—Page 189—1854.
That where more than one lodge is
situated in the same city or village, their
jurisdiction is concurrent in all respects
in said eitv or village. — Pages 28 and 256
— 1S59.
DUE PROFICIENCY REQUIRED TO BE MADE.
Resolved^ That no candidate shall be
passed to the degree of Fellow- Craft, or
raised to the degree of Master Mason in
any subordinate lodge under the juris-
diction of this Grand Lodge, without
proof of proficiency in the preceding
degree, which shall be ascertained by ex-
amination of a competent Committee, to
be appointed by the W. Master, or ex-
amination in open lodge. — Page 153 —
1856.
Resolved, That before a candidate in a
JURISPRUDENCE. 179
subordinate lodge advances from one de-
gree to a higher degree, the W. M. of the
lodge shall be satisfied that the candidate
has made suitable proficiency in the pre-
ceding degree. — Page 173—1857.
WORK AND LECTURES.
That it is the duty of lodges to adopt
and practice the standard work and lec-
tures of this Grand Lodge, and a refusal
so to do subjects them to discipline ; and
while the Grand Master may not deem it
advisable to take official cognizance of
mere remissness in this regard, yet where
a lodge, already proficient in the stan-
dard work, substitutes another system,*
there can be no excuse for such defiance
of Grand Lodge authority, and it will not
be disregarded. — Pages 26 and 164 —
1864.
No application for a warrant shall be
entertained by this Grand Lodge unless
* Which is not the standard work.
180 MASONIC LAW AND
the same shall be accompanied by the
certificate of the Grand Lecturer or his
Assistant that the several officers named
in such application are in possession of
the work and lectures adopted by this
Grand Lodge, and are competent to prac-
tice and impart the same. — Page 73 —
1865.
RELATIVE TO NON-AFFILIATED MASONS.
If a non-affiliated Mason apply for
affiliation at a regular meeting, and the
petition is received, referred to a Com-
mittee, and reported upon favorably, and
he is elected at a subsequent regular
meeting by a unanimous ballot, he there-
by becomes a member of the lodge, and
no re-ballot can be taken to deprive him
of his membership at a future meeting.
The law which gives the right to re-ballot
applies to petitioners for the degrees, and
not for affiliation. Constitutions, section
8, rule 14.— Pages 36 and 207—1862.
JURISPRUDENCE. 181
In the case of an application for mem-
bership of a non-affiliated Mason who has
been rejected, there is no law forbidding
him to renew the same at the next or any
other regular meeting. — Pages 36 and 206
—186i'.
A brother has a right to affiliate with
any lodge he thinks proper, and is not
restricted to the lodge in whose jurisdic-
tion he resides. — Pages 36 and 206 —
1862.
That although an unaffiliated Mason
has no claim upon the Fraternity for re-
lief or Masonic burial, yet a lodge may
grant either, or both, to those otherwise
worthy. It is only unworthy, suspended
or expelled Masons that are forbidden
these privileges by section 51 of the Con-
stitution.—Pages 26 and 164—1864.
That an officer to whom charges are
preferred is not obliged to appoint Com-
missioners, but may, in his discretion, dis-
182 MASONIC tAW, ETC.
miss them, if, upon their face, they are
clearly frivolous, or would not constitute
an offence if proven. — Pages 24 and 194
—1865.
RELATIVE TO AFFILIATION.
That a brother cannot be received as
an affiliating member of a lodge unless
he produces his dimit, or shows sufficient.
cause for its non-production. — Pages 18
and 173—1863.
LAWFUL MASONIC INFORMATION.
Sitting in open lodge with a brother,
or avouchment by a brother who has done
so, or through personal examination,
either constitutes " lawful Masonic infor-
mation."—Pages 34 and 206—1862.
Any member of the lodge neglecting or
refusing to pay his dues for one year, may
be stricken from the roll thereof, by a
vote of the lodge, at a stated meeting. —
Standard By-taws N. Y., 1858.
CATALOGUE
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Followed by a practical Compend of Masonic Law
and Jurisprudence, containing the latest decisions
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A Manual of tlie Lodge ; or, Monitorial
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the Ceremonies of Installations, Dedications, &c.
By Albert G. Mackey $2.00
Maekey's Masonic Ritualist; or, Moni-
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Tuck and gilt $1.60
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I This is a complete In-
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including everything in its order pertaining to each
degree — except the secrets of Masonry. The whole
given by a system and arrangement ivhicll ren-
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Critically revised by competent authorities — and
strictly in accordance with the Standard Work and
Lectures — making a work that no practical member
will be without after he has examined it.
There are separate editions of this and the follow-
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work of a particular State.
Morocco tuck, full gilt $3.50
The need of some means of refreshing and aiding
the memory on the Ritual outside of the Lodge is
universally felt among the Fraternity, and for the
want of an authentic work on this subject members
are availing themselves of any means of information
that comes within their reach — hence the extensive
and increasing sale of several open and highly
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£^~ This work is furnished to Masons only.
Cab' a-Ia. A complete Instructor for Officers and
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to Ecce Orienti, and in exact accordance with the
Standard Work and Lectures. Intelligible only to
R. A. Masons. Morocco tuck, scarlet edges. .$3.50
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Council, and Commandery.
NOW READY,
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The above works are on a plan similar to Cab' a-la.
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Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch ; togeth ii'
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with the Ceremonies of Constituting and Dedicating
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Council Monitor, the Text-book of Cryptic
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Book of the Cominandery ; a Monitor for
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A. & A. Scottish Rite Manuals. Cunning-
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The Book of the Ancient and Accepted
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Charles T. McClenachan, 33g. Embellished
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Text-Book of Masonic Jurisprudence.
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RICH GOODS AND L.OW PRICES
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APRONS.
Linen Aprons, per doz $5.00
Lambskin Aprons, trimmed with bine
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Six or more at an. order, — each. ... 2.35
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Office embossed in gold, and trim-
med with bine silk, — single 3.85
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Six or more at an order — each 4.00
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Six or more at an order — each 5.00
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lace and 5 stars, — single 3.00
Six or more at an order, — each 2.25
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hangers 70.00 to 100.00
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pin, solid silver, each 3.50
Past Masters' Jewels in circle 6.00 to 8.00
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Past Masters' Jewel (miniature Jewel), which
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Jewel $9 .00
CHAPTER.
APRONS.
Linen Aprons, trimmed, per doz $6.00
Lambskin Aprons, trimmed with red
silk,— single 3.00
Six or more at an order, — each. . . . 2.50
Lambskin Dress Aprons — very rich. .. 5.00
Six or more at an order, — each 4.50
COLLARS.
Officers' Collars, Royal Arch ribbon,
single $1.25
Six or more at an order, each 1.00
Officers' Collars, scarlet merino, or
French velvet, trimmed with gilt
lace and 7 stars, — single 8.00
Six or more at an order, — each. . . . 2.50
Officers1 Collars, best scarlet silk vel-
vet, trimmed with gilt lace and 7
stars, — very rich 7.00
Three or more at an order, — each. . 6.00
SCARFS.
Scarlet satin or silk Scarfs, each. . . . $7.50
Scarlet velvet Scarfs, each 7.00 to 15.00
ROBES.
9 Officers' Dresses with Mitre, Crown,
and Turbans complete $200.00
9 Officers' Dresses with Mitre, Crown,
and Turbans complete, superior. . . 300.00
9 Officers' Dresses with Mitre, Crown,
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12 pieces fine gilt Jewels, with ribbon
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COUNCIL OF R. & S. MASTERS.
. APRONS.
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COLLARS.
Officers7 Collars, purple ribbon $1.15
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French velvet, trimmed with, gilt
lace and 7 stars, each 2.75
Officers' Collars, purple patent velvet,
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each 4.00
Officers' Collars, best purple silk vel-
vet, trimmed with gilt lace and 7
stars, each 5.00 to 7.00
JEWELS.
Fine gilt Jewels, each $3.50 to 4.50
COMMANDERY.
Baldric (merino) $7.00
" (fine cloth), 10.00
" (watered silk) 10.00
Chapeau, properly trimmed. .$12.00 15.00, and 18.00
Fatigue Cap " " 3.25 to 5.00
Gauntlets, " " , 4.00 to 5.00
Cuffs, " " 3.00
Buff Lisle Thread Gloves 50 and .75
Sword, metal Scabbard 8. 50 to 50. 00
Belt with Chain Hanger 4.50 to 8.00
Leather Sword Case 3.00
Valise for Chapeau, &c 4.00 to 12.00
Shoulder Straps, embroidered 5.50 to 8.00
" , " metal 3.50
Prelates' Robes, Crozier and Cross. . 40.00 to 60.00
Jewels for Officers (15 pieces, with
pins) 60.00 to 75.00
Relics 20.00
Plated Candlesticks, per doz 18.00
kt Goblets " 18.00
Green Sash 4.00 to 6.00
Ascension Scene 20.00 to 30.00
Foils, per doz 12.00 to 18.00
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Question Book $4.00
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Tuck 1.00
Banners, Robes, Tents, &g. , made to Order.
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Swords, $8.50, 11.00, 15.00, 16.50, 20.00, 21.00, 25.00
Belt and Chain Hanger $4.50, 6.00, 7.00, 8.00
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" fine cloth or watered silk $10.00
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Cuffs $3. 00
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MEASUREMENTS.
Size of Head,. „_____
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Height,
1 <i«b»*—
LODGHE FURNITURE.
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