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Article CONSECRATION OF THE PRIORY LODGE OF ACTON, No. 1996. ← Page 2 of 2 Article CONSECRATION OF THE PRIORY LODGE OF ACTON, No. 1996. Page 2 of 2 Article Obituary. Page 1 of 1 Article New Zealand. Page 1 of 2 →
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Consecration Of The Priory Lodge Of Acton, No. 1996.
Bro . Rev . J . E . Cox , D . D .: Worshipful Alaster , Wardens , and brethren : Doubtless you are all svell asvare that it is constantly asked by the outside svorld what is the use of Freemasonry ? Those svho have not been initiated express doubts as to its utility , whilst others are not unfrequently disposed to ridicule its supposed origin and to laugh at its alleged antiquity . This has no doubt in part arisen from the fact that Speculative Alasonry has for the most part
accomplished the work for which it svas originally devised . In the dark ages ofthe svorld Masonry was the great pioneer of civilization , the motherof the arts and sciences , and the sole meanswhereby " greater light" universally prevailed diffused " over the face of earth and water . " With the growth of civilization its principles fell into comparative abeyance until at last , its svork being accomplished , it has ceased to be regarded as the great author
and means of human progress . In many parts of Europe it still , in a measure , however , retains much of its ancient prestige in this direction—pre-eminently so in Ssveden , svhich I had the happiness of visiting last year , where it was greatly to his advantage that our Alost Worshipful Grand Alaster was born to light . Here however , in our own land , not only has the outside world been induced to suppose that Alasonry is little more than a Benefit Society ,
but that it is merely the means for frequent convivial reunion under the name of , and for the diffusion of charity—an idea , which very many even of those , svho have been admitted into the Order and failed to discern anything beyond such impressions , have much helped to increase and disseminate . This result I can but think has of late years arisen from a far too indiscriminate admission into the Order . But on that point the presiding
Grand Alaster has to-day particularly addressed the members of this meeting . But , for my own part I am satisfied that the tongue of good report has not been sufficiently heard in favour of candidates , which has induced quantity rather than quality to be admitted and has brought in many svhose admission sve must regret ; and as a sure proof and evidence of that fact sve find continually at the meetings of the Board of Benevolence that far too many have not
thought or considered the fact that they svere uninfluenced by mercenary or other unworthy motives . Yet in spite of such violation of our ancient landmarks , however much Freemasonry may be ridiculed—and you knowit is ridiculed by those svho do not understand it—still sve can amply show what it does and can do in the direction of brotherly love , relief , and truth , although sve can no longer claim for it the high and prominent place it once occupied for the
maintenance and advancement of civilization . It is our earnest hope—a desire ever to be remembered in the posture of our daily supplications—that Masonry may yet more positively and prominently thrive and flourish so as to give proofs incalculable , and evidences unnumbered of its being much more than a myth or an empty name . No one 1 think , with the slightest particle of right feeling in his nature , can ever listen to , or take part in , our secret rites
and noble ceremonies without being solemnly impressed by the deep-toned revelation of the glorious truths they enunciate . Again and again have these ceremonies had the most beneficial and , I may add , saving and redeeming effects upon the profligate , whilst they have ever armed the just and upright man svith the best inducements to stand fast in his integrity , to help and support his brethren in every time of need , and to do his duty in the face of all
trials and calamities in svhatsoever state , of life the G . A . O . T . U . may have been pleased to place him . Alay such principles and influences never die out . Rather may they live , thrive , and flourish , not only throughout the length and breadth of the Craft , but also in this newlyconstituted lodge , and for the benefit of generations yet to come , and more especially amongst those to whom I have been privileged to speak on this most interesting occasion ;
so that svhilst sve strive earnestly to manifest to the outer svorld that the true Alason must be a good and upright man , we may be fitted for admission , hereafter , into the Grand Lodge above , svhere the svorld ' s Great Architect rules and reigns for ever . At the conclusion of the oration , the choir sang an anthem , "The Lord is in His Hol y Temple , let all the earth keep silence before Him" ( Sugg ) , Hab . IL , 20 ;
after svhich the Chaplain delivered the first portion of the Dedication prayer , and all the brethren turning towards the East the Presiding Officer gave the Invocation . The Chaplain then read the portion of Scriptures appointed for the occasion , after svhich the lodge board svas uncovered , and the ceremony of consecration svas performed with all customary solemnities . The Consecrating Officer then delivered the final Benediction , and the lodge svas resumed in
the Second Degree , and after being obligated Bro . Roebuck svas in the presence of a Board ot over 30 Installed Alasters duly installed into the chair of K . S . svith the usual formalities , after svhich the W . M . invested his principal officers Bros . C . E . Botley , S . W ., and G . Wright , J . VV . Bro . E . F . Earl svas elected Treasurer , and invested by the VV . AI ., svho also appointed and invested his remaining officers as follows : Bros . E . H . Sugg , Sec . ; F . Botley , S . D . ;
E . Monson , jun ., J . D . ; J . A . Cammell , I . G . ; and A . Turner , D . C . Bro . Harrison was elected Tyler of the lodge by a show of hands and invested . The Installing Officer then delivered the customary addresses to the W . AL , the Wardens , and the brethren , and resumed his seat amidst well-deserved Masonic applause . Bro . R OEBUCK then rose and said that the lodge being very much indebted to Col . Clerke and the other Grand of
Officers who had assisted him in the ceremony consecrating this nesv lodge , he proposed that Bros . Col . Shadsvell H . Gierke , J . M . Case , Dr . Pigott , the Rev . Dr . Cox , Frank Richardson , and Raynham VV . Stewart be elected honorary members , and that a vote of thanks to them be recorded on the minutes of the proceedings . This motion having been carried nem . con ., The G RAND SECRETARY thanked the brethren for the
compliment that had been paid to him and the Grand Officers who had assisted him , and in accepting the honorary membership , said that they should watch the progress of lodge svith interest , and hoped to be allosved occasionally to come and witness its success . ,.,,., The lodge svas then closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to the George and Dragon Hotel , where an
admirable dinner svas served by Mr . Brooks , the host of this ancient hostelrie . After the cloths were withdrasvn the usual loyal and Masonic toasts svere proposed from the chair and heartily responded to . After the toast of " The Queen "—to svhose virtues and estimable qualities the W . M . paid a tribute of respect—and "The Health of the M . W . Grand Master , " svhose interest in Freemasonry and
Consecration Of The Priory Lodge Of Acton, No. 1996.
the attention hc gave to the requirements of the Grand Mastership , notwithstanding the numerous other high duties he had to pet form , were also mentioned by Bro . ROEBUCK in terms of admiration , The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The Health of the Present and Past Grand Officers . " It svas a particularly important toast on the present occasion , because they had been honoured by the presence of a large number of
Grand Officers . He svas satisfied that all present wished svell to the Grand Officers , from the Earl of Carnarvon and Lord Lathom downwards , and that they would respond with enthusiasm to this toast , svith which he svould couple the name of their V . W . Bro . Dr . Cox . The Rev . Dr . Cox said in reply that he had on behalf of the Earl of Carnarvon , Pro Grand Alaster , and Lord Lathom , Deputy Grand Master , to return sincere thanks
for the manner in svhich the brethren had been pleased to accept the toast proposed by the VV . AI . to the health of the Grand Officers , Present and Past . He had also to offer his own acknowledgments as one of the oldest of the Grand Officers , though he believed there svas one Grand Officer older than himself . It had afforded him infinite pleasure to assist that day in the consecration of their lodge . Alore than half a century ago he used to pass through Acton on
the Oxford coach on his return to college . Even at that time he bad looked forsvard to becoming a Alason , though that event did not happen till some years later ; and he determined to do suit and service to Masonry in this country and abroad as extensively as possible . During his career he had taken part in many consecrations of lodges ; but he had never in the whole course of that career enjoyed a consecration service more than he had done that day ,
because he felt it a great thing to sit under his admirable friend and brother , Col . Shadwell H . Clerke , and a privilege to be associated svith him in carrying out that consecration . He said that he congratulated the Craft on having such a Grand Secretary , always ready to give his aid and advice ; he was in the fullest acceptation of the svord a thorough gentleman Alason , svho had a true love for Masonry , and was as anxious as he ( Bro . Cox ) was to see
it prosper and conquer public opinion and the prejudices of the ignorant . The Worshipful Alaster next proposed " The Health of the Consecrating Officers . " They were greatly indebted to Bros . Col . Clerke , Case , Dr . Pigott , Dr . Cox , Frank Richardson , and Raynham Stewart for the services they had rendered . With this toast he svould couple the name of Bro . Colonel Shadwell H . Clerke , Grand Secretary .
Bro . Col . SHADSVELI . H . CLERKE in reply said that it svould not only be a great pleasure but a great privilege to be permitted to return thanks for this toast on the present occasion , because it must be a sincere gratification to the brethren who like himself had the interests of Freemasonry at heart to have been allosved to take part in the ceremony . The pleasure svas the greater because that lodge svould in all probability have a successful future . He ( Bro . Clerke )
had been ably supported on the present occasion by his two Wardens , by Bro . Cox , svho had given them a very good oration , and by Bro . Richardson , who had as might be said " run the svhole coach " for him ( Bro . Clerke ) on that occasion . The Consecrating Officers svished every success to this new ship . Col . Clerke said that he must digress for one moment to say one svord svhich svas only fair and just . Men naturally supposed that His Royal Highness was
merely a nominal Grand Master , that was entirely a mistake . He ( Col . Clerke ) had great personal opportunities for knowing this , and lie could assure those present that His Royal Highness took the greatest interest in the affairs of the Craft ; he svas continually sending for him ( the Grand Secretary ) , and svent into every matter concerning the Craft svith the greatest possible interest , and svas very jealous of anything being done svithout his authority . ( Applause . ) Passing that over he svould conclude his
response to this toast by thanking the brethren very heartily for the reception svhich the Consecrating Officers had met svith . Passing on to a more congenial subject he had now to propose to them to drink to " The Health of their lirst VV . M . " He thought that the founders of the Piiory Lodge of . Acton showed a wise prescience in selecting Bro . Roebuck . VVhen their petition was received , and it was seen that Bro . Roebuck svas the W . M . designate , it was felt that the warrant asked for would be in safe hands .
He svould omit from his remarks all the pretty things that might be said , contenting himself svith saying ; hat a better Alason and better man never existed , and svith asking the brethren to join him in drinking "The'Health of the VV . M . "
Bro . ROEBUCK in reply said that he felt a great responsibility in taking his present position , because if the lodge did not svork in the svay that he supposed and intended it should work , he svould be called to account at Grand Lodge ; and he had a name and a Alasonic reputation to maintain . They had begun under very good auspices , and he svas sure they could get as many
members as they wanted . Alasonry was a luxury , and if his officers svould support him he svould svork in that direction . Mi g ht they all live long to enjoy one another's society . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER then proposed "The Health of the Visitors , " coupling svith the toast the names of Bros . Locke , Godstonc , and Alarks , each of svhom replied in suitable terms .
Ihe Health of the Officers of the Lodge" svas next proposed by the W . M ., and svas responded to by the Senior and junior Wardens . The Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a conclusion . During the evening the follosving programme of vocal music svas performed : National Anthem Choir . God Bless the Prince of Wales ... Choir , '
Three Sailor Boys ( Alarzials ) ... Bro . E . Monson , jun . True Blue ( S . Adams ) „ J . J . Gunner . White Daisy ( Molloy ) „ F . Botley . Ehren on the Rhine ( Hutchinson ) ... „ J . A . Cammell . Kismet ( Alolloy ) „ C . E . Botley . The Lodge room , and the approaches thereto svas decorated with two waggon loads of choice plants , and shrubs , sent from Bro . Roebuck ' s greenhouses and grounds . The lodge svas furnished by Bro . George Kenning .
A number of Freemasons in the Metropolis svho are total abstainers have expressed a desire to establish a temperance lodge , and steps will be taken very shortly to carry out what has almost taken the form of a definite proposal . —City Press .
Obituary.
Obituary .
BRO . A . J . DUFF-FILER , P . G . S . B . A prominent Mason and one who had been a member of our !• raternity for close on forty ycars , passed to his final rest on Saturday last at the ri pe old age of seventy-seven . Our deceased Bro . Duff-Filer , to svhom we are referring and svhose death will be very generally regretted , especially by those who enjoyed the privilege of his acquaintance , was initiated into Freemasonry in the Ionic Lodge , No . 227 , on the 5 th of October , 1 S 43 , and svas chosen its W . M . in
1640 . He joined the Old King ' s Arms' Lodge , No . 28 . on the 28 th April , 1 S 51 , and svas elected to thechair the year following . He was founder and first Master of the Canonbury Lodge , No . G 57 , in 1 S 53 , and had held the office of Ireasurer till thc present time . He was a member of the Board of General Purposes for three year—from 1 S 54 to 1 S 55-7 . In 1 S 77 he founded and svas first VV . M . of the
Evening Star Lodge , No . 1719 , and at the time of his death svas its becretary . In Royal Arch Alasonry he svas exalted on the 2 nd of June , 1 S 45 , in the Old . King ' s Arms' Chapter , No . 2 S , and was one ot its P . Z . s ' . and in 1 S 72 he became a member of the Prince of Wales' Chapter , No . 259 . His highest distinctions , however , were obtained in 1 S-12 , svhen he was appointed Grand Sword Bearer of England both in Grand Lod ge and in Supreme Grand Ciiapter , and he was
likewise a member of the General Committee of the latter body , having been re-appointed by His Royal Highness the M . E . Grand Z . only the Wednesday preceding his " lamented decease . But it was not alone in lodge and chapter that Bro . Duff-Filer won his reputation . His frequent attend-3 i ? j ' ? e Conimlttee Meetings of our Institutions showed the deep interest he took in their management ; the several festival Stewardships he had served evinced his desire to
promote their welfare ; while the fact that he was a Vice-Patron of the Boys' School , and a Vice-President both of the Girls' School and the Royal Alasonic Benevolent Institution , showed that his interest svas of a beneficent as svell as a benevolent character . The funeral took place in 1 'inchley Cemetery on Thursday , and was numerously attended by the relatives and his friends , both Masonic and non-Alasonic By none svill the death of this excellent
brother be more sincerely regretted than by the members of the Canonbury Lodge of which he was , in fact , the father , and , as showing the respect they bore him , sve may state that the VV . AI . proposes to call a lodge of emergency for the purpose of passing " resolutions ot sympathy and condolence , svith the widow and family of their deceased 1 reasurer , to whom we beg to offer the expression of our , sincere sympathy in their bereavement .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
CONSECRATION OF THE PLANTAGENET PRECEPTORY , AT TIMARU . The introduction of this reli gious and military Order svas accomplished on Tuesday , 27 th February , when the Plantagenet Preceptory was inaugurated and dedicated according to ancient custom under the mest auspicious surroundings . I lie ceremonies svere conducted b the V . E . Sir Kniht VV 0
y g . Dearner . Al . D ., 32 , Prov . P , iorof New Zealand , assisted . ii ' . . ^ i '" " - , ' ' P ' '" s <> n , M . H . R ., and Sir Knights V ; ii " -M . ' Y . . 7 , J- IJ arson - - W . Liesler , C . Palliser , B . Hibbard , and W . try . The prescribed procession of fraters having been formed , marched two and two into thc hall ; the Great Piior having taken his place on the throne called on the Sir Knights to
assist in opening the preceptory , which being done , the Prov . Prior addressed the Sir Knights , stating that he had been authorised and commissioned to open a preceptory of Knighls lemplar under the United Religious and Military Orders of the temple and of Palestine , Rhodes , and Malta , to be known as the Plantagenet Preceptory , and requested the acting Registrar to read the svarrant sanctioning the 1 he traters
preceptory . whose names svere on the petition were then summoned to appear in the West , the Prior then demanded of them svhether they promised to acknowledge the authority ot the Alost Excellent and Supreme Grand Master as tne head of the Order in England and Wales and dependencies , and whether they pledged themselves to act according to , and abide by , the laws and regulations of
JY ., , ssancuoned bvthe < - , rand Conclave of England and VVales , to winch they agreed . He then inquired if the bir ¦ •" . nights named in the petition as Eminent Preceptor and other ollicers had been dul y chosen to preside over the new preceptory , and on receiving a reply in the affirmative , he called on them to form into procession . After proceeding three times round , during winch the organ was pealing out
ueethoven s famous march . The Prior accompanied by the t relate and an Aid-de-Camp , the latter bearing a silver salver with a small vessel containing corn , walKed round the sepulchre scattering some corn on each corner . I he Prelate then gave this Invocation— " May the giver of all good things shower down His best blessings on this , the Plantagenet Preceptory . " then followed anthem
an — Ruler supreme , Almighty King , Alaker of the worlds and heav'n , lo Thee let tuneful h ymnals ring—Glory , praise , and thanks be given . Father of heav ' n , Oh ! lend an ear ; Grace us svith Thv presence I .. W »
I he procession then passed twice round the Preceptory svith solemn music . Prelate then gave the invocation : May the Almighty give us thankful hearts and grant that sve may beever reauy to relieve the wants of others . bpirit of love , oh ! Heav ' nly Dove , Hov ' ring over svorlds create ; Messenger of peace and love .
Fill our hearts svith hope and faith . Spirit Divine , oh ! lend an ear ; .... . , Crace us svith Thy presence here . 1 he procession then passed twice round with enlcmn m .= ;^
, Prelate gave following invocation . * May He whose name is love grant that the members of this Preceptory , may be ever of one mind and one heart and may they and we ever do unto others as we svould that it should be done unto us . Oh ! Lamb of God ! Emanuel !
Who Irom bondage made us free-Quenched the powers of sin and hell , Glory , honour , praise to Thee . Emanuel , oh ! lend an ear , Grant us with Thy presence here .
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Consecration Of The Priory Lodge Of Acton, No. 1996.
Bro . Rev . J . E . Cox , D . D .: Worshipful Alaster , Wardens , and brethren : Doubtless you are all svell asvare that it is constantly asked by the outside svorld what is the use of Freemasonry ? Those svho have not been initiated express doubts as to its utility , whilst others are not unfrequently disposed to ridicule its supposed origin and to laugh at its alleged antiquity . This has no doubt in part arisen from the fact that Speculative Alasonry has for the most part
accomplished the work for which it svas originally devised . In the dark ages ofthe svorld Masonry was the great pioneer of civilization , the motherof the arts and sciences , and the sole meanswhereby " greater light" universally prevailed diffused " over the face of earth and water . " With the growth of civilization its principles fell into comparative abeyance until at last , its svork being accomplished , it has ceased to be regarded as the great author
and means of human progress . In many parts of Europe it still , in a measure , however , retains much of its ancient prestige in this direction—pre-eminently so in Ssveden , svhich I had the happiness of visiting last year , where it was greatly to his advantage that our Alost Worshipful Grand Alaster was born to light . Here however , in our own land , not only has the outside world been induced to suppose that Alasonry is little more than a Benefit Society ,
but that it is merely the means for frequent convivial reunion under the name of , and for the diffusion of charity—an idea , which very many even of those , svho have been admitted into the Order and failed to discern anything beyond such impressions , have much helped to increase and disseminate . This result I can but think has of late years arisen from a far too indiscriminate admission into the Order . But on that point the presiding
Grand Alaster has to-day particularly addressed the members of this meeting . But , for my own part I am satisfied that the tongue of good report has not been sufficiently heard in favour of candidates , which has induced quantity rather than quality to be admitted and has brought in many svhose admission sve must regret ; and as a sure proof and evidence of that fact sve find continually at the meetings of the Board of Benevolence that far too many have not
thought or considered the fact that they svere uninfluenced by mercenary or other unworthy motives . Yet in spite of such violation of our ancient landmarks , however much Freemasonry may be ridiculed—and you knowit is ridiculed by those svho do not understand it—still sve can amply show what it does and can do in the direction of brotherly love , relief , and truth , although sve can no longer claim for it the high and prominent place it once occupied for the
maintenance and advancement of civilization . It is our earnest hope—a desire ever to be remembered in the posture of our daily supplications—that Masonry may yet more positively and prominently thrive and flourish so as to give proofs incalculable , and evidences unnumbered of its being much more than a myth or an empty name . No one 1 think , with the slightest particle of right feeling in his nature , can ever listen to , or take part in , our secret rites
and noble ceremonies without being solemnly impressed by the deep-toned revelation of the glorious truths they enunciate . Again and again have these ceremonies had the most beneficial and , I may add , saving and redeeming effects upon the profligate , whilst they have ever armed the just and upright man svith the best inducements to stand fast in his integrity , to help and support his brethren in every time of need , and to do his duty in the face of all
trials and calamities in svhatsoever state , of life the G . A . O . T . U . may have been pleased to place him . Alay such principles and influences never die out . Rather may they live , thrive , and flourish , not only throughout the length and breadth of the Craft , but also in this newlyconstituted lodge , and for the benefit of generations yet to come , and more especially amongst those to whom I have been privileged to speak on this most interesting occasion ;
so that svhilst sve strive earnestly to manifest to the outer svorld that the true Alason must be a good and upright man , we may be fitted for admission , hereafter , into the Grand Lodge above , svhere the svorld ' s Great Architect rules and reigns for ever . At the conclusion of the oration , the choir sang an anthem , "The Lord is in His Hol y Temple , let all the earth keep silence before Him" ( Sugg ) , Hab . IL , 20 ;
after svhich the Chaplain delivered the first portion of the Dedication prayer , and all the brethren turning towards the East the Presiding Officer gave the Invocation . The Chaplain then read the portion of Scriptures appointed for the occasion , after svhich the lodge board svas uncovered , and the ceremony of consecration svas performed with all customary solemnities . The Consecrating Officer then delivered the final Benediction , and the lodge svas resumed in
the Second Degree , and after being obligated Bro . Roebuck svas in the presence of a Board ot over 30 Installed Alasters duly installed into the chair of K . S . svith the usual formalities , after svhich the W . M . invested his principal officers Bros . C . E . Botley , S . W ., and G . Wright , J . VV . Bro . E . F . Earl svas elected Treasurer , and invested by the VV . AI ., svho also appointed and invested his remaining officers as follows : Bros . E . H . Sugg , Sec . ; F . Botley , S . D . ;
E . Monson , jun ., J . D . ; J . A . Cammell , I . G . ; and A . Turner , D . C . Bro . Harrison was elected Tyler of the lodge by a show of hands and invested . The Installing Officer then delivered the customary addresses to the W . AL , the Wardens , and the brethren , and resumed his seat amidst well-deserved Masonic applause . Bro . R OEBUCK then rose and said that the lodge being very much indebted to Col . Clerke and the other Grand of
Officers who had assisted him in the ceremony consecrating this nesv lodge , he proposed that Bros . Col . Shadsvell H . Gierke , J . M . Case , Dr . Pigott , the Rev . Dr . Cox , Frank Richardson , and Raynham VV . Stewart be elected honorary members , and that a vote of thanks to them be recorded on the minutes of the proceedings . This motion having been carried nem . con ., The G RAND SECRETARY thanked the brethren for the
compliment that had been paid to him and the Grand Officers who had assisted him , and in accepting the honorary membership , said that they should watch the progress of lodge svith interest , and hoped to be allosved occasionally to come and witness its success . ,.,,., The lodge svas then closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to the George and Dragon Hotel , where an
admirable dinner svas served by Mr . Brooks , the host of this ancient hostelrie . After the cloths were withdrasvn the usual loyal and Masonic toasts svere proposed from the chair and heartily responded to . After the toast of " The Queen "—to svhose virtues and estimable qualities the W . M . paid a tribute of respect—and "The Health of the M . W . Grand Master , " svhose interest in Freemasonry and
Consecration Of The Priory Lodge Of Acton, No. 1996.
the attention hc gave to the requirements of the Grand Mastership , notwithstanding the numerous other high duties he had to pet form , were also mentioned by Bro . ROEBUCK in terms of admiration , The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The Health of the Present and Past Grand Officers . " It svas a particularly important toast on the present occasion , because they had been honoured by the presence of a large number of
Grand Officers . He svas satisfied that all present wished svell to the Grand Officers , from the Earl of Carnarvon and Lord Lathom downwards , and that they would respond with enthusiasm to this toast , svith which he svould couple the name of their V . W . Bro . Dr . Cox . The Rev . Dr . Cox said in reply that he had on behalf of the Earl of Carnarvon , Pro Grand Alaster , and Lord Lathom , Deputy Grand Master , to return sincere thanks
for the manner in svhich the brethren had been pleased to accept the toast proposed by the VV . AI . to the health of the Grand Officers , Present and Past . He had also to offer his own acknowledgments as one of the oldest of the Grand Officers , though he believed there svas one Grand Officer older than himself . It had afforded him infinite pleasure to assist that day in the consecration of their lodge . Alore than half a century ago he used to pass through Acton on
the Oxford coach on his return to college . Even at that time he bad looked forsvard to becoming a Alason , though that event did not happen till some years later ; and he determined to do suit and service to Masonry in this country and abroad as extensively as possible . During his career he had taken part in many consecrations of lodges ; but he had never in the whole course of that career enjoyed a consecration service more than he had done that day ,
because he felt it a great thing to sit under his admirable friend and brother , Col . Shadwell H . Clerke , and a privilege to be associated svith him in carrying out that consecration . He said that he congratulated the Craft on having such a Grand Secretary , always ready to give his aid and advice ; he was in the fullest acceptation of the svord a thorough gentleman Alason , svho had a true love for Masonry , and was as anxious as he ( Bro . Cox ) was to see
it prosper and conquer public opinion and the prejudices of the ignorant . The Worshipful Alaster next proposed " The Health of the Consecrating Officers . " They were greatly indebted to Bros . Col . Clerke , Case , Dr . Pigott , Dr . Cox , Frank Richardson , and Raynham Stewart for the services they had rendered . With this toast he svould couple the name of Bro . Colonel Shadwell H . Clerke , Grand Secretary .
Bro . Col . SHADSVELI . H . CLERKE in reply said that it svould not only be a great pleasure but a great privilege to be permitted to return thanks for this toast on the present occasion , because it must be a sincere gratification to the brethren who like himself had the interests of Freemasonry at heart to have been allosved to take part in the ceremony . The pleasure svas the greater because that lodge svould in all probability have a successful future . He ( Bro . Clerke )
had been ably supported on the present occasion by his two Wardens , by Bro . Cox , svho had given them a very good oration , and by Bro . Richardson , who had as might be said " run the svhole coach " for him ( Bro . Clerke ) on that occasion . The Consecrating Officers svished every success to this new ship . Col . Clerke said that he must digress for one moment to say one svord svhich svas only fair and just . Men naturally supposed that His Royal Highness was
merely a nominal Grand Master , that was entirely a mistake . He ( Col . Clerke ) had great personal opportunities for knowing this , and lie could assure those present that His Royal Highness took the greatest interest in the affairs of the Craft ; he svas continually sending for him ( the Grand Secretary ) , and svent into every matter concerning the Craft svith the greatest possible interest , and svas very jealous of anything being done svithout his authority . ( Applause . ) Passing that over he svould conclude his
response to this toast by thanking the brethren very heartily for the reception svhich the Consecrating Officers had met svith . Passing on to a more congenial subject he had now to propose to them to drink to " The Health of their lirst VV . M . " He thought that the founders of the Piiory Lodge of . Acton showed a wise prescience in selecting Bro . Roebuck . VVhen their petition was received , and it was seen that Bro . Roebuck svas the W . M . designate , it was felt that the warrant asked for would be in safe hands .
He svould omit from his remarks all the pretty things that might be said , contenting himself svith saying ; hat a better Alason and better man never existed , and svith asking the brethren to join him in drinking "The'Health of the VV . M . "
Bro . ROEBUCK in reply said that he felt a great responsibility in taking his present position , because if the lodge did not svork in the svay that he supposed and intended it should work , he svould be called to account at Grand Lodge ; and he had a name and a Alasonic reputation to maintain . They had begun under very good auspices , and he svas sure they could get as many
members as they wanted . Alasonry was a luxury , and if his officers svould support him he svould svork in that direction . Mi g ht they all live long to enjoy one another's society . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER then proposed "The Health of the Visitors , " coupling svith the toast the names of Bros . Locke , Godstonc , and Alarks , each of svhom replied in suitable terms .
Ihe Health of the Officers of the Lodge" svas next proposed by the W . M ., and svas responded to by the Senior and junior Wardens . The Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a conclusion . During the evening the follosving programme of vocal music svas performed : National Anthem Choir . God Bless the Prince of Wales ... Choir , '
Three Sailor Boys ( Alarzials ) ... Bro . E . Monson , jun . True Blue ( S . Adams ) „ J . J . Gunner . White Daisy ( Molloy ) „ F . Botley . Ehren on the Rhine ( Hutchinson ) ... „ J . A . Cammell . Kismet ( Alolloy ) „ C . E . Botley . The Lodge room , and the approaches thereto svas decorated with two waggon loads of choice plants , and shrubs , sent from Bro . Roebuck ' s greenhouses and grounds . The lodge svas furnished by Bro . George Kenning .
A number of Freemasons in the Metropolis svho are total abstainers have expressed a desire to establish a temperance lodge , and steps will be taken very shortly to carry out what has almost taken the form of a definite proposal . —City Press .
Obituary.
Obituary .
BRO . A . J . DUFF-FILER , P . G . S . B . A prominent Mason and one who had been a member of our !• raternity for close on forty ycars , passed to his final rest on Saturday last at the ri pe old age of seventy-seven . Our deceased Bro . Duff-Filer , to svhom we are referring and svhose death will be very generally regretted , especially by those who enjoyed the privilege of his acquaintance , was initiated into Freemasonry in the Ionic Lodge , No . 227 , on the 5 th of October , 1 S 43 , and svas chosen its W . M . in
1640 . He joined the Old King ' s Arms' Lodge , No . 28 . on the 28 th April , 1 S 51 , and svas elected to thechair the year following . He was founder and first Master of the Canonbury Lodge , No . G 57 , in 1 S 53 , and had held the office of Ireasurer till thc present time . He was a member of the Board of General Purposes for three year—from 1 S 54 to 1 S 55-7 . In 1 S 77 he founded and svas first VV . M . of the
Evening Star Lodge , No . 1719 , and at the time of his death svas its becretary . In Royal Arch Alasonry he svas exalted on the 2 nd of June , 1 S 45 , in the Old . King ' s Arms' Chapter , No . 2 S , and was one ot its P . Z . s ' . and in 1 S 72 he became a member of the Prince of Wales' Chapter , No . 259 . His highest distinctions , however , were obtained in 1 S-12 , svhen he was appointed Grand Sword Bearer of England both in Grand Lod ge and in Supreme Grand Ciiapter , and he was
likewise a member of the General Committee of the latter body , having been re-appointed by His Royal Highness the M . E . Grand Z . only the Wednesday preceding his " lamented decease . But it was not alone in lodge and chapter that Bro . Duff-Filer won his reputation . His frequent attend-3 i ? j ' ? e Conimlttee Meetings of our Institutions showed the deep interest he took in their management ; the several festival Stewardships he had served evinced his desire to
promote their welfare ; while the fact that he was a Vice-Patron of the Boys' School , and a Vice-President both of the Girls' School and the Royal Alasonic Benevolent Institution , showed that his interest svas of a beneficent as svell as a benevolent character . The funeral took place in 1 'inchley Cemetery on Thursday , and was numerously attended by the relatives and his friends , both Masonic and non-Alasonic By none svill the death of this excellent
brother be more sincerely regretted than by the members of the Canonbury Lodge of which he was , in fact , the father , and , as showing the respect they bore him , sve may state that the VV . AI . proposes to call a lodge of emergency for the purpose of passing " resolutions ot sympathy and condolence , svith the widow and family of their deceased 1 reasurer , to whom we beg to offer the expression of our , sincere sympathy in their bereavement .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
CONSECRATION OF THE PLANTAGENET PRECEPTORY , AT TIMARU . The introduction of this reli gious and military Order svas accomplished on Tuesday , 27 th February , when the Plantagenet Preceptory was inaugurated and dedicated according to ancient custom under the mest auspicious surroundings . I lie ceremonies svere conducted b the V . E . Sir Kniht VV 0
y g . Dearner . Al . D ., 32 , Prov . P , iorof New Zealand , assisted . ii ' . . ^ i '" " - , ' ' P ' '" s <> n , M . H . R ., and Sir Knights V ; ii " -M . ' Y . . 7 , J- IJ arson - - W . Liesler , C . Palliser , B . Hibbard , and W . try . The prescribed procession of fraters having been formed , marched two and two into thc hall ; the Great Piior having taken his place on the throne called on the Sir Knights to
assist in opening the preceptory , which being done , the Prov . Prior addressed the Sir Knights , stating that he had been authorised and commissioned to open a preceptory of Knighls lemplar under the United Religious and Military Orders of the temple and of Palestine , Rhodes , and Malta , to be known as the Plantagenet Preceptory , and requested the acting Registrar to read the svarrant sanctioning the 1 he traters
preceptory . whose names svere on the petition were then summoned to appear in the West , the Prior then demanded of them svhether they promised to acknowledge the authority ot the Alost Excellent and Supreme Grand Master as tne head of the Order in England and Wales and dependencies , and whether they pledged themselves to act according to , and abide by , the laws and regulations of
JY ., , ssancuoned bvthe < - , rand Conclave of England and VVales , to winch they agreed . He then inquired if the bir ¦ •" . nights named in the petition as Eminent Preceptor and other ollicers had been dul y chosen to preside over the new preceptory , and on receiving a reply in the affirmative , he called on them to form into procession . After proceeding three times round , during winch the organ was pealing out
ueethoven s famous march . The Prior accompanied by the t relate and an Aid-de-Camp , the latter bearing a silver salver with a small vessel containing corn , walKed round the sepulchre scattering some corn on each corner . I he Prelate then gave this Invocation— " May the giver of all good things shower down His best blessings on this , the Plantagenet Preceptory . " then followed anthem
an — Ruler supreme , Almighty King , Alaker of the worlds and heav'n , lo Thee let tuneful h ymnals ring—Glory , praise , and thanks be given . Father of heav ' n , Oh ! lend an ear ; Grace us svith Thv presence I .. W »
I he procession then passed twice round the Preceptory svith solemn music . Prelate then gave the invocation : May the Almighty give us thankful hearts and grant that sve may beever reauy to relieve the wants of others . bpirit of love , oh ! Heav ' nly Dove , Hov ' ring over svorlds create ; Messenger of peace and love .
Fill our hearts svith hope and faith . Spirit Divine , oh ! lend an ear ; .... . , Crace us svith Thy presence here . 1 he procession then passed twice round with enlcmn m .= ;^
, Prelate gave following invocation . * May He whose name is love grant that the members of this Preceptory , may be ever of one mind and one heart and may they and we ever do unto others as we svould that it should be done unto us . Oh ! Lamb of God ! Emanuel !
Who Irom bondage made us free-Quenched the powers of sin and hell , Glory , honour , praise to Thee . Emanuel , oh ! lend an ear , Grant us with Thy presence here .