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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
S . D . ; J . Glitheroyv , J . D . ; W . H . Veevers , I . G . ; R . J . Wilkinson , S . * , P . Maddox , S . ; and J . Yapp , Org . There yvere about 40 brethren present , and a number of visitors . Mr . W . E . L . Hambley yvas unanimously elected for the benefits of initiation , but he had gone to sea since his proposition . Thelectureon the first ' tracing board yvas , uneler these circumstances , given by Bro . R . P . France , P . M .,
whose excellent and fluent delivery yvas greatly admired an- \ appreciated . A vote of thanks , on the motion of Bro . P . M . Dilcock , seconded by Bro . P . M . Hunt , was ordered to be recorded on the minutes to Bro . France for the Masonic treat realised by his lecture . Thc sum of eight guineas yvas asked from the funds to help a yvidow and tyvo distressed brethren , and on the motion of Bro .
P . M . France , seconded by Bro . P . M . Dilcock , it yvas nnanimously resolved to donate five guineas to the Indian Famine Relief Fund . ( This amount yvas subsequently supplemented by three guineas , subscribed by the individual members , making the tlonation eight guineas . ) After four propositions for initiation and two for joining , the lodge yvas closed , and the brethren
adjourned for refreshments . LIVERPOOL . —Liverpool Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . —The first annual installation meeting-, after consecration , of the members of this prosperous lodge , ( which was instituted in June , 1876 , for the convenience of dramatic , musical , literary , and other representatives of professional pursuits ) , was held on Tuesday , the 25 th ult .,
at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , Liverpool , where there was one of the most influential and numerous attendances seen at any installation for a considerable time . It may be stated that the date of installation was altered , by special resolution , from June till September , to suit the engagements of thc professional brethren , whose engagements took them from toyvn during the summer months .
It is also an almost unprecedented fact that Bro . Joseph Bell , the first W . M ,, one of the most respected Masons in Liverpool , not only occupied the chair for 15 months , but held the same position in the De Grey and Ripon Lodge , No . 135 6 , so that his term of tenure of office as W . M ., extended over a period of two years and three months . That the petitioning brethren acted wisely in choosing Bro .
Bell as the first Master is abundantly proved by the present financial position of the lodge , thc excellent reputation it has deservedly secured for correct and high-class working , and the perfect harmony yvhich had characterised the yvhole of its proceedings since the consecration . Not only is the " Dramatic , " now numerically strong , ba ; caieful attention has also been paid to thc all-important rule of
quality , and not mere quantity of membership , thereby exhibiting a carefulness which is yvell yvorthy of general imitation . Within a very feyv weeks after consecration every farthing of liability was cleared off , and at thc end of the first 15 months of its existence thc balance sheet shows that thc total worth of thc lodge is about £ 200 . The subjoined account of thc interesting and most successful
installation proceedings also shows that charity is not forgotten as the chief gem in the symbolic jeyvels of Freemasonry , and there is every reason to believe that yvith increasing prosperity in thc future there will be shown a proportionate increase in thc distinguishing virtue of the Craft . The formation of a Fund of Benevolence is amongst the earliest schemes which yvill be considered during the
current year , and from the interest already manifested in the proposal there seems every prospect that the scheme will be completely successful . The brethren yvere summoned to meet at 12 . 30 , and punctually [ at that hour , Bro . Joseph Bell , the W . M ., took his place in the chair , and proceeded yvithout delay with the business of the day . The officers were all in their places , and there was a numerous
attendance of distinguished brethren as visitors . The lodge having been opened in due form , and yvith solemn prayer , thc minutes of the previous meeting were read and unanimously confirmed . The ballot was then taken for two initiates and one joining member , after which the balance-sheet , which was taken as read , was passed by acclamation . Bro . Walter James Chapman ,
S . W ., the W . M . elect , was then presented for the benefit of installation by Bro . R . Brown , P . M ., 241 , and Bro . Dr . J . Kellett Smith , P . P . G . Registrar . The ceremony of installing Bro . Chapman was most ably and impressively performed by Bro . J . Bell , the retiring W . M ., who thus most honourably closed a memorable term of service in the chair . After the newly-chaired W . M . had been
saluted , according to time immemorial custom , the folloyving officers were invested for the ensuing vear . Bro . J . Bell , I . P . M . ; Bro . B . B . Marson , P . M ., D . C . ; Bro . Linds Courtenay , S . W . ; Bro . J . McKenzie , J . W . ; Bro . A . Woolrich , Treasurer ( re-elected ) ; Bro . J . Atkinson , Secretary ; Bro . W . Sandbrook , S . D . ; Bro . Fred . Wilkinson , J . D . ; Bro . Frank Emery , I . G . ; Bro . J . Pyer , S . S . ; Bro . W .
Savage , jun ., J . S . ; Bro . J . Skeaf , P . G . O . and Bro . R . Burgess , Organists ; and Bro . W . H . Ball yvas unanimously re-elected Tyler . The closing charges to the W . M ., Wardens , and brethren , yvere very effectively delivered by Bro . R . Brown , P . M . 241 . Mr . Arthur Vfeston , ( professionally known as " Boz , " the clever conjuror ) and Mr . John Charles Duckworth , journalist ,
having been previously unanimously elected , and being now in attendance , were duly initiated into the Order by Bro . W . J . Chapman , W . M ., in a most impressive manner , all the neyv officers doing their work in a highly satisfactory manner . On the motion of Bro . Atkinson , Sec ., it was agreed that the expenses of the officers in attending the P . G . Lodge meeting at Southport should be
defrayed from thc funds of the lodge , and the W . M . expressed a hope , that there yvould be a numerous representation of the members to support him and his Wardens on that occasion . After a proposition for joining had been made , the brethren were called off from labour to refreshment . A recherche banquet yvas served to about seventy , in the large dining room of the hall by Bro . Ball , P . G . Tyler . Bro . Chapman , W . M .,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
presided at thc banquet table , supported , right and left , by a brilliant array of P . G . Officers . When dessert had been placed on the table , the W . M . gave the first toast of the evening— " The Queen "—which yvas honoured yvith immense enthusiasm . The W . M . next proposed " The M . W . Grand Master . Bro . H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , the Princess of Wales , and the rest of the Royal Family . "
He said—Thc Prince of Wales , I dare say , is one of the most popular men in the country ( hear ) , and his position as a Freemason—his position as M . W . G . M . of the Order . —yvill doubtless form one of the brightest jeyvels in the croivn he is destined to wear , thereby malting his influence the greatest in the yvhole world . ( Applause . ) Brethren , I ask you to drink the health of our G . M ., his amiable
consort , the Princess of Wales , and the rest of the Royal Family . The toast yvas received most cordially . " God bless thc Prince of Wales , " yvas then sung by Bro . Woolrich and company . Thc next toast , " Tbe M . W . Pro Grand Master , Bro the Rt . Hon . the Earl of Carnarvon , " was proposed , in eulogistic terms , by Bro . H . S . Alpass , P . G . Sec . The next toast yvas " The R . W . Deputy Grand
Master , and R . W . P . G . M . of vvest Lancashire , Bro . the Rt . Hon . Lord Skelmersdale , and the Officers of Prov . G . lodge , Past and Present . " The W . M ., in submitting thc toast , said they yvere fortunate in West Lancashire in having a popular brother like Lord Skelmersdale at their head . He took a great interest in the Craft , and yvas readily accessible on all occasions , thereby rendering
himself highly popular amongst the brethren , Bro . H . S . Alpass , in acknowledging the toast , said it gave him very great pleasure to be present at the installation that day , and to yvitness the undoubted success yvhich the lodge had secured after fifteen months ' existence . He thought that the success of the Dramatic Lodge since its consecration would clearly show that Lord Skelmersdale ,
their P . G . Master , was perfectly justified in his recommendation to the G . Master that a warrant of constitution should be granted . ( Cheers . ) In all his ( the P . G . See ' s . ) experience he did not knoyv any lodge yvhich had been so successful as thc " Dramatic " in carrying out thc objects for which it was instituted , and in carrying them out so harmoniously and creditable . In the first place , the object
of the promoters in establishing this lodge—as precedent for yvhich they had doubtless witnessed in London , yvas to suit thc convenience of those professional brethren who , yvhile desirous of becoming Freemasons were prevented from doing so by their professional avocations . Some thirty years ago , Bro . Raymond , lessee of the Liverpool Theatre , in Church-street , appeared to have taken a very
great interest in Masonry , giving a benefit at his theatre for some Masonic charity ; and associated yvith him was Bro . W . J . Hammond , not unknown in the present generation , whose son was now yvell recognised as a worthy Mason . Moreover , not only had the Dramatic Lodge been successful , tut it had maintained its professional status , and he was pleased to find from thc returns that it was
really a dramatic lodge , the majority of the brethren being connected with thc stage , as well as musical and literary pursuits . Everyone that visited it must feel that an evening yvith the " Dramatic " yvas one of the most enjoyable and profitable they could have . The members certainly showed the fine spirit of brotherhood , and although it was said that jealousies prevailed greatly in the profession thev
had chosen , that was not so in Masonry—that yvhatever must be the case on the public stage it did not exist on the Masonic stage . ( Hear . ) They had that afternoon seen Bro . Chapman installed W . M . of the lodge and they must all be congratulating themsehes on securing thc services of one who was really entitled and fitted to be a ruler in the Craft . Bro . Chapman had given thc First Degree that
evening , and all who were present must agree with him , ( Bro . Alpass ) that he ( the W . M . ) thoroughly understood the meaning of the solemn ceremony and had required no mere parrot poyver of repetition . ( Hear , hear ) . Lord Skelmersdale vjas greatly esteemed in Masonry , —so much so , that it seemed if things went on as they wire noyv doing Masonry yvould soon take up all his lordship ' s time ,
leaving him none for thc performance of his legislative duties . Again referring to the excellent yvorking of the Dramatic Lodge , Bro . Alpass said he could see that for the next three years , at least , they had a class of officers yvho yvould maintain thc proud position and secure its success with the literary and dramatic professions . The newspapers told us the right yvay in which to do things , and if
they did not do right they might rest assured the representatives of that mighty engine , the Fourth Estate , would be doyvn on them " like a thousand of bricks . " Bro . Joseph Bell , I . P . M ., next gave "The Worshipful Master , " saying he was sure the toast would be received with the enthusiasm it deserved . Bro . Chapman was well known to them as an excellent Mason , and he bad the
interest of the lodge at heart . The W . M . said he hardly knew hoyv to thank the brethren for the honour conferred on him . * Only three years ago he was initiated into Masonry , and now he occupied thc proud position of W . M . of the Dramatic Lodge . He only hoped he yvould be able to repay the confidence which tbe members had reposed in him . That would be his object , and his greatest reyvard
at the end of the year would be to knoyv he had secured the same sincere respect as Bro . Bell had during his time in the chair . ( Hear , hear ) . The W . M . then proposed "The I . P . M ., and Installing Master " ( Bro . Bell ) , and in doing so referred to tbe fine brotherly spirit which he had displayed and the warm interest he had taken in the yvelfare of thc lodge since its consecration . The W . M .
then presented Bro . Bell with a most exquisitely designed and unique P . M . ' s jewel yvhich had been unanimously voted from the funds of thc lodge and also with a splendid chain and locket ( with square and compasses set with diamonds on one side and Bro . Bell ' s inlaid monogram on the other ) which had been subscribed by the individual members of the lodge as a mark of the affection and esteem in which hc was held by all . Bro . Bell , I . P . M .,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
in acknowledging thc splendid gifts , said he looked upon that as the splendidest and happiest moment of his life , not only because ; of these handsome presents , but because the generosity and kindness the brethren had shown that he had given them satisfaction by the manner in yvhich he had fulfilled the duties of the chair Some other toasts were given , yvhich closed the refreshment
proceedings . The general enjoyment of every one yvas greatly promoted by the excellent songs and recitations given by Bros . G . W . Anson , J . Bushfield , D . Saunders John Hill , A . Weston , A . Woolrich , Treas . ; W . s . ' Cooke , L . Courtenay , S . W ., and others , the piano accoiti . paniments being artistically played by Bros . Skeaf and Burgess . On resuming labour it was resolved , on the
motion of Bro . Bell , seconded by Bro . Marson , that a letter of condolence should be yvrittcn to the family of the late Bro . Dr . A . Whittle , a member of the lodge , yvh 0 had died very suddenly . Bro . Bell then moved that the sum of 15 guineas should be voted from the funds of the lodge to endoyv the chairs of thc W . M ., the I . P . M ., and S . W . yvith life governorships of the West Lancashire Masonic Educational Institution . The motion yvas seconded
by Bro . Isaac de Freece , and carried by acclamation . Bro , R . Brown briefly acknowledged the generous vote . Uro . Marson next proposed that the sum of 3 guineas should be voted from the funds of the lodge to endow thc chairs of the W . M ., S . W ., and J . W . with life governorships ot the Hamer Benevolent Fund . This motion yvas seconded by Bro . Bell , and yvas likevrise carried unanimously . The lodge yvas then closed in perfect harmony , and in accordance with ancient form .
INSTRUCTION . METROPOLITAN LODGE ( No . 1056 ) . — Friday the 28 th Sept ., ' being the day appointed by thc byc-layvs of this lodge for yvorking the ceremony of instal - lation , the chair was occupied by Bro . Whittaker , W . M . of thc Carnarvon Lodge , yvho had undertaken thc duties of Installing Master and he was ably supported by Bros .
Reed and Divarbcr , whom he had appointed as his Senior and Junior Wardens . The lodge having been opened in thc Three Degrees and the sections worked by Bros . Woods and Reed in thc Second Degree , Bro . Creak yvas presented by the Preceptor of the lodge , Bro . Stacey , to the W . M . as a fit person to receive the benefit of installation , and having assented to abide by the ancient charges as
read oy the Secretary , Bro . Snelling , took the office of W . M . elect , and yvithdrew . The lodge was then opened in the Three Degrees , and a Board of Installed Masters having been formed , Bro . Vincent yvas ably installed as W . M . of the lodge , and was afterwards saluted by the brethren in the Three Degrees , according to ancient custom . Bro . Vincent afterwards appointed and invested
his officers . Thc folloyving brethren yvere then elected members of the lodge : —Bros . Tucker , Kearney , Willett , Marion , Lockhead , and Cranwell , and a vote of thanks was directed to be recorded on the minutes of the lodge to Bro . Whitaker for his services as Installing Master , and
he yvas afterwards , by the unanimous vote of the brethren , made honorary member of the lodge . There yvas a large attendance of Past Masters and members of the lodge , and much satisfaction yvas expressed by them at the manner in which Bro . Whitaker had performed thc duties of Installing Master .
FINSBURY PARK LODGE ( No . 1288 ) . — This lodge held its yveekly meeiing on Wednesday , the 26 th , of September , at thc Finsbury Park Tavern , Scvcn-Sisters' Road , Holloway , N . Present : Bros . P . Dickinson , Preceptor ; I . Walker , W . M ., Egyptian , No . 27 ; Campbell , S . W . ; Press , J . W . ; II . B . D . Dunn , Sec . ; Pigot , P . M .,
Treasurer ; John Eldridge , W . M . 167 , S . D . ; Rothschild , J . D . ; Baldwin , I . G . Thc lodge having been opened the minutes yvere read and confirmed . The ceremony of passing and initiation yvere rehearsed . Bro . Dickinson worked First and Second Sections of Lecture . Bro . Campbell was elected W . M . for ensuing fortnight , and the annual supper of the lodge was fixed for the 3 rd inst .
THE GREAT CITY LODGE ( No . 1426 ) . -- ^ meeting of this lodge yvas held at the Masons'Arms , Basinghall-street , on Thursday , 27 th ult . Bros . Stanway : W . M ., Spiegel , S . W . ; Freeman , J . W . ; Soul , I . G . Bros . Poore , Preceptor ; Blackey , Sec ; Colmer , Treas . ; and about 25 brethren attended . This being thc fourth Thursday in the month , according to the bye-laws , the Installation ceremony yvas rehearsed , and Bro . Barry being appointed Installing Master .
DUKE OF CONNAUGHT LODGE ( No . 1524 ) —This lodge held its annual meeting at the Havelock Tavern , on Wednesday evening , 27 th ult ., at 8 p . m . Present : Bros . J . Larkin , W . M . ; Brasted , S . W . ; McMillan , J . W . ; Maples , S . D . ; Brown , J . D . ; Woolley , I . G . ; Fieldwick , Perceptor ; E . Dietrich , Secretary ; and J . B . Shackleton , Lee , Gilchrist , Symes , F . Beensen , Hodgkinson ,
Moore , Little , Spencer , G . Ferrar , E . George , Polack , Marsh , C . Larkin , Strecton , & c . The lodge was opened in ancient form , and the minutes of the last meeting read and confirmed . The ceremony of initiation was then rehearsed by the W . M . in a very able manner , Bro . F .
Beenson being the candidate . After the lodge being called from labour to refreshment , and refreshment to labour , Bros . Lee and Gilchrist worked the sections of the lectures , assisted by the brethren . Bro . E . P . Hodg kinson yvas elected as a joining member . Bro . Brasted was appointed W . M . for next meeting .
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GUILDFORD . —Percy Lodge ( No . 114 ) - — j installation meeting of this lodge was held at the Angel
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
S . D . ; J . Glitheroyv , J . D . ; W . H . Veevers , I . G . ; R . J . Wilkinson , S . * , P . Maddox , S . ; and J . Yapp , Org . There yvere about 40 brethren present , and a number of visitors . Mr . W . E . L . Hambley yvas unanimously elected for the benefits of initiation , but he had gone to sea since his proposition . Thelectureon the first ' tracing board yvas , uneler these circumstances , given by Bro . R . P . France , P . M .,
whose excellent and fluent delivery yvas greatly admired an- \ appreciated . A vote of thanks , on the motion of Bro . P . M . Dilcock , seconded by Bro . P . M . Hunt , was ordered to be recorded on the minutes to Bro . France for the Masonic treat realised by his lecture . Thc sum of eight guineas yvas asked from the funds to help a yvidow and tyvo distressed brethren , and on the motion of Bro .
P . M . France , seconded by Bro . P . M . Dilcock , it yvas nnanimously resolved to donate five guineas to the Indian Famine Relief Fund . ( This amount yvas subsequently supplemented by three guineas , subscribed by the individual members , making the tlonation eight guineas . ) After four propositions for initiation and two for joining , the lodge yvas closed , and the brethren
adjourned for refreshments . LIVERPOOL . —Liverpool Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . —The first annual installation meeting-, after consecration , of the members of this prosperous lodge , ( which was instituted in June , 1876 , for the convenience of dramatic , musical , literary , and other representatives of professional pursuits ) , was held on Tuesday , the 25 th ult .,
at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , Liverpool , where there was one of the most influential and numerous attendances seen at any installation for a considerable time . It may be stated that the date of installation was altered , by special resolution , from June till September , to suit the engagements of thc professional brethren , whose engagements took them from toyvn during the summer months .
It is also an almost unprecedented fact that Bro . Joseph Bell , the first W . M ,, one of the most respected Masons in Liverpool , not only occupied the chair for 15 months , but held the same position in the De Grey and Ripon Lodge , No . 135 6 , so that his term of tenure of office as W . M ., extended over a period of two years and three months . That the petitioning brethren acted wisely in choosing Bro .
Bell as the first Master is abundantly proved by the present financial position of the lodge , thc excellent reputation it has deservedly secured for correct and high-class working , and the perfect harmony yvhich had characterised the yvhole of its proceedings since the consecration . Not only is the " Dramatic , " now numerically strong , ba ; caieful attention has also been paid to thc all-important rule of
quality , and not mere quantity of membership , thereby exhibiting a carefulness which is yvell yvorthy of general imitation . Within a very feyv weeks after consecration every farthing of liability was cleared off , and at thc end of the first 15 months of its existence thc balance sheet shows that thc total worth of thc lodge is about £ 200 . The subjoined account of thc interesting and most successful
installation proceedings also shows that charity is not forgotten as the chief gem in the symbolic jeyvels of Freemasonry , and there is every reason to believe that yvith increasing prosperity in thc future there will be shown a proportionate increase in thc distinguishing virtue of the Craft . The formation of a Fund of Benevolence is amongst the earliest schemes which yvill be considered during the
current year , and from the interest already manifested in the proposal there seems every prospect that the scheme will be completely successful . The brethren yvere summoned to meet at 12 . 30 , and punctually [ at that hour , Bro . Joseph Bell , the W . M ., took his place in the chair , and proceeded yvithout delay with the business of the day . The officers were all in their places , and there was a numerous
attendance of distinguished brethren as visitors . The lodge having been opened in due form , and yvith solemn prayer , thc minutes of the previous meeting were read and unanimously confirmed . The ballot was then taken for two initiates and one joining member , after which the balance-sheet , which was taken as read , was passed by acclamation . Bro . Walter James Chapman ,
S . W ., the W . M . elect , was then presented for the benefit of installation by Bro . R . Brown , P . M ., 241 , and Bro . Dr . J . Kellett Smith , P . P . G . Registrar . The ceremony of installing Bro . Chapman was most ably and impressively performed by Bro . J . Bell , the retiring W . M ., who thus most honourably closed a memorable term of service in the chair . After the newly-chaired W . M . had been
saluted , according to time immemorial custom , the folloyving officers were invested for the ensuing vear . Bro . J . Bell , I . P . M . ; Bro . B . B . Marson , P . M ., D . C . ; Bro . Linds Courtenay , S . W . ; Bro . J . McKenzie , J . W . ; Bro . A . Woolrich , Treasurer ( re-elected ) ; Bro . J . Atkinson , Secretary ; Bro . W . Sandbrook , S . D . ; Bro . Fred . Wilkinson , J . D . ; Bro . Frank Emery , I . G . ; Bro . J . Pyer , S . S . ; Bro . W .
Savage , jun ., J . S . ; Bro . J . Skeaf , P . G . O . and Bro . R . Burgess , Organists ; and Bro . W . H . Ball yvas unanimously re-elected Tyler . The closing charges to the W . M ., Wardens , and brethren , yvere very effectively delivered by Bro . R . Brown , P . M . 241 . Mr . Arthur Vfeston , ( professionally known as " Boz , " the clever conjuror ) and Mr . John Charles Duckworth , journalist ,
having been previously unanimously elected , and being now in attendance , were duly initiated into the Order by Bro . W . J . Chapman , W . M ., in a most impressive manner , all the neyv officers doing their work in a highly satisfactory manner . On the motion of Bro . Atkinson , Sec ., it was agreed that the expenses of the officers in attending the P . G . Lodge meeting at Southport should be
defrayed from thc funds of the lodge , and the W . M . expressed a hope , that there yvould be a numerous representation of the members to support him and his Wardens on that occasion . After a proposition for joining had been made , the brethren were called off from labour to refreshment . A recherche banquet yvas served to about seventy , in the large dining room of the hall by Bro . Ball , P . G . Tyler . Bro . Chapman , W . M .,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
presided at thc banquet table , supported , right and left , by a brilliant array of P . G . Officers . When dessert had been placed on the table , the W . M . gave the first toast of the evening— " The Queen "—which yvas honoured yvith immense enthusiasm . The W . M . next proposed " The M . W . Grand Master . Bro . H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , the Princess of Wales , and the rest of the Royal Family . "
He said—Thc Prince of Wales , I dare say , is one of the most popular men in the country ( hear ) , and his position as a Freemason—his position as M . W . G . M . of the Order . —yvill doubtless form one of the brightest jeyvels in the croivn he is destined to wear , thereby malting his influence the greatest in the yvhole world . ( Applause . ) Brethren , I ask you to drink the health of our G . M ., his amiable
consort , the Princess of Wales , and the rest of the Royal Family . The toast yvas received most cordially . " God bless thc Prince of Wales , " yvas then sung by Bro . Woolrich and company . Thc next toast , " Tbe M . W . Pro Grand Master , Bro the Rt . Hon . the Earl of Carnarvon , " was proposed , in eulogistic terms , by Bro . H . S . Alpass , P . G . Sec . The next toast yvas " The R . W . Deputy Grand
Master , and R . W . P . G . M . of vvest Lancashire , Bro . the Rt . Hon . Lord Skelmersdale , and the Officers of Prov . G . lodge , Past and Present . " The W . M ., in submitting thc toast , said they yvere fortunate in West Lancashire in having a popular brother like Lord Skelmersdale at their head . He took a great interest in the Craft , and yvas readily accessible on all occasions , thereby rendering
himself highly popular amongst the brethren , Bro . H . S . Alpass , in acknowledging the toast , said it gave him very great pleasure to be present at the installation that day , and to yvitness the undoubted success yvhich the lodge had secured after fifteen months ' existence . He thought that the success of the Dramatic Lodge since its consecration would clearly show that Lord Skelmersdale ,
their P . G . Master , was perfectly justified in his recommendation to the G . Master that a warrant of constitution should be granted . ( Cheers . ) In all his ( the P . G . See ' s . ) experience he did not knoyv any lodge yvhich had been so successful as thc " Dramatic " in carrying out thc objects for which it was instituted , and in carrying them out so harmoniously and creditable . In the first place , the object
of the promoters in establishing this lodge—as precedent for yvhich they had doubtless witnessed in London , yvas to suit thc convenience of those professional brethren who , yvhile desirous of becoming Freemasons were prevented from doing so by their professional avocations . Some thirty years ago , Bro . Raymond , lessee of the Liverpool Theatre , in Church-street , appeared to have taken a very
great interest in Masonry , giving a benefit at his theatre for some Masonic charity ; and associated yvith him was Bro . W . J . Hammond , not unknown in the present generation , whose son was now yvell recognised as a worthy Mason . Moreover , not only had the Dramatic Lodge been successful , tut it had maintained its professional status , and he was pleased to find from thc returns that it was
really a dramatic lodge , the majority of the brethren being connected with thc stage , as well as musical and literary pursuits . Everyone that visited it must feel that an evening yvith the " Dramatic " yvas one of the most enjoyable and profitable they could have . The members certainly showed the fine spirit of brotherhood , and although it was said that jealousies prevailed greatly in the profession thev
had chosen , that was not so in Masonry—that yvhatever must be the case on the public stage it did not exist on the Masonic stage . ( Hear . ) They had that afternoon seen Bro . Chapman installed W . M . of the lodge and they must all be congratulating themsehes on securing thc services of one who was really entitled and fitted to be a ruler in the Craft . Bro . Chapman had given thc First Degree that
evening , and all who were present must agree with him , ( Bro . Alpass ) that he ( the W . M . ) thoroughly understood the meaning of the solemn ceremony and had required no mere parrot poyver of repetition . ( Hear , hear ) . Lord Skelmersdale vjas greatly esteemed in Masonry , —so much so , that it seemed if things went on as they wire noyv doing Masonry yvould soon take up all his lordship ' s time ,
leaving him none for thc performance of his legislative duties . Again referring to the excellent yvorking of the Dramatic Lodge , Bro . Alpass said he could see that for the next three years , at least , they had a class of officers yvho yvould maintain thc proud position and secure its success with the literary and dramatic professions . The newspapers told us the right yvay in which to do things , and if
they did not do right they might rest assured the representatives of that mighty engine , the Fourth Estate , would be doyvn on them " like a thousand of bricks . " Bro . Joseph Bell , I . P . M ., next gave "The Worshipful Master , " saying he was sure the toast would be received with the enthusiasm it deserved . Bro . Chapman was well known to them as an excellent Mason , and he bad the
interest of the lodge at heart . The W . M . said he hardly knew hoyv to thank the brethren for the honour conferred on him . * Only three years ago he was initiated into Masonry , and now he occupied thc proud position of W . M . of the Dramatic Lodge . He only hoped he yvould be able to repay the confidence which tbe members had reposed in him . That would be his object , and his greatest reyvard
at the end of the year would be to knoyv he had secured the same sincere respect as Bro . Bell had during his time in the chair . ( Hear , hear ) . The W . M . then proposed "The I . P . M ., and Installing Master " ( Bro . Bell ) , and in doing so referred to tbe fine brotherly spirit which he had displayed and the warm interest he had taken in the yvelfare of thc lodge since its consecration . The W . M .
then presented Bro . Bell with a most exquisitely designed and unique P . M . ' s jewel yvhich had been unanimously voted from the funds of thc lodge and also with a splendid chain and locket ( with square and compasses set with diamonds on one side and Bro . Bell ' s inlaid monogram on the other ) which had been subscribed by the individual members of the lodge as a mark of the affection and esteem in which hc was held by all . Bro . Bell , I . P . M .,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
in acknowledging thc splendid gifts , said he looked upon that as the splendidest and happiest moment of his life , not only because ; of these handsome presents , but because the generosity and kindness the brethren had shown that he had given them satisfaction by the manner in yvhich he had fulfilled the duties of the chair Some other toasts were given , yvhich closed the refreshment
proceedings . The general enjoyment of every one yvas greatly promoted by the excellent songs and recitations given by Bros . G . W . Anson , J . Bushfield , D . Saunders John Hill , A . Weston , A . Woolrich , Treas . ; W . s . ' Cooke , L . Courtenay , S . W ., and others , the piano accoiti . paniments being artistically played by Bros . Skeaf and Burgess . On resuming labour it was resolved , on the
motion of Bro . Bell , seconded by Bro . Marson , that a letter of condolence should be yvrittcn to the family of the late Bro . Dr . A . Whittle , a member of the lodge , yvh 0 had died very suddenly . Bro . Bell then moved that the sum of 15 guineas should be voted from the funds of the lodge to endoyv the chairs of thc W . M ., the I . P . M ., and S . W . yvith life governorships of the West Lancashire Masonic Educational Institution . The motion yvas seconded
by Bro . Isaac de Freece , and carried by acclamation . Bro , R . Brown briefly acknowledged the generous vote . Uro . Marson next proposed that the sum of 3 guineas should be voted from the funds of the lodge to endow thc chairs of the W . M ., S . W ., and J . W . with life governorships ot the Hamer Benevolent Fund . This motion yvas seconded by Bro . Bell , and yvas likevrise carried unanimously . The lodge yvas then closed in perfect harmony , and in accordance with ancient form .
INSTRUCTION . METROPOLITAN LODGE ( No . 1056 ) . — Friday the 28 th Sept ., ' being the day appointed by thc byc-layvs of this lodge for yvorking the ceremony of instal - lation , the chair was occupied by Bro . Whittaker , W . M . of thc Carnarvon Lodge , yvho had undertaken thc duties of Installing Master and he was ably supported by Bros .
Reed and Divarbcr , whom he had appointed as his Senior and Junior Wardens . The lodge having been opened in thc Three Degrees and the sections worked by Bros . Woods and Reed in thc Second Degree , Bro . Creak yvas presented by the Preceptor of the lodge , Bro . Stacey , to the W . M . as a fit person to receive the benefit of installation , and having assented to abide by the ancient charges as
read oy the Secretary , Bro . Snelling , took the office of W . M . elect , and yvithdrew . The lodge was then opened in the Three Degrees , and a Board of Installed Masters having been formed , Bro . Vincent yvas ably installed as W . M . of the lodge , and was afterwards saluted by the brethren in the Three Degrees , according to ancient custom . Bro . Vincent afterwards appointed and invested
his officers . Thc folloyving brethren yvere then elected members of the lodge : —Bros . Tucker , Kearney , Willett , Marion , Lockhead , and Cranwell , and a vote of thanks was directed to be recorded on the minutes of the lodge to Bro . Whitaker for his services as Installing Master , and
he yvas afterwards , by the unanimous vote of the brethren , made honorary member of the lodge . There yvas a large attendance of Past Masters and members of the lodge , and much satisfaction yvas expressed by them at the manner in which Bro . Whitaker had performed thc duties of Installing Master .
FINSBURY PARK LODGE ( No . 1288 ) . — This lodge held its yveekly meeiing on Wednesday , the 26 th , of September , at thc Finsbury Park Tavern , Scvcn-Sisters' Road , Holloway , N . Present : Bros . P . Dickinson , Preceptor ; I . Walker , W . M ., Egyptian , No . 27 ; Campbell , S . W . ; Press , J . W . ; II . B . D . Dunn , Sec . ; Pigot , P . M .,
Treasurer ; John Eldridge , W . M . 167 , S . D . ; Rothschild , J . D . ; Baldwin , I . G . Thc lodge having been opened the minutes yvere read and confirmed . The ceremony of passing and initiation yvere rehearsed . Bro . Dickinson worked First and Second Sections of Lecture . Bro . Campbell was elected W . M . for ensuing fortnight , and the annual supper of the lodge was fixed for the 3 rd inst .
THE GREAT CITY LODGE ( No . 1426 ) . -- ^ meeting of this lodge yvas held at the Masons'Arms , Basinghall-street , on Thursday , 27 th ult . Bros . Stanway : W . M ., Spiegel , S . W . ; Freeman , J . W . ; Soul , I . G . Bros . Poore , Preceptor ; Blackey , Sec ; Colmer , Treas . ; and about 25 brethren attended . This being thc fourth Thursday in the month , according to the bye-laws , the Installation ceremony yvas rehearsed , and Bro . Barry being appointed Installing Master .
DUKE OF CONNAUGHT LODGE ( No . 1524 ) —This lodge held its annual meeting at the Havelock Tavern , on Wednesday evening , 27 th ult ., at 8 p . m . Present : Bros . J . Larkin , W . M . ; Brasted , S . W . ; McMillan , J . W . ; Maples , S . D . ; Brown , J . D . ; Woolley , I . G . ; Fieldwick , Perceptor ; E . Dietrich , Secretary ; and J . B . Shackleton , Lee , Gilchrist , Symes , F . Beensen , Hodgkinson ,
Moore , Little , Spencer , G . Ferrar , E . George , Polack , Marsh , C . Larkin , Strecton , & c . The lodge was opened in ancient form , and the minutes of the last meeting read and confirmed . The ceremony of initiation was then rehearsed by the W . M . in a very able manner , Bro . F .
Beenson being the candidate . After the lodge being called from labour to refreshment , and refreshment to labour , Bros . Lee and Gilchrist worked the sections of the lectures , assisted by the brethren . Bro . E . P . Hodg kinson yvas elected as a joining member . Bro . Brasted was appointed W . M . for next meeting .
Mark Masonry.
Mark Masonry .
GUILDFORD . —Percy Lodge ( No . 114 ) - — j installation meeting of this lodge was held at the Angel