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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
kindness of the brethren he vvas in a position to do so , and it vvas a pleasure not to be forgotten . That pleasure vvas all the greater to him , as he felt he vvas succeeded by a brother who would be a credit to the chair . He was no stranger amongst them , for many round the festive board
saw him every day , and knew that in all his transactions he bore the good name of being an honourable and worthy brother , one that vvas beloved by all . As a working Mason few could excel him , and he hoped that during his year of office he would have plenty of work to clo , and that at the end it would prove a fruitful one .
The VVorshipful Maste-, in replying to the toast , said : Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., Past Masters , Officers , and brethren , —I return you my heartfelt thanks for the very kind and flattering way in which your I . P . M . has proposed the toast of my health , and you brethren , for the very cordial manner in which you have received it . Our I . P . M . has been pleased to speak of my abilities in a
manner which to say the least is very far fetched ; believe me , brethren , I appreciate at its utmost value the honour you have conferred upon me by placing me in the chair , and I can assure you , brethren , that anything I can do to advance the prosperity of the lodge and the happiness of the brethren , I shall feel great pleasure in doing , and 1 will endeavour , vvith the help of the G . A . O . T . U . so to conduct
myself that at the expiration of my year of office you may have no cause to regret having placed me in this proud position . Brethren , I thank you . The Worshipful Master then said : Brethren , —the next toast I have the honour to propose is one which needs no words of mine to make you receive it vvith the utmost cordiality and enthusiasm . Need I say it is that of our
esteemed " I . P . M ., Bro . G . Reynolds . " During his Mastership I am certain he has won the esteem and approbation of every member of the lodge by the very excellent manner in which he has managed the affairs of the lodge , and extricated us from the very difficult position in which we were placed when he took the chair , and I ask you , brethren , to be upstanding and drink with the utmost
enthusiasm to the health of your I . P . M ., Bro . G . Reynolds . The I . P . M ., in replying ' , said he thanked all for the hearty manner in which the toast had been received , and for the kind words of the W . M . He assured them that he sat abthe . banqiiet table that evening with much happier and pleasariter feelings than last year . It vvas vvith a very heavy heart he occupied the chair , and felt that he had a serious
task before him . But thanks to the forbearance and kindness of the brethren , great difficulties had been overcome , and the lodge vvas now out of trouble , and in , he trusted , smooth water , vvith prosperity before it . They could scarcely understand his feelings that evening , but they were of thankfulness in being able to hand over to their VV . M . a good bill of health , and hoped there vvere good times in store
for the Covent Garden Lodge . He assured the brethren he would do all in his power for the benefit and prosperity of the lodge , and trusted his duties as Secretary would be carried out to their entire satisfaction . He looked upon the P . M . ' s collar , pendant , and jewel , as tokens of affection from the brethren of the lodge , and what he had done as VV . M . had met vvith their approval . To Bro . G . Coleman , P . M ., he vvas deeply indebted for undertaking the duties of
Installing Master , and he knew that he had performed that arduous task to their satisfaction . Before resuming his seat , he thanked the Anglo-American brethren for their presence there that evening . They had seen him installed as VV . M ., and have also seen him as I . P . M . He missed one from their number , a veteran of a Mason , their first Master , Bro . Brackstone Baker , who vvas , unfortunately , suffering from influenza , but felt sure all hoped that he would soon be restored to srood health .
Ihe VV . M . then said : Brethren , —The next toast I have the honour to propose is one which is always received in the Covent Garden Lodge with the utmost pleasure . It is that of " Our Visitors . " We are honoured to-night vvith the presence of 52 visitors , very many of which are of distinguished rank , and constitute an array of which any lodge might well be proud . Many amongst them I recognise as old friends and visitors here , and I am also pleased to see a
number of new faces j but whether old friends or new , on behalf of the lodge , I give them all a most hearty welcome , and I trust this will not be the last time vve shall have the pleasure of welcoming them at our festive board , and I ask you , brethren , to be upstanding , and drink to the health of our visitors , and I shall couple vvith it the names of Bros . J . J . Woolley , 2191 J T . M . Waller , late Consul-General U . S . A . ; Geo . Gardner , P . M . ; and Harrison Ainsworth .
Bro . M . Woolley , P . M . 15 , in responding to the toast , said : Worshipful Master , officers , and brethren , — I thank you one and all , more particularly Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., whose guest I am this evening , for the kind and hearty reception given to myself and the other visitors here present . I may now tell you that this is my first visit to the Covent Garden Lodge j not because Bro . G .
Reynolds , did not invite me before , on the contrary , I have had many invitations from him , but this is . the first I have been able to attend , and I should most certainly carry away a fond recollection of the handsome way I have been received by you all . I might also say I and your I . P . M . are
Anglo-Americans , and it is within the bounds of possibility I may be the next W . M . I should be glad to see some of the Covent Garden Lodge present at the installation j the selection I leave to my worthy Bro . G . Reynolds . In conelusion , I wish the Covent Garden Lodge every prosperity , and again thanking you , leave the toast in more able hands .
Bro . G . Gardner , ? . M ., said : W . M ., officers and brethren of the Covent Garden Lodge , —Unlike the former speaker , it is not the first time that 1 have had the pleasure of being Present at your gatherings and witnessed the good work of the lodge , and partaken of the hospitality of the same . 1 think I have seen your newly-installed Master in each and every office that he has filled in the lodge . I received an
invite from him for to-night , but had already received one / . " . y brother on my right , Bro . Dowling , W . M ., and hr st initiate of the Chiswick Lodge , who had been installed ° Jy the night before , and I am sure on his , as well as the lod ge , I can hope that you , W . M ., may have a very pleasant year of office , and that I may have the privilege of again
visiting the lodge during your Mastership , to see the work done in a way well worthy of your lodge's prestige , a sample ° t vvhich you gave us in the appointment and investiture of your officers . In conclusion allow me to thank you for coupling my name vvith that of the visitors . Bros . Thos . M . Waller , late Consul-General of the United States at London , and one of the founders of the
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Anglo-American Lodge , in replying , among other things , said that , although he vvas suffering from the prevailing and popular epidemic , he could not , even in obedience to his doctor ' s command , remain away from this Masonic gathering . He was gratified with the opportunity to express here , as he had frequently in his country , his appreciation of the kindness ancl hospitalities he had always enjoyed among
English Masons . During the four years of his official residence as the Consular representative of his country in London , he had formed Masonic associations and friendships that he should fondly cherish for ever . He took , he said , especial delight in being with his brethren that night , Jn taking part in the solemn and interesting ceremonies of installation , conducted as they had been in the presence of
Officers of the Grand Lodge of the kingdom , and receiving as they had their complimentary approval . That gathering composed so largely of visitors , and from so many of the lodges of London , vvas significant for the respect and friendship the Craft entertained for Bro . Reynolds , who had faithfully and worthily wielded the gavel of the W . M . of the lodge during the past year , and for him who that night had
been in tailed in his place , and who would , judging from the happy way he had that night begun , sustain the high record of his office for the year to come . Bro . Waller , in conclusion , spoke pleasantly of some features of Masonic banquets in England , which had not , he regretted to say , been introduced on such occasions on the other side of the water , but vvhich he should think it his duty to bring to the
early attention of his convivial countrymen . Bro . Harrison-Ainsworth , Royal Savoy Lodge , No . 1744 , said : Worshipful Master and Brethren—1 thank you very much for drinking my health in conjunction vvith that of the other visitors , and also for so kindly coupling my name with the toast . I had no idea that 1 should be called upon to speak , and could have wished that you had selected some
one else from among - thc other fifty-one visitors , who would have been able to respond in a more appropriate manner . However , since you have heard the eloquent speech of our American brother on my right , I am quite sure you will forgive any shortcomings on my part , for 1 do not think I can add anything to what he has said . 1 may just remark that I have been exceedingly pleased vvith the able ancl
efficient manner in which this lodge has been worked , and the installation ceremony performed , this evening . I was so fortunate as to receive an invitation ( which it gave me great pleasure in accepting ) from your immediate Past Master ( Bro . George Reynolds ) , than whom a more zealous and indefatigable Mason I feel sure does not exist . I have known him tor some years , and can safely say that he goes
heart and soul into whatever he takes in hand j in fact , he would be an ornament to any lodge vvith which he vvas connected . Brethren , I again thank you for the hearty manner in which you have received the toast of the visitors . The W . M ., in proposing "The Installing Master , the Past Masters , and the Treasurer and Secretary , " said : Brethren , —As the hour is late , I shall couple the next two
toasts . It need no words of mine to commend the toast to those of you who heard our Installing Master , Bro . Coleman , P . M ., in the beautiful ceremony of installation . Those who vvere not present , 1 can assure you , missed a great treat , i am very pleased to see such an array of Past Masters here , as I feel confident that , with such a number of competent advisers , I cannot go very far wrong .
In our treasurer , Bro . E . Jacobs , P . M ., andourisecretary , Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., vve have two thoroughly reliable and esteemed officers , and 1 certainly think this lodge is to be congratulated on having two such experienced brethren in those important offices , and I couple vvith this toast the names of Bros . G . Coleman , Installing Master , and E . Jacobs , P . M ., Treasurer .
Bro . Coleman , who had acted as Installing Master , thanked the VV . M . for the kind manner he had spoken of him , and the brethren for the way in which they had responded , and said he was only too pleased to be of assistance to the lodge , and should at all times do his best to assist in any duty he was asked to undertake . Bro . Edward Jacobs , P . M . and Treasurer , thanked the
brethren for the hearty manner in vvhich the toast had been drunk . He felt very happy in knowing that he hid to work with so persevering a Secretary as their J . P . M ., and to him it would be a pleasure . They had but one view , viz ., the prosperity ot the lodge . No one but the P . M . 's knew what their I . P . M . had accomplished during his year of office . He had put them straight in all ways . The books vvere
now in thorough order , and it must have given him many hours of hard labour to get them so perfect . Nearly all the Past Masters had installed their successors , but their I . P . M ., vvith change in his official duties and the work of their books , could not be expected to do so . He must have neglected what is so essential to the success of a lodge , the books being in good order . He hoped that the I . P . M .
would be spared many years to be amongst them as their Secretary , and on his behalf and his own he thanked them sincerely tor the manner in vvhich the toastof Treasurer and Secretary had been received . The W . M . then said the next toast , brethren , is a very important one . It is that of " The Ofiicers , " as without good officers it is impossible for a VV . M . to carry out his
duties in a satisfactory manner . I feel confident , however , that the officers I have appointed will loyally support me to the utmost of their ability . He coupled vvith the toast the namesof Bros . G . H . Reynolds , S . W ., and J . Woodward , J . W ., to which those officers replied . The Tyler's toast brought to a conclusion a most enjoyable evening , one not to be forgotten , and the brethren , on
parting , expressed themselves as having been delighted with the whole proceedings . Letters , expressive of regret at not being able to be present , many suffering from the influenza epidemic , but sending congratulations , vvere received from Bros . Shadwell IT . Clerke , Grand Secretary ; J . Pendlebury , A . G . Secretary j E . Terry , Grand Treasurer j Augustus Harris , Grand
Treas . nominate j Sir Polydore De Keyser , G . D . j Brackstone Baker , P . M . 2191 , P . G . D . j Frederick Kedge , W . M . 219 IJ Theodore H . Tilton , S . W . 2191 J James Terry , Secretary R . M . Benevolent Institutionj W . Fincham , P . M . 134 SJ Charles Kedgley , P . M . j T . A . Dickson , P . M . ; M . Crook , J . C . Button , A . Bullen , I . G . j R .
Sparrow , and 11 other brethren . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Fred . VV . Stephens , assisted by Bros . A . Weston , A . Strugnell , Frank Laughlin , and the songs and recitations were much appreciated by the brethren , and gave great pleasure .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Stuart Lodge ( No . 1632 ) . —A regular meeting of this influential lodge vvas held on Monday , the 27 th ult ., at the Surrey Masonic Hall , Camberwell , when there were present Bros . Edward Pettit , VV . M . ; Henry E . Vickers , I . P . M . ; G . Lilley , P . M . ; Henry Baldwin , P . M ., P . P . G . Std . Br . Middx . ; Alfred Bannister , P . M . ; Thomas Poore , P . M ., Sec ; H . E . Vickers , P . M ., Treas . ; Charles
Lindsey , S . W . ; Charles Fruen , J . W . ; G . H . G . Morgan , S . D . j A . Crofts , J . D . j J . Bolding , I . G . ; W . H . Vickers , Org . ; R . Barham , P . M ., D . C . j W . C . Beaumont , A . D . C ., * H . Mascall , Stwd . j Thomas Bowler , Tyler ; Caleb Morrish , A . Burgess , and T . J . Webb . Visitors : Bros . Henry Hurgers , 1556 , P . P . G . S . Surrey ; W . H . Maling , P . M . 127 S ; John Sanderson , P . M . 700 j J . Hearsum ,
S . W . 167 ; 1 . H . Nicholas , J . W . 12 S 0 ; E . M . Batters , J . D . 12 S 0 ; F . Taylor , 2256 ; W . Merrill , 72 j and Louis Lee , 2309 . T he lodge having been opened , the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Mr . Frank Flower being'a candidate was initiated , and Bro . Ferres passed to the Second Degree by Bro . Henry E . Vickers , P . M ., in a
highly creditable manner . The VV . M . very impressively raised Bro . Webb to the Third Degree . Bo . Charles Fruen , J . W ., was unanimously elected W . M . for the ensuing year , and suitably acknowledged the compliment . Bro . Henry C . Vickers , P . M ., vvas elected Treasurer , and Bro . Thomas Bowler , Tyler . A proposition vvas then brought forward by the indefatigable Secretary of the lodge , Bro . Thomas
Poore , P . M ., P . Z ,, that a Past Master ' s jewel be presented to the W . M . for the highly satisfactory manner in vvhich he had conducted the affairs of the lodge during his Mastership , and as a mark of esteem from the brethren on the termination of a most prosperous year of office , an honour vvhich was most appreciated by the VV . M ., who returned thanks , and the lodge was closed .
The brethren then sat down to a most enjoyable banquet , presided over by the W . M . The usual toasts having then been given , interspersed vvith songs , recitations , instrumental music , & c , a most successful and cordial evening vvas brought to a close . Bro . Louis Lee , R . A . M ., presided at the pianoforte and organ in his usual skilful manner , and the table vvas sumptuously provided by Mrs . George Venables .
Farringdon Without Lodge ( No . 1745 ) . —This civic lodge met at the Viaduct Hotel , Holborn , on the 27 th ult . Among those in attendance vvere Bros . E . Schultz , W . M . j J . Young , P . M ., acting S . W . j T . Simpson , P . M ., acting J . W . ; H . J . Lardner , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . Surrey , Treas . j Nelson Prower , M . A ., J . D . j Dr . E . M . Lott , P . G . Org ., Hon . Org . j Capt . T . C . Walls ,
P . M ., P . P . G . W . Middx ., D . C . j H . B . Marshall , C . C , J . P ., P . M ., P . G . Treas . j P . N . Lardner , A . D . C . j H . Bennett , Stvvd . j Veit , Cattell , Bachoffner , McCullough , and others . Among the visitors vvere Bros . Ousey , 59 j T . O . Harding , M . A ., S 59 J May , 127 SJ Prince , 127 SJ and Peyrut , 2060 . The minutes of the last meeting were read and
confirmed . The ballot having been taken , Mr . E . B . Brown vvas impressively initiated into Craft mysteries by the W . M ., and Bro . G . R . E . McCullough was subsequently passed . Bro . Phillips , P . M . 19 S 6 , was then balloted for as a joining member . It vvas proposed by Bro . Capt . Walls , seconded by Bro . Young , P . M ., and carried unanimously , " That the sum of £ 5 5 s . be subscribed from the
Benevolent hund of this lodge in aid of the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls , and placed on the list of Bro . E . Schultz , W . M . " Bro . H . J . Lardner , P . M ., then gave a notice of motion "That the sum of £ 5 be voted from thc funds of the lodge towards the ' Binckes' Indemnity Fund , R . M ' . I . for Boys . " The lodge was then closed , and thebrethren partook of a
well-served banquet . The usual loyal toasts having been duly honoured , Bro . H . B . Marshall , P . G . Treas ., responded to the toast of "The Grand Officers . " Having done tull justice to the pledge , he wished to thank those members of the lodge and their friends who had done so much for him in the past in again placing him at the head of the poll during
the recent Common Council contest in the large and important Ward of Farringdon Without . During the 15 years he had been connected vvith the Corporation of London he had endeavoured to do his duty , and , if they would allow him to say so , that it had been through his efforts that the fine City Almshouses had been erected at Brixton . He was proud of being a Past Grand Treasurer of England ,
he vvas gratified in being a Corporator of the great City of London , and last , but not least , he felt honoured in being a P . M . of so good a lodge as No . 1745 unquestionably vvas . Bro . Dr . Lott also made a neat and pertinent speech . "The Health of the VV . M . " followed . Bro . bchultz , in reply , said that it vvas difficult for a . brother not born in England to thoroughly master the
intracies of the Craft ritual . The brother who proposed his health appeared to think otherwise . He had endeavoured to do his best , and so far his year of office had been a happy one . He did not like to say unkind things , but he telt somewhat hurt that he had been so badly supported by the majority of his ofiicers . Fortunately , the Farringdon
Lodge possessed a strong working cohort of Past Masters , ancl they had gallantly come to the rescue , and pulled him through . "The Initiate" came next , and Bro . Brown responded in a speech of some merit . The toast of "The Visitors" drew , in reply , excellent responses from Bros . Ousey , Harding , and others .
' * The Past Masters vvas acknowledged by Bros . Capt . Walls , J . Young , and T . Simpson . "The Health of the Treasurer and Secretary" came next in order . Bro . H . J . Lardner responded .
The toast of " The Officers" was coupled with the names of Bros . Prower , P . Lardner , and H . Bennett . The proceedings of the evening were considerably enhanced and enlivened by the instrumental and vocal efforts of Bros . Dr . Lott , J . Young , N . Prower , and P . N . Lardner .
Empire Lodge ( No . 2108 ) . —This successful lodge , which has during the last few years been doing excellent work on the unique lines laid down at its consecration , held the annual installation meeting at the Criterion , Piccadilly , on Tuesday , the 28 th ult . The members present included Bros . A . j . R . Trendell , C . M . G ., P . G . Stwd ., VV . M . ; Lennox Browne , F . R . C . S ., Prov . S . G . W . Essex , I . P . M . j Andrew Miller , J . W ., W . M . electj G . Herbert ,
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
kindness of the brethren he vvas in a position to do so , and it vvas a pleasure not to be forgotten . That pleasure vvas all the greater to him , as he felt he vvas succeeded by a brother who would be a credit to the chair . He was no stranger amongst them , for many round the festive board
saw him every day , and knew that in all his transactions he bore the good name of being an honourable and worthy brother , one that vvas beloved by all . As a working Mason few could excel him , and he hoped that during his year of office he would have plenty of work to clo , and that at the end it would prove a fruitful one .
The VVorshipful Maste-, in replying to the toast , said : Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., Past Masters , Officers , and brethren , —I return you my heartfelt thanks for the very kind and flattering way in which your I . P . M . has proposed the toast of my health , and you brethren , for the very cordial manner in which you have received it . Our I . P . M . has been pleased to speak of my abilities in a
manner which to say the least is very far fetched ; believe me , brethren , I appreciate at its utmost value the honour you have conferred upon me by placing me in the chair , and I can assure you , brethren , that anything I can do to advance the prosperity of the lodge and the happiness of the brethren , I shall feel great pleasure in doing , and 1 will endeavour , vvith the help of the G . A . O . T . U . so to conduct
myself that at the expiration of my year of office you may have no cause to regret having placed me in this proud position . Brethren , I thank you . The Worshipful Master then said : Brethren , —the next toast I have the honour to propose is one which needs no words of mine to make you receive it vvith the utmost cordiality and enthusiasm . Need I say it is that of our
esteemed " I . P . M ., Bro . G . Reynolds . " During his Mastership I am certain he has won the esteem and approbation of every member of the lodge by the very excellent manner in which he has managed the affairs of the lodge , and extricated us from the very difficult position in which we were placed when he took the chair , and I ask you , brethren , to be upstanding and drink with the utmost
enthusiasm to the health of your I . P . M ., Bro . G . Reynolds . The I . P . M ., in replying ' , said he thanked all for the hearty manner in which the toast had been received , and for the kind words of the W . M . He assured them that he sat abthe . banqiiet table that evening with much happier and pleasariter feelings than last year . It vvas vvith a very heavy heart he occupied the chair , and felt that he had a serious
task before him . But thanks to the forbearance and kindness of the brethren , great difficulties had been overcome , and the lodge vvas now out of trouble , and in , he trusted , smooth water , vvith prosperity before it . They could scarcely understand his feelings that evening , but they were of thankfulness in being able to hand over to their VV . M . a good bill of health , and hoped there vvere good times in store
for the Covent Garden Lodge . He assured the brethren he would do all in his power for the benefit and prosperity of the lodge , and trusted his duties as Secretary would be carried out to their entire satisfaction . He looked upon the P . M . ' s collar , pendant , and jewel , as tokens of affection from the brethren of the lodge , and what he had done as VV . M . had met vvith their approval . To Bro . G . Coleman , P . M ., he vvas deeply indebted for undertaking the duties of
Installing Master , and he knew that he had performed that arduous task to their satisfaction . Before resuming his seat , he thanked the Anglo-American brethren for their presence there that evening . They had seen him installed as VV . M ., and have also seen him as I . P . M . He missed one from their number , a veteran of a Mason , their first Master , Bro . Brackstone Baker , who vvas , unfortunately , suffering from influenza , but felt sure all hoped that he would soon be restored to srood health .
Ihe VV . M . then said : Brethren , —The next toast I have the honour to propose is one which is always received in the Covent Garden Lodge with the utmost pleasure . It is that of " Our Visitors . " We are honoured to-night vvith the presence of 52 visitors , very many of which are of distinguished rank , and constitute an array of which any lodge might well be proud . Many amongst them I recognise as old friends and visitors here , and I am also pleased to see a
number of new faces j but whether old friends or new , on behalf of the lodge , I give them all a most hearty welcome , and I trust this will not be the last time vve shall have the pleasure of welcoming them at our festive board , and I ask you , brethren , to be upstanding , and drink to the health of our visitors , and I shall couple vvith it the names of Bros . J . J . Woolley , 2191 J T . M . Waller , late Consul-General U . S . A . ; Geo . Gardner , P . M . ; and Harrison Ainsworth .
Bro . M . Woolley , P . M . 15 , in responding to the toast , said : Worshipful Master , officers , and brethren , — I thank you one and all , more particularly Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., whose guest I am this evening , for the kind and hearty reception given to myself and the other visitors here present . I may now tell you that this is my first visit to the Covent Garden Lodge j not because Bro . G .
Reynolds , did not invite me before , on the contrary , I have had many invitations from him , but this is . the first I have been able to attend , and I should most certainly carry away a fond recollection of the handsome way I have been received by you all . I might also say I and your I . P . M . are
Anglo-Americans , and it is within the bounds of possibility I may be the next W . M . I should be glad to see some of the Covent Garden Lodge present at the installation j the selection I leave to my worthy Bro . G . Reynolds . In conelusion , I wish the Covent Garden Lodge every prosperity , and again thanking you , leave the toast in more able hands .
Bro . G . Gardner , ? . M ., said : W . M ., officers and brethren of the Covent Garden Lodge , —Unlike the former speaker , it is not the first time that 1 have had the pleasure of being Present at your gatherings and witnessed the good work of the lodge , and partaken of the hospitality of the same . 1 think I have seen your newly-installed Master in each and every office that he has filled in the lodge . I received an
invite from him for to-night , but had already received one / . " . y brother on my right , Bro . Dowling , W . M ., and hr st initiate of the Chiswick Lodge , who had been installed ° Jy the night before , and I am sure on his , as well as the lod ge , I can hope that you , W . M ., may have a very pleasant year of office , and that I may have the privilege of again
visiting the lodge during your Mastership , to see the work done in a way well worthy of your lodge's prestige , a sample ° t vvhich you gave us in the appointment and investiture of your officers . In conclusion allow me to thank you for coupling my name vvith that of the visitors . Bros . Thos . M . Waller , late Consul-General of the United States at London , and one of the founders of the
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Anglo-American Lodge , in replying , among other things , said that , although he vvas suffering from the prevailing and popular epidemic , he could not , even in obedience to his doctor ' s command , remain away from this Masonic gathering . He was gratified with the opportunity to express here , as he had frequently in his country , his appreciation of the kindness ancl hospitalities he had always enjoyed among
English Masons . During the four years of his official residence as the Consular representative of his country in London , he had formed Masonic associations and friendships that he should fondly cherish for ever . He took , he said , especial delight in being with his brethren that night , Jn taking part in the solemn and interesting ceremonies of installation , conducted as they had been in the presence of
Officers of the Grand Lodge of the kingdom , and receiving as they had their complimentary approval . That gathering composed so largely of visitors , and from so many of the lodges of London , vvas significant for the respect and friendship the Craft entertained for Bro . Reynolds , who had faithfully and worthily wielded the gavel of the W . M . of the lodge during the past year , and for him who that night had
been in tailed in his place , and who would , judging from the happy way he had that night begun , sustain the high record of his office for the year to come . Bro . Waller , in conclusion , spoke pleasantly of some features of Masonic banquets in England , which had not , he regretted to say , been introduced on such occasions on the other side of the water , but vvhich he should think it his duty to bring to the
early attention of his convivial countrymen . Bro . Harrison-Ainsworth , Royal Savoy Lodge , No . 1744 , said : Worshipful Master and Brethren—1 thank you very much for drinking my health in conjunction vvith that of the other visitors , and also for so kindly coupling my name with the toast . I had no idea that 1 should be called upon to speak , and could have wished that you had selected some
one else from among - thc other fifty-one visitors , who would have been able to respond in a more appropriate manner . However , since you have heard the eloquent speech of our American brother on my right , I am quite sure you will forgive any shortcomings on my part , for 1 do not think I can add anything to what he has said . 1 may just remark that I have been exceedingly pleased vvith the able ancl
efficient manner in which this lodge has been worked , and the installation ceremony performed , this evening . I was so fortunate as to receive an invitation ( which it gave me great pleasure in accepting ) from your immediate Past Master ( Bro . George Reynolds ) , than whom a more zealous and indefatigable Mason I feel sure does not exist . I have known him tor some years , and can safely say that he goes
heart and soul into whatever he takes in hand j in fact , he would be an ornament to any lodge vvith which he vvas connected . Brethren , I again thank you for the hearty manner in which you have received the toast of the visitors . The W . M ., in proposing "The Installing Master , the Past Masters , and the Treasurer and Secretary , " said : Brethren , —As the hour is late , I shall couple the next two
toasts . It need no words of mine to commend the toast to those of you who heard our Installing Master , Bro . Coleman , P . M ., in the beautiful ceremony of installation . Those who vvere not present , 1 can assure you , missed a great treat , i am very pleased to see such an array of Past Masters here , as I feel confident that , with such a number of competent advisers , I cannot go very far wrong .
In our treasurer , Bro . E . Jacobs , P . M ., andourisecretary , Bro . G . Reynolds , I . P . M ., vve have two thoroughly reliable and esteemed officers , and 1 certainly think this lodge is to be congratulated on having two such experienced brethren in those important offices , and I couple vvith this toast the names of Bros . G . Coleman , Installing Master , and E . Jacobs , P . M ., Treasurer .
Bro . Coleman , who had acted as Installing Master , thanked the VV . M . for the kind manner he had spoken of him , and the brethren for the way in which they had responded , and said he was only too pleased to be of assistance to the lodge , and should at all times do his best to assist in any duty he was asked to undertake . Bro . Edward Jacobs , P . M . and Treasurer , thanked the
brethren for the hearty manner in vvhich the toast had been drunk . He felt very happy in knowing that he hid to work with so persevering a Secretary as their J . P . M ., and to him it would be a pleasure . They had but one view , viz ., the prosperity ot the lodge . No one but the P . M . 's knew what their I . P . M . had accomplished during his year of office . He had put them straight in all ways . The books vvere
now in thorough order , and it must have given him many hours of hard labour to get them so perfect . Nearly all the Past Masters had installed their successors , but their I . P . M ., vvith change in his official duties and the work of their books , could not be expected to do so . He must have neglected what is so essential to the success of a lodge , the books being in good order . He hoped that the I . P . M .
would be spared many years to be amongst them as their Secretary , and on his behalf and his own he thanked them sincerely tor the manner in vvhich the toastof Treasurer and Secretary had been received . The W . M . then said the next toast , brethren , is a very important one . It is that of " The Ofiicers , " as without good officers it is impossible for a VV . M . to carry out his
duties in a satisfactory manner . I feel confident , however , that the officers I have appointed will loyally support me to the utmost of their ability . He coupled vvith the toast the namesof Bros . G . H . Reynolds , S . W ., and J . Woodward , J . W ., to which those officers replied . The Tyler's toast brought to a conclusion a most enjoyable evening , one not to be forgotten , and the brethren , on
parting , expressed themselves as having been delighted with the whole proceedings . Letters , expressive of regret at not being able to be present , many suffering from the influenza epidemic , but sending congratulations , vvere received from Bros . Shadwell IT . Clerke , Grand Secretary ; J . Pendlebury , A . G . Secretary j E . Terry , Grand Treasurer j Augustus Harris , Grand
Treas . nominate j Sir Polydore De Keyser , G . D . j Brackstone Baker , P . M . 2191 , P . G . D . j Frederick Kedge , W . M . 219 IJ Theodore H . Tilton , S . W . 2191 J James Terry , Secretary R . M . Benevolent Institutionj W . Fincham , P . M . 134 SJ Charles Kedgley , P . M . j T . A . Dickson , P . M . ; M . Crook , J . C . Button , A . Bullen , I . G . j R .
Sparrow , and 11 other brethren . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Fred . VV . Stephens , assisted by Bros . A . Weston , A . Strugnell , Frank Laughlin , and the songs and recitations were much appreciated by the brethren , and gave great pleasure .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Stuart Lodge ( No . 1632 ) . —A regular meeting of this influential lodge vvas held on Monday , the 27 th ult ., at the Surrey Masonic Hall , Camberwell , when there were present Bros . Edward Pettit , VV . M . ; Henry E . Vickers , I . P . M . ; G . Lilley , P . M . ; Henry Baldwin , P . M ., P . P . G . Std . Br . Middx . ; Alfred Bannister , P . M . ; Thomas Poore , P . M ., Sec ; H . E . Vickers , P . M ., Treas . ; Charles
Lindsey , S . W . ; Charles Fruen , J . W . ; G . H . G . Morgan , S . D . j A . Crofts , J . D . j J . Bolding , I . G . ; W . H . Vickers , Org . ; R . Barham , P . M ., D . C . j W . C . Beaumont , A . D . C ., * H . Mascall , Stwd . j Thomas Bowler , Tyler ; Caleb Morrish , A . Burgess , and T . J . Webb . Visitors : Bros . Henry Hurgers , 1556 , P . P . G . S . Surrey ; W . H . Maling , P . M . 127 S ; John Sanderson , P . M . 700 j J . Hearsum ,
S . W . 167 ; 1 . H . Nicholas , J . W . 12 S 0 ; E . M . Batters , J . D . 12 S 0 ; F . Taylor , 2256 ; W . Merrill , 72 j and Louis Lee , 2309 . T he lodge having been opened , the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Mr . Frank Flower being'a candidate was initiated , and Bro . Ferres passed to the Second Degree by Bro . Henry E . Vickers , P . M ., in a
highly creditable manner . The VV . M . very impressively raised Bro . Webb to the Third Degree . Bo . Charles Fruen , J . W ., was unanimously elected W . M . for the ensuing year , and suitably acknowledged the compliment . Bro . Henry C . Vickers , P . M ., vvas elected Treasurer , and Bro . Thomas Bowler , Tyler . A proposition vvas then brought forward by the indefatigable Secretary of the lodge , Bro . Thomas
Poore , P . M ., P . Z ,, that a Past Master ' s jewel be presented to the W . M . for the highly satisfactory manner in vvhich he had conducted the affairs of the lodge during his Mastership , and as a mark of esteem from the brethren on the termination of a most prosperous year of office , an honour vvhich was most appreciated by the VV . M ., who returned thanks , and the lodge was closed .
The brethren then sat down to a most enjoyable banquet , presided over by the W . M . The usual toasts having then been given , interspersed vvith songs , recitations , instrumental music , & c , a most successful and cordial evening vvas brought to a close . Bro . Louis Lee , R . A . M ., presided at the pianoforte and organ in his usual skilful manner , and the table vvas sumptuously provided by Mrs . George Venables .
Farringdon Without Lodge ( No . 1745 ) . —This civic lodge met at the Viaduct Hotel , Holborn , on the 27 th ult . Among those in attendance vvere Bros . E . Schultz , W . M . j J . Young , P . M ., acting S . W . j T . Simpson , P . M ., acting J . W . ; H . J . Lardner , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . Surrey , Treas . j Nelson Prower , M . A ., J . D . j Dr . E . M . Lott , P . G . Org ., Hon . Org . j Capt . T . C . Walls ,
P . M ., P . P . G . W . Middx ., D . C . j H . B . Marshall , C . C , J . P ., P . M ., P . G . Treas . j P . N . Lardner , A . D . C . j H . Bennett , Stvvd . j Veit , Cattell , Bachoffner , McCullough , and others . Among the visitors vvere Bros . Ousey , 59 j T . O . Harding , M . A ., S 59 J May , 127 SJ Prince , 127 SJ and Peyrut , 2060 . The minutes of the last meeting were read and
confirmed . The ballot having been taken , Mr . E . B . Brown vvas impressively initiated into Craft mysteries by the W . M ., and Bro . G . R . E . McCullough was subsequently passed . Bro . Phillips , P . M . 19 S 6 , was then balloted for as a joining member . It vvas proposed by Bro . Capt . Walls , seconded by Bro . Young , P . M ., and carried unanimously , " That the sum of £ 5 5 s . be subscribed from the
Benevolent hund of this lodge in aid of the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls , and placed on the list of Bro . E . Schultz , W . M . " Bro . H . J . Lardner , P . M ., then gave a notice of motion "That the sum of £ 5 be voted from thc funds of the lodge towards the ' Binckes' Indemnity Fund , R . M ' . I . for Boys . " The lodge was then closed , and thebrethren partook of a
well-served banquet . The usual loyal toasts having been duly honoured , Bro . H . B . Marshall , P . G . Treas ., responded to the toast of "The Grand Officers . " Having done tull justice to the pledge , he wished to thank those members of the lodge and their friends who had done so much for him in the past in again placing him at the head of the poll during
the recent Common Council contest in the large and important Ward of Farringdon Without . During the 15 years he had been connected vvith the Corporation of London he had endeavoured to do his duty , and , if they would allow him to say so , that it had been through his efforts that the fine City Almshouses had been erected at Brixton . He was proud of being a Past Grand Treasurer of England ,
he vvas gratified in being a Corporator of the great City of London , and last , but not least , he felt honoured in being a P . M . of so good a lodge as No . 1745 unquestionably vvas . Bro . Dr . Lott also made a neat and pertinent speech . "The Health of the VV . M . " followed . Bro . bchultz , in reply , said that it vvas difficult for a . brother not born in England to thoroughly master the
intracies of the Craft ritual . The brother who proposed his health appeared to think otherwise . He had endeavoured to do his best , and so far his year of office had been a happy one . He did not like to say unkind things , but he telt somewhat hurt that he had been so badly supported by the majority of his ofiicers . Fortunately , the Farringdon
Lodge possessed a strong working cohort of Past Masters , ancl they had gallantly come to the rescue , and pulled him through . "The Initiate" came next , and Bro . Brown responded in a speech of some merit . The toast of "The Visitors" drew , in reply , excellent responses from Bros . Ousey , Harding , and others .
' * The Past Masters vvas acknowledged by Bros . Capt . Walls , J . Young , and T . Simpson . "The Health of the Treasurer and Secretary" came next in order . Bro . H . J . Lardner responded .
The toast of " The Officers" was coupled with the names of Bros . Prower , P . Lardner , and H . Bennett . The proceedings of the evening were considerably enhanced and enlivened by the instrumental and vocal efforts of Bros . Dr . Lott , J . Young , N . Prower , and P . N . Lardner .
Empire Lodge ( No . 2108 ) . —This successful lodge , which has during the last few years been doing excellent work on the unique lines laid down at its consecration , held the annual installation meeting at the Criterion , Piccadilly , on Tuesday , the 28 th ult . The members present included Bros . A . j . R . Trendell , C . M . G ., P . G . Stwd ., VV . M . ; Lennox Browne , F . R . C . S ., Prov . S . G . W . Essex , I . P . M . j Andrew Miller , J . W ., W . M . electj G . Herbert ,