THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES J^^..^/^ FE/^.d^, ^ C^ i>C^ O^ ^?X.w^^.-^^ /t?^ (^ a>,.-,..^-£^^^Li ^ hc^ /^^^. Ac- 'i^^tJ/-;/ 4 yiii. If MASONIC SONGS, OLD AND NEW : INCLUDING THOSE PUBLISHED IN " THE FREE-MASONS' MELODY," 1818 : TOGETHER WITH AN APPENDIX, CONTAINING MANY ORIGINAL MASONIC SONGS AND POEMS, WRITTEN EXPRESSLY FOR THIS WORK. BURY: Printed and Published by Bro. W. S. Barlow, AT THE CaXTON WoRKS, FlEET StREET, 1885. PRE FACE. THE first part of the present volume consists of a reprint of " The Free-Masons' Melody " published by Bro. J. R. Hellawell, of Bury, under the direction of the Officers and Members of Prince Edwin Lodge, Bury, in the year 1818, and which had become very scarce. It contained the greater part of those old and favourite songs known to the brotherhood prior to, and about the time of, its publication, and many of which have now become " familiar in our mouths as household words." The antient orthography has been re- tained, although the instances are not very numerous where variations of any importance occur in the spelling. The Appendix contains about eighty additional Songs, Chorales, Hymns, Cantatas, &c., mostly original, and not a few of them written expressly for the present work. Besides these there will be found a few Songs of early date, which have not hitherto, so far as is known, been published in any modern collection of Masonic Songs. Whilst thus, for a time at least, preserving the songs, it is 963799 IV. PREFACE. much to be regretted that the names of their authors could not, in every case, be rescued from oblivion. The Publisher desires to thank most cordiall\ the Brethren who have directly assisted him by composing songs specially for the work, and also those who have in other ways aided in its compilation. The names of these Brethren will be found at the head of their respective contributions. In the Prospectus it was stated that the volume would contain 250 pages ; it has, however, extended to 456 pages. This has ver}' considerably increased the cost of printing, &:c, therefore. Subscribers' Copies only will be issued at the prices originally advertised. It is hoped that the Craft generally will approve of the work — both the old and new portions — and that it may assist in promoting not only good-fellowship, but good Masonry also, and add a pleasant and wholesome zest to the social intercourse of the Brethren. W. S. BARLOW. Bury, July, 1885. MASONIC SONGS, &c. I. THE FAREWELL. To the Brethren of St. /acnes' s Lodge^ Tarbolton. By Robert Burns. (Tune, '■ Good Night, a?id Joy be wt^ you a'.") ADIEU ! a heart-warm fond adieu : Dear brothers of the mystic tie ! Ye favour'd, ye enHghten'd few, Companions of my social joy ! Tho' I to foreign lands must hie. Pursuing fortune's slidd'ry ba'. With melting heart and brimful eye» I'll mind you still, tho' far awa'. Oft have I met your social band, And spent the cheerful festive night ; Oft, honour'd with supreme command, Presided o'er the sons of light : And by that hieroglyphic bright Which none but craftsmen ever saw [ Strong mem'ry on my heart shall write Those happy scenes when far awa'. SONGS. May freedom, harmony, and love, Unite you in the grand design, Beneath the omniscient eye above, The glorious Architect divine ! That you may keep the unerring line, Still rising by the plummet's law, Till order bright completely shine, Shall be my prayer when far awa'. And you, farewell ! whose merits claim Justly that highest badge to wear ! Heaven bless your honour'd, noble name. To masonry and Scotia dear ! A last request permit me here. When yearly ye assemble a'. One round, I ask it with a tear, To him, the bard that's far awa'. 11. WRITTEN BY BROTHER J. WILLIAMSON, (Tune, ''''Dear To/n, tJiis broum jug^) 4 DVANCE, each true brother, my song now attend. jjL And assist in full chorus a brother and friend. With good humour he calls you, then socially join. That the ceiling may ring with a theme that's divine. Cho. — Then join, brother masons, aloft raise the sonti. All the virtues in life to true masons belong. The wisest of men was a mason, we know. From him our chief honours and dignities flow : He founded the temple, the pillars he rais'd. And Solomon still in our songs shall be prais'd. Cho. — Then join, &c. SONGS. 3 With square and with compass, with level and line, We constantly work to complete our design ; By prudence we steer, and the passions subdue, What we learn in our youth in our age we renew. Cho. — Then join, &c. On freedom and friendship our order began, To deal squarely with all is the chief of our plan : The sneer then of fools we esteem as a feather, Since virtue's cement 'tis that joins us together. Cho. — Then join, &c. Till the ocean be dry, and hard rocks melt away, Till the globe shall dissolve, and no sun cheer the day, So long shall the masons their order maintain. And the arrows of slander be shot forth in vain. Cho. — Then join, &c. III. A HEALTH to our sisters let's drink For why should not they Be remember'd, I pray. When of us they so often do think. 'Tis they give the chiefest delight ; Tho' wine cheers the mind, And masonry's kind, These keep us in transport all night. IV. By Brother John Richardson, of the Royal Brunswick Lodge, Sheffield. ALONE from arts and science flow Whate'er instructs or charms the eye, Whate'er can fill the mind with awe. Beneath yon arched azure sky. SONGS. With heav'nly, true mechanic skill. Our great Almighty Master wrought ; And in six days did he fulfil What far surpasses human thought. Firm in the centre fixed he The sun, to guide the rolling spheres ; The moon, by night a light to be, And mark us out the months and year> What tho' no powerful lever's seen ? Nor axle, wheel, or pulley there ? Yet they have ever constant been, As time and truth to us declare. Just so our true Masonic fame On lofty, lasting columns stands : Grac'd with a royal Brunswick's name. And rear'd beneath his ruling hands. A V. MASON one time Was cast for a crime, Which malice had put a bad face on And then, without thought, To a gibbet was brought The free and the accepted mason. Chos. — And then without thought, &c. And when he came there, He put up his pray'r For heaven to pity his case on ! His king he espy'd, Who in progress did ride, Was a free and an accepted mason. His king he espy'd, &c. SONGS. Then out a sign flew, Which the grand master knew, Who rode up to know the occasion ; Ask'd who had condemn'd So worthy a friend As a free and an accepted mason. Ask'd who had condemn'd, &c He then tried the cause, And found out the flaws, According to justice and reason : He tuck'd up the judge. And all that bore grudge To the free and the accepted mason. He tuck'd up the judge, &c. Though ignorant pride Our secrets deride, Or foolish conjectures occasion, They ne'er shall divine The word or the sign Of a free and an accepted mason. They ne'er shall divine, &:c. VI. (Tune, " Young Damon.'''' ) A MASON'S daughter, fair and young, The pride of all the virgin throng, Thus to her lover said : Though, Damon, I your flame approve, Your actions praise, your person love, Yet still I'll live a maid. SONGS. None shall untie my virgin-zone, But one to whom the secret's known Of famed Freemasonry ; In which the great and good combine To raise, with generous design, Man to felicity. The lodge excludes the fop and fool. The plodding knave, and party-tool, That liberty would sell ; The noble, faithful, and the brave. No golden charms can e'er deceive, In slavery to dwell. Thus said : he bow'd and went away ; Apply'd : was made : without delay Return'd to her again ; The fair complied with his request, Connubial joys the couple blest ; And long may they remain. VII. By J. BissET, Steward of St. AlbarCs Lodge, and Provincial G.S. for the Cou?ity of Warwick. (Tune, " A Sailor's life's a life ofwoe.^' A MASON'S life's the life for me : With joy we meet each other, We pass our time with mirth and glee. And hail each friendly brother ; In lodge no party feuds are seen, But careful we in this agree, To banish care or spleen. SpNGS. The Master's call we one and all With pleasure soon obey ; With heart and hand we ready stand. Our duty still to pay. But when the glass goes round,. Then mirth and glee abound, We're happy ev'ry soul ; We laugh a little, we drink a little. We work a little, we play a little. Cho. -We laugh a little, we drink a little. We sing a little, are merry a little, And quaff the flowing bowl. x\nd quaff, &c. See in the east the Master stands, The wardens south and west, sir,. Both ready to obey command, Find work, or give us rest, sir». The signal given, we all prepare, With one accord obey the word, To work by rule or square : Or, if they please, the ladder raise, Or plumb the level line ; I'hus we employ our time with joy, Attending every sign. But when the glass goes round, Then mirth and glee abound. We're happy ev'ry soul ; We laugh a little, and drink a little^ We work a little, and play a little. Che. — We laugh a little, we drink a little^ We sing a little, are merry a little, And quaff the flowing bowL And quaff", &c. 8 SONGS. Th' Almighty said, " Let there be light :' Effulgent rays appearing Dispell'd the gloom, the glory bright To this new world was cheering : But unto Masonry alone, Another light, so clear and bright, In mystic rays then shone ; From east to west it spread so fast, That, faith and hope unfurl'd, We hail with joy sweet charity, The darling of the world. Then while the toast goes round, Let mirth and glee abound. Let's be happy every soul ; We'll laugh a little, and drink a little, We'll work a little, and play a little. C/u?. — We'll laugh a little, and drink a little, We'll sing a little, be merry a little. And quaff the flowing bowl. And quaff, (Sec. vin. (Tune, '' Attic Firer) ARISE, and blow thy trumpet. Fame ! Freemasonry aloud proclaim To realms and worlds unknown : Tell them it was by David's son. The wise, the matchless Solomon, Priz'd far above his throne. The solemn temple's cloudcapt towers, Th* aspiring domes are works of ours, By us those piles were rais'd : SONGS. 5 Then bid mankind with songs advance, And through th' ethereal vast expanse Let Masonry be prais'd ! We help the poor in time of need, The naked clothe, the hungry feed, 'Tis our foundation stone ; We build upon the noblest plan, j ^, For friendship rivets man to man, > ., ,. . , , ^ „ ' ( three times. And makes us all as one. j Still louder. Fame ! thy trumpet blow ; Let all the distant regions know Freemasonry is this : Almighty wisdom gave it birth. And heaven has fixd it here on earth, A type of future bliss ! IX. (Tune, ^^ Dear Tom, this brown jug") 'A RISE, gentle muse, and the wisdom impart JLA. To each bosom that glows with the love of our art ; For the bliss that from thy inspiration accrues, Is what all should admire, and each mason pursues. - Cho. — Hence harmony springs, the cement 'tis of love. Fair freedom on earth, and bright union above. Tho' malice our joy should attempt to control, Tho' discord around like an ocean should roll ; To the one we'll be deaf, to the other be blind, For wisdom alone is the strength of the mind. Cho. — Hence harmony, &c. lO SONGS. The bright charms of beauty for ever will shine, Our art to adorn with a lustre divine, Till time, circling round, shall unfold the great truth, Which thus has united the sage and the youth. Cho. — Hence harmony, Ax. AS I at Wheeler's lodge one night, Kept Bacchus company ; (For Bacchus is a mason bright. And of all lodges free :) Said I, "great Bacchus is a-dry, Pray give the god some wine ; " Jove in a fury did reply, "October's as divine." It makes us masons more complete. Adds to our fancy wings ; Makes us as happy and as great As mighty lords and kings. XL AS long as our coast does with whiteness appear. Still masons stand foremost in verse ; Whilst harmony, friendship, and joys are held dear, New bands shall our praises rehearse. CHORUS. Though lodges, less favour'd, less happy, decay, Destroy'd by Old Time as he runs ; Tho* Albions, Gregorians, and Bucks fade away, • Still masons shall live in their sons ! SONGS. 1 1 It' envy attempts our success to impede, United we'll trample her down ; If faction should threaten, we'll show we're agreed, And discord shall own we are one. Cho. — Though lodges, &c. Whilst with ardour we glow this our Order to raise. Promoting its welfare and peace ; Old masons return, our endeavours to praise, And new ones confirm the increase. Cho. — Though lodges, &c. Go on, cry our parents, for Time is your friend, His flight shall increase your renown ; May Mirth be your guest, smiling Bacchus attend, With joy all your meetings to crown. Cho. — Though lodges, &c. XII. By Brother Laurence Dermott. (Tune, ^^ Mutual love.") AS Masons once on Shinar's plain, (Met to revive their arts again), Did mutually agree ; So now we're met in Britain's isle. And make the royal craft to smile, In ancient Masonry. The masons in this happy land, Have now reviv'd the ancient grand, And the strong Tuscan laid ; Each faithful brother, by a sign. Like Salem's sons each other join. And soon each order made. I?. SONGS. Thrice happy, blest fraternity, Whose basis is sweet unity ; And makes us all agree ; Kings, dukes, and lords to us are kind. As we to strangers, when we find Them skill'd in Masonry. How happy are the ancient brave, Whom never cowan can deceive ; And may they so remain ; No modern craftsman e'er did know What signs our masters to us show, Though long they strove in vain. My brethren, all take glass in hand, And toast our Noble Master Grand, And in full chorus sing • A health to Ancient Masons free. Throughout the globe, where'er they be, And so, God Save the King. XIII. AN ALLEGORY ON CHARITY. (Tune, '■'' Hmv happy a state does the Miller possess'') AS Poverty late in a fit of despair^ Was beating her bosom and tearing her hair, Smiling Hope came to ask, what her countenance told. That she there lay expiring with hunger and cold. Come, rise ! said the sweet rose herald of joy. And the torments you suffer I'll quickly destroy? Tak"e me by the hand, all your griefs I'll dispel. And I'll lead you for succour to Charity's cell. SONGS. 1 3: On Poverty hobbl'd, Hope soften'd her pain, But long did they search for the goddess in vain ; Towns, cities, and countries, they travers'd around ; VoT Charity's lately grown hard to be found. At length at the door of a lodge they arriv'd, ^ W^here, their spirits exhausted, the tyler reviv'd, Who when ask'd (as 'twas late) if the dame had gone home, Said, " no ; Charity's always the last in the room." The door being open'd, in Poverty came, Was cherish'd, reliev'd, and caress'd by the dame ; Each votary, likewise, the object to save, Obey'd his own feelings, and cheerfully gave. Then shame on the man who the science derides, Where this soft-beaming virtue for ever presides. In this scriptural maxim let's ever accord — "What we give to the poor we but lend to the Lord." XIV. ST. JOHN. (Tune, " T/ie Huntsman.'') ASSEMBL'D and tyl'd, let us social agree, With the monarch that sits on the throne, For he charges a glass, and round let it pass, To celebrate ancient St. John. Though babblers may prattle in showing their spleen. Their spite we compare to the drone, Kor in sweet harmony, in love we'll agree. To celebrate ancient St. John. The world is in pain our secrets to gain, In ignorance let them think on, For in sweet harmony, in love we'll agree. To celebrate ancient St. John. 14 SONGS. With toast after toast let us drink to the king, Remem'bring the great Solomon, For his actions were rare, by the compass and square:— Thus celebrate ancient St. John. Then join hand in hand, in a body firm stand. Our cares and our troubles begone. Let us love, laugh, and sing ; love the ladies and king: Thus celebrate ancient St. John. XV. Written by the Editor, and tnte?ided to have been sung at the Grand Feast, May iith^ ^79^,^ (Tune, '' Hearts of Oak:') A SYSTEM more pure ne'er was modell'd by man. Than that which we boast as the Freemason's plan : It unites all the world by the strongest of ties. And adds to men's bliss, while it makes them more wise. From the prince to the boor, Be he rich, be he poor, A mason's a brother. And each will help t'other. So grateful the tie is of Freemasonry. That hence flow the purest enjoyments of life, That banish'd from hence are dissension and strife, That the lessons are good which we practice and tearh. Are truths that our foes vainly try to impeach. From the prince, &c. •The 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th verses may be omitted on ordinary occasions, for the purpose of shortening the song. The first three verses with the last verse make a song which most hearers, perhaps, will think long enough. SONGS. 15 The greatest of monarchs, the wisest and best, Have masons become, and been true to the test ; And still with that sanction our rites are pursu'd, Admir'd by the wise, and approv'd by the good. From the prince, &c. "The King and the Craft " having claim'd our applause, The guardian the one, t'other firm to the laws, In union, my brethren, assist me to sing, " Ever true be the Craft to a patriot King !" From the prince, &c. To George, Prince of Wales, our affections we owe, To his health let libations with due honours flow ; With zeal let "Our Royal Grand Master " be giv'n, And the blessings be sanctioned and granted by heaven. From the prince, &c. His consort may health and enjoyment attend, The Craft are assur'd that she's firmly their friend : For her offspring we crave but this boon from above, " Be the meed of her virtues a whole nation's love !" PYom the prince, &c. Of York and of Clarence (while o'er land and sea The toils of the brave serve to keep Britain free) May the deeds furnish subjects for many a lay. And their mem'ry ne'er die till all nature decay ! From the prince, &c. Yet let not the " man of our hearts " be unsung. Nor forget the effects of his well-pleading tongue ;* Alluding to a collection of upwards of ;^55o being made for the Cumberland School, after a Speech of the Earl of Moira's in its behalf, at a public dinner, April nth, 1796, at Freemasons' Hall. l6 SONGS. May the pray'rs of our orphans to heaven ascend, And secure its best blessings for Moira, their friend ! From the prince, &c. The task were too tedious the deeds to record Of the great and the good that our annals afford ; In a word, let us utter this truth to mankind, There's no temple more pure than the true mason's From the prince, &c. [mind. XVI. By Brother John Cartwright, of Cheadle, in Lancashire. (Tune, ^^ Smile, Britafmia") ATTEND, attend the strain, Ye masons free, whilst I, To celebrate your fame. Your virtues sound on high ; Accepted masons, free and bold, Will never live the dupes of gold. Great Solomon, the king, Great Architect of fame, Of whom all coasts did ring, Rever'd the mason's name. Like him accepted, free, and bold ; True wisdom we prefer to gold. Since him, the great and wise Of every age and clime, With fame that never dies. Pursued the art sublime, Inspir'd by heav'n ; just and free. Have honour'd much our mystery. SONGS. 1 7 The glorious paths of those With heav'n-born wisdom crown'd We every day disclose, And tread on sacred ground ; A mason righteous, just, and free. Or else not worthy Masonry. (Tune, ^'' Dei-ry doumy) ATTEND, loving brethren, and to me give ear. Our work being ended, let's lay aside care ; Let mirth and good humour our senses regale. And mind that our secrets we never reveal. Derry down, down, down, derry down. With leave of his worship who there fills the chair, Who governs our actions with compass and square ; We'll sing a few verses in Masonry s praise ; Not fond of ambition, we look for no bays. Derry down, &c. Our Ancient Grand Master, inspir'd by the Lord, On holy Moriah, as scriptures record, Began the magnificent structure to frame In the month called Zif, the fourth year of his reign. Derry down, &:c. With level and square the foundation begun, In length sixty cubits, breadth nineteen and one ; Here Masonry shone above all other arts. So sublime's the great secret the artist imparts. Derry down, &c. 1 8 SONGS. Old Hiram of Tyre, King David's great friend, Did fir, pine, and cedar from Lebanon send, To build the sanctorum by Masonry's skill, In obedience unto the great Architect's will Derry down, &c. One hundred and fifty three thousand six hundred, Employed for the temple, we find they were numbered; With Crafts many thousands, and bearers of loads, And Masters six hundred, as scripture records. Derry down, &c. These form'd themselves all into lodges, they say, Some east and some west, some north and south way; In love and truth still they go happily on, In all well-governed countries under the sun. Derry down, &c. Now let the brisk bumper go merrily round ; May our Worshipful Master in honour abound ; May his precepts instructive to harmony move, And we live like true brethren in friendship and love. Derry down, etc. All health to our brethren of ev'ry degree, Dispers'd round the globe, or by land or by sea ; Preserve them, ye pow'rs, their virtues improve : When we part from this world may we all meet above. Derry down, &c SONGS. 19 XVIII. A Song for the Knights Templar, Written by T. Dunckerly, Esq., late Grand Master. (Tune, " At the bright Temple's massy dome.") AT the bright temple's awful dome. Where Christian knights in arms are drest; To that most sacred place we come. With cross and star upon the breast; Pilgrims inspir'd with zealous flame, Through rugged ways and dangers past ; Our sandals torn, our feet were lame, But faith and hope o'ercame at last. Remember, knights, the noble cause, Let Simon's fate prevent your fall ; Be firm and true, obey the laws, Nor let the cock unheeded call. Let none the sacred word profane. Nor e'er, like Peter, Christ deny ; Your conduct still preserve from blame, Nor let the urn be plac'd on high. Unite your hearts, unite each hand. In friendship, harmony, and love ; Connected thus Knights Templar stand. Our love and charity to prove. Until that awful final day When fire shall melt this earthly ball, Your courage and your faith disi)lay ; Attend to freedom's sacred call. 20 SONGS. True to our God, our Laws, and King, Devout, obedient, loyal, free. The praise of royal Edward sing, The patron of our mystery. In uniform each knight is drest, Distinguish'd all by blacky red, blue, The cross and star upon the breast, Adorn the heart that's just and true. XIX, BEGIN, O ye muses, a Freemason's strain ; Let the numbers be gentle, and easy, and plain ; Though sometimes in concert sublimely we sing, Whilst each brother mason joins hands with a king, And princes disdain not comj)anions to be With the man that is own'd for a mason and free. Why seek our best nobles our mystery to know, And rather sing here than sip tea with a beau ? The sweet notes of knowledge more powerfully call, Than a fav'rite at court, or a toast at a ball : For truth's sake, a lord is of equal degree With the man that is own'd for a mason and free. 'Twas heav'n first lighted the glorious flame Of science, that sages Freemasonry name. From Adam it flow'd to the patriarch of old ; The wise king preferr'd it to coffers of gold ; And Hiram of Tyre join'd with him to be Of the number of those ll.at we e masons and free. The grigs, antigallics, and others, they say, Have set up their lodges, and mimic our way ; But frogs claim a curse when they croak from the fen. And monkeys a kick when they imitate men. In vain, shallow mortals, ye rivals would be To the man that is own'd for a mason and free. SONGS. 21 The wisdom of Greece and old Rome we explore, Nay pass to the learn'd of the Memphian shore, What secrets Euphrates and Tigris have known, And Palestine gather'd, are made all our own. Well may the world wonder what strange things we see, With the man that is own'd for a mason and free. Though the fair from our rites are for ever debar'd, Ah, ladies ! repine not, nor censure too hard : You have no rivals here, not ev'n in glass, Where fribbles so dote on the shade of an ass. Your own dearest pictures, our hearts could you see, Would be found in the man that's a mason and free. The brightest of graces with virtue here join, No such angel looks in the drawing room shine, Bless'd concord, and eagle-ey'd truth hover round, And face to face, friendship says, see the bowl crown'd : Here's a health, let it pass with the number of three, To the man that is own'd for a mason and free. XX. By Dr. William Perfect. Sung by Brother Sylvester Harding^ at the Grand Provincial Anniversary Meeting at the Ship Tavern^ Fevers ham. (Tune, ^''Mulberry TreeT) BEHOLD, a cloud breaks, and Urania descends. The sky-mantled nymph our convention attends 1 It is for the Craft that she sweeps the loud strings, And science attunes her sweet notes as she sings. Cho, — All the arts inform'd by me. Bow to thee, blest Masonry ; Creation spreads her charms to thee, And thou immortal e'er shalt be. 22 SONGS. Elated, all own that thy source is'divine, -om'-"' The bible thy standard, thy square, and thy line ; That truth is thy handmaid, and reason thy soul, And justice thy guide to the farthermost pole. Cho.—AW the aits, Ac. As wide and extensive as Sol's boundless ray, All cheering as spring, and as bright as her May, The system Masonic, of mystical rite, Spreads an ocean of rapture and infinite light Cho. — All the arts, «V:c. Sense, truth, and good humour, and harmony join. By Masonry warm'd, they unite and combine ; To the bower of friendship she leads them along, To taste of her banquets and chorus her song. Cho. — Then the arts, dc. Behold the Freemason, how glorious his plan ! It enlarges the mind, and ennobles the man ; It teaches the hand and the heart how to bless. And melts e'en the miser to soften distress. Cho. — Then the arts, is:c. To time's latest period the Craft so divine As the rays of their art shall diffusedly shine ; Their laws, rules, and orders all others excel, And Kent here stands foremost their virtues to tell. Cho.— V^hWt the art, itc SONGS. 23 XXI. By Brother Laurie, of the Lodge of Alloa, ly^S. (Tune, Derry doum.) BEHOLD in a lodge we dear brethren are met, And in proper order together are set ; Our secrets to none but ourselves shall be known, Our actions to none but Freemasons be shown. Derry down, down, down, derry down. Let brotherly love be among us reviv'd ; Let's stand by our laws, that are wisely contriv'd, And then all the glorious creation shall see That none are so loving, so friendly as we. Derry down, Ac. The temple, and many a magnificent pile, E'en buildings now standing within our own isle, With wisdom contriv'd, with beauty refin'd, With strength to support, and the building to bind — Derry down, &c. These noble, grand structures will always proclaim What honour is due to a Freemason's name ; E'en ages to come, when our work they shall see, Will strive with each other like us to be free. Derry down, om whence his knowledge flows j His genius was so much refin'd. His peer he has not left behind. 34 SONGS. Then let not any one Forget the widow's son ; But toast his memory In glasses charg'd full high ; And when our proper time is come Like brethren part, and so go home. XXXI. The Entered Apprentice's Song. c lOME, let us prepare, We brothers that are Assembled on merry occasion. To drink, laugh, and sing ; Be he beggar or king, Here's a health to an accepted mason. The world is in pain Our secrets to gain, And still let them wonder and gaze on ; They ne'er can divine The word, or the sign. Of a free and an accepted mason. 'Tis this, and 'tis that. They cannot tell what, Nor why the great men of the nation Should aprons put on. And make themselves one With a free and an accepted mason. SONGS. 35 Great dukes, kings, and lords, Have laid by their swords, Our myst'ry to put a good grace on ; And ne'er been asham'd To hear themselves nam'd With a free and an accepted mason. Antiquity's pride We have on our side, To keep up our old reputation ; There's naught but what's good To be understood By a free and an accepted mason. We're true and sincere, And just to the fair, Who will trust us on any occasion ; No mortal can more The ladies adore, Than a free and an accepted mason. Then join hand in hand, (standing). By each brother firm stand, Let's be merry and put a bright face on ; What mortal can boast Uc/wrus So noble a toast U/iree Umcs. As a free and an accepted mason ? } 36 SONGS. XXXII. (Tune, Of noble race was Shenkin). COME, now, lov'd loving brothers, Since serious work is ended, Let wine give birth To social mirth, With tuneful songs attended. Charge then with liquid powder, Each his sound-bottom'd bumper ; For as to the king And the craft we sing, It should be with a thumper. Off with it ; clap ; huzza boys ! As do our rites require ; Thrice three make nine ; Mind discipline, And all as one give fire. Again replenish high lads, To the grand lodges' grand master, And his wardens two, Our next toast's due ; Heav'n shield them from disaster ! Next, to all worthy masons, Howe'er by fortune batter'd, And poor as Job, Where, o'er the globe, Them providence hath scatter'd. And, as the fair sex ever By masons are ador'd, Health to their charms Who in masons' arms Lig, in true love assur'd. SONGS. 37 XXXIII. The Fellow-craft's song^ as sung at the Lodge in Carmarthen, South Wales. COME all ye (i) elves that be, Come follow, follow me, All ye that guards have been Without, or serve within : Come, sing for joy, thro' us, tis found That all this Lodge is sacred ground. * Guides too, (2) that fairies are Come, five by five prepare ; Come, buy fresh oil with speed, The dying lamps to feed ; All trimm'd anew in glitt'ring light. For welcome garments must be white. * Come, (3) seraphs too, that be Bright rulers, three by three, Attend on me, your queen, Two handmaids led between ; And all around the healths I name Make you the hallow'd stones proclaim. * While (4) sylphs and sylvan loves Of mountains and of groves. With gnomes and sprightly dames Of fountains and of flames. I. The five external senses and ideas of the soul. 2. The five internal senses, or faculties of the soul, viz. : per- ception, reflection, imagination, attention and invention. 3. The three superiorgraces, or faculties of the mind, wisdom, knowledge and skill. 4. The seven influences, both natural and divine, of the heart, or gradual successions and acquirements. 38 SONGS. The joyful noise with hands and feet Shall echo, and the noise repeat, t All we who sing and love, Who live in springs above, Descend, descend do we. With masons to be free ; Where (5 1 springs of wine revive each face, And streams of milk spill all the place. Where (6) cherubs guard the door With flaming sword before, We thro' the keyhole creep, x\nd there we deeply peep; O'er all their jewels skip and leap, Or trip it tip-toe step by step. Or, as upon the green We fairies turn unseen, So here we make (7) a ring. And dance while masons sing : Around their crowns we whirl apace, Nor yet one single hair misplace. Or when from thence we jump All down with (8) silent thump. + Here might be drank the following health, viz. : All hail the crafty sisters three ! The dame that blows the fire, and she That weaves the fine embroidery ; But chief of all, hail masonry ! 5. The liberal arts and sciences of masons. 6. The two keys of scripture and nature which belong to the logos, or word of rational judgment, whereby we distinguish truth from falsehood, and evidence from darkness, &c. 7. Alluding to the revolutions of our thoughts, or rumina- tion, it'c. (8) Alluding to the secrecies of our thoughts, and obedience of our wills, Sec SONGS. 39 None hear our feet rebound Round, round the table, round, Nor see us while we nimbly pass Thrice round the rim of ev'ry glass. Hence, (9) satyrs, hence, begone, Foul vesture ye have on ; No naked nymphs here be, Each five and sacred three, With virgins and with graces join In sacred songs the feast divine. Two (10) stones of crystal clear Our squared cloth shall bear ; Five loaves of oaken mast Shall be our firm repast ; Five acorn cups of pearly dew Shall serve to pledge each health anew.=!= If any (11) crumbs withal Do from their table fall. With greedy mirth we eat, No honey is so sweet ; And when they drop it from the thumb. We catch each supernaculum. 9. Such ideas as are impurely dressed, or too open and familiar, &c. 10. Alluding to the foundations whereon this sacred order is laid, &c. ♦ N.B. — Here might be drank this health, viz : — To all true housewives and their beams, To every damsel that has charms, But chiefly those in masons' arms. II. The lessons, &c. given in this lodge. 40 SONGS. * The (12) tongues of nightingale, The (13) eyes of unctuous snails, The (14) serpent's brain with blood Of (15) doves, is charming food ; But (16) brains of worm, and marrow of mice, Are foolish and of filthy price. * Whilst we enchant all ears With (17) music of the spheres, No (18) grasshopper nor fly Serves for our minstrelsy ; Such locusts leave, and all such flies To Beelzebub, the (19) prince of lies. * Grace said, while all awhile In songs the time beguile ; Or pleasant healths, or at The table sit and chat ; Then, (20) female-like, on teas we feast, As we first (21) taught it in the east. Of (22) grass the tender (23) tops Infus'd in (24) dewy drops, 12. The oratory of teachers. 13. The curiosity of enquirers. 14. The understanding of the crafty. 15. The spirit of the innocent. 26. The blind and covetous. 17. The harmony of the several degrees of life, soul, and mind, &c. 18. No busy-bodies nor ramblers, &c. 19. The author of maggots, chimeras, &c. 20. The learning of lectures, and explanation of secrets, &c. 21. Alluding to the natural light of the Chinese; 22. Or rather the first restorer of masonry, who fed on the tops of wild herbs, wild honey, &c. 23. The newer terms of art and science derived from nature,«&c. 24. The older terms of scripture, &c. SONGS. 41 With (25) crystal bags of bees, Make us delicious teas ; So sweet and fragrant of the (26) flow'r, None taste the bitter or the sour. Meanwhile, the (27) house new swept, And from uncleanness kept ; If all things shine with grace, And nothing's out of place, Then do we praise the (28) household maid, And (29) four fold surely she's repaid. But if the house be foul, With (30) hammer, axe, or tool ; If wardens fall asleep. Or fellows drink too deep ; If (31) smoke perchance or (32) flames arise, Or if the lodge (33) untiled lies ; Then in the (34) dead of night. With (35) goblins we affright ; Or lead some into (36) pools. Or (37) steal away the tools ; 25. The sweet collections and digestions of us the labourers in masonry, &c. 26. Beautiful moral of it, such that neither its religion nor law displeases any. 27. Implying that the whole economy being reformed and purified, ought to be kept in decency and order. 28. The memory, &c. 29. For every idea points out four several ways, viz : — Ti> things celestial and angelical, terrestrial and human, &c. 30. Low, vulgar, and litigious notions, €.) FATHER Adam when first he beheld the light shine, God made him a mason, and gave him a sign, He freely unto us the same did impart, And oft'times in paradise talk'd of our art. Cho. — Sing tantararara, truth all, &c. The apostles were masons I'll tell you straightways, Christ order'd a temple to be rais'd in three days, They knew what he meant while the ignorant gaz'd, Then these masons clapp d hands and their master pleas'd. Cho. — Sing tantararara, clap all, &c. We're bid by the scriptures no longer be blind, But to knock at the door and the truth we shall find; And the scripture advises us free-masons further, To join hand in hand and to love one another. Cho. — Sing tantararara, love all, &c. The ladies say masonry's a dangerous trade. And are surely afraid when their husbands are made; But take their own words, and deny it who can. They ne'er knew a mason but what was a man. Cho. — Sing tantararara, men all, &c. We live by a rule that is just and upright, Free-masons are known to be children of light ; With conscience clear white like the aprons they wear, Here's a health to free-masons wherever they are. Cho. — Sing tantararara, drink all, &c. ^6 SONGS. F XLIII. (Tune, Derry down). IDELITY once had a fancy to rove, And therefore she quitted the mansions above; On earth she arrived, but so long was her tour, Jove thought she intended returning no more. Derry down, down, down, derry down. Then Mercury was hasten'd in quest of the dame, And soon to this world of confusion he came ; At Paris he stopped, and enquired by chance, But heard that Fidelity ne'er was in France. Derry down, down, down, derry down. The God then to Portugal next took his route. In hopes that at Lisbon he might find her out ; But there he was told she had mock'd superstition. And left it for fear of the grand inquisition. Derry down, down, down, derry down. Being thus disappointed to Holland he flew. And strictly enquired of an eminent Jew ; When Mordecai readily told him thus much, Fidelity never was lik'd by the Dutch. Derry down, down, down, derry down. Arriving at London, he hastened to court, Where numbers of great little men do resort. Who all stood amaz'd when he asked for the dame. And swore they had scarce ever heard of the name. Derry down, down, down, derry down. To Westminster Hall did the God next repair. In hopes with dame Justice she might be found there; For both he enquir'd ; when the court answer'd thus, "The persons you mention, sir, ne'er trouble us." Derry down, down, down, derry down. SONGS. 5 7 Then bending his course to the Cyprian grove, He civilly asked of the young God of Love ; The urchin replied, "could you think here to find her, " When I and my mother, you know, never mind her? Derry down, down, down, derry down. " In one only place you can find her on earth, " The seat of true frieneship, love, freedom and mirth ; "To a lodge of free-masons then quickly repair, " And you need not to doubt but you'll meet with her there." Derry down, down, down, derry down. Y XLIV. IROM henceforth ever sing. The craftsman and the king, With poetry and music sweet, Resound their harmony complete ; And with geometry in skilful hand. Due homage pay, Without delay, To the king and to our master grand ; He rules the free-born sons of art. By love and friendship, hand and heart. CHORUS. Who can rehearse the praise. In soft poetic lays. Or solid prose of masons true. Whose art transcends the common view ; Their secrets ne'er to strangers yet expos'd, Reserved shall be. By masons free. And only to the ancient lodge disclos'd ; Because they're kept in masons' hearty By brethren of the royal art. 58 SONGS. XLV. F IROM the depths let us raise Our voices, and praise The works of the glorious creation ; And extol the great fame Of our Maker's great name, And his love to an accepted mason- In primitive times, When men, by high crimes, Occasion'd a great devastation, The flood did abound And all men were drown'd, Save a free and an accepted mason. In an ark that was good, Made of gopher wood, It was built by divine ordination ; And first in his time, That planted a vine, Was a free and an accepted mason. Then Pharaoh, the king Of Egypt, did bring Into bondage our whole generation : But that king got a fall, And his magicians all. By a princely and great learned mason. Four hundred and thirty years By scripture appears. Was their bondage in th' Egyptian nation. But by providence great. They made their escape, Unto the Egyptians vexation. SONGS. 5,^ Then through the red sea Heaven guided their way, By two pillars of divine ordination ; But Pharaoh's great train The sea did restrain From pursuing an army of masons. On the plains they did rear A pavilion fair, It was built by divine inspiration ; Each part in it square, None could it prepare But a free and an accepted mason. Thro' Jordan they go, To face their proud foe, I mean the great Canaanite nations ; But their gigantic train Could not sustain The force of that army of masons. Next Amalek's king Great forces did bring ; Likewise the great Midianite nations ; But their kings got a fall, And their great nobles all. And their wealth fell a prey to our masons. King Solomon, he Was known to be free, Built a lodge for the use of the masons ; Each beautiful part Was due to the art Of that princely and great learned mason. Let each mason that's free Toast his memory ; $0 SONGS. Join hands without dissimulation ; Let cowans think on, For they are all wrong, Drink a health to an accepted mason. XLVI. (Tune, Goddess of ease). GENIUS of masonry, descend, And with thee bring thy spotless train ; Constant our sacred rites attend, While we adore thy peaceful reign ; Bring with thee virtue, brightest maid, Bring love, bring truth, bring friendship here ; While social mirth shall lend her aid, To smooth the wrinkled brow of care. Come, charity with goodness crown'd, Encircled in thy heavenly robe. Diffuse thy blessings all around, To every corner of the globe. See where she comes, with power to bless, With open hand, and tender heart, Which wounded feels at man's distress, And bleeds at every human smart. Envy may every ill devise, And falsehood be thy deadliest foe. Thou, Friendship, still shalt towering rise, And sink thine adversaries low : Thy well built pile shall long endure, Through rolling years preserve its prime, Upon a rock it stands secure, And braves the rude assaults of time. SONGS. 61 Ye happy few, who here extend In perfect lines, from east to west, With fervent zeal the lodge defend, And lock its secrets in each breast : Since ye are met upon the square. Bid love and friendship jointly reign, Be peace and harmony your care, Nor break the admittance chain. Behold the planets how they move, Yet keep due order as they run ; Then imitate the stars above. And shine resplendent as the sun : That future masons, when they meet, May all our glorious deeds rehearse, And say, their fathers were so great. That they adorn'd the universe. XLVIL GLORIOUS craft, which fires the mind With sweet harmony and love ; Surely thou wert first design'd. A foretaste of the joys above. Pleasures always on thee await ; Thou reformest Adam's race ; Strength and Beauty in thee meet ; Wisdom's radiant in thy face. Arts and virtues now combine. Friendship raises cheerful mirth, All united to refine Man from grosser parts of earth. 62 SONGS. Stately temples now arise, And on lofty columns stand ; Mighty domes attempt the skies To adorn this happy land. XLVIII. KNIGHTS TEMPLAR SONG. (Tune, God save the King). G OD bless the royal band, Who grace this happy land With valiant knights : May the united three Of the blest trinity Ever lamented be Of all great lights. Twelve once were highly lov'd, But one a Judas prov'd, Put out his fire ; May Simon haunt all fools Who vary from all rules. May the heads of such tools Rest high on spires. 'Gainst Turks and Jews we fight, And in religion's right We'll breathe our last ; Poor pilgrims, begging, we Will our Jerusalem see, All steps, sir knights, have ye Gloriously pass'd. SONGS. 65 Enter'd, pass'd, rais'd and arch'd, And then like princes march'd Through rugged ways At length great lights we saw, And poor old Simon too, Also the word and law, Glory and praise. God in his rainbow gave Colours which now we have, Black, red, and blue, These colours emblems are Of our rights most rare, We are in soul sincere, Just, good, and true. Sir Knights, clasp hand in hand. None but Knights Templar stand. In circle round ; May we e'er live in love, And ev'ry comfort prove ; May manna from above Fall on this ground. G XLIX. ROYAL ARCH SONG. OD caused great lights to shine^ Moving in orbs divine, Which ever shall Banish all darkness quite, With such refulgent light. And from eternal night Save royals all. ^4 SONGS. Sanctum, Sanctorum, Triangles no more of 'em, Wisdom's revealed ! Sublimest arts refin'd, Excellent arches bind ! No flaw in heart or mind Shall be conceal'd. Few in our numbers are. Therefore in royal chair. Honours abound ; We'll join hearts and hand, Whilst truths in gospel stand, None but the royal band Shall circle round. L. THE TREASURER'S SONG. (Tune, Near some cool shade). GRANT me, kind heav'n, what I request, In masonry let me be blest ; Direct me to that happy place. Where friendship smiles in every face. Where freedom and sweet innocence Enlarge the mind and cheer the sense. Where scepter'd reason from her throne Surveys the lodge, and makes us one : And harmony's delightful sway, For ever sheds ambrosial day ! Where we blest Eden's pleasures taste. While balmy joys are our repast. SONGS. 65 Our lodge the social virtues grace, And wisdom's rules we fondly trace ; Whole nature open to our view, Points out the paths w^e should pursue ; Let us subsist in lasting peace. And may our happiness increase. No prying eye can view us here, No fool or knave disturb our cheer ; Our well-form'd law^s set mankind free. And give relief to misery ; The poor, oppress'd with woe and grief, Gain from our bounteous hand relief. LI. By Brother Stanfield. (Tune, Contefifed I a7?i, 6^^.) /^ RAVE bus'ness now clos'd — and a call from Or the south — The bowl of refreshment we drain ; Yet e'en o'er our wine we reject servile sloth, And our rites 'midst our glasses retain. My brave boys, &c. With loyalty brighten'd, we first toast the king — May his splendour and virtues entwine ! And, to honour his name, how we make the lodge ring, When the king and the craft we combine ! May the son's polish'd graces improve on the sire — May the arts flourish fair from his smile — And long our grand master, with wisdom and fire, Give beauty and strength to the pile ! 66 SONGS. As the ruby lipp'd wine its soft spirit imparts, Louder strains and fresh ardours abound ; What a glow of true pleasure enlivens our hearts When our honour'd provincial goes round ! The absent we clairo, tho' dispers'd round the ball — • The silent and secret our friends — And one honoured guest, at our magical call, From the grave of concealment ascends. Immortal the strain, and thrice awful the hand. That our rites and libations control ; Like the sons of Olympus, 'midst thunders we standi And with mysteries ennoble our bowl. WTiat a circle appears when the border entwines, How grapple the links to each soul ! Tis the zodiac of friendship embellish'd with signs. And illum'd by the star in the pole. Thus cemented by laws unseen and unknown, The universe hangs out its frame ; And thus secretly bound, shall our structure be shown. Till creation shall be but a name. G LIT REAT Architect high, That rules in the sky, And formed the great light all around ; From chaos arose, The violet and rose, And nature with plenty he's crown'd. SONGS. 67 Our parent at first Was form'd out of dust, The head of creation he stood ; The command it was giv'n By God out of heaven, And all was pronounced very good. Then out of his side God made him a bride, His happiness there to complete : And in love's sweet solace, With social embrace. Enjoy 'd Eden's happy retreat. But how soon did the crown From their heads tumble down. Which caused them both much to mourn ; They lost that was good. And naked they stood, 'Till aprons of leaves they put on. Let our conduct express What we each do profess. By rule and by compass to steer ; And let them reflect, Who those duties neglect, That the walk of a mason is square. Then bold let us stand, And join hand in hand. Like masons accepted and free : For our order is good. When right understood. And that many can prove it to be. 68 SONGS. LIII. G1 UARDIAN genius of our art divine, r Unto thy faithful sons appear ; Cease now o'er ruins of the East to pine, And smile in blooming beauty here. Egypt, Syria, and proud Babylon, No more thy blissful presence claim ; In England fix'd thy ever-during throne. Where myriads do confess thy name. The sciences from eastern regions brought. Which after shone in Greece and Rome, Are here in several stately lodges taught, To which remotest brethren come. Behold what strength our rising domes uprear, 'Till mixing with the azure skies ; Behold what beauties through the whole app