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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
nresent at every festival of the lodge since his initiation in 1838 . The W . M . appointed the folloyving brethren as " his officers , and invested those present : Bros J . M . McAllister , I . P . M . ; S . Cleaver , S . W . ; Dr . W E Buck , J . W . ; Chief Constable J . Farndale , SecretarV * Rev . J . H . Smith , M . A ., Chaplain ; C . Gurden funanimousl ' v elected ) , 1 reasurer ; J . O . Law , S . D . 5 E . ooitman
Newton , jun ., J . D . ; J . Jessop , D . C ; mos . , IG . * G . H . Stonchall and M . A . Cook , Stcyvaros ; C . Bembridge and Thos . Dunn , Tylers . A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Bro . J . M . McAllister for the admirable manner in which he had conducted the business of the lodge during the past year , and subsequently a sum of moncv was voted for two P . M . jewels , one to be
presented to Bro . McAllister , and one to Bro . J . W . Smith , P . M ., for similar services during the year 1875 . Bro . Kelly , P . P . G . M ., also received a cordial vote of thanks for his eminent services as Installing Master ; likewise Bro . Gurden , as Treasurer , and Bro . S . Cleaver , as Steyvard . About sixty brethren yvere present at the banquet which followed , under the presidency of the W . M ., Bro . C . E .
Stretton , yvho , notyvithstanding his youth t , he being the youngest Master yvho has held office in the lodge ) , yet acquitted himself with such dignity and ability as to give entire satisfaction . Bro . McAllister , in giving the toast of " the W . M ., " alluded to Bro . Stretton as a brother yvhose independent position in life enabled him to make the liberal arts and sciences his particular study , and the articles
which he contributed to various scientific journals not only proved that Bro . Stretton had carefully availed himself of such opportunities , but also in the spirit of a true Mason he had not withheld the knowledge thus acquired from his less informed brethren and felloyv men . As a Mason the W . M . had carefully prepared himself for his present position , by a strict and regular discharge of the duties of
the subordinate offices . His amiability and knoyvledgc of the ceremonies , will enable him to earn the reputation of a worthy and intelligent Master , a credit to Masonry , and , an honour to the lodge . Bro . Binckes , in an eloquent speech of some length , awakened thc generous and benevolent feelings of the brethren in favour of the claims of the Boys' School , yvhich yvas promptly taken advantage of
by Bro . S . S . Partridge , the representative Charity Steyvard passing round the list for subscriptions . Bros . Mackay , R . Taylor , C Gerdrn , L . L . Attwood , and others , sang some excellent songs during thc evening , and the Tyler ' s toast terminated a most enjoyable meeting . SEACOMBE . —Combermere Lodge ( No . 605 ) . —The annual installation meeting of this lodge took place
at the Seacombe Hotel , Seacombe , near Birkenhead , on Thu-sday , the 18 th ult ., lvhen there was a very large gathering of the " mystic tie " representatives . Bro . M . McNerney , W . M ., presided at the opening , and among others present were , Bros , E . Davies , P . M . ; Thomas Shaw , S . W . ( W . M . elect ); E . Jones , J . W . ; J . Sillitoe . P . M ., Treasurer ; T . Leighton , P . M ., Secretary ; J .
Jones , S . D . ; T . Gregory , J . D . 5 H . Roberts , I . G . 5 H . Williams , P . M . 249 ; R . Gracie , P . M . 477 ; J . J . Rose , P . M . 249 ; C . Leighton , P . M . 1325 ; D . Fraser , P . M . and Treas . 477 ; J . Dutton , S . W . 477 ; H . Martin , P . M . 477 ; W . Jones , S . W . 1276 ; W . M . Asher , 477 ; T . Chesivorth , VV . M . 157 6 ; J . P . Piatt , P . P . G . J . W ., and others . Bro . R . Gracie , P . M . 477 , efficiently occupied the
position of Installing Master , and during the evening he placed Bro . Thomas Shaw in the chair of W . M . fcr the coming year . The following brethren were subsequently invested as officers : Bros . McNerney , I . P . M . ; C . Staley , S . W . ; J . Jones , J . W . ; J . Sillitoe , Lecturer and Treasurer ; T . Leighton , Secretary ; R . C . Mellor , P . M ., D . C . ; T . Gregory , S . D . ; R . Foulkes , J . D . ; A . E . Coveney , I . G . ;
R . Kettle , S . S . ; J . Davis , J . S . ; W . Parry , Organist and Steyvard ; Owen Jones , S . ; and J . H . Holloway , Tyler . There was a numerous attendance of members and visitors , and the whole of the afternoon ' s proceedings passed off with much success . At the banquet which folloyved , over which Bro . Shayv , W . M ., presided , there yvas also a large attendance , and among the most interesting features of thc
evening yvas the presentation of two rings to Bro . Sillitoe and Bro . T . Leighton , in recognition of their excellent services as Treasurer and Secretary ; and a Past Master ' s jewel to Bro . McNerney , I . P . M ., in token of the esteem of the brethren for his many fine Masonic qualities . LIVERPOOL . —Derby Lodge ( No . 724 ) . —The annual festival of St . John , in connection with this favourite
lodge , was celebrated on Wednesday afternoon , the 24 th ult ,, at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street . The lodge was opened at tyvo o ' clock by Bro . W . Vaughan , W . M ., and amongst the brethren yvho yvere present during the more serious business of the lodge were Bros . J . W . Ballard , I . P . M . ; W . Shortis , P . M . ; R . Cain , P . M . ; J . Davison , P . M . ; W . Stediford , P . M . ; G . Becken , S . W ; A . Hart ,
J . W . ; T . Chesworth , P . M ., Treasurer ; R . Crispe , Sec ; Maurice Hart , W . M . 1502 , S . D . ; H . Trcvitt , J . D . ; P . Arm strong , I . G . ; M . Williamson , Tyler ; J . Jacobs , T . Heaton , T , Hunt , A . Emmanuel , J . Sharpies , M . Mines , D . Arnott , H . Ellis , J . Pendleton , E . McSwiney , J . Blenkinsop , W . Gatty , F . Groom , E . Ellis , and others . The visitors' list contained the names of Bros . R . P . France , W . M . 594 ; J . Fox , P . M .
202 ; Rev . H . G . Vernon , P . P . G . C . ; T . Shaw , I . P . M . 823 ; T . Dilcock , I ' . M . 594 ; J . Lecombcr , S . W . 594 ; VV . Wilson , W . M . 823 ; J . Dutton , S . W . 477 ; and others . After the minutes had been confirmed , and the retiring W . M . had given several degrees in capital form , he ( Bio . Vaughan , as the last act ot his official year ) proceeded to install Bro . G . Beeken as his successor in the chair in the East . The folloyving brethren were subsequently invested
as thc next year ' s officers : Bros . W . Vaughan , I . P . M . ; A . Hait , S . W . ; R . Crispe , J . W . ; T . Chesworth , P . M ., Treas . ( re-elected for the ninth time ) ; Maurice Hart , Sec . ; H . Trevitt , S . D . ; P . Armstrong , J . D . ; W . Hawksworth , I . G . ; G . Gordon , S . S . ; A . R . Large , J . S . ; W . J . Naylor , A . S . ; H . Ellis , Org . ; and M . Williamson , Tyler . During the business proceedings a very handsome P . M . ' s jewel was presented to Bro . W . Vaughan , I . P . M ., as a token of
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the esteem and admiration of thc "Derby" members . At the banquet yvhich followed business , yvhere Bro . Becken , W . M ., presided , there yvas an attendance of about 100 . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts yvere given from the chair with much point , and during the evening the I . P . M . gave " The Health of the VV . M ., " to yvhose many excellent qualities he referred in highly eulogistic terms . The
W . M ., in response , assured the brethren that he felt the responsibility of the position he had taken that day , but he yvould endeavour to do its duties to the very best of his ability , and try to follow in the footsteps of many worth / brethren yvho had preceded him in the chair . Harmony , both musical and brotherly , prevailed , and an exceedingly pleasant St . John ' s Festival came to a close at a seasonable hour .
KINGSTON-ON-THAMES . —Dobie Lodge ( No . 889 ) . —On Wednesday 17 th ult ., the members of this lodge assembled in strong force at the Griffin Hotel , Kingston-on-Thames , to assist at the installation of Bro . F . Buckland , P . M . 205 , as W . M . in succession to Bro . J . Bond . The ceremony yvas ably performed by Bro . Elsam , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . Surrey , and at its close the brethren
adjourned to the banquet hall , the company then numbering about fifty . Under the personal superintendence of Bro . Hardy , son of the host , an elegant repast was served , over which the neyvly elected Master presided . The officers appointed by the W . M . are Bros . Gaunders , S . W . ; Potter , J . W . ; Cartwright , P . M ., Treas . ; J . Squire , P . M ., Sec . ; Mitan , S . D . ; H . Lonton , J . D . ; A . Nuthall , I . G . ; Long ,
P . M ., D . C .--and Honeyyvell , P . M ., Org . Among the visitors were Bros . Bateman , W . M . 820 ; May , W . M . 1628 ; Sharpe , P . M . ; and Weaver , S . W . 820 . MANCHESTER . —Lodge of Truth ( No . 1458 ) . —This lodge assembled at private rooms , Newton Heath , on Saturday , Oth ult ., and was opened at 3 p . m . by the VV . M ,, Bro . J . Batchelder . The minutes of last meeting
having been read and confirmed , the ballot was taken for Mr . Robert Broyvn and Mr . Richard Holt Robinson , and yvas in each case declared favourable . The W . M . then received into the " mystic circle " Bro . Brown , and in such a correct manner as not to be surpassed by our veteran Past Masters , yvho have performed many ceremonies of initiation . Mr . Robinson was unable to present himself on
account of a family bereavement . The lodge having been worked into the necessary degree , Bro . Duckworth expressed a desire to be raised to theDegree of Degrees , that of a Master Mason , yvhich wish was complied with , Bro . Tyers , P . M . andTreas ., pei forming the ceremony in a manner creditab ' e to any lodge . The lodge yvas then reduced , and propositions for initiation yvere received from Bros . Batchelder ,
VV . M ., and Kleinmann , J . S . Bro . J . VV . Turner , P . M ., also proposed as a joining member Bro . T . II . Hall , of Lodge Boscawen , No . 6 99 , Chaceivater , Cornwall , and also proposed , in accordance yvith notice given , " That the sum of five pounds be given from the Charity Fund to the East Lancashire Systematic Masonic Educational and Benevolent Institution , such amount being
to endoyv the Worshipful Master's chair in perpetuity . " Bro . W . J . Kinder , S . W ., seconded the motion , and the same yvas carried . Bro . Batchelder , W . M ., proposed " That hearty good yvishes and a vote of thanks be accorded to Bro . Tyers , P . M . and Treas ., for the handsome present he gave to the lodge on St . John ' s Day , December 2 nd , 1876 , consisting of a choice set of wine and spirit decanters ,
yvith the name and number of the lodge engraved thereon . " Bro . John Kinder , P . M ., seconded the proposition , which received unanimous support , and instructions were given for it to be recorded on the lodge minutes . Charity having been exercised , representations from Lodges 66 7 , 66 9 , 1011 , and 1077 tendered their "Hearty good wishes , " and the lodge was closed in peace and harmony , after
which the brethren sat doyvn to indulge in " the cup that cheer * but not inebriates , " followed by the usual loyal and Masonic toasts , interspersed with vocal element . This being the first meeting after the installation of Bro . Batchelder as VV . M ., each officer in his turn replied to the toast of "The Officers of the Lodgeof Truth , No . 1458 . " The fact that it possesses good and efficient officers
cannot be disputed . Two important offices in a lodge are those of "the Deacons , " which , when well filled , reiterate the symbols of true Masonry . Bro . Cox , S . D ., substantiated this fact last year , yvhen Junior Deacon , and doubtless he yvill evince it in the Senior grade , yvith Bro . Taylor following in his footsteps . We close our report by wishing the " Lodge of Truth" a happy and
ptosperous new year , but must not omit the fact , that the brethren separated at a seasonable hour , 10 p . m . " Their labour o ' er , their rest » vas won . " MOLD . —The Sir "Watkin Lodge ( No . 1477 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held at the Masonic Rooms , Mold , on Monday , the 15 th January , Bro . Corbett , the W . M ., presided , and passed Bro . Hoyvard to the Second
Degree , the lecture being delivered by Bro . J . Salmon , P . G . J . W . The installation will take place in March . HAMPTON . —Hemming Lodge ( No . 1512 ) . — A strong muster of the members of this lodge took place at the Lion Hotel on Thursday , the 18 th ult . Amongst those present were Bros . Hurst , W . M . ; J . Hammond , P . M ., S . W . ; S . Hill , P . M ., J . W . ; W . Hammond , P . M .,
P . P . G . D . of Middlesex , & c , Secretary ; E . Hopwood , P . M . 141 , I . P . M ., Treasurer ; Fox , S . D . ; Jessett , J . D . ; P . Ockenden . I . G . ; T . C . Walls , D . C . ; B . Sharp , P . M . ; and others . The visitors were Bros . Wilson , P . M . Etonian ; Giiterbock , Phcenix ; Lamb , J . D . Lily of Richmond . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , the W . M ., assisted by his officers , in a careful
manner passed Bros . Messenger , Phillips , and Schmitz to the Second Degree . It was unanimously resolved that the sum of ten guineas should be voted to the Girls ' School , and be placed on the list of Bro . Ockenden , I . G ., who will represent the lodge at thc forthcoming festival of the institution in May next . A discussion having taken place upon the necessity of establishing a lodge or club of instruction in connection with the " Hemming , "
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the lodge yvas shortly afteryvards closed , and thc brethren partook of a collation , yvell provided for by Bro . Murphy . As the hour yvas far advanced before the cloth was cleared , the toasts yvere but briefly given , and the replies , from the same cause , yvere necessarily very terse . " The Health of the R . W . D . P . G . M . of Middlesex , and the rest of the P . G . O . ' s , Past and Present , " was acknowledged by Bro . W .
Hammond , P . P . G . D . "The Health of the W . M . " was proposed by the I . P . M ., in yvhich he complimented him upon the rapid progress he had made in Masonic working . This toast having been received with excellent " fire , " the W . M . replied very neatly , and immediately proposed " The Visitors . " Bro . Wilson , P . M . Etonian , in acknowledging the toast , expressed his thanks , and stated that the "
Hemming " Lodge was progressing in a manner that left little to be desired , even by its most ardent supporters . Bros . Lamb and Giiterbock also responded . " The Health of the Past Masters , " Bros . Hopyvoodand W . Hammond , followed , and gave the W . M . an opportunity of thanking those yvorthy and indefatigable officers for the great support that they had not only given to him , but to the entire
lodge-This toast having been very yvarmly received , Bros . Hopwood , I . P . M ., and W . Hammond , P . M ., replied by stating that they , as founders , were gratified at witnessing the prosperity and position the lodge had achieved in the short time that had elapsed since its foundation . As long as they held the honourable positions of Treasurer and Secretary to No . 1512 , it would alyvays be their pride to
further the interests of its members in every conceivable yvay . " The Officers '" toast came next . Bro . John Hammond , P . M ., S . W ., in the course of his reply , stated that he also endorsed the remarks passed by previous speakers upon the rapid progress made by the lodge , l'here yvas one thing , however , which should not be overlooked , and that was the necessity of there being an
uniformity of " working . " The yvork was fairly done , but he should like to see it better , and he hoped that the members would occasionally meet for the purpose of mutual instruction , and that any scheme to promote that end would meet yvith his hearty co-operation . Bros . Hill , J . W ., and Fox , S . D ., also replied . In proposing the next toast , that of " The Masonic Charities , " the W . M .
hoped that the members of the lodge yvould privately supplement the sum voted that day in lodge , to make their Steward ' s list at the Festival of the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls a good one . Bro . Ockenden made a most poyverf ul appeal on behalf of all thc benevolent institutions connected yvith the Craft . He stated that the year 1876 yvould be Masonically remembered as a very prosperous
one , inasmuch as the large sum of , £ 40 , 000 had been subscribed for the benefit of the widow , the orphan , and the distressed . This amount was an increase of £ 7000 over any previous year ' s contribution , and spoke volumes for the philanthropic principles eliminated by their noble Craft . In conclusion , he stated that he had been very fortunate last year as Steward to the Royal Masonic Benevolent
Institution , but he hoped to be more successful this year in the cause of the Institution for Girls . During the evening vocal contributions were given by Bros . Hurst , Hammond , Hill , Walls , Jessett , Schmitz , Knowles , and others . Previously to the Tyler ' s toast , ' The Health of Bro . B . Sharp , P . M ., & c , " was proposed , and having been responded to , the brethren shortly afterwards separated
until the third Thursday in February next . LIVERPOOL . —Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . — The usual monthly meeting of this young and prosperous lodge was held on Tuesday , the 23 rd ult , at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , Liverpool , and the very large attendance of oflicers , members , and visitors demonstrated clearly the great interest which is felt in the " Dramatic , " which has
rapidly attained an acknowledged eminent position in the Craft . With experienced and intelligent brethren to guide the affairs of No . 1609 , it has started on a career of the greatest brilliancy and promise . Bro . Joseph Bell , P . M ., was in his place , and was supported by Bros B . B . Marson , P . M . ; W . J . Chapman , S . W . ; Undo Courtenay , J . W . ; A . VVoolrich , Treas . ; H . J . Loveday , Sec ; J . Atkinson , I . G . ;
A . Pyer , S . S . ; A . Collinson , J . S . ; J . Skeaf , P . G . O ., Org . ; W . H . Ball , Tyler ; L . Lablache , G . Martin , F . Wilkinson , Dale , Shrapnell , R . Burgess , J . Hill , Frank Emery , H . Leslie , G . Mears , I . Levy , 667 ; Dr . Whittle , S ' ephton , P . M . 1086 ; J . Capell , Buck , Williams , Stafford , J . F . Coyvdell , and others . The ballot having been taken for
Mr . Sidney Fritz Smith , of the Royal Alexandra Theatre , which proved unanimously in his favour , he was initiated into the mysteries and privileges of ancient Freemasonry . Eight brethren presented themselves for the purpose of being raised — Bros . Leslie , Emery , Cowdell , Lablache , Hill , Shrapnell , Dale , and Martin , and the W . M ., taking them in two sections of four each , performed the
impressive ceremonies in a manner which it would have been difficult to excel . Several propositions for joining and initiation having been made , the lodge was closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to the banqueting-room . After the repast the standard loyal and Craft toasts were proposed ; and during the evening Bro . J . Bell . W . M ., referred to the early departure of Bro . H . J . Loveday , Sec , to take
the stage management of the Lyceum Theatre in London . He alluded to the loss which the lodge would sustain by his absence , spoke of the many genial and brotherly traits of character which he possessed , and asked the brethren to drink his health and prosperity in his metropolitan sphere of professional yvork . The toast was honoured yvith enthusiasm , and Bro . Loveday thanked the brethren for their invariable courtesy and kindness , assuring them that he
yvould carry with him to London the liveliest recollections of the Dramatic Lodge , yvith yvhich he had been identified since its beginning . Various other toasts followed , and the brethren separated shortly after seven o ' clock . It may be stated that Bro . Loveday has been connected with the Royal Alexandra Theatre , Liverpool , for the last seven years , as musical and stage director , where he has gained the esteem and admiration of a large circle of friends , about 100 of yvhom entertained him at supper at thc
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
nresent at every festival of the lodge since his initiation in 1838 . The W . M . appointed the folloyving brethren as " his officers , and invested those present : Bros J . M . McAllister , I . P . M . ; S . Cleaver , S . W . ; Dr . W E Buck , J . W . ; Chief Constable J . Farndale , SecretarV * Rev . J . H . Smith , M . A ., Chaplain ; C . Gurden funanimousl ' v elected ) , 1 reasurer ; J . O . Law , S . D . 5 E . ooitman
Newton , jun ., J . D . ; J . Jessop , D . C ; mos . , IG . * G . H . Stonchall and M . A . Cook , Stcyvaros ; C . Bembridge and Thos . Dunn , Tylers . A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Bro . J . M . McAllister for the admirable manner in which he had conducted the business of the lodge during the past year , and subsequently a sum of moncv was voted for two P . M . jewels , one to be
presented to Bro . McAllister , and one to Bro . J . W . Smith , P . M ., for similar services during the year 1875 . Bro . Kelly , P . P . G . M ., also received a cordial vote of thanks for his eminent services as Installing Master ; likewise Bro . Gurden , as Treasurer , and Bro . S . Cleaver , as Steyvard . About sixty brethren yvere present at the banquet which followed , under the presidency of the W . M ., Bro . C . E .
Stretton , yvho , notyvithstanding his youth t , he being the youngest Master yvho has held office in the lodge ) , yet acquitted himself with such dignity and ability as to give entire satisfaction . Bro . McAllister , in giving the toast of " the W . M ., " alluded to Bro . Stretton as a brother yvhose independent position in life enabled him to make the liberal arts and sciences his particular study , and the articles
which he contributed to various scientific journals not only proved that Bro . Stretton had carefully availed himself of such opportunities , but also in the spirit of a true Mason he had not withheld the knowledge thus acquired from his less informed brethren and felloyv men . As a Mason the W . M . had carefully prepared himself for his present position , by a strict and regular discharge of the duties of
the subordinate offices . His amiability and knoyvledgc of the ceremonies , will enable him to earn the reputation of a worthy and intelligent Master , a credit to Masonry , and , an honour to the lodge . Bro . Binckes , in an eloquent speech of some length , awakened thc generous and benevolent feelings of the brethren in favour of the claims of the Boys' School , yvhich yvas promptly taken advantage of
by Bro . S . S . Partridge , the representative Charity Steyvard passing round the list for subscriptions . Bros . Mackay , R . Taylor , C Gerdrn , L . L . Attwood , and others , sang some excellent songs during thc evening , and the Tyler ' s toast terminated a most enjoyable meeting . SEACOMBE . —Combermere Lodge ( No . 605 ) . —The annual installation meeting of this lodge took place
at the Seacombe Hotel , Seacombe , near Birkenhead , on Thu-sday , the 18 th ult ., lvhen there was a very large gathering of the " mystic tie " representatives . Bro . M . McNerney , W . M ., presided at the opening , and among others present were , Bros , E . Davies , P . M . ; Thomas Shaw , S . W . ( W . M . elect ); E . Jones , J . W . ; J . Sillitoe . P . M ., Treasurer ; T . Leighton , P . M ., Secretary ; J .
Jones , S . D . ; T . Gregory , J . D . 5 H . Roberts , I . G . 5 H . Williams , P . M . 249 ; R . Gracie , P . M . 477 ; J . J . Rose , P . M . 249 ; C . Leighton , P . M . 1325 ; D . Fraser , P . M . and Treas . 477 ; J . Dutton , S . W . 477 ; H . Martin , P . M . 477 ; W . Jones , S . W . 1276 ; W . M . Asher , 477 ; T . Chesivorth , VV . M . 157 6 ; J . P . Piatt , P . P . G . J . W ., and others . Bro . R . Gracie , P . M . 477 , efficiently occupied the
position of Installing Master , and during the evening he placed Bro . Thomas Shaw in the chair of W . M . fcr the coming year . The following brethren were subsequently invested as officers : Bros . McNerney , I . P . M . ; C . Staley , S . W . ; J . Jones , J . W . ; J . Sillitoe , Lecturer and Treasurer ; T . Leighton , Secretary ; R . C . Mellor , P . M ., D . C . ; T . Gregory , S . D . ; R . Foulkes , J . D . ; A . E . Coveney , I . G . ;
R . Kettle , S . S . ; J . Davis , J . S . ; W . Parry , Organist and Steyvard ; Owen Jones , S . ; and J . H . Holloway , Tyler . There was a numerous attendance of members and visitors , and the whole of the afternoon ' s proceedings passed off with much success . At the banquet which folloyved , over which Bro . Shayv , W . M ., presided , there yvas also a large attendance , and among the most interesting features of thc
evening yvas the presentation of two rings to Bro . Sillitoe and Bro . T . Leighton , in recognition of their excellent services as Treasurer and Secretary ; and a Past Master ' s jewel to Bro . McNerney , I . P . M ., in token of the esteem of the brethren for his many fine Masonic qualities . LIVERPOOL . —Derby Lodge ( No . 724 ) . —The annual festival of St . John , in connection with this favourite
lodge , was celebrated on Wednesday afternoon , the 24 th ult ,, at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street . The lodge was opened at tyvo o ' clock by Bro . W . Vaughan , W . M ., and amongst the brethren yvho yvere present during the more serious business of the lodge were Bros . J . W . Ballard , I . P . M . ; W . Shortis , P . M . ; R . Cain , P . M . ; J . Davison , P . M . ; W . Stediford , P . M . ; G . Becken , S . W ; A . Hart ,
J . W . ; T . Chesworth , P . M ., Treasurer ; R . Crispe , Sec ; Maurice Hart , W . M . 1502 , S . D . ; H . Trcvitt , J . D . ; P . Arm strong , I . G . ; M . Williamson , Tyler ; J . Jacobs , T . Heaton , T , Hunt , A . Emmanuel , J . Sharpies , M . Mines , D . Arnott , H . Ellis , J . Pendleton , E . McSwiney , J . Blenkinsop , W . Gatty , F . Groom , E . Ellis , and others . The visitors' list contained the names of Bros . R . P . France , W . M . 594 ; J . Fox , P . M .
202 ; Rev . H . G . Vernon , P . P . G . C . ; T . Shaw , I . P . M . 823 ; T . Dilcock , I ' . M . 594 ; J . Lecombcr , S . W . 594 ; VV . Wilson , W . M . 823 ; J . Dutton , S . W . 477 ; and others . After the minutes had been confirmed , and the retiring W . M . had given several degrees in capital form , he ( Bio . Vaughan , as the last act ot his official year ) proceeded to install Bro . G . Beeken as his successor in the chair in the East . The folloyving brethren were subsequently invested
as thc next year ' s officers : Bros . W . Vaughan , I . P . M . ; A . Hait , S . W . ; R . Crispe , J . W . ; T . Chesworth , P . M ., Treas . ( re-elected for the ninth time ) ; Maurice Hart , Sec . ; H . Trevitt , S . D . ; P . Armstrong , J . D . ; W . Hawksworth , I . G . ; G . Gordon , S . S . ; A . R . Large , J . S . ; W . J . Naylor , A . S . ; H . Ellis , Org . ; and M . Williamson , Tyler . During the business proceedings a very handsome P . M . ' s jewel was presented to Bro . W . Vaughan , I . P . M ., as a token of
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the esteem and admiration of thc "Derby" members . At the banquet yvhich followed business , yvhere Bro . Becken , W . M ., presided , there yvas an attendance of about 100 . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts yvere given from the chair with much point , and during the evening the I . P . M . gave " The Health of the VV . M ., " to yvhose many excellent qualities he referred in highly eulogistic terms . The
W . M ., in response , assured the brethren that he felt the responsibility of the position he had taken that day , but he yvould endeavour to do its duties to the very best of his ability , and try to follow in the footsteps of many worth / brethren yvho had preceded him in the chair . Harmony , both musical and brotherly , prevailed , and an exceedingly pleasant St . John ' s Festival came to a close at a seasonable hour .
KINGSTON-ON-THAMES . —Dobie Lodge ( No . 889 ) . —On Wednesday 17 th ult ., the members of this lodge assembled in strong force at the Griffin Hotel , Kingston-on-Thames , to assist at the installation of Bro . F . Buckland , P . M . 205 , as W . M . in succession to Bro . J . Bond . The ceremony yvas ably performed by Bro . Elsam , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . Surrey , and at its close the brethren
adjourned to the banquet hall , the company then numbering about fifty . Under the personal superintendence of Bro . Hardy , son of the host , an elegant repast was served , over which the neyvly elected Master presided . The officers appointed by the W . M . are Bros . Gaunders , S . W . ; Potter , J . W . ; Cartwright , P . M ., Treas . ; J . Squire , P . M ., Sec . ; Mitan , S . D . ; H . Lonton , J . D . ; A . Nuthall , I . G . ; Long ,
P . M ., D . C .--and Honeyyvell , P . M ., Org . Among the visitors were Bros . Bateman , W . M . 820 ; May , W . M . 1628 ; Sharpe , P . M . ; and Weaver , S . W . 820 . MANCHESTER . —Lodge of Truth ( No . 1458 ) . —This lodge assembled at private rooms , Newton Heath , on Saturday , Oth ult ., and was opened at 3 p . m . by the VV . M ,, Bro . J . Batchelder . The minutes of last meeting
having been read and confirmed , the ballot was taken for Mr . Robert Broyvn and Mr . Richard Holt Robinson , and yvas in each case declared favourable . The W . M . then received into the " mystic circle " Bro . Brown , and in such a correct manner as not to be surpassed by our veteran Past Masters , yvho have performed many ceremonies of initiation . Mr . Robinson was unable to present himself on
account of a family bereavement . The lodge having been worked into the necessary degree , Bro . Duckworth expressed a desire to be raised to theDegree of Degrees , that of a Master Mason , yvhich wish was complied with , Bro . Tyers , P . M . andTreas ., pei forming the ceremony in a manner creditab ' e to any lodge . The lodge yvas then reduced , and propositions for initiation yvere received from Bros . Batchelder ,
VV . M ., and Kleinmann , J . S . Bro . J . VV . Turner , P . M ., also proposed as a joining member Bro . T . II . Hall , of Lodge Boscawen , No . 6 99 , Chaceivater , Cornwall , and also proposed , in accordance yvith notice given , " That the sum of five pounds be given from the Charity Fund to the East Lancashire Systematic Masonic Educational and Benevolent Institution , such amount being
to endoyv the Worshipful Master's chair in perpetuity . " Bro . W . J . Kinder , S . W ., seconded the motion , and the same yvas carried . Bro . Batchelder , W . M ., proposed " That hearty good yvishes and a vote of thanks be accorded to Bro . Tyers , P . M . and Treas ., for the handsome present he gave to the lodge on St . John ' s Day , December 2 nd , 1876 , consisting of a choice set of wine and spirit decanters ,
yvith the name and number of the lodge engraved thereon . " Bro . John Kinder , P . M ., seconded the proposition , which received unanimous support , and instructions were given for it to be recorded on the lodge minutes . Charity having been exercised , representations from Lodges 66 7 , 66 9 , 1011 , and 1077 tendered their "Hearty good wishes , " and the lodge was closed in peace and harmony , after
which the brethren sat doyvn to indulge in " the cup that cheer * but not inebriates , " followed by the usual loyal and Masonic toasts , interspersed with vocal element . This being the first meeting after the installation of Bro . Batchelder as VV . M ., each officer in his turn replied to the toast of "The Officers of the Lodgeof Truth , No . 1458 . " The fact that it possesses good and efficient officers
cannot be disputed . Two important offices in a lodge are those of "the Deacons , " which , when well filled , reiterate the symbols of true Masonry . Bro . Cox , S . D ., substantiated this fact last year , yvhen Junior Deacon , and doubtless he yvill evince it in the Senior grade , yvith Bro . Taylor following in his footsteps . We close our report by wishing the " Lodge of Truth" a happy and
ptosperous new year , but must not omit the fact , that the brethren separated at a seasonable hour , 10 p . m . " Their labour o ' er , their rest » vas won . " MOLD . —The Sir "Watkin Lodge ( No . 1477 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held at the Masonic Rooms , Mold , on Monday , the 15 th January , Bro . Corbett , the W . M ., presided , and passed Bro . Hoyvard to the Second
Degree , the lecture being delivered by Bro . J . Salmon , P . G . J . W . The installation will take place in March . HAMPTON . —Hemming Lodge ( No . 1512 ) . — A strong muster of the members of this lodge took place at the Lion Hotel on Thursday , the 18 th ult . Amongst those present were Bros . Hurst , W . M . ; J . Hammond , P . M ., S . W . ; S . Hill , P . M ., J . W . ; W . Hammond , P . M .,
P . P . G . D . of Middlesex , & c , Secretary ; E . Hopwood , P . M . 141 , I . P . M ., Treasurer ; Fox , S . D . ; Jessett , J . D . ; P . Ockenden . I . G . ; T . C . Walls , D . C . ; B . Sharp , P . M . ; and others . The visitors were Bros . Wilson , P . M . Etonian ; Giiterbock , Phcenix ; Lamb , J . D . Lily of Richmond . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , the W . M ., assisted by his officers , in a careful
manner passed Bros . Messenger , Phillips , and Schmitz to the Second Degree . It was unanimously resolved that the sum of ten guineas should be voted to the Girls ' School , and be placed on the list of Bro . Ockenden , I . G ., who will represent the lodge at thc forthcoming festival of the institution in May next . A discussion having taken place upon the necessity of establishing a lodge or club of instruction in connection with the " Hemming , "
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the lodge yvas shortly afteryvards closed , and thc brethren partook of a collation , yvell provided for by Bro . Murphy . As the hour yvas far advanced before the cloth was cleared , the toasts yvere but briefly given , and the replies , from the same cause , yvere necessarily very terse . " The Health of the R . W . D . P . G . M . of Middlesex , and the rest of the P . G . O . ' s , Past and Present , " was acknowledged by Bro . W .
Hammond , P . P . G . D . "The Health of the W . M . " was proposed by the I . P . M ., in yvhich he complimented him upon the rapid progress he had made in Masonic working . This toast having been received with excellent " fire , " the W . M . replied very neatly , and immediately proposed " The Visitors . " Bro . Wilson , P . M . Etonian , in acknowledging the toast , expressed his thanks , and stated that the "
Hemming " Lodge was progressing in a manner that left little to be desired , even by its most ardent supporters . Bros . Lamb and Giiterbock also responded . " The Health of the Past Masters , " Bros . Hopyvoodand W . Hammond , followed , and gave the W . M . an opportunity of thanking those yvorthy and indefatigable officers for the great support that they had not only given to him , but to the entire
lodge-This toast having been very yvarmly received , Bros . Hopwood , I . P . M ., and W . Hammond , P . M ., replied by stating that they , as founders , were gratified at witnessing the prosperity and position the lodge had achieved in the short time that had elapsed since its foundation . As long as they held the honourable positions of Treasurer and Secretary to No . 1512 , it would alyvays be their pride to
further the interests of its members in every conceivable yvay . " The Officers '" toast came next . Bro . John Hammond , P . M ., S . W ., in the course of his reply , stated that he also endorsed the remarks passed by previous speakers upon the rapid progress made by the lodge , l'here yvas one thing , however , which should not be overlooked , and that was the necessity of there being an
uniformity of " working . " The yvork was fairly done , but he should like to see it better , and he hoped that the members would occasionally meet for the purpose of mutual instruction , and that any scheme to promote that end would meet yvith his hearty co-operation . Bros . Hill , J . W ., and Fox , S . D ., also replied . In proposing the next toast , that of " The Masonic Charities , " the W . M .
hoped that the members of the lodge yvould privately supplement the sum voted that day in lodge , to make their Steward ' s list at the Festival of the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls a good one . Bro . Ockenden made a most poyverf ul appeal on behalf of all thc benevolent institutions connected yvith the Craft . He stated that the year 1876 yvould be Masonically remembered as a very prosperous
one , inasmuch as the large sum of , £ 40 , 000 had been subscribed for the benefit of the widow , the orphan , and the distressed . This amount was an increase of £ 7000 over any previous year ' s contribution , and spoke volumes for the philanthropic principles eliminated by their noble Craft . In conclusion , he stated that he had been very fortunate last year as Steward to the Royal Masonic Benevolent
Institution , but he hoped to be more successful this year in the cause of the Institution for Girls . During the evening vocal contributions were given by Bros . Hurst , Hammond , Hill , Walls , Jessett , Schmitz , Knowles , and others . Previously to the Tyler ' s toast , ' The Health of Bro . B . Sharp , P . M ., & c , " was proposed , and having been responded to , the brethren shortly afterwards separated
until the third Thursday in February next . LIVERPOOL . —Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . — The usual monthly meeting of this young and prosperous lodge was held on Tuesday , the 23 rd ult , at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , Liverpool , and the very large attendance of oflicers , members , and visitors demonstrated clearly the great interest which is felt in the " Dramatic , " which has
rapidly attained an acknowledged eminent position in the Craft . With experienced and intelligent brethren to guide the affairs of No . 1609 , it has started on a career of the greatest brilliancy and promise . Bro . Joseph Bell , P . M ., was in his place , and was supported by Bros B . B . Marson , P . M . ; W . J . Chapman , S . W . ; Undo Courtenay , J . W . ; A . VVoolrich , Treas . ; H . J . Loveday , Sec ; J . Atkinson , I . G . ;
A . Pyer , S . S . ; A . Collinson , J . S . ; J . Skeaf , P . G . O ., Org . ; W . H . Ball , Tyler ; L . Lablache , G . Martin , F . Wilkinson , Dale , Shrapnell , R . Burgess , J . Hill , Frank Emery , H . Leslie , G . Mears , I . Levy , 667 ; Dr . Whittle , S ' ephton , P . M . 1086 ; J . Capell , Buck , Williams , Stafford , J . F . Coyvdell , and others . The ballot having been taken for
Mr . Sidney Fritz Smith , of the Royal Alexandra Theatre , which proved unanimously in his favour , he was initiated into the mysteries and privileges of ancient Freemasonry . Eight brethren presented themselves for the purpose of being raised — Bros . Leslie , Emery , Cowdell , Lablache , Hill , Shrapnell , Dale , and Martin , and the W . M ., taking them in two sections of four each , performed the
impressive ceremonies in a manner which it would have been difficult to excel . Several propositions for joining and initiation having been made , the lodge was closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to the banqueting-room . After the repast the standard loyal and Craft toasts were proposed ; and during the evening Bro . J . Bell . W . M ., referred to the early departure of Bro . H . J . Loveday , Sec , to take
the stage management of the Lyceum Theatre in London . He alluded to the loss which the lodge would sustain by his absence , spoke of the many genial and brotherly traits of character which he possessed , and asked the brethren to drink his health and prosperity in his metropolitan sphere of professional yvork . The toast was honoured yvith enthusiasm , and Bro . Loveday thanked the brethren for their invariable courtesy and kindness , assuring them that he
yvould carry with him to London the liveliest recollections of the Dramatic Lodge , yvith yvhich he had been identified since its beginning . Various other toasts followed , and the brethren separated shortly after seven o ' clock . It may be stated that Bro . Loveday has been connected with the Royal Alexandra Theatre , Liverpool , for the last seven years , as musical and stage director , where he has gained the esteem and admiration of a large circle of friends , about 100 of yvhom entertained him at supper at thc