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MASONIC CODE 
 
 NORTH CAROLINA, 
 
 CONTAINING 
 
 THE CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF THE JURISDICTION, WITH ANCIENT 
 CONSTITUTIONS, PUBLIC CEREMONIES, FORMS, &C. 
 
 COMPILED AND PUBLISHED 
 
 BY AUTHORITY OF 
 
 THE GRAND LODGE OF NORTH CAROLINA. 
 
 RALEIGH, N, C. : 
 
 JOHN NICHOLS & CO., BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 
 
 1875. 
 

 PREFACE 
 
 GRAND LODGE OF NORTH CAROLINA, F.\ A.-. M. •. 
 
 Office of Grand Secretary, 
 
 Raleigh, November 5th, 1875. 
 
 This work is designed for the use, and to meet the wants and 
 demands, of the Fraternity in tins Grand Jurisdiction. It embraces 
 the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Constitu- 
 tions and Charges, all public ceremonies and necessary blank forms 
 used by Lodges. Much care has been taken in its preparation with 
 a view to make it entirely reliable. It is published in pursuance of 
 the authority given by the Grand Lodge at its Annual Communica- 
 tion, December, 1874, after having been examined and approved 
 by the committee appointed by the Grand Lodge for that purpose. 
 
 DONALD W. BAIN, 
 
 Grand Secretary. 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 Historical Synopsis. 
 
 The early history of Freemasonry in North Carolina is not as defi- 
 nitely and satisfactorily known as might be desired. Such information 
 as is furnished by records regarded as authentic, is embodied in the 
 following historical synopsis. The statements given respecting the re- 
 organization of the Grand Lodge in 1787, are compiled from the ori- 
 ginal official records of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 There exists what is stated to be "a list of Regular Lodges accord- 
 ing to their Seniority and Constitution," on the register of the Grand 
 Lodge of England, published in 1762, which contains the following 
 entry: "213. A Lodge at Wilmington, on Cape Fear River, in the 
 Province of North Carolina, March, 1755." 
 
 It is probable that this was the first Lodge organized in the State, 
 as the Grand Lodge in 1791, after a full investigation of the claims of 
 all the Lodges to priority, in the award of the numbers, gave this 
 Lodge (St. Johns) the number 1, although the honor was contested by 
 Royal White Hart Lodge, No. 2, of Halifax. It thus appears that St. 
 Johns Lodge, No. 1, at Wilmington, has claim to antiquity, which the 
 records sustain. 
 
 The "Ahiman Rezon and Masonic Ritual," published at Newbern, 
 North Carolina, in 1805, contains an address by Judge Francois Xav- 
 ier Martin, from which the following extract is taken : 
 
 "Masonry crossed the Atlantic with the first settlers of the British 
 Colonies in America, and the Grand Masters of England appointed 
 Provincial Grand Masters who constituted regular Lodges in the New 
 World. The Carolinas had no Provincial Grand Master until 5736, 
 when the Earl of Loudon appointed John Hamerton to that dignity. 
 From him a regular succession can be traced to Joseph Montfort who 
 was appointed by the Duke of Beaufort in 5769." 
 
 Judge Martin was an accurate historian, as well as a zealous Mason, 
 and, no doubt, had good reason for stating that John Hamerton, of 
 South Carolina, was appointed Provincial Grand Master for the Caro- 
 linas. 
 
 The date of appointment of Joseph Montfort, as stated by Judge 
 Martin, (1769) does not accord with the date of his commission, still 
 
il Introduction. 
 
 preserved, which is 14th of January, 1771, but the mere date of a com- 
 mission does not affect the statement of fact of appointment. 
 
 The records of St. John's Grand Lodge at Boston, Massachusetts, 
 October 2d, 1167, contains this statement, which is published in the 
 " Cyclopedia of Masonry" by Robert Macoy: "A dispensation was 
 made out for the Eight Worshipful Thomas Cooper, Master of Pitt 
 County Lodge, in North Carolina, constituting him Deputy Grand 
 Master of that Province. And he was commissioned with power to 
 congregate all the brethren there residing, or who should afterward 
 reside in said Province, into one or more lodges as he should think 
 fit, and in such place or places within the same as should most redound 
 to the benefit of Masonry." The first Lodge established under this 
 authority was it is said, at Crown Point, in Pitt County. 
 
 On the 14th of January, 1771, the following authority was issued by 
 the command of the Grand Master of England: 
 
 Beaufort, G. M. 
 
 TO ALL AND EVERT our Right Worshipful and 
 Loving Brethren. WE, Henry Somerset, Duke of Beau- 
 fort, Marquis and Earl of Worcester, Earl of Glamorgan, 
 Viscount Grosmont, Baron Herbert, Lord of Raglaud, Chepston and 
 Gower, Baron Beaufort of Caldeeol Castle, Grand Master of theMost 
 Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, Greet- 
 ing: 
 
 KNOW YE THAT WE, of the great Trust and Confidence reposed 
 in our Right Worshipful and well beloved Brother Joseph Montfort, 
 Esquire, of Halifax, in the Province of North Carolina, in AMERICA, 
 do hereby constitute and appoint him the said JOSEPH MOJMTFORT, 
 Provincial Grand Master of' and for AMERICA »ith full power and 
 Authority in due form to make Masons and Constitute and Regulate 
 Lodges as Occasion may Require. And also to do and execute all 
 and every such other acts and things appertaining to the said Office 
 as usually have been and ought to be done and executed by other Pro- 
 vincial Grand Masters, he the said JOSEPH MONTFORT taking spe- 
 cial care that all and every, the Members of every Lodge he shall con- 
 stitute, have been regularly made Masons and that they do observe, 
 perforin and keep all and every the Rules, Orders and Regulations 
 contained in the Book of Constitutions (except such as have been or 
 may be repealed at any Quarterly Communication or other general 
 meeting together) also with all such other Rules, Orders. Regulations 
 and Instructions as shall from time to time be transmitted by us, or 
 by the Honorable CHARLES DILLON our Deputy or by any of our 
 Successors, Grand Masters or their Deputies for the time being. Aud 
 we hereby will and require you our said Provincial Grand Master to 
 cause four quarterly communications to be held yearly, one whereof to 
 be upon or as near the feast day of Saint John the Baptist as conve- 
 niently may be, and that you promote on those and all other occasions 
 whatever may be for the honour and Advantage of Masonry and the 
 Benefit of the Grand Charity, and that you yearly send to us or our suc- 
 cessor Grand Master an Account in Writing of the proceedings therein 
 and also of what Lodges you constitute and when and where held with 
 
Introduction. Hi 
 
 a list of the members thereof, and copies of all such Rules, Orders, Re- 
 gulations as shall lie made for the good Government of the same, with 
 whatever else you shall do by virtue of these presents. And, that you 
 at the same time remit to the Treasurer of the Society for the time 
 being at, London, three pounds, three shillings sterling for every Lodge 
 you shall constitute, for the use of the Grand Charity and other neces- 
 sary purposes. 
 
 Given at London under our hand and seal of Masonry this 14th day 
 of January, A. L. 5771, A. D. 1771. 
 
 By the <jB.akd Master's Command 
 Witness: CHAS. DILLON, D G. M. 
 
 JAS. HESELTINE, G. S. 
 
 Under this authority, Joseph Montfort established Lodges in North 
 Carolina. The present Royal White Hart Lodge, No. 2, at Halifax, 
 derived its original warrant from this source. It was registered on 
 the rolls of the Grand Lodge of England as No. 403, which number it 
 appears to have sustained when the Grand Lodge of North Carolina 
 was re-organized in 1787. This indicates, also, an existence under the 
 authority of the Grand Lodge of England, after the Grand Lodge of 
 North Carolina had ceased to exist, during and subsequent to the Rev- 
 olutionary war. 
 
 From the best evidence existing, it seems that most of the Lodges 
 which organized the Grand Lodge in 1771, derived their authority 
 from the Grand Lodge of England, but other Lodges were, no doubt, 
 established under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, if not under other 
 authority also. The disputes which arose between them as to priority 
 of number, after the re-organization of the Grand Lodge in 1787, in- 
 dicates this 
 
 It is evident that a Grand Lodge was organized in North Carolina 
 in 1771, but the precise date of its organization is not known. It ap- 
 pears of record, however, that it was "first constituted A. D. 1771," 
 and that it "convened occasionally at Newbern andEdenton, at which 
 latter place the records were deposited previous to the Revolutionary 
 war. During the contest the records were destroyed by the British 
 army, and the meetings of the Grand Lodge suspended." 
 
 A convention was held in the town of Tarborough, commencing De- 
 cember 9th, 1787, for the purpose of re-organizing the Grand Lodge. 
 
 The following are its first day's proceedings: 
 
 " Tarborough, December the 9th, A. L. 5787. 
 
 At a Convention of Delegates of the several Lodges in the State of 
 North Carolina, for the purpose of electing a Grand Master and other 
 Grand Officers for the same, the Brethren then assembled unanimously 
 appointed 
 
 Brother John Mare, in the Chair. 
 
iv Introduction. 
 
 Brother Benjamin Manchester, Secretary to the present Convention. 
 The following Lodges by their Delegates produced Credentials, viz: 
 
 Unanimity — Brothers John Mare, Stephen Cabarrus. 
 
 St. John's, No. 2 — Brothers Manchester, Abner Neale. 
 
 Royal Edwin, No. 4 — Brothers John Johnston, Andrew Oliver, Silas 
 White Arnett. 
 
 Royal White Hart, No. 403— Brothers William Muir, McDougall, 
 
 John Geddy. 
 
 Royal William, No. 8 — Brothers Hardy Murfree, Patrick Garvey, Wil- 
 liam Little. 
 
 Union, at Fayette ville — Brother James Porterfleld. 
 
 Blandford Bute — Brothers Edward Jones, William Johnston. 
 Old Cone — Brother John Armstrong 
 
 On motion, agreed, That the proceedings of this night be binding, 
 and that the following rules be observed during the sitting of this 
 Convention, to-wit: (Nine rules for the government of the Conven- 
 tion were adopted.) 
 
 The Convention then adjourned till to-morrow, 7 o'clock." 
 
 The Convention continued its sittings until the 13th of December. 
 
 On tbe 11th, Grand Officers were elected as follows: 
 
 Samuel Johnston, ... Grand Master. 
 
 Richard Caswell, - - Deputy Grand Master. 
 
 Richard Ellis, .... Senior Grand Warden. 
 
 Michael Payne, .... Junior Grand Warden. 
 
 Abner Neale, .... Grand Treasurer. 
 
 James Glasgow, .... Grand Secretary. 
 
 They were installed on the 12th. 
 
 At the Grand Lodge held at Fayetteville, December 9th, 1790, the 
 following resolution was passed: 
 
 " Resolved, That the Secretary be directed to write to the different 
 Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, requesting them 
 to send delegates to Newbern, there to meet the Grand Lodge on the 
 24th day of June next, and to forward their claims for precedency and 
 to receive their charters agreeable thereto, and at the same time to 
 notice them, that this is the last time their claims to that effect can be 
 received, but that those neglecting to take advantage of this notice 
 must hereafter take their numbers as they apply." 
 
 Of the communication held at Newbern on the 25th day of June, 
 1791, the following record exists: 
 
Introduction. v 
 
 "Pursuant to a resolution of the Grand Lodge at Fayettevdle on 
 the 9th day of December last, the "Lodge" proceeded to number the 
 different Lodges agreeable to the claims of precedency from the differ- 
 ent Lodges as follows, to-wit: 
 
 Saint John's, No. 1, Wilmington; Royal White Hart, No. 2, Hali- 
 fax ; Saint John's, No. 3, Newbern ; Saint John's, No. 4, Kinston ; 
 Royal Edwin, No. 5, Windsor; Royal William, No. 6, Winton ; Una- 
 nimity, No. 7, Edenton; Phoenix, No. 8, Fayetteville; Old Cone, No. 
 9, Salisbury; Johnston Caswell, No. 10, Warrenton ; Caswell Brother- 
 hood, No. 11, Caswell; Independence, No. 12, Chatham; Saint John's, 
 No. 13, Duplin; Rutherford Fellowship, No. 14, Rutherford; Wash- 
 ington, No. 15, Beaufort county; Saint Tammany, No. 16, Martin 
 county; American George, No. 17, Hertford county; King Solomon. 
 No. 18, Jones county. 
 
 "Resolved, That the several Lodges receive their charters as speed- 
 ily as convenient, from the Grand Lodge, numbered according to the 
 order which they appear on the records of this Grand Lodge taken this 
 day." 
 
 It is evident that all the Lodges mentioned above existed at, or 
 previous to, the time of the reorganization of the Grand Lodge, ex- 
 cept numbers 11 to 18 both inclusive, which were chartered after- 
 wards, as the first record of the formation of new Lodges after the re- 
 organization, exists under date 17th of November, 1788, w r hen peti- 
 tions were presented to the Grand Lodge for " warrants " for a Lodge 
 in Caswell county and one in Rutherford county (afterwards number- 
 ed 11 and 14 respectively, when charters were granted), which, on the 
 next day, were ordered to be issued. 
 
 The succeeding history of the Grand Lodge and origin of its Subor- 
 dinates is contained in the original records of the Grand Lodge, and 
 is complete to the present date. 
 
 The foregoing pages embrace so much of the early history as the 
 limited space of a mere introduction will admit. 
 
CONSTITUTION 
 
 ARTICLE I. 
 
 Grand Lodge--Officers of and Representation in. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Lodge shall consist of a Grand Master, 
 Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior, and Grand Junior Wardens, 
 Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, Grand Senior, and Grand Junior 
 Deacons, and the Masters and Wardens, for the time being, of the 
 several Lodges within this State, or Representative or Representa- 
 tives, specially appointed for that purpose, who shall be considered as 
 their proxy, or proxies, and the Past Grand Officers of the Grand 
 Lodge — that is to say, Past Grand Masters, Past Grand Senior and 
 Junior Wardens, Grand Treasurers and Grand Secretaries — and the 
 said enumerated officers and persons shall be the only members and 
 voters of the Grand Lodge. The Master and Wardens of every 
 Lodge are the Representatives thereof in the Grand Lodge, or their 
 proxy or proxies, or the Representative or Representatives constituted 
 aforesaid. 
 
 Proxies and Number of Votes Prescribed. 
 
 Sec. 2. In all cases where special Representatives shall not be ap- 
 pointed by any Subordinate Lodge, and the Master and Wardens of 
 any Lodge cannot, personally, attend the Grand Lodge, they shall 
 have the privilege of constituting a proxy; and such proxy shall be a 
 Master Mason, and a 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. (By-Laws, Art. IV.) 
 
 Grand Officers Ineligible as Representatives — Grand Masters, &c, to 
 be Past Masters. 
 
 Sec. 3. No Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, or Grand Warden 
 shall, during his continuance in office, be Master or Warden to, or 
 Representative of, a particular Lodge .; and no brother shall be eligi- 
 ble to either of the said offices, who is not a Past Master. 
 
6 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 Who Eligible to Membership or Office in Grand Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 4. None but Master Masons, members of Regular Lodges, 
 shall be members of the Grand Lodge, or be eligible to any office or 
 appointment therein. 
 
 ARTICLE II. 
 
 Grand Master— Election of. 
 
 Section 1. A Grand Master shall be annually chosen, to-wit — at 
 the Annual Communication ; and no person shall fill the office more 
 than three years successively, unless by a unanimous vote. 
 
 Sec. 2. In the electiou of Grand Master, a ballot at large shall be 
 taken, (every voter writing the name of the candidate he thinks best 
 qualified) and the brother who has two-thirds of the votes present, 
 shall be declared Grand Master elect, and installed in due form, 
 according to ancient usage. 
 
 Grand Officers may be Installed by Proxy. 
 
 Sec. 3. In cases of sickness, or necessary absence, the Grand 
 Master, or any other Grand 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 absence of the Grand Master. 
 
 Grand Officers Appointed by Grand Master. 
 
 Sec 4. The Grand Master shall appoint and commission his Depu- 
 ty and the Grand Lecturers, under the seal of the Grand Lodge ; 
 and he shall appoint and declare the Grand Chaplains, Grand Dea- 
 cons, the Grand Steward, the Grand Marshal, the Grand Pusuivant, 
 Grand Sword Bearer, and Grand Tiler, which appointments shall be 
 entered on the minutes of the Grand Lodge ; and in case any other 
 office shall become vacant by death, resignation, or otherwise, the 
 Grand Master, for the time, shall fill such vacancy by his nomination. 
 
 Who Eligible to Preside in Grand Lodge. 
 
 Sec 5. 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 these, the 
 Junior Grand Warden ; and, in the case of the absence of all 
 these officers, the eldest Grand Officer in the Lodge is to fill the 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 7 
 
 chair. And that the Grand Lodge may always appear in clue form, 
 the presiding officer shall wear the jewel of the Grand Master, and 
 all others the jewels of the offices they respectively represent. 
 
 Powers and Prerogatives of Grand Master. 
 
 Sec. 6. The Grand Master enjoys all the powers and prerogatives 
 conferred by the Ancient Constitutions and usages of the Craft. He 
 has power absolutely to prohibit the introduction of any matter con- 
 flicting with the spirit of Masonry, or with Grand Lodge regulations; 
 and his decision on all questions shall be final, unless reversed by a 
 vote of two-thirds of the members present. He may convene any 
 Lodge within his jurisdiction, preside therein, (with his officers or 
 otherwise, ) inspect their proceedings, and correct all irregularities, 
 or he may appoint a suitable brother for that purpose. For any dere- 
 liction of duly, or other unmasouic conduct, he may suspend a broth- 
 er, whatever may be his grade, or arrest the Charter of a Lodge, un- 
 til the ensuing session of the Grand Lodge, before which he shall pre- 
 sent all the circumstances connected with the case. He may, also, 
 grant Dispensations on all proper occasions, and do all such other acts 
 and deeds as are warranted or required of him by the regulations and 
 ancient usages of the Fraternity. 
 
 Obligation of Officers at Installation. 
 
 Sec. 7. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand War- 
 dens, shall, severally, at the time of their installation, make the fol- 
 lowing declaration : " I solemnly promise, upon the honor of a Ma- 
 son, that, in the office of , I will, according to the best of my 
 
 abilities, strictly comply with the laws and regulations of this Grand 
 Lodge, and other ancient Masonic usages." 
 
 ARTICLE III. 
 
 Grand Wardens- Election of. 
 
 The Grand Wardens shall be chosen annually, by a majority of 
 written votes, and must be Past Masters. 
 
 ARTICLE IV. 
 
 Grand Treasurer — Election and Duties of. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Treasurer shall be chosen annually, by a 
 majority of written votes. 
 
8 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 Sec. 2. He 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 required, before the Grand Lodge, and account for the 
 moneys, as may be directed. 
 
 ARTICLE V. 
 
 Grand Secretary — Election and Duties of. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Secretary shall be chosen annually, by a 
 majority of written votes. 
 
 Sec. 2. He must be a brother who can write a fair and legible hand, 
 and shall keep accurate records of all the transactions of the Grand 
 Lodge. He shall present all the votes and orders of the Grand Lodge 
 after they are entered, to the Grand Master for his approbation and . 
 signature. He shall issue summonses, as the Grand Master may 
 direct ; and shall give a seasonable notice in at least one public news- 
 paper of every stated meeting of the Grand Lodge; and he shall be 
 rewarded for his services in such manner as the Grand Lodge may 
 direct. 
 
 ARTICLE VI. 
 
 OTHER GRAND OFFICERS— DUTIES OF. 
 
 Grand Chaplains. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Chaplains, when called upon, are to perform 
 all suitable clerical duties. 
 
 Grand Marshal. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Grand Marshal shall attend to the organization of the 
 Grand Lodge, collect petitions and communications, introduce visitors, 
 direct the formation of processions, and execute commands of the 
 Grand Master. 
 
 Grand Deacons. 
 
 Sec. 3. The Grand Deacons shall occupy their proper stations, and 
 each attend to his particular duty. 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 9 
 
 Grand Sword-Bearer and Pursuivant. 
 
 Sec. 4. The Grand Sword-Bearer and Pursuivant shall act as assis- 
 tants to the Grand Marshal. 
 
 Grand Steward and Tiler. 
 
 Sec. 5. The Grand Steward and Tiler shall attend every call of the 
 Grand Master, and be present at every Grand Communication; for 
 which services a suitable compensation shall be made. He shall 
 attend yearly, in season, to have the Grand Lodge room properly 
 prepared for the reception of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 ARTICLE VII. 
 
 Grand Lecturers — Duties of. 
 
 The Grand Lecturers shall qualify themselves for their duties, and 
 attend the meetings of the Grand Lodge, and exemplify the work and 
 lectures of the several degrees, when required. They shall visit the 
 several Lodges when required — lecture and instruct them in work, 
 and see that they are properly regulated and conducted. For their 
 services they shall be suitably compensated in such manner as the 
 Grand Lodge may provide. (^>ee By Laws, Art. 1, Sees. 21 and 22. 
 
 ARTICLE VIII. 
 
 Grand Lodge — Communications of. 
 
 Section 1. A Grand Lodge shall be held at least once in every year, 
 and the Grand Master may call special meetings whenever he shall 
 deem it advisable. 
 
 Manner of Votine in. 
 
 Sec. 2. In the adoption of this Constitution, and all amendments 
 hereafter made, and in the election of officers, and all other matters 
 in the Grand Lodge, (when demanded,) the votes shall be taken ac- 
 cording to the rights of the several Lodges, and the members of the 
 Grand Lodge, that is to say, every Lodge present by its representation, 
 shall be entitled to three votes, whether represented by one or more 
 brethren ; and every member of the Grand Lodge otherwise entitled 
 than by being a representative of a particular Lodge, shall have one 
 
10 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 vote; provided this shall in no wise affect any rights of the Past 
 Grand officers. In cases of a tie, the brother in the chair shall have 
 the casting vote. 
 
 ARTICLE IX. 
 
 Powers of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Lodge shall be the supreme Masonic author- 
 ity within the State of North Carolina, and shall claim and exercise 
 all the original essential powers, privileges, rights and authority 
 appertaining to the ancient craft; and shall, moreover, rank on an 
 equality with all other regularly constituted Grand Lodges; and be 
 empowered to legislate upon all matters of Masonic government, and 
 make all necessary regulations for its own government and that of its 
 subordinates. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Grand Lodge shall have power by charter, under 
 their seal, to constitute new Lodges, to establish an uniform mode of 
 working in all the Lodges in this State, and superintend and regulate 
 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 be removed or defaced. 
 
 I 
 
 ARTICLE X. 
 
 New Lodges — How Established. 
 
 No new charter shall be granted, but upon the petition of at least 
 seven known and approved Master Masons ; nor shall a new warrant 
 be issued to any number of Masons, residing within less than ten 
 miles of the usual place of meeting of any regularly established Lodge, 
 unless important benefits are to be derived therefrom; and the peti- 
 tion shall contain the causes which render it expedient that such a 
 charter should be granted, with the nomination of the Master and 
 Wardens; and the petition shall be approved by some regular consti- 
 tuted Lodge in the vicinity of the petitioners. 
 
Masonic Code of Noi-th Carolina. 11 
 
 ARTICLE XI. 
 
 Amendments —How Made. 
 
 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 consid- 
 eration of all the individual Lodges, and adopted by at least two- 
 thirds of all the said Lodges. 
 
BY-LAWS AND EDICTS (IF IDE GP.il LODGE. 
 
 ARTICLE I. 
 
 GRAND OFFICERS. 
 Time for Election of. 
 
 Section 1. The election of Grand Officers shall take place on the 
 second day of the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Certificate of Election. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Grand Officers elected and appointed at each Annua 
 Communication of this Grand Lodge, shall be furnished with certifi- 
 cates of election or appointment, signed by the Grand Master and 
 Wardens, and verified by the signature of the Grand Secretary, and 
 the seal of the Grand Lodge. (Sees. 9 and 13.) 
 
 Grand Master. 
 
 To Provide Stationery and Seals. 
 
 Sec. 3 The Grand Master is authorized to furnish such stationery 
 as he may deem necessary for himself and the Grand Secretary, in 
 their official correspondence; and also to procure seals to be used in 
 conducting the correspondence of their respective offices. 
 
 To Appoint Private Secretary. 
 
 Sec. 4. The Grand Master may appoint a Private Secretary and fix 
 his compensation, provided it shall not exceed one hundred dollars 
 per annum. 
 
 Expenses of. 
 
 Sec. 5. The necessary expenses of the Grand Master incurred in the 
 discharge of the duties of his office shall be allowed by the Grand 
 Lodge. (Sec. 9, Art. iv.) 
 
 Grand Treasurer. 
 
 To Furnish Statement of Accounts. 
 
 Sec. 6. It shall be the duty of the Grand Treasurer at each Annual 
 
 3 
 
lJj. Masonic Code of Aorth, Carolina. 
 
 Communication of the Grand Lodge, to flic with the Grand £ecreta:y, 
 a statement of the amount of moneys and other funds of the Grand 
 Lodge in his Lauds, which statement the Grand Secretary shall file 
 among his papers, and preserve for the use of the Grand Lodge 
 
 To Give Bond. 
 
 Sec. 7. The Grand Treasurer shall give bond in the penal sum of 
 one thousand dollars, faithfully to discharge his duties and account 
 for all moneys and effects that may come into his hands belonging to 
 the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Payment rf Grand Secretary's Salary. 
 
 Sec. 8. The Grand Treasurer shall not be authorized to pay over to 
 the Grand Secretary any appropriation which the Grand Lodge may 
 have made, as compensation to him for discharging the duties of his 
 office, until he shall have produced the certificate of the committee 
 on his books that said duties were duly and truly performed. 
 
 To Pay Expenses of Grand Officers. 
 
 Sec. 9. The Grand Treasurer shall, at each Annual Communication, 
 tender to the Grand Cfiicers of the preceding Masonic year, their 
 expenses incurred in attending said Annual Communication. 
 
 To Procure Portraits of Grand and Past Grand Masters. 
 
 Sec. 10. The Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary shall be a 
 standing committee to procure the. portraits of the Grand Masters of 
 this State, beginning with the year 1886, and all living Past Grand 
 Masters, whose portraits can be obtained, and the same, when, pro- 
 cured, shall be suitably framed and hung up in the Grand Lodge 
 Hall. Such sums of money shall lie appropriated as may be necessary 
 to carry into effect this section. 
 
 Compensation of. 
 
 Sec. 11. The compensation of the Grand Treasurer shall be one 
 hundred and fifty dollars per annum, unless the receipts of the Grand 
 Lodge shall be less than three thousand dollars per annum, when he 
 shall receive five per cent, commissions. 
 
 Grand Secretary. 
 
 Salary and Fees of. 
 
 Sec. 12. The Grand Secretary shall receive an annual salary of 
 seven hundred dollars, as compensation for his services; in addition 
 
Masonic Cuclti of .Surtli Carolina. 15 
 
 to which he shall he entitled to or.e dollar for engrossing a dispensa- 
 tion or charter and affixing seal of the Grand Lodge to the same; one 
 dollar for every certificate or document requiring seal, and the fees 
 prescribed in sections 1 and 2 of Article iii, of the By-Laws. Diplo- 
 mas and papers required by the Grand Master are excepted. 
 
 To Transmit Names, &c , of Grand Officers to other Grand Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 13. It shall be the duty of the Grand Secretary, after the 
 choice of Grand Officers each year, to transmit to the Grand Lodges 
 with which this Grand Lodge is in correspondence, the names and 
 signatures of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand War- 
 dens, Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, written in their own 
 proper hands, and authenticated under Ins hand, and the seal of the 
 Grand Lodge. He shall n Is > transmit at the same time an attested 
 copy of all new general regulations adopted. 
 
 To Make Reports — Postage Allowed. 
 
 Se '. 14. The Grand Secretary shall, at i ach Annual Communication, 
 submit a report in writing, of the transactions of his office during the 
 preceding Masonic year. Postage expenses incurred in his official 
 duties shall be paid by the Grand Treasurer, and allowed to him in 
 the settlement of his accounts. 
 
 To Provide Dispensations and Charters. 
 
 Sec. 15. The Grand Secretary shall have blank Dispensations and 
 Charters printed from time to time as they may be needed, and the 
 cost of the same shall be paid by the Grand Treasurer. 
 
 To Give Bend. 
 
 Sec. 16. The Grand Secretary shall give a bond in the penal sum 
 of five hundred dollars for the faithful discharge of his duties, and to 
 account for all moneys and effects that may come into his hands be- 
 longing to the Grand Lodge. 
 
 To Transmit Documents, &c, to Committee on Foreign Correspon 
 dence — Grand Lodge Library. 
 
 Sec. 17. The Grand Secretary shall transmit to the Committee on 
 Foreign Corr'spondence, immediately upon their reception, all papers 
 and documcuts for said committee. The committee shall return all 
 such papers and documents to the Grand Secretary, after the repoit 
 is completed, for the purpose of binding. 
 
 The Grand Secretary, shall have bound, in good library binding, 
 such documents as may be returned to him by the committee, to form 
 a library for the Grand Lodge. 
 
16 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 To Secure Transportation for Representatives to the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 18. It shall be the duty of the Grand Secretary, before the 
 regular Annual Communication of this Grand Body, to make applica- 
 tion to the Presidents of the different Railroad and Navigation Com- 
 panies in this State, to allow the officers and representatives to pass 
 to and from this Grand Lodge for one fare. 
 
 To Employ Assistant. 
 
 Sec. 19. — The Grand Secretary is authorized to employ the services 
 of some suitable brother as his assistant during the Annual Communi- 
 cations, and the Grand Treasurer is directed, upon a proper warrant, 
 to pay a sum not exceeding twenty-five dollars for such services. 
 
 Grand Tiler — Compensation of. 
 
 Sec. 20. The salary of the Grand Tiler shall be five dollars for 
 each day and night inclusive, of every Communication of the Grand 
 Lodge. 
 
 Grand Lecturers. 
 
 To Exemplify Work. 
 
 Sec. 21. The Grand Lecturers shall exemplify the work when 
 required by the Grand Master, at any Annual Communication of the 
 Grand Lodge. (See Article vii of the Constitution.) 
 
 To Examine Records of Lodges, &c. 
 
 Sec. 22. The Grand Lecturers shall examine the records and pro- 
 ceedings of the Lodges they may visit, and report in what manner 
 they are kept and conducted, as well as whether due obedience is paid 
 to the Constitution, laws and teachings, of Masonry. 
 
 ARTICLE II. 
 
 REVENUES OF THE GRAND LODGE. 
 
 Annual Dues of Lodges 
 
 Section 1. The dues from Subordinate Lodges to this Grand 
 Lodge, shall be fifty cents per capita annually, for each member re- 
 ported on the annual returns. Each Lodge shall transmit with its 
 returns such annual dues or fees as the Grand Lodge may, at any 
 time, assess. 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 17 
 
 Grand Secretary to Receive Moneys. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Grand Secretary shall receive and receipt for all moneys 
 due the Grand Lodge, handing the amount promptly to the Grand 
 Treasurer, taking his receipt therefor. Representatives to the Grand 
 Lodge having any fees or dues for the Grand Lodge, shall hand 
 them to the Grand Secretary. 
 
 Moneys How Paid from Grand Treasury. 
 
 Sec. 3. No moneys shall be paid out of the Grand Treasury, unless 
 authorized by the Grand Lodge and approved by the Grand Master. 
 
 ARTICLE III. 
 
 DIPLOMAS. 
 
 Grand Secretary to Provide. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Secretary shall always keep on hand diplo- 
 mas, printed on parchment and bound in pocket form, and on paper, 
 with Grand Lodge certificate attached, for the use of the Subordinate 
 Lodges, for which they shall pay, in addition to the cost of the 
 blank diploma, fifty cents for each copy, one-half whereof shall be 
 paid into the Grand Treasury, the other the Grand Secretary shall 
 receive for affixing seal, &c. 
 
 Diplomas Furnished by Grand Lodge. 
 
 Sec 2 The price of a diploma granted by this Grand Lodge, or by 
 its officers, shall be five dollars; and the same shall accrue to, and be 
 a part of the perquisites of, the Grand Secretary. 
 
 ARTICLE IV. 
 
 ANNUAL COMMUNICATIONS OF GRAND LODGE. 
 
 When and Where Held. 
 
 Section 1. The Annual Communications of the Grand Lodge shall 
 be held in the city of Raleigh, on the first Monday of December in 
 each and every year. 
 
18 Masonic Code of Nortli Carolina. 
 
 Quorum 
 
 Sec. 2. The Representatives of three Subordinate Lodges, with 
 sucli Grand Officers and members as may be in attendance, shall be 
 necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. 
 
 Delegate shall Represent only Three Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 3. A delegate shall not represent more than three Lodges at 
 the same time in this Grand Lodge. 
 
 Proxy Cannot Appoint Proxy. 
 
 Sec. 4. A proxy shad not transfer his authority to anothei unless 
 the power to do so shall be expressly given by his principal. 
 
 Manner of Voting by Representaiives —Number of Votes. 
 
 Sec. 5. Each Lodge represented in the Grand Lodge, whether by 
 officers, proxies, or special representatives, shad be entitled to three 
 votes; and if two only represent a Lodge, and they shall differ, each 
 shall cast one and a half vote. 
 
 Creden'ials of Representatives. 
 
 Sec. G. Every representative to the Grand Lodge, (whether elected 
 by the Lodge or appointed the prosy of any officer) must be furnished 
 with a certificate of election or appointment, under the seal of the 
 Lodge, attested by the Secretary, the form to be furnished by th" 
 Grand Secretary, which shall state that he is a Master Mason; and all 
 credentials must be handed to the Committee on Credentials. No 
 person shall represent any Subordinate Lodge, other than its constitu- 
 tional officers either as a delegate or proxy, unless he produces proper 
 and written authority therefor. 
 
 Committee on Credentials — Appointment and Report of. 
 
 Sec. 7. At every Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge the 
 Grand Master shall appoint a Committee on Credentials, whose duty 
 it shall be to attend at the Grand Lodge Hall at least three hours 
 before the time of assembling the Grand Lodge at the succeeding 
 Annual Communication, to receive credentials of representatives and 
 verify proxies. 
 
 Standing Committees. 
 
 Sec. 8. The Grand Master shall, as soon as he may deem it advisa- 
 ble, after the acceptance of the report of the Committee on Creden- 
 tials, appoint the following Standing Committees, each to consist of 
 a discretionary number of members, to wit : 
 
Masonic Code of JYoyth Carolina. 10 
 
 1st. A Committee on Charters and Dispensations; to wham shall be 
 Teferred all matters appertaining to the constituting or chartering of 
 Lodges. 
 
 2d. A Committee on Foreign Correspondence and Miscellaneous suo- 
 jects ; to whom shall be referred immediately after their receipt by 
 the Grand Secretary, all foreign Communications, and such miscella- 
 neous matters, as may not otherwise bo specially disposed of, and 
 who shall be required to submit their report at the next succeeding 
 Annual Communication; and the expenses of the chairman in attend- 
 ing the Grand Lodge to submit the report, shall be paid by the Grand 
 Lodge. 
 
 3d. A Committee on Worl\ Proceedings and Returns of Subordinate 
 Lodges; to whom shall be referred the Returns and Proceeding? of 
 the several Lodges, together with every other matter relating in any 
 way to said Lodges, and which may not meet with any other disposi- 
 tion. 
 
 4th. A Committee on Accounts and Claims; whose duty it shall be 
 to examine the Grand Treasurer's accounts, and also all other accounts 
 and claims in which the Grand Lodge may be interested, and report 
 the existing condition of the Grand Treasury. 
 
 5th. A Committee on Jurisprudence; to serve until the succeeding 
 Annual Communication, to whom shall be submitted all questions of 
 Masonic Law, not requiring the decisions of the Grand Master. All 
 amended By-Laws, and all questions of Law and Usage recommended 
 by the Committee on Foreign Correspondence for the concurrence of 
 the Grand Lodge, and which, if recommended by said committee, 
 and concurred in by the Grand Lodge, shall be recognized as the law 
 in this jurisdiction. And said committee shall report to the Grand 
 Lodge at the Annual Communication next succeeding their appoint- 
 ment, all decisions made by them during the year, and all necessary 
 expenses incurred in the discharge of these duties shall be paid by the 
 Grand Lodge. 
 
 6th. 'A Committee on Schools under the management of Subordinat e 
 Lodges. 
 
 7th. A Committee on unfinished business of previous Commmdcation ; 
 whose duty it shall be to examine the records of the Grand Lodge, 
 and see that its proceedings have been faithfully recorded. 
 
 Grand Master's Address — Committee on. 
 
 Sec. 9. After the Grand Master shall have presented his annual 
 address, (which he is requested to" lay before the Grand Lodge on 
 Monday evening of the' Annual Communication,) he shall appoint a 
 special committee of reference, who shall take the same in charge, 
 
20 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 and make a report, specifying the appropriate committees to whom 
 the several subjects therein noticed shall be referred. 
 
 Grand Lodge- -When and How Closed. 
 
 Sec. 10. The Grand Lodge shall continue in session until all legiti- 
 mate business coming before it shall have been disposed of, or until 
 closed by the Grand Master. 
 
 Leave of Absence — How Obtained. 
 
 Sec. 11. No member shall leave the hall or absent himself from the 
 city, during the session of the Grand Lodge, without the permission 
 of the Grand Master. 
 
 Visitors — How Admitted. 
 
 Sec. 12. ISTo visitors shall be admitted into the Grand Lodge ex- 
 cept petitioners and witnesses: Provided, That brethren properly 
 entitled by their grade in Masonry, may, by permission from the 
 chair, be admitted; in neither of which cases shall they be permitted 
 to vote. 
 
 Refreshments Forbidden. 
 
 Sec 13. This Grand Lodge discountenances refreshments and 
 forbids their use, and advibes Subordinate Lodges to do the same. 
 
 ARTICLE V. 
 
 RULES REGULATING BUSINESS OF GRAND LODGE. 
 
 Order of Business. 
 
 Section 1. The following shall be the order of business for the reg- 
 ulation of the Grand Lodge : 
 
 1. Heading the Proceedings of the previous day. 
 
 2. Reports of Standing Committees. 
 S. Reports of Special Committees. 
 
 4. Communications from the Grand Master or other Grand Officers. 
 
 5. Motions and Resolutions. 
 
 6. Unfinished Business. 
 
 7. Special Orders. 
 
 Communications, &c, How Submitted. 
 Sec 2. All communications and documents must first be submitted 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 21 
 
 to the inspection of the Grand Master, before they can properly come 
 before the Grand Lodge. 
 
 To be Reduced to Writing. 
 
 Sec. 3. Every resolution or motion submitted to the Grand Lodge, 
 shall, if required, be reduced to writing and referred to an appropriate 
 committee. 
 
 Motions, &c, on Jurisprudence to Lie Over. 
 
 Sec. 4. All motions or resolutions, touching Masonic jurisprudence, 
 shall lie over one day before the same is acted on, unless notice thereof 
 in writing be given one day before its introduction. 
 
 Grand Master — How Addressed. 
 
 Sec. 5. Every member wishing to address the Grand Lodge, shall 
 rise and respectfully address himsjlf to the Most Worshipful Grand 
 Master; confining his remarks to the subject under consideration, and 
 avoiding personalities and all gross expressions. 
 
 Restrictions in Debate — Calls to Order. 
 
 Sec. 6. No person shall speak more than twice on the same subject 
 without permission, nor shall he interrupt another when decorously 
 addressing the Grand Lodge. All calls to order shall be addressed 
 to the chair. 
 
 Motion, When Debatable. 
 
 Sec. 7. No motion shall be debatable until seconded, and stated 
 from the chair, when it shall be considered in possession of the Grand 
 Lodge and cannot be withdrawn, except by the mover, previous to 
 decision or amendment. A question, after being put by the Grand 
 Master, cannot be debated. 
 
 Motion to Close, &c, Inadmissible. 
 
 Sec. 8. No motion to close or call off is admissible, that responsi- 
 bility resting alone with the Grand Master, who is obligated to allow 
 the occurrence of nothing tending to interrupt or defeat the regular 
 course of any business legitimately coming before the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Parliamentary Rules — Previous Question. 
 
 Sec. 9. On all other matters, the rules which generally govern 
 deliberative assemblies shall be observed, except as to the previous 
 question. 
 
22 Masonic Code of Xortli Carolina. 
 
 Reconsideration of Votes. 
 
 Sec. 10. No vote of the Grand Lodge shall lie rec nsidered by a 
 less number of members than were present at the passing of the 
 same. 
 
 Reports of Committees— How Made. 
 
 Sec. 11. All Committees shad report their procee lings in writing — 
 the first named brother on each to be Chairman; unless he waive his 
 right to another. 
 
 ARTICLE VI. 
 
 ESTABLISHMENT OF LODGES. 
 
 Dispensations — Price of. 
 
 Section 1. Dispensations for New Lodges may be granted upon 
 petition to the Grand Master, or the Deputy Grand Mater, of not 
 less than seven worthy Master Masons, said petitioners to be known 
 and recommended by a Lodge nearest their residence, accompanied 
 by a fee of ten dollars ($10), one dollar of wlrch the Grand Secretary 
 shall retain for his services. 
 
 Petitions for Dispensations to Obtain Dimits or Certificates. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Dimits of petitioners for a Dispensation for a new 
 L)dge must accompany the petition. When a Lodge has forfeited its 
 charter and sent its records to the Grand Secretary, the former mem- 
 bers of such Lodge, before uniting with another Lodge, or petitioning 
 for a Dispensation for a new Lodge, shall be provided by the Grand 
 Secretary with a certificate of their having formerly belonged to such 
 Lo Ige, on receipt by him, of all dues shown by such records to be 
 owing by them to their former Lodge. 
 
 Skill and Proficiency of Officers Certified, 
 
 Sec 3. All Subordinate Lodges, recommending petitions for dis- 
 pensations for opening and holding new Lodges, shall, in addition to 
 the recommendation required in Section 1 of this Article, plainly and 
 explicitly certify that they have carefully examined the Master and 
 Wardens, or at least the Master, of the proposed Lodge, and that 
 they find them or him to be well skilled in the ritual and laws of 
 Masonry. A Subordinate Lodge shall not recommend any petition 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 23 
 
 for a new Lodge, unless it can unqualifiedly certify to the skill and 
 legal knowledge as herein required. 
 
 Naming Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 4. Masons who apply for a dispensation to form a Lodge, or 
 for a Charter after having worked under dispensation, shall not name 
 their Lodge after any living man, profane or Mason, to the end that 
 masonry may not be brought into reproach by perpetuating the name 
 of an unworthy man. 
 
 Powers not Possessed by Lodges U. D.— Affiliate Members— Exercise 
 
 Jurisdiction. 
 
 Sec. 5. A Lodge working under Dispensation has not the power to 
 affi'iafe members. It has not territorial or penal jurisdiction. It 
 c innot try or discipline the Masons composing it, or those living nearer 
 to it than to another Lodge. It cannot enact By Laws. It has no 
 powers except those specially delegated by the Grand Master's Dis- 
 pensation, under which it is established. 
 
 Dispensation to be Returned -Charter and Seal to be Issued. 
 
 Sec. 6. Every Lodge working under a Dispensation, shall return 
 the same to the Grand Lodge, at the first Annual Communication after 
 its date, together with a copy of its By-Laws, a transcript of its pro- 
 ceedings, a list of officers and member-, and a fee of twenty dollars, 
 also, a sufficient sum to pay for a suitable seal, for which a charter 
 and seal shall lie issued, if so ordered by the Grand Lodge The 
 Secretary of every chartered Lodge shall attach the seal thereof to 
 all communications issued by order of the Lodge. 
 
 / 
 
 Chartered Lodges — How Numbered. 
 
 Sec. 7. When Lodges are chartered, they shall be numbered accord- 
 ing to the dates of their Charters, and numbers rendered blank by the 
 demise of Lodges shall not be filled. 
 
 Chartered Lodges —How Constituted. 
 
 Sec. 8. No chartered Lodge can proceed to work, until tha same 
 shall have been constituted and the Master regularly installed, either 
 by the Grand Master in person, or by a Past Master duly author- 
 ized. 
 
 Duplicate Charter Retains Membership. 
 
 Sec. 9. A Lodge receiving a duplicate charter to supply the loss of 
 the original, retains its membership entire. 
 
2Jf Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 ARTICLE VII. 
 
 ANNUAL RETURNS OF LODGES TO GRAND LODGE. 
 
 What the Returns Shall Contain. 
 
 Every constituted Lodge unrlbr this jurisdiction shall milss 
 annual returns to the Grand Lodge, on a form to he furnished by the 
 Grand Secretary, containing the following items: Officers; Members; 
 Resident Masons not Members; Entered Apprentices; Fellow Crafts; 
 those initiated, passed, raised, or admitted to membership; members 
 who have died, withdrawn, or been excluded for nonpayment of 
 dues, and those who have been rejected, suspended, or reinstated. 
 The location, (county and town or place) date of charter of the Lodge, 
 and the time of holding its Regular Communications, shall be stated. 
 The returns shall give names and dates in all cases except as to those 
 rejected, (which are not to be published) with a summary in figures, 
 and shall be certified by the Secretary, attested by the seal of the 
 Lodge. They shall embrace the workings and statistics of the Lodge 
 for the year ending on the 31st day of October, corresponding with 
 the fiscal year of the Grand Lodge. A Lodge shall not be entitled 
 to representation in the Grand Lodge, except by special permission, 
 until the returns are filed with, and all dues owing by the Lodge .are 
 fully paid to, the Grand Secretary. 
 
 ARTICLE VIII. 
 
 REMOVAL OF LODGES. 
 
 Proceedings in. 
 
 No lodge shall be removed without the Master's knowledge. No 
 motion shall be made for removal in the Master's absence; and, if the 
 motion be seconded, the Master shall order summons to every indi- 
 viduab member, specifying the business, and appoint a day for hear- 
 ing and determining the matter, at least ten days before it is to take 
 place; and the determination shall be made by the majority, provided 
 the Master be one of that majority, But if he be of the minority 
 against removing, the Lodge shall not be removed, unless the majority 
 consists of full two thirds of the members present. But, if the Master 
 refuse to direct such summons, either of the Wardens may do it; 
 and if the Master neglect to attend on the day fixed, the Wardens 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 25 
 
 may preside, in determining the matter, in the manner prescribed: 
 Itut they shall not enter upon any other cause than that particularly 
 mentioned in the summons. If the Lodge he thus regularly ordered 
 to be removed, the Master or Warden shall send notice thereof to the 
 Grand Secretary for publishing the same at the next Annual 
 Communication. No Lodge shall be deemed regularly removed, 
 until the removal thereof be approved by the Grand Master, or his 
 Deputy for the time being; nor unless the laws relating to removals 
 be strictly complied with; and, that the same maybe duly ascer- 
 tained, the books of every Lodge, intended to be removed, shall be in- 
 spected by the Grand Secretary, before any removal takes place. 
 
 ARTICLE IX, 
 
 EXTINCT LODGES. 
 
 Forfeiture and Restoration of Charters. 
 
 Section 1. Every Lodge, which shall cease to meet for twelve 
 months, or ueglect to make returns and forward dues to the Grand 
 Lodge for two successive terms, shall forfeit its Charter; which 
 shall not be restored except on application by the Master, War- 
 dens, or seven members, accompanied by satisfactory explanations, 
 to be approved by the Grand Lodge, or by the Grand Master during 
 recess. 
 
 Forfeited Property — How Secured and Disposed of. 
 
 Sec. 2. In case of the suspension or demise of any Lodge, its prop- 
 erty and furniture of whatever kind, charter, jewels, and funds, shall 
 become forfeited to the Grand Lodge, and the Grand Master shall 
 have power, either personally or through an agent, to collect and 
 take the same into possession, together with accounts due, and he 
 shall be authorized, at his discretion, to sell, lease or rent real estate 
 or other such property, or lend to a Lodge any part thereof until the 
 ensuing Annual Communication ; or he may restore such property on 
 the revival of the Lodge. The withholding or other disposal of such 
 effects will subject the parties concerned to the severest penalties. 
 
 The Grand Master is further authorized to institute legal proceed- 
 ings to recover such property and funds, and to employ counsel to 
 conduct the same. 
 
%6 Masonic Code of North Carolina, 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 PETITIONS FOR DEGREES OR MEMBERSHIP. 
 
 Qualifications of Candidates. 
 
 Section!. Every applicant for initiation mast be free born; and 
 no individual, physically so deformed as to be disabled from 
 honestly acquiring the means of subsistence, or who may be incapaci- 
 tated for becoming a useful member, shall be initiated in any Lodge. 
 
 Qualifications for Degrees. 
 
 Sec. 2. A candidate who has received the Entered Apprentice 
 Degree and afterwards loses an arm cannot be advanced. 
 
 Either drunkenness or profanity is a sufficient cause for the rejec- 
 tion of a petition. 
 
 Petitions — How Disposed of— Election of Candidates Restricted. 
 
 Sec. 3. Every petition for initiation or membership shall be sub- 
 mitted at a regular meeting and referred to a committee of inquiry 
 and lie over at least one month, unless in cases of pressing emergency, 
 which shall not be considered to exist unless the candidate is about 
 to journey abroad; neither shall more than one degree be conferred 
 on the same day, except as above provided, unless due profjeienev be 
 attained in each advancing step, to be manifested in open Lodge. 
 An excess of five candidates shall not be received at the same Com- 
 munication. Every petition for the degrees or membership shall be 
 submitted to the ballot whether the report of the committee on the 
 same is favorable or unfavorable. 
 
 What Constitutes Membership in a Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 4. If a candidate is raised by the Lodge in which his petiticn 
 is acted on, his signing the By-Laws constitutes him a member. If 
 the degrees arc conferred by the request of another Lodge he must 
 sign the By-Laws of the Lodge making the request. By-Laws shall 
 be signed by the hand of the brother receiving the degrees or elected, 
 to membership. 
 
 Sojourners and Non-Residents Excluded —Twelve Months Residence. 
 
 Sec. 5. A Lodge shall not entertain the petition for degrees of a 
 stranger, sojourner or person having no fixed or permanent place of 
 abode or residence, nor of one whose residence is nearer to some other 
 Lodge, unless by written sanction of such Lodge, or of the Grand 
 Lodge of the State from which he hails. Nor shall any Lodge enter- 
 
J\Iaso:tir Code of North Carolina. 27 
 
 fcain such petition from an applicant who has not resided within its 
 jurisdiction twelve months immediately preceding the date of his 
 petition. 
 
 Material Jurisdiction of a Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 6. A Subordinate Lodge has exclusive jurisdiction over all 
 persons or candidates residing nearer its place of meeting than any 
 other; and should any Lodge receive a candidate, residing nearer 
 some other Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, and confer the degrees 
 upon him, the fees therefor are forfeited to the Lodge nearest to 
 which the candidate resides. Two or more Lodges in a town or city 
 have concurrent jurisdiction over material. 
 
 How By-Laws may be Suspended or Petition Withdrawn. 
 
 Sec, 7. A Lodge cannot suspend its Ey Laws, or allow a petition 
 to be withdrawn after its presentation and reference, without first 
 obtaining a dispensation from the Grand Master, unless it should 
 .appear that the petitioner resided beyond the jurisdiction of the 
 Lodge, or that he was physically disqualified. 
 
 Qualifications for Membership. 
 
 Sec. 8. None but Master Masons of good standing, against whom 
 no other Lodge has claims, shall be admitted to membership in any 
 Lodge. 
 
 Dimits to Accompany Petition— Exceptional Cases. 
 
 Sec. 9. A Lodge sljall not receive any Mason as a member, who 
 does not produce a certificate of withdral from the Lodge to which 
 he last belonged : Provided, That any Mason of good standing as 
 a citizen, whose Lodge has become dormant, upon satisfying any 
 Lodge, is eutitled to become a member of such Lodge, by and with 
 its consent, upon such terms as other Masons are admitted. 
 
 Dual Membership Forbidden. 
 
 Sec 10. A Mason shall not be a member of more than one Lodge 
 at the same time. A Lodge under dispensation shall be considered a 
 Lodge within the meaning of this section. 
 
 Balloting* 
 
 One Black Ball Rejects. 
 
 Sec. 11. On balloting for a candidate, or for membership, one black 
 ball shall reject without a question — except, that a second ballot may 
 
£8 Masonic Code of 'North Carolina. 
 
 be demanded to be satisfied of no mistake, which ballot cannot be 
 reconsidered. A ballot on a petition shall not be disclosed. 
 
 Rejected Petition Excluded for One Year 
 
 Sec. 12. A petition once rejected shall not again be acted upon. 
 within one year. 
 
 Ballot may be Taken on Passing- or Raising, 
 
 Sec 13. When a ballot is taken on a petition for the degrees it is 
 for the applicant to become a Master Mason. It is proper, however, 
 if a member shall request it, to take a ballot on his application for 
 passing or raising. (See last paragraph Sec, 3.) 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 FEES FOR DEGREES, 
 
 Amount and Ratio of Fees, 
 
 Section 1. The amount chargeable by Subordinate Lodges for the* 
 degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, shall 
 not be less than twenty dollars, and in no case shall the fees- be re- 
 mitted. It shall be discretionary with the Lodges in this jurisdiction 
 to establish any ratio of fees for these several degrees and to appor- 
 tion a sum to each (exclusive of Tiler's fees that may be allowed) 
 provided the amounts so apportioned shall not be less than that pre- 
 scribed in this section. 
 
 Fees Required in Advance. 
 
 Sec. 2. All the Subordinate Lodges under the jurisdiction of this 
 Grand Lodge, are required to receive all fees for conferring degrees 
 invariably in advance, and shall, in no case, confer a degree unless 
 the regular fee be so paid. 
 
 Application of Fees by Lodges. 
 
 Sec 3. Every Lodge shall hold sacred all initiation fees for chari- 
 table or educational purposes, unless the necessity should exist, re- 
 quiring their use in providing suitable accommodations, or essential 
 fixtures. 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 29 
 
 No Charge for Degrees Conferred by Request. 
 
 Sec. 4 No charge shall be made for degrees by a Lodge conferring 
 the same at the request of another Lodge, the net being an extension 
 of Masonic courtesy. 
 
 ARTICLE XII. 
 
 CONFERRING DEGREES, WORK, &c. 
 
 Lectures Appertaining to Degrees, &c. 
 
 Section 1. In conferring the several degrees, the lectures apper- 
 taining thereto shall indispensably be delivered; and it shall be con- 
 sidered irregular, in the opening or closing of a Lodge, to waive any 
 portion of the ceremonies. 
 
 Uniformity of Work —Employment of Lecturer. 
 
 Sec. 2. In order to insure a uniformity of work and lectures in all 
 the Lodges, they shall suffer no other system to lie introduced, but 
 such as may be authorized by the Grand Lodge. And they shall 
 pay to the Grand Lecturer, for his services, such sum as may be 
 agreed upon between themselves. 
 
 Title of Work. 
 
 Sec. 3. The "Ancient Work of Masonry" (known as the Steven- 
 son system) shall be taught and practiced as the work of this Juris- 
 diction, and the Subordinate Lodges shall conform thereto: Provided, 
 That a failure by a Subordinate Lodge to conform, in giving the 
 work, in matters not essential, shall not be deemed a cause for the 
 arrest or forfeiture of its charter. 
 
 Solemnity in Conferring Degrees. 
 
 Sec. 4. A becoming solemnity shall be observed during the intro- 
 duction or advancement of a candidate, and no unsanctioned cere- 
 mony shall, under any consideration, be permitted. 
 
 Ceremonies may be Arrested. 
 
 Sec. 5. The ceremonies may be arrested at any time previous to the 
 conferring of either degree, should a member of the Lodge object to 
 initiation or advancement, and the member objecting shall not be 
 required to assign his reasons therefor, or to prefer charges against 
 the candidate. 
 
30 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 Uie of Cypher Forbidden. 
 
 Sec. 6. The making or using of any latter or cypher to the true Ma- 
 sonic Work and mysteries, is not authorized by the ancient customs 
 of the Order, is contrary to its principles and teachings, and cannot, 
 therefore, be sanctioned by this Grand Lodge. The true Masonic 
 mysteries should be taught and handed down by oral teaching alone, 
 as has been done from remote ages, and any departure from this prin- 
 ciple is fraught with danger to the Institution. 
 
 Making Masons at Sight, 
 
 Sec. 7. (1.) This Grand Lodge does not recognize any other mode 
 of making Masons, than the one sanctioned by the immemorial usage 
 of the Craft, namely: "In a regular Lodge," after " previous notice 
 and due enquiry into character." 
 
 (2.) This Grand Lodge does not recognize any inherent right or 
 power, or prerogative in Grand Masters, to make Masons at sight or 
 will, out of a regular Lodge ;^and regards the exercise of such power 
 not only as arbitrary, but in violation of the plain and unmistakable 
 provisions of the ancient charges and Constitutions of Masonry. 
 
 Past Master's Degree. 
 
 Sec. 8. (1.) The Degree of Past Master is not deemed as an essential 
 to the Master in presiding over a Lodge. 
 
 (2.) A Mason who has taken this Degree in a Royal Arch Chapter is 
 not entitled to recognition in a Blue Lodge as a Past Master by virtue 
 of said Degree. 
 
 ARTICLE XIII. 
 
 TRIALS AND PUNISHMENTS. 
 
 Masons may be Arraigned on Charge . 
 
 Section 1. Every Lodge has the power to arraign its members, or 
 any Mason within its jurisdiction, on a charge of immoral or un-Ma- 
 sonic conduct, and, after due investigation, may proceed to pass such 
 lawful sentence as the aggravation of the case shall warrant. The 
 grades of punishment are expulsion, indefinite suspension, definite 
 suspension, and reprimand. 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 31 
 
 Offences Punishable. — Sees. 2 and 3. 
 
 Improper Influences to Secure acquisitions to the Fraternity. 
 
 Sec. 2. Any Mason so reckless of his duty as to lend his influence, 
 or give a certificate or recommendation to enable an individual, in 
 defiance of expressed disapprobation or known regulation of a Lodge, 
 to thrust himself into their society may be suspended or expelled by 
 the injured Lodge or other competent tribunal, the proper usages in 
 such cases to be observed. 
 
 Profanity and Drunkenness. 
 
 Sec. 8. Profanity and drunkenness are high Masonic crimes. Sub- 
 ordinate Lodges in this jurisdiction are directed to vindicate the law 
 in relation thereto, by dealing with the perpetrators of these viola- 
 tions of the moral law, and inflicting such punishment as the magni- 
 tude of the offence demands, if the offenders persist in these practices 
 after due admonition and warning. 
 
 Accused to be Notified — Trial ex parte— Vote to Expel or Suspend. 
 
 Sec. 4. Whenever charges are preferred against a brother, he shall 
 l>e notified or cited through his nearest Post Office or otherwise, at 
 least ten days before the day of trial and furnished with a copy, under 
 the SecretaT's hand and seal, of the charges and specifications. 
 Should he fail to attend, or if his address is unknown and notice 
 cannot be served, the trial may proceed ex parte. Any evidence, al- 
 lowable in a court, may be taken on honor, and every facility shall 
 be allowed the accused for his defence. When the case is closed, the 
 sense of the Lodge shall be taken through the ballot box. If guilty, 
 the penalty shall be determined in like manner, requiring a vote of 
 two-thirds present to expel, and a majority to suspend. 
 
 Transcript of Trial to be Sent to Grand Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 5. In every case of suspension or expulsion a transcript of all 
 the proceedings of the Lodge, embracing the charges, specifications, 
 evidence on both sides, verdict upon each charge or specification, and 
 the sentence, shall be sent up, under the seal of the Lodge, at- 
 tested by the Secretary, to the ensuing Annual Communication of the 
 Grand Lodge, for examination, and to be confirmed or reversed. (See 
 form of Transcript.) 
 
 New Trials. 
 
 Sec. 6. A new trial shall not be granted, neither shall a Lodge 
 reconsider its proceedings in a trial for the purpose of curing any 
 
32 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 irregularities. When the Grand Lodge shall refuse to confirm the 
 proceedings in a case of suspension or expulsion by reason of any 
 technical informality or irregularity (without reference to the merits 
 of the case) the same shall be certified to the Lodge, and a new trial 
 shall be granted. 
 
 Notice of Suspension or Expulsion— Fee to be Paid — Grand Secre- 
 tary to Issue Circular. 
 
 Sec. 7. (1.) It shall be the duty of the Secretary of every Subordinate 
 Lodge, upon the rendition of a sentence of suspension or expulsion by 
 the Lodge, (except in case of appeal in one month,) to transmit to 
 the Grand Secretary, under the seal of the Lodge, a notice of the 
 same on a form to be provided by him. In such notice the cause of 
 suspension or expulsion shall be stated. 
 
 ('!.) A fee of one dollar shall accompany said notice to defray the 
 expense of its publication. 
 
 (3.) The Grand Secretary shall keep an accurate list of all suspended 
 or expelled Masons, in a book to be kept for that purpose. 
 
 (4.) The Grand Secretary shall issue quarterly a circular containing 
 notices of suspensions and expulsions and such other matters as the 
 Grand Master may direct, in such form as may be conveniently bound 
 or filed — two copies of which shall be sent to the Secretary of each 
 Subordinate Lodge, which that officer shall carefully preserve for the 
 inspection of the members. 
 
 (5.) The Grand Secretary shall report to each Annual Communica- 
 tion of the Grand Lodge, a list of the members suspended or expelled 
 during the year, which shall be published in the proceedings. 
 
 Appeals and Grievances— How Made and Disposed of. 
 
 Sec. 8. Zppealsto the Grand Lodge shall not be considered, un- 
 less the same be in writing, stating the grounds thereof, accompanied 
 with all necessary papers, proceedings and evidence to enable the 
 formation of a correct decision. When the matter is thus presented, 
 it shall be referred to a special committee. All grievances shall 
 be disposed of in the same manner. In any r extreme case, however, 
 it will be competent for the Grand Lodge to deviate from the above 
 rule. 
 
 Minor Offences — How Punishable— Disobeying Summons and Dis- 
 closing Lodge Transactions. 
 
 Sec. 9. No Lodge can, rightfully, suspend or expel a Mason for a 
 disregard of any special regulations conditioned upon membership — 
 
■Masonic Code of J\'orlh Carolina. 33 
 
 :such as non-payment of dues, failure to attend its Communications, 
 or transgressions of minor consideration, the severest penalty for 
 which shall be dismembership. Nor can a Lodge impose a fine upon 
 a member for non-attendance at its Communications: Provided,^ 
 That nothing herein contained shall apply to a willful refusal to attend 
 a Communication of a Lodge when lawfully summoned. Disclosures 
 to others than Masons, af important transactions within a Lodge, 
 will be considered as exceptions, and may be dealt with according 
 to the magnitude of the offence. 
 
 Legal Summons. 
 
 Sec. 10. A written or printed notice, by order of the Master, signed 
 by the Secretary, and attested by the seal of the Lodge, shall be con- 
 sidered a legal notice or summons. 
 
 Members Disobeying Summons. 
 
 Sec 11. The Master and Wardens of any Subordinate Lodge, that 
 shall fail to take action against a member for disobedience of sum- 
 mons, are guilty of a grave masonic offence, and failure in this 
 matter shall be considered a sufficient cause for arrest of Charter, 
 
 Exclusion for Non-Payment of Dues— Effect of, &c. 
 
 Sec. 12. (1 ) A member shall not be excluded from his Lodge without 
 notice having been served on him to appear and show cause for delin- 
 quency. 
 
 (2.) Exclusion from a Lodge for non-payment of dues does not im- 
 pair the standing of a member with the fraternity at large, other 
 than placing him in a non-affiliated relation. 
 
 (3.) A member excluded for non-payment of dues can be reinstated 
 only in the manner prescribed by the By-Laws of the Lodge. 
 
 Effect of Expulsion by Chapter, Council, &c. 
 
 Sec. 13. An expulsion from a Chapter, Council, Encampment or 
 Consistory, does not affect the standing of the member in any Blue 
 Lodge. 
 
3Jj> Masonic Code of North Carolina, 
 
 ARTICLE XIV. 
 
 RULES FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF LODGES IN TRIALS', 
 
 Charges — How Made — Accused to be Served with Copy. 
 
 Section 1. The accusation must be made in wi king over the signa- 
 ture of a Master Mason, and handed to the Secretary to be read in 
 open Lodge, and spread upon the minutes, after which the accused 
 shall be served with an attested copy of the charges and specifications, 
 together with a notice through the Post Office or otherwise, at least 
 ten days before the trial, to appear and answer; and should his place 
 of residence be at a distance, or he require more time for defence, a 
 reasonable time must be allowed. If the residence of the accused be 
 unknown, or he fail to appear, or to show satisfactory cause for delay 
 of proceedings,- then, and in that case, the Lodge may proceed to ex- 
 amine the charges ex-parte. 
 
 Special Communications for Trial. 
 
 Sec. 2. The Lodge for investigating charges, must be specially 
 notified and convened for that purpose, at which no visitors shall be 
 admitted except as counsel or witnesses, and if any of these be not 
 Master Masons, the Lodge must be called off during their presence. 
 After the usual preliminary preparation for conducting the examina- 
 tion, if the accused be not a Master Mason, the Master's Lodge must 
 be dispensed with, and a Lodge opened on the highest degree to 
 which he has attained. 
 
 Counsel — Evidence — How Taken. 
 
 Sec 3. The accused may have the benefit of counsel, and the wit- 
 nesses shall testify on their honor. Hearsay evideuce must be ex- 
 cluded. If testimony lie taken out of the Lodge, the accused, when 
 practicable, shall be duly notified of the time and place where 
 it wdl be taken, that he may have an opportunity of being present. 
 
 Examination — How Conducted. 
 
 Sec. 4. Ho irrelevant questions or testimony shall be allowed in the 
 examination of witnesses. The Master may conduct the examination 
 on behalf of the Lodge, or it may appoint a committee for that pur- 
 pose, and the questions to, as well as the answers by, the witnesses, 
 must be carefully noted down, read, and if necessary, amended in 
 their presence, and then spread upon the minutes. A defendant 
 may be allowed to make a statement in relation to his case, and the 
 Lodge may receive it as it thinks proper. 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. So 
 
 ■Argument of Defence. 
 
 Sec. 5. When the examination is closed, the accused shall be heard 
 in defence, either in person or through counsel, after which all who 
 are not members of the Lodge shall retire, and, if during- the exam- 
 ination it shall Inve called off, the Lodge must then be called on. 
 
 Conviction and Punishment -How Determined. 
 
 Sec. 6. The question, guilty or not guilty, shall be put to the 
 Lodge, upon each separate charge and specification, which a majority 
 of the members present shall determine by ballot, and if the accused 
 be found guilty of any one or more of the charges or specifications, 
 then the penalty shall be determined in like manner, taking the ques- 
 tion upon the highest penalty, /expulsion) first, a vote of two thirds 
 •of the members present being necessary to expel, and a majority to 
 suspend. The charges or specifications upon which the accused may 
 be found guilty, together with the sentence, must be spread upon the 
 minutes. 
 
 Proceedings Regulating Appeals. 
 
 Sec. 7. A brother feeling himself aggrieved by the decision of a 
 Subordinate Lodge, shall have the right of appeal to the Grand 
 Lodge, he having given notice within one month after the trial, to 
 the Subordinate Lodge, of his intention to so appeal from its decision, 
 and upon stating in writing, the grounds of appeal, the Secretary of 
 said Lodge, if required, shall furnish him with a copy of all the pro- 
 ceedings touching his case. 
 
 ARTICLE XV, 
 
 RESTORATION OF SUSPENDED OR EXPELLED MASONS. 
 
 How Restorations may take Place. 
 
 Section 1, A Subordinate Lodge has power to restore by a nani- 
 mous ballot, a suspended or an expelled Mason, upon his owu peti- 
 tion, and such evidences of penitence and reformation as to it may 
 appear satisfactory. Restoration by the Grand Lodge does not re- 
 instate the brother to membership in his Lodge. 
 
36 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 Petitions for Restoration— How Made and Acted on. 
 
 Sec. 2. A petition for restoration shall be in writing, shall be pre- 
 sented at a regular Communication of the Lodge and lie over one 
 month, when the members shall be summoned to attend.. 
 
 Restoration in Case of Definite Suspension. 
 
 Sec. 3. A Mason who has been suspended for a definite period is r 
 after the expiration of the time for which he was suspended, entitled 
 to all the rights and privileges that he enjoyed before his suspension,, 
 and if he was a member of the Lodge by which he was suspended, a 
 ballot is not necessary to restore him. 
 
 Notice of Restoration — Kow Made. 
 
 Sec. 4. In case of the restoration of any suspended or expelled 
 Mason, the Secretary of the Lodge shall immediately certify to the 
 Grand Secretary, under the seal of the Lodge, and in a form to be 
 prescribed by the Grand Secretary, the fact and date of such restora- 
 tion or re-admissinn, with like fee as in case of suspension or expul- 
 sion, and the same shall be published in like manner by the Gaaud 
 Secretary: Provided, That in such case the publication fee shall lie 
 paid by the member restored, as a condition precedent to such resto- 
 ration or re-admission. If restoration takes place before the case is 
 reviewed by the Grand Lodge, the charges, specifications and pro- 
 ceedings in the same shall be sent up to the Grand Lodge, at itsensu- 
 ino- Annual Communication, for final action. 
 
 ARTICLE XVI. 
 
 GOVERNMENT OF LODGES. 
 
 Communications —Powers —Quorum, &c. 
 
 Section 1. All constituted Lodges under this jurisdiction, have the 
 right to convene as free and accepted Masons, (not less than seven 
 members being present) receive petitions, confer the degree of En- 
 tered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, admit members, 
 choose officers annually, exact dues, establish a charity fund, and act 
 upon all other matters of Masonic concernment not inconsistent with 
 their charters, the laws of the Grand Lodge, or the Ancient usages of 
 the Craft, 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 37 
 
 Regular and Special Communications Provided for. 
 
 Sec. 2. Every Lodge shall hold at least oue regular Communication 
 monthly, which can only be dispensed with, and then temporarily, on 
 great emergency. A regular or special Communication shall not be 
 held on the Holy Sabbath, for any business except to perform funeral 
 or burial rites. 
 
 Regular Lodge- How Convened. 
 
 Sec. 3. The Master has power to convene his Lodge; or, in his ab- 
 sence, the Wardens by seniority. All Communications as a Lodge, 
 otherwise convened, together with the proceedings therein, unless 
 sustained by dispensation, shall be considered clandestine, and sub- 
 ject all, so improperly concerned, to the severest penalties. 
 
 Special Communications -Business Restricted. 
 
 Sec. 4. No business can be transacted at a special Communication 
 other than that for which it was called, nor can such communication 
 receive petitions, or ballot, except upon the advancement of candi- 
 dates, or engage in any other business affecting the general interests 
 of the Craft. The presence of the Grand Master or Deputy Grand 
 Master warrants exceptions. 
 
 Business of Lodges Transacted in Master's Degree, &c. 
 
 Sec. 5. No business shall be transacted in any other than a Master's 
 Lodge except such as pertains especially to the work and lectures of 
 the Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft's degree, or the investigation 
 of charges against an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft. 
 
 Dispensation or Charter to be Present. 
 
 Sec. 6. A Lodge cannot be opened unless the dispensation or 
 charter be present, which is considered to be under the special charge 
 of the Master. 
 
 Decorum in Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 7. The utmost decorum should be observed i.i every Lodge; 
 and no infringement of the established usages regarding respect and 
 behaviour should, under any pretence, be countenanced or allowed. 
 
 Intoxicating Liquors Forbidden in Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 8. The intfoduction, or use of intoxicating drink is prohibited 
 to every Lodge, regardless of the occasion. (Sec. 12 of Art. IV.) 
 
 6 
 
38 Masonic Code of North Carolina . 
 
 By-Laws of Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 9. Subordinate Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction shall be 
 allowed the privilege of enacting such additional By-Laws to the 
 Code adopted by this Grand Lodge, as may be deemed proper by such 
 Lodges: Provided, That such additions do not conflict with the an- 
 cient regulations, charges and constitutions of Masonry. All such 
 By-Laws shall be submitted to the Committee on Masonic Jurispru- 
 dence for approval, and such amendments shall be inoperative until 
 so approved. 
 
 Clandestine Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 10. This Grand Lodge does, and the Fraternity in North Car- 
 olina shall, regard all Lodges uot constituted under the authority of 
 this Grand Lodge, or of the Grand Lodges which are now, or may 
 be, recognized by it, as clandestine, and the members thereo^as 
 spurious. 
 
 Election and Installation of Officers in Lodges. 
 
 Sec. 11. Subordinate Lodges shall hold their election for officers 
 at the regular Communication immediately preceding the 24th day of 
 June, or the 27th day of December, in each year, and the officers elect 
 shall lie installed on the St. John's day succeeding the election, or as 
 soon thereafter as practicable. 
 
 Master Must have Been a Warden. 
 
 Sec 12. A Lodge shall not elect to the office of Master a brother 
 who has not been a Warden. 
 
 Installation by Proxy. 
 
 Sec 13. An officer elect may be installed by proxy if absent. 
 
 Installed Officer cannot Resign. 
 
 Sec 14. An installed officer cannot relinquish or resign his office 
 before his successor is installed. 
 
 Dues of Members of Lodges— Remission of. 
 
 Sec 15. A Lodge may designate in its By-Laws the amount to be 
 paid by each member quarterly or annually, as clues, and it has the 
 power to remit the same, or any part thereof, on account of poverty 
 or distress. 
 
 Reading and Approving the Minutes. 
 
 Sec 16. The Minutes of a Lodge should be read and approved 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. 39 
 
 (after amendment if necessary) before the Lodge is closed, and attested 
 by the Secretary. The signature of the Master is not essential to the 
 legality of the Minutes. 
 
 Legal Communications from Lodges— Jurisprudence, &c. 
 
 Sec. 17. A communication from a Lodge should bear the signature 
 of the Secretary, attested by the seal. No other is legal. All com- 
 munications to the Grand Master from Subordinate Lodges or mem- 
 bers, concerning Jurisprudence, shall be transmitted through the 
 Secretary, under the seal of the Lodge. 
 
 Regalia and Dress on Public Occasions. 
 
 Sec. 18. The regalia worn in Lodges shall be such only as may be 
 recognized therein. On public occasions the regalia and dress shall 
 consist of "white aprons, with or without device, white gloves, blue 
 collars or ribbons with jewels of officers appended, and, whenever 
 practicable, black suits and hats. Masons may appear in procession 
 on such occasions in full regalia peculiar to their Masonic rank. 
 
 Dress at Funerals. 
 
 Sec. 19. On funeral or burial occasions, Masons shall, when practi- 
 cable, appear clothed in black, with white aprons and gloves, officers 
 with their jewels, and all with black crape upon their left arm above 
 the elbow. In addition a piece of blue ribbon overlaid with a narrow 
 black ribbon, may be worn on the lappel of the coat, according to 
 individual taste. 
 
 Burials. 
 
 Sec. 20. It is the duty of the Master of every Lodge, on the decease 
 of a member, or sojourning brother, (who may not be under Masonic 
 censure), to ascertain if Masonic honors would be agreeable, and take 
 measures accordingly. 
 
 Committee of Arbitration in Controversies-Appeal from. 
 
 Sec. 21. Every Lodge shall appoint a committee of reference, to 
 consist of at least three judicious members, who shall patiently and 
 impartially consider and pass upon all matters of controversy or dis- 
 dispute, arising among the brethren, as may be submitted for their 
 decision. Should either party be dissatisfied with the judgment, an 
 appeal may be made to the Lodge. 
 
 Visitation. 
 
 Sec. 22. Any Mason in good standing in his Lodge may visit a 
 
40 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 Lodge upon application to the same, provided no member objects, 
 but admission shall be denied him if objection is made. 
 
 Lawful Information 
 
 Sec. 23. Lawful information is : 
 
 1st. A personal knowledge obtained from strict trial and due ex- 
 amination, or from sitting in a regular Lodge with a brother. 
 
 2d. The declaration of a personally known Master Mason that the 
 brother is a Master Mason. 
 
 ARTICLE XVII. 
 
 MASTER OF LODGE. 
 
 Appeals from, and Reversal of, Decisions. 
 
 Section 1. A Lodge cannot reverse the decision of its Master. 
 Appeals from his decisions can only be taken by a majority of the 
 Lodge to the Grand Lodge, or Grand Master during recess. 
 
 How Dealt With. 
 
 Sic. 2. A Lodge cannot try its Master, but any three members, 
 after giving due notice, may, in case of a willful neglect of duty on 
 his part, or for gross unmasonic conduct, prefer charges against him 
 before the Grand Lodge, whose action shall be final; or to the Grand 
 Master during recess, who, on the facts being represented to him by 
 a majority of the members of the Lodge, through the official notice of 
 the Secretary, shall have power to suspend the said Master until the 
 next ensuing Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, when and 
 where the case may be examined and determined. 
 
 ARTICLE XVIII. 
 
 NON AFFILIATED MASONS. 
 
 Excluded from Rights and Privileges. 
 
 Section 1. Every Mason ought to belong to some Lodge, and com- 
 ply with its By-Laws and the general regulations in relation to the 
 
Masonic Code of North Carolina. Jfl 
 
 payment of dues and contributions to the charity fund ; and any 
 Mason who fails to do so, shall not be entitled to visit a Lodge while 
 he remains non-affiliated, or to join in processions, or to relief, or 
 masonic assistance or burial: Provided, That nothing in the forego- 
 ing shall be so construed as to prohibit any Subordinate Lodge from 
 permitting a non affiliated Mason to visit the Lodge once. 
 
 Names not to be Published. 
 
 Sec. 2. The names of non-affiliated Masons shall not he published 
 in the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Dimits to be Granted on Application — Release from Masonic Rights. 
 Sec. 3. Any member of a Subordinate Lodge who may apply for a 
 dimifc, shall be granted the same upon his producing the Secretary's 
 receipt that he has paid all Lodge dues, if there be no charges against 
 him: Provided, That any Mason who thus becomes non-affiliated, by 
 his action distinctly releases all members of Lodges from any and all 
 Masonic ties between himself and them, retaining no Masonic right 
 except that of petitioning any Lodge for membership. 
 
 ARTICLE XIX. 
 
 WIDOWS AND ORPHANS OF MASTER MASONS. 
 
 Certificate to be Furnished. 
 
 Upon the death of any Master Mason, a member in good standing 
 of a Lodge under this jurisdiction, the Secretary of such Lodge shall fur- 
 nish his widow or orphans a certificate, under the seal of the Lodge, 
 of his membership, standing and death, without application or charge 
 therefor. 
 
 ARTICLE XX. 
 
 PROCEEDINGS OF GRAND LODGE. 
 
 When Published and How Distributed. 
 
 Section 1. The Grand Secretary shall have the proceedings of the 
 Grand Lodge published and transmitted to the Subordinate Lodges 
 
4-2 Masonic Code of J\orth Carolina. 
 
 within two months after the close of the Grand Lodge. The pro- 
 ceedings shall contain in summary form, the number of affiliating and 
 non-affiliating Masons, the number of workiug Lodges in the State 7 
 and an abstract of such statistics of the workings of the Lodges as 
 the returns may furnish. Three copies of the same shall be transmit- 
 ted to the Lodges, one copy to each of the Grand, and Past Grand 
 Masters, Deputy Grand Masters, Wardens, Treasurers and Secretaries,, 
 and copies, not exceeding three, to each of the Grand Lodges with 
 which this Grand Lodge is in correspondence. The Grand Secretary 
 shall reserve at least three copies for the library of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 To be Read in Lodges, 
 
 Sec. 2. The Master of each Subordinate Lodge shall cause to be 
 read before the Lodge the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, for the 
 information of the brethren, and the Lodge shall preserve the same 
 and have them bound. 
 
 Extra Copies — How Obtained, 
 
 Sec. 3. Any Subordinate Lodge that shall voluntarily pay into the 
 Treasury of this Grand Lodge, an amount of funds in addition to its 
 annual stipend, shall be entitled to receive from the Grand Secretary, 
 one copy of the proceedings above three, for every fifty cents so con- 
 tributed, for the benefit of its members. 
 
 ARTICLE XXL 
 
 REPRESENTATION IN GRAND BODIES. 
 
 The Grand Master is authorized to appoint a representative of this 
 Grand Lodge near the Grand Lodge of any other Jurisdiction, which 
 may indicate a willingness to reciprocate the courtesy, such an inter- 
 change of fraternal courtesies being considered by this Grand Lodge 
 as eminently calculated to maintain and promote reciprocal regard 
 and harmonious feeling, prominent characteristics which should ever 
 exist between sister Grand Bodies. 
 
Masonic Code of Nortli Carolina. fy3 
 
 ARTICLE XXII. 
 
 AMENDMENTS. 
 
 How Made. 
 
 No alteration or amendment of these By-Laws shall be made unless 
 by a vote of two-thirds of all the members present at any Annual Com- 
 munication, when the same shall be proposed. 
 
 ORPHAN ASYLUM. 
 
 The following is the legislation of the Grand Lodge, in a condensed 
 form, concerning the Orphan Asylum; 
 
 Establishment of. 
 
 Section 1. (1,) St. John's College, at Oxford, shall be made an 
 asylum for the protection, training and education of indigent orphan 
 children. 
 
 ^2.) The Grand Lodge will appropriate $ * annually for the 
 
 support of the institution, but will not assume any additional pecu- 
 niary responsibility. 
 
 (3.) Tt is Grand Lodge will annually elect a Superintendent, who 
 shall control the institution and solicit contributions for its support 
 from all classes of our people. 
 
 (4.) Orphan children in the said Asylum shall be fed and clothed, 
 and shall receive such preparatory training and education as will pre- 
 pare them for useful occupations and for the usual business transac- 
 tions of life. 
 
 Branch Asylum. 
 
 Sec. 2. A branch of the Orphan Asylum shall be established at 
 Mars Hill, in the County of Malison, North Carolina, on the plan of 
 the Asylum at Oxford. The property at Mars Hill, tendered by the 
 owners thereof to the Grand Lodge, to be used as an Orphan Asylum, 
 is accepted. 
 
 Manner of Raising Funds for Asylums. 
 
 Sec. 3. The Master of every Lodge shall annually appoint a Stand- 
 ing Committee for raising funds for the Orphan Asylums, and require 
 
 : Amount left "blank, as it is subject to a change at each Annual Communication. 
 
44 Masonic Code of North Carolina. 
 
 said committee to report in writing at every monthly Communication^ 
 copies of which reports, with the funds received, shall be transmitted 
 monthly to the Superintendent of the Asylums. The support of the 
 Asylums shall be a regular order of business in every Lodge at each 
 regular Communication. 
 
 Superintendent shall make Annual Reports. 
 
 Sec. 4. The Superintendent of the Orphan Asylums shall report to 
 each Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, an account of his 
 official acts, receipts, disbursements, number of pupils, &c, together 
 with such suggestions as he may see proper to submit. 
 
 Government of the Asylums. 
 
 Sec. 5. The Orphan Asylum at Oxford and Branch at Mars Hill 
 shall be under the control of one Superintendent. (See Proceedings 
 of Grand Lodge, 1873, pages 51 and 52, and Proceedings of 1874, 
 pages 35 and 56.) 
 
f v 
 
 THE CHARGES OF A FREEMASON, 
 
 1722. 
 
 EXTRACTED PROM 
 
 THE ANCIENT RECORDS OF LODGES BEYOND SEA, AND OF THOSE 
 
 IN ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, AND IRELAND, FOR THE 
 
 USE OF THE LODGES IN LONDON. 
 
 I Concerning God and TiEUiGioN. 
 
 A Mason is obliged, by his tenure, to obey the moral law; and if 
 he rightly understands the art, he will never be a stupid Atheist, nor 
 an irreligious libertine. But though in ancient times Masons were 
 charged in every country to be of the religion of that country or na- 
 tion, whatever it was, yet it is now thought more expedient only to 
 oblige them to that religion in which all men agree, leaving their 
 particular opinions to themselves; that is, to be good men and true? 
 or men of honour and honesty, by whatever denominations or persua- 
 sions they may be distinguished; whereby Masonry becomes the 
 centre of union, and the means of conciliating true friendship among 
 persons that must have remained at a perpetual distance. 
 
 II. Op the Civil Magistrate, supreme and subordinate. 
 
 A Mason is a peaceable subject to the civil powers, wherever he re- 
 sides or works, and is never to be concerned in plots and conspiracies 
 against the peace and welfare of the nation, nor to behave himself 
 undutifully to inferior magistrates; for as Masonry hath been always 
 injured by war, bloodshed, and confusion, so ancient kings and 
 princes have been much disposed to encourage the Craftsmen, because 
 of their peaceableness and loyalty, whereby they practically answered 
 the cavils of their adversaries, and promoted the honour of the Fra - 
 
 7 
 
y±G Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 ternity, wdio ever flourished in times of peace. So that if a Brother 
 should he a rebel against the State, he is not to be countenanced in 
 his rebellion, however he may be pitied as an unhappy man; and, if 
 convicted of no other crime, though the loyal Brotherhood must and 
 ought to disown his rebellion, and give no umbrage or ground of 
 political jeasousy to the government for the time being; they cannot 
 expel him from the Lodge, and his relation to it remains indefeasible. 
 
 III. Of Lodges. 
 
 A Lodge is a place where Masons assemble and work: hence that 
 assembly or duly organized society of Masons, is called a Lodge, and 
 every Brother ought to belong to one, and to be subject to its By- 
 Laws and the General Regulations. It is either particular or general, 
 and will be best understood by attending it, and by the Regulations 
 of t lie Gener.d or Grand Lodge hereunto annexed. In ancient times, 
 no Master or Fellow could be absent from it, especially when warned 
 to appear at it, without incurring a severe censure, until it appeared 
 to the Master and Wardens, that pure necessity hindered him. 
 
 The persons admitted members of a Lodge must be good and true 
 men, free-born, and of mature and discreet age, no bondmen, no 
 women, no immoral or scandulous men, but of good report. 
 
 IV. Of Masters, Wakdess, Fellows, and Apprentices. 
 
 All preferment among Masons is grounded upon real worth and 
 personal merit only; that so the lords may be well served, the Breth- 
 ren not put to shame, nor the royal Craft depised: therefore no Mas- 
 ter or Warden is chosen by seniority, but for his merit. It is impos- 
 sible to describe these things in writing, and every Brother must attend 
 in his place, and learn them in a way peculiar to this Fraternity : only 
 candidates may know, that no Master should take an Apprentice, un- 
 less he has sufficient employment for him, and unless he be a perfect 
 youth, having no maim or defect in his body, that may render him 
 incapable of learning the art, of serving his Master's lord, and of 
 being made a Brother, and then a Fellow Craft in due time, even 
 after he has served such a term of years as the custom of the country 
 directs; and that he should be descended of honest parents; that so, 
 when otherwise qualified, he may arrive to the honour of being the 
 Warden, and then the Master of the Lodge, the Grand Warden, and 
 at length the Grand Master of all the Lodges, according to his merit. 
 
 No Brother can be a Warden until he has passed the part of aFellow T 
 Craft; nor a Master until he has acted as a Warden, nor Grand War- 
 den until he lias been Master of a Lodge, nor Grand Master unless he 
 
Ancient Constitutions. 47 
 
 has been a Fellow Craft before his election, who is also to be nobly 
 born, or a gentleman of the best fashion, or some eminent scholar, or 
 some curious architect, or other artist, descended of honest parents, 
 and who is of singular great merit in the opinion of the Lodges. And 
 for the better, and easier, and more honourable discharge of his office, 
 the Grand .Master has a power to choose ins own Deputy Grand Mas- 
 ter, who must be then, or must have been formerly, the Master of a 
 particular Lodge, and lias the privilege of acting whatever the Grand 
 Master, his principal, should act, unless the said principal be present, 
 or interpose his authority by a letter. 
 
 These rulers and governors, supreme and subordinate, of the ancient 
 Lodge, are to be obeyed in their respective stations by all the breth- 
 ren, according to the old Charges and Regulations, with all humility, 
 reverence, love, and alacrity. 
 
 V. Of toe Management of the C:; aft in working. 
 
 All Masons shall work honestly on working days, that they may 
 live creditably on holy days; and the time appointed by the law of 
 the land, or confirmed by custom, shall be observed. 
 
 The most expert of the Fellow Craftsmen shall Lie chosen or ap- 
 pointed the Master, or overseer of the lord's work ; who is to be called 
 Master by those who work under him. The Craftsmen are to avoid 
 all ill language, and to call each other by no disobliging name, but 
 Brother or Fellow; and to behave themselvss courteously within and 
 without the Lodge. 
 
 The Master, knowing himself to be able of cunning, shall undertake 
 the lord's work as reasonably as possible, and truly dispend his goods 
 as if they were his own; nor to give more wages to any Brother or 
 Apprentice than he really may deserve. 
 
 Both the Master and the Masons receiving their wages justly, shall 
 be faithful to the lord, and 'Honestly finish their work, whether task 
 or journey; nor put the work to task that hath been accustomed to 
 journey. 
 
 None shall discover envy at the prosperity of a Brother, nor sup- 
 plant him, or put him out of his work, if he be capable to finish the 
 same; for no man can finish another's work so much to the lord's 
 profit, unless he be thoroughly acquainted with the designs and 
 draughts of him that began it. 
 
 When a Fellow Craftsman is chosen Warden of the work under the 
 Master, he shall be true both to Master and Fellows, sh.dl carefully 
 oversee the work in the Master's absence to the lord's profit; and his 
 brethren shall obey him. 
 
48 Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 All Masons employed, shall meekly receive their wag?s without 
 murmuring or mutiny, and not desert the Master until the work is 
 finished. 
 
 A younger Brother shall be instructed in working - , to prevent spoil- 
 ing the materials for want of judgment, and for increasing and con- 
 tinuing of brotherly love. 
 
 All to 'Is used in working shall be approved by the Grand Lodge. 
 
 No laborer shall be employed in the proper work of Masonry, nor 
 shall Free Masons work with those that are not free, without an ur- 
 gent necessity; nor shall they teach labourers and unaccepted Masons, 
 as they should teach a Brother or Fellow. 
 
 VI. Of Behaviour, viz. : 
 
 i. In the Lodge While Constituted. 
 
 You are not to hold private committees, or separate conversation, 
 without leave from the Master, nor to talk of anything impertinent 
 or unseemly, nor interrupt the Master or \Vardens, or any Brother 
 speaking to the Master; nor behave yourself ludicrously or jestingly 
 while the Lodge is engaged in what is serious and solemn; nor use 
 any unbecoming language upon any pretence whatsoever, but to pay 
 due reverence to your Master, Wardens, and Fellows, and put them 
 to worship. 
 
 If any complaint be brought, the Brother found guilty shall stand 
 to the award and determination of the Lodge, who are the proper and 
 competent judges of all such controversies, (unless you carry it by appeal 
 to the Grand Lodge) and to whom they ought to be referred, unless a 
 lord's work be hindered the meanwhile, in which case a particular 
 reference may be made ; but you must never go to law about what 
 concerneth Masonry, without an absolute necessity apparent to the 
 Lodge. 
 
 2. Behaviour after the Lodge is over, and the Brethren not gone. 
 
 You may enjoy yourselves with innocent mirth, treating one an- 
 other according to ability, but avoiding all excess, or forcing any 
 Brother to eat or drink beyond his inclination, or hindering him from 
 going when his occasions call him, or doing or saying anything offen- 
 sive, or that may forbid an easy and free conversation ; for that would 
 blast our harmony, and defeat our laudable purposes. Therefore no 
 private piques or quarrels must be brought within the door of the 
 Lodge, far less any quarrels about religion, or nations, or state policy, 
 we being only, as Masons, of the Catholic religion above mentioned; 
 we are also of all nations, tongues, kindreds, and languages, and are 
 
Ancient Constitutions. 49 
 
 xesolved against all polities, as what never yet conduced to the wel- 
 fare of the Lodge, nor ever will. This Charge has been always strictly 
 enjoined and observed : but especially ever since the Reformation in 
 Britain, or the dissent and secession of these nations from the com- 
 munion of Rome. 
 
 3. Behaviour when Brethren meet without Strangers, but not in a 
 Lodge formed. 
 
 You are to salute one another in a courteous manner, as you will be 
 instructed, calling each other Brother, freely giving mutual instruc- 
 tion as shall be thought expedient, without being overseen or over- 
 heard, and without encroaching upon each other, or derogating from 
 that respect which is due to any Brother, were he not a Mason : for 
 though all Masons are as Brethren upon the same level, yet Masonry 
 takes no honour from a man that he had before; nay, rather it adds to 
 his honour, especially if he has deserved we'l of the Brotherhood, 
 who must give honour to whom it is due, and avoid ill manners. 
 
 4. Behaviour in Presence of Strangers not Masons. 
 
 You shall be cautious in your words and carriage, that the most 
 penetrating stranger shall not be able to discover or find out what is 
 not proper to be intimated; and sometimes you shall divert a dis- 
 course, and manage it prudently for the honour of the worshipful 
 Fraternity. 
 
 5. Behaviour at Home, and in your Neighbourhood. 
 You are to act as becomes a moral and wise man ; particularly, not 
 to let your family, friends, and neighbours know the concerns of the 
 Lodge, &c, but wisely to consult your own honour, and that of the 
 ancient Brotherhood, for reasons not to be mentioned here. You must 
 also consult your health, by not continuing together too bite, or too 
 long from home, after Lodge hours are past ; and by avoiding of 
 gluttony or drunkenness, that your families be not neglected or in- 
 jured, nor you disabled from working. 
 
 6. Behaviour towards a strange Brother. 
 
 You are cautiously to examine him, in such a method as prudence 
 shall direct you, that you may not be imposed upon by an ignorant 
 false pretender, whom you are to reject with contempt and derision, 
 and beware of giving him any hints of knowledge. 
 
 But if you discover him to be a true and genuine Brother, you are 
 to respect him accordingly; and if he is in want, you must relieve 
 
SO Ancient Constitutions: 
 
 him if you can, or else direct him how he may be relieved: you must 
 employ him some days, or else recommend him to be employed. But 
 you are not charged to do beyond your ability, only to prefer a pour 
 Brother, that is a good man and true, before any other poor people in 
 the same circumstances. 
 
 Finally, all these charges you are to observe, and also those that shall, 
 be communicated to you in another way: cultivating brotherly love T 
 the foundation and cape stone, the cement and glory of this ancient 
 Fraternity, avoiding all wrangling and quarreling, all slander and 
 backbiting, nor permit others to slander any honest Brother, but de- 
 fending his character, and doing him all good offices, as far as is con- 
 sistent with your honor and safety, and no farther. And if any of 
 them do you injury, you must apply to your own or his Lodge; and 
 from thence you may appeal to the Grand Lodge at the quarterly 
 communication, and from thence to the annual Grand Lodge, as has 
 been the ancient laudable conduct of our forefathers in every nation; 
 never taking a legal course but when the case cannot be otherwise 
 decided, and patiently listening to the honest and friendly advice of 
 Master and Fellows, when they would prevent your going to law with 
 strangers, or would excite you to put a speedy period to all law suits, 
 that so you may miud the affair of Masonry with more alacrity and 
 success; but with respect to Brothers or Fellows at law, the iMaster 
 and Brethren should kindly ofter their mediation, which ought to be 
 thankfully submitted to by the contending Brethren; and if that sub- 
 mission is impracticable, they must however carry on their process, or 
 law- suit, without wrath and rancor (not in the common way) saying 
 or doing nothing which may hinder brotherly love, and good offices 
 to be renewed and continued; that all may see the benign influence 
 of Masonry, as all true Masons have done from the beginning of the 
 world, and will do to the end of time — Amen, so mote it be. 
 
GENERAL REGULATIONS. 
 
 Compiled first by Mr. George Payne, Anno l^O, when be was Grand 
 Master, and approved by the Grand Lodge on St. John Baptist's 
 Day, Anno 1721., at Stationer's Hall, London; when the most noble 
 Prince John Duke of Montagu was unanimously chosen our Grand 
 Master for the year ensuing; who chose John Beal, M. D., his 
 Deputy Grand Master; Mr Josiah Villeneau and Mr. Thomas Mor- 
 ris, jun., were chosen by the Lodge Grand Wardens. And now. 
 by command of our said Right Worshipful Grand Master Montagu, 
 the author of this book has compared them with, and reduced them 
 to the ancient records and immemorial usages of the Fraternity, 
 and digested them into this new method, with several proper ex- 
 plications, for the use of the Lodges in and about London and 
 Westminster. 
 
 Authority of the Grand Master or Deputy. 
 
 I The Grand Master, or his Deputy, hath authority and right, not 
 •only to be present in any true Lodge, but also to preside wherever he 
 is, with the Master of the Lodge on his left hand, and to order his 
 Grand Wardens to attend him, who are not to act in particular Lodges 
 as Wardens, but in his presence, and at his command; because there 
 the Grand Master may command the Wardens of that Lodge, or any 
 •other Brethren he plea,seth, to attend and act as his Wardens pro 
 tempore. 
 
 Powers of Master. 
 
 II. The Master of a particular Lodge has the right and authority of 
 congregating the members of his Lodge into a chapter at pleasure, 
 upon any emergency or occurrence, as well as to appoint the time and 
 place of their usual forming; and in case of sickness, death, or nec- 
 essary absence of the Master, the senior Warden shall act as Master 
 pro tempore, if no brother is present who has been Master of that 
 Lodge before ; for in that case the absent Master's authority reverts 
 to the last Master then present; though lie cannot act until the said 
 senior Warden has once congregated the Lodge, or in his absence the 
 junior Warden. 
 
ox Ancient Constitution s. 
 
 By-Laws, &c , How Kept. 
 
 IH. The Master of each particular Lodge, or one of the Wardens - ,, 
 or some other Brother by his order, shall keep a book containing their 
 by-laws, the names of their members, with a list of all the Lodges in. 
 town, and the usual times and places of their forming, and all their 
 transactions that are proper to be written. 
 
 Limit to Number Initiated at one Time— Age, &c, 
 
 IV. No Lodge shall make more than five new Brethren at one time,, 
 nor any man under the age of twenty- five, who must be also his own 
 master ; unless by a dispensation from the Grand Master or his 
 Deputy. 
 
 One Month's Notice to be Given. 
 
 V. No man can be made or admitted a member of a particular 
 Lodge, without previous notice one month before given to the said 
 Lodge, in order to make clue inquiry into the reputation and capacity 
 of the candidate ; unless by the dispensation aforesaid. 
 
 Unanimous Consent Necessary — Right of Objection. 
 
 VI. But no man can be entered a Brother in any particular Lodge,, 
 or admitted to be a member thereof, without the unanimous consent 
 of all the members of that Lodge then present when the candidate is. 
 proposed, and their consent is formally asked by the Master; and 
 they are to signify their consent or dissent in their own prudent wav, 
 either virtually or in form, but with unanimity: nor is this inherent 
 privilege subject to a dispensation ; because the members of a parti- 
 cular Lodge are the best judges of it; and if a fractious . member 
 should be imposed on them, it might spoil their harmony, or hinder 
 their freedom; or even break and disperse the Lodge, which ought to 
 be avoided by all good and true Brethren. 
 
 Charity Fund — Obedience to Laws, &c. 
 
 VII. Every new Brother at his making is decently to clothe the 
 Lodge, that is, all the Brethren present, and to deposit something for 
 the relief of indigent and decayed Brethren, as the candidate shall 
 think fit to bestow, over and above the small allowance stated by the 
 by laws of that particular Lodge; which charity shall be lodged with 
 the Master or Wardens, or the Cashier, if the members think fit to 
 choose one. 
 
 And the candidate shall also solemnly promise to submit to the 
 Constitutions, the Charges, and Regulations, and to such other good 
 usages as shall be intimated to them in time and place convenient. 
 
Ancient Constitutions. 53 
 
 Establishment of new Lodges— Affiliation. — Clandestine Lodges. 
 
 VIII. No set or number of Brethren shall withdraw or separate 
 themselves from the Lodge in which they were made Brethren, or 
 were afterwards admitted members, unless the Lodge becomes too 
 numerous; nor even then, without a dispensation from the Grand 
 Master or his Deputy;' and when they are thus separated, they must 
 either immediately join themselves to such other Lodge as they shall 
 like best, with the unanimous consent of that other Lodge to which 
 they go (as above regulated) or else they must obtain the Grand Mas- 
 ter's warrant to join in forming a new Lodge. 
 
 If any set or number of Masons shall take upon themselves to form 
 a Lodge without the Grand Master's warrant, the regular Lodgas are 
 not to countenance them, nor own them as fair Brethren and duly 
 formed, nor approve of their acts and deeds; but must treat them as 
 rebels, until they humble themselves, as the Grand Master shall in his 
 prudence direct, and until he approve of them by his warrant, which 
 must be signified to the other Lodges, as the custom is when a new 
 Lodge is to be registered in the list of Lodges. 
 
 Unmasonic Conduct — Punishment of. 
 
 IX. But if any Brother so far misbehave himself as to render his 
 Lodge uneasy, he shall be twice duly admonished by the Master or 
 Wardens in a formed Lodge ; and if he will not refrain his impru- 
 dence, and obediently submit to the advice of the Brethren, and re- 
 form what gives them offence, he shall be dealt with according to the 
 by-laws of that particular Lodge, or else in such a manner as the 
 quarterly communication shall in their great prudence think fit; for 
 which a new regulation may be afterwards made. 
 
 Right of Lodge to Instruct Officers and Representatives. 
 
 X. The majority of every particular Lodge, when congregated, 
 shall have the privilege of giving instructions to their Master and 
 Wardens, before the assembling of the Grand Chapter, or Lodge, at 
 the three quarterly communications hereafter mentioned, and of the 
 annual Grand Lodge too; because their Master and Wardens are their 
 representatives, and are supposed to speak their mind. 
 
 Uniformity of Usages to be Observed. 
 
 XL All particular Lodges are to observe the same usages as much 
 as possible; in order to which, and for cultivating a good under- 
 standing among Free Masons, some members out of every Lodge shall 
 
 8 
 
5 Jf Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 be deputed to visit the other Lodges as often as shall be thought con- 
 venient. 
 
 Grand Lod^e — How Formed and Regulated. 
 
 XII. The Grand Lodge consists of, and is Former] by the Masters 
 and Wardens of all the regular particular Lodges upon record, with 
 the Grand Master at their head, and his Deputy on his left hand, and 
 the Grand Wardens in their proper places; aucl must have a quarterly 
 communication about Michaelmas, Christmas, and Lady-Day, in some 
 convenient place, as the Grand Master shall appoint, where no Brother 
 shall be present, who is not at that time a member thereof, without a 
 dispensation ; and while he stays, he shall not be allowed to vote, nor 
 even give his opinion, without leave of the Grand Lodge asked and 
 given, or unless it be duly asked by the said Lodge. 
 
 All matters are to be determined in the Grand Lodge by a majority 
 of votes, each member having one vote, and the Grand Master having 
 two votes, unless the said Lodge leave any particular tiling to the 
 determination of the Grand Master, for the sake of expedition. 
 
 General Items of Business of Grand lodge Indicated. 
 
 XIII. At the said quarterly communication, all matters that con- 
 cern the Fraternity in general, or particular Lodges, or single Bretli 
 ren, are quietly, sedately, and maturely to be discoursed of and trans- 
 acted: Apprentices must be admitted Masters and Fellow Craft only 
 here, unless by a dispensation. Here also all differences, that cannot 
 be made up and accommodated privately, nor by a particular Lodge, 
 are to be seriously considered and decided : and if any Brother thinks 
 himself aggrieved by the decision of this Board, he may appeal to the 
 annual Grand Lodge next ensuing, and leave his appeal in writing, 
 with the Grand Master, or his Deputy, or the Grand Wardens. 
 
 Here also the Master or the Wardens of each particular Lodge shall 
 bring and produce a list of such members as have been made or even 
 admitted in their particular Lodges since the last communication of 
 the Grand Lodge : and there shall be a book kept by the Grand 
 Master, or his Deputy, or rather by some Brother whom the Grand 
 Lodge shall appoint for Secretary, wherein shall be recorded all the 
 Lodges, with their usual times and places of forming, and the names 
 of all the members of each Lodge; and all the affairs of the Grand 
 Lodge that are proper to be written. 
 
 They shall also consider of the most prudent and effectual methods 
 of collecting and disposing of what money shall be given to, or lodged 
 with, them in charity, towards the relief only of any true Brother 
 fallen into poverty or decay, but none else: but every particular 
 
,liici:'iit Constitutions. 55 
 
 Lodge shall dispose of their own charity for poor Brethren, according 
 to their own by-laws, until it be agreed by all the Lodges (in a new 
 regulation) to carry in the charity collected by them to the Grand 
 Lodge, at the quarterly or annual communication, in order to make a 
 common stock of it, for the more handsome relief of poor Brethren. 
 
 They shall also appoint a Treasurer, a Brother of good worldly sub- 
 stance, who shall be a member of the Grand Lodge by virtue of his 
 office, and shall be always present, and have power to move to the 
 Grand Lodge anything, especially what concerns his office. To him 
 shall be committed all money raised for charity, or for any other use 
 of the Grand Lodge, which he shall write down in a book, with the 
 respective ends and uses for which the several sums are intended; 
 and shall expend or disburse the same by such a certain order signed, 
 as the Grand Lodge shall afterwards agree to in a new regulation: 
 but he shall not vote in choosing a Grand Master or Wardens, though 
 in every other transaction. As in like manner the Secretary shall be 
 a member of the Grand Lodge by virtue of his office, and vote in 
 everything except in chosing a Grand Master or Warden. 
 
 The Treasurer and Secretary shall have each a clerk, who must be 
 a Brother and Fellow Craft, but never must be a member of the Graud 
 Lodge, nor speak without being allowed or desired. 
 
 The Grand Master, or his Deputy, shall always command the Treas- 
 urer and Secretary, with their clerks aud books, in order to see how 
 matters go on, and to know what is expedient to be done upon any 
 emergent occasion. 
 
 Another Brother (who must he a Fellow Craft) should be appointed 
 to look after the door of the Grand Lodge; but shall be no member 
 of it. 
 
 But these offices may be farther explained by a new regulation, 
 when the necessity and expediency of them may more appear than at 
 present to the Fraternity. 
 
 Who to Preside in Grand Lodge. 
 
 XIV. If at any Grand Lodge, seated or occasional, quarterly or 
 annual, the Grand Master and his Deputy should be both absent, then 
 the present Master of a Lodge, that has been the longest a Free 
 Mason, shall take the Chair, and preside as Grand Master pro tempore; 
 and shall be vested with all his power and honour for the time; pro- 
 vided there is no Brother present that has been Grand Master for- 
 merly, or Deputy Grand Master ; for the last Grand Master present, 
 or else the last Deputy present, should always of right take place in 
 the absence of the present Grand Master and his Deputy. 
 
56 Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 Supplying Stations. 
 
 XV. In the Grand Lodge none can act as Wardens but the Grand 
 Wardens themselves, if present; and if absent, the Grand Master, or 
 the person who presides in his place, shall order private Wardens to 
 act as Grand Wardens pro tempore, whose places are to be supplied by 
 two Fellow Craft of the same Lodge, called forth to act, or sent 
 thither by the particular Master theieof ; or if by him omitted, then 
 they shall be called by the Grand Master, that so the Grand Lodge 
 may be always complete. 
 
 Deputies — Duties of. 
 
 XVI. The Grand Wardens, or any others, are first to advise with 
 the Deputy about the affairs of the Lodge or of the Brethren, and 
 not to apply to the Giand Master without the knowledge of the 
 Deputy, unless he refuse his concurrence in any certain necessary 
 f.ffair ; in which case, or in case of any difference between the Deputy 
 and the Giand Wardens, or oilier Brethren, both parties are to go by 
 concert to the Grand Faster, who can easily decide the controversy 
 and make up the differences by virtue of his great authority. 
 
 The Grand Master should receive no intimation of business concern- 
 ing Masonry, but frcrn his Deputy first, except in such certain cases 
 as his Worship can well judge of; for if the application to the Grand 
 Master be irregular, he can easily order the Giand Wardens, or any 
 other Brethren thus applying, to wait upon his Deputy, who is to pre- 
 pare the business speedily, and to lay it orderly before his AYorship. 
 
 Ineligibility of Grand Officers to Lodge Offices. 
 
 XVII. Xo Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, 
 Treasurer, Secretary, or whoever acts for them, or in their stead pro 
 tempore, can at the same time be the Master or Warden of a particular 
 Lodge; but as soon as any of them has honourably discharged his 
 grand office, he returns to that post or station in his particular Lodge, 
 from which he was called to officiate above. 
 
 Appointment of Deputies pro tern. 
 
 XVIII. If the Deputy Grand Master be sick, or necessarily absent, 
 the Grand Master may choose any Fellow Craft he pleases to be his 
 Deputy pro tempore : but he that is chosen Deputy at the Grand 
 Lodge, and the Grand Wardens too, cannot be discharged without 
 the cause fairly appearing to the majority of the Grand Lodge; and 
 the Grand Master, if he is uneasy, may call a Grand Lodge on pur- 
 pose to lay the cause before them, and to have their advice and con- 
 currence: in which case, the majority of the Grand Lodge, if they 
 
Ancient Constitutions. 57 
 
 ■cannot reconcile the Master and his Deputy or his Wardens, are to 
 concur in allowing Ihe Master to discharge his said Deputy or his said 
 Wardens, and to choose another Deputy immediately; and the said 
 Grand I odge shall choose other Wardens in that case, that -harmony 
 and peace may he preserved. 
 
 Arraignment of Grand Master. 
 
 XIX. If the Grand Master should abuse his power, and render him- 
 self unworthy of the obedience and subjection of the Lodges, he shall 
 be treated in a way and manner to be agreed upon in a new regula- 
 tion ; because hitherto the ancient Fraternity have had no occasion 
 for it, their former Grand Masters having all -behaved themselves 
 worthy of that honourablo office. 
 
 Visitations. 
 
 XX. The Grand Master, with his Deputy and Wardens, shall (at 
 least once) go round and visit all the Lodges about town during his 
 Mastership. 
 
 Death of Grand Master— Successor to. 
 
 XXI If the Grand Master die during his Mastership, or by sickness^ 
 or by being l.ey< i.d the sea, or any other way should be rendered in- 
 capable of discharging his office, the Deputy, or in his absence, the 
 senior Grand Warden, or in his absence the junior, or in his absence 
 any three present Masters of Lodges, shall join to congregate the 
 Grand Lodge immediately, to advise together upon that emergency, 
 and to send two of their number to invite the last Grand Master to 
 resume his office, which now in course reverts to him ; or if he refuse, 
 then the next last, and so backward ■ but if no former Grand Master 
 can be found, then the Deputy shall act as Principal until another is 
 chosen: or if there be no Deputy, then the oldest Master. 
 
 Feast Days. 
 
 XXII. The Brethren of all the Lodges in and about London and 
 Westminster, shall meet at an Annual Communication and Feast, in 
 some convenient place, on St. John Baptist's Day, or else on St. John 
 Evangelist's Day, as the Grand Lodge shall think fit by a new regu- 
 lation, having of late years met on St. John Baptist's Day: Provided, 
 
 The majority of the Masters and Wardens, with the Grand Master, 
 his Deputy and Wardens, agree at their quarterly communication, 
 three months before, that there shall be a Feast, and a general com- 
 munication of all the Brethren : for if either the Grand Master, or the 
 
S>8 Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 majority of the particular Masters, are against it, it must be dropped 
 for that time. 
 
 But whether there shall be a Feast for all the Brethren, or not, yet 
 the Grand Lodge must meet in some convenient place annually on St- 
 John's Day ; or if it be Sunday, then on- the next day, in order to 
 choose every year a new Grand Master, Deputy, and Wardens. 
 
 Preparation for Feasts. 
 
 XXIII. If it be thought expedient, and the Grind Master, with the 
 majority of the Masters and Wardens, agree to hold a Grand Feast,, 
 according to the ancient laudable customs of Masons^ then the Grand 
 Wardens shall have the care of preparing the tickets, sealed with the 
 Grand Master's seal, of disposing of the tickets, of receiving the 
 money for the tickets, of buying the materials of the Feast, of finding 
 out a proper and convenient place to feast in ; and of every other 
 thing that concerns the entertainment. 
 
 But that the work may not be too burdensome to the two Grand 
 Wardens, and that all matters may be expeditiously and safely man- 
 aged, the Grand Master, or his Deputy, shall have power to nominate 
 and appoint a certain number of Stewards, as his Worship shall think. 
 fit, to act in concert with the two Grand Wardens; all things relating" 
 to the Feast being decided amongst them by a majority of voices ; 
 except the Grand Master or his Deputy interpose by a particular 
 direction or appointment. 
 
 Financial Provisions for Feasts. 
 
 XXIV. The Wardens and Stewards shall, in due time, wait upon 
 the Grand Master, or his Deputy, for directions and orders about the 
 premises: but if his Worship and his Deputy are sick, or necessarily 
 absent, they shall call together the Masters and Wardens of Lodges to 
 meet on purpose for their advice and orders; or else they may take 
 the matter wholly upon themselves, and do the best they can. 
 
 The Grand Wardens and the Stewards are to account for all the 
 money they receive, or expend, to the Grand Lodge, after dinner, or 
 when the Grand Lodge shall think fit to receive their accounts. 
 
 If the Grand Master pleases, he may in due time summon all the 
 Masters and Wardens of Lodges to consult with them about ordering- 
 the Grand Feast, and about any emergency or accidental thing- rela- 
 ting thereunto, that may require advice ; or else to take it upon himself 
 altogether. 
 
 Tilers at Feasts. 
 
 XXV. The Masters of Lodges shall each appoint one experienced 
 
Ancient Constitutions. 51) 
 
 ;and discreet Fellow Craft of his Lodge, to compose a committee, con- 
 sisting of one from every Lodge, who shall meet to receive, in a con- 
 venient apartment, every person that brings a ticket, and shall have 
 power to discourse him, if they think fit, in order to admit him, or 
 ■debar him, as they shall see cause-: Provided they send no man away 
 before they have acquainted all the Brethren within doors with the 
 .reasons thereot, to«avoid mistakes: that so no true Brother may be 
 debarred, nor a false Brother, or mere pretender, admitted. This 
 (Committee must meet very early on St. John's Day, at the place, even 
 before any persons come with tickets. 
 
 JDoor-keepers at Feasts. 
 
 XXYI. The Grand Master shall appoint two or more trusty Breth- 
 ren to be porters, or door keepers, who are also to be early at the 
 place, for some good reasons; and who are to be at the command of 
 the committee. 
 
 Services to Guests, 
 
 XXYII, The Grand Wardens, or the Stewards, shall appoint before- 
 hand such a number of Brethren to serve at table as they think fit and 
 proper for that work;; and they mny advise with the Masters and 
 Wardens v.i Lodges about the most proper persons, if they please, or 
 may take in such by their recommendation; for none are to serve 
 that day, but free and accepted Masons, that the communication may 
 be free and harmonious. 
 
 Appeals Made at Feasts— Decorum Observed. 
 
 XXVIII. All the members of the Grand Lodge must be at the place 
 long before dinner, with the Grand Master, or his Deputy, at their 
 head, who shall retire, and form themselves. And this is done in 
 order, 
 
 1. To receive any appeals duly lodged, as above regulated, that the 
 appellant may be heard, and the affair may be amicably decided be- 
 fore dinner, if possible; but if it cannot, it must be delayed till after 
 the new Grand Master is elected; and if it cannot be decided after 
 dinner, it may be delayed, and referred to a particular committee, 
 that shall quietly adjust it, and make report to the next quarterly 
 communication, that brotherly love may be preserved. 
 
 2. To prevent any difference or disgust which may be feared to 
 arise that day; that no interruption may be given to the harmony and 
 pleasure of the Grand Feast, 
 
 3. To consult about whatever concerns the decency and decorum of 
 
60 Ancient Constitutions , 
 
 the grand assembly, and to prevent all indecency and ill manners, the 
 assembly being promiscuous. , * 
 
 4. To receive and consider of any good motion, or any momentous 
 and important affair, that shall be brought from the particular Lodges, 
 by their representatives, the several Masters and Wardens. 
 
 Grand Master — How and When Nominated. 
 
 XXIX. After these things are discussed, the Grand Master and his 
 Deputy, the Grand Wardens, or the Stewards, the Secretary, the 
 Treasurer, the Clerks, and every other person, shall withdraw, and 
 leave the Masters and Wardens of the particular Lodges alone, in or 
 der to consult amicably about electing a new Grand Master, or con- 
 tinuing the present, if they have not done it the day before ; and if 
 they are unanimous for continuing the present Grand Master, his- 
 Worship shall be called in, and humbly desired to do the Fraternity 
 the honour of ruling them for the year ensuing: and after dinner it 
 will be known whether he accepts of it or not; for it should not be 
 discovered but by the election itself.. 
 
 Consultation. 
 
 XXX. Then the Masters and Wardens, and all the Brethren, may 
 converse promiscuously, or as they please to sort together, until the 
 dinner is coming in, when every Brother takes bis seat at table. 
 
 Grand Lodge Formed at Feast. 
 
 XXXI. Some time after dinner the Grand Lodge is- formed, riot in 
 retirement, but in the presence of all the Brethren, who yet are not 
 members of it, and must not therefore speak until they are desired 
 and allowed. 
 
 Election and Salutation of Grand Master. 
 
 XXXII. If the Grand Master of last year has consented with the 
 Master and Wardens in private, before dinner, to continue for the 
 year ensuing; then one of the Grand Lodge, deputed for that purpose, 
 shall represent to all the Brethren his Worship's good government. 
 &c. And turning to him, shall, in the name of the Grand Lodge, 
 humbly request him to do the Fraternity the great honour (if nobly 
 born, if not) the great kindness of continuing to be their Grand 
 Master for the year ensuing. And his Worship declaring his consent 
 by a bow T or a speech, as he pleases, the said deputed member of the 
 Grand Lodge shall proclaim him Grand Master, and all the members- 
 of the Lodge shall salute him in due form. And all the Brethren 
 shall for a few minutes have leave to declare their satisfaction, pleas- 
 ure, and congratulation. 
 
Ancient Constitutions 61 
 
 Election t;> be Unanimous. 
 
 XXXIII. But if either the Master and Wardens have not in private, 
 this day before dinner, nor the day before, desired the last Grand 
 Master to continue in the Mastership another year; or if he, when 
 desired, has not consented: then, 
 
 The last Grand Master shall nominate his successor for the year en- 
 suing, who, if unanimously approved by the Grand Lodge, and if 
 there present, shall be proclaimed, saluted, and congratulated the 
 new Grand Master, as above hinted, and immediately installed by the 
 last Grand Master, according to usage. 
 
 Election by Ballot if Dissent is Expressed. 
 
 XXXIV. But if that nomination is not unanimously approved, the 
 new Grand Master shall be chosen immediately by ballot, every Master 
 and Warden writing his man's name, and the last Grand Master 
 writing his man's name too; and the man, whose name the last Grand 
 Master shall first take out, casually or bv chance, shall be Grand Mas- 
 ter for the year ensuing; and if present, he shall be proclaimed, 
 saluted, and congratulated, as above hinted, and forthwith installed 
 by the last Grand Master, according to usage. 
 
 Appointment of other Grand Officers. 
 
 XXXV. The last Grand Master thus continued, or the new Grand 
 Master thus installed, shall next nominate and appoint his Deputy 
 Grand Master, either the last or a new one, who shall be also declared, 
 saluted and congratulated as above hinted. 
 
 The Grand Master shall also nominate the new Grand Wardens, and 
 if unanimously approved by the Grand Lodge, shall be declared, 
 saluted, and congratulated, as above hinted; but if not, they shall be 
 chosen by ballot, in the same way as the Grand Master: as the War- 
 dens of private Lodges are also to be chosen by ballot in each Lodge, 
 if the members thereof do not agree to the Master's nomination. 
 
 Grand Master Installed by Proxy. 
 
 XXXVI. But if the Brother, whom the present Grand Master shall 
 nominate for his successor, or whom the majority of the Grand Lodge 
 shall happen to choose by ballot, is, by sickness or other necessary 
 occasion, absent from the Grand Feast, he cannot be proclaimed the 
 new Grand Master, unless the old Grand Master, or some of the Mas 
 ters and Wardens of the Grand Lodge can vouch, upon the honour of 
 a Brother, that the said person, so nominated or chosen, will readily 
 accept of the said office; in which case the old Grand Master shall 
 act as proxy, and shall nominate the Deputy and Wardens in his name, 
 
 9 
 
62 Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 and in his name also receive the usual honours, homage, and congrat- 
 ulation. 
 
 Addresses. 
 
 XXXVII. Then the Grand Master shall allow any Brother, Fellow- 
 Craft, or Apprentice to speak, directing his discourse to his Worship; 
 or to make any motion for the good of the Fraternity, which shall be 
 either immediately considered and finished, or else referred to the 
 consideration of the Grand Lodge at their next communication, stated 
 or occasional. When that is over, 
 
 Address by Grand Master or Deputy. 
 
 XXXVIII. The Grand Master or his Deputy, or some Brother ap- 
 pointed by him, shall harangue all the Brethren, and give them good 
 advice : and lastly, after some other transactions, that cannot be 
 written in any language, the Brethren may go away or stay longer, as 
 they please. 
 
 How Regulations may be Altered. 
 
 XXXIX. Every annual Grand Lodge has an inherent power and 
 authority to make new regulations, or to alter these, for the real 
 benefit of this ancient Fraternity: Provided always, That the old 
 land-marks be carefully preserved, and that such alterations and new 
 regulations be proposed and agreed at the third quarterly communi- 
 cation preceding the annual Grand Feast; and that they be offered 
 also to the perusal of all the Brethren before dinner, in writing, even 
 of the youngest Apprentice ; the approbation and consent of the 
 majority of all the Brethren present being absolutely necessary to 
 make the same binding and obligatory ; which must, after dinner, 
 and after the new Grand Master is installed, be solemnly desired ; as 
 it was desired and obtained for these regulations, when proposed by 
 the Grand Lodge, to about one hundred and fifty Brethren, on St. 
 John Baptist's Day, 1721. 
 
POSTSCRIPT. 
 
 Here follows the manner of constituting a new Lodge, as practised by 
 his Grace the Duke of Wharton, according to the ancient usages 
 of Masons. 
 
 A new Lodge, for avoiding many irregularities, should he solemnly 
 constituted by the Grand Master, with his Deputy and Wardens; or 
 in the Grand Master's absence, the Deputy shall act for his Worship, 
 and shall choose si me Master of a Lodge to assist him; or in case the 
 Deputy is absent, the Grand Master shall call forth some Master of a 
 Lodge to act as Deputy jjro tempore. 
 
 The Candidates, or the new Master and Wardens, being yet among 
 the Fellow Craft, the Grand Master shall ask his Deputy if he has ex- 
 amined them, and finds the Candidate Master well skilled in the noble 
 science and the royal art, and duly instructed in our mysteries, &c. 
 
 And the Deputy answering in the affirmative, he shall (by the Grand 
 Master's order) take the Candidate from among his Fellows, and pre- 
 sent him to the Grand Master, saying: Right Worshipful Grand Mas- 
 ter, the Brethren here desirtj to be formed into a new Lodge; and I 
 present this my worthy Brother to be their Master, whom I know to 
 be of good morals and great skill, true and trusty, and a lover of the 
 whole Fraternity, wheresoever dispersed over the face of the earth. 
 
 Then the Grand Master, placing the Candidate on his left hand, 
 having asked and obtained the unanimous consent of all the Brethren, 
 shall say : I constitute and form these good Brethren into a new 
 Lodge, and appoint you the Master of it, not doubting of your capac- 
 ity and care to presene the cement of the Lodge, &c, with some 
 other expressions that are proper and usual on that occasion, but not 
 proper to be written. 
 
 Upon this the Deputy stall rehearse the Charges of a Master, and 
 the Grand Master shall ask the Candidate, saying: Do you submit to 
 these Charges, as Masters have clone in all ages ? And the Candidate 
 signifying his cordial submission thereunto, the Grand Master shall, 
 by certain significant ceremonies and ancient usages, install him, and 
 present him with the Constitution, the Lodge Book, and the instru- 
 
6Jf Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 ments of his office, not all together, but one after another; and after 
 each of them, the Grand Master, or his Deputy, shall rehearse the 
 short and pithy Charge that is suitable to the thing presented. 
 
 After this, the members of this new Lodge, bowing all together to 
 the Grand Master, shall return his Worship thanks, and immediately 
 do their homage to their new Master, aud signify their promise of 
 subjection and obedience to him by the usual congratulation. 
 
 The Deputy and the Grand Wardens, and any other Brethren pres- 
 ent, that are not members of this new Lodge, shall next congratulate 
 the new Master; and lie shall return his becoming acknowledgements 
 to the Grand Master first, and to the rest in their order. 
 
 Then the Grand Master desires the new Master to enter immedi- 
 ately upon the exercise of his office, in choosing his Wardens: and 
 the new Master calling forth two Fellow Craft, present them to the 
 Grand Master for his approbation, and to the new Lodge for their 
 consent. And that being granted, 
 
 The senior or junior Grand Warden, or some Brother for him, shall 
 rehearse the Charges of Wardens; and the Candidates being solemnly 
 asked by the new Master, shall signify their submission thereunto. 
 
 Upon which the new Master, presenting them with the instruments 
 of their office, shall, in due form, install them in their proper places ; 
 and the Brethren of that new Lodge shall signify their obedience to 
 the new Wardens by the usual congratulation. 
 
 Aud this Lodge being thus completely constituted, shall be regis- 
 tered in the Grand Master's Book, and by his order notified to the 
 other Lodges. 
 
APPROBATION. 
 
 Whereas, by the confusions occasioned in the Saxon, Danish, and 
 Norman wars, the records of Masons have been much vitiated, the 
 Free Masons of England twice thought it necessary to correct their 
 Constitutions, Charges, and Regulations; first in the reign of King 
 Athelstan the Saxon, and long after in the reign of King Edward IV. 
 the Norman : and whereas the old Constitutions in England have been 
 much interpolated, mangled and miserably corrupted, not only with 
 false spelling, but even with many false facts and gross errors in his- 
 tory and chronology, through length of time, and the ignorance of 
 transcribers, in the dark illiterate ages, before the revival of geome- 
 try and ancient architecture, to the great offence of all the learned 
 and judicious Brethren, whereby also the ignorant have been de- 
 ceived. 
 
 And our late worthy Grand Master, his Grace the Duke of Montagu, 
 having ordered the author to peruse, correct, and digest, into a new 
 and better method, the History, ( barges, and Regulations, of the an- 
 cient Fraternity ; he has accordingly examined several copies from 
 Italy and Scot hind, and sundry parts of England, and from thence, 
 (though in many things erroneous) and from several other ancient 
 records of Masons; he has drawn forth the above written new Consti- 
 tutions, with the Charges and General Regulations. And the author 
 having submitted the whole to the perusal and corrections of the late 
 and present Deputy Grand Masters, and of other learned Brethren; 
 and also of the Masters and Wardens of particular Lodges at their 
 quarterly communication: he did regularly deliver them to the late 
 Grand Master himself the said Duke of Montagu, for his examina- 
 tion, correction, and approbation; and his Grace, by the advice of 
 several Brethren, ordered the same to be handsomely printed for the 
 use of the Lodges, though they were not quite ready for the press 
 during his Mastership. 
 
 Therefore we, the present Grand' Master of the Right Worshipful 
 and most ancient Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, the Deputy 
 Grand Master, the Grand Wardens, the Masters and Wardens of par- 
 ticular Lodges (with the consent of the Brethren and Fellows in and 
 
66 Ancient Constitutions. 
 
 about the cities of London and Westminster) having also perused this 
 performance, do join our laudable predecessors in our solemn appro- 
 bation thereof, as what we believe will fully answer the end proposed; 
 all the valuable things of the old records being retained, the errors in 
 history and chronology corrected, the false facts and the improper 
 words omitted, and the whole digested in a new and better method. 
 
 And -we ordain, that these 'be received in every particular Lodge 
 under our cognizance, as the only Constitutions of Free and Accepted 
 Masons amongst us, to be read at the making of new Brethren, or 
 when the Master shall think fit; and which the new Brethren should 
 peruse before they are made. 
 
 PHILIP Duke of Wharton, G. M. 
 
 J. T. Desagulters, L.L. D. and F. R, S. ; D. G. M. 
 
 Joshua Timson ) n ^ ™r ■> 
 „,.,,. tt i • > Grand Wardens. 
 William Hawkins, \ 
 
COD 
 
 FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF 
 
 SUBORDINATE LODGES 
 
 UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE 
 
 GRAND LODGE OF NORTH CAROLINA. 
 
BY-LAWS 
 
 Lori^e, .No- 
 
 A F & A, M.. 
 
 NORTH CAROLINA. 
 
 ARTICLE I. 
 
 Charter and Communication, 
 
 Section 1- The Master shall have charge of the Charter, and it shall 
 he in the Lodge, whenever opened. 
 
 Sec. 2 The regular Communications of this Lodge shall be held on 
 
 the 
 
 Sec. 3. The Lodge shall hold no ( ommunication on Sunday, ex- 
 cept on Funeral occasions. 
 
 Sec 4. The Master, or in his absence, the Wardens by seniority, 
 may call special communications of the Lodge. 
 
 ARTICLE II. 
 
 Election and Appointment of Officers — Their Duties. 
 
 Section 1. The elective officers of this Lodge, to-wit: Master, War* 
 dens, Treasurer, and Secretary, shall be chosen by ballot at the regu- 
 lar communication immediately preceding the anniversary of St. John 
 
 the f the Master by two-thirds, 
 
 and the remaining officers by a majority, of the members present, 
 
 10 
 
70 Uniform Code of By-Laivs. 
 
 Sec. 2. All the officers shall be ins' ailed on St. John 
 clay, or as soon thereafter as practicable. 
 
 Sec. 8. The Master, immediately after his installation, shall ap- 
 point the Deacons, Marshal, Stewards and Tiler. 
 
 Sec. 4. It shall be the duty of the Master, on the decease of a mem- 
 ber or sojourning brother, entitled to such honors, to ascertain if 
 Masonic honors would be agreeable, and to take measures accord- 
 ingly. 
 
 Sec. 5. The Master shall read, or cause to be read, in open Lodge, 
 as soon after they may be received as practicable, the annual proceed- 
 ings of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 i ec 6. The Treasurer shall not pay out any moneys, except upon 
 the warrant of the Worshipful Master, properly attested by the Secre- 
 tary; and shall furnish the i o<!ge with an annual statement of his 
 receipts and disbursements. 
 
 Sec. 7. The Secretary shall transcribe on the book of records, the 
 minutes of each regular and special communication ; shall keep a book 
 with the By-Laws neatly written therein for the signatures of mem- 
 bers; shall properly endorse and file all papers necessary to be pre- 
 served; shall pay over to the Treasurer all moneys received by him, 
 on or before the clay of each regular communication, shall pay out no 
 moneys in his hands by virtue of his office; shall receive no clue bill 
 or other evidence of indebtedness; and shall have his books in the 
 Lodge, at each regular communication, with every entry properly 
 made up to that date. 
 
 Sec 8 It shall be the duty of the Tiler to keep the furniture clean, 
 and everything in order for each communication of the Lodge. The 
 implements, jewels, clothing, and other property of the Lodge, with 
 the keys of the several apartments, wardrobes, etc., shall lie consid- 
 ered in his custody, and he shall, for the time being, be held respon- 
 sible for their safekeeping; and at the expiration of his term of office, 
 shall deliver over the same to his successor; he shall keep a visitor's 
 register, in which he shall require each visitor to register his name 
 and the Lodge of which he is a member. It shall also be his duty to 
 deliver to the brethren, to whom they are addressed, all summons 
 issued by the Lodge, and to make due return of such direction, or 
 return the same to the Secretary, with a statement in writing, setting 
 forth the reasons for his failure to do so. His services shall be re- 
 warded as the Lodge may, from time to time, determine. 
 
Uniform Code of By-Laws. 71 
 
 ARTICLE in. 
 
 Committees. 
 
 Section 1. There shall be three standing committees, to-wit: A 
 Committee of Charity; a Committee ot Finance, and a Committee of 
 Reference. 
 
 Sec: 2 The Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens, shall 
 lie a Committee on Charity, who shall attend to all applications for 
 relief, see that all true, worthy brothers, their widows and orphans, 
 in sickness or distress, are aided and assisted, and report their action 
 to the Lodge: Provided, when they may deem it necessary, they 
 
 may draw from the funds of the Lodge to the amount of 
 dollars, without action of the Lodge. 
 
 Sec. 3. The Committee of Finance shall consist of three members, 
 to be appointed by the Master, annual'y, at the regular Communica- 
 tion next succeeding the install ition of officers, or as soon thereafter 
 as practicable. This committee shall, from time to time, examine the 
 books of t he ecrctary and Treasurer, and make a written report 
 thereon, and on the financial affairs of the Lodge, at thx' end of each 
 year, or ofterur, if required, and shall carefully investigate every 
 claim a ainst the Lodge before the payment of the same shall lie or- 
 dered by the Lodg •. 
 
 Sec -'. The Committee of Reference shall consist of three discreet 
 and judicious members, to lie appointed by the Master, wdio shall con- 
 sider and decide all matters of controversy, or dispute, arising at any 
 time among the brethren, which may be referred to them. Either 
 party dissatisfied with the decision of the committee, may appeal to 
 the Lod«-e. 
 
 ARTICLE IV. 
 
 Order of Business. 
 
 Section 1. No business shall lie transacted in any other than a Mas- 
 ter's Lodge, excepting only such as pertains especially to the work 
 and lectures of the E. A., or F. C. degrees, or the investigation of 
 charges against an E. A., or F. C. 
 
 Sec 2. No business shall be transacted at a special communication, 
 other than that for which it was called ; nor shall such communica- 
 tion receive petitions, or ballot, except upon the advancement of can- 
 
72 Uniform Code of By-Laws. 
 
 didates; nor engage in any other business affecting the general inter- 
 ests of the Craft. 
 
 Sec. 3. The order of business at a regular communication shall be, 
 
 1. Reading minutes of last regular', and all intervening communi- 
 cations. 
 
 2. Unfinished business. 
 
 3. Reports of committees on petitions for initiation and membership. 
 
 4. Balloting. 
 
 5. Reports of standing committees. 
 
 6. Reports of special committees. 
 
 7. Reception of petitions. 
 
 8. Communications. 
 
 9. Motions and resolutions 
 
 10. Informal communications affecting the Craft. 
 
 11. Reading and approval of the minutes. 
 
 Sec. 4. The order of business may lie changed or temporarily dis- 
 pensed with, by the Master, when pressing emergency may require it. 
 
 ARTICLE V. 
 
 Fees. 
 Section 1. The fees for degrees conferred in this Lodge shall be 
 dollars, and shall invariably accompany the 
 petition. 
 
 Sec. 2 The fees for membership shall be dollars. 
 
 Sec. 3. The dues from members shall be dollars 
 
 per annum, to be paid quarterly. 
 
 ARTICLE VI. 
 
 Petitions for Degrees. 
 
 Section 1. A petition for the degrees of masonry shall be in wri- 
 ting, signed by the applicant, and in the following form : 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Members of Lodge, 
 
 No.—, A. F. & A. M.: 
 
 The petition of , respectfully showeth that he entertains a 
 
 favorable opinion of your ancient institution, and desires to be made 
 
Uniform Code of By-Laws. 7-8 
 
 ta member thereof. If this, his petition, be granted, he will yield a 
 -cheerful obedience to the usages and customs of Masonry. His age 
 
 is years; bis vocation that of a , and his residence . 
 
 Date, . [Signature,) ■ ■. 
 
 Recommended by 
 
 Sec. 2. A petition for the degrees of masonry or membership shall 
 be recommended by two or more members of the Lodge, and shall be 
 placed in the hands of the Secretary, with the lawful fee. 
 
 Sec. 3. Every petition for the degrees of masonry or membership 
 shall be referred to a committee of three members, who shall dili- 
 gently investigate the character, standing, and qua'ifications of the 
 applicant, and report to the Lodge at the first regular communication, 
 thereafter, if practicable ; and no petition shall otherwise be acted 
 upon 
 
 Sec, 4. On balloting for a candidate, one black ball shall reject 
 without a question, except that a second ballot may be demanded to 
 be satisfied of no mistake. 
 
 Sec. 5. The ballot shall be inspected by none, save the Master and 
 Wardens, and no member shall make known what manner of ballot 
 he cast. 
 
 Sec. 6. If the applicant be rejected, the fee shall be returned by 
 the Secretary. If he be accepted, and negligently fail to offer him- 
 self for initiation within six months after his acceptance, or to make 
 a satifactory excuse for such neglect, the fee shall be forfeited to the 
 charity-fund, and the whole proceeding, in his case, shall be null and 
 void. 
 
 Sec 7. A petition once rejected, shall not again be acted upon 
 within the space of one year. 
 
 Sec. 8. The Lodge shall not entertain the petition for degrees, of a 
 stranger, sojourner, or person having no fixed, or permanent place of 
 abode or residence ; nor of one whose residence is nearer to some 
 other Lodge, unless by written sanction of such Lodge, or of the Grand 
 Lodge of the State from which he hails; nor shall the Lodge enter- 
 tain a petition from an applicant, who has not resided within its 
 jurisdiction for twelve months immediately preceding the date of his 
 petition. 
 
 Sec. 9. A petition shall not be withdrawn after its reference to a 
 committee. 
 
 Sec. 10. Before a candidate shall be prepared for initiation he shall 
 answer satisfactorily the following interrogatories : 
 
74 Uniform Code of By-Laws. 
 
 1. Do you declare upon your honor, before these witnesses, that 
 unbiased by frieuds and uninfluenced by mercenary motives, you 
 freely and voluntarily offer yourself a candidate for the mysteries of 
 Masonry ? 
 
 2. Do you further declare upon your honor, before these witnesses, 
 that you are prompted to solicit the privileges of Masonry by a favor- 
 able opinion conceived of the Institution, a desire of knowledge, and 
 a sincere wish of being serviceable to your fellow-creatures? 
 
 3. Do you further declare upon your honor, before these witnesses, 
 that you will cheerfully conform to all the ancient established usages 
 and customs of the Fraternity ? 
 
 4. Have you petitioned any other Lodge and been rejected by it ? 
 
 ARTICLE VII. 
 
 Qualifications. 
 
 Section 1. Every applicant for the degrees of masonry must be 
 free-born; and no individual physically so deformed, as to be disa- 
 bled from honestly acquiring the means of subsistence, or who may be 
 incapacitated for becoming a useful member, shall be initiated. 
 
 ARTICLE VIII. 
 
 Application for Membership. 
 
 Section 1. A petition for membership shall be in writing, signed 
 by the applicant, in the following form ; 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of — Lodge, 
 
 No. — , A. F. & A. M.: 
 
 The petition of respectfully showeth that he was lately a 
 
 member of Lodge, No. , at , and he now prays to- 
 be admitted a member of your Lodge. His age is years ; his 
 
 vocation that of a , and his residence, . 
 
 (Signed,) . 
 
 Recommended by 
 
Uniform Code of By-Laws. 75 
 
 Sec. 2. A petition for membership shall be accompanied by the ap 
 plicanfs (limit, and up to. and inclusive of, the ballot, shall be subject 
 to the same rules as a petitioner for the degrees of masonry. (See 
 Article VI.) 
 
 ARTICLE IX. 
 
 Qualifications for Membership. 
 
 Section 1. None but worthy Master Masons, against whom no other 
 Lodge has claims, shall be admitted to membership. 
 
 Sec. 2. Any resident Master Mason of good standing as a citizen, 
 whose Lodge has become dormant, may be admitted to membership, 
 upon such terms in other respects as other masons. 
 
 Sec. 3. No mason shall be a member, until he shall have subscribed 
 the By-Laws. 
 
 ARTICLE X. 
 
 Dimits. 
 
 Section 1. A petition for a dimit shall be in writing, signed by the 
 applicant, and in the following form: 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of Lodge, No. . 
 
 The undersigned respectfully prays to withdraw from the member- 
 ship of your Lodge, and asks for a certificate to that effect. His mo- 
 tive for this request is . 
 
 Sec. 2. The foregoing petition shall be accompanied by a certificate 
 from the Secretary of the payment of all dues by the applicant. 
 
 ARTICLE XL 
 
 Non-affiliated Masons. 
 
 Section 1. A non-affiliated Mason shall not be permitted to visit 
 the Lodge, or to join in procession; nor shall he be entitled to relief, 
 or masonic assistance, or burial. 
 
T6 Uniform Code of By-Laws-* 
 
 ARTICLE XII. 
 
 Recommendation for Dispensation-. 
 
 Section I. No petition for a dispensation for organizing a new 
 Lodge, shall be recommended, until the proposed Master and War 
 dens have shown themselves, upon careful examination, in opem 
 Lodge, to be well skilled in the ritual and laws of Masonry.. 
 
 ARTICLE XIIL 
 
 Charity Fund and Relief. 
 
 Section 1. Fees for initiation and advancement shall be heTdsacredi 
 for charitable or educational purposes, unless indispensable necessity 
 should require their use for providing suitable accommodations, or 
 necessary fixtures. 
 
 Sec 2. Applications to the Lodge for chanty,, shall,, in all cases, be 
 made through a member of the Lodge,- who shall previously qualify 
 himself to furnish the Lodge with necessary information of the stand- 
 ing, character, condition, and circumstances of the applicant. 
 
 ARTICLE XIV, 
 
 Certificate of Membership, &e. 
 Section 1. Upon the death of any member of this Lodge it shall be' 
 the duty of the Secretary to furnish the widow or orphans of such 
 deceased member a certificate, under the seal of the Lodge, of his 
 membership, standing and death, without any application or charge 
 therefor. 
 
 ARTICLE XV, 
 
 Offences. 
 
 Section 1. Offences occurring while the Lodge is at labor, shall be 
 reported by the Senior Warden ; and offences occurring while the 
 Lodge is at refreshment, shall be reported by the Junior Warden . 
 
Uniform Code of By-Laws. 77 
 
 Prodded, That these officers may exercise a sound discretion in re- 
 porting trivial offences, which may be more prudently made the sub- 
 ject of private counsel and reprimand. 
 
 ARTICLE XVI. 
 
 Miscellaneous. 
 
 1. The Master shall put all questions distinctly; if a division be 
 called for, he is to request those who voted in the affirmative to rise, 
 and count them, then the negative, and shall declare the result. 
 
 2. All committees are to be appointed by the presiding officer, ex 
 cept as herein otherwise provided. 
 
 3 In case of a vote on any question, the majority of those present 
 voting for or against, shall be necessary to a decision, except as other- 
 wise provided ; in case of a tie the presiding officer shall decide. 
 
 4. When a member is about to speak, he shall rise from his seat and 
 respectfully address the Worshipful Master. 
 
 5. If any member, in speaking or otherwis3, shill transgress the 
 rules of the Lodge, the Master, or any member may call him to order ; 
 he shall immediately take his S3.it an 1 the member calling him to 
 order shall state the point of order. The Master shall decide the 
 question of order without debate, except that the member called to 
 order may be allowed to explain. If the decision be in favor of the 
 member, he shall be at liberty to proceed. 
 
 G. When two or more members rise at once, the Master shall name 
 the one entitled to the floor. 
 
 7. No visitor shall address the Lodge without leave being first ob- 
 tained, or he be called on by the Master. 
 
 8. When the Master is stating a question or addressing the Lodge, 
 or whin a member is speaking, no person shall enter, go out of, or 
 cross the room, nor be permitted to enter into private discourse. 
 
 9. No motion for reconsideration shall be made, except by a mem- 
 ber voting with the majority, and at the same meeting when the 
 question shall have been decided. 
 
 10. When a motion is made and seconded, it shall be stated by the 
 Master, and if in writing, read by the Secretary before debate. 
 
 11. Every motion shall be reduced to writing if a member desire it. 
 In filling blanks, the largest sum or number, and the longest time, 
 shall be first stated. 
 
 11 
 
78 Uniform Code of By-Louvs. 
 
 12. Any motion may be withdrawn by the mover, before decision 
 and amendment. 
 
 13. No new motion or proposition shall be admitted while a ques- 
 tion is pending before the Lodge. 
 
 14. No member shall speak more than twice on the same question, 
 unless he obtain the permission of the Master. 
 
 15. Every member appointed on a committee must serve, unless, 
 for reasons given, he be excused by the Master. 
 
 16. No member shall interrupt another, when speaking, except by 
 permission of the Master, and the member then speaking. 
 
 17. No member shall engage in conversation, during the conferring 
 of degrees, except it be necessary to facilitate the work. 
 
CONSTITUTION AND DEDICATION OF A NEW LODGE. 
 
 CHAPTER FIRST. 
 
 Constitution and Dedication of a New Lodge. 
 
 When a new Lodge receives a Dispensation, the Master named by 
 the Grand Master assumes immediate control, designates the time for 
 the convening of the Lodge, and appoints the subordinate officers. 
 The officers of a Lodge under dispensation are not to be installed. 
 (See Form No. 1 for Petition for a Dispensation.) 
 
 "When a Lodge receives a Charter from the Grand Lodge it is to be 
 constituted according to the ceremonies prescribed in this Chapter. 
 The ceremonies should be performed by the Grand Master, Deputy 
 Grand Master, or a Past Master duly authorized by the Grand Master. 
 When the Grand Master officiates the Lodge is constituted in Ample 
 Form; the Deputy Grand Master in Due Form; but when another 
 does so it is in Form. (See Form No. 2, for Petition for a Charter.) 
 
 Ceremonies. 
 
 On the day and hour appointed, the Grand Mister and his officers 
 meet in a convenient room near to the Lodge to be constituted, and 
 open in the third degree. After the officers in the new Lodge are 
 examined, they send a messenger to the Grand Master, with the fol- 
 lowing message, viz. : 
 
 Most Worshipful: 
 
 The officers and brethren of Lodge, who are now assembled 
 
 at , have instructed me to inform you, that the Most Worship - 
 
 ful Grand Lodge was pleased to grant them a Charter, authorizing 
 them to form and open a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the 
 
 town of : They are now desirous that their Lodge should be 
 
 consecrated, and their officers installed in clue and ancient form ; for 
 which purpose they are now met, and await the pleasure of the Most 
 Worshipful Grand Master. 
 
 When notice is given, the Grand Lodge walk in procession to the 
 hall of the new Lodge. 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 stations on the left. 
 
 The necessary cautions are given ; and all, excepting Present or Past 
 Masters of Lodges, are requested to retire until the Master of the 
 
80 Dedication of a JVeiu Lodge. 
 
 new Lodge is inducted into the Oriental Chair of Solomon. He is then 
 bound to the faithful performance of his trust, and invested with the 
 characteristics of the chair. 
 
 Upf n due notice, the Grand Marshal re- conducts the brethren into 
 the hall; and all take their places, except the members oi\the new 
 Lodge, who form a procession on one side of the hall. As they ad- 
 vance, the Grand Master addmses them: 
 
 "Brethren, belwJd your Master." 
 
 They make the proper salutations as they pass. 
 A grand procession is then formed, in the following order, viz : 
 Tiler with a drawn Sword: 
 Two Stewards with white Rods; 
 Entered Apprentices; 
 Fellow Crafts; 
 Master Masons ; 
 Stewards; 
 oa Junior Deacons ; 
 
 i= Senior Deacons; 
 
 CO 
 
 eS Secretaries; 
 
 Treasurers ; 
 
 Past Wardens; 
 
 Junior Wardens; 
 
 Senior Wardens; 
 
 Past Masters; 
 
 Mark Masters; 
 
 Royal Arch Masons ; 
 
 Select Masters; 
 
 Knights Templar; 
 
 Masters of Lodges. 
 
 The New Lodge. 
 
 Tiler with a drawn Sword ; 
 
 Stewards with white Rods; 
 
 Entered Apprentices ; 
 
 Fellow Crafts; 
 
 Master Masons ; 
 
 Junior and Senior Deacons ; 
 
 Secretary and Treasurer ; 
 
 Two Brethren, carrying the flooring,* or Lodge; 
 
 Junior and Senior Wardens; 
 
 * Carpet. 
 
Dedication of a J\ew Lodge- 81 
 
 The Holy Writings, carried by the oldest or some 
 
 suitable member, not in office; 
 
 The Worshipful Master.; 
 
 Music ; 
 
 The Grand Lodge. 
 
 Grand Tiler with drawn Sword; 
 
 Grand Stewards with white Rods; 
 
 A Brother carrying a Golden Vessel of Corn; * 
 
 Two Brethren, tarrying the Silver Vessels, one of 
 
 Wine, the other of Oil; 
 
 Grand Secretaries; 
 
 Grand Treasurers; 
 
 A burning Taper, borne by a Past Master; 
 
 A Past Master bearing the Holy Writings, Square and Compasses, 
 
 supported by two Stewards with white Rods; 
 
 Two burning Tapers, borne by two Past Masters; 
 
 The Tuscan and Composite Orders; 
 
 The Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian Orders; 
 
 Past Grand Wardens; 
 
 S Past Deputy Grand Masters; 
 
 % Past Grand Masters; 
 
 5 The Globes; 
 
 Clergy and Orator; 
 R. W. Junior and Senior Grand Wardens; 
 R. W. Deputy Grand Master; 
 The Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of Constitutions; 
 
 The M. W. Grand Master ; 
 
 The Grand Deacons, on a line seven feet apart, on the right and left 
 
 of the Grand Master, with black Rods ; 
 
 Grand Sword Bearer, with a drawn Sword ; 
 
 Tw T o Stewards with white Rods. 
 
 The Marshals conduct the procession to the church, or house, where 
 the services are to be performed. When the front of the procession 
 arrives at the door they halt, open to the right and left, and face in- 
 ward, while the Grand Master and others, in succession, 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. 
 
 The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and Book of Constitutions, 
 are placed upon a table in front of the Grand Master : the flooring is 
 then spread in the centre, upon the platform, covered with wdiite 
 
 * Wheat. 
 
8@ Dedication of a JVeur Lodge. 
 
 satin or linen, and encompassed by the three tapers, and the vessels 
 of coj'n, wine and oil. 
 
 Services. 
 
 1. A piece of Music. 
 
 2. Prayer. 
 
 3. An Oration. 
 
 4. A piece of Music. 
 
 5. The Grand Marshal forms the officers and members of the new 
 Lodge in front of the Grand Master. The Deputy Grand Master ad- 
 dresses the Grand Master as follows: 
 
 Most Worshipful : 
 
 A number of brethren, duly instructed in the mysteries of Masonry, 
 having assembled together at stated periods, by virtue of a dispensa- 
 tion granted to them for that purpose, do now desire to be constituted 
 into a regular lodge, agreeably to the ancient usages and customs of 
 the fraternity. 
 
 The charter and records are presented to the Grand Master, who 
 examines the records, and, if found correct, proclaims: 
 
 The records appear to be correct, and are approved. Upon due 
 deliberation, the Grand Lodge have granted the brethren of this new 
 Lodge a charter, establishing and confirming them in the rights and 
 privileges of a regular constituted Lodge ; which the Grand Secretary 
 will now read. 
 
 After the charter is read, the Grand Master 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 Master, who presents them, with his own, 
 to the Deputy Grand Master ; and he to the Grand Master. 
 
 The Deputy Grand Master presents the Master Elect to the Grand 
 Master, saying, 
 
 Most Worshipful : 
 
 I present you Brother , whom the members of the Lodge, 
 
 now to be constituted, have chosen for their Master. 
 
 The Grand Master asks them if they remain satisfied with their 
 choice. [They ooio in tol'en of assent. ] 
 
Dedication of a New Lodge. 83 
 
 The Master elect then presents, severally, his Wardens and other 
 officers, naming them and their respective offices The Grand Master 
 asks the brethren if they remain satisfied with each and all of them. 
 [They bow as hefo7'e.] 
 
 The officers and members of the new Lodge form in front of the 
 Grand Master; and the ceremony of Consecration commences with 
 solemn music. 
 
 6. Ceremony of Consecration. 
 
 The Grand Master, attended by the Grand Officers and the Grand 
 Chaplain, form themselves in order around the Lodge — all devoutly 
 kneeling. 
 
 7. A piece of solemn music is performed while the Lodge is un- 
 covered. 
 
 After which, the first clause of the Consecration Prayer is repeated, 
 which is as follows: 
 
 " Great Architect of the universe! Maker and Ruler of all worlds! 
 deign, from thy celestial temple, from realms of light and glory, to 
 bless us in all the purposes of our present assembly! We humbly in- 
 voke thee to give us at this, and at all times, wisdom in all our doings, 
 strength of mind in all our difficulties, and the beauty of harmony in 
 all our communications! Permit us, thou Author of light and life, 
 great Source of love and happiness, to erect this Lodge, and now 
 solemly to consecrate it to the honor of thy glory! 
 
 "Glory he to God on high." 
 
 [Response by the brethren.] 
 
 " As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world 
 without end. Amen." 
 
 The Deputy Grand Master takes the Golden Vessel of Corn, and the 
 Senior and Junior Grand Wardens take the Silver Vessels of Wine 
 and Oil, and sprinkle the elements of consecration upon the Lodge. 
 
 [The Grand Chaplain then continues:] 
 
 •'Grant, Lord our God, that those who are now about to be in- 
 vested with the government of this Lodge, may be endued with wis- 
 dom to instruct their brethren in all their duties. May brotherly love, 
 relief , and truth, always prevail among the members of this Lodge; 
 and may this bond of union continue to strengthen the Lodges 
 throughout the world ! 
 
 " Bless all our brethren, wherever dispersed; and grant speedy re- 
 lief to all who are either oppressed or distressed. 
 
 " We affectionately commend to thee, all the members of thy whole 
 
84 Dedication of a J\ r ew Lodge. 
 
 family. May they increase in grace, in the knowledge of thee, and 
 in love of each other. 
 
 "Finally: may we finish all our work here below, with thy appro- 
 bation; and then have our transition from this earthly abode to thy 
 heavenly temple above r there to enjoy light r glory and bliss,, ineffable 
 and eternal! 
 
 ' ' Glory be to God on high. rT 
 
 [Response by the brethren,} 
 
 "As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be. So mote 
 it be. Amen." 
 
 8. A piece of solemn music is performed while the Lodge is covered. 
 
 9. The Grand Chaplain then dedicates the Lodge in the following 
 terms. 
 
 " To the memory of the HOLY STS. JOHN, we dedicate this Lodge . 
 May every brother revere their character, and imitate their virtues. 
 " Glory be to God on high." 
 
 [Response.] 
 
 " As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world with- 
 out end. "So mote it be. Amen." 
 
 10. A piece of music is performed, while the brethren of the new 
 Lodge advance in procession to salute the Grand Lodge, with their 
 hands crossed upon their breasts, and bowing as they pass. They 
 then take their places as they were. 
 
 11. The Grand Master then rises, and constitutes the new Lodge in 
 the form following: 
 
 "In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, I now consti- 
 tute and form you, my beloved brethren, into a regular Lodge of 
 Free aud Accepted Masons. From henceforth I empower you to meet 
 as a regular Lodge, constituted in conformity to the rites of our order, 
 and the charges of our ancient and honorable fraternity; — and may 
 the Supreme Architect of the universe prosper, direct and counsel 
 you, in all your doings. 
 
 [Response.] 
 
 " So mote it be. Amen." 
 
Installation of Officers. 85 
 
 After the dedication of a new Lodge, the officers are to be installed, 
 a brother having been appointed to act as Marshal or Conductor of 
 Ceremonies, whose duty it is to present each of the officers according 
 to rank, to the installing officer, in front of th« Altar, for installation. 
 The following ceremony is designed to be used on such occasions or 
 those of installation after the annual election of officers. 
 
 Ceremony of Installation. 
 
 The installing officer addresses the Master eleet (or designated in 
 the charter) as follows: 
 
 Brother : 
 
 Previous to your investiture, it is necessary that you should signify 
 your assent to those ancient charges and regulations, which point out 
 the duty of a Master of a Lodge. 
 
 I. You agree to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the 
 moral law. 
 
 II. You agree to be a peaceable subject, and cheerfully to conform 
 to the laws of the country in which you reside. 
 
 III. You promise not to be concerned in plots and conspiracies 
 against government; but patiently to submit to the decisions of the 
 supreme legislature. 
 
 IV. You agree to pay a proper respect to the civil magistrates, to 
 work diligently, live creditably, and act honorably by all men. 
 
 V. Yon agree to hold in veneration, the original rules and patrons 
 of the order of masonry, and their regular successors, supreme and 
 subordinate, according to their stations, and to submit to the awards 
 and resolutions of your brethren, when convened, in every case con- 
 sistent with the constitutions of the order. 
 
 VI. You agree to avoid private piques and quarrels, and to guard 
 against intemperance and excess. 
 
 VII. You agree to be cautious in carriage and behavior, courteous 
 to your brethren, and faithful to your Lodge. 
 
 VIII. You promise to respect genuine brethren, and to discounte- 
 nance 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 propagate the knowledge of the art. 
 
 X. You promise to pay homage to the Grand Master for the time 
 being, and to his officers when duly installed ; and strictly to conform 
 to every edict of the Grand Lodge, or general assembly of masons, 
 that is not subversive of the principles and groundwork of masonry. 
 
 XL You admit that it is not in the power of any men, or body of 
 men, to make innovations in the body of masonry. 
 XII. You promise a regular attendance on the committees and com- 
 
 12 
 
86 Installation of Officers. 
 
 munications of the Grand Lodge, on receiving proper notice, and to 
 pay attention to all the duties of masonry, on convenient occasions. 
 
 XIII. You admit that no new Lodge shall be formed without per- 
 mission of the Grand Lodge: and that no countenance he given to an 
 irregular Lodge, or to any person clandestinely initiated therein, being 
 contrary to the ancient charges of the order. 
 
 XIV. You admit that no person can be regularly made a mason in, 
 or admitted a member of, any regular Lodge, without previous notice, 
 and due inquiry into his character. 
 
 XV. You agree that no visitors shall be received into your Lodge, 
 without due examination, and producing proper vouchers of their 
 having been initiated into a regular Lodge. 
 
 These are the regulations of Free and Accepted Masons. 
 The ju'esiding officer then addresses the Master as follows: 
 
 Do you submit to these charges, and promise to support these regu- 
 lations, as Masters have done in all ages before you? 
 
 The Master is to answer, I do. 
 
 The presiding officer then addresses him: 
 
 Brother A. B. : 
 
 In consequence of your cheerful conformity to the charges and reg- 
 ulations of the order, you are now to be installed Master of thio * 
 Lodge, in full confidence of your care, skill, and capacity to govern 
 the same. 
 
 [The new Master is then regularly invested with the insignia of his 
 office, and the furniture and implements of his Lodge.] 
 
 * If this Lodge is installed for the first time, it is called This neiv Lodge." 
 
 The various implements of the profession are emblematical of our 
 conduct in life, and upon this occasion are carefully enumerated. 
 
 The Holy Writings, that great light in masonry, will guide you to 
 all truth : it will direct your path to the temple of happiness, and 
 point out to you the whole duty of man. 
 
 The Square teaches us to regulate our actions by rule and line, and 
 harmonize our conduct by the principles of morality and virtue. 
 
 The GomjMsses teach us to limit our desires in every station ; that, 
 rising to eminence by merit, we may live respected, and die regretted. 
 
 The Rule directs that we should punctually observe our duty; press 
 
Installation of Officers. 87 
 
 forwar 1 in the path of virtue, an 1. neither inclining to the right nor 
 to the left, in all our actions have eternity in view. 
 
 The Line teaches the criterion (Jf moral rectitude, to avoid dissimu- 
 lation in conversation and action, and to direct our steps to the path 
 which leads to a glorious immortality. 
 
 The Boole 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 precepts it enjoins. 
 
 You will also receive in charge the By-Laws of your Lodge, which 
 you are to see carefully and punctually executed. 
 
 Charge upon the Installation of the Master of a Lodge. 
 
 Worshipful Master: 
 
 Being appointed Master of this Lodge, you cannot be insensible of 
 the obligations which devolve on you, as their head; nor of your 
 responsibility for the faithful discharge of the important duties an- 
 nexed to your appointment. 
 
 The honor, reputation, and usefulness of your Lodge, will materi- 
 ally depend on the skill and assiduity with which you manage its con- 
 cerns; while the happiness of its members will be generally promoted, 
 in proportion to the zeal and ability with which you propagate the 
 genuine principles of our institution. 
 
 For a pattern of imitation, consider the great luminary of nature, 
 which, rising in the East, regularly diffuses light and lustre to all 
 within its circle. In like manner, it is your province to spread and 
 communicate light aud instruction to the brethren of your Lodge. 
 Forcibly impress upon them the dignity and high importance of ma- 
 sonry, and seriously admonish them never to disgrace it. Charge 
 them to practice out of the Lodge, those duties which are taught in 
 it; and by amiable, discreet, and virtuous conduct, to convince man- 
 kind of the goodness 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 
 prefer its suit ; whose hand is guided by justice, and his heart ex- 
 panded by benevolence. In short, by a diligent observance of the 
 by-laws of your Lodge, the constitutions of masonry, and, above all, 
 the Holy Scriptures, which are given as a rule and guide to your faith, 
 you will be enabled to acquit yourself with honor and reputation, 
 and lay up a crown of rejoicing, which shall continue when time shall 
 be no more. 
 
88 Installation of Officers. 
 
 The subordinate officers are then severally invested by the presiding 
 officer, who delivers each of them a short Charge, as follows, viz. : 
 
 The Senior Warden. 
 
 Brother C. D. : 
 
 Yon are appointed Senior Warden of this Lodge, and are now in- 
 vested 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 though 
 distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordination, 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 
 entitled to our regard ; because a time will come, and the wisest 
 knows not how soon, when all distinction, but that of goodness, shall 
 cease; and death, the grand leveller of human greatness, reduce us 
 to the same state. 
 
 Your regular attendance on our stated meetings, is essentially nec- 
 essary. In the absence of the Master, you are to govern this Lodge; 
 in his presence, you are to assist him in the government of it. I 
 firmly rely on your knowledge of masonry, and attachment to the 
 Lodge, for the faithful discharge of the duties of this important 
 trust. — Look xcellto the Went ! 
 
 The Junior Warden. 
 
 Brother E. F. 
 
 You are appointed Junior Warden of this Lodge, and are now in- 
 vested with the badge of your office. 
 
 The Plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in our several stations; 
 to hold the scales of justice in equal poise; to observe the just me- 
 dium between intemperance and pleasure: and to make our passions 
 and prejudices coincide with the line of our duty. 
 
 To you is committed the superintendence of the craft, during the 
 hours of refreshment: it is therefore indispensably necessary, that you 
 should not only be temperate and discreet, in the indulgence of your 
 own inclinations, but carefully observe that none of the craft be suf- 
 fered to convert the purposes of refreshment into intemperance and 
 excess. 
 
 Your regular and punctual attendance is particularly 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 ! 
 
Installation of Officers. 89 
 
 The Treasurer. 
 Brother G. H. : 
 
 You are appointed Treasurer of this Lodge. It is your duty to re- 
 ceive all moneys from the hands of the Secretary, make due entries of 
 •the same, and pay them out by order of the Worshipful Master and 
 the consent of the Lodge. 
 
 I trust your regard for the fraternity will prompt you to the faith- 
 ful discharge of tie duties of your office. 
 
 The Secretary. 
 Brother J. K. : 
 
 You axe appointed Secretary of this Lodge. It is your duty to ob- 
 serve all the proceedings of the Lodge; make a fair record of all 
 things proper to be written; to receive all moneys due the Lodge, 
 and pay them over to the Treasurer, and take his receipt for the 
 same. 
 
 Your good inclination to masonry and this Lodge, I hope, will in- 
 duce you to discharge your office with fidelity; and by so doing, you 
 will merit the esteem and applause of your brethren. 
 
 Senior and Junior Deacons. 
 
 Brothers L. M. and N. O. ; 
 
 You are appointed Deacons of this Lodge. To you, with such as- 
 sistance as may be necessary, is entrusted the examination of visitors. 
 — It is also your province to attend on the Master and "Wardens, and 
 to act as their proxies in the active duties of the Lodge; such as in 
 the reception of candidates into the different degrees of masonry, and 
 in the immediate practice of our rights. The Square and Compasses, 
 as badges of your office, I trust to your care, not doubting your vigi- 
 lance and attention. 
 
 The Stewards. 
 Brothers P. Q. and R. S. : 
 
 You are appointed Stewards of this Lodge. The duties of your 
 office are, to assist in the collection of dues and subscriptions; to keep 
 an account of the Lodge expenses; to see that the tables are properly 
 furnished at refreshment, and that every brother is suitably provided 
 for; and generally to assist the Deacons and other officers in perform- 
 ing their duties. 
 
 Your regular and early attendance will afford the best proof of your 
 zeal and attachment to the Lodge. 
 
90 Installation of Officers. 
 
 The Tiler. 
 Brother : 
 
 You are appointed Tiler of this Lodge; and I invest you' with the 
 implement of your office. As the sword is placed in the hands of the- 
 Tiler, to enable him effectually to guard against the approach of cow- 
 ans and evesdroppers. and suffer none to pass or repass but such as are 
 duly qualified; so it should 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; to post a sentinel at the avenue of our actions :; 
 thereby excluding every unqualified and unworthy thought, word,, 
 and deed • and preserving consciences void of offence towards God 
 and towards man. 
 
 Your early and punctual attendance will afford the best proof of 
 your zeal for the institution. 
 
 Charge to the Brethren of the Lodge. 
 
 Such is the nature of 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 essential duty. The officers who are appointed 
 to govern your Lodge, are sufficiently conversant with the rules of 
 propriety, and the laws of the institution, to avoid exceeding the 
 powers with which they are entrusted ; and you are of too generous 
 dispositions to envy their preferment. I therefore trust that you will 
 have but one aim, to please each other, and unite in the grand design 
 of being happy, and communicating happiness. 
 
 Finally, my brethren, as this association has been formed and per- 
 fected with so much unauimity and concord, in wdiich we greatly re- 
 joice, so may it long continue. May you long enjoy every satisfac- 
 tion and delight which disinterested friendship can afford. May 
 kindness and brotherly affection distinguish your conduct, as men, 
 and as masons. Within your peaceful walls, may your children's 
 children celebrate with joy and gratitude, the transactions of this 
 auspicious solemnity. And may the tenets of our profession be trans- 
 mitted through your Lodge, pure and unimpaired, from generation 
 to generation. 
 
 12. The Grand Marshal then proclaims the New Lodge in the fol- 
 lowing manner, viz. : 
 
 In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of 
 North Carolina, I proclaim this new Lodge by the name of 
 
Installation of Officers. 91 
 
 Xodge, No. — , to be legally constituted, cousecrated, and the officers 
 thereof duly installed, 
 
 13. A piece of Music is then performed. 
 
 14. Benediction. 
 
 The procession is then formed, and returns to the hall whence it set 
 •out. 
 
 The Worshipful Master having been previously inducted into the 
 •Oriental Chair of Solomon, all but master masons are caused to retire. 
 
 A procession is then formed, and passes three times around the hall: 
 .■and upon passing the Master, pays him due homage by the usual 
 liouors, in the different degrees. 
 
 While the procession is passing around, the following Ode is sung-; 
 
 HAIL MASONRY divine ! 
 Glory of ages shine; 
 
 Long may'st thou reign ! 
 Where'er thy lodges stand, 
 May they have great command 
 And always grace the land, 
 
 Thou Art divine; 
 
 Great fabrics still arise, 
 And grace the azure skies; 
 ! Great are thy schemes; 
 
 Thy noble orders are 
 Matchless beyond compare; 
 .No art with thee can share, 
 
 Thou Art divine. ] 
 
 Hiram, the architect, 
 Did all the craft direct 
 
 How r they should build : 
 Sol'mon, great Israel's king, ] a: 
 Did mighty blessings bring. I p S 
 And left us room to sing, [ 2 o 
 
 Hail, royal Art ! J ° J 
 
9£ Dedication of Masoiiic Halls. 
 
 CHAPTER SECOND. 
 
 Dedication of Masonic Halls. 
 
 On the clay appointed for the celebration of the ceremony of dedi- 
 cation, the Grand Master and his officers, accompanied by the mem- 
 bers of the Grand Lodge, meet in a room near the place where the 
 ceremony is to be performed, and the Grand Lodge is opened in ample 
 form in the third degree 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 Grand Master : 
 
 The brethren of Lodge, No. — , being animated with a de- 
 sire to promote the honor and interest of the Craft, have erected a 
 Masonic Hall for their convenience and accommodation. They are- 
 desirous that the same should be examined by the Most Worshipful; 
 Grand Lodge, and if it should meet their approbation, that it should 
 be solemnly dedicated to Masonic purposes, agreeable to ancient form, 
 and usage. 
 
 The Grand Master then directs the Grand Secretary to read the fol- 
 lowing order of procession, which is delivered to the Grand Marshal, 
 and a general charge respecting behavior is given* 
 
 Order of Procession. f 
 
 Tiler of oldest Lodge, with drawn Sword. 
 
 Stewards of oldest Lodge, with white Rods, 
 
 Entered Apprentices. 
 
 Fellow Crafts, 
 
 Master Masons. 
 
 Stewards, with Jewels. 
 
 Junior Deacons, with Jewels. 
 
 Senior Deacons, with Jewels. 
 
 Secretaries, with Jewels, 
 
 Treasurers, with Jewels. 
 
 Junior Wardens, with Jewels. 
 
 Senior Wardens, with Jewels. 
 
 Past Masters, with Jewels. 
 
 Master, with Jewels. 
 
 Music. 
 
 * From this point the ceremonies may be of a public nature. 
 
 t This order may be changed so as to arrange each Lodge according to 
 age, separately in the procession. 
 
'Dedication of Masonic Halls. 93 
 
 Grand Lodge in the following order : 
 
 Grand Tiler with drawn Sword; 
 
 Grand Stewards with White Rods; 
 
 Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer; 
 
 A Past Master, bearing- the Holy Writings, Square and Compasses; 
 
 Chaplain and Orator; 
 
 Past Grand Wardens; 
 
 Past Deputy Grand Masters; 
 
 Past Grand Masters; 
 
 Junior Grand Warden, carrying a Silver Vessel with Corn; 
 
 Senior Grand Warden, carrying a Silver Vessel with Wine; 
 
 Deputy Grand Master, carrying a Golden Vessel with Oil; 
 
 Master of the oldest Lodge carrying the Book of Constitutions; 
 
 Grand Master, supported l>y two Deacons with Rods; 
 
 Grand Sword Bearer, with drawn Swords 
 
 Two Stewards with Rods. 
 
 The procession being formed, the whole move to the Hall which is 
 to be dedicated, ai.d upon the arrival of the procession at the door, 
 they halt, open to the light and left, and face inward, while the 
 Grand Master, ana others in -succession, pass through and enter. The 
 music continues while the procession marches three times around the 
 Hall. 
 
 A representation of a "Lodge." covered with white linen, is then 
 placed in the centre, and the Grand Master, having then taken the 
 chair, under a canopy of state, the Grand Officers and the Masters of 
 the Lodges repair to the places previously prepared for their reception. 
 The three Great Lights, and the Gold ami Silver Pitchers, with the 
 Corn, Wine and Oil, are placed around the representation of the 
 Lodge, at the head of which stands the pedestal, with the three 
 Great Lights laid thereon, and upon another pedestal the Constitu- 
 tion, Matters being thus arranged, the following Ode is sung: 
 
 Air—Duke Street. L. 3L 
 
 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 soothe our cares— to banish paia, 
 
 13 
 
94 Dedication of Masonic Halls, 
 
 May pity dwell within each breast, 
 
 Belief attend the suffering poor; 
 Thousands by this, our Lodge, be blest, 
 
 Till worth, distress' cl, shall want no more. 
 
 The Grand Master then briefly announces the occasion of the assem- 
 blage. 
 
 The Master of the Lodge then rises, and, approaching the East,, 
 addresses the Grand Master as follows: 
 
 Most Worshipful Grand Master: 
 
 The brethren of Lodge, No. — , being animated with a desire to 
 promote the honor and interest of the Craft, have erected a Masonic 
 Hall for their convenience and accommodation. They are desirous 
 that the same should be examined by the Most Worshipful Grand 
 Lodge, and, if it should meet their approbation, that it should be 
 solemnly dedicated to Masonic purposes, agreeable to ancient form 
 and usage. 
 
 The Architect then addresses the Grand Master as follows, present- 
 ing to him the Square, Level aud Plumb : 
 
 Most Worshipful : 
 
 Having been entrusted with the superintendence and management 
 of the workmen employed in the construction of this Hall, and hav- 
 ing, according to the best of my ability, accomplished the task as- 
 signed me, I now return my thanks for the honor of this appointment, 
 and beg leave to surrender up the implements which were committed 
 to my care, 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 following reply: 
 
 Brother Architect : 
 
 The skill and fidelity displayed in the execution of the trust reposed 
 in you at the commencement of this undertaking, have secured the 
 entire approbation of the Grand Lodge, and they sincerely pray that 
 this Hall may continue a lasting monument of the taste, spirit and 
 liberality of its founders. 
 
 The Deputy Grand Master then rises and says : 
 
Dedication of Masonic Halls. 05 
 
 Most Worshipful: 
 
 The hall in which we are now assembled, and the plan upon which 
 it has been constructed, having met with your approbation, it is the 
 desire of the Fraternity that it should now be dedicated according to 
 ancient form and usage. 
 
 The representation of the Lodge is then uncovered, and a proces- 
 s-ion is made around it in the following form (during which solemn 
 music is played) : 
 
 Grand Sword Bearer. 
 
 A Past Master, with a light. 
 
 A Past Master, with the Three Great Lights. 
 
 Grand Secretary and Treasurer, with Jewels. 
 
 ■Junior Grand Warden, with a Pitcher of Corn. 
 
 Senior Grand Warden, with a Pitcher of Wine. 
 
 Deputy Grand Master, with a Pitcher of OU. 
 
 Steward, with Rod. Grand Master. Steward, with Rod. 
 
 Grand Tiler 
 
 All the other brethren keep their places, and when the Grand Mas- 
 ter arrives at the East the procession halts and the Grand Chaplain 
 makes the folio win i>- 
 
 Invocation : 
 
 " Great Architect of the Universe ! Maker and Ruler of all the 
 World ! deign, from Thy celestial temple, from realms of light and 
 glory, to bless us in all the purposes of our present assembly ! We 
 humbly invoke Thee to give us at this, and at all times, wisdom in all 
 our doings, strength of mind in all our difficulties, and the beauty of 
 harmony in all our communications ! Permit us, O Thou Author of 
 Light and Life, Great Source of Love and Happiness, to erect this 
 hall, and solemnly dedicate it to the honor of Thy glory !"' 
 
 At the conclusion the brethren respond : 
 
 " Glory be to God on high, on earth peace, good will toward men." 
 
 The Junior Grand Warden then presents the vessel of corn to the 
 Grand Master, who pours it on the Lodge, saying: 
 
 In the name of the Great Jehovah I do solemnly dedicate this hall 
 to Freemasonry. 
 
96 Laying Foundation-Stones. 
 
 The public Grand Honors are then given. 
 
 A piece of music is then performed, and the second procession is 
 made around the Lodge. 
 
 When the Grand Master arrives at the East the music ceases, and 
 the Senior Grand Warden presents him with the vessel of wine, which 
 he sprinkles over the Lodge, saying: 
 
 In the name of the Holy Saints John I do solemnly dedicate this 
 hall to Virtue. 
 
 The public Grand Honors are then given. 
 
 The music is resumed, and the third procession is made around the 
 Lodge. 
 
 When the Grand Master arrives at the East the music ceases, and 
 the Deputy Grand Master presents him with the vessel of oil, which 
 he sprinkles over the Lodge, saying: 
 
 In the name of the whole Fraternity I do solemnly dedicate this hall 
 to Universal Benevolence. 
 
 The public Grand Honors are then given : 
 
 Benediction by the Grand Chaplain. 
 
 The Lord of grace and life mercifully look upon us and bless us; 
 make His face shiue upon us that we may have peace ; and to Him 
 be glory, now and forever. Amen. 
 
 Response by the brethren: 
 
 " Glory be to God on high, on earth peace, good will toward men." 
 
 The Lodge is then covered, and the public Grand Honors are given, 
 when the Grand Master resumes his chair, an oration is then pro- 
 nounced, and the ceremonies conclude with music. Visitors not 
 Masons retire. The Grand Lodge is then closed in ample form. 
 
 CHAPTER THIRD. 
 
 Laying Foundation-Stones of Public Structures. 
 
 This Ceremony is conducted by the Grand Master and his officers, 
 assisted by the members of the Grand Lodge, and such officers and 
 members of Subordinate Lodges as can conveniently attend. 
 
 The Chief Magistrate and other civil officers of the place where the 
 building is to be erected, also generally attend on the occasion. 
 
Laying Found ation-S tones. 97 
 
 At the time appointed, the Grand Lodge is convened in some suita- 
 ble place 
 
 A band of music is provided, and the brethren appear, dressed in 
 dark clothes, and white gloves and aprons. 
 
 The Lodge is opened by the Grand Master, and the rules for regu- 
 lating the procession to and from, the place where the ceremony is to 
 be performed, are read by the Grand Secretary. 
 
 The necessary cautions are then given from the Chair, and the 
 Grand Lodge is called from labor; after which the procession sets out 
 in the following order. 
 
 Tiler, with drawn Sword; 
 
 Stewards, with Rods; 
 
 Master Masons; 
 
 Two Deacons, with Rods; 
 
 Secretary and Treasurer ; 
 
 Past Wardens; 
 
 Two Wardens; 
 
 Past Masters ; 
 
 Mark Masters; 
 
 Royal Arch Masons ; 
 
 Knights Templar;* 
 
 Music ; 
 
 Grand Tiler, with drawn Sword ; 
 
 Grand Stewards, with white Rods ; 
 
 Principal Architect, with Square, Level, and Plumb; 
 
 Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer ; 
 
 Bible, Square, and Compasses, carried by a Master of a Lodge, 
 
 supported by two Stewards; 
 
 Grand Chaplains; 
 
 The Five Orders of Architecture; 
 
 Past Grand Wardens; 
 
 Past Deputy Grand Masters; 
 
 Past Grand Masters; 
 
 Chief Magistrate and Civil Officers of the place; 
 
 * Whenever Knights Templar appear in a procession, they should act as 
 an escort or guard of honor to the Grand Lodjre. 
 
 Junior Grand Warden, carrying the Silver Vessel with Oil; 
 
 Senior Grand Warden, carrying the Silver Vessel with Wine ; 
 
 Deputy Grand Master, carrying the Golden Vessel with Corn ; 
 
 Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of Constitutions; 
 
 Grand Master, 
 
 Supported by two Deacons, with Rods; 
 
98 Laying Foundation- St ones- 
 
 Grand Standard-Bearer"; 
 Graud Sword Bearer, with drawn Sword. 
 
 A triumphal arch is usually erected at the place where the ceremony 
 is to be performed. , 
 
 The procession, arriving at the arch, opens to the right and left, 
 and, uncovering, the Grand Master and his officers pass through the 
 lines to the platform, while the rest of the brethren surround the 
 platform, forming a hollow square. 
 
 The Grand Master commands silence, and announces the purposes 
 of the occasion, when the following or some other appropriate Ode is 
 
 sun o ; 
 
 Music — Rule Brits n n ia. 
 
 When earth's foundation first was laid, 
 
 By the Almighty Artist's hand, 
 'Twas then our perfect, our perfect laws were made, 
 Established by his strict command. 
 
 Hail! mysterious, hail, glorious Masonry ! 
 That makes us ever great and free. 
 
 In vain mankind for shelter sought, 
 In vain from place to place did roam, 
 
 Until from heaven, from heaven he was taught 
 To plan, to build, to fix his home. 
 Hail! mysterious, etc. 
 
 Illustrious hence we date our Art, 
 
 Which now in beauteous piles appear, 
 
 And shall to endless, to endless time impart, 
 How worthy and how great we are. 
 Hail! mysterious, etc. 
 
 Nor we less famed for every tie, 
 
 By which the human thought is bound ; 
 
 Love truth and friendship, and friendship socially, 
 Unite our hearts and hands around. 
 Hail! mysterious, etc. 
 
 Our actions still by Virtue blest, 
 
 And to our precepts ever true, 
 The world, admiring, admiring, shall request 
 
 To learn, and our bright paths pursue. 
 Hail! mysterious, etc. 
 
Laying Foundation-Stones. 90 
 
 The necessary preparations are now made for laying the stone, on 
 which are engraved the year of Masonry, the name of the Grand Master, 
 and such other particulars as may be deemed necessary. 
 
 The stone is raised up by the means of an engine, erected for that 
 purpose. 
 
 The Grand Chaplain delivers the following or some other appro- 
 priate 
 
 Prayer : 
 
 Almighty God, who hast given us grace at this time with one accord 
 to make our common supplications unto thee; and dost promise that, 
 where two or three are gathered together in thy name, thou wilt grant 
 their requests ; fulfill now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of thy 
 servants, as may be most expedient for them; granting us in this 
 world knowledge of thy truth, and in the world to come life ever- 
 lasting. — Amen. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. 
 
 The Grand Treasurer, by the Grand Master's command, places un- 
 der the stone various sorts of coin and medals, Masonic documents, 
 and such other matters as may be of interest. 
 
 Solemn music is introduced, and the stone is let down into its 
 place. 
 
 The principal Architect then presents the working tools to the 
 Grand Master, who hands the Square to the Deputy Grand Master, 
 the Level to the Senior Grand Warden, and the Plumb to the Junior 
 Grand Warden ; when the Grand Master addresses the Grand Officers, 
 as follows : 
 
 Grand Master. R. W. Deputy Grand Master: What is the 
 proper jewel of your office? 
 
 Deputy Grand Master. The Square. *: 
 
 G. M. What are its moral and Masonic uses ? 
 
 D. G. M. To square our actions by the Square of Virtue, and 
 prove our worJK. 
 
 G. M. Apply the implement of your office to that portion of the 
 foundation-stone that needs to be proved, and make report. 
 
 The Deputy applies the Square to the stone, and says: 
 
 D. G. 31. Most Worshipful: 1 find the stone to be square. The 
 Craftsmen have performed their duty. 
 
 G. M. R. W. Senior Grand Warden : What is the proper jewel 
 of your office ? 
 
 Senior Grand Warden. The Level. 
 
100 Laying Foundation- St ones. 
 
 G. 31. What is its Masonic use ? 
 
 8. G. W. Morally, it reminds us of equality, and its use is to lay 
 horizontals. 
 
 G. M. Apply the implement of your office to the foundation-stone, 
 and make report. 
 
 This is done. 
 
 8. G. W. Most Worshipful. I find the stone to be level The 
 Craftsmen have performed their duty. 
 
 G. M. R. W. Junior Grand Warden: What is the proper jewel 
 of your office ? 
 
 Junior Grand Warden. The Plumb. 
 
 G. M. What is its Masonic use ? 
 
 J. G. W. Morally, it teaches rectitude of conduct, and we use it 
 to try perpendiculars. 
 
 G. M Apply the implement of your office to the several edges of 
 the foundation-stone, and make report. 
 
 This is complied with. 
 
 J. G. W. 31 ost Worshipful: I find the stone is plumb. The 
 Craftsmen have performed their duty. 
 
 G. 31. This corner stone has been tested by the proper implements 
 of Masonry. I find that the Craftsmen have skillfully and faithfully 
 performed their duty, and I do declare the stone to be well formed, 
 true, and trusty, and correctly laid, according to the rules of our 
 ancient Craft. 
 
 Let the elements of Consecration now be presented. 
 
 The Deputy Grand Master comes forward with the vessel of Corn, 
 and, scattering it on the stone, says: 
 
 I scatter this corn as an emblem of plenty. May the blessings of 
 bounteous Heaven be showered upon us and upon all like patriotic 
 and benevolent undertakings, and inspire the hearts of the people 
 with virtue, wisdom, and gratitude. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. 
 
 The Senior Grand. Warden then comes forward with the vessel of 
 Wine, and pours it upon the stone ; saying, 
 
Xayijig Toivnclation-S tones. 101 
 
 I pour this wine as an emblem of joy and gladness. May the Great 
 Ruler of the Universe bless and prosper our national, state, and city 
 •governments, preserve the union of the States, and may it be a bond 
 of Friendship and Brotherly Lore that shall endure through all time. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. 
 
 The Junior Grand Warden then comes forward with a vessel of Oil, 
 which he pours upon the stone, saying, 
 
 I pour this oil as an emblem of peace. May its blessings abide with 
 us continually, and may the Grand Master of heaven and earth shelter 
 and protect the widow and orphan, shield and defend them from 
 trials and vicissitudes of the world, and so bestow his mercy upon the 
 bereaved, the afflicted, and the sorrowing, that they may know sor- 
 rowing and trouble no more. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. 
 
 The Grand Master, standing in front of all, and extending his 
 hands, makes the following 
 
 Invocation 
 
 May the all-botmteous Author of Nature bless the inhabitants of 
 this place with an abundance of the necessaries, conveniences and 
 ■comforts of life; assist in the erection and completion of this build- 
 ing; protect the workmen against every accident; long preserve the 
 structure from decay; and grant to ns all a supply of the ccrn of 
 .nourishment, the wine of refreshment, and the oil of Joy-. — Amen. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. 
 
 The Grand Master strikes the stone three times with the gavel, and 
 the public grand honors are given. 
 
 The~Grand Master then delivers over to the Architect the imple- 
 ments of architecture; saying, 
 
 Worthy. Sir (or Brother): Having thus, as Grand Master of Ma- 
 sons, laid the foundation stone of this structure, I now deliver these 
 implements of your profession into your hands, intrusting you with 
 the superintendence and direction of the work, having full confidence 
 In your skill and capacity to conduct the same. 
 
 14 
 
$02 Funeral Services: 
 
 The Grand Master ascends- the platform, when an appropriate An- 
 them may be sung. 
 
 The Grand Master then addresses the assembly as follows: 
 
 Men and Brethren here assembled: Be it known unto yon, that: 
 we be lawful Masons, true and faithful to the laws of our country, and 
 engaged, by solemn obligations, to erect magnificent buildings, to be- 
 serviceable to the brethren, and to fear God, the Great Architect of 
 the Universe. We have among us, concealed from the eyes of all- 
 men, secrets which cannot be divulged, and wdiieh have never been 
 found out; but these secrets are lawful and honorable, and not re- 
 pugnant to the laws of God or man, They were intrusted, in peace 
 and honor, to the Masons of ancient times, and having been faithfully 
 transmitted to us, it is our duty to convey them unimpaired to the 
 latest posterity. Unless our Craft were good, and our calling honor- 
 able, we should not have lasted for so many centuries, nor should we 
 have been honored with the patronage of so many illustrious men in 
 all ages, who have ever shown themselves ready to promote our in- 
 terests and defend us from all adversaries. We are assembled here- 
 to day in the face of you all, to build a house, ^ hich we pray God 
 may deserve to prosper, by becoming a place of concourse for good 
 men, and promoting harmony and brotherly love throughout the 
 world, till time shall be no more. — Aji^n. 
 
 Response.— So mote it be! 
 
 The Grand Chaplain then pronounces the benediction. 
 The procession returns in the same order to the place whence it 
 set out. and the Grand Lodge is closed with the usual formalities* 
 
 CHAPTER FOURTH, 
 
 Funeral Services. 
 
 This Chapter contains the ceremonies to be observed on the occa- 
 sions of Funerals. 
 
 Directions. 
 
 I. No Mason can be buried with the formalities of the Fraternity, 
 unless he has been raised to the degree of Master Mason, and is a 
 
■Ftnievctl Services. 108 
 
 'member in good standing of a regular Lodge at the time of his death ; 
 nor unless at his own request, a member of his family, or the Lodge 
 • of which he was a member. It is, however, the duty of the Master of 
 the Lodge, on the decease of a member, or sojourning brother, in regu- 
 lar standing, to ascertain if Masonic honors would be agreeable, and, 
 if so, to cause the necessary and proper Masonic arrangements to be 
 made therefor. 
 
 II. Entered Apprentices or Fellow Crafts cannot unite as Masons 
 in the funeral obsequies of a brother. 
 
 III. The Master of the Lodge having supervision of the ceremonies 
 may invite other Lodges, or their individual members, to participate 
 in the services of respect, but the entire ceremony must be under his 
 direction. 
 
 IV. If other orders or organizations unite with the Masonic Fra- 
 ternity in the burial of a Mason, the body of the deceased must be in 
 charge of the Lodge having jurisdiction, and the Masonic services at 
 the grave should succeed all other services and the Masons should 
 complate the burial 
 
 V. The pall bearers should be selected by the officiating Master 
 from among the Masons, but some of them may be the representatives 
 of other orders or organizations of which the deceased was a member; 
 they shall, however, be clothed as Masons. 
 
 VI. On funeral or burial occasions Masons should, when praticable, 
 be clothed in black, with white aprons and gloves, officers with their 
 jewels, and all with black crape upon the left arm above the elbow\ 
 In addition a piece of blue ribbon overlaid with narrow black ribbon, 
 may be worn on the lappel of the coat, according to individual taste. 
 Each one should, also, provide himself with a sprig of evergreen. 
 
 VII. The order of procession should be strictly observed as pre- 
 scribed in t his service. When the head of the procession shall arrive 
 at the place where the funeral or burial services are to be performed, 
 the column shall open order, facing inward, and the officers accord- 
 ing to rank, preceded by the Marshal and Tiler, pass through and the 
 others follow in order. When the procession is re-fofemd the usual 
 order is to be observed. The order of exercises at the grave is pre- 
 scribed in the body of the service. 
 
 The brethren being assembled at the lodge-room, (or some other 
 convenient place,) the presiding officer opens the Lodge in the third 
 degree, with the usual forms; and having stated the purpose of the 
 communication, 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 heapeth up riches, 
 and cannot tell who shall gather them. 7 ' 
 
 Master. " When he dieth he shall carry nothing away; his glory 
 shall not descend after him." 
 
 Response. '■ Naked he came into the world, and naked he must 
 return." 
 
 Master. "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away: blessed 
 be the name of the Lord !" 
 
lOJj. Fumerat Services: 
 
 The Master then taking the roll in his- hand, says, 
 
 "Let us live and die like the righteous, that our last end may be; 
 like his !" 
 
 The Brethren answer, God is our God for ever and ever ; he will be 
 our guide even unto death !" 
 
 The Master then records the name and age of the deceased upom 
 the roU, and says, 
 
 " Almighty Father ! in thy hands we leave with humble submission 
 the soul of our deceased Brother." 
 
 The Brethren answer three times, (giving the grand honors eacb 
 time,) 
 
 " The will of God is accomplished ! So mote it be. Amen." 
 
 The Master then deposits the roll vet the archives? and repeats the 
 following Prayer : 
 
 " Most glorious God ! author of all good, and giver of all mercy I 
 pour down thy blessings upon us, aud strengthen our solemn engage- 
 ments with the ties of sincere affection! May the present instance of 
 mortality remind us of our approaching fate, and draw our attention 
 toward thee, the only refuge in time of need! that, when the awful 
 moment shall arrive, that we are about to quit this transitory scene, 
 the enlivening prospect of thy mercy, through the Redeemer, may 
 dispel the gloom of death; and after our departure hence in peace y 
 and in thy favor, may we be received into thine everlasting kingdom, 
 to enjoy, in union with the souls of our departed friends, the just re- 
 ward of a pious and virtuous life. Amen." 
 
 A procession is then formed, which moves to the house of the de- 
 ceased, and thence to the place of interment. 
 
 Order of Procession, 
 
 Tiler with a drawn Sword ; 
 
 Stewards with white Rods ; 
 
 Musicians, (if they are masons,) otherwise they follow the Tiler: 
 
Funeral Services. 105 
 
 Master Masons ; 
 Jj Senior and Junior Deacons; 
 ~ Treasurer and Secretary ; 
 ^ Senior and Junior Wardens; 
 Mark Masters ; 
 Past Masters; 
 Royal Arch Masons; 
 
 Select Masters ; 
 
 Knights Templar; 
 
 The Holy Writings, on a cushion, covered with black cloth, carried 
 
 by the oldest, (or some suitable) Member of the Lodge; 
 
 The Master; 
 
 Clergy ; 
 
 The \\"'.\\ . \\ 1: ll ' lie , I 'J II 1 \<~ I'- ,1 1 hereon, 
 
 Pall Bearers. K^f Pall Bearers, 
 
 When the procession arrives at the church yard, the members of the 
 Lodge form a circle around the grave; and the clergymen and officers 
 of the Lodge take their station at the head of the grave, and the 
 mourners at the foot. The service is resumed, and the following Ex- 
 hortation is given: 
 
 " Here we view a striking instance of the uncertainty of life, and 
 the vanity of all human pursuits. The last offices paid to the dead, 
 are only useful as lectures to the living:— from them we are to derive 
 instruction, and to consider every solemnity of this kind as a summons 
 to prepare for our approaching dissolution. 
 
 "Notwithstanding the various mementos of mortality, with which 
 we daily meet; notwithstanding Death has established his empire over 
 all the works of nature; yet, through some unaccountable infatua- 
 tion, we forget that w r e 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 with the approach of Death, 
 when we least expect him, and at an hour which we probably con- 
 clude to be the meridian of our existence. 
 
 " What are all the externals of majesty, the pride of wealth, or 
 charms of beauty, when Nature has paid her just debt ? — Fix your 
 eyes on the last scene, and view life stript of her ornaments, and ex- 
 
106 Funeral Services. 
 
 posed in her natural meanness; you will then be convinced of the 
 futility of those empty delusions. In the grave, all fallacies are de- 
 tected, all ranks are leveled, and all distinctions are dona away. 
 
 '• While we drop the sympathetic tear over the grave of our de- 
 ceased frieDd, let charity incline us to throw a veil over his foibles, 
 whatever they may have been, and not withhold from his memory the 
 praise that his virtues may have claimed. Suffer the apologies of 
 human nature to plead in his behalf. Perfection on earth has never 
 been attained; — the wisest, as well as the best of men, have erred. 
 
 " Let the present example excite our most serious thoughts, and 
 strengthen our iesolutions of amendment. As life is uncertain, and 
 all earthly pursuits are vain, let us no longer postpone the all-impor- 
 tant concern of preparing for eternity; but embrace the happy mo- 
 ment, while time and opportunity offer, to provide against the great 
 change, when all tl.e pleasures of this world shall cease to delight, 
 and the reflections of a virtuous and holy life yield the only comfort 
 and consolation. Thus our expectations will not be frustrated, nor 
 we hurried unprepared into the presence of an all-wise and powerful 
 Judge, to whom the secrets of all hearts are known. 
 
 " Let us, while iu this state of existence, support with propriety 
 the character of our profession, advert to the nature of our solemn 
 ties, and pursue with assiduity the sacred tenets of our order. Then, 
 with becoming reverence, let us seek the favor of the Eternal God, 
 through the merits of his Son our Saviour, so that when the awful 
 moment of death arrives, be it soon or late, we may be enabled to 
 prosecute our journey without dread or apprehension, to that far dis- 
 tant country, whence no traveller returns " 
 
 The following invocations are then made by the Master: 
 
 Master. "May we be true and faithful; and may we live and die 
 in love !" 
 
 Answer. " So mote it be." 
 
 Master. " May we profess what is good, and always act agreeably 
 to our profession !" 
 
 Answer. " So mote it be." 
 
 Master. "May the Lord bless us and prosper us, and may all our 
 good intentions be crowned with success !" 
 Answer. " So mote it be." 
 
 Master. "Glory be to God in the highest; on earth peace ! good 
 will towards men !" 
 
Funeral Services. 107 
 
 Answer. ''So mote it be, now, from henceforth, and for evermore. 
 Amen." 
 
 The apron is taken off the coffin and handed to the Master — the 
 coffin is deposited in the grave — and the Master says: 
 
 " This Lamb Skin, or white leather Apron, is an emblem of Inno- 
 cence, and the badge of a Mason, more ancient than the golden fleece 
 or Roman eagle; more honorable than the star and garter, when 
 worthily worn. [The Master then deposits it in the grate] This em- 
 blem I now deposit in the grave of our deceased Brother. By this we 
 are reminded of the universal dominion of Death. The arm of Friend- 
 ship cannot oppose the King of Terrors nor the charms of innocence 
 elude his grasp. This grave, that coffin, this circle of mourning 
 friends, remind us that we, too, are mortal: soon shall our bodies 
 moulder to dust. Then how important for us that we should 
 know that our Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter 
 day upon the Earth. [The Master holding the evergreen in his hand, 
 continues.] This evergreen is an emblem ot our faith in the immortal- 
 ity of the soul. By this we are reminded that we have an immortal 
 part within us, which shall survive the grave, and which shall never, 
 never, never die. Though like our Brother, whose remains now lie 
 before us, we shall soon be clothed in the habiliments of Death and 
 deposited in the silent tomb, yet, through the mediation of a divine 
 and ascended Saviour, we may confidently hope that our souls will 
 blooui in Eternal Spring." 
 
 The brethren then move in procession around the place of inter- 
 ment, and severally drop the sprig of evergreen into the grave; after 
 which, the public grand honors are given. 
 
 The Master then continues the ceremony at the grave, in the follow- 
 ing w T ords: 
 
 "From time immemorial, it has been the custom among the frater- 
 nity of Free and Accepted Masons, at the request of a brother, to ac- 
 company his remains to the place of interment, and there to deposit 
 them with the usual formalities. 
 
 " In conformity to this usage, and at the request of our deceased 
 brother,* whose memory we revere, and whose loss we now deplore, 
 we have assembled in the character of masons, to offer up to hi s 
 
 *If the request is made by the family of the deceased, or Lodge to which 
 he belonged, the Master should change the language in reading accord- 
 ingly. 
 
108 Funeral Services. 
 
 memory, before the world, the last tribute of our affection ; thereby 
 demonstrating the sincerity of our past esteem for him, and our steady 
 attachment to the principles of the order. 
 
 " The great Creator having b?en pleased, out of his infinite mercy, to 
 remove our brother from the cares and troubles of a transitory existence, 
 to a state of eternal duration, and thereby to weaken the chain by 
 which we are united man to man; may we, who survive him, antici- 
 pate our approaching fate, and be more strongly cemented in the ties 
 of union and friendship; that, during the short space allotted to our 
 present existence, we may wisely and usefully employ our time; and, 
 in the reciprocal intercourse of kind and friendly ac:s, mutually pro- 
 mote the welfare and happiness of each other. 
 
 " Unto the grave we have resigned the body of our deceased brother, 
 earth to earth, dust to dust, ashes to ashes, there to remain until the 
 trump shall sound on the resurrection morn. We can cheerfully leave 
 him in the hands of a Being who has clone all things well; who is 
 glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders Then let us 
 all so improve this solemn warning, that on the great day of account 
 we may receive from the compassionate Judge, the welcome invita- 
 tion, " Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared 
 for you from the foundation of the world." 
 
 " So mote it be. Amen." 
 
 "Almighty and eternal God, in whom we live, and move and have 
 our being— and before whom all men must appear in the judgment 
 clay to give an account of their deeds in life; we, who are daily ex- 
 posed to flying shafts of death, and now surrouud the grave of our 
 fallen brother; most earnestly beseech thee to impress deeply on our 
 minds the solemnities of this day, as well as the lamentable occurrence 
 that has occasioned them. Here may we be forcibly reminded, that, 
 in the midst of life we are in death, and that whatever elevation of 
 character we may have attained; however upright and square the 
 course we have pursued ; yet shortly must we all submit as victims of 
 its destroying power, and endure the humbling level of the tomb, until 
 the last loud trump shall sound the summons of our resurrection from 
 motality and corruption. 
 
 "May we have thy divine assistance, O merciful God, to redeem 
 our misspent time; and in the discharge of the important duties thou 
 hast assigned us in the erection of our moral edifice, may we have 
 tcisclom from on high to direct us, strength commensurate with our task 
 to support us, and the "beauty of holiness to adorn and render all our 
 performances acceptable in thy sight; and when our work is clone, 
 and our bodies mingle with the mother earth, may our souls, disen- 
 
Funeral Services. 109 
 
 gaged from their cumbrous dust, flourish aud bloom in eternal day; 
 and enjoy that rest which thou hast prepared for all good and faith- 
 ful servants, in that spiritual house, not made with hands, eternal in 
 the heavens, through the great Redeemer. Amen." 
 " So mote it be. Amen." 
 
 The procession then returns in form to the place whence it set out, 
 where the necessary duties are complied with, and the Lodge is closed 
 in the third degree. 
 
 Note. If the Grand Master attends, and presides at any ceremony, 
 it is said to be performed in ample form ; — if a subordinate officer of 
 the Grand Lodge, in due form , — if vested in the Master of a subordi- 
 nate Lodge, in form. 
 
 15 
 
INSTALLATION OF GRAND OFFICERS. 
 
 At the hour appointed for the installation of the officers of the 
 Grand Lodge, the installing- officer (who should be the retiring Grand 
 Master, the actual Grand Master of another jurisdiction, or a Past 
 Grand Master,) will assume the Chair and call to order, and announce 
 the business before the Grand Lodge. The officers to be installed 
 will then vacate their places respectively, and substitutes will be ap- 
 pointed for the occasion. The Grind Master and the other Grand 
 Officers elect to be installed, will be in waiting in an adjoining 
 apartment. 
 
 The announcement of the Installing Officer may be in the following 
 form : 
 
 Brethren: Your Grand Master and other Grand Officers for the 
 ensuing year having been duly elected, we are now in readiness to 
 perform the ceremony of installation. The Grand Marshal will an- 
 nounce to them that we are waiting to receive them. 
 
 The Grand Marshal then retires, and, on his return, reports: 
 
 Most Worshipful: The Grand Master, and other Grand Officers 
 elect, are without in readiness to be installed into office when it is 
 your pleasure to receive them. 
 
 Installing Officer. The Grand Marshal will admit them and 
 conduct them to the East before the altar. (Any objection to the in- 
 stallation must now be made.) 
 
 As they enter the room, the Grand Lodge is called up by the In- 
 stalling Officer in the usual manner, and remains standing. 
 
 The Grand Marshal conducts them to the altar in procession, two 
 and two, in order of rank — the Grand Master elect and the Deputy 
 Grand Master being first. He then says: 
 
 Most Worshipful, the Grand Officers elect are before you, and await 
 your pleasure. I have the honor to present to you for installation 
 
 Brother , who has been duly elected Grand Master of 
 
 Masons of the State of North Carolina, for the ensuing year. 
 
 Installing Officer. (To the Grand Master elect.) My Brother, the 
 exalted station to which the free choice of your brethren has called 
 
112 Installation of Grand Officers. 
 
 you, involves great responsibilities, and requires to be inaugurated by 
 solemn sanctions. It elevates you to a position from which the power 
 and prerogative may depart with the expiration of your term of ser- 
 vice, but the honor and dignity, except by your own act, never. 
 Have you been instructed in the secret rites and ceremonies apper- 
 taining to the high office of Grand Master of Masons preparatory to 
 your installation, and by which you may acquire and forever retain 
 the evidence of your rank among Masons? 
 
 Grand Master elect. I have not. 
 
 Ins. Off. My brother, it will be necessary for you to retire and re- 
 ceive those instructions from our Most Worshipful Past Grand Mas- 
 ters here present, who will escort you. And as we are now upon the 
 threshold of a great and important undertaking, Masonic teachings 
 require that we should bow in solemn prayer witli our Grand Chap- 
 lain. 
 
 Grand Chaplain. Brethren, let us pray I ****** * 
 
 Ins. Off. The Most Worshipful Brethren, Past Grand Masters 
 present, will now retire with the Grand Master elect, and give him 
 the suitable instruction in the manner known to them only, prelimi- 
 nary to the further ceremonies of installation. Brethren will be 
 seated. 
 
 He then calls "down." and the Grand Officers elect, other than the 
 Grand Master, are provided with seats near the altar. The Past Grand 
 Masters retire to some suitable apartment and engage in the proper 
 ceremonies w T ith the Grand Master elect. When this is done they re- 
 turn, having previously given notice of their approach by the Grand 
 Marshal. Upon their entrance the Grand Lodge is again called up, 
 and alter they have arrived near the East, one of their number says: 
 
 " Most Worshipful, our distinguished brother having been duly in- 
 structed by us, is now prepared to assume his installation vows " 
 
 Ins. Off. It is well; and with pleasure do we now proceed in our 
 further service. Grand Marshal, you will conduct our brother to the 
 altar, to take upon himself the obligation appertaining to the duties 
 of his office. 
 
 The Grand Marshal conducts him to the altar, where he kueels, the 
 acting Grand Deacons holding their rods crossed over his head. The 
 Installing Officer then administers the oath of office, the Grand Mas 
 ter elect repeating after him, as follows: 
 
 '•I solemnly promise, upon the honor of a Mason, that, in the office 
 of » I will, according to the best of 
 
Installation of Grand Officers. 113 
 
 my abilities, strictly comply with the laws and regulations of this 
 Grand Lodge and other ancient masonic usages." 
 
 He then rises and the Grand Marshal conducts him near the chair of 
 the Installing Officer. 
 
 Ins. Off. Most Worshipful Brother — (for from henceforth you are 
 entitled thus to be bailed) — in inducting you to your chair of office as 
 a symbol of the commencement of your government over the Craft, I 
 am performing a most solemn duty. By immemorial usage and the 
 irrevocable landmarks of Masonry, you are invested as Grand Master 
 of Masons, with powers and prerogatives which are well nigh abso- 
 lute. The interests of the craft, for weal or wo, are placed in your 
 hands during your term of office. The good resolutions, which I 
 doubt not that you have formed in your own mind that these powers 
 shall not be abused or perverted by you, I would gladly strengthen by 
 a word of admonition, which it will not become one henceforth to 
 utter. The very consciousness of the possession of a great power will 
 ever make a generous mind cautious and gentle in its exercise. To rule 
 has been the lot of many, and requires neither strength of intellect, 
 nor soundness of judgment ; to rule well has been the fortune of but 
 few, and may well be the object, of all honorable ambition. It is not 
 by the strong arm or the iron will, that obedience and order, the 
 chief requisites of good government, are secured, but by holding the 
 key to the hearts of men. 
 
 The office of Grand Master is of great antiquity and respect, and is 
 one of the highest dignities to which we may aspire. Its incumbent, 
 to rule well, should possess and practice several important requisites. 
 As a man, he should be of approved integrity and irreproachab'e 
 morals; freed from the dominion of hasty temper and ill-governed 
 passions; of good repute in the world, and practicing, as an example 
 to the craft, the cardinal virtues of Temperance, Fortitude, Prud- 
 ence, and Justice. As a citizen, he should be loyal to his government, 
 obedient to its laws, prompt in the duties he owes to society, and a 
 pattern of fidelity in all social and domestic relations. As a Mason, 
 he should cling to the old landmarks, and be sternly opposed to their 
 infringement; be proficient in the law T s, language, and literature of 
 the fraternity; be desirous to learn, and apt to teach; though not for 
 the time a workman, yet be master of the work and qualified to earn 
 his wages; be prompt to aid and relieve, and slow to demand it; be 
 ever mindful that, though elevated for a time above his fellows, 
 he is elevated by them, and that he is yet a craftsman, more sacredly 
 bound by a craftman's obligation ; and that he should cultivate every- 
 
llJf Installation of Grand Officers. 
 
 where, and at all times, the golden tenets of Brotherly Love, "Relief, 
 and Truth. As an officer, he should remember, first of all, that he is 
 an individual mason, sharing in that respect a common lot with his 
 brethren, and, therefore, interested in the welfare of each and all; be 
 devoid of undue ostentation and haughty overbearing; be accessible 
 to all ; cultivating the closest friendship and the most unlimited con- 
 fidence with his associate officers; be eager to take counsel with his 
 brethren, and ready to give it; be patient in investigation and hear- 
 ing; be deliberate in judgment ; be prompt in execution ; be forbearing 
 long and much with evil-doers; be ready to reward good ; be devoid of 
 favoritism and wholly impartial; be watchful over the treasury; hav- 
 ing an eagle eye upon every portion of his jurisdiction; and breasting 
 over the restless spirit of innovation. Such are some of the most im- 
 portant qualifications which a Grand Master should possess, and the 
 leading errors which he should avoid. It may be that most, if not 
 all, your predecessors have failed to reach this standard, but it is at- 
 tainable; and be it your purpose to reach it, and be a bright and 
 shining example to those who shall come after you! It now but re- 
 mains for me to clothe you with the external insiguia of your rank 
 and authority. I now with pleasure invest you with this jewel of your 
 office, whose symbolic meaning will now have a new and striking sig- 
 nificance to you. (Presents the jewel.) I also present you with this 
 gavel as the potent emblem of Masonic power, which, in your hands, 
 should never be sounded in vain. (Presents the gavel.) I now sur- 
 render to you this seat of authority. (Conducts him to the chair.) 
 And render you this, the first act of homage due to you as Grand 
 Master. 
 
 The Grand Master having been covered on taking the chair, the 
 Installing Officer uncovers and bows. 
 
 Ins. Off. I now hail, salute, and proclaim you Grand Master of 
 Masons of the State of North Carolina ! Brethren, behold your Grand 
 Master ! 
 
 Senior Grand Warden: Brethren, behold our Grand Master! 
 
 Junior Grand Warden: Brethren, behold our Grand Master! 
 
 The brethren, with their arms crossed * * * * and then all, 
 under the direction of the Installing Officer, salute with the public 
 grand honors. 
 
 The retiring Grand Master may then address his newly installed 
 successor and brethren, and the Grand Master may, if he chooses, also 
 address the Grand Lodge. If he does not wish to do so he may call 
 down, and the brethren remain seated during the remainder of the in- 
 
Installation of Grand Officers. 115 
 
 stallation, except "when called up during the obligations. It will be 
 proper for the Grand Master here to announce the names of the ap- 
 pointed officers that they may be installed with the rest. 
 
 In the case of the re-election of a Grand Master the preceding cere 
 mony will be omitted, except that he he conducted near the chair, the 
 charge given him, invested with the jewel and gavel, inducted and 
 saluted as above directed, so in the case of any other officer being re- 
 elected, he will be invested, and given the charge only. The Grand 
 Master then proceeds with the installation of the remaining officers, 
 or he may place the Installing officer again in the chair, delivering 
 him, without ceremony, the gavel and jewel. 
 
 Ins. Off. Grand Marshal, will you now present the Deputy Grand 
 Master elect, (or appointed) for installation. 
 
 Grand Marshal. Most Worshipful: I have the pleasure to pre- 
 sent to you for installation, Brother , who has been duly 
 
 elected (or apjoointed) to the office of Deputy Grand Master. 
 
 The foregoing address of the Installing Officer, and presentation by 
 the Grand Master, may be used for all the remaining officers, simply 
 changing the name and title of the officer. It may, also, be used for 
 the Grand Marshal, when re-elected. The order of the Installing Of- 
 ficer, next following, will be omitted wheu the officer to be installed 
 has been re-elected. 
 
 Ins. Off. Grand Marshal, you will conduct our brother to the 
 altar to take upon himself the obligation appertaining to the duties 
 of his office. 
 
 The Grand Marshal conducts him to the altar, when he kneels, and 
 is attended by the Grand Deacons, as in the case of the Grand Mas- 
 ter, and takes the same obligation, with the change of name and de- 
 signation of office. 
 
 Ins. Off. Right Worshipful Brother, you have not been an inat- 
 tentive observer of the ceremony of installing the Most Worshipful 
 Grand Master, for you are aware that, in case of his incapacity to act 
 in contingencies mentioned in our constitutions, you succeed to his 
 duties and prerogatives, as you do, also, when acting as his substitute 
 in any matters specially delegated to you. Your office, therefore, is 
 one of great dignity and importance, and it was in view of these con- 
 siderations that our Most Worshipful Grand Master selected you to 
 fill it. Treasure up, therefore, the suggestions made to the Most 
 Worshipful Grand Master, for you know not how soon they may have 
 a personal application to you ; and remember also, that usage, as well 
 as our particular regulations, has placed you in the most intimate 
 and confidential relations to him, as supporter and counsellor. I now. 
 
116 Installation of Grand Officers- 
 
 with pleasure, proceed to invest you with your jewel of office (gives 
 it,) and proclaim you Deputy Grand Master of Masons of the State of 
 North Carolina. You will now be seated in your place, which is at 
 the right hand of the Most Worshipful Grand Master. 
 
 Before lie is seated the Installing Officer calls up the Grand Lodge 
 and the Deputy Grand Master is saluted with the grand honors 
 
 The others of the first six elective Grand Officers are presented in 
 like manner as the Deputy Grand Master, but without being saluted 
 with the grand honors, the Wardens taking the same obligation. The 
 charges to the remainiae officers installed are as follows: 
 
 To the Senior Grand Warden. 
 
 Right Worshipful Brother, the position which you occupy in the Grand 
 Lodge, and among the fraternity, is one of no little importance. In 
 the Grand Lodge, to control practically the admission of all visitors, 
 to announce specially tho c e who are of rank or eminence, and to aid 
 in the preservation of order, and at all times to render counsel and 
 advice to the Grand Master, are high and responsible duties, requiring 
 circumspection, vigilence and reflection; but when to these is super- 
 added the more onerous labor, in conjunction with the Junior Grand 
 Warden, of diligently preserving the ancient landmarks throughout 
 the jurisdiction, it then becomes a trust of deep moment to the wel- 
 fare of the craft. Your fitness for the discharge of such a trust un- 
 doubtedly led to your selection for the office by your brethren, and it 
 will be your duty and pleasure so to act as to justify their confidence. 
 In investing you with the jewel of your office, and directing you to 
 the place of your immediate official action in the West, I am perform- 
 ing a grateful duty. 
 
 To the Junior Grand Warden. 
 
 Right Worshipful Brother, as the duties of your office and the qualifi- 
 cations for it are almost identical with those of the Senior Grand 
 Warden, except as it respects the introduction of visitors, I will only 
 add to the charge given to that officer, that you be equally vigilant 
 and circumspect, not only at your station in the Grand Lodge, but in 
 the broader field of action without, dividing with him his labors and 
 taking due care that the great object of your united solicitude shall 
 remain inviolate. Accept the jewel of your office, and repair to the 
 South, being ever watchful, whether in labor, or at refreshment, that 
 the liigli-ticehe of observation does not find you with your work, and 
 that of the Craft you superintend, unperformed. 
 
Installation of Grand Officers. 117 
 
 To the Grand Treasurer, 
 
 Plight Worshipful Brother, in intrusting you with the books and funds 
 ■of the Grand Lodge, as appertaining to your office, I am but their or- 
 gan in placing them in your possession, as one well qualified to keep 
 and manage them, as your past integrity, accuracy and prompt busi- 
 ness habits testify, an appreciation of which has been evinced by their 
 choice of you as G land Treasurer. The keys forming the jewel of 
 your cifice have a two-fold significar-ce. They are instruments to bind 
 as well as to loose; to make fast as well as to open. They will never, 
 I am confident, be used by you in any other manner than the consti- 
 tution r.r.d laws, rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge, shall 
 direct. 
 
 To the Grand Secretary. 
 
 Right Worshipful Brother, usage, as well as positive enactments from 
 time to time, has rendered the duties of the office of Grand Secretary 
 more onerous and varied than that of any other officer. Brought by 
 his official position more immediately into communication with the 
 whole body of the fraternity, it is requisite that be should possess 
 ability, skill ar.d industry to meet the various demands upon him. 
 Placed in a position where he holds almost constant correspondence 
 with our Masonic brethren in every State and country, upon him de- 
 volve, in a large degree, the good name and credit of the Masonic 
 family of this State The fraternity should enable him to maintain 
 it ; he should strive that it be maintained Courtesy and patience are 
 to be elements in his manners and character. Vigilance and fidelity 
 must, also, be necessary qualities. Our constitutions, my brotber, 
 point out to you fully the duties of your office, and 1 will not recapit- 
 ulate them. Your capability for their prompt and faithful execution 
 has induced your brethren to confide this trust to you, and I feel as- 
 sured that it is well placed. In investing you with your official jewel, 
 the pens, I am persuaded that they will make an endearing record, 
 not only to your praise, but to the welfare of a craft so largely depen- 
 dent upon your experience and integrity. 
 
 To the Grand Chaplain. 
 
 Reverend and Worshipful Brother, that Holy Book, which is the 
 chart and text-book of your sacred calling, is also the great light of 
 Masonry, and forever sheds its benignant rays upon every lawful assem- 
 blage of Free and Accepted Masons. Teach us from its life-giving 
 precepts ; intercede for us with that Divine majesty which it so fully 
 reveals and unfolds to us; and warn us by its lessons of infinite wis- 
 dom and truth, and you will have faithfully performed your sacred 
 10 
 
118 Installation of Grand Ofji'cer-s,- 
 
 functions, and fulfilled your important trust. It is titling that am 
 emblem of the sacred volume should be the jewel of your office, with, 
 which I now invest you. 
 
 To the Grand Lecturer. 
 
 Brother, the care and preservation of our ancient ritual, and the- 
 perpetuation of the time-honored landmarks embraced in it, and 
 which may not be written, devolve upon you, and as that ritual has 
 enshrined within it, in symbol and allegory, certain great and essen- 
 tial moral truths, yon should be as perfect in the symbolism as in the 
 mere formula of language which teaches us how our rites are to be 
 administered. As Grand Lecturer, also, you should be master of the 
 ceremonial observances of the fraternity, and give instructions in the 
 manner of rendering them most striking and effective. You are the 
 preceptor of the fraternity, and your deportment should be consistent 
 with the nature of your office-work. For upon your teachings depend 
 not only the uniformity and perpetuity, but the character and impres- 
 siveness of our rites, and they should be imparted, both by oral com- 
 munication and example. On no point are the craft so punctilious 
 and exacting as upon the beauty and accuracy of the work and lec- 
 tures; hence, many eyes will be upon you. A courteous manner, an 
 unwearied patience and a diligent application, are requisites for your 
 place, and no rash or innovating hand will be tolerated in your depart 
 ment of labor. 
 
 In installing you into office and p;esenting your jewel, I am happy 
 to be enabled to say that your established skill and learning, and your 
 ability to undergo the constitutional tests, have proved you to be a 
 Master workman-. 
 
 To the Grand Deacons. 
 Brothers, as messengers of the Grand Officers, and as useful assis- 
 tants in our ceremonies, your respective official positions are of great 
 value and importance to the comfort and good order of the Grand 
 Lodge. Vigilance and zeal are necessary requisites of your offices, 
 and we know that you possess them. As Senior and Junior Grand 
 Deacons of this Grand Lodge, you are now invested with the jewels 
 of office, together with these rods as tokens of your authority. 
 
 To the Grand Marshal. 
 Brother, the duties of your office require energy, activity and quick- 
 ness of perception. The good order of the fraternity, in its general 
 assemblies and processions, depends upon your care, skill, and assi- 
 
Installation of Grand Officers- 129 
 
 duity. Possessing these qualifications, you have been appointed 
 Grand Marshal, and I now with pleasure, instal you into office, an:l 
 invest you with your appropriate jewel. It denotes command, as the 
 •organ of the Grand Master, ami you will be near at hand to execute 
 his orders. 
 
 To the Grand Sword Bearer. 
 
 Brother, the sword which you bear is the time honored symbol of 
 Justice and authority. It reminds the beholder of the dignity of the 
 hotly whose emblem it is. It is. also, the guardian and protector of 
 the standard of the Grand Lodge. Be ever faithful to your tru^t. 
 Let this jewel of your office remind you of its nature. 
 
 To the Grand Pursuivant. 
 
 Brother, you are to act as the messenger of the Grand Lodge, and 
 the herald to announce the approach of visitors and strangers. In so 
 doing, possess yourself of the necessary information and announce 
 their rank and position properly, and exercise a. Bound discretion, so 
 as not to interfere with its labors Be cautious and vigilant, that no 
 improper person may gain admittance. You, also, have in your keep- 
 ing the clothing and jewels of the Grand officers, which you should 
 be careful to keep in a good condition, and neatly and orderly ar- 
 ranged for use at all times. Receive your emblem of office and repair 
 to your station inside the door. 
 
 To the Grand Standard Bearer. 
 
 Brother, your duty is to carry and uphold the banner of the Grand 
 Lodge on occasions of ceremony and public procession. The emblems 
 upon it are as ancient as the inarch of the children of Israel from 
 bondage, and the ark is the symbol of hope and safety. Bear them 
 well aloft, for the world, as well as the craft, ever honors them. Re- 
 ceive the jewel of your office, and let it remind you that you are never 
 to part with that standard, when under your care, while you have life 
 to defend it. 
 
 To the Grand Stewards. 
 Brothers, in olden times your province was to superintend and pro^ 
 vide for the festivals of the craft, and that duty still remains to you, 
 although there is rarely occasion for its exercise. But we are taught 
 that "it is better to go to the house of mourning than to the house of 
 feasting," and hence in you has been appropriately imposed the dis- 
 pensation of our beneficent charities. That it is a grateful duty all 
 
120 Installation of Grand Officers* 
 
 hearts testify, and we know that yours most fully responds to it. Re- 
 ceive the jewels of your office, together with the white rods. 
 
 To the Grand Tiler. 
 
 Brother, the importance of the duties of your place cannot be over- 
 rated. Care and watchfulness are indispensably requisite, and in all. 
 cases, unless thoroughly satisfied with the character and identity of 
 those desiring admittance, let your doubts prevail. Ours is a sanc- 
 tuary, intrusted to you faithfully and vigilantly to guard, and you 
 have always at hand the means of being fully satisfied. Irreparable 
 injury might result from a negligent or careless discharge of your 
 duty. Your station is ever outside the door, to which you will 
 now repair with this jewel, and, also, with this implement of your 
 office (giving a sword). 
 
 The several officers now being duly installed, the Installing Officer 
 will retire, after surrendering the jewel and gavel to the Grand Mas- 
 ter. It will be proper and expedient before doing so, to have an ap- 
 propriate ode or piece of music sung. 
 
 Grand Master. Grand Marshal, I now declare the several officers 
 of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of North Carolina 
 duly installed into office, for the ensuing year, in ample form. You 
 will cause proclamation to be made in the South, West and East. 
 
 Ths Junior Grand Deacon proclaims in the South, the Senior Grand 
 Deacon in the West, and the Grand Marshal in the East r each as fob 
 lows, the Grand Lodge being called up; 
 
 By order of the Most Worshipful Grand Master, and by authority 
 of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons 
 of the State of North Carolina, I proclaim that its Grand Officers are 
 now duly installed in ample form. So mote it be! 
 
 The Grand Lodo-e is called down. 
 
FORMS 
 
 No. i. — Petition for a Dispensation. 
 
 To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ancient 
 
 Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina: 
 
 The Undersigned Petitioners being Free and Accepted Master Masons 
 iu good standing, having the prosperity of the Fraternity at heart, 
 and willing to exert their best endeavors to promote and diffuse the 
 genuine principles of Freemasonry, and for the convenience of their 
 respective dwellings; and other good reasons, respectfully represent : 
 
 That they are desirous of forming a new Lodge at , in the 
 
 County of , (which is miles from the nearest Lodge in this 
 
 Grand jurisdiction,) to be named . 
 
 They, therefore, pray for a Dispensation to empower them to assem- 
 ble as a regular Lodge, to discharge the duties of Masonry in a regu- 
 lar and constitutional manner, according to the ancient forms of the 
 order and the regulations of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 They have nominated, and do recommend Brother , to be the 
 
 first Master, Brother , to be the first Senior Warden, Brother 
 
 to be the first Junior Warden, of said Lodge. 
 
 If the prayer of this petition shall be granted, they promise a strict 
 conformity to the edicts of the Grand Master, and the constitution 
 and laws of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 (Signatures.) 
 
 To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ancient 
 
 Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina: 
 
 It is hereby certified that, at a Communication of Lodge 
 
 No. — , held on the day of , A. D., 18 , A. L., 58 , 
 
 the foregoing petition was presented, and the petitioners were recom- 
 mended to the Grand Master as Master Masons in good standing. 
 
 It is further certified, that Brother , who is recommended as 
 
 Master, Brother • , who is recommended as Senior Warden, and 
 
 Brother , who is recommended as Junior Warden, of the pro- 
 
122 Forms. 
 
 posed new Lodge, did appear in open Lodge, were duly examined 
 and exhibited due skill and proficiency in the ritual and laws of Ma- 
 sonry. 
 
 Witness our hands and seal of the Lodge, this day of 
 
 , A, D., 18 , A. L., 58 . 
 
 , Master. 
 
 ■ , Secretary. 
 
 Note. — The petition must he signed by at least seven Master Ma- 
 sons in good standing, in their own hand-writing. 
 
 If the locality of the proposed new Lodge is within ten miles of the 
 usual place of meeting of a chartered Lodge in this Grand Jurisdic- 
 tion, the special reasons for the application for a Dispensation, in ad- 
 dition to those mentioned in the petition, must be stated. See Arti- 
 cle X of Constitution, page 10. 
 
 The petitioners must be recommended by the chartered Lodge in 
 this Grand Jurisdiction, nearest the place designated for the meetings 
 of the proposed Lodge. See Article VI of By-Laws of Grand Lodge, 
 Section 1. 
 
 If the petitioners are members of Lodges, their dimits must be ob- 
 tained and forwarded with the petition. If any of them are not mem 
 hers of Lodges certificates must Lie furnished. The following provis- 
 ion of law should be observed. Sec. 2, of Article VI of By-Laws, 
 page 22: 
 
 The Dimits of petitioners for a Dispensition for a new Lodge must 
 accompany the petition. When a Lodge has forfeited its charter and 
 sent its records to the Grand Secretary, the former members of such 
 Lodge, before uniting with another Lodge, or petitioning for a Dis- 
 pensation for a new Lodge, shall be provided by the Grand Secretary 
 with a certificate of their having formerly belonged to such Lodge, 
 on receipt, by him, of all dues shown by such records to be owing by 
 them to their former Lodge. 
 
 Ten dollars must accompany the petition, that being the amount 
 required by Section 1, Article VI of By-Laws, for a Dispensation. 
 
 Sec. 3. of Article VI of By-Laws, requiring the skill and proficiency 
 of the Master and Wardens of the proposed Lodge, should be strictly 
 complied with. 
 
 Article X of the Constitution, and Article VI of the By-Laws relate 
 to the establishment of Lodges and special attention is directed to 
 them. 
 
 No. 2. — Petition for a Charter. 
 
 To the Most 'Worshipful Grand Lodge of North Carolina: 
 
 The subscribers respectfully represent that, on the day of , 
 
 A. D. 18 , A. L. 58 , a Dispensation was issued by the Grand 
 
 Master for the establishment of a new Lodge of Ancient Free and 
 
Forms. 123 
 
 Accepted Masons at , in the County of , by the name of 
 
 Lodge, and that said Lodge has worked regularly since that 
 
 time, as appears from the transcript of its records, by-laws and re- 
 turns, herewith presented. 
 
 They pray that a charter be granted to the said Lodge, with the 
 
 following officers, to wit: Brother , Master-, Brother , 
 
 Senior Warden ;• and Brother , Junior Warden ; promising, as 
 
 heretofore, a strict conformity to the edicts of the Grand Master, and 
 Constitution and laws of the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Given under our hands on this, the day of , A. 
 
 D. 18 , A L. 58- . 
 
 (Signatures.) 
 
 [The foregoing petition must be signed by at least seven members 
 of the Lodge in their own hand writing. J 
 
 No. 3. — Petition for Degrees. 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Members of Lodge, 
 
 No. — , A. F. & A. M. : 
 
 The petition of , respectfully showeth that he entertains a 
 
 favorable opinion of your aucient institution, and desires to be made 
 a member thereof. If this, his petition, be granted, he will yield a 
 cheerful obedience to the usages and customs of Masonry. His age 
 
 is years; his vocation that of a , and his residence, 
 
 Date, . (Signature,) . 
 
 Recommended by 
 
 No. 4. — Petition for Membership. 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of Lodge, 
 
 No. — , A. F. & A. M.: 
 
 The petition. of respectfully showeth that he was lately a 
 
 member of Lodge, No. , at ; and he now prays to 
 
124 Forms. 
 
 be admitted a member of your Lodge. His age is years; his vo- 
 cation that of a , and his residence, . 
 
 (Signed.) . 
 
 Recommended by 
 
 Note. — A petition for membership rnuet be accompanied by the ap- 
 plicant's dimat. 
 
 No. 5. — Application for a Dimit. 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of Lodge, No. — . 
 
 The undersigned respectfully prays to withdraw from the member- 
 ship of your Lodge, and asks for a certificate to that effect. His mo- 
 tive for this request is . 
 
 "Note. — This application must be accompanied by a certificate from 
 the Secretary of the payment of all dues of the applicant. 
 
 No. 6. — Form of Dimit. 
 MASTER MASON'S CERTIFICATE. 
 
 To all Master Masons, to ichom these presents shall come — Greeting: 
 
 This is to Certify, That Brother is, at the date of these 
 
 presents, a Master Mason, in good and regular standing, and that hav- 
 ing paid all dues, and being free from all charges, he is at his own 
 
 request, by the vote of the Lodge, Dismissed from Membership in 
 
 Lodge, No. — , under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of North 
 Carolina. 
 
 Given under my hand and the seal of the Lodge, at , 
 
 this day of , A. D. 18 , A. L. 58 . 
 
 • , Secretary. 
 
Forms. 125 
 
 No. 7. — Petition for Restoration. 
 
 To the Master, Wardens and Members of Lodge, No. — , 
 
 A. F. &A. 31.: 
 
 The undersigned petitioner respectfully represents that he was 
 
 by your Lodge on the day of , A. D. 18 , A. L. 58 , 
 
 upon the charge of . 
 
 He now most respectfully prays to be restored to his former Ma- 
 sonic rights and privileges, and re-admitted to membership in the 
 
 Lodge, (1) for reasons following (2) , and promises, if restored, 
 
 to strictly comply with the laws and regulations of the Lodge and of 
 the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 A- B— . 
 
 (1) If the petitioner was a member of some Lodge, other than the 
 one by which he was suspended or expelled, the words " aud re-ad- 
 mitted to membership in the Lodge," will be omitted. 
 
 (2) The reasons should be clearly stated, and may embrace the ex- 
 pression of reformation, penitence, &c. 
 
 The petition must be presented at a regular Communication and 
 lie over one month; when it is to be acted upon the members of the 
 Lodge should be summoned to attend. 
 
 It requires a unanimous ballot of members present to restore. 
 
 No. 8. — Certificate for Widow or Orphans of a Deceased Mason, 
 
 To all to whom these presents may come — Greeting: 
 
 Know Ye, That , whose name is written in the margin, is the 
 
 of our late beloved brother, who Departed this Life, ■ ■ 
 
 and who was at the time of his death, a member, in full and regular. 
 
 standing, of Lodge, No. — , of Ancient Free and Accepted 
 
 Masons; which said Lodge was, at the time of his death, and still is, 
 working under a Charter from the Grand Lodge of North Carolina. 
 
 We would, therefore, most affectionately commend to the kindest 
 
 offices of the Masonic Brotherhood everywhere. 
 
 Issued the day of , A. D. 18 , A. L. 58 . 
 
 ■ , IF. 31. 
 
 Attest : , Secretary, 
 
 17 
 
126 Forms. 
 
 No. g. — Notice of Suspension or Expulsion. 
 
 Office of Secretary of — — Lodge, No. — , F. \ A.-. M.\, 
 
 , , A L. 58 , A D. 18 . 
 
 To the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina: 
 
 It is hereby certified, that, at a special communication of Lodge,. 
 
 No. — . held on the day of , A D. 18 , (1) Mas- 
 ter Mason, and member of (2) this Lodge, was from all the 
 
 rights and privileges of Masonry, for (3) 
 
 In testimony whereof, I hereunto affix my official signature 
 
 and the seal of the Lodge, on this day of 
 
 A. D. 18 -. 
 
 ■ ■ , Secretary. 
 
 (1) If the party be not a Master Mason erase these words and insert 
 Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft, as the case may be. 
 
 (2) If the party be non-affiliated erase the word this and insert the 
 word no. 
 
 (3) In this blank the offense should be stated, (if propriety admits), 
 so as to conform to the law of the Grand Lodije. 
 
 No. io. — Notice of Restoration. 
 
 Office of Secretary of Lodge, No. — , F.\ A.-. M. \, 
 
 , , A. L. 58 , A. D. 18- . 
 
 To the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina: 
 
 It is hereby certified, that, at a (1) communication of 
 
 Lodge, No. — , held on the day of , A D. 18 , Brother 
 
 , a (2) Master Mason, was restored to all the rights and privi- 
 leges of Masonry and re-admitted to membership in this Lodge. 
 
 In testimony whereof I hereunto affix my official signature 
 
 and the seal of the Lodge, on this day of , 
 
 A. D. 18 . 
 
 , Secretary. 
 
 (1) Insert regular or special, as the case may be. 
 
 (2) If the brother be not a Master Mason, insert Entered Apprentice 
 or Fellow Craft, as the case may be. 
 
Forms. 127 
 
 No. ii. — Notice of Restoration— Non-Affiliated Mason. 
 
 Office of Secretary of Lodge, No. — , F.\ A. - . M. "., 
 
 , , A. L. 58 , A. D. 18 . 
 
 To the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina: 
 
 It is hereby certified. That at a (1) communication of 
 
 Lodge, No — , held on the day of , A. D. 18 , the 
 
 sentence of , rendered against Brother , a non- affiliated 
 
 Master Mason, on the day of , A. D. 18 , was removed. 
 
 In testimony whereof I hereunto affix my official signature 
 
 and the seal of the Lodge, on this day of , 
 
 A. D. 18 . 
 
 — , Secretary. 
 
 The above certificate applies to non-affiliated Masons only. 
 (1) Insert regular or special, as the case may be. 
 
 No. 12. — Abstract of Proceedings of Subordinate Lodges in Trials. 
 
 Transcript of the Proceedings of Lodge, No. — , 
 
 • in the trial of Brother 
 
 At a regular Communication of Lodge, No. — , held on the — 
 
 day of , 18 , the following charge and specifications were pre- 
 ferred in writing, over the signature of against Brother , 
 
 a Master Mason : (Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft, as the case 
 may be.) 
 
 [An exact copy of the charge and specifications should be inserted.) 
 
 Which were read in open Lodge, and ordered to be recorded in the 
 Minutes. 
 
 The Secretary was ordered to furnish the accused with a copy of 
 the charge and specifications, and notify him to appear and answer to 
 
 the same, at a Special Communication to be held on the day of 
 
 , 18 . 
 
 {At least ten days' 1 notice must always be gixen to the accused.) 
 
 A Special Communication of Lodge, No. — , was held on the 
 
 day of , 18 : Present: , W. M., , S. W., 
 
 , J. W., &c, and the following members: 
 
128 Forms. 
 
 (The names of all officers and menders present should he given.-) 
 
 The Lodge was opened on the third degree, when the Worshipful 
 Master stated the object of the Communication to he, to investigate 
 
 the charge and specifications preferred against Brother by 
 
 ■ , on the day of , 18 . 
 
 It appearing to the Lodge that the accused had been served with a 
 copy of the charge and specifications ten days previous to said meet- 
 ing, and notified to appear and answer to the same, and he being 
 present, (If the accused does not appear, although notified, the Lodge may 
 proceed to investigate the charges ex parte. In that case the record should 
 state that, " The accused not appearing, thereupon, the Lodge proceeded to 
 investigate the charges, ex parte, &c.,) and announcing his readiness 
 for trial, the charge and specifications were read in his presence, to 
 which he pleaded '• not guilty.'''' Thereupon the Lodge proceeded to 
 investigate the same. 
 
 The Worshipful Master conducted the trial on the part of the 
 Lodge, (or, appointed "brethren, A. B. and G. I) , a committee on the part 
 of the Lodge,) and Brother appeared for the accused. 
 
 Brother was then examined, who testified as follows: 
 
 Question— By . 
 
 Answer: . 
 
 (The evidence, as taken down, in questions and, ansicers, should be given 
 
 in full.) 
 
 The testimony of Brother was then read to, and approved by, 
 
 him, and ordered to be recorded in the Minutes, 
 
 [The evidence of each witness should be reported in full, in the same way.) 
 
 (If witnesses, who are not Masons, are examined, continue.) 
 
 Mr. , a non-Mason, then being offered as a witness by the 
 
 Master, (or committee on accused,) the Lodge was called from labor 
 
 to refreshment, and Mr. was introduced and testified on honor. 
 
 as follows : 
 
 (Report evidence as in other cases.) 
 
 Mr. having retired, the Lodge was called from refreshment 
 
 to labor. 
 
 Neither party having any further evidence to offer, Brother 
 
Forms. 129 
 
 was heard in defence, for was heard through his counsel,) after which 
 all who were not members of the Lodge, together with the accused, 
 retired, and the Lodge proceeded to ballot, with the following result : 
 
 {The balloting must he in accordance with the rules adopted by the Grand 
 Lodge for the government of Lodges in trials.) 
 
 Whereupon, the Worshipful Master announced that Brother , 
 
 the accused, was (give decision,) suspended or expelled, &c. 
 
 The Lodge having concluded the business for which it was called, 
 was then closed in due form. 
 
 . W. M. 
 
 , Secretary. 
 
 I, , Secretary of Lodge, No. — , A. F. and A. M., work- 
 ing under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, do 
 hereby certify that the foregoing contains a full, true and perfect 
 transcript of the proceedings of said Lodge, in the trial of Brother 
 
 , on the day of — , 18 . 
 
 In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and af- 
 
 [seal.] fixed the seal of said Lodge, this day of , A. 
 
 D. 18 , A. L., 58 . 
 
 , Secretary. 
 
FORMS OF PRAYER. 
 
 Prayer at Opening a Lodge. 
 
 Most holy and glorious Lord God, the great Architect of the Uni- 
 Yerse, the giver of all good gifts and graces: Thou hast promised 
 that, " where two or three are gathered together in thy name, thou 
 wilt be in the midst of them, and bless them." In thy name we as- 
 semble, most humbly beseeching thee to bless us in all our underta- 
 kings, that we may know and serve thee aright, and that all our ac- 
 tions may tend to thy glory, and to our advancement in knowledge 
 and virtue. And we beseech thee, O Lord God, to bless our present 
 assembling, and to illuminate our minds, through the intercession of 
 the Son of Righteousness, that we may walk in the light of thy coun- 
 tenance; and when the trials of our probationary state are over, be 
 admitted into THE TEMPLE "not made with hands, eternal in the 
 heavens." 
 
 Response iy the Brethren. — So mote it be. Amen. 
 
 Prayer at Closing a Lodge. 
 
 Supreme Architect of the Universe, accept our humble praises for 
 the many mercies and blessings which thy bounty has conferred on 
 us, and especially for this friendly and social intercourse. Pardon, 
 we beseech thee, whatever thou hast seen amiss in us since we have 
 been together; and continue to us thy presence, protection, and 
 blessing. Make us sensible of the renewed obligations we are under 
 to love thee sitpremely, and to be friendly to each other. May all our 
 irregular passions be subdued, and may we daily increase in Faith, 
 Hope, and Charity ; but more especially in that Charity which is the 
 bond of peace and the perfection of every virtue. May we so prac- 
 tice thy precepts, that, through the merits of the Redeemer, we may 
 finally obtain thy promises, and find an entrance through the gates 
 into the temple and city of our God. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. Amen. 
 
 Benediction at Closing. 
 
 May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us and all regular Masons. 
 May brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue 
 cement us. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. Amen. 
 
132 Forms of Prayer. 
 
 In addition to the prayer, it is sometimes customary to use the fol- 
 lowing-: 
 
 Charge at Closing. 
 Brethren : 
 
 We are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and vir- 
 tue, to mix again with the world. Amidst its concerns and employ- 
 ments, forget not the duties which you have heard so frequently in- 
 culcated, and so forcibly recommended in this Lodge Be diligent, 
 prudent, temperate, discreet. Remember that, around this altar, you 
 have promised to befriend and relieve every brother who shall need 
 your assistance. You have promised, in the most friendly manner, to 
 remind him of his errors, and aid a reformation. These generous 
 principles are to extend further. Every human being has a claim 
 upon your kind offices. Do good unto all. Recommend it more 
 especially "to the household of the faithful." Finally, brethren, be 
 ye all of one mind; live in peace; and may the God of love and peace 
 delight to dwell with and bless you. 
 
 Prayer at Opening the Grand Lodge. 
 
 Most holy and eternal God, author of all life and source of all light 
 and love, we have assembled in thy name and now humbly implore 
 thy presence, protection and favor. 
 
 Let thine Infinite wisdom direct us, thy servants, in the labors of 
 this Annual Communication, upon which wo are now entering, and 
 may the Spirit of Love and Unity rest upon, and abide with, us. Let 
 harmony characterize our deliberations, so that they may tend to thy 
 Glory, the welfare of our Order, and our individual good. 
 
 Let thy light and truth extend to the dark regions of the earth, 
 and thy Righteousness abound. Let all people receive the benign 
 and enlightening influences of this Institution, and enjoy the blessings 
 which it bestows. 
 
 May our brethren everywhere be under thy constant protection, and 
 their labors for good be crowned with lasting and beneficial results. 
 
 We invoke thy favor, especially, upon our Order in this Common- 
 wealth. May prosperity attend every lawful effort to promote its ob- 
 jects and extend its usefulness, and may peace and concord pervade 
 the entire brotherhood so that the principles of Masonry may be more 
 thoroughly disseminated and practiced. Accept, we beseech thee, 
 these, our humble supplications, for the honor and glory of thy most 
 holy name. Amen. 
 
 Response. — So mote it be. Amen. 
 
AN ACT 
 
 TO INCORPORATE THE 
 
 GRAND LODGE OF NORTH CAROLINA. 
 
 Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of North Carolina, 
 and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, That the Most Wor- 
 shipful Grand Master, the Eight Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, 
 Wardens and Members who are at present, or in future may be of the 
 Grand Lodge of North Carolina, be and they are hereby constituted 
 and declared to be a body corporate under the name and title of the 
 Grand Lodge of North Carolina, and by such name they shall have 
 perpetual succession and a common seal, and may sue and be sued, 
 plead and be impleaded, acquire and transfer property, and pass all 
 such By-Laws and Regulations as shall not be inconsistent with the 
 Constitution or Laws of this State or of the United States, anything 
 to the contrary notwithstanding. 
 
 Read three times and ratified in General Assembly the 20th day of 
 December, Anno Domini, 1797. 
 
 BENJAMIN SMITH, 
 
 S])eaJc£r of the Senate, 
 M, MATTHEWS, 
 Speaker of the House of Commons. 
 A true copy : 
 
 J. GLASGOW, Secretary of State. 
 
 18 
 
IN DEX 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Accounts and Claims — 
 
 committee on provided, (paragraph 4th,) 19 4 8 
 
 Amendments — 
 
 to constitution, how made 11 11 
 
 to by-laws, how made 43 22 
 
 Additions to Uniform Code, how made 38 16 9 
 
 Annual Communications of Grand Lodge — 
 
 when and where held 17 4 1 
 
 quorum 18 4 2 
 
 when and how closed 20 4 10 
 
 (See Grand Lodge.) 
 
 Appeals and Grievances — 
 
 how made and disposed of 32 13 8 
 
 proceedings regulating appeals ... 35 14 7 
 
 appeal from judgment of committee of arbitration 
 
 in Lodges 39 16 21 
 
 Appeal from decision of Master of Lodge 40 17 1 
 
 Assistant to Grand Secretary — 
 
 Grand Secretary to appoint 16 1 19 
 
 Balloting — 
 
 ballot must indispensably be taken on petition 26 10 3 
 
 one black ball rejects 27 10 11 
 
 second ballot may be ordered 27 10 11 
 
 ballot not to be disclosed 28 10 11 
 
 ballot may be taken on passing, or raising 28 10 13 
 
 Burials — 
 
 duty of Master of Lodge , 39 16 20 
 
 By-Laws of Lodges— 
 
 cannot be suspended 27 10 7 
 
 additions to Uniform Code, how made 38 16 9 
 
 Charity Fund- 
 Lodges may establish 36 16 1 
 
186 Irtdeoc. 
 
 Page. Art. Sec, 
 
 Charters and Dispensations — 
 
 Grand Secretary to provide 15 1 15 
 
 how granted 10 10 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 1st) 19 4 8 
 
 dispensation, price of 22 6 1 
 
 dispensation to be returned 23 6 6 
 
 charter and seal to be issued 23 6 6 
 
 duplicate charter retains membership 23 6 9 
 
 forfeiture and restoration of charters 25 9 I 
 
 Chartered Lodges — 
 
 how numbered ... 23 6 7 
 
 how constituted 23 6 8 
 
 (See Lodges.) 
 
 Clandestine Lodges — 
 
 definition of .- 37 16 3 
 
 definition of, &c .... 38 1G 10 
 
 Committees — 
 
 standing, in Grand Lodge 1819 4 8 
 
 reports of, how made 22 5 11 
 
 on appeals, (special) 32 13 8 
 
 of arbitration in Lodges 39 16 21 
 
 Conferring Degrees, Work, &c. 
 
 lectures appertaining to degrees 29 12 1 
 
 uniformity of work 29 12 2 
 
 title of work... 29 12 3 
 
 solemnity in 29 12 4 
 
 ceremonies may be arrested 29 12 5 
 
 use of cypher forbidden ............. 30 12 6 
 
 making masons at sight 30 12 7 
 
 Past Master's Degree . . . ; 30 12 8 
 
 (See Work.) 
 
 Credentials — 
 
 of representatives to Grand Lodge 18 4 6 
 
 committee on, appointment and duties of 18 4 7 
 
 committee on, report of 18 4 8 
 
 Cypher — 
 
 use of forbidden ... 30 12 6 
 
 Definite Suspension — 
 
 grade of punishment 30 13 1 
 
 vote necessary to inflict 31 13 4 
 
 restoration after 36 15 3 
 
Index. 137 
 
 Page. Art. See. 
 Degrees — 
 
 See Articles X, XI. and XII. 
 
 Deputy Grand Master- 
 member of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 cannot represent Lodge in Grand Lodge 5 1 3 
 
 must lie a Past Master 5 1 3 
 
 appointed liy Grand Master ..... 6 2 4 
 
 obligation at installation 7 2 7 
 
 may grant dispensations for new Lodges 22 6 1 
 
 may approve proceedings in removal of Lodges .... 25 8 
 
 Dimits — 
 
 petitioners for Dispensations to obtain 22 G 2 
 
 to accompany petition for membership 27 10 9 
 
 to be granted on application 41 18 3 
 
 officer cannot dimit 38 10 12 
 
 Diplomas — 
 
 Grand Secretary to provide 17 3 1 
 
 furnished by Grand Lodge 17 3 2 
 
 Dues of Members of Lodges — 
 
 Lodges may exact 36 16 1 
 
 Lodge may provide for . . 38 16 15 
 
 may remit same 38 16 15 
 
 Lodge cannot suspend or expel for non-payment of 
 
 dues 33 13 9 
 
 Duplica'e Charter Retains Membership 23 6 9 
 
 Exclusion for Non-Payment of Dues — 
 
 Lodge may exclude for non-payment of dues 33 13 9 
 
 effect of 33 13 12 
 
 re-instatement after exclusion .... ..... 33 13 12 
 
 members excluded to be stated in returns 24 7 
 
 Ex-Parte Trials - 
 
 when held 31 13 4 
 
 when held 34 14 1 
 
 Expulsion — 
 
 grade of punishment 30 13 1 
 
 vote necessary for 31 13 4 
 
 notice of to be sent to Grand Secretary (para. 1) . . . 32 13 7 
 
 fee to accompany notice (paragraph 2) 32 13 7 
 
 Grand Secretary to keep list of expulsions, (para. 3) 32 13 7 
 
 Grand Secretary to issue quarterly circular, (par. 4) 32 13 7 
 
138 Index ■ 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Expulsion — 
 
 Grand Secretary to report cases to Grand Lodge, 
 
 (paragraphs.) 32 13 7 
 
 Fees for Degrees — 
 
 amount and ratio of 28 11 1 
 
 required in advance 28 11 2 
 
 application of by Lodges 28 11 3 
 
 no charge for degrees conferred by request 29 11 4 
 
 Fines — 
 
 Lodge cannot impose 33 13 9 
 
 Fiscal Year of Grand Lodge — 
 
 when to expire 24 7 
 
 Foreign Correspondence — 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 2d) 19 4 8 
 
 duties of committee ... 19 4 8 
 
 duties of committee 15 1 17 
 
 Funerals — 
 
 dress on occasions of 39 16 19 
 
 Grand Chaplains — 
 
 appointment of 6 
 
 duties of 8 
 
 Grand Deacons — 
 
 members of Grand Lodge 5 
 
 appointment of 6 
 
 duties of 8 
 
 Grand Lecturers — 
 
 appointment of 6 
 
 duties of 9 
 
 to exemplify work 9 
 
 to exemplify work 16 
 
 to examine records of Lodges 16 
 
 employment of 29 
 
 Grand Lodge — 
 
 officers of, and representation in 5 
 
 proxies, and number of votes prescribed 5 
 
 manner of voting in 9 
 
 manner of voting in and number of votes 18 
 
 proxy cannot appoint proxy 18 
 
 Grand officers ineligible as representatives in 5 
 
 who eligible to membership or office in 6 
 
 who eligible to preside in 6-7 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 7 
 
 
 7 
 
 
 1 
 
 21 
 
 1 
 
 22 
 
 12 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 8 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 5 
 
Index, 139 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Grand Lodge — 
 
 communications of, when and how held 9 8 1 
 
 communications of (annual), when and where held, 17 4 1 
 
 powers of 10 9 1-2 
 
 quorum 18 4 2 
 
 credentials of representatives 18 4 6 
 
 committee on credentials appointment of 18 4 7 
 
 committee on credentials, acceptance of report of . . 18 4 8 
 
 standing committees in 18-19 4 8 
 
 when and how closed . . 20 4 10 
 
 transportation for members of 16 1 18 
 
 revenues of 16 2 1 
 
 leave of absence, how obtained 20 4 11 
 
 visitors, how admitted 20 4 12 
 
 refreshments forbidden 20 4 13 
 
 order of business 20 5 1 
 
 rules regulating business ........ . . 20-22 5 1-11 
 
 motion to close inadmissible 21 5 8 
 
 fiscal year of 24 7 
 
 Grand Marshal — 
 
 appointment of 6 2 4 
 
 duties of 8 6 2 
 
 Grand Master — 
 
 must be a Past Master 5 1 3 
 
 cannot be Master or Warden of a Subordinate Lodge 5 1 3 
 
 cannot represent a Lodge in Grand Lodge 5 1 3 
 
 election of 6 2 1-2 
 
 may be installed by proxy 6 2 3 
 
 Grand Officers and Lecturers appointed by 6 2 4 
 
 vacancies filled by .... 6 2 4 
 
 to wear jewel 7 2 5 
 
 powers and prerogatives of ... 7 2 6 
 
 obligation of, at installation 7 2 7 
 
 to provide stationery and official seals .......... . 13 1 3 
 
 to appoint Private Secretary 13 1 4 
 
 expenses to be paid 13 1 5 
 
 portrait of, to be procured 14 1 10 
 
 address of, when delivered and how disposed of ... 19-20 4 9 
 
 how addressed when presiding 21 5 5 
 
 to approve, proceedings in removal of Lodges 24 7 
 
 may restore charters to Lodges 25 9 1 
 
140 Index. 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 
 to collect and dispose of forfeited property 25 9 2 
 
 cannot make masons at sight 30 12 7 
 
 correspondence with respecting Jurisprudence, how 
 
 conducted 39 16 17 
 
 to appoint Grand Representatives 42 21 
 
 Grand Officers — 
 
 election of 13 1 1 
 
 may be installed by proxy 6 2 3 
 
 appointed by Grand Master . . G 2 4 
 
 to wear appropriate jewels 7 2 5 
 
 certificate of election or appointment furnished .. 13 1 2 
 
 expenses to be paid 14 1 9 
 
 names and signatures to be transmitted to other 
 
 Grand Bodies 15 1 13 
 
 Grand Pursuivant — 
 
 appointment of 6 2 4 
 
 duties of 9 6 4 
 
 Grand Secretary — 
 
 member of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 election of 8 5 1 
 
 general duties of 8 5 2 
 
 salary and fees of 14-15 1 12 
 
 fees of 17 3 1,2 
 
 to provide diplomas 17 3 1 
 
 payment of salary of 14 1 8 
 
 to procure (with Grand Treasurer) portraits of Grand 
 
 Masters, &c 14 1 10 
 
 to transmit names and signatures of Grand Officers 
 
 to other Grand Lodges 15 1 13 
 
 to make annual reports 15 1 14 
 
 postage allowed 15 1 14 
 
 to provide blank dispensations and charters ....... 15 1 15 
 
 to give bond 15 1 16 
 
 to transmit documents, &c, to committee on For- 
 eign Correspondence, 15 1 17 
 
 to secure transportation for members of Grand Lodge 16 1 18 
 
 to employ assistant 16 1 19 
 
 to keep list of susjaended or expelled masons 32 13 7 
 
 to issue quarterly ch-cular publishing same 32 13 7 
 
 to report suspensions and expulsions to Grand Lodge 32 13 7 
 
 to issue quarterly circular announcing restorations. . 36 15 4 
 
 to publish and distribute proceedings of Grand Lodge 41-42 20 1 
 
Index. 141 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Grand Steward — 
 
 appointment of ..... , 6 2 4 
 
 duties of 9 6 5 
 
 Grand Sword Bearer — 
 
 appointment of 6 2 4 
 
 duties of 9 6 4 
 
 Grand Tiler- 
 appointment of G 2 4 
 
 duties of 9 6 5 
 
 compensation of 16 1 20 
 
 Grand Treasurer — 
 
 member of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 election of ... , 7 4 1 
 
 general duties of . . . 8 4 2 
 
 to furnish statement of accounts 13-14 1 G 
 
 to give bond 14 1 7 
 
 to pay Grand Secretary's salary 14 1 8 
 
 to pay expenses of Grand Officers 14 1 9 
 
 to procure (with Grand Secretary) portraits of Grand 
 
 Masters, &c 14 1 10 
 
 compensation of 14 1 11 
 
 Grand Wardens — 
 
 members of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 must be a Past Master 5 1 3 
 
 cannot be Master or Warden of a Subordinate Lodge 5 13 
 
 cannot represent a Lodge in Grand Lodge 5 1 3 
 
 obligation at installation 7 2 7 
 
 election of 7 3 
 
 Grievances — 
 
 how made and disposed of 32 13 8 
 
 Indefinite Suspension- 
 grade of punishment 30 13 1 
 
 vote necessary to inflict 31 13 4 
 
 vote necessary to restore after 30 15 1 
 
 Installation of Grand Officers- 
 may be installed by proxy 6 2 3 
 
 obligation of officers at installation 7 2 7 
 
 Installation of Officers of Lodges — 
 
 may be installed by proxy 38 1G 13 
 
 Installed Officer Cannot Resign 38 1G 14 
 
 19 
 
1M Index. 
 
 Page. Art. Sea 
 
 Intoxicating Liquors — 
 
 introduction, or use of, in Lodges,, forbidden 37 16 8 ; 
 
 Jewels — 
 
 to be worn by Grand Officers 7 2 5- 
 
 to be worn by Lodge officers ........... 39 10 18' 
 
 Jurisdiction of Lodges — 
 
 not possessed by Lodges, IT. D, 23 G 5 
 
 material jurisdiction of 27 10 6 
 
 penal jurisdiction of 30 13 1 
 
 Jurisprudence — 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 5th), duties of 19 4 8 
 
 motions, &c , on to lie over 21 5 4 
 
 correspondence with Grand Master concerning.... 39 16 17 
 
 Lawful Information 40 16 23 
 
 Leave of Absence from Grand Lodge — 
 
 how obtained 20 4 11 
 
 Library of Grand Lodge - 
 
 Grand Secretary to provide. 15 1 17 
 
 Lodges — Establishment of — 
 
 how established 10 10 
 
 dispensations issued for 22 6 1 
 
 petitions for Dispensations to obtain diniits, &c .. . 22 6 2 
 
 skill and proficiency of officers to be certified 22 6 3 
 
 naming Lodges 23 6 4 
 
 dispensation to be returned 23 6 6 
 
 charter and seal to be issued 23 6 6 
 
 chartered Lodges, how numbered 23 6 7 
 
 chartered Lodges, how constituted 23 6 8 
 
 Lodges — Government of — 
 
 communications — powers — quorum 36 16 1 
 
 maj exact dues 36 16 1 
 
 may remit dues 38 16 15 
 
 establish charity fund 36 16 1 
 
 regular and special communications provided for.. 37 16 2 
 
 " Regular (Legal) Lodges," how convened 37 16 3 
 
 special communications, business of restricted 37 16 4 
 
 business (regular) of Lodges transacted in Master's 
 
 Degree 37 16 5 
 
 dispensation or charter to be present 37 16 6 
 
 decorum in Lodges 37 16 7 
 
 intoxicating drinks forbidden in Lodges ......... 37 16 8 
 
Index. I4S 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 
 Lodges -Government of— 
 
 by-laws of Lodges, (additions to Uniform Code) ... 38 16 9 
 
 election and installation of officers 38 16 11 
 
 Master must have been a Warden 38 16 12 
 
 officers may be in tailed by proxy 38 16 13 
 
 installed officer cannot resign 38 16 14 
 
 reading and approval of minutes 38 39 16 16 
 
 legal communications from Lodges, how made... 39 16 17 
 
 regalia and dress on public occasions .... 39 16 18 
 
 dress at Funerals 39 16 19 
 
 burials, (duty of Master) 39 16 20 
 
 committee of arbitration in controversies 39 16 21 
 
 visitation in Lodges 39-40 16 22 
 
 lawful information 40 16 23 
 
 Lodges — Miscellaneous Laws Respecting — 
 
 duplicate charter retains membership 23 6 9 
 
 removal of, proceedings in 24-25 8 
 
 forfeiture and restoration of charters 25 9 1 
 
 forfeited property, how secured 25 9 2 
 
 clandestine Lodges ..... 37 16 3 
 
 clandestine Lodges 38 16 10 
 
 Lodges Under Dispensation — 
 
 powers of ..... 23 6 5 
 
 powers not possessed by ... 23 6 5 
 
 how to obtain^ charter 23 6 6 
 
 Making Masons At Sight — 
 
 forbidden by Grand Lodge 30 12 7 
 
 Master of Lodge — 
 
 must have been a Warden ; ... 38 16 12 
 
 duty of on death of Master Mason 39 16 20 
 
 appeals from, and reversal of, decisions 40 17 1 
 
 how dealt with 40 17 2 
 
 duties of in proceedings relating to removal of Lodges 24-25 8 
 
 proposed Master of a new Lodge to be examined, &c. 22 6 3 
 
 should take cognizance of disobedience of summons 33 13 11 
 
 may conduct examination in trials 34 14 4 
 
 has power to convene his Lodge 37 16 3 
 
 to have charge of dispensation or charter. 37 16 6 
 
 cannot resign 38 16 14 
 
 signature not necessary to Minutes 39 16 16 
 
 duty on decease of a member, &c 39 16 20 
 
 to appoint committee on Orphan Asylum 43 44 3 
 
144 Index- 
 
 Page. Art. Sec, 
 Membership in Lodges — 
 
 petition for, how acted on 26 10 3 
 
 what constitutes 26 10 4 
 
 qualifications for 27 10 8 
 
 dimit to accompany petition 27 10 9 
 
 membership in two Lodges forbidden 27 10 10 
 
 Minutes of Lodges — 
 
 Grand Lecturers to examine . 16 1 22 
 
 reading, and approval of 38 16 16 
 
 Moneys of Grand Lodge — 
 
 Grand Secretary to receive and pay to Grand Treas- 
 urer 17 2 2 
 
 how paid from Grand Treasury 17 2 3 
 
 New Trials — 
 
 how granted ...... 31-32 13 6 
 
 Non-Affiliated Masons — 
 
 excluded from rights and privileg-es 40-41 18 1 
 
 may visit Lodge once, (proviso) 41 18 1 
 
 names not to be published in Proceedings 41 18 % 
 
 dimit forfeits all masonic rights, (proviso) 41 18 3 
 
 Non-Payment of Dues- 
 Lodge may exclude members for, &c 33 13 12 
 
 Non-Residents — 
 
 cannot petition for degrees ... .,,... 26-27 10 5 
 
 Lodge has not jurisdiction over 26-27 10 5 
 
 Offences Punishable — (Specially Mentioned) — 
 
 immoral or unmasonic conduct 30 13 1 
 
 improper influences to secure acquisitions to the Fra- 
 ternity 31 13 2 
 
 profanity and drunkenness 31 13 3 
 
 disobeying legal summons, (proviso) 33 13 9 
 
 disobeying legal summons 33 13 11 
 
 Officers of Lodges — 
 
 election and installation of 38 16 11 
 
 Master must have been a Warden 38 16 12 
 
 may be installed by proxy 38 16 13 
 
 installed officers cannot resign ..... 38 16 14 
 
 Order of Business in Grand Lodge 20 5 1 
 
 Orphan Asylum — 
 
 establishment of (at Oxford) 43 1 
 
Index. lJf5 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Orphan Asylum - 
 
 Branch' Asylum 43 2 
 
 manner of raising funds for 43-44 3 
 
 Superintendent to make Annual Reports 44 4 
 
 government of Asylums 44 5 
 
 Parliamentary Rules — 
 
 to be observed 21 5 9 
 
 Passing Candidates — 
 
 Proficiency in E. A. degree before 26 10 3 
 
 ballot may be taken on 28 10 13 
 
 Past Grand Masters — 
 
 members of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 portraits of to be procured 14 1 10 
 
 Past Master's Degree — 
 
 not essential to Master in presiding over Lodge ... 30 12 8 
 degree in Chapter does not confer rights in Blue 
 
 Lodge ■ 30 12 8 
 
 Petitions for Charters and Dispensations — 
 
 required, and how made 10 10 
 
 for dispensations, how made 22 6 1 
 
 for restoration of charter 25 9 1 
 
 for restoration after suspension or expulsion 35 15 1 
 
 for restoration after suspension or expulsion ...... 36 15 2 
 
 Petitions for Degrees or Membership — 
 
 qualifications of candidates 26 10 1 
 
 qualifications for degrees. 26 10 2 
 
 how disposed of 26 10 3 
 
 sojourners and non-residents cannot petition 26 10 5 
 
 qualifications for membership 27 10 8 
 
 to be accompanied by dimits 27 10 9 
 
 how petition may be withdrawn 27 10 7 
 
 rejected petition excluded for one year 28 10 12 
 
 twelve months residence required before petitioning 27 10 5 
 (See Balloting.) 
 
 Physical Qualifications of Candidates — 
 
 qualifications necessary to petition 26 10 1 
 
 qualifications for advancement 26 10 2 
 
 Powers — 
 
 of Grand Lodge 10 9 1,2 
 
 of Grand Master 7 2 6 
 
 of Lodges 36 16 1 
 
13 
 
 1 
 
 15 
 
 1 
 
 16 
 
 3 
 
 17 
 
 1,2 
 
 14@ Index. 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Powers — 
 
 of Lodges, (to try masons) 30 
 
 to restore after suspension or expulsion 35 
 
 of Master of Lodge 37 
 
 of Master of Lodge 40 
 
 Previous Question — 
 
 not admissible in Grand Lodge 21 5 9 
 
 Private Secretary to Grand Master — 
 
 appointment and compensation of 13 1 14 
 
 Proceedings of Grand Lodge — 
 
 when published and how distributed 41-42 20 1 
 
 to be read in Lodges 42 20 2 
 
 extra copies, how obtained 42 20 3 
 
 Processions — 
 
 regalia and dress in 39 16 18 
 
 funerals or burials, dress to be observed 39 16 19,20 
 
 Profanity and Drunkenness — 
 
 cause for rejection 26 10 2 
 
 masonic crimes 31 13 3 
 
 punishable offences 31 13 3 
 
 Proficiency — 
 
 of proposed officers for new Lodges required 22 6 3 
 
 of candidates before advancement 26 10 3 
 
 Proxy — 
 
 of representatives in Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 of representatives in Grand Lodge 5 1 2 
 
 cannot transfer authority without permission 18 4 4 
 
 may vote, how 18 4 5 
 
 must have written credentials 18 4 6 
 
 officers of Grand Lodge may be installed by 6 2 3 
 
 officers of Lodges may be installed by 38 16 13 
 
 Qualifications — 
 
 of proposed officers for new Lodges 22 6 3 
 
 of candidates for degrees 26 10 1 
 
 of candidates for advancement 26 10 2 
 
 for membership 37 10 8 
 
 proficiency a qualification for advancement ........ 26 10 3 
 
 Quorum — 
 
 of Grand Lodge 18 4 2 
 
 of Subordinate Lodges 36 16 1 
 
Index. 147 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Raising Candidates — 
 
 proficiency in F. C. degree necessary before 26 10 3 
 
 raising a candidate does not constitute membership 26 10 4 
 
 ballot may be taken on 28 10 13 
 
 Recommendations — 
 
 for new Lodges 10 10 
 
 for new Lodges „ 22 6 1 
 
 Refreshments — 
 
 use of forbidden 20 4 13 
 
 use of forbidden 37 16 8 
 
 Rejections 
 
 names of rejected applicants not to be published 24 7 
 Removal of Lodges — 
 
 proceedings in 24-25 8 
 
 Reports — 
 
 of Grand Treasurer 13-14 1 6 
 
 of Grand Secretary 15 1 14 
 
 of Grand Secretary, (special) 32 13 7 
 
 of Grand Lecturers, (special) . , 16 1 22 
 
 of committee on credentials 18 4 8 
 
 of committees of Grand Lodge 19 4 8 
 
 on Grand Master's Address . 19 4 9 
 
 of committees, how made ... 22 5 11 
 
 of committee on Orphan Asylum 43-44 3 
 
 of Superintendent of Orphan Asylum 44 4 
 
 Representatives to Grand Lodge — 
 
 who compose .... ..... 5 1 1 
 
 who compose 6 1 4 
 
 may appoint proxy ..... 5 1 2 
 
 number of votes of 5 1 2 
 
 number of votes and manner of voting 18 4 5 
 
 of three Lodges constitute quorum in Grand Lodge 18 4 2 
 
 shall represent only three Lodges each 18 4 3 
 
 credentials of 18 4 6 
 
 leave of absence, how obtained 20 4 11 
 
 transportation of to and from Grand Lodge 16 1 18 
 
 Representation in Grand Bodies — 
 
 Grand Master authorized to appoint 42 21 
 
 Reprimand — 
 
 grade of punishment 30 13 1 
 
15 
 
 1 
 
 15 
 
 g 
 
 15 
 
 3 
 
 15 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 8 
 
 7 
 
 
 7 
 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 6 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 148 Index. 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Restoration of Suspended or Expelled Masons- 
 how restorations may take place ... 35 
 
 petition for, how made and acted on . . 36 
 
 after definite suspension 36 
 
 notice of, how published 36 
 
 Returns of Lodges to Grand Lodge — 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 3d ) 19 
 
 how made 24 
 
 what they shall contain 24 
 
 Revenues of Grand Lodge — 
 
 annual dues of Lodges . . 16 
 
 price of diplomas 17 
 
 to be paid to Grand Secretary 17 
 
 price of dispensation 22 
 
 price of charter 23 
 
 how moneys to be paid from Grand Treasury 17 
 
 Rules Regulating Business of Grand Lodge — 
 
 order of business 20 5 1 
 
 sections indicating duties of members and committees 20-22 5 2-11 
 Rules for Government of Lodges in Trials — 
 
 charges, how made 34 
 
 accused to be served with copy 34 
 
 special communications for trials 34 
 
 counsel 34 
 
 evidence, how taken 34 
 
 examination, how conducted, 34 
 
 argument of defence 35 
 
 conviction and punishment, how determined 35 
 
 proceedings regulating appeals 35 
 
 Schools Under Management of Lodges — 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 6th) 19 4 8 
 
 Secretary of Subordinate Lodge — 
 
 to attest credentials of Representatives 18 4 6 
 
 to attach Lodge seal to documents 23 6 6 
 
 to certify annual returns 24 7 
 
 to furnish accused mason with certified copy of 
 
 charges, &c , 31 13 4 
 
 to furnish accused with copy of proceedings if re- 
 quired " 35 14 7 
 
 to send transcript of trial to Grand Lodge 31 13 5 
 
 to transmit notice of suspension, &c , to Grand Sec- 
 retary 32 13 7 
 
 14 
 
 1 
 
 14 
 
 1 
 
 14 
 
 2 
 
 14 
 
 3 
 
 14 
 
 3 
 
 14 
 
 4 
 
 14 
 
 5 
 
 14 
 
 6 
 
 14 
 
 7 
 
Index. 149 
 
 Page. Art. Sec. 
 Secretary of Subordinate Lodge — 
 
 to attest summons 33 13 10 
 
 to transmit notice of restoration to Grand Secretary 36 15 4 
 
 to attest the Minutes of the Lodge 39 16 16 
 
 to certify proceedings against Master of Lodge ... 40 17 2 
 receipt of for dues to be given before dimit is granted 41 18 3 
 to furnish certificate to widow or orphans of de- 
 ceased masons 41 19 
 
 Summons — 
 
 disobeying legal summons, punishable 32-33 13 9 
 
 disobeying legal summons, punishable 33 13 11 
 
 legal summons 33 13 10 
 
 Suspension — 
 
 grade of punishment 30 13 1 
 
 vote necessary for 31 13 4 
 
 notice of to be sent to Grand Secretary 32 13 7 
 
 fee to accompany notice 32 13 7 
 
 Grand Secretary to publish in quarterly circular.. .. 32 13 7 
 
 Grand Secretary to report cases of to Grand Lodge 32 13 7 
 
 restoration after 35 15 1 
 
 restoration after definite suspension 36 15 3 
 
 Trials and Punishments — 
 
 masons may be arraigned on charges 30 13 1 
 
 grades of punishment 30 13 1 
 
 improper influences to secure acquisitions to the Fra- 
 ternity 31 13 2 
 
 profanity and drunkenness 31 13 3 
 
 accused to be notified 31 13 4 
 
 trial ex-parte 31 13 4 
 
 transcript of trial to be sent to Grand Lodge 31 13 5 
 
 new trials 31 13 6 
 
 minor offences, how punishable 32 33 13 9 
 
 disobeying summons 33 13 9,11 
 
 disclosing Lodge transactions 33 13 9 
 
 exclusion for non-payment of dues 33 13 12 
 
 effect of expulsion by Chapter, Council, &c. 33 13 13 
 
 See " Rules for the Government of Lodges in Trial.'' 
 
 Unfinished Business — 
 
 committee on, (paragraph 7th) 19 4 8 
 
 Uniformity of Work- 
 to be observed 29 12 2 
 
 20 
 
150 Index. 
 
 Page. Art. See. 
 Visitation to Subordinate Lodges — 
 
 regulation concerning 39 16 22 
 
 at trials restricted 34 14 2 
 
 non-affiliated masons may visit Lodge once 41 18 3 
 
 Visitors to Grand Lodge — 
 
 how admitted 20 4 12 
 
 Wardens of Lodges — 
 
 members of Grand Lodge 5 1 1 
 
 skill and proficiency of Wardens of new Lodges cer- 
 tified .... 22 6 3 
 
 duties in reference to removal of Lodges 24-25 8 
 
 duties of respecting obedience of members to sum- 
 mons 33 13 11 
 
 Widows and Orphans — 
 
 certificate to be furnished, by whom and when. ... 41 19 
 
 Work- 
 
 Grand Lecturers to instruct Lodges in 9 7 
 
 Grand Lecturers to exemplify 9 7 
 
 Grand Lecturers to exemplify 16 1 21 
 
 uniformity to be observed 29 12 2 
 
 title of : 29 12 3 
 
 use of cypher forbidden 30 12 6 
 
 Year, Fiscal of Grand Lodge s 24 7 
 
INDEX 
 
 OLD CHARGES AND REGULATIONS. 
 
 Page. Art. 
 
 Amendments to Regulations 62 39 
 
 Behaviour — 
 
 in the Lodge, (Sec. 1) 48 6 
 
 after Lodge is closed, (Sec. 2) , 48 6 
 
 towards brethren, (Sec. 3) 49 6 
 
 towards strangers, (Sec. 4) ..... 49 6 
 
 at home, &c, (Sec. 5) ..... 49 6 
 
 towards a strange brother, (Sec. 6) 49 6 
 
 By-Laws and Records — 
 
 how kept 52 3 
 
 Charity Fund 52 6 
 
 Civil Magistrates, Supreme and Subordinate 45 2 
 
 Clandestine Lodges 53 8 
 
 Deputy Grand Master — 
 
 authority of . . 51 1 
 
 duties of.. 56 16 
 
 appointment of ]^o tern. 56 18 
 
 ineligible as Master or Warden of a Lodge 56 17 
 
 visitations by 57 20 
 
 appointment by Grand Master 61 35 
 
 Feasts — 
 
 days of 57 22 
 
 appointment of 57 22 
 
 preparation for 58 23 
 
 funds for........... 58 24 
 
 tilers at 59 25 
 
 door-keepers at , 59 26 
 
 guests and service at table 59 27 
 
152 Index. 
 
 Page. Art. 
 Feasts- 
 appeals received at 59 28 
 
 decorum at - 59 28 
 
 nomination of Grand Master at 60 29 
 
 consultation at , GO 30 
 
 formation of Grand Lodge at ... 60 31 
 
 addresses at . . 62 37 
 
 addresses at 62 38 
 
 God and Religion 45 1 
 
 Grand Lodge- 
 how formed and regulated 54 12 
 
 general business of 54-55 13 
 
 who to preside in 55 14 
 
 stations in, how supplied 56 15 
 
 formed at feasts 60 31 
 
 Grand Master- 
 authority of . . 51 1 
 
 arraignment and trial of 57 19 
 
 visitations by 57 20 
 
 death of, successor to 57 21 
 
 nomination of 60 29 
 
 election and salutation of 60 32 
 
 election of 61 33 
 
 election of 61 34 
 
 to appoint officers 61 35 
 
 installed by proxy c 61 36 
 
 address by 62 38 
 
 " Holy Days," (paragraph 1) 47 5 
 
 Initiations — 
 
 qualification for (paragraph 1) 46 3 
 
 limit to 52 4 
 
 age at 52 4 
 
 Installation — 
 
 Grand Master instal'ed by proxy 61 36 
 
 Lodges — 
 
 definition of Lodge 46 3 
 
 who to be admitted in 46 3 
 
 establishment of 53 8 
 
 affiliation with 53 8 
 
Index. 153 
 
 Page. Art 
 Lodges - 
 
 clandestine ... 53 8 
 
 right to instruct officers and representatives 53 10 
 
 Management of the Craft in Working — 
 
 regulations concerning 47 5 
 
 Masters — 
 
 qualifications for, and proficiency of 46 4 
 
 powers of ... 51 2 
 
 Membership — 
 
 qualifications for 46 3 
 
 monthly notice before admission, &c 52 5 
 
 New Lodges — 
 
 establishment of 53 8 
 
 Non-Affiliation 4(3 3 
 
 Non-Affiliation 53 8 
 
 Obedience — 
 
 to civil magistrates 46 2 
 
 to charges, &c 50 
 
 to laws, constitution, &c 53 7 
 
 Objection — 
 
 right of 52 6 
 
 Officers of Grand Lodge- 
 ineligible as Masters and Wardens of Lodges 56 17 
 
 O Id Charges 45-50 
 
 obedience to 50 
 
 brotherly love, forbearance, protection, &c, enjoined.. 50 
 
 Physical Qualifications of Candidates 4G 4 
 
 Qualifications — 
 
 of candidates, or membership 46 3,4 
 
 Regulations — 
 
 amendment of 62 39 
 
 Representatives to Grand Lodge 53 10 
 
 Supplanting a Brother, (paragraph 5) 47 5 
 
 Unanimous Consent — 
 
 necessarv to admission . 52 6 
 
154 Index. 
 
 Page. Art. 
 Unmasonic Conduct — 
 
 punishment of .. .' 53 9 
 
 Uniformity in Work and Usage 53 11 
 
 Wardens — 
 
 qualifications for and proficiency of 46 4 
 
 ineligible as Master or Warden of Lodge 56 17 
 
 visitations by 57 20 
 
 Work- 
 diligence in 47 5 
 
 uniformity 53 11 
 
INDEX 
 
 FORMS, CEREMONIES, &C. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Uniform Code of By-Laws 69-18 
 
 Ceremonies. 
 Constitution and Dedication of New Lodges, with Installa- 
 tion of Lodge Officers „ 79-91 
 
 Dedication of Masonic Halls 92-96 
 
 Laying Foundation Stones of Public Structures 96-102 
 
 Funerals . . ...... 102-109 
 
 Installation of Grant! Officers 111-120 
 
 Forms. 
 
 No. 1.— Petition for Dispensation for New T Lodge 121-122 
 
 2.— Petition for a Charter 122-123 
 
 3. — Petition for Degrees 123 
 
 4. — Petition for Membership 123-124 
 
 5.— Application for a Dimit 124 
 
 6.— Dimit 124 
 
 7. — Petition for Restoration 125 
 
 8. — Certificate for Widow or Orphan of Deceased 
 
 Mason 125 
 
 9. — Notice of Suspension or Expulsion 126 
 
 10. — Notice of Restoration 126 
 
 11. — Notice of Restoration — Non-Affiliated Mason.. 127 
 12. — Abstract of Proceedings of Subordinate Lodges 
 
 in Trials .... ..... ..... 127-129 
 
 Prayer at Opening or Closing a Lodge 131 132 
 
 Charge at Closing a Lodge 132 
 
 Prayer at Opening the Grand Lodge 132 
 
 Act of Incorporation of the Grand Lodge 133