Robert W. Woodruff
Library
Special Collections
emory university
UIMEHSmS®£JIE2r fflLEJm
SrASMVIDLIItlE, , TIEKMIESSIEIE
1®M.
the
ffiAS®Wa©
or
FREEMASONRY ILLUSTRATED.
by
VVILIQNS TANNEHILL, p. g. m.
OF THE CRAND LODGE OF TENNESSEE!
NASHVILLE;
PRINTED BY GEORGE WILSON,
1834.
DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE :
Bh it bemembebed, that on this 2uth day of August, in the year
1824, and forty ninth year of American Independence, Wtlkivs Tan.'
nehill, hath deposited in this office the Title of a B iok, the right
whereof he claims as proprietor, in the words Following':
e< The Masonic Manual, or Free Masmtry Plrsti a ted. By Wilkiss
" Tannehill, P. G. M. of the Gran J Itndge of Tennessee "
In conformity to an act of the Congress of the Unite J Sta es, enti¬
tled "an act for the encouragement of learning, by securing copies of
Maps, Charts and Books, to the authors and proprietors of such co¬
pies, during the times thereip mentioned," and atso the act entitled
" an act supplementary to an act for the encouragement of learning by
securing the copies of Maps, Charts and Berks, to the authors and
proprietors of such copies, during the times tl erein nvi tinned, and
extending the benefit thereof to designing, etching and engraving
Historical and other Prints."
N. A. M«NAIRY, Clerk
of the District of West Tennessee.
TO
THE MOST WORSHIPFUL
GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON?
GRAND MASTER
GIT
MASONS,
IN TEE STATE OF TENNESSEE,
this work
IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED
as A
TESTIMONY OF RESPECT,
row, bis
PCBLtCJVND PRIVATE CHARACTER,
BY
his friend and brother%
WILKIN S TANNEI11LL.
RECOMMENDATION.
GRAND LODGE OF TENNESSEE,
October Session, 185*3.
Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to examine
a Manuscript on the Constitutions of Masonry, by the
M. W. Wilkins Tannehill, P. G. M. ; and if said Com¬
mittee should approve the same, to subscribe for three
copies for the use of this Grand Lodge, and three copies
for the use of every chartered Lodge, working1 under the
jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, afnd draw ppon the
Grand Treasurer for payment.
Resolved, That the M. W. Oliver B. Hayes, P. G. M.
the R. W. George Wilson, D. G. M. and the R. W. Mo¬
ses Norvell, G. S. be a committee to carry the above re¬
solution into effect.
Extractfrom the Minutes,
Agreeably to the foregoing resolutions of the Grand
Lodge of Tennessee, we have examined the " Masonic
Manual," by our M. W. Brother Wilkins Tannehill, esq.
and approve its publication. The order of arrangement,
and the additional light shed upon the subject, reflect
much credit upon the compiler and author, and, in our
opinion, entitle it to the patronage of the Craft.
O. B. HAXES, P. G. M.
G. WILSON, D. G. M.
MOSES NORVELLj G. S.
PART I.—BOOK I.
CHAPTER I.
Origin of Freemasonry—Eleusynian Mysteries—Essenes—
Druids—Solomons Temple—p. 1—14.
CHAPTER II.
Sketches of the History of Freemasonry in England, Scot¬
land, Ireland, France, Germany, Holland, Sweden, Denmark,
Russia, Bohemia, Asia and Africa—23—53. '
CHAPTER HI.
Sketch of the History of Freemasonry in the United Statei
of America—55—67.
BOOK II.
Masonic Constitutions.
CHAPTER I.
Concerning God and Religion—Private duties—new Mem¬
bers—69—74.
CHAPTER II.
Of a Lodge and its government—77.
CHAPTER ill.
*
Of attendance of members—81.
CHAPTER IV.
Of the Officers of a Lodge—the Master—the Wardens—»
Secretary—Treasurer—86—91.
CHAPTER V.
Of Grand Lodges—the Grand Master—Deputy Grand Mas¬
ter—Grand Wardens—Grand Secretary—Grand Treasurer
—92—96.
BOOK nr.
CHAPTER I.
Advantages of Masonry—99.
CHAPTER II.
On Masonic Secrecy—106.
CHAPTER III.
On Friendship and Brotherly Love—111.
CHAPTER IV.
On Charity-—117,
CHAPTER V.
Of the different classes of Masons—123.
CHAPTER VI.
The ceremony of opening and closing a Lodge—Charge at
opening—Prayer at opening—Charge at closing—Prayer af
closing—Benediction—125—129.
CHAPTER VII.
On the admission ofCandidates—form of Petition—Declar¬
ations to be assented to by the candidate—130—133.
CHAPTER VIII,
Illustrations of the degree of Entered Apprentice—134—
161.
CHAPTER IX.
Illustrations of the degree of Fellow Craft—162—190.
CHAPTER X.
Illustrations of the degree of Master Mason—191—209.
CHAPTER XI.
Ancient Ceremonies—Constituting a Lodge—Installation of
Officers—210—236.
CHAPTER XII.
Ceremony at the installation of a Grand Master—237—243.
CHAPTER XHI.
Ceremony at laying Corner Stones of Public Buildings—•*
241—.48.
CHAPTER XIV.
Dedication of Mason^s Halls—219-—256.
CHAPTER XV.
Celebration of the Anniversaries of St John the Baptistand
St. John the Evangelist—-257—£62.
CHAPTER XVI,
Funeral Service—£63—-275.
vir
CHAPTER XVII,
Prayer at opening a Lodge—at the initiation of a Clergy¬
man—at the Constitution of a lodge—-276—279.
CHAPTER XVIII.
Masonic Precepts—283—293.
PAKT SECOND.
) CHAPTER I.
Royal Arch Masonry—Establishment of the General Grand
Royal Arch Chapter—297.
CHAPTER II.
Illustration of the degree of Mark Master—304—313.
CHAP. III.
R.emarks on the degree of Past Master—314—316.
CHAP. IV.
Illustration of the degree of Most Excellent Master—317
---323.
CHAP. V.
Illustration of the degree of Royal Arch—325—349.
CHAP. VI.
Remarks on the order of High Priest—350—359,
CHAP. VII.
Degree of Royal Master—360—362.
CHAP. VIII.
Degree of Select Master—363—368.
CHAP. IX.
Ceremonies nnd charges at the installation of the Officers of
a Royal Arch Chapter—369—397,
APPENDIX.
History of Freemasonry in the State of Tennessee—Con¬
stitution of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee—399.
DIRECTIONS TO THE BINDER.
Plate No. 1. to face page 137.
Plate No. 2. 143.
Plate No. 3. 165.
Plate No. 4. 167.
Plate No. 5. 193.
Plate No. C, 197,
The work now offered to the Masonic Fraternity, lays no
claim to originality ; it is, what it professe^ to be, a compila¬
tion from the works of others.
A desire to discharge the duties of a Master of a Lodge, with
which station he had been honored by bf'i brethren, together
with the scarcity of Books in this country, illustrating the
principles of the craft, induced the compiler tQ undertake such
an arrangement of the information he was enabled to Collect,
as would be useful to himself and beneficial to his brethren.—
After 'circumstances, which are unnecessary to be detailed,
induced him to prepare it for publication.
The compiler has endeavored to render it worthy the accep¬
tance of the craft, as a complete manual for the use of Lodges,
by such an arrangement of the different subjects, as will con¬
form to the mode of working and lecturing in the several
degrees.
Masonry is a mystic science, where under figures and em¬
blems, solemn and important truths are taught, which have a
tendency to improve the understanding, mend the heart, and
bind its professors more closely together in the bonds of union
and friendship. Different opinions with regard to its object
and tendency, have been formed by those who have not been
initiated into its mysteries ; and there are some, who have ne¬
ver studied its principles as published to the world, who speak
against it, more from the vanity of saying something, than that
they can urge a single rational objection.
By the introduction of much additional matter, the compiler-
has endeavored to give a more full explanation of the princi¬
ples of the order, and thereby attempt to remove the objections
urged against it, and, at the same time, point out the duties
which its members owe to themselves, to the order, to each
other, and to the world at large.
With these remarks, he submits it to the candid judgment
of those who may examine it: He asks not for charitable in¬
dulgence : If it is worthy of commendation and protection, it
will receive it.
THE .
MASONIC- MANUAL.
BOOK FIRST,
CHAPTER I,
.Origin of Freemasonry—Various opinions as to
its origin—Eleusynian Mysteries—Essenes—
Druids—Solomons9 Temple.
To trace the progress of Freemasonry from its
earliest institution, is attended With that difficulty
which must ever result from the want of written
history. The origin of rilost nations, which have
been celebrated by the historian and the poet, is co¬
vered with a thick veil, or lost in the fabulous le¬
gends of a dark and barbarous age. It cannot,
therefore, be a subject of surprise, that an institu¬
tion, whose forms and ceremonies have never been
committed to writing, but handed down by tradi¬
tion, from generation to generation, should be in¬
volved in some degree of obscurity. To this sub¬
ject, men of different nations, distinguished for their
general information and Masonic knowledge, have
devoted much time and labour, and although their
researches have not determined' the main point, yet
HISTORY OR
they have resulted in the developement of much
useful and important information.
Various opinions have been entertained and sup¬
ported by plausible arguments. Some, after labo¬
rious investigation, have been inclined to the belief
that Freemasonry is indebted, for its origin, to th®
Eleusynian Mysteries, instituted in honour of th®
Goddess Ceres, which are said to have taught the
immortality of the soul, the unity of God, and other
sublime truths of natural religion. Some have at¬
tributed its origin to the Essenes, a sect which ex¬
isted amongst the Jew s at the commencement of the
Christian era. Some, again, have endeavoured to
raise the veil which conceals the mysteries of the
Druids, (an association w hich existed in Gaul and
Britain at an early period,) and discover its rise
amongst the wise men of that institution ; others,
not disposed to asssign it to so high an antiquity,
have brought it down to the period of the Crusades?
and attribute its origin to the Knights Templar.—
Without adopting either of the foregoing opinions,
we will present a short sketch of the principles,
rites and ceremonies of the three first associations,
together with some of the arguments which have
been adduced, that the fraternity may form their
own conclusions.
First—then, of the Eleusynian Mysteries. A-
mongst all the mysteries which Pagan superstition
instituted in honour of different divinities, there are,
none so celebrated as those of the goddess Ceres;
she herself, it is said, appointed the ceremonies.—
Whilst she traversed the earth in search of her
daughter Proserpine, who had been carried off by
FREEMASONRY.
3
Pluto, she arrived at the city ofEleusys in Greece,
and pleased with the reception she met with from
the inhabitants, bestowed on them two signal be¬
nefits ; the art of agriculture and a knowledge of
sacred doctrines.*
It is asserted that this religous system diffused a
spirit of union and humanity ; that it purified the
soul from its ignorance and polution ; that it pro¬
cured to the initiated the peculiar aid of the Gods,
the means of arriving at the perfection of virtue, the
serene happiness of a holy life, and the hopes of a
peaceful death and endless felicity. That they
should occupy a distinguished place in the Elysian
fields, enjoy a pure light and live in the bosom of
the divinity; while those who had not participated
in the mysteries, should dwell, after death, in the
place of darkness and despair. So superstitiously
careful were they to conceal the sacred rites, that
if any one divulged them, he was thought to have
called down some divine judgment on his head, and
it was counted unsafe to abide in the same house
with him ; wherefore he was apprehended as a
public offender and suffered death. Such, also,
was the secrecy of those rites, that if any person,
who was not lawfully initiated, happened by iguo-
rance or mistake, to be present, he was put to death.
The neglect of initiation was looked upon as a
crime of a very henious nature; insomuch, that it
was one part of the accusation against Socrates w hen
he was condemned to death. Persons convicted of
witchcraft, or had committed homicide, although
involuntary, were debarred from these mysteries,*
* Anacharsis' Travels.
4
HI9T0RY OF
The Eleusynian Mysteries were of two sorts*
the lesser arid the greater; one qualification requi¬
site to both, was to be able to keep a great secret.
Though Triptolemus had appointed that no stran¬
ger should be initiated into the greater mysteries*
yet Hercules, to whom they durst refuse nothing,
demanded to be admitted to them, and upon his ac¬
count lesser ceremonies were instituted, which they
called the lesser mysteries, and these were celebra¬
ted afterwards at Agra and Athens. Those who
were ambitious to be admitted to them, repaired to.
this place in the month of November, sacrificed to
Jupiter, and kept the skins of the victims to lay up¬
on their feet when they were purified upon the
banks of the river Ilissus. What sort of ceremo*
nies were made use of in those purifications, is not
exactly known. The lesser mysteries served as a
preparation for the greater, which were celebrated
at Eleusys. After having passed through, many
trials, the person was mystes ; that is, qualified for
being initiated into the greater mysteries, and to be¬
come Epoptes, or the witness of the most secret
mysteries, which were not procured until after five
years probation; during which time he might enter
into the vestibule of the temple, but not into the
sanctuary.
When any one was initiated, he was introduced
by night into the temple, after having his hands
washed at the entry, and a crown of myrtle put
upon him. Then was opened a little box wherein
* were the laws of Ceres, and the ceremonies of her
mysteries; and after having given him these to read,
he was made to transcribe them. A slight repast*
FREEMASONRY.
5'
in memory of that which the goddess got from Bau-
bo,succeeded this ceremony; after which the priest
drew the veil, and every thing was suddenly enve¬
loped in darkness. A bright light succeeded and
exhibited to view the statue of Ceres magnificently
adorned; and while they were attentive in consid¬
ering it, the light again disappeared, and all was
once more wrapped in profound darkness. The
peals of thunder that were heard, the lightning that
flashed around, the thunder that broke in the midst
of the sanctuary, and a thousand monstrous figures
that appeared on all sides, filled the initiated with
horror'and consternation; but the next momenta
calm succeeded, and there appeared in broad day¬
light a charming meadow, where all can]&i|> dance
and make merry together. It is probable that this
meadow was in a place enclosed with walls behind
the sanctuary of the temple, which being suddenly
opened, when daylight was let in, appeared the
more agreeable as it succeeded a night when noth¬
ing but terrifying objects were to be seen.
The first minister of the temple was called the
Hierophontes or Mystagogos, signifying a revealei?
of holy things; his principal function was to initiate
into the mysteries, and the initiated were not per¬
mitted to mention his name to the profane. The
second officer carried the torch in the ceremonies,
and prepared those who presented themselves for
initiation. The third officer was the Sacred Her¬
ald, and the fourth was a Minister of the Mtar.—
The office of the sacred herald was to command
silence; that of the minister of the altar, to put up
prayers in behalf of the assembly and to assist the
A 2
6
HISTORY OP
others in their, several functions. Besides these
four ministers, there were two officers whose busi¬
ness it was to offer sacrifices, and five delegates to
see that all things were performed in order. The
first was called the ICing9 the other four JEjfimele-
tes.*
On the part of those who trace the origin of Free¬
masonry to the mysteries of Eleusys, it is asserted
that they partook of the form and spirit of masonry
These mysteries were divided into degrees, as in
Freemasonry, and wherever they were introduced
they diffused a spirit of union and humanity. The
hierophant, the sacred herald, and other officers, who
"were to instruct and tawatch, strikingly resemble the
duties of the officers of an enlightened lodge. The
preparation of the candidates and many prelimina¬
ry forms, are not unlike in each. The objects of
each being the same, to impress on their mind at
the time of initiation, the dread of vice aud the
value of virtue; the punishment of the wicked and
the happiness of the good; and the just abhorrence
of those vices which no law can effectually reach;
avarice, hardness of heart and every species of in¬
gratitude ; and great efforts are made in each sys¬
tem to contrast those vices with the opposite virtues
of generosity, sensibility, affection to parents and
gratitude to friends; and above all, to fix the under¬
standing in the belief of " one living and true God.?>
Corn, wine and oil were sacred symbols in those
mysteries, and^they are now used in dedicating eve¬
ry masonic temple. It is also asserted, that it is
impossible that accident should.produce such a
156 Travels of Ana.—Tookes' Pantheon,
FREEMASONRY.
7
similarity in their objects and forms, as we see in
these societies, and that, therefore, there must have
been a relationship to produce so many features of
resemblance.*
ESSEN ES.
The origin and sentiments of the association of*
the Essenes have occasioned much discussion,
amongst ecclesiastical historians. They are all of
one mind, however, respecting the constitutions and
observances of this order. Josephus remarks, con¬
cerning them, *'that they consisted entirely of males
denying themselves marriage, discouraging com-,
merce and employing themselves chiefly in agri¬
culture. By the laws of their society, they might
reside where they chose, but in whatever city they
dwelt, they had a community of goods which was
entrusted to certain persons called stewards, in
whom they had confidence, and who employed it
in procuring the necessary requisites of food and.
raiment, and the entertainment of those of their
own sect, whom business accidentally brought
among them. Their manner of spending their
time was as follows : their first care was to offer up
certain prayers before sunset, which they received/
from their fathers., They were then sent by the
stewards to exercise themselves in those arts in
which they were skilled till the fifth hour, at which
time they met, bathed themselves in cold water,
put on white garments and entered a common hall?
* Mas. Mag. Boston..
8
HISTORY OY
where dinner was served up. This consisted of
bread and a single dish of some kind of meat for
each individual, a priest asked a blessing, and the
deepest silence reigned ^during the repast. When
thanks were returned they resumed their ordinary
dress, and went about their several employments
until evening, when they supped in a similar man-
mer. Iti all their transactions they paid the strict¬
est regard to truth ; wTere distinguished for their
fidelity; received from the common stock what was
needful for the purposes of charity, but might not
give it away to their own kindred, as if it were
their own ; and were unusually strict in their ob¬
servance of the sabbath. Their doctrinal tenets
were, that fate governed all things; that the soul
was immortal; that there were rewards and pun¬
ishments beyond the grave: but their ideas on this
last subject were much corrupted by their heathen
neighbours. They had two ways of obtaining pro-
solytes; the one by procuring Jhe children of
others, and training them up in their principles and
habits; the other by persons arrived at manhood,
who wished to become members. When a candi¬
date was proposed for admission, the strictest scru¬
tiny was made into his character. If his conduct
had been hitherto exemplary; if he appeared ca¬
pable of curbing his passions and regulating hi*
conduct according to the austere maxims of their
order, he was presented with a white garment, as
an emblem of the regularity of his conduct and the
purity of his heart, a solemn oath was administered
to him that he would never divulge the mysteries of
the order; that he would make no innoyatious oa
ITtEEMASONRY.
the doctrines of the society f and that he would
continue iuthat honourable course of piety aud vir¬
tue which he had began to pursue. They instruct¬
ed the young member in the knowledge which they
derived fr®m their ancestors. They had particular
signs for recognizing each other* They had places
of retirement, where they resorted to practise their
rites and settle the affairs of the society. They
abolished all distinction of rank, and if preferanc©
was given, it was given to knowledge, piety, libe¬
rality and virtue. Those who observed their en¬
gagements were highly respected ; but those who
violated them were tried by a council composed of
a hundred men, and excommunicated from the so¬
ciety, after which their state was deplorable; for,
having subsisted at the common table, they consi¬
dered themselves as precluded from receiving food
from strangers, so that they went about in the ut¬
most distress, and when at the point of death wer©
received into the society, that their souls might b©
Saved! in the other world.*
The Essenes pretended to higher degrees of pie¬
ty and knowledge than the uninitiated ; and al¬
though their pretensions were high, they were ne¬
ver questioned by their enemies.. Austerity of
manners was one of their chief characteristics.—
They frequently assembled however, in convivial
parties, and relaxed for a while from the severity
of those duties they were accustomed to perform.
These remarkable coincidents (it is contended) be¬
tween the chief features of the masonic andEssenean
fraternities, can only he. accounted for by referring
* Joseph. Ant. xiii. 1. Wars. ii. 8.
10
History of
them to a common origin. "Were the circumstances
of this resemblance either few or fanciful, the simi¬
larity might have been merely casual; but when,
the nature, the objects, the external forms of the
two institutions, are so nearly alike, ^the arguments
for their identity, something more than pre¬
sumptive. There is one point, however, which
may militate against this supposition. The Es-
senes appear to have been in no respect, connected
with architecture, nor addicted to those sciences and
pursuits, which are subsidiary to the art of build¬
ing. That the Essenes directed their attention to
particular sciences, -which they pretended to have
received from their fathers is admitted by all wri¬
ters ; but whether or not, those sciences were in
any shape connected with architecture, we are at
this distance of time unable to determine. But the
assurance that the Essenes were unconnected with
architecture, will not affect the hypothesis. For
there have been, and still are many associations of
masons where no architects are members, and which
have no connexion w ith the art of building. But if
this is not deemed a sufficient answer to the objec¬
tion, an enquiry into the origin of the Essenes af¬
fords additional evidence, for the identity of the
Masonic and Essenean associations.
The opinions of sacred and profane historians
agree in representing the Essenes as an ancient as¬
sociation, originating from particular fraternities,
which formerly existed in the land of Judea. Pliny
refers them to such remote antiquity, that they must
have existed during the reign of Solomon.* j-Bas-
* Plin. Nat. His. B. 17. tUelig. of the Jews, ch. xii. 13.
FREEMASONRY.
11
nage, who is, the only writer who seems disposed
to consider them as a recent association, confessed
that they existed about three hundred years before
the birth of Christ, -Scaliger contends that they
Were descended from the Kassidians, who make
such a conspicuous figure in the history of the
Maccabees. The Kassidians were a religious fra¬
ternity, who bound themselves to adorn the porches
of the temple of Jerusalem, and preserve it from
injury and decay. This association was composed
of the greatest men of Israel, who were distinguish¬
ed for their charitable and peaceful dispositions,
and always signalized themselves by their ardent
zeal for the purity and preservation of the temple.
From these facts it appears, that the Essenes were
not only an ancient fraternity, but that they ori¬
ginated from an association of architects, who were
connected with the building of Solomons' Temple.
Nor was this order confined to the Holy Hand;
like that of Freemasonry it existed in all parts of
the world, and although the lodges in Judea were
chiefly, if not wholly, composed of Jews, yet the
Essenes admitted into their order, men of every re¬
ligion, and of every rank in life. They adopted
many of the Egyptian mysteries, and, like the
priests of that country, the Magi of Persia, and the
Gymnosopliists of India, they united the study of
moral, with that of natural philosophy. Although
they were patronized by Herod and respected by
all men for the correctness of their conduct, and the
innocence of their order, they suffeied severe
persecution from the Romans, until their order was
abolished abont the middle of the fifth century.*
# JLawries Hist, of Freemasonry.
i2
HISTOUY OF
DRUIDS.
The Druids were peculiar to Gaul and Britain.
Their antiquity and peculiar stations, render it pro¬
bable in the minds of some, that part of their rites
and ceremonies have been retained in forming the
ceremonies of the masonic society. The members
of this association were elected out of the best fam¬
ilies, and were held, both from the honors of their
birth and office in the greatest veneration. Their
study was astrology, geometry, natural history,
politics and geography- They were present at all
divine service; the overseers of public and private
sacrifices, and the interpreters of religious rites and
ceremonies. They were the preceptors of youth
and taught them many rules, which they caused
them to commit to memory, it being unlawful to
commit their doctrines and particular precepts to
writing ; in which manner they instrucled them in
the mysteries of their religion, sciences and poli¬
tics. At the conclusion of each year they held a
general festival apd assembly in which they paid
their adoration, and offered gifts to the God of na¬
ture, bringing with them mi«sletoeand branches of
oak; in mystic verses supplicating for approach¬
ing spring and the ensuing year. At their sacrifi¬
ces and in their religious offices they wore white
apparel. They held a session once a year, in a cer¬
tain consecrated place, in which all causes were
tried and determined. They worshipped one su¬
preme God, immense and infioite; "but would not
confine their worship to temples built with human
hands; professing the universe was the Temple of
FREEMASONRY.
13
{he Deity, esteeming any other inconsistent with
his attributes. Their whole law and religious
opinions were taught in verse. Some druids spent
twenty years in learning to repeat those scientific
distiches, which they were forbidden under severe
penalties to commit to writing; by which means
they were only known to the initiated,
Julius Ceasar,who had ample opportunities of be¬
coming acquainted with their ceremonies altid practi¬
ces says, that(< if either private person or body poli¬
tic, obey not their decrees, they debar them from reli¬
gious ceremonies, which is esteemed a grievous
punishment. Whoever are under this interdict,
are esteemed wicked and impious persons, and are
avoided by all, and they are rendered incapable of
holding any public office. Of the Druids there is
a chief, who has the greatest authority amongst
them; at his death the most excellent person in the
association is elected his successor. Their learn¬
ing and profession is thought to have been first de¬
vised in Britain, and from thence translated into
Gaul. They are free from tributes and service in
war, and are also exempted from all state imposi¬
tions. They are principally anxious to inculcate
011 their disciples, that the soul of man is immortal,
and after death passeth from one man to another.
They presume by this doctrine that men will con¬
temn the fear of death, and be steadfast 4n the ex¬
ercise of virtue. Moreover, concerning the stars
and their motions, the greatness of the heavens and
the earth, the nature of things, the power and might
of the eternal divinity, they give many precepts to
their pupils. In the manner above described the
B
u
HISTORY OP
Druids communicated their particular tenets, and
concealed under the veil of mystery every branch
of useful knowledge; which tended to secure their
order universal admiration and respect, while the
instructions propagated by them were received with
reverence.
The foregoing exhibits a view of the rites and
ceremonies of those ancient societies, to which ma¬
ny learned men have traced the origin of Freema*
sonry. The experienced mason will make ^iis
own reflections on the supposed affinity of "their
practices, to the rites and ceremonies established
amongst the Freemasons.
SOLOMON'S TEMPLE.
The erection of this superb edificp, raised by
piety for the worsbipt>f the Supreme and Eternal
God, forms an important epoch in the history of
masonry; a short account, therefore, of the circum¬
stances attending its erection, cannot be uninterest¬
ing to the craft, for whom this work is principally
intended. To this period, masonry is indebted, if
not for its origin, at least for some of its essential
embellishments and securities against decay.
The sacred volume informs us that David, king
of Israel, had determined to erect a magnificent
Temple for the service of the most High God, and
for that purpose had collected materials in gold,
silver, iron and brass £ ** But the word of the Lord
came unto him, saying, thou hast shed blood abun¬
dantly, and hast made great wars; thou shalt not
FREEMASONRY,
15
build an house to my name, because tbou bast shed
much blood upon the earth in my sight. Behold a
son shall be born unto thee, who shall be a man of
rest; and I will give him rest from his enemies
roundabout; for his name shall be Solomon, and
I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his
days. He shall build an house for my name, and
he shall be my son, and I will be his father; and I
will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel
forever." David, bowed down by the weight of
years and infirmities, and drawing near his end,
assembled the chiefs of his people and acquainted
them with his design to have built a magnificent re¬
pository for the ark of God, but found that it was
the diviue will, that this great work should be ac¬
complished by his son Solomon. He desired
them to assist in so laudable a work, and directed
that when it should be completed, that the ark
should be deposited therein, together with the holy
vessels. David died, soon after in the seventieth
year of his age, having reigned seven years in He¬
bron, over the house of Judah, and thirty-three
over all Israel.
Solomon ascended the throne of Israel amidst
the aclamations of his people, and under the most fa¬
vorable circumstances. Having made peace with
his enemies, and firmly settled the affairs of his
kingdom, he determined to carry into execution the
important work of erecting the temple. He com¬
menced it in the fourth year of his reign, in the se¬
cond month, and that he might prosecute the work
with greater expedition, he applied to Hiram, King
of Tyre, the ancient friend and ally of his father,
16
HISTQRY OF
to furnish him with timber from Lebanon, and " a
man skilful to work in gold, silver and brass," Jo-
sephus, in his "antiquities of the Jews,"* presents
us with the following letters, which he says were
to be seen in his day.
Ring Solomon to Ring Hiram.
u Know thou, that my father would have built a
temple to God, but was hindered by wars and con¬
tinued expeditions, for he did not leave off to over-
throw his enemies, until he had made them subject
to tribute; but I give thanks to God for the peace
I enjoy, and on that account I am at leisure and de¬
sign to build an house to God; for God foretold to
my father David, that snch an house should be
built by me; wherefore, I desire thee to send some
of thy subjects with mine to Mount Libanus, to cut
down timber, for the Sidonians are more skilful
than our people, in cutting wood. As for the hew¬
ers of wood, I will pay whatever price thou shalt
determine."
To which Jliram returned the following answer.
" It is fit to bless God, that he hath committed
thy fathers government to thee, who art a wise man
and endowed with all virtues. As for myself, I
rejoice at the condition thou art in, and will be sub¬
servient to thee, in all that thou sendest to me a-
bout; for when by my subjects I have cut down
many and large trees of cedar and cypress wood,
1 will send them to sea, and will order my subjects
* Book viii. chap. 2,
FREEMASONRY.
it
to make floats of them, and sail to what place
soever- of thy country thou wilt desire, and leave
them there ; after which thy subjects may carry
them to Jerusalem. But do thou take care to pro¬
cure us corn for this timber, which we stand in
need of, because we inhabit an island."
Solomon repaid Hiram what he desired, and
sent him yearly twenty thousand cori of wheat,
and as many baths of oil. Hiram, King of Tyre,
not only furnished the cedar and cypress of Libanus,
but he sent him, Hiram, the son of a widow of the
tribe of Napthali. He was the most skilful and
accomplished artist of his age, in all kinds of work,
but particularly in gold, silver and brass. From
his designs and under his direction, all the rich and
splendid furniture of the Temple, was begun, car¬
ried on and finished. So highly was this distin¬
guished man esteemed by Solomon, for his talents,
his virtues and unblemished integrity, that he ap¬
pointed him Deputy Grand Master, and principal
surveyor and master of the work.
This celebrated temple, which long challenged
the admiration of the world, far exceeded in splen¬
dor all other structures which had hitherto been
erected. It was begun in the month of April, A.
M. 2(J92, four hundred and eighty years after the
children of Israel came out of Rgypt, and was fin¬
ished in October, A. M. 2999, and 1005 years be¬
fore Christ. There were employed in its construc¬
tion, three grand masters, three thousand three
hundred overseers of the work, eighty thousand fel¬
low crafts ar d seventy thousand entered apprenti¬
ces, or bearers of burthens. It was supported by
B 2
18
HISTORY OP
fourteen hundred and fifty-three columns, and two
thousand nine hundred and six pilastres, all hewn:
from the finest Parian marble. By the masonic
art, and the wise regulations of Solomon, the tim¬
bers were felled and prepared in the forest of Leb¬
anon, conveyed by sea to Joppa, and from thence
by land to Jerusalem; the stones were all hewn,
squared and numbered in the quarries ; during its
whole progress it rained not in the daytime, so that
the workmen were not obstructed in their labor;
and the sound of the hammer, axe, or any tool of
metal, was not heard within its walls, that nothing
might exist among the masons at Jerusalem but
harmony and peace. Eleven months after its com¬
pletion, at the feast of tabernacles, the dedication
took place. The tabernacle of Moses and its li6ly
reliques'being lodged in the temple, Solomon, in
a general assembly of his people, dedicated and
consecrated it by solemn prayer and costly sacrifi¬
ces, and upon fixing the ark in its proper place be¬
tween the cherubims, "the fire came down from
heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the
.sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the
house."
In the conduct of this great work, we cannot but
admire the wisdom of Solomon; he discovered the
great necessity there was to assign to portions of
his workmen the particular labour they were to
pursue; he gave them certain words, signs and to¬
kens, by which each rank should be distinguished,
in order that the whole might proceed without con,
fusion
Without such regulations as Solomon had devi-«
FREEMASONRY.
id
sed for the goverment of his servants, and.a supe¬
rior wisdom governing the whole, we should be at
a loss to account for the completion of so great a
work in the short space of seven years and six
months, when the two succeeding temples, though
much inferior, employed so much more time.* The
building being conducted by the chosen people of
God, makes it natural to couceive, that from devo¬
tion and pious fervor, as well as emulation, those
employed had unceasing motives to preserve har¬
mony and order, and prompt their diligence; as
their labor was probationary and led to an advance¬
ment to superior privileges, higher points of know-r
ledge, and at last to that honorable preeminence of
master in the holy work.
We find that the like distinction was retained
in rebuilding the temple during the reign of Cyrus,
and that the work was performed by the " true
descendants" of the Israelites; for they refused to
admit the Samaritans to a share of the work, al*
though they requested it under the denomination of
servants of the same God ; but they were rejected
as unworthy to assist in so glorious a work; for
although they professed themselves servants of the
true God, they poluted their worship by sacrificing
on the altars of idolatry.
Solomon was wise in all ancient learning; he
was possessed of all mystical knowledge of the eas-
* The second temple was commenced 532 years before
Christ, and finished 511 years before Christ, or 21 years af¬
ter it was begun. The third, or Herod*s Temple, was be¬
gun 17 years before Christ, and workmen were employed
on some of the out buildings, after his death.
20
HISTORY OH
tern nations, and was enlightened by the immedi¬
ate gift of heaven. It was the custom of the times
in which the temple of Jerusalem was erected,to
use emblematical and symbolical ornaments in pub¬
lic edifices ; a fashion derived from the hieroglyph¬
ic monuments of the Egyptians, and the mysterious
mode in which their sages concealed their wisdom
■and learning from the vulgar eye, and communica¬
ted scientific knowledge to those of their own order
only. The pillars erected at the porch of the tem¬
ple, were not only ornamented with net work, lily
work and pomegranates, but also carried with them
an emblematical import in their names. They
were regarded as a striking momento of the prom¬
ise of God, that he would establish the throne of
David, and make the nation of Israel strong in bis
might. These pillars were destroyed by the Chal¬
deans when Jerusalem was taken by N ehucbadna-
zar, and the brass of which they were made was
carried to Babylon.
Whatever doubts may prevail as to the exis¬
tence of the masonic institution anterior to the erec¬
tion of the temple, yet as masons, we have satisfac¬
tory evidence that it has existed in some form or
other since the days of Solomon. The original
land marks of the order have been transmitted
through a chosen few, unchanged by time and un-
controuled by prejudice. As masons, we possess
interesting facts unknown to the world, which are
stated to have originated at. the building of the tem¬
ple. The same facts are in the possession of ma¬
sons in different countries. Now, if the informa¬
tion which,we have deceived by masonic tradition
FREEMASONRY.
Existed only in our own country, or in that from
which we received it, we might have ground for the
suspicion that it was fabricated; but when we find
the same facts, in almost every country on the globe,
agreeing in all essential points, the conclusion is ir¬
resistible that they are true.
History affords abundant evidence of the exis-
tance of the society from the time of Solomon; and
after the completion of the temple, the Tyrians, who
had been engaged in that enterprize, returned to
their native country. We are informed by a dis¬
tinguished writer,* that many of the Jews who
were employed in the building of the temple, and
who must have been acquainted with all the cir¬
cumstances which transpired at the time, emigra¬
ted to Phoenicia, a country of which Tyre was th©
principal city. Oppressed by their enemies, and
exposed to trials and danger, they sought an asy¬
lum among the inhabitants of that city, Remind*
ed of the pleasing scenes which they had witness¬
ed on Mount Moriah, and influenced by those feel*
ings of brotherly love and friendship, which seven
years residence together had inspired, the Tyrians
furnished them with ships, in which they passed the
pillars of Hercules and settled in Spain. Wear©
assured by Strabo, that colonies were established by
the inhabitants of Palestine, on the western coast of
Africa, about one hundred and ninety years after
the Trojan war, and about fourteen years after the
dedication of Solomon's Temple. It is then an
established fact, that men in the possession of the
secrets on which the six first degrees of masonry
* De Goguet.
22
&ISTORY OF
are founded, settled in various parts of the, world.
It is equally authenticated that masons in all parte
of the world possess the same facts. The conclu¬
sion then, to be drawn from these circumstances
is, that our masonic information is true, and that
the institution has existed at least from the days of
Solomon.
FREEMASONRY.
CHAPTER n.
Sketches of the History of Freemasonry in Europe,
Asia and Africa.
In this part of our work, we do not design to pre¬
sent a complete history of masonry in the different
quarters of the world, hut only to lay before our
readers, some of the most prominent events,
It is difficult to ascertain at what period Freema¬
sonry was introduced into Britain; it is cer¬
tain, however, that its first inhabitants must
have brought with them no small knowledge of the
art. There are yet some remains of skill in archi¬
tecture much earlier than the invasion of the Ro¬
mans. but so defaced by time, that it is difficult to
determine their original use. The history of ma¬
sonry in England is involved in much obscurity,
until about the time o. Alfred, who is said to have
been a z'ealous promoter of the art. No prince ev¬
er studied more to improve the condition of his sub¬
jects. He was succeeded by Edward, during
whose reign the masons continued to assemble un¬
der the superintendance of Ethred, his brother-in-
law, and Ethelward, his brother.
Edward was succeeded by Athelstane. This
prince granted a charter, authorising the masons
to meet annually at York, where the first Grand
Lodge was formed in €£6, at which Edwin, the
brother of Athelstane, presided as Grand Master.
24 HISTORY OF
At this meeting many old writings were produced,
in Greek, Latin and other languages, from which
the constitutions of the English lodges are derived.
From this era we date the establishment of mason-
ty in England on firm basis,. By virtue of the
charter granted by Athejstane, all the masons of
the kingdom were convened and a grand lodge es¬
tablished for their future government. Under the
jurisdiction of the grand lodge the fraternity con¬
siderably increased, and kings, princes and other
distinguished persons, -who had been initiated into
the mysteries, paid due allegiance to the assembly.
The appellation of Ancient York Masons, well
known in all regular lodges, originated from this
memorable convention at York.
A. I). I486. When Henry YI., a minor, as¬
cended the throne, the Parliament attempted to
disturb and overthrow the meetings of the fraterni¬
ty, by passing the following act, in the third year
of his reign and the fourth of his age.
"Whereas by yearly congregations and confed¬
eracies, made by masons in their general assem¬
blies, the good course and effect of the statute of
labourers be openly violated and broken in the sub¬
version of law, and the great damage of all the
commons; our sovereign lord the king, willing in
this case to provide a remedy, by the advice and
consent aforesaid, and at the special request of the
commons, hath ordained and established, that such
chapters and congregations shall not hereafter be
holden ; and if any such be made, they that cause
such chapters and congregations to be holden, if
they thereof be convicted, shall be adjudged fos
freemasonry*
felons; and tliat the other masons, that come to
such chapters and congregations, he punished by
imprisonment of their bodies, and make fine and
ransom at the kings will."
This act Was never enforced, nor the fraternity
deterred from assembling as before*. Its passage
wai owing to the influence of Henry Beaufort,
Bishop of Winchester, who wished to destroy the
fraternity on account of the secrecy observed in
their meetings. He represented them as dangerous
to the state, 6i making many seditious speeches and
menaces which tended much to rebellion." Not¬
withstanding this heavy charge, the Duke of Glou¬
cester, protector of the kingdom, convinced of their
innocence, took them under his protection, +and
transferred the charge of sedition from them to
the Bishop. Henry VI. when he attained to
manhood, divesting himself of the prejudices he
had early imbibed, was initiated, and became a
zealous promoter of the craft, sparing no pains to
gain a complete knowledge of its mysteries. He
carefully studied the ancient charges and regula¬
tions ; revised the constitutions, and often honored
the craft with his presence in their assemblies.
Encouraged by the example of the sovereign, ma¬
ny of the nobility were initiated, who assiduously
studied the art, and masonry was held in high es¬
teem.
From the year 1553, the lodges continued with¬
out a patron until the reign of Elizabeth, when Sir
Thomas Sackville was elected grand master. Un¬
der his guardianship, lodges were holden in differ¬
ent parts of the kingdom, but the grand lodge con-
«iSTORV OF
tinued to assemble at York. Elizabeth having
learnt that the masons werq in possession of secrets
which they would reveal only to su£h as were judg-
ed worthy, and would submit to their regulations,
forms and cermonies, and being jealous of all se¬
cret assemblies, she sent an armed force to York,
for the purpose of breaking up the annual grand
lodge. This design was happily frustrated by
Sir Thomas Sackvilie, who told the chief officer*
that nothing would give him more pleasure than to
see them in the grand lodge, as it would afford
him an opportunity of convincing them that Free¬
masonry was the most useful system ever founded
in divine and moral law. They were accordingly
initiated, and on their return they made so favora¬
ble a report to Elizabeth, that her fears were silen¬
ced, and she never after attempted to disturb their
meetings,
On the demise of Elizabeth, the crowns of Eng¬
land and Scotland were united in the person of
James VI. of Scotland, under the name of James
I. At this period masonry flourished in both king¬
doms. A number of gentlemen returned from their
travel^, with curious drawings of old Greek and
Roman architecture, as well as a strong inclination
to revive a knowledge of it. Among thes§ was tb®
celebrated Inigo Jones, who was named grand
master. Several learned men were now initiated,
and the society increased in reputation ; the com¬
munications of the fraternity were established, and
the annual festivals regularly observed.
At the revolution the society was in such a low
«tate in the south of England, that only seven reg-
FREEMASONRY.
alar lodges were holden in London tmd its suburbs.
In 1695, king William having been initiated, hon¬
ored the lodges witli his presence, particularly one
at Hampton Court, at which he frequently presided.
Daring the reign of Queen Anne, the annual festis
vals were entirely neglected, and the number of tiia-
sons considerably diminished. It was, therefore, de¬
termined that the privileges of masonry should not be
confined to operative masons, but that persons of
all professions should be admitted to participate in
them, provided they were regularly approved and
initiated into the order.
On the accession of George I. the masons resol¬
ved to unite again under a grand master, and revive
the annual festivals. With this view, the mem¬
bers of the only four lodges at that time existing in
London, met at the Appletree Tavern, and having
voted the oldest master mason then present, into
the chair, constituted themselves into a grand lodg®
pro tem. It was now resolved to revive the quar¬
terly communications, and at ah annual communica¬
tion held on the 24th of June, 1717, Anthony Say-
er was elected grand master and solemnly installed.
Before this time a sufficient number of masons met
together in a certain district, had ample power to
make masons, without a warrant of constitution;
but it wsls now determined, that the privilege of
assembling as masons, should be vested in certain
lodges, or assemblies of masons, convened in cer¬
tain phces ; and that every lodge to be afterwards
convened, (except the four lodges then existing)
should be authorised to act by a warrant from the
grand master, granted by petition from certain in-
28
HISTORY OF
dividuals, with th^ consent and approbation of the
grand lodge, and that without such warrant, no
lodge should hereafter be deemed regular, or con¬
stitutional. The former privileges, however, were
still permitted to remain to the four lodges then ex¬
tant. In consequence of this, the old masons in
the metropolis, vested all their inherent rights in
the four old lodges, in trust, that they would never
suffer the ancient land marks and charges to be in¬
fringed. The four old lodges, on their part, agreed
to extend their patronage to every new lodge,
which should thereafter be constituted, according
to the new regulations of the society; and, whila
they acted in conformity with the ancient constitu¬
tions of the order, to admit their masters and war¬
dens to share with them all the privileges of the
grand lodge, that of precedence only excepted.
Matters being thus settled, the brethren of the
four old lodges, considered their attendance on the
future communications of the society, as unneces¬
sary ; and therefore trusted implicitly to their mas¬
ters and wardens, satisfied that no measure of im¬
portance would be adopted without their approba¬
tion. It was, however, soon discovered that the
new lodges, being equally represented, would at
length so far out number them, that by a majority
they might subvert the privileges of the original
masons of England, which had bean centered in
the four old lodges; on which account, a code qf
laws, with the consent of the brethren at large, was
drawn up for the future government of the Society,
to which the following clauses were annexed, bind¬
ing the grand master for the time being, his succes-
FRET5MAS0NRY,
£9
sors and the masters of1 every lodge to be hereafter
constituted, to preserve it inviolate:
" Every annual grand lodge, has an inherent
power antL. authority to make new regulations, or
to alter these for Hie tyenefit of this ancient frater¬
nity ; provided always^ thki the old land marks be
carefully preserved; and that such alterations and:
new regulations, he proposed and agreed to, at the
third quarterly communication, preceding the grand
annual feast; and that they be offered to the peru¬
sal of all the brethren, before dinner, in writing,
even to the youngest apprentice 5 the approbation
and consent of the majority jof all the brethren
present, being absolutely necessary to make the
same binding and obligatory."
To commemorate this circumstanee, it has been
customary ever since that time, for the master of
the oldest lodge to attend every grand installation;
and, taking precedence of all present, the grand
master only excepted, to deliver the book of consti¬
tutions to the newly installed grand master, on his
promising obedience to the ancient charges and re-
gulations. 13y this precaution, the original consti¬
tutions were established as the basis of all masonic
jurisdiction in the south of England, and the an¬
cient landmarks were carefully secured against in¬
novation.
In 1718, many valuable manuscripts were collec¬
ted, amongst which were several old copies of the
old Gothic constitutions, which were arranged and
digested.
In 17SO, the fraternity sustained an irreparable
loss by the burning of several valuable manuscripts
0 2
30
HISTORY OF
concerning the lodges, charges, regulations and
usages of masons. This was done by some scru¬
pulous brethren who were alarmed at the publica¬
tion of the masonic constitutions. At a quarterly
communication, it was this*yeaiJ agreed, that the
new grand master shall,"lor the future, be propo¬
sed to the grand- lodge, some tfme before the feast;
and if approved ^nd present, shall b£ saluted as
grand master elect; and th^it every grand master,
when he is installed, shall haye the sole power of
appointing his deputies and wardens, according to
ancient custom.
In the mean time,4mason+y continued to spread
in the north of England. The general assembly
of York coptinuedio meet as usual. Several lodg¬
es met in 1705, under the direction of Sir John
Tempest, then grand master, and many persons of
worth and character were initiated into the order.
The greatest harmony subsisted between the two
grand lodges, and private lodges w ere formed in
both parts of the kingdom* under their separate ju¬
risdiction. The only distinction w hich the grand
lodge of the north appears to have retained, is in
the title of the Grand Lodge of all England, while
the other was called the Grand Lodge of England.
The latter, however, being encouraged by some of
the principal nobility, soon acquired consequence
and reputation, w hile the other seemed io decline;
but, until within these few years, the authority of
the grand lodge at York was never challenged; on
the other hand, every mason in the kingdom held
that assembly in the highest veneration, and consi¬
dered himself bound by the charges which origina-
FREEMASONRY*
Si
ted from that assembly. It was the glory and
boast of the brethren, in. almost every country
where masonry was established, to be accounted
descendants of the original York Masons; and
from the universality of the opinion, that masonry
was first established at York by charter, the ma¬
sons of England have received tribute from the first
* 3 t
states of Europe. The social intercourse which
subsisted between the two grand lodges was unhap¬
pily suspended. This is said to have-been owing
to the introduction of some innovations among the
lodges in the south-; but there is another reason as¬
signed. A few brethren of York, having on some
trivial occasion, seceded from their ancient lodge,
they applied to London for a warrant of constitu¬
tion. Their application was honored, without any
inquiry into the merits of the case ; and thus, in¬
stead of being recommended to the mother lodge to
be restored to favor, these brethren were encour¬
aged in their revolt, and permitted, under the sanc¬
tion of the grand lodge in London, to open a new
lodge in the city of York itself. This illegal ex¬
tension of power, offended the grand lodge of York,
and occasioned the suspension of all fraternal cor¬
respondence.
In 1722, the office of Grand Secretary was first
.established, and William Covvper, Esq. appointed,
who discharged the duties of that department for
several years.
Id 1723, the Duke of Buccleugli was elected
grand master. He first proposed a scheme for rais¬
ing a general fund for distressed masons. The
jDlan having been adopted, a committee was appoin-
32
HISTORY 0®
ted to consider the most effectual means of carrying
it into effect. The disposal of the charity was first
vested in seven brethren ; but this number being
found too small, nine more were added. It was
afterwards resolved that twelve masters of contri¬
buting lodges, in rotation, with the grand officers,
should form the committee.; and by another regu¬
lation since made, it has been determined that all
past and present grand officers, with the masters of
all regular lodges which shall have contributed
within twelve months to the charity, shall be mem¬
bers of the committee. This committee meets four
times in a year, by virtue of a summons from the
grand master, or his deputy. The petitions of dis¬
tressed masons are considered at these meetings;
and if the petitioner be considered as a deserving
object, he is immediately relieved with five pounds.
If the circumstances of the case are of a peculiar
nature, his petition is referred to the next communi¬
cation, where he is relieved with any sum the com¬
mittee may have specified, not exceeding twenty
guineas at one time. Thus the distressed have al¬
ways found relief from this general charity, which
is supported by the voluntary contribution of dif¬
ferent lodges out of their private funds, without be¬
ing burthensome to any member of the society.
In 1738, some disagreeable altercations arose in
the society. A number of persons, contrary to the
laws of the grand lodge, held meetings in different
places for the purpose of initiating persons into ma¬
sonry. The measures adopted to check them stop¬
ped their progress for some time; till taking^ad-
yautage of the general murmur spread abroad on
FREEMASONRY*
account of innovations that had been introduced,
and which seemed to authorise an omission of, and
a variation in, the ancient ceremonies, they again
rose into notice. Through the mediation of John
Ward, Esq matters were accommodated, and tho
brethren seemingly reconciled. But the flame soon
broke out anew, and materially interrupted the
peace of the society. Lord Itaymond was elected
grand master in 1739. Irregularities still contin¬
ued to prevail, and several worthy brethren, still
adverse to the encroachments, were disghsted at
the proceedings of the regular lodges. More se¬
cessions took place, and it became necessary to
pass votes of censure on the most refractory, and
to enact laws to discouarge irregular associations
of the fraternity. This brought the power of the
grand lodge in question 5 and in opposition to the
laws which had been established in that assembly,
lodges were formed without any legal warrant, and
persons initiated for small and unworthy considera¬
tions. To disappoint the views of these brethren,
rigorous measures were adopted by the grand lodge.
Though these measures had the intended effect,
they gave rise to a new subterfuge. The brethren
who had seceded from the regular lodges, immedi¬
ately announced themselves independaut, and as¬
sumed the appellation of ancient masons. They
propogated an opinion, that the ancient tenets and
practices of masonry were preserved by them; and
that the regular lodges, being composed of modern
masons, had adopted new plans, and were not to
be considered as acting under the olifestablishment.
To counteract; the regulations of the grand lodge^
34
History or
they instituted a new grand lodge in London, pro¬
fessedly on the ancient system ; and under that as¬
sumed banner constituted several lodges. These
irregular proceedings they pretended to justify, un¬
der the feigned sanction of the ancient York con*
stitution ; and many persons of reputation were in¬
troduced among them, so that their lodges daily in¬
creased. Under the false appellation of the York
banner, they gained the countenance of the Scotch
and Irish masons, who, placing implicit confidence
in the representations made to them, heartily join¬
ed in condemning the masons of the regular lodges
in London, as tending, in their opinion, to intro¬
duce novelties into the society, and to subvert the
original plan of the institution. The irregular ma¬
sons in London, acquired an establishment, and
noblemen of both kingdoms honored them
with their patronage for some time, and many res¬
pectable names and lodges were added to the list.
In 1754, the grand lodge took into consideration
a complaint against certain brethren for assembling
without any legal authority, under the denomina¬
tion of ancient masons ; who, as such, considered
themselves independant of the society, and not sub¬
ject to the laws of the grand lodge, or to the con¬
trol of the grand master. It wa§ resolved, that the
meeting of any brethren under the denomination of
masons, other than as brethren of the ancknt and
honorable society of Free and accepted Masons,
established upon the universal system, was incon¬
sistent with the honor and interest of the craft, and
a high insult on the grand master, and the whole
body of masons. In consequence of this resolu-
FREEMASONRY,
35
{ion, fourteen brethren who were members of a
lodge held in Spitalfields, were expelled, and that
lodge ordered to be erased from the list,
In 1776, the meetings of the irregular lodges a-
gain attracted notice, and in April, it was enacted,
that such assemblies should not be countenanced
or ackowledged, and all regular masons were pro¬
hibited, under severe penalties, from visiting their
lodges.
In 1777, the tranquility of the society was inter-'
rupted by disseutiona between the grand lodge and
the lodge of antiquity, on which occasion several
members of the lodge were expelled. A schism
was thus, created which continued until 1790, when
harmony was restored.
On the 4th of January, 1787, was opened in
London, the Grand Chapter of Iiarodim. Al¬
though this order is of ancient date, and had been
patronised in different parts of Europe, there ap¬
pears not on record, previous to this period, the re?
gular establishment of such an association in Eng¬
land. The mysteries of this order are peculiar to
the institution itself, while the lectures of the chap¬
ter include every branch of the masonic system,
and represent the art of masonry in a finished and
complete form. The grand chapter is governed by
a Grand Patron, two vice Patrons, a Chief Pules
and tuo assistants, with a council of twelve com¬
panions, chosen annually, at the chapter preceding
the festival of St. John the Evangelist.
On the 26th of March, 1788, the Poyal Cumber-
laud Freemason's School, for maintaining, cloth-
36
HISTORY OF
ing and educating the female children and orphans
of indigent brethren, was established.*
On the 27th of JCecemper, 1818, the union be¬
tween the two grand lodges, was perfectad, after a
separation of one hundred years. The following
order of proceedings was observed.
Freemason's Hall, having been fitted up agreea¬
bly to a plan and drawing for the occasiou, and
the whole house tyled from the outer porch, the
platform in the east was reserved for the grand mas¬
ters, grand officers and visitors. The masters,
wardens and past masters of the several lodges, on
the two sides. The act of union was read by the
director of the ceremonies.
The Revd. Dr. Coghlen, Grand Chaplain to the
fraternity, under the Duke of Sussex, proclaimed
by sound of trumpet: #
"Hear ye—this is the act of union engrossed in
confirmation of articles solemnly concluded between
the two grand lodges of Free and accepted Ma¬
sons of England ; signed, sealed and certified by
the two grand lodges respectively ; by which they
are to be hereafter and forever known and acknowl¬
edged by the style and title of ThemUnited Grand
Lodge of ancient Freemasons of England. How
say you brothers, representing the two fraternities ?
Do you accept of, ratify and confirm the same ?"
To which the assembly answered—" We do ac¬
cept, ratify and confirm the same." The grand
chaplain then said—" And may the great architect
of the universe make the union perpetual." To
which the brethren answereU—" So mote it be."
The two grand masters, the Dukes of Kent and
FREEMASONRt.
ST
Sussex, and six commissioners, signed tlie instru¬
ments, and tlie two grandmasters then affixed the
great seals of their respective grand Lodges to the
same.
I)r. Barry, after sound of trumpet, then proclaim*
ed, " Be it known to all men that the act of unions
between the two grand lodges of free and accepted
masons of England, is solemnly signed, sealed, ra¬
tified and confirmed, and the two fraternities are
one, to be from henceforth known and acknowledg¬
ed by the style and title of the " United Grand
Lodge of ancient Freemasons of England," and
may the great architect of the universe make their
union perpetual;" and the assembly answered,
"Amen."
The two grand masters, with their respective
deputies and wardens, then advanced to the ark of
the masonic covenant, prepared for the occasion,
and in all time to come to be placed before the
throne. The grand masters standing in the east,
with their deputies on their right and left; the
grand wardens in the west and south.
The square, the plumb, the level and mallet,
were successively delivered to the deputy grand
masters, and by themdelivered to the two grand
masters, who severally applied them to the ark;
they then gave it three knocks with the mallet,
saying:
" May the great architect of the universe enable
us to uphold the grand edifice of union, of which
this ark of the covenant is the symbol, which shall
contain within it, the instrument of our brotherly
love, and bear upon it the Holy Bible, square and
3$ HISTORY OF1
compass, as the light of our faith, and the rule of
our works. May he dispose our hearts to make it
perpetual I" and the brethren answered, (< so mote
it be."
The grand masters then placed the act of union
ill the interior of the ark.
The cornucopia, the wine and the oil, were irt
like manner presented to the grand masters, who,
according to ancient rite, poured forth corn, wine
and oil on the ark, saying (i As we pour forth corn,
wine and oil on the ark of the masonic covenant,
may the bountiful hand of heaven ever supply this
united kingdom, with abundance of corn, wine and
oil, and with all the necessaries and comforts of
life, and may he dispose our hearts to be grateful'
for all his giftsand the assembly answered,
" Amen," The grand officers then resumed their
places.
In consequence of its having been found imprac¬
ticable, from the shortness of the notice, for thesis-
ter grand lodges of Scotland and Ireland to send
deputations to this assembly, conferences had been
held with all the most distinguished grand officers
and masons, resident in and near London, in order
to establish a perfect agreement upon all essential
points of masonry, according* to the ancient tradi¬
tions and general practices of the craft. The mem¬
bers of the lodge of reconciliation, accompanied by
the M. W, Count de Lagardje, grand master of
the first lodge of Freemasons in the north ; the M.
W. Br. Dr. Van Hess of the grand lodge of Ham¬
burgh, and other distinguished masons, withdrew
to an adjoining apartment, where being dulycon-
FREEMASONS V*
39
gregated and tyled, the result of all previous con'
ferences were made known.
The Holy Bible spread open, with the square
and compass thereon, was laid on the ark of the
covenant, and the two grand chaplains approached
the same.
The recognized obligation was then pronounced
aloud, by the Rev. Dr. Humming, one of the mas¬
ters of the lodge of reconciliation, the whole frater¬
nity repeating the same with joined hands and de¬
claring, " By this solemn obligation, we vow to
abide, and the regulations of ancient Freemasonry
now recognized, strictly to observe."
The assembly then proceeded to constitute one
grand lodge, in order to which the grand masters,
grand wardens and other acting grand officers, of
both fraternities divested themselves of their insign¬
ia, and the past grand officers took the chairs; viz;
R. "W. past deputy grand master, Perry, in the
chair, as deputy grand mastery the R. W. Robert
Gill, as S, G. W. and the R. W. James Deans, as
J. G. W.
His royal highness, the Duke of Kent, then pro¬
posed his royal highness, the Duke of Sussex, to
be grand master, of the united grand lodge of an¬
cient Freemasons of England, for the year ensuing,
which being seconded and put to vote, was unani¬
mously carried in the affirmative. The Duke of
Sussex, was accordingly proclaimed grand master,
and was regularly installed on St. George's day.
Thus, after a separation of one hundred years,
was this union completed, and the masonic fraterni¬
ty reunited in one family.
40
HISTORY OF
SCOTLAND.
Masonry is supposed to have been introduced
into Scotland at an early period, as early at least
as its introduction into England; but to deduce its
gradual progress from time to time, would require
a recapitulation of the history of Scotland ; nor is
it easy in a country so frequently agitated by civil
wars, to point out all the different patrons of mason¬
ry. Certain it is, that masonry hag been much cul¬
tivated, and perhaps there ii no country where the
science is better understood. In the city of Edin¬
burgh, the lodges are numerous, in one of which
their business is entirely transacted in the Latin
language.
The fraternity in Scotland always acknowledged
their king as grand tnaster; to his authority they
submitted all disputes that happened amongst the
When the king was not a mason, he appointed one
of the brethren to preside as his deputy at all their
meetings, and to regulate all matters concerning
the craft. Accordingly we find that James 1. pro¬
tected and encouraged the order, and honored the
lodges with his presence. He settled an annual
revenue of four pounds Scots, to be paid by every
master mason in the kingdom, to a grand master,
chosen by the grand lodge, and approved by the
crown.
In 1441, William St. Clair, Earl of Orkney and
Caithness, obtained a grant of the office of grand
Master from James II. He regularly attended
the lodges, and used every means to spread a know¬
ledge of the art. By another deed of James II.
FREEMASONRY.
4i
this office was made hereditary to " the said Wil¬
liam St. Clair, and his heirs and successors in the
barony of Roslin," in which family it continued
many years. The meetings of the grand lodge
were held at Kilwinning, where it is presumed
masons first begun to hold regular and stated lodg¬
es in Scotland. In process of time the craft become
more numerous, and lodges more frequent through
the country; the lodge of Kilwinning granted
charters of ereciiou and constitution to the brethren
to form themselves into regular lodges, always un¬
der the proper provisions and restrictions, for their
adhering to the strict princi'ples of masonry, and
preserving amongst themselves, that harmony and
union which ought to subsist among the fraternity.
On the 30th of November, 1736, William St.
Clair of Roslin, Esq. then grand master, resigned
the office, and renounced all right, title or claim
which he might have to said office, by virtue of the
deed of James the second, which was accepted;
the office then became elective. The grand lodge
then proceeded to the election of a grand master,
when William St. Clair, of Roslin, Esq. was unan¬
imously proclaimed grand master of all Scotland,
and being conducted to the chair, was solemnly in-
installed, saluted and acknowledged as such.
Since this period the chair of the grand lodge has
been filled by a succession of the most illustrious
characters of Scotland, and the order has continu¬
ed to flourish to the present day. The grand lodge
holds its meetings in Edinburgh.
D 2
42"
HISTORY OF
IRELAND.
Colonies from Phoenicia having settled in Ire¬
land 1264 years before the christian era, and the
Phoenicians being famous for planting colonies in
distant parts for the benefit of trade, for introdu¬
cing their manners and customs, and endeavouring
to improve the countries with which they maintain
an intercourse, it is probable that masonry was a-
mongst the arts they would teach their new associ¬
ates in Ireland. But without wandering further
into the field of conjecture we find that in 1210,
Launders, Archbishop of Dublin, was grand mas¬
ter, under whose superintendance, the castle of
Dublin was built.
In the reign of Henry III. St. Marys, Dublin,
was'built, byr Felix O'Quedam, Archbishop of
Tuam. In this reign Henry De Lacy, was grand
master.
The craft was interrupted in its progress, by the
incursions of Edward Bruce, until he w as defeated
and slain by Mortimer, Earl of March; after which,
masonry revived in the English settlements, which
had been introducecf into the north by some Scotch
colonists.
Masonry made some progress during the reigns
of James I. and his son Charles, but the civil wars
breaking out and desolating the country, it was
greatly retarded until the restoration of Charles II.
when it again revived under the disciples of Inigo
Jones, but was again interrupted by the wars of
James II. It once more flourished under the reigns
of William III. Queen Anne, and George I. In
FREEMASONRY.
4a
the third year of the reign of George II. the
Freemasons assembled in Dublin, constituted a
grand lodge, and chose as grand master,* James
King, Lord Viscount Kingston, who had the year
before served the office of grand master in England,
and who introduced similar regulations and consti¬
tutions to those of the fraternity in England.
The lodges of Freemasons at this time spread
over the country, were very numerous, and had as¬
sembled and worked in the same manner that their
brethren in England had done, previous to the es¬
tablishment of a grand lodge, and without any war¬
rant of constitution. Many, or almost all of the
Dublin Lodges adhered to the rules and regula¬
tions prescribed by the grand lodge, but many
country lodges refused to acknowledge their supe¬
riority, and take out warrants from that body.
This w7as productive of much mischief in the coun¬
try, as those lodges who adhered to the grand
lodge, reviled the others as irregular masons, which
created much ill blood between them, and frequent¬
ly produced scenes of riot, disgraceful to the repu¬
tation of the craft. Disputes of this nature, how¬
ever, had long ceased to disturb the harmony of the
craft, when in the year 1801, fresh disturbances
arose among the fraternity in consequence of the
proceedings of the grand lodge, in the appointment
of a deputy grand treasurer; increasing the dues
to be paid by the subordinate lodges to the grand
lodge, and a proposition to take the royal arch
chapters, and encampmeuts of Knights Templars,
under their protection, charging each lodge two
guineas for thuse orders, and other fees. The last
44
HISTORY OP
proposition was objected to on the ground, that the
grand lodge, being composed of masons of inferior
degrees, could exercise no controuling power over
them. Some spirited, though respectful remon¬
strances were made by the northern lodges to these
proceedings, and many lodges in Dublin entered
warmly into the controversy, but in many cases,
they descended into low abuse on both sides, los¬
ing sight entirely of argument. In 1803, a respect¬
ful memorial from eighteen lodges in the province
of Ulster, was presented to the grand lodge, which
was treated by some of the most conspicuous
members in a very contemptuous manner, and a
motion was made 61 that it should be scouted as im¬
pertinent." This motion was negatived by a small
majority. The masons of Ulster, unwilling to
give up the cause, the representatives of sixty-two
lodges assembled at Belfast and adopted several
resolutions, in which they stated their willingness
still to adhere to, and support the grand lodge, pro¬
vided they were restored to their old regulations,
and solemnly pledging themselves to their brethren
of the superior degrees, that they never would ac¬
knowledge the innovations lately attempted by the
grand lodge; and also, expressing their strong ap¬
prehensions, that provided such innovations were
persisted in, it might be the means of dissolving
that connexion which had so long subsisted be¬
tween the grand lodge and the masons of Ulster.
Meetings also took place in almost every county in
the province, and resolutions were entered into de¬
claring their hostility to the innovations attempted
by the grand lodge, and the appointment of a depu-
FREEMASONRY.
43
ty grand treasurer. All these resolutions were
transmitted to the grand master, accompanied by
memorials containing the sentiments of upwards of
three hundred lodges, of the province of Ulster.
The grand lodge, however, would not recede from
the ground it had taken, but persisted in all th©
obnoxious measures. This dispute continued for
six years, when every effort to produce a reconci¬
liation having failed, a meeting of the delegate®
from three hundred and eleven lodges, took place
at Dungannou, when they resolved themselves into
a Grand Lodge for the Province of Ulster f9
chose their grand officers, and transacted such bu¬
siness as came before them. The differences be¬
tween the brethren are now happily adjusted, and
harmony and good fellowship restored.
FRANCE.
History furnishes us with a very imperfect ac¬
count of the early history of Freemasonry in
France; however, we are well assured that the art
was cultivated as early as A. 1). 25-4 when' many
masons emigrated from thence to England.
Under the ancient Gallic and Norman princes,
masonry received very extraordinary mari.s of in¬
dulgence; but we have nothing particular on re¬
cord record respecting the society until 1737, when
after the example of Holland, jealousies and pieju-
dices were entertained respecting the lodges, and
some measures were taken to suppress them ; but
they found patrons in the greatest personages of th®
46
HISTORY OF
kingdom, and withstood the persecution. Mason¬
ry partook of the national character, and appeared
with a pomp, and parade unknown in any other
country. New grades were added, and some of
the civil and military religious orders were annex¬
ed to the institution.
In 1768, two letters were received from the grand
lodge of France, by the grand lodge of England,
expressing a desire of opening a regular correspon¬
dence. This was agreed to; and a Book of con¬
stitution of England, w ith a form of deputation,
Were ordered to be sent to the grand lodge of
France.
The number of lodges greatly increased, and the
society enjoyed a high reputation at the beginning
of the French revolution; but several works hav¬
ing been published, charging the lodges with de¬
signs hostile to goverinent and the christian reli¬
gion, and aiming at the subversion of all social or¬
der, they were suppressed. Amongst those wri¬
ters who have attacked Freemasonry in France,
the Abbe Barruel holds a conspicuous place. In
his "Memoirs of Jacobinism," he endeavours to
shew that there existed on the continent, long be¬
fore the French revolution, a threefold conspiracy
to effect the ruin of the altar, the throne and all so¬
cial order. That the first conspiracy was formed
by a set of Philosophers, who aimed to destroy the
altars of Jesus Christ and his gospel; the second,
conspired against the thrones of Kings, and afflilli-
ated themselves to the society of Freemasons; and
the third, under the denomination of Illuminati,
formed an union with the two former, and aimed
FREEMASONRY.
4?
■at the subversion of all social order, property and
science. By artful insinuations, forced constructions
and misrepresentations, he ascribed to Freemasons,
principles which they hold in detestation—motives
to which they are strangers, and actions of which
they are not the authors. He blended them with
societies to which they ha^e no affinity, and whos®
objects and pursuits were essentially different.
Under the reign of the Emperor Napoleon, ma¬
sonry revived, and a grand lodge is now establish¬
ed in Paris, having under its jurisdiction a number
of lodges, in different parts of France,
B -L-UCm
GERMANY.
Masonry is of early date in Germany. About
the year 1720, it was revived under favorable au¬
spices. Iu the lodge at Brunswick, Frederick, the
the Great, (then Prince Royal of Prussia) was in¬
itiated on the 15th of August, 1738. So highly
did he approve of the institution, that on his acces¬
sion to the throne, he formed a lodge at Berlin, un¬
der patent from the grand lodge of Scotland, over
which he presided in person for many years. In
the establishment of this lodge, he ordained:
1st. That no person should be made a mason un¬
less his character was unimpeachable.
2d. That every member should pay twenty-five
rix dollars, for the first degree, fifty for the second,
and one hundred for the third.
3d. That he should remain at least three months
in each degree 5 that every sum received should
4S History of
be divided into three parts; one to defray the ex*
pences of the lodge; one for the relief of distressed
brethren? and the other allotted to the poor in gen¬
eral.
Frederick introduced a new step into the older,
which, before his time, we had no account of, (al¬
though founded on holy writ?) called the Philipi-
an order? into which he suffered none to be initia¬
ted, but the most distinguished men in his domin¬
ions.
In the year 1775, the grand lodge of Berlin, sent
a deputation to the general assembly which was
held at Brunswick, who admitted a certain appro¬
ved system, planned by nine princes of the empire,
agreeably to which all the German Lodges were
requested to work. Forty-one lodges entered in¬
to this association and chose Prince Frederick of
Brunswick, for their grand master.
The society met with some opposition, origina¬
ting in the surmises of some ladies of the court,
who endeavoured to prejudice the Emprsss Queen
Maria Theresa, against the institution. The op¬
position was suppressed by the emperor Joseph I.
Who declared himself ready to answer for their
conduct, and to redress any plea that could with
truth he urged against them.
In 1777, the following distinguished personages
were at the head of the fraternity ; the King of
Prussia^ protector of masons in Germany ; Ferdi¬
nand, Duke of Brunswick and Lunenburgh, grand
paster of the United Grand Lodges of Germany
and Lower Saxony 5 Charles, Duke of Brunswick,
Protector, and Frederick Augustus, Provincial
FREEMASONRY.
Grand Master of the lodges in the Prussian domin¬
ions ; Prince Maximillian Julius Leopold, Depu¬
ty Provincial Grand Master; Prince Charles
Landgrave, of Hesse Cassel, Provincial Grand
Master in Denmark, and Charles Christian Joseph,
Protector of masons in Courland.
HOLLAND.
"When Freemasonry was introduced into Hol¬
land, is uncertain. The institution flourished there
in the year 1725, and continued until 1735, when
the States General were the first amongthe powers
of Europe, to entertain any jealousy of the order.
Finding that lodges were held, and the rites of ma¬
sonry practiced in almost every town under theis
government, they began to be alarmed. It was
judged impossible that architecture could be the
only motive of association; they therefore were de¬
termined to discover, if possible, the real intention
of their meetings. Accordingly an edict was issu¬
ed, intimating, that although they had not discov¬
ered any thing in the behaviour, or practices of ma-
eons, contrary to the peace of the republic, or the
duty of good subjects, yet, they were resolved to
prevent any bad consequences that might ensue
from such conventions, and, therefore, commanded
that they should be entirely abolished. Notwith¬
standing this ordinance, a lodge composed of seve¬
al very respectable gentlemen, continued to meet
at a private house in Amsterdam. The magis¬
trates receiving intelligence of the fact/ordered to
£5 HISTORY OF
whole lodge to be arrested. The day following;
the magistrates assembled at the Stadthouse, and
ordered the officers of the lodge to be brought be¬
fore them, who solemnly declared upon oath, that
Freemasons were faithful subjects, obedient to the
government and true to their country; that the great¬
est union prevailed amongst them; that they were
strangers to hypocricy and deceit; that they cheer¬
fully discharged every obliging office, and that the
institution was truly venerable. They informed
the magistrates that they could not explain their
particular secrets and ceremonies, but they could
assure them that they were neither contrary to di¬
vine, or moral laws; that they would willingly re¬
ceive any of their order amongst them, who would,
no doubt, be ready and willing to satisfy them
more particularly in regard to what they had de¬
clared.
Upon this the brethren were discharged, and the
town secretary was appointed to attend the lodge.
He was accordingly initiated; and on his return to
the Stadthouse, gave such a satisfactory account in
favor of the society, that ip a short time after the
whole body of magistrates became free and accept¬
ed masons, and held a lodge solely of their own or¬
der. Thus did the storm which threatened the
dissolution of the society, blow over. ]N o further
attempt has been made to disturb it, and it now
flourishes, having a grand lodge and many subor*
diuate lodges.
In April, 1770, Charles, Baron de Boetzluer,
grand master of the grand lodge of the united pro¬
vinces of Holland, addressed a letter to the grand
FREEMASONRY. 51
1
lodge of England, requesting to be acknowledged
as such, and that a firm and friendly alliance might
be established between both grand lodges; an an¬
nual correspondence carried on, and each grand
lodge regularly made acquainted once in every
year, with the most material transactions of the oth¬
er ; which was readily agreed to.
SWEDEN AND DENMARK
On the 22d March, 1793,- at the grand lodge of
Stockholm, the late king of Sweden, was initiated,.
Charles, duke of Sudermania, grand master, presi¬
ding.
A grand lodge for Sweden and Denmark has
been established many years, having many lodges
in both kingdoms under its jurisdiction.
At a meeting of the grand lodge of England, on
the 10th of April, 1799, the Baron de Silverjilm,
the Swedish ambassador, presented, the grand
master a letter from the national grand lodge of
Sweden, which being read, it was unanimously re¬
solved, that the grand master be requested to re¬
turn an answer on the part of the society, to th®
Duke of Sudermania, expressive of every senti¬
ment correspondent to the "warm and brotherly ad¬
dress received. A regular correspondence was ac¬
cordingly opened betw een the two grand lodges,
RUSSIA.
The first regular lodge was established in this em-
pirein 1739, under the authority of thegrand lodjp
02
HISTORY OF
of England. In 1740, the Earl of Kintore, then
grand master, appointed a provincial grand master
for Russia. Lodges have been subsequently es¬
tablished at St. Petersburgh, Moscow, Riga, Yas-
sy, and other places. Many of the most distin¬
guished characters of Russia are members 5 but th&
Emperor Alexander, has recently issued an edict
suppressing all the lodges in his empire.
BOHEMIA.
There were several lodges in the city of Prague.
The first was established in 1749. Most of the
leading men were Freemasons; and they are said
to be particularly cautious as to the morals and
worth of those they admit.
ASIA.
In Asia, masonry had its origin. Its early his¬
tory in this quarter of the globe is well known to
the fraternity.
In 1740, Alexander Drummond, English con¬
sul at Aleppo, formed a lodge in that city, which is
the only lodge in the Levant.
About the same time, a lodge was formed at Ben¬
gal ; masonry has lately flourished in that quarter
of the globe in an extraordinary manner. There
are several lodges in Bengal, Madras, Bombay,
Bencoolen, Fort George, Tortolla, China, Bata-
via, Ceylon, Calcutta, Chandanagore, Patna, Bur-
ituan, &c,
FREEMASONRY,
In 1776, his highness Omedit-ul-Omrah JBuhau-
der, eldest son of the Nabob of the Carnatic, was
initiated at the lodge of Trichinopoly, near Mad-
dras, on which occasion he addressed a letter to
the grand lodge of England, in which he express¬
ed the highest veneration for the institution.
A grand lodge was established at Maddras, on
the 7th October, 17&7, of which Brigadier General
Home, who had been appointed by the Duke of
Cumberland, provincial grand master on the coast
of Coromandel, was elected grand master.
AFRICA.
A lodge was constituted at James' Fort, on the
Gambia, in the year 1736. There is also a lodge
at the Cape of Good Hope; in the Island of Mau¬
ritius, and in the Island of Madagascar. Lodges
are also established.at Algiers, Tunis, and in the
empire of Morocco.
The foregoing exhibits a slight sketch of Free¬
masonry in various parts of the globe. "We regret
that our means of information, does not enable us
to furnish a more complete and perfect account.
But imperfect as it is, it suggests noble ideas to the
mason's mind. How must he be gratified when
he reflects, that in whatever part of the world, Pro¬
vidence may direct his lot, he will find brethren td
relieve and protect him 1
E %
CHAPTER III.
Sketch of the History of Freemasonry in the TJrii-
ted States of America.
The introduction of Freemasonry into the Uni¬
ted States, is, comparatively of recent date, lfc
"was not until the country had, in some degree, chan¬
ged its savage features, that the lessons of masonry
were openly inculcated in it. Whether the delay
was owing to the prejudices of the first settlers, or
to their humble and narrow circumstances, it is un¬
necessary to enquire. Certain it is, the commission
for holding the first lodge, did not issue until the
year 1733, when upon the application of a number
of brethren residing in Boston, a warrant was
granted by the most worshipful Anthony, Lord
Yiscount Montagu, grand master of masons in
England, dated 30th April, 5733, appointing the
right worshipful Henry Price,, grand master in
North America, with full power and authority to
appoint his deputy, and other masonic officers ne¬
cessary for forming a Grand Lodge; and also to
constitute Lodges of Free and Accepted Masons, as
often as occasion should require.
In consequence of this commission, the Grand
Master opened a grand lodge at Boston, on the 30th
July, 5733, in due form, and appoiuted a deputy
Grand Master and Grand Wardens.
The Grand Lodge being thus organized unde?
56
HISTORY OR
the name of St. John's Grand Lodge, proceeded
to grant warrants for constituting Lodges in various
parts of America; and from this Grand Lodge ori¬
ginated the first Lodges in Massachusetts, .New
Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jer¬
sey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North
Carolina, South Carolina, and several of the West
India Islands.
There was at the same time, also, a Grand Lodge
in Boston under the designation of the(iMassachu¬
setts Grand Lodge," which orignated as follows:
In 5775, a number of persons residing in Boston,
in conseqence of a petition to the Grand Lodge of
Scotland, received a deputation from Sholto
Charles Douglas, Lord Aberdour, then Grand
Master, constituting them a regular Lodge, under
the name of St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 82, to be
holden in Boston.
This establishment was discouraged and oppo¬
sed by St. John's Grand Lodge, who thought their
privileges infringed by the Grand Lodge of Scot¬
land ; they therefore refused to have any inter*
course with St. Andrew's Lodge for several years.
The prosperous state of St, Andrew's Lodge,
soon led its members to make great exertions for
the establishment of an ancient Grand Lodge in
America, which was effected on the 27th Decem¬
ber, 5769, by virtue of a commission from the Right
Honorable and Most Worshipful George, Earl of
Dalhousie, Grand Master of Masons in Scotland,
dated 30th May, 5769. By this authority, Joseph
Warren, Esq. was appointed Grand Master of Ma¬
sons in Boston, and within one hundred miles of
freemason r y.
m
tlie same. The Grand Master and other Grand
officers were installed according to ancient usagefl:
and the Grand Lodge completely organized.
Between this period and the year 5792, the two
Grand Lodges, granted warrants of constitution for
Lodges to be holden in different parts of the Uni¬
ted States.
On the 19tli of June, 5792, a complete union
took place between St. John98 Grand Lodge and
the Massachusetts Grard Lodge, under the style
and title of the " Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free
and Accepted Masons of the Commonwealth of
of Massachusetts all invidious distinctions were
buried in oblivion, and the rival societies united
their efforts to accomplish the objects of their insti¬
tution.
N ew Hampshire.—The Grand Lodge of Mas¬
sachusetts held jurisdiction over all the Lodges in
New Hampshire, until the 8th July, 5789, when
deputies from the several Lodges assembled at
Portsmouth, to take into consideration the state of
Masonry, and the propriety of establishing a Grand
Lodge, and entered into the following resolution
«• That there be a Grand Lodge establsked in
the state of New Hampshire, upon principles con¬
sistent with, and subordinate to, the general regula^
tious and ancient constitutions of Freemasonry."
In consequence of the foregoing resolution, a
Grand Lodge for the state of New Hampshire was
formed, and his excellency, John Sullivan, Esq.
elected first Grand Master. Its meetings are hold-
en at Portsmouth, in January, April, July and Oc¬
tober.
history of
Rhode Island,—The Grand Lodge of Rhode
Island was organized on the 25ih June, 5791, a-
greeablyto a plan proposed by St. Job n's Lodge, No.
1. Newport, & St. John's Lodge, S o. 2, Providence,
which were the only Lodges at that time in the
state. Its meetings are holden at Providence.
Connecticut.—The Lodges in ( onnecticut,
previous to the establishment of a Grand Lodge,
were holden under the authority of charters deri¬
ved from the Grand Lodges cf Massachusetts and
New York.
On the 8th July, 5789, deputies from fifteen
Lodges met and constituted the Grand Lodge of
Connecticut. The Grand Communications ar®
held semi-annually, in the months of May and Oc¬
tober.
Vermont.—The G^and Lodge of Vermont was-
constituted at Rutland^ on the 14th October, 5794.
Its annual meetings/are holden on the Monday
preceding the second Thursday of October, at
Windsor and Vergflnnes, alternately.
New York.—The first Lodge constituted in the
state of New Yoj^:, was the present Bt. John's
Lodge, No. 1, whose warrant was derived from
the Grand Lodge of England, and was dated 7th
December, 5757.
The first Grand Lodge was constituted by a
warrant under the hands and seals of the Most
Worshipful, John, Duke of Athol, &c. Grand Mas¬
ter, and others of the Right Worshipful officers of
the Grand Lodge of England, dated 5th Septem¬
ber, 5781, which warrant authorized and empow¬
ered the Free and Accepted Masons of the Pro*
freemasonry,
$9
vlnce of New York, to congregate and hold a Pro¬
vincial Grand Lodge in the city of New York, and
therein appointed the Revd. William Walter, A.
M. Prov. Grand Master; John StudholmeBrown-
rigg, G. S. W. and the Revd. John Beadsley, G»
J. W. On the 5th December, 5782, the Grand of¬
ficers were proclaimed and installed according to
ancient usage, and the Grand Lodge duly organi¬
sed.
On the termination of the war in 5783, the Grand
Master, with many other officers of the Grand
Lodge being about to leave the city, doubts arose
whether they could leave behind them the warrant
by which the Grand Lodge had been constituted.
A special meeting was therefore summoned, and
after a full and fair discussion of the subject, it
was decided, that the same should be left in the car©
and charge of such brethren as might be chosen to
succeed the then Grand officers. The M, W.
William Walter, then resigning his seat, William
Cocke, Esq. was proclaimed and installed Grand
Master,
On the 5th September, 5789, the Masters and
Wardens of the several Lodges within the state,
having been duly notified, assembled in the city of
New York 5 and the late Provincial Grand Lodge
having been closed nine die, formed and opened a
Grand Lodge for th© state of New York, and de¬
clared and installed the Grand officers. The meet¬
ings of the Grand Lodge are held in the city of
New Vork.
New JntsEY.—\ convention of delegates from
Bte several Lodges in New Jersey, was holden o»
History of
the 18th December, 5786, at thecity of New Bruns¬
wick, and after mature deliberation, constituted
the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, and the Hon.
David Brearly, esq. was elected first Grand Mas¬
ter. The meetings of Grand Lodge are held at
Trenton.
Pennsylvania.—On the 21th June 5734, the
Grand Lodge at Boston granted a warrant to open
and hold a Lodge in the city of Philadelphia, by
which the Worshipful Benjamin Franklin, was ap¬
pointed first Master. This was the first Lodge
held in the state of Pennsylvania.
On the 20th June, 5764, the Grand Lodge of
England granted a warrant to the M. W. William
JSall aud others, authorizing them to hold a Grand
Lodge for the Province of Pennsylvania.
The Provincial Grand Lodge remained in exist-
ance until the 25th September 5786, when the
Grand officers, aud the officers and representatives
of a number of regular lodges in the state, at a Grand
communication, unanimously resolved " that it is
improper that the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania
should remain any longer under the authority of
any foreign Grand Lodge." The Grand Lodge
was then closed sine die, when the members pres¬
ent formed themselves into a grand convention and
unanimously resolved, that the Lodges under the
jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania,
lately liolden as a provincial Grand Lodge, under
the authority of the Grand Lodge of England,
ehould form themselves into a Grand Lodge, to be
called, The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania andb
Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging.''
freemasonry.
In consequence of this resolution, the Grand
Lodge of Pennsylvania was duly constituted, and
its officers elected and installed according to an¬
cient usage.
The meetings of the Grand Lodge are held iu
the city of Philadelphia.
Delaware,—Previous to the establishment of
a Grand Lodge, the Lodges in Delaware were held
under charters derived from Pennsylvania.
At a meeting of delegates from a majority of
Lodges at Wilmington, on the 6th June, 5806, the
following resolution was adopted:
" Resolved, That the several Lodges of Ancient
Masons in the state of Delaware, here represented
by deputies properly authorized, consider it as a
matter of right, and for the general benefit of Ma¬
sonry, that they ought to form a Grand Lodge with¬
in the said state ; and now proceed to form and
organize themselves into a Grand Lodge accor¬
dingly, to be known and distinguished by the name
of the "Grand Lodge of Delaware."
The foregoing resolution being unanimously a-
dopted, the convention proceeded to the election of
Grand officers, who were duly proclaimed and in¬
stalled.
Virginia.—In imitation of the example set by
the brethren in other states, the several Lodges in
the State of Virginia, assembled on the 30th Octo¬
ber, 1778, and organized the Grand Lodge of Vir¬
ginia. It meets annually at Richmond on the se¬
cond Monday in December.
Kentucky.—The first regular Lodges in Kern
F
m
* history of
hicky, derived their authority from the Grand
Lodge of Virginia.
In the year 1800, there were, under that author¬
ity, five regular lodges. From their remote situa¬
tion from their parent Grand Lodge, they were in¬
duced to proceed to the establish incut of a Grand
Lodge for the state of Kentucky; and in pursu¬
ance of an invitation from Lexington Lodge, No.
1, a convention of delegates was held at Mason's
Hall, in the town of Lexington, on the 8th Scptem-
A. L. 5800, when it was resolved, that it was expe¬
dient and proper, to establish a Grand Lodge for the
state of Kentucky.
In pursuance of a resolution entered intu by the
convention, delegates from all the regular lodges,
again met in Lexington, on the 16th October, A. L,
5800, when the Worshipful James Morrison, the
oldest past Master present, having been requested
to take the chair, the convention proceeded regu¬
larly to establish a Grand Lodge, w hen the M. W.
William Murray, was unanimously elected first
Grand Master.
The delegates then severally surrendered to the
Grand Lodge their respective charters, derived
from the Grand Lodge of Virginia, and received
new ones under the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
North Carolina.—The Grand Lodge of North
Carolina was first constituted by virtue of a charter
from the Grand Lodge of Scotland, A. L, 5771.
It convened occasionally at Newbern and Edenton,
at which latter place the records were deposited
previous to the revolutionary war. During the
contest the records were destroyed by the British
freemasonry.
63
army, and the meetings of the Grand Lodge sus-.
pendeil.
The members of the craft convened at Hillsbo¬
rough in 5787, and compiled certain regulations for
the government of the Grand Lodge, and again set
work. In the same year they appointed a com*
mittee to form a constitution for their future govern¬
ment, which was accordingly done, and in the fol¬
lowing year, the said constitution was formally
adopted, aud ratified at the city of Raleigh, at
which place the Grand Lodge meets annually.
South Carolina.—A grand communication of
ancient masons was held in the city of Charleston
on the 24th December, 5786, when it was resolv¬
ed to call a convention of the several lodges in the.
state, to deliberate on the expediency of forming a
Grand Lodge. A grand convention was accor¬
dingly held on the 1st January, 5787,* at which
were present, tin? Masters, Past Masters and War¬
dens of five lodges. After mature deliberation, it
was resolved, that on the 5th February, following,
they would meet and proceed to the organization of
a Grand Lodge for the state of South Carolina.
Accordingly on the day appointed, the convention
again met and elected Grand officers. The Grand.
Lodge being thus organized, a circular letter, set¬
ting forth their reasons for the establishment of a
Grand Lodge, was prepared and transmitted to the
different Grand Lodges in the United States, Great
Britain and Ireland.
From the peace of 1783 to 1808, there were two
Grand Lodges in South Carolina, viz: "The
Grand Lodge of South Carolina, Ancient York
64
history of
Masons/' and "The Grand Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons/' between whom no masonio
communication existed. The two Grand Lodges,
desirous of terminating the disunion, assembled in
convention on the 17th December 5808, entered in¬
to certain articles and established the Grand Lodge
of South Carolina. Shortly after this union was
formed, an unhappy schism took place, which re¬
sulted in a separation. This separation continued
until the 26th December, 5817, when they again
united under the style of « The Grand Lodge of
Ancient Freemasons of South Carolina," the pres¬
ent title of the Grand Lodge. The Grand annu¬
al communications are holden in Charleston on the
27th December.
Tennessee.—Previous to December, A. L. 5813,
the Lodges in this state worked under the authori¬
ty of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, at which
time a Grand Lodge was established for the state
of Tennessee, and thei most Worshipful Thomas
Claiborne, Esq. elected and installed first Grand
Master.*
Ohio.—The Grand Lodge of Ohio was institu¬
ted by a convention of delegates, from all the
Lodges within the state; assembled at Chilicothe
on the first Monday of January, A. L. 5808, and
elected their grand officers. The first communica¬
tion of the Grand Lodge was holden at Chilicothe
on the 2d January, 5809.
Georgia.—The Grand Lodge of Georgia is hol¬
den " by virtue and in pursuance of, the right of
* See Appendix,
freemasonry.
65
succession, legally derived from the most noble and
most Worshipful Thcfthas Thyne, Lord Viscount
Weymouth, Grand Master of England, A. 1). 1730,
by his warrant directed to the Right Worshipful
Roger Lacey ; and by the renewal of said power
by Sholto Charles Douglas, Lord Aberdour,
Grand Master of Scotland, for the years 1755, and
1756, and Grand Master of England for the years
1757 and 1758, as appears by his warrant,. direct¬
ed to the Right Worshipful Grey Elliot.
On the 16th day of December, 5786, a conven¬
tion of the several Lodges holden in the state, as¬
sembled at Savannah, when the permanent appoint¬
ments, which had been heretofore made by the
Grand Master of England, were solemnly relin¬
quished, by the R. W. Samuel Elbert, Grand
Master, and the other officers of the Grand Lodge;
and certain regulations were adopted, by which the
Grand officers are now elected, annually by the
Grand Lodge.
Maryland.—Until the year 5783, the Lodges
in Maryland, derived their authority from the
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. On the 17th of
June, of the same year, a convention was called at
Talbot Court House, to consider of the propriety
of establishing a Grand Lodge, when it was resol¬
ved, that a Grand Lodge ought to be formed, inde-
pendant of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
The convention then adjourned and again met
at Talbot Court House, on the 31st July, 5783,
when the Grand Lodge was established, and Grand
officers elected and installed.
From the "Maryland Ahiman Rezon," it ap-
F 2
66
history of
pears that no meeting of the Grand Lodge was held
from the 19th December, 5783, until the 17th April
5787, when a convention of deputies from the dif¬
ferent subordinate Lodges again assembled at Tal¬
bot Court Honse, confirmed the proceedings of the
former convention, and elected and installed Grand
officers.
The Grand Lodge continued to hold its meet¬
ings at Talbot Court House, until A. L. 5794,
when it was removed to Baltimore, where it con¬
tinues to meet semi-annually, in the months of May
and October.
District of Columbia.—On the lltli Decem¬
ber 5810, a convention was called and delegates
attended from most of the lodges in the District of
Columbia; they met in the city of Washington.—
The convention, amongst other resolutions, resolv¬
ed that it was expedient to establish and organize
a Grand Lodge at the seat of the National Govern¬
ment.
On the 8th January, 5811, the convention pro¬
ceeded to the election of Grand officers, who were
duly installed, and the Grand Lodge regularly or¬
ganized.
The Grand Lodge meets semi-aunually, in Jan¬
uary and July.
Mississippi.—Previously to the establishment
of a Grand Lodge in this state, the several Lodges
working therein, derived their authority from the
Grand Lodges of Kentucky and Tennessee.
On the 27 th July, 5818, delegates from the several
Lodges convened in the city of N atchez,wlien they re¬
solved, that itwas expedient and highly necessary to
freemasonry.
67
form and organize a Grand Lodge for the state of
Mississippi. On the 25th August, following, the
convention again met, and adopted a constitution
for the government of the Grand Lodge, when the
respective Lodges surrendered the charters derived
from Kentucky and Tennessee, and took out char¬
ters under the new Grand Lodge.
Missouri.—In pursuance of an invitation from
Missouri Lodge, No. 12, held at St. Louis, dele¬
gates from Missouri Lodge, No. IS, Jackson Lodge
No. 25, and St. Charles' Lodge, No. 28, met at
St. Louis on the 22d February, 5821, and organ¬
ized a convention; when it was resolved, that it
was expedient and necessary to establish a Grand
Lodge for the State of Missouri, and a committee
was appointed to draft a constitution.
On the 23d of April, 5821, the convention again
assembled, adopted a constitution, and elected
Grand officers, who were installed on the 4th May,
following.
Alabama.—Delegates from the several lodges
in this state, met at Cahaba, on the lith June,
5821, when they adopted a resolution declaring it
e( expedient to establish a Grand Lodge of Master
Masons for the state of Alabama," and a committee
appointed to draft and report a constitution.
On the 13th June, the committee reported a con¬
stitution, which was adopted on the following day,
and the Grand officers solemnly installed.
In the United States, the fraternity has flourish¬
ed during the short period which has elapsed since
its introduction, to a degree which, without the pat¬
ronage of wealth and power, could scarcely have
68
HISTORY OF
been expected. Lodges are now found in every
portion of this extended empire, and although, like
similar institutions in the old world, it does not be¬
hold the stars of nobility twinkling in its ranks,
yet it numbers amongst its members, men distin¬
guished for their high attainments in literature ; for
their heroic qualities, and for every virtue which
can give dignity to the human character—men
whom nature has ennobled.
This favored country demonstrates the peculiar
advantages of the institution. The revolutions
which have taken place in England and South
America \ the extension of commerce which knits
together the remotest nations; the facility of inter¬
course which invites men of leisure and curiosity
to travel abroad; the overgrown populousness of
the old world, and the inviting prospects of the new,
all conspire to render the United States the resort
of all nations, and open to the fraternity an un¬
bounded field for the display of their beneficence.
In our lodges, natives of all climates and citizens
of every government, assemble to reciprocate the
sentiments and emotions, and mingle in the enjoy¬
ments which the occasion affords, whilst the ad¬
ventitious distinctions of country and language, of
fortune and power, are lost in the character of citi-
zens of the world, and brothers of the same family.
BOOK: sEcoim
M&mmm mmwmmmm.
CHAPTER I.
Before we enter upon the duties of a Freemason
in the various offices and stations, to which he may
be called in the Lodge, it is proper to give some ac¬
count of the temper and qualities, which are abso¬
lutely requisite in all who wish to he initiated into
the mysteries, and instructed in the art of ancient
Masonry.
Concerning God and Religion.
Whoever, from a love of knowledge, interest or
curiosity, desires to be made a Mason, is to know,
that, as his foundation and chief corner stone, he is
to believe firmly in the one Supreme and Eternal
God, and pay that worship which is due to Him, as
70-
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS*
the great Architect and Governor of the Universe*
A Mason is also obliged to obey the moral law, as
a true Noah-chida,* and if be rightly understand
royal art, he cannot tread in the jpaths of the irreli¬
gious libertine or stupid atheist; nor in any case,
act against the inward light of his conscience.
He will likewise shun tlie gross errors of bigot¬
ry and superstition; making a due use of his own
reason, according to that liberty with which a ma¬
son is free. For although in ancient times, the
Christian Masons were charged to comply with the
Christian usages of the country where they sojourn¬
ed or worked, (being found in all nations, and of
all religious and persuasions,) yet, it is now thought?
most expedient that the brethren in general should
be only charged, to adhere to the essentials of re¬
ligion in which all men agree ; leaving each brother
to his own private judgment, as to particular modes
and forms. Whence it follows, that all Ma¬
sons are to be good men and true—men of honor
and honesty, by whatever religious names or pur-
suasions distinguished; always pursuing the gol¬
den precept, ee do unto all men as (upon change of
condition) you would that all men should do unto
you."
Thus Masonry becomes the centre of union
among the brethren, scattered over the habitable
globe, and the means of conciliating and cementing
into one body, those who might otherwise have re¬
mained at a perpetual distance ; thereby strength¬
ening, not weakening, the divine obligations of re¬
ligion and love.
* Noah-chida, sons of Noah, the first name of Freemasons*
MA.SONIC CONSTITUTIONS. 7i
Concerning Government and the civil Magistrates.
Whoever would be true Mason, is further to
know, that by the privileges of his order, his obli¬
gations as a subject and a citizen, will not be relax¬
ed, but enforced. He is to be a lover of peace, and.
obedient to the civil powers which afford him pro¬
tection, and are set over him where he resides, or
works. Nor can a real craftsman fever be concern¬
ed in conspiracies against the state, or be disrespect¬
ful to the magistrate when in the discharge of his
.duty; because the welfare of the country which
protects him by its laws should be his first object.
If any brother, forgetting for a time, the rules of
his craft, and listening to evil counsels, should un¬
happily fall into a contrary conduct, b,e is not to be
countenanced in his crimes and rebellion against
the state; but he forfeits alL the benefits of the
J^pdge, and his fellows will refuse to associate
with him in private, while he continues in his guilt,
that nO offence may be given to the lawful govern¬
ment. Such a person, however, is still consider¬
ed as a mason, his title being indefeasable; and
hopes are to be entertained, and endeavours used,
that the rules of the craft may again restore him to
a sense of his duty.
From the constant desire of true Freemasons, to
adorn the ^countries where they reside with useful
arts, they have been, from the earliest ages, encou¬
raged and protected by wisest rulers of states and
commonwealths ; who have likewise thought it an
honor to have their names enrolled among the fra¬
ternity, and have become patrons of the craft. Thus
Masonry having always, flourished most in the
72
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
peaceable times of every country, and having suf¬
fered in a particular manner through the calamitous
effects of war, the craftsmen are the more strongly
engaged and inclined to act agreeably to the, true
principles of their art, in following peace and love
as far as possible, with all men; and as political
affairs have occasioned discord amongst the near¬
est relations, and most intimate friends, Masons are
enjoined never to speak of, or discuss them in the
Lodge.
Of Private Duties,
"Whoever would be a mason, should know how
to practice all the private duties. He should avoid
all manner of intemperance and excess, which
might prevent his performance of all the laudable
duties of his craft, or lead jhim into enormities,
which wociid reflect dishonor on the craft. He is
to be industrious in his profession, and true to the
lord and master he serves. He is to labour justly
for his meat and his drink. What leisure his la¬
bour allows, he is to employ in studying the arts
aud sciences with a diligent mind, that he may the
better perform all his duties to his creator, his coun¬
try, his neighbor and himself. For, to "walk
humbly in the sight of God, to do justice and love
mercy," are the true characteristics of free and ac¬
cepted masons.
He is to seek and acquire, as far as possible, the
virtues of patience, meekness, self denial -iand for-
iearancef which give him the command over himself
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
73
and enable him to govern his own family with af¬
fection, dignity, and prudence; at the same time
checking every disposition injurious to the world,
and promoting that love and service which brethren
of the same household owe to each other. There¬
fore, to afford succour to the distressed ; to divide
our bread with the industrious poor, and to put the
misguided traveller in the way, are duties of the
craft, suitable to its dignity and expressive of its
usefulness. But, although a Mason is never to shut
his ear unkindly against the complaints of any
of the human race, yet, when a brother is op¬
pressed or suffers, he is in a more particular man¬
lier, called upon to open his whole soul in love and
compassion to him, and to relieve him without pre¬
judice to himself or his family, according to his
capacity.
It is also necessary that all wlio would be true
Masons, should learn to abstain from all malice,
slander and evil speaking; from all provoking, re¬
proachful and ungodly language, keeping always a
tongue of good report.
A Mason should know how to obey those who
are set over him; however inferior they may be in
worldly rank, or condition. For although Mason¬
ry divests no man of his honors and titles, yet, in
the lodge, preeminence of virtue, and knowledge
in the royal art, are considered as the true sources
of all nobility, rule and government.
The virtue indispensibly necessary in Masons, is
secrecy. This is the guard of their confidence, and
the security of their trust. So great stress is laid
upon it, that it is enforced under the strongest pen-
74
masonic constitutions.
alties and obligations; nor in their esteem is anj*
man accounted wise, who has not intellectual
strength and ability sufficient to cover and conceal
such honest secrets as are committed to him, as well
as his own more serious and private affairs.
Of proposing new Members.
No person is capable of becoming a member, un¬
less, together with the virtues before mentioned, or
at least a disposition to seek and acquire them, he
is also (t freeborn ; of mature and discreet age; of
good report; of sufficient natural endowments and
the senses of a man ; with an estate, office, trade or
occupation, or some visible1 way of acquiring an hon¬
est livelihood, find of workiug in his craft, as be¬
come- members of this ancient fraternity. Who
ought not only to earn what is suffi< ient for them¬
selves and families, but likewise something for
works of charity, and supporting the true dignity
of the royal art. Every person desiring admission,
must also be upright in body, not deformed or dis¬
membered, at the time of making; but of hale and
entire limbs, as a man ought to be.
No brother shall propose for admission any per¬
son through private friendship or partiality, who
does not possess the moral and social duties ; or a
sound Isead and good heart; and who has not an
exemption from all those qualities and vices which
would bring dishonor on the craft.
A strict (though private and impartial) enquiry
will be made into the character and ability of the
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS,
75
candidate, before lie can be admitted into any lodge,
and by the rales of masonry, no friend who may
wish to propose him can shew him any favor. But
if he has a friend who is a mason, and is every way
satisfied, his duty is described as follows:
Every person desirous of being made a Freema¬
son in any lodge, shall be proposed by a member,
who shall give an account of the candidates name,,
age, quality, trade or occupation, place of residence
and other necessary requisites, as mentioned in the
foregoing sections. And it is generally required,
that such proposal be also seconded by some one
or more members, who are acquainted with the
candidate. Such proposal shall also be made in
lodge hours, at least one lodge night before initia*
tion, in order that the brethren may have sufficient
time and opportunity to make strict inquiry into the
character, and circumstances of the candidate; for
which purpose a special committee is generally ap¬
pointed.
The brother who proposes a candidate, shall, at
the same time, deposit a sum of money for him, as
the rules or bye-laws of the lodge may require;
which is forfeited to the Lodge if the candidate
should not attend accordirig to his proposal, if elec¬
ted ; but itis returned to him, if he should not be
approved or elected. In case he is elected, he is
to pay, in addition, such further sum as the laws of
the Lodge may require.
The candidate has a right, before his admission,
to desire his friend to shew him the warrant, or dis¬
pensation by which the lodge is held; which if gen¬
uine, he will find to be an instrumeht written or
76
Masonic constitutions.
printed upon parchment, and signed by some Grand
Master, his Deputy, the Grand Wardens and
Grand Secretary; sealed with the seal of the Grand
Lodge, constituting particular persons therein nam¬
ed, as Master and Wardens, with fall power to
congregate and hold a Lodge at^ such place, and
therein to " make and admit Freemasons, according
to the most ancient and honorable custom of the
royal art, in all ages and nations throughout the
known world, with full power to nominate and
chuse their successors, &c."
He may also request the perusal of the bye-laws,
which being short, he may read in the presence of
his friend, and be shown a list of the members of
the Lodge; by all which, he will be the better able
to judge whether he could associate with them and
conform to their rules. Being thus free to judge
for himself, he will not be liable to the dangers of
deception. But, on the contrary, will be admitted
into a society, where he may converse with men of
honor and probity; be exercised in all the offices
of brotherly love, and be made acquainted with
some things, of which it is not lawful to speak, or
make known out of the Lodge
CHAPTER II.
GENERAL REGULATIONS AMONGST ANCIENT YGJJJI
MASONS.
Of a Lodge and its Government.
1. A Lodge is a place in which Masons meet to
work. The assembly, or organized body of Ma¬
sons is also called a Lodge, just as the word
Church is expressive both of the congregation, and
and place in which they meet to worship.
2. The qualities of those who are admitted mem¬
bers of a Lodge, have been mentioned in the pre¬
ceding chapter, and it is only necessary to repeat
here in general, 66 that they ar® to be men of good,
report, freehorn, of mature age, hale and sound,
not deformed or dismembered at the time of ma¬
king, and no woman or eunuch.
3. A Lodge ought to assemble for work at least
once in each calendar month, and must consist of
at least one Master, Senior and Junior Wardens,
Secretary and Treasurer, Senior and Junior Dea¬
cons and Tyler, and as many members, as the Mas¬
ter and a majority of the brethren, shall from time
think proper; although more than forty or fifty
are generally found inconvenient for working to
advantage; and, therefore, when a lodge becomes
thus numerous, some of the ablest master workmen
and others under their direction, will obtain leave
to separate, and apply to the Grand Lodge for $
78 MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
warrant to work by themselves, in order to the fur¬
ther advancement of the craft. But such warrant
cannot be granted to any number of Masons, nor
can any lodge be formed, unless there be among
them three Master Masons, to be nominated and
installed as officers, for governing and instructing
the brethren of such Lodge.
4. When men of eminent quality, learning, rank
and wealth, apply to be made and admitted into
the Lodge, they are to be accepted with proper res¬
pect after due examination, for among sucli, are of¬
ten found those, who afterwards prove good found¬
ers of work and excellent officers, to the great hon¬
or of the craft. From among them also, the frater¬
nity, can generally have some honorable and learn¬
ed Grand Master. These brethren, however, are
alike subject to all the charges and regulations ;
the preferment of brethren must be upon real worth*
and personal merit, and not upon mere seniority,
or any particular rank or quality.
5. In order that due decorum may be observed,
while the lodge is engaged in business, and for the
better preservation of secrecy and harmony, a bro¬
ther well skilled in the Master's part, and one of
prudence and discretion, shall be appointed to tyle
the Lodge door, during the time of communication.
6. Every Lodge shall keep a book containing
their bye-laws, the names of their members, with a
list of all the lodges under the same Grand Lodge,
with the usual times and places of meeting of such
Lodg es, and such other necessary parts of their
transactions, as are proper to ta committed to wri¬
ting.
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
79
7. No Lodge shall make more than five new
brethren on the same evening, unless by dispensa¬
tion from the Grand Master, or deputy, in his ab¬
sence; nor shall any person be made or admitted
h member of a Lodge, without being proposed one
month before, (unless in particular ca$es to be judg¬
ed of by the Lodge) that due notice may be given
to all the members, to make the necessary enqui¬
ries into the character and standing of the candi¬
date. And no member can be imposed on any
Lodge without its consent; nor can any brother be
admitted until he produces a certificate of his hav¬
ing paid all arrearages to the Lodge of which he
was last a member; for should any Lodge admit
a brother, who is in arrears to another Lodge, the
Lodge thus admitting him, makes the debt their
own.
8. As every Lodge has a right to keep itself an
entire and distinct body, they ofight never to inter¬
fere in the business of another Lodge. Therefore
it is highly improper to confer a degree on a broth¬
er who is not of their household; for every Lodge
ought to be competent to its own business, and
are certainly the best judges of the merits and qual¬
ifications of its own members. <
9. As the officers of every Lodge are th^ proper
representatives of their own Lodge in the Grand
Lodge, still, for the sake of equal representation,
the officers are allowed deputies, when unable to
attend themselves ; which deputies must be ap¬
pointed by the majority of every Lodge, when duly
congregated, and their appointment shall be attest¬
ed by the Secretary, with the seal of the Lodeje .5
80
MASQNIC CONSTITUTIONS.
and every Lodge has the privilege of instructing
their Master and Wardens, or their deputies, for
their conduct in the Grand Lodge.
10. Every brother ought to be a member of some
Lodge, nor is it proper that any number of brethren
should withdraw or separate themselves from the
Lodge, in which they were made, or admitted mem¬
bers, without good cause; although the right is an
inherent one, and can never be restrained by any
power whatever; still such separation is improper,
unless the lodge becomes too numerous for work¬
ing, in which case a sufficient number may with¬
draw with the approbation of the Lodge, in order
to form a new one. Before application can be made
to the Grand Lodge, they shall pay all dues to
their Lodge, and give them notice in writing, that
they intend to apply to the Grand Lodge, for a
warrant to form a new one. The Lodge then shall
certify to the Grand. Lodge, the cause of the appli¬
cation, and at the same time shall recommend the
brethren best qualified as Master and Wardens.—
No set of Masons shall take upon themselves,
without such warrant, to work together, or form a
aew Lodge.
CHAPTER HI.
OF THE BEHAVIOUR OF MASONS AS MEMBERS OF J|
LODGE.
Of attendance,
4. Every brother should appear in Lodge/pro¬
perly clothed, in clean and decent apparel, truly
subjecting himsfelf to all its bye-laws and regula¬
tions. He must attend all meetings, whether sta¬
ted or emergent, when duly .summoned, unless hfc
can offer to the Lodge such plea for his absence, as
the said laws and regulations admit. By the an¬
cient rules, no plea was deemed sufficient to excuse
an absentee, unless he could satisfy the Lodge that
he was sick, lame, in confinement, or upwards of
three miles from the place of holding the meeting,
or detained by some unforseen or extraordinary
necessity.
2. Whilst the Lodge is open for work, Mason®
are not to hold private conversations or committees
without leave from the Master; nor talk of any
thing foreign to the work in hand, nor interrupt
the Master or Wardens, or any brother addressing
the chair; but every brother is*to pay due rever-
ance to the Master and Wardens.
8. Every brother found guilty of a fault, shall
stand to the award of his Lodge, unless he appeals
to the Grand Lodge; but if the work be hindered
in the mean time, a particular reference may be
made.
82 MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS:-
4. No private piques, or quarrels about nations,
religion or politics, must be brought within the
doors of the Lodge, asjbeing directly contrary to
the rules prescribed. Masons being declared of
the oldest catholic religion, universally acknowl¬
edged as such, and of all nations ; hound to live 011
the square, level and plumb, with each other, fol¬
lowing the steps of their predecessors, in cultiva¬
ting the peace and harmony of the Lodge, without
distinction of sect or party.
5. When the Lodge is closed, the brethren be¬
fore they depart, may enjoy themselves in innocent
mirth, enlivened and exalted by their own peculiar
songs, avoiding all irregularity. Therefore, no
brother is to be hindered from going home when he
pleases; for although after lodge hours, Masons
are as other men, yet, as the world views them
with a jealous eye, if they should fall into excess,
the blame, though unjustly, may be cast on the in¬
stitution.
6. You are to salute each other in a courteous
manner, as you are instructed in the Lodge; call¬
ing each other brother, freely communicating hints
of knowledge, and always taking care in your ac¬
tions and conversations, that you are neither over¬
seen or overheard by strangers. In this friendly
intercourse, no brother shall derogate from the res¬
pect due to another, were he not a Mason. For
though all Masons, as brothers, are npon the level,
yet Masonry divests no man of the honors due to
him before, or that may become due to him after
he was made a Mason.
7. Before those who are not Masons, you must'
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS, 8S
be cautious in your words and actions ; so that the
most penetrating stranger shall not be able to dis¬
cover what is not proper to be intimated. The im¬
pertinent and ensnaring questions, which are often
addressed by those who seek to pry into the secrets
and mysteries committed to you, must be prudently
answered and managed, as your discretion and du¬
ty shall direct.
8. Masons ought to be moral men ; consequent¬
ly should be good husbands, good parents, good
sons and good neighbors; not staying too long
from home, avoiding every excess, that would be
injurious to themselves or their families.
*9. You are cautiously to examine a stranger, or
foreign brother, as prudence and the rules of the
craft direct, that yoq may not be imposed upon by
a pretender; and if you find any one to be such,
you are to reject him with scorn and shame, taking
care to give him no hints; but such as are found to
be true and faithful, you are to respect as brothers,
according to what is directed above; relieving them
if in want, to the utmost of your power, or directing
them how to find relief, and employing them if you
can, or else recommending them to employment.
10. Free and accepted Masons are charged to
avoid all slandering and back biting of true and
faithful brethreu, or talking disrespectfully of a
brothers person or performance. JS or must they
suffer others to spread unjust reproaches or ca¬
lumnies against a brother, behind his hack, iiorto
injure him in his fortune, occupation or character;
but they should defend such brother, and give him
notice of any danger or injury with which he may
84 MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
be threatened, to enable him to escape the same, as
far as consistent with honor, prudence and the safe¬
ty of religion, morality and the state, but no further.
11. If one brother do another an injury, or if any
difference exists between them about any temporal
business or interest, they should apply to the lodge
of which they are members, to have the matter in
dispute adjusted by the brethren. And if either
party ben ot satisfied with the determination of the
Lodge, an appeal may be carried to the Grand
Lodge. Brethren are not to enter into law suits,
until the matter cannot be decided as above. If
the matter wholly concerns Masonry, law suits are
to be avoided, and the advice of prudent brethren
is to be followed, as they are the best referees of
such differences.
12. Where references arb either impracticable
or unsuccessful, and courts of law, or equity must
at last decide, you must observe the general rules
of Masonry already laid down ; avoiding all wrath
and malice, or personal ill will, in carrying on the
suit with a brother; neither saying or doing any
thing to hinder the continuance or renewal ol that
brotherly love and friendship, which are the glory
and cement of this ancient fraternity.
13. By observing the rules laid down in this
and the foregoing chapters, we will shew to the
world the benign influence of Masonry, as true and
faithful brethren before us, have done, from the he-
ginning of time; and as all who shall follow us,
and would be worthy of that name will do, until
the world shall end.
14. Every master of a lodge, should himself
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS. 8#
carefully study the foregoing charges, and cause
them to be frequently read in Lodge, that they may
make that impression upon the minds of the breth¬
ren, which, from their importance, they deserve,
H
CHAPTER IV.
Of the Officers of a Lodge.
1. No brother can be master of a lodge, unless
he has served the office of Warden, somewhere,
unless in extraordinary cases, or Where a new lodge
is to be formed, and no past or present Warden
is to be found among the members. In such cases,
three Blaster Blasons, although they they have ser¬
ved in no former offices, (if they be well learned)
may be constituted Blaster and Wardens of such
new Lodge, or any Lodge on a similar emergency.
2. The master of every Lodge shall be chosen by
ballot, and the present Wardens (where they re¬
gularly are) shall be put among the number of
candidates for the chair, but shall then withdraw,
while every member (all Who have paid their dues,
or who have been excused payment) gives his vote
in favor of him whom he deems most worthy*
Every free member has one vote, and the master
two votes, where the number of votes happens to
be equal, otherwise he has but one.
3. When the ballot is closed, and before it be
examined, the former master shall order the candi¬
dates to be brought back before him and take their
seats as Wardens. He shall then carefully ex¬
amine the poll, and audibly declare him that hath
a majority of votes, duly elected.
4. The Blaster elect shall then nominate one fot
Senior Warden, and the present Blaster and breth-
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
87
Ten shall nominate one in opposition; both of
whom shall withdraw till the ballot is closed as a-
foresaid; after which they shall be called before
the Master, and the poll shall be examined and
declared by him as above stated ; in like manner
sball the lodge proceed to the choice of all the infe¬
rior officers.
5. The Master of every regular Lodge, duly
elected and installed, is particularly required to
see that the bye-laws of his Lodge, as well as the
general regulations• of the Grand Lodge, be duly
observed; thai his Wardens discharge their office
faithfully, and be examples of diligence and sobri¬
ety to the craft; that true and exact minutes and en¬
tries of all the proceedings be made and kept by
the Secretary; that the Treasurer keep and render
exact and just accounts at the stated times, accor¬
ding to the bye-laws and orders of the Lodge ; and
in"general that all the goods and monies belonging
to his Lodge, be truly managed and dispensed, ac¬
cording to the vote of the majority.
6. The Master shall further take care that no
apprentice or fellow-craft, be taken into his Loda;e,
unless he finds him to be duly qualified according
to the rules already laid down.
7. The master has the right and authority of
calling his lodge, upon any emergency, which in
his judgment may require their meeting, and he is
to fill the chair when present. It is likewise his
duty, together with his Wardens, to attend th©
Grand Lodge, at the usual communications, and
such occasional and special communications, as th©
good of the craft may require, when duly summon-
88 MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
ed by the Grand Secretary. When in Grant!
Lodge they have full power to transact all matters
relative thereto, as well and. as truly as if the whole
body were there present.
8. The master has also the right of preventing
the removal of his Lodge from one house to another;
and as several disputes have arisen on this head,
and it has been made a question, in whom the pow¬
er of removing a Lodge to any new place is inves ¬
ted, when the old place of meeting appears to be
inconvenient, the following rule for this purpose
has been agreed upon, and settled by lawful au¬
thority, viz:
That no Lodge be removed without the masters
knowledge, nor any motion made for that purpose
in the Lodge when he is absent. But if the Mas¬
ter be present, and a motion be made for removing
the Lodge to some other convenient place, (within
the district assigned in the warrant of such Lodge)
and if the said motion be seconded^and thirded, the
master shaii order summons to every individual
member of the Lodge, specifying the business, and
appointing a day for hearing and determining the
affair, at least ten days before, and the determina¬
tion shall be made by the majority. But if the
Master is not of the majority, the Lodge shall not
be removed, unless full two thirds of the members
present have voted for such removal.
But if the master refuse to direct such summons
to be issued (upon motion duly made) then either
of the Wardens may direct the same ; and if the
Master neglects to attend on the day fixed, the
Warden may preside in determining the affair, in
MA.SONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
the manner before prescribed. But the Lodge
shall not in the Masters absence (on such special
call) enter upon any- other business, but what is
mentioned in the said summons.
* If the Lodge is thus regularly removed, the Mas¬
ter or Wardens shall send notice to the Grand Se¬
cretary that such removalmaybe duly entered in the
Grand Lodge books at the next Grand Lodge.
9. The Masters duty in making and admitting
brethren, and other duties of his office, being such
as cannot be written, are only to be acquired by
study and experience.
The Wardens,
None but Master Masons can be Wardens of a
Lodge. The Senior Warden succeeds to all the
duties of the Master, and fills the chair when he is
absent; or if the Master goes abroad on business
resigns, demits or is deposed, the Senior Warden
shall forthwith fill his place until the next stated
election. And although it was formerly held, that
in such cases the Masters authority ought to revert
to the last Past Master who is 'present, yet it is
now a settled rule, that the authority devolves upon
the Senior Warden, and in his absence, upon the
J unior Warden, even although a former Master be
present. But the Wardens will generally wave
this privilege in honor of any Past Master that may
be present, and will call on him to take the chair,
upon the presumption of his experience and skill
in conducting the business of the Lodge. If none
fl %
90
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS,
of tlie officers he present, nor any former Master to
take the chair, the members according to seniority,
shall fill the places of the absent officers.
The business of the Wardens of a Lodge, is
generally to assist the Master in conducting th$
business thereof, and managing the craft in due or¬
der and form, when the Master is present, and do¬
ing his duties when he is necessarily absent; all
which is to be learned from the foreging sections.
Particular Lodges, by their bye-Laws, assign par¬
ticular duties to their Wardens, for their own bet¬
ter government; which such Lodges have a right
to do, provided they do not transgress the ancient
land marks, nor in any degree violate the true spir¬
it and genius of Masonry.
The Secretary.
The Secretary shall keep a regular record of all
the proceedings of the Lodge that are proper to be
committed to writing; which shall be faithfully en¬
tered in the Lodge books, from the minutes taken
in open Lodge, after being duly read and approved,
before the close of every meeting, in order that the
said transactions, or authentic copies thereof, may
be ready to be laid before the Grand Lodge when
required.
The Secretary shall keep exact lists of all the
members of the Lodge, with the times of admission
of new members; and at each annual meeting of
the Grand Lodge, or oftener if required, shall pre¬
pare and send to the Grand Secretary; the list of
masonic constitutions. 91
members for the time, with those suspended or ex¬
pelled, which should be signed by the Master and
Wardens; to the end that Grand Secretary may
be enabled at all times to know the names and num¬
ber of members in each Lodge, with the hand wri¬
ting of the different officers, and pay all due respect
to the brethren recommended or certified by them
from time to time.
The Treasurer.
The Treasurer is to receive and keep an exact
account of all monies raised or paid in, according
to rules for the advancement of the Lodge, and to
pay all orders duly drawn on him by the authority
of the Lodge. He is to keep regular entries both
of his receipts and disbursements, and to have his
books and vouchers always ready for examination
at such stated times as the bye-laws require, or
when specially called on by the Master and War¬
dens. He is also to have the charge of the jewels
and furniture of the Lodge, unless the master and
a majority of the brethren appoint some other bro¬
ther for that particular duty; or when the officers
of the Lodge may take the charge immediately up¬
on themselves. The warrant in particular, is in
the charge and custody of the Master.
CHAPTER V.
of granA lodges in general.
Previously to the Grand Convocation at York,
the fraternity spread over the country, assembled
and worked as Masons, without any warrant of
constitution. Disorders and irregularities incident
to such a mode of procedure, rendered it necessary
that a supreme head or Grand Lodge should be es¬
tablished possessing jurisdiction over inferior
Lodges.
A Grand Lodge consists of the Masters and
Wardens of all regular Lodges within its jurisdic¬
tion, with the Grand Master at their head, the de¬
puty Grand Master on his left, and the Grand
Wardens in their proper places; attended also by
the Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, Grand
Marshal, Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Deacons,
Grand Tyler, and other necessary officers 5 all of
whom must be Master Masons.
No new Lodge is acknowledged, nor can their
officers be admitted to vote in Grand Lodge, until
such lodge is regularly constituted, and registered
by authority of the Graud Lodge.
All past Grand Masters, past Deputy Grand
Masters, past Grand Wardens, and past Masters
of warranted Lodges on record, whilst they contin¬
ue members of a regular Lodge, are likewise by
courtesy as well as by custom, considered as mem¬
bers of, and admitted to vote in Grand Lodge. By
courtesy also, past Grand Secretaries and Grand
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS. SS
Treasurers have the same privilege of sitting in
Grand Lodge aud voting in such matters, as by the
rules of the Grand Lodge they might or could have
voted on, while in office.*
No Master, Warden, or other member of tho
Graud Lodge, should ever attend the same with¬
out the jewel he ought to wear in liis own particu¬
lar Lodge, except for some good and sufficient rea¬
son, to be allowed of in the Grand Lodge, And
when any officer of a Lodge, cannot personally at¬
tend the Grand Lodge, he may nominate and send
a brother of his Lodge, with his jewel and clothing
to supply his place.
Brethren of the rank of Master, may be admit¬
ted into the Grand Lodge on motion, or leave asked
and given; but such brethren thus admitted, are
not entitled to vote, or to speak on any question,
without leave, or unless desired by the presiding of¬
ficer to give his opinion.
A Grand Lodge should meet four times a year$
and should also have occasional meetings and ad¬
journments, as business may require.f
All matters in Grand Lodge shall be determined
* It is a question still unsettled, ^at leapt in some Grand
Lodges^ whether Past Masters, who have been made such
in a Chapter of Royal Arch Alasoi^s, are entitled to seats
and to vote, as members of a Grand Lodge; or whether this
privilege should be confined to such only, as have been regit*
larly elected and installed as masters of subordinate Lodges.
This is a question of considerable interest, and demands the
serious consideration of the fraternity.
t The Grand Lodge ha9 the right of fixing the times of
its meetings ; hence some meet quarterly, some semi-annu¬
ally and others annually,
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS,
by a majority of votes, each member having one
vote, unless the Grand Lodge leave any particular
thing to the determination of the Grand Master, for
the sake of expedition.
The business of the Grand Lodge is seriously
to communicate, and consider of, to transact and
settle all matters that concern the prosperity of the
craft, and the fraternity in general, or private Lodges
and brethren in particular. Thus all differences,
that cannot be accommodated privately, nor by a
particular Lodge are to be seriously considered and
and decided. And if any brother thinks himself
aggrieved by such decision, he may by lodging an
appeal in writing with the Grand Secretary, have**
the matter reheard, and finally determined upon at
the next ensuing communication.
Of the Election of Grand Master,
The Grand Lodge must meet at the time fixed
upon by their constitution, for the purpose of elect¬
ing their officers.
The election shall be by holding up of hands or
by ballot, as may be directed by the particular reg¬
ulations of the Grand Lodge.
"When the election is made, the Grand Master
elect, is to be proclaimed, installed and saluted, if
present; if not present, a clay is to be appointed
for this ceremony, or lie may be installed by proxy,
on his signifying his acceptance of the office. The
ceremony of installation of the new Grand Master
is to he conducted by the last Grand Master, but
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS*
90.
he may order any brother well skilled in the cere¬
mony to assist him, or to act as his deputy on the
occasion.
The Grand Master thus elected and installed,
hath an inherent right to nominate and appoint the
deputy Grand Master; because, as the Grand Mas¬
ter, cannot be supposed to be able to give his atten¬
dance on every emergency, it hath been always
judged necessary not only to allow him a deputy,
but that such deputy should be a person in whom
he cap perfectly confide, and with whom he can
have full harmony.
The Grand Warden9.
The Grand Lodge has the right of electing the
Grand Wardens, and any member has a right to
propose one or both of the candidates, either the
old Wardens, or new ones; and the two persons
who have the majority of yotes or ballots, are de¬
clared duly elected.
The Grand Secretary.
The office of Grand Secretary has become of ve«
ry great importance in the Grand Lodge. All the
transactions of the Lodge, are to be dra\vn into form
and duly recorded by him. All petitions, applica¬
tions and appeals, are to pass through his hands.
>)o warrant, certificate or instrument of writing
from the Grand Lodge is authentic, without his at-
$6 MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
testation and signature, and his affixing the great
seal as the laws require. The general correspon¬
dence with Lodges and brethren over the whole
World is to managed by him, agreeably to the voice
of the Grand Lodge, and directions of the Grand
Master or his deputy, whom he must therefore, be
always ready to attend, with the books of the
Lodge, in order to give all necessary information
concerning the general state of affairs, and what
is proper to be done upon any emergency. The
Grand Secretary, by virtue of his office, is a mem¬
ber of the Grand Lodge, and may set and vote ac¬
cordingly.
.IThe Grand Treasurer.
The duties of Grand Treasurer, are the same as
prescribed to the Treasurer of a subordinate Lodge.
By virtue of his office he is a member of the Grand
Lodgej and may set and vote as such.
If the Grand Master is absent at any meeting of
the Grand Lodge, the deputy is to supply the place.
If the deputy is likewise absent, the Senior Grand
Warden. All Grand officers, present and past,
take precedence of every Master of a Lodge, and
the present Grand officers, of all past Grand offi¬
cers. Nevertheless, any of them may wave their
privilege, to do honor to any ancient brother and
past master, whom the Lodge may be willing to
place in the chair on any particular occasion^ If
MASONIC CONSTITUTIONS.
97
the Grand officers are not present at any Grand
Lodge, duly summoned, the Master of the senior
private Lodge who may be present, is to take the
chair, although there may be Masters of Lodges
present who are older Masons.
I
BOOK THIRD.
BHS>SAt»E
of the degrees of entered apprentice, felr
10w craft and master mason, with
the ceremonies to be observed
on various occasions,
CHAPTER I.
Advantages of Freemasonry}
"When we advert to the origin of society, we disco¬
ver that mutual wants impelled mankind to associ¬
ate for mutual benefit and protection. The su¬
preme architect of the universe, when he created
man, endowed him with reasoning faculties, the
power of discriminating between right and wrong,
good and evil, that he might enjoy the pleasures
and benefits arising from a state of society. He is
treated with feelings, passions and inclinations,
which direct him to social intercourse, and lead
him to share with others, the pleasures which he
himself feels. The influence of society is felt in
every nation and in every country; the untutored
100
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
and uncivilized savage who roams unrestrained
over his native woods, and the equally uncultiva¬
ted native of the burning sands of Africa, feel its
power, and act under its sovereign sway. They
seek society with as much eagerness, perhaps, as
the polished inhabitant of the city, and from the same
motive; the desire of participating in each other's
enjoyments. This propensity to associate is capa¬
ble of producing the most happy effects, when un¬
der proper restrictions. From this general princi¬
ple of association is deduced that particular princi¬
ple which leads to the establishment of societies
having particular objects in view; such as socie¬
ties for the relief of the distressed widow, the help¬
less orphan, the wandering stranger, and other be¬
nevolent and charitable purposes. In every coun¬
try where the minds of men have been enlightenen-
ed and their manners softened by the benign influ¬
ence of the Christian religion, societies have been
formed, which have been productive of much good
in ameliorating the evils which i( flesh is heir to."
Misery in almost every form has raised her lan¬
guid head, and blessed the hand extended to re¬
lieve. Charity and her sister Benevolence, havef
knelt by the side of the poor and the afflicted, and
the balsam poured into their wounds, has inspired
the sufferer with new feelings, causing joy and glad¬
ness, where before was all despondency and sor¬
row.
Amongst the numberless societies thus instituted
for benevolent purposes, it is not arrogating too
much to say, that Freemasonry occupies au eleva¬
ted place, and that it is as preeminent in usefulness
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 1Q1
as in age. Whilst other societies are limited to
particular cities, towns or districts, Freemasonry
is as extensive as the globe we inhabit, embracing
men of every religion and every country; east or
west, north or south, Masons are found, ready and
willing to administer to our comfort, or relieve our
distresses. This is a subject of congratulation
which no other institution affords. May its mem¬
bers cherish it for its benevolent designs, honor it
for its precepts, and support it for the excellence of
its moral doctrines, that it may continue to main-*
tain that station which it deserves to occupy.
Freemasonry at its institution was no doubt sim¬
ple in its regulations, consisting of but few rules
for promoting order and charity among those who
embraced it. As these were all of the same lan¬
guage, manners, religion and government, they
would have but few peculiarities to restrain. Their
doctrines would be, that a God of perfect justice
and mercy governs the universe, and that to him
all men are accountable for their actions. Theic
precepts would enjoin obedience to the deity; com¬
passion and forbearance to all the human race, and
temperance, sobriety and charity to every particu¬
lar individual.
But when Freemasonry began to spread beyonct
the land of its nativity into distant countries, it
would necessarily decline from its primitive simpli¬
city. The few rules which were sufficient to regu-'
late and govern the society, when composed of peo¬
ple belonging to the same nation, would require to
be augmented when it consisted of members of dif¬
ferent nations. Accordingly the brethren have 4-
X %
102
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS:
dopted certain signs and tokens, which serve as a
kind of universal language, by which a brother in
a foreign country might make himself known to,
and understood by a brother who could relieve and
protect him; and also, that they might be able to
distinguish one another with ease and certainty
from the rest of the world, that impostors might not
abuse their confidence, nor intercept the fruits of
their benevolence.
The method adopted by the craft for communi¬
cating instruction to their disciples, was in use be¬
fore the invention of letters. All the learning of
the ancient world was conveyed in symbols, and en¬
trenched in mystery ; and that is not only the most
ancient, but the most impressive vehicle of knowl¬
edge, which, by applying sensible objects to a figu¬
rative use, affords amusementas well as instruction,
and renders even the playfulness of imagination in¬
strumental to moral improvement.
Those who have made inquiry into the rise and
progress of science, have found, that in the early
ages all speculative knowledge was confined to a
few, and by them carefully concealed from vulgar
curiosity, under the veil of mystery, into which
none were initiated until not only their intellectual
capacities, but the firmness of their characters, had
been put to a severe test 5 the result of which, de¬
termined the degree of probability that they would
resist the stratagems of curiosity and the demands
of authority. The weakness and prejudices of
mankind, rendered it necessary to conceal many
truths, which the progress of civil society, and the
consequent expansion of the human mind, made it
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 10&
prudent to reveal; and although there are still se>*
crets which we confine within the circle of the ini¬
tiated, which we communicate by different degrees,
yet, whatever appeared likely to increase the stock
bf human happiness, and seemed not dangerous in
common hands, our ancient brethren have commu¬
nicated to the world.
In every art there is a mystery which requires a
gradual progression of knowledge, to arrive at any
degree of perfection. Without much instruction
and more exercise, no man can be skilful in any art 5
in like manner, without proper application to the
various subjects treated of in the different lectures
®f Masonry, no person can be sufficiently acquaint^
Cd with its true value, nor properly appreciate the
advantages to be derived from it. It must not,
however, be inferred, that persons who labour un¬
der the disadvantages of a confined education, of
whose sphere of life requires a more intense appli¬
cation to business and study, are to be discouraged
in their endeavors to gain a knowledge of Masonry.
Masonry is confined to no particular country,
but extends over the whole habitable world. By
secret and inviolable signs carefully preserved
amongst the fraternity, many advantages are gain¬
ed. The distant Chinese, the Arab of the desert,
and even the Indian of our own forests, will hail
each other as brethren, and know that beside the
Common ties of humanity, there is still a stronger
obligation to induce him to kind and friendly acts.
If Masonry possessed no other advantage, this a*
lone, is sufficient to entitle it to the esteem and at¬
tachment of its members. By this means they can,
404 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
communicate their history, their wants and their
prayers to every mason throughout the globe;
from whence it is certain, that many lives have
been saved in foreign conn tries, "when ship wreck
and misery had overwhelmed them; when robbers
had pillaged, when sickness and want had brought
them even to the brink of the grave, the discovery
©f Masonry has saved them. The mystic signal
has staid the hand of the conqueror, when uplifted
to destroy the unresisting captive; it has withheld
the sword imbrued in carnage and slaughter, and
subdued the insolence of triumph, to pay homage
to the craft. Even pirates on the high seas, who
have disregarded every other law both human and
-divine, have acknowledged and yielded to the force
of this.
For proofs of the moral tendency of Freemasory,
we need only appeal to our lectures and charges,
a due attention to which cannot fail of proving high¬
ly auxiliary to the practice of religious and social
duties. In them will be found a summary of mor¬
al conduct, which in soundness of principle and fa¬
cility of application, may vie with the most celebra¬
ted systems of ethics; the whole rendered familiar
to our conceptions, amusing to our fancies, and im¬
pressive oil oui\memories, by easy and apposite
symbols. By them we learn the analogy between
physical and moral good; to judge of the wisdom
of the creator, by the works of his creation; and
hence we infer, that our wise Master Builder, who
has planned and completed a habitation so suitable
to our wants, so convenient to our enjoyments dur¬
ing our temporary residence here, has exercised
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 105
more wisdom in contriving, more strength in sup¬
porting and more beauty in adorning, those eternal
mansions where he has promised to receive and
reward all those who faithfully practice the duties
laid down in the Book of Life.
Whoever divests himself of prejudice, and atten¬
tively considers th® nature and tendency of the Ma¬
sonic institution will readily perceive its utility.
The universal principles of the art, unite in the
bonds of friendship, men of the most opposite ten¬
ets, of the most distant countries, and of the most
contradictory opinions; sothatin every country ama-
fgon will find a friend and a home. Every degree in
Masonry inculcates some duty to be performed^
and some error to be avoided, and when its rules
are strictly observed, it is a sure foundation of tran¬
quility amidst the various disappointments of life;
a friend that will not deceive, but will comfort and
assist in prosperity and adversity. He, therefore,
who cultivates this science and acts conformably t®
its injunctions and precepts, has within himself,
the spring of social virtue, and will command tha
esteem and respect of mankind.
CHAPTER II.
Masonic Secrecy.
The enquiry is frequently made, if the secrets of
Masonry are replete with such advantages to man¬
kind, why are theynot divulged for the general good
of mankind ? Why invest them with the impene¬
trable veil of concealment ? To this we answer,
that we consider it indispensibly necessary ; it is
©ur means of security against the sure destruction
that has awaited all other establishments of man ;
the most important pledge for the continuance of
©ur usefulness*
So great a stress is laid on the virtue of secrecy
among Masons, that the importance of it is enfor¬
ced in the strongest manner; nor, in their esteem, is
any man accounted wise, who is void of intellectu¬
al strength and ability to conceal such secrets as
are committed to him, as well as his own most se¬
rious affairs. Both sacred and profane history
teaches us that numerous virtuous attempts have
failed of their intended end through defect of con¬
cealment.
The ancient philosophers and wise men, were
so fully persuaded of the great virtue of secrecy,
that it was the first lesson they taught their pupils
and followers. Thus in the school of Pythagoras,
it was a rule that every noviciate was to be silent
for a time, and refrain from speaking, unless when
GSICEEAL OBSERVATION'S. 107
•
a question was asked; to the end that the valuable
secrets which he had to communicate might be the
better preserved and valued. Lycurgus made a
perpetual law, obliging every man to keep secret
whatever was committed to him, unless it were to
the injury of the state. The Athenians had a sta¬
tue of brass, which was an object of their adoration.
The figure was made without a tongue, as an em¬
blem of silence. The Egyptians, worshipped
Harpocrates, whom they denominated the God of
Silence; for which reason he was always repre¬
sented as holding his finger on his mouth. The
Persians considered the betraying a secret, so great
a Crime, that it was punishable with the utmost
severity.
Nor is the recommendation of secrecy, as an im¬
portant virtue confined to the heathen philosophers
and lawgivers, but the fathers of the church, and the
inspired writers, have strongly recommended it.
St. Ambrose places the gift of secrecy among the
principal foundations of vi rtue; and the wise King
Solomon, deems a man unworthy to reign, who
Cannot command himself, and keep his own secrets.
A betrayer of secrets he brands with the epithet of
traitor; but he who keeps what has been confi¬
dentially communicated to him, he ranks as a faith¬
ful brother. " A tale bearer revealeth secrets; but
he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth them. Dis¬
cover not a secret to another, lest he that heareth
it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not a-
Way." To the same purpose, in the book of Eccle-
6iasticus; we £nd the following beautiful passages*
108 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
worthy to be indelibly engraven upon the heart of
every Mason.
i( Whosoever discoveretli secrets, losetli his
credit, and shall never find a friend to his mind.—
Love thy friend, and be faithful unto him; but if
thou betray est his secrets, follow no more after him ;
for as a man hath destroyed his enemy, so hast
thou lost the love of thy neighbor: as one that let-
teth a bird go out of his hand, so hast thou let thy
neighbor go, and shalt not get him again. Follow
after him no more, for he is too far off; he is as a
roe escaped out of the snare; as for a wound it
may be bound up ; and after reviling there may be
reconcilement; but he that betrayeth secrets is
without hope."*
Communicated to all, the value of our mysteries
would be mistakenly appreciated by many, and
strange as the assertion may seem, it would really
diminish, while it seemed to enlarge, the sphere of
our practical benevolence. The commonness of
the good, however estimable, would rob it of its
attractions ; [the force of individual motive would
be destroyed; and instead of those particular in¬
centives, that now so powerfully influence the feel¬
ings of Masons in favor of each other, all would be
confounded and lost in the fluctuating opinions,
fashions, and follies of the world. The universal
language, by which brother recognizes brother,
whatever clime may have given him birth, would
cease to exist. The privacy of our appeals to the
•humanity of each other, now attended with no pros-
* Ecc, chap, xxvii. 16,22,
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
109
tration of personal feeling, or manly sentiment, must
also vanish, and an invidious world must witness
alms solicited with timidity, and bestowed, as of
favor, not of right. Our distressed and unfortu¬
nate brethren, under the present regulations of the
order, have little occasion for the language of soli¬
citation. Their connexion with the fraternity en¬
titles them to claim, where it is necessary, what it
is the happiness of every genuine Mason, spontane¬
ously to afford.
It is the weakness of human nature, that man¬
kind are ei pleased with novelty and studious of
change." "What is difficult attracts their attention,
and is eagerly pursued ; that which is easily at¬
tained is little sought for. Innumerable instances
might be adduced in proof of this waywardness of
our nature. The most wonderful operations of the
Divine Architect, however beautiful, magnificent,
or useful, are overlooked, because they are common
and familiar, and excite no emotion of admiration
for the great first cause, and scarce any feeling of
gratitude, for the numerous blessings his beneficence
confers.
Did the particular secrets, or peculiar ceremo¬
nies, prevalent among Masons, constitute the es¬
sence of the art, it might be alledged that our amuse¬
ments were trifling, and our ceremonies superficial.
But this is not the case. Having their use, they
are carefully preserved; and from the lessons they
inculcate, the attentive and industrious Mason de¬
rives instruction. Drawing to a nearer inspection,
he views them through a proper medium ; adverts
to the circumstances which gave .them rise, dwells
K '
j.10 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS*
on the tenets they convey, and finding them replete
with useful information, adopts them as the key to
the privileges of his art, and convinced of their uti¬
lity prizes them as sacred.
Notwithstanding the veil of mystery which en¬
shrouds the proceedings of Masonry, we are per¬
mitted, to declare, that its principles, nature and
designs, are founded on Charity, Benevolence, and
all those virtues which adorn humanity, and that it
in no way opposes the laws of Grod, or our country,
hut on the contrary, the true Freemason, will find
those several duties strengthened and confirmed.
"Set a watch O Lord, before my moutb, keep
thou the door of my lips."
CHAPTER III.
On Friendship and Brotherly Love;
Friendship! rich guest, to thee we owe,
Full half the smiling joys of life;
Thy soothing balm relieves our woe,
And buries envy, wrath and strife.
No subject is more worthy our attention, than
the benevolent dispositions, which indulgent nature
has bestowed upon the rational species. These
are replete with, and afford the mind, the most a-
greeable reflections. The breast which is inspired
with tender feelings, is naturally prompted to a re¬
ciprocal intercourse of kind and generous actions.1
As human nature rises in the scale of being, the so¬
cial affections likewise rise. Where friendship is
unknown, jealousy and suspicion prevail; but
where that virtue is the cement, true happiness ex¬
ists. In every breast there is a propensity to friend¬
ly acts, which,being executed to effect, sweetens ev¬
ery temporal enjoyment; and although it may not
remove the disquietudes, it tends at least to allay
the calamities of life.
There are among mankind, friendships of differ¬
ent kinds, or at least connexions which answer that
name. When they are 110 more than confederacies
of bad men, they ought to be called conspiracies^
rather than friendships. Some bond of common
interest; some league againsHhe innocent and un-
112
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
Suspecting, may have united them for a time; at
bottom they are all rivals, and hostile to one ano¬
ther. Their friendship can subsist no longer than
interest unites them. Every one looks with a jeal¬
ous eye upon his supposed friend, and watches
the first favorable opportunity to desert or betray.
But, when upon just, honorable and liberal princi¬
ples, this union is founded, it assumes another form
and proves favorable to good order, and the gener¬
al interests of society 5 and considered as the source
of universal benevolence, it extends its influence
more or less powerfully, as the objects it favours,
are nearer or more remote. Hence the love of
country and of friends, takes the lead iu our affec¬
tions, and gives rise to that true patriotism, which
fires the soul with a generous flame, creates the best
and most disinterested virtue, and inspires that
public spirit and heroic ardour, which enables us
to support a good cause, and risk our lives in its
defence.
The fundamental qualities of true friendship, are
constancy and fidelity; without these material in¬
gredients it is of no value. An inconstant man is
incapable of true friendship. He may, perhaps,
have affections which occasionally glow in his
heart; which excite fondness for amiable qualities,
or connect him with seeming attachment, to one
whom he esteems, or to whom he has been obliged.
But after these feelings have lasted for a little, ei¬
ther fancied interests aleuiates him, or some new
' object attracts him. Where constancy is wanting
there can be no fidelity, and consequently, no true
friendship. Tor all friendships, suppose an entire
general observation®.
113
confidence and trust; the seal of secrecy to be ih-
Tiolable; promises and engagements to be sacred
and no advantage of our own to be pursued at^tha
expense of our friend.
The man who is actuated by the pure principle®
of friendship, will not desert his friend when dan¬
gers treaten, or misfortunes assail him. When he
is calumniated he will openly and boldly espouse
his cause, and endeavor to remove the aspersion.
When sickness or infirmity occasion him to be de¬
serted by others, he will seize the opportunity, and
redouble all the affectionate attentions which love
suggests. When his situation is changed, or his
fortunes falling, he will afford prompt and zealous
aid. These are important duties, which religion
and virtue enforce on every worthy mind. Friend¬
ships when contracted at an early age, retain to the
last a tenderness and Warmth, seldom possessed by
friendships that are formed in the riper periods of
life. The remembrance of ancient and youthful
connexions melts every heart; and the dissolution,
of them, is, perhaps, the most painful feeling to
which we are exposed in this life^ But at whatev¬
er period they are formed, as long as they continue
sincere and affectionate, they form one of the great¬
est blessings we can enjoy. By the pleasing com¬
munication of all our sentiments which they prompt,
they are justly said to double our pleasure® and
divide our sorrows. They give a brighter sun¬
shine to the gay incidents of life, and they enlight¬
en the gloom of its darker hours. Afaithful friend
is the medicine of life. A variety of occasions hap¬
pen, when to pour forth the heart- to- one We lore
114
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS:
and trust, is the chief comfort, perhaps, the only
relief we can enjoy. Miserable indeed, must that
man be, who, shut up within the narrow inclosure
of selfish interest, has no person to whom he can at
■uil times expand his soul with perfect confidence.
No society can exist for any length of time, un¬
less brotherly love prevails amongst its members.
Too often have associations, formed for useful and
benevolent pur poses, and established underthe most
favorable circumstances, failed of their designs, and
been dissolved and destroyed, in consequence of dis¬
cord and dissension arising among the individuals
who compose it. To (t dwell together in unity" is
the life and support of every institution, be their ob¬
ject and designs what they may; and the necessity
of living in peace, cannot be too often impressed up¬
on the mason's mind, If a contrary spirit is man¬
ifested; if instead of peace and unanimity, we
find strife and discord introduced; if we find broth¬
er calumniating brother, in vain will we proclaim
the advantages of Masonry; in vain will we talk
of the subjection of irregular passions; it will be
like " sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal."
It is not only expected of Masons, that they
should refrain from evil speaking, that they should
" keep a tongue of good report," but also, that they
should be careful to speak well of each other, al¬
ways avoiding that vice
"Whose edge is sharper than the sword, whose tongue
Outvenoms all the worms of Nile ; whose breath
Hides on the posting winds, and doth belie
All corners of the world: Kings, Queens, and States
Maids, matrons, nay, the secrets of the grave,
^This viperous slander enters.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
115
To give a man his just and true character, is so
easy a duty, that it is impossible for a benevolent
mind to avoid it; it is a dgree of common justice
to which we are prompted by honesty itself.' It is
not enough that a mason should refrain from slan¬
der ; but it is required of him that he should speak
with kindness and affection, withholding nothing
that can be uttered to his brothers praize or good
name with truth. There is a secret joy in speaking
well of our neighbours, as self approbation suc¬
ceeds it; the breast of such a man is enlarged,
whilst he utters the praise due to his neighbor, and
experiences those enviable sensations which ever
arise from the performance of good and virtuous
actions.
The neutral disposition, frigid and reserved,
neither speaks good nor evil; hut the man who
feels the emotions of brotherly love is warm to com¬
mend. It is an easy and cheap means of bestow¬
ing good gifts, and working good works ; for by a
just praise to industry, you recommend the indus¬
trious man to those to whom he might never be
known, and thereby enlarge his trade, and contri¬
bute to the support of his family. By a just com¬
mendation of merit, you may open the road to ad¬
vancement. By a proper praise of genius and art,
you may rouse the attention of those to whom the
greatest merit and worth might have remained a se¬
cret. It is a degree of justice which every man has
a right to, and which no mason ought to withhold
from another.
To veil the imperfections and infirmities of our
friend; U Christian-like and charitable; consequent-
118 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
ly, becoming the character of a mason. Even truth
should not be told at all times; and where we can¬
not approve, it is better we should^ be silent,—
What pleasure or profit can arise from exposing the
failings of a brother ? When a brother violates any
known and established rule, to admonish him with
kindness, is virtuous; to revile him is inhuman ;
and to set him up as an object of ridicule, betrays
a heart, void of every virtuous feeling. From
hence we must conclude, that the duty of a good
man leads to benevolence; and his heart is touch¬
ed with pity and joy, whilst he acts within her pre¬
cepts.
Were the virtues of friendship and brotherly
love confined to the spot of our nativity, its opera¬
tions would be partial, and imply a kind of enmity
to other nations, but the true Freemason is a citi¬
zen of the word; his philanthropy does not em¬
brace this or that part of the globe, but is coexten¬
sive with the whole human family* Uninfluenced
by local prejudices, he knows no preference in vir¬
tue, but according to its degrees, from whatever'
climate it may spring.
6i As ointment and perfume rejoice the heart, se
doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty*
council. As iron sharpeneth iron, so a man shar-
peneth the countenance of his friend. Make sure
of thy friend; for faithful are the wounds of a
friend. A friend loveth at all times; and a broth¬
er is born for adversity."
CHAPTER IT.
On Charity.
Charity ! decent, modest, easy, kind,
Softens the high, and rears the abject mind;
Knows with just reins, and gentle hand to guide,
Eetwixt vile shame and arbittary pride.
Charity is the first of all graces, the child of vir¬
tue ; the first born of heaven ; the connecting link
between divinity and humanity; the only medium
of intercourse between heaven and earth ; so that a
mind destitute of this divine principle, knows noth¬
ing of real religion; is a total stranger to the genu¬
ine spirit of Christianity, and to every anticipation
of the joys of paradise.
<( Charity never faileth." It is a perpetual cur¬
rent of good will and compassion, that flows to¬
wards the whole family of mankind, and visits with
particular delight, the children of sorrow and
Wretchedness. It feels connexion with every son
and daughter of afiliction. It is active and diligent
in proportion to its means of benevolence 5 casual
opportunities of doing good, do not circumscribe
its benignity, it seeks for objects of distress in their
lone recesses.
In order to exercise this virtue,both in the charac¬
ter of masons and in common life with propriety, we
should forget every obligation but affection; for
otherwise it were to confound charity with duty.
US GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
The feelings of heart ought to direct the hand of
charity. To this purpose we should be divested
of every idea of superiority, and estimate ourselves
as being of the same rank and race of men; in this
disposition of mind we may be susceptible of those
sentiments, which charity delighteth in, to feel the
woes and miseries of others with a genuine and true
sympathy of soul. Compassion is of heavenly
birth ; it is one of the first characteristics of human¬
ity. Peculiar to our race, it distingishes us from
the rest of the creation. It includes a supreme de¬
gree of love to the great creator and governor of
the universe, and an unlimited affection to the be¬
ings of his creation, of all characters and denomina¬
tions. In a particular and impressive manner is
the practice of this virtue inculcated on every broth¬
er, on his admission into the Lodge. He is taught
and required to extend the helping hand to the wi¬
dow and the orphan, whatever may be their reli¬
gion, or their country. The bounds of the great¬
est nation, or most extensive empire, cannot circum¬
scribe the generosity of a liberal mind, A mutual
chain of dependence, subsists throughout the anim¬
al creation. The whole human race, are therefore
proper objects of charity. Beings who partake of
the same nature, ought to be actuated by the same
motives and interests. Hence to soothe the unhap¬
py by sympathising in their misfortunes, and res¬
tore peace to their agitated spirits, constitutes the
general and great end of the Masonic institution.
What kind of man is he, who, full of opulence,
and in whose hand abundance overflows, can look
on virtue in distress, and merit in misery, without
General observations.
119
pity ? Who could behold without tears, the deso¬
late and forlorn state of a widow, who, in early life,
having been brought up in the bosom of a tender
mother, without knowing eare, and without tasting
necessity, was not befitted for adversity; whose
soul was pure as innocence, and full of honor;
Whose mind had been brightened by erudition, un¬
der an indulgent father; whose youth, untutored
in the school of sorrow, had been flattered with
the prospect of days of prosperity and plenty; one
Who at length, by the cruel adversity of winds and
seas, with her dying husband, is wTrecked in total
destruction and beggary; driven by illfortune, from
peace and plenty; and from the bed of ease, chan¬
ges her lot to the dank dunghill, for the relief of
her weariness and pain; grown meagre from ne¬
cessity, and sick with woe \ at her bosom dangling
her famished infant, draining off the dregs of pa¬
rental life, for sustenance ; bestowed from maternal
love—yielding existance to support the babe.—
Hard hearted covetousness, and proud titles, can
you behold such an objeet dry eyed? can avarice
grasp the mite which should sustain such virtue ?
Can high life lift its supercilious brow above such
scenes in human life ? above such miseries sustain¬
ed by a fellow creature; If perchance the voice of
the unfortunate and wretched widow is heard in com¬
plainings, when wearying patience and relaxing re¬
signation breathes a sigh, whilst modesty forbids
her supplication 5 is not the groan, the sigh, more
pathetic to your ear, you rich ones, than all the flat¬
tering petitions of a cringing knave, who touches
your vanity, and tickles your follies5 extorting
ISO GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
from your very weakness, the prostituted portion
of charity? Perhaps the fated hour is at hand,
"when consolation is required, to close the last
moments of this unfortunate one's life: can the
man absorbed in pleasure roll his chariot wheels
beyond the scene of sorrow, without compassion,
and without pity, see the last convulsion, and the
deadly gaze, which paint misery upon the features
an expiring saint? If angels weep in heaven, they
weep for such ; if they can know contempt, they
feel it for the wealthy, who bestow not their super¬
fluities, and snatch not from their vices what would
gladden souls sunk in the woes of worldly adversi¬
ty. They as cherubims view with delight the ex¬
ercise of such benevolence as forins*the character
of the good Samaritan: Saints touch their lyres to
bynin humanity's fair history in the realms of bliss;
and approbation shines upon the countenance di¬
vine of omnipresence, when a man is found in the
exercise of virtue.
All human passions, when directed by the prin¬
ciple of reason, promote some useful purpose, but
compassion towards proper objects is the most be¬
neficial of all the affections, and executes the most
lasting degrees of happiness; as it extends to great¬
er numbers, and tends to alleviate the infirmities
and evils which are incident to human nature.
Possesed of this amiable disposition, the man of
feeling is shocked at misery under every form and
appearance* When we behold an object pining
under the miseries of a distressed body or mind, the
soothing accents which flow from the tongue, miti¬
gate the pain of the unhappy sufferer, and maks
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS,
oven adversity in its dismal state look gay. "When,
.our pity is excited, we assuage grief, and re-
relieve distress. The dispensation of relief by ma¬
sons, is qualified by but one restriction, while the
sphere of its extension is enlarged, by disregarding
-several, to which common charities are subject.
The indiscriminate lavisher of pecuniary grants, is
often actuated by generosity of feeling, or the desire
-of doing good. He throws away his money with
equal indifference and folly upon suffering merit,
and the worthless and undeserving; because enqui¬
ring into the justice of the petition would intrude
upon his leisure, or the lamentations o£ misery are
unwelcome to his ears. Not so the Lodge; while
her rules prescribe a patient hearing to the tale of
sorrow, she applies a guard to the impositions of
effected grief. While she anticipates with anxious
solicitude, the complaints of meritorious poverty,
she refuses to administer to the passions of man.
Not meanly fastidious 5 not unkindly slow and di¬
latory | not seeking an excuse to withhold the re¬
quired boon, she nevertheless, by her established!
plan of charity, prevents the treasury of the virtu¬
ous and good, from being lavished on the idle and
vicious. She affords no reason for the dissolute
and vile, to pursue their course under the expecta¬
tion, that when their resources are exhausted, they
may find necessities of their own creating, relieved
by the treasure laid up for the relief of the children
of misfortune.
The objects of true charity, are merit and virtue
in distress; persons who are incapable of extrica¬
ting themselves from .misfortunes which have oyer-
'GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
taken them in old age; industrious men, from in¬
evitable accidents and acts of Providence plunged in¬
to ruin 5 widows left survivors of their husbands,
by whose labours-they subsisted; orphans in ten¬
der years left naked on the world.
What are the claims of such, on the hand of
charity, when you compare them to the miscreants
who infest the doors of every dwelling with their
importunities; wretches wandering from their
homes, shewing their distortions, and their sores,
to excite compassion; with which illgotten gains,
in concert with thieves and vagabonds, they revel
away the liours of night, which conceal their ini¬
quities and their vices.
Charity, when misapplied loses her titles, and
instead of being adorned with the dress of virtue,
assumes the insignificance, the bells and feathers
of folly.
CHAPTER V.
Of the different classes of Masons?
There are several classes of Masons, under dif¬
ferent appellations. The privileges of these class¬
es are distinct, and particular means are adopted to
preserve those privileges to the just and meritorious
of each class.
Honor and probity are recommended to the first
class, in which the practice of virtue is enforced,
and the duties of morality inculcated, while the
mind is prepared for regular and social converse,
in the principles of knowledge and philosophy.
Diligence, assiduity and application, are qualifi¬
cations for the second class, in which an accurate
elucidation of science, both in theory and practice is
given. Here human reason is cultivated by a due
exertion of the rational and intellectual powers and
faculties; wise and difficult theories are explained ;
new discoveries produced, and those already known
beautifully embellished.
The third class is composed of those whom truth
and fidelity have distinguished; who, when assail¬
ed by threats and violence, after solicitations have
failed, have evinced their firmness and integrity,
in preserving inviolate the mysteries of the order.
The fourth class, consists of those who have
perseveringly studied the scientific branches of the
art, and exhibited proofs ef their skill and acquire.
124
GENERAL OBSERVATIGNS.
quirements, and who have consequently obtained
the honor of the degree as a reward of merit.
The fifth class, consists of those who, having ac¬
quired a sufficiency of knowledge to become teach¬
ers, have been elected to preside over regularly
constituted lodges of Masons.
The sixth class, consists of those whd, having"
discharged the duties of the chair with honor and
imputation, are received and acknowledged a§ rnosS
excellent Masters.
The seventh class, consists of a select few whom
^ears and experience have improved, and whom
merit and abilities have entitled to preferment.—
With this, class, the ancient land marks, and some
of the most important secrets of Masonry are pre¬
served ; and from them we learn and practice the
necessary and instructive lessons, which at once
dignify the art, and«qualify its professors to illus¬
trate its excellence and utility.
By this judicious arrangement, true friendship is
cultivated among different ranks and degrees of
men; hospitality promoted, industry rewarded,
and ingenuity encouraged.
CHAPTER VI.
The ceremony of opening and closing a Lodge:
A rehearsal of the ancient charges properly suc¬
ceeds the opening, and precedes the closing of a
Lodge. This was the constant practice of our an¬
cient brethren, and ought never to he dispensed
with in our regular assemblies. A recapitulation
of our duties to the craft and to each other, cannot
be too frequent; and to those who know them not,
should any such be, it is highly proper to recom¬
mend it.
In all regular assemblies of men, who are con¬
vened for useful purposes, the commencement and
conclusion of business are accompanied with some
form. In every country in the world the practice
prevails and is^deemed essential. From the most
■remote periods of antiquity, it may be traced, ao$
the improvements of modern times have not abol¬
ished it.
Men unacquainted with our mysteries are apt to
imagine we have nothing to conceal, and will fre¬
quently contend that the whole of Masonry consists
in conviviality, and in ceremonies at once trifling
and superficial. Our ceremonies, as every brother
knows who has paid them the attention they de¬
serve, are not only useful but necessary. Every
sign we make, every implement we use, every ob¬
ject we yiew in the lodge, inculcates some useful
T A
1?6
general reservations.
lesson, and presents to our mind some error to b©
avoided, or some duty to be performed.
Ceremonies when simply considered, it is true*
are little more than visionary delusions ; but their
objects and effects are sometimes important. When
they produce reverence on the mind; when they
direct out attention to the great and beniffcent au-
author of our existence ; when they impress upon
the mind great and important lessons, and engage
the attention by external attraction, they are highly
interesting.
The cermony of opening and closing a lodge with
solemnity and decorum, is therefore, universally
acknowledged among Masons, and although the
mode may slightly vary in different lodges, and in
every degree must vary, still an uniformity in the
general practice prevails, in every Lodge ; and the
variation of any, is solely occasioned by want of
method) which a little attention and application
might easily remove.
To conduct this ceremony with propriety, ought
to be the peculiar study of every Mason, and par¬
ticularly of those who have the honor to preside*
To persons who hold the responsible and honora¬
ble Stations of Masters of Lodges, every eye is na¬
turally directed, for propriety of conduct and beha¬
viour, and from them other brethren, who are less
informed, will natural expect to derive an example
"worthy of imitation*
Charge at opening a Lodge*
Brethren:
As useful knowledge is one of the objects of oup
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS *&¥
association, we ought to apply ourselves with becom¬
ing zeal to the practice of the excellent principles
inculcated by our order. Let us ever remember
that the great objects of our association are, the res¬
traint of improper desires and passions, the promo¬
tion of active benevolence among men, and a cor¬
rect knowledge of the duties we owe to God, our
neighbours and ourselves. Let us be united and
practice with assiduity the sacred tenets of our or¬
der, Let all private animosities, if any should un¬
happily exist, give place to affection and brotherly
love; it is a useless parade to talk of the subjection
of irregular passions, within the walls of the Lodge,
if we permit them to triumph in our intercourse
with each other. Uniting in the grand design, let
us be happy ourselves, and endeavor to promote
the happiness of others. Let us cultivate the great
moral virtues which are laid down on our Masonic
trestleboard, and improve in every thing that is
good, amiable and useful; let the benign genius of
the mystic art# preside over our councils, and under
her sway let us act with becoming dignity. On ev¬
ery occasion let us preserve a justness of conduct,
a politeness of manner, and an evenness of temper.
Let our recreations be innocent,, ever avoiding the^
demon intemperance, and never suffer irregular in¬
dulgences, to expose our characters, and the char¬
acter of our institution to derision. Thus shall we
act in conformity to our precepts, and support the-
name of being a respectable, regular and uniform
society.
123 general observations.
Another charge at opening.
Behold! how good and how pleasant it is for
brethren to dwell together in unity!
It is like the precious ointment on the head, that
ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard—
that went down to the skirts of his garment.
Like the dew of Hermon, that descended upon
the mountains of Zion, for there the Lord comman-
manded a blessing, even for life evermore !
Prayer at opening.
Most merciful God! Supreme Architect of Hea¬
ven and Earth! we beseech thee to guide and pro¬
tect these thy servants here assembled, and fulfil
at this time, that divine promise thou wert pleased
to make, to those who should be gathered together
in thy name. Teach us to know and serve thee
aright. Bless and prosper us in all our laudable
undertakings, and grant, that all our conduct may
tend to thy glory, to the advancement of Masonry
and finally, to our salvation. Amen!
Response—so mote it be 1
Charge at closing.
Brethhen :
We are about to quit this sacred retreat of friend¬
ship and virtue to mix again with the world,
Whilst busied in its concerns, let us not forget,
General observations." i$9-
fBat around this sacred altar, we have repeatedly
promised, to relieve, protect and vindicate each oth^
er. Let us, therefore, be diligent, prudent and
circumspect in our respective callings, that by libe-*
tal benevolence and diffusive charity, we may dis¬
cover to the world, the happy effects of this ancient
and honorable institution.
May ye be all of one mind ; live in peace 5 and.
may the God of love and paaeej delight to dwell
with and bless you!
Benediction.
May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us and
all regular Masons! May brotherly love prevail,-
and every moral and social virtue cement us f—*
Anient
Prayer at closing.
Great and glorious Lord God ! "Iluler of Heaven
and Earth I We are now about to separate, and
return to our respective places of abode. Grant
that every brother may practice out of the Lodge
those great duties which are inculcated in it, and
with reverence study and obey the laws which
thou hast given us in thy Holy Word; and grant
O Lord ! that brotherly love may prevail, and ev^
cry moral and social virtue cement us.—Amen.
So mote it be.*
CHAPTER VII.
On the admission of Candidates.
The operative Mason in erecting his temporal
building, is careful to select proper materials; upon
this depends the durability of the edifice. Upon
the same principle should speculative masons act,
in the erection of their Masonic edifice.
The irregular conduct of some of its members,
has long been urged as an objection to the institu¬
tion ; but it will be remembered, that among the
Various societies instituted among men, few are ex¬
empted from censure. Their regulations have sel¬
dom operated so powerfully as to promote that sin¬
cere attachment to the welfare and prosperity of
each other, which constitutes true happiness. This
may be ascribed to various causes; amongst others to
the reprehensible motives which too frequently lead
men to a participation of social entertainments. It
is a truth which cannot be denied, that the privi*
leges of Masonry have been conferred on unworthy'
persons, and have been prostituted to unworthy
purposes. When we consider the variety of mem¬
bers of which the Masonic society is composed,
and how many are deficient in a proper knowledge
of the tenets and principles of the institution, we
cannot wonder that many are remarked for irregu¬
lar lives. Many, when their curiosity is gratified
by initiation, think every thing is attained, and
CANDIDATES.
131
give themselves no farther trouble than to obtain
the decorations of the order. They neglect the
study of those sublime and important truths which
form its basis, and remain perfectly ignorant of the
principles of the art. From such persons, it can¬
not be expected that they will pay much attention
to the observance of duties which they perceive
openly violated by their own initiation.
The character of the Masonic institution is not
now to be formed; its active operation through a
a succession of ages, in aid of civilization, of the
.developement of moral principle, of the introduction
of the arts, of the cultivation of the sciences; in
fine, of whatever has ameliorated the condition pf
man; on these are founded its high character, and
these form its claims to our veneration and our best
exertions to preserve it unimpaired.. In order to
this, our first business should be extreme caution in
determining to whom this important trust is to be
committed. All societies loose their influence when
the management of their concerns is entrusted to
weak or wicked hands. Let him who is desirous
of becoming one of our order, have the important
requisite of a pure heart. Without this he can
neither bring the acceptable sacrifice of holy affec¬
tions to the altar of God, or devote himself to the
duties of charity in his intercourse with man.
By a recurrence to the objects of our association,
we cannot misunderstand what qualifications are
necessary in order that any one should become a
candidate for initiation. Riches and honors are
but secondary qualifications. A man may possess
all these, yet, he may possess a mean and selfish
m
ADMISSION OF
temper, sordid and contracted feelings, and indefi¬
nite views of moral principle. However our inter*
ests and prejudices as men may bias our feelings, as
Masons we should say to him when he approach¬
es our threshold, " thus far shalt thou come but n®
farther." Can we hope that the ceremonies of ini¬
tiation will renovate his heart and feelings '? The
•ceremony of initiation can never efface the polutions
of licentiousness or the stains of guilt; and he who
in the ordinary walks of life exhibits the debasing
effects of malignant passions, will not, oil his ad¬
mission, receive the amiable temper of charity,—
Masonry does not propose to create affections, but
direct tbem, and present new motives to the heart
already enlisted on the side of virtue.
The facility with which our doors. have been
opened to those who seek admission, is not only
a subject of regret to many of the most zealous sup¬
porters of the institution, but has occasioned re¬
proaches from those who are not of our number,
and has, no doubt, prevented many from participa¬
ting in its benefits. * Too many Lodges seem to
think that numbers alone constitute the respectabil¬
ity of the society. If a man of indifferent charac¬
ter and reputation gains admission, bis neighbour
will look upon the transaction at least with suspi¬
cion, and probably will acquire prejudices which
will never be effaced. Thus, particular instances
of irregularity create disaffection - to the institution,
and however erroneous the impression, it will be
of no avail to explain its professed objects when at
variance with practice. This always occasions a
Jaujniliating application of these words^ "by their
CANDIDATES.
133
fruit shall ye know them." It is in vain to at¬
tempt disguising irregularities which too often ren¬
der ineffectual the good purposes of the institution.
It is expected of masons, that they will live sober
and moral lives. If they do this, they have the
reward which every good man feels from the con¬
sciousness of rectitude, the steady confidence of
their brethren, and the hope that at the consumma¬
tion of their works, it will be said to them, " well
done good and faithful servants."
By a regulation adopted by most of the Grand
Lodges in America, no candidate for the mysteries
of Masonry, can be initiated without having been
proposed at a previous meeting of the Lodge, in or¬
der that no one may be introduced without enquiry
relative to his character and qualifications.
All applications for initiation" must be in writing,
signed by the applicant, in the following form :
{t To the Worshipful Master, Wardens and
Brehren of Lodge of Free and Ac¬
cepted Masons:
" The petition of the subscriber respectfully re¬
presents, that' having long entertained a favorable
opinion of your ancient and honorable institution,
he is desirous of being admitted a member thereof,
If found worthy. His place of residence is
his*age years, his occupation
he has read and approves your bye-laws.
A. Br
Recommended by
C. D.
After this petition is read the candidate must be
M
134 Admission of candidates.
proposed in form, by a member of the Lodge, and
the proposition seconded by another member; a
committee is then appointed to make enquiry into
bis character and qualifications.
Previous to initiation, the candidate is briefly in¬
formed of tlie nature and design of the institution,
and his assent is required to the following declar¬
ations :
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that
unbiassed by friends, and uninfluenced by mercena¬
ry motives, you freely and voluntarily offer your¬
self a candidate for the mysteries of Masonry?
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that
you are prompted to solicit the privileges of Mason-
by a favorable opinion conceived of tlie institution,
a desire of knowledge, and a sincere wish to be
serviceable to your fellow creatures?
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that
you will cheerfully conform to all the ancient es¬
tablished customs and usages of the fraternity ?*
The candidate having given his assent to the fore¬
going declarations, it is reported to the Master, who
makes it known to the Lodge. If there are no objec¬
tions made, the candidate is introduced in due form.
*By a recent regulation of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee,
in addition to the above declarations} every candidate is re¬
quired to give his assent to the following:
" Do you seriously declare, upon your hoDor, that you
believe in the existence of a God, and a future state of re¬
wards a&d punishments..
CHAPTER Till.
The Degree of Entered Apprentice,
Freemasonry, for the more regular advancement
in a knowledge of its mysteries, and the precepts
which it inculcates, is divided into different degrees*
How these mysteries are revealed to Masons, they
alone know. So steadfastly have the fraternity
preserved their faith, from time immemorial,
that this remains a secret to the world; notwith¬
standing the corruptions and vices of mankind.—
Like the Sybyl's leaves, the secrets of Masonry
would appear like indistinct and scattered frag¬
ments, while they convey to the Mason, an uniform
and connected system of morality.
The first lecture of Masonry is divided into three
sections. Jn it is taught the necessity of a free
heart, and morals unsullied by vicious propensities,
in the approach to the altar of Masonry; virtue is
painted in beautiful colors, and the sublime truths
of morality enforced in a manner peculiar to Ma¬
sons. In it we are taught useful lessons, which are
impressed upon our minds by lively and sensible
images, to influence our conduct in the proper dis¬
charge of the duties of social life. No Mason can
discharge his duties with propriety, without a fami?
liar acquaintance with this first step of the Mason¬
ic ladder.
This lecture leads the way, cautiously, but na¬
turally, to a developement of our earliest Masonic,
136
ENTEREfc
attainment^, and then recurs to the solemn, impres¬
sive and appropriatate ceremonies of initiation.—-
Few have ever received this degree of Masonry,
when properly conferred, without being forcibly
struck with its beauty. Expectations are no doubt
sometimes disappointed. Yague and indistinct
ideas of something splendid and awful, pass through
the mind of the candidate; when, therefore, he
comes to witness the realities of initiation ; when
he finds he is not to be wrapt in clouds 5 that his
senses are not to be overwhelmed by peals of
thunder and flashes of lightning, as in the mysteries
of Eleusys, he may, perhaps, feel momentary dis¬
appointment. But let him follow the lecture ; let
him listen to the second section and learn the mean¬
ing of the ceremonies he has passed through, and
he cannot retire disappointed and dissatisfied. It
is therefore of importance, that the master of a
Lodge should not only qualify himself to conduct
the actual rites of initiation, but he should become
intimately acquainted with the lectures in each de¬
gree, that he may be enabled to give the candidate
a correct and adequate idea of the extent, object,
design and tendency, of the first lesson he is taught
in Masonry.
Section First.
The candidate having given his assent to the de
clarations contained* in the preceding chapter, is
introduced, when one of the following prayers is
recited by the master, or chaplain;
APPRENTICE.
137
u Vouchsafe thine aid Almighty Father of the
universe, to this our present convention; and grant
that this candidate for Masonry may dedicate and
devote his life to thy service, and become a true
and faithful brother among us. Endue him with
a competency of thy divine wisdom, that, by the
secrets of our art, he may be better enabled to dis¬
play the beauties of virtue, to the honor of thy most
holy name !—Amen!
So mote it be !
" Thou Supreme Architect of Heaven and Earth,
bless us in the exercise of those kind and social af-»
fections, which thou hast given us. May we dis*
play and cherish them as our honor and joy. May
this our friend, who is now to become our brother,
devote his life to thy service, and consider aright
the true principles of his engagements. May he
be endowed with wisdom to direct him in liis ways,
strength, to support him in all his difficulties, and
beauty, to adorn his moral conduct; and may we
jointly and individually walk within compass, and
square our actions by the dictates of virtue and con¬
science and the example of the wise and good."—
Amen!
So mote it be!
O ! thou by whose omnipotent fiat the fair fab¬
ric of the universe rose into existance, and is still
upheld ! Thou greatest and best of beings I From
the centre of thine own essential and uncreated
glory, where thou coverest thyself with light
unapproachable by mortals, we beseech thee to be-
138
ENTERED
hold in mercy, a few of thy unworthy creatures,
assembled here at this time, to promote and extend
the heavenly principles of benevolence, friendship
and harmony, amongst-mankind, through the mys¬
tic medium of Masonry; and O Lord! let the light
of thy countenance shine amongst us, and particu¬
larly upon thy servant, now bowed before thee, and
on his way to thy temple. Do thou graciously en¬
lighten his darkness; annoint his eyes with the
eye-salve of true wisdom, that he may see; clothe
his nakedness with the garments of true righteous¬
ness ; and enrich his poverty with the celestial gold
of thy kingdom.
And though he may meet with various perils, on
his way to the portals of our mystic temple, suffer not
his courage to forsake him, nor his timidity to
prompt him to draw back, until he becomes more
than a conqueror over all that may oppose him.—
So shall he be enabled, in due time, to pass on to
higher attainments, until he be raised and exalted
to the highest honors of thy faithful and perfect
servants, and enabled to enter within the vails, in¬
to the most secret chambers of thy holy temple.—
"We, therefore, now commend him to thy divine
providence and protection, beseeching thee to make
him in due time, a master in Israel, and to thy ho¬
ly name the glory, honor and praise shall be as*
cribed, now and forever more!—Amen I
So mote it be!
The following passages of scripture are then re¬
cited by the master, or some brother appointed by
him.
APPRENTICE.
139
«I will bring the blind by a way they knew not;
I will lead them in paths that they have not known,
I will make the darkness light before them, and
crooked things strait; These things will I do unto
them and not forsake them.
i( Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and
lean not to thine own understanding.
" In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall
direct thy paths.
Then shaltthou walk in thy way safely, and thy
foot shall not stumble. For the Lord shall be thy
confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being
taken.
" A talebearer revealeth secrets; but he that is
of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. Discov¬
er not a secret to another, lest he that heareth thee
put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.
6i Be not fainthearted when thou makest thy
prayer; and neglect not to give alms. Stretch
thine hand unto the poor, that thy blesing may be
perfected. * Above all things, have fervent charity
amongst ourselves ; for charity shall cover a multi¬
tude of sins.
" When thou doest thy alms, let not thy right
hand know what thy left hand doeth, that thine
alms may be in secret, and thy father which seeth
in secret may reward thee openly."
In this section is explained the Lambskin, or
white Leather Apron.
The Lambskin is esteemed the peculiar ensign
of Masonry; the emblem of innocence and ther
badge of a Mason. It is more ancient than the
Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle; it is more hon-
140
ENTERED
orable than the Star and Garter, the diad ems of
Kings or the pearls of Princes when worthily worn9
and which every Mason ought to wear with equal
pleasure to himself and honor to the fraternity.
The lamb has in all ages been deemed the em¬
blem of innocence; he therefore, who wTears the
lambskin as a badge of Masonry, is continually re¬
minded of that purity of life and conduct, which is
essentially necessary to his gaining admission into
the Celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme
Grand Architect of the universe presides.
The ancients were accustomed to put on a white
garment on a person babtised, to denote his having
put off the lusts of the flesh, and his being cleans¬
ed from his former sins, and that he obliged him¬
self to maintain a life of unspotted innocence. This
white garment was delivered with this charge:
"Receive this white and undefiled garment and
produce it Without spot before the tribunal of our
Lord Jesus Christ, that you may obtain eternal
life." It was usual to wear this white garment for
the space of a week after they were babtised, and
then put it off and lay it up in the church,
that it might be kept as a witness against them, if
they should violate the babtismal covenant.
This section closes with an explanation of the
Twenty-four inch Guage and common Gavel, the
Working tools of an Entered Apprentice.
The Twenty-four inch Guage, is an.instrument
made use of by operative Masons, to measure and
lay off.their work 5 but we, as free and accepted
Masons, are taught to make use of it for the more
noble and glorious purpose of dividing our time.-^
APPRENTICE.
141
It being divided into twenty-four equal parts, is
emblematical of the tw enty-four hours of the day,
which we are taught to divide into three equal parts,
Whereby we find eight hours, for service of God
and a distressed worthy brother; eight, for our
usual avocations, and eight for refreshment and
sleep.
A proper division of our time, and conforming as
near as possible to that division, is of great impor¬
tance in the transaction of our worldly business.—-
The division above set forth, is admirably contri¬
ved for the promotion of our comfort and enjoy¬
ments. A portion of our time is thus allotted to
the service of God ; of that benificent Jleing to
whom we are indebted for our existence, and out
whose bounty we are dependant for the comforts of
this life. In the language of an eloquent writer,
iS what duty is more pleasing than that intercourse
which every reasonable creature ought to maintain
with the great author of his being? The man who
lives under an habitual sense of the divine pre*
sence, keeps up a cheerfulness of temper, and en¬
joys every moment the satisfaction of thinking him¬
self in company of his dearest and best friend.
The'time never lies heavy upon him; it is impos¬
sible for him to be alone. His thoughts and pas¬
sions are the most busied at such hours w hen those
of other men are most inactive. He no sooner steps
out of the world but his heart burns with devotion,
swells with hope, and triumphs in the consciousness
of that presence which every where surrounds him 5
or, on the contrary pours out its fears, its sorrows,
142
Entered
its apprehensions, to the great supporter of his exls'
tance."
The common Gavel, is an instrument made use
of by operative Masons, to break off the corners of
rough stones, the better to fit them for the builders
use; but we, as free and accepted Masons, are
taught to make use it for the more noble and glori¬
ous purpose of divesting our minds and conscien¬
ces of all the vices and superfluities of life, thereby
fitting our bodies as living stones, for that spiritual
building, that house not made with hands, eternal
in the heavens.
We are admonished by this instrument to divest
onr minds and consciences of the vices and super¬
fluities of this life* Let every brother ask himself,
when this instrument is presented before him, if in
his life and conduct he adheres to this admonition?
Let him endeavour to curb those unruly passions
Which produce dissention; restrain those propen¬
sities and inclinations which lead to vice and folly $
let him give more attention to the instructtions con-
Tained in the Book of Life, which we profess to re¬
vere as the guide of our lives and the rule of our
faith, that he may be the better prepared, when the
awful period of his sepcration from the thing's of
time and sense approaches, for the enjoyment of
happiness in another and a better world, where
" moth and rust corrupt not, nor thieves break
through and steal."
Seetion Second.
The second section makes us acquainted with the
APPRENTICE.
143
peculiar forms and ceremonies used at the initiation
of candidates, and convinces beyond the power of
contradiction of the propriety of our rites, while it
demonstrates their excellence and utility.
The allusion to the manner in which Solomon's
Temple was erected without the assistance of an
axe, hammer, or other tool of iron; the notice of
an ancient Israelitish custom ; the reasons assign¬
ed for the darkness which obscures the first step of
a Mason; -the referance to the promise given by
our Saviour in the gospel; the impressive manner
in which certain duties are urged upon the novici¬
ate, cannot fail to rivit the attention, and satisfy the
curiosity of the intelligent and inquisitive entered
apprentice. Every clause of this section is replete
with appropriate and useful instruction, and tends
to confirnj the truth of the assertion, " that every
character figure and emblem, depicted in a Lodge,
has a moral tendency, and inculcates the practice pfi
virtue."
essssss
Section Third.
The third section explains the nature and prin¬
ciples of our constitution, and teaches us to dis¬
charge with propriety the duties of our respective
stations. Here we receive instruction relative to
the form, supports, covering, furniture, ornaments,
lights and jewels of a Lodge; how they are situa¬
ted, and to whom dedicated. A proper attention is
also paid to our ancient and venerable patrons,
144
ENTERED
From East to "West, and between Nortli and
South, Freemasonry extends ; and in every clime
and nation are Masons to be found.
Our institution is said to be supported by wis¬
dom, strength and beauty; because it is necessary
there should be wisdom to contrive, strength to sup¬
port, and beauty to adorn, all great and important
undertakings. Its dimensions are unlimited, and
its covering no less than the canopy of heaven.-—
To this object the Mason's mind is ever directed,
and thither he hopes at last to arrive by the aid of
the theological ladder, which Jacob saw in his vis¬
ion, ascending from earth to heaven; the three
principal rounds of which are denominated Faith,
Hope and Charity, which admonish us to have
Faith in God, Hope in immortality, and Charity to
all mankind. The greatestof these is Charity $
for our faith may be lost in sight; hope ends iu fru¬
ition ; but Charity extends beyond the grave,
through the boundless realms of eternity.
Every well governed Lodge is furnished with
the Holy Bible, the Square and the Compass. The
Bible points out the path which leads to happiness
and is dedicated to God, because it is the inestima¬
ble gift of God to man. The Square teaches us to
regulate our conduct by the principles of morality
and virtue, and is dedicated to the Master, because,
being the proper Masonic emblem of his office, it is
constantly to remind him of the duty he owes to
the Lodge over which he is appointed to preside,
The Compass teaches us to limit our desires in ev¬
ery station, and is dedicated to the craft, because,
by a due attention to its use, they are taught to
APPRENTICE.
14S
regulate tlieir desires and keep their passions with¬
in due bounds.
The Bible is the inestimable gift of God to man,
and by the sublime doctrines therein contained, ev¬
ery Mason should study to regulate his conduct.
This is a duty incumbent upon every rational being,
who has been favoured with its light, but more par¬
ticularly upon Freemasons, who profess to revere
it as the guide of their conduct and the rule of their
faith.
The Bible is valuable also, as it affords the only
authentic history of the origin and multiplication
of mankind; and by exhibiting the actual manner
in which societies were formed, offers the best the¬
ory of the social compact. Its historical parts,
whilst it throws much light upon the traditions of
our order, tends also to shew with great probabili¬
ty, that those general principles of morals prevalent
amongst the rudest and most unlettered nations,
and which have, perhaps, been too hastily attribu¬
ted to the efforts of natural reason, are more ration¬
ally to be ascribed to direct revelation; and will
appear, with all the errors and impurities which
time, situation and the proclivity of corruption may
have produced, to have been the broken glimpses
of a fuller and clearer light, originally radiated di¬
rectly from heaven.*
The purity and sublimity of the morals of the
Bible, have at no time and in no country been
questioned; in vain do we look among the writings
of ancient philosophers for a system of moral law
* Ilofman's coarse of Legal study.
N
146
ENTERED
cpmparable with it. From it may be collected a
system of ethics in which every moral precept foun¬
ded in reason, is carried to a higher degree of puri¬
ty and perfection, than in any system of the wisest
and most celebrated philosophers. Every moral
precept founded on false principles is totally omit¬
ted, and many new precepts added, particularly
corresponding with the objects of this religion.*
The ornamental parts of a £odge, are the Mo¬
saic pavement, the Indented Tessel, and the Bta¬
xing Star. The Mosaic pavement is a representa¬
tion of the ground floor of King Solomon's Tem¬
pi e; the indented Tessel, the beautiful tessellated
border which surrounded it, and the blazing star in
the centre, is commemorative of the star which ap¬
peared to guide the wise men of the east, to the
place of our Saviours nativity. The Mosaic pave¬
ment is emblematical of human life, chequered with
good and evil, and reminds us of the precarious-
liess of our state 011 earth: to day our feel tread in
prosperity, to-morrow we totter on the uneven paths
of wealtness, temptation and adversity. The tes¬
sellated border is emblematical of those blessings
Which surround us, and which we hope to attain by
a faithful reliance on Divine Providence, which is
liierogbpphically represented by the blazing star in
the centre.
Whilst the Mosaic pavement is before us, we are
instructed to boast of nothing; have compassion,
and render assistance to those who are in adversi¬
ty; to walk uprightly and with humility; for such
* Soatne Jenjns.
APPRENTICE,
147
is this present state of existence, that there is no situa¬
tion in which we-can be placed, but is subject to
reverses. Whilst we tread this Mosaic, let every
Mason bear these facts in remembrance, and as the
dictates of reason and conscience prompt him, live
in brotherly love.
The moveable and immoveable jewels next claim
our attention.
The rough ashler, is a stone taken from the quar¬
ry in its rude and natural state. The jperfect ash¬
ler, a stone made ready by the hands of the work¬
men, to be adjusted by the tools of the fellow-craft.
The Trestleboard, is for the master workman to
draw his designs upon.
By the rough ashler, we are reminded of our
rude and imperfect state by nature; and by the
perfect ashler, that state ©f perfection^ at which we
hope to arrive by a virtuous education, our own en¬
deavours and the blessing of God; and by the
Trestleboard, that as the operative Mason, erects
his temporal building, by the rules and designs
laid down, ,by the master on his trestleboard, so
should we both operative and speeulative, endea¬
vour to erect our spiritual building, agreeably to
the rules laid down by the Supreme Architect of
the universe, on the book of life, which is our spir¬
itual and Masonic Trestleboard.
Our ancient brethren dedicated their Lodges to
King Solomon since the introduction of Christian¬
ity, they are dedicated to St. John the Babtist, and
St. John the Evangelist, who were eminent pat¬
rons of the art. Since their time there is represen¬
ted in every well governed Lodge, a certain^0n?£
148
ESTEREU
within a circle, representing the boundary line of his
duty to God and man, beyond which he is never
to suffer his passions, interests or prejudices to be¬
tray him on any occasion. This circle is emborder-
ed by two perpendicular parallel lines, representing
St. John the Babtist and St. John the Evangelist;
and on the top rests the Holy Scriptures. In go¬
ing round this circle, we necessarily touch upon
these two lines as well as the holy scriptures, and
while a Mason keeps himself circumscribed with¬
in their precepts, it is impossible he should materi¬
ally err.
This section strengthens those which precede,
and enforces a due regard to character and beha¬
viour, in public as well^as in private life; within
the sacred enclosures of the Masonic Temple, as
in our intercourse with the world. It forcibly in¬
culcates the most instructive lessons. It places
before the noviciate in an impressive manner, the
noble virtues of brotherly love, relief and truth*
Brotherly Loven
By the exercise of brotherly love, we are taught
to regard the Whole human race as one family, the
high'and the low, the rich and the poor; who, as
created by one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants
of the same planet, are to aid, support and protect
each other. It unites men of every country, and of
every religion, and conciliates true friendship a-
mong those who might otherwise have remained at
perpetual distance,
■APPRENTICE.
149
The necessity there is for the exertion of broth¬
erly love among Masons, must be apparent to every
one. Within the Lodge, peace, regularity and de¬
corum, are indispensible duties; all the lire of re¬
sentment, and remembrance of injuries should be
forgotten, and a warm and cheerful cordiality should
ever exist. The most material part of that brotherly
Jove, which should subsist among Masons, is that
of speaking well of each other to the world; more
particularly every member should beware how he
traduces his brother. Calumny and slander are
detestible vices. Nothing can be more vile than
to traduce a man behind his back; it is like the
villainy of an assassin, who has not virtue enough
to give his adversary the means of self defence •
but working in darkness, stabs him while he is un¬
armed and unsuspicious of an enemy. Shakes¬
peare has given a just discription of this crime ijt
his tragedy of Othello.
Good name» in man or woman,
Is the immediate jewel of their souls ;
He who steals my purse, steals trash; 'tis something,nothings
'Twas mine, 'tis his, and has been slave to thousands /
But he that filches from me my good name,
Robs me of that which not enriches him,
But makes me poor indeed.
"Relief,
To relieve the distressed, is a duty incumbent ©n
all men, but more particularly on Masons, who are
united by an indissoluble tie. Charity is one of
the principal supports of our order, and is strongly
150
EXTERED
inculcated in every degree of Masonry—remove it,
and the fabric falls, and crumbles into dust. In
order to exercise this virtue both in the character of
Masons and in common life, with propriety, we
should forget every obligation of affection; for oth-
wise, it would be confouuding charity with duty.
The feelings of the heart ought to direct the hand of
charity. For this purpose we should divest our¬
selves of every idea of fancied superiority, and
look upon ourselves as beings of the same rank and
•race of men. In this disposition of mind we may
he susceptible of those sentiments which charity de-
lightetli in, to feel the woes and miseries of others
with a genuine and true sjmpathy of soul. The
objects of charity are merit and virtue in distress.
The Masons heart should be ever ready to com-
misserate such distress; his hand ever open to re¬
lieve it; he should drop the cordial balm on the
wounds affliction has made, and bind up the hearts
which sorrow has broken.
Hail! brightest attribute of God above,
" Hail! purest essence of celestial love,
" Hail! sacred fountain ot each bliss below/
■*« Whose streams in sympathy unbounded flow,'*
Truth.
TVe are taught in the sacred volume, that trutk
Is an attribute of the deity, and that every one
should tell truth to his neighbor. To be good and
true is one of the first lessons we are taught in ma-
sorry. On this theme we should contemplate, and
APPRENTICE.
151
by its dictates endeavour to* regulate otir conduct.
Whilst influenced by this principle, hypocricy and
deceit will be unknown amongst amongst us, sin¬
cerity and plain dealing distinguish us, and the
heart and the tongue join in promoting each others
welfare and rejoicing in each others prosperity.
To this illustration succeeds an explanation of
the four cardinal virtues, Temperance, Fortitude,
Prudence and Justice.
Temperance.
Temperance is that due restraint upon our affec¬
tions and passions, which renders the body tame
and governable, and frees the mind from the allure¬
ments of vice. This virtue should be the constant
practice of every Mason, whilst its opposite should
be carefully guarded against. At the shrine of
intemperance how many victims are daily offered 5
blooming youth and hoary age have alike bowed
before it. They continue offering libations on the
unhallowed altar, until their fortunes, are wasted %
their credit lost 5 their constitutions impaired 5 their
children beggared, and that life which might have
been usefully and honorably employed, becomes a
burthen to the possessor. The dire effects of intem¬
perance are elegantly described in the following;
" In the embattled plain,
Though death exults and claps his raven wings*
Yet reigns he not even there so absolute.
So merciless, as in yon frantic scenes
Of midnight revel, and tumultuous mirth;
Where in the intoxicating draught concealed,
'■45*
entered
Or couch'd beneathj!he glance of lawless Ipve,
He snares Ihe simple youth, who nought suspecting
Means to be blest—but finds himself undone.
Down the smooth stream of lite the stripling darts,
Gay as the morn j bright glows the vernal sky ;
Hope swells his sails, and passion steers his course!
Safe glides his little bark along the shore,
Where virtue takes her stand; but if too far
He launches forth beyond discretion's mark,
Sudden the tempest scowls, the surges roar,
Blot his fair day, and plunge him in the deep.*'
Fortitude.
Fortitude is that noble and steady purpose of the
mind, whereby we are enabled to undergo any per¬
il, or danger, when prudently deemed expedient.—
This virtne is equally distant from rashness and
cowardice; and, like the former virtue of temper¬
ance should be deeply impressed upon the mind of
every Mason, as a safeguard against every illegal
attack that may be made, by force or otherwise, to
extort from him any of those secrets with which he
has been so solemnly entrusted, and which was em¬
blematically represented upon his first admission
into the Lodge.
Prudence*
Prudence teaches us to regulate our lives and ac¬
tions agreeably to the dictates of reason, and is that
l^bit by which we wisely judge; and prudentially
apprentice;
4SS"
determine, on all things relative to our present as
well as future happiness. This virtue should bfe
the peculiar characteristic of every Mason, not on¬
ly for the gevernment of his conduct while in the
Lodge, but also when abroad in the world; it
Should be particularly attended to in all strange
and mixed companies, never to let fall the least
sign, token or word, whereby the secrets of mason¬
ry might be unlawfully obtained.
Justice.
Justice is tliat standard, or boundary of right*
which enables us to render to every mail his just #
due, without distinction. This virtue is not only
consisent with divine and human laws, but is the
very cement and support of civil society; and as
justice in a great measure constitutes the real good
man, so should it be the invariable practice of ev¬
ery Mason, never to deviate from the minutest prin¬
ciples thereof.
The illustration of these virtues is accompanied
by some general observations, peculiar to Masonsi
Such is the arrangement of the different sections
of the first lecture, which, with the forms adopted
at opening and closing a lodge, comprehends the
whole of the first degree of Masonry. The whole
is a regular system of morality, conceived in a strain:
of interesting allegory, which must unfold its beau¬
ties to the candid and industrious enquirer.
ENTERED"
Charge at Initiation into the first degree!
Srother :
As you are now introduced into the'
first principles of Masonry, I congratulate you on
being accepted into this ancient and honorable or¬
der ; ancient as having subsisted from time imme¬
morial ; and honorable, as tending in every partic¬
ular, to render all men so, who will act conformably
to its precepts. No institution was ever raised on a
better principle or more solid foundation ; nor were
ever more excellent rules and useful maxims laid
down, than are inculcated in every Masonic lecture.
There are three great duties which, as a Mason,
you are charged to perform ; to God, your neigh¬
bour and yourself. To God, in never mentioning
his name, but with that reverential awe, which is
due from the creature to the creator ; to implore
his aid in all your laudable undertakings, and es*
teem him as the chief good. To your neighbour,
by acting on the square, and doing unto him, as you
would wisfr he should do unto you; and to your¬
self, in avoiding all irregularity and intemperance,
which may impair your faculties, or debase the
dignity of your profession. A zealous attachment
to these duties will ensure you public and private
esteem.
In the state, you are to be a quiet and peaceful
subject; true to your government, and just to your
country. You are not to countenance disloyalty or
rebellion, but patiently submit ttf legal authority,,
APPRENTICE.
and conform with cheerfulness to the government
of the country in which you live.
In your outward demeanor, be particularly care¬
ful to avoid censure or reproach. Let not interest,
favour or prejudice, bias your integrity, or influ¬
ence you to be" guilty of a dishonorable ac¬
tion. Although, your frequent appearance at our
regular meetings is earnestly desired, yet it is not
meant that Masonry should interfere with your ne¬
cessary vocations ; for these are on no account to
be neglected; neither are you to suffer your zeal
for the institution to lead you into argument with
those who through ignorance may ridicule it. At
your leisure hours, that you may improve in Ma¬
sonic knowledge, you are to converse with well
informed brethren, who will always be as ready to
give, as you will be to receive instruction.
Finally; keep sacred and inviolable the myste¬
ries of the order, as these are to distinguish you
from the rest of the community, and mark your
consequence among Masons. If, in the circle of
your acquaintance, you find a person desirous of
being initiated into Masonry, be particularly atten¬
tive not to recommend liim, unless you are convinced
lie will conform to our rules; that the honor, glory
and reputation of the institution may be firmly es¬
tablished, and the world at large convinced of it$
good effects.
The following addresses may be added as occa¬
sion requires.
At the Initiation of a Clergyman.
You, brother, are a minister of that holy religion
which inculcates i( peace on earth and good will tjj
i56
entered
men;v which teaches universal benevolence and
unbounded charity, and which points out the path
that leads to eternal happiness in a world beyond
the grave. You cannot, therefore, but view the
order in a favorable light, and be zealous for the
interests of Freemasonry, which in the strongest
manner, inculcates th'e same charity and benevo¬
lence, the same faith in God, and the same hope in
immortality; and which, like the benign spirit of
religion, encourages and enforces every moral and
social virtue; which introduces peace and good
will amongst meu, and is the centre of union to
those who might otherwise have remained at a per¬
petual distance, Whoever is warmed by the spir¬
it of Christianity, must venerate the mystic order,
for christians derive the tenets of their profession,
the principles of their faith, from the Holy Bible,
from the same source do Freemasons derive those
tenets and principles which are the pillars of their
order. The principles of Freemasons, however
they may be perverted and abused by licentious and
unprincipled members of the fraternity, are so
closely connected, so intimately interwoven with
the great moral doctrines of Christianity, that they
cannot be separated.
Such is the nature of our institution, that in our
lodges, union is cemented by affection, and pleasure
is reciprocally communicated by a cheerful obser¬
vance of every obliging office. Virtue, the grand
object in view, luminous as the meridian sun, shines
refulgent on the mind; eulivens the heart, and con¬
verts cool approbation into warm sympathy^ and
cordial affection.
APPRENTICE.
157
Though every man, who carefully listens to the
dictates of reason, may arrive at a clear persuasion,
of the beauty and necessity of virtue, both public
and private, yet it is a full recommendation of a so¬
ciety to have these pursuits continually in view, as
the principal objects of their association; and these
are the laudable bonds which encircle us in one
indissoluble fraternity.
Jit the Initiation of a Foreigner.
You, brother, the native and subject of another
Country, by entering into our order, have connected
yourself by sacred and indissoluble ties, with thou¬
sands of Masons scattered over the habitable globe.
Ever recollect that the order you hav<j entered into,
bids you look upon the world as one great republic,
of which every nation is a family, and every indi¬
vidual a child. When, therefore, you are return¬
ed and settled in your native country, take care that
♦the progress of friendship be not confined to the
narrow circle of national connexion, or a particular
religion : but let it be universal and extend to ev¬
ery branch of the human race. At the same time
remember, that, besides the common ties of human¬
ity, you have this night entered into obligations,
which engage you to kind and friendly acts to
your brother Masons, of whatever station, country,
or religion,
m
ENTERED
Jit the Initiation of a Soldier•
Our institution breathes a spirit of general plii-
Tanthrophy. Its benefits, considered in a social
view, are extensive. In the most endearing ties,
(those of brotherly love and charity,) it unites all
mankind. It opens in every nation, an asylum to
virtue distressed, and grants the comforts of fiospi-
tality to the necessitous and unfortunate. Those
sublime principles of universal goodness and love
to all mankind, which are essential to it, cannot be
controuled or extinguished by national distinctions,
prejudices and animosities. The rage of contest
it has abated, and substituted in its stead, the mild¬
er emotions of humanity. In the heat of battle?
the arm uplifted to destroy, has beep arrested in
its course, and it has even taught the pride of victo¬
ry to give way to an honorable connexion.
You, brother, are a soldier, and should your
country be involved in wars and demand your ser¬
vices in the protection of its rights, and should cap¬
tivity be your lot, you will find affectionate brethren
to afford you relief and consolation, where others„
would find only bitter enemies.
In whatever country you travel, when you meet
a Mason, you will find a friend, who will do all
in his power to serve you, without being influenced
by those motives, which too often influence man¬
kind, and who will relieve you should you be in
want, and administer to your comfort with ready
cheerfulness.
APPRENTICE.
159
Having given an illustration of the first degree of Masonry,
with the charges which belong to it, the following remarks
on the apparel and jewels of a Mason, from " Hutchin¬
son's Spirit of Masonry," may not be unacceptable.
As one of the first principles, Masons, on their
admission, profess innocence. As an emblem of
that character, they are clothed in white Aprons^
which bespeak purity of mind.^ The clothing
.which implies innocence of heart, and purity of
conduct, is a badge more honorable than ever Kings
conferred or Princes wore; true, it does not dazzle
by its splendor, as the badge of the Roman Eagle,
or the Star and Garter; these decorations may be
-conferred by the whim and caprices of Princes, but
innocence is innate, and cannot be adopted.
Our jewels imply, that we try our affections by
justice/ and our actions by truth, as the square tries
the workmanship of the mechanic; that we regard
our mortal state, whether it is dignified by titles or
not, whether it be opulent or indigent, as being of
one nature in the beginning, and of one rank in its
Olose. In sensations, passions and pleasures—in
infirmities, maladies and wants, all mankind are
on a level. It is wisdom and virtue that constitute
gnperiorify. From such maxims we make estimates
of our brother,4when his calamities call for our
counsel or our aid. The works of charity are sym¬
pathetic feelings, and benevolence acts upon the le¬
vel. The emblem of these sentiments, another
of the jewels of our society.
To walk uprightly before heaven and before
man, neither inclining to the right nor to the left, is
the duty of a Mason. Neither becomipg an enthn-
160
ENTERED*
siast, or a persecutor in religion, nor bending to¬
wards infidelity. In civil governments, faithful in
our allegiance to the constitution and laws of the
country in which we live. In private life,"yielding
up every selfiish propensity, inclining neither to
avarice or injustice, to malice or revenge ; but as
the builder erects bis temporal building agreeably
to rules laid down on his trestleboard, so should the
Mason observe the rules laitfdown in the book of life,
his Masonic trestleboard, and agreeably thereto
conduct himself towards the world.
To rule our affections by justice, and our actions
by truth, is to wear a jewel, which would ornament
the diadem of the highest potentate on earth ; hu¬
man nature has her impulses from desires, which
are often too inordinate; love blinds with prejudi¬
ces, and resentment burns with fevers; contempt
renders us incredulous, and covetuousness deprives*,
us of every generous and humane feeling. To
steer the bark of life upon the sea of passion, with¬
out quitting the course of rectitude, is one of the
highest excellences to which human nature cad be
brought, and to effect this is one of the great ob^
jects of our institution.
Yet merely to act with justice and truth, is not
all that man should attempt; we*are not born for
ourselves alone, only to shape our course through
life in tracks of tranquility, and solely to study that
which should afford peace to the conscience at
home. Men are made as mutual aids to each other;
no one among us, be he ever so opulent, can sub¬
sist without the assistance of his fellow creatures.
"\Yhen we look through the varied scene of life, we
apprentice;
161
see our fellow creatures attacked with innumerable
calamities; and were we without compassion, we
slioald exist without one of the finest feelings of the
human heart. To love and approve are movements
of the soul of man, which yield him pleasure; but
to pity, gives him heavenly sensations; and to re¬
lieve, is divine.
To be an upright man is to add still greater lus¬
tre to the Masonic character. To do justice and
have charity, are excellent steps in human life;
but to act uprightly gives a superlative degree of
excellence ; for iu that station we shall become ex¬
amples in civil and moral conduct.
By such mites let the Mason be proved, and tes¬
tify that the jewels which are represented in the
Lodge, on his initiation, and his farther progress,
are those by which his conduct is governed ; he
will then stand approved before heaven and before
men, purchasing honor to his profession and to the
professor.
O 2
CHAPTER 1%.
Of the Degree of Fellow Craft.
Tlie institution of Freemasonry, as has been re¬
marked in the preceding pages, has a direct tender
ry to inculcate on the mind of its votary, every
thing laudable and useful to society ; and its lead¬
ing qualities are, 'well directed philantkropliy,
pure morality and inviolable secrecy. It instructs
us in our duty to the supreme architect of Heaven
and Earth, to ourselves and our neighbours; it
"bids us open our ears to the cries of the unfortu¬
nate, and extend our hands to them with the cup
of consolation.
To those who have carelessly considered themj
many of our illustrations may appear unimportant $
but to him who will take the trouble of studying and
investigating them, they will be found useful and
entertaining. According to our talents and indus¬
try in the acquirement of knowledge, we attain a
greater or less degree of perfection, and the man of
wisdom will not chfcck the progress of his abilities,
though the task he attempts may he irksome. Per¬
severance and application remove each difficulty as
it occurs; every step he advances, new pleasures
open to his view, and instruction of the noblest
kind attend his researches.
Men who are unacquainted with our mysteries.
FELLOW (JXtAFTT.
m
and arc disposed .to ridicule what they cannot com¬
prehend, pretend to say our ceremonies are trivial.
It will be readily conceded that ceremonies and
mysteries, when considered without reference tn
their ultimate ends; when they inculcate no useful
or moral lesson, are little more than visionary de¬
lusions which strike the mind for a moment, and
then fade from the remembrance 6i like the baseless
fabric of a vision." But when they are calculated
to produce important effects ; when they strike the
mind with reverence and awe; when they incul¬
cate sublime lessons of morality, teaching us to reg¬
ulate our actions by the square of virtue; when
they direct our reflections and our feelings to that
Almighty Being, who controuls the destinies of
the world, and point out to us our dependance up*-
on him, by reminding us of his power and good¬
ness, tltey are both useful and interesting. Such
is the tendency of every ceremony and every illus¬
tration in masonry.
Although every additional step in Masonry is
calculated, if properly conferred, to impress more
strongly on the mind the value of the institution^
yet, the fellow craft's degree, is treated in many
Lodges with much less respect than it deserves.—■
The second section of the lecture, and a great pro¬
portion of the ceremony, are often omitted altogeth¬
er, and the candidate is permitted to -pass with a
very slight acquaintance with the peculiarities and
excellences of this degree. Scarcely a new idea is
advanced, scarcely an addition is made to what was
before known and understood. He hears nothing
of the peculiar value of peace, unity and plentyj he
164
*RLLOW CRAT-T.
is introduced to no familiarity with the peculiar
mode of illustrating the orders of architecture, the
human senses, the liberal arts and sciences, nor
does he peceive any thing to direct his attention to
the science of geometry.
The first degree of Masonry is admirably calcu¬
lated to enforce the duties of morality, and imprint
®n the memory some of the noblest principles
which can adorn the mind. The second degree
extends the same plan, and comprehends a more
diffusive system af knowledge and morality. The
accomplished master of a Lodge leads the candi¬
date into the interior of the Masonic Temple, points
out the objects worthy his attention, and directs
him to a contemplation of their meaning and allu¬
sions. Passing from operative to speculative Ma¬
sonry, he explains those moral and scientific les-«
sons, which are taught in the ceremonies of this de¬
gree. He leads him to view with reverence and
admiration the glorious works of the creation, and
inspires him with exalted ideas of the perfections
of our Divine Creator. In this degree, practice
and theory join in qualifying the industrious Mason
to share the pleasures which an advancement in
the art must necessarily afford. Listening with at¬
tention to the opinions of experienced craftsmen,
he gradually familiarizes his mind to useful instruc¬
tion, and is enabled to investigate truths of the ut¬
most concern in the general transactions of life.
In confering this degree, the Lodge rooms ought
to be prepared with the requisite apparatus, for in¬
troducing the candidate into the interior of the tem¬
ple, and for exhibiting to his view all those objects
fellow craft.
properly belonging to the degree, which are calcu¬
lated to impress on his mind the appropriate les¬
sons. Tlje expense w ould be trifling, and would
be amply compensated by the additional satisfac¬
tion and advantage which would be the result.
First Section.
The first section of this degree elucidates tba
mode of introduction into that particular class and
instructs the craftsman how to proceed with regu¬
larity in the arrangement of the ceremonies usual
on that occasion. While it qualifies him to judge
of their importance, it convinces of the necessity of
a strict adherance to every established usage of
the order. Here he is entrusted with particular
tests, to enable him to prove his title to the privi¬
leges of the degree, and satisfactory reasons are
given for their origin. Many duties which cement,
in the firmest union, the brethren of the craft, are
illustrated, and an opportunity is given to make
such advances in Masonry, as will distinguish the
abilities of those who have attained the degree.—
The knowledge of this section is absolutely neces¬
sary to every Mason, as it recapitulates the ceremo¬
ny of initiation, and contains many particulars of
the utmost importance. No officer, or member of
a Lodge, should therefore be unacquainted with it.
The following passages of Holy writ, may be.
properly introduced during the ceremony.
I. Corinthians} xiii.
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and
of angels, and have not charity, am become as
sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal*
165 BELLOW CRAfT.
££ And though I have the :gift of prophecy, afe&
Understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and
though I have all faith, so that I could remove
mountains, and have not charity I am nothing.
£i And though I bestow all my goods to feed the
poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and
have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
£( Charity suffereth long and is kind f charity en-
vieth not; charity vaunteth notitself, is not puffed up.
££ Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not
her own, is not easily provoked, tliinketh no evil.
£i Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in truth.
££ Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth
all things, endureth all things.
. £( Charity never faileth; but whether there be
prophecies they shall fail; whether there be
tongues, they shall cease 5 whether there be knowl¬
edge it shall vanish away.
£i For we know in part, and we prophecy in part.
But when that which is perfect is come, then that
which is in part shall be done away.
££ When I was a child, I spake as a child, I un¬
derstood as a child, I thought as a child; but
when I became a man, I put away childish things.
£l For we now see as through a glass, darkly,
but then face to face ; now I know in part; but
then shall I know, even as I am known.
££And now abideth Faith, Hope, Charity; but
the greatest of these is charity."
In this section, the Plumb, Square and Level?
those noble and useful implements of the craft, are
introduced and moralized, and serve as a constant
Admonition to the practice of virtue and morality.
BELLOW CRAFT; 167'
The Plumb is an instrument made "use of by op¬
erative Masons, to raise perpendiculars; the Square
to square the work, and the Level, to lay horizon¬
tals ; but we, as free and accepted Masons, are
taught to make use of them for more noble and glo¬
rious purposes. The Plumb admonishes us to
walk uprightly in our several stations before God
and man, squaring our actions by the square of
virtue, and remembering that we are travelling up¬
on the level of time, to that undiscovered country
from whose bourne no traveller returns.
The Square is an emblem of morality, and in¬
structs in the golden maxim, " do unto others as
you would that others should do unto you." The
Level, serves as a memento that we are equally
subject to diseases, to accidents and various afflic¬
tions ; that we are equally under the protection and
care of the Great Parent of all 5 and that we are
equally doomed to die, to be leveled with the dust
and to corrupt. The Plumb is an emblem of a fair
and honorable life, and cautions us against any de¬
viation from an upright conduct in all our transac¬
tions, whether public or private, keeping steadily
in view that course of conduct, which will lead us
to the heavenly mansions of eternal rest.
Second Section,
Masonry in its origin, was a system by which
operative Masons were associated together, to per¬
fect themselves in the science, and the better to
carry on their work and protect and defend each
other. Its ancient fo*ms and rites are still pursn*
168
FELLOW GRAFT.
ed; butfor centuries past its objects have been whol¬
ly different. It is now a system of morals drawn
from the .word of God, and may be said to be a hand¬
maid to Christianity. Its great object is to further
the cause of benevolence, and its votaries are bound
together by solemn ties of Brotherly affection. In
this section, therefore, it is considered under two
denominations, operative and speculative.
In this section, also, circumstances of great im¬
portance are particularized, and many traditional
tenets and customs confirmed by sacred and pro¬
fane record. Here .the accomplished master may
display his talents and acquirements to advantage,
in the elucidation of the orders of architecture, the
senses of human nature and the liberal arts and
sciences, which are severally classed in a regular
arrangement.
Operative Masonry.
By operative Masonry, we allude to a proper
application of the useful rules of architecture,
whence a structure will derive figure, strength and
beauty; whence n ill result a due proportion, and
a just correspondence in all its parts. It furnish¬
es us with dwellings, and convenient shelters from
the vicisitudes aud inclemencies of seasons, and
while it displays the effects of human wisdom, as
Well in the choice as in arrangement of the sundry
materials, of which an edifice is composed, it de->
monstrates that, a fund of science and industry is
implanted in man for the best and most salutary
purposes.
FELLOW CRAFT.
m
Speculative Masonry.
By speculative Masonry, we learn to subdue out
passions, to live witbin compass, and act upon the
square with the world, and one another. We learn
to expand our hearts with generous sentiments, to
root out bigotry, and stop the cruel hand of perse¬
cution. It bids us unite with virtuous men of the
most distant countries and opposite opinions, in the
firm and pleasing bond of fraternal love. It is so
far interwoven with religion, as to lay us under ob¬
ligations to pay that ratioual homage to the deity,
which at once constitutes our duty and our happi?
ness. It leads the contemplative to view with rev-
erance and admiration the glorious works of the
creation, and inspires him with the most exalted
ideas of the perfections of his divine creator.
In six days God created the heavens and the
earth, and rested on the seventh. Before he was
pleased to command this world into existance, the
materials of creation were without form or order.
11 Darkness was upon the face of the deep : and the
■spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters
He commanded, Ci Let there be light," and light
came forth from the golden portals of the east; he
u separated the light from the darkness, and called
the light day, and the darkness night." In order
to keep the new framed matter within due bounds,
©n the second day, God said " Let there be a firma¬
ment in the midst of the waters, and let it divide
the waters from the waters," and he called the firm¬
ament heaven. On the third day he commanded
u the waters under the heaven to be gathered into
EELL0W CRAET.
oiie place, and dry land to appear." The eartk
being uncultivated, the almighty word was spoken
and the face of nature was clad in her <( mantle of
green," producing trees, herbs, flowers and fruits.
On the fourth day God placed " lights in the firma¬
ment of heaven to divide the day from the night
the sun to rule the day, aud the moon to rule the
night. On the fifth day, God created the fowls of
the air, and the fish of the sea. On the sixth, the
beasts pf the field ; and lastly, pronounced, t( let
us make man in our image and after our likeness,
£nd let him have dominion over the fish of the sea,
and over the fowl of the air, and over all the earth,
and every creeping thing that creeping on theearth,*^
This said, he formed man ot the dust of the earth,
breathed into him the breath of life, and man be¬
came a living soul. When we contemplate the
creation of the world, from a mass of disorder,
well may we exclaim in the words of the Psalmist,
t( 0 Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the
earth, who hast set thy glory above the heavens!
When we consider the heavens, the w ork of thy
fingers, the moon and stars which thou hast ordain¬
ed, w hat is man that thou art mindful of him, and
the son of man that thou visitest him."
God rested on the seventh day; the seventh day,
therefore, our ancient brethren consecrated as a day
of rest from their labours, thereby enjoying frequent
opportunities, while their minds were abstracted
from the cares of life, of contemplating the glori¬
ous works of creation, and adoring the Great Crea¬
tor, who «hath stretched forth the heavens as a
canopy, and planted the earth as a footstool."
ffcLLOW CRAFT4.
m
The Globes
Are two spherical bodies, on which are represen¬
ted the situation of different countries, seas, the face
of the heavens, and the revolutions of the heaven¬
ly bodies.
Their principal use, beside serving as maps to
distinguish the outward parts of the earth, and the
situation of the fixed stars, is, to illustrate and ex¬
plain the phenomena arising from the annual revo¬
lution, and the diurnal rotation of the earth round
its axis. They are the noblest instruments for im¬
proving the mind, and giving it the most distinct
idea of any problem, or proposition, as well as en¬
abling it to solve the same. Contemplating these
bodies we are inspired with due reverance for the
deity and his works, for the " heavens declare his
glory, and the firmament sheweth forth his handy
work.;7
Orders of Architecture.
The orders of Architecture come next under con¬
sideration, a brief description of them, may there¬
fore, not be improper.
By order in architecture, is meant, a system of
all the members, proportions and ornaments of co¬
lumns and pilastres^ or, it is a regular arrange¬
ment of the projecting parts of a building, wbichg
united with those of a column, form a beautiful and.
complete whole.
The origin of this science may be traced in the
Indian's hut, and the Greenlander's cave; they
shew the rude beginning from which it has grown
to its present perfection and magnificence. It is an.
FELLOW CRAFT*
art of the first necessity, and almost coeval with the
human species. Man from seeking shade and
shelter under the trees of the forest, soon felt the
liecessity, and saw the utility of bending them to
more commodious forms, than those in which he
found them disposed by nature. To huts made of
"branches of trees, leaning together at top, and form¬
ing a conical figure, plastered with mud, succeeded
more convenient habitations. The sides of these
habitations, and the inner supports of the roofs be¬
ing trunks of trees; from them were derived those
beautiful, symmetrical columns,''the orders of arch-
itecture.
Though the art of building, was cultivated by
the ancient Egyptians, Assyrians and Persians,
with great success in the production of such gigan¬
tic structures as the pyramids of Egypt which exist
to this day, and the labyrinth seen by Herodotus,*
with others of extraordinary and vast magnificence;
yet we owe to the Greeks the first structures, in
which elegance and symmetry were conbined with
comfort and convenience in the plan.
The established orders of architecture werd
brought to perfection under the Greeks and Ro¬
mans. Modern efforts have added little or noth¬
ing to the beauty and symmetry of these columns
and the parts dependant on them.
The five orders Are thus classed; the Tuscan,
the Doric, thelonic the Corinthian & the Composite*
The Tuscan
Is the most complete and solid of the five orders $
■* Beloes Hero. vol. ii. p. T3—4> fiuter.
FELLOW CRAFT*
It was called the llustic by Vitruvius, a celebrated
architect, who flourished 135 years before Christ;
and the name of Tuscan was applied to it, because
they were the ancient people of Lydia, who, coming
out of Asia to settle in Tuscany, first made use of
this order in the temples they erected. This order
was an artless imitation of nature; yet, simple as if
was, it opened the door to new improvements, stim¬
ulated rising genius, and insensibly led to scientif¬
ic perfection.
Its column is seven diameters high; and its cap¬
ital, base and entablature have but few mouldings'
The Doric,
Which is plain and natural, is the most ancient,
and was invented by the Greeks. The Doric is the
best proportioned of all the orders, and its solid
composition gives it a preference in structures where
strength and noble simplicity are chiefly required.
In its first invention it was more simple than in its
present state. In after times, when it began to be
adorned, it gained the name of Doric; for when it
was constructed in its primitive, simple form, the
name of Tuscan was conferred on it. Hence the
Tuscan precedes the Doric in rank, on account of
its resemblance to that pillar in its original state.
The Ionic.
Before the invention of this order, building6 were
admirably contrived for strength and convenience;
yet, there was something wanting to captivate the
eye and give them an aspect worthy the appelhc-
P 2
474 |ELLGW GEAFjT.
tion of a scientific production; this deficiency Waff
partly made good by the introduction of a new or-
der; for the eye being charmed by woman's grace,
elegance and beauty, they made this scientific un¬
ion of male and female by embellishing their buil¬
dings with a new order, formed after the model of
a young woman of elegant shape, as a contrast to
the Doric, which was formed after that of a robust
man. The invention of this order is attributed to
the Ionians, as the famous temple of Diana of
lEphesus was of this order; hence it was called
the loniQi
The Corinthian*
The Corinthian is the richest of the five orders,&
,is deemed a master piece of art, and is used in state¬
ly and superb edifices. It was invented by Calli-
machus at Corinth, who is said to have taken the
hint of the capital of this pillar from the following
circumstance. Accidently passing by the tomb of
a young lady, he perceived a basket of toys covers
<ed with a tile, placed over an acanthus root, having
been left there by her nurse; as the branches
jgrew up, they encompassed the basket, until, arri¬
ving at the tile, they met with an obstruction and
bent downwards. Callimaclius, struck with the
object, set about imitating the figure; the base of
the capital he made to represent the basket, the
Abacus the tile, and the volutes the bending leaves*
The Composite
ffs composed of the other orders, and was invent*
.FELLOW ©EAST*
m
td by the Romans. Its capital has the two rows
of leaves of the Corinthian, and the volutes of the
Ionic. Its column has the quarter round, as the
Tuscan and Doric. This pillar is generally found
in buildings where strength, elegance and beauty,
are displayed.
The ancient and original orders of architecture,
revered by Masons, are no more than three, the
Doric, Ionic and Corinthian, which were invented
by the Greeks, To these the Romans added the
Tuscan, which they made plainer than the Doric,
and the Composite, which was more ornamental, if
not more beautiful than the Corinthian. The first
three orders alone, shew invention and particular
character, and essentially differ from each other
the two-others have nothing but what is borrowed,
and differ only accidentally. The Tuscan is the
Doric in its earliest state; and the Composite is the
Corinthian enriched with the Ionic. To the Greeks,
therefore, and not to the Romans, are we indebted
for what is great, judicious and distinct in archie
•lecture.
Of the five Senses of Human Nature,
An analysis of the human faculties, is next gives
in this section, in which the five external senses
particularly claim attention 5 these are, hearing,
Seeing, feeling, tasting and smelling.
In elucidating these subjects in our assemblies^
We are not confined to any particular mode of ex¬
planation ; every man being at liberty to offer bis
sentiments under proper restrictions. The follow*
fog thoughts however, may be useful.
4T6 FELLOW CRAFT*
The senses we are to consider as the gifts of na¬
ture, and in the use of them we are subject to rea¬
son. Reason, properly employed, distinguishes1
the good from the bad, rejects the last with modesty?
and adheres to the first with reverence.
The objects of human knowledge are innumerk,-4
hie; the channels by which this knowledge is con¬
veyed are few. Among these, the perception of
external things by the senses, and the information
we receive from human testimony, are not the least
Considerable; the analogy between them is obvious".
In the testimony of nature, given by the senses, a&
in human testimony given by information, things
are signified by signs. In one as well as the otheT,
the mind, either by original principles, or by cus¬
tom, passes from the sign to the conception of the
thing signified. The signs in the natural language,-
as well as the signs in our original perceptions,
have the same signification in all climates and na¬
tions, and the skill of interpreting them is not a£?
quired, but innate.
Hearing
Is that sense by which we distinguish sounds,
and are capable of enjoying the agreeable charms
©f music. By it we are enabled to enjoy the pleas¬
ures of society, and reciprocally communicate to
each other our thoughts and intentions, our purpo¬
ses and desires, whilst our reason is capable of ex¬
erting its utmost power and energy. The wise
and benificent author of nature intended by the for¬
mation of this sense, that we should be social crea¬
tures; and receive the greatest and most important
FELLOW CRAFT, 177
part of our knowledge from the information of oth¬
ers. For these purposes we are endowed with hear¬
ing, that by a proper exertion of our rational pow¬
ers, our happiness may be complete.
Seeing
Is that sense by which we distinguish objects ia
an instant of time, without change of place or situa¬
tion 5 view armies in battle array, figures of the
most stately structures, and all the agreeably vari¬
ety displayed in the landscape of nature. Dr.
Blacklock, who at a very early age, was deprived
of sight, speaking of this sense, remarks, "therein
not, perhaps, any sense or faculty of the corporeal
frame, which affords so many resources of utility
and entertainment, as the power of vision \ nor is
there any loss, or privation, which can be pro¬
ductive of disadvantages or calamities so multiform,
so various and so bitter, as the want of sight. By
no avenue of corporeal perception, is knowledge
in her full extent, and in all her forms, so accessi¬
ble to the rational and enquiring soul, as by the'
glorious and delightful medium of sight. For this'
not only reveals external things, in all their beau¬
ties, in all their changes and in all their varieties,
hut gives body, form and colour, to intellectual
ideas and abstract essences ; so that the whole ma¬
terial and intelligent creation lie in open prospect;
and the majestic frame of nature in its whole extent,
is, if we may so speak, perceived at a single glance.
By the aid of this sense, man beholds the object of
his attention from afar. Taught by experience,
he measures their relative distances \ distinguished
178
FEtLOW CRAFT2
their qualities; determines their situations, posfc
tions and altitudes; presages what those tokens
may import; selects his favorites; traverses in se¬
curity the space which divides them from him;
stops at the point where they were placed, and ei¬
ther obtains them with ease, or immediately per¬
ceives the means by which the obstacles which in¬
tercept his passage to them, may be removed."
Of all the faculties the sight is the noblest. The
structure of the eye, and its appurtenances, evinces
the admirable contrivance of nature for performing
all its various external and internal motions; while
the variety displayed in the eyes of different anim¬
als, suited to their several ways of life, clearly de¬
monstrates this organ to be the master piece of na¬
ture's Work.
Feeling
Is that sense by which we distinguish the differ-
e'nt qualities of bodies; such as heat and cold,;
hardness and softness, toughness and smoothness^
ffigure, solidity, motion and extension. #
These three senses, hearing, seeing and feeling^
ace deemed essential among Masons.
Smelling
ts that sense by which we distinguish odours,
the various kinds of which convey different impres¬
sions to the mind. Animal and vegetable bodies,
and indeed most other bodies, while exposed to the
air, continually send forth effluvia of vast subtilty,
as well in a state of life and growth as in a state of
EELLOW CRAFT#
m
fermentation and putrifaction. These effiuvia be¬
ing drawn into the nostrils with the air, are the
means by which all bodies are smelled. Hence
it is evident, that there is manifest appearance ©f
design in the creator's having placed the organ of
smell in the inside of that canal, through which the
air continually passes in respiration.
Tasting
Enables us to make a proper distinction in the
choice of our food. The organ of this sense, guards
the entrance of the alimentary canal, as that of
smelling guards the entrance of that of respiration.
From the situation of both these organs, it is plain
that they were intended by nature to distinguish
wholesome food from that which is nauseous.—
Smelling and tasting are inseperably connected,
and it is by the unnatural kind of life men com¬
monly lead in society, that these senses are render¬
ed less fit to perform their natural offices.
The proper use of these five senses enables us to
form just and accurate notions of the operations of
nature; and when we reflect on the objects, with
which our senses are gratified, we become conscious
of them, and are enabled to attend to them, until
they become familiar to the mind.
The senses, and indeed alf.
mind, are so difficult to understand and to
that the most learned may fail in the attempt fully
to explain them. The mind is ultimately affected
by the senses ; when that is diseased every sense
loses its virtue. The fabric of the mind, as well
as that of the body, is curious and wonderful 5 the
180
rEitmv cm ATT.
faculties of the one are adapted to their several
ends with equal wisdom, and no less propriety
than the organs of the other. The inconceivable
wisdom of an Almighty Being is displayed in the
structure of the mind, which extends its power over
overy branch of science. In the arts and sciences
which have the least connexion with the mind, its
faculties are still the engines which we must em¬
ploy ; the better we understand their nature and
4ise, their defects and disorders, we shall apply
them with greater success.
"Wise men agree, that there is but one way to the
knowledge of nature's works; the way of observa¬
tion and experiment. By our constitution we have
a strong propensity to trace particular facts and ob¬
servations to general rules, and apply those rules
to account for other effects, or to direct us in the
production of them. This procedure of the under¬
standing, is familiar to every human creature in the
common affairs of life, and is the only means by
which any real discovery in philosophy can be
made.
On the human mind all our knowledge must de¬
pend ; what, therefore, can be more proper the in¬
vestigation of Masons ? By anatomical dissection
and observation we become acquainted with the
structurf^c|Lt]igJ^yj by the anatomy of the mind,
discq^'er its powers and principles.
To sum up the whole of this transcendent meas¬
ure of God's bounty to his dependant creatures, we
shall add, that memory, imagination, taste, reason-
Jug, moral perception, and all the active powers of
the soul; present a vast and boundless field for phi»
FELLOW CRAFT*
181
losophical disquisition, which far exceeds human
enquiry, and are peculiar mysteries known only to
nature's God, to whom we all are indebted for cre¬
ation, preservation, and every blessing we enjoy.
THE SEVEN LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES.
The seven liberal arts and sciences are next il¬
lustrated in this section.
Grammar
Teaches the proper arrangement of words, ac¬
cording to the idiom, or dialect of any particular
people; and that excellency of pronunciation
which enables us to speak or write a language with
accuracy, agreebly to reason and correct usage.
Grammar, as an art, refers only to particular lan¬
guages ; because it would be impossible to lay down
any system of rules which would apply to two lan¬
guages, To a certain extent, the principles of
grammar are general, and some of them may be
said to be universal. The laws of the human
mind are the same in all ages, and in all nations 5
and of those causes which have called forth its en¬
ergies, many have operated universally. Whate¬
ver have been the variety of turns, and of the mod¬
ification and arrangement of them, the grand objects
of men, in the formation and extension of language
have been the same; to communicate their sensa¬
tions, their judgments, their reasonings; to ex¬
press the objects of their thoughts, and the changes
and connexions observed among them; and to do
183
FELLOW GRAFT,
this with dispatch. This has produced great uni¬
formity in the general principles of language. But
the connexion between words and thoughts is arbi¬
trary, as well as the mode of connecting words
themselves. Hence, with much uniformity, we
meet with much variety; and hence, universal, or
even general grammar, must be confined within ve¬
ry narrow limits, till the phenomena of a variety of
languages have been examined, and their corres¬
pondence with each other, as well as their diversi¬
ties ascertained,
Rhetoric.
Khetoric may be defined the art of speaking
with persuasion. This art, like all others, is the
result of observation and experiments made by men
of good capacity and enlightened minds. After
multiplied and often defective essays, those princi¬
ples are at length discovered, which distinguish
between the good and bad, between the faulty and
the perfect. These principles when reduced to meth¬
od, and well arranged, save succeeding enquirers
much pains and trouble, considerably shorten the
road to knowledge, and materially assist in the for¬
mation of a correct judgment. As, in respect to
poetry, it is contended, that though accurate rule^
of criticism will not bestow genius, they will check
redundency and bombast, and detect all the errors
into which the competitors for the laurel are too
apt to be betrayed; so, with regard to the precepts
of rhetoric, it may safely be asserted, that though
they will not generate that energy of mind which
rises to the highest flights of eloquence, they will
tfELLOW CRAET.
183
effectually warn the orator against incongruity in
the disposition of his matter, absurdity in argument,
which amuses instead of convincing, or those inju¬
dicious attempts to interest the feelings, which ex¬
cite ridicule rather than sympathy.
Logic
Is the art of using reason well in our enquiries
after truth, and the communication of it to others.
Its design is to teach us the right use of our reason,
or intellectual powers, and the improvement of
them in ourselves and others ; this is not only ne¬
cessary in order to attain any competent knowledge
in the sciences, or affairs of learning, but to govern
both the greater and meaner actions of life. It is
the cultivation of our reason, by which we are bet¬
ter enabled to distinguish good from evil, as well
as truth from falsehood; and both these are mat¬
ters of the highest importance, whether we regard
this life or the life to come.
Logic consists of a regular train of argument,
whence we infer, deduce and conclude, according
to premises laid down, admitted or granted; and
iu it are employed the faculties of conceiving, judg¬
ing, reasoning aud disposing; all of which are na¬
turally led on from one gradation to another, till
the point in question is finally determined.
Arithmetic
Teaches the powers and properties of numbers,
which is variously effected by letters, tables, figures
apd instruments. By this art, reasons and demon-
184
FELLOW CRAFT*
strations are given, for finding out any certain num¬
ber, whose relation or affinity to another is already
known or discovered.
Geometry
Geometry treats of the powers and properties of
magnitudes in general, where length, breadth and
thickness are considered from a point to a line,
from a line to a superfices, and from a superfices to
a solid.
A point is a dimensionless figure, or an indivisi¬
ble part of space.
A line is a point continued, and a figure of one
capacity, namely, length.
A superfices is a figure of two dimensions, name¬
ly, length and breadth.
A solid is a figure of three dimensions, namely,
length, breadth and thickness.
Geometry is said originally to have signified no¬
thing more than the art of measuring the earth, or
any distances or dimensions within it; but at pres¬
ent it denotes the science of magnitudes in general,
comprehending the doctrine and relations of w hat¬
soever is susceptible of augmentation or diminution.
So to geometry may be referred not only the con¬
struction of lines, superfices and solids, but also of
times, velocity, numbers, weight and many other
matters.
This science is said to have its rise, or at least
its present rules, from the Egyptians, who, by na¬
ture, were under the necessity of using it, to remedy
the confusion which generally happened in their
feBLLOW CRAFT.
185
lands, by the overflowing of the Nile, which annu¬
ally carried away all boundaries, and effaced all
limits of their possessions. Thus this science,
which consisted only in its first steps, of the means
>of measuring lands, that every person might have
his property restored to him, was called geometry,
or the art of measuring land; and it is probable,
that the draughts and schemes, the Egyptians were
annually compelled to make, helped them to disco¬
ver many excellent properties of those figures, and
which speculation continually occasioned to be im¬
proved.
By this science, the architect is enabled to con¬
struct his plans, and execute his designs; the gen¬
eral to arrange his soldiers; the engineer to mark
out ground for encampments; the geographer to.
give us the dimensions of the world, and all things
therein contained; to deliniate the extent of seas
and specify the disvisions of empires, kingdoms
and provinces; by it also, the astronomer is enabled
to make his observations, and fix the duration of
times and seasons, years and cycles.
Music.
Any succession of sounds, however much they
may vary in regard to direction, or however much
they may partake of various modes or keys, provi¬
ded that succession be agreeable, and excites in a
well tuned ear, certain agreeable sensations, is
called music. All animals, however pernicious,
appear delighted with music, which effects them,
differently, according to their several dispositions.
Birds are even fascinated by the upper notes of a
0 2
186
FELLOW CRAFT.
fine voice, and at all times we find such as have a-
greeable notes of their own, peculiarly attentive to
every succession of sounds.
This art from the time of Tubal, down to Handel,
has been held in the highest esteem, since it is pro¬
ductive not only of the highest entertainment, but
the most beneficial effects. Shakespear, speaking
of music thus expresses himself,
"The man that hath no music in himself,
Nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds,
Is fit for treasons, villainies and spoils :
The motions of his spirit are dull as night,
And his affections dark as Erebus
Let no such man be trusted,"
And thus the fanciful author of the " Botanic
Garden,"
" ■■ ■ relenting tygers gaze,
And pausing buffaloes forget to graze;
Admiring elephants forsake their woods,
Stretch their wide ears, and wade into the floods
In silent herds the wondering sea calves lave,
Or nod their slimy foreheads o'er the wave ;
Poised on still wing attentive vultures sweep,
And winking crocodiles are lull'd to sleep.
Astronomy.
Astronomy is that science, by which we are
taught to read the wisdom, strength and beauty of
the Almighty Creator, in those sacred pages, the
celestial hemisphere. The science of astronomy is
not speculative, but its truths are as demonstrable
as its study is sublime. By astronomy we learn
the velocity of any celestial body, however swift its
motion; its magnitudes, however extensive, and
its distance however remote. It illustrates, and
FELLOW CRAFT.
explains the varieties of the seasons, the causes of
our unequal days and nights. By its knowledge
commerce is promoted, and the intercourse between
distant nations facilitated, so that the mariner guides
his vessel across the trackless ocean, with as much,
certainty as he displays in his pedestrian journey
from one well known place to another. While wre
areemployed in its study,it cannot fail to give us the
most exalted ideas of the wisdom, benificence and
greatness of the Almighty Creator. It is in the
heavens that he has chiefly manifested his great¬
ness and majesty. It is in the heavens that the
sovereign w isdom shines with the greatest lustre,
and that sublime ideas of order and harmony reign.
In this immense host of celestial bodies all is mag¬
nificence ; all is regularity and proportion ; all an¬
nounce a controuling power infinitely fertile in the
production of beings, infinitely wise in their ar¬
rangement and destination.
How much then ought we to esteem that science
through whose power it is given to man to discover
the order of the heavenly bodies, their revolutions
and their stations; thereby resolving the opera¬
tions of the deity to an unerring system, proving
the mightiness of his works, and the wisdom of his
decrees.
Moral advantages of Geometry.
Geometry is the basis on which the. superstruc¬
ture of Masonry rests. By geometry, we may cu¬
riously trace nature through the various windings
to her most concealed recesses. By it we discov¬
er the power; the wisdom and the goodness of the
488
EELLOW CRART.
grand architect of the universe, and view with de¬
light the proportions which connect this vast ma¬
chine. By it, we discover how the planets move
in their different orbits, and demonstrate their va¬
rious revolutions. By it we account for the return,
of seasons, and the variety of scenes which each
season displays to the discerning eye. Number¬
less worlds are around us, all framed by the same
divine artist, which roll through the vast expanse,
and all are conducted by the same unerring laws of
nature.
A survey of nature, and the observation of her
beautiful proportions, first determined man to imi¬
tate the divine plan, and study symetry and order.
This gave rise to societies, and birth to every use¬
ful art. The architect began to desigo, and the
plans which he laid down being improved by ex¬
perience and time, have produced works which are
the admiration of every age.
The lapse of time, the ruthless hand of ignorance
and the devastations of war, have laid waste and
destroyed many valuable monuments of antiquity,
on which the utmost exertions of human genius
have been displayed. Even the temple of Solomon,
so spacious and magnificent, and constructed by so
many celebrated artists, escaped not the unsparing
ravages of barbarous force. Freemasonry notwith¬
standing has survived. The attentive ear receives
the sound from the instructive tongue, and the mys¬
teries of Masonry are safely lodged in the reposi¬
tory of faithful breasts. Tools and implements of
architecture are selected by the fraternity, to im¬
print on the memory wise and serious truths; and
fefcitow CRAFT*
i89
thus, through a succession of ages, are transmitted
unimpaired, the excellent tenets of our institution.
Charge to a Candidate.
Brother,
Being advanced to the second degree of Ma-
sonry, permit me in the name of tlie brethren, to
congratulate you on your preferment. The inter¬
nal and not the external qualifications of a man, are
what Masonry regards. As you increase in know¬
ledge, you will increase in social intercourse.
It is unnecessary to recapitulate the duties which
as a fellow craft mason, you are bound to perform,
or enlarge upon the necessity of a strict adherencer
to them, your own experience and examination will
convince you of their value.
Our laws and regulations you are streniously to
support, and be always ready to assist in seeing
thera duly executed. You are not to palliate, or
agravate the offences of your brethren; but, in ev¬
ery trespass against our rules, you are to judge
with candor, admonish with friendship and repre¬
hend with justice.
The study of the liberal arts and sciences, thai
valuable branch of education, which tends so effec¬
tually to polish and adorn the mind, is earnestly
recommended to your consideration \ especially the
science of geometry, which is established as the
basis of our art; Geometry or Masonry, originally
synonymous terms, being of a divine or moral na¬
ture, is enriched with the most useful knowledge %
while it proves the wonderful properties of matter,
190
FELLOW CRAFT.'
it demonstrates the more important truths of mor¬
ality.
Your past behaviour and regular deportment
have merited the honor which we have conferred 5
and in your present character it is expected that
you will conform to the principles of the order, by
steadily persevering in the study of every comment
dable virtue.
Such is the nature of your engagement as a fellow
craft, and to these duties you are bound by the
most sacred ties.
Thus end the two section of this degree, which
with the ceremony of opening and closing the lodge,
comprehend the whole of the second degree of
Masonry.
The lectures of this degree, contain a regular
system of moral science, demonstrated on the clear¬
est principles, and established on the firmest foun¬
dation. The working tools and emblems present
to the reflecting mind, a series of moral instruction,
conveyed in an impressive manner, which if rightly
understood, and properly observed and practised,
will ensure to the inason, the approbation of his
own conscience, and that of the world. We
should, therefore, study to act well our parts on the
great theatre of life, and as an inducement to our
perseverence, let us "mark the perfect man, and
behold the upright; for the end of that man is
peace."
CHAPTER X,
Of the Degree of Master Mason.
The degree of Master Mason, is much more im¬
portant than the preceeding degrees. The ceremo¬
nies attending this stage of our profession, are so¬
lemn and impressive, and duties and obligations of
the highest order are assigned us, From this
class, the rulers of regular bodies of Masons, in the
first three degrees of Masonry are selected ; as it
is only from those who are capable of giving in¬
struction, that we can properly expect to receive it.
The lecture of this degree, considered separately
from the duties of present, or past Master, is divi¬
ded into three sections.
First Section.
The ceremony of initiation into the third degree
is particularly specified in this branch of the lec¬
ture, and many other useful instructions are given.
Such is the importance of this section, that he
who is unacquainted with it, is illy qualified to act
as a ruler or governor of the work.
The following passages of scripture are Introdu¬
ced in this section.
Ezekiel xxxvii. 1—10.
(t The hand of the Lord was upon me, and car¬
ried me out in the spirit of the Lord, and get me
MASTER MASON.
down in the midst of the valley that was full of
bones.
(< And he caused me to pass them round about
and behold, there were wery many in the open val¬
ley, and lo! they were very dry.
(i And he said unto me, son of man can these
bones live ? and I answered, O Lord, thou know-
est,
(t Again he said unto me, prophecy upon these
bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear
the wprd of the Lord.
"Thus saitb the Lord (rod unto these bones ;
Behold, X will cause breath to entejf into you, and
ye shall live;
ft And 1 will lay sinews upon you, and will bring
up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and
put breath in you,' and ye shall live, and ye shall
know I am the Lord.
ttSo I propheqied as X was commanded; and
as X propliecied, there was a noise, and behold a
shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his
bone.
u And when X beheld, lol the sinews and the
flesh came upon them, aud the skin covered them
above; but there was no breath in them.
ft Then said he unto me, prophecy unto the wind,
prophecy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus
saith the I+ord God; come from the four w inds O
breath, and breathe upon, these slain that they may
live.
" So I prophecied as he commanded me, and the
breath came into them, and they lived."
In this section are explained the working tools
MASTER MASON1.
193
of a Master Mason, which are all the implements
of Masonry indiscriminately, hut more particularly
the Trowel.
The Trowel, is an instrument made use of by
operative Masons, to spread the cement which u-
nites a building into one common mass; but we as
speculative masons, are taught to make use of it
for the more noble and glorious purpose of spread¬
ing the cement of brotherly love and affection; that
cement which unites us into one sacred band, or
society of friends and brothers, among whom no
contention should ever exist, but that noble conten¬
tion, or rather emulation, of who can best work or
best agree.
The trowel teaches, that nothing can be united
without proper cement, and that the perfection of
a building mustdependon the manner in which the
materials are joined together. Charity, the bond
of perfection and social union, must connect in one,
seperate interests, so that like the radii ©f a circle,
which extend from the centre to every part of the
circumference, the principle of universal benevo¬
lence, may be diffused to every member of the com¬
munity. This is a further spiritual use which
should be made of the trowel, by free and accept¬
ed Masons.
TJie second Section.
The second section recites the traditions of the
order, and presents to view a finished picture of the
utmost consequence to the fraternity. It exempli¬
fies an instance of virtue, fortitude and integrity
194 MASTER MASON.
seldom equalled, and never excelled in the history
of man. In tliis section is likewise inculcated the
important doctrine of the immortality of the soul.
Never has any nation been discovered on the face
of the earth, so rude and barbarous, that in the
midst of their wildest superstitions, there was not
cherished among them, some expectation of a state
after death, in Atkich virtue would be rewarded and
vice punished. Many of the strongest passions of
our nature are made to have a clear reference to
a future existance of the soul. The love of fame?
the ardent concern which so often prevails about
futurity, all allude to somewhat in which men sup¬
pose themselves to be personally concerned after
death. The concern of the good and the bad,
bear witness to a world which is to come ; and sel-.
dom do men leave this world without some fears or
hopes respecting it; some secret anticipations and
presages of what is hereafter to befal them,
Prayer.
Thou, O God!- knowest our downsitting and
uprising, and understandest our thoughts afar
off. Shield and defend us from the evil intentions
of our enemies, and support us under the trials and
afflictions we are destined to endure, whilst travel¬
ling through this vale of tears. Man that is born
of woman is few of days and full of trouble.
Hecometh forth as a flower and is cut down; he
ileeth also as a shadow and continueth not. See¬
ing his days are determined, the number of his
months are with thee; thou hast appointed his
master masox.
193
bounds that he cannot pass; turn from him that he
may rest till he shall accomplish his day. For
there is hope of a tree if it be cut down, that it will
sprout again, and the tender branches thereof will
not cease. But man dieth and wasteth away; yea,
man giveth up the ghost, and where is he? as the
waters fail from the sea, and the flood decayeth
and drieth up, so man lieth down and riseth not up
till the heavens shall be no more. Yet, 0 LordI
have compassion on the children of thy creation;
administer them comfort in time of trouble, and save
them with an everlasting salvation.—Amen !
So mote it be!
Thefollowing passages of Scripture areintroduced.
Ecclesiastes xii. 1—7.
"Beraember thy Creator in the days of thy
youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years
draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleas¬
ure in them.
" While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the
stars be not darkened, nor the clouds return after
the rain.
"In the day when the keepers of the house shall
tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves,
and the grinders cease because they are few, and
those that look out of the windows be darkened;
"And the doors shall be shut in the streets
when the sound of the grinding is low; and he
shall rise up at the voice of the bird; and all the
daughters of music shall be brought low?
MASTER MASON.
"Also when they shall be afraid of that which,
is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the al¬
mond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper be a
burthen, and desire shall fail; because man goeth
to his long home, and^the mourners go about the
streets:
" Or ever the silver chord be loosed, or the gold¬
en bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the
fountain^ or the! wheel broken at the cistern ;
" Then shall the dust return to the earth as it
Was, and the spirit unto God who gave it,"
Third Section,
This section illustrates certain hieroglyphical
emblems, and inculcates many useful lessons, to
extend knowledge and promote virtue.
In this branch of the lecture, many particulars
relative to King Solomon's Temple are considered.
This magnificent Temple was founded in the
fourth year of the reign of Solomon, on the second
of the month of Zif, being the second month of the
sacred year. It was situated on Mount Moriah,
near the place where Abraham was about to offer
up his son Isaac, and where David met. and ap¬
peased the destroying angel.
No structure was ever like this for exact propor^
tion and beautiful dimensions, from the magnificent
Portico in the East, to the sanctum sanctorum in
the west; with numerous apartments for the Kings
and Princes, the Sanhedrim, the Priests and Le-
vites of Israel, and the outer court for the Gentiles,
it beiDg a house of prayer for all nations, and capable
MASTER MASON*.
of receiving in all its courts and apartments togeth¬
er, about 800,000 people. It was supported by
fourteen hundred and fifty-three columns, and two
thousand nine hundred and six pilastres, all hewn,
from the finest Parian marble, and about two
thousand two hundrd and forty-six windows 5 and
it was lined with massy gold, set with innumera¬
ble diamonds and precious stones. There were
employed in its building, three Grand Masters 5
three thousand three hundred masters, or overseers
of the work; eighty thousand craftsmen, and se¬
venty thousand entered apprentices or bearers of
burthen. All these were so classed and arranged
by the wisdom of Solomon, that neither envy, dis¬
cord, nor confusion, were suffered to interrupt the
universal peace which pervaded the world at that
important period.
The preparations for this temple were immense.
There were employed in it thirteen millions five
hundred thousand pounds weight of gold, and one
hundred and twenty-seven millions, one hundred
and twenty-five thousand pounds weight of silver.
Every thing was made ready before it came to the
spot, that nothing was to do but join the materials.
The top of Moont Moriah, on which it was erected,
was inclosed with a wall. Into this there was an
entrance on every side ; besides one towards the
southwest, for the royal family, whereby, by a rais¬
ed way, called the Gate of Shallecheth, they came
to their place in the covert of the Sabbath. The
East gate was called Seii; the South gate, Jlssu-
jjim, because there the Levites convened to receive
their directions; the gate Parbar was at the north
H %
MASTER MASONi
■west of the temple. At the side of every gate, and
corner of the court, houses were built. Into this
outer court, every clean Hebrew, or proselyte of
the covenant, might enter. In our saviour's time
there was a court of the Gentiles without this. In
the middle of the outer court, but nearer to the
west end, there was a court of the Levites, stretch¬
ing from east to west, and was surrounded by a low-
wall, of about four feet high, that the people might,
over the top of it, see what was doing by the priests.
This court had two entrances, one on the north-
side, the other on the south. In this court, just
before the east end of the temple, stood the bra¬
zen altar, and the brazen sea and lavers. The
temple, properly so called, stood from east to west,
near the west end of the court of the Priests. On
each side of its entrance was a pillar eighteen cu¬
bits high and twelve cubits in circumference. Pass¬
ing through this porch, you entered the sanctua¬
ry, or holy place, at the west end of which, stood
len golden candlesticks, on the south side, and on
the north, ten tables, with twelve loaves of shew
bread on each; and in the middle between them,
stood the golden altar of incense. Passing through
the sanctuary lengthwise, you entered by a fine
vail, and a two leaved door of olivetree, into the
eracle or most holy place, into which the High
Priest only might enter, and that only on the day of
atonement. In the most holy place stood the ark
with its furniture; and Solomon made two new
cherubims of olivetree, which overshadowed the
two golden ones, and stretched their wings the
whole breadth of the house. The wall of the
MASTER MAS®1(; i$9
iouse was reared with alternate layers of fine ce¬
dar wood and hewn marble; the inside was carv¬
ed with figures of cherubims and palm trees, and
the whole inside, floor, walls and roof, was over¬
laid with gold. The oracle had no windows; the
sanctuary, narrow windows, light against light*
About eleven months after the building was finish*
ed, and just before the feast of the tabernacles, this
temple was furnished with the ark, and other sa¬
cred utensils, and the shechinah, or cloud of diving
glory, entered it and took up its rest over the ark,
between the cherubims; and it was dedicated with
solemn prayer by Solomon, and by seven days sa¬
cred feasting, and by a peace offering of twenty
thousand oxen, and one hundred and twenty thou¬
sand sheep, to consume which, the holy fire anew
•came down from heaven.
This temple remained about thirty-four years in
its glory, when Shishakf King of Egypt took Jeru¬
salem and caried away its treasures, A. M. 3033.
Under Jehoram, Ahaziah and Athaliah, it was
.much decayed, but Jehoida, and Joash repaired it
•■about A. M. 3150.
$ha%, King of Judah, having bought the assis¬
tance of Tiglath-pileser, King of Assyria, against
ihe Kings of Syria and Damascus, who were at
war with him, robbed the temple of its riches, to
give to this foreign King. Not content with that,
he profaned it by setting up therein an altar copi¬
ed from one he had seen at Damascus, and taking
away the brazen altar that Solomon had made.—
He also took away the brazen sea from off the bra¬
zen oxea that supported it, and the brazen basons
200
MASTER MASON".
from their pedestals, and the King's throne,to pre¬
vent their being carried off by the King of Assyria.
He pillaged the temple, broke the sacred vessels,
and shut up the house of God.
Hezelciah, the son and successor of Ahaz, open¬
ed and repaired the gates of the temple; restored
the worship of^tfie Lord, and caused new sacred
vessels to be made. But in the 14th year of his
reign, Sennacherib, King of Assyria, coming with
an army into the land of Judah, Hezekiah was
forced to take the riches of the temple, to give them
to the King of Assyria.
Manasseh profaned the temple by setting up al¬
tars and idols, by which he worshipped the host
of heaven, even in the courts. Manasseh was ta¬
ken prisoner by the King of Babylon, who loaded
him with chains, and carried him beyond the Eu¬
phrates. Here he repented of his sins, and being.
restored to his dominions, he took away the idols
he had erected, destroyed their altars and set up
the altar of burnt offerings, upon which he offered
his sacrifices.
Josiah, King of Judah, repaired the edifices of
the temple, which had been either neglected or de¬
molished by his predecessors. He also comman¬
ded the Priests and Levites to replace the ark of
the Lord in the sanctuary.
A. M. 3398, Nebuchadnezzar, King of Baby¬
lon, took away a part of the sacred vessels, and
placed them in the temple of Belus at Babylon, un-*
der the reign of Jehoiakem, King of Judah. He
also carried away others in the reign of Jeconiah,
A. M. 3405 ; and in the eleventh year of the reigjt
Faster masoit:
ofZedekiah, he took Jerusalem and entirely des¬
troyed the temple, A. M. 3416.
The temple continued in its ruins fifty two years,
when Cyrus, King of Persia, A. M< 3468, permit¬
ted the Jews to return to Jerusalem, and rebuild
the Temple of the Lord.
In this section are explained the emblematical
symbols represented in this degree.
The Pot of Incense
Is an emblem of a pure heart, which is always
an acceptable sacrifice to the deity; and as this
glows with fervent heat, so should our hearts con¬
tinually glow with gratitude to the great and benefi¬
cent author of our existance, for the many blessings
and comforts we enjoy. " Blessed are the pure im
-heart j for they shall see their God."
The Bee-Hive
Js an emblem of industry, and should inculcate
on our minds, that as we came into the world ra¬
tional and intelligent beings, so should we be indus¬
trious ones; never sitting down contented when
our fellows around us are in want, when it is in
our power to relieve them without injury to our¬
selves.
It has pleased the Almighty Architect to have
formed man a dependant creature; dependant on
him who created him, and dependant on each oth¬
er. He, therefore, who is not industrious, temper-
Faster mason.
ate and discreet, in the station which Divine Pro¬
vidence has assigned him—who does not, accord¬
ing to the best of his abilities, exert his endeavours
to promote the good of his fellow creatures, may be
justly considered as a drone in the hive—a dseless
member of society,
The Book of Constitutions, guarded by the
Tyler's Sword
Keminds us that we should ever be watchful and
guarded, in our thoughts words and actions, par¬
ticularly before the enemies of Masonry; ever bear¬
ing in mind those truly Masonic virtues, silence
and circumspection,.
The Sword pointing 'to a naked Heart
Demonstrates that justice will sooner or later
overtake us, and although our thoughts, words and
actions, be hidden from the eyes of man, yet noth¬
ing can conceal them from the omnipresent God.
The all seeing Eye
Is emblematical of the Omnipotent Sovereign of
the universe, whom the sun, moon and stars obey;
whose presence pervades all space, and to whom
the secrets of all hearts are known. He penetrates
our every thought; lie hears every word ; he sees
every action of our lives, and will ultimately re¬
ward every one according to his works.
MASTER MASON,
The Anchor and Arlc.
Tlie A vie is an emblem of that divine Ark, which,
safely wafts us over this sea of troubles. The Anch~
or is emblemalica 1 of the well grounded hope, which
they, who faithfully perform their duty in this life,
may entertain of being at last, happily moored in a
blessed harbour, where the "wicked cease fioim
troubling and the weary are at rest,"
The 47Ih Problem of Euclid.
"Inany right angled triangle, the square which
is described upon the side subtending the right an¬
gle, is equal to the squares described upon the
sides, which contain the right angle." It is said
that Pythagoras having discovered this proposition,
sacrificed a Hecatomb, (that is one hundred oxen)
to the muses, to return thanks for their assistance,
supposing it above the power of human invention.
This problem is introduced into Masonry, to teach
the brethren, the value of the arts and sciences,
and that by patieuce and perseverence, they may
at least, be able to make some discoveries, which
will euable them to render a service to the commu¬
nity.
The Hour Glass
Is an emblem of human life. Behold how s wifi-
ly the sands run, and how rapidly our lives are
drawing to a close ! The sand runs almost imper¬
ceptibly to the end of the hour; thus wastes man I
204
MASTER MASOSf.
To day he puts forth the tender leaves of hope 5
to-morrow, blossoms and bears his blushing hon¬
ors thick upon him; the next day comes a frost
which nips the shoot, and when he thinks his
greatness still aspiring, he falls like autumn leaves,
to enrich our mother earth.
The Scythe.
Is ail emblem of time, which cuts the brittle
thread of life and launches us into eternity. "What
havoc does the scythe of time make among the hu¬
man race! If by chance we should escape the nu¬
merous evils incident to childhood and youth, and
with health and vigour arrive to years of manhood,
yet, we must soon be cut down by the destroying
hand of time, and be gathered unto our fathers.—
The scythe should remind us, that yet a little while
and the archangel will sound the trump and pro¬
claim " there will be time no longer." Then abu¬
sed opportunities will never return, and new op¬
portunities will not be offered. We should, there¬
fore make good use of our time; reflect that yesterday
cannot be recalled ; to-morrow cannot be assured;
to day only is ours, which if we procrastinate we
loose, and if lost, is lost forever.
The three Steps
Usually deleniatedupon the Master's carpet, are
emblematical of the three principal stages of human
life; youth, manhood and age. In youth, as en¬
tered apprentices, we ought industriously to occupy
MASTER MASON,
205
/our minds, in the attainment of useful knowledge;
In manhood, as fellow crafts, we should apply our
knowledge to the discharge of our respective dulies
to God, our neighbours and ouselves, so that in age
as Master Masons, we may enjoy the happy reflec¬
tions consequent on a well spent life, and die in the
hope of a glorious immortality
Charge at Initiation .into the third degree.
^Brother:
Your zeal for the institution of Masonry,
the progress you have made in the knowledge of
its mysteries and your conformity to our regulations,
have pointed you out as a proper object of our fa¬
vour and esteem.
You are bound by duty, honor and gratitude, to
be faithful to your trust,*to support the dignity of
your character on every occasion, and to enforce by
precept and example, obedience to the tenets of the
order.
In the character of a Master Mason, you are au¬
thorised to correct the irregularities of your less in¬
formed brethren, and guard them against a breach
of fidelity. To preserve unsullied the reputation
of the fraternity must be your constant care; and
for this purpose it is your province to recommend
to your inferiors, obedience and submission; to
your equals, courtesy and affability; to your su¬
periors, kindness and condescension. Universal
benevolence, you are always to inculcate; and by
the regularity of your own behavour, afford the best
example for the conduct of others less informed.
206.
MASTER MASON.
The ancient land marks of the order, entrusted t<i
your care, you are carefully, to preserve; and nev
er suffer them to be infringed, or countenance a de¬
viation from the established usages and customs of
the fraternity.
Your virtue, honor and reputation, are concern
ed in supporting with dignity, Hie character you
now bear. Let no motive, therefore, make you
swerve from your duty, violate your vows, or be
tray your trust; but be true and faithful, and imi¬
tate the example of that celebrated artist you have
this evening represented. Thus you will render
yourself deserving the honor which we have con¬
ferred, and merit the confidence we have reposed.
The Master Mason imposes on himself duties
much more important than in the preceding degrees;
duties which are full of moral virtue and christian
charity.
"When affliction has assailed a brother, and his
necessities^call for our aid and support, we should
he ever ready to step forward to his relief, and af¬
ford him such assistance, as may not be injurious
to our families if found worthy thereof.
As the good things of this world are partially
dispensed, and some are opulent, while others are
contending with the storms and tempests of the
world, we are solemnly enjoined to manifest our
good will to a brother, be he ever so poor, because
it is the internal and not the external qualifications
of a man which masonry regards.
MASTER MASON:
20.7
The Master Mason is solemnly required to de¬
fend the reputation of a brother when wrongfully
assailed, in his absence, as well as in his presence ;
and, as man in the present state of existence is im¬
perfect, to cast the mantle of oblivion oyer his er-
Tors and imperfections; this is one great object of
that charity which Masonry inculcates, and which
is so eloquently described by the great apostle of
the Gentiles. The neglect of this virtue has often
fceen the source of great disorders; mankind are
but too prone to indulge an uncharitable disposi¬
tion j to ascribe to those who differ from them in
sentiment, the worst views and motives. This im¬
putation of sinister designs produces an acrimoni¬
ous state of society, and causes divisions produc¬
tive of private misery and public unhappiness. In
the organization of the human mind, and in the
structure of civil society, it was intended there
should' exist a variety of opinions; And when
these neither disturb public order, or endanger the
public welfare, should not candor give credit to oth¬
ers for the same purity of motives, which we are
conscious of possessing ourselves ?
So much is required of a mason in his charitable
donations, as discretion and his own situation shall
limit. This duty is solemnly imposed upon the
Master Mason ; he is taught to consider it as one.
of the brightest jewels in the temple of Masonry $-
as a virtue which more than any other assimilates,
man to his beneficent creator. It is like a fruitful
olive tree, planted by the side of a fountain; it
spreads its arms abroad from the strength and opu¬
lence of its situation, and-lendeth its shade for
208
&ASTER MASO-tf.
repose and relief of those who are gathered undei*
its branches. Charity, when given with a willing
hand, is glorious as the beams of the morning, in
whose beauty thousands rejoice; it opens the heart
to the divine effusions of unlimited sympathy and
benevolence, rubs off that rust which would gather
around it, and corrode every exquisite sensation.
But it is a virtue of reflection as well as feeling; iir
the due exercise of it, reason, no less than impulse,
has its duty to perform; these should be properly
tempered and balanced; for while on the one hand,
cold reflection ought not at all times to benumb the
generous exertions of an amiable impulse, so, oa
the other, ought not an ardent sensibility to stimu¬
late to an improper lavishmentof that which might
he wanted for more fit occasions.
Another duty which a Mason imposes upon
himself, is temperance—an inattention to which,
frequently leads to the prostration of every other
virtue. Intemperance when it becomes a settled
liahit is attended with innumerable evils; it palsies
all those fine qualities of the mind which elevate
man to the similitude of the Supreme Being; it ob¬
literates all those sublime virtues and excellences
which have distinguished man as the noblest work
of God; it sinks him below the inanimate brute;
for- the latter pursues the design of his creator,
whereas man, by wantonly depriving himself of
that reason wherewith he is endowed, entirely dis¬
appoints the views of his creator. Can there be a
more melancholy object than a human being in
this degraded state, where a dark and gloomy veil
is drawn over the faculties of the mind j where the
MASTER MASQtf.
man, who a few hours before, was admired for the bril¬
liant display of his talents and genius, is now con¬
temned for his follies and extravagancies; a sub¬
ject of derision or compassion. It is our duty then,
to eradicate from our hearts, the poisonous weeds
vice, that the seeds of temperance and virtue,
may vegitate and flourish ; to beware of intemper¬
ance, that we may be prepared at all times to dis*
charge the duties of our profession.
In addition to the duties here enumerated, the
different degrees of Masonry inculcate others of the
highest consequence, which are necessary to prac¬
tice, to be approved as true Freemasons. Begin¬
ning within the circle of the more domestic and so¬
cial duties, the Mason^s bosom should dilate to the
more enlarged circle of public duties he owes to his
country; and not confining his affections even
there, his heart should expand to the spacious cir¬
cle of human nature, and swell with emotions of
universal love and benevolence. A due attention
to these virtues will invigorate the cementing prin¬
ciple of brotherly love, which is the grand basis of
Masonry. The practice of these virtues, will also
smooth those asperities which are found ip
the rugged path of life, and make us glide more
gently down to that future state of bliss, which a
life thus spent will ensure us.
Thus having fulfilled the purposes of our crea¬
tion, and done honor to the inestimable principles
ef the institution, wre will, by approving ourselves
good Freemasons, at the same time approve our¬
selves good men? good citizens and good christi^n£,
S 3
CHAPTER XI.
Of the ceremony of constituting a Lodge of
MASTER MASONS.
Any number of Master Masons, not under seven,
desirous of forming a new Lodge, must apply by
petition, to the Grand Lodge of the state in which
they reside, or to the Grand Master, setting forth,
"That they are Free and Accepted Masons;
that they are at present, or have been, members of
regular lodges; that, having the prosperity of the
fraternity at heart, they are willing to exert their
best endeavors to promote and diffuse the genuine
principles of Masonry; that, for the convenience
of their respective dwellings, and for other good
reasons, they are desirous of forming a new Lodge
iu the town of to be named ;
that in consequence *of this desire, they pray for
letters of dispensation, or a wammt of constitution,
to empower them to assemble as a legal Lodge, to
discharge the duties of Masonry in a regular and
Ancient Ceremonies m
constitutional manner, according to the original
forms of the order, and the regulations of th$
Grand Lodge. That they have nominated and dd
recommend A. B. to be first Master, CVD. to bd
first Senior Warden and E. F. to be first Junior*
Warden of the said Lodge *9 that if the prayer of
their petition is granted, they promise a strict con¬
formity to all constitutional laws^ and regulation^
of the Grand Lodge."
The petition being signed by at least seven regu¬
lar Master Masons, and recommended by a lodg#
or lodges adjacent to the place where the new Lodgifr
is to be holden, is forwarded to the Grand Secreta¬
ry, who lays it before the Grand Lodge or th«r
Grand Master.*
If the petition is approved, a dispensation is gen¬
erally issued, signed by the Grand Master or De<*
puty Grand Master, which authorises the petition¬
ers to assemble as a legal Lodge, for a certain spe*
cified time.
In some jurisdictions, the Grand and Deputy
Grand Masters, respectively, are invested with the
power of granting dispensations during the recess
of the Grand Lodge; in others, they are never is¬
sued without the special direction of the Grand
Lodge.
Lodges under dispensation are Considered mere-
* If the brethren petitioning for a dispensation, or war*
tantr reside at so great a distance from a regular Lodge, a$
to render it inconvenient or impracticable to procure a re¬
commendation, it has been considered that the recommen¬
dation of three or more well known and approved Master
ttfasons is sufficient*
'ADCIEKT CEREMONIES?.
}y as agents of the Grand Lodge ; tlieir presiding'
officers are not entitled to the rank of Past Mas¬
ters ; their officers have no vote in Grand Lodge £
they cannot change their officers without the special
approbation and appointment of the Grand Lodge $
and in case of the cessation of such lodges, their
funds, jewels and other property, become the pro¬
perty of the Grand Lodge, and must be delivered
over to the Grand Treasurer.
"When Lodges instituted by dispensation havfe
passed a proper time of probation, they make ap¬
plication to the Grand Lodge for a charter of con¬
stitution. If this is granted, they are then confirm¬
ed in the possession of their property, and possess
all the rights and privileges of regularly constituted
lodges, as long as they conform to the constitutions
'pf Masonry.
After a charter is granted the Grand Master ap¬
points a day for consecrating and constituting the
new Lodge, and for installing its officers;
If the Grand Master, in person, attends the cer¬
emony, the Lodge is said to be constituted in ample
form; if the Deputy Grand Master only, it is said
to be constituted in due form; but if the power is
vested in a subordinate Lodge, it is said to be con¬
stituted in form.
When charters are granted for places, where the
distance is so great as to render it inconvenient for
the Grand officers to attend, the Grand Master, or
his deputy, issues a written instrument under his
hand and private seal, to some worthy present or
Past Master, with full power to congregate, con¬
stitute and install the petitioners^
ancient ceremonies.1
Ceremony of Constitution and Consecration.
On the clay and hour appointed, the Grand Mas¬
ter and his officers meet in a convenient room, neat
to that in which the Lodge to be constituted is as'-
feembled, and open the Grand Lodge in the three
degrees of Masonry.
The officers of the new Lodge are to be examin¬
ed by the deputy Grand Master, after which they
return to their Lodge. The new lodge then sends?
a messenger to the Grand Master with the folio W-f
ing Message viz:
Most Worshipful : #
The officers and brethren of
■ Lodge, who are assembled at —i
have instructed me to inform you that the Most
Worshipful Grand Lodge [or Grand Master,] waS
pleased to grant them a letter of dispensation, bear^
ing date the —:— day of ——- in the year ■ au¬
thorising them to form and open a Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons, in the town of • \ that
since that period, they have regularly assembled
and conducted the business of Masonry, according
to the best of their abilities ; that their proceeding^
having received the approbation of the Most Wor¬
shipful Grand Lodge, they have obtained a charter
of constitution, and are desirous that their Lodge
should be consecrated, and their officers installed,
agreeably to the ancient usages and customs of the
craft; for which purpose they are now met, and
await the pleasure of the Most Worshipful Grand
Master."
%t4
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
He then returns to his Lodge, who prepare fof
the reception of the Grand Lodge. When notice
is given that they are5 prepared, the Grand Lodge
walk in procession to their hall. When the Grand
Master enters, the grand honors are given by the
new Lodge; the officers of which resign their seats
to the Grand officers, and take their several sta¬
tions on the left.
The necessary cautions are then given, and all
Except Masters, and past Masters of Lodges, are
requested to retire until the master of the new
Lodge is placed in the chair ot Solomon. He is
there bound to the faithful performance of his trust,
And invested with the characteristics of the chair.
Upon due notice the Grand Marshal reconducts
the brethren into the Hall, and all take their places
except the members of the new Lodge, who form &
procession on one side of the hall to salute their
Master. As they advance the Grand Master ad¬
dresses them, " Brethren behold your Master."—»
As they pass they make the proper salutation;
and when they have all passed he joins them andl
takes his appropriate station.
A Grand Procession is then formed in the follow¬
ing order i
Tyler with a drawn Sword ;
Two Stewards with white rods;
Entered Apprentices /
Fellow Crafts?
Stewards /
Junior Deacons ;
Senior Deacons $
ANCIENT CEREMONIES,
Secretaries ;
Treasurers ;
Past Wardens;
Junior Wardens;
Senior Wzrdens ;
Past Masters ;
lloyal Arch Masons ;
Knight Templars ;
Masters of Lodges,
The new Lodge then follows in the following
order:
Tyler with a drawn Sword ;
Stewards with White rods ;
Entered Apprentices ;
Fellow Crafts ;
Master Masons ;
Deacons ;
Secretary and Treasurer ;
Two Brethren carrying the Lodge ; ('flooring
Junior and Senior Wardens;
The Holy Writings carried by the oldest
member, not in office ;
The Master;
Music.
THE GRAND LODGE,
Grand Tyler, with a drawn Sword;
Grand Stewards, with white rods ;
A Brother carrying a golden vessel with Corn ;
Two Brethren carrying silver vessels, one of wine,
the other of Oil /
ANCIENT CEREMONIES
Grand Secretary ;
Grand Treasurer ;
A burning taper, borne by a Past Master 5
A Past Master, bearing the Holy Writings ;
Square and Compass, supported by
Two Stewards with Hods ;
Two burning tapers, borne by two Past Masters^-
Clergy and Orator ;
The Tuscan and Composite orders;
The Doric, Ionic and Corinthian orders;
Past Grand Wardens ;
Past Deputy Grand Masters ;
Past Grand Masters;
The Globes ;
Junior and Senior Grand Wardens;
Kight Worshipful Deputy Grand Master 5
The Master of the oldest Lodge carrying the
Book of Constitutions;
The M. W* Grand Master;
The Grand Deacons, bn a line seven feet apart, on:
the right and left of the Grand Master,
with Black Hods;
Grand Sword Bearer with a drawn Sword;
Two Stewards with white Hods.
The whole procession moves on to the Church
or place where the ceremonies are to be performed.
When the front of the procession arrives at the
door, they halt, open to the right and left, and face
inward, while the Grand Master, and others in sue*
session^ pass through and enter the house.
A platform is erected in front of the pulpit, and
provided with seats for the accommodation of the
Grand officers.
ancient ceremonies.
2 IT
The Bible, Square and Compass, and Book of
Constitutions, are placed upon a table, in front of
the Grand Master; the Lodge is placed in the cen¬
tre, upon a platform, covered with white satin or
linen, and encompassed by three tapers, and the
vessels of corn, wine and oil.
A piece of music is performed, and the public
services commence with prayer. An oration or
sermon upon the design and principles of the in¬
stitution, is then delivered by the Grand Chaplain,
or some one appointed for that purpose, which is
succeeded by a piece of music.
The Grand Marshall, then directs the officers
and members of the new Lodge to form in front of
the Grand Master. The deputy Grand Master,
then addresses the Grand Master as follows;
"Most Worshipful;
A number of brethren duly instructed in the mys¬
teries of Masonry, having assembled together at
stated periods, for some time past, by virtue of a
dispensation granted them for that purpose, do now
desire to be constituted into a regular lodge, agree¬
ably to the ancient usages and customs of the fra¬
ternity."
The Secretary of the new Lodge then delivers
the dispensation and records to the master elect,
who presents them to the Grand Master.
The Grand Master examines the records, and
if they are found correct proclaims,
The records appear to be properly entered, and
are approved. Upon due deliberation, the Grand
%18 ancient ceremonies
Lodge have granted the brethren of this ne«w lodge
a charter confirming them in the rights and privile¬
ges of a regularly constituted Lodge, which the
Grand Secretary will now read."
After the charter is read the Grand Master then
says,
"We shall now proceed according to ancient
usage,, to constitute these brethren into a regular
Lodge."
Whereupon the several officers of the new Lodge
deliver up their jewels and badges to their Mas¬
ter, who presents them with his own to the Depu¬
ty Grand Master, and he to the Grand Master.
The Deputy Grand Master then presents tk®
Master elect of the new Lodge to the Grand Mas¬
ter, saying,
"Most Worshipful,
I present you brother r
whom the members of the Lodge now to be consti¬
tuted, have chosen for their Master."
The Grand Master asks them if they remain
satisfied with their choice—(they bow in token of
assent. J
The Master then presents, severally, his War¬
dens and other officers, naming them and their res¬
pective offices. The Grand Master asks the bre¬
thren, if they remain satisfied with each and all of
them—(they bow as before. J
The officers and members of the new Lodge
then form in the broad aisle, in front of the Grand
Master; and the business of consecration commen¬
ces with solemn music.
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
2*9
Ceremony of Consecration:
The Grand Master, attended by the Grand offi¬
cers, and the Grand Chaplain, form themselves in
order round the Lodge, which is then uncovered.
All devoutly kneeling, the first clause of the conse¬
cration prayer is rehearsed, as follows, viz .*
" Great Architect of the universe ! Maker and
ruler of the world! deign, from thy celestial tem¬
ple, from realms of light and glory, to bless us ih.
all the purposes of our present assembly !
" We humbly invoke tliee to give us, at this and
all times, wisdom in all our doings, strength of
mind in all our difficulties, and beauty of harmony
in all our communications 1
" Permit us, O thou author of light and life,
great source of love and happiness, to erect this
Lodge, and now solemnly to consecrate it to the
honor of thy glory!
" Glory be to God on high."
tiesjponse by the brethren—" As it was in the,
beginning, is now, and ever shall be ! Amen I"
Luring the response, the Deputy Grand Master-
and the Grand Wardens, take the vessels of corn,
wine and oil, and sprinkle the elements of conse¬
cration upon the Lodge.
(The Grand Chaplain then continues,)
"Grant O Lord, our God, that those who are,
now about to be invested with the government of,
this Lodge, may be endued with wisdom to instruct
their brethren in all their duties. May brotherly
love, relief and truth always prevail among the
220
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
members of this Lodge; and may this bond of un¬
ion continue to strengthen the lodges throughout
the world!
" Bless all our brethren, wherever dispersed;
and grant speedy relief to all who are either op¬
pressed or distressed.
" We affectionately commend to thee all the
members of thy whole family. May they increase
in the knowledge oftheeandtheloveof each other.
<s Finally; may wre finish all our work here be¬
low with thy approbation; and then have our
transition from this earthly abode to thy heavenly
temple above, there to enjoy light, glory and bliss,
ineffable and eternal!
Glory be to God on high."
Response by the brethren—<e As it was in the be¬
ginning, is now, and ever shall be 1—Amen I
So mote it be !■—-Amen!
The brethren rise while the-Lodge is covered.
The following ode is sung t
Ode at constituting a Lodge.
Genius ot Masonry descend,
And with thee bring thy spotless train ;
Constant our sacred rites attend,
While we adore thy peaceful reign.
Come, Charity, with goodness crown'd.
Encircled in thy heavenly robe.;
Diffuse thy blessings all around,
To every corner of the globe.
Thy well built pile shall long endure.
Through rolling years preserve its prime,
ancient cebemonie&
221
Upon a rock it stands secure,
And bears the rude assault of tinfe*
ITe happy few, who here extend,
In perfect lines from East to West,
With fervent zeal the Lodge defend,
And lock its secrets in each brea§t.
Behold the planets, how they move,
Yet keep due order as they run ;
Then imitate the stars above,
And shine resplendent as the sun ;
That future Masons when they meet,
May all our glorious deeds rehears^,
And say, their fathers were so great,
That they adorned the universe.
The Grand Chaplain then dedicates the Lodge
in the following terms :
" To the memory of Holy St. John, we dedi¬
cate this Lodge. May every brother revere Jus
character and imitate his virtues."
" Glory be to God on high."
To which the brethren answer,
" As it was in the beginning, is now and ever
shall he, world without end!—Amen!—So mote
it be!
The following hymn is then sung, during which
the officers of the new Lodge advance in procession
to salute the Grand Lodge,with their hands crossed
upon their breast, and bowing as they pass. The^
then take their places, and stand as they were*
T 2
ancient ceremonies.
Hymn.
Great source of light and love,
To thee our songs we raise 1
0! in thy temple, Lord, above,
Hear and accept our praise!
§hine on this festive day,
Succeed its hop'd design,
And may our charity display
A love resembling thine.
May this fraternal band,
Now consecrated—blest,
In vMion all distinguish'd stand,
In purity be drest 1
May all the sons of peace,'
Their every grace improve;
'Till, discord through the nations ceasjj,
And all the world be love!
As soon as the music ceases, the Grand Master
rises, and constitutes the Lodge in the following
form:
"In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand
Lodge of ■> I now constitute and form you
my good brethren, into a Lodge of Free and accep¬
ted Masons. From henceforth, by virtue of the
■power and authority m me vested, I empower you
to act as a regular lodge, constituted in conformity
to the rites of our order, and the charges of our an¬
cient and, honorable fraternity 3 and may the su-
ancient ceremonies
preme architect of the universe prosper, direct and?
counsel you in all your doings."
To which the brethren answer, " So mote it be#?*
The ceremony of installation then succeeds.
Ceremony of Installation.
The Grand Master then asks his Deputy," hat&
you examined the master nominated in the warrant,
and do you find him well skilled in the science^of ■
Masonry, and worthy to be invested with the gov*
eminent of a Lodge?"
The Deputy Grand Master answering in the af¬
firmative, the Grand Master says, "Present him
to me."
The Deputy Grand Master then takes the mast¬
er elect by the hand and presents him to the Grand
Master, saying:
"Most Worshipful,
" I present you my worthy brother
■ to be installed Master of this new Lodge*
I find him to be of good morals and of great skill,
true and trusty; and as he is a lover of the whole
fraternity, wheresoever dispersed over the face of
the earth, I doubt not he will discharge his duty
with fidelity."
The Grand Chaplain then rehearses the follow¬
ing prayer;
"Great Architect of Heaven and .Earth! in
whose work all life is employed. The whole is
harmony in thee, each part has its place and all is
perfect* Behold us, who form this apartment in
akcient ceremonies.
thy works, small indeed in itself, but vast enough
for our full employment.
(< Grant that thy servant, now to be solemnly in¬
vested with authorty and rule over this Lodg6,
may be endued with knowledge and wisdom; and
may the brethren under his jurisdiction, understand,
learn and keep all the statutes of the Lord, pure
and undefiled. May brotherly love and charity
always abound among us. And when we have
finished our work here below, let our transition be
from this earthly tabernacle to the heavenly tem¬
ple above; there, among thy jewels, may we ap¬
pear in thy glory forever and ever.
Bless and prosper, we pray thee, every branch
and member of this fraternity throughout the habi¬
table earth. May the kingdom of peace, love and
harmony, come; May thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven ; and the whole world be filled
with thy glory.—Amen!
Response—" So mote it be
The Grand Master then addresses the Master
elect;
Brother,
Previous to your investure, it is necessary
that you signify your assent to those ancient char¬
ges and regulations which point out the duty of a
master of a lodge."
The Grand Master then reads, or orders to be
iread, to the master elect, the following charges:
I. You agree to be a good man and true, and
fctrictly to obey the moral law*
ANCIENT CEREMONIES'.
233
II. You agree to be a peaceful subject and cheer*
full j to conform to.the laws of the country in which
you reside.
«/
1IL You promise not to be concerned in plots
and conspiracies against government, but patiently
*o submit to the decisions of the supreme legisla¬
ture.
IY. You agree to pay a proper respect to the
civil magistrate, to work diligently, live creditably^
and act honorably by all men.
Y. You agree to hold in veneration, the origin¬
al rulers and patrons of the order of Masonry, and
their regular successors, supreme and subordinate*
according to their several stations; and to submit
to the awards and resolutions of your brethren
when convened, in every case consistent with the
constitutions ot the order.
YI. You agree to avoid private piques and quar¬
rels, and to guard against intemperance and excess.
YII. You agree to be cautious in carriage and
behaviour, courteous to your brethren, and faithful
to your Lodge.
YIII. You promise to respect genuine brethren,
and to discountenance impostors, and all dissenters
from the original plan of Masonry.
IX. You agree to promote the general good of
society, to cultivate the social virtues, and to prop¬
agate the knowledge of the art.
X. You promise to pay homage to the Grand
Master for the time being, and his officers duly in-
Stalled ; and strictly to conform to every edict of
the Grand Lodge, that is not subversive of the prin--
ciplcs and ground work of Masonry,
226
ancient ceremonies.
XI. You admit that it is not in the power of any
man or body of men, to make innovations^in th&
body of Masonry.
XII. You promise a regular attendance on the
communications of the grand Lodge on receiving
proper notice, and to pay a proper attention to the
duties of masonry on convenient occasions.
XIII. You admit that* no new Lodge shall be
formed without permission of the Grand Lodge,
and that no countenance be given to any irregular
Lodge, or to any person clandestinely made there¬
in, being contrary to the ancient usages of the order.
# XIY. You admit that no person can be made a
Mason in, or admitted a member of any regular
Lodge, without previous notice, and due enquiry
into his character.
XV. You agree that no visitors shall be receiv¬
ed into your Lodge without due examination, and
producing proper vouchers of their having been in¬
itiated in a regular Lodge.
The Grand Master then addresses the Master
elect, and says:
(e These are the regulations of free and accepted
Masons* Do you submit to these charges, and
promise to support these regulations, as Masters
bave done in all ages before you ?"
The new Master having answered in the affirm¬
ative, the Grand Master thus addresses him :
Brother,
" In consequence of your cheerful confor¬
mity to the charges and regulations of the order,
ybu are now to be installed master of this new
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
Lodge, in full confidence of your skill and capacity
to govern the same,"
The Grand Master then proceeds as follows :
(i I invest yon with the honorable badge of the
office of Master, and now present you with the fur¬
niture and implements of your Lodge.
(i The Holy Writings, that great light in Ma¬
sonry will guide you to all truth ; it will direct our
paths to the temple of happiness, and points out tha
whole duty of man.
f The Square, teaches to regulate our actions,
and harmonize our conduct by the principles of
morality and virtue.
<e The Compass teaches to limit our desires in
every station, that rising to eminence by merit,. wo
may live respected and die regretted.
" The llule directs, that we should punctually
observe our duty; press forward in the path of
virtue, and, neither inclining to the right nor to the
left, In all our actions have eternity in view.
(< The Line teaches the criterion of moral recti¬
tude, to avoid dissimulatiou in conversation and
action, and to direct our steps to the path which
leads to immortality.
" The Book of Constitutions you are to search
at all times, cause it to be read in your Lodge, that
none may pretend ignorance of the excellent pre¬
cepts it enjoins.
" Lastly; You receive in charge the Bye-Laws
of your Lodge, which you are to see carefully and
punctually executed."
The jewels of the officers of the new Lodge be-
jng then returned to the master, he delivers them
828 ancient ceremonies.
respectively to the several officers of the Grand
Lodge according to their rank.
The subordinate officers of the new Lodge are
then invested with their jewels, by the Grand offi¬
cers of corresponding rank; and are by them, se¬
verally in turn, conducted to the Grand Master,
who delivers each a short charge as follows;
To the Senior Warden,
Brother,—You are appointed Senior War¬
den of this Lodge, and are now invested with the
ensign of your office.
The Level demonstrates that we are descended
from the same stock, partake of the same nature,
and share the same hope; and although distinctions
among men are necessary to presrve subordina¬
tion, yet no eminence of station should make us
forget that we are brethren; for he who is placed
on the lowest spoke of fortune's wheel, may be en¬
titled to our regard; because a time will come, and
the wisest-knows not how soon, when all distinc¬
tions but that of goodness shall cease; and death,
the grand leveller of human greatness, reduce us all
to the same state.
Your regular attendance on the stated and other
meetings of the Lodge, is essentially necessary.—
In the absence of the Master, you are to govern the
Lodge; in his presence, to assist him in the gov¬
ernment of it. I firmly rely on your knowledge of
Masonry and attachment to the lodge, for the faith¬
ful discharge of the duties of your trust. Look
well to the west P9
ancient ceremonies.
329
To the Junior Warden.
Brother,—You are appointed Junior War¬
den of this Lodge, and are now invested with the
badge of your office.
The Plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in
our several stations, to hold the scale of justicein
equal poize, to observe the just medium between
intemperance and pleasure, and to make our pas¬
sions and prejudices coincide with the line of our
duty.
To you is entrusted the examination of visitors,
and the reception of candidates. To you is also
committed the superintendance of the craft during
the hours of refreshment; it is therefore indispensi-
bly necessary, that you should not only be temper¬
ate and discreet in the indulgence of your own in¬
clinations, but carefully observe that none of the
craft be suffered to convert the purposes of refresh¬
ment into intemperance and excess.
Your regular and punctual attendance is particu¬
larly requested; and I have no doubt that you will
faithfully execute the duty which you owe to your
present appointment. Look well to the south.
To the Treasurer.
Brother,—You are appointed Treasurer 'of
this Lodge, and have been invested with the badge
of your office.
It is your duty tokeep a faithful accountof all mo¬
nies received for the use of the Lodge, and pay them
out by consent of the Lodge. Your honor, and the
*230 ancient ceremonies
confidence the brethren repose in you, will excite
to that faithfulness in the discharge of the duties
of your office which its important iiature demands;
To the Secretary.
Brother,—You are appointed Secretary of
-this Lodge, and have been invested with the badge
of your office.
It is your duty to keep the records regularly,*
fairly and faithfully; to receive all monies and
pay them into the hands of the Treasurer, and to
issue summonses at the masters direction. Your
love to the craft and attachment to the Lodge will
induce you cheerfully to fulfil the duties of your of¬
fice ; Und in so doing you will merit the esteem of
your brethren.
To the Senior and junior Deacon
Brothers—You are appointed Beacons of this
Lodge. It is your duty to attend on tie Master
and Wardens, and to act as their proxies in the ac¬
tive duties of the Lodge, such as the reception of
candidates, and the introduction and accommoda¬
tion of visitors. Those columns, the badges of
your office, 1 trust to your care, in full confidence
of your vigilence and attention.
To the Stewards.
Brothers—You are appointed stewards of this
Lodge. The duties of your office are, to assist in
ancient ceremonies,
231
the collection of all dues ; to keep an account of
Lodge expences; to see the tables properly fur*
nished at refreshment, and that every brother is
suitably provided for; and generally, to assist the
Deacons and other officers, in performing their res¬
pective duties. Your regular and early attendance
will afford the best proof of your zeal and attach'
rnent to the Lodge.
To the Tyler.
Brother—You are appointed Tyler to this
Lodge ; the duty assigned you is of the utmost im¬
portance. Your constant attendance cannot be dis¬
pensed with but by permission of the Master. Be
careful, and discharge your duty with zeal and vi-
gilence.
The Grand Master then addresses the officers
and members of the new Lodge, as follows .
Worshipful Master—The Grand Lodge haw¬
ing committed to your care the superintendance and
government of the brethren, who are to compose
this new Lodge, you cannot be insensible of the ob¬
ligations which devolve upon you as their head 5
nor of your responsibility for the faithful discharge
of the important duties annexed to your appoint-
meut.
The honor, reputation and usefulness of your
Lodge, will materially depeud upon the skill and
assiduity with which you manage its concerns 3
while the happiness of its members will be general¬
ly promoted, in proportion to the zeal and ability
233
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
with which you propogate the genuine principles
of our institution.
In your character as Master of this Lodge, it he-
comes your duty to watch the hallowed flames of
piety to God, and love to man; never suffering
them to languish, burn dim, or expire through neg¬
ligence in the East, remisness in the West, or in¬
attention in the South. Exhort the brethren to
remember those eternal truths, that vvfsdom and un¬
derstanding, or in other Words, piety and virtue,
" are more precious thanruhies, or jewels of gold;
than coral or pearls; their fruits heing better than
gold; their revenue superior to silverfor all
the " ways of wisdom are w ays of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace."
Be then persuaded to reverance " the light a-
gainst light in three ranks," which at this moment
shines around you, comprehending the light of the
Holy Bible, the perfect square and the extended
compass; a light enlightning every man who asks
and receives. The Holy Bible is given of God,
as the rule and guide of the faith and practice of
Masons. The Square is to square every word
and action, in all our concerns with mankind, by
the immutable principles of rectitude and truth, and
the sacred laws of morality and virtue. The Com-
pass teaches to circumscribe our desires within pru¬
dential limits, and keep our passions in those due
bounds, w hich revelation has assigned and reason
must approve ; constantly maintaining a tongue of
good report; evermore preserving inviolable secre¬
cy, and daily practicing the Godlike virtue of
Charity.
ancient ceremonies, 233
Impress with feeling of heart, and with energy
©f expression, the necessity of faith in God, hope
in immortality, and the duty of charity to all man¬
kind. Assure the fulness of the craft in the wes^
and in the south, that neither strength nor beauty,
will ever pass beyond the canopy of time, and rise
to the starry heavens of eternal glory, without the
vital encompassings of practical charity, that an¬
gel of perfection, who triumphs over death, dis¬
traction and the grave; puts off the mantle of cor¬
ruption wove in dust, and rising from the tomb
full robed in immortality and bliss, spreads the
strong pinions of upholding Faith and Hope; and
towers with rapid speed beyond the dusky vale of
earth, to yon bright hill of eternal day, clear as the
sun and fairer than the moon, where charity for¬
ever dwells an inmate of the throne of God.
Charge the members of your Lodge, to practice
out of the Lodge, those duties which they have
been taught in it; and by amiable, discreet and
virtuous conduct, to convince mankind of the good¬
ness of the institution ; so that when any one is
said to be a member of it, the world may know
that he is one to whom the burthened heart may
pour out its sorrows; to whom distress may pre¬
fer its suit; whose hand is guided by justice and
Whose heart is expanded by benevolence.
Brother Senior and Junior "Wardens—You
are too well acquainted with the principles of ma¬
sonry to warrant any distrust, that you will be
found wanting in the discharge of your respec¬
tive duties. Suffice it to mention, that what you
~ II 2
ANCIENT CnREMOXlES,
have seen praiseworthy in others, you should tare-
fully imitate; anil what in them may have appear¬
ed defective, you should int yourselves amend; as
to you ar6 committed the charge of the pillars of
strength and beauty, you should set before the bre¬
thren who surround thosepillars,the corn of nourish¬
ment, the wine of refreshment and the oil of joy,
in those moral and masonic lessons, which are as
the balm of health, the blessing of plenty, and the
balsam of peace to a masons soul. You should be
examples of good order and regularity; for it is
only by a due regard to the laws in your owu con¬
duct, that you can expect obedience to them in oth¬
ers. You are assiduously to assist the master in
the discharge of his trust; diffusing light and im¬
parting knowledge to all under your care. In the
absence of the master, you will succeed to higher
duties; your acquirements must, therefore, be such
that the craft may never suffer for want of proper
instruction. From the spirit which you have hith¬
erto evinced, I entertain no doubt that your future
conduct will he such as to merit the applause of
your brethren, and the testimony of a good con¬
science.
Brethren of Lodge—Such is the na¬
ture ol our constitution, that as some must of neces¬
sity rule and teach, so others must of course learn
to submit and obey. Humility in both is an essen¬
tial duty. The officers who are appointed to gov¬
ern your Lodge, are sufficiently conversant with
the rules of propriety, and the laws of the institu¬
tion, to avoid, exceeding the powers with which.
ANCIENT CEREMONIES*
235
they are entrusted, and you are of too generous dis¬
positions to envy their preferment. 1 therefore trust
you will have but one aim, to please each other,
and unite in the grand design of beiog happy and-
communicating happiness.
Finally, my brethren, as this association has-
been formed and perfected in so much unanimity
and concord, in which we greatly rejoice, so may it
long continue. May you long enjoy every satisfac¬
tion and delight which disinterested friendship can
afford. May kindness and brotherly affection dis¬
tinguish your conduct as men and as masons.—
Within your peaceful walls, may your children's
children celebrate with joy and gratitude the trans¬
actions of this solemnity. And may the tenets of
your profession, be transmitted through your lodge,
pure and unimpaired from generation to generation.
The Grand Marshal then proclaims,
" In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand!
[Lodge of the State of 1 proclaim this
new Lodge, by name of Lodge, duly con¬
stituted.
This proclamation is made thrice, and each time
followed by a flourish of drums or trumpets.
The Grand Chaplain then makes the concluding
prayer, which ends the public ceremonies.
The Grand Procession is then formed in the
same order as before, and returns to the hall.
The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and
Grand Wardens, being seated, all but Master Ma¬
sons are caused to retire, and procession continues
round the hall, and upon passing the several Grand
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
officers, pays them homage, by the usual congrat¬
ulations and honors in the different degrees.
The Lodge is then closed by the Grand Master
and his officers.
This is the ceremony observed by regular Ma¬
sons at the constitution of a new Lodge, which the
Grand Master may abridge or extend at pleasure ;
but the material points are on no account to be omit¬
ted. The same ceremony and charges* attend ev¬
ery succeeding installation of new officers.
* With Bach alteration in the charges as may be suited to
the occasion.
chapter xii;
Installation of a Grand Master.
On the election of a Grand Master he is pro¬
claimed by the Grand Secretary, in the following
words:
" I proclaim the R. W. Brother —>—-• duly
elected Grand Master of Masons for the State of
Which proclamation is made thrke.
If the Grand Master elect is present, the Grand
Lodge will proceed to the installation, If he is ab¬
sent, a day may be appointed for the ceremony, or
he may be installed by proxy, but such proxy must
be either the last or a former Grand Master, or else
a reputable past Master.
The ceremony of installation is conducted by
the Grand Master in the chair, and the Lodge
opened in the Past Masters degree.
The Grand Chaplain rehearses the following
prayer,
" O most glorious and eternal God! infinitely
wise architect of the universe; we thy servants,
assembled in solemn Grand Lodge, would now ex¬
tol tby power and wisdom in the ranks of creation
and providence.
Thou saidst, let there be light, and there was
light; the heavens opened and declared thy glory,
238
Ancient Ceremonies.
find the firmament was spangled with thy handy
work. The sun, who rules the day, gives light
to the moon who rules the night, and tells to the
attending stars the surprising story of their birth ;
so that there is one glory of the sun, another glory
of the moon, and one star differs from another star
in glory; and all by most wonderous signs and
tokens, without voice, sound or language, solemn¬
ly proclaim divine mysteries.
We adore thee for our creation; the excellent
form and symmetry of our bodies; for the breath
of life; for the light of reason and conscience; and
for all the noble and useful faculties of our souls,
which give us so exalted a rank in the scale of be¬
ing, render us capable of knowing and serving thee,
and suggest the hope and justify* the expectation of
a more perfect mode of existance wheu the present
shall be closed. We thank thee for the confirma¬
tion of these doctrines in the gospel of tby son.
We beseech thee to give us, thy servants, at this
and at all times, wisdom in all our doings; strength
of tnind in all our difficulties ; and the beauty of
harmony in our communications with one another.
Grant O Lord! that thy servant now about U
he solemnly invested with the authority and rule
over the several Lodges in this state, may be en¬
dued with the knowledge and wisdom to instruct
and explain to us the mysteries of Masonry ; and
may we and all our brethren under his jurisdislion,
understand, learn and keep, all the statutes and
commandments of the Lord, and this holy mystery
pure and undefiled to our live's end. May broth¬
erly love and charity abound among us; may they
.ancient ceremonies.
239
hi ways be the cement of our society; each one
striving how he may be most beneficial to man-
hind. And when we have finished our work here
below, let our transition be from this earthly taber¬
nacle to the heavenly temple above; there safely
lodged among thy jewels, may we shine with the©
for ever and ever.
Bless and prosper, we beseech thee, every branch
of this fraternity throughout the habitable globe.
May thy kingdom of love, peace and harmony
come. May thy will be done on earth as it is in
heaven, and the whole world be filled with thy glo¬
ry ; and to thy most holy name would we ascribe
praise, forever and ever—Amen I
Response—So mote it be!
The Deputy Grand Master then presents the
Grand Master elect, saying,
"Most Worshipful,—I present you for in¬
stallation, our Right Worshipful Brother
who has been duly elected by the members of this
Grand Lodge, Grand Master of Masons for the
State of "
The Grand Master then addresses the Grand
Master elect:
" R. Worshipful Sir anh Brother—Yoii
have been elected by your brethren in Grand
Lodge assembled, Grand Master of Masons in and
throughout this state, and having signified your ac¬
ceptance thereof, it devolves upon me as your pre¬
decessor, to install you into your high and honora*
blc office, with the usual ceremonies. Previous to
AXCIEX'T CEHEMOXIES.
your investare with the emblem of your power anil
office, it is necessary you should giye your assent
to those ancient charges anil regulations which are
pointed out in our general laws.
The Grand Master then reads to the Grand Mas¬
ter elect, such parts of the ancient charges as are
applicable to the office of Grand Master.
The Grand Master elect having assented thereto
the Grand master proceeds :
" I now present you with this jewel, the badge
of your office, and the emblem of your power and
authority. Many of the most illustrious and dis¬
tinguished characters the world has produced, have
worn it with satisfaction and delight. It will si¬
lently admonish you to do justice to the cause of
Masonry, to consult as the exalted rank yuu now
hold demands of you, its real interests. It will*
instruct you to infuse into the many lodges of
which you are now* the head, the true spirit of our
order. It will direct you to give due commendation
•to the worthy members of the fraternity and to re¬
prove those who act contrary to its laws.
" To you are committed those sacred writings
!in which are to be found the sublime parts of our
.ancient mysteries. From this great light our in¬
stitution derives its wisdom, strength and beauty,
and demands from every good Mason, the most
profound veneration, as the word of the supreme
grand architect of heaven and earth. It will con¬
firm your faith, strengthen your hope, encourage
your charity, and direct you to that magnificent
temple, where all is harmony, love, and peace.
These instruments of operative Masonry, con-
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
241
strutted to assist tlic architect in his various designs
when speculatively applied to the duties of your
important office, will direct you to square your ac¬
tions by the principles of candor, justice and mod¬
eration ; to keep and regulate the craft within the
prescribed compass of brotherly love, relief and
truth and preserve that decorum on which the hon¬
or and usefulness of our institution so essentially
depend.
" I present you the constitution and bye-laws of
this Grand Lodge, which it is your duty to see
punctually observed and obeyed.
" I also present you the Book of Constitutions,
in which are contained the rules and regulations es¬
tablished for the government of the society, and
the charges which exhibit its nature and utility.—
It contains the necessary doctrines and principles
which, if rightly observed, will maintain the repu¬
tation of the fraternity. With this book you will
direct your Lodges to make themselves acquain¬
ted."
The Grand Master elect is then seated in the
oriental chair. The members form a procession
and salute him with the grand honors three times,
whilst the Grand Marshal each time proclaims,
In the name of the Holy St. John, I proclaim
the Most Worshpful Brother duly in¬
stalled Grand Master of Masons in the State of
■ ■ for the ensuing twelve months."
The Lodge is then closed to the degree of mas¬
ter mason, w hen all master masons are admitted,
who, under the direction of the Grand Marshal,
form a procession round the Ilall, and salute the
242
ancient ceremonies
Grand Master by the usual congratulations an#
anil honors of the different degrees.
The following charge is then given.
"Most Worshipful Sir and Brother—Per¬
mit me to congratulate you on the honor of being
raised from the level of equality to the high station
of presiding over all the Lodges of this state and ju¬
risdiction. We look up with confidence to a bro¬
ther whose experience in the mysteries of the craft,
entitles him to our regard, and whose person is en¬
deared to us by that love of the fraternity, which
is sanctified by the experience of many years.—
May the father of lights invest you with Lis choi¬
cest gifts 5 may heavenly wisdom illuminate your
mind. May heavenly goodness fill and enlarge
your breast. May your feet rest upon the rock of
justice; from your hands may streams of benifi-
cence continually issue, and round your head may
there beboundacirclemadesplendid by the rays of
honor, and late, very late in life, may you be trans¬
lated from the fading honors of an earthly lodge,
to the mansions prepared for the faithful in a bet¬
ter world.
Let me congratulate you, my brethren, on the
election of our Grand Master As it is his agreea¬
bly to the rules of our institution to command, so is
it ours to obey. Look to the sun, and behold the
planetary world revolving around him in continual
order, with the happiest effect, and learn to imitate
their regularity, in the hope of obtaining from the
chair of Solomon, the light of wisdom, and the
warmth of love. Or look higher still, and
Ancient ceremonies.
243
behold the angels, those sister spirits, cheru¬
bim and seraphim, who are exhibited to us in the
oracles of revelation, as flaming spirits, burning
with heat in their Heavenly Grand Master's ser*
vice, and with love to his person, and to each other;
they arc styled ministering spirits, from the part
they take in exercising their kind offices to man, in
relieving their wants, securing them from danger,
and making their lives more comfortable.
Of them, let us learn to raise our affections to the
Great Father of all, the Supreme Grand Master of
the universe, and thence descending, expand the
heart from brother to brother, and to all mankind.
Of them let us learn never to be weary in well do¬
ing, but to " mourn with them that mourn, and re¬
joice with them that rejoice," until having finished
our work on earth, we shall be admitted to the
temple of love, « not made with hands eternal in
the heavens."
The ceremony concludes with the following
benediction.
May the Supreme Architect of the universe, shed
his blessing abundantly upon this society; enable
his servant, now raised to the office of Grand Mas¬
ter over our Lodges, to discharge the duties of his
important trust, to the honor of his holy name, and
to the credit of this ancient society.
CHAPTER XIII.
Ceremony of laying the Foundation Stone of Pub¬
lic Buildings.
The ceremony is conducted by the Grand Mas¬
ter and his officers, assisted by the members of the
Grand Lodge, and such officers and members of
private Lodges as can conveniently attend. The
chief magistrates and other civil officers of the
place where the building is to be erected, also
generally attend on the occasion.
At the time appointed, the Grand Lodge is con¬
vened in some suitable place, approved by the
Grand Master. A band of martial music is provi¬
ded, and the brethren appear in the insignia of their
order. The Lodge is opened by the Grand Mas¬
ter, and the rules for regulating the procession to
and from the place where the ceremony is to be
performed, are read by the Grand Secretary. The
necessary cautions are given from the chair, and
the Lodge is adjourned; after which the proces¬
sion sets out in the following order:
Two Tylers with drawn Swords;
Tylers of the oldest lodges, with drawn Swords ;
Two Stewards of the oldest Lodge
with white rods 5
Entered Apprentices;
ANCIENT CEREMONIES*
243
Fellow Crafts;
Master Masons 5
Stewards;
Junior Deacons;
Senior Deacons;
Secretaries;
Treasurers 5
Past Wardens 5
Junior Wardens;
Senior Wardens ;
Past Masters;
Royal Arch Masons;
Knights Templars;
Masters;
Music.
Grand Lodge,
Grand Tyler with drawn Sword;
Grand Stewards with white rods;
A brother with a golden vessel containing corn;
Two brethren with silver vessels, one containing
wine, and the other oil;
Principal Architect with Square, Level and Plumb;
Grand Secretary and Treasurer;
.Bible, Square and Compass, carried by a Master
of a Lodge supported by two Stewards ;
Grand Chaplain;
The five orders 5
Past Grand Wardens;
Past Deputy Grand Masters;
Past Grand Masters;
[Two large lights, borne by two Masters of Lodges 5
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
Grand Wardens;
One large light borne by a Master of a Lodge ;
Deputy Grand Master ;
Master of the oldest Lodge, bearing the Book of
Constitutions on a velvet Cushion;
Grand Deacons, with black rods, on a line
seven feet apart;
Grand Master ;
Grand Sword bearer, with a drawn Sword;
Two Stewards with white rods.
A triumphal arch is usually erected at the place
where the ceremony is to be performed.
The procession passes through the arch, and the
brethren repairing to their stands, the Grand Mas¬
ter and his officers take their places on a tempora¬
ry platform, covered with a carpet. An Ode on
Masonry is sung. The Grand Master commands
silence, and the necessary preparations are made
for laying the stone, in which is placed a copper
plate, engraved with the year of Masonry, the
name and titles of the Grand Master, &c. &c.
The stone is raised up by means of an engine
erected fqr that purpose, and the Grand Chaplain
repeats a short prayer. The Grand Treasurer
then, by the Grand Master's commaud, places un¬
der the stone various sorts of coin and medals of
the present age. Solemn music is introduced, and
the stone let down in its place. The principal
architect then presents the working tools to the
Grand Master, who applies the plumbf square, and
level to the stone, in their proper positions, and pro¬
nounces it to be « well formed, truv and trusty.
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
247
Tlie gold and silver vessels are next brought to
the table and delivered; the former to the Deputy
Grand Master, and the latter to the Grand War¬
dens, who successively present them to the Grand
Master; and he, according to ancient ceremony,
pours the corn, wine and oil, which they contain,
on the stone, saying;
" May the all bounteous author of nature bless
the inhabitants of this place, with all the necessa¬
ries, comforts and conveniences of life; assist in
the erection and completion of this building; pro¬
tect the workmen against every accident, and long
preserve the structure from decay ; and grant to us
all, in needed supply, the corn of nourishment, th©
wine of refreshment and the oil of joy."—Amen*
So mote it be!—Amen i
He then strikes the stone thrice with the mallet,
and the public honors of Masonry are given.
The Grand Master then delivers over to the
architect, the various implements of architecture,
entrusting him with the superintendance and di¬
rection of the work; after which he ascends the
platform, and an oration suitable to the occasion, is
delivered.
An ode in honor of Masonry concludes the cere¬
mony. ; The procession returns to the place
whence it set out, and the Lodge is closed.
Obe.
When first eternal justice bade
Life's varied ills untempered flow,
'Twas then Almighty goodness said,
248
ANCIENT CEREMONIES,
Qo Pity, cheer the realms of woe.
Go mild compassion, go charity and love*
Tell man there's mercy yet above.
Scarce fled from heaven the high behest*
That whelm'd in light the smiling earth,
Ere wide creation doubly blest,
Hail'd Masonry's propitious birth.
With strains majestic, ye Masons lift the skies,
Let grateful hallelujah's rise.
Hail Royal art! in humble zeal,
The Mason greets thy glad'ning sway ;
5Tis thine to teach his heart to feel,
And thine to bid his hand obey.
'Twas wisdom fashioned,'twas strength thy temple rais'd,
And beauty o'er the fabric blazed.
Sweet charity, whose soothing art,
Can bid e'en apathy adore,
Can sweep the chords of every heart,
Primeval harmony restore.
Come lovely sister, come smooth lifes rugged way.
And lead our souls to realms of day1.
CHAPTER XlT.
Ceremony at the Dedication of Mason9$ Halts.
On the day appointed for the celebration of the
ceremony of dedication, the Grand Master and
liis officers accompanied by the' members of the
Grand Lodge, meet in a room near place where th$
ceremony is to be performed, and the Grand Lodge
is opened in ample form, in the three first degrees
of Masonry.
The Master of the Lodge to which the Hall to
be dedicated belongs, being present, rises and ad¬
dresses the Grand Master, as follows :
"Most Worshipful—The brethren of ■
Lodge being animated with the desire of promo¬
ting the honor and interest of the craft, have, at
great pains and expence, erected a Masonic Hall,
for their convenience and accommodation. They
are now desirous that the same should be examin¬
ed by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge; and if
it should meet their approbation, that it should be
solemnly dedicated to Masonic purposes, agreeably
to ancient form."
The Grand Master then directs the Grand Sec¬
retary to read the order of procession, which is de¬
livered over to the Grand Marshal; and a general
charge respecting propriety of behaviour is given.
A grand procession is then formed in the order
&)G ANCIENT CEltEMONlESf.
laid down in the preceding chapter. The whole
inove to the Hall which is to be dedicated, and up¬
on the arrival of the front of the procession at the
door, they halt, open to the right and left, and face
inward, while the Grand Master and others in suc¬
cession pass through and enter. The music contin¬
ues While the procession marchek three times round
the Hall.
The Lodge is then placed in the centre ,* and the
Grand Master having taken the chair, under a cano¬
py of state, the Grand officers, and the Masters and
Wardens of the Lodges repair to the places previ¬
ously prepared for their reception ; the three lights
and the gold and silver pitchers, with the corn*
wine and'oil, are placed round the lodge, at the
head of which stands the pedestal, with the Bible
open, and the square and compass laid thereon,
with the constitution roll on a crimson velvet cush¬
ion. Matters being thus arranged, an anthem or
hymn is sung, and an oration on Masonry, deli¬
vered,
Hymn.
Supreme Grand Master! most sublime!
High thron'd in Glory's radiant clime ;
Behold thy sons on bended knee,
Conven'd 0 God ! to worship thee !
And as 'tis thine, with open ear,
The suppliant voice of prayer to hear.
Grant thou, 0 Lord, this one request,
Let Mason's be, in blessing, blest.
O give the craft, from pole to pole,
The feeliDg heart, the pitying soul,
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
251
The generous bresst, the lib'ral hand,
Compassion's balm, and mercy's band.
With charity that pours around,
The wine and oil on mis'rys wound j
And heals the widow's, orphan's heart,
Deep pierced by sorrow's venom'd dart.
Then to thy throne the craft shall raise
One deathless song of grateful praise ;
And, Masons, men, in chorus join,
To hymn the power of love divine.
That love supreme, thy love, O God :
Which beav'n itselt shall pour abroad j
Till light, life, peace, adorn the vale,
And angels, men, pronounce—all hail!
The architect addresses the Grand Master, as
follows;
(i Most Worshipful—Having heen entrusted
with the superintendance and management of the
workmen employed in the construction of this edi¬
fice ; and having accomplished the task assigned
me, to the best of ray ability ; I now return my
thanks for the honor of this appointment, and beg
leave to surrender the implements wlriph were com¬
mitted to my care, when the foundation of this fab-
bric was laid, humbly hoping, that the exertions
which have been made on this occasion, will be
crowned with your approbation, and that of the
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge."
To which the Grand Master makes the follow-
jjig reply:
" Brother Architect—'■The skill and fidelL
252
ancient ceremonies.
ty displayed in the execution of the trust reposed
in you, at the commencement of this undertaking,
liave secured the entire approbation of the Grand
Lodge 5 and they sincerely pray, that this edifice
may continue a lasting monument of the taste, spir¬
it and liberality of its founders."
An ode or anthem, in honor of Masonry, is sung,
accompanied with instrumental music,
Anthem.
" Let there be light," the Almighty spoke,
Refulgent streams from chaos broke,
To illume the rising earth !
Well pleas'd the great Jehovah stood,
The power Supreme pronounc'd it good,
And gave the planets birth !
In choral numbers masons join;
To bless and praise this light divine.
Parent of light! accept our praise
Who shed'st o'er us thy brightest rays,
The light that fills our mind;
By choice selected, lo! we stand;
By friendship join'd; a social band !
That love, that aid mankind !
In choral numbers, &c.
The widow's tear, the orphan's cry,
All wants our hands with speed supply,
As far as power is given !
The naked clothe, the prisoner free,
These are thy works, sweet charity 1
Reveal'd to us from Heaven !
In choral numbers Masons join.
To bless and praise this light divine.
Tlie Deputy Grand Master then rises and says:
ancient ceremonies. 253
« Most "Worshipful—The Hall in which we
are assembled, and the plan upon which it has
been constructed haying met your approbation, it
Is the desire of the fraternity that it should now ba
dedicated according to ancient form and usage."
Whereupon the Grand Master requests all to
retire but such as are Master Masons. A proces¬
sion is then formed in the following order:
Grand Sword Bearer;
A Past Master with a light;
A Past Master with the Bible, Square and
Compass on a velvet cushion ;
Two Past Masters, each with a light ;
Grand Secretary and Treasurer, each with emblems ;
Grand Junior Warden, with pitcher of corn;
Grand Senior Warden, with pitcher of wine;
Deputy Grand Master, with pitcher of oil;
Grand Master ;
Two Stewards with rods.
All the other brethren keep their places, and as¬
sist in performing the following hymn, which con¬
tinues during the procession, except at the intervals
of dedication.
Master Supreme, accept our praise.
Still bless this consecrated band ;
Parent of light illume our ways,
And guide us by thy sovereign hand.
May Faith, Hope, Charity divine,
Here hold their undivided reign;
Friendship and harmony combine
To sooth our cares, to banish pain.
w
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
May wisdom here disciples find,
Beauty unfold her thousand charms,
Science invigorate the mind,
Expand the soul that virtue warms.
May pity dwell within each breast.
Relief attend the suffering poor,
Thousands by this Lodge be blest,
Till worth distrest shall want no more.
The Lodge is uncovered, and the first proces¬
sion being made round it, the Junior Grand War¬
den presents the pitcher of corn to the Grand Mas¬
ter, who pours it upon the lodge, at the same time
pronouncing,
icIn the name of the great Jehovah, to whom be
all honour and glory, I do solemnly dedicate this
Hall to Masonry.
The grand honors are given.
The second procession is then made round the
Lodge, and the Grand Senior Warden presents the
pitcher of wine to the Grand Master, who sprinkles
it upon the Lodge, at the same time saying,
u In the name of the Holy Saint Johns, I do so¬
lemnly dedicate this Hall to Yjrtue."
The grand honors are thrice repeated.
The third procession is then made round the
Lodge, and the Deputy Grand Master presents
the pitcher of oil to the Grand Master, who sprink¬
les it upon the Lodge, saying,
" In the name of the whole Fraternity, I do so¬
lemnly dedicate this Hall to Universal Benevo¬
lence."
The grand honors are thrice repeated.
A Solemn invocation is made to Heaven by the
ancient ceremonies.
255
Grand Chaplain, and an anthem or hymn sung;
after which the Lodge is covered and the Grand
Master retires to his chair. An oration is then de¬
livered, and the ceremonies conclude with.music.
The Grand Lodge is then closed in ample form in
the several degrees.
Hymn.
Unto thee, Great God, belong,
Mystic rites and sacred song t
Lowly bending at thy shrine,
We hail thy majesty divine 1
Glorious architect above,
Source of light and source of love.
Here thy light and love prevail,—
Hail! Almighty Master, hail;
Whilst in yonder regions bright,
The sun by day, the moon by night,
And stars that gild the sky,
Blazon forth thy praise on high;
Join, O Earth, and as you roll,
From East to West, from pole to pole,
Lift to Heav'n your grateful lays,
Join the universal praise.
Warm'd by thy benignant grace,
Sweet Friendship link'd the humail race >
Pity lodged within her breast,
Charity became her guest;
There the naked, raiment found $
Sickness, balsam for its wound;
Sorrow, comfort} hunger, bread;
Strangers there, a welcome shed.
Still to us, 0 God, dispense
Thy divine benevolence!
356
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
Teach the tender tear to flow,
Melting at a brother's woe I
Like Samaria's Son, that we
Blest with boundless charity,
To th' admiring world may prove.,
They dwell in God, who dwell in Love,
CHAPTER XT.
The Anniversaries of St. John the Babtist and
St. John the Evangelist.
Ia almost every age and country, mankind haVe
observed stated anniversaries and festivals. The
Greeks had their Olympic games, the Romans
their Saturnalia, their sacred, votive and funeral
games, and modern nations have Set apart certain
days for the celebration of important events. Be¬
fore the knowledge of letters became general among
men, this custom was necessary to preserve the re¬
collection of eventful periods in the hisiory of na¬
tions ; and although the knowledge of letters, by
means of the art of printing, is now widely diffu¬
sed, and has, in a great degree, rendered unneces¬
sary such celebrations, yet, when kept within rea¬
sonable limits, they are of service to refinement,
knowledge and virtue. The concourse of indivi¬
duals collected oil such occasions, mingle their
sympathies, and glow with one general sentiment;
even religion catches a new inspiration when mul¬
titudes are pouring out their thanks givings and
praise to the Lord of Heaven and Earth.
In conformity with a custom which they consi-<
der laudable, Freemasons commemorate the anni¬
versaries of St. John the Babtist and St. John the
^Evangelist 5 the one the forerunner, the other he-
TV 2
25S
ANCIENT CEREMONIES
loved disciple of the Prince of Peace. If they*
"were not actually initiated into the mysteries of the
craft, they were at least distinguished patrons o^
the order, and hence they occupy a conspicuous
place in the annals of the institution. They were
holy and inspired men, whose virtues were so ex¬
emplary, so honorable to themselves, so useful to
mankind, and so acceptable to God, that they
should be held in grateful remembrance, anil their
lives exhibited as lamps to the path of erring man.
On each anniversary, the members of the Lodge
and such visitors as think proper to attend, assem¬
ble at the Lodge room; the Lodge is opened in the
first degree of Masonry, and the prefaratory busi¬
ness being attended to, a procession is formed in
the following order :
Tyler with drawn Sword;
Music.
Two Stewards with white rods ;
Entered Apprentices;
Fellow Crafts;
Master Masons;
Senior and Junior Wardens;
Secretary and Treasurer;
Senior and Junior Deacons ;
Past Masters;
Most Excellent Masters;
Doyal Arch Masons;
Holy Bible,
carried by the oldest Master Mason ;
Master.
The procession then moves to the church, or
yANCIENT CKREMONJE&
259
house appointed for the public services^ which they
enter in inverted order.
The services commence by singing the following
Psalm.
Psalm cxxxiii.
Lo ! what an entertaining sight,
Are brethren who agree;
Brethren, whose cheerful hearts unite,
In bands of piety.
Tis like the oil divinely sweet,
On Aaron's reverend head ;
The trickling drops perfum'd his feet,
And o'er his garments spread,
'Tis pleasant as the morning dews,
That fall on Zion's bill,
"Where God his mildest glory shews,
And makes his grace distil.
The Chaplain delivers the following or some
other suitable prayer:
" "We lift up our hearts to thee, great and ador.-,
able God! Almighty Architect and Parent of the
world ! We implore upon this, and all our lau¬
dable undertakings, thy favor, thy blessing and thy
aid; without which, vain and fruitless are all the
efforts of feeble man ! It is from Thee, benificent
founder of our frame, that we have received the
heart to feel; the hand to labour; the eye to be¬
hold ; the ear to hear; the tongue to proclaim;
and all the faculties which make us susceptible of
moral, and partakers of natural good! Teach us,
£60 ancient Ceremonies.
then, to delight in them, to improve them as thy
blessing, and through the beauty, order and excel¬
lence of created tilings, to view, contemplate and
adore thy uncreated excellence and beauty ! We
look up to thee, to inspire us with understanding,
with science, with virtue, with all that can dignify,
refine, and exalt our nature, and render us worthy
to inhabit thy holy temple, not made with hands,
eternal in the heavens. Direct us to make the
blessed volume of thy instructive wisdom, the nev¬
er-erring square to regulate our conduct; the com¬
pass within whose circle we shall walk with safety
and with peace *9 the infallible plumbline of recti¬
tude and truth. Enable us, O Lord, to fill up ev¬
ery sphere of duty with exactness and honor, and
by amiable attention to all the sweet and blessed
offices, the endearing charities of social life in par¬
ticular ; teach us to win the love of those who unite
with us in those tender offices, as faithful fathers,
husbands, friends—^as worthy men and as worthy
masons, to distinguish and exalt the profession
which we boast.
Enable us to imitate in Out lives and conduct,,
"in our walk and conversation, thai; holy man whose
tnemory We have this day met to celebrate. And
while through thy bounty, rich dispenser of every
blessing! our cups overflow with plenty, and corn,
Wine and oil, delight and elieer our boards;
may we never be wanting in gratitude and thanks¬
givings td thee; in liberal sentiments and succottr
towards every laudable undertaking; in the quick¬
est sensibility and readiest relief we can give to the
woes and distresses of our fellow creatures; ofe?-
ANCIENT CEBEMOXIE&
261
cry being who bears thy image, and looks up to thy
Providence, who is fed by thy hand, and hopes for
thy mercy! And to thy great and exalted name,
sovereign Lord of the universe ! we would unite in
ascribing praise, glory and dominion, now and for¬
ever.—Amen I
" So mote it be !
llvitN.
On wings of harmony upborne,
Wide flew the eiulting sound;
Auspicious beamed the festal morn,
That call'd the tribes around.
To Salem's favor'd towers and plaint.
The bands fraternal move;
Her shores repeat the solemn strains,
That swell to peace and love.
Far o'er these plains the admiring eyes,"
See opulence spread wide 2
While toil its best exertion plie%
To o'erarch the fluent tide.
On the fair work now science beams-
Descending powers approve ;
We waft across the honor'd streams,
The streams of peace and love.
An oration on Masonry, or a sermon, suited t#
the occasion, is then delivered, after which the foL
lowing, or some other hymn is sung:
" Let there be light," Jehovah said,
And nature sprang to birth ;
Darkness before his presence fled,
And beauty crown'd the earth.
j&ClEKT CEREMONIES,
Man, by his word from dust he form'd*
And woman from his side;
Their souls with fire etherial warm'd,
To heaven's dread king allied.
But 6oon the gloom of sin overspread.
The lustre of the mind ;
fto light the lamp of reason shed,
And man again was blind.
His walk was darkness, and despair
Upon his spirit prey'd,
Weary and worn with aching care*
Along life's waste he stray'd»
The Eternal saw—" Let there be light,",
Again in heaven was heard ;
And lo! man's weak, bewilder'd sight,
The Star of BethVem cheer'd.
The Sun of Righteousness, his beams
Upon the spirit shed ;
The sleep of sin, and error's dream
Were o'er, when Jesus bled.
The service then concludes hy prayer, and thf
brethren return in the same order*
CHAPTER XVI,
The Funeral Service.
The practice of interring the dead with some so¬
lemnity, is general. amongst all nations, whether
Savage and ignorant, or civilized and enlighten-?
ed. It affords an opportunity for the happy recol¬
lection of the virtues of the decease*!, as well as of
giving a public testimony of the estimation in which
they were held. The ceremonies observed on such
occasions, are different |n different nations and in
different societies.
No Mason can be interred with the formalities
of the order, unless it be by his own special request*
communicated to the master of the Lodge of which
he died a member, foreigners and sojourners excep¬
ted ; nor unless he has been raised to the third de¬
gree of Masonry 5 and from this restriction there
can be no exception. Fellow crafts, or apprenti¬
ces, are not entitled to funeral obsequies, nor to at¬
tend the masonic processions on such occasions.*
The master of a lodge having received notice of
a Master Mason's death, and his request to be in-
* It is now generally admitted, that officers of a Lodge,
or members whose zeal in the cause of masonry have afforded
reason to believe, that had they foreseen the certainty of
death, they would have requested a masonic burial, may be
interred with the formalities of the order.
8G4
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
terred With the ceremonies of the order, fixes the day
and hour for the funeral, and issues his command
to summon the Lodge. He may invite as many
Lodges as he thinks proper, and the members of
those Lodges may accompany their offices in form;
but the whole ceremony must be under the direc¬
tion of the master of the Lodge to which the decea¬
sed belonged, (unless the Grand or Deputy Grand
Master is present, and exercises his authority,)
and he and his officers must be duly honored and
cheerfully obeyed on the occasion. But in case
the deceased was not a member of either of the at¬
tending lodges, the procession and ceremony must
be under the direction of the master of the oldest
Lodge.
All the brethren who appear in procession, should
observe, as much as possible, an uniformity in their
dress. Decent mourning, with white gloves and
aprons, is most suitable.
The brethren being assembled in the Lodge
room, (or some other convenient place) the presi¬
ding officer opens the Lodge; and having stated
the purpose of the meeting, the service begins.
Master. " What man is he that liveth, and
shall not see death ? shall he deliver his soul from
the hand of the grave ?"
Response. " Man walketh in a vain shadow ;
he lieapeth up riches, and cannot tell who shall
gather them."
Master. " When he dieth he shall carry noth¬
ing away; his glory shall not descend after him."
Response. *' Naked he came into the world,
and naked must he return."
ancient ceremonies,
£65
Master. " The Lord gave, and the Lord ta-
keth away; blessed be the name of the Lord."
The grand honors are then given, and certain
forms used, which cannot here be explained. The
master throws flowers over the corpse, whilst the
following psalm is sung;
90. Psalm, l. m.
Through every age, eternal God,
Thou art our rest, our safe abode;
IJigh was thy throne e'er heaven was made,
.Or earth thy humble footstool laid.
Long hadst thou reign'd e'er time began,
Or dust .was tashioned into, man;
And long thy kingdom shall endure,
When earth and time shall be no more.
But man, weak man, is born to die,
Made up of guilt and vanity;
Thy dreadful sentence, Lord, was just,
" Return, ye sinners, to your djist."
Death like an overflowing stream,
Sweeps us away; our life's a dream;
An empty tale; a morning, flower,
jCut down and wither'd in an hour.
The master then, taking the sacred roll9 in his
hand,says:
" Let us die the death of the righteous, and let
our last eud be like his!"
The Brethren answer:—a God is our God for¬
ever and ever 5 he will be our guide even unto
death."
H
266
ancient ceeem©nies.
The master then records the name and age of
the deceased upon the roll, and says:
" Almighty Father 1 into thy hands we com¬
mend the soul of our loving brother.*'
The brethren answer three times, (give the grand
honors each time,)
" The will of God is accomplished I So be it l'?
The master then deposits the roll in the archives
and the following prayer is repeated by him, or
the Chaplain,
u Most Glorious God t author of all good, and
giver of all mercy! pour down thy blessings upon
us, and strengthen our solemn engagements with
the ties of sincere affection! Alay the present in¬
stance of mortality remind us of our approaching
fate, and draw our attention towards thee, our only
yefuge in time of need! that when the awful mo¬
ment shall arrive, that wre are about to quit this
transitory scene, the enlivening prospect of thy
mercy may dispel the gloom of death; and after
pur departure hence, in peace and in thy fav our, we
may be received into thine everlasting kingdom, to
enjoy in union with the souls of our departed friends,
the just reward of a pious and virtuous life. Amen!
Response— 80 mote it be!"
The following, or some uther suitable hymn be¬
ing sung, the coffin is closed.
Hymn. c. m.
Not from the dust affliction grows,
Nor troubles rise by chance
ancient ceremonies.
Yet we are born to cares and woes;
A sad inheritance!
As sparks break Out from burning coals,
And still are upwards borne;
So grief is rooted in our souls,
And man grows up to mourn.
Yet with my God, 1 leave my cause,
And trust his promis'd grace j
He rules me by his well known laws
Of love and righteousness.
Not all the pains that e'er I bore,
Shall spoil my future peace;
For death and hell can do no more
Than what my Father please.
A procession is then formed, which moves
the house of the deceased, and from thence to the
place of interment. The different Lodges rank ac¬
cording to seniority, except that the Lodge of which,
the deceased was a member, or has charge of the
ceremony, walks nearest the corpse. Each lodge
forms one division, and the following order is ob¬
served :
Tyler with drawn Sword %
Stewards with white rods ;
Musicians, (if they are Masons, otherwise they
follow the Tyler;
Master Masons ;
Senior and Junior Deacons ;
Secretary and Treasurer;
Senior and Junior Wardens;
irast Masters;
£6s ancient ceremonies?
Royal Arch Masons;
The Holy Writings, on a cushion covered with
hlack cloth, carried by the
oldest member of the
Lodge;
The Master.
Clergy 5
Thejbody with the insignia placed upon
the Coffin, and two Swords
crossed.
The brethren are not to desert their ranks, or
change places, but keep their different departments.
When the procession arrives at the place of inter*
taent, the members of the Lodge form a circle
round the grave, and the Clergy and officers of the
Lodge taking their station at the head, the mourn¬
ers at the foot, the service is resumed, when the fol¬
lowing dirge may be sung:
Solemn Strikes the tuneral chime,
Notes of our departing time,
As we journey here below,
Thro' a pilgrimage of woe
Mortals now indulge a tear,
For mortality is here,
See how wide her trophies wave,
O'er the slumbers of the grave !
Here another guest we bring!
Seraphs of celestial wing,
To our funeral altar come,
Waft a friend and brother home
Ood of life's eternal day !
ancient ceremonies,
Guide us, lest from thee we stray,
By a false obtrusive light,
To the shades of endless night.
Lord of all below, above,
Fill our souls with truth and love j
And when dissolv'd's our earthly tie,
Take us to thy Lodge on high.
The following exhortation is then given by the
Master.
" Brethren—Here we view another instance
of the uncertainty of life, and the vanity of all hu¬
man pursuits. The last offices paid to the dead
are only useful as lectures to the living; from them
we are to derive instruction, and consider every
solemnity of this kind, as a summons to prepare
for our approaching dissolution.
Notwithstanding the various mementos of mor¬
tality with which we daily meet; notwithstanding
death has established his empire over all the works
of nature 5 yet through some unaccountable infatu¬
ation we forget that we are born to die; we go on
from one design to another, add hope to hope, and
lay out plans for the employment of many years,
till we are suddenly alarmed at the approach of
death, when we least expect him, and at an hour
which we probably conclude to be the meridian of
our existance.
" What are all the externals of majesty, the
pride of wealth, or charms of beauty, when nature
has paid her last, just debt? Fix your eyes on
the last scene, and view life stript of her ornaments,
and exposed in her natural meannessyon will
£7(1 ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
then be convinced of the futility of those empty del¬
usions.
" When we contemplate this narrow house, now
occupied by the body of our brother, we feel a mo¬
mentary contraction of the heart, a mournful pre¬
sage, that here too, the evening of our days will
soon be closed, and the tear of affection that trem¬
bles to day on another's tomb, may soon be trans¬
ferred to the place we shall inhabit. These be_
come strong incentives to a well regulated life, and
when the whispers of conscience plead in vain to
our unsubdued passions, the grave, that universal
monitor, informs us this must be their final consum¬
mation.
" While we drop the sympathetic tear over the
grave of our departed friend and brother, let chari¬
ty incline us to throw a veil over his foibles, what¬
ever they may have been, and not withhold from
his memory the praise which his virtues may have
claimed. Suffer the apologies of human nature to
plead in his behalf. Perfection on earth has nev¬
er been attained ; the wisest as well as the best of
pien have erred.
u Let the present example excite our most seri¬
ous thoughts, and strengthen our resolutions of
amendment. As life is uncertain, and all earthly
pursuits are vain, let us no longer postpone the im¬
portant concern of preparing for eternity; but em¬
brace the happy moment, while time and opportu¬
nity offer, to provide against that great change,
when all the pleasures of this world shall cease to
delight, and the reflection of a virtuous life, yield
t!.- 1/ c"at coraql.i'ion. TLus cur cx*
ANCIENT CERBMONIE&,'
271
pectations will not be frustrated, nor we hurried
unprepared into the presence of an all wise and pow¬
erful Judge, to whom the secrets of all hearts are
known.
(i Let us, then, while in this state of existence,,
support with propriety the character of our profes¬
sion, advert to the nature of our solemn ties, and
pursue with assiduity the sacred tenets of our or¬
der. Then, with becoming reverence, let us sup¬
plicate the Divine Grace, to ensure the favor of that
Eternal Being, whose goodness and power know
no bounds ; that when the awful moment shall ar¬
rive, be it soon or late, we may be enabled to pros¬
ecute our journey without dread or apprehension^
to that distant country, from whose bourne, no tra-
veller returns-"
The following invocations are then made :
Master. " May we be true and faithful j an&
may we live and die in love I"
Response, So mote it bef
Master, " May we profess what is good, au&
always act agreeably to our profession.'*
Response. So mote it be I.
Master. " May the Lord bless and prosper us;
and may all our good intentions be crowned with
success."
Response. So mote it be.
Master. Glory be to God on high! on earth,1
peace! and good will towards men!
Response. So mote it be,now, from henceforth/
iind forever more."
Whilst the following hymn is sung, the bretlv
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
ien move in procession tlirice round the grave, and
severally drop a sprig of evergreen into it, accom¬
panied with the usual honors, repeating each time,
46 The will of God is accomplished—so be it i
Hymn. c» m.
Hark! from the tomb a doleful sound!
Mine ears, attend the cry—
ix Ye living men come view the ground
Where you must shortly lie.
'• Princes, this clay must be your bedi
In spite of all your towers;
The tall, the wise, the rev'rend head,
Must lie as low as ours."
Great God, is this our certain doom ?
And are we still secure ?
Still walking downward to the tomb,
And yet prepar'd no more ?
Grant us the powers of quick'ning grace;
To<itour souls to fly ;
Then, when we drop this dying flesh
We'll rise above the sky.
The master then concludes the ceremony at the
grave in the following words :
(i From time immemorial, it has been the cus¬
tom among the fraternity of Free and Accepted
Masons, at the request of a brother, to accompany
bis corpse to the plaee of interment, and there de¬
posit his remains with the usual formalities.
44 In conformity with this usage, and at the spe¬
cial request of our deceased brother, whose memo¬
ry we revere, and whose loss we now deplore, wo
ANCIENT CEREMONIES.
273
have assembled in the character of masons, to re¬
sign his body to the earth whence it came, and ta
oiler np before the world, the last tribute of our af¬
fection ; thereby demonstrating the sincerity of our
past esteem, and our steady attachment to the prin¬
ciples of our order.
" The Great Creator having been pleased, out
•f his mercy, to remove our brother from the cares
and troubles of a transitory state of existence, to %
state of eternal duration, and thereby to weaken the
chain, by which we are united, man to man; may
we who survive him, anticipate our approaching
fate, and be more strongly cemented in the ties of
union and friendship ; that, during the short space
allotted to our present existance, we may wisely
and usefully employ our time; and, in the recipro¬
cal intercourse of kind and friendly acts, mutually
promote the welfare and happiness of each other.
" Unto the grave we resign the body of our de¬
ceased friend, there to remain until the general re¬
surrection, in favorable expectation, that his immor¬
tal soul may then partake of joys which have been,
prepared for the righteous from the beginning of
the world. And may Almighty God, of his infi¬
nite goodness, at the grand tribunal of unbiassed
justice, extend his mercy towards him, and all of
us, and crown our hope with everlasting bliss, ia
the expanded realms of a boundless eternity! This
we beg for the honor of his name, to whom be glo¬
ry, now and forever.—Amen !
Response.—So mote it be.
The Master then throws a shovel full of earth
into the grave, repeating,
£t4 AkciENT CEREMONIES.
"The dust shall return to earth as it was, anil
the spirit unto God who gave it."
The grave is then filled up, and the procession
returns in form to the place whence it set out,
where the necessary duties are complied
with and the business of Masoury resumed*
The insignia and ornaments of the deceased, if an
officer of the Lodge are returned to the master, and
the Lodge closed.
NOTES.
1. The ancient ceremonies are considered as properly be¬
longing to the degree of Past Master; but as they are al¬
ways performed by Lodges ot Master Masons, 1 have pre¬
ferred placing them immediately after that degree.
2. If a Past or Present Grand Master, Deputy Grand Mas¬
ter, or Grand Warden, should join in the procession of a
private Lodge, they are to be treated with that attention
which is due to their respective stations. They take place
immediately after the Master of the Lodge. Two Deacons
With Rods, one on the right and one on the left, attend a
Grand Master; and when a Grand Master or Deputy
Grand Master is present, the Book ot Constitutions is borne
before him, a sword bearer follows him, and the Deacons are
placed on his right and left, at an angular distance of five
feet.
3. Marshals are to walk or ride on the left of the proces¬
sion.
4. On entering public buildings,the Bible, square and com¬
pass, book of constilutions, &c. are placed before the Grand
Master. The Grand Marshal and Grand Deacons keep near
him.
5. AH officers in processions, should wear the badges of
their office.
ANCIENT CEREMONIES
27&
6. "When two or more Lodges walk in procession they
form in one bodjj or in seperate Lodges. If seperately* the
youngest Lodge takes,, precedence.
CHAPTER XVII.
(PRATERS TO BE USED OTf DIFFERENT OCCASIONS
Prayer at opening a Lodge.
Father of light, of life and of love ! Supreme
Architect and ruler of Heaven and Earth i Infinite¬
ly glorious God! Thou at the beginning, willing
to communicate happiness, and establish beauty,
order and harmony, didst, from the womb of
thine own awful eternity, give birth to time; and,
commanding the jarring elements of matter to cease
their strife, didst marshal them into a universe com¬
plete ! Then, while the heavenly hierarchies, with
voice and harp, sung the loud anthem of joy, thou,
didst crown thy glorious work by breathing the
jbreath of life into thine own image—man 1
Be thou with us at our present beginning and to
the end. In thy name we assemble, and in thy
jtame we desire to proceed in all our doings.'—
PRATERS.
277
Let the wisdom of thy blessed son, so subdue ev¬
ery discordant passion within us, so harmonize and
enrich our hearts with a portion of thine own love
and goodness, that the Lodge may be a sincere
though humble copy of that order, beauty and uni¬
ty which reign forever before thy heavenly throne,
We thankfully acknowledge that thou hast lov¬
ed us, 0 Lord, with an exceeding great love, and
hast chosen us out of every people and language.
Our fathers trusted in thee, and were not ashamed,
for thou didst teach them the statutes of life, that
they might do thy pleasure with perfect and wil¬
ling hearts. As thou didst unto them, so do thou
unto us; still remembering thy glorious promise,
i( that where two or three are gathered together in
thy name, thou wilt be in the midst of them."
By thus seeking and loving thee, and by loving
each other for thy sake, shall thy blessing and
peace be upon us from the four corners of the earth.
Thou shalt put understanding into our hearts, and
make us diligent to hear, to teach and to do, all the
wdrds of thy law. So shall we be built up a spir¬
itual Lodge, never to be shaken, but cleaving to
thy great name, and united to thee in love, and
praise and freedom of soul forever.—^Am en I
M the Initiation of a Clergyman.
"Othou! whose offspring we are! on the moun¬
tain of thy truth permit us to dwell with unspeak¬
able satisfaction, and with unquenchable zeal to
display thy glorious perfections. Behold us, w©
beseech thee, at this hour, leading a young son in-
PRAYERS.
to a knowledge and enjoyment of our rights and
benefits. Like the temple, erected in ancient ages
by Masons, and dedicated to thee, let him be beau¬
teous without and all glorious within. Let his
soul be furnished with unsearchable grace, and his
affections be pure as the serene heavens, when the
silent moon gives her light. Let him obey as the
sun, who labours until perfect day with increasing
strength; and let all the purposes of his heart be
as the stars, which tell of worlds unknown and are
notices of boundless benevolence. Let him move
like the heavenly orbs, in harmony, and while he
flies in the midst of heaven, may he preach thine
everlasting gospel to all nations.
Within this Lodge, may he be sacred as the al¬
tar, sweet as the insence, pure as the most holy
place. Among thy ministering servants, may he
be ready as an angel of God, and faithful as a be¬
loved son. And when his work is finished, may
his memory be celebrated by love, on the durable
monuments of eternity ; andd his reward, in the
solemn joys of heaven, be sure from the hand of
God, to whom be glory forever.—A*aen J
Frayer at the Constitution of a Lodge.
<eGreat, adorable and Supreme Being! we
praise thee for all thy mercies, and especially for
giving us desires to enjoy, and powers of enjoying
the delights of society. The affections which thou
hast implanted in us, and which we cannot destroy
without violence to our nature, are among the chief
blessings which thy benign wisdom has bestowedi
PRAYERS.
upon us. Help us to improve all our powers to
the promotion of thy glory in this world, and the
good of our fellow creatures.
Extend thy favour to us who are entering into a
fraternal compact under peculiar obligations. En¬
able us to be faithful to thee, faithful in our respec¬
tive callings in life, faithful Masons in all the du¬
ties of the craft, and faithful to each other as mem¬
bers of this society. Take us under thy special
protection $ and to thy service and glory may wa
consecrate our hearts. May we always put faith
in thee, have hope in salvation, and he in charity
with all mankind.—Amen I
Chapter xvm.
. The following Precepts are from the German. They can¬
not be otherwise than acceptable, for the excellent max¬
ims laid down for our government in the various duties of
life, whether as men, or as Masons.
I.—Duty towards God and Religion.
Thy first homage thou owest to the Deity. A-
6ore the Being of all Beings, of which thy heart
is full; which, however, thy confined intellects,
Can neither conceive nor describe.
Look down with pity upon the deplorable mad¬
ness of those that turn their eyes from the light,
and wander about in the darkness of accidental
events.
Deeply sensible of the parental benefactions of
God, and with a heart full of gratitude, reject with
contempt those shallow inferences, that prove noth¬
ing but how much human reason degrades itself
when it wanders from its original source.
Oft elevate thy heart above sublunary things, and
MASONIC PRECEPTS,
Cast thy eye with ardour towards those higher
spheres, which are thy inheritance.
Offer up iu sacrifice to the Most High, thy will
and thy wishes; strive to deserve his animating
influence, and obey the commands he has prescri¬
bed for thy terrestrial career.
Let it be thy only happiness to please thy God ;
let it be thy incessant endeavour, the incitement to
all thy actions, to effect an eternal union with him.
The sacred code is the foundation of all thy du¬
ties ; if thou didst not believe it, thou wouldst cease
to be a Freemason.
Let every action be distinguished by an enlight¬
ened piety, without bigotry or enthusiasm.
Religion does not consist of speculative truths ;
exert thyself in fulfilling alt those moral duties it:
prescribes, and then only thou shalt be happy; thy
contemporaries will bless thee, and with serenity
thou mayest appear before the throne of the Eter¬
nal.
Particularly thou shouldst be penetrated by the
feeling of benevolence and brotherly love, the fun¬
damental pillars of our sacred order.
Pity him who is in error, without beating or per¬
secuting him. Leave the judgment to God, but
do thou love and tolerate.
Masons! children of the same God! ye who
are already brethren through the universal faith,
bind closer the ties of brotherly love, and banish
forever all prejudice that might disturb our brother¬
ly union.
Y %
MASONIC PRECEPTS.
II.—Immortality of the Soul.
Man! King of the Earth! Master piece of the
creation! animated by the breath of God! be sens¬
ible of thy dignified destination.
The whole animal creation is subdued under thy
dominion; all that lives and moves about thee,
Ceases again to be; but thy soul survives the
il wreck of matter and the crush of worlds," and is,
by virtue of its divine origin incapable of being
destroyed.
In this consists thy true nobility. Feel thy hap¬
piness without arrogance; pride was the cause of
the degradation of man, it would certainly plunge
thee into the same abyss.
Degenerated being! What art thou in the pres¬
ence of the Eternal, with all the dignity originally
appropriated to thee, and still distinguishing thee
from other beings ?
Adore him, the Lord on high, in the utmost hu¬
mility, and take care that the heavenly immortal
essence, which animates thee, be not depraved.
This essence is thy soul; exert thyself in en¬
dowing it; it is capable of infinite perfections.
Make it so susceptible, so open to virtuous im¬
pressions, that, after thy dissolution, it may, with¬
out impediment, return to the pure and original
source of virtue.
So prepared, thou wilt be free in fetters ; serene
in misfortunes; the heaviest storm will not make
thee tremble, and with true heroism thou wilt ad¬
vance even to the face of death.
Mason! If ever thou couldst doubt the immor-
MASONIC PRECEPTS;
tal nature of thy soul, and its high destination, in
vain have we initiated thee. Thou wouldst not be
the adopted son, the darling of wisdom ; thou
wouldst step back, and mix again with the multi¬
tude of the profane rabble, who, like moles, crawl
in the dark.
III.—Duty towards thy Country.
Entertain reverence for the supreme power and
be faithful to it, in whatever corner of the world
thou hast fixed thy residence.
After the homage thou owestto God, the duties
"towards the state and country follow next.
Should man wander rude and unsociable about
woods and forests, he would be less inclined to an¬
swer the intentions of Providence, and to ensure
to himself all the good intended for him.
His being ennobles itself amongst his equals,
and the difference of opinions improves his genius.
But in society, were every one left to himself
the possession of property, and the unrestrained
passions would cause incessant quarrels, and cun¬
ning or power, would soon trample over innocence.
For this reason laws were necessary to regulate
jnankind, and rules to support and keep inviolate
those laws.
Sensible man ! thou honorest thy parents; hon¬
or the fathers of the state also, for they represent
the Deity.
If they err, they are accountable for it to the
Judge of Kings; but thy own, often very errone¬
ous judgment; cannot exempt thee from obedience.
S384
MASONIC PRECEPTS#
Pray to God for their preservation, and exert all
thy powers in favor of thy country.
Shouldst thou ever neglect this sacred duty}
shouldst thy heart not beat with joy at the prosper¬
ity of thy country, every Mason would turn tiiee
away as a disturber of public tranquility and order,
and an outcast that does not deserve to partake of
the prerogatives of a society, that has particular
claims upon the esteem and confidence of sovereign
power; because, animated with patriotism and zeal
to form the best citizens, she makes it an invaria¬
ble law for her pupils to fulfil all civil duties, in the
most distinguished manner, and from the purest
motives.
A Mason ought to be the most valiant warrior;
the most just judge; the kindest master; the ten*
derest father ; the most faithful husband; and the
most obedient son; for his duties as a citizen in
general, have been strengthened and rendered sa¬
cred by the voluntary Masonic obligation; and he,
if ever he should neglect them, not only would
shew a great want of fortitude, but also be guilty
of hypocrisy and perjury.
1Y.—Duties to mankind in general.
But should the compass of thy country, which
opens to thee such a fruitful and charming field,
still be too confined for thy benevolent activity;
should thy sensible heart wish to expand beyond
the limits of empires, and to embrace all nations
with tender feelings of humanity; shouldst thou,
reflecting on the universal pedigree, long to love
MASONIC PRECEPT?,
285
tenderly all those that are with thee of the same
shape, in the same need of benevolence 5 that have,
like thee, the same desire to make themselves use¬
ful, and an immortal soul, come then into our tem¬
ples and lay down thy offerings on the sacred al¬
tar of humanity.
The mother country of a mason, is the world j
within the circle of his compass is contained every
thing that concerns mankind.
Reflect with reverence on the majestic structure,
in which the ties of humanity and morality, too
much relaxed, are bound closer.
Love this universal alliance of virtuous soulsy
that were capable of elevating themselves above the
dust.
Thou wilt find it in every country where enlight¬
ened reason has forced its way, existing under the
sacred banner of humanity, and under the guide of
simple and uniform laws.
Re sensible of the sublime object of our order.j
let all thy difficulties, thy whole life, be consecrat¬
ed to benevolence and the happiness of mankind.
Cultivate incessantly thy moral perfection, and
effect the closest union w ith the Deity,
V.—Benevolence.
Reing created in the similitude of God, who in,
his mercy and immense bounty communicated him¬
self to man and expanded over them the abundance
of his blessings; strive assiduously, by making
mankind as happy as possible, to resemble that
£86
masonic precepts.
divine origiual. Thoil canst not imagine any tiling
that is good that is not an object of masonic activity.
Look down upon the helpless situation of infan¬
cy, it challenges thy assistance ; reflect on the sad
inexperience of youth, it demands thy good coun¬
sels.
Find thy happiness in protecting them against
errors and seductions, the common rocks of that
age. Awake in them the heavenly Are of genius*
and instruct them how to unfold it, for the benefit
of the world.
Every suffering being has a sacred claim on thy
assistance; take care not to deny it.
Do not wait till thy ears ring with the lamenta¬
tions of the miserable 5 affectionately anticipate the
Wants of the unfortunate, and inspire them with
courage.
Thou shalt not find thy reward for thy benefac¬
tions in the vain and loud applauses of the multi¬
tude ; a Mason will always find it in the silent and
secret testimony of his own heart, and the sacred
pleasure with which he is contemplated by the
Deity.
Has Providence granted thee abundance ? Let it
be far from thee to make an inconsiderate or shame¬
ful use of it.
God has given thee above thy wants, that thou
mayest cause those that have received a scanty lot
to feel less the inequality of the distribution of the
riches of the earth. Enjoy this glorious prerogative.
May the most abominable of all passions, ava¬
rice, never predominate over thee; may thy heaFfc
MASONIC PRECEPTS^
287
forever revolt against the worthless Calculations of
covetousness,
JBut should this melancholy vice creep over thee,
approach no more the temples of philanthropy; they
would ' i 110 charms for thee, and we could no
longer discover in thee the image of God.
Let religion, wisdom and prudence he the rule
of thy benefactions.
Instruct, advise, intercede; be charitable; con¬
sole according to the exigency of circumstances.
If thou findest at last that thou art confined, and
that thy soul begins to mourn, and lament the inca¬
pacity of expending as much happiness as thou
wishest, then hasten to our temples.
Behold here the sacred tie of benevolence, and,
contributing as far as thy abilities permit, towards
the laudable institutions of tbefraternity, rejoice
in being a fellow citizen of this little world ; and
enjoy the sweet fruits of our faculties united and
concentrated to one point.
The sources of relief will then flow more abun*
dantly; instead of helping one, thou wilt co-ope¬
rate to make thousands happy, and tby wishes will
be fulfilled.
YL—Wurther duties towards man,
Love thy neighbor as thyself, and do unto others
as thou wishest to be done by.
The faculty of expressing tby thoughts by words,
is an external sign of tby command over nature;
make use of this gift to relieve the wants of thy fel¬
low citizens, and encourage them to virtue.
§88
MASONIC PRECEPTS,
Be affable and serviceable; edifv others by thy
example, and bear thyself without repining at the
prosperity of others.
Do not suffer the heart to entertain envy; it
would undermine thy happiness and rage in thy
breast.
Pardon thy enemy, and have manliness of heart
enough to do him good.
This generous sacrifice, one of the most exalted
precepts of religion, will awake in thee the most
benign sensations ; thou wilt represent the image
of the Deity, who with adorable kindness pardons
the errors of men, and, disregarding their ingrati¬
tude, pours down his blessings upon him.
Always recollect that this is the most glorious
victory reason can obtain over the brutal instincts,
and let thy motto be, Mason forgets only inju*
Ties, never benefits
VII.—Cultivation of one's self.
By making the prosperity of mankind the object
of thy labours, do not loose sight of the necessity
of forwarding thy own perfection, and do not neg¬
lect the concerns of thy immortal soul.
Often unveil and examine thy heart, to discover
its most secret dispositions; the knowledge of one's
self is the sum of all masonic precepts.
Thy soul is the rough ashler, which thou must
labour to polish; thou canst not do homage more
worthy of the Supreme Being than when thou offer-
est up to him regular desires and inclinations, and
passions,
XtASOXIC PRECEPTS.
289
3]y strictness and modesty in thy moral conduct
acquire the esteem of the world.
distinguish thyself by discipline, rectitude, love
of truth and humility.
Pride is the most dangerous enemy of mankind,
and the source of all their evils.
Do not look hack to the point from which thou
proceedest, this would retard thy career ;* let thine
eye continually be cast towards the goal; the short
time of thy journey will hardly afford thee the hope
of arriving at it*
To compare thyself with those that are possess¬
ed of inferior faculties, would be a dangerous flat¬
tery to thyself; rather let a virtuous emulation an¬
imate thee, when thou perceivest superior talents.
Let thy tongue be a faithful interpreter of thy
heart, A mason who could abandon candor, and
hide himself behind the mask of dissimulation and
deceit, would be unworthy to sit amongst us ; he
would sow upon our peaceful soil the seed of dis¬
section, and soon become the abomination and
the scourge of our assemblies.
May the sublime idea, that thou walkest before
the eyes of the Omnipresent, strengthen and sup¬
port thee.
Jteview daily the vow of mending thy life.—
Watch and meditate, and call to thy recollection at
night a noble action, or a victory over thy passions,
then lay down thy head in peace, and gather new
strength.
Study eagerly the meaning of the hieroglyphics
and emblems which the order lays before thee;
even nature does not always unveil her secrets; she
MASONIC PRECEPTS.
must be observed, compared, and frequently watch¬
ed With attention in her operations.
Of all the sciences on whose extensive field the
industry of men gather useful illustrations, none
will afford thy heart heavenly satisfaction, but that
which instructeth thee in thy relation to God and
the creation.
Til..—Duties towards Brethren.
Amongst the numberless inhabitants of the earth,
thou hast chosen, by a voluntary vow, the Freema¬
sons as brethren.
Therefore, never forget that every Freemason,
without distinction of the profession of his faith,
country or rank, the moment he offers thee his right
hand as the emblem of brotherly confidence, has a
sacred claim upon thy assistance and friendship.
The Mason restores the original rights of man¬
kind ; he never sacrifices to vulgar prejudices ; the
sacred plumb-rule amongst us puts all ranks on a
level.
Nevertheless, honor the distinctions of rank in
civil life, which society has introduced orpermitted.
Oft are those gradations the productions of pride \
but pride it would be in thee to struggle against or
disavow those distinctions which civil society ac¬
knowledges.
In our assemblies, step behind him who is more
virtuous and enlightened ; the dignity which dis¬
tinguishes thee in the world remains unnoticed
here.
MASONIC PRECEPTS^
291
Be not ashamed of an obscure, but honest man,
out of the Lodge, whom thou hast acknowlged a
short time before as a brother ; the order would
then be ashamed of thee also, and send thee back
to the profane theatre of the world, there to exer¬
cise thy pride*
Is thy brother in danger ? hasten to his assist¬
ance, and hesitate not to endanger thy own life for
him.
Is he distressed ? open thy purse to him, and re¬
joice in having found an opportuniiy to make so
benign a use of thy gold.
Thy obligation compels thee to he benevolent
to mankind, but particularly to thy brother.
Is he blinded by errors, and hastens toward a
precipice? take up the brotherly arms of rational
representation and stop him e'er he proceeds too-
far.
Reconduct the wavering creatures of God to the
path of virtue, and raise up the fallen.
Hast thou an animosity against thy brother, on
account of real or imaginary offences ? let not the
sun set before thy reconciliation.
Call in an unprejudiced arbitrator, and invite
him to brotherly mediation; but never step over
the threshold of the Masonic temple, unless thy
heart is clear of hatred and revenge.
In vain wouhlst thou attempt to supplicate the
the presence of the Eternal in our Temples, if they
were not ornamented by the virtues of our brethren
and consecrated by their unanimity.
MASONIC PRECEPTS.
IX.— Duties towards the order.
By having admitted thee to partake of the advan¬
tages which are the consequences of'our alliance,
thou hast resigned a part of thy natural liberty.
Fulfil with religious strictness all those moral
duties which the order prescribes.
Follow its precepts, and honor those who, by
the confidence of their brethren, have been made
the guardian of the laws, and the interpreters of
the universal union.
Thy will is subordinate, in the order, to the will
of the law, and thy superiors.
Thou wouldst not be a true brother, if thou
wouldst resist this subordination, so requisite in
every social society; and nothing would remain
for us then, but to banish thee from among us.
In particular we have a law, the compliance
with which thou hast promised before the face of
heaven ; it is the strictest silence concerning our
rites, ceremonies, signs and the form of our alliance.
Do not imagine that this obligation is less sacred
than that which thou takest in civil life.
Thouwert free when it was administered to
thee; but it is not now at thy option to violate it \
the Eternal, w hom thou hast invoked to witness it,
has ratified it.
Tremble at the punishments of perjury; never
couldst thou escape the gnawing reproaches of thy
own heart.
Thou wouldst lose forever the esteem and confi-
masonic precepts*
293
deuce of a numerous society; who would have an
undoubted right to declare thee to be a perjured
and infamous being.
X.—Conclusion•
Should these precepts (which the order commu¬
nicates to thee, to make the path to truth and hap¬
piness smooth) imprint themselves deep into thy
heart, open to the impressions of virtue; shouldst
thou make those excellent principles thine own,
which distinguish each step of the Masonic career,
and render them thejplumb-line of all thy actions—
O brother! how great would be our joy! Thou
wouldst then answer thy exalted destination; thou
wouldst resume that resemblance with God which
was the share of man in his state of innocence,
which is the object of religion, and the principal
end of Masonic initiation; thou wouldst be once
more the favorite of heaven; the abundance of its
blessings would be poured over thee, and acquir¬
ing the title of a wise, free, happy and firm man,
thou wouldst run thy terrestrial career as
The Benefactor of Mankind and the
Pattern of thy Brethren.
end of part first.
Z 2
the
04MU SEAltUA]b*
PART SECOND*
Containing illustrations of the degrees
of Mark Master, Past Master, Most
Excellent Master, .Royal
Arch, Royal Master
and Select
Master.
TOGETHER WITH THE CEREMONY OE
CONSECRATING A CHAPTER
ROYAL ARCS MASONS;
CHAPTER I
Mogul Arch Masonry,
The three first degrees of Masonry are conduct¬
ed under the authority of Grand Lodges ; in like
manner, Chapters of Royal Arch Masons, with
power to confer the preparatory degrees of Mark
Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master,
are held under the authority of Grand Chapters,
composed of the three principal officers of all the
Royal Arch Chapters, within a certain district, to¬
gether with the proper Grand Officers.
Until the year 1797, no Grand Chapter of Roy¬
al Arch Masons was organised in America. Pre¬
viously to that period, a competent number of com¬
panions, possessed of sufficient abilities, under the
sanction of a Masters Warrant, proceeded to exer¬
cise the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Chap¬
ters, whenever they thought it expedient and pro¬
per ; although, in most cases, the approbation of a
neighboring Chapter was deemed useful, if not es¬
sential.
This unrestrained mode of proceeding was sub¬
ject to many inconveniences ; unsuitable characters
might be admitted; irregularties in the mode of
working introduced; the purposes of the society
perverted; and thus the order be degraded by fall¬
ing into the hands of those who might be regard-
fcOYAL. ARCH
less of tlie reputation of the institution. If differen¬
ces should arise between two chapters, who "Was
to decide upon them? If unworthy characters
should attempt to open new chapters, for their own
emolument, or for the purposes of conviviality, who
was to restrain them ? If the established regula
tions, or ancient land marks, should be violated or
broken down, where is there power sufficient to
yemedy tlie evil?
Sensible of the existence of these, and many oth¬
er inconveniences, the chapters in various parts of
the United States, have formed Grand Royal Arch
Chapters, for their better government and regula¬
tion. In the year 1797, a convention of represen-
fvom the several chapters in the state Pennsylva¬
nia, met at Philadelphia, and, after mature delibe¬
ration, formed a Grand Royal Arch Chapter for
that state.
Actuated by similar motives, on the 24th Octo¬
ber, 1797, a convention of committees from several
Chapters in the northern states assembled at Bos¬
ton ; being appointed to meet with any or every
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, within the states
of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, Vermont and jNew York, or with ev¬
ery committee, or committees, duly appointed and
authorised, by any or all of said Chapters, and to
deliberate upon the propriety and expediency of
forming and establishing a Grand Chapter of Roy¬
al Arch Masons, for the government and regulation
®f the several Chapters within the said states.
Of this convention the most Excellent Thomas
Smith Webb was chosen chairman. The conven-
MASONRY.
299
tloa having taken the matter into consideration,
came to a determination to forward to each of the
Chapters within the six states before mentioned, a
circular letter, expressive of their opinious on the
subject, and recommending a meeting of delegates
to be holden at Hartford, in the state of Connecti¬
cut, on the fourth Wednesday of January, 1798,
investing them with full power and authority to
form and open a Grand Chapter of Royal *$rch
Masons, and to establish a constitution for the gov¬
ernment and regulation of all the Chapters then,
or thereafter to be erected within the said states.
In consequence of this address, the several Chap¬
ters within the states therein enumerated, appoint¬
ed delegates who assembled at the time and plaee
appointed, and after several days deliberation,
formed and adopted a constitution for the govern¬
ment of the Royal Arch Chapters, and Lodges of
Mark Masters, Past Masters and Most Excellent
Masters, throughout said states; and having elec¬
ted and installed their Grand Officers, the Grand
Chapter was completely organized.
Agreeably to the constitution thus adopted,
Grand Royal Arch Chapters were established in
the several northern states, where there were Chap¬
ters of Royal Arch Masons existing; and in every
instance the private Chapters have united with,
and acknowledged the authority of, the said Grand
Chapters.
The long desired and necessary authority for
correcting abuses, and regulating the concerns of
Royal Arch Masonry in the nothern states, being
thus happily established, the sublime degrees be-
300
EOYAL AK€H
came flourishing and respectable. Royal Arch
Masons in the southern states, observed with sat¬
isfaction, the establishment of Grand Chapters in
the northern states, under the authority of a gene¬
ral constitution, and became desirous of uniting
with them under the same authority. Applications
Were accordingly made for the privilege of opening
new Chapters in the the southern states j but there
being no provision made in the constitution for ex¬
tending its authority beyond the limits first contem¬
plated, the state Grand Chapters took the sub¬
ject into consideration, and passed a concurrent de¬
cree, vesting power and authority in the three first
General Grand officers, or any two of them, con¬
jointly to grant and issue letters of dispensation for
the institution of Lodges of Mark Masters, Past
Masters, Most Excellent Masters, and Chapters
of Royal Arch Masons, within any state in which
there was not a Grand Chapter established.
At a succeeding meeting of the General Grand
Chapter, the powers before mentioned, were con¬
firmed and made permanent in the General Grand
officers, and the proceedings of the General Grand
officers under the decree before mentoined were ap¬
proved and confirmed.
On the 9th January, 1806, the General Grand
Chapter met at Middletown, (Conn.) and having
resolved itself into a committee of the whole, upon
the General Grand Royal Arch Constitution, sun¬
dry resolutions and amendments were proposed
and considered, and afterwards ratified and con¬
firmed, by the General Grand Chapter.
Among other amendments was the following—:
MASONRY.
361
viz: The style and title to be, uThe General
Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the United States.'*
The jurisdiction was declared tov extend through¬
out the United States, and to any state or territory
wherein no Grand Chapter was regularly estab¬
lished. "
The casualties of war having prevented the
Septennial meeting of the General Grand Chapter
in September, &8l2, the presiding officers after the
return of peace, agreeably to the powers vested in i
them, convened a special meeting in the city of
New York on the 6th June, 1806, when the con¬
stitution, as it now stands, was ratified and con¬
firmed.
The General Grand Chapter has now under its
jurisdiction, the Grand Chapters of New Hamp¬
shire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Maryland,
South Carolina, Ohio, Kentucky and Alabama.—1
It has also Chapters in the following states,~ where
no Grand Chapters have yet been established, viz:
North Carolina, Georgia, Indiana, Tennessee,
Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and the territory
of Michigan.
CHAPTER IX
The Degree of Marie Master.
This degree of Masonry was not less useful in itsf
original institution, nor are its effects less beneficial
to those who possess it, than those which precede
it. Indeed \ve consider it one of the most beauti¬
ful degrees of Masonry, affording an ample field
for illustration.
By its effects the disorder and confusion that
might otherwise have attended so immense an un«
dertaking was completely prevented ; and not only
the craftsmen themselves, who were eighty thou¬
sand in number, but every part of their workman¬
ship was discriminated with the greatest nicety,
and the utmost facility. If defects were found, by
the help of this degree, the overseers w ere enabled
without difficulty to ascertain who was the faulty
workman; so that deficiencies might be remedied
without injuring the credit or diminishing the re¬
ward of the industrious and faithful of the craft.
Charge at opening the Lodge.
Wherefore, brethren, lay aside all malice, and
guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil
speakings.
If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious
fclARK MASTER. 30$
to whom coming as unto a living stone, disallowed
Indeed of men, but chosen of God and precious $
ye, also, as living stones, be ye built up a spiritual
bouse, an holy priesthood, to offer up sacrifices ac¬
ceptable to God,
Wherefore, also, it is contained in the scriptures,
Behold, I lay in Zion, for a foundation, a tried
stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation 5
he that believeth shall not make haste to pass it
over. Unto you, therefore, which believe it is an
honor ; and even to them which be disobedient, the
stone which the builders disallowed, the same is
made the head of the corner.
Brethren, this is the will of God, that with well
doing ye put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.
As free and not using your liberty for a cloak of
maliciousness, but as the servants of God, Honor
all men, love the brotherhood, fear God.
The first Section.
The first section of the lecture appertaining to
this degree, explains the manner of convocating and
opening a Mark Masters Lodge. It teaches the
stations and duties of the respective officers, and
recapitulates the mystic ceremony of introducing a.
candidate.
In this section is exemplified the regularity and.
good order that was observed by the craftsmen on
Mount Libanus, and in the plains and quarries of
Zeredathath, and it ends with a display of the
manner in which one of the principal events origi¬
nated which characterize this degree.
304
mark master.
The second Section.
In the socond section, the Mark Master is par¬
ticularly instructed in the origin and history of this
degree, and the indispensible obligations he is un¬
der to extend his hand to the relief of an indigent
and worthy brother, to a certain and specified extent.
Here an opportunity is presented to the presiding
officer of illustrating that first of virtues—Heaven-
born charity, which is here inculcated and enjoin;
ed in a manner peculiar to Mark Masters.
In the course of the lecture, the progress made
in architecture, particularly in the reign of Solo¬
mon, remarked ; the number of artists employed in
building the temple of Jerusalem, and the privile¬
ges they enjoyed are specified; the mode of reward¬
ing merit, and punishing the guilty are pointed out j
and the marks of distinction which were conferred
on our ancient brethren, as the rewards of excel¬
lence are named.
During the ceremonies the following passages of
Scripture are recited.
liev. ii.—17.
To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the
hidden manna, and will give him a white stone,
and in the stone a new name written, which no man
knoweth, saving him that receiveth it.
% Chron. ii 16.
Ahd we will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much
mask master.
as thou shalt need* and we will bring it to thee in
floats by sea to Joppa, and thou shalt carry it up to
Jerusalem.
Psalm cxviii.
The stone which the builders refused is become
the head stone of the corner.
Math. xxi.—4^.
Did ye never read in the Scriptures, the stone
which the builders rejected is become the head of
the corner.
«lets. iv—11.
This is the stone which was set at nought of
you builders; which is become the head of the
-corner.
Rev. hi—13.
He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear,
Ezelc. xiiv—1, 3, 5.
Then he brought me back by the way of the gate
of the outward sanctuary, which looketh towards
the east, and it was shut.
Then said the Lord unto me, this gate shall be
shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall en¬
ter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel?
lias entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.
Aa 2
MARK MASTER.
It is for tlie Prince; the Prince, he shall sit in
it to eat bread before the Lord; he shall enter in
by the way of the porch of that gate, and shall go
out by the way of the same.
And the Lord said unto me, son of man mark
Well, and behold with thine eyes and hear with
thine ears, all that I say unto thee concerning the
ordinances of the house of the Lord, and all the
laws thereof; and mark well the entering in of the
house, with every going forth of the sanctuary.
Working Tools.
The working tools of a Mark Master, are the
Chisel and Mallet.
The Chisel morally demonstrates the advanta¬
ges of discipline and education. The mind, like
the diamond in its original state, is rude and un¬
polished ; but as the effect of the chisel on the ex¬
ternal coat soon presents to view the latent beauties
of the diamond, so education discovers the latent
virtues of the mind, and draws them forth to range
the large field of matter and space, to display the
summit of human knowledge, our duty to God and
to man.
The Mallet morally teaches us to correct irregu¬
larities, and to reduce man to a proper level; so
that by quiet deportment, he may, in the school of
discipline, learn to be content. What the mallet
is to the workman, enlightened reason is to the pas*
sions; it curbs ambition, it depresses envy, it mod¬
erates anger, and it encourages good dispositions 5
mark master.
whence arises among good Masons that comely or¬
der.,
« Which nothing earthly gives, or can destroy,
The souls calm sunshine, and the heartfelt joy.*'
Charge,
Brother—I congratulate you on having been
thought worthy of being advanced to this honora¬
ble degree of Masonry. Permit me to impress it
®n your mind, that your assiduity should ever be
commensurate with your duties, which become
more and more extensive as you advance in mason¬
ry. In the honorable character of Mark Master,
it is more particularly your duty to endeavor to let
your conduct in the Lodge and among your breth¬
ren, be such as may stand the test of the Grand
Overseer's square ; that you may not, like the unfin¬
ished and imperfect work of former times be rejected
and thrown aside, as unfit for the spiritual build-
ing, that house not made with hands, eternal in
the heavens.
While such is your conduct, should misfortunes
assail you, should friends forsake yon, should en¬
vy traduce your good name, and malice persecute
you; yet may you have confidence that among
Mark Master Masons you willfind friends who will
administer to you distresses, and comfort to your
afflictions ; ever hearing in mind, as a consolation
under all the frowns of fortune, and as an encourage¬
ment to hope for better prospects, that the stone
which the builders rejected (possessing merits to
Mark master.
them unknown) became the chief stone of the cor¬
ner.
The following song is sung previous to closing.
Mark Masters, all appear
Before the chief o'erseer ;
In concert move;
Let him your work inspect,
For the chief architect j
If there is no defect;
He will approve.
Those who have pass'd the square,
For your rewards prepare,
Join heart and hand ;
Each with his mark in view,
March with the just and true,
Wages to you are due,
At your command.
Hiram, the widow's son,
Sent unto Solomon,
Our great key stone ;
On it appears the name,
Which raises high the fame
Of all to whom the same
Is truly known.
Now to the westward move,
W here, full ot strength and love>
Hiram doth stand £
But if imposters are
Mix'd with the worthy there.,
Caution them to beware
Of the right hand;
Matthew xx—1, 10.
Ifor the kingdom of heaven is like unto a ma*
■MARK MASTER.
S09
that is an house-holder, which went out early in
the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.—
And when he had agreed with the labourers for a
a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.—
And he went out about the third hour, and saw oth¬
ers standing idle in the market place, and said un¬
to them, go ye also into the vineyard, and whatso¬
ever is right, I will give you. And they want their
way. And again he went out about the sixth and
ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the ele¬
venth hour, he went out and found others standing
idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all
the day idle ? They say unto him, Because no
man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye
also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right, that
shall ye receive. So, when even was come, the
lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call
the labourers and give them their hire, begin¬
ning from the last unto the first. And when they
©ame, that were hired about the eleventh hour, they
received every man a penny. But when the first
©ame, they supposed they should have received
more, and they likewise received every man a pen¬
ny. And when they received it, they murmured
against the good man of the house, saying—these
last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast
made them equal unto us, which have borne the
burden and heat of the day. But he answered one
©f them, and said, Friend, I do tliee no wrongs
didst thou not agree with me for a penny ? Take
that thine is, and go thy way; I will give unto this
last even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to d®
what I will with mine own ? Is thine eye evil, be»
31G
MARK MASTER.
cause I am good? So-the last shall be first, and
the first shall be last; for many be called, but few
chosen.
******
Novr to the praise of those
Who triumph'd o'er the foes
Of Mason's art}
To the praiseworthy three;
Who founded this degree;
May all their virtues be
Deep in our hearts;
Prayer at closing.
Glorious Architect of the universe, who alone art
Infinite and eternal, omnipotent, omniscient and
omnipresent I We desire gratefully to acknowl¬
edge thy protecting mercies through all the past
and perilous scenes of life; and we beseech thee
still to continue to be gracious, and increase in us
all those heavenly dispositions w hich are calcula-
ted to dignify our characters as men and as masons;
that we may thereby be enabled to let our light
shine before men, and aid in promoting the
strength and beauty of thy spiritual temple. And
grant, O Lord, that when we are called off from all
our earthly labours, to receive the wages thou hast
promised to thy true and faithful servants, that we
may receive that white stone, in which there is a
new name written, which no man knovveth, save
him that receiveth it. And to thy high and exalted
name, we will ascribe honor, and glory, and power,
sow and forever.—Amen !
&P mote it be !
MARK MASTER.
311
Charge at closing.
BRETHREN-^We are now about to separate, and
retire to our respective places of abode. May we
ever bear in mind the excellent precepts which
have here been inculcated upon us; and let it be
our constant care and study to practice them in our
intercourse with mankind, thereby exhibiting to
the world, the value of those principles which we
profess to revere. May the pure white stone, the
lattice window aud the presented mark, ever ad¬
monish us of what we owe to ourselves and our
brethren, in the various duties of life. And may
the blessing of heaven rest and abide with you^
now and forever more.—4-men. f
As before observed, Masonry is a progressiva
science; as we advance the more enlarged is the
sphere in which we move, and our obligations to
each other become more extensive. The moral
lessons of the three first degrees are well calculated
to enlighten the mind and improve the heart; but
it is the province of the higher degrees to enrich the
masonic temple, by their splendid decorations of
the several pillars which support it.
The effect to be produced on the mind of the
candidate in this degree, as in all others, material¬
ly depends upon the manner in which it is con¬
ferred. The lawyer who addresses a jury,
must be completely master of his subject, else
he presents but an imperfect examination
of the case, and he fails in producing the effect
desires. If the minister of Pence, in proclaiming the
312
MARK MASTER.
glad tidings of the everlasting Gospel, ascends the
pulpit without preparation, or addresses his con¬
gregation in an incoherent strain of noisy declama¬
tion, or in a cold, heartless and formal manner, his
hearers are neither enlightened, instructed or affec¬
ted by his discourse. Thus it is in conferring the
different degrees of Masonry. If the presiding
officer is inadequate to the discharge of his duty,
his instructions fall upon the mind of the candi¬
date, like
«< -I-., snow upon the river,
A moment white—then gone forever.
He should, then, not only be completely master
•f his subject, but be should be capable of illustra¬
ting it in an interesting and pleasing manner; to do
which ample opportunities are afforded. The sub¬
ject is a fruitful one, and be is not confined to a
particular form of words. This talent is the more
necessary in the presiding officer of a Lodge, be¬
cause, although the general principles of the or¬
der are published to the world, yet many of the
tenets and peculiar principles cannot be committed
to writing, but must be impressed upon the mind
by verbal recitation; to aid which, appropriate
symbols are introduced and explained.
The lectures appertaining to this degree, explain
the various ceremonies, to which the candidate is
introduced, in a clear, distinct and satisfactory
manner. They bring to light many interesting
particulars relating to the craft, which occurred at
the building of the first temple, where Masonry, if
it did not originate, at least received some of its
most essential embellishments.
MARK MASTER. 313
The ceremonies are particularly interesting* and
whilst the candidate is reminded, by the peculiar-,
ity of his situation, of the necessity lie is under of
extending the helping hand to a worthy and dis¬
tressed brother, it is also enjoined on him to pro¬
tect his widow and helpless orphans, when assailed
by the rude blasts of adversity, This duty is im¬
pressed on his mind in a way calculated to make
a deep and lasting impression, which no time or
circumstance can erase. The pure white stone,
wrought with exquisite skill, and adorned with "a.
new name, which no man knoweth, saving him
that receiveth itthe lattice window, the present¬
ed mark, are elucidated and explained, and are
calculated in after times, to recall the liveliest as¬
sociations and most pleasing recollections, to the
mind of him whose work has been approved. In
short, this degree is one, which cannot fail to grat¬
ify the intelligent mind.
Bb
CHAPTER III.
Degree of Past Master.
Formerly, none but those who had been elected
by their brethren to preside over a regularly con¬
stituted Lodge, were made acquainted with the
mysteries of this degree, and such only were consi¬
dered as legally authorised to sit and act. as repre¬
sentatives in the General Grand Conventions; but
in consequence of the manner in which the influ¬
ence of masonry has been extended over the great¬
er parts of the habitable globe, it has been found
convenient to confer this degree on any wor¬
thy master mason, as preparatory to the degree of
Royal Arch Mason. No master can legally ob¬
tain this degree, except in a Chapter of Royal
Arch Masons, unless he has been elected to pre¬
side over a Lodge.
It is a degree which should be carefully studied
and well understood by every master of a lodge.—
It treats of the government of our society; the dis¬
position of our rulers; and illustrates their requi¬
site qualifications. It includes the ceremony of
opening and closing lodges in the several preced¬
ing degrees; and also the forms of consecration
and installation, in the Grand Lodge, as well as
private lodges. It comprehends the ceremonies of
laying the foundation stones of public buildings,
PAST MASTER.
S15
and also at dedications and funerals, by a variety
of particulars explanatory of those ceremonies.
The following passages of scripture serve to
elucidate this degree.
llev. xi—1.
And there was given me a reed like unto a rod;
and the angel stood, saying, rise and measure the
temple of God, and the altar, andthey that wor¬
ship therein.
Ezek. xi—3, 4, 6, 8.
And he bought me thither, and behold, there was
a man whose appearance was like the appearance
of brass; with aline of flax in his hand, and a
measuring reed ; and he stood in the gate, and the
man said unto me, son of man behold with thine
eyes, and hear with thine ears, and set thine heart
upon all that I shall shew thee ; for the intent that
I might shew them unto thee, art thou brought
hither ; declare all that thou seest to the house of
Israel. Then came he unto the gate which look¬
ed towards the east, and went up the stairs
thereof and measured the threshold of the gato
which was one reed broad ; and the other thres¬
hold of the gate, which was one reed broad. He
measured also, the porch of the gate within, one
reed.
32, 49.
And he brought me into the inner court toward
the east, and he measured the gate according to
these measures. The length of the porch was
twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits ; and
he brought me by the steps whereby they went up
FAST MAST EH*
to it; and there were pillars by the posts, one on
tliis side and another on that side.
Jeremiah XV—iQ.
Thou shalt stand before me; and thou shalt take
forth the precious from the vile, tliou shalt be my
mouth.
CHAPTER IV.
The degree of Mo3t Excellent Master.
None but the meritorious and praiseworthy?
none but those, who, through diligence and indus¬
try, have progressed far towards perfection; none
but those who have been seated in the oriental chair,
by the unanimous suffrages of their brethren, can be
admitted to this degree of Masonry.
This degree was instituted at the dedication of
King Solomon's Temple, which took place eleven,
months after its completion, at the feast of Taber¬
nacles, when the fraternity celebrated the cape
stone with great joy. None were admitted to this
honor, who had not proved themselves complete
masters of their profession ? and indeed, the duties
incumbent on every mason, who is accepted and
acknowledged as a most excellent master, are such
as to render it indispensible, that he should have a
perfect knowledge of all the preceding degrees.
The following passages of scripture are read at
opening.
Psalm xxiv.
The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof 5
the world, and they that dwell therein. For he
hath founded it upon the seas, and established it
Hjb 2
318
most excellent
upon the floods. Who shall ascend into the hill
of the Lord ? or who shall stand in his holy place ?
He that hath clean hands and a pure heart; who
hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn
deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from
the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his
salvation. This is the generation of them that
seek Jhim, that seek thy face, 0 Jacob. Selah.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be lifted up,
ye everlasting doors, and the king of glory shall
come in. Who is this king of glory ? The Lord
strong and mighty in battle. Lift up your heads,
O ye gates ; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors,
and the king of glory shall come in. Who is this
king of glory ? The Lord of hosts, he is the king
of glory. Selah."
The following Psalm is read during the ceremo¬
ny of receiving a candidate to this degree.
Psalm cxxii.
" I w as glad when they said unto me, let us go
into tkekouseof the Lord. Our feet shall stand with¬
in thy gates, 0 Jerusalem. Jerusalem is builded as
a city that is compact together: whither the tribes
go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto the testimony of
Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord.
For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of
the house of David.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall
prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy Walls,
and prosperity within thy palaces. Fbr my breth¬
ren and companions' sakes, 1 will now say; peace
MASTER.
319
)be within tliee. Because of the house of the Lord
our God, I will seek thy good."
The following song is introduced accompanied
with solemn ceremonies.
All hail to the morning
That bids us rejoice;
The Temple's completed,
Exalt high each voice ;
The cape stone is finish'd,
Our labour is o'er;
The sound of the gavel
Shall hail us no more.
To the Power Almighty, who ever has guided
The tribes of old Israel, exalting their fame;
To Him who hath govern'd our hearts undivided,
Let's send forth our voices to praise his great name.
Companions, assemble
On this joyful day ;
(The occasion is glorious,)
The key stone to lay ;
Fulfill'd is the promise
By the ancient of days,
To bring forth the cape stone
"With shouting and praise.
(Here appropriate ceremonies are introduced. J
There is no more occasion for level or plumb, line,
For trow,el or gavel, for compass or square;
Our works are completed, the ark safely seated,
And we shall be greeted as workmen mostiare.
Now those that are worthy*
Our toils who hare shar'd,
320
MOST EXCELLENT
Aad prov'd themselves faithful.
Shall meet their reward.
Their virtue and knowledge,
Industry and skill,
Have our approbation;
Have gain'd our good will.
"W e accept and receive them most excellent masters,
Invested with honors and power to preside;
Amongst worthy craftsmen, wherever assembled,
The knowledge of masons to spread far and wide
Almighty Jehovah i
Descend now and fill
This lodge with thy glory,
Our hearts with good will!
Preside at our meetings
Assist us to find
True pleasure in teaching
Good will to mankind.
Thy wisdom inspired the great institution,
Thy strength will support it, till nature expire ;
And when the creation shall fall into ruin,
Its beauty shall rise through the midst of the fire.
The following passages of scripture are also in¬
troduced, accompanied with solemn ceremonies,
2. Ckron, vi.
Then said Solomon, the Lord hath said, that he
would dwell in the thick darkness. But I have
built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for
thy dwelling forever.
And the king turned his face, and blessed the
whole congregation of Israel j (and all the congre¬
gation of Israel stood.)
MASTER,
3 gf
And lie said, Blessed be tlie Lord God of Israel
who hath with his hand fulfilled, that which he
spake with his mouth unto my father David.
And he stood before the altar of the Lord, in the
presence of all the congregation of Israel, and
spread forth bis hands ; for Solomon had made a
brazen scaffold of five cubits long, and five cubits
broad, and three cubits high, and set t in the midst
of the court; and upon it he stood, and kneeled
down upon his knees before all the congregation of
Israel, and spread forth his hands towards heaven,
and said,
O Lord God of Israel, there is no God like thee
in the heaven, nor in the earth; which keepest co¬
venant and shewest mercy unto thy servants, that
walk before thee with all their hearts 5 thou which
has kept with thy servant David, my father, that
which thou hast promised him, and speakest with
thy mouth and hast fulfilled it with thine hand, as
it is this day. Now, therefore, O Lord God of Is¬
rael, keep with thy servant David, my father, thai
which thou hast promised him, saying, There
shall not fail a man in my sight to sit upon the
throne of Israel; yet so that thy children take heed
to their way to walk in my law, as thou hast walk¬
ed before me. Now then, O Lord, God of Israel,
let thy word be verified, which thou hast spoken
unto thy servant David.
Have respect to the prayer of thy servant, and
to his supplication, O Lord, my God, to hearken un¬
to the cry and the prayer, which thy servant pray-
eth before thee; that thine eyes may be open upon
this house day and night; upon the place whereof
822 most excellent
thou hast said that thou wouldst put thy name
there , to hearken unto the prayer, which thy ser¬
vant prayeth towards this place.
Hear thou from thy dwelling place, even from
Heaven ; and when thou hearest, forgive.
&. Chron. vn—1, 4.
Now when Solomon had made an end of pray¬
ing, the fire came down from heaven, and consum¬
ed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the
glory of the Lord filled the house. And the priests
could hot enter the house of the Lord, because the
glory of the Lord filled the Lord's house.
And when all the children of Israel saw the fire
come down, antl the glory of the Lord upon the
bouse, they bowed themselves with their faces to
the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped
and praised the Lord, saying,
For he is good / for his mercy endureth forever.
Charge.
Brother—Your admittance to this degree of
Masonry, is a proof of the good opinion the bre¬
thren of this Lodge entertain of your Masonic abil¬
ities. Let this consideration induce you to be care¬
ful of forfeiting, by misconduct and inattention to
our rules, that esteem which has raised you to
your present rank.
It is one of your great duties, as a most excel¬
lent master, to dispense light and truth to the unin¬
formed mason; and I need not remind you of the
MASTER.
323
impossibility of complying with this obligation,
without possessing an accurate acquaintance with
the lectures of each degree,
If you are not already completely conversant in
all the degrees heretofore conferred upon you, re¬
member, that it is confidently expected by the bre¬
thren, that you will apply yourself with double di¬
ligence to the acquirement of the necessary infor¬
mation.
Let it therefore be your unremitting study to ac¬
quire such a degree of knowledge and information,
as shall enable you to discharge with propriety the
various duties incumbent upon you, and preserve
unsullied the title now conferred upon you of a
Most Excellent Master.
The following Psalm is read at closing.
jPsalm cxxxiv.
Behold, bless ye (he Lord, all ye servants of the
Lord, which by night stand in the house of the Lord.
Lift up your hands in t]ie sanctuary, and bless
the Lord.
The Lord that made Heaven and Earth, bless
thee out of Zion.
CHAPTER Y.
Of the Degree of Royal Arch Mason.
The origin of Royal Arch Masonry, is traced t®
the erection of the second Temple, 532 years before
C hrist, when, in the fulfil ment of prophecy, the found¬
ers of this degree, repaired from Babylon to Jerusa¬
lem, to rebuild the house of the Lord, which had been
destroyed by Nebuchadnazar, king of Babylon.—
Although the number through whose fidelity we
have received the information it imparts is compar-
itively small, yet the identity of the facts in differ¬
ent countries, and among men of different langua¬
ges, affords conclusive evidence of their truth.
Before proceeding to an illustration of the forms
and ceremonies of this degree, a few particulars
with regard to the first and second temples, may,
with propriety he here introduced.
The temple of Solomon was situated on Mount
Moriah, near the place where Abraham was about
to offer up his son Isaac, and where David met and
appeased the destroying angel, It was begun in
the fourth year of the reign of Solomon; the third
after the death of David; four hundred and eigh¬
ty years after the passage of the Red Sea, and on
the second day of the month of Zif, being the second
month of the sacred year, which answers to the
gist April, in the year of the world, 2992, and was
MASON.
335
carried oil with such prodigious speed, that it was
finished, in all its parts, in little more than seven
years.
In the year of the world, 3029, king Solomon
died, aud was succeeded by his son Rehoboam :
who, immediately after the death of his father,
went down to Shechem, where the chiefs of the
people were met together, to proclaim him king.
When Jeroboam, the &on of Nebat, who was in
Egypt, whither he had fled from the presence of
Solomon, and whose ambition had long aspired to
the throne, heard of the death of the king, he hast¬
ened to return from Egypt, to put himself at the
head of the discontented tribes, and lead them to
rebellion. He accordingly assembled them together
and came to king Rehoboam, and spake to him af¬
ter this manner: " Thy father made our yoke grie-
vious 5 now therefore, ease thou somewhat the grie¬
vous servitude of thy father, and his heavy yoke
that he put upon us, and we will serve thee."
Rehoboam desired them to come again in three
days and he would reply to their demand. They
departed ; in the meantime, the king called togeth¬
er the wise and aged counsellors of his father, and
required of them their advice. They answered
him, "If you be kind to this people, and please
them, and speak good words to them, they will be
thy servants forever." Rehoboam, puffed up with
the pride of power, instead of following the advice
of his aged counsellors, when Jeroboam came on
the third day, made them this harsh, answer:
" Think not that I will govern you otherwise than
my predecessor. My father loaded you. with a
326
Royal AUCH
heavy y°^e? but X will add thereto; my father
chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you
with scorpions." Ten tribes immediately renoun
ced their allegiance, and only Judah and Benjamin
remained with the imprudent monarch, llehobo*
am sent negociators to induce the others to return
to their duty; but it wTas too late ; Jeroboam had
taken advantage of the opportunity, caused him
self to be proclaimed king, and raised a wall of e-
ternal separation between the two parties of the
same nation.
The first care of Jeroboam, was to abolish, or at
least, essentially chaDge their religion. The na
tional temple, and the obligatioh every individual
was under to repair to it annually to pay his vows,
and carry thither his offerings, was, as it were, a
bond of union to the Hebrews, and rendered them
a nation of brethren. Jeroboam severed this sa¬
cred knot; be every where authorised idolatry,
and erected at the two extremities of his kingdom,
altars, to which the Israelites might make their pil¬
grimages, instead of the temple at Jerusalem. The
tribes of Israel were divided for two hundred and
fifty-four years, when, by following the v« ays of wick¬
edness and idolatry, they became weak and degen-
rate, and fell a prey to Shalmanazar, king of Assy¬
ria, who in the reign of Hoshea, king of Israel, be¬
sieged the city of Samaria, laid their country waste,
and utterly destroyed the government. Such was
the wretched fate of a people who disdained sub¬
jection to the laws of the house of David, and whose
impiety and effeminacy ended in their destruction.
After a series of changes and events, JSebuchad-
MASON.
327
uazar, king of Babylon, with liis forces, took pos¬
session of Jerusalem, and, having made captive Je-
lioiacliim, the king of Judali, elevated his uncle
Zedekiah to the throne, after binding him by a so¬
lemn oath, neither to make innovations in the gov¬
ernment, nor to take part with the Egyptians in
their wars against Babylon.
At the end of eight years, Zedekiah violated his
oath to Nebuchaduazar, by forming a treaty offen¬
sive and defensive with the Egyptians. Nebucbad-
nazar immediately marched and ravaged the coun¬
try of Zedeki ih ; seized his castle and fortress,
and proceeded to the siege of Jerusalem. Pha-
roah, learning how Zedekiah was pressed, advan¬
ced to his relief with a view of raising the siege.
Nebuchaduazar, having intimation thereof, would
not wait his approach, hut proceeded to give him
battle, and in one contest, drove him out of Syria.
This circumstance suspended the siege.
In the ninth year of Zedekiah's reign, the king
of Babylon again besieged Jerusalem, with a largo
army, and for a year and a half exerted all his
strength to "conquer it; hut the city did not yield,
though enfeebled by famine and pestilence.
In the eleventh year the siege went on vigorous¬
ly ; the Babylonians completed their works, hav¬
ing raised towers all round the city, so as to drive
the invaded party from its walls. The place,
though a prey to plague and famine, was obstinate¬
ly defended during the space of a year and half ;
hut at length, want of provisions and forces, com¬
pelled its surrender; and it was accordingly deliv¬
ered at midnight, to the officers of Nebuchaduazar.
328
ROYAL ARCH
Zedekiab, seeing the troops enter the temple,
absconded by a narrow pass, to the desert, with
his officers and friends; but advice of liis escape
being given to the Babylonians, they pursued them
early in the mornings and surrounded them near
Jericho, where they were bound, and carried be¬
fore the king, who ordered their wives and chil¬
dren to be put to death in his sight; and then or¬
dered Zedekiah's eye3 to be put out, and himself
conducted in chains to Babylon, where he remain¬
ed in prison until he died. According to Josephus,
Zedekiah was buried magnificently, and the vessels
which he had pillaged from the temple of Jerusa¬
lem, were dedicated to his own Gods.
After this victory, Kebuchadnazar dispatched
his principal officer, .Nebuzaradan, to Jerusalem,
who destroyed all the palaces, and sumptuous ed¬
ifices, and demolished the temple to the foundation.
The sacrifices ceased, which had not happened be¬
fore, even in the greatest calamities. The ark of
the covenant, and the sacred deposits contained in
it, were profaned. The whole nation was hurried
away captive. Among the captjves were the fol¬
lowing persons of eminence; Seraiah, the high
priest; Zepharriab, next in rank; the Secretary
of the King; three principal keepers of the temple;
seven of the King's chosen friends, and other per¬
sons of distinction.
Fifty years after,the destruction pftlie temple,
or at the end of the seventy years captivity, which
nad been foretold by Jeremiah, and wofully felt by
by the nation, Cyrus published a decree, authori¬
zing the Jews to return to their own land and re-
MASON.
329
build the house of the Lord ; He also sent the fol¬
lowing epistle to the governors of Syria.
King Cyrus, to Sismnis and Sathraluzanes,
sen&eth, Greeting :
{i I have given leave to as many of the Jews that
dwell in my country, as please to return to their
own country, and to rebuild their city, and to build
the temple of God at Jerusalem, on the same place
where it was before. I have also sent my treasurer,
Mithridates, and'Zerobabel, the governor of the
Jews, and they may lay the foundations of the
temple, and may build it sixty cubits high, and of
the same latitude, making three edifices of polish¬
ed stones, and one of the wood of the country;—
and the same order extends to the altar, whereon
they offer sacrifices to God. I require, also, that
the sacrifices for these things be given out of my
revenues. Moreover, I have also sent the vessels
which king Nebuchadnazar, pillaged out of the
temple, and have given to Mithridates, the treasu¬
rer, and to Zerobabel, the governor of the Jews,
that they may have them carried to Jerusalem, and
may restore them to the temple of God. Now,
their number is as follows: fifty chargers of gold,
and five hundred of silver ; forty Thericlean cups
of gold, and five hundred of silver; fifty basons of
gold, and five hundred of silver; thirty vessels for
pouring and three hundred of silver; thirty vials
of gold, and two thousand four hundred of silver;
with a thousand other large vessels. I permit
them to have the same honor which they were us-
530
ROYAL ARCH
ed to have from their forefathers; as also, for their
small cattle, and for wine and oil, two hundred and
five thousand five hundred drachmae, and for wheat
flour, twenty thousand five hundred artabae; and
I give order that these expences shall be given them
out of the tributes due from Samaria. The priests
shall also offer these sarifices according to the laws
of "Moses in Jerusalem ; and wheif they offer them,
they shall pray to God for the preservation of the
King, and his family, that the kingdom of Persia
may continue. But my will is, that those who dis¬
obey these injunctions, and make them void, shall
he hung upon a cross, and their substance brought
into the kings treasury."*
In consequence of the proclamation of Cyrus, a
great number of Jews repaired to Jerusalem, where
they began to rebuild the altar, that they might of¬
fer sacrifice immediately. In the following year
they laid the foundation of the second temple, but
they had not proceeded far, when they were obli-
bliged to desist on account of an order from Artax-
erxes, king of Persia, which had been procured
through the misrepresentations of the Samaritans
and others. Matters remained in this state for fif¬
teen years, or until the second year of Darius, KiDg
of Persia, who permitted them to continue the work
according to the will of Cyrus, Assisted by th&
elders of the Jews, and the princes of the Sanhe¬
drim, the structure of the temple was, with great
diligence, brought to a conclusion; and on the
third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year
* Josephus' Ant. vol. iii book xb chap. i.
MAS05T.
of I)alius, it was finished aud dedicated.
was its foundation stone laid in April, 532
hefore Christ, and it was finished on the 21st .Fe¬
bruary, 511 years before Christ.
The dimensions of this temple were larger than,
that of Solomon. Its length was the same, viz :
seveuty cubits, but its breadth, instead of being thir¬
ty cubits, including the side chambers, was sixty ;
audits height instead of being thirty cubits, was
also sixty. Thus was the second temple twice the
size of the first, (the length only excepted) as the
first was twice the size of the tabernacle. From
this account of the second temple, it is presumed
that the weeping of the people, at the laying of
the foundation, and the maimer in which they
spoke of it, when compared with the first, was not
so much owing to its inferiority of size, as-other
considerations ; to their contrasting the then abject
state of their nation, with its glory in the days of
Solomon, and to their remembering that it wanted
five memorable things, which belonged to the first
temple, viz : the ark; the urim and the thuramimj
the fire from heaven; the cloud of glory on the mer¬
cy seat; and the spirit of prophecy. The second
temple stood until the 19th year before Christ.*
We find from the sacred scriptures, that many,
who offered their services to aid in the great and
glorious work of rebuilding the house of the Lord,
were deprived of that privilege, and if we had no
other evidence, it is a reasonable conjecture, that
those who enjoyed this privilege, adopted some
* Brown's Ant. of the Jews, vol. 1. p. 150,
ROY All ARCH
means of distinguishing each other from the rest
of the world. These' distinguishing marks have
been handed down by a chosen few, together with
an account of important and interesting facts which
occurred, and discoveries made at that period.
The degree of Royal Arch unfolds many impor¬
tant particulars relative to the craft which had been
long buried in darkness. It impresses on the mind
a belief of the existance of a Supreme and Almigh¬
ty Being, by whose will " we live, move and have
our being," and extends that system of morals
which is inculcated in the preceding degrees.
This degree is more sublime and important than
all which precede it. To confer it with proper ef¬
fect, the Chapter rooms should be furnished with
appropriate furniture, and every officer should have
a perfect knowledge of the duties of his station.
The lecture of this degree is divided into two
sections, and should be well understood by every
Royal Arch Mason. Upon an accurate acquaint¬
ance with it, will depend his usefulness at our as¬
semblies ; and without it, he will be unqualified
to perform the duties of the various stations in
which his services may be required by the Chapter.
First Section.
The first section opens to view a large field for
contemplation and study. It furnishes us with
many interesting particulars relative to the state of
MASOJw
833
the fraternity, (luring and since j+he reign of King
Solomon; and illustrates the causes and conse¬
quences of some very important events which oc¬
curred during his reign.
This section explains the mode of government
in this class of Masons ; it designates the appella¬
tion, number and situation of the several officer,
and points out the purpose and duties of their res¬
pective stations.
The following passages from scripture will serve
to explain the furniture and clothing of a Chapter.
2. Chron. in—14.
And he made the vail of blue and purple, and
crimson, and fine linen, and wrought characters
thereon.
Exodus, xxxix—9, 14.
And he made the breast plate of cunning work,
like the work of the ephod ; of gold, blue and pur¬
ple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen. It was
four square; they made the breast plate double ; a
span was the length thereof, and a span the breadth
thereof, being doubled. And they set in it four
rows of stones ; "the first row was a sardius, a to¬
paz and a carbuncle; this was the first row. And
the second vow, an emerald, a sapphire and a dia¬
mond. And the third row, a ligure, an agate and
an amethyst, And the fourth row, a beryl, an
onyx and a jasper.
And the stones were according to the names of
334
royal arch
the children of Israel, twelve according to their
names, like the engraving of a signet, every one
"with his name according to the twelve tribes.
S3, 31. And he made the robe of the epkod of
woven work all of blue; and there was a hole in
the midst of the robe, as the hole of a habergeon,
with a baud round about the hole, that it should not
rend. And they made upon the hems of the robe,
pomegrates of blue and purple and scarlet and
twined linen. And they made bells of pure gold,
and put the bells between the pomegranates upon
the hem of the robe, round about between the pome¬
granates ; a bell and pomegranate, round about the
hem of the robe to minister in; as the Lord com¬
manded Moses.
And they made coats of fine linen of woven work
for Aaron and his sons, and a mitre of fine linen,
and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breech¬
es of fine twined linen ; and a girdle of fine twined
linen, and blue, and purple and scarlet, of needle
work; as the Lord commanded Moses.
And they made the plate ofthe holy crown, of pure
gold, and wrote upon it a Writing, like to the engra¬
ving of a signet, Holiness to the Lord. And
they tied it upon a lace of blue, to fasten it high up¬
on the mitre ; as the Lord commanded Moses.
Charge at opening.
Now, we command you, brethren, that ye draw
yourselves from*every brother that walketh disorder¬
ly and not after the tradition ye have received of
us, For yourselves, know how ye ought to follow
MASON.
335
us, for We behaved ourselves not disorderly among
you. Neither did we eat any man's bread for
nought, but wrought with labour and travail day
and night, that we might not be chargeable to any
of you. Not because we have not power, but to
make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.
For even when we were with you, this we com¬
manded you, that if any would not work, neither
should he eat; for we hear that there are some
who walk among you disorderly, working not at
all, but are busy bodies; now them that are such,
we command and exhort, that with quietness they
work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren,
be not weary in well doing, and if any man obey
not our word, note that man, and have no company
with him,' that he may be ashamed. Yet count hirn
not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Now the Lord of Peace, give you peace always.
Prayer at opening.
Almighty and Supreme High Priest of Heaven
and earth ! we approach thee with reverence and
implore thy benediction upou the purposes of this
assembly. Grant, O Lord, that this Chapter may
be conducted to thy honor; that the members may
be ever mindful of the sacred duties imposed upon
them, and faithfully pursue its truest interests.—
May the incense we put before thee upon thine al¬
tar, prove an acceptable sacrifice to thee. Hear us,
0 Lord, from tby dwelling place; bless us, the
886
ROYAL ARCH
work of thine hands; accept us in mercy, and for¬
give our transgressions.
Glory be to God on high 1
Response.—Amen !—So mote it be.
The second Section.
This section contains much valuable information,
and discloses some important facts relative to the
preservation of the sacred book of the law and the
testimony.
It proves, in the most striking manner, that pros¬
perity and happiness are the ultimate rewards of
virtue and justice, while disgrace and ruin invaria¬
bly follow the practices of vice and immorality.
A proper arrangement of the following charges,
&c. is essentially necessary to be observed in eve¬
ry Chapter; and their application should be fami¬
liar to every Royal Arch Mason.
Isaiah xiu—16.
I will bring the blind by a way that they know
not; I will lead them in paths that they have not
known ; I will make darkness light before them,
and crooked things straight; these things will X
do unto them, and not forsake them.
Prayer.
Supreme Architect of universal nature, who by
MJLS6K.
thine almighty word, didst speak into being the
stupendous arch of heaven, and for the instruction
and pleasure of thy rational creatures, didst adorn
it with greater and lesser lights 5 thereby magnifying
thy power, and endearing thy goodness unto the
sons of man : we humbly adore and worship thine
unspeakable perfection. We bless thee that when
man had fallen from his innocence and happiness,
thou didst still leave unto him the powers of rea¬
soning, and capacity of improvement and pleasure
We thank thee that amidst the pains and calami¬
ties of our present state, so many means of refresh¬
ment and satisfaction are reserved for us, while tra¬
velling the rugged path of life. Especially would
we at this time render thee our thanksgiving and
praise for the institution, as members of which, we
are at this time assembled, and for all the pleasure
we have derived from it We thank thee that the
few, here assembled before thee, have been favour¬
ed with new inducements, and laid under new and
stronger obligations to virtue and holiness, May
these obligations, O blessed Father, have their full
effect upon us. Teach us, we pray thee, the true
reverence of thy great, mighty and terrible name.
Inspire us with a firm and unshaken resolution in
our virtuous pursuits. Give us grace diligently to
search thy word in the hook of nature, wherein the
duties of our high vocation are iuculcated with di¬
vine authority. May the solemnity of the ceremo¬
nies of ourinstitutionbeduly impressed on our minds,
and have a lasting and happy effect on our lives.—
O thou, who didst aforetime appear unto thy ser¬
vant Moses, in aflame of fire out of the midst of a
Do
ROYAL ARCH
bash, enkindle, we beseech thee, in each of our
hearts, a flame of devotion to thee, of love to each
other, and of charity to all mankind. May all thy
miracles and mighty worlcsf fill us with the dread,
and thy goodness impress us with the love, of thy
holy name. May Holiness to the Lord, be
engraven on all our thoughts, words and actions.
May the incense of piety ascend continually unto
ikee from the altar of our hearts, and burn, day and
night, as a sacrifice of a sweet smelling savour,
ivell pleasing into thee, And since sin has de¬
stroyed within us, the first temple of purity and
innocence, may thy heavenly grace guide and as¬
sist us in rebuilding a second temple of reformation,
and may the glory of this latter house be greater
than the glory of the former.—Amen l"
Exodus hi—1, 6.
<e Now Moses kept the fiock of Jethro, his father
in-law, the Priest of Midian ; and he led the flock
to the back side the desert, and came to the moun¬
tain of God, even unto Horeb.
And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in
a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush; and he
looked, and behold, the bush burned with fire, and
the bush was not consumed.
And Moses said, I will now turn aside and see
this great sight, why this bush is not burned ; and
when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see,
God called unto him out of the midst of the bush,
and said, Moses, Moses,! and he said, here am 1.
And he said, draw not njgli hither 5 put off thy
MA.SGK.
339
shoes from off thy feet; for the place whereon thou
standest is holy ground.
Moreover, he said, I am the God of thy father,
the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God
of Jacob. And Moses hid his face ; for he was
afraid to look upon God."
2. Chron. xxxvi—11, 20.
u Zedekiali was one and twenty years old when
he began to reign ; and he reigned eleven years in
Jerusalem. And he did that which was evil in the
sight of the Lord his God, and humbled not him¬
self before Jeremiah, the Prophet, speaking from
the mouth of the Lord. And he also rebelled a-
gainst King Nebuchadnazzar, who had made him
swear by God ; but he stiffened his neck, and hard¬
ened his heart, from turning unto the Lord God of
Israel.
Moreover, all the chiefs of the priests and the
people transgressed very much, after all the abomi¬
nations of the heathen, and polluted the house of
the Lord, which he had hallowed in Jerusalem.—
And the Lord God of their fathers sent to them by
his messengers, rising up by times and sending 5
because he had compassion of his people, and
on his dwelling place. But they mocked the mes¬
sengers of God, and despised his words, and mis¬
used his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord a-
rose against his people, till there was no remedy*
Therefore he brought upon them the King of tha
Chahlees, who slew their young men with the sword
in the house of their sanctuary, and had no com-
S4Q
ROYAL ARCH
passion upon young man or maiden, old man, or
liim that stooped with age; he gave them all
into his hand. And all the vessels of the house of
God, great and small, and the treasures of the house
of the Lord, and the treasures of the king, and of
his friends ; all these he brought into Babylon.—•
And they burnt the house of God, and brake down
the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt all the palaces
thereof with fire, and destroyed all the goodly
Vessels thereof. And them that had escaped from
the sword, carried he away to Babylon, where they
were servants to him and his sons, until the reign
of the kingdom of Persia."
Ezra i—1, 3.
"Now, in the first year of Cyrus, King of Per¬
sia (that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jer¬
emiah, might be fulfilled) the Lord stirred Up the
spirit of Cyrus, King of Persia, that he made a pro¬
clamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it
also in writing, saying : Thus saith Cyrus, King
of Persia, the Lord God of heaven hath given me
all the kingdoms of the earth, and he hath charged
me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is
in Judali. "Who is there among you all of his
people ? his God be with him, and let him go up to
Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house
of the Lord God of Israel, which is in Jarusalem.?'
Exodus hi—13, 14.
"And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I
mason.
341
come unto the children of Israel, and shall say un¬
to them, the God of your fathers hath sent me un¬
to you ; and they shall say unto me, what is his
utuae ? what shall I say unto them?
And God said unto Moses, I am, that I am ;
and thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel,
I am hath sent me to you."
JPsalm cxn.
(e Lord, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me:
give ear unto my voice* Let my prayer be set forth
before thee as incense, and the lifting up of my
hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, O
Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my
lips. Incline not my heart to an yevil thing, to prac¬
tice wicked works with men that work iniquity.—
Let the righteous smite me, it shall be a kindness;
and let him reprove me, it shall be an excellent oil.
Mine eyes are unto thee, O God the Lord; in thee
is my trust 5 leave not my soul destitute. Keep
me from the snares which they have laid for me,
and the gins of the workers of iniquity. Let the
wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I with¬
al escape."
Psalm exni.
<( I cried unto the Lord with my voice: with my
voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication.
I poured out my complaint before him: I shewed
before him my trouble. When my spirit was over¬
whelmed within me, then thou knewest my path;
Dd %
R©YAL AUCH
in the way wherein I walked, have they privily
laid a snare for me. I looked on my right band
and beheld, but there was no man that would
know me ; refuge failed me : no man cared for ray
soul. I cried unto thee, O Lord : I said thou art
my refuge, and my portion in the Land of the liv¬
ing. Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very
low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they
are stronger than I. JBring my soul out of dark-
nessf that I may praise thy name."
Psalm cxmi.
u Hear my prayer, O Lord ; give ear to my sup¬
plications ; in thy faithfulness answer me, and in
tby righteousness. And enter not into judgment
with thy servant; for in thy sight shall no man liv¬
ing be justified. For the enemy hath persecuted
my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the
ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness.—
Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me:
my heart within me is desolate. Hear me speedi¬
ly, O Lord; my spirit faileth: hide not thy face
from me, lest I be like unto them that go down in¬
to the pit. Cause me to hear thy loving kind¬
ness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause
me to know the way wherein 1 should walk ; for I
lift up my soul unto thee. Teach me to do thy will;
for thou art my God: bring my soul out of trouble,
and of thy mercy out cut off mine enemies, fori am
thy servant.
MASON.
Exodus iv—if 10.
"And Moses answered and said, But behold?
they will not believe me? nor hearken unto thy
voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not ap¬
peared unto thee. And the Lord said unto him,
What is that in thine hand ? and he said, a rod*
And he said, cast it on* the ground; and he cast it
©n the ground, and it becamea serpent; and Moses
fled from before it. And the Lord said unto Moses,
Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail; and
he put forth his hand and caught it, and it became
a rod in his hand. That they may believe that the
Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham,
the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath ap¬
peared unto you.
And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put
now thine hand into thy bosom ; and he put his
hand into his bosom; and when he took it out, be¬
hold, his hand was leprous as snow. And h©
said, Put thine hand into thy bosom again : and h©
put his hand into his bosom again, and plucked it
out of his bosom, and, behold, it turned again as
his other flesh. And it shall come to pass, if they
will not believe thee? neither hearken to the voice
of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of
the latter sign.
And it shall come to pass, if they will not be¬
lieve also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy
voice? that thou shalt take of the water of the river,
and pour it upon the dry land : and the Water
which thou takest out of the river, shall become
bl'jol upon the dryland."
ROYAL ARCH
Ilaggai 11—1, 9, 23.
"In tlie seventh month, in the one and twentieth
day of the month, came the word of the Lord by
the prophet Haggai, saying: Speak now to Zerub-
babel, the son ofShealtiel, governor of Judah, and
to Joshua, the sou of Josedech, the high priest, and
to the residue of the people, saying: Who is left
among you that saw this house in her first glory ?
and how do ye see it now ? is it not in your eyes
in comparison of it, as nothing? yet now be strong,
O Zerubbabel, and be strong, O Joshua, son of
Josedech, the high priest, and be strong all ye peo¬
ple of the land, and work ; for I am with you ac¬
cording to the word which I covenanted with you
when ye came out of Egypt, so my spirit remainetli
among you : fear ye not.
For thus saith the Lord of hosts, yet once it is a
little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the
earth, and the sea and the dry land: and I will
shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall
come, and I will fill this house with glory. The
glory of this latter house shall be greater than the
former, and in this place will I give peace.
In that day will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my
servant, the sou of Shealtiel, saith the Lord, and
will make thee as a signet: fori have chosen thee."
Zachariah iv—6, 10.
^This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel,
saying, not by might nor power, but by my spirit.
Who art thou, O Great Mountain ? before Zerub-
MASOtf.
345
babel thou sbalt become a plain, and he shall bring
forth the head stone thereof with shouting; crying,
grace, grace, unto it. Moreover, the word of the
Lord came unto me, saying : The hands of Zerub-
babel have laid the foundation of this house, his
hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know
that the Lord of Hosts hath sent me unto you.—
For who hath despised the day of small things ?
for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in
the hands of Zerubbabel with these seven."
John i—1, 5.
<{ In the beginning was the word, and the word
was with God, and the word was God. The same
was in the beginning with God. All things were
made by him; and without him was not any thing
made that was made. In him was life, and the life
was the light of men. And the light sliineth in
darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not."
Denter, xxxi—SI, 26.
te And it came to pass when Moses had made an
end of writing the words of this law in book, until
they Were finished, that Moses commanded the Le-
vites which bare the ark of the covenant of the
Lord, saying : Take this book of the law, and put
it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the Lord
your God, that it may be there for a witness against
thee "
346
ROY AC ARCH
Exodus XXV 21.
" And thou shalt put the mercy seat above, upon
the ark ; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimo¬
ny that I shall give thee/'
JExodus xvi—-32, 34.
" And Moses said, this is the thing which the
Lord commandeth, Fill an omer of manna, to
keep for your generations ; that they may see the
bread w herewith I have fed you in the wilderness,
when I brought you forth from the land of Egypt.
And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot and put
an omer of manna therein, and lay it up before the
Lord, to be kept for your generations. As the
Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up be¬
fore the testimony to be kept,"
Hebrews ix—2, 5.
"For there was a tabernacle made \ the first,
wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the
ghewbread ; which is called the Sanctuary. And
after the vails, the tabernacle, which is called the
Holiest of all; which had the golden censer, and
the ark of the covenant overlaid roundabout with
gold wherein was the golden pot that had manna,
and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the
covenant; and over it the cherubims of glory, shad¬
owing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now
speak particularly."
MASON. ,
347
timos ix—11.
tl In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of
David that is fallen, and close up the breaches
thereof, and I will raise up his ruins, and 1 wi\l
build it as in the days of old."
Exodus vi—2, 3,
" And God spake unto Moses, and said unto
linn, 1 am the Lord; and I appeared unto Abra¬
ham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of
God Almighty, but by my name, Jehovah,, was I
not known to them,"
Charge to a newly exalted Companion.
Worthy Companion :—By the consent and as¬
sistance of the members of this Chapter, you are
now exalted to the sublime and honorable degree
of Royal Arch Mason. Having attained this de¬
gree, you have arrived at the summit and perfection
of ancient Masonry ; and are consequently entitled
to a full explanation of the mysteries of the order.
The rites and ceremonies developed in this de¬
gree, have been handed down through a chosen few,
Unchanged by time and uncontrolled by prejudice :
and we .expect and trust, they will be regarded by
you with the same veneration, and transmitted with
the the same scrupulous purity to your successors.
No one can reflect on the ceremonies of gaining
admission into this place, without being forcibly
struck with the important lessons they teach.
848
ROYAL ARCH
Here we are necessarily led to contemplate with
gratitude and admiration, the sacred source from
whence all earthly comforts flow; here we find
additional inducements to continue steadfast and
immoveable in the discharge of our respective du¬
ties ; and here we are bound by the most solemn ties, to
promote each others welfare, and correct each oth¬
ers failings, by advice, admonition and reproof.
As it is our most earnest desire, and duty we owe a
to our companions of this order, that the admission
of every candidate into this Chapter, should be at¬
tended by the approbation of the most scrutinizing
eye, we hope always to possess the satisfaction of
finding none among us, but such as will promote
the great end of our institution. By paying due
attentiou to this determination, we expect you will
never recommend any candidate to this Chapter,
"whose abilities and knowledge of the foregoing de¬
grees you cannot freely vouch for, and whom you
do not firmly and confidently believe will fully con¬
form to the principles of our order, and fulfil the
obligations of a Royal Arch Masou. While such
are our members, we may expect to be united in
one object, without lukewarmness, inattention or
neglect; but zeal, fidelity and affection will be
the distinguishing characteristics of our society,
and that satisfaction, harmony and peace be enjoy¬
ed at our meetings which no other society can af¬
ford."
Closing the Chapter.
The Chapter is closed with solemn ceremonies;
MAS©N.
349
and tKe following prayer is rehearsed by the Most
Excellent High Priest.
By the wisdom of the Supreme High Priest, may
we be directed, by bis strength may we be enabled,
and by the beauty of virtue may we be incited, to
perform the obligations here enjoined on us, to keep
inviolably the mysteries here unfolded to us, and
invariably to practice all those duties out of the
Chapter, which are inculcated in it.
Response.—So mote it be.—Amen !
En
CHAPTER TI.
Order of High Priest.
This order appertains'to the office of High Priest
of a Royal Arch Chapter; and no one can he le¬
gally entitled to receive it, until he has been duly
elected to preside as High Priest in a regular Chap¬
ter of Royal Arch Masons. This order should
not be conferred when a less number than three
duly qualified High Priests are present. When¬
ever the ceremony is performed 'in due and ample
form, the assistance of at least niue High Priests
are requisite.
Though the High Priest of every regular Royal
Arch Chapter, having himself been duly qualified,
can confer the order under the preceding limitations
as to number; yet it is desirable, when circumstan¬
ces will permit, that it should be conferred by the
Grand High Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chap¬
ter, or such Present or Past High Priest, as he may
designate for that purpose. A convention notified
to meet at the time of any communication of the
Grand Chapter, will afford the best opportunity of
conferring this important degree of Masonry, with
appropriate solemnities. Whenever it is confer¬
red the following directions are to be observed.
A candidate desirous of receiving the order of
High Priesthood; makes a written request to his
"HIGH PRIEST.
351
jnedecessor in office, or, when it can be done, to
the Grand High Priest, respectfully Teqesting that
a convention of High Priests may be called for the
purpose of conferring on him the order. When
the convention meets, and is duly organized, a cer¬
tificate of the due election of the candidate to the
office of High Priest, must be produced. This
certificate is signed by his predecessor in office, at¬
tested by the Secretary of the Chapter. On exam¬
ination of this certificate, the qualifications of the
candidate are ascertained. The solemn ceremo¬
nies of conferring the order upon him, then ensue.
When euded, the presiding officer directs the secre¬
tary of the convention to make a record of the pro¬
ceedings, and return it to the secretary of the Grand
Chapter, to be by him laid before the Grand High
Priest, for the information of all whom it may con¬
cern. The convention is then dissolved in due
form.
It is the duty of every companion, as soon after
his election to the office of High Priest, as is con¬
sistent with personal convenience, to apply for ad¬
mission to the order of High Priesthood, that he
maybe fully qualified to govern his Chapter.
The following passages of scripture are made
use of during the ceremonies :
Genesis, xiv—13, 24.
"And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son,
(who dwelt in Sodom) and bis goods, and departed.
And there came one that had escaped, and told
Abram the Hebrew; f<jr he dwelt in the plain of
HIGH PRIEST.
Mamre,' the Ainorite, brother of Eslicol, and bro¬
ther of Aner: and these were confederate with
Abram. And when Abram heard that his brother
was taken captive, he armed his trained servants,
born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen,
and pursued them to Dan. And he divided him¬
self against them, he and his servants by night,
and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah,
which is on the left hand of Demascus. And he
brought back all the goods, and also brought again
his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women al¬
so, and the people. And the King of Sodom
went out to meet him (after his return from the
slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that
were with him) at the valey of Shaveh, which is
the king's dale.
And Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought forth
bread and wine: and he was the Priest of the most
high God. And he blessed him, and said, blessed
be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heav¬
en and earth: and blessed be the most high God,
which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand.
And he gave him tithes of all. And the king of
Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and
take the goods to thyself. And Abram said to the
king of Sodom, I have lifted up mine h and unto the
Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven
and earth, that I will not take from a thread even
to a shoe-latchet, and that I will not take any thing
that is thine, lest thou should say, I have made
Abram rich :
Save only that which the young men have eaten,
and the portion of the men which went with me,
high priest.
*353
Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their
portion."
Numbers, vi—22, 26.
"And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,
Speak unto Aaron, and unto his sons, saying, On
this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, say¬
ing unto them, The Lord bless thee and keep thee;
the Loid make his face shine upon thee, and be gra¬
cious unto thee; the Lord lift up his countenance
upon thee, and give thee peace."
Hebrews, vn—1, 5, 17, 20, 21.
" For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, Priest of
the most high God, (who met Abram returning
from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
to whom also Abram gave a tenth part of all; first
being, by interpretation, king of righteousnes, and
after that also king of Salem, which is, king of
peace ; without father, without mother, without de¬
scent, having neither beginning of days nor end of
life ; but made like unto the Son of God ;) abi-
deth a priest continually.
Now consider how great this man was, unto
whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of
his spoils. And verily they that are the sons of
Levi, who receive the office of the Priesthood, have
a commandment to take tithes of the people accord¬
ing to the law, that is,of their brethren, though they
come out of the loins of Abraham,
ee 2
354
HIGH PRIEST.
For he testifieth, Thou art a Priest forever, after
the order of Melchizedek.
And inasmuch as not without an oath he was
made priest:
For those priests ('under the Levitical law J were
made without an oath ; hut this with an oath, by
him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will
not repent. Thou art a priest forever, after the
order of Melchizedek.v
The following observations with regard to the
Office of High Priest of the Jews, may not be unin¬
teresting :
The Ministers of the Temple were divided into
four classes, but the High Priest held the highest
rank. The office of High Priest was confined to
the family of Aaron, and to the first born original¬
ly of that family. As the elder sons of families,
before the giving of the law, were priests of these
families after the death of their parents.
This regard for primogeniture, was attended
with some inconveniences; for neither grace nor
natural abilities always descend to the eldest by
birth. Accordingly, the High Priest had always
an assistant; and, on the day of expiation partic¬
ularly, some elders, were appointed to remind him
of the duties attached to his station, lest age or ig¬
norance might occasion mistakes.
The garments of the High Priest, consisted first,
ofacoatof fine white linen, or tunic, which set
close to the body, and next to the skin, thereby
supplying the place of a shirt* Josephus describes
HIGH PRIEST.
355
it to be a u tunic circumscribing, or closely encom¬
passing the body, with tight sleeves for the arms,
and reaching down to the heels."
The second part of his dress was the trowsers,
jnade of white fine twined linen. The third part
was the girdle, or a long piece of fine twined linen,
blue, purple and scarlet, of needle-work, which
went round the body from the breast to the loins.
There were wrought in it several flowers and fig¬
ures in blue, purple and scarlet.
The fourth part of the dress was the robe of the
ephod, or the garment that was over aud above the.
white linen coat, but below the ephod, and fastened
to bis body by means of the ephod. Its materials
were ordered to be of linen, of a sky blue colour,
extendiug from the neck to the feet.
The fifth part was the ephod. It consisted of a
beautiful rich cloth, composed of blue, purple, scar¬
let, and fine white linen, interwoven with threads
of solid gold, intended for the back, and reaching
from shoulder to shoulder. It extended from be¬
tween the shoulders to the feet, thereby forming a
loose upper garment. The bindings above the
shoulders had the name of shoulder pieces. They
appear to have formed of the same kind of cloth as
the ephod ; and they had socket of gold on the top
of each shoulder, in which, as in a seal, were set
two onyx stones, with the names of the children of
Israel engraven on them. The girdle of the ephod
passed underneath the arms, and fastened the ephod
to the breast plate below.
The breast plate is described to have been a
piece of embroidered cloth of gold, purple, scarlet,
356
HIGH PRIEST.
and fine twined linen, the same as the epliod. It
was a span square, and made strong, that it might
the better hold the precious stones that were set in
it. It had a gold ring at each corner, from the up¬
permost of which went two golden chains of wreath¬
ed work, to meet the chains that came from the
shoulder pieces of the ephod, and fastened the one
to the other; while the two undermost rings of the
breast plate went two lines of blue, to fasten it to
two rings of the girdle of the ephod. The precious
stones which were set in it had the names of the
twelve tribes of Israel engraven thereon. They
were twelve in number, and arranged in four rows,
three in each row. The first row had a ruby, en-
engraved with the tribe of Reuben,; a topaz, en¬
graved with the tribe of Simeon ; a carbuncle, en¬
graved with the tribe of Levi.
The second row had an emerald, engraved with
the tribe of Judah ; a sapphire, engraved with the
tribe of Isachar; a diamond, on which was engra¬
ved the tribe of Zebulun.
The third row had a ligure, which is supposed
to be the hyacynth, on which was engraved the
tribe of Dan ; an agate, engraved with the tribe of
Napthale; an amethyst, engraved with the tribe of
Gad.
The fourth row had a beryl, engraved with the
tribe of Asher; an onyx, engraved with the tribe
of Joseph; a jasper, engraved with the tribe of
Benjamin.
Such were the names of the precious stones on
the breast plate of the high priest, and on which
the names of the twelve tribes were written. They
high priest. 357
I*
served not only for beauty, but perpetually to re¬
mind him of the lively interest that the ministers
of religion ought ever to take in the temporal and
spiritual interests of their people.
The seventh part of the dress of the high Priest
was the mitref on which was the golden plate, en¬
graven with the words, "Holiness to the Lord.,?
It was fastened in front of the mitre, and the de¬
clared intention of it was, that Aaron might bear
the iniquity of the holy things, which the children
of Israel should hallow in all their holy gifts, that
they might be accepted before the Lord.
It was the duty of the High Priest to offer sacri¬
fices for the people, some of which he performed
alone, as on the great day of atonement, in the
most holy place; it was also a part of his office to
bless the people, which was either at stated seasons,
according to the form prescribed in Numbers, vi.
23, 27, or occasional, as when Eli blessed Hannah
It was also part of his office to judge the people,
either in things concerning the house and worship
of God, or in difficult cases of a civil nature when
he was joined by the civil judge or ruler.
The High Priest held his office for life, until
near the end of the Jewish polity, when money and
power unfortunately rendered it an object of emol¬
ument or ambition. In every period of the Jewish
state, policy and piety united in rendering the
anointed of the Lord respectable. They seem ne¬
ver to have allowed this principal functionary to
/orgct that he was the Priest of God, and solemnly
* 1. Sam i—-17.
358
HIGH PRIEST*
eeperated from the rest of men, Yet high as w as
his character in a sacred point of view, he was not
raised above the law, for in civil matters the crown
was always superior to the mitre.
From the first institution of the priesthood in the
wilderness, to the building of Solomon's temple,
there were thirteen high Priests. Between the
building of the temple, and the captivity, Josephus
reckons eighteen high Priests,# During the exist-
ance of the first temple, a steady regard was had to
primogeniture, the eldest son always succeeding
his father; but during the second, they often ob¬
tained it for money, and more than once they wa¬
ded to the mitre through the blood of their prede¬
cessors. During the existance of the second temple,
Josephus reckons no fewer than fifty-six high
Priests.f
We have now traced the different degrees of Ma¬
sonry, from the degree of Entered Apprentice, to
that of Koyal Arch; and having given copious il¬
lustrations, little more can be said to encourage the
zealous Mason to persevere in his researches. Each
of the degrees have their distinct and peculiar ex¬
cellencies ; they differ iu their construction and cer¬
emonies, but ultimately tend to the same end—the
* Josephus* Ant. bf x,—c. 8,
t Jos. Ant. b. xx—-c. 10,
HIGH PRIEST.
359
present and future happiness of man. Whoever,
then, has traced the art in a regular progress, and
with sufficient attention, will have amassed an am¬
ple store of useful knowledge, and must reflect with
pleasure upon the good effect of his past dilligence;
while, by applying the whole to the general advan¬
tage of society, he will observe method in the pro¬
per distribution of what he has acquired, and se¬
cure to himself the veneration of Masons, and the
approbation of all good men.
C3HARTER VII.
The Royal Master's Degree*
This degree cannot legally be conferred on any
but Royal Arch Masons, who have taken all the
preceeding degrees ; and is a preparatory degree
to that of Select Master. Although it is short, yet
it contains some valuable information, and is inti¬
mately connected with the degree of Select Master,
The following passages of Scripture are consi¬
dered to be appropriate to this degree.
1. Kings, vii—48, 50, 40.
"And Solomon made all the vessels that pertain¬
ed to the house of the Lord: the altar of gold, and
the table of gold, whereupon the shew bread was ;
and the candlesticks of pure gold ; five on the right
side and five on the left, before the oracle; with
the flowers, and the lamps and the tongs of gold ;
and the bowls, and the snuffers and basons, and
the spoons, and the censers, of pure gold; and the
hinges of gold, both for doors of the inner house,
the most holy place, and for the doors of the house,
to-wit, of the temple. So Hiram made an end of
doing all the work, that he had made king Solo*
mon, for the house of the Lord."
BOYAL MASTER*
361
Rev. xxn—12, 14.
. u And behold I come quickley; and my reward
is with me, to give every man according as his work
shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning
and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are
they that do his commandments, that they may
have a right to the tree of life, and may enter in
through the gates into the city."
1. Kings, vi—27.
" As he set the cherubims within the inner housed
and they stretched forth the wings of the cheru¬
bims, so that the wing, of the one touched the one
wall, and the wing of the other cherub touched the
other wall; and their wings touched one another in
the midst of the house."
The ark, called the glory of Israel, which was
seated in the middle of the Holy place, under the
wings of the cherubims, was a small chest or coffer,
three feet nine inches long, two feet three inches wide,
& three feettliree inches high. It wag made of wood,
except the mercy seat, but overlaid with gold both
inside and out. It had a ledge of gold surrounding
it at the top, into which the cover, called the mer¬
cy seat, was let in. The mercy seat^was of solid
gold, the thickness of an hands breadth ; at the
two ends of it were two cherubims looking inwards
towards each other, with their wings expanded;
which embracing the whole circumference of the
mercy seat, they met on each side in the middle ;
all of which the Habbins say was made out of the
same mass without any soldering of parts.
ROYAL MASTER.
Here the SheJcinah, or Divine Presence rested,
and was visible in the appearance of a cloud over it.
Prom hence the BathJcoll issued, and gave answers
when God was consulted. And hence it is, that
God is said, in the scriptures, to dwell between
the* cherubims; that is, between the cherubims on
the mercy seat, because there was the seat or throne
of his visible appearance, of his glory among them.
oiiAr rmi vill.
Select Muster's Degree*
This degree is highly important, and without it
the Royal Arch Degree is incomplete. It rational¬
ly accounts for the concealment and preservation of
those essentials of the craTt, which were brought to
light at the erection of the second temple; and
which lay concealed from the Masonic eye for four
hundred and seventy years.
Many particulars relative to those few, who were
selected for their superior skill, to complete an im¬
portant part of Solomon's Temple, are explained.
And here too, is exemplified an instance of jus¬
tice and mercy, by our ancient patron, towards on©
of the craft, who was led to disobey his commands,
by an overzealous attachment for the institution.—
It ends with a description of a particular circum¬
stance which characterizes this degree.
The following Psalm is read at opening;
Psalm, Lxxxvir.
6i His foundation is in the holy mountains. The
Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the
dwellings of J acob. (ilorious things are spoken
of thee, O city of God. I will make mention of
liahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold
864 SELECT M/STEIt
Pkilistia, ancl Tyre, with Ethiopia ; this man was
horn there. And of Zion it shall be said, This
and that man was horn in her : and the Highest
himself shall establish her. The Lord shall count,
when he writeth up the people, that this man was
horn there. As well the singers as the players
on instruments shaU be there i all my springs are iit
thee,"
The following passages of scripture are introdu¬
ced and explained:
1. Kings, iv—1, 5, 6.
i{ So King Solomon was king over all Israel.—
Azeriah, the son of Nathan, was over the officers;
and Zabeed, the son of Nathan, principal officer,
and kings friend; and Ahishar was over the house¬
hold, and Adoniram, the son of Ah da, was over the
tribute.
1. Kings, v—17, 18.
And the king commanded, and they brought
great stones, and hewed stones, to lay the founda¬
tion of the house. And Solomon's builders, and
Hiram's builders did liew them, and the stone
squarers; so they prepared timber and stones to
build the house."
i. Kings, viii—13, 14.
{i And King Solomonsent and fetched Iliram out
SELECT MASTERi
36$
of Tyre. He was a widow's son, of the tribe of
Xapthali; and his father was a man of Tyre, a
worker of brass; and he was filled with wisdom
and understanding, and cunning, to work all works
in brass.
Ezelceil, xxvn—9-
The ancients of Gebal, and the wise men there¬
of, were in thee thy calkers; all the ships of the
sea, with their mariners, were in thee, to occupy
thy merchandize.
Dent, xxxi—24, 26.
" And it came to pass, when Moses had made
an end of writing the words of this law in a book,
until they were finished, that Moses commanded the
Levites, which bare the ark of the covenant of the
Lord, saying, Take this book of the law, and put
it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the Lord
your God, that it may be there for a witness against
thee."
Exo. xvi—33, 34.
t( And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot and
put an omer full of Manna therein, and lay it up
before the Lord, to be kept for your generations.
As the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron, laid, it
up before the testimony to be kept,
Ff 2
366
select master.
Numb, xvii-i-10.
And the Lord said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's
rod again before the testimony to be kept for a to¬
ken.
Numbers, vn—89.
And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle
of the congregation, to speak with him, then he
heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off
the mercy seat, that was upon the ark of the testi¬
mony, from between the two cherubims ; and he
spake unto him.
Mxodus, xxv—10.
And look that thou make them after their pat¬
tern, which was shewed thee in the mount."
Charge.
Companion—Having attained to this degree,
you have passed the circle of perfection in ancient
Masonry. In the capacity of Select Master, you
must be sensible that your obligations are increased
in proportion to your privileges. Let it be your
constant care to prove yourself worthy of the con¬
fidence reposed in you, in admitting you to this se¬
lect degree. Let uprightness and integrity attend
your steps ; let justice and mercy mark your con¬
duct ; let fervency and zeal stimulate you in the
discharge of the various duties incumbent upon youj
SELECT MASTER.
367
but suffer not an idle or impertinent curiosity to
lead you astray, or betray you into danger. Be
deaf to every insinuation which would have a ten¬
dency to weaken your resolution, or tempt you to
an act of disobedience. Be voluntarily dumb and
blind, when the exercise of those faculties would
endanger the peace of your mind, or the probity of
your conduct; and let silence and secrecy those
cardinal virtues of a Select Master, on all necessa¬
ry occasions, be scrupulously observed. By a stea¬
dy adherance to the important instructions con¬
tained in this degree, you will merit the approba¬
tion of the select number with whom you are asso¬
ciated, and will enjoy the high satisfaction of hav¬
ing acted well your part in the important enterprise
in which you are engaged; and after having
wrought your regular hours, may you be admitted
to participate in all the privileges of a Select Mas¬
ter.
The degree of Select Master is conferred in a
council of Select Masters, consisting of a Thrice
Illustrious Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master,
Principal Conductor of the Work, Captain of the
Guards, Treasurer, Recorder, Grand Steward and
.Tyler; and as many members as may be found
convenient for working to advantage.
A council should represent king Solomon's most
368
select master.
private room, lighted by nine lights, distributed in
threes triangularly, in front of each officer.
The first officer represents king Solomon. He
is clothed in a robe of purple, with a crown upon
his head and a sceptre in his hand ; he is seated
in the east behind a triangular pedestal, covered
with crimson, with a golden triangle thereon.
The second officer represents Hiram King of
Tyre. He is dressed in a robe of purple, with a
crown on his head ; he is seated on the right of the
first officer, behind a triangular pedestal, covered
with crimson, with a golden triangle thereon.
The third officer, or conductor of the work, is
dressed in a robe of orange, with a turban on his
head, holding a mallet and trowel. He is seated
on the left of the first officer, behind a triangular
pedestal, covered with crimson, with a golden tri¬
angle thereon.
The jewels worn by each officer and acting mem¬
ber, is a triangle, with a trowel suspended therein,
numbered according to theiV rank and station.
CHAPTER IX.
Cemuonm and Charges upon the Installation of
Officers of a Iloyal Arch Chapter.
1. The Grand Officers will meet at a convenient
place and open.
% The subordinate Chapter will meet in the
outer courts of their Hall, and form an avenue for
the reception of the Grand Officers.
3. When formed they will dispatch a commit*
tee to the place where the Grand Officers are as¬
sembled, to imform the Grand Marshal that the
Chapter is prepared to receive them; the Grand
Marshal will announce the same to the Grand Of¬
ficers, and introduce the committee.
4. The Grand Officers will move in procession,
conducted by the committee, to the hall of the Chap¬
ter ; when the Grand High Priest enters the Chap¬
ter will give the Grand honors.
5. When the Grand Officers have passed through
the avenue, they counter-march in the rear of the
left hand line, and face to the left; in the mean¬
time the Chapter will form a rank entire, and face
to the front 5 the officers of the Chapter then file
off, and form a front rank two paces in advance of
their members.
6. The Grand Secretary will then call over the
870
CEREMONIES
names of the officers elect, and the Grand High:
Priest will ask whether they accept their respec-1
tive offices. If they answer in the affirmative, lie
then asks the members whether they remain satis¬
fied with their choice. If they Answer in the affir¬
mative, he directs their officers to approach the sa¬
cred volume, and become qualified for installation,
according to ancient usage and custom.
7. The Grand Marshal will then form the wliol e
in procession in single file, and they will marc h
through the veils into the inner apartment, where
they will surround the altar, which is to be previ¬
ously furnished and prepared, in ample form, for
the occasion.
8. All present will then kneel, and the follow¬
ing prayer will be recited.
Prayer.
Almighty and Supreme High Priest of heaven
and earth ! who is there in heaven but thee, and
who upon the earth can stand in competition with
thee ? Thy omniscient mind brings all things in
review, past, present and .to come ; thine omnipo¬
tent arm directs the movements of the vast creation ;
thine omnipresent eye pervades the secret recesses
of every heart; thy boundless benifieeuce supplies
us with every comfort and enjoyment; and thine
unspeakable perfections and glory, surpass the un¬
derstandings of the children of men! Our Father
who art in heaven, we invoke thy benediction upon
the purposes of this assembly; let this Chapter be
established to thine honor; let its officers be en-
AND CHARGES. 371
dowed with wisdom to discern, and fidelity to pur¬
sue its truest interests; let its members be ever
mindful of the *luty they owe to their God, the obe¬
dience they owe to their superiors, the love they
owe to their equals, and the good will they owe to
all mankind. Let this Chapter be consecrated to
thy glory, and its members ever exemplify their
love to God by their benificence to man.—Glory
be to God on high !—
Response. Amen !—So mote it be!
9. The whole then repair to their appropriate
stations.
10. An anthem or ode is to be performed.'
ODE.
Almighty Sire ! our heavenly King,
Before whose sacred name we bend,
Accept the praises which we sing,
And to our humble prayers attend !
All hail great Architect divine !
This universal frame is thine.
Thou who didst Persia's king command,
A proclamation to extend,
That Israel's sons might quit their land,
Their holy temple to attend.
AU hail, &c.
On thy omnipotence we rest,
Secure of the protection here ;
And hope hereafter to be blest,
When we have left this world of care.
All hail, &c.
Grant us, great God, thy powerful aid,
CEREMONIES
To guide us through this vale of tears;
For where thy goodness is display'd.
Peace soothes the mind and ^pleasure cheers.
.All hail, great Architect divine
This universal frame is thine,
11. An oration or address is to be delivered.
An ode, or piece of music,
ODE.
When first from cavern'd depths of night,
Th' Almighty said, <« let there be light,"
'Twas then the royal art began,
And wisdom form'd the creature man.
Sound Jehovah's, the great Jehovah's praise,
Who deign'd the human soul to raise.
Then scepter'd wisdom from his throne,
Survey'd the work, and claim'd his own,
And strength and beauty both combine,
Our hearts to raise, our hands to join.
Sound Jehovah's, the great Jehovah's praisef
Who deign'd the human soul to raise.
For concord form'd and social mirth,
Man claims a high celestial birth,
And peace and friendship, joy and love,
Are emanations from above*
Praise the JUmighty, th' Almighty Architect,
Who did-the wond'rous plan perfect,
Not all the orient gems that shine.
Nor treasures of rich Ophir's mine.
Can vie with friendship, love and truth,
That flourish in immortal youth,
Praise th' Almighty, the Almighty power who
reigns,
And hinds our hearts in friendship's chains.
AND CHARGES.
S73
In fellowship from envy free,
May all our hearts cemented be,
And by our conduct may we prove,
We are the sons of light and love.
Praise tW Almighty, the almighty power wh»
reigns,
And, binds mir hearts in friendship's chains.
13. [The Deputy Grand High Priest, then rises
and informs the Grand High Priest, that a num¬
ber of Companions, duly instructed in the sublime
mysteries, being desirous of promoting the honor,
and propagating the principles of the craft, have
applied to the Grand Chapter for a warrant to con-
stiute a new Chapter of Koyal Arch, Masons, which
having attained, they are now assembled for the
purpose of being constituted, and having their offi¬
cers installed in due form.3
14. [The Grand Marshal will then form the of¬
ficers and members of the new Chapter in front of
the Grand Officers; after which the Grand High
Priest directs the Gyand Secretary to read the
warrant.]
15. The Grand High Priest then rises and says,
i{ By virtue of the high powers in me vested, 1 do
form you, my respected Companions, into-a regu¬
lar Chapter of Royal Arch Masons; from hence¬
forth you are authorised and empowered, to open
and hold a Lodge of Mark Masters, Past Masters,
and Most Excellent Masters, and a Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons; and to do and perform all
such things as thereunto may appertain; conform¬
ing in all your doings to the General Grand Royal
Arch Constitution, and the general regulations of
374
ceremonies
the State Grand Chapters; and may the God -of
your Fathers be with you, guide and direct you in
all your works.]
16. [The. Public Grand Honors will then be
given by the officers and members of the new Chap'
ter, while passing in review in front of the Grand
Officers,]
17. The furniture, clothing, jewels, implements
utensils, &c. belonging to the chapter, (having
been previously placed in the centre, in front of the
Grand Officers, covered) are now uncovered, [and,
the new Chapter is dedicated in ancient manner
and form, as is well described in the Most Excel¬
lent Masters Degree.]
18. The Deputy Grand High Priest will then
present the first officer of the new Chapter, to the
Grand High, Priest, saying,
" Most Excellent Grand High Priest—I
present you my worthy Companion nom¬
inated in the warrant, to be installed High Priest
of this new Chapter ; 1 find liim to be skilful in
the Royal Art, and attentive to the moral precepts
of our forefathers, and have therefore no doubt but
be will discharge the duties of bis office with fidel¬
ity."
The Grand High Priest then addresses him as
follows:
* " Most Excellent Companion—I feel much
satisfaction in performing my duty on the present
occasion, by installing you into the office of High
Priest of this new Chapter, It is an office highly
AXB CHARGES.
honorable to alt those who diligently perform the
important duties annexed to it; your reputed Ma¬
sonic knowledge, however, precludes a necessity
of a particular enumeration of those duties; I shall
therefore, only observe, that by a frequent recur¬
rence to the Constitution and general regulations,
and a constant practice of the several sublime lec¬
tures and charges, you will be best able, to fulfil
them; and 1 am confident; that the companions who
are chosen to preside with you, will give strength
to your endeavours, and support your exertions.
I shall now propose pertain questions to you, rela¬
tive to the duties of your office, and to which I
• *
must request your unequivocal answer:
1. Do you solemnly promise that you will re¬
double your endeavours to correct the vices, purify
the morals, and promote the happiness of those of
your brethren, who have attained this sublime de¬
gree?
2. That you will never suffer your Chapter to be
opened, unless there be present nine regular Royal
Arch Masons.
3. That you will never suffer either more or less
than three brethren to be exalted in your Chapter
at one and the same time.
4. That you will not exalt any one to this de¬
gree, who has not shewn a charitable and humane
disposition; or who has not made considerable
proficiency in the foregoing degrees.
5. That you will promote the general good of
our order, and on all proper occasions be ready to
give and receive instructions, and particularly from
the General and State Grand Officers.
376
CEREMONIES
6. That to the utmost of your power, you will
,preserve the solemnities of our ceremonies, and be*
have, in open Chapter, with the most profound
respect and reverence, as an example to your com¬
panions.
7. That you will not acknowledge, or have in¬
tercourse with any Chapter, that does not work
under a constitutional warrant or dispensation.
8. That you will not admit any visitor into your
Chapter who has not been axalted in a Chapter le¬
gally constituted, without his being first formally
healed.
9. That you will observe and support such Bye-
Laws, as may be made by your Chapter, in confor¬
mity to the General Grand Royal Arch Constitu¬
tion, and the general regulations of the Grand Chap¬
ter.
10. That you will pay due respect and obedi¬
ence to the instructions of the General and State
Grand Officers, particularly relating to the several
lectures and charges, and will resign the chair to
them severally, when they may visit your Chapter.
11. That you will support and observe the Gen¬
eral Grand Royal Arch Constitution, and the
general regulations of the Grand Rbyal Arch Chap¬
ter under whose authority you act.
Do you submit to all these things, and do you
promise to observe and practice them faithfully?
These questions being answered in the affirma¬
tive, the companions all kneel in due form, and the
Grand High Priest, or Grand Chaplain repeats the
following or some other suitable prayer.
and charges.
377
<l Mos|j Holy and glorious Lord God, the Great
High priest of heaven and earth ! We approach
thee with reverence, and implore thy blessing on
the Companion appointed tp preside over this [new]
assembly, and now prostrate before thee; fill his
heart with thy fear, that his tongue and actions
may-jpronounce thy glory. Make him steadfast in
thy service; grant him firmness of mind; animate
his heart and strengthen his endeavours; may he
teach thy judgment and thy laws; and may the in¬
cense he shall put before thee, upon thine altar,
jprove an acceptable sacrifice unto thee. Bless him,
"b Lord, and bless the work of his hands. Accept
us in mercy; hear thoii from thy dwelling place,
and forgive our transgressions.
Glory be to God the Father; as it was in the be¬
ginning.
Response. So mote it be.
19. The Grand High Priest will then cause the
High Priest elect to be invested with the clothing,
badges, &c. after which he will address hira as fol¬
lows :
" Companion—In consequence of your cheerful
acquiescence with the charges which you have
heard recited, you are npw qualified for installation
as the High Priest of this Royal Arch Chapter 5
and it is incumbent upon me, upon this occasion,
to point out some of the particulars appertaining to
your office, duty and dignity.
" All legally constituted bodies of Royal Arch
Masons are called Chapters / as regular bodies of
Gg %
■378
CEREMONIES
Masons of all other degrees are called Lodges.—■
Every Chapter ought to assemble fpr work at
least once in every three months; and must consist
of a High Priest, King, Scribe, Captain of the"Ho§t,
Principal Sojourner, Koyal Arch Captain, three
Masters of the vails, Secretary, Treasurer, and as
many members as may be found conyeuient for
working to advantage.
"The officers of the Chapter officiate in the
Lodge holden for conferring the preparatory de¬
grees, according to rank, as follows :
The High Priest, as Master.
The King, as Senior'^ Warden,
The Scribe, as Junidr Warden.
The Captain of^hc Host, as»Marshal 01* Master
of ceremonies.
The Principal Sojourner, as Junior Deacon,
The Hoyal Arch Captain, as Senior Deacon.
The Master of the firsf vail, as Junior overseer.
The Master of the second vail, as Senior Over¬
seer.
The Master of the third vail, as Master Over¬
seer. '
The Secretary, Treasurer and Tyler as officers
of corresponding rank.
The High Priest of every Chapter has special
charge to see that the bye-laws of his Chapter, as
well as the Grand Hoyal Arch Constitution, and
the Hegulations of the Grand Chapter are duly ob¬
served; that all the officers of his Chapter perform
the duties of their respective offices faithfully, and
are examples of diligence and industry to their com¬
panions ; that true and accurate records of all the
ANI> CHARGES.
a79
proceedings of the Chapter, are kept by the Secre¬
tary ; that the Treasurer keeps and renders exact
rind just accounts of all the moneys and other pro¬
perty belonging to the Chapter; that regular re¬
turns be made annually to the Grand Chapter;
and that the annual dues to the Grand Chapter be
regularly and punctually paid. He has the
right and authority of calling his Chapter together
at pleasure, upoii any emergency or occurrence,
which in his judgment may require their meeting.
It is his privilege and duty, together with his king
and scribe, to attend the meetings of the Grand
Chapter, either in person or by proxy, and the well
being of the institution requires that this duty should
6n no occasion be omitted.
The office of High Priest is a station highly hon¬
orable to all those who diligently perform the im¬
portant duties annexed to it. By a frequent recur¬
rence to the constitution and general regulations,
and a constant practice of the several sublime lec¬
tures and charges, you will be best enabled to fulfil
those duties, and I am confident that the compan¬
ions who are chosen to preside with you, will give
strength to your endeavours, and support to your
exertions.
Let the mitre with which you are invested, re¬
mind you of the dignity of the office you sustain,
and its inscription impress upon your mind a sense
of your dependance upon God ; that perfection is
not given unto man upon earth, and that perfect
holiness belongeth alone unto the Lord.
The breast with which you are decorated,
in imitation of that ou which was engraven the
§80
ceremonies
names of the twelve tribes, and worn by the High
Priest of Israel, is to teach you that you are always
to bear in mind your responsibility to the laws and
ordinances of the institution, and that the honor
and interests of your Chapter dhd its members
should be always near your heart.
The various colours of the robes you wear, are
emblematical of every grace and virtue which can
adorn aud beautify the human mind ; each ot which
will be briefly illustrated in the course of the char¬
ges to be delivered to your subordinate officers.
You will now take charge of your officers, stand¬
ing on their right, and present them severally in
succession to the Deputy Grand High Priest, by
whom they will be presented to me forinstallation.
SO. The High Priest of the Chapter will then
present his second officer to the Deputy Grand
High Priest, who will present him to the Grand
High Priest, in the words of the constitution, The
Grand High Priest will ask him whether he has at¬
tended to the ancient charges and regulations be¬
fore recited to his superior officer ; if he answers in
the affirmative, he is asked whether he fully and
freely assents to the same; if he answers in the af¬
firmative, the Grand High Priest directs his depu¬
ty to invest him with his cloathing, &c. and then
addreses him as follows, viz :
Charge to the second Officer or ICing.
e{ Companion—The important station to which
you are elected in this Chapter, requires from you
exemplary conduct; its duties demand your most as-
AND CHARGES.
38i
sid^ous attention; you *are to second and support
your chief iu all the requirements of his office, and
should casualties at any time prevent his attendance,
you are to succeed him in the performance of his
duties.
Your Badge (the Level surmounted by a crown)
should remind you, that although you are the repre¬
sentative of a King, and Exalted by office above
your companions, yet you remain upon a level with
them as respects your duty to God, to your neigh¬
bor and to yourself; that you are equally bound
with them to be obedient to the laws and ordinan¬
ces of the institution 5 to be charitable, humane and
just, and to seek every occasion of doing good.
Your office teaches a striking lesson of humili¬
ty. The institutions of political society, teach us
to consider the king as the chief of created beings,
and that the first duty of his subjects is to obey his
mandates ; but the institutions of our sublime de¬
grees, by placing the king in a situation subordi¬
nate to the High Priest, teach us that our duty to
God is paramount to all other duties, and should
ever claim the priority of our obedience to man ;
and that however strongly we may be bound to
obey the laws of civil society, yet that those laws
to be just, should never intermeddle with matters
of conscience, nor dictate articles of faith.
The Scarlet Kobe, an emblem of imperial digni¬
ty, should remind you of the paternal concern, and
\he ardent zeal with which you should endeavour
to promote its prosperity.
In presenting to you the Crown, which is an em¬
blem of Koyalty, 1 would remind you that to reign
ceremonies
sovereign in the hearts and affections of men, must
be far more grateful to a generous and benevolent
mind, than to rule over their lives and fortunes;
and that to enable you to enjoy this preeminence
•with honor and satisfaction, you must subject your
own passions and prejudices, to the dominion of
reason and charityi
You are entitled to the second seat in the coun¬
cil of your companions. Let the bright example of
your illustrious predecessor in the Grand council
at Jerusalem, stimulate you to the faithful discharge
of your duties; and when the King of Jungs shall
summon you into his immediate presence, from his
hand may you receive a crown of glory which shall
never fade away."
21. The King will then retire to the line of of¬
ficers, and the Scribe will be presented, in the man¬
ner before mentioned. After his investure the
Grand High will address him as follows, viz :
Charge to the Third Officer or Scribe.
Companion—The office of Scribe, to which yon
are elected, is very important and respectable; in
the absence of your superior officers, you are bound
to succeed them, and to perform their duties. The
purposes of the institution ought never to suffer for
want of intelligence in its proper officers ; you will
therefore perceive the necessity there is of your pos¬
sessing such qualifications, as will enable you td
accomplish those duties which are incumbent upon
you in your appropriate station, as well as those
AND CHARGES.
S88
which may occasionally devolve upon you, by the
absence of your superiors.
The Purple Robe with which you are invested
is an emblem of union, and is calculated to remind
you that the harmony and unanimity of the Chap¬
ter should be your constant aim; and to this end you
are studiously to avoid giving offence, or counte¬
nancing any thing, that nlay create divisions or dis-
sentions. You are?, by all the means in your pow¬
er, to endeavor to establish a permanent union, and
good understanding amongst all orders and de¬
grees of Masonry ; and as the glorious sun at its
meridian heights dispels the mists and plouds
which obscure the horizon, so may your exertions
tend to dissipate the gloom of jealousy, envy and
discord, whenever they may appear.
Your badge fa Plumb Rule, surmounted by the
Turban J is an emblem of rectitude and vigilance,
and while you stand as a watchman upon the Tow¬
er, to guard your companions against the approach
of those enemies of human felicity, intemperance
and excess, let this faithful monitor ever remind
you to walk uprightly in your station ; admonishing
and animating your companions to fidelity and in¬
dustry whilst at labour, and to temperance and
moderation whilst at refreshment. And when the
great watchman of Israel, whose eye never slum¬
bers or sleeps, shall relieve you from your post on
earth, may he permit you in heaven to participate
in that food which is
Such as the saints in gloiy love,
And such as angels eat.
384
ceremonies
22. The Scribe will thfen retire to the line of of¬
ficers, and the next officer be presented as before.
Charge to the fourth Officer, or Captain of the Host*
Companion—The office with which you are in¬
trusted is of high importance, and demands your
most zealous attention. The preservation of the
most essenial traits of our ancient customs, usages,
and landmarks, are within your province ; and it
is indispensibly necessary jthat the parts assigned
to you, in the immediate practice of our rites and
ceremonies, should be perfectly understood and
correctly administered.
He that brings the blind by a way that they
know not, and leads them in paths that they have
not known, should be always well qualified to
make darkness light before them, and crooked
things straight.
Your office corresponds with that of Marshal or
Master of ceremonies; you are to superintend all
processions of your Chapter when moving as a dis¬
tinct body, either in public or private ; and as the
world cao only judge of our private discipline by
our public deportment, you will be careful that the
utmost order and decorum be observed on all such
occasions.
I invest you with the badge of your office, and
presume that you will give to your duties, all that
study and attention which their importance de¬
mands.
23. lie will then retire to the line of officers, and
the next officer will be presented.
AXD CHARCES.
•385
Charge to thejifth Officer, or Principal Sojourner.
Companion—The office confided to you, though
subordinate in "degree, is equal in importance to
any in the Chapter, that of yonr chief alone except¬
ed. Your office corresponds with that of Junior
Deacon in the preparatory degrees. Amongst the
duties required of you, the preparation and intro¬
duction of candidates are not the least. As in ourinter-
course with the world, experience teaches thatJirst
impressions are often the most durable, and the
most difficult to eradicate, so it Is of great impor¬
tance in all cases, that those impressions should be
(correct and just; hence it is essential that the of¬
ficer who sustains the station assigned to you,
should possess a thorough knowledge of his vari¬
ous duties ; and that he should execute them with
a promptitude and propriety of deportment, that
shall give them their proper effect.
Your Tlobe of office is an emblem of humility,
and teaches that in the prosecution of a laudable
undertaking, we should never decline taking any
part that may be assigned us, although it may be
the most difficult or dangerous.
The Rose coloured, tassellated border, adorning
the robe, is an emblem of ardour and perseverance,
and signifies, that when we have engaged in a vir¬
tuous cause, notwithstanding all the impediments,
hardships, aud trials, we may be destined to en¬
counter, we should endure them all with fortitude
and ardently persevere unto the end; resting as¬
sured of receiving, at the termination of our labours*
a noble and glorious reward.
Da
ceremonies
Your past Exertions will be considered as a pledge
of yorn* future assiduity, in the faithful discharge of
your duties.
24. He will then retire to the line of officers, and
the next officer will ba presented.
Charge to the sixth Officer, or Royal Arch Captain*
Companion—The well known duties of your
station require but little elucidation. Your office
in the prepartory degrees corresponds with that of
Senior Deacon, It is your particular province,
conjointly with the Captain of the Host, to attend
to the examination of visitors, and to take care that
none are permitted to enter the Chapter but such as
have travelled the rugged path of trial, and evinced
their title to our favor and friendship. You will
he ever attentive to the commands of your chief
and always near at hand to execute them,
I give it you strongly in charge, never to suffer
any one to pass your post without the signet of
truth.
The White Banner entrusted to your care, is
emblematical of that purity of life and rectitude of
conduct, which should distinguish every one that
passes the white vail of the sanctuary.
1 present you the badge of your office in expec-,
tation of your performing your duties with intelli¬
gence, assiduity and propriety.
25. He then retires anc| the three masters of the
Vails are presented together.
and charges.
SS7
Charge to the Master of the third, Vail.
Companion—I present you with the Scarlet
Banner, which is the ensign of your office, and
with a sword to protect and defend the same. The
rich and beautiful colour of your banner, is emblem¬
atic of fervency and fidelity; it is the appropriate
colour of the lloyal Arch degree ; it admonishes
us that we should he fervent in the exercise of our
devotions to God, and faithful in our endeavors to
promote the happiness of man.
Charge to the Master of the second Vail.
Companion—1 invest you with the Purple Ban¬
ner, w hich is the ensign of your office, and arm
you with a sword to ehable you to maintain its hon¬
or. The colour of your banner is produced by the
combination of two distinct colours, namely, blue
and scarlet; the former of which is the character¬
istic colour of the symbolic or frst three degrees of
Masonry, and the latter of the Royal »lrch degree*
It is an emblem of union; and is the characteristic
colour of the intermediate degrees. It admonishes
^ » • *
us to cultivate and improve that spirit of union and
harmony, between the brethren of the symbolic de¬
grees, and the companions of the sublime degrees,
which should ever distinguish the members of a
society founded upon the principles of everlasting
truth and universal philanthropy.
Charge to the Master of the first Vail.
Companion—I invest you with the Blue Ban-
388
CfiREMONIES-
ner, which is the ensign of your office, and a sword
for its defence and protection. The colour ofyout
banner is one of the most durable and beautiful in
nature. It is the appropriate colour adopted and
worn by our ancient brethren of the three symbol¬
ic degrees, and the peculiar characteristic of an
institution which has stood the test of ages, and
which is as much distinguished by the durability
of its materials, or principles, as by the beauty of
its superstructure. It is an emblem of universal
benevolence, and instructs us that in the mind of a
Mason, this virtue should be as expansive as the
blue arch of Heaven itself.
Charge to the three Masters of the Vails as
Overseers.
Companions—-Those who are placed as over¬
seers of any work, should be well qualified to
judge of its beauties and deformities, its excellen¬
cies and defects; they should be capable of esti¬
mating the former and amending the latter. This
consideration should induce you to cultivate and im¬
prove all those *qualifications with which you are
already endowed, as well as to persevere in your
endeavors to acquire those which you may be in
any wise deficient in. Let the various colours of
the banners committed to your chage, admonish
you to the exercise of the several virtues which
they are emblematic of; and you are to enjoin
the practice of those virtues upon all those who
shall present themselves, or the work of their bandfc
for your inspection. Let no work receive your ap«
anb charges.
probation but such as is calculated to adorn and.
strengthen the masouic edifice. Be industrious and
faith ful in practising and disseminating a knowl¬
edge of the true and perfect work, which alone1
can stand the test of the Grand Overseer's square
in the great day of trial and retribution; " then, al¬
though every rod should become a serpent, and ev¬
ery serpent an enemy to this institution, yet shall
their utmost exertions to destroy its reputations or
sap its foundation, become impotent as the leprous
hand, or as water spilled upon the ground, which
cannot be gathered up again."
26, They then retire, and the Secretary is pre¬
sented.
Charge to the Secretary.
Companion—I with pleasure invest you'with
your badge as Secretary of this Chapter. The
equalities which should recommend a secretary are,
promptitude in issuing the notifications and orders
©f his superior officers; punctuality in attending
the meetings of the Chapter; correctness in record¬
ing their proceedings ; judgment in discriminating
between what is proper and what is improper to ba
committed to writing; regularity in making his
annual return to the Grand Chapter; integrity in
accounting for all monies that may pass through
his hands, and fidelity in paying the same over in¬
to the hands of the Treasurer. The possession of
these good qualities, I presume has designated you
as a suitable character for this important office,
and I cannot entertain a doubt but that you will dis-
Hu 2
mo
CEREMONIES
charge its duties beneficially to the Chapter and
honorably to yourself. And when you shall hay©
compleated the record of your transactions here be¬
low, and finished the term of your probation, may
you be admitted in the celestial Grand Chapter of
saints and angels, and find your name recorded in
the Booh of Life Eternal.
27. He then retires and the Treasurer is present
ted.
Charge to the Treasurer,
Companion—You are elected Treasurer of this
Chapter, and I have the pleasure of investing you
with the badge of your office. The qualities w hich
should recommend a Treasurer are accuracy and
fidelity, accuracy, in keeping a fair and minute
account of ail receipts and disbursements; fidelity
iu carefully preserving all the property and funds
of the Chapter that may be placed in his hands,
and rendering a just account of the same whenever
he is called upon for that purpose. I presume thai
your respect for the institution, your attachment t9
the interests of your Chapter, and your regard for
a good name, which is better than precious oint¬
ment, will prompt you to the faithful discharge of
the duties of your office.
28. He then retires and the Stewards are pre*
sented.
Charge to the Stewards.
Companions—You being elected Stewards of tbtf
1 'v',:h pleasure iave;t you v.ith the badg*
and ghakghes;
391
es of your office. It is your province to see that
every necessary preparation is made for the conve¬
nience and accommodation of the Chapter, previ¬
ous to the time appointed for meeting. You are to
see that the clothing, implements and furniture of
each degree respectively, are properly disposed,
and in suitable array for use, wheneyer they may
be required, and that they are secured and proper
care taken of them, when the business of the Chap¬
ter is over. You are to see that necessary refresh¬
ments are provided and that all your companions,and
particularly visitors, are suitably accommodated and
supplied. You are to be frugal and prudent in
your disbursements, and be careful that no extrava¬
gance or waste is committed in your department 5
and when you have faithfully fulfilled your stew¬
ardship here below, may you receive from heaven
tlm happy greeting " well done good and faithful
servants."
29. Then these retire and the Tyler is presented.
Charge to the Tyler.
Companion—You are appointed Tyler of this
Chapter, and I invest you with this implement of
your office. As the "sword is placed in the hands
of the Tyler to enable him effectually to guard a-
gainstthe approach ofcouans and evedroppers, and
suffer none to pass or repass but such as are duly
qualified, so should it morally serve as a constant
admonition to us to set a guard at the entrance of
Our thoughts; to place a watch at the door of our
lips 5 to post a ceutinel at the avenue of our actions^
UEllEMONItS
thereby avoiding every unqualified and unworthy
thought, word and deed, and preserving consciences
void of offence towards God and towards man.
As the first application from visitors for admis¬
sion into the Chapter, is generally made to the Ty¬
ler at the door, your station will often present you
to the observation of strangers, it is therefore
essentially necessary, that he who sustains the of¬
fice with which you are entrusted, should be a man
of good morals, steady habits, strict discipline,
temperate, affable and discreet. I trust a just re¬
gard for the honor and reputation of the institution
will ever induce you to perform with fidelity the
trust reposed in you; and when the door of this
earthly tabernacle shall be closed, may you find an
abundant entrance through the gates into the tetn-
ple and city of our God.
30. He will retire, and follows an
Address to the High Priest
M. E. Companion—Having been honored with
the free suffrages of the members of this Chapter,
you are elected to the most important office which
is in their power to bestow. This expression of
their esteem and respect, should draw from you
corresponding sensations, and your demeanour
be such as to repay the honor they have so conspic¬
uously conferred upon you, by an honorable and
faithful discharge of the duties of your office.
The station you are called to fill, is important
not as it respects the correct practice of our riteal
and ceremonies, and the internal economy of the
and chab6es;
393
Chapter, o\Ter which you preside, but the public
reputation of the institution will be generally found
to rise or fall according to the skill or fidelity and
discretion, with which its concerns are managed,
and in proportion as the characters and conduct of
its principal officers are estimable or censurable.
You have accepted a trust to which is attached
a weight of resposibility that will require all your
efforts to discharge, honorably to yourself and sat¬
isfactorily to the Chapter, You are to see that your
officers are capable and faithful in the exercise of
their offices ; should they want ability, you are ex¬
pected to supply their defects ; you are to watch
sarefully the progress of their performances, and
see that the long established customs of the in¬
stitution suffer no derangement in their hands.
You are to have a careful eye over the general
conduct of your Chapter ; see that due order' and
subordination is observed on all occasions; that th'&
members are properly instructed; that a due so¬
lemnity be observed in the practice of our ritesj
that no improper levity be permitted at any time*
but more especially at the introduction of strangers
among the workmen. In fine you are to be an ex¬
ample to your officers and members, which thejr
need not hesitate to follow; thus securing to your¬
self the favour of heaven and the applauses pf bre¬
thren and companions.
Address to the Officers Generally.
Companions in Office—Precepts and exam¬
ples should ever advance with an equal pace.-^
gg4 CEREMONIES
"Those moral duties which you are required to teach
unto others, you should never neglect to practice
yourselves.
Do you desire that the demeanor of your equals
and inferiors towards you should be marked with
deference and respet ? Beware that you omit no
opportunity of furnishing them with examples in
your own conduct towards your superiors. Do
you desire to obtain information from those Who are'
more wise, or better informed than yourselves ? Be
sure that you are always ready to impart your
knowledge to those within your sphere, who stand
in need of and are entitled to receive it. Bo you
desire distinction among your companions? Be
sure that your claims to preferment are founded on
superior attainments : let no ambitious passiou he
suffered to induce you to envy or supplant a com¬
panion who may be considered as better qualified
for pronrotion.thau yourselves ; but rather let a lau¬
dable emulation induce you to strive to excel each
other in improvement and discipline; ever remem¬
bering that he who faithfully performs his duty,
even in a subordinate, or private station, is as just¬
ly entitled to esteem and respect, as he who is inves¬
ted with supreme authority.
Jlddress to the Chapter at large.
Companions—The exercise and management
of the sublime degrees of Masonry in your Chapter
hitherto, is so highly appreciated, and the good re¬
putation of the Chapter so well established, that I
must presume that those considrations alone, were
AK® CHARGES.
395
there not others of greater magnitude, would b®
sufficient to induce you to persevere and perpetuate
this valuable and honorable character. But when
to these are added the pleasures which every phi¬
lanthropic heart must feel in doing good, in promo¬
ting good order, in diffusing light and knowledge,
in cultivating Masonic and christian charity, which
are the great objects of this sublime institution, I
cannpt doubt your future conduct, and that of your
successors, will be calculated still to increase the
lustre of your justly esteemed reputation.
May your Chapter become beautifal as the Tem¬
ple, peaceful as the Ark, and sacred as its most ho¬
ly place. May your oblations of piety and praise,
be grateful as the incense ; your love, warm as its
flame, and your charity diffusive as its fragrance.-—
May your hearts he pure as the altar, and your
conduct acceptable as the ffering.
May the exercise of your charity he as constant
as the returning wants of the distressed widow,
and the helpless orphan. May the approbation of
heaven be your encouragement and the testimopy
of a good conscience your support; may you be en¬
dowed with every good and perfect gift, whilst tra¬
velling the thorny path of life, and finally admitted
within the vail of heaven to the full enjoyment of
life eternal. So mote it be.
31. The officers and' members of the Chapter
■will then pass in review, in front of the Grand Of¬
ficers, and pay them the customary salutations as
they pass.
396
CEREMOKlfiS
32. The Grand Marshal will then make procla¬
mation as follows:
In the name of the M. E. Grand High Priest, I
do proclaim this -Chapter by the name of ■> ■■
to be regularly constituted and its officers duly in¬
stalled.
33. The officers of the Chapter will then take
their stations upon the left of the Grand officers res¬
pectively, and the members will be seated until the
Grand officers retire.
84. The ceremonies conclude with an ode, or
appropriate music,
OD&
When Orient wisdom beam'tl serene,
And pillar'd strength arose,
When beauty tinged the glowing scene,
And Faith her mansion chose s
Exulting bands the fabric view'd,
Mysterious powers ador'd;
And high the triple union stood,
That gave the mystic word.
JPale envy wither'd at the sight,
And, frowning o'er the pile,
Call'd murder up from realms of night,
To blast the glorious toil.
With ruffian outrage join'd, in woe
They form!d the league abhorrM;
And wounded science felt the blow,
That crush'd the mystic word,
Ooncealment, from sequestered Gave,
On sable pinions Clew;
And o'er the sacriligious grave,
Her veil impervious threw.
AND CHASQES.
The associate band, in solemn state,
The awful loss deplor'd,
And wisdom mourned the ruthless fate,
That 'whelra'd the mystic word.
At length, through time's expanded sphecg,
Fair science speeds her way;
And warm'd by truth's effulgence, clear
Reflects the kindred ray;
A second fabric's towerng height
Proclaims the sign restored ;
From whose foundation brought to light,
Is drawn the mystic word.
To depth's obscure, the favor'd Trine,
A dreary course engage;
'Till through the arch, the ray divine;
Illumes the sacred page.
From the wide wonders of this blaze,
Our ancient sign's restor'd ;
The royal arch alone displays
The long lost, MYSTIC WORD.
35. When the Grand Officers retire, the Chap¬
ter will form an . avenue for them to pass through,
and salute them with the Grand Honors. They
wil be attended as far as the door of their apartment
by the committee who introduced them.
36. The bodies then close their respective Chap^
ters.
NOTE.
The paragraphs enclosed in brackets; apply exclusively
to cases when new Chapters are instituted, and their offi¬
cers installed for the first time. The rest apply equally
such cases, as well as to annual installations.
Il
APPENDIX.
History of freemasonry in the state 9$
tennessee,
Previous to December, A; L. 5313, the Lodg¬
es in the State of Tennessee worked under the au¬
thority of Charters from the Grand Lodge of North.
Carolina, at which time a Grand Lodge was estab¬
lished for the State of Tennessee.
Pursuant to a resolution of Hiram Lodge, No.
and unanimously adopted by the several Lodges,
in the State of Tennessee, proposing a convention,
of Ancient York Masons at Knoxville, on the first
Monday in December, 1811, for the purpose of es¬
tablishing a Grand Lodge, delegates appeared
from the following lodges, viz: Tennessee Lodge,
No. 2; Greeneville, No, 3; Newport, No. 4 5
Overton, No. 5; King Solomon, No, 6, and Hi¬
ram, No. 7; when the Rev. brother Stephen Brooks
was appointed Chairman, and brother John Jl. Mo-*
gers, Secretary.
The following resolutions were then offered anc\
unanimously adopted, *
llesolved, That in the opinion of this convention,
the number of Lodges of Ancient York Masons in
this state, as well as the state of society, require the
400
APPENDIX."
formation of a Grand Lodge within the same, fof
the better regulation and extension of the craft.
Resolved, That in the opinion of this covention,
that for constituting a Grand Lodge, it will be ne¬
cessary for the Masters, Past Masters and War¬
dens of the different Lodges, or delegates to be by
the said Lodges appointed, to meet in convention
atKnoxville, on the second Monday in August next,
for the purpose of forming a constitution and bye-
laws for the government of the Grand Lodge of
Tennessee, to elect officers thereof, and further t®
do whatever may be necessary for its operation.
Resolved, As the opinion of this convention, that
all Master Masons working under the jurisdiction
of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina in this state,
lse admitted for the purpose of giving their aid and
assistance, at the time of forming a constitution for
the government of the Grand Lodge in the State of
Tennessee, the object of which is to obtain the
benefit of all the light that can be thrown on so im¬
portant a subject, notwithstanding such brethren
anay not be entitled to vote on such occasions.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed for the
purpose of drawing up an address to the Grand
Lodge of North Carolina, soliciting their assent to
the establishment of a Grand Lodge in this state,
and that said committee draft a letter to be directed
to brother Kobert Williams, requesting him to lay
said address, together with the proceedings of this
convention, before the Grand Lodge; and in all
things relative thereto, to give us his aid and assist¬
ance, so far as he may deem it correct.
Agreeably to the foregoing resolutions, a commit¬
tee was appointed, who reported a letter and ad¬
dress, which being read and approved were signed
by the Chairman and Secretary.
The convention then adjourned to meet on the
10th of August, 5812. at which time a letter was
APPENDIX.
404
Yeceived from the Most Worshipful Robert TVil*
Hams, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of North
Carolina, in answer to the above mentioned com*
munications, which was read, and in pursuance of
the request contained in said letter, it was agreed
to postpone the further consideration of the estab¬
lishment of a Grand Lodge, until after the next
meeting of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina,
and until such time as the Lodges in this state might
agree upon.
In October, A. L. 5813, a communication was re¬
ceived from the Grand Master of North Carolina^
directing the Lodges in this state to assemble eith¬
er collectively or by their representatives, in the
town of Knoxville, on the 27 th Dec. 5813, to con¬
stitute the Grand Lodge of Tennessee. Delegates
from Tennesse Lodge, No. 2; Greeneville, No. 3;
New-Port, No. 4 ; Overton, No. 5; King Solo¬
mon, No. 6; Hiram, No. 7; Cumberland, No. 8 %
and Western Star, No. 9, accordingly assembled
at Knoxville on the day appointed.
The convention being duly organized, a charter,'
or deed of relinquishment, from the Grand Lodge
of North Carolina, bearing date the 30th Septem¬
ber, 5813, was presented. By this instrument the
Grand Lodge of North Carlina relinquished all
authority and jurisdiction over the several Lodges
in the State of Tennessee, and assented to the erec¬
tion of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee.
A committee was appointed to report a constitu¬
tion and bye-laws, for the government of the Grand
Lodge, who retired, and after some time, reported
a constitution and bye-laws, which were read, a-
dopted and signed by the members on behalf of
their respective lodges.
4Qp
appendix.
The following brethren were duly elected; pi;©-
claimed and installed Grand Officers, viz:
The M. W. Tnos. Claiborne, Esq. g. m.
D. W. George Wilson, d. g. m.
II. W. Jno. Hall, s. g. w.
II. W. A. K. Shaifff.k, j. g. w.
On the first Monday in October, 5S14, the Grand
Lodge met at Nashville (the then seat of govern¬
ment of the state) when the M. W. Thomas Clai'
home, Esq. was re-elected Grand Master.
October, A. L. 5815, at a grand annual commu*
liication, the M. W. Robert Searcy, Esq. was elec¬
ted Grand Master. At this meeting the usual bu¬
siness of the Grand Lodge was attended to, and
some additional regulations for the government of
subordinate Lodges adopted. No Charters were
issued.
October, A. L. 5816, at a Grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Robert Searcy, Esq. was re¬
elected Grand Master. At this meeting, charters
were issued to Missouri Lodge, at St. Louis, in
the state of Missouri ; Whiteside.Lodge, atBlounts-
ville, in the state of Tennessee, and to Andrew
Jackson Lodge, at Natchez, in the state of Missis¬
sippi.
October, A. L. 5817, at a grand annual communh-
cation, the M. W, Willcins Tanvehill, Esq. was
elected Grand Master. During this year charters
were issued to the following Lodges; viz : Law-
pence Lodge, in the town of Pulaski; Mount Mo-
riah, in the town of Murfreesborough ; Carthage
Benevolent Lodge, in the town of Carthage, and
Warren Lodge in the town of Fayetteville, state of
Tennessee; and to Washington Lodge, at Por|
Gibson, in the state of Mississippi.
11, W. Tnos. M'Corry,
11. W. Edward Scott,
g. t.
g. s.
APPEND^.
403
October, A. L. 5818, at a grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Wilkins Tannehill, Esq, was
re-elected Grand Master,
On the Mill June, 5818, the corner stone of a
Masonic Hall, in the town of Nashville, was laid
in ample form by the Grand Master, assisted by
the officers of the Grand Lodge, and the officers
and members of Cumberland Lodge, No. 8. In
the corner stone was deposited a copper plate, on
one side of which was the following inscription t
" On the 24th June, A. L/5818, A, D. 1818,
was laid
this foundation stone
of a
Hall,
to be erected by the
Members of
Cumberland Lodge, no. 8.
Behold, saith the Lord God, I have laid in Zkra,
a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a
•sure foundation/'
This Hall is built of brick, seventy-three feet m
front, and two stories high, with convenient apart¬
ments for the use of the Lodges and the Royal
Arch Chapter.
During this year, charters were issued to the
following Lodges, viz: St. John's Lodge, in the
town of Charlotte, Tennessee; Washington Lodge,
Hazel Green, and Alabama Lodge, in the town of
Huntsviile, in the state of Alabama.
October, A. L. 5819, at a grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Oliver B. Hays, Esq. was e-
lected Grand Master. During this year, charters
issued to the following Lodges, viz: Elkton Lodge,
at Elkton; Winchester Lodge, at Winchester,
and St. John's Lodge, at Cairo, in the state of Ten¬
nessee 5 St. Charles' Lodge, at St, Charles, and
J404
appendix.
Joachim Lodge, at Ilerculaneum, in the state o£
Missouri; Libanus Lodge, atEdwardsville, in the
state of Illinois, and Rising Virtue Lodge, at Tus¬
caloosa, in the state of Alabama.
- October, A. L. 5820, at a grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Wilkins Tannehill, Esq. was
elected Grand Master. At this meeting, charters
issued to Columbia lodge, at Columbia, and Spartan
Band of Brothers, at Sparta, in the state of Tennes¬
see; and to Moulton lodge, atMoulton in the state of
Alabama.
October, A. L. 5821, at a grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Wilkins Tannehill, Esq. was
re elected,, and charters issued to the following
lodges, viz : Kingston Union, at Kingston; Nash¬
ville, at Nashville; Mount Moriah, at Dover, and
Washington Luminary, at Washington, in the state
of Tennessee; to Franklin ledge, at Russelville,
and Tuscumbia, at Courtland, in the state of Ala¬
bama.
October, A. L. 5822, at a grand annual commu¬
nication, the M. W. Gen. Jln&rew Jackson, was
elected Grand Master.
Aprilj A. L. 5823, a special meeting of the
Grand Lodge was held by order of the M. W.
Grand Master, for the purpose of adopting a uni¬
form mode of work in the several degrees of Ma¬
sonry. The Grand Lodge continued in session
one week, during which many importantregulations
were adopted. During this year, charters were
issued to Freedonia lodge at Reynoldsburgh, and
Rising Star, at Rutledge, in the state of Tennessee.
October, A. L. 5823, at a grand annual commu¬
nication the following brethren were elected and
installed officers of the Grand lodge, viz:
M. W. Gen. Andrew Jackson, g. m.
R. W. George Wilson, d. g. m.
R. W. Matthew D. Cooper, s. g. w.
R. W. W. E, Kennedy; j, G. W.
AND
lfMi¥§4
OF THE
OR AND LODGE OF TENNESSEEf.
ARTICLE I.
Stxl'iON 1. The Grand Lodge shall consist of •
a Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand
Senior and Junior Wardens, Grand Treasurer^
Grand Secretary, Grand Senior and Junior
Deacons, Grand Chaplain, Grand Sword Bearer,
Grand Marshal, two Grand Stewards, Grand Tyler,
Grand Pursuivant; and also the past Grand and
Deputy Grand Masters, past Grand Senior and
Junior Wardens, and past Masters of regular lodg¬
es while members of a regular lodge under its ju¬
risdiction, and the Masters and Wardens of regular
lodges which are subordinate to the Grand Lodge.
Sec. 2. In all cases where special representa¬
tions shall not be appointed by any subordinate
lodge, and the Master and Wardens cannot person¬
ally attend the Grand lodge, they shall have the
privilege of constituting a proxy, and such proxy
shall be a Master Mason and member of some
lodge under this Jurisdiction ; and he or they shall
be entitled to the same number of votes as his or
their constituent or constituents.
Sec. 3, No Mason shall be eligible to an office
in the Grand lodge, unless he has passed the chair
in some regular lodge, except it be in cases of emer¬
gency ; nor shall any brother under the grade of
Master Mason be admitted into the Grand lodge.
406
constitution.
ARTICLE II.
Sec« 1. (As amended. J The Grand lodge shall bb
held once in each year, in the town of N ashville i
Which meeting shall take place on the first Monday
of October; and shall be called the Grand Annual
Communication; at which, the Grand Officers
shall be elected or appointed, as shall be prescibed
by this Constitution ; and special Grand lodges
shall be held as the Grand Master shall appoiiit.
Sec. 2. A Grand Master shall be chosen at the
Grand Annual Communication; but no person shall
be eligible to this office more than two years in suc¬
cession.
Sec. 3. The election of Grand Master shall be
by ballot 5 the last Grand Master shall, if eligible/
be amongst the number of candidates; but no vote
shall be given for any brother who may not be in
nomination ; nor shall any nomination be consider¬
ed as good, unless it be seconded. When the bal¬
lot is closed, the Deputy Grand Master shall count
out the votes, and declare him that has the majori¬
ty of the whole number present, duly elected ; and
the Grand Master so elected shall be installed ac-
eordihg to ancient usage, at the session he is elected,
Sec. 4. In case of%sicknes9, or necessary ab¬
sence, the Grand Master or any other officer may
be installed by proxy; but whoever represents
them must have sustained the office to which such
absent officer is to be installed, or such office as
might have entitled him to fill the chair in the ab¬
sence of the*Grand Master.
Sec. 5. If in case of death, resignation, or re¬
moval from office, the chair of the Grand lodge
should become vacated, it is to be filled by seniori¬
ty, until the next Grand Annual Communication ;
but the Deputy Grand Master ceases to exist as
such as soon as the chair is vacated by the Grand
Master who appointed him.
Sec. 6. The Grand Master shall appoint his de-
ceNSTiTtrrrem
ptity under the seal of the Grand lodge ; and he
shall appoint and declare the Grand Deacons, the
Grand Chaplain, the Grand Sword Bearer, the
Grand Marshal, the Grand Stewards, the Grand
Tyler and the Grand Pursuivant—which appoint¬
ments shall be entered on the minutes of the Grand
lodge., And in case any other office shall become
vacated by death, resignation, or otherwise, the
Grand Master for the time being, shall fill such of¬
fice or vacancy, by his nomination.
Sec. 7. The Grand Master shall, when present,
indispensably fill the chair. In his absence, the
Deputy Grand Master—In the absence of both, the
Senior Grand Warden—In the absence of those,
the Junior Grand Warden. In case of the absence
of all those officers, the oldest Grand officer in the
lodge is to fill the chair. And that the Grand
lodge may always appear in due form, the presi¬
ding officer shall wear the Jewel of the grand mas¬
ter ; -and all others, the Jewels ot the officers they
respectively represent.
Sec. 8. The grand master, with his deputy,
grand wardens, treasurer, or secretary, shall, if con¬
venient during his mastership, visit the several
lodges under his jurisdiction, and see that no inno¬
vation be committed in any of them-r-first giving
such lodges timely notice of his approach. But in,
case it should not be convenient for the grand mas¬
ter, or his officers, to attend as herein required, then
and in that case, the grand master is authorised to
appoint a skilful and confidential brother for this
purpose.
Sec. 9. The grand master has full right and
authority to preside in every lodge under his juris¬
diction, with the master of the lodge on his right
hand; and to summon his grand wardens, treasu¬
rer and secretary to attend him—who are to act in
their several capacities, whenever the grand master
takes the chair.
403 fcOHSTlTUTIOl*.
Sec. 10. The grand master, deputy grand mas-
\ev and wardens, shall severally at the time of their
installation, make the following declaration:—{i I
•olemnly promise, on the honor of a Mason, that
in the office of I will, according to tlia
best of my abilities, strictly comply with the laws
•and regulations of this grand lodge, and all other
ancient Masonic usages."
Sec. 11. The grand master shall have power
to grant dispensations upon proper petition. That
the Brethren to whom such dispensation shall be
be granted, make application to the grand lodge at
the next annual communication for a charter. And
if such application shall not be made, or such char¬
ter not granted by the grand lodge, the lodge erec¬
ted by such dispensation shall bo deemed dis¬
solved.
ARTICLE DDL
Sec. 1. The grand wardens, grand secretary
and grand treasurer, shall be elected in the -same
manner as the master, and installed at the same
time, ascording to the usages of Masonry.
Sec. 3. The grand treasurer must be a brother
of good worldly substance; and to him shall be
committed the moneys belonging to the Grand
lodge. He shall always keep a fair record of his
accounts and transactions, and the uses to which
the moneys are appropriated; and shall lay the
same when registered before the grand lodge, and
account for the moneys as may be directed—for
which he shall be compensated as the lodge may
direct.
Sec. 3. The grand secretary must be a brother
who can write a fair hand, and shall keep accurate
records of all transactions of the grand lodge. He
shall present all votes and orders of the grand lodge
aftet they are entered to the grand master for his,
approbation and signature. He shall issue sum¬
monses as the grand master may direct, and shall
constitution.
409
give a seasonable notice, in at least one public news¬
paper, of every stated meeting of the grand lodge ;
and shall be rewarded for his services from time to
time, as the grand lodge may direct.
Sec. 4. The grand Deacons, grand Stewards,
grand Marshal and grand Sword Bearer, must be
Master Masons. The grand Stewards shall at¬
tend in preparing the feasts, on a regular summons
for that purpose ; and they shall always see that
the tables are regularly and Masonicaily spread.—
The grand Marshal shall attend the Feast, and as¬
sist the grand Master in the order and arrangement
of the day, and the grand Sword Bearer shall at¬
tend on all public occasions.
Sec. 5. The grand Tyler shall attend every
call of the grand Master, and be present.at every
lodge—for which services he shall be rewarded
from time to time according to his merit.
Se.c. 6. No brother whatever can be admitted
into the grand lodge as a visitor, unless he is a mem¬
ber of some regular lodge ; nor*does the appoint¬
ment of a brother to an office in the grand lodge
prevent his holding an office in the private lodge of
which he is a member.
ARTICLE IY.
Sec. 1. In the adoption of this Constitution,
and all amendments hereafter made, and in the
election of officers, the votes shall be taken accor¬
ding to the rights of the several lodges, and mem¬
bers of the grand lodge. That is to say :—Every
lodge present, by its representatives, shall be enti¬
tled to three votes, whether represented by one or
more brethren; and every member of the grand
lodge, otherwise entitled than by being a represen¬
tative of a particular lodge, shall have one vote.—
All other matters in the grand lodge, shall be de¬
termined by a majority of the votes of the members
present; and the brother in the chair shall have
the casting vote.
W TT
410
constitution"*
Sec. The grand lodge shall have power, by
charter under their seal, to constitute new lodges ;
to establish a uniform mode of working in all the
Ipdges within this state ; and superintend and reg¬
ulate the general police of Masonry, according to
the ancient usages and customs of Masons, carefully
regarding the old land marks, which are on no
account to he removed or defaced.
Sec. 3. The gi and lodge, on granting a charter
to a newly constituted lodge, may demand such rea¬
sonable fees as they may establish by law.
Sec. 4. The grand lodge shall have power to
call oil the several lodges for the annual customary
dues. ' *
Sec. The grand lodge shall have power to es¬
tablish a uniform rule, as to the sums to he paid in
the several lodges within the jurisdiction of this
grand lodge, for entering, passing and raising a
brother.
Sec. 6. The grand lodge shall have power to
make such laws fof their own government as they
shall think proper.
ARTICLE Y.
Sec. 1, No vote of the grand lodge shall be re¬
considered by a less number ot members than were
present at the passing of the same.
Sec. 2. No brother shall be admitted into the
grand lodge, but such as are members, excepting
petitioners and witnesses, provided that brethren
properly entitled by their grade in Masonry may,
on motion, be admitted as visitors. In neither of
which cases shall they he admitted to vote.
Sec. 3. No new charter shall be granted but up¬
on the* petition of five known and approved Master
Masons; nor shall a new warrapt issue to any
number of Masons residing within less than ten
miles of the usual place of meeting of any regularly
established lodge, unless by special dispensation
of the grand lodge, and the petition shall contain
constitution.
411
the causes which render it expedient that such
charter should be granted, with the nomination of
the Master and Wardens. And the petition shall
be approved by some regular constituted lodge in
the vicinity of the petitioners.
ARTICLE VI.
Sec. 1. Every lodge under this jurisdiction
shall, once' every year, transmit to to the grand
lodge, the names of its officers, and also the names of
the brethren who have been made Masons, passed
Fellow crafts, and raised to the sublime dergee of
Master Masons, in order that the same may be du¬
ly noticed in this grand lodge.
Sec. 2. Upon the demise of any lodge within
the jurisdiction of this grand lodge, the last Secre¬
tary and Treasurer of said lodge shall, within six
months afterwards, surrender to the grand Secre¬
tary the books, papers, jewels, funds and furniture
of said lodge so oemised.
Sec. 3. The grand Wardens and Secretary
shall make all necessary preparations for every
feast, and they shall be assisted by the grand Stew¬
ards, or some general undertaker.
Sec. 4. Every brother present at a grand feast,
shall be controlled by the grand Master in every
thing that pertains to the decency and decorum of
his conduct.
Sec. 5. Every brother who is an existing mem¬
ber of the grand lodge of this Slate, at the time of
the adoption of this Constitution, shall continue to
be a member of the same, he paying his dues as
prescribed by the laws of this grajul lodge.
Sec. 6. No amendment to this Constitution
shall be adopted by the grand lodge, until the same
after being proposed in writing to the grand lodge,
and thereby concurred with, shall be submitted to
the consideration of all the individual lodges, and
adopted by at least two thirds of all the said lodges.
4t2
BYE-JLAWS,
Read and unanimously concurred with, this
27th day of December. A. L. 5813, A. D. 1813.
BYE-LAWS.
AMEND OCTOBER 5th, 181$
Resolved, That the fund for contingent expences of the Grand
Lodge, shall be raised in the following manner, to-wit: Every
member of the Grand Lodge present, at the meetings Of the Grand
Lodge, and every brothar admitted to visit the Grand Lodge at
such meetings, shall pay to the Grand Secretary the sum offifty
cents for each meeting, at which he shall attend, and that no
member of the Grand Lodge shall be required to pay any other
sum than the aoove, towards the funds of the Lodge.
Sec. 1. Every private Lodge shall transmit to the Grand
Lodge a copy of their bye-laws, together with such extracts from
their journal of proceedings as the Grand Lodge may from time
to time think proper to direct.
Sec. 2. There shall be paid into the Treasury for every Chap¬
ter or Warrant, for holding anew Lodge, the sum of twenty dol¬
lars, and for every Chatter renewed, the sum of five dollars.
Sec. 3 It shall be the duty of the Grand Treasurer, to lay his
account before the Lodge at each Grand Annual Communication,
for inspection and adjustment; and upon going out office, he shall,
forthwith, pay into the hands of his successor, the balance which,
may appear to be due from him to the Lodge.
Sec. 4. If any member shall leave the Lodge without the per¬
mission of the Master, he shall pay the sum offifty cents.
Sec. 5. Every member who makes a motion shall deliver a
transeiipt of tlie* same to the Secretary before it is put.
, Sec. 6. A Committee of correspondence shall be annually ap¬
pointed.
Sec. 7 Each member of the Grand Lodge shall be entitled
to a certificate thereofwhich shall entitle him to admission into
any Lodge in this state, and to all the rights and privileges which
the members of such Lodges respectively possess.
ADDITIONAL BYE-LAWS.
23assed October, 1818.
Sec. 8. That each suborbinate Lodge, under this jurisdiction,
pay annually to the Grand Lodge, the sum of one dollar for each
degree conferred, and for each member admitted into their res¬
pective Lodges.
Sec. 9 That in all cases hereafter, where the Grand Secreta¬
ry shall affix his seal of office to any Chatter, Warrant, or oth¬
er instrument of writing, he shall be entitled to receive from the
applicant therefor, the sum of two dollars, A true co/nj.
M. NORVELL, Scc'y*
October, 1822.