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Article CONSECRATION OF THE HUNDRED OF BOSMERE LODGE, No. 1958. Page 1 of 1 Article CONSECRATION OF THE HUNDRED OF BOSMERE LODGE, No. 1958. Page 1 of 1 Article ROYAL MASONIC INSTITUTION FOR GIRLS. Page 1 of 1 Article ANOTHER ATTACK ON FREEMASONRY IN QUEENSLAND. Page 1 of 1 Article ANOTHER ATTACK ON FREEMASONRY IN QUEENSLAND. Page 1 of 1
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Consecration Of The Hundred Of Bosmere Lodge, No. 1958.
CONSECRATION OF THE HUNDRED OF BOSMERE LODGE , No . 1958 .
On Tuesday afternoon Bro . the R . W . the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and the Isle o ! ' Wight ( Bro . VV . VV . B . Beach , M . P . ) , accompanied by the V . W . the Deputy Provincial Grand Master ( Bro . XV . Hickman ) , and several of the Provincial Officers , took part in the constitution of the Hundred of Bosmere Lodsfe , No . IOSS . The
ceremony was performed at the Masonic HaU , Waterlooroad , Havant , the lodge being closed tyled at two o ' clock . The following brethren signed the attendance book : Bros . VV . VV . li ' . Bjach , P . G . M . ; VV . Hickman , D . P . G . M . ; A . j . Miller , 130 and 359 ; ] . E . Le Feuvre , 130 , P . G . Sec ; J . Rid . l Hayman , P . M . 309 , VV . M ., P . G . Reg . ; G . H . Barclay , 1371 , W . M ., P . G . Steward ; W . Oui ' ckfall , 1 SS 4 , P . G . Org . ; VV . I-I . Jacob , 7 G , 1 SS 3 , J . W . 7 6 ,
Treas . 1 SS 3 ; Charles Travess , S . W . 142 S ; I . G . Mason , J . W . 142 S ; John Laverty , VV . M . 142 S , P . G . A . D . C . ; V . S . Freeman , P . M . 732 , G . Sec . Sussex ; Thomas Francis , P . M ., W . M . 56 ; VV . Miller , D . C . 142 S ; G . P . Arnold , I . P . M . 142 S , P . P . G . A . D . C ; George S . Lancaster , 130 , P . P . G . W . ; R . VV . Beale . 4 S 7 , W . M ., P . G . S . ; C . F . Matier , P . M . 64 s , P . G . W . Greece , P . G . Steward Scotland ; Wm . Dart , P . M \ S 04 , P . G . Steward ; Capt . Wm . H . St .
Clair , R . N ., W . M . 457 ; ] ames E . Buck , S . W . 342 ; Charles W . A . Jellicoe , 130 , P . G . J . D . ; Eugene E . Street , P . M . 56 ; James Weeks , P . M . 804 ; J . Harrison , S . VV . 1 S 29 , and P . M . S 04 ; James VV . Willmott , 342 , 1 S 34 , P . M ., P . G . S . B . ; George Hond , 4 S 7 , P . P . G . S . B . ; Joseph Ogburn , 342 , P . P . G . W . ; William King ; James Lintott , P . M . S 04 ; Mark E . Frost , 257 , 4 S 7 , 10 G 9 , P . P . G . T . ; Thomas Page , VV . M . 1903 ; S . R . Ellis , 342 , and 1 S 34 ,
P . M . ; G . L . Green , 17 GG , and 1903 ; Richard Lansmere , 10 S 3 ; ] . C . iVrlidge , 1 G 3 S , and 195 S , S . D . ; T . D . Askew , S 04 , and 1903 , S . VV . ; F . J . Hunt , 1 G 3 S ; R . J . Rastrick , P . M . and Treas ., 1069 , 342 , and 1903 ; J . VV . Biggs , 130 , P . G . Tyler ; Joseph Exell , 437 , P . G . Tyler ; VV . Blackmore , S 04 , Tyler ; William Gamon , 7 G . and 1 SS 3 P . M . Sec . 76 , S . W . 1 SS 3 ; William Royston Pike , 1903 ; Frederick M . Stringer , 1466 ; Thomas A . Bramsdon , 1776 ; Thomas
R . Williams , W . M . 177 G ; G . T . Cunningham , S . W . 177 G ; W . I ) . Parkhouse , W . M . 13 S 4 : Silas Dove , 3 S 9 , P . M ., P . G . D . C . ; H . VV . Townsend , 1903 , P . M ., P . G . S . ; and F . Rutland ( Cowes ) . The founders of thelodge are Bros . H . M . Green , P . M , S 04 ; H . R . Trigg , P . M . S 04 ; J . Purnell , P . M . S 04 ; J . Weeks , P . M . 804 ; J . Harrison , P . M . S 04 ; and J . Lintott , P . M . S 04 .
After the Grand Master had taken the chair and appointed Bros . A . j . Miller and G . S . Lancaster Wardens pro . tern ., the impressive ceremony was proceeded with , and at the appointed time the PROV . GRAND MASTER , who was heartily greeted by the brethren , addressed them on the nature of the meeting . The interesting occasion , he said , naturally led them to reflect on the importance of the work in which
they were engaged , and on the length of time during which it had existed . It was difficult , indeed , to estimate the length of time during which it had existed . Those who had been students of antiquity could carry back their thoughts-a very long period , and of this they might be sure , that wherever knowledge existed and was preserved , in any portion of the world , there Freemasonry existed . They traced back their traditions , and in the most learned
nations of the past they had evidence that rreemasonry existed . They had many proofs that where building and architecture existed , where it was necessary to arrange men in order and carry out work in a methodical and proper way , there Freemasonry was found . They knew that in many nf the great buildings of the past , which were connected with ancient history , and which were the pride and admiration of the world , indications were to be found that
Masons were engaged in their construction . As in the past Masons were engaged on those mighty works , so in the present day they did not withold their interest from the construction of buildings , and though they did not act as operative builders yet they imparted , in connection with the construction of buildings , those lessons of morality which they desired to communicate to all their votaries . In the history of their own country Masonry could
extend its researches back a very great length of time . For at least a thousand years there were records of the meetings of Masons . They had met with mote or less encouragement , and also with more or less opposition , but yet Masonry had continued to exist in England , and had become a great fact . Now that its magnitude was so great , and it was increasing on every side , it was indeed necessary for those connected with it to
reflect more than ever on the work in which they were engaged . The lessons of morality which were impressed upon them were most important , and no one who took those lessons to heart ought to be unmindful of their teachings . Most of the virtues which could be named were brought to their notice , and they impressed them upon all those who joined their ranks . Of those virtues none were moie strongly impressed or more actively practised in Masonry
than that of Charity . If they saw that Masons were entirely unmindful of the great lessons which were impressed upon them they would think there was something very far from solid in the construction of their Order . But he thought they could confidently assert that it was otherwise , and that they had ample proof that Masons everywhere strove , as far as they could , to act up to the dictates and in the spirit of the lessons they received . Thus they saw
they were engaged in no light work when they tried to extend the sphere of their operations , and to give others an opportunity of becoming members of their Craft . In doing this they were satisfied that they were trying to make them better citizens and better men , more affected to the laws of their country , more loyal subjects of the Queen , still wortheirof the religion which they professed than ~ they had hitherto been . They did not try to inculcate
the lessons of any particular system of religion , but what they said was that those who joined their ranks and acted up to their principles could not fail to be better men . He hoped that this new lodge might be productive of great good and assist in propagating those principles which they desired to inculcate , and it was because he believed that
this new lodge would be a force for good in the future that he had great pleasure in acceding to the request that had been made to him , and should now proceed to constitute it into a regular lodge . ( Applause . ) The Prov . Grand Registrar , Bro . HAYMAN , who at the request of the P . G . M . officiated asjchaplain , jn the unavoidable absence
Consecration Of The Hundred Of Bosmere Lodge, No. 1958.
of Bro . the Rev . G . H . De Fraine , then offered the introductory prayer , and subsequently read the portion of Scripture selected for the occasion . The ceremony of consecration , dedication and constitution was then completed in due form , and the P . G . M . installed the W . M ., Bro . H . Martin Green , P . M ., who appointed his officers as follows : —Bro . J . N . Hillman , P . M ., S . VV . ; Bro . H . R . Trigg , P . M ., J . W . ; Bro . Arlidge , S . D . ; Bro
J . Harrison , J . D . ; Bro . J . Purnell , Secretary ; Bro . W . King , Treasurer ; Bro . Lintott , I . C ; Bro . G . Blackmore , Tyler . At the conclusion of the ceremony a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Provincial Grand Master and his officers for attending , on the motion of the W . M . of the newly constituted lodge , seconded by Bro . Hillman . Subsequently a banquet was served in the Town Hall by
Bro . J . Purnell , of the Dolphin Hotel , whose catering was most satisfactory . The chair was occupied by the VV . M . ( Bro . H . Martin Green , P . M . ) , who was supported by the Provincial Grand Master and his Craft . —After " The Queen and the Craft" had been dulv honoured , the W . Master gave " The health of the M . W . Grand Master , " referring to the progress which Freemasonry had made under H . R . H . ' s rule , as was evidenced by the fact that
since 1 S 74 , the year in which he became ruler of the Craft , no less than 500 lodges had been established , or about onefourth of the whole number of those owning allegiance to the Grand Lodgeof England . The VV . M . next gave , in eulogistic terms , " The health of the Provincial Grand Master , " which was received with great cordiality . Bro . BEACH , in reply , said he had the honour of ruling over a province of very extensive dimensions , and
he was always pleased to come amongst thebrethren whenever his engagements enabled him to do so . ( Applause . ) Since the jear Ue succeeded to the government of the province , no less than thirteen lodges had sprung into existence , or one-third of the entire number ; and this was in itself sufficient evidence of the growth which Freemasonry was making in the province . Throughout the entire country , it was making equally rapid strides , and so
long as they remained true to their principles so long would Freemasonry flourish , and so long woVild it remain a power for good . ( Applause . ) They must not abjure these principles for a moment , but zealously and strenuously uphold them through evil and good report . They must remember that they were not mere ephemeral ideas of the day , but had been handed down to them through distant ages , and they should on this account be very chary
of permitting any deviation from their landmarks . They had seen the danger cf doing this from a neighbouring country , and they had seen the melancholy result . When they saw how Freemasonry flourished in every other part of the world , and how ready their brethren were to hail them as Masons , it behoved them to be very careful how they altered one jot or tittle of those forms and ceremonies which had been handed down to them , or did
anything to disturb the universal bond of brotherhood which existed . ( Applause . ) He was exceedingly glad to see this new lodge spring into existence , because he believed that those who had taken it in hand would do their utmost to promote its welfare ; and so surely as they selected suitable officers year by year to succeed those who now so worthily filled the chairs , and practised thc principles of Freemasonry , so surely would the lodge continue to
nourish . ( Applause . ) Bro . TRIGGS , P . M ., thc S . W . of the lodge , proposed " The Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Ollieers of Provincial Grand Lodge . " Bro . HICKMAN , in reply , said that the Grand Ollieers were one and all deeply interested in the welfare of the province , and they viewed with a great deal of p leasure the progress which Freemasonry was making . Ihey endeavoured to discharge their various functions to the utmost of
their abililies , not only from a sense of duty , but also because they delighted to work under such an able and genial Prov . G . M . as Bro . Beach . He wished prosperity to the new lodge , and trusted many Masonic ^ friendships would be formed and cemented within it . Bro . BEACH proposed "The Health ofthe W . M ., " whom he had had the gratification of installing in the chair that day . He was sure he would preside over the lodge
with great ability and courtesy , and that he would consult the best interests of all the brethren in its government . The toast having been received with great enthusiasm , the VV . M ., in responding , said it was his earnest desire to discharge the duties of the office efficiently , and if he succeeded in any degree in meriting their approbation he
should feel himself amply rewarded . ( Applause . ) Other toasts followed . The proceedings were agreeably interspersed with a varied selection of vocal and instrumental music by Bro . F . J . Hunt , P . P . G . Org . Surrey , and Mrs . Hunt ; Bro . R . Lansmere and Bro . J . Churchill Arlidge .
Royal Masonic Institution For Girls.
ROYAL MASONIC INSTITUTION FOR GIRLS .
The General Committee of this Institution met on Thursday afternoon , at Freemasons' Hall ; Bro . Colonel Creaton , Grand Treasurer , in the chair . There were alsp present Bros . Colonel James Peters , Frederick Adlard , H . A . Dubois , John A . Rucker , A . E . Gladwell , Frank
Richardson , Robert Grey , F . R . VV . Hedges ( Secretary ) , and H . Massey ( Freemason ) . The business of the meeting was almost merely formal . The Chairman was authorised to sign cheques , and one petition was received for placing a London candidate on the list for next April election . Thc Committee then adjourned .
Another Attack On Freemasonry In Queensland.
ANOTHER ATTACK ON FREEMASONRY IN QUEENSLAND .
" To the Editor of ' The Mercury . ' "SIR , —I have read with great interest those really instructive letters anent Freemasonry which have lately
appeared in your columns , written by ' A Catholic , and ' A Christian , ' terms , which it is to be hoped mean the same thing , if not the same man . The opinions and facts so lucidly set forth in those letters , I strongly endorse , and wish to add my humble testimony to theirs in denouncing what may justly be termed ' a giant evil . '
Another Attack On Freemasonry In Queensland.
A short time ago , I was myself initiated in the dreadful mysteries of the Masonic Craft , and in furtherance of C . and C . s laudable object , I intend in this letter to expose the deviltries and unholy doings of that abominable crew of miscreants , who entrapped me by their plausible tongues into joining their villainous band . " When 1 was ushered into the room where their nio-htly orgies were held . I was told to nut- mu V . ^ 4 = K _ , , ;„_? „ ¦ _ .
, __ and bow three times , in honour of ' Kadosch , ' ' Nickim , ' and ' Cuttielunt , ' the wise men of ' Ecclefechan . ' Immediatel y on doing so 1 was seized and held firmly by several ot the miscreants , my arms were securely pinioned , and I was led or dragged to the throne of the presiding , or Arch Alason , who was ensconced in a sort of wooden box , which came up to his chin , fitting him closely round the neck , and leaving only his head visible , the said hp _ , _ I h-inn- rv ™
_ tesquely adorned with a false nose , and tufts of wool and feathers over the ears , the whole resembling very much in appearance a gigantic owlet . In a sepulchral tone of voice the Arch Mason gave the command , ' Let the neophyte pass through the ordeal of fire , ' and instantly one of the rultians commenced zealously applying a red-hot poker to that part of my person usually described by anatomists as the seat of honour . 1 his beingr done to the satUFarimn c (
all but myself , I was asked by the conductor ' If I doubted in the existence of the hol y poker , ' and told to answer No , ' which 1 did most lustily . "Apiece of bcef , teak , weighing , I should guess , about live pounds , was then sewed to the back of my nether garment , and the attention of a ravenous dog , which one of the fraterm'y held in a leash , being directed to it , I was chased round the room ten times . In the last round the
dog , fortunately for me , managed to detach the beef , else tlieie is no knowing what he might have devoured . At the command of the Arch Mason , I was then blindfolded for what he termed the chivalric or goat ordeal , and having been placed on one , which , from its size and aroma , 1 justly surmised was of the masculine gender , I was cantered several times round the room . This was mv
severest trial , as , in consequence of my first rite , I was not exactly in racing trim . Ho . vever , I managed , with amazing fortitude , to hold on , until my apology for a steed and myself were suddenly precipitated into a large vat of cold water , from which I was dragged half drowned . Thc bandage was now removed from my eves , and the Arch Mason , emerging from his box , declared me to be a
duly e . ected and qualified Mason , who had firmly stood the triple test of fire , water , and bodily pain . I was then asked •if I firmly believed in the principles and customs of freemasons ? ' ( and one of them whispering to me that if 1 said no I would likely have an eye poked out , and lose an inch oft tne end of my nose ) , I responded loudly in the affirmative .
I was then duly made acquainted with the sign and word of a I- recmason , and the Arch Mason having declared that on the usual ' shout for all hands' being made , 1 should be welcomed by all as a brother , I forked out the 1 d d ' havln S duly liquored up , the ceremony
con-A week after I chanced to be at the Forth , and having heard that mine host of thc Bridge hotel was a brother , I went boldly in and gave him the sign ( which is to clap both hands over the parts operated on during the mysterious rites ) , at the same time giving the word ( which is ' Senimay live ); but , sir , would you credit it , instead of asking mc as a brother what I would have , the fellow said if I didn't be off he would kick me out . So much for their vaunted brotherhood .
Having determined on exposing their diabolical secrets , 1 made my intentions known , when several of the scoundrelly fraternity had the audacity to say that I had been humbugged , and in reality had never been initiated at all ! But , sir , I know betlcr , and so does my wife , who can vouch for the truth of my story , and who knows what I suffered for the hrst few days after my initiation . Hoping this expose will assist the gentlemen ( who have
peen snowing up 1 < reemasonry in its true colours , according to their lights ) in their Christian and Catholic efforts , I remain , yours , & c , * " N . W . Coast . " " K N C " VVe are inclined to believe that the above letter ' is a skit . It is too ridiculous almost to take notice of , but as it appeared in the Queensland Mercury of June 22 , and drew an able reply from Bro . Toby , which we append , we have thought to print it in the Freemason . —[ ED . F . M A
To the Editor of ' The Mercury . ' n . b ' ' ~ ' ' , " tor granted that you do not belong to the above Order , therefore permit me to suggest to you , before allowing any more such articles on th ? subject ai the one signed k . N . C , ' published in The Mercury of th < r . ? , ? . '" - > that y ° u scek admission into the Order .
"The other articles on the same subject are beneath cri ticism and undeserving of notxe , for " Our arguments are sound and strong , And stand as doth a mountain firm Amid the fury of the storm ; Whilst ' gainst it all their reasonings fall ¦ pcas when blown against a wall . have
I been a subscribing member to a Freemasons ' lodge since 1 S 34 and I confidently assert , without fear of contradiction , that pure , ancient Freemasonry , as sanctioned by the Constitutions and practised by the Ancient Waternity of l-ree and Accepted Masons under the United Grand Lodge of England consists of Three Degrees and no more , including the Supreme Order of the Royal Arch t has the glory of God for its aim .
,. I . Kra"a Principles are brotherly love , relief , and truth . It inculcates a beautiful system of morality , which it illustrates b y symbolical teaching . " Its doors are open to just and upright men of mature age , sound judgment , and strict morals ; of all creeds exce ted ' ^ d "" eS ' ' " ^ aV ° Wed ° r l { " 0 Wn atheis ' •"''^¦ patronised by royalty . Its present Grand Master is the Most Worshi
pful His Royal f-fighness the Prince of Wales , who is represented in Tasmania by the Rev R D Poulett-Harris , Right Worshi pful District Grand Master ' Such , Sir , is l-reemasonry as practised in the lodges in 1 asmania , where I was initiated ; and I would say in conclusion , go thou and do likewise , and you will then I think exclude from your columns articles cither misrepresenting or caricaturing our noble Order . < -ui renting " X ? P r \& , , - rr „ " CHARI . ES TOBY , Past Master of Lodge 537 , E . C , and Past District Grand Secretary of Tasmania . "
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Consecration Of The Hundred Of Bosmere Lodge, No. 1958.
CONSECRATION OF THE HUNDRED OF BOSMERE LODGE , No . 1958 .
On Tuesday afternoon Bro . the R . W . the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and the Isle o ! ' Wight ( Bro . VV . VV . B . Beach , M . P . ) , accompanied by the V . W . the Deputy Provincial Grand Master ( Bro . XV . Hickman ) , and several of the Provincial Officers , took part in the constitution of the Hundred of Bosmere Lodsfe , No . IOSS . The
ceremony was performed at the Masonic HaU , Waterlooroad , Havant , the lodge being closed tyled at two o ' clock . The following brethren signed the attendance book : Bros . VV . VV . li ' . Bjach , P . G . M . ; VV . Hickman , D . P . G . M . ; A . j . Miller , 130 and 359 ; ] . E . Le Feuvre , 130 , P . G . Sec ; J . Rid . l Hayman , P . M . 309 , VV . M ., P . G . Reg . ; G . H . Barclay , 1371 , W . M ., P . G . Steward ; W . Oui ' ckfall , 1 SS 4 , P . G . Org . ; VV . I-I . Jacob , 7 G , 1 SS 3 , J . W . 7 6 ,
Treas . 1 SS 3 ; Charles Travess , S . W . 142 S ; I . G . Mason , J . W . 142 S ; John Laverty , VV . M . 142 S , P . G . A . D . C . ; V . S . Freeman , P . M . 732 , G . Sec . Sussex ; Thomas Francis , P . M ., W . M . 56 ; VV . Miller , D . C . 142 S ; G . P . Arnold , I . P . M . 142 S , P . P . G . A . D . C ; George S . Lancaster , 130 , P . P . G . W . ; R . VV . Beale . 4 S 7 , W . M ., P . G . S . ; C . F . Matier , P . M . 64 s , P . G . W . Greece , P . G . Steward Scotland ; Wm . Dart , P . M \ S 04 , P . G . Steward ; Capt . Wm . H . St .
Clair , R . N ., W . M . 457 ; ] ames E . Buck , S . W . 342 ; Charles W . A . Jellicoe , 130 , P . G . J . D . ; Eugene E . Street , P . M . 56 ; James Weeks , P . M . 804 ; J . Harrison , S . VV . 1 S 29 , and P . M . S 04 ; James VV . Willmott , 342 , 1 S 34 , P . M ., P . G . S . B . ; George Hond , 4 S 7 , P . P . G . S . B . ; Joseph Ogburn , 342 , P . P . G . W . ; William King ; James Lintott , P . M . S 04 ; Mark E . Frost , 257 , 4 S 7 , 10 G 9 , P . P . G . T . ; Thomas Page , VV . M . 1903 ; S . R . Ellis , 342 , and 1 S 34 ,
P . M . ; G . L . Green , 17 GG , and 1903 ; Richard Lansmere , 10 S 3 ; ] . C . iVrlidge , 1 G 3 S , and 195 S , S . D . ; T . D . Askew , S 04 , and 1903 , S . VV . ; F . J . Hunt , 1 G 3 S ; R . J . Rastrick , P . M . and Treas ., 1069 , 342 , and 1903 ; J . VV . Biggs , 130 , P . G . Tyler ; Joseph Exell , 437 , P . G . Tyler ; VV . Blackmore , S 04 , Tyler ; William Gamon , 7 G . and 1 SS 3 P . M . Sec . 76 , S . W . 1 SS 3 ; William Royston Pike , 1903 ; Frederick M . Stringer , 1466 ; Thomas A . Bramsdon , 1776 ; Thomas
R . Williams , W . M . 177 G ; G . T . Cunningham , S . W . 177 G ; W . I ) . Parkhouse , W . M . 13 S 4 : Silas Dove , 3 S 9 , P . M ., P . G . D . C . ; H . VV . Townsend , 1903 , P . M ., P . G . S . ; and F . Rutland ( Cowes ) . The founders of thelodge are Bros . H . M . Green , P . M , S 04 ; H . R . Trigg , P . M . S 04 ; J . Purnell , P . M . S 04 ; J . Weeks , P . M . 804 ; J . Harrison , P . M . S 04 ; and J . Lintott , P . M . S 04 .
After the Grand Master had taken the chair and appointed Bros . A . j . Miller and G . S . Lancaster Wardens pro . tern ., the impressive ceremony was proceeded with , and at the appointed time the PROV . GRAND MASTER , who was heartily greeted by the brethren , addressed them on the nature of the meeting . The interesting occasion , he said , naturally led them to reflect on the importance of the work in which
they were engaged , and on the length of time during which it had existed . It was difficult , indeed , to estimate the length of time during which it had existed . Those who had been students of antiquity could carry back their thoughts-a very long period , and of this they might be sure , that wherever knowledge existed and was preserved , in any portion of the world , there Freemasonry existed . They traced back their traditions , and in the most learned
nations of the past they had evidence that rreemasonry existed . They had many proofs that where building and architecture existed , where it was necessary to arrange men in order and carry out work in a methodical and proper way , there Freemasonry was found . They knew that in many nf the great buildings of the past , which were connected with ancient history , and which were the pride and admiration of the world , indications were to be found that
Masons were engaged in their construction . As in the past Masons were engaged on those mighty works , so in the present day they did not withold their interest from the construction of buildings , and though they did not act as operative builders yet they imparted , in connection with the construction of buildings , those lessons of morality which they desired to communicate to all their votaries . In the history of their own country Masonry could
extend its researches back a very great length of time . For at least a thousand years there were records of the meetings of Masons . They had met with mote or less encouragement , and also with more or less opposition , but yet Masonry had continued to exist in England , and had become a great fact . Now that its magnitude was so great , and it was increasing on every side , it was indeed necessary for those connected with it to
reflect more than ever on the work in which they were engaged . The lessons of morality which were impressed upon them were most important , and no one who took those lessons to heart ought to be unmindful of their teachings . Most of the virtues which could be named were brought to their notice , and they impressed them upon all those who joined their ranks . Of those virtues none were moie strongly impressed or more actively practised in Masonry
than that of Charity . If they saw that Masons were entirely unmindful of the great lessons which were impressed upon them they would think there was something very far from solid in the construction of their Order . But he thought they could confidently assert that it was otherwise , and that they had ample proof that Masons everywhere strove , as far as they could , to act up to the dictates and in the spirit of the lessons they received . Thus they saw
they were engaged in no light work when they tried to extend the sphere of their operations , and to give others an opportunity of becoming members of their Craft . In doing this they were satisfied that they were trying to make them better citizens and better men , more affected to the laws of their country , more loyal subjects of the Queen , still wortheirof the religion which they professed than ~ they had hitherto been . They did not try to inculcate
the lessons of any particular system of religion , but what they said was that those who joined their ranks and acted up to their principles could not fail to be better men . He hoped that this new lodge might be productive of great good and assist in propagating those principles which they desired to inculcate , and it was because he believed that
this new lodge would be a force for good in the future that he had great pleasure in acceding to the request that had been made to him , and should now proceed to constitute it into a regular lodge . ( Applause . ) The Prov . Grand Registrar , Bro . HAYMAN , who at the request of the P . G . M . officiated asjchaplain , jn the unavoidable absence
Consecration Of The Hundred Of Bosmere Lodge, No. 1958.
of Bro . the Rev . G . H . De Fraine , then offered the introductory prayer , and subsequently read the portion of Scripture selected for the occasion . The ceremony of consecration , dedication and constitution was then completed in due form , and the P . G . M . installed the W . M ., Bro . H . Martin Green , P . M ., who appointed his officers as follows : —Bro . J . N . Hillman , P . M ., S . VV . ; Bro . H . R . Trigg , P . M ., J . W . ; Bro . Arlidge , S . D . ; Bro
J . Harrison , J . D . ; Bro . J . Purnell , Secretary ; Bro . W . King , Treasurer ; Bro . Lintott , I . C ; Bro . G . Blackmore , Tyler . At the conclusion of the ceremony a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Provincial Grand Master and his officers for attending , on the motion of the W . M . of the newly constituted lodge , seconded by Bro . Hillman . Subsequently a banquet was served in the Town Hall by
Bro . J . Purnell , of the Dolphin Hotel , whose catering was most satisfactory . The chair was occupied by the VV . M . ( Bro . H . Martin Green , P . M . ) , who was supported by the Provincial Grand Master and his Craft . —After " The Queen and the Craft" had been dulv honoured , the W . Master gave " The health of the M . W . Grand Master , " referring to the progress which Freemasonry had made under H . R . H . ' s rule , as was evidenced by the fact that
since 1 S 74 , the year in which he became ruler of the Craft , no less than 500 lodges had been established , or about onefourth of the whole number of those owning allegiance to the Grand Lodgeof England . The VV . M . next gave , in eulogistic terms , " The health of the Provincial Grand Master , " which was received with great cordiality . Bro . BEACH , in reply , said he had the honour of ruling over a province of very extensive dimensions , and
he was always pleased to come amongst thebrethren whenever his engagements enabled him to do so . ( Applause . ) Since the jear Ue succeeded to the government of the province , no less than thirteen lodges had sprung into existence , or one-third of the entire number ; and this was in itself sufficient evidence of the growth which Freemasonry was making in the province . Throughout the entire country , it was making equally rapid strides , and so
long as they remained true to their principles so long would Freemasonry flourish , and so long woVild it remain a power for good . ( Applause . ) They must not abjure these principles for a moment , but zealously and strenuously uphold them through evil and good report . They must remember that they were not mere ephemeral ideas of the day , but had been handed down to them through distant ages , and they should on this account be very chary
of permitting any deviation from their landmarks . They had seen the danger cf doing this from a neighbouring country , and they had seen the melancholy result . When they saw how Freemasonry flourished in every other part of the world , and how ready their brethren were to hail them as Masons , it behoved them to be very careful how they altered one jot or tittle of those forms and ceremonies which had been handed down to them , or did
anything to disturb the universal bond of brotherhood which existed . ( Applause . ) He was exceedingly glad to see this new lodge spring into existence , because he believed that those who had taken it in hand would do their utmost to promote its welfare ; and so surely as they selected suitable officers year by year to succeed those who now so worthily filled the chairs , and practised thc principles of Freemasonry , so surely would the lodge continue to
nourish . ( Applause . ) Bro . TRIGGS , P . M ., thc S . W . of the lodge , proposed " The Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Ollieers of Provincial Grand Lodge . " Bro . HICKMAN , in reply , said that the Grand Ollieers were one and all deeply interested in the welfare of the province , and they viewed with a great deal of p leasure the progress which Freemasonry was making . Ihey endeavoured to discharge their various functions to the utmost of
their abililies , not only from a sense of duty , but also because they delighted to work under such an able and genial Prov . G . M . as Bro . Beach . He wished prosperity to the new lodge , and trusted many Masonic ^ friendships would be formed and cemented within it . Bro . BEACH proposed "The Health ofthe W . M ., " whom he had had the gratification of installing in the chair that day . He was sure he would preside over the lodge
with great ability and courtesy , and that he would consult the best interests of all the brethren in its government . The toast having been received with great enthusiasm , the VV . M ., in responding , said it was his earnest desire to discharge the duties of the office efficiently , and if he succeeded in any degree in meriting their approbation he
should feel himself amply rewarded . ( Applause . ) Other toasts followed . The proceedings were agreeably interspersed with a varied selection of vocal and instrumental music by Bro . F . J . Hunt , P . P . G . Org . Surrey , and Mrs . Hunt ; Bro . R . Lansmere and Bro . J . Churchill Arlidge .
Royal Masonic Institution For Girls.
ROYAL MASONIC INSTITUTION FOR GIRLS .
The General Committee of this Institution met on Thursday afternoon , at Freemasons' Hall ; Bro . Colonel Creaton , Grand Treasurer , in the chair . There were alsp present Bros . Colonel James Peters , Frederick Adlard , H . A . Dubois , John A . Rucker , A . E . Gladwell , Frank
Richardson , Robert Grey , F . R . VV . Hedges ( Secretary ) , and H . Massey ( Freemason ) . The business of the meeting was almost merely formal . The Chairman was authorised to sign cheques , and one petition was received for placing a London candidate on the list for next April election . Thc Committee then adjourned .
Another Attack On Freemasonry In Queensland.
ANOTHER ATTACK ON FREEMASONRY IN QUEENSLAND .
" To the Editor of ' The Mercury . ' "SIR , —I have read with great interest those really instructive letters anent Freemasonry which have lately
appeared in your columns , written by ' A Catholic , and ' A Christian , ' terms , which it is to be hoped mean the same thing , if not the same man . The opinions and facts so lucidly set forth in those letters , I strongly endorse , and wish to add my humble testimony to theirs in denouncing what may justly be termed ' a giant evil . '
Another Attack On Freemasonry In Queensland.
A short time ago , I was myself initiated in the dreadful mysteries of the Masonic Craft , and in furtherance of C . and C . s laudable object , I intend in this letter to expose the deviltries and unholy doings of that abominable crew of miscreants , who entrapped me by their plausible tongues into joining their villainous band . " When 1 was ushered into the room where their nio-htly orgies were held . I was told to nut- mu V . ^ 4 = K _ , , ;„_? „ ¦ _ .
, __ and bow three times , in honour of ' Kadosch , ' ' Nickim , ' and ' Cuttielunt , ' the wise men of ' Ecclefechan . ' Immediatel y on doing so 1 was seized and held firmly by several ot the miscreants , my arms were securely pinioned , and I was led or dragged to the throne of the presiding , or Arch Alason , who was ensconced in a sort of wooden box , which came up to his chin , fitting him closely round the neck , and leaving only his head visible , the said hp _ , _ I h-inn- rv ™
_ tesquely adorned with a false nose , and tufts of wool and feathers over the ears , the whole resembling very much in appearance a gigantic owlet . In a sepulchral tone of voice the Arch Mason gave the command , ' Let the neophyte pass through the ordeal of fire , ' and instantly one of the rultians commenced zealously applying a red-hot poker to that part of my person usually described by anatomists as the seat of honour . 1 his beingr done to the satUFarimn c (
all but myself , I was asked by the conductor ' If I doubted in the existence of the hol y poker , ' and told to answer No , ' which 1 did most lustily . "Apiece of bcef , teak , weighing , I should guess , about live pounds , was then sewed to the back of my nether garment , and the attention of a ravenous dog , which one of the fraterm'y held in a leash , being directed to it , I was chased round the room ten times . In the last round the
dog , fortunately for me , managed to detach the beef , else tlieie is no knowing what he might have devoured . At the command of the Arch Mason , I was then blindfolded for what he termed the chivalric or goat ordeal , and having been placed on one , which , from its size and aroma , 1 justly surmised was of the masculine gender , I was cantered several times round the room . This was mv
severest trial , as , in consequence of my first rite , I was not exactly in racing trim . Ho . vever , I managed , with amazing fortitude , to hold on , until my apology for a steed and myself were suddenly precipitated into a large vat of cold water , from which I was dragged half drowned . Thc bandage was now removed from my eves , and the Arch Mason , emerging from his box , declared me to be a
duly e . ected and qualified Mason , who had firmly stood the triple test of fire , water , and bodily pain . I was then asked •if I firmly believed in the principles and customs of freemasons ? ' ( and one of them whispering to me that if 1 said no I would likely have an eye poked out , and lose an inch oft tne end of my nose ) , I responded loudly in the affirmative .
I was then duly made acquainted with the sign and word of a I- recmason , and the Arch Mason having declared that on the usual ' shout for all hands' being made , 1 should be welcomed by all as a brother , I forked out the 1 d d ' havln S duly liquored up , the ceremony
con-A week after I chanced to be at the Forth , and having heard that mine host of thc Bridge hotel was a brother , I went boldly in and gave him the sign ( which is to clap both hands over the parts operated on during the mysterious rites ) , at the same time giving the word ( which is ' Senimay live ); but , sir , would you credit it , instead of asking mc as a brother what I would have , the fellow said if I didn't be off he would kick me out . So much for their vaunted brotherhood .
Having determined on exposing their diabolical secrets , 1 made my intentions known , when several of the scoundrelly fraternity had the audacity to say that I had been humbugged , and in reality had never been initiated at all ! But , sir , I know betlcr , and so does my wife , who can vouch for the truth of my story , and who knows what I suffered for the hrst few days after my initiation . Hoping this expose will assist the gentlemen ( who have
peen snowing up 1 < reemasonry in its true colours , according to their lights ) in their Christian and Catholic efforts , I remain , yours , & c , * " N . W . Coast . " " K N C " VVe are inclined to believe that the above letter ' is a skit . It is too ridiculous almost to take notice of , but as it appeared in the Queensland Mercury of June 22 , and drew an able reply from Bro . Toby , which we append , we have thought to print it in the Freemason . —[ ED . F . M A
To the Editor of ' The Mercury . ' n . b ' ' ~ ' ' , " tor granted that you do not belong to the above Order , therefore permit me to suggest to you , before allowing any more such articles on th ? subject ai the one signed k . N . C , ' published in The Mercury of th < r . ? , ? . '" - > that y ° u scek admission into the Order .
"The other articles on the same subject are beneath cri ticism and undeserving of notxe , for " Our arguments are sound and strong , And stand as doth a mountain firm Amid the fury of the storm ; Whilst ' gainst it all their reasonings fall ¦ pcas when blown against a wall . have
I been a subscribing member to a Freemasons ' lodge since 1 S 34 and I confidently assert , without fear of contradiction , that pure , ancient Freemasonry , as sanctioned by the Constitutions and practised by the Ancient Waternity of l-ree and Accepted Masons under the United Grand Lodge of England consists of Three Degrees and no more , including the Supreme Order of the Royal Arch t has the glory of God for its aim .
,. I . Kra"a Principles are brotherly love , relief , and truth . It inculcates a beautiful system of morality , which it illustrates b y symbolical teaching . " Its doors are open to just and upright men of mature age , sound judgment , and strict morals ; of all creeds exce ted ' ^ d "" eS ' ' " ^ aV ° Wed ° r l { " 0 Wn atheis ' •"''^¦ patronised by royalty . Its present Grand Master is the Most Worshi
pful His Royal f-fighness the Prince of Wales , who is represented in Tasmania by the Rev R D Poulett-Harris , Right Worshi pful District Grand Master ' Such , Sir , is l-reemasonry as practised in the lodges in 1 asmania , where I was initiated ; and I would say in conclusion , go thou and do likewise , and you will then I think exclude from your columns articles cither misrepresenting or caricaturing our noble Order . < -ui renting " X ? P r \& , , - rr „ " CHARI . ES TOBY , Past Master of Lodge 537 , E . C , and Past District Grand Secretary of Tasmania . "