-
Articles/Ads
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
received from his lordship by his consenting and intending to be present at the consecration to-day . But from un . avoidable circumstances he has been unable to attend , anc our Bro . Philbrick will more fully I have no doubt explair the reasons that have prevented his lordship being presenl with us this evening as he intended to be and , even up tc the last moment , hoped to be . Wc know that his lordship , since his installation by the late lamented Duke ol
Albany , has endeared himself to the Craft and to the bre thrcn of this province , and we feel that his lordship , ir undertaking as he has done the presidency of the Girls ' School Festival next month , hasevincedadesire to promote the good of the Craft . As to Bro . Philbrick-, you have all seen the way in which the Dep . Prov . Grand Master has performed the ceremonies of consecration and installation We feel very happy that we have such a Deputy . It is
most essential , because the urgency of business might prevent anyone attending to such duties . We feel most deeply indebted to him for the way in which he has done the work . As regards our coming into the province , I would say that we are especially indebted to the recommending lodge—that is the Chigwell Lodge—and I would point out the brotherly kindness we have received from that lodge . We are specially indebted
to the I . P . M ., Bro . Child , and Bro . G . Corbie , the Secretary of the lodge , for the way in which these brethren have held out the hand of friendship to us . We feel especially indebted to Bro . Corbie for his great kindness to us on this occasion . I would now refer to our Bro . Philbrick . His services to-day will be treasured in the memory of all of us , and the efficient way , the able way , in
which those ceremonies were worked , the impressive way in which the discourses were delivered , have made an impression on our minds that time will not efface . As to his other qualities , I am sure you must know them well , because his name is a household word in Freemasonry , and his attainments in the profession he adorns command our most sincere respect . If I might be allowed a quotation , I would say that of our Prov . Grand
Master" Our hearts Of brother ' s temper do receive you in , With all kind love , good thoughts and reverence . " Of Bro . Philbrick 1 might say" 'Tis much he dares ; And to that dauntless temper of his mind ,
He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valour To act in safety . " I ask you to drink to the health of Lord Brooke , and his Deputy , Bro . Philbrick . Bro . PHILBRICK : Worshipful Master , VVardens , _ and Brethren : I feel more than I ever felt in rising in an Essex lodge in an embarrassed position , primarily owing to the unexpected nature of the position I find myself in , and also owing to the great kindness which you have expressed ,
Worshipful Master , but which I feel that I have received from the brethren of the Brooke Lodge and the visitors . Until a comparatively short time since—some time after noon had struck to-day—1 was under the happy idea that the programme which you had intended should be carried out , and had announced , would be able to be carried out in the presence of our respected and beloved Provincial Grand Master , and I know it is a severe disappointment to him not
to be present among us to-night . At I think about a quarter to one , or some such time to-day , while I was before the Railway Commissioners , in the House of Lords , a note was put into my hands by his lordship's private secretary , stating that he was placed in an awkward predicament by the Government having announced a morning sitting to discuss the Cattle Bill , and as his constituents were much annoyed at his absence from the discussion on a former
occasion , he would be obliged to be in his place . The note also enclosed a four-line party whip , which necessitated his presence in the House that evening . He would do his utmost to be with the lodge , but would wire from the House to say how matters were going , and he thought they were sure to divide UcCotc the dinner hour . That was in substance very much what I said in the lodge room , and I had to rely on the kindness of the brethren when I presumed
to do that ceremony which unexpectedly I had to do . Since coming to table I have had a telegram dated from the House of Commons at G . 15 , "Cattle Bill still under discussion and division going on , still hope to be able to be with you . " Wc see at once that the force of circumstances has been too strong and have prevented his coming . In the . first place I regret it , because wc do not see the face of one wc esteem . I regret it very much upon
account of myself , because one never does more than one can help . I am sure of this , wc all should have been delighted to welcome his lordshi p among us j we all expected and wc all miss the geniality and the kind welcome with which he always greets his Essex brethren . I think we all know how sincerely he is vexed at having to disappoint us , and 1 hope we are magnanimous enough to make the proper excuses for his absence , because the loss is our
own ; and we shall best evince our sincere loyalty towards him by considering that it is a matter in which he is as deepl y interested as ourselves ; and I know that nothing would have given him greater pleasure than to have consecrated the lodge bearing his name and using his arms . Perhaps 1 may be pardoned for saying one word more of Lord Brooke , and 1 can assure you that since he has been in the position of Prov . Grand Master , not alone have we
had the happiness in Essex of seeing three lodges added to the roll , but lodges which are sources of strength as we believe to the Order . Last but not least the child brought to li g ht to-day has within it elements of strength and vitality , and appears to carry out the principles on which Masonry is founded , and for which this lodge received the warrant of the Grand Master . The increase to the roll of lodges is comparatively a small thing ; we can get numbers
at the cost of strength , but strength does not always mean cfliciency . In this case I am glad to believe it docs , Irom a conversation I had with our Prov . Grand Master , and if he were here he would express the same idea—we have here in this lodge , as we have had in the recently erected lodges of the province , great hopes of success for Ihe future . There are some brethren who hear me who can remember the time when the position which Freemasonry took was far different
from that which it holds at present . Your Worshipful Master has feelingly referred to the growth of Freemasonry by the Grand Master taking the throne of the Order at the time when our then Grand Master , from motives which we all understand , but cannot . sympathise with , retired from the position . It was an answer to that bigotry which excluded him from the throne of our Order when the heir to the greatest throne in the
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
world thought it well to take the throne thus vacated , and it was noble for our brethren to rally round and support the Prince of Wales when he became Grand Master of Freemasons . When any one applies to me and says , What is the use of Freemasonry ? Are your secrets real secrets ? You meet for that purpose , and play at some pretended mystery or for some good fellowship which others can equally enjoy who do not profess
the mystic tie , I think we can point to many whose lives and persons are honoured ; but we can point to the Heir Apparent to the throne as being the chiet and exponent of the principles we profess , and therefore I think it is a proud position in this province for its Provincial Grand Master , and still a happier one for us subordinate officers , to assist in the consecration of a lodge like this , and in the putting into full Masonic career those
whom the Grand Master has entrusted with the working of the lodge . We have heard the long list of those seeking to be initiated and to join the lodge , and in the list there is a record of names of which any lodge might be proud ; and we know that on the principles in which this lodge is started the position of Masonry will be respected , and those who are recruits will be men whom you are happy to initiate in the principles of the Order , and without which no Mason
ought to let a brother come into his lodge . If wc had been a little more particular in this respect it would have been better for us , and I hope that I am not exclusive when I say that I will not admit any man to the lodge whom 1 cannot grasp by the hand , and 1 should be sorry to see a member of my lodge whom I should not like to see in my private house . And now I have said enough on this matter , because I know it is a topic on which the VV . M . feels as
keenly as I do , and as do those who with him have the distinguished honour of being founders of this lodge , and I see that the Brooke Lodge will be second to none in the province in carrying out faithfully and zealously the great principles of brotherly love , relief , and truth on which the Order depends . Let me assure you that in what I have done it was a labour of love to do anything I could to assist in the formation of the lodge .
I have had the pleasure of knowing your W . M . for some time . I was glad , when I saw the petition acceded to by the Grand Master , to know who had been named as the first Master ; and I feel sure that as a character takes its keynote from its first start in life , so the reputation of the Brooke Lodge in its character has taken its keynote from the character of its Master , and that its concerns will be so started and so guided into the rood path of Masonrv
that those who have to administer its affairs will find that its founders have started it on a good career , and will make the lodge a permanent success . Let me thank you very much lor the expressions of kindness you have made for the services I have had the privilege to render . We do not christen a baby every day ; but when we do we like to sec an offspring that bids fair to achieve its full proportions and starts in life with a vigorous crow , and under such
guidance as its miniature years will require and which will ensure its being properly brought up in the paths of nature and science . Nay , 1 will not limit you to the Second Degree—I will say bcin ;> brought up to the full stature of a man , Masonically speaking . Tor the Grand Officers I can only say as their representative , we bid you in God ' s name a hearty welcome ; we entreat you to stand firm to the great principles of our Order ; wc entreat you to remember
the grand ritual of to-day . It is a matter which can be carried to a serious end , and permit me to say an end well worthy the ambition of the proudest man among us ; it is a matter which is a legitimate cause of pride to its founders if that lodge be true to the principles of the Order . That this lodge may be so is our earnest prayer , and that the success you desire to achieve is our sincere desire . I thank you most heartily .
Bro . PHILURICK proposed the next toast , "The VV . M . " the work the VV . M . Iiaa done that evening would satisfy them that he would carry out his work with satisfaction to himself and to the lodge . Nothing could be more genial and pleasant than the way in which he had presided on this occasion , and he asked them to drink his health and wish him a p leasant Masonic career . He had one word to say on another topic . Their good Prov . Grand Master was
§ oing up to take the chair at the Festival of the Girls ' chool , and he ( Bro . Philbrick ) trusted that as a province they would support him , to testify their respect for the head of the province and also to promote the great cause of charity . Bro . HERDAGE said he felt at a loss for words with which to express what he felt . The hearty way in which his health had been proposed called for a corresponding effort to maintain the dignity of the lodge and in everything to
maintain the dignity of the Craft . Ihcy would all endeavour to make that , the Brooke Lodge , a strength to the province of Essex and to the Craft in general . The members had already thought that it would be a right thing to do to send one of their members to represent the lodge at the Girls' Festival . He knew that much was notcxpectcd from a young lodge , and he himself would have much pleasure
in representing the lodge on that occasion . He thanked them all for their kind wishes ; he felt that he was in accord with the brethren , and looking round upon the present members of the lodge and that illustrious assembly he would say he thanked them sincerely ; and conclude by quoting from Henry V . — " We carry not a heart with us from hence
1 hat grows not but in fair consent with ours , Nor leave not one behind that doth not wish Success and conquest to attend upon us . " The WORSHIPFUL MASTER next proposed "The Health of the Visitors , " coupling with it the names of Bros . Glass and Martin , quoting the lines" These unknown friends to ' s welcome ; for it is The way to make us better friends , more known . "
1 his toast having been replied to by Bro . GLASS in a really humourous speech , and by Bro . MARTIN , The Wo \ tsiuin : UL MASTER proposed "The Health ol the Officers , " with the lines"Their years but young , but their experience great , Their heads unmellowed , but their judgment ripe ; And in a word ( for far behind their worth Comes all the praise 1 now bestow )
They are complete in feature as in mind With all good grace to grace a gentleman . " This was replied to by the S . W . and J . W ., and the Tyler s toast terminated the proceedings . The following were among the visitors present : Bros . F . Dowell Grayson , W . M . 160 ; G . Dodd , W . M . 1 GS 6 ; W . D . Merritt , I . P . M . 1000 , Prov . G . A . D . C ; Jno . Glass , W . M . 453 ; Geo . Corbie , P . M . 453 , P . P . G . J . W . ; Jno .
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
Belcham , P . P . G . Purst . ; Fred Crockford , P . M . S 15 ; J . J . Kern , P . M . 1139 ! J- W . Langton , 1130 ; J . R . Wakefield , 1 G 01 ; A . J . Desire , 453 ; H . T . Gibley , 453 ; A . Buck , P . P . G . S . W . ; J . G . Cavile , Prov . G . J . D . ; Jno . Corbie , J . W . 453 ; Jas . Godwin , P . P . G . A . D . C ; J . A . Brown , 1672 ; E . J . Bell , 1319 ; A . L . Fryer , 1624 ; C G . Critchey , 1 GS 5 ; C Reichelmann , P . M . 515 ; T . J .
C Cramphorn , VV . M . 1024 ; J . Van Essen , D . C 171 ; Horace Roberts , D . D ., Prov . G . Chap . ; C . Osmond , W . M . 51 ; H . Hobson Finch , 134 ; VV . Williams , 90 ; C . J . G . Eveniss , S . D . 1540 ; J . Laidlaw Cross , P . M . 90 ; Smith , I . P . M . 1 S 39 J R- Clowes , W . Sowman , Chas . H . Roberts , Andrew Durrant , Thos . I . Dulling , P . M . 51 ; A . Lucking , J . W . Hair , P . P . G . Reg . ; and E . C . Massey . The lodge was furnished by Bro . George Kenning .
Consecration Of The St. George's Lodge, No. 2025, Plymouth.
CONSECRATION OF THE ST . GEORGE'S LODGE , No . 2025 , PLYMOUTH .
This lodge , the intention of whose founders is that it shall be conducted on strictl y temperance princi p les , —a movement we understand which has met with considerable favour in the " Three Towns , " and indeed in the province generally , —was duly consecrated with considerable eclat by the R . W .
the Grand Master of the province , Bro . Lord Ebrington , M . P ., on the 23 rd ult ., in the presence of a very large gathering of representatives of our ancient Order , at the St . George ' s Hall , Stonehouse , which building had been engaged under the impression that the company would be such as to be far beyond the capabilities of accommodation of any of the existing lodges in Plymouth , and the result
full y justified this precaution . All the arrangements preliminary to the day of meeting were admirably carried out by the VV . M . designate , Bro . G . R . Barrett ; the Secretary , Bro . J . GifTord , and others who have interested themselves in the work . The lodge-room and its approaches were decorated with great taste , R . W . Bro . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , Prov . G . M . Cornwall ; VV . Bro . L . P . Metham ,
I . U . Prov . Li . AL , and other brethren having p laced their conservatories at the disposal of the committee in order that there might be no lack of judicious decoration and ornamentation . The new lodge had the advantage of being started into existence with an unusually large number of members , and these were considerably added to during the day's proceedings . ujr nii \ { j / uiiiu iui 1111 luiiiiiiviiiciiiciil ui Liiu
..... , , a , : u ; ceremony , the large hall was well filled by brethren from all parts of the province and several visitors . The Prov . Grand Master presided , his lordship being supported by R . W . Bro . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , Prov . G . M . Cornwall , who acted as D . P . G . M . ; VV . Bros , the Rev . VV . Whittlcy , P . M . 15 G , P . P . G . Chap , and Prov . G . S . W . ; G . VV . Davie , P . M . 251 , P . G . J . W . ; the Rev . T . VV . Lemon ,
P . M . 189 , P . P . G . Chap ., who acted as Prov . G . Chap . pro tern . ; and John Brewer , P . M . 251 , Prov . G . Sec . Our space is too limited to name all the brethren who signed the attendance book , but amongst those present we noticed the following Present and Past Prov . Grand Officers : Bros . J . E . Curtcis , P . M . 1 S 0 , P . P . G . S . W . ; H . Luff , P . M . 37 G , P . P . G . S . of VV . Suffolk ; E . T . Fulford , P . M . 1254 , Prov .
U . T . ; T . a . Bayly , P . M . 189 , P . P . G . T . ; Leonard D . Westcott , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; C II . Cooper , P . M . 105 , Prov . G . J . D . ; J . VV . Cornish , P . P . G . T . ; A . Brickwood Hutchings , Mayor of Devonport , P . M . S 93 , P . G . D . C ; E . J . Knight , P . M . 202 , P . P . G . Purst . ; J . D . Barker , VV . M . 70 , P . P . G . Org . ; VV . H . Gilman , P . M . 1099 , P . P . G . D . C ; II . F . Willey , 1284 , P . G . S . D . ; R . H . Rae , P . M . 1 S 9 ,
P . P . G . S . D . ; S . Jew , P . M . 105 , P . P . G . T .-, II . Cole , P . M . 1001 , P . P . G . S . D . ; D . Box , P . M . 156 , P . G . R . ; J . Du Pre , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . D . C , E . Aitken-Davics . P . M . 1099 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; H . F . Smith , P . M . 954 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; G . Merrifield , P . P . G . S . oI VV . ; J . Hclc , Mus . Bac ., P . P . G . O . Cornwall ; J . VV . Murray , P . M . 1402 , P . P . G . D . C ; G . Whittley , I . P . M . 15 G , Sec . 1 S 55 , P . P . G . O . ; VV . B . Maye ,
P . M . 710 , P . G . D . C ; J osiah Austin , P . M . 1090 , P . P . G . O . ; j . P . Hcath . P . M . 39 , D . P . G . D . C ; J . S . Swann , P . M . S 47 , P . G . S . B . ; E . G . Dyke , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . O . Cornwall ; 1 . Lynn , P . M . 230 , P . P . G . S . B . ; F . Hooper , P . M . 1212 , P . P . G . D . C ; J . R . Lord , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . S . B . ; J . Rcndle , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . S . B . ; J . M . Hiflcy , P . M . 223 , P . P . G . A . D . C ; J . B . Gover , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . A . D . C ;
J . H . Westlakc , P . M . 666 , P . P . G . Purst ; R . Cawscy , P . M . 230 , Prov . G . S . ; T . Parkhouse , P . M . 1125 , Prov . G . A . D . C . ; G . Huxham , P . M . 1254 , Prov . G . Stwd . ; P . L . Blanchard , 444 , Prov . G . Tyler ; and others . Bro . P . Howard Davis , j . W . Wolseley Lodge , 1993 , Manchester , which was established last year on temperance principles , was present among the visitors . The PROV . GRAND MASTER said he was sure it would
be their wish and their pleasure to give precedence to the motion of which he had given notice , although it did not appear in the original agenda paper . That motion was to the effect that the Provincial Grand Lodge should pass votes of condolence with her Majesty the Queen and the Duchess of Albany on the death of H 7 R . H . the late Prince Leopold , Grand Master of Oxfordshire . A fraternity
which prided itself as much on its loyalty as on its antiquity was not likely to be behind the rest of the people of England in expressing that feeling for the Royal Family , whether in weal or woe , which had been so gratefully acknowledged b y the Queen in her recent beautiful letter , in which her Majesty mentioned how much the sympathy of her people had comforted the Duchess of Albany and
herself in their terrible bereavement . The Earl of MOUNT EDGCUMBE , Prov . G . M . Cornwall , seconded the motion , which was carried unanimously , and the Prov . Grand Master was requested to draw up the address of condolence . The warrant authorising the constitution of the lodge having been read , and the usual preliminaries observed
, Bro . Croydon , P . M ., delivered an oration to the brethren on the subject of Freemasonry , in which he dwelt on the great importance of a strict observance of its rules and the loyal maintenance and upholding of its principles . The anthem " Behold how good and joyful it is for brethren to dwell together in unity " was next sung by the choir to music specially composed for the occasion by VV . Bro .
John Hcle , Mus . Bac , P . P . G . Org . Cornwall , after which the first part of the dedication prayer was offered by the Prov . G . Chap , Then followed the impressive ceremony of consecration with corn , wine , and oil , this being done in turn by the Prov . Grand Master , the acting D . P . G . M ., and the Prov . G . S . W . Then followed the second part of the dedication prayer , and the usual forms having been observed by the W . M . and Wardens , the anthem " I have surely built thee an house to dwell in , " was sung
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
received from his lordship by his consenting and intending to be present at the consecration to-day . But from un . avoidable circumstances he has been unable to attend , anc our Bro . Philbrick will more fully I have no doubt explair the reasons that have prevented his lordship being presenl with us this evening as he intended to be and , even up tc the last moment , hoped to be . Wc know that his lordship , since his installation by the late lamented Duke ol
Albany , has endeared himself to the Craft and to the bre thrcn of this province , and we feel that his lordship , ir undertaking as he has done the presidency of the Girls ' School Festival next month , hasevincedadesire to promote the good of the Craft . As to Bro . Philbrick-, you have all seen the way in which the Dep . Prov . Grand Master has performed the ceremonies of consecration and installation We feel very happy that we have such a Deputy . It is
most essential , because the urgency of business might prevent anyone attending to such duties . We feel most deeply indebted to him for the way in which he has done the work . As regards our coming into the province , I would say that we are especially indebted to the recommending lodge—that is the Chigwell Lodge—and I would point out the brotherly kindness we have received from that lodge . We are specially indebted
to the I . P . M ., Bro . Child , and Bro . G . Corbie , the Secretary of the lodge , for the way in which these brethren have held out the hand of friendship to us . We feel especially indebted to Bro . Corbie for his great kindness to us on this occasion . I would now refer to our Bro . Philbrick . His services to-day will be treasured in the memory of all of us , and the efficient way , the able way , in
which those ceremonies were worked , the impressive way in which the discourses were delivered , have made an impression on our minds that time will not efface . As to his other qualities , I am sure you must know them well , because his name is a household word in Freemasonry , and his attainments in the profession he adorns command our most sincere respect . If I might be allowed a quotation , I would say that of our Prov . Grand
Master" Our hearts Of brother ' s temper do receive you in , With all kind love , good thoughts and reverence . " Of Bro . Philbrick 1 might say" 'Tis much he dares ; And to that dauntless temper of his mind ,
He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valour To act in safety . " I ask you to drink to the health of Lord Brooke , and his Deputy , Bro . Philbrick . Bro . PHILBRICK : Worshipful Master , VVardens , _ and Brethren : I feel more than I ever felt in rising in an Essex lodge in an embarrassed position , primarily owing to the unexpected nature of the position I find myself in , and also owing to the great kindness which you have expressed ,
Worshipful Master , but which I feel that I have received from the brethren of the Brooke Lodge and the visitors . Until a comparatively short time since—some time after noon had struck to-day—1 was under the happy idea that the programme which you had intended should be carried out , and had announced , would be able to be carried out in the presence of our respected and beloved Provincial Grand Master , and I know it is a severe disappointment to him not
to be present among us to-night . At I think about a quarter to one , or some such time to-day , while I was before the Railway Commissioners , in the House of Lords , a note was put into my hands by his lordship's private secretary , stating that he was placed in an awkward predicament by the Government having announced a morning sitting to discuss the Cattle Bill , and as his constituents were much annoyed at his absence from the discussion on a former
occasion , he would be obliged to be in his place . The note also enclosed a four-line party whip , which necessitated his presence in the House that evening . He would do his utmost to be with the lodge , but would wire from the House to say how matters were going , and he thought they were sure to divide UcCotc the dinner hour . That was in substance very much what I said in the lodge room , and I had to rely on the kindness of the brethren when I presumed
to do that ceremony which unexpectedly I had to do . Since coming to table I have had a telegram dated from the House of Commons at G . 15 , "Cattle Bill still under discussion and division going on , still hope to be able to be with you . " Wc see at once that the force of circumstances has been too strong and have prevented his coming . In the . first place I regret it , because wc do not see the face of one wc esteem . I regret it very much upon
account of myself , because one never does more than one can help . I am sure of this , wc all should have been delighted to welcome his lordshi p among us j we all expected and wc all miss the geniality and the kind welcome with which he always greets his Essex brethren . I think we all know how sincerely he is vexed at having to disappoint us , and 1 hope we are magnanimous enough to make the proper excuses for his absence , because the loss is our
own ; and we shall best evince our sincere loyalty towards him by considering that it is a matter in which he is as deepl y interested as ourselves ; and I know that nothing would have given him greater pleasure than to have consecrated the lodge bearing his name and using his arms . Perhaps 1 may be pardoned for saying one word more of Lord Brooke , and 1 can assure you that since he has been in the position of Prov . Grand Master , not alone have we
had the happiness in Essex of seeing three lodges added to the roll , but lodges which are sources of strength as we believe to the Order . Last but not least the child brought to li g ht to-day has within it elements of strength and vitality , and appears to carry out the principles on which Masonry is founded , and for which this lodge received the warrant of the Grand Master . The increase to the roll of lodges is comparatively a small thing ; we can get numbers
at the cost of strength , but strength does not always mean cfliciency . In this case I am glad to believe it docs , Irom a conversation I had with our Prov . Grand Master , and if he were here he would express the same idea—we have here in this lodge , as we have had in the recently erected lodges of the province , great hopes of success for Ihe future . There are some brethren who hear me who can remember the time when the position which Freemasonry took was far different
from that which it holds at present . Your Worshipful Master has feelingly referred to the growth of Freemasonry by the Grand Master taking the throne of the Order at the time when our then Grand Master , from motives which we all understand , but cannot . sympathise with , retired from the position . It was an answer to that bigotry which excluded him from the throne of our Order when the heir to the greatest throne in the
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
world thought it well to take the throne thus vacated , and it was noble for our brethren to rally round and support the Prince of Wales when he became Grand Master of Freemasons . When any one applies to me and says , What is the use of Freemasonry ? Are your secrets real secrets ? You meet for that purpose , and play at some pretended mystery or for some good fellowship which others can equally enjoy who do not profess
the mystic tie , I think we can point to many whose lives and persons are honoured ; but we can point to the Heir Apparent to the throne as being the chiet and exponent of the principles we profess , and therefore I think it is a proud position in this province for its Provincial Grand Master , and still a happier one for us subordinate officers , to assist in the consecration of a lodge like this , and in the putting into full Masonic career those
whom the Grand Master has entrusted with the working of the lodge . We have heard the long list of those seeking to be initiated and to join the lodge , and in the list there is a record of names of which any lodge might be proud ; and we know that on the principles in which this lodge is started the position of Masonry will be respected , and those who are recruits will be men whom you are happy to initiate in the principles of the Order , and without which no Mason
ought to let a brother come into his lodge . If wc had been a little more particular in this respect it would have been better for us , and I hope that I am not exclusive when I say that I will not admit any man to the lodge whom 1 cannot grasp by the hand , and 1 should be sorry to see a member of my lodge whom I should not like to see in my private house . And now I have said enough on this matter , because I know it is a topic on which the VV . M . feels as
keenly as I do , and as do those who with him have the distinguished honour of being founders of this lodge , and I see that the Brooke Lodge will be second to none in the province in carrying out faithfully and zealously the great principles of brotherly love , relief , and truth on which the Order depends . Let me assure you that in what I have done it was a labour of love to do anything I could to assist in the formation of the lodge .
I have had the pleasure of knowing your W . M . for some time . I was glad , when I saw the petition acceded to by the Grand Master , to know who had been named as the first Master ; and I feel sure that as a character takes its keynote from its first start in life , so the reputation of the Brooke Lodge in its character has taken its keynote from the character of its Master , and that its concerns will be so started and so guided into the rood path of Masonrv
that those who have to administer its affairs will find that its founders have started it on a good career , and will make the lodge a permanent success . Let me thank you very much lor the expressions of kindness you have made for the services I have had the privilege to render . We do not christen a baby every day ; but when we do we like to sec an offspring that bids fair to achieve its full proportions and starts in life with a vigorous crow , and under such
guidance as its miniature years will require and which will ensure its being properly brought up in the paths of nature and science . Nay , 1 will not limit you to the Second Degree—I will say bcin ;> brought up to the full stature of a man , Masonically speaking . Tor the Grand Officers I can only say as their representative , we bid you in God ' s name a hearty welcome ; we entreat you to stand firm to the great principles of our Order ; wc entreat you to remember
the grand ritual of to-day . It is a matter which can be carried to a serious end , and permit me to say an end well worthy the ambition of the proudest man among us ; it is a matter which is a legitimate cause of pride to its founders if that lodge be true to the principles of the Order . That this lodge may be so is our earnest prayer , and that the success you desire to achieve is our sincere desire . I thank you most heartily .
Bro . PHILURICK proposed the next toast , "The VV . M . " the work the VV . M . Iiaa done that evening would satisfy them that he would carry out his work with satisfaction to himself and to the lodge . Nothing could be more genial and pleasant than the way in which he had presided on this occasion , and he asked them to drink his health and wish him a p leasant Masonic career . He had one word to say on another topic . Their good Prov . Grand Master was
§ oing up to take the chair at the Festival of the Girls ' chool , and he ( Bro . Philbrick ) trusted that as a province they would support him , to testify their respect for the head of the province and also to promote the great cause of charity . Bro . HERDAGE said he felt at a loss for words with which to express what he felt . The hearty way in which his health had been proposed called for a corresponding effort to maintain the dignity of the lodge and in everything to
maintain the dignity of the Craft . Ihcy would all endeavour to make that , the Brooke Lodge , a strength to the province of Essex and to the Craft in general . The members had already thought that it would be a right thing to do to send one of their members to represent the lodge at the Girls' Festival . He knew that much was notcxpectcd from a young lodge , and he himself would have much pleasure
in representing the lodge on that occasion . He thanked them all for their kind wishes ; he felt that he was in accord with the brethren , and looking round upon the present members of the lodge and that illustrious assembly he would say he thanked them sincerely ; and conclude by quoting from Henry V . — " We carry not a heart with us from hence
1 hat grows not but in fair consent with ours , Nor leave not one behind that doth not wish Success and conquest to attend upon us . " The WORSHIPFUL MASTER next proposed "The Health of the Visitors , " coupling with it the names of Bros . Glass and Martin , quoting the lines" These unknown friends to ' s welcome ; for it is The way to make us better friends , more known . "
1 his toast having been replied to by Bro . GLASS in a really humourous speech , and by Bro . MARTIN , The Wo \ tsiuin : UL MASTER proposed "The Health ol the Officers , " with the lines"Their years but young , but their experience great , Their heads unmellowed , but their judgment ripe ; And in a word ( for far behind their worth Comes all the praise 1 now bestow )
They are complete in feature as in mind With all good grace to grace a gentleman . " This was replied to by the S . W . and J . W ., and the Tyler s toast terminated the proceedings . The following were among the visitors present : Bros . F . Dowell Grayson , W . M . 160 ; G . Dodd , W . M . 1 GS 6 ; W . D . Merritt , I . P . M . 1000 , Prov . G . A . D . C ; Jno . Glass , W . M . 453 ; Geo . Corbie , P . M . 453 , P . P . G . J . W . ; Jno .
Consecration Of The Brooke Lodge, No. 2005, Chingford.
Belcham , P . P . G . Purst . ; Fred Crockford , P . M . S 15 ; J . J . Kern , P . M . 1139 ! J- W . Langton , 1130 ; J . R . Wakefield , 1 G 01 ; A . J . Desire , 453 ; H . T . Gibley , 453 ; A . Buck , P . P . G . S . W . ; J . G . Cavile , Prov . G . J . D . ; Jno . Corbie , J . W . 453 ; Jas . Godwin , P . P . G . A . D . C ; J . A . Brown , 1672 ; E . J . Bell , 1319 ; A . L . Fryer , 1624 ; C G . Critchey , 1 GS 5 ; C Reichelmann , P . M . 515 ; T . J .
C Cramphorn , VV . M . 1024 ; J . Van Essen , D . C 171 ; Horace Roberts , D . D ., Prov . G . Chap . ; C . Osmond , W . M . 51 ; H . Hobson Finch , 134 ; VV . Williams , 90 ; C . J . G . Eveniss , S . D . 1540 ; J . Laidlaw Cross , P . M . 90 ; Smith , I . P . M . 1 S 39 J R- Clowes , W . Sowman , Chas . H . Roberts , Andrew Durrant , Thos . I . Dulling , P . M . 51 ; A . Lucking , J . W . Hair , P . P . G . Reg . ; and E . C . Massey . The lodge was furnished by Bro . George Kenning .
Consecration Of The St. George's Lodge, No. 2025, Plymouth.
CONSECRATION OF THE ST . GEORGE'S LODGE , No . 2025 , PLYMOUTH .
This lodge , the intention of whose founders is that it shall be conducted on strictl y temperance princi p les , —a movement we understand which has met with considerable favour in the " Three Towns , " and indeed in the province generally , —was duly consecrated with considerable eclat by the R . W .
the Grand Master of the province , Bro . Lord Ebrington , M . P ., on the 23 rd ult ., in the presence of a very large gathering of representatives of our ancient Order , at the St . George ' s Hall , Stonehouse , which building had been engaged under the impression that the company would be such as to be far beyond the capabilities of accommodation of any of the existing lodges in Plymouth , and the result
full y justified this precaution . All the arrangements preliminary to the day of meeting were admirably carried out by the VV . M . designate , Bro . G . R . Barrett ; the Secretary , Bro . J . GifTord , and others who have interested themselves in the work . The lodge-room and its approaches were decorated with great taste , R . W . Bro . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , Prov . G . M . Cornwall ; VV . Bro . L . P . Metham ,
I . U . Prov . Li . AL , and other brethren having p laced their conservatories at the disposal of the committee in order that there might be no lack of judicious decoration and ornamentation . The new lodge had the advantage of being started into existence with an unusually large number of members , and these were considerably added to during the day's proceedings . ujr nii \ { j / uiiiu iui 1111 luiiiiiiviiiciiiciil ui Liiu
..... , , a , : u ; ceremony , the large hall was well filled by brethren from all parts of the province and several visitors . The Prov . Grand Master presided , his lordship being supported by R . W . Bro . the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe , Prov . G . M . Cornwall , who acted as D . P . G . M . ; VV . Bros , the Rev . VV . Whittlcy , P . M . 15 G , P . P . G . Chap , and Prov . G . S . W . ; G . VV . Davie , P . M . 251 , P . G . J . W . ; the Rev . T . VV . Lemon ,
P . M . 189 , P . P . G . Chap ., who acted as Prov . G . Chap . pro tern . ; and John Brewer , P . M . 251 , Prov . G . Sec . Our space is too limited to name all the brethren who signed the attendance book , but amongst those present we noticed the following Present and Past Prov . Grand Officers : Bros . J . E . Curtcis , P . M . 1 S 0 , P . P . G . S . W . ; H . Luff , P . M . 37 G , P . P . G . S . of VV . Suffolk ; E . T . Fulford , P . M . 1254 , Prov .
U . T . ; T . a . Bayly , P . M . 189 , P . P . G . T . ; Leonard D . Westcott , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; C II . Cooper , P . M . 105 , Prov . G . J . D . ; J . VV . Cornish , P . P . G . T . ; A . Brickwood Hutchings , Mayor of Devonport , P . M . S 93 , P . G . D . C ; E . J . Knight , P . M . 202 , P . P . G . Purst . ; J . D . Barker , VV . M . 70 , P . P . G . Org . ; VV . H . Gilman , P . M . 1099 , P . P . G . D . C ; II . F . Willey , 1284 , P . G . S . D . ; R . H . Rae , P . M . 1 S 9 ,
P . P . G . S . D . ; S . Jew , P . M . 105 , P . P . G . T .-, II . Cole , P . M . 1001 , P . P . G . S . D . ; D . Box , P . M . 156 , P . G . R . ; J . Du Pre , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . D . C , E . Aitken-Davics . P . M . 1099 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; H . F . Smith , P . M . 954 , P . P . G . S . of VV . ; G . Merrifield , P . P . G . S . oI VV . ; J . Hclc , Mus . Bac ., P . P . G . O . Cornwall ; J . VV . Murray , P . M . 1402 , P . P . G . D . C ; G . Whittley , I . P . M . 15 G , Sec . 1 S 55 , P . P . G . O . ; VV . B . Maye ,
P . M . 710 , P . G . D . C ; J osiah Austin , P . M . 1090 , P . P . G . O . ; j . P . Hcath . P . M . 39 , D . P . G . D . C ; J . S . Swann , P . M . S 47 , P . G . S . B . ; E . G . Dyke , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . O . Cornwall ; 1 . Lynn , P . M . 230 , P . P . G . S . B . ; F . Hooper , P . M . 1212 , P . P . G . D . C ; J . R . Lord , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . S . B . ; J . Rcndle , P . M . 1247 , P . P . G . S . B . ; J . M . Hiflcy , P . M . 223 , P . P . G . A . D . C ; J . B . Gover , P . M . 70 , P . P . G . A . D . C ;
J . H . Westlakc , P . M . 666 , P . P . G . Purst ; R . Cawscy , P . M . 230 , Prov . G . S . ; T . Parkhouse , P . M . 1125 , Prov . G . A . D . C . ; G . Huxham , P . M . 1254 , Prov . G . Stwd . ; P . L . Blanchard , 444 , Prov . G . Tyler ; and others . Bro . P . Howard Davis , j . W . Wolseley Lodge , 1993 , Manchester , which was established last year on temperance principles , was present among the visitors . The PROV . GRAND MASTER said he was sure it would
be their wish and their pleasure to give precedence to the motion of which he had given notice , although it did not appear in the original agenda paper . That motion was to the effect that the Provincial Grand Lodge should pass votes of condolence with her Majesty the Queen and the Duchess of Albany on the death of H 7 R . H . the late Prince Leopold , Grand Master of Oxfordshire . A fraternity
which prided itself as much on its loyalty as on its antiquity was not likely to be behind the rest of the people of England in expressing that feeling for the Royal Family , whether in weal or woe , which had been so gratefully acknowledged b y the Queen in her recent beautiful letter , in which her Majesty mentioned how much the sympathy of her people had comforted the Duchess of Albany and
herself in their terrible bereavement . The Earl of MOUNT EDGCUMBE , Prov . G . M . Cornwall , seconded the motion , which was carried unanimously , and the Prov . Grand Master was requested to draw up the address of condolence . The warrant authorising the constitution of the lodge having been read , and the usual preliminaries observed
, Bro . Croydon , P . M ., delivered an oration to the brethren on the subject of Freemasonry , in which he dwelt on the great importance of a strict observance of its rules and the loyal maintenance and upholding of its principles . The anthem " Behold how good and joyful it is for brethren to dwell together in unity " was next sung by the choir to music specially composed for the occasion by VV . Bro .
John Hcle , Mus . Bac , P . P . G . Org . Cornwall , after which the first part of the dedication prayer was offered by the Prov . G . Chap , Then followed the impressive ceremony of consecration with corn , wine , and oil , this being done in turn by the Prov . Grand Master , the acting D . P . G . M ., and the Prov . G . S . W . Then followed the second part of the dedication prayer , and the usual forms having been observed by the W . M . and Wardens , the anthem " I have surely built thee an house to dwell in , " was sung