Full text of "Supreme Council of the ancient and accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonry in and for the sovereign and independent state of Louisiana, valley of New Orleans"

See other formats

.crn

^/«^

Duke University Libraries

Supreme Council
Conf Pam #695

AD UXU'EOSI TERIIARBI ORBIS ARClllTECTI GLORIA!!,

ORDO AB CHAO,

OF THE

ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTCS RITE OF FREEIIASONRV,

IN AND FOR

THS SOVEREIGN AND INDEPENDENT STATS OF LOuISlANA.

VALLEY OF NSV7 ORLEANS.

NEW ORLEANS.

J. II. KEEFE & BRO., PRINTERS. 57 GRAVIER STREET.
1861.

T/. T.-. G.-. 0.-. T.-. G/. A.-, 0/, T.\ U,

A RITUAL OF THE ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTCH RITE OF FREEilASOXRV.

FIRST DEGREE

ENTERED APPRENTICE, E.-. A.-.

OFFICERS,

1st.— VENERABLE MASTER , V.-. M.-.

2d.— FIRST SURVEILLANT 1st Surv.-.

3a.— SECOND SURVEILLANT 2d Surv.-.

4th.— ORATOR Or.-.

5th.— SECRETARY Sec.-.

Gth.— TREASURER Treas.-.

7th.— MASTER EXPERT ..M.-. E.-.

8th.— MASTER OF CEREMONIES M.-. Cer.-.

9th.— STANDARD BEARER Stand.-. B,-

lOh.— INSIDE SENTINEL Ins.-. Sent.

««

FIRST DEGREE.

OPENING OF THE LODGE.

{The BB'. heing assembled in the Temple, the Ven.-. 31.'.
fills the vacancies of the absent officers and gives a rap ivith
Ms gavel repeated by the two Surv.-.)

Ven. M — BroV. 1st iSurveillmt, are you a Free-masou?

1st SuRv. — My BB.'. recognize me as such.

Ven. M. — What is your first duty ?

1st SuiiY. — To ascertain whether the Temple is well
guarded outside.

Ven. M. — Please ascertain it, my brother,

1st SuRV. — Bro.-. Inside Sentinel please ascertain
whether the Temple is well guarded outside.

{The Inside Sentinel raps / / / which is ansivered by

the Outside Sentinel / .' / — The Inside Sentinel raps

another time ! and the Outside Sentinel anstoers / —

Then, ajter having opened the ivicJcet and being aivare that
the Lodge mag begin its works, the Inside Sentinel sags :)

Ins. Sent — Bro.-. 1st Surv.*., the Temple is well
guarded outside-

1st SuRV.*. repeats: — Ven.-. M.-., the Temple is well
guarded outside.

Ven. M. — Bro.-. 1st Surv--., what is your second duty
when the Lodge opens in the Apprentice's Degree ?

1st Surv. — To ascertain whether the persons present are
Entered Apprentices and members of this Lodge-

Ven. M — BB-*. 1st and 2nd Sarveillants, please ascer-
tain on your respective columns if all the BB.-. present are
Entered Apprentices. Ascertain also that they are mem-
bers of this Lodge.

{The 1st and 2nd Surv.',, in succession give a rap ivith their

gaveU saying:) — To order! BB/. !

2(] SuRv. — {Gives a rap with his gavel and sags:) — Bro.'.
1st Surv.-. the BB.-. on my column arc Entered Ap|)ren-
tices; the}' arc in order- They arc also members of this
Lodge.

1st iSuRv.— {Gives a rap 7vUh his gavel and sags:) — Ven/.
M.*., the BI3.-. on both cohiinn.s arc Kntei'ed Apprentices;
they are in order. They arc also members of this Lodge.

Ven. M. — The East is also in order-

Ven- M — Bro-* 1st Surv.*., where docs our Bro-"- 2nd
Surv-'- sit ill the Temple?

1st SuKV — Li the South-

Yiix. M — Bro/. 2ii(l ISurv"-, what are your duties in
tlie l^outh ?

2nd Surv — {Giving a rap tviih his gavel, replies:) — To
assist our BB/. in preserving a remembrance of the
impressions and sensations of the First of Mankind, when
he saw the snn in all its glory pass the meridian of the
celestial canopy and tluM-eby learned to divide the day anil
its occupations.

Vev.M — Bro •. 2nd Surv.-. where does our Brother 1st
Surv.-. sit in the Temple?

2d SuHv.-— In the West, Ven.-- :\r.-.

Vi;x- M — Bro.". 1st Surv-'., what are your duties in
the West ?

1st SuKv". — To as ist our BB. . in preserving the remem-
brance of the ini[)ressions and sensations which our First
Parent must 1 ave experienced when he saw the sun descend
below the western horizon, illuminating the sky with golden
drapery, succeeded by twilight and the obscurity of
darkness, when all animated creation seek.? repose, thereby

learning of God's design in giving us n period for medita-
tion and rest.

Yes. M. — I3ro.'. 1st Surveillant, where does the Ven.*.
Master sit in the Temple?

1st Suav — In the East, Venerable Master.

Ven. M. — What are his duties, there, Brother 1st
Surveillant?

1st ISuRV — To instruct our Fraternity in preserving a
remembrance of the divine instruction given to our First
Parent wl-en he saw the sun appear again in the East,
teaching him the importance of measuring time, and of
impr Dying it wilh useful works and researches.

Ven. M. — Bro.-. 1st Surv.-., when do the Entered
Ap[)renticcs open their works ?

1st Surv — At noon.

Vex. M- — What time is it, Bro.-. 1st Surveillant?

1st Surv.— It is high 12.

Ven. M. — Since it is high 12 and it is- the hour chosen
by Entered Apprentices to open their works, please BB.-.
1st and 2d fcurv.'-, announce to the members on your
respective columns that it is my intention to begin the
Works of this R.*. L/. in the Apprentice's Degree.

1st Surv. — BB.'. on the northern column, I inform
you that the Ven.-. M.-. intends to open the works of this
R.'. L.-. in the x\pprentice's Degree.

2(1 SuKV. — BB,-. on the southern column, I 'inform
you that the Ven/. M.*. intends to open the works of this
R.-. L. . in the Apprentice's Degree. {The 2d Surv.-. raps
a stroke tvilh his gavel and suf/s:) Announced ! Bro *. 1st
Surveillant. /

1st Suuv — {Gives a rap tvilh his gavel and sags:) —
Announced, Ven.\ M.'.

ViiN. M. — [Gives ihrce raps with his gavel and says:) —
To order !

To the G.-. 0.'. T.-. G--. A.'. 0.-. T.-. U.-., under the
auspices of the Sup/. Council of the 33d and last
Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch . Rite of
Freemasonry in and for the Sovereign and Independent
State of Louisiana, and b}^ virtue of the powers on me
conferred by this R.". L,". [name and number), I do declare
its works opened in the first degree.

Yen. M. — With me, brethren ! (^1// iinite in giving the
sign and hattcrg ) Take your seats, the works of this
Lodge are open.

Ven. M. — Bro.'. Secretary, please read the minutes of
the last meeting. [The Vcn:- 31.-. gives a rap of ihe gavel,
which is repeated hj both Surv.'. and sags:) Attention,
brethren !

[After the reading, the Ven. \ 31.'. gives a rap with his
gavel, which is repeated by both Surv.-. and sa?/s:)

Ven. M. — BB/. 1st and 2d Surv.-. please iLforni the
brethren on your respective columns that they are now
invited to offer remarks concerning the correctness of the
minutes.

[Both Surv.'. repeat:)

1st and 2d Surv. — Brethren of my column, you are
invited to make remarks, if you have any, before the
adoption of the minutes now read.

[If the minutes need correction, the Secretary will im-
mediately proceed to make them as directed by the V.' . M.'.

[If no remarks are made, the 2d Surv.'. raps a stroke of
his gavel and sayr.) — Brother 1st Surv.-., silence prevails
with the brethren on the southern column.

1st Surv. — [Gives a rap with his gavel.) Ven.-. M.-. —

Silence prevails on both columns-

Ven. M — Brother Orator please give us your conclusions.

Orator. — We conclude the minutes of the last meeting
be approved.

Ven. M. — With me, BB.'., for the adoption of those

minutes.

CLOSING.

Ven. M — BB.*. Lst and 2nd Surv."., please inform
the brethren on your respective columns that we are now
prepared to hear such remarks as they may please to offer
with a view to the advancement of the interests of the
Order in general, or of this Lodge in particular.
{Doth Siirveiliants repeat:)

Brethren of my column, you arc invited by our Ven.-.
M.*. to present such suggestions as may to you appear
proper for the advancement of the interests of the Order
in general, or of this Lodge in particular.

{I/ 710 Brother wishes to speak, the 2d Suriw ^ivesa rap
with his gavel, and says:) — Brother 1st Surv,-., silence
prevails on the southern column.

1st Surv. — {Gives a rap with his gavel — Ven.-. M.--,
silence prevails on both columns.

(// there are any Visiting Brethren, the Venerable
says:) — BB.\ 1st and 2d Surv.*., please invite the
brethren on your respective columns to join with us in com-
plimenting our visiting brethren.

{Both Siirveiliants repeat:) — Brethren of this Eesp.-.
Lodge, the Ven--- M-*. invites you to join with us in compli-
menting o^r visiting brethren.

2d Surv. — {Gives a rap with his gavel and says:) —

Announced ! brother 1st Surveillnnt.

1st SuRV — [Gives a rep v.ith his g<ivel and says:) —
Announrcd ! Ven*^rable Master.

Ven- M. — To onlor^ brethren !

{All rise. — The F. n,-. M.\ then Inujl'j I hanks (he Vis'/ors
for their assist once ; the members of the Ledge unite with
the Ve;i.'. Mr. in giving the sign and battery as a eompli-
meni to the Visitors. — One of the Visitors will acknowledge
the compliment, and then all present unite in giving the
sign and battery.)

Vex. M — Brother 2d Surv.-., what is your nge as an
Entered Apprentice?

2d Surv. — Three years, answering the number of my
travels for light, and symbolizing my ignorance as an
Apprentice.

Ven. M. — What time is allotted for work to an Entered
Apprentice ?

2d Surv — Eight hours from morning till mid-day, and
eight hours from mid-day to ir id-night, at which time the
hours of rest begin.

Ven. U —What time is it ?

2d Surv. — It is midnight.

Ven. M — Since it is midnight and it is the time chosen
by Entered Apprentices to close their works, BB.'. 1st
and 2d Surv.*., please invite the brethren on your respec-
tive columns to assist me in closing this Lodge in the
Apprentice's Degree.

{The }st and 'Id Surveillants repeals-) — Brethren, of my
column, the Ven-*. M.-. invites us to a.ssist him in closing
the works of this R.;. Lodge in the A.p[)rentice's Degree-

{The 2d Surv.'. then gives a rap with hi$ gavel and
says:) — Announced, brother Ut Surveillant-

{The 1st Surveillant raps a stroke ivUh his gavel and
says: — Announced ! Ven.-. Master.

Ven. M. — Gives three raps, repeated bij both Surveillants,
and says: — To order, brethren !

To the Glory of the G.-. A/. 0/. T.-. U.-., under the
auspices of the Supreme Council of the 3od and last
•Degree, of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite of
Freemasonry in and for the Sovereign and Independent
State of Louisiana, and b}' virtue of the powers on me
conferred, by this E/. L;., {name and number), I. declare
its works closed in the 1st Degree.

Ven. M. — With me, brethren, by the signs, battery and
acclamations.

We will now retire in peace, but before parting w^e w^ill
I'enew' our promise of secrecy regarding all which has
transpired here,

{All extend their rigid hand and arm, pabn djwn and
say:)

— We promise.

INITIATION TO THE FIRST DEGREE.

The Secretary w^ill rise and proclaim, after receiving an
intimation from the Ven.-. M.*. to thai: eflect, as follows :
The following named gentlemen, (giving their names,)
having been duly presented and successfully balloted by
this Lodge, are in attendance awaiting an initiation.

TiiK Treasurer- — The candidates named by our Rro-*.
Secretary have our I'eceipt in full for initiation fees, in
accordance with the by-laws of this Lodge.

Ven. M. — Such being the case, we will proceed to the

initiation. Master Expert, you will see that the candidates
are properly prepared for our presence.

*' Master Expert leaves the Lodge in due form."

PREPARATION OF THE CANDIDATE.

The candidate will be brought to the Outside Sentinel
rooms, (the anti-chamber,) by the brother presenting him.
The Master Expert having a black veil over his face will
approsich the candidate, tap him on the shoulder and say;
— " I am your guide, follow me-" — He leads him aside,
blindfolds him thoroughly, conducts him around the
anti-chamber, and, if possible, out of doors around the
Lodge buildings.

On returning he will divest tho candidate of his coat,
vest, watch, money, knife, keys and all metallic substance
which he may have about him; his* loft arm, breast and leg
to the knee must be uncovered; he may wear a slpper on
his left foot.

Thus prepared, the Exfcrtwill introduce the candidate
to the chamber of reflection, and seat him at a table pre-
pared for the purpose. — Relieving his e3''es from the bandnge
he will place before him a paper,'in the form of a tiiangle,
upon V7hich must be written the following questions ;

1st. What does man owe to God?

2d. What does he owe to himself?

3d. What does he owe to his fellow-beings ?

4tb, What does he owe to his country?

5th. Make your last \vill and testament, (briefly).

This room must be a small closet without other openings
than the door — ceiling and walls painted or hung in black.
It must be a receptacle for every insignia of death- — It will

contain a small deal table and stool. — The room will be
lighted by a dim taper — Upon the table will be placed an
inkstand, a pen, a cup of water, a piece of stale bread, and
a human skull. At one end of the table will stand a
mounted human skeleton. — At the opposite side, upon the
floor, will be a coffin. The candidate will be seated with
his back to the door- The Expert will explain to the can-
didate that he is now in a proper place for silent meditation
and self-examination, and that he will leave him alone for a
short time in order that he may the better answer the
questions propounded. The candidate will write his
answers in a legible manner and affix thereto his signature.

OPENING OF THE INITIATION,

Ven, M, — Bro.',- Master of Ceremonies, you will please
report if there are any visitors in the hall, and bring us a
list of their names, surnames, with their degrees, and the
Lodge and jurisdiction to which they severally belong-

The M.-, C.-. will bring in the "Visitors' Register" and
present it to the V.-. M,*, — The visitors will be disposed of
according to Masonic usages. A visitor whose standing is
not vouched for by a Bro.-, known to the Lodge must be
examined by a committee appointed by the V.*. M.-.

Visitors are introduced by the M.'. C.\ in the order of
their degrees, beginning with the 1st. A gracefuL saluta-
tion will be extended to them by the Ven.', Master, and
the M,*. C-". will show them seats according to the regalia
with which they may be clothed-

A single rap from the gavel of the V.'. M-"- repeated
by the Assistants, calls up the roder of Exercises.

Ven. M — Brethren, we are about to initiate to the 1st

degree of Freemasonry the following named gentlemen, or

]Mr All the required forms have been observed in their

presentation, the ballot has been passed for each and has
on every ccoasion been clear-

Now if any one has objections to oder they are invited
to speak freely.

The Lodge shall duly examine such objections f s may
be oflered, and shall direct that the candidate be either
received, rejected, or that h;s initiation be deferred for
further consideration- No objections being presented the
V-'. M-". will proceed with the initiation.

Ven, M — As }'ou think we may now safely proceed
with the initiation, let us unite in giving the sign of
adhesion.

Ven- M. — Brother Expert will please bring ns the result
of the candidate's visit to the Chamber of Reflection.

Brother Expert brings in the papers, hands them to the
M.-. C.-., who takes them to the East. The Yen.'. M/, will
read the answers in an audible voice.

Ven. M — You will see if the candidates are properly
prepared to enter this Lodge- Tell them that the ordeal
through which they will have to pass is of a solemn and
serious nature, and that we expect from them due attention,
courage and care in order th.it he may avoid stumbling in
his way, and successfully reach the summit of the mount
from which he is to discover the light in search of which
he has come; put a cable tow around his neck and lead him
to our door.

The Expert will cause the candidate to knock violently
at the door.

The Inside Guardian who has had a care to keep the
wicket opened, cries out in a terrified voice- — Brother 1st

13 '

Surveillant, there is an alarm at the door.

1st Sdrv — Ven.-. M.'., there is an alarm at our door.

Ven. M. — Enquire, Bro.--, and see Avho is the daring
and imprudent man who comes at this dread hour to disturb
our works and mysteries-

1st Sdrv — Goes to the wicket and calls out: — Who is
the rash man who comes at this dread hour to dirturb our
works and mysteries ?

Bro. Expert — It is a candidate who desires admission
to the venerable and secret society of Freemasons.

1st SuRV— Ven.-. M.-., it is a candidate who desires ad.
mission to the venerable and secret society of Freemasons.

Ven. M. — (Giving a heavy rap with his gavel.) — BB.-.
let us rise and unsheath our swords, there is a stranger at
the door.

All rise and unsheath their swords, so as to be distinctly
heard by the candidate.

Ven. M. — What means this unexpected call, and what is
your design ?

Bro. Expert. — To crave at your hand, the initiation of
the candidate to our ancient mysteries.

Ven. M. — By what right does h© expect to obtain
that favor ?

Bro. Expert — By being a man free born, of competent
age, and under the tongue of good report.

Ven. M — What is his name ?

«'

age?

(.'

"•

religion ?

((

civil status ? (married or unmarried.)

((

profession ?

native country?

present domicil ?

The responses must be taken note of by the Secretary.

Ven. M. — Let hioi enter.

The Inside Sentinel awkwardly slams open both folds of
the door; the brethren present make with their gavels or
other instruments, a rustling noise like carpenters at work
in their shops- The M.*. E--. seizes the candidate by the
nape of his neck, holding him by the left arm, leads him
around the Lodge, carefully conducting him over such ob-
stacles as may be placed in his way, conducts him on the
false ladder, makes him jump down, takes him to the altar
where the M.-. C*. pricks him slightly Avith the point of the
compasses on his bare breast

Ven. M. — Stransrer or Mr. , what do you see? what

do you feel ?

The candidate answers-

Ven. M. — The partial state of nakedness in "which all
must be introduced to our mysteries,, constitutes the first
symbolical lesson, and personifies the primal stale of man
after his creation. Although surrounded with every
element of comfort, he found himself with no other re-
sourdce than that of his bodily strength and powers, which
he did not know how to use, in consequence of his primi-
tive ignorance. This is symbolized by the darkness to
which you Imve submitted yourself. In that helpless con-
dition he must have been a ])rey to great anxiety, and his
loneliness and feebleness must have been oppressive-

The puncture which you have felt on your bare breast, is
the symbol of those first sufferings of his mind, and of the
loneliness which overshadowed his heart The future and
the object of his creation were inexpliccble, and a source
of great uneasiness. Many an idea, no doubt, arose in his
mind suggesting what he might do to make his way

through the immensity which had suddenly enrolled itself
before him, in all the brilliant glory of the universe of the
New Creation, but \vant of experience led him to uncertain
views, and he found him-self a slave, and bound down by
his own perplexities in the abode of liberty which is sym-
bolized by the cord, w'hich appears to restrain you of the
free use of your limbs, and keeps you defenceless in the
hands of .an unknown guide- In a word, your condition is
intended to impress upon your mind the circunstance at-
tending the introduction of man upon earth, his entrance to
a new and untried existence, with a world to conquer and
subdue, So with you — You enter upon this new
world, naked, blind, helpless, and chaos appears to reign
supreme. Let your mind seek foi light, truth and
liberty in this new world, and it will surely come to you-
' We will proceed.

Is it of your oavu free will and accord, unactuated by
motives of curiosity or self-aggrandisement, that you have
asked to be initiated to the mysteries of this Ancient
Institution.

Candidate. — Yes.

V£N. M. — It behooves you then to give heed to the
difficulties which will beset you on every side. The path
of life is strewed with care and disappointment. Every
step in knowledge, which Icids to light, calls for labor
So here, your every step will be attended with fatigues,
difficulties and trials, not to say dangers, which will call for
the exercise of patient endurance on your part, accom-
panied by a persevering effort and presence of mind-
Are you ready, calmly and steadily to encounter them ?
Candi date- — Yes.
Ven- M. — It being so, we now leave you for a short time

•to commune with your own thoughts. Bro-*. Expert, take
Mr to the rough stone-

The Bro.'. Expert lakes the candidate just without the
door and causes him to sit upon the rough Ashlar, returns
to the Lodge leaving the door njiir that the candidate may
overhear what is said.

Feiaucd objections are now raised with reference to
the candidate's initiation, cither by the introduction of a
letter of accusation, or by causing a brother, whose voice is
unknown to the candidate to impugn his motives-

A discussion arises thereon.

Ven- M — Bro--. Expert, please bring the candidate into
our presence.

When near the altar the Ven.'. M-*. says:

Ven. M» — Mr It appears from what we have heard

that like many a stranger to Freemasonry you have for
some time entertained erroneous notions concerning the in-
stitution. Like all institutions, whether sacred or profane,
it has not escaped the tongue of envy, jealousy and all
uncharitableness. It bas been said by thoughtless persons
that our mysteries are but as childish plnys,.-.that we meet
for the purpose of passing our leisure hours, in the revels
of the banqueting hall, and that the tendency of the insti-
tution and the observance of its obligations and precepts,
is to make us forgetful and nec;lii'ent of the duties and
love we owe to our families, and that we even propagate
pernicious doctrines in matters of religion and politics.
^Vithout assuming to ourselves perfection in all things, we
sincerely believe that you will soon discover that we are
not ametable to these accusations; that they are unfounded
and proceed from the envious and malicious.

On the contrary it is chief among our aims to attain to a

true knowledge of our duties to our God, to our country,
and to our fellow-men-

Now if you have been prompted to approach our portals
and to ask for initiation to the Ancient Mysteries of Free-
masonry with no more praiseworthy motives than the
gratification of a vain and idle curiosity, regardless of the
consequences of imposing upon our kind indulgence, we
would most earnestly advise you to withdraw, reminding
you that in so doing, your trials will probably terminate in
u. manner quite diflere'nt from what you may have been led
to expect.

Has the judgment of this Lodge been guided by wisdom
and- prudence, when a few moments since, its members
exercised so much of confidence in' your honor and upright-
ness as to overlook the errors attributed to you ? Can we
rely upon the earnestness of your determination to become
a faithful, honorable, upright Freemason, true to your God,
to your country, and to your fellow-men ?

Candidate — Yes.

Ven. M — Bro-'. Expert, let Mr. take a scat upon

the bench of probation, while we devote ourselves to the
solemn meditations incident to the groat work before us-

A few moments of perfect silence prevail

Ven. M. — BB.-., let us rise and pray.

Almighty Creator and Father of the Universe, we hum-
bly bow our heads before Thee, acknowledging thine
omnipotence and confessing our manifold weakness- Con-
tain our hearts and minds, keep them Avithin the bounds of
equity, and be our light and guide in the path of Justice-
Thou art one in all thy eternal' perfeclions and self-
distinctions- All powerful, all wise, all love. Thou livest

by thyself and every being is indebted to Thee for exis-

tence ; lor we all live and move in Tlico. Although
invisible to all, Thou sccst and rulest all. Pray, then,
receive our adoration and vows. Protect and bless these
peace workers who are here assembled in thy name, for the
holy purpose of strengthening their minds against the
suggestions of evil, of entertaining their hearts with the
love of virtue, of learning how to rule according to Thy
views and wishes, the passions with which Thou hast
endowed them. We also beseech Thee in behalf of the
stranger who desires to be initiated in our doctrines and
mysteries. They lead to all that is true, beautiful and
useful. May he with Thy aid prove himself worthy of the
sublime order of Freemasonry of which Thou art the
bountiful guide and master-

Ven. M. — In whom do you trust?

Candidate. — In God.

Ven. M. — To trust in God is an act of belief, and whereas
belief is necessarily based upon the feeling or reason, which
determines it, we have to ask you this further question : —
Why do you believe in God ?

After the candidate has answered as he may, the Ven.*.
M.-. proceeds :

We believe that amidst the stupendous works of nature
with which man found himself surrounded at his first
appearance upon earth, an inspiration from above informed
him of his physical and mental powers, placing him at the
head of all animated creation, and that on viewing the
splendor of the heavens above and the wonders of the earth
beneath, he saw the handiwork of an Infinite, all wise and
all beneficent Being, calling for his unbounded adoration
and praise as the author and creator of all things — Believing
himself to be the imago and direct heir of his heavenly

Father. During the e.irlier generations of mankind, this
active inspiration of the human heart existed in its greatest
purity, giving to the soul of man exalted notions of infinite
intelligence and of his immortality, leading him to a com-
fortable and ennobling communion through nature up to
nature's God.

In subsequent ages man's heart become subject to evil
passions, and his great source of comfort and of intelligence
was obscured by the appalling darkness of all evil, and
Paganism with its attendant degrading slavery succeeded to
the knowledge of the true God, and man was not far
removed from the beast of the forest.

In all ages, however, wc find that there were a few wise
and righteous men- who strove with all their power to stem
the mighty torrent of ignorance nnd of mentil and political
degradation. They had to contend against the mightiest for
evil, among the religious and civil institutions of their time
We find these wise men uniting in secret societies for the
acquisition of strength for the preservation. of a knowledge
of the true God, for the restoration of man to his original,
political and mental liberty and dignity of character. By
the blessings of God they were powerfully instrumental in
raising man to the high position in which we now find him.
We, as direct successors of those learned and philosophi-
cal societies, have a great work to do in the careful
preservation of the wisdom and virtues of those great and
learned founders of our ancient and honorable institution.

Mr will you please to tell us what you understand

by the term Vi'-tue ?

The candidate gives his views thereon.
Vex. M. — In the same manner as there is in the universe
a physical light which spreads its rays over the wonders of

cretition, in order that man may see, admire, and avail
himself of them, so is there in every man an inward and
intellectual light which difluses itself in his mind, and shows
him what he owes to God, to himself and to his fellow-
beings.

A continued and sincere obedience to that inward inspi-
ration is what we call Virtue, because it depends on us
either to exercise or to refuse that obedience, and we can
not lay claim to those divine qualities which distinguish
man from all created beings, without a judicious and active
exercise of rcnson in guiding us in our selection of good
from evil.

Virtue is, therefore, that energy and tendency of the
mind and feelings, which determines us in doing that which
is good, beautiful and true-

Mr, will you tell us what you understand by the

term Vic c-

Candidate. — Gives his views upon the subject.

Ven. M-^ — Vice in our estimation is the reverse of Virtue,
and results from a perverted judgment in the exercise of our
power of selection, and leads us to adopt the evil rather
than the good. We consider that man to be vicious, who
instead of obeying the inward light or inspiration, which
prompts him to all that is good, beautiful and true, gradually
falls into an inclination to abuse his sensual powers and
suppress his moral instinct without considering what is due
to God, to himself and to mankind. •

These three subjects, the ideas concerning God, Virtue
and Vice, are at the foundation of the purest philosophy,
comprise the whole of its moral teachings, and are suscep-
tible of infinite development.

We had briefly to examine them with you, as preparatory

to your initiation, for we can receive no one without being
well satisfied that his mind and heart are in a proper state
gradually to attain to a participation in our mysteries and
purposes. Know then the statutes and regulations of our
society.

1st., You will be bound to secrecy regarding all that you
may, at any time, see, hear and discover among us.

2d. It will be your duty to fraternize with all regular
Freemasons throughout the world, and to help, according
to the best of your knowledge and ability, all these among
them who may need your advice or services in consequence
of misfortune, sickness, persecution or other adversity.

3d. You will have to do all in your power to propagate
among your acquaintances and in the world at large, the
doctrines and principles of our Order, with a viev,- to con-
tribute to the Glory of the Grand Architect of the Universe,
and to secure the [jrogress of mankind in attaining to a
larger and safer liberty both in Religion and Politics.

4th. "Vou will have to obey not only the by-laws of this
Lodge, but also the general statutes of the Ancient and
Accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonry, and the general re-
gulations of the Supreme Council of that Rire in ;ind ftv
the Sovereign and Independent State of Louisiana.

Being now blindfolded you may hesitate in taking the
required obligations, but we may assure you that in no
particular will 3''ou find them at variance with your duties
and obligations as a good man, a gocd son, a good fiither. a
good brother, a good husband, a good friend, and a good
citizen. „,^

Are you roady to take the obligations?

Candiltae. — Yes.

Ven. M — {raps,) Rise, brethren, and unsheath your

swords and be witnesses of this solemu declaration.

Bro •. Expert, please lead Mr. to the altar. The

candidate will place his right hand upon the compasses and
book, .and will repeat after Ven.;. M,'., as follows :

Obligation. — In presence of the Grand Architect of the
Universe,, under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the
Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonry
in and for the Sovereign and Independent State of Louisiana,
and in presence of this assemblage of Frccmasors of the
same Rite, I, {surname and name,) of my own free will
and accord do solemnly, and on my word of honor, promise
always to hale and never to reveal any part of the secrets
and mysteries' of Freemasonry which may hereafter be
intrusted to mc, and never to speak of theim except to a
brother, or in a regularly constituted Lodge of the Rite ;
and I would rather have my throat cut across and my
tongue torn out by the roots, than to be untrue to this my
promise.

Ven. M. — God help you in preserving your promise in-
violate, and save you from that remorse of conscience
which invariably attends, a breach of honor and confidence.
The consequences of a violation of this obligation will
follov; you like a weird phantom of darkness to your life's
end.

Come up now, and partake of the cup from which we
have all ^Jrank on the day of our initiation, and have no
fears, for it is one of the most important and instructive
trials through which we have to pass.

The Ven.'. M-*. resmnes his seat- The Expert leads the
candidate to the throne, and makes him taste of the bitter
cup prepared for the occasion, and returns with him to a
seat behind the altar.

Ven. M. — This bitter draught is symbolical of disap-
pointments to which man is subject throughout his course of
life- However richly, endowed with mental and phj^sical
powers, disappointment surely awaits us, and we are op-
pressed by the overthrow of our most sanguine expectations.

The extremity of joy sometimes leads us to the abyss
of sorrow, and when we least expect it the most joyous
laughter will be turned to bitter tears. It behooves us then
to be at all times prepared to withstand disappointment
under whatever form it may appear.

You have now several voyages to «accomplish, are you
prepared ?

Candidate. — Yes,

Ven. M.-— Guide this candidate on his first voynge.

The Expert seizes the candidate by the left arm, and
with his right hand tukes him b}^ the unpe of his neck, and
makes him travel from South to East, from East to West
and from West to South, three times- Obstacles will be
frequently placed in his path, and the brethren will make a
noise, like carpenters at work, by hammering and poundino-.
At the conclusion of the voyage the Expert takes the
candidate to the 'id Surv.-., makes him rap with his rio-bt
hand, three times, upon the left shoulder of the 2d Surv.-.

The 2d Surv,-. places his left haiid upon the candidate's
right shoulder and strikes him slightly with his gavel upon
the bare breast, and says ;

2d Suiiv- — Who comes here ?

Expert — A candidate who w^ishes to be initiated in our
mysteries.

2d Surv. — By what right does he expect to attain that
favor ?

Expert — By being a man, free born, and under the

24 ^

tongue of good report- ■''

2(1 SuRV — Who is to answer for him ?

Expert. — I, his conductor.

2d SuRV. — It being so, let him pass.

The Expert conducts liim to his seat behind the altar.

2d SuRV. — Ven.*. M."., the first voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — Mr. what have you observed, heard and

felt during this voyage?

Candidate. — Answero as he deems proper.

Ven. M. — This voyage is indicative of the confusion
which prevails in men's mind on entering a new stage of
existence, or upon a new subject of thought and investiga-
tion. Such is the position of a candidate here- He is
entering anew world of thought, which will open up to him
scenes both strange and new ; unforeseen obstacles and
remarkable phenomena will beset man's first steps in every
new field of investigation, and his condition is likened to
that of man when first placed upon earth, alone and un-
assisted, he was left to grope his way amid the darkness of
the first night, his keen senses oppressed and overwhelmed
with the alarming phenomena which appeared on every
side. In this lone and dark condition his soul must have
longed for knowledge and for light, and the future must
have been for him a subject of exceeding anxiety. Your
position is intended to inculcate the weakness of man,
when alone and unassisted by light and knowledge
he can scarcely expect to surmount the obstacles, and to
progress Avithout recourse to that great source of light and
of knowledge, union and fellowship, Avith minds engaged
in the same pursuits- ^fivery step in knowledge gives us
glimpses of undiscovered fields, shows man his own
weakness, and brings him to a more patient and respectful

<• 25

consideration of the claims due to his fellow-beings.

You will now proceed upon your second voyage- Are
you ready ?

Candidate — Yes.

Ven. M. — Bro.-. Expert, please accompany Mr. on

his second voyage.

The Expert takes the candidate by his right arm, con-
ducts him around the Lodge, three times, from North to
East, from East to South, from South to West, and each
time he passes, he dips the candidate's left hand and arm
into a basin of cold water standing near the door and the
1st Surveillant.

The BB.-. present make a noise with their swords as if
engaged in combat or sword exercise.

At the conclusion of the voyage, the Expert causes the
candidate to rap three times with his right hand upon the left
shoulder of the 1st Surveillant. The 1st Surv.". places his
left hand upon the right shoulder of the candidate, striking
liim slightly upon the bare breast wath his gavel, and says:

1st SuRV — Who comes here ?

Expert — A candidate who wishes to be initiated in our
mysteries.

1st SuRV.-. — By what right does he expect to obtain
that favor ?

Expert — By being a man, free born, and iin(Jev the
tongue of good report

1st SuRv. — Who is to answer for him ?

Expert — I, his conductor. ^

1st SuRV. — It being so, let him pass.

Candidate resumes his position behind the altar .

Ist'SuRV. — Ven.-., the second voyage is agoo mplished.

26 ^

Vex. M — Mr Avhat have you observed, heard and

felt during this voyage ?

Candidate. — Answers as he thinks proper.

Ven. M — This voyage is a symbol of the contentions in
man's heart for the supremacy of the good and evil prin-
ciples, teaching him ihat the character of the predominating
principle within him is determined by his own will and
choice, each carrying with it its own immediate conse-
quences ; that good actions lead to cheerful content, and
that the prevalence of evil passions leads to bitter remorse.
Our Supreme Architect and Grand Master, knowing man's
weakness both in flesh and in spirit, and his tendency to
depart from the paths of rectitude, taught him that his
heart could bo purified from its unclcanness by sincere re-
pentance, and this idea is renewed and strengthened in our
minds by the symbol of water, in the manner you have
just experienced.

In the hands of the Almight}^, water has ever been an
instrument for effecting change in the physical condition of
the earth, the rolling surges of the sea, the rushing moun-
tain torrents, the gurgling brook, and the gentle shower, are
each effective in producing change. As the Summer
shower purifies the atmosphere and gives freshness and
renewed energy to animal and vegetable life, making all
nature rejoice in purity, so with the repentant tear over
the corruptions of man's heart, it restores him to purity
with his maker and with himself. Humanity is weak and
not always well prepared to withstand temptation; hence it
becomes us to extend an ample charity to the moral
and intellectual *weaHfesses of our brethren, whilst our
voices should be raised in stern denunciation of conduct,
unbecoming a true Scotch Freemason and a gentleman-

There is, perhaps, no truer saying than that a man is
known by the company he keeps. History and tradition
I teach us that the institution of Scotch Freemasonry has
ever been distinguished for its ennobling and chastening in-
fluence over the human heart- We conceive that a true
Freemasonic union is conducive to the highest degree of
strength in the moral and intellectual world. In union we
seek strength.

The two voyages which you have accomplished, are
called ; the first, the trial of Earth, the second, the trial of
Water. There now remains one other, called the trial of
Fire,

Are you ready to undertake it ?

Candidate. — Yes-

Ven. M. — Bro.'. Expert, please guide Mr through

the third voyage.

The Expert, standing on the left of the candidate, takes
him by the nape of his neck, conducts him around the
Lodge, three times, from North to West, to South and East.
Three brethren will be stationed, one at the North-east, one
at South-west, and one at the South-east with an apparatus
for flashing chiropodium or other inflamable substance, and
each time the candidate passes they will cause a flash before
his face. The apparatus is shaped somewhat like a tobacco
pipe, having a tube some four feet in length, and in the
bowl a taper is so placed that the seed may be blown up to
the flame-

When the candidate arrives for the last time at the East
the Expert will make him rap thr|l times with his right
hand upon the left shoulder of the Ven/. M--., w^ho taps
the candidate with his gavel on his bare breast, and says :

Ven, M, — Who comes here?

Expert. — A candidate who wishes to be initiated in our
mysteries.

Ven. M. — By what right does he expect to obtain that
favor ?

Expert — By being a man of mature age, free born, and
under the tongue of good report.

Ven. M — Who is to answer for him ?

Expert. — I, his conductor.

Yen. M. — It being so, let him pass.

Candidate resumes his place behind the altar, and the
1st Surv.*. gives a rap-
ist SuRV. — Ven.-. M--., the third voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — Mr, what have you observed, heard and

felt during this voyage ?

Candidate answers.

Ven. M. — In the Ancient Phylosophies, Fire was con-
sidered strikingly emblematic of life renewed, and was an
important symbol in the ancient mysteries- Jt being an
effective agent in resolving matter into its elements, sepa-
rating the pure from the worthless dross, so in the moral
and intellectual world, the power of resolving and separating
the pure from the impure, the good from the evil, has been
symbolized by fire. It has ever been the high aim of this
ancient institution to keep this fire burning fresh in man's
heart, that at the last day he may rise, like the fabled
Phoenix, pure part from the ashes of corruption. With the
Ancients, Earth, Water, Fire and Air were considered as
sacred elements, and candidates to mystic knowledge and
light were obliged to p^ss through trials of each- Succeed-
ing generations have, in a measure, modified those trials
and entirely omitted the trial of Air. The candidate
had to pass through long dark labyrinth, over dead men's

* 29 *

bones and other terrifying symbols of earth — this the irial
of Earth' He then arrived at an abyss of dark waters
resounding with the roar of mighty and unseen cataracts.
He had to sv/im across this abyss, and in this was the trial
of Water. Then suddenly appeared to the candidate .'i long
avenue of crackling, real flame, through whicli he had to
pass and this the trial of Fire-

The wise men of the East deemed these rigid tests of
• moral and physical strength to be essential to the advance-
ment of man in knowledge, and for admittance to the sacred
Rites and Ceremonies. The perversion of the true objects
of the institution of Freemasonry in the latter days, by
the adoption of the English Rite, wherein Masonry has
been made subservient to religious and political creeds,
calls for strong and determined men, who will rally around
the ancient landmarks, and rescue our venerable institution
from the innovations and corruptions of men, who for
ulterior purposes have divested the institution of almost
every trace of its ancient grandeur. Notwithstanding the
modifications Avhich have been introduced in the severity of
the trials to which candidates are subjected, we can safely
say that no consequent weakness has been observed in the
tie which binds the brotherhood in the Ancient and
Accepted Scotch Rite, nor has any diminution occurred in
their high sense of honor and of duty to God and man.

Invoking the names of those wise and great men, who
have given us the most perfect of human institutions, we
ask you if you are prepared to become their true disciple
in the defence of Truth, Liberty and Justice, even to the
exposure of your own libert;g,and life? •

Candidate — Yes,

Vbn. M. — Such being your resolution, you must give us

_ • 30

assurance of your determination in a m^iiner more cogent
than by mere words, even to the sealing of your averment
by your own blood. Are you ready?

Candidate — Yes.

Ven. M — From which part of your body shall blood be
drawn ?

Candidate answers.

Ven. M. — Our Bro.-. Surgeon, the sacrificer, will attend
that the operation be skillfully performed.

This trial should be omitted unless it can be performed
with skill. It is performed exactly' as a ^lurgeon prepares
his patient for bleeding, the object being to make the can-
didate believe that he has been bled, without drawing
blood. A cord is passed around the arm above the elbow,
and the vein raised full — A slight scratch conveys the idea
of a cut, and the (lowing of the blood must be imitated by
the trickling of water from a tube, close the supposed
wound.

Ven. M — This free shedding of 3''our blood is a symbol
of selfsacrjfice of individuol interests and considerations,
to the welfare and honor of the Fraternity, you arc about
entering, in sustaining the cause of truth and of justice, and
is indicative of tlie universality and intimacy of the tie
which binds all true Masons in the bonds of brotherhood.

Difference of nationality and Lingu.'ige has been no
barrier to a recognition of our brethren; for, our predeces-
sors established words and signs, which have been adopted
throughout the earth. At a later period cowans, eaves-
droppers and bad men have in part divulged some of our
secret moaes of recogiiition, sqj^hat a new and infaUible
sign had to be adopted- This sign will remain with you
throughout life, and be easily recognized by Freemasons in

• 31 ^

•:#
all places, and should you ever be untrue to your Masonic

vows, it will corrode clean to your heart and prove to be a
stigma rather than an honorable distinction. This hiero-
glyphic is indelibly impressed upim the candidate's left breast
with a hot iron, without inflicting a serious wound. Are
you ready to receive this honorable mark of distinction?

Candidate. — Yes.

Ven. M. — Bro.'. Sacrificer, please exercise your skill
and care.

The trial of the mark must be conducted with skill. A
pan of burning coals will be brought near the candidate, and
a brother will imitate the heating of a branding iron. The
Expert will take a burning candle, extinguish the flame,
and immediately press the heated wick end upon the can-
didate's breast as in the act of branding.

Ven. M — The method of teaching by s3^mbols is very
ancient, and has received the sanction of the wisest and
best men. The symbols we have given you, arc full of
instruction, and we have deemed it proper to allude to them
only in general terms, merely designing to introduce you to
a new field of stud}^ and of thought, believing that you
will find your advantage iu giving heed thereto.

The institution of Freemasonry has ever been the deposi-
tory of liberal principles in regard to matters of govern-
ment and of rohgion, and a staunch advocate of the rights
and liberties of the people. It has, hence, occurred that it
has frequently come in conflict with despotic government
and with autocratic priestcraft, and has been unscrupulously
persecuted by them- Even at this, day it is viewed with
great disfavor by those p(|^ers as interfering with what
they arc pleased to call their divine prerogatives.

We, in the United States of America, are not exempt

from the specious presumptions of despotism, and it be-
hooves us to preserve untarnished the armor of our
ancestors, that by the strength of our union we may the
better defend the liberties of the people.

Wc now pass to another of our most important obliga-
tions, that of Charity.

Ancient and Accepted Scotcli Masonry has no ambition
to be considered a charllahle institufim in the modern
acceptation of that term. In that regard we are widely
different from those secret associations whose claim to
public consideration is in the assistance they render to the
unfortunate poor. However laudable alms giving may be,
we are not prepared to accept it with them as a full and
complete exercise of all our duties as conveyed in the
word Charity.

Alms giving is not the full scope of Charity as taught in
the old Freemasonic schools of Philosophy. The greatest
of the divine virtues given to man is Charity. It is that
great vital principle of Fraternity, of Equality, and of
Liberty which prompts a man to love his neighbor as him-
self— It is humble, retiring, hath I'.o shadow of envy,
hatred, or malice — it is that love to mankind which prompts
us to rush to the rescue of our brethren in adversity as
well as to rejoice with them in their prosperity. In brief,
this is the substance of all our teachings, and all else is but
subsidiary.

Bro.-. Expert, please conduct the candidate through the
dark vault. Explain to him its secrets, and take him to
the place where you first received him.

The Expert takes him out and causes him to walk about,
until called for the ceremonies of St- John the Baptist's
head.

^ 83 ^

table with its platter, ax, and linen will be placed
near the door. All lights extinguished except from the
three tripods, arranged triangularly around the table- A
brother Avill be placed under the table so that his head
«llone will appear above. The platter is made so as to fit
around the neck. By inclining the head to one side, and
giving the face a cadaverous appearance with powder or
flour and by a proper adjustment of bloody linen, a perfect
resemblance of a decapited head may be given. All the
brethren present will arrange themselves in a semi-circle
about the table facing the door, with swords presented.
When the arrangements are completed, the candidate will
be introduced, the spirits of wine in the tripods lighted, the
swords pointing towards him. • The Ven.*. M--., standing by
the head, gives three raps with his gavel in such a manner
that the Expert may let the bandage drop from the candi-
date's eyes at the last rap.

Ven. M — This, indeed, is a sad sight ! However horrible
it may appear, let no fears arise in your mint). The scene
is in commemoration of the awful death of an honest man,
John the Baptist, who preferred the torments of a dun-
geon, even an ignominious death, beheading, rather than
betray Honor, Justice and Virtue- The records and tradi-
tions of the past give no intimation that John the Baptist
was a Mason. The anniversary of his death occurring in
the same day as an Ancient Masonic festival held in com-
memoration of an astronomical period, led to the comming-
ling of the two.

The remarkable character of the man and of his mission
as the Forerunner of the Great Teacher of Fraternity, of
Equality, and of Liberty, and his adoption of a mystic
ceremony as a prerequisite to initiation, to Christianity, and

his honorable self-sacrifice to truth, made his character and
his name preefninenlly worthy of commemoration by Free-
masons. His life and death furnish us with a most re-
markable instance of fidelity to honor and to truth, and
his memorable example will be cherished by Mason»
throughout all times-

13ro.' Expert, you will please let the candidate resume
his clothing and conduct him blindfolded into the Temple-
(The Expert blindfolds him again and leads him out. The
Lodge will now be put in order. The implements used in
the trials placed out of sight. When called to order" the
candidate will be brought in.)

Ven. M. — (raps,) BB.*, let us rise and unsheath our
swords.

Bro". 1st Surv--., you have been a witness of the firm-
ness, patience, and attention with which this candidate has
passed through the many trials, to which he has been sub-
jected in accordance with the customs of this Ancient
Fraternity, and the will of this Lodge. Do you think him
worthy of being received among us ?

1st SuRV. — I think he is.

Ven. jM. — (raps,) what do you ask for him ?

•1st SuRV — Light.

Ven. M — ^(raps,) What do you ask for him ?

1st 8urv — Light.

Ven. M. — (raps,) What do you ask for him ?

1st SuRV. — Light, and great light.

Ven. M. — Let there be light-

The Expert lets the bandage drop suddenly from his
eyes. The BB.-. present extend the points of their swords
towards him in sign of protection-

Ven. M. — Fear not those swords, they are in the hands

♦ 86 •

of friends, devoted brethren who with the vast army qi
Freemasons scattered over the earth, extend to you the
hand of protection, of assistance, and of love.

Bro,'. M'- C*., please conduct our new friend to the
►altar, and we will constitute Ihim App.*. Freemason, and an
active member of this Respectable Lodge-

The Ven/. M-". goes to the altar, extends his sword over
the candidate's head, holding a gavel in his right hand, and
says :

" To the Glory of the Grand Architect of the Universe,
under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the 33d
Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite in and
for the Sovereign and Independent State of Louisiana, and
by virtue of the powers on me conferred by this R.*. Lodge,
(name and number,) of the same Rite, I do hereby make
and constitute you an Apprentice Freemason and an active
member of this Lodge." ^

The Ven.'. M/. gives, then, three raps with his gavel
upon the blade of his sword, shakes hands with the candi-
date, and resumes his place in the East.

Ven. M. — Bro--. M. •• C'., please conduct our new
brother to the East for instruction.

The M--. C-'. gives him a seat near the Secretary to the
right of the throne. The Ven.-. M.'. approaches him and
addresses him thus :

Ven. M. — As before remarked, time will permit us to
give you only a general idea of the subjects ofl'ered for the
study of the Entered Apprentice- On future occasions you
will have them more fully illustrated, and be better prepared
to understand.

.When you were taking your obligations, your right hand
wa6 resting upon compasses.

_ 36

As in the hands of the Architect, th^ compasses enable
hiai to give those accurate proportions, which give beauty
and stabihty to his work, so here is it an important and
striking symbol of that even tenor of deportment and that
true standard of rectitude, which should distinguish every
Freemason. " It is ordained in the eternal constitution of
things, that men of intemperate passions can not be free;
they forge their own fetters."' The compasses instruct us
in the duty we owe to ourselves, teaching us so to circum-
scribe our passions and restrain our desires, that we may
present a character just in all its ] roportions, marked for
its beauty and stability. They are to us as the sun, giving
us light to govern and guide ourselves

This room with its appointments is a symbtd of the
universality of Masonry, is called a Lodge and represents the
world. Here we have the illuminated East, the North-West
and South being in darker colors.

The ceiling represents the celestial canopy.
Our Lodge is the world, signifying that in every clime
the Mason ma}^ find a home, and in ever}' land a brother.
We now invest you with the badge of an Entered
Apprentice Mason. When you enter a Lodge, wear this
white apron thus — (The Ven-'. M/. ties the apron around
the Apprentice's loins, turning up the flaps on the right
side.) The whiteness of its color admonishes us to pre-
serve that blameless Purity of life and conduct which alone
can enable us to present ourselves in the consciousness of
Purity before the Grand Master of the Universe.

The Ven.*. M/. then presents liim with a twenty-four
inch gauge and g, gavel, and says :

We now present you with the working tools of the En-
tered Apprentices-

This gauge is divided into twenty-four equal parts
emblematic of the «iivisions of the day into twenty-four
hours, which being embraced in three equal parts, gives
eight hours from Kast to West for labor, eight hours from
South to West for the service of God and our worthy
BB.'., and eight hours from West to East for meditation
and rest.

The gavel, you are aware, is used with the gauge for
adapting and preparing materials to the builders use ; so they
admonish the Entered Apprentice to prepare his minrlfor
the reception of the great truths which are hereafter to be
unfolded to him, to lay the corner stone and foundation of
his character in Virtue and Parity, that the superstructure
may be alike honorable to himself and to the Fraternity.

When you wish to enter a Lodge, you will rap at the
door thus, (shows him.) On being admitted, you will in
advancing to the altar make three steps, each describing a
square thus, (shows him,) you will then exhibit the sign,
(shows him.) first to the East, then to Ihe West, then to
the South, and take a seat under the column designated
B. Explains the initial B, gives him the Sacred Word and
the manner of communicating it, and finally the grip and
battery.

Bro,\ C.*,, please conduct Bro.-., (name,) to the West
that the 1st Surv.-. may examine him upon the secret
instructions which we have given him.

The 1st Surv.*. examines him with regarlto rapping at
the door, the step, sign, word and battery.

1st SuRY — Ven.*. M.*., his instructions are correct.

Ven- M. — Bro.*. M.*. C"-, ycu will officially proclaim the

initiation of Mr, (name.) to the first degree, as an

Entered Apprentice, and an active member of (name of

Lodge and uuml cr.) of the AncietftandAcceptod Scotch Rite.
invitiiiL' tlic Fraternity t<i receive him accerdingly.

M.-. C/. ti\kes his position on the step, in the East,
holding his sword in his right hand, fore arm extended
horizontally, sword vertical, point np.

I do hereby proclaim that i\Ir. , iiame.) has been

(July initiated to the first degree of the Ancient and Ac-
cepted Scotch Ilitc, and legally constituted an Entered
Apprentice and an active member o(, (Lodge, name and
number,) and he will be received and honored accordingly.

Ven. M. — 1st and 2d Surv.*., please announce to the
BB/. on your respective cohr.nns that our Bro,". Orator will
now favor us with a work in Freem.isonic Architecture.

Lecture on the First Degree of Scotcli Free masonry

Q. — 13ro..- 1st Survoillaiit, wlmt is the tie hy which wo are united?

A. — Freemasonry

Q. — ^Miat is Freemasonry "f

A. — Frcemasonr}^ iseniiuently a philusopliioal Institution, I'lubracinu;
within its scope the preservation of social, p )litic.il an J ro!ii^ious liberty,
and generally, all subjects appertaininii; to the wclfan; of nnn, as an
intellectual and social beiuLr

Q — Are you a Freemason 'i*

A. — My brothers recogize nic as such.

Q. — To what Kite do you belong ?

A. — To the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite.

Q. — What do you understand by Rite /

A. — I understand by thu word Uito, one of tlio diif.M-cnt fir ns tlirou;,'h
which Freemasonry is worked.

Q. — What do you understand by Scotcli ?

A. — This word merely indicates that a Freemason, Ramsey by name,
journeyed from Scotland to Franco, where ho worked several degrees of
our Rite, aud Freemasonry in order to honor him, called Uu^se degrees,

Scotch degrees or Scotob. Freemasonry.

Q. — What do you understand by Ancient?

A. — I mean that our Rite, tliough divided into thirty-three degrees at
a modern period, may be traced back to the remotest antiquit}'', as far its
doctrines are concerned.

Q- — What do you understand by Accepted ?

A. — I mean that all Freemasons, seeking in Freemasonry the triumph
of Fraternity, Equality and Liberty among their fellow-beings, must
accept and work our Rite, which is, in all its degrees, the illustration of
the principles contained in these three words.

Q. — Why do you come in this Lodge ?

A. — I come to learn my rights and my duties as man, as citizen and
mason

Q. — Where have you been received Freemason ?

A. — In the bosom of a just and perfect Lodge.

Q. — What is required to have a just and perfect Lodge?

A. — It is governed by three, lighted by five, and made just and perfect
by seven.

Q. — Who arc the three ?

A. — The Yen,-'. M. •. and the two Surveillants.

Q. — Who are^thc five ?

A. — The Yen.-. 31.-., the two Surv. •., the Orator and the Secretary,
who are called the five lights of the Lodge.

Q. — Who are tlie seven ?

A. — The five first officers and the active members of tlie Lodge.

Q, — How long have you been a Freemason ?

A. — Since I received the light.

Q. — How shall I know you to be a Mason ?

A. — By certain signs, by a word and by a grip.

Q — What are the signs ?

A. — All right angles, horizontally and perpendicularly.

Q. — Give me the sign.

A. — (The sign is given )

Q. — What does it mean ?

A. — That I should prefer to have my throat cut than ever betray the
cause of Frcomasonr}-, and to fail in the promises I have solemnly made
in presence of my brethren.

Q. — Give the grip to M.-. Expert.

A. — (lie gives the grip to 3J.-. Expert wlio, bciiie satisliod says : The
grip is just and jperfcct. )

Q. — Give nic the word.

A. — Yen.-. 31.-., I do not know, being only an Apprentice Mason, how
to read, how to write. All that I know is how to spell. Give lue the
first letter and I will give you the second.

Q. — Spell it and begin.

A. — (The word is then spelled.)

Q. — What is the form of a Lodge?

A. — An oblong square.

Q. — How long? •

A. — From East t > West.

Q. — How wide /

A. — Between North and South.

C).— How high ?

A. — From the surface of the earth to the highest heaven.'^.

Q. — How deep ?

A. — From the surface to the center.

Q. — What do these dimensions mean ?

A. — They arc symbols to indicate that Freemasonry being an universal
institution, ought to be worked in all countries of the world.

Q. — What do you mean by the word Lodge ? •

A. — The Lodge is a secret place where Freemasons meet to perfect

their works.

Q — Why do Freemasons meet in a secret place ?

A. — In order not to bo disturbed by the enemies of Fraternity,
Equality and Liberty, and to better afcnni])lisli the great work of
Freemasonry.

Q — What supports your Lodge ?

A. — Three large columns or pillars.

Q. — What are their names ?

A. — Wisdom, Strength and Beauty.

Q.— Why so ?

A. — It is necessary there should bo Wisdom to contrive. Strength to
support, and Beauty to adorn all great and important undertakings, but
more especially this of oars.

Q. — How were you introduced into the Lodge when you were initiated?

A. — By three great and distinct knocks at the door.

Q. — What do those three distinct knocks mean ?

A. — " Ask and it shall be given, seek and ye shall find, knock and it
shall be opened unto you."

Q. — Did ycu receive what you asked ?

A, — I have received the Masonic light, which I asked.

Q. — Did you find what you sought ?

A.— I have found a society of Free men, who are now my brothers,
and who promised me help and assistance during the course of my life.

Q. — Did they open unto you ?

A. — They have opened the doors of a temple where lies the Mason's
secret which it is the duty of all Apprentice Masons to deserve.

Q. — Do you know that secret ?

A. — As Apprentice Mason, no. I have to ascend the last degree of
Scotch Free Masonrj^, wliich is the thirtieth, and all that time I have to
study with energy and perseverance.

Q. — Plow was you disposed of, after your introduction in this Temple.

H. — I was submitted to several physical and moral trials, and having
sustained them to the satisfaction of Freemasons present, I was const ituted
Apprentice Mason.

Q. — Where does an Appprentice Mason sit in the Temple ?

A. — In the North.

Q.-Why ?

A. — Because the darkest part of the world being symbolically repre-
sented by the North, the Apprentice Mason sit temporarily there, with
the hope of receiving more light in the mysteries and secrets of Free-
masonry.

Q. — Where does our Bro.-. 2d Surv.". sit in the Temple ?

A.— In the South, Vcn.-. M.-.

Q. — What are his duties in the South ?

A. — To assist our BB.-. in preserving a remembrance of the impres-
sions and sensations of the first of mankind, when he saw the sun in all
its glory pass the meridian of the celestial canopy, and thereby learned to
divide the day and its occupations.

Q. — Where does our Bro. •. 1st Surv.-. sit in the Temple ?

A.— In the West, Vcn.-. M.-.

Q. — What arc his duties in the West?

A* — To assist our BB.-. in preserving a remembrance of the impres-
sions and sensations which our First Parent must have experienced when
he saw the 6\in descending below the western horizon, illumining the sky
with golden drapery, succeeded by twilight and the obscurity of darkness
when all animated nature seeks repose, thereby learning of God's design
in giving us a period for meditation and rest.

Q. — Where does the Yen.-. M.-. sit in the Temple?

A. — In the East, Ven.-. M.-.

Q. — "^hat are his duties there ?

A. — To instruct our Fraternity in preserving a remembrance of the
divine instruction « given to our First Parent when be saw the sun appear
again in the East, teaching him the importance of measuring time and of
improving it with useful works and secrecy. »

Q, — What is your age as an Apprentice Mason?

A. — Three years.

■•'^Jl^

SECOND DEGREE,

OPENING OF THE LODGE.

The Lodge must be opened in the First Degree, and then
in the Seoond. The opening of the Second Degree is con-
ducted in the same manner as the First, with the exception
of the Sign and Battery.

When apprentices are to be initiated to this degree, the
introductory ceremonies are the same as in the First Degree;
such as the introductiou of visitors, announcement of the
object of the meeting, etc.

PREPERATION FOR INITIATION.

Upon a table, standing between the altar and the door,
the following named instruments will be symmetrically
arranged :

One twmty-four inch Guage; One Mallet;
One pair of Compasses; One Chisel;

One common flat Ruler; , One Ruler;

One Trestle or tracing Board; One Square;
One Plumb Line; One Lever;

And one Trowel.
The candidate must be divested of coat, vest and cravat,
wearing slippers instead of shoes, and have a cord passed

three times around his loins, w'lih a knot in front, the two
ends of the rope hanging to the ground; the apron worn as
in the App.*, Degree ; he will carry a common ruler upon
his right shoulder.

INITIATION.

Ven. M. — Bro,- M.'. C.-., please inform our Bro.-. Expert
that we are ready to proceed.

{The apprentice gives the rap of his degree at the door.
The Inside Sentinel looks out at the xuicliet, and iiiforms
the 1st Surveillant that there is an App: . at the door.)

1st SuRV — {Iiaps.)Y'\ M.-., there is an App/. rapping
at the door.

Ven. M. — What are his wishes ?

1st SuRV. — (Enquires a?ul sa/js: — The apprentice is in
charge of our Bro.-. Expert, and sa3's that he has served
his full time and wishes to be passed to the Fellow Craft
Degree.

Ven. M — What is his name? — His status? — His Masonic
age ? — How does he expect to be passed to the fellow craft
degree ?

Bro. Expert. — (Through the wickei. )Beciiuse he has
served his full time as an App.*. with honor to himself and
to his profession, and begirs a good character for honor and
probity with us and in the world.

Ven. M. — It being so, let him enter.

The Expert conducts him to the front of the table, where
he gives the App.-. sign and remains standing.

The Ven.-. M.-. interrogates him on the First Degree as

far as he deems proper, and proceeds with

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.

The Degree to which you are now about to be passed is
particularly to scientific investigations; and as the lessons
in the 1st Deg.-. were principally directed to the moral
culture of the heart, so here our attention is called to the
development of the mind by an examination and prolonged
study of the invariable truths of science, whereby we are
enabled to contemplate with reverence and admiration the
glorious works of creation, and attain to clear ideas of the
perfections and infinite Wisdom of the Grand Architect of
the Universe- In the earlier periods, learning was for the
most part confined to the Magi, Druids, and Priests of
Egypt, who lived in lonely habitations and in caverns, and
devoted themselves to the study of sciences, and attained
to great reputation also for purity of morals and knowledge
of the science of government.

They communicate their knowledge only to the initiated,
and by the use of symbols, unintelligible to all who had not
received the sacred rites. Ignorance brooded over the land
like the darkness of night, and could only be dissipated by
the gradual diffusion of light in the minds prepared to
receive it The period of probation for an apprentice was
rarely less than three years, during which period he was
expected to preserve a clear and unblemished character,
and to have devoted himself assidut)usly to the learning of
his degree- As knowledge became more generally dissem-
inated, this period has been greatly abridged, and is now
limited only by the progress he has made in his masonic
instructions.

We are pleased to notice in the present instance the

unanimit}' which prevails regarding your advancement to a
higher degree. I'ou will have noticed that iu the appren-
tice's degree the candidate has three voyages to perform,
corresponding to the age he must attain in that degree.
So here you will have five voyages to accomplish, indicative
of the age 30U must attain in this, before being raised to
the Master's Degree.

You will now^commence your voyages.

Bro.-. Expert, you will please conduct our Bro. •. App.*
on his first voyage.

Candidate has a Mallet in his right hand, Chisel in his
left hand, passes once around in the dircciion Xorth, East,
South and West, keeping the altar to the right. On reach-
ing his position he will use the chisel and mallet upon the
rough stone or Ashlar, and then pass the chisel slightly over
the smooth or perfect Ashlar.

1st SuRV — Ven.-. M.*.."the first voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — Wo will resume the history of Man's progre?,-
sion in knowledge, at the point wheie wc closed in the First
Degree.

The wonderful structure of the human body combines
every element of physical knowledge, and man's first lessons
in the sciences were combined and wonderfully divfded from
an examination of his organization, uncjuestionably the
perfection of infinite wisdom. In the right hand, when
clenched, he saw a powerful instrument for persuasion, the
Mallet furnished him by his Creator, — and his left hand, he
saw designed for the skillful management, arrangement and
adjustment of the object submitted to the action of the right,
and here he has the Chisel. Hence, the mallet is a symbol
of the strcnth of the right hand, and the chisel of the
skill of the left. The human intellect had now made its

first step in progressive knowledge, in tracing cause and
effect. Man saw that his hands were not acted upon by
involuntary muscles — that they were the instruments of a
mighty power within him- Hence, the adoption of the
mallet as a proper symbol of will, and the chisel of
discretion.

Man now discovered that there was a principle within
him Avhich placed him superior to all animated creation, and
that all was created subject to him and for his use ; he had
an intuitive knowledge that this principle closely allied him
to an infinite creation. To an extent he had the power of
creating; he could give new and varied forms, could invent
and could imitate, and his hands could give semblance to
his ideas. No other created being possessed this power ^
As the hands were the instruments of this infinite principle,
the Mallet has been selected also as a Symbol of the Infinite
and the Chisel of Variety.

Knowledge and instruction having been retained and
communicated by the Ancients in symbolic language, we can
only attain to a correct translation, and to a literal reading,
by reverting to the circumstances surrounding man at that
period, and we are surprised on discovering that these
opinions which seem to be the result of an elaborate study
of man, and to belong to a far advanced philosophy, must
have been coeval with man's earliest instructions from the
great book of nature. At that period the progress of mind
was free, and could pursue its onward course unobstructed .
in the progress of ages, formidable obstacles have arisen
and mind has to contend with error and prejudice in its
search for light, and is now strengthened, and pleased to
trace truth back through the obscurity which has sur-
rounded it, to the period when man's readings of nature

were illuminated by the pure light from above.

Ven. M. — Bro.-. Expert, you will proceed on the second
vo^'agc with our Bro.-. App.-.

The Ruler in his left hand, the Compasses in his right hand.
Travels in the same direction as in the first voyage, keeping
the altar at right hand, and at conclusion of the vovage will
lay down his implements and imitate the tracing upon the
Trestle Board of a horizontal and vertical line, by placing
the left hand Hat upon the board, fingers vertical and
thumb horizontal; and then describe a circle with the
vertex of the angle as a centre, by placing the thumb of the
right hand at the vertex and with the index finger describe
a circumference about the angle.

1st SuRV. — Ven.". M.*., the second voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — The mechanical organization of the hand evi-
dently furnished man with his first ideas of the pependicu-
lar, and the right angle and the right line, a very valuable
and suggestive thought in the initiatory stage of science, as
forming the first step to man's progress in all knowledge, to
the infinite in wisdom and knowledge; hence, the line and per-
pendicular may be considered the initial point or unit of all
science or knowledge, the beauty and perfection of every
mechanical structure depends primarily upon the accuracy
of its lines and perpendiculars. The line conveys the ideas
of unlimited extent, leading to the Infinite. The compasses
on the contrary convey the idea of limited extent, or of the
Finite; and tlie circumference in connection with the right
line leads to ideas which connect the Infinite with the Finite,
furnishing thought and incentive to mechanical industr}»-

The Compasses are indicative of the boundaries set to
human powers, encompassing the finite with the infinite,
showing man that the extent of his powers in comparison

with the All-Powerful, is but as n drop to the waters of the
vast deep, with the satisfying assurance that the limits to
his powers will be enla^'ged, at each step in his progress,
constantly developing objects and truths of manifold variety
and interest, leading him step by step to a clearer and more
intimate knowledge and perception of the laws governing the
Universe, and the attributes of a Divine Intelligence. The
restraining influence which preserves the relationship of each
point in the circumference to the centre, is the clear perception
of truth from error, restraining man within the bounds of
reason and sense, preserving him from those visionary
flights after a knowledge which may be above that which is
written.

Ven. M- — Bro-'. Expert, you will proceed on the third
voyage.

The Ruler in his left hand, the Lever in his right hand.

Travels in the same direction, and at the conclusion of
the voyage, lays down his implements, and with his right
hand lifts a small stone, and then u€es the Lever in moving
a large one.

1st SuRV. — Yen.'. M.-., the third voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — Man found the perfect Lever represented in his
fore arm and elbow, and as the necessity arose for moving
masses, his inventive powers were only exercised to bring
an application to the assistance of his powers; hence, arose
the several varieties of that most valuable of the elementary
mechanical principles, the Lever. The intelligence required
in adjusting the fulcrum and arms of the Lever, so as to pro-
duce the maximum effect, renders the Lever an exceedingly
appropriate symbol of weakness made strenth by intellect,
or of the power of mind over matter.

You have also the Ruler in company with the Lever, by

way of indicating the necessity of subjecting physical force to
the operations and control of mind, as well in the exercise of
bodily strength as in tlic adaptation of the mechanical
powers to the production of the perfect machine.

Great power comes to naught, or is only productive of
evil, unless guided and governed by superior wisdom. Man
finds himself surrounded by animal powers of various
degrees, all subject to his will, many possessing a physical
force far superior to his own, demanding at his hands the
exercise of judgment and of mercy. So, in the relations of
man to man, where no subjection is ordained, we owe a
respectful consideration to the right of the lowh^ as to the
most exalted. The history of the institution of Freemasonry
furnishes many notable instances, and has generally been
remarkable for the result of his teachings in this regard.

Deference to the rights of others has ever been her
happiest theme, repelling upon all proper occasions tlio
brutal principle, that rigJit obtains from might.

Bro.". Expert, please accompany our App.-. on his fourth
voyage-

The Square in his right, and the Ruler in his left hand.

Travels in the same direction, and on his return the
Apprentice will lay his right hand flat upon the Trestle
board, so that his thumb and index finger may form a right
angle.

IstSuRv. — Ven.'. M,'., the fourth voyage is accomplished.

Ven. M. — In man's first mechanical efforts he was fur-
nished with the " Square" or right angle, by extending the
thumb and fore or index finger. In the progress of his
structures he found this a:igle to be of first importance to
the stability, beauty, and regularity of his works, and that
beauty and stability were the invariable attendants upon

regularity. Hence, the square became his most indispen-
sable instrument, and with the ruler in his left hand and
the square in his right, he had regularity as the primary
distinguishing characteristics of intelligence plainly sym-
bolized.

The Universe with its myriads of worlds and harmony
of motion, the wonderful organization of the vegetable and
animal creation, even to the most insignificant of the
species, gave unmistakable evidence that order and regu-
larity were essential and evident characteristics of Infinite
Intellisrence. Man found a comfortable assurance of his

relationship to the Grand Architect of the Universe, in
that, Order was an elemental principle of Intelligence and
of Beauty with him as with his Creator,

As we progress in the knowledge of man, of his physical
and mental organization, the more clearly do we perceive
the close alliance' between him and the all wise, and come
to view him as a living, breathing, tangible representative
of that universal force from which issue life, motion, and all
created things.

Bro.*, Expert, you will proceed with our brother upon
his fifth and last voyage.

Without implements he travels in the same direction and
resumes his position in silence-

■ 1st SuRv. — Ven.*. M.-., the fifth voysige has been pro-
perly performed.

Ven, M, — In this voyage, we have man divested of all
implements, and he is here more particularly called to an
examination of himself and of the functions pertaining to
his physical and mental organization. Man soon discovered
that progress and constant change was indelibly stamped
upon all things surrounding him, and that progress to

52 V

maturity and to decay wevQ governed by invariable and
immutable laws. In the vegetable world he saw the
higher perfections of maturity attained only by cultivation,
and that the fertile earth gave forth of the abundance of
her increase, save when called for by the labor of man ;
also in the animals given for man s domestication and use,
his cultivation and care was necessary to the development
of their highest benefits. Without work the wealth of the
earth lay dormant at his feet, and the animal and vegetable
productions retroceded to their imperfect, unfruitful condi-
tion. So with man, change marks the every moment of
his existence; there is no resting point for him until he
lays himself down for the last great change, and it is only
by constant work and cultivation of his mental and physi-
cal faculties that he can reach the perfection of maturity
and make the decline of his life, like the descending sun,
more and more resplendent to its passing away. As the
plant, in the absence of cultivation and of work, man
rapidly relapses into a state of barbarism, approaching
nearer and nearer to the wild beasts of the forest.

The responsibilities and obligations of man's free agency
devolved upon him as soon as he discovered these laws; ho
saw the road plain before him and the consequences of a
departure from it. TIence, man Ibund an abundant and
fruitful study in the great and ever present book of nature
pointing with unerring linger to the duties he owed to
himself.

In truth, such is the object and purport of all the in-
struction conveyed in tliis degree, directing man to a cor-
rect and intelligent reading from nature of the laws
appertaing to his welfare-

You may remember that at your first step into this

symbolic world your attention was called to several
interrogatories; — 1st. What docs man owe to his fellow-
beings? The tenor of the lessons in the first degree. 2d.
What docs man owe to himself? — and here we have the
subject of the second degree. There were others. They
are indicative of man's progress in knowledge, of his
duties as a man, and of the instruction and train of ideas
appertaining to each degree as established in the earlier
and purer days of the institution, ere the sacriligious hands .
of bad men had perverted it to selfish, religious and
political ends.

As you progress in your Masonic readings, you will
observe that in the Rite vvdiich comes to us from England,
commonly called the York or English Rite, the lectures and
teachings in the Fellow Craft degree is a compendium or
dictionary of scientific terms, giving brief and not very
ititelligiblc definitions of the Mosaic records of the crea-
tion^ of the use of artificial globes, of the orders of
Architecture, of the human senses, of Grammar, Rhetoric,
Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and Astronomy, em-
bracing the discoveries made in the branches named to the
present day. In Scotch Freemasonry we deem these
scientific investigations as foreign to the subject matter of
the 2d Degree, and a wide departure from Ancient usages.

Science, as it now stands in its various departments, is
the result of progress in civiHzation, was unknown to the
Ancients and can not, therefore, be properly embraced in
what is called Ancient Craft Masonrj'. The progress of
civilization, the arts and sciences pertain to quite a diiferent
order of ideas and form the subject matter of more recent
and higher degrees in the Scotch Rite, where fall and
minute investigations are properly instituted regarding the

bearings of recent improvements and discoveries upon the
welfare and advancement of man in his progress after a
knowledge of the good, the bqaiitifiil and the true.

In the Fellow Craft or second degree we conform with
the utmost of strictness to the ideas properly appertaining
to it, and scrupulously follow the work as observed in the
Ancient Institution, We deem it more strictly ^Masonic as
being ground upon which men, of every nation and creed,
can stand in the union and fellowship of a happy
Fraternity.

Man is here called to an examination of himself that he
may attain to a proper estimate of his own position and
progress; is shown what he is by the will and dispensation
of his Maker, giving him a correct and rational view of
himself, of his rights, and of his duties so that he may be
the better prepared to withstand the temptations to de-
viate from the path which leads to honor, to happiness, and
to truth as traced for him by his All Wise and Beneficent
Father.

The Bro.-. Expert will conduct our brother to the East
for our further instruction.

The Expert will let the candidate ascend the steps to
the East and stand by the balustrade near to tlie Secretary.

Ven. M. — We have seen that the exterior world is as
a great book, giving us intelligible and truthful readings of
nature's laws, leading us to look through [nature up to
nature's God. Look about you.

The Lodge is a symbol of the Avorld, extending from East
to West, from North to South, from the depths of the earth
to the celestial heavens. In the East, the rising Sun, the
great source of light and heat, shines in the Lodge as the
unwearied ruler and guide of our working hours, the sym-

bol of bis Creator's power and watchful care, while the
Moon, the resplendent orb of night with her attendant
stars, reflects the greater glories of divine munificence, dif-
fusing light and harmony in our pathway to Truth, Liberty
and Fraternity. .

The Union Cord with Love Knots, which runs around the
Lodge upon the Architrave, is indicative of the mystic tie
which unites us as brethren in the bonds of a happy
Fraternity, telling of full generous love to fellow-men.

The Mosaic Pavement, bordered by the indented tessel
is the emblem of the thousand events and accidents with
which the frame of our time on earth is filled and as it
were chequered, while the richly adorned tesselated border
represents the many blessings which surround us- In its
center we have the '• Blazing Star" within the equilateral
triangle. The* infinite intelligence overlooking the che-
quered and variegated scenes of human life- The Finite as
coming from and existing in the Infmite.

The Plumb and Level are constant, giving no shadows
of deviation, subject to no deflection by extraneous causes.
Hence the Plumb has ever been deemed a proper represen-
tation of the man who by an undeviating observance of the
precepts of equity, is "in conscious virtue bold" and can
stand undaunted, erect, before God nnd man.

The Level is an emblem of Equality, telling us of rights
and duties, of pleasures and pains, appertaining alike to all
of woman born.

The Trowel, as an instrument, evidently had its origin
in the use which man made of the palm of his hand in
smoothing the surface of his work in soft materials and has
been adopted as an emblem of forgiveness, teaching us so
to overlook the asperities, defects, and short cominffs of

our brethren, that we may dwell together in unity. A
patient forbearance of what appear to us as weakness in
our brother, is essential to harmony in our mystic brother-
hood.

You entered with the Twenty-four InchGuage, a working
tool of the App.". Mas-'., with which you are familiar.

The Rough Ashlar, an unwrought stone, is emblematic
of man in his uucultivatel state; and the Perfect Ashlar, or
wrought stone, is emblematic of man in his more perfect
state, when his mind and his passions have been cultivated
and subdued by education.

The Three Lights around the altar indicate the points
which naturally passed from work to rest, morning, midday
and evening, following the march of the Grand Luminary
which guides us during our daily labor.

The Trestle or Tracing board, is the embleiti of reflection^
The wise man will have his plans carefully designed before
engaging in any important work. As every feature in the
exterior world conveys its lessons of truth, so in this sym-
bolic world — the Lodge — words of wisdom are associated with
each and every object, however simple, taking us back to
that purer source of light, the fountain of all wisdom, the
wondrous works of the Grand Architect of the Universe.

You will now take the obligations required of a Fellow
Craft.

Are you ready ?

Candidate — Yes.

Ven. M. — 13ro '. M.-. C.-., you will please take the can-
didate in charge, and conduct him to the altar.

The candidate will place his right hand upon the square
and compasses. The Ven-*. M.'. comes then with a sword
in his left hand and a p;avel in his right, when the candidate

will repeat the following obligation as dictated by the Ven.*.
M/.

Obligation. — " In presence of the Grand Architect of
the Universe, under the authority of the Supreme Council of
the 33d Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite of
Freemasonry, in and for the Sovereign and Independent
State of Louisiana, and in presence of this assemblage of
Freemasons, I, [name in full,) on my word/ of honor, do
solemnly promise faithfully to keep the secrets and ivords of
the Fellow Craft Degree, as prescribed by the statutes of
the Order ; and I would rather have my heart torn out and
thrown to the beasts of prey, than to violate this my solemn
promise. So help me God. "

Ven. M.— Truth and the blessings of God be with you.

INVESTITURE OF THIS DEGREE-

The Ven.'. M.*. extends the point of his sword over the
candidate's head and says :

*' In the name of the Grand Architect of the Universe,
under the authority of the Supreme Council of the 33d
Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite cf Free-
Masonry, in and for the Sovereign and Independent State of
Louisiana, and by virtue of powers on me conferred, I do
hereby make and constitute you a Fellow Craft llason, of
the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite, and declare you an
active member of the R.-. L.'. (name and numhe'\)

Then the Ven/. M.'. gives five raps with his gavel upon
the blade of his sword, goes to the candidate, ht tlis fiap of
his apron down, shakes hands with him, and resumes his

seat in the East.

Ven. M. — Bro-'. M.-. C.-., will please conduct our worthy
initiated Brother to the East for our Secret Instructions.

The M.'. C*. will give him a seat near the Sec,'., where
the Ven.*. M.-. will approach near to him, and say ;

Ven. M. — Admission to a Lodge in this Degree is obtained
by rapping at the door, thus- The Ins--. Sent.', will then
open the wicket and ask the password, which you wiligive
in this manner : [gives him the password.)

When the door opens for you, you will advance towards
the altar, making these steps, {shows him,) and then give
the sign of Fellow Craft {thus) to the Ven.*. M.'. in the
East, then face about to the left, give the same sign to the
1st Surv.'., sitting in the West, then facing to the right,
giving the same sign to the 2d Surv--. in the South. Then
take a seat under the column " J " — that letter is the initial
of the sacred word in this Degree, and is given thus, {gives
him the word.) The word and grip must always be given
together, thus.

The Battery is given, {thus.)

The Ven.*. M.-- then resumes his seat.

Ven. M. — M.-. C-*., you will conduct our Bro/. {name,)
to the 1st Surv.-. for examination in our secret instructions.

At the conclusion the 1st Surv-". says :

1st SuRV. — [raps ) Ven.*. M.'., his instructions are correct

Ven. M. — Bro.*. M.-. C.-., please give Bro.'. {name,) a
seat upon the East for this day.

The M.-. 0.*. will give him a seat near the Sec.

Ven. M. — Bro-'. M.*. C.'., please proclaim, from the East,
that Bro.'. {iiame,) has been duly and legally constituted a

Fellow Craft Mason, in the Ancient and Accepted Scotcli
Rite; that he has given the solemn obligation, and received
secret instructions of the Degree, and invite the fraternity
to receive and protect him accordingly.

PROCLAMATION.

Mast. C. — Re it known from East to West, from North to
South, that Rro.*. {^lame,) has been legall}' passed to the
Fellow Craft Degree in the Ancient an,d Accepted Scotch
Rite, and admitted as an active member of the R.*. L.*.

{name and number,) in the East of under the

authority of the Supreme Council of Ins.*. Gen.*, of the 33d
Degree, in and for the Sovereign and Independent State of
Louisiana, and the Fraternity are invited to receive and
protect him accordingly.

The concluding ceremonies of this Degree are the same as
in the Api>.-, Degree, observing the proper Sign and Battery.

The Orator is then called upon for a lecture upon the
Degree.

The Visiting Brothers will receive the usual compliments
in the 2d Degree.

The Lodge must be formally closed in the 2d Degree,
"when work can be resumed in the 1st Degree*

At its conclusion the Lodge must be formally closed in
the 1st Degree, and the workmen called off for refreshment,
"remembering before they part to renew their solemn obliga-
tions of secrecy. "

LECTURE ON THE SECOND DEGREE.

Ven. M. — Bro.-. 1st Surv.-., are yoa a Fellow Craft Mason ?

1st Surv. — Yen.-. M.-., I am, try nic.

Q. — Why did you receive the"Degree of Fellow Craft?

A. — In order to work to tlic best of my strength and ability with all
Freemasons, my companions and brethren, to the final triumph of
3lasonic principles.

Q. — What is the <:reat '.vcrk oontoniplated by Freemasons?

A. — To make all men equal by labor; and a perfect equality will never
reij^n in this world unless the principles of true Freemasonry are known
and put in practice.

Q. — How were you received a Fellow Craft ?

A. — ^ly eyes wide open, and in the plenitude of my strength and
freedom.

Q. — What did you see on entering the Lodge ?

A. — Two large columns or pillars, one int the left hand of the 1st
SurveiUant with the letter '< B," and the other at his right hand with
the letter " J."

Q. — What was their composition ?

A. — Molten or Cast Brass.

Q. — What were their dimensions?

A. — Eighteen cubits in height, twelve in circumference, and four in
diameter.

Q. — Why wee they ca.»t hollow ?

A. — The better to preserve the tools and archives of Freemasonry, and
also the money destined to the pajMuent of Fellow Crafts and Apprentices.

Q. — How did you gain admission ?

A. — By a sign, by a pass word and a sacred word, and by a grip.

Q. — Give me the sign.

A. — (^The sign is yivcn.')

Q, — AVhat does it denote ?

A. — That I should rather have my heart torn out by the roots than to
violate the promise I made in presence of my brethren assembled in
this Lodge.

Q. — Give the pass word to liro.-.

A. — {The pass icord is given )

Q, — Give the sacred word to Iho.-.

A. — {The sacred word is given.)

Q. — Give the grip to Bro.-.

A. — ( The grip is given.')

Q. — How were you disposed of after you entered the Lodge ?

A — I made five voyages. In the first I had in my liand a Mallet and
a Chisel, in the sicond, a Ruler and a pair of Compasses, in the third,
a Ruler and a Lever, in the fourth, a Ruler and a Square.

Q. — What is the use of these different tools ?

A* — The Mallet and Chisel serve to pare and hew the rough stone, in
taking off its asperity and giving it its proper form.

The Ruler and Compasses arc tools by which lines are drawn on plain
and smooth surfaces.

The Lever is destined to raise heavy bodies, and the Square to form
equal sides and right angles.

Q. — What is the moral and symbolical meaning of these tools

A. — By the Mallet and Chisel, we mean that a true Freemason ought
to divest himself of his prejudices and vices. By the Ruler, that our
actions ought to be governed and measured by the eternal principles of
morality. By the Compasses, that we ought to contain ourselves in the
limits of truth and justice. By the Lever, that it is our duty to oppose
a determined resistance to all that is arbitrary and despotic; and by the
Square, that we ought to square our actions by the opinions of good men,
and our lives by the precept > of philosophers.

Q. — How did you make the fifth voyage ?

A. — With my hands entirely free.

Q.— Why?

A. — As an indication to the Fellow Craft, that it is only, after a long
and tedious labor, that he will be permitted to rest and enjoy in his
freedom and independence.

Q. — Has our Lodge any ornaments ?

A. — It has. 1st. The Mosaic or chequered pavement, representing
this world, which, though chequered over with good and evil, yet
brethren may work together thereon and not stumble; — 2d. The Blazing
Star as a symbol of the true light which Freemasonry spreads over the
whole world; — And 3d. The Cord of Union which surrounds our Lodge,
teaching all Freemasons to live together as a family of brethren, in order

to better defend all their political, religious, civil and social rights

Q. — Has your Lodge any jewels ?

A. — It hasj six, three moveable and three immoveable.

Q. — What are the three moveable jewels?

A. — The Level, Plumb and Trowel.

Q. — What do they teach ?

A. — The Level equality; the Plumb, rectitude of life and conduct, and
the Trowel, teaching all Freemasons that they ought not only to forgive
their mutual wrongs and offences, but also to cement and strengthen the
ties of brotherhood.

Q. — What are the throe immoveable jewels ?

A — The Rough Aslilar, the Perfect Ashlar and the Trestle Board.

Q. — What do they represent ?

A. — The Rough Ashlar represents man in his rude and imperfect
state of nature; iht Perfect Ashlar represents man in that state of
perfection to which we all hope to arrive by means of a virtuous life and
education; and the Trestle Board is the emblem of reflection and
wisdom.

Q, — Where do the Fellow Crafts sit in the Temple ?

A. — In the South or in the North.

Q,— Why in the South ?

A. — To help Master Masons in their works, and to profit by their
lessons.

Q._Why in the North?

A. — To assist the Apprentices in tlicir works.

Q — How do the Fellow Crafts work.

A. — With Joy, Fervor and Freedom.

Q. — What is your age as a Fellow Craft ?

A. — Five years.

THIRD DEGREE.

OFFICERS,

A Most Respectable Master.
A Most Venerable 1st Surveillant,
A Most Venerable 2d Surveillant.
A Most Venerable Orator.
A Most Venerable Secretary.
A Most Venerable Expert.
A Most Venerable Treasurer
A Most Venerable Master of Ceremonies.
A Most Venerable Inside Sentinel.
AH Brethren are designed under the appellation of
Venerable Brethren.

PREPARATION OF THE LODGE FOR INITIATION,

The Lodge must be hung in black, strewed with tears or
symbols of death. The table and altar covered with black
palls. The arrangements for lighting the Lodge, when
desired, must bo abundant either with gas or candles.
During the ceremonies, no lights are permitted save those
hereafter designated. The altar shall be furnished with
the square and compasses placed masonically. The three
tripods surrounding the altar must be supplied with un-
lighJLed candles.

The East. — On the table of the R--. M-'. there will be
placed a Maul, the head of which must be stuffed with
wool or cotton, and covered with black cloth or leather-

A transparent, dimly lighted, surmounted by a skull with
this device plainly written across the transparency, '' In
the midst of life we arc in death."

Near to and in front of the Master's table there will be
placed a large transparency, representing a chequered or
Mosaic pavement, upon w'hich is a coffin covered with a
black pall strewed with tears and sculb. There will also
be represented upon it a tree, so designed that " the
cross" shall be apparent, with a branch of "Acacia," with
three limbs, one extending upon each horizontal arm of the
cross and one upon the upper vertical arm.

On the upper vertical arm will also be placed a "Blazing
Star," within an equilateral triangle and at the foot of the
cross will be placed the square and compasses forming a
lozenge.

Preparation in the West. — On the table will be a trans-
parency dimly lighted with this inscription, " Life comes
out of death." Upon the transparency w^ill be a human
skull. Upon the table there will be a roll of paper nine
inches in circumference and eigliteen inches in length, also
a pair of large compasses made of wood having iron points.

Preparation in the South — On the table, a transparency
with this inscription, ^Dd thy work and die xcitlwut fear.'^

A roll of paper as in the West, also a flat Ruler, twenty
four inches.

PREPARATION OF CANDIDATE,

The M.-. E,'. assumes charge of the candidate in an

adjoining room, divests him of coat, waistcoat, cravat and
shoes, receives his watch, money, knife, keys and all
metallic substances he nuiy have about him; his left arm
and shoulder must be withdrawn fro.n the sleeve of his shirt
and undershirt, so as to be entirely naked, and a small
silver square will be tied upon his naked arm, just above the
elbow, with a black ribbon. A cord will be girded around
his loins three times. He will wear his apron as a Fellow
Craft.

OPENING OF tup: LODGE-

The Lodge must be formally opened in the 1st, 2d and
3d Degrees, successively, following the general directions
given in the Ritual of the Lst Degree, giving the Sign and
Battery pertaining to each Degree,---- great care being ob-
served that all present are entitled to seats-

RECEPTION OF VISITORS.

The M.-. C*. will visit the anti-chamber and avenues, and
bring the visitors' register to the M--- R/. M.--, who will give
directions regarding the reception of visitors.

Announcement of the object of the meeting by the M.-. R.-.
M.% calling for objections to the initiation, giving them due
consideration, and if there are none, he will ask for a unan-
imous assent on the part of all present, same as in the 1st
Degree.

06
INITIATION.

The M.*. C.-. causes the candidate to rap at the door as a
Fellow Craft.

The Inside Sentinel looks through the wicket, and
reports to the 1st biirv,-.

1st SuRV. — M.-. 11.-. M,-., there is a Fellow Craft raping
at the door.

M. R. M. — "Bro.-. Expert, ascertain -who is thus rudely
disturbing our meditations.

The. Expert goes to the anti-chamber, malces the proper
inquiries, returns, leaving the door slightly ajar, and from
it reports.

ExPEivT — M.-, l\.\ jNI.-., one of our Brothers is at the door
having in charge a Fellow Craft.

M. R. M— Bro.-. Conductor, how does that Fellow Craft
expect to gain admission to our presence and to our solem.
uities ?

M,-. C.', — By virtue of the word of pass.

M. R. M. — Through the word of pass? That is exceedirgly
strange, and sullicient cause for the most fearful apprehen-
sions ! — fur, how could he have obtained possession of that
word save than by a [larlicipation in the horrid crime which
we fear has been committed. Sec that no stain of blood
besmeares his hands or clothing, and bring us his apron.

Expert — M.-. R.-. M.'., we have carefully examined that
Fellow Crait and find him clear from suspicion of having
participated in that most foul and abhorrent deed ; his hands
are clean, and his apron, which I bring you, is spotless.

The Expert takes the apron to the East, and resumes his
seat. '

M. R. M. — Bro.*. 1st Surv."., will you go and examine the
Fellow Craft, search carefully for any trace, mark or spot>
by which we may learn of the fate of our most M.-. R. . M.*.

1st Surv. — {After comphjing, says: — M/.R/. M".-, a strict
examination fails to elicit anything which can justly attach
suspicion to that Fellow Craft. •

M, R. M. — It being so, go out again and ask him for the
word of pass.

The 1st Surv.*. goes out and says to the candidate.

1st Surv — Give me the word of pass.

Candidate — {Saijs,)! cannot, my conductor will give it
for me.

The 1st Surv.*. then asks and receives it from the M--. C*.
in a whisper.

1st Surv. — M.'. R.*. M.-. that Fellow Craft could not give
me the word of pass ; he relied upon his conductor, who
gave it correctly.

M. R. M. — Let him enter.

The M.*. (;.*. t;ikes the ends of the cord which girds the
cantlidate, and makes him enter backwards as far as the
altar, where he will stand with his face to the door or West.

M. R. M. — Bro.-, Fellow Craft, you find us surrounded
with the solemn parapherijalia of Death, engaged in con-
templating the momentous mysteries attendant upon man's
hnal laying down to rest in the arms of the dread con-
queror. Man is subject to that unalterable decree of the
Almighty, " Of dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou
return ;" and "the spirit shall return unto God who gave
it." Death, when the result of natural causes, may be met
with a cheerful, happy reliance, comforting to those whose
hearth stones have been made desolate at the hands of the
fell destroyer; but our hearts are appalled when our dear

68 .

friends are .suddenly .-ent, by ihe inhumanity ol ni;ai, to
their last final resting phice, to stand unannounced before
their Maker.

You find us thus cast down with the most hopeless of
sorrows, at the fearful apprehension of a most unnatural
death to our most Rcsp/. Master. No trace of him has yet
been discovered. A recent cdrpse has been found and brought
in, which you will see in the cof!in at your left, but it is not
that of our Master. Its shocking mutilation has added
greatly to our fears and anxiety regarding his fate. As he
possessed knowledge, and held a secret of vast import to
the advancement of the Fellow Craft, we fear he has fallen
a victim to the overreaching reckless ambition of wicked and
unprincipled men of that Degree ; and that in him truth and
integrity has been crushed to earth by the violent hands of
intrigue and oppression. Bro.*. Fellow Crafc, have you any
knowledge of a conspiracy against his life, or have you in
any way or manner participated in his overthrow?

Candidate. — No.

M. R. M. — Then turn your face to the East, and tell us
if you will patiently and earnestly give us your assistance
in our search for the fallen.

Candidate. — Yes.

M. R. M. — Now it will be impossible for 3'ou to join us
in this most uoithy pursuit untif admitted to a full partici-
pation in the secrets and mysteries of the Master's Degree.

Arc you prci^ared to undergo the fearful trials, incident
to this most instructive initiation?

Candidate — Yes.

M. R. M. — Bro.'. Conductor, you may proceed with your
charge upon the first voyage.

Travels from Nortli to East, keeping the altar at the right

hand, giving the App.-. sign, as he passes the East, South
and West, and as each Officer answers the sign he will give
three raps. Brings the candidate to the altar, from thence
takes him to the 2d Surv.*., when the candidate will give
tho App.'. rap upon the table. The 2d Surv.-. rises, places
his roll of paper on the nape of the neck of the candidate
as to detain him, and says :

2d Surv. — Who comes here?
■ M. C. — A Fellow Craft who has served his full time,
and desires to be raised to the Master's Degree.

2d Surv — How docs he expect to gain admission ?

M. C. — Through the word of pass.

2d Surv — How is it possible for him to give it?

M. C, — I, his conductor, will give it for him.

2d Suuv — Give it to me.

M. C. — (In a whisper.) T.-.

2d Surv.— Let him pass.

The M.". C.'. Leads the candidate to the altar.

2d Surv.. — Bro/. 1st Surv.-., the candidate has passed
the South correctl3^

1st Surv — {Raps.) M.'. 11.-. M.*., the 2d voyage has been
correctly performed.

M. R. M — Bro.-. conductor, you may proceed with the
candidate upon his second voyage.

The second voyage is performed as the first, giving the
Fellow Craft's sign, and when the candidate has reached
his place at the altar he will proceed to the West and
give the rap of the Fellow craft upon that officer's table.

The 1st Surv.'. will rise, place his roll of paper upon the
candidate's breast and say :

1st Surv. — Who comes here? Further questions and
answers are given as at the South, and when the candidate

has resumed his place by the altar: —

1st SuRV. — {Raps.) M.-. R.-. M.'., the candulatehas passed
the West and completed his second voyage corrcctl}'.

M. K. M — 13ro.-. conductor, please proceed upon the
third voyage.

Travels in the same direction. No signs or raps are
given, and the candidate quietly resumes his position by the
altar.

1st Surv — {Raps.)^!.'- R.-.M.*., the third voyage is accom-
plished-

M. R. M — These three voyages, my Bro-*, recall the last
sad scene of all, the final panorama of youth, manhood and
senility. At the conclusion of man's tumultuous voyage of
life, his every action passes in quick review before him and
the various scenes of his life come up to his mind as with
the speed of thought- All the sins of his life will dart
their venemous fangs into his very soul, calling for judgment
at his own hands.

Happy the man who can lay down to his final rest with
a conscience void of ofience towards God and man, and as
he is parting from earth can view the fading scenes of his
life, with a forgiving and a repentant heart- Then is death
robbed of his sting and the grave of its victory. The good
man goes down to his grave with the blessings of the living
and death lays him upon a bed of glory, for he will hear
the joyful acclamation of ''Well done. Thou good and
faithful servant."

You will now take the Master Mason's obligation.

The M.*. C. will cause the candidate to place his hands,
his right hand over the left, resting upon the square and
compasses. All present rise as witnesses.

The M.'. R/. M.'.goes to the altar and causes the candidate

to repeat from his dictation.

Obligation. — " In presence of the G.\ A.-- O/. T.-. U.*.,
under then utlioi'ity of the Supreme Council of the 33d Degree
of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonrj,
in and for the Sovereign and Independent State of Louisiana,
with this assemblnge of Master M.-isons as witnesses, I
(name in full,) upon my sacred word of honor, do hereby
solemnly promise never to reveal the secrets, words and
mysteries of the JNLister Mason's Degree, never to s[)eak
thereon except to a regular Master of the same Rite, or in
a regular and legally constituted Lodge thereof, and I do,
furthermore, give my sacred promise to do no unjustifiable
violence or in any manner to defame or otherwise harm a
brother Mason, his mother, sister, wife or daughter, but to
be to them as a true and faithful brother and to assist them
in their adversity to the extent of my ability. Also to
obey the general statutes of the S(otch Rite, the regula-
tions of ihe Supreme Council for the State of Louisiana
the by-laws of this Lodge, and cause the same to be
obeyed.

I would rather have my body severed into two parts, my
bowels torn out and burned, and the ashes thereof scattered
to the winds, than to violate this my solemn obligation — So
help me God."

M. R. M. — God grant that 3'ou may never be prompted
to violate so sacred an obligation!

The M.-. R.*. M/. then removes the cord from the candi-
date's loins, puts upon him the Fellow Craft's apron, leaves
him behind the altar, resumes his seat in the East, requests
all to be seated, the M.-. C.'. giving the candidate a seat.

M. R. M. — The instruction conveyed in this degree is as
important as the ceremonies are impressive. Constituting

as it does the last of the purely sj^mbolic degrees, it is im-
portant that its teachings should be clearly comprehended;
and that you may acquire strength to withstand its trials
and a proper state of mind to duly receive i(s instruction,
\vc will relate something of its history and of the terrible
legend connected therewith.

The degree is founded upon and draws its lesson from a
legendary account of circumstances and events which tran-
spired at the building of Solomon's temple at Jerusalem.

From the Bible, we learn that at the time when Saul
ascended the throne of Judah, the people of that country
were quite ignorant of the mechanic arts- There was not
a man among them who could work in iron. They were
obliged to call upon their most bitter enemies, the Philis-
tines, to have even their instruments of husbandry
sharpened and repaired- Their swords and halberds were
not of their own making. David saw the necessity of cul-
tivating in them a taste for the mechanic arts, and sent for
all the foreigners in his dominions, that he might select
from among them^builders, hewers, stone-cutters, carpenters
and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work.
Notwithstanding, David had commanded all the Princes of
Israel to help Salomon, he was obliged to ask Hiram, King
of Tyre, for help, saying '• for thou knowest that there is
not among us any that can skill to hcvv- timber like unto
the Sidonians-" So Iliram, the King, sent him a skillful car-
penter and stone-cutter, Adoniram, to superintend the work-
men in w^ood and stone at mount Lebanon.

"And King Salomon sent and fetched Hiram out of
Tyre. lie was a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali, and
his father was a man of Tyre, a worker in brass; and he
was filled with wisdom and understanding, and cunning to

work all works ia brass. And he came to King Solomon
and wrought all his work."

Hiram cast two pillars of brass of wondrous work and
curious device, a particular description of which is given in
(1 King, chap. 7; v. 15-20.)

"And he set up the pillars in the porch of the temple;
and he set up the right pillar and called the name thereof,
Jachin; and he set up the left pillar and called the name
thereof, — Boaz, v, 21."

In 2 Chron., chapter 2d, v. 13 aud 14, the King of Tyre
writes to Solomon thus, "And now I have sent a cunning
man, indued with understanding. He is the son of
woman of the daughter of Dan, and his father was a man
of Tyre, skillful to work in gold and in silver, in brass, in
iron, in stone and in timber, in purple, in blue, in fine linen,
and in crimson; also to grave any manner of graving, and
to find out any device which shall be put to him Avith thy
cunning menand with the cunning men of my Lord David,
thy father. "

We also read v. 17 and 18, " And Solomon numbered all
the strangers that were in Israel, and they were found an
hundred and fifty thousand, and three thousand and six
hundred, (153,600.) and he set three score and ten thousand
of them to be bearers of burdens, (70,000.), and four score
thousand to be hewers in the mountain, (80,000-), and three
thousand six hundred, (3,600-) overseers to let the people
work."

We learn from a legend or tradition of equal antiquity,

that Solomon in his wisdom so arranged and classified this

great body of men, that neither envy, discord nor confusion

were sufi'crcd to interrupt or disturb the peace and good

fellowship which prevailed among the workmen. They

were divided into three classes : Apprentices, Fellow Crafts
and Masters. A certain number of each class composed a
company or Lodge, in charge of an able master. Over all
was Iliram, the widow's son, filled with wisdom and under-
standing.

The more readily to insure order among so large a body
of strangers, of various degrees of skill, King Solomon with
the King of Tyre and the learned architect Hiram, adopted
certain signs, grips and words, so as easily and correctly to
distinguish the several jprders and classes of workmen.

Now it was the custom of their Grand Master Hiram, to
enter the Temple, at high twelve, each day, while the work-
men were at rest, and offer up his devotions to the Almighty
Maker and Father of the Universe.

Here the M. R. M. gives a lap and the brethren rise-
The M. C. leads the candidate to the altar.

M. R. M. — He approached the altar and humbly upon his
knees said :

" Almighty Maker and Father of the Universe, Thou art
the only true and overliving God and Creator of all that
exists, enlighten my mind with true knowledge and wisdom;
let charity, love to fellow- men, and to Thee, prevail in my
heart ; and give me strength of body and of mind so to per-
form the work Thou hast appointed, in accordance with Thy
will, Grant that the workmen u[)on this Thy house may
humbly look to Thee for guidance in the ways of virtue and
of knowledge, and that they may see and understand that
the heart of man is the only true and acceptable temple for
the worship and glory of Thee- Amen, amen, amen."

When he had so prayed, he rose and took his way
towards the door at the South-

The M.'. C-. leads the candidate to the South, and the

2d Surv.". seizes him by the throat with his left
han:3, holding the Rule in his right, when the M/. R--. M-*,
says :

M. E- M. — But there he met with a Fellow Craft, armed
with a'ruler, who seized him by the throat and said :

2d SuRV. — Give me the Master's grip.

Candidate. — I cannot give it except in presence of Solo-
mon and the King of Tyre-
'2d SuRv. — Give me the Master's grip.

Candidate. — I cannot.

2d SuRV. — Give me the Master's grip.
Candidate. — I cannot.

The 2d Surv.-. then rudely but lightly strikes the candi-
date upon the side of the neck with the ruler.

M. R, M — Being so abused and struck at the South,
Hiram staggered back and proceeded to the door at the
AV^est.

While this is being said the M.-. C.-. leads the candidate
to the West, and the 1st Surv.-. seizes him at the breast
with the left hand, holding the open compasses in his right.

M. R. M. — But there again he met another Fellow Craft,
armed with the Compasses, who seized him by the breast,
and said :

1st Surv — Give me the M.-. M-.- grip and word ?

Candidate — I cannot give it except in the presence of
King Solomon and the King of Tyre-

1st Surv. — Give me the M.-. M.-. grip and word.

Candidate. — I cannot.

1st Surv. — Give me the M.*, M.-. grip and word-

Candidate. — I cannot.

Then the 1st Surv.-. roughly but harmlessly strikes him
upon the bare breast with a point of the compasses.

M. R. M. — Weak and fainting from the blow, Hiram
endeavored to escape by the door at the East.

While this is being said the M.-. C.-. leads the candidate
to the East, and the M/. R.'. M.-. teizes him by the chest
and says :

M. R. M — Give me the Masters' Sacred Word.

Candidate. — I cannot give it save in the presence of King
Solomon, Iliram and the King of Tyre.

M. R- M.— Give it to me?

Candidate. — I cannot.

M. R. M. — Give it to me, I say ?

Candidate. — I cannot.

Then the M.". 11.-. M.-. strikes him upon the forehead
with his stuffed maul, when two Brothers seize him and lay
him in a coffin, Avhicli had been concealed from the candi-
date's sight- A pall is spread over so as not to obstruct his
breathing, and the coffin removed to the corner of the Lodge,
at the 2d Surv's left hand. The small silver square is
removed from his arm and placed upon his breast, and a
branch of Acacia is placed to stand at the head, or thrown
upon the pall. In the mean lime all leave the Lodge,
except the officers, and after an apparent consultation they
also leave, having a care to shut the door.

In a few seconds the officers return and light the Lodge,
to the fullest extent. The M.-. R.*. M.-. goes to his seat.

M. R. M — {Rap,) Bro.-. Exp.-., will you ring the bell
that the workmen may be called from refreshment and rest.

The Expert rings the bell, which is placed between West
and South. The BB,*, come in, but instead of going to
their respective seats, they assemble in small groups at
various points and seem anxious to communicate something
mysterious to each other, soon the M. R. M. says :

M. R. M. — Bro,'- Expert, the laborers have been called
to work and the hour is passed, and yet our Grand Master
has not appeared. 'Tis exceeding strange, and wo fear he
has been detained by some serious accident. Will you try
and ascertain the cause of his absence ?

The Expert leaves the altar, travels from East to South
and West, leaves the Lodge for a few seconds, returns to
the altar and says ;

Expert. — M.-. R.*., M:. after diligent search and inquiry
in every direction, I have only been enabled to learn this
much :

Our Grand il/aster was seen to enter the Temple at mid-
day, as was his custom, for devotion, but from that moment
all trace of him is lost- As I was cautiously returning, I
heard a voice at the South, which said :

2d SuRV. — Oh ! would to God that my throat had been
cut across and my tongue torn out by the roots, ere I had
been accessory to the death of so good a man as our Grand
Master, Hiram !

Expert — Immediately hereafter I heard a voice in the
West, which said ;

1st SuRV. — Oh ! would to God that my heart had been
torn from my breast and thrown to beasts of prey, ere I had
conspired to take the life of so good a man as our Grand
Master, Hiram !

Expert — And I heard a lamentable voice from the East,
which said :

M.*. R. '. M.'. — Oh ! great is my sorrow ! — Would to God
that my body had been severed into two parts, my bowels
torn out and burned, and the ashes scattered to the winds
of Heaven, ere I had given the fatal blow to our Grand
J/aster, Hiram !

Immediately eleven Brethern (if not convenient a less
number,) with the M.*. C-'. at their head, arrange them-
selves in a semi-circle about the steps at the East, with their
heads cast mournfully down, when the M-*. C/. says:

M. C. — M-*. 11.-. M.-., we can no longer withstand the
shame and remorse with which we are oppressed. We
have committed a grievous wrong and nrc heartily sorry.
As the Temple is near being finished, we wickedly and
foolishly conspired to possess ourselves by force of the
Master's secret, sign, words and grip, that we might here-
after enjoy the benefits and privileges of the mastership,
without being subjected to the rcquiremens and trials
exacted of candidates. Our better judgment prevailed, and
we withdrew from the horrible conspirac}^ aivl do now
humbly confess our great wrung. We fear that our Grand
il/aster has fallen a victim to our wicked designs at the
hands of three Fellow Crafts, who are now strangely absent.

if, R. M.— Who arc tliey ?

M. C. — Jubela, Jubelo and Jubelum.

M. Pv, M — Our Grand il/aster has undoubtedl}^ been
murderel by them. Let justice have its full course with
them, As for us wo have a solemn duty to perform, in
searching for and paying the last snd honors to the lemains
of our beloved Grand if/aster.

The 31:. R.*. M.-. takes a position at the foot of the steps
to the East, with his face to the East; the 1st Surv.". takes
position at his left and the 2d Surv." at his right. The
M:. C*. arranges all the Brethren present in three columns,
behind the three oflicers, with their faces to the East.

M. R- M. — Bro.-. 2d Surv,*., proceed with your column
to the North and West and make diligent search.

The 2d Surv-*. leads his column to the left, passing by

the head of the other columns, and when he reaches the
coffin, he picks up a sprig of Acacia and says :

2d SuRv. — Brothers, the earth has recently been dis-
turbed here, let us examine closely.

He raises a corner of the pall, takes the silver square,
measures the coflin from East to West, replaces the square
and pall, plants the bough of Acacia by the head, and
returns with the column-

2d SuRv — 31:. R... M.' , we have found a mound of
fresh earth not far hence, having the appearance of a stealthily
made grave, measuring full six feet from 'East to West,
where we planted an Acacia bough as a sign of recognition.

31. R. 31. — Bro.'. 1st Surv,'., hasten with your column
and make further observation regarding that mound-

The 1st Surv.'. leads his column to the right, goes to the
South, to the West, and then to the coffin, and says :

1st Surv. — Here is the Acacia, we will examine-

Raises a corner of the pall, measures from North to
South upon the coffin with the silver square; replaces it;
places a sprig of Acacia in the left hand of ih^ candidate ;
places his right hand across his breast so that a right angle
ma}^ be formed at the elbow, and between the thumb and
forefinger replaces the pall, and returns with his column by
the North, and takes his position at the M/. R.- M's,'. left
hand, and says :

1st Surv. — We found the spot marked by the Acacia,
and an excavation six feet from North to South ; exposed
a corpse, and presuming it to be that of our Grand Master,
Hiram Abif, we placed a branch of Acacia in his left hand
as a sign of recognition,

M. R- 31. — That is undoubtedly the corpse of our Grand
Master, let us put on our aprons and endeavor to raise it

from its bed of violence.

The three columns start together, march to tlie right, ami
proceed from South to West, then to the coffin, marching
slowly twice around it. The M.-. ll.\ M--. standing at the
foot, takes the sprig of Acacia from tho candidate's hands,
and says :

M. R. M. — Behold the Acacia ! From death comes life
eternal ! This is a true sign our Grand Masters remains
lie smouldering herc-

Thc M/. Li.\ M.'. then removes the pall, and with the
silver square measures the depth of the coffin, and exclaims

M. R. M.— Six feet in depth.

He then examines the corpse, stands erect, raises both
hands, so as to form a right angle at the elbow, then inter-
laces the fingers of both hands, palms turned outwards,
passing the back of his hands against his forehead and
exclaims :

M. R. M. — Oh Lord ! Oh Lord ! {keeping the fingers
interlaced he will let the hands fall to the navel.) This is
indeed the corpse of our Grand Master. Let us try to lift
it out.

The 2d Surv.-., giving the candidate the Apprentice grip,
drops the candidate's hand, and says :

2d Surv. — Boaz ! the skin cleaves from the bones.

The 1st Surv.'- then gives the Fellow Craft grip, lets his
hand drop and says '.

1st Surv, — Jachin! The flesh is corrupted and putrified
to the bones.

M. R. M. — Hold, Brothers ! Do you not see that it is
only by united eiDforts that we can succeed ?

The 2d Surv.-. stands at the left, the 1st Surv--. at the
head, the M.-. R.-. M.-. at the right, and says ;

M. R. M, — We will try the Master's grip.

Gives him the Master's grip. All seize hold and raise
him carefully from the coffin, the M/. R.-. M.'t exclaims :

M.R.M. — M ! this is the son of putrifaction

The M.-. R.-. M-'. gives him the five points thus: — places
his right foot and knee a,<,^ainst the Candidate's right foot
and knee, breast to breast, left hands embracing the person
over the right shoulder, mouth to ear. The M.*. R.*. M.-.
says to the Candidate : " I will now give you the sacred
word, it is never to be communicated except in this manner,
(gives him the word M.-.) These are called the five points of
perfection : Hand to hand means that we are bound to serve
each other; knee to knee that we profess one common
belief, the unity of God ; foot to foot that we will walk
together as Brethren in the path of truth and justice ; hand
to back that we will never revile a brother behind his back,
but rather support and defend him ; breast to breast that
we will preserve our secrets inviolate, lest in an unguarded
moment we betray the solemn trust confided to our honor,.

All resume their seats, the Mi». C«*. giving the candidate
a seat behind the altar. The M.-. R.*- M.». may then give
an account of the Egyptian mysteries.

M. Rs M. — In the Ancient mysteries of Isis, celebrated
by the Egyptians, the candidate to the Third Degree was
introduced into a hall ; over its door was written ; " These
are the Gates of Death." Coffins and mummies stood in
niches around the walls, and near the entrance a naked
recent corpse was lying. In the centre was the tomb of
Osiris, presenting many spots of fresh blood, indicative of a
violent death- The candidate was asked if he had partici-
pated in that murder- The many years which have elapsed

since the death of Osiris w^ould render the question absurd,

unless asked in the sense of an allegory- The candidate
was then conducted to another hall, whore he met with the
initiated, all clotiied in funeral black- A crown was pre-
sented to him which he stamped beneath his feet, and all
exclaimed, -'Vengeance, vengeance, vengeance." The can-
didate was slightly struck ujiou the head with a sacrificial
ax; he was then seized and bandaged like a mummy, while
the spectator exhibited great sorrow and regret- When
thus clothed as for the grave, he was arraigned before a
dread tribunal, for the murder of Usiris, tried and acquitted.
On attaining his liberty, he was instructed in Egyptian
Geography and Astronomy. The sign of recognition con-
sisted in an embrace, which symbolized a belief in the res.
urrection of the dead and the reproduction of life by death.
We thus have a complete sketch of the Egyptian initiation,
and you will not fail to observe the close resemblance
between it and the one through which you have just passed-
Indeed, there can be no question that our ideas of Masonry
have come to us from the Egyptians. The legend has been
changed to the period of King Solomon- We do not know
whether it was done by him or at a more recent period-
He may have embodied in the legend circumstances con-
nected with the period of his reign, for the purpose of com.
memoration, as did Isis in honor of her slaughtered husband
Osiris.

The spirit and intent of the initiation is plainly derived
from the ancient Egyptian mysteries, and if it is indebted
to Solomon for its traditional historical readings, he certainly
could have had but one object in view in rendering it more
acceptable to his people by engrafting upon the original and
prevailing idea of the mystic art, ceremonies commemora-
tive of events which had proved most gratifying to the

national pride of a people who believed themselves the
chosen of God.

In considering the more reasonable hypothesis, the ndop-
tion at a more recent period of the legend, founded upon
incidents recorded in Jewish history, and more particularly
concerning the erection of Solomon's Temple at Jeruzalem,
as given to us in the sacred writings, for the purpose of-
allaying the bitter persecutions by which the institution had
suffered most severely at the hands of the Papal power
which had yielded to the intolerance of a bigotry unsur-
passed in malignity.

No other rational suppositions have ever been presented
regarding the original adoption of the historical part of the
Third Degree, either of which precludes the very idea of
its original design for the propagation of any religious creed
whatsoever. It is thus that the Ancient and Accepted
Scotch Rite finds its peculiar mission to be the preservation,
in all its ancient integrity, of a purely philosophical institu-
tion, as handed down to us by our forefathers.

The Third Degree is plainly intended to remind us by
impressive ceremonies of the great law of our physical
being, that we must all pass through the gates of death in
our journeying to the higher life, and that all there is of
earth in our organization must return to its original ele-
ments, supplying nutriment and material for successive
generations of vegetable and animal organizations. Thus
much for its elucidation of physical law* It also tells of
our higher obligations. Love to God and love to fellow-
men. In the poor widow's son, born to the lowly condition
of a servant and subject, rising to an honorable association
with Kings, the wisest and most learned, we have an ex-
ample fraught with the beauty of simplicity, showing the

reward which awaits honest, unpretending industry. When
admitted to the confidence of the two most mighty Kings
upon earth, Iliram, the personification of Truth, Fidelity
and Justice, was waylaid by Falsehood, Deceit and Violence
in the form of three assassins, Jubela, Jubelo and Jubclum
and although oast down and crushed to earth, Truth rises
triumphant by the five points of iierfection, and is cherished
through time by a brotherhood unsurpassed in all that is
honorable and true to manhood. We here see Truth,
Fidelity and Justice portrayed as the elements of love to
God and love to man, mode the chief corner stone in that
Temple, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

In the ceremonies you were struck upon the neck, heart
and head, the parts where the vital forces are most readily
reached, teaching us the necessity of exercising constant
restraint upon the tongue as the utterer of falsehood, upon
the heart as the source of deceit, the parent of falsehood,
and upon the head which gives direction and power to those
active enemies of Truth.

Your descent into a coflia and rising therefrom, marks
the great metamorphosis when all tliat is mortal of man
returns to mother earth, and the immortal soars to realms
unknown. So it becomes the^ Neophyte on being raised to
this degree to endeavor to force the crude materials of his
nature into subjection and to rise superior to the infirmities
of flesh and the world.

The Acacia which hung over your symbolic grave is an
emblem coeval with the institution of Freemasonry, and is
of unknown antiquit3\

Some attribute its adoption as a funeral bough, in signi-
fication of the resurrection to Solomon. We read that the
disciples of Zoroaster had their mysteries bough; the

Egyptians their Lotus ; the Eleusiaians their Myrtle, and
the Druids their Mistletoe. The Acacia was a well known
symbol among the Arabians of fraternity and alliance, and
has ever b6en so considered by the Mahomedans. There
is, therefore, little or no question but that the symbol
comes to us from the Masons of the desert, the Arabs. We
have other conclusive evidence of the signification of the
symbol in the circumstance that the *-sign of distress," the
"call for help" and the sprig of Acacia are made concomi-
tant and appeal to Fraternal Alliance, disconnected from
allusion to death on a future state-

Bro.-. M.'. C..', permit our brother to resume his dress.

The M,-. C.'. will lead the candidate out and return as
soon as possible, present him to the 1st Surv--. who will
cause him to reach as a Fellow Craft as far as the altar.
The M.". R.-. M.'. then applies the point of the Compasses
to the Candidate's breast, giving five raps upon the point
with his gavel, saying :

M. R. M — Learn so to control the feelings of your heart,
and restrain the evil passions as to be most hurtful to man-
kind and to yourself

Extending the sword over his head, sa3^s :

In the name of the G.\ A- . 0:. T.' U.-., under authority
of the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted
Scotch Rite of Freemasonry, in and for the Sovereign and
Independent State of Louisiana, and by virtue of powers
on me conferred, I do hereby make and constitute ycu a
Master Mason, and declare you an active member of Hhe
R.*. Lodge, (name and number.)

The M.'. R.'. M.'. then gives seven raps with his gavel
upon the blade of his sword, and resumes his seat.

M. R. M — Bro.'. M/. C."., please conduct brother (name,)

to the East for secret instructions.

The M.'. C/. gives the candidate a seat near the 2d
Surv.-,, and the M.'. K-'. M."- standing near, says :

M. R. M. — When you Avish to enter a 3/aster J/ason's
Lodge you must rap thus, [shows liim.) The Inside Senti-
nel will return the rap, open the wicket and ask you the
" word of pass" which you will divide witli him thus, {telh
him tJie U'ord and h(,ic to \^ixc. it.) When admitted you
will approach the altar on these steps, [shows him how to
execute the Master's stcj)s-) Tiicy indicate the respect due
to graves. You will then i^ive the il/aster's sign to the
Fi'dst thus, [shows him ;) face to the left and repeat to the
1st ISurv.-., face about to the right and i:ivc the same sign
to the 2d Surv,-. and take a seat near to the balustrade.

The grip was given with the five points of perfection.

The sign of distress must be given only in case of ex-
treme peril ; this is it, [shoivs him.)

The battery is given thus, and your iige as a il/aster

years. When asked by a competent person "If

you are a Master Mason?" — you will answer, — " the

is known to me."

The Compasses and the carpenter's plane arc implements
peculiar to this degree- The i)lane indicates to the accom-
plished workman that constant cllbrts are required in
removing the asperities of lite, that he may be the better
prepared to reciprocate the amenities of social and ])rofes
sional intercourse, thereby reflecting honor upon himself and
upon his fraternal associates.

Bro.-. M.'. C.'., please conduct Brother, (name,) to the
West for examination in our secret instructions.

The 1st Surv.'. examines the candidate regarding the
sign, words, grip and steps-

1st SuRV. — M.-. R.-. M.\, the instructions are correct.

M. R. M.— Bro.-. M.-. C'-, please give Bro.* a seat

in the East, and make the usual proclamation.

M. C — Be it known to all within the Union Cord, that
Bro •. has been raised to the Master Mason's degree in ac-
cordance with the customs and statutes of the Ancient and
Accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonry, and admitted as an
active member of the R--- Lodge, (name and number,) in

the city of -, under the authority of the Supreme

Council of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the
33d Degree, for the State of Louisiana, and ithe Fraternity
is invited to receive and protect him accordingly.

The concluding ceremonies are similar to those in the
preceeding^egrees. Each degree has its peculiar sign and
battery. TJIffLodge mnst be closed in the 3d, then in the
2d and finally in the 1st Degree.

LECTURE ON THE THIRD DEGREE.

.^I. }\. !M. — M.-. Veil.-. Bro.-. 1st Surv.-., are yoa a Master Mason?

M. y. 1st Surv. — M/. I'csp.'. M.-., I am, try inf". tlic Acacia is known
to uic.

Q. — W'liat docs the Acacia syiubolize i*

A. — The Acacia by its nature is a symbol of Fieomasonry; as a vood
it is incorruptible; — by its bark, it presents an impenetrable shield to all
mischievous insects, r.nd by its leaves, which inclosed during the night
and before sun rising, are again opened whilst the sun conies nearer to
Zenith.

So with Frecmasoor}-. It cannot be perverted by preposterous innova-
tions; it offers an indestructible barrier to intolcran^^fanaticism and
tyranny; and its disciples, blindfolded in the first degrc7, come nearer to
the great light, whilst they proceed to the Eighteenth and Thirtieth
Degrees.

Q. — Where were you initiated to the Degree of Master Mason.

A. — In the Sanctum Sanctorum or Holy of Holies.

Q. — What did you see on entering?

A. — Mourning and consternation, in rcmcnibrance of a sad and calami-
tous event.

Q. — What was that event ?

A. — The death of the Master, Hiram Abif, wlio had been murdered
by three companions.

Q. — Is that murder a real and true fact ?

A — It is viewed by Scotch Freema.sons as a legend.

Q. — What is the meaning cf such a fiction ?

A. — Hiram Abif represents Justice and Truth ; and the three com-
panions, Jubcla, Jubclo and Jubeluni, — Ignorance, Hypocrisy and
Ambition.

Q. — How were you then disposed of ?

A. — Bro.-. Expert took me by a coffin and requested me to saywhether
I had participated in the death of the person, there lying.

Q. — What did you answer ?

A. — I answered, no.

Q. — What was the meaning of such a question, and of the sight
offered to your eyes ?

A. — To impress on my mind that no man has the right to make an
attempt upon the life of his fellow-beings, and that in the third degree
mysteries of death should be fully illustrated and explained.

Q. — What next was made to you ?

A. — I had to make three voyages.

Q. — What is the philosophical or symbolic meaning of these three
voyages ?

A. — That there are three distinct periods in the human life — Youth,
Manhood and Senility. During the first period we are all apprentices
and know very little; — during the second, man becomes the companion of
all reasonable beings, made by the Grand Architect of the Universe after
his own image; — and finally during the third, man is the great Master of
Life, since he knows all its sufferings and pleasures, and being taught by
experience he fully understands the necessity and reasons of death,

Q — How were you disposed of after these three voyages ?

A. — I was requested to take the sjlemn obligation of the Master
Mason.

Q. — Can you give me a proof that you remember your promise ?

A. — I can, by giving yon the sign of the Third Degree.

Q.— Give it.

Q, — (He gives the sign.)

Q — What does it mean ?

A. — That I should rather have my body severed in two than to violate

the promise I made not only to keep silent about all secrets of the Third

Degree, but also never to harm or injure the wife, daughter, sister or

mother of a brother Mason.

Q. — Do you know another sign ?

A.— I do.
Q.— What is it ?

A.. — The sign of horror, vrhich was made when the pall, thrown over
the corpse of Hiram Abif, was taken away.
Q.— Make it.
A- — (The sign is made.)

Q —What is the pass word of the Third Degree ?
A. — (The pas.s word is given.)
Q. — What is the sacred word ?

A — I am ready to give it in a proper way. I have first to give the
five points of perfection.

Q. — What are the five point» of perfection ?

A. — Hand to Hand, to show that we are united as two brothers — Foot
to Foot, to indicate that, whatever may be the distance separating two
Freemasons, they are bound to run to the assistance of each other — Knee
to Knee, to remember us that we have a common creed, the belief in a
Grand Architect of the Universe, and furthermore, should we kneel
before God, we never kneel as Freemasons in presence of any man — Breast
to Breast, that we ought to bury in our bosom all secrets instructed to us
by a brother — Left hand on the right shoulder, that it is our duty never to
permit a brother to be slandered when absent, and that, on the contrary,
we ought to defend and protect his reputation.
Q. — What is your age as a Master Mason ?

A. — Seven years and more. Seven because that number is required
to have a just and perfect Lodge ; and more, because I am now familiar
with all secrets and mysteries of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite
of Freemasonry.

Q. — Should your life be in a great danger what should you do ?
A. — The sign of distress.
Q.— Give it.

Q. — The sign of distress is given with the words "To me, the
Widow's sous I"

FUNEUAL SEKVICE

Lodge room liung in black, skulls, cross bones, tears, flowers, etc.

Coffiu in the centre. If he was a Master the feet are turned to the
South; if a 11.-. f feet are to the West. His jewels, apron and tools are
placed symmetrically ou the Coffin.

EMBLEMS ON THE CENOTAPH.

1. All seeing eye, surrounded by a serpent; 2. Skull from which
butterfly seems to take its flight , 3, A reversed torch held by an
Angel.

OTHER EMBLEMS.

1. A tripod of burning flame; 2. A basket of flowers ; 3. The banner
of the Lodge, hung or covered with crape.

OTHER EMBLEMS ON THE ALTAR.

1. A pot of incense; 2. Vase of water; 3. Vase of wine; 4. Vase
of milk.

CEREMONIES.

The Ven.-. M.*. opens the Lodge in the usual form, except the Battery
which is muffled and accompanied by the words — Mourn ! Mourn !
Mourn !

• 92

The visitors ore tbcu admitted. The Yen.-. M.\ pronounces a dis-
course relative to the occasion, the ceremony and the merits of the
deceased.

Yes. M. — Bro'-. IstSurv.-., where is our Brother N y

A. — He wanders iu darkness.

M. — Can we withdraw him from that darkness?

A — The regions to wliich lie has gone are unknown to us.

M. — Will he not be restored to light ?

A. — The Grand Architect of the Universe towards whom his soul has
taken its flight, and by whom alone it is guided, will lead him to the
Temple of eternal Light and Truth.

M. — What is our duty towards the mortal remains of our Brother ?

A. — Hjs body is due to the earth, from which it was taken, and unto
the earth, passively and reverently, must we restore it, couliding in the
wisdom and mercy of the G.-. A.-.

M. — Have wc then lost our Brother forever?

A. — llis visible body loaves us, but bis name, his memory and his mind
will be with us, time without end.

M. — Bro.-. Secrc/ary, inscribe ou the record of this 11.-. Lodge that on

the day of A. D. N.-. returned unto his Creator, and

that with due respect hi.s brothers have consigned his body to the grave.

M.— Bro.-. 1st Surv.-., what marks of honor do we owe our deceased
Brother before consigning his body to the grave ?

A. «—The symbols of Faith in his regeneration, which arc the llowers
we place on the altar.

The symbol of Strength by the libation of Wine.

The symbol of Truth aud Purity by the Water of Purification.

The syuibol of Imw. vr Amity by the offering of 3Iilk.

The symbol of Memorial Piety by burning Incense on the Altar.

M. — ( ! '. !...and all the BB.-. rise. Let us pray.

Oh ! Thou, Grand Architect of the U.-., light of life, in Thee do all
things live and move and have their being. Material light and darkness
unto Thee are alike, for Thou knowest not oaly the secrets of life, but

93 #

also those of death. We rely on Thy infinite and eternal presence.
May our Bro.-. N.-. be with Thee as he was with us, ajid may his death
teach us to prepare ourselves to join him in the midst of the host of
immortal souls which dwell with Thee and behold Thy face. Amen
Amen ! Amen !

Yen.-. 31.-. descends, and after lighting the flame in the tripod, says:

Sovereign Arbiter of Nature, Thou hast, iu Thy wisdom, caused the
cud on earth of our brother, and Thou hast put a term to all of his mis-
fortunes and sufferings. Thou hast delivered him from oppression and
hast consoled his virtue. Thine infinite power and wisdom hath disposed
all things so that nothing doth perish, and so that our souls cannot be
annihilated any more than the matter in which they dwell on earth. We
thank Thee, fervently, for the conscientiousness of the great and consoling
truth which Thou hast made so evident, that we may calmly see the
approach of death, and hope while wc look upon this Coffin.

The Yen.-. M.-. takes a candle, and says:

Bro.*. X.-., thy brethren call thee, answer us !

(After the call the Yen.-. M.-. extinguishes the light.) This is re-
peated several times.

M. — Our brother is deaf to our voices. As the flame of this candle
he was full of life, and like unto it he gave forth light among us, but a
breath has extinguished it, and his light has gone to the source of all
thought. In vain do we call him, Let us, therefore, proceed to render
a final homage unto our brother, and may he, in the regions where now
he dwells, be aware of our affectionate sentiments and sorrowing accents.

Master and Officrra cast flowers on the Coffin, and Master says :

Though the sombre emblems of death hang upon these walls and sur-
round this Coffin, though we weep, this departed brother and behold the
decomposition of his body, let these flowers, which we cast upon his
grave, remind us that in the bosom of destruction regeneration begins,
that from death springeth life anew; that life is but a journey in the
midst of eternity; and he who hath lived well has nothing to fear.

Master and Officers make libation of TFi'ne, and Master says :

• 94
«

May the strength which sprung unto form and body, out of vegetable
matter, follow and return with our brother unto the Grand Architect of
the Universe, and continue to serve the purposes of omnipotence.

Master and Oj^iccrs pour out Water, and Master sat/s:

May truth of spirit and purity of conscience justify this brother before
the all seeing eye, and may he stand approved by 'the Grand Architect
who gave him this body to serve the designs of infinite wisdom.

Master and Officers pour out Milk.

M. — May the kindness of heart, our departed brother displayed to all
men, the charity of hb life, give him a title to the boundless mercy and
love of the father of all.

Master and Officers hum Incense.

M. — May the soul of our brother ascend to the throne of God as the
sweet perfumes of this incense rise to this dome or roof, and may the
Grand Architect receive him in the Grand Lodge of Heaven, where
none but the just can be admitted.

M. — Brethren, the moment has arrived when we must follow our re-
gretted brother to the last abode of the body, but dispair not, as do those
who confound their existence with that of the beasts who perish in dis-
solution, for the mind of man, which is the image and breath of God
himself, is one and indissoluble.

The procession is formed.

Arrived at the grave the Master or Orator makes an appropriate ex-
hortation.

The Master closes the tomb while the brethren cast branches of Acacia
or evergreen jnto it or upon it.

When the tomb has been closed the members return to the Lodge, and
it is closed.

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY.

LOUIS DUFAU, 33d,

Grand Secretary,

vji

pH8.5

Internet Archive Audio

Featured

Top

Images

Featured

Top

Software

Featured

Top

Books

Featured

Top

Video

Featured

Top

Mobile Apps

Browser Extensions

Archive-It Subscription

Save Page Now

Full text of "Supreme Council of the ancient and accepted Scotch Rite of Freemasonry in and for the sovereign and independent state of Louisiana, valley of New Orleans"

See other formats