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Article Masonic Notes and Queries. ← Page 2 of 2 Article THE LATE BRO. COLONEL BURNABY. Page 1 of 1 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 1 of 2 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 1 of 2 →
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Masonic Notes And Queries.
Nicolson , Junior Wardens , and Andrew Ross , Treasurer , and continued until 25 th December 170 ' , "'hen James Dick was chosen Master , A . Ross , Senior , and William Cumming , Junior Wardens , Alexr . lulloch Treasurer , and continued until 2 Sth December 1702 , when the ; said J . Dick was continued Master , R . Nicolson and A . lulloch . Wardens , and ] ohn Thomson , 1 reasurer , and continued fill GH , August . 1716 , when Andrew Scott was chosen
Master I Dick , Senior , and J . Dick Junior Wardens , and the said ( J . Thomson presumably ) , treasurer . These continued until 27 th December , 171 S when the the said Andrew Scott was continued Master , Robt . Ross , Senior and Thos . Tulloch , Junior Wardens , and ye said Thomas Tulloch Treasurer , until December 27 th , 1719 , when Donald McLise was chosen Master , Donald and Thomas Tulloch , the Wardens , the Boxmaster continued ,
and the rest until December 27 th , 1712 , when J . Nicolson was chosen Master , Donald McLise , Senior , and J . McBean , Junior Wardens , and Alexr . Eraser , Boxmaster . These remained until 1724 . when J . McBean was chosen Master , and Donald McLise , Senior , and J . Jackson , lunior Wardens , and ye said J . Jackson . I reasurer . And thus it remained until 1733 , when Bailhe VV . M . Mcintosh was chosen Master ; John Dunbar , Senior , and A . I-raser , when
lunior Wardens . A change was again made in 1735 , ' I . McBean was chosen Master ; J . Dunbar , Senior , and A . ' Eraser , Junior Wardens ; and the said Boxmaster continued until 17 th December , 173 6 , when G . Cuthbert , of Castle Hill , was chosen Master ; J . Dunbar , Senior , and A . Eraser , Junior Wardens , the said Alexr . ( Fraser ?) Treasurer . On the back of the petition is the following endorsation , as signed by the
Master and Wardens : " In a full meeting of this Lodge Inverness , 26 th September , 1737 , we , the Master and Wardens hereto subscribing , do attest the above to be a genuine duplicate of the minutes of this lodge , as thesame stands . " This petition is accepted , and a charter granted 30 th November , 173 s , as countersigned by R . Ahsone , G . Clerk , and the names of the brethren present in Grand Lodge are ivenand from the terms of the charter it
g , seems that the representatives of the lodge had attended the Grand Lodge meetings since the previous October . We may assume primarily that , at any rate , the names of G . Cuthbert , J . Dunbar , D . McLise , and A . Fraser are correct . But then comes the serious question—What about the previous minutes ? Ave they correct ? On the new " apocryphal theory , " nothing can stand . It has been amusinsr to note , how within the last three years
anything which does not square with certain pet theories of the hour has received the "happy dispatch , under the ominous epithet " apocryphal . " 1 may remark this is a protrusion of the real meaning of apocryphal , — which simply originally meant obscure , dubious , not absolutely false . What then is the difference of the historical value , —as between any of the minutes after 1700 and the minutes of 1736 ? Is there any valid distinction
as to historical value or reality ? I cannot see it . As it appears to me , only looking at the matter as a question of historical evidence , they must all stand or fall together . It may be alleged that we have an attestation from Grand Lodge in 1739 as to the reality inferentially of the 173 G minute . in respect of the attendance of lodge representations , say in the previous October ; but as G . L . then only relied on the veracity of the petitioners , if all their previous entries
are unreliable or manufactured " ad hoc , " I do not see why one entry is more to be relied on than another . Of those who were present in Grand Lodge in 1737 some one must have known something of the Inverness brethren , and whether their allegations were well or ill-founded , and I certainly know of no similar precedent so late as 1737 , where deliberate statements made within a generation—H . M . on " their own information to boot , " —
, , are absolutely false in themselves , and yet openly accepted by a public body like the G . L . of Scotland as historically true . And the same argument applies as to the minutes between 16 7 S and 1 S 00 . They are either true or false , and certainly if false are set out with a minuteness , and an apparent historical verity unusual in such documents . I cannot see on what grounds of criticism or evidence these minutes can be rejected , and , like " W . O ., "
1 believe them " minuted" in " bona fides , " and reasonable and reliable . Two suggestions occur . Why should not the Grand Lodge of Scotland appoint a small commission to search the Grand Lodge MSS ., and print for historical information some of the most interesting documents . ' The second is , Can no Inverness brother take the fraternal trouble of endeavouring to verify the names recorded of members of St . John's , Old Inverness , Kilwinning , between 16 7 8 and 173 G , and by this search perhaps recover the old thank for his able
minute book ? 1 also wish to " W . O . " and thoughtful communication , of great value , historically and archreologically , and 1 wish only a few more like him would give us similar valuable information , which will assist us all in the laborious task before us of seeking to obtain a true history of our great , and useful , and benevolent Fraternity . 1 hope at an early date to print in extenso in the Freemason the petition and charter of the Inverness Lodge , if it should be thought desirable . *• ' MASONIC STUDENT .
The Late Bro. Colonel Burnaby.
THE LATE BRO . COLONEL BURNABY .
It is proposed to raise funds to erect a memorial in St . Paul ' s Cathedral , and to build a new wing at the Soldiers ' Daughters' Home , to perpetuate the memory of our late gallant Bro . Colonel V . G . Burnaby , commanding Royal Horse Guards , recently killed in action in the Soudan . The name of Bro . Colonel Burnaby is so well-known and
honoured by all her Majesty ' s loyal and patriotic subjects that it is certain that thousands will be interested in perpetuating his memory . Bros . Baron H . de Worms , General Sir R . C . H . Taylor , K C B General Sir Andrew Clarke , and Lord Randolph Churchill have joined a Committee formed for the above . to the
Donations may be sent Honorary Secretary , " Burnaby London Memorial , " G , Catherine-street , ' Strand , W . C . . ... Bro . Colonel F . Burnaby , above his soldier servant ' s grave at Dover , put this epitaph : " He was a brave soldier , a faithful servant , and as true as steel . Like master , like man .
Among the most noticablc portraits in the Royal Academy this year is one of Bro . J . D . Allcroft , P . G . 'I reas ., by H . llerkomer , A . R . A .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
Craft iHasonrg . SAINT MARY ABBOTTS LODGE ( No . 1974 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on the 23 rd ult ., at the Town Hall , Kensington . Present : Bros . Alfred Williams , W . M . ; Reuben C . Green , S . W . ; D . S . Skinner , P . P . G . D . C . Dorset , J . W . ; Jas . Green , P . P . G . D . Middx ., Treas . ; George C Harding , P . G . D . C . Middx ., Sec ; Algernon C . Bauke , S . D . ; J . H . T . Green , J . D . ; Sydney Pitt , D . C . ; C . \ V . Stephens , I . G . ; W . Beavis , Stwd . ;
Thos . Friend , Tyler ; Capt . Charles F . Compton , I . P . M . ; Capt . A . Nicols , P . D . G . S . of VV ., Punjab ; Capt . H . S . Andrews , VV . C . Glen , P . G . S ., M . VV . Williams , F . A . Lloyd , A . A . Williamson , F . G . C . Damin , H . M . Hartcup , E . C . Engelbach , J . C . Lynch , L . H . Isaacs , and VV . Travers . Visitors : Bros . J . F . B . Firth , M . P ., P . M . 227 ; H . E . Dehane , I . P . M . 1543 , P . P . G . S . D . Essex ; P . A . Ames , 1159 ; F . E . Pocock , VV . M . 1 S 91 ; J . Bond , 101 ; Montague
Hawkins , VV . M . S 22 ; and Henry Hunt , P . M . 1357 . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last lodge meeting were read and confirmed . After the usual preliminaries Bro . J . C . Lynch was raised to the Third Degree . Letters of apology were read from Bro . the Right Hon . Sir Charles Dilke , ftl . P ., Bro . Sir Algernon Borthwick , and many others . The lodge was then closed in perfect harmony and the
brethren adjourned to Bailey ' s Hotel , Gloucester-road , South Kensington , where they dined together . The usual Royal and Masonic toasts having been duly honoured , the I . P . M . proposed in very felicitous terms " The Health ol the W . M . " The Worshipful Master , in reply , said that it gave him great pleasure to be W . M . of such a lodge as the Saint Mary Abbotts , and felt greatly honoured by the
brethren placing him in so high a position , and it should ever be his study to do his best to please them . The Worshipful Master then gave "The P . M . ' s . " Although not strong in numbers on account of the lodge being young , as time went on that would be changed . He was exceedingly glad to see both P . M . Bros . Capt . Compton and Capt . Nicols present , the former having come a very long way to fuliil his duty as I . P . M .
Bro . Compton , in reply , said , his name being mentioned first , he could not but feel great pleasure in replying to the toast when he thanked the brethren for the education they had given him since he came amongst them , amusingly assuring the brethren that he had become quite a " perfect Master " in the art of reply , at Poole , where he was frequently called upon to speak . Bro . Capt . Nicols said that Bro . Capt . Compton , his dear old friend , did great credit to the lodge . He called the
attention of all to the class of men coming in . The W . M . entirely exceeded his expectation ; he worked magnificently , and he said this after 2 G years' experience , and thanked Bro . VVilliams for his kind remarks , and hoped the brethren would follow his example , and by their work in the junior offices render themselves ready for the chair , and the lodge would certainly continue to prosper . The Worshipful Master then gave " The Visitors , " and said they were always glad to see them present , and coupled with this toast the names of Bros . Firth and
Pocock . Bro . Firth , in reply , said the VV . M . having coupled his name with the toast , hoped all the visitors would follow and thank the lodge for so courteous and kind a welcome . This was not the first time , he was glad to say , he had visited the lodge , and he hoped the VV . M . would not be a stranger at his own lodge . There was one question in which all Masons would agree—that in constantly visiting different
lodges men met in common fellowship , and thus life friendships were frequently made . He was perfectly sure the Saint Mary Abbott ' s Lodge would become a shining light at the West-end of London , both tor work and hospitality . Bro . Pocock also thanked the VV . M . for coupling his name with the toast , and said , although this was the first occasion on which he had been present , he hoped it would not be the last . The " Fourth Degree , " to use a hackneyed
phrase , was important , especially when so sumptuously served as this was ; but without the work in the lodge being properly carried out it would bring little or no credit to it . Bro . Dehane was called upon by the brethren to reply also . He stated how pleased he was to witness such work as he had seen that evening . He had a lengthened experience in Masonry , and might say he had visited lodges in almost all parts of the world , and he trusted that the
brethren coming on would add further lustre to that lodge by imitating the example of the W . M ., in so far as the ancient ritual was so periectly preserved . He also thanked the brethren for their magnificent hospitality . The S . D ., Bro . Bauke , by permission of the W . M ., proposed "The Health of the Founder of the Lodge , " which was heartily received . Bro . Nicols , he said , from the consecration had been most unremitting and indefatigable in
giving instruction to all , and fcr the way he had conducted the business of the lodge the brethren should ever feel deeply grateful to Capt . Nicols , as he did . Bro . Nicols gave , in reply , some excellent advice , and concluded his remarks by thanking them all heartily for their kind reception of the toast . "The Health of the Ollicers of the Lodge , " "The Senior and Junior Wardens , " " The Treasurer , " and "The Secretary " were proposed , duly honoured , and replied to ,
and the Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a very successful termination . During the evening the brethren were entertained with songs by Bros . A . A . Williamson , E . Engelbach , and others . On a former occasion , when visiting the lodge , a very handsome Charity box was presented by Bro . Capt . Andrews , one of the founders . During the evening it was passed round , and it is pleasing to be able to record the brethren freely responded to the ancient motto engraved on it"This doe ye Brethren all per CharyteV '
TAUNTON . —Unanimity and Sincerity Lodge ( No . 2 G 1 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge was held at the Masonic Hall , Crescent , on Wednesday , the 29 th ult . After the confirmation of the minutes , the lodge boards of
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the First and Second Degrees were very ably explained by Bro . Rev . F . W . Aveling , Chaplain . Bros . Portman Goodland , and Goodman were passed to the Second Degree , after which a handsome Past Master ' s jewel was presented to Bro . F . T . Elworthy , the I . P . M ., which had been voted by the lodge in recognition of his valuable services during his year of office . The presentation was
made by the W . M ., Bro . VV . Bidgood , who spoke in hi « h terms of the Masonic zeal of Bro . Elworthy , who acknowledged the gift in a feeling speech . There was a large gathering of brethren , and at the subsequent banquet Bro . Elworthy gave some interesting particulars of the Spanish lodges , he having just returned from a visit to that country . The Past Master ' s jewel presented to Bro . Elworthy ,
was designed by the present W . M . On golden scrolls is the inscription , " Presented by Lodge 2 G 1 , to Bro . Elworthy , VV . M ., 1 SS 4 , " in blue enamel ; the arms of the lodge are enamelled in colours , and the name of the lodge Unanimity and Sincerity is wrought in pierced raised letters on a gold ground . On the pendant jewel are enclosed three large diamonds set in stars , the gift of the officers of the lodge , the whole forming a most exquisite piece of work .
HAYLE . —Cornubian Lodge ( No . 450 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge , held on Thursday , the 30 th ult ., was of an unusually interesting character , arising from the presentation to the lodge by Bro . Wm . Husband , P . M ., of a well-executed portrait of the late Bro . John Coombe , and from the announcement by the librarian , Bro . Gilbert B . Pearce , P . M ., & c , that the collection of books known
as the " Coombe " Masonic Library ( another monument to the memory of the same respected brother ) is open for circulation . The chair was occupied by the VV . M ., Bro . R . Hawkins , who spoke in terms of warm praise of the labours bestowed on the library by the Library Committee ( of which Bro . Pearce is the " moving spirit" ) , and moved a vote of thanks for their special services , now concluded .
This was seconded by Bro . Wm . Husband , P . M ., who pointed out in a most convincing manner the advantages now enjoyed by the brethren of the Cornubian Lodge in having the opportunity to study the literature and history of Freemasonry—a privilege but few of our lodges possess to the same extent . Bro . Pearce ( the Honorary Librarian ) , in replying to this
vote of thanks , gave an interesting epitome of the collection , which embraces some 250 volumes , many of them being scarce and valuable editions , and furnishing excellent matter for study , and as a whole one of the best , if not the best , lodge library in the West of England . The special feature of the evening , however , was the presentation of the portrait already referred to . Bro . Husband ,
on making it , recounted the many excellences of character that had distinguished the life of Bro . Coombe , and especially his career as a Mason . On the motion of Bro . Pearce , P . M ., seconded by Bro . Osborn , P . M ., a hearty vote of thanks was tendered to the donor for his most acceptable gift . In connection with his report on the subject of the
Charities , Bro . Pearce stated that he had drawn up and forwarded to the Prov . Grand Master , the Right Hon . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , a draft of the scheme he is purposing to bring before the next Prov . Grand Lodge for establishing a " Masonic Charity Association , " similar to those in active operation in other provinces , and that he hoped it would receive the favourable consideration of the members of the
Provincial Grand Lodge , such a scheme being necessary and most urgently needed . Other business brought this most interesting meeting to a close , which , from the beginning to the end , had been engaged in recognising departed worth , and may well be known
( as it was aptly described by Bro . Husband ) as the "Coombe " evening . The Cornubian Lodge has been one of the foremost supporters of the Central Masonic Charities , and in the hands ot Bro . G . B . Pearce , the successor to the lamented Bro . John Coombe , its character for liberality and excellent organisation will be fully maintained .
LAUNCESTON . —Dunheved Lodge ( No . 7 89 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on Thursday , the 23 rd ult ., at the Masonic Hall . Present : Bros . Richard Reed , VV . M . ; Thomas White , S . W . ; Dr . VV . Andrew , P . M ., as J . W . ; C . J . Wenmoth , Sec ; Thos . Sherstone , S . D . ; B . Parsons , J . D . ; F . Downing , D . C ; John Nicolls , I . G .,- J . Fidler , Tyler ; C . G . Archer , P . M . ; Chas . Parsons , P . M . ;
Richard Sampson , I . P . M . ; E . S . T . Daunt , J . Holt , and W . Geake . Bro . John Ching , 7 Sg , was a visitor . The lodge having been opened in due form by Bro . Richard Reed , VV . M ., the minutes of the last regular meeting were read and declared to be correctly recorded . The VV . M . then proceeded to raise Bro . VV . Geake to the
Sublime Degree of a Master Mason , which he did in a most careful and finished manner . Two candidates for initiation were proposed . The business of the lodge having been concluded , the brethren adjourned to the dining room , where a capital dinner was provided by Bro . J . Fidler .
CAMBRIDGE . —Isaac Newton University Lodge ( No . 859 ) . —A regular meeting of this lodge was held at the Red Lion Hotel , on Tuesday , the 2 Sth ult ., Bro . Bushell Anningson , M . D ., W . M . The first business on the agenda was to ballotfor Bro . H . R . H . Prince Edward of Wales ( Roval Alpha Lodge , No . iG ) , as a joining
member , on the proposition of Bro . Rev . VV . Cunningham , Chaplain , seconded by Bro . Col . R . T . Caldwell , P . M . The election was unanimously agreed to , but His Royal Highness was unable to be present to pass the Second Degree , and the ceremony will probably take place at a lodge of emergency . Three initiations took place , and four were passed . A banquet followed .
DUNMOW . —Rosslyn Lodge ( No . 1543 ) . —A meeting was held on Wednesday , the 29 th ult ., at the Saracen's Head Hotel , when there were present Bros . A . Rattray , VV . M . ; J . P . Lewin , P . P . G . S . of Works , P . M-17 G , S . W . ; VV . Rowe , J . W . ; W . de Vins Wade , Sec . ; H . Dehane , acting S . D . ; E . F . Ferris , I . D . ; G .
Clapham , acting D . C . ; J . L . Frankin , I . G . ; F . W . Warner , Tyler ; II . E . Dehane , I . P . M ., P . P . G . S . D . ; G . D . Clapham , P . M ., P . P . G . R . ; C . Bint , R . Brazier , and R . ' Scarr . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes were read and conlirmed . After the usual preliminaries , Bros .
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Masonic Notes And Queries.
Nicolson , Junior Wardens , and Andrew Ross , Treasurer , and continued until 25 th December 170 ' , "'hen James Dick was chosen Master , A . Ross , Senior , and William Cumming , Junior Wardens , Alexr . lulloch Treasurer , and continued until 2 Sth December 1702 , when the ; said J . Dick was continued Master , R . Nicolson and A . lulloch . Wardens , and ] ohn Thomson , 1 reasurer , and continued fill GH , August . 1716 , when Andrew Scott was chosen
Master I Dick , Senior , and J . Dick Junior Wardens , and the said ( J . Thomson presumably ) , treasurer . These continued until 27 th December , 171 S when the the said Andrew Scott was continued Master , Robt . Ross , Senior and Thos . Tulloch , Junior Wardens , and ye said Thomas Tulloch Treasurer , until December 27 th , 1719 , when Donald McLise was chosen Master , Donald and Thomas Tulloch , the Wardens , the Boxmaster continued ,
and the rest until December 27 th , 1712 , when J . Nicolson was chosen Master , Donald McLise , Senior , and J . McBean , Junior Wardens , and Alexr . Eraser , Boxmaster . These remained until 1724 . when J . McBean was chosen Master , and Donald McLise , Senior , and J . Jackson , lunior Wardens , and ye said J . Jackson . I reasurer . And thus it remained until 1733 , when Bailhe VV . M . Mcintosh was chosen Master ; John Dunbar , Senior , and A . I-raser , when
lunior Wardens . A change was again made in 1735 , ' I . McBean was chosen Master ; J . Dunbar , Senior , and A . ' Eraser , Junior Wardens ; and the said Boxmaster continued until 17 th December , 173 6 , when G . Cuthbert , of Castle Hill , was chosen Master ; J . Dunbar , Senior , and A . Eraser , Junior Wardens , the said Alexr . ( Fraser ?) Treasurer . On the back of the petition is the following endorsation , as signed by the
Master and Wardens : " In a full meeting of this Lodge Inverness , 26 th September , 1737 , we , the Master and Wardens hereto subscribing , do attest the above to be a genuine duplicate of the minutes of this lodge , as thesame stands . " This petition is accepted , and a charter granted 30 th November , 173 s , as countersigned by R . Ahsone , G . Clerk , and the names of the brethren present in Grand Lodge are ivenand from the terms of the charter it
g , seems that the representatives of the lodge had attended the Grand Lodge meetings since the previous October . We may assume primarily that , at any rate , the names of G . Cuthbert , J . Dunbar , D . McLise , and A . Fraser are correct . But then comes the serious question—What about the previous minutes ? Ave they correct ? On the new " apocryphal theory , " nothing can stand . It has been amusinsr to note , how within the last three years
anything which does not square with certain pet theories of the hour has received the "happy dispatch , under the ominous epithet " apocryphal . " 1 may remark this is a protrusion of the real meaning of apocryphal , — which simply originally meant obscure , dubious , not absolutely false . What then is the difference of the historical value , —as between any of the minutes after 1700 and the minutes of 1736 ? Is there any valid distinction
as to historical value or reality ? I cannot see it . As it appears to me , only looking at the matter as a question of historical evidence , they must all stand or fall together . It may be alleged that we have an attestation from Grand Lodge in 1739 as to the reality inferentially of the 173 G minute . in respect of the attendance of lodge representations , say in the previous October ; but as G . L . then only relied on the veracity of the petitioners , if all their previous entries
are unreliable or manufactured " ad hoc , " I do not see why one entry is more to be relied on than another . Of those who were present in Grand Lodge in 1737 some one must have known something of the Inverness brethren , and whether their allegations were well or ill-founded , and I certainly know of no similar precedent so late as 1737 , where deliberate statements made within a generation—H . M . on " their own information to boot , " —
, , are absolutely false in themselves , and yet openly accepted by a public body like the G . L . of Scotland as historically true . And the same argument applies as to the minutes between 16 7 S and 1 S 00 . They are either true or false , and certainly if false are set out with a minuteness , and an apparent historical verity unusual in such documents . I cannot see on what grounds of criticism or evidence these minutes can be rejected , and , like " W . O ., "
1 believe them " minuted" in " bona fides , " and reasonable and reliable . Two suggestions occur . Why should not the Grand Lodge of Scotland appoint a small commission to search the Grand Lodge MSS ., and print for historical information some of the most interesting documents . ' The second is , Can no Inverness brother take the fraternal trouble of endeavouring to verify the names recorded of members of St . John's , Old Inverness , Kilwinning , between 16 7 8 and 173 G , and by this search perhaps recover the old thank for his able
minute book ? 1 also wish to " W . O . " and thoughtful communication , of great value , historically and archreologically , and 1 wish only a few more like him would give us similar valuable information , which will assist us all in the laborious task before us of seeking to obtain a true history of our great , and useful , and benevolent Fraternity . 1 hope at an early date to print in extenso in the Freemason the petition and charter of the Inverness Lodge , if it should be thought desirable . *• ' MASONIC STUDENT .
The Late Bro. Colonel Burnaby.
THE LATE BRO . COLONEL BURNABY .
It is proposed to raise funds to erect a memorial in St . Paul ' s Cathedral , and to build a new wing at the Soldiers ' Daughters' Home , to perpetuate the memory of our late gallant Bro . Colonel V . G . Burnaby , commanding Royal Horse Guards , recently killed in action in the Soudan . The name of Bro . Colonel Burnaby is so well-known and
honoured by all her Majesty ' s loyal and patriotic subjects that it is certain that thousands will be interested in perpetuating his memory . Bros . Baron H . de Worms , General Sir R . C . H . Taylor , K C B General Sir Andrew Clarke , and Lord Randolph Churchill have joined a Committee formed for the above . to the
Donations may be sent Honorary Secretary , " Burnaby London Memorial , " G , Catherine-street , ' Strand , W . C . . ... Bro . Colonel F . Burnaby , above his soldier servant ' s grave at Dover , put this epitaph : " He was a brave soldier , a faithful servant , and as true as steel . Like master , like man .
Among the most noticablc portraits in the Royal Academy this year is one of Bro . J . D . Allcroft , P . G . 'I reas ., by H . llerkomer , A . R . A .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
Craft iHasonrg . SAINT MARY ABBOTTS LODGE ( No . 1974 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on the 23 rd ult ., at the Town Hall , Kensington . Present : Bros . Alfred Williams , W . M . ; Reuben C . Green , S . W . ; D . S . Skinner , P . P . G . D . C . Dorset , J . W . ; Jas . Green , P . P . G . D . Middx ., Treas . ; George C Harding , P . G . D . C . Middx ., Sec ; Algernon C . Bauke , S . D . ; J . H . T . Green , J . D . ; Sydney Pitt , D . C . ; C . \ V . Stephens , I . G . ; W . Beavis , Stwd . ;
Thos . Friend , Tyler ; Capt . Charles F . Compton , I . P . M . ; Capt . A . Nicols , P . D . G . S . of VV ., Punjab ; Capt . H . S . Andrews , VV . C . Glen , P . G . S ., M . VV . Williams , F . A . Lloyd , A . A . Williamson , F . G . C . Damin , H . M . Hartcup , E . C . Engelbach , J . C . Lynch , L . H . Isaacs , and VV . Travers . Visitors : Bros . J . F . B . Firth , M . P ., P . M . 227 ; H . E . Dehane , I . P . M . 1543 , P . P . G . S . D . Essex ; P . A . Ames , 1159 ; F . E . Pocock , VV . M . 1 S 91 ; J . Bond , 101 ; Montague
Hawkins , VV . M . S 22 ; and Henry Hunt , P . M . 1357 . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last lodge meeting were read and confirmed . After the usual preliminaries Bro . J . C . Lynch was raised to the Third Degree . Letters of apology were read from Bro . the Right Hon . Sir Charles Dilke , ftl . P ., Bro . Sir Algernon Borthwick , and many others . The lodge was then closed in perfect harmony and the
brethren adjourned to Bailey ' s Hotel , Gloucester-road , South Kensington , where they dined together . The usual Royal and Masonic toasts having been duly honoured , the I . P . M . proposed in very felicitous terms " The Health ol the W . M . " The Worshipful Master , in reply , said that it gave him great pleasure to be W . M . of such a lodge as the Saint Mary Abbotts , and felt greatly honoured by the
brethren placing him in so high a position , and it should ever be his study to do his best to please them . The Worshipful Master then gave "The P . M . ' s . " Although not strong in numbers on account of the lodge being young , as time went on that would be changed . He was exceedingly glad to see both P . M . Bros . Capt . Compton and Capt . Nicols present , the former having come a very long way to fuliil his duty as I . P . M .
Bro . Compton , in reply , said , his name being mentioned first , he could not but feel great pleasure in replying to the toast when he thanked the brethren for the education they had given him since he came amongst them , amusingly assuring the brethren that he had become quite a " perfect Master " in the art of reply , at Poole , where he was frequently called upon to speak . Bro . Capt . Nicols said that Bro . Capt . Compton , his dear old friend , did great credit to the lodge . He called the
attention of all to the class of men coming in . The W . M . entirely exceeded his expectation ; he worked magnificently , and he said this after 2 G years' experience , and thanked Bro . VVilliams for his kind remarks , and hoped the brethren would follow his example , and by their work in the junior offices render themselves ready for the chair , and the lodge would certainly continue to prosper . The Worshipful Master then gave " The Visitors , " and said they were always glad to see them present , and coupled with this toast the names of Bros . Firth and
Pocock . Bro . Firth , in reply , said the VV . M . having coupled his name with the toast , hoped all the visitors would follow and thank the lodge for so courteous and kind a welcome . This was not the first time , he was glad to say , he had visited the lodge , and he hoped the VV . M . would not be a stranger at his own lodge . There was one question in which all Masons would agree—that in constantly visiting different
lodges men met in common fellowship , and thus life friendships were frequently made . He was perfectly sure the Saint Mary Abbott ' s Lodge would become a shining light at the West-end of London , both tor work and hospitality . Bro . Pocock also thanked the VV . M . for coupling his name with the toast , and said , although this was the first occasion on which he had been present , he hoped it would not be the last . The " Fourth Degree , " to use a hackneyed
phrase , was important , especially when so sumptuously served as this was ; but without the work in the lodge being properly carried out it would bring little or no credit to it . Bro . Dehane was called upon by the brethren to reply also . He stated how pleased he was to witness such work as he had seen that evening . He had a lengthened experience in Masonry , and might say he had visited lodges in almost all parts of the world , and he trusted that the
brethren coming on would add further lustre to that lodge by imitating the example of the W . M ., in so far as the ancient ritual was so periectly preserved . He also thanked the brethren for their magnificent hospitality . The S . D ., Bro . Bauke , by permission of the W . M ., proposed "The Health of the Founder of the Lodge , " which was heartily received . Bro . Nicols , he said , from the consecration had been most unremitting and indefatigable in
giving instruction to all , and fcr the way he had conducted the business of the lodge the brethren should ever feel deeply grateful to Capt . Nicols , as he did . Bro . Nicols gave , in reply , some excellent advice , and concluded his remarks by thanking them all heartily for their kind reception of the toast . "The Health of the Ollicers of the Lodge , " "The Senior and Junior Wardens , " " The Treasurer , " and "The Secretary " were proposed , duly honoured , and replied to ,
and the Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a very successful termination . During the evening the brethren were entertained with songs by Bros . A . A . Williamson , E . Engelbach , and others . On a former occasion , when visiting the lodge , a very handsome Charity box was presented by Bro . Capt . Andrews , one of the founders . During the evening it was passed round , and it is pleasing to be able to record the brethren freely responded to the ancient motto engraved on it"This doe ye Brethren all per CharyteV '
TAUNTON . —Unanimity and Sincerity Lodge ( No . 2 G 1 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge was held at the Masonic Hall , Crescent , on Wednesday , the 29 th ult . After the confirmation of the minutes , the lodge boards of
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the First and Second Degrees were very ably explained by Bro . Rev . F . W . Aveling , Chaplain . Bros . Portman Goodland , and Goodman were passed to the Second Degree , after which a handsome Past Master ' s jewel was presented to Bro . F . T . Elworthy , the I . P . M ., which had been voted by the lodge in recognition of his valuable services during his year of office . The presentation was
made by the W . M ., Bro . VV . Bidgood , who spoke in hi « h terms of the Masonic zeal of Bro . Elworthy , who acknowledged the gift in a feeling speech . There was a large gathering of brethren , and at the subsequent banquet Bro . Elworthy gave some interesting particulars of the Spanish lodges , he having just returned from a visit to that country . The Past Master ' s jewel presented to Bro . Elworthy ,
was designed by the present W . M . On golden scrolls is the inscription , " Presented by Lodge 2 G 1 , to Bro . Elworthy , VV . M ., 1 SS 4 , " in blue enamel ; the arms of the lodge are enamelled in colours , and the name of the lodge Unanimity and Sincerity is wrought in pierced raised letters on a gold ground . On the pendant jewel are enclosed three large diamonds set in stars , the gift of the officers of the lodge , the whole forming a most exquisite piece of work .
HAYLE . —Cornubian Lodge ( No . 450 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge , held on Thursday , the 30 th ult ., was of an unusually interesting character , arising from the presentation to the lodge by Bro . Wm . Husband , P . M ., of a well-executed portrait of the late Bro . John Coombe , and from the announcement by the librarian , Bro . Gilbert B . Pearce , P . M ., & c , that the collection of books known
as the " Coombe " Masonic Library ( another monument to the memory of the same respected brother ) is open for circulation . The chair was occupied by the VV . M ., Bro . R . Hawkins , who spoke in terms of warm praise of the labours bestowed on the library by the Library Committee ( of which Bro . Pearce is the " moving spirit" ) , and moved a vote of thanks for their special services , now concluded .
This was seconded by Bro . Wm . Husband , P . M ., who pointed out in a most convincing manner the advantages now enjoyed by the brethren of the Cornubian Lodge in having the opportunity to study the literature and history of Freemasonry—a privilege but few of our lodges possess to the same extent . Bro . Pearce ( the Honorary Librarian ) , in replying to this
vote of thanks , gave an interesting epitome of the collection , which embraces some 250 volumes , many of them being scarce and valuable editions , and furnishing excellent matter for study , and as a whole one of the best , if not the best , lodge library in the West of England . The special feature of the evening , however , was the presentation of the portrait already referred to . Bro . Husband ,
on making it , recounted the many excellences of character that had distinguished the life of Bro . Coombe , and especially his career as a Mason . On the motion of Bro . Pearce , P . M ., seconded by Bro . Osborn , P . M ., a hearty vote of thanks was tendered to the donor for his most acceptable gift . In connection with his report on the subject of the
Charities , Bro . Pearce stated that he had drawn up and forwarded to the Prov . Grand Master , the Right Hon . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , a draft of the scheme he is purposing to bring before the next Prov . Grand Lodge for establishing a " Masonic Charity Association , " similar to those in active operation in other provinces , and that he hoped it would receive the favourable consideration of the members of the
Provincial Grand Lodge , such a scheme being necessary and most urgently needed . Other business brought this most interesting meeting to a close , which , from the beginning to the end , had been engaged in recognising departed worth , and may well be known
( as it was aptly described by Bro . Husband ) as the "Coombe " evening . The Cornubian Lodge has been one of the foremost supporters of the Central Masonic Charities , and in the hands ot Bro . G . B . Pearce , the successor to the lamented Bro . John Coombe , its character for liberality and excellent organisation will be fully maintained .
LAUNCESTON . —Dunheved Lodge ( No . 7 89 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on Thursday , the 23 rd ult ., at the Masonic Hall . Present : Bros . Richard Reed , VV . M . ; Thomas White , S . W . ; Dr . VV . Andrew , P . M ., as J . W . ; C . J . Wenmoth , Sec ; Thos . Sherstone , S . D . ; B . Parsons , J . D . ; F . Downing , D . C ; John Nicolls , I . G .,- J . Fidler , Tyler ; C . G . Archer , P . M . ; Chas . Parsons , P . M . ;
Richard Sampson , I . P . M . ; E . S . T . Daunt , J . Holt , and W . Geake . Bro . John Ching , 7 Sg , was a visitor . The lodge having been opened in due form by Bro . Richard Reed , VV . M ., the minutes of the last regular meeting were read and declared to be correctly recorded . The VV . M . then proceeded to raise Bro . VV . Geake to the
Sublime Degree of a Master Mason , which he did in a most careful and finished manner . Two candidates for initiation were proposed . The business of the lodge having been concluded , the brethren adjourned to the dining room , where a capital dinner was provided by Bro . J . Fidler .
CAMBRIDGE . —Isaac Newton University Lodge ( No . 859 ) . —A regular meeting of this lodge was held at the Red Lion Hotel , on Tuesday , the 2 Sth ult ., Bro . Bushell Anningson , M . D ., W . M . The first business on the agenda was to ballotfor Bro . H . R . H . Prince Edward of Wales ( Roval Alpha Lodge , No . iG ) , as a joining
member , on the proposition of Bro . Rev . VV . Cunningham , Chaplain , seconded by Bro . Col . R . T . Caldwell , P . M . The election was unanimously agreed to , but His Royal Highness was unable to be present to pass the Second Degree , and the ceremony will probably take place at a lodge of emergency . Three initiations took place , and four were passed . A banquet followed .
DUNMOW . —Rosslyn Lodge ( No . 1543 ) . —A meeting was held on Wednesday , the 29 th ult ., at the Saracen's Head Hotel , when there were present Bros . A . Rattray , VV . M . ; J . P . Lewin , P . P . G . S . of Works , P . M-17 G , S . W . ; VV . Rowe , J . W . ; W . de Vins Wade , Sec . ; H . Dehane , acting S . D . ; E . F . Ferris , I . D . ; G .
Clapham , acting D . C . ; J . L . Frankin , I . G . ; F . W . Warner , Tyler ; II . E . Dehane , I . P . M ., P . P . G . S . D . ; G . D . Clapham , P . M ., P . P . G . R . ; C . Bint , R . Brazier , and R . ' Scarr . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes were read and conlirmed . After the usual preliminaries , Bros .