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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
weeks , yet all through a summer , with a heat that was unprecedented , and in a small room in the High-street , from the time when the sun was at its meridian until sunset , Bro . Newman plodded on with his task with only the new-born zeal for Masonry glimmering in the hearts of the few members of that day as an encouragement in the work . The sum of time and labour occupied in this work , those who are responsible for
the active supervision of a profession or business will alone be able to estimate at its full value . It was in these early days of the history of this lodge that Bro . Newman endeared himself to us by his kind and genial manner . Ever remembering that we were new to administrative work , he stimulated us without reproof , and encouraged us by kind words and kinder actions . The admiration of Bro . Newman ' s qualities has produced an influence that will live on
long after I have left this chair ; it has filled us all with such a splendid conception of Masonry , that I shall never forget it as long as I live ; and in times of depression and Masonic difficulties , it has stood out like a fingerpost and pointed us onwards . I know it is not in my power to-day to give an adequate expression of your feelings , or to convey to him your full appreciation of his great services , among which must be mentioned his occupation of this
chair for two years , at a great sacrifice to himself , for it was not in our power to honour him , he honoured us by being our Master , the duties of which office ycu well know how thoroughly he carried out , guiding with a gentle hand the development of our Masonic ideas . Never in any single instance has his advice been departed from , and that , to me , is a monument of his influence , and conveys far more than can any words of mine . We shall never forget those
services , which have been rendered continuously until now , and which bind him to us by a tie I trust no circumstances will ever sunder . We all know he his honoured in the province ; you know he is esteemed in the Island ; but I know he is beloved in Chine Lodge , and , therefore , the brethren feel to-day the time has come for us to offer him a humble tribute of our esteem and regard . We do not proffer a jewel to-dayhis breast already carries one from
, us , lor when it was in our heart to present bim with one , Bro . Dr . Dabbs , P . M ., on being appealed to for his part , with his usual and characteristic generosity , insisted on defraying the expense , as some recognition and appreciation of the services rendered by Bro . Newman during his year of office , when the services which Bro . Dabbs had covenanted for , unfortunately failed him . As Secretary under him I gained my first insight into Masonry , and was
able early to appreciate what it really is ; and whatever enthusiasm I have to-day for the Craft , I drew , as it were , from him . I do hope , brethren and members of Chine Lodge , that through such humble instruments as we arc will Bro . Newman ' s influence preserve its continuity , transmitted though it be by feeble mediums , and through successive stages . The ascendency , which is the fruit of esteem , maintained by Bro . Newman , will ever go hand in
hand in my memory with the services he has rendered to us . When I look around and see the universality of Bro . Newman's Masonic self-sacrifices , I dive deep , as it were , into the innermost recesses of Masonry , and I see that rivulet of benevolence , with a spring deep down in a heart , that flows on for the benefit of all Island Masonry , and if a few years back we drew heavily and continually from that spring , I can assure the visiting brethren wenever once drew in vain .
The splendid example of Bro . Newman has moulded the actions of our lodge , and given it an impetus onward . You old lodges of the Island , especially the old Medina , have a past history to encourage yiu ; a halo of glory sheds its lustre round your old lodge ; we have no such ancient or glorioustraditions ; ours is a future to make ; yet , if those who are members to-day , and those who shall follow us , emulate the good example of Bro . Newman , I have no fear for the
future of Chine Lodge , and when its annals shall be written in the distant future , I feel assured many brilliant episodes will be recorded . Yet I make bold to predict that , among the Masters who shall fill this chair , none will shine with a brighter Masonic lustre , and no one be more deservedly loved than Bro . Francis Newman . Bros . John Bailey , I . P . M ., and F . Cooper , P . M ., bore testimony to the services rendered during their year of
office , and how much in various ways Bro . Newman had done for them . The Senior Warden , Bro . Judd , begged to be allowed to express as one who had served under Bro . Newman as Secretary his high regard for him , and for his unfailing kindness and courtesy always extended to him . Bro . Newman , who appeared to be deeply moved with the warmth and heartiness exhibited , said he could not find
works to adequately express his feelings , or to thank the W . M . and brethren of Chine Lodge for their splendid present . He must compliment them on the success with which they had practised one of the first teachings of Masonry , and must confess that he was taken completely by surprise . He could only say that whatever he had done in the lodge and for the lodge had been an unmitigated pleasure to him , and he should treasure the kind words they had
said , and the handsome token of their regard to the last day of his life . In the evening 55 of the brethren partook of a banquet at Daish ' s Hotel , served in excellent style by Mrs . Tizard , widow of one of the founders of Chine Lodge . Side tables had to be erected , and many members of the Chine Lodge were then unable to be present . "The Queen and the Craft" having been duly
honoured , The Worshipful Master proposed "H . R . H . Prince of Wales , K . G ., Grand Master of England ; . the Pro Grand Master , Earl of Carnarvon ; and the Deputy Grand Master , Earl of Lathom . " He . said : Right Worshipful Bro . Gen . Calthorpe and Brethren—In giving this toast , I feel it . ¦ scarcely necessary to say much , being received as it is always with so much enthusiasm . V ' ou all are aware how
well the Grand Master of England attends to his duties , and how deep is his interest in Masonry , and the same can be said of thc Pro and Deputy Grand Masters , thc Earls of Carnarvon and Lathom , and Grand Officers . 'There is no doubt whatever since the Prince of Wales became Grand Master Freemasonry has made rapid strides in England , and many of the prejudices , which undoubtedly existed
have been removed . More than 20 , 000 members have enlisted under our banner , and several hundreds of lodges added to the roll . Brethren , I have on this occasion the honour to couple with that toast the name of the R . W . Bro . the Hon . Gen . Somerset Calthorpe , P . G . Warden of England . I feel sure every member of Chine Lodge is deeply sensible of having so distinguished a visitor here to-day .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Brethren , there are times in one's life , there are positions one is placed in , which render it difficult , and even impossible , to express all you would desire ; such a position am I placed in now ; but if my words are few , they shall be sincere . If I am spared to the aftertime of life to look back upon my installation , there will be many pleasing incidents I shall remember ; but my proudest recollection which I shall love to recall will be that I had a Past Grand
Warden of England to witness it . The toast was received with loud applause . In the course of his reply to the toast , Gen . Calthorpe spoke in high praise of the lodge building , which he said was one of the most conveniently constructed and arranged he had ever inspected , and the skill and generosity Bro . Newman had evinced in its erection were most commendable . It has given me much pleasure to be present at
your installation , Worshipful Sir , which has been so impressively performed by Bro . Newman , and to witness the admirable way in which you carried out your duties , not only in investing your officers , but the eloquent manner in which the presentation to Bro . Newman was given . It is my first visit to the Chine Lodge , which I shall always remember , and I congratulate thc members in having so many visitors present to-day at the installation , and on the
success which has attended their efforts . Bro . Holbrook appropriately introduced "The R . W . the P . G . M . of Hants and the Isle of Wight , Bro . VV . VV . B . Beach , M . P . ; the W . D . P . G . M ., Bro . J . E . Le Feuvre ; and the Officers and Past Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge . " Song—Bro . McQueen— "The Flying Dutchman . " Bros . Faulkner , Newman , and Cooper each made an
appropriate reply . Bro . Dr . Dabbs said that , as the first VV . M . of the Chine Lodge , he had been allowed the privilege of proposing " The Health of their Newly-installed Worshipful Master . " In a humorous speech he somewhat depreciated the services he had himself rendered to the lodge , and said that , from his knowledge of Bro . Greenham , he was sure the duties of the office would be performed even in a more thorough manner than heretofore . In looking through Shanklin he
could see no one who was so fit for the position as the subject of their toast , whom he thought they might well call their " grand young man . " The VV . M ., Bro . Alfred Greenham , then rose , and said , Brethren , 1 thank you very sincere \ y for the kind appreciation bestowed upon this toast and to our P . M ., Dr . Dabbs , for the flattering terms in which he proposed it . As I listened to his speech I could not but feel that I hoped I
deserved all he said . Perhaps I might say , from a Masonic point of view , no one has been brought more into contact with him than I have . I can assure the brethren that the services rendered by him are not only of substantial value , but unique in character . I have often trespassed on him for all sorts of Masonic services , and 1 have always had them cheerfully granted . To one who has earned for himself a name in the paths of literature ar . d science an
universal , and welcome reception , wherever the offspring of his brilliant and fertile imagination is read , must be to the members of Chine Lodge a proud fact to remember he was our first Master , and brethren , if the reduction of our debt is to be attempted this year , as I hope it will be , it is to him that I should look to lead projects , which , with his cooperation , are sure to be successful . You all know my interest in Chine Lodge is very deep , and that I am for
using the splendid advantages which this lodge possesses in having a P . M . who has been not only willing to help us in the past , but to help us now in the immediate future , and as my year of office is a part of that future you may rest assured brethren I shall not forget that Bro . Dr . Dabbs is a member of Chine Lodge . I feel to-day that you have conferred a great honour on me , and a great responsibility , which I trust I may fill to the satisfaction of the brethren
and to the advantage of the lodge . As each VV . M . passes the chair a higher standard of diversified excellence is before him , which will make it difficult to equal and scarcely possible to surpass ; yet , if I can but reflect with a subdued light a little of their radiance it is as much as I can reasonably hope for , if not as much as . I could wish . I shall endeavour to rule the lodge with persuasive firmness , and I hope that whatever I do the brethren will
at least consider that I honestly think it is for the lodge ' s welfare . The past year , under Bro . Bailey , has been very successful , and we have all felt proud to contribute to that success , which I trust will still go on during my year of office , and the debt still go downwards . Let us all be animated with one spirit ; let unity be our motto ; let the difficulties we have to surmount this year be the summits of triumph from which we look down on them next year .
Bro . Judd proposed The Health of the Immediate Past Mast ; r , Bro . John Bailey , " referring to the great amount of time he had devoted to the duties of his office , and to the progress the lodge had made under his vigorous svay . Song—Bro . Kearns— " A fig for to-morrow . " Bro . Bailey appropriately expressed his thanks , and said he was glad to be able to leave the chair with the lodge in
so prosperous a condition , and to have had the pleasure of reducing the debt by £ 100 during his year of office . Recitation—Bro . Dr . Dabbs— "What Rubenstein did with the p iano " was given in splendid form , and was received with loud applause , the greater number of the brethren not having heard Bro . Dabbs before . Song—Bro . Airs— "The men of merry England . " The Worshipful Master , in proposing " The Masonic
Charities , " suggested that they should adopt the idea of Bro . Menzies , and that whatever sum they obtained that evening should be set aside as the nucleus of a special charitable fund of the lodge . He concluded by an expression of thanks to Messrs . Fardell and Dashwood and Bro Raynes for their generous action in connection with the mortgage on the lodge . [ The collection realised £ 3 7 s . gd ., which included 1 . 1 is .
forwarded by Brc . Salt . ] Bro . Menzies replied to thc loast , and explained his views on Charity questions at some length . He concluded with an expression of dissatisfaction with the treatment of local cases by the Provincial Charity Committee . Recitation—given by Bro . Inman— " Daniel VV .
Dishclout , " which provoked much laughter . " The Visitors , " who were cordially welcomed b y Bro . Newman , was the next toast , which was responded to by Bro . John McQueen , Enoch Lodge , who generously promised to start the new Charity Fund of Chine Lodge with a contribution of 10 guineas . Replies were also given by Bros . Airs , Medina Lodgc ;
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Inman , Doyles Lodge ; Brannon , Albany Lodge ; Lowe , E . Medina Lodge ; Linfield , Yarborough Lodge ; Dashwood , Ryde Lodge ; Connor , Sandown Lodge ; Caws , St . John Lodge ( S . C . ) j and Kearns , Metropolitan Lodge . Song—Bro . Riddick— " The Midshipmite . " Bro . F . Rayner , J . W ., said : a very pleasing duty devolves on me in having the next and important toast to propose , and which you , Worshipful Sir , have , in the
exercise of your discretion , intrusted to me . The pleasure I feel is greatly enhanced as it refers to a brother whom , I feel assured , is held in the highest possible esteem and regard by every one present , and I am confident it will meet with a hearty and cordial reception at your hands . All who were present in the lodge that afternoon must have been deeply impressed with the sublime and perfect rendering of the installation ceremony by Bro . F . Newman .
It is not the first time Bro . Newman has been the Installing Master in the Chine Lodge , but I am certain he felt it an especial pleasure and privilege in installing into the Worshipful Master ' s chair one for whom he entertained the greatest personal esteem and fraternal regard . At all times it is a pleasure and a treat to listen to Bro . Newman , in whatever ceremony he is engaged in , but that day he greatly excelled himself , leaving nothing wantinc to make
it as near perfection as possible , and proving himself the master hand . The many and valuable services he had rendered to their lodge met with a recognition that afternoon in the presentation so eloquently made by our Worshipful Master , but the intrinsic value of the present is small compared to the sacrifices Bro . Newman has so generously made to serve the interests of the Chine Lodge , but I am sure he accepts it as a token of sincere regard
and esteem . Our Worshipful Master will relieve him of many of the duties he has hitherto so willingly and cheerfully performed , but I believe , Worshipful Sir , it is your ambition to add a Royal Arch chapter to the lodge , and in doing that we should have to seek the guidance of Bro . Newman , and hope to receive his valuable assistance in that for many years to come . Brethren , I feel we can only regard Bro . Newman in the past as having been our
" guiding star ; " so shall we have in our present Worshipful Master a bright and shining light , and I look forward with pleasurable anticipation to a happy and prosperous future . I submit to you the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . Francis Newman , P . M ., P . P . G . S . W . " Recitation by Bro . Dabbs , "TheRevenge . " The W . M . begged Bro . Dabbs to give this , as his last was so well received . This stirring ballad was listened to with rapt
attention hy the brethren . When Bro . Newman rose to respond , he said I endeavoured to make up a few remarks in the interval , but I found myself compelled to listen to the splendid recitation given by our Bro , Dr . Dabbs , which rivetted my attention , preventing me from preparing one single sentence . I cannot however but thank Bro . Rayner for his kind remarks on myself , and for the way in which he spoke of
my services to Chine Lodge , which has always been a pleasure to me , and I hope I shall always remain a member of the lodge , which has more than appreciated whatever I have done for it , I shall always remember this day , not only for the presentation , which I am unable adequately to express my thanks for , but it marks the 30 th anniversary of my connection with Masonry . The R . W . Bro . the Hon . Gen . Somerset Calthorpe said he had been asked
by the VV . M . to propose the next toast , that of "Ihe Past Masters of Chine Lodge , " and he had great pleasure in giving effect to the kind wish expressed by him , because he wished to say how glad he was that his first acquaintance with their first Worshi pful Master , Bro . Dr . Dabbs , had been at a Masonicgathennglike this . He had often heard of Bro . Dr . Dabbs , but had never before had an opportunity of meeting him , and he could only
compliment the lodge on having had as a P . M . one whose geniality and urbanity it was impossible to resist , and thc contagion of one whose gaiety led him to almost wish he might have the privilege of being ill , to be cured by their worthy brother . Addressing the W . M ., he said , while , sir , I do not think from the excellent way you carried out your duties to-day , that you will require much assistance , yet there may be times when you may desire such . I feel
assured in such Past Masters as you have , all advice and help will be readil y and cheerfully given to meet any emergency that may arise during your year of office . From the candidates proposed to-day I feel certain it will prove to be a successful one , and a lodge which has done so much since its formation deserves success . It has given me much pleasure to be present today , and I shall remember my visit to Chine Lodge . Bro . Dr . Dabbs replied , and alluded to the old and early
struggles and doubts of the first founders in their endeavour to open a Masonic lodge at Shanklin . He spoke most gratefully of all help accorded them in the past , and agreed with a previous remark of the VV . M . as to the desirability of clearing off their debt , as a private debt could be no more real benefit than the National Debt or—for the matter of that—any other debt . He hoped that a repitition of a theatrical performance given last summer would soon add
to their exchequer a fresh accession of surplus , however small , in the same direction . Bro . Inman , P . M ., said the W . M . had entrusted the gavel to him to propose the next toast , " The Officers of Chine Lodge . " He remarked that however perfect thc W . M . might be , without the cordial co-operation and assistance of his officers , the duties of thc lodge could not be carried _ out in an efficient and satisfactory manner . In
the selection the VV . M . had made he was sure he would receive a ready and willing support from all his officers . Bro . W . Judd , S . VV ., said there is no doubt whatever that Chine Lodge is making rapid strides . The past year has been very successful , not only in having new members , but thc debt has been reduced £ 100 , and he quite believed thc VV . M . would endeavour to still further reduce it . He had reluctantly taken Senior Warden's officebut having done
, so , he hoped to come from Manchester four or live times during the year , and assist them all he could . He had thc interest of Chine Lod gc at heart , and he was proud to sec so many , and so distinguished visitors amongst them today , and he hoped they were as pleased with their visit as Chine Lodge was proud to see and welcome them .
Bro . I ' . Rayner , J . W „ said I thank you very much for the kind words you have spoken in proposing the toast of the officers , and you , worshipful sir and brethren , for thc cordial reception you have given it . It is a great pleasure to me in bemgplaced in the important position I occupy to-day 1 feel it a high honour to be the second officer of Chine Lodge , and a great privilege of serving in that office , under such a
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
weeks , yet all through a summer , with a heat that was unprecedented , and in a small room in the High-street , from the time when the sun was at its meridian until sunset , Bro . Newman plodded on with his task with only the new-born zeal for Masonry glimmering in the hearts of the few members of that day as an encouragement in the work . The sum of time and labour occupied in this work , those who are responsible for
the active supervision of a profession or business will alone be able to estimate at its full value . It was in these early days of the history of this lodge that Bro . Newman endeared himself to us by his kind and genial manner . Ever remembering that we were new to administrative work , he stimulated us without reproof , and encouraged us by kind words and kinder actions . The admiration of Bro . Newman ' s qualities has produced an influence that will live on
long after I have left this chair ; it has filled us all with such a splendid conception of Masonry , that I shall never forget it as long as I live ; and in times of depression and Masonic difficulties , it has stood out like a fingerpost and pointed us onwards . I know it is not in my power to-day to give an adequate expression of your feelings , or to convey to him your full appreciation of his great services , among which must be mentioned his occupation of this
chair for two years , at a great sacrifice to himself , for it was not in our power to honour him , he honoured us by being our Master , the duties of which office ycu well know how thoroughly he carried out , guiding with a gentle hand the development of our Masonic ideas . Never in any single instance has his advice been departed from , and that , to me , is a monument of his influence , and conveys far more than can any words of mine . We shall never forget those
services , which have been rendered continuously until now , and which bind him to us by a tie I trust no circumstances will ever sunder . We all know he his honoured in the province ; you know he is esteemed in the Island ; but I know he is beloved in Chine Lodge , and , therefore , the brethren feel to-day the time has come for us to offer him a humble tribute of our esteem and regard . We do not proffer a jewel to-dayhis breast already carries one from
, us , lor when it was in our heart to present bim with one , Bro . Dr . Dabbs , P . M ., on being appealed to for his part , with his usual and characteristic generosity , insisted on defraying the expense , as some recognition and appreciation of the services rendered by Bro . Newman during his year of office , when the services which Bro . Dabbs had covenanted for , unfortunately failed him . As Secretary under him I gained my first insight into Masonry , and was
able early to appreciate what it really is ; and whatever enthusiasm I have to-day for the Craft , I drew , as it were , from him . I do hope , brethren and members of Chine Lodge , that through such humble instruments as we arc will Bro . Newman ' s influence preserve its continuity , transmitted though it be by feeble mediums , and through successive stages . The ascendency , which is the fruit of esteem , maintained by Bro . Newman , will ever go hand in
hand in my memory with the services he has rendered to us . When I look around and see the universality of Bro . Newman's Masonic self-sacrifices , I dive deep , as it were , into the innermost recesses of Masonry , and I see that rivulet of benevolence , with a spring deep down in a heart , that flows on for the benefit of all Island Masonry , and if a few years back we drew heavily and continually from that spring , I can assure the visiting brethren wenever once drew in vain .
The splendid example of Bro . Newman has moulded the actions of our lodge , and given it an impetus onward . You old lodges of the Island , especially the old Medina , have a past history to encourage yiu ; a halo of glory sheds its lustre round your old lodge ; we have no such ancient or glorioustraditions ; ours is a future to make ; yet , if those who are members to-day , and those who shall follow us , emulate the good example of Bro . Newman , I have no fear for the
future of Chine Lodge , and when its annals shall be written in the distant future , I feel assured many brilliant episodes will be recorded . Yet I make bold to predict that , among the Masters who shall fill this chair , none will shine with a brighter Masonic lustre , and no one be more deservedly loved than Bro . Francis Newman . Bros . John Bailey , I . P . M ., and F . Cooper , P . M ., bore testimony to the services rendered during their year of
office , and how much in various ways Bro . Newman had done for them . The Senior Warden , Bro . Judd , begged to be allowed to express as one who had served under Bro . Newman as Secretary his high regard for him , and for his unfailing kindness and courtesy always extended to him . Bro . Newman , who appeared to be deeply moved with the warmth and heartiness exhibited , said he could not find
works to adequately express his feelings , or to thank the W . M . and brethren of Chine Lodge for their splendid present . He must compliment them on the success with which they had practised one of the first teachings of Masonry , and must confess that he was taken completely by surprise . He could only say that whatever he had done in the lodge and for the lodge had been an unmitigated pleasure to him , and he should treasure the kind words they had
said , and the handsome token of their regard to the last day of his life . In the evening 55 of the brethren partook of a banquet at Daish ' s Hotel , served in excellent style by Mrs . Tizard , widow of one of the founders of Chine Lodge . Side tables had to be erected , and many members of the Chine Lodge were then unable to be present . "The Queen and the Craft" having been duly
honoured , The Worshipful Master proposed "H . R . H . Prince of Wales , K . G ., Grand Master of England ; . the Pro Grand Master , Earl of Carnarvon ; and the Deputy Grand Master , Earl of Lathom . " He . said : Right Worshipful Bro . Gen . Calthorpe and Brethren—In giving this toast , I feel it . ¦ scarcely necessary to say much , being received as it is always with so much enthusiasm . V ' ou all are aware how
well the Grand Master of England attends to his duties , and how deep is his interest in Masonry , and the same can be said of thc Pro and Deputy Grand Masters , thc Earls of Carnarvon and Lathom , and Grand Officers . 'There is no doubt whatever since the Prince of Wales became Grand Master Freemasonry has made rapid strides in England , and many of the prejudices , which undoubtedly existed
have been removed . More than 20 , 000 members have enlisted under our banner , and several hundreds of lodges added to the roll . Brethren , I have on this occasion the honour to couple with that toast the name of the R . W . Bro . the Hon . Gen . Somerset Calthorpe , P . G . Warden of England . I feel sure every member of Chine Lodge is deeply sensible of having so distinguished a visitor here to-day .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Brethren , there are times in one's life , there are positions one is placed in , which render it difficult , and even impossible , to express all you would desire ; such a position am I placed in now ; but if my words are few , they shall be sincere . If I am spared to the aftertime of life to look back upon my installation , there will be many pleasing incidents I shall remember ; but my proudest recollection which I shall love to recall will be that I had a Past Grand
Warden of England to witness it . The toast was received with loud applause . In the course of his reply to the toast , Gen . Calthorpe spoke in high praise of the lodge building , which he said was one of the most conveniently constructed and arranged he had ever inspected , and the skill and generosity Bro . Newman had evinced in its erection were most commendable . It has given me much pleasure to be present at
your installation , Worshipful Sir , which has been so impressively performed by Bro . Newman , and to witness the admirable way in which you carried out your duties , not only in investing your officers , but the eloquent manner in which the presentation to Bro . Newman was given . It is my first visit to the Chine Lodge , which I shall always remember , and I congratulate thc members in having so many visitors present to-day at the installation , and on the
success which has attended their efforts . Bro . Holbrook appropriately introduced "The R . W . the P . G . M . of Hants and the Isle of Wight , Bro . VV . VV . B . Beach , M . P . ; the W . D . P . G . M ., Bro . J . E . Le Feuvre ; and the Officers and Past Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge . " Song—Bro . McQueen— "The Flying Dutchman . " Bros . Faulkner , Newman , and Cooper each made an
appropriate reply . Bro . Dr . Dabbs said that , as the first VV . M . of the Chine Lodge , he had been allowed the privilege of proposing " The Health of their Newly-installed Worshipful Master . " In a humorous speech he somewhat depreciated the services he had himself rendered to the lodge , and said that , from his knowledge of Bro . Greenham , he was sure the duties of the office would be performed even in a more thorough manner than heretofore . In looking through Shanklin he
could see no one who was so fit for the position as the subject of their toast , whom he thought they might well call their " grand young man . " The VV . M ., Bro . Alfred Greenham , then rose , and said , Brethren , 1 thank you very sincere \ y for the kind appreciation bestowed upon this toast and to our P . M ., Dr . Dabbs , for the flattering terms in which he proposed it . As I listened to his speech I could not but feel that I hoped I
deserved all he said . Perhaps I might say , from a Masonic point of view , no one has been brought more into contact with him than I have . I can assure the brethren that the services rendered by him are not only of substantial value , but unique in character . I have often trespassed on him for all sorts of Masonic services , and 1 have always had them cheerfully granted . To one who has earned for himself a name in the paths of literature ar . d science an
universal , and welcome reception , wherever the offspring of his brilliant and fertile imagination is read , must be to the members of Chine Lodge a proud fact to remember he was our first Master , and brethren , if the reduction of our debt is to be attempted this year , as I hope it will be , it is to him that I should look to lead projects , which , with his cooperation , are sure to be successful . You all know my interest in Chine Lodge is very deep , and that I am for
using the splendid advantages which this lodge possesses in having a P . M . who has been not only willing to help us in the past , but to help us now in the immediate future , and as my year of office is a part of that future you may rest assured brethren I shall not forget that Bro . Dr . Dabbs is a member of Chine Lodge . I feel to-day that you have conferred a great honour on me , and a great responsibility , which I trust I may fill to the satisfaction of the brethren
and to the advantage of the lodge . As each VV . M . passes the chair a higher standard of diversified excellence is before him , which will make it difficult to equal and scarcely possible to surpass ; yet , if I can but reflect with a subdued light a little of their radiance it is as much as I can reasonably hope for , if not as much as . I could wish . I shall endeavour to rule the lodge with persuasive firmness , and I hope that whatever I do the brethren will
at least consider that I honestly think it is for the lodge ' s welfare . The past year , under Bro . Bailey , has been very successful , and we have all felt proud to contribute to that success , which I trust will still go on during my year of office , and the debt still go downwards . Let us all be animated with one spirit ; let unity be our motto ; let the difficulties we have to surmount this year be the summits of triumph from which we look down on them next year .
Bro . Judd proposed The Health of the Immediate Past Mast ; r , Bro . John Bailey , " referring to the great amount of time he had devoted to the duties of his office , and to the progress the lodge had made under his vigorous svay . Song—Bro . Kearns— " A fig for to-morrow . " Bro . Bailey appropriately expressed his thanks , and said he was glad to be able to leave the chair with the lodge in
so prosperous a condition , and to have had the pleasure of reducing the debt by £ 100 during his year of office . Recitation—Bro . Dr . Dabbs— "What Rubenstein did with the p iano " was given in splendid form , and was received with loud applause , the greater number of the brethren not having heard Bro . Dabbs before . Song—Bro . Airs— "The men of merry England . " The Worshipful Master , in proposing " The Masonic
Charities , " suggested that they should adopt the idea of Bro . Menzies , and that whatever sum they obtained that evening should be set aside as the nucleus of a special charitable fund of the lodge . He concluded by an expression of thanks to Messrs . Fardell and Dashwood and Bro Raynes for their generous action in connection with the mortgage on the lodge . [ The collection realised £ 3 7 s . gd ., which included 1 . 1 is .
forwarded by Brc . Salt . ] Bro . Menzies replied to thc loast , and explained his views on Charity questions at some length . He concluded with an expression of dissatisfaction with the treatment of local cases by the Provincial Charity Committee . Recitation—given by Bro . Inman— " Daniel VV .
Dishclout , " which provoked much laughter . " The Visitors , " who were cordially welcomed b y Bro . Newman , was the next toast , which was responded to by Bro . John McQueen , Enoch Lodge , who generously promised to start the new Charity Fund of Chine Lodge with a contribution of 10 guineas . Replies were also given by Bros . Airs , Medina Lodgc ;
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Inman , Doyles Lodge ; Brannon , Albany Lodge ; Lowe , E . Medina Lodge ; Linfield , Yarborough Lodge ; Dashwood , Ryde Lodge ; Connor , Sandown Lodge ; Caws , St . John Lodge ( S . C . ) j and Kearns , Metropolitan Lodge . Song—Bro . Riddick— " The Midshipmite . " Bro . F . Rayner , J . W ., said : a very pleasing duty devolves on me in having the next and important toast to propose , and which you , Worshipful Sir , have , in the
exercise of your discretion , intrusted to me . The pleasure I feel is greatly enhanced as it refers to a brother whom , I feel assured , is held in the highest possible esteem and regard by every one present , and I am confident it will meet with a hearty and cordial reception at your hands . All who were present in the lodge that afternoon must have been deeply impressed with the sublime and perfect rendering of the installation ceremony by Bro . F . Newman .
It is not the first time Bro . Newman has been the Installing Master in the Chine Lodge , but I am certain he felt it an especial pleasure and privilege in installing into the Worshipful Master ' s chair one for whom he entertained the greatest personal esteem and fraternal regard . At all times it is a pleasure and a treat to listen to Bro . Newman , in whatever ceremony he is engaged in , but that day he greatly excelled himself , leaving nothing wantinc to make
it as near perfection as possible , and proving himself the master hand . The many and valuable services he had rendered to their lodge met with a recognition that afternoon in the presentation so eloquently made by our Worshipful Master , but the intrinsic value of the present is small compared to the sacrifices Bro . Newman has so generously made to serve the interests of the Chine Lodge , but I am sure he accepts it as a token of sincere regard
and esteem . Our Worshipful Master will relieve him of many of the duties he has hitherto so willingly and cheerfully performed , but I believe , Worshipful Sir , it is your ambition to add a Royal Arch chapter to the lodge , and in doing that we should have to seek the guidance of Bro . Newman , and hope to receive his valuable assistance in that for many years to come . Brethren , I feel we can only regard Bro . Newman in the past as having been our
" guiding star ; " so shall we have in our present Worshipful Master a bright and shining light , and I look forward with pleasurable anticipation to a happy and prosperous future . I submit to you the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . Francis Newman , P . M ., P . P . G . S . W . " Recitation by Bro . Dabbs , "TheRevenge . " The W . M . begged Bro . Dabbs to give this , as his last was so well received . This stirring ballad was listened to with rapt
attention hy the brethren . When Bro . Newman rose to respond , he said I endeavoured to make up a few remarks in the interval , but I found myself compelled to listen to the splendid recitation given by our Bro , Dr . Dabbs , which rivetted my attention , preventing me from preparing one single sentence . I cannot however but thank Bro . Rayner for his kind remarks on myself , and for the way in which he spoke of
my services to Chine Lodge , which has always been a pleasure to me , and I hope I shall always remain a member of the lodge , which has more than appreciated whatever I have done for it , I shall always remember this day , not only for the presentation , which I am unable adequately to express my thanks for , but it marks the 30 th anniversary of my connection with Masonry . The R . W . Bro . the Hon . Gen . Somerset Calthorpe said he had been asked
by the VV . M . to propose the next toast , that of "Ihe Past Masters of Chine Lodge , " and he had great pleasure in giving effect to the kind wish expressed by him , because he wished to say how glad he was that his first acquaintance with their first Worshi pful Master , Bro . Dr . Dabbs , had been at a Masonicgathennglike this . He had often heard of Bro . Dr . Dabbs , but had never before had an opportunity of meeting him , and he could only
compliment the lodge on having had as a P . M . one whose geniality and urbanity it was impossible to resist , and thc contagion of one whose gaiety led him to almost wish he might have the privilege of being ill , to be cured by their worthy brother . Addressing the W . M ., he said , while , sir , I do not think from the excellent way you carried out your duties to-day , that you will require much assistance , yet there may be times when you may desire such . I feel
assured in such Past Masters as you have , all advice and help will be readil y and cheerfully given to meet any emergency that may arise during your year of office . From the candidates proposed to-day I feel certain it will prove to be a successful one , and a lodge which has done so much since its formation deserves success . It has given me much pleasure to be present today , and I shall remember my visit to Chine Lodge . Bro . Dr . Dabbs replied , and alluded to the old and early
struggles and doubts of the first founders in their endeavour to open a Masonic lodge at Shanklin . He spoke most gratefully of all help accorded them in the past , and agreed with a previous remark of the VV . M . as to the desirability of clearing off their debt , as a private debt could be no more real benefit than the National Debt or—for the matter of that—any other debt . He hoped that a repitition of a theatrical performance given last summer would soon add
to their exchequer a fresh accession of surplus , however small , in the same direction . Bro . Inman , P . M ., said the W . M . had entrusted the gavel to him to propose the next toast , " The Officers of Chine Lodge . " He remarked that however perfect thc W . M . might be , without the cordial co-operation and assistance of his officers , the duties of thc lodge could not be carried _ out in an efficient and satisfactory manner . In
the selection the VV . M . had made he was sure he would receive a ready and willing support from all his officers . Bro . W . Judd , S . VV ., said there is no doubt whatever that Chine Lodge is making rapid strides . The past year has been very successful , not only in having new members , but thc debt has been reduced £ 100 , and he quite believed thc VV . M . would endeavour to still further reduce it . He had reluctantly taken Senior Warden's officebut having done
, so , he hoped to come from Manchester four or live times during the year , and assist them all he could . He had thc interest of Chine Lod gc at heart , and he was proud to sec so many , and so distinguished visitors amongst them today , and he hoped they were as pleased with their visit as Chine Lodge was proud to see and welcome them .
Bro . I ' . Rayner , J . W „ said I thank you very much for the kind words you have spoken in proposing the toast of the officers , and you , worshipful sir and brethren , for thc cordial reception you have given it . It is a great pleasure to me in bemgplaced in the important position I occupy to-day 1 feel it a high honour to be the second officer of Chine Lodge , and a great privilege of serving in that office , under such a