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Article Mark Masonry. ← Page 2 of 2 Article FREEMASONRY IN ENGLAND. Page 1 of 1 Article FREEMASONRY IN ENGLAND. Page 1 of 1 Article ROYAL MASONIC BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. Page 1 of 1
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Mark Masonry.
by Bro . Oliver , to which the brethren did ample justice , anil the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were proposed and responded to . BIRKENHEAD . —Joppa Lodge ( No . 11 ) . — The annual gathering of the members of this lodge of Mark Masters was held at the Masonic Hall , Argylestreet , on Tuesday , the 4 th inst . There was an excellent
fathering , amongst the chiefs present being Bros . John Pemberton , P . P . G . j . D ., W . M ., in the chair ; Hugh Williams , S . W . ( W . M . elect ) ; J . W . Burgess , J . W . ; C Dutton . M . O . ; Thomas , J . O . ; Bennett , S . D . ; Bradshaw , J . D . ; J . P . Piatt , Treas . ; Pearson , Sec . ; and others . The list of visitors included Bros . J . Hayes , W . M . of West Lancashire Lodec ; E . Friend , P . P . J . G . W . ; J . Salmon , P . M .,
P . G . I . G . of England ; Bolton , W . M . Egerton Mark Lodge ; D . Fra « cr , W . M . Earl of Chester Lodge ; and others . The W . M ., Bro . Pemberton , installed Bro . Hugh Williams , P . P . J . D ., in a very impressive manner ( who was unanimousl y elected W . M . ) , assisted by Bro . Stevenson , P . G . T . The W . M . then appointed the following officers ' —Bros . J . W . Burgess , P . P . I . G ., as S . W . ; Dutton , J . W . ; J . P . Piatt , P . G . D . England , was re-elected Treasurer for the
eighteenth time ; Pearson , re-appointed Sec . ; Gray , Reg . ; Thomas , M . O . ; Bcnnctr , S . O . ; J . H . Bradshaw , J . O . ; Gardner , S . D . ; Thorburn , J . D . ; Robertson , I . G . ; and Holtaway , Tyler ( re-elected ) . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented by Bro . Morgan . P . P . G . S . B ., to Bro . Pemberton on his retirement . The brethren afterwards banqueted , and during the evening the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given .
LIVERPOOL . —West Lancashire Lodge ( No . 6 . : ) . — The brethren of the above lodge met at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , on Wednesday , the 6 th inst ., at 6 . 30 p . m ., to assist at the installation of the W . M . elect Bro . A . Wylie , J . W . The lodge was opened by Bro . R . H . Evans , W . M ., assisted by the following brethren : Bros . A . Wylie , J . W . as S . W . ; W . J . Thompson , M . O .,
as | . W . ; W . Corbett , P . M .. as M . O . ; R . Reader , Sec , as S . O . ; H . W . Parry , J . O . ; John Hayes , P . M ., P . G . J . D . ; G . R . Goepel , 'Treas ., P . G . M . O . ; W . C . Erwin , S . D . ; J . Jenaway , I . G . ; M . Howarth . S .: W . H . Ball , Tyler . There were also present Bros . T . Clark P . M ., P . P . G . M . O . L . ; John Pye * D . Davies , E . Humphries , J . S . Russell , R . Young , and W . Henderson . The visitors
were Bros . S . Mattison , P . P . G . M . O . Cheshire ; John Pemberton , P . M . No . 11 and P . P . G . J . D . Cheshire ; George Morgan , P . M . No . 11 , P . P . G . D . C . Cheshire ; Hugh Williams , W . M . No . 11 . The following brethren were advanced to the Honourable Degree , Christopher Wadsworth , Luke Bramwell . Jas . Sampson , and Divid Cangley , by Hro . Evans , W . M , assisted by Bro . J . Hayes , P . M . The
W . M ., Bro . Evans , having vacated the chair , it was occipied hy Hro . J . Hayes , P . M ., as Installing Master . The W . M . cltct , Bro . A . Wylie , was presented by Bros . R . H . Evans , W . M ., and G . R . Goepel , P . M ., Treas ., P . G . M . O ., and installed according to ancient custom . The W . M ., Bro . A . Wylie , then proceeded to invest his officers for the ensi . iri " v-ir . Their names are Bros . R . Reader , S . W .
W . J . Thompson , J . W . ; W . Corbett , M . C ; H . W . Parry , S . O . ; VV . C Erwin , J . O . ; G . R . Goepel , P . M ., 'Tr n- : J . Jenaway , Reg . M . ; M . Howarth , Sec ; J . S . Russell , S . D . ; E . Humphries , J . D . ; Dr . A . Samuels , I . G . ; D . Davies , Chap . ; W . J . Henderson , C . Wadsworth , and D . v ., ui ;_> ley , Stewards . Bro . Evans , I . P . M ., in proposing that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to
Iiro . Goepel , Treas ., P . M ., P . G . M . O ., said that he could not too highly esteem Bro " . Goepel , for his many excellent qualities ; his courtesy and kindness were beyond all praise . I le had worked long anil arduously for the lodge , antl all the brethren knew that but for him they would not have seen it in such a flourishing condition as it was that day . The vote of thanks was seconded by Bro . J . Hayes ,
P . M ., P . G . S . D ., in a few appropriate Words , and carried unanimously . Bro . Goepel , Treasurer , thanked the brethren for their vote of thanks , and said that during the many years he had been the Treasurer ofthe lodge he had seen it pass through many vicissitudes . He had seen it under three constitutions , but now he hoped that it had safely w athered the stormy sea of difficulties , pecuniary
and others , and had entered the safe harbour of success . Bro . Gnepel , "Treasurer , then proposed that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to Bro . Evans , I . P . M ; , for so ably presiding over the lodge during his year of office , and also a vote of thanks to Bro . J . Hayes , P . M ., for the very efficient manner in which he had given the installing ceremony . The proposition was seconded by
Bro . Wylie , W . M ., and carried unanimously . Bros . Evan ' s , I . P . M ., and J . Hayes , P . M ., responded in suitable terms . A brother vvas proposed for advancement . " Hearty good wisher , " were given by the visitors , and the lodge was then closed in p : ace and harmony . The brethren then sat down to a banquet , provided by Bro . Chaplin , House Steward , and the remainder of the evening was spent in a very agreeable manner .
Freemasonry In England.
FREEMASONRY IN ENGLAND .
BY BHO . WILLIAM J AMES HL ' GHAN . Freemasonry in England differs in some respects from any other country , and though mostly these differences are to the advantage of the Craft in the " old country , "
occasionally a few of the departures witnessed under other Grand Lodges might bc adopted with like success by the Body which , directly or indirectly , is the parent of all modem Grand Lodges in the world . From the operative
companies and societies of " ye ancient tymes " came the old lodges wnich independently were working early last century in England . A few of these united and formed the premier Grand Lodge of England ( and of the world )
Freemasonry In England.
in 1716-17 . The success attending this organisation led to the members of the famous lodge at York starting a " Grand Lodge of all England ( at York ) , and all went on " merry as a wedding feast" until about 1740-50 , when , after various alterations and altercations , the secession was an accomplished fact , and a third Grand Lodge vvas formed " according to the old Institution ? , " with their Grand
East at London , about 1750-1 . Of these three bodies , No . 1 and No . 3 went on progressing rapidly—as rivals—until December , 1813 , when they united . No . 2 died out about 1800 , but before then issued several warrants for lodges to assemble in England , and constituted a Grand Lodge of England south of the Trent , under the wing of the Antiquity Lodge ; London ( during its temporary secession ) ;
but before the present century the Grand Lodge , its offspring Grand Lodge , and all its lodges had expired , and not a real representative of the York Grand Lodge was left anywhere . In fact , York Masonry originated in that city , and under No . 2 Grand Lodge ceased to exist after the latter part of last century . No . 1 issued warrants for Provincial Grand Lodges and lodges in America from
1730 , but No . 3 having commenced a similar work about 1760 , and recognised four decrees instead of the constitutional three , the latter became the more popular , and most Provincial Grand Lodges in the United States came under its sway , added to which , No . 3 , though the more modern , became known as tbe ' Ancients , " or " Ancient York Masons , " and by misrepresentation secured a firm footing on
American soil . Hence the title " Ancient York Masons " ( A . Y . M . ) , which is quite a misnomer , as the York Grand Lodge No . 2 only issued warrants for England , all warrants from that country for America , by No . 3 , or No . 1 , being dated from London , not York . Under the Duke of Sussex and the Duke of Kent ( Masonically and naturally brothers ) , Grand Masters of Nos . 1 and 3 respectively , the
two rival bodies united in December , 1813 , and formed the " United Grand Lodge of England , " London , since which period its title has been well maintained . The " Articles of Union " provided for the " Fourth Degree " or " Royal Arch " being recognised , as before then No _ 1 only authoritatively worked the three Cralt Degrees , whereas No . 3 acknowledged the Royal Arch . Hence in
England the recognised Degrees are E . A ., F . C , M . M ., and R . A ., all the rest being virtually permitted , but not on any plea to be worked in an open Craft ( or R . A . ) Lodge . The Grand Master is elected annually by the Grand Officers ( present and past ) , Masters , Past Masters , and present Wardens , who personally attend the quarterly communication in March , No proxy voting is allowed ,
and , if R . A . Masons , the Grand Master , the Pro Grand Master , Deputy Grand Master , Grand Treasurer , Grand Registrar , and Grand Secretary become in like manner the holders ol similar offices in the Grand Chapter of the R . A . There are about 1650 active lodges , and over 300 R . A . chapters , and the government is very « imilar under each Body , the business being conducted most ably by the
same staff and apartments in Freemasons' Hall , I-ondon . No " mileage" is paid to tbe representatives , and such hard worked officers as the Grand Treasurer , Grand Registrar , the two Presidents of the Board of General Purposes and of Benevolence , and the Grand Director of Ceremonies , not only give their valuable services freely but pay large " Fees of Honour" on accepting office , the revenue of the
two Bodies being obtained from " Fees of Honour , " and Fees for warrants , certificates , registration , annual dues , & c . These payments are all required by the Constitution , each member being obliged through his lodge to procure ei certificate from the Grand Lodge . The expenses are light considering the magnitude of the two societies , and large sums are devoted to the relief of necessitous brethren , ot
to their wives and families after due scrutiny . 1 he business is so well conducted by the Boards , & c , that two or three hours a quarter transacts all tbe work of the Grand Lodge at their communications . The great Masonic Charities are supported by voluntary donations from the Craft and the Grand Bodies , yielding usually about £ 40 , 000 (§ 200 , 000 ) annually , and support about 400 boys and girls ,
and about as many aged freemasons and widows . In the Provinces ( or counties over which rule the Provincial Grand Masters , appointed ud vitam . by the M . W . G . M . ) there are also similar charitable organisations , only minus the buildings , by -which about the same number are supported or educated , and each Provincial Grand Lodge is within its jurisdiction in effect a Grand Lodge , and has
similar officers , only all subservient to the M . W . G . M ., and have to report their principal work every year to the Grand Secretary . The "unrecognised degrees" ( as they are called ) comprise the Mark Grand Lodge , which takes care chiefly of the Mark Degrees , which has 240 active lodges ; the Royal Arch Chapters only working the Royal Arch , not ( as in the United States , Scotland , & c ., ) the intermediate
Degrees . The Grand Priory of the Knights Templar looks after the Templar and Malta Degrees ; the Grand Conclave of the Red Cross of Rome and Constantine , that particular degree ]; and the Supreme Council , the Fourth to the Thirtythird Degree . The Mark Grand Lodge has its offices at 2 , Red Lion square , the Knights Templar ih Chancery-lane , and the " Ancient and Accepted Rite " at 33 , Golden square ,
allin the City'of London . The latter Body has a magnificent library at its Gtand East , valued at 2000 guineas ( $ 10 , 000 ; , and as respects influence and management , it stands certainly as the accepted chief of the " High Degrees . " The Grand Master , Pro Grand Master , Deputy Grand Master , and many Provincial Grand Masters , belong to one or more of these Bodies , for though not actually or
officially recognised , they are virtually so . The Grand Lodge of England is unseclarian ; any gentleman , otherwise eligible , is accepted irrespective of his colour , country , or creed , provided he believes in the Great Architect of the Universe , and practises the sacred duties of morality , and over all rules the Prince of Wales as Grand Master , the Heir apparent to the Throne . —Masonic Review , Cincinnati .
Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.
ROYAL MASONIC BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION .
The monthly meeting of the Committee of this Institution was held on Wednesday at Freemasons' Hall . Col Creaton , Grand Treasurer , presided . There were also present Bros . Richard H . Giraud , Dr . Jabez Hogg , Col . Somerville Burney , F . Adlard , John Newton , W . Clarice
E . Bowyer , Capt . Philips , A . H . Tattershall , J . M . Case , J . A . Farnfield , Griffiths Smith , S . Rawson , James Brett , C G . Dilley , William Stephens , John G . Stevens , John H . Leggott , J . J . Barnes , C . F . Hogard , C . Atkins , James Terry ( Sec ) , and H . Massey ( Freemason ) . Bro . Terry informed the Committee that the day fixed by the Prince of Wales for the next festival of this
Institution happened to be on Ash Wednesday . Immediately he became aware of that fact he wrote to the Earl of Zetland , who was to preside , to know whether it would make any difference to his lordship . The noble earl replied that he would prefer to have it on the 9 th of February . He ( Bro . Terry ) then wrote to the Earl of Carnarvon , requesting his lordship to lay this letter before the Prince of Wales
and he had no doubt that his Royal Highness would give his assent to the alteration of the day . Bro . Terry then announced that since the last meeting of the Committee a West Yorkshire male annuitant had died , and also a female annuitant , a resident in the Institution at Croydon . Bro . Thomas White , acanddidate placed on the list at last meeting , had likewise died .
A letter from Bro . Recknell , thanking the Committee lor the increase made in his salary , was read , and the Chairman was authorised to sign cheques foi annuities , salaries , and wages . The application of the widow of the late Bro . John Dawson for half her late husband's annuity was granted . Five male candidates and four widows were placed on the list for the election in May next .
With respect to the petition of one applicant , deferred at last meeting , Bro . Terry said he had received a communication from Bro . Macrae Moir , the Secretary to the Scottish Corporation , saying that the candidate was a pensioner on his fund . As he was in receipt of £ 40 a year he was ineligible for the Masonic Benevolent Institution .
Bro . J . G . Stevens said he was very sorry that the Yarborough Lodge had recommended the case . At the last meeting of that lodge he had explained the case , and the brethren deliberately said they would not recommend it , Notwithstanding that the brother was ineligible , having £ 40 a year , he had the effrontery again to come before them for assistance .
Bro . Leggott , before the Committee adjaurned , said he wished to bring a subject before the brethren . He went down to the Asylum at Croydon on Tuesday and examined it . He found the building in good condition , with plenty of good air , well ventilated and well lighted ; but he considered that the buildings were quite inadequate to the demands of the Institution . When he knew that as
Freemasons the Craft extended over the face of the whole earth , he felt that the building was small . The Board room vvas not half large cnongh , the library was nothing more than a cupboard , though the inmates of the Asylum thought it quite sufficient . He believed a fund might bc raised by which there could be added an infirmary and a chapel , as well as a very large board room . There
was a large piece of land adjoining . which he thought could be obtained . Close by it would be found there were numerous small buildings , mere rabbit hutches , being erected , which were no credit to such a respectable Institution . The approaches to the Asylum were also bad . He thought he could see a plan by which money might be raised to build another wing in the Tudor style , as
well as an infirmary , a chapel , and a large board room . The brethren must understand that this was only a suggestion , but everything were be done by perseverance , and if a Committee was formed to to go fairly into the matter and study it , he thought they might succeed in getting a wing built on one side for an infirmary , which woultl be detached , and another for the chapel and board
room over it . Then there might be an additional wing on the other side in the course of time—not perhaps at once , but in the course of ten years . By this means the building would be rendered worthy of the great body of Freemasons ; at present he thought it was quite inadequate . He found the inmates were very cleanly , and the building was in a very good state of repair , and did great credit to
the Committee who had the management of it . He called on the inmates , who were not prepared for his visit , and found them cleaning up their residences and polishing the stoves , & c . If an appeal was set on foot he thought it would be responded to all over England . If the site he had referred to was lost the building would not maintain its character , and the object of the founders would not be
realised , because the ground would be sold and small tenements built on it . The matter was worthy of consideration , and , if necessary , he would give notice of a motion for carrying out his proposition . The Chairman said that with regard to the land , he did
not thmk there was any chance of the Institution getting it , and with respect to enlarging the building , it was very rarely that the present building was full . In answer to Br <" . Leggott , Bro . Terry said there were thirty-three inmates at the present time , and only five times since the Asylum had been erected had it been quite
full . The Chairman said that , of course , if notice of motion vvas given the whole subject would be in order , and it could be discussed at a future time . Bro . Leggott said he would send to Bro . Terry a proper notice of motion , and tnen ask the Committee to discuss it . A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings .
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Mark Masonry.
by Bro . Oliver , to which the brethren did ample justice , anil the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were proposed and responded to . BIRKENHEAD . —Joppa Lodge ( No . 11 ) . — The annual gathering of the members of this lodge of Mark Masters was held at the Masonic Hall , Argylestreet , on Tuesday , the 4 th inst . There was an excellent
fathering , amongst the chiefs present being Bros . John Pemberton , P . P . G . j . D ., W . M ., in the chair ; Hugh Williams , S . W . ( W . M . elect ) ; J . W . Burgess , J . W . ; C Dutton . M . O . ; Thomas , J . O . ; Bennett , S . D . ; Bradshaw , J . D . ; J . P . Piatt , Treas . ; Pearson , Sec . ; and others . The list of visitors included Bros . J . Hayes , W . M . of West Lancashire Lodec ; E . Friend , P . P . J . G . W . ; J . Salmon , P . M .,
P . G . I . G . of England ; Bolton , W . M . Egerton Mark Lodge ; D . Fra « cr , W . M . Earl of Chester Lodge ; and others . The W . M ., Bro . Pemberton , installed Bro . Hugh Williams , P . P . J . D ., in a very impressive manner ( who was unanimousl y elected W . M . ) , assisted by Bro . Stevenson , P . G . T . The W . M . then appointed the following officers ' —Bros . J . W . Burgess , P . P . I . G ., as S . W . ; Dutton , J . W . ; J . P . Piatt , P . G . D . England , was re-elected Treasurer for the
eighteenth time ; Pearson , re-appointed Sec . ; Gray , Reg . ; Thomas , M . O . ; Bcnnctr , S . O . ; J . H . Bradshaw , J . O . ; Gardner , S . D . ; Thorburn , J . D . ; Robertson , I . G . ; and Holtaway , Tyler ( re-elected ) . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented by Bro . Morgan . P . P . G . S . B ., to Bro . Pemberton on his retirement . The brethren afterwards banqueted , and during the evening the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given .
LIVERPOOL . —West Lancashire Lodge ( No . 6 . : ) . — The brethren of the above lodge met at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , on Wednesday , the 6 th inst ., at 6 . 30 p . m ., to assist at the installation of the W . M . elect Bro . A . Wylie , J . W . The lodge was opened by Bro . R . H . Evans , W . M ., assisted by the following brethren : Bros . A . Wylie , J . W . as S . W . ; W . J . Thompson , M . O .,
as | . W . ; W . Corbett , P . M .. as M . O . ; R . Reader , Sec , as S . O . ; H . W . Parry , J . O . ; John Hayes , P . M ., P . G . J . D . ; G . R . Goepel , 'Treas ., P . G . M . O . ; W . C . Erwin , S . D . ; J . Jenaway , I . G . ; M . Howarth . S .: W . H . Ball , Tyler . There were also present Bros . T . Clark P . M ., P . P . G . M . O . L . ; John Pye * D . Davies , E . Humphries , J . S . Russell , R . Young , and W . Henderson . The visitors
were Bros . S . Mattison , P . P . G . M . O . Cheshire ; John Pemberton , P . M . No . 11 and P . P . G . J . D . Cheshire ; George Morgan , P . M . No . 11 , P . P . G . D . C . Cheshire ; Hugh Williams , W . M . No . 11 . The following brethren were advanced to the Honourable Degree , Christopher Wadsworth , Luke Bramwell . Jas . Sampson , and Divid Cangley , by Hro . Evans , W . M , assisted by Bro . J . Hayes , P . M . The
W . M ., Bro . Evans , having vacated the chair , it was occipied hy Hro . J . Hayes , P . M ., as Installing Master . The W . M . cltct , Bro . A . Wylie , was presented by Bros . R . H . Evans , W . M ., and G . R . Goepel , P . M ., Treas ., P . G . M . O ., and installed according to ancient custom . The W . M ., Bro . A . Wylie , then proceeded to invest his officers for the ensi . iri " v-ir . Their names are Bros . R . Reader , S . W .
W . J . Thompson , J . W . ; W . Corbett , M . C ; H . W . Parry , S . O . ; VV . C Erwin , J . O . ; G . R . Goepel , P . M ., 'Tr n- : J . Jenaway , Reg . M . ; M . Howarth , Sec ; J . S . Russell , S . D . ; E . Humphries , J . D . ; Dr . A . Samuels , I . G . ; D . Davies , Chap . ; W . J . Henderson , C . Wadsworth , and D . v ., ui ;_> ley , Stewards . Bro . Evans , I . P . M ., in proposing that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to
Iiro . Goepel , Treas ., P . M ., P . G . M . O ., said that he could not too highly esteem Bro " . Goepel , for his many excellent qualities ; his courtesy and kindness were beyond all praise . I le had worked long anil arduously for the lodge , antl all the brethren knew that but for him they would not have seen it in such a flourishing condition as it was that day . The vote of thanks was seconded by Bro . J . Hayes ,
P . M ., P . G . S . D ., in a few appropriate Words , and carried unanimously . Bro . Goepel , Treasurer , thanked the brethren for their vote of thanks , and said that during the many years he had been the Treasurer ofthe lodge he had seen it pass through many vicissitudes . He had seen it under three constitutions , but now he hoped that it had safely w athered the stormy sea of difficulties , pecuniary
and others , and had entered the safe harbour of success . Bro . Gnepel , "Treasurer , then proposed that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to Bro . Evans , I . P . M ; , for so ably presiding over the lodge during his year of office , and also a vote of thanks to Bro . J . Hayes , P . M ., for the very efficient manner in which he had given the installing ceremony . The proposition was seconded by
Bro . Wylie , W . M ., and carried unanimously . Bros . Evan ' s , I . P . M ., and J . Hayes , P . M ., responded in suitable terms . A brother vvas proposed for advancement . " Hearty good wisher , " were given by the visitors , and the lodge was then closed in p : ace and harmony . The brethren then sat down to a banquet , provided by Bro . Chaplin , House Steward , and the remainder of the evening was spent in a very agreeable manner .
Freemasonry In England.
FREEMASONRY IN ENGLAND .
BY BHO . WILLIAM J AMES HL ' GHAN . Freemasonry in England differs in some respects from any other country , and though mostly these differences are to the advantage of the Craft in the " old country , "
occasionally a few of the departures witnessed under other Grand Lodges might bc adopted with like success by the Body which , directly or indirectly , is the parent of all modem Grand Lodges in the world . From the operative
companies and societies of " ye ancient tymes " came the old lodges wnich independently were working early last century in England . A few of these united and formed the premier Grand Lodge of England ( and of the world )
Freemasonry In England.
in 1716-17 . The success attending this organisation led to the members of the famous lodge at York starting a " Grand Lodge of all England ( at York ) , and all went on " merry as a wedding feast" until about 1740-50 , when , after various alterations and altercations , the secession was an accomplished fact , and a third Grand Lodge vvas formed " according to the old Institution ? , " with their Grand
East at London , about 1750-1 . Of these three bodies , No . 1 and No . 3 went on progressing rapidly—as rivals—until December , 1813 , when they united . No . 2 died out about 1800 , but before then issued several warrants for lodges to assemble in England , and constituted a Grand Lodge of England south of the Trent , under the wing of the Antiquity Lodge ; London ( during its temporary secession ) ;
but before the present century the Grand Lodge , its offspring Grand Lodge , and all its lodges had expired , and not a real representative of the York Grand Lodge was left anywhere . In fact , York Masonry originated in that city , and under No . 2 Grand Lodge ceased to exist after the latter part of last century . No . 1 issued warrants for Provincial Grand Lodges and lodges in America from
1730 , but No . 3 having commenced a similar work about 1760 , and recognised four decrees instead of the constitutional three , the latter became the more popular , and most Provincial Grand Lodges in the United States came under its sway , added to which , No . 3 , though the more modern , became known as tbe ' Ancients , " or " Ancient York Masons , " and by misrepresentation secured a firm footing on
American soil . Hence the title " Ancient York Masons " ( A . Y . M . ) , which is quite a misnomer , as the York Grand Lodge No . 2 only issued warrants for England , all warrants from that country for America , by No . 3 , or No . 1 , being dated from London , not York . Under the Duke of Sussex and the Duke of Kent ( Masonically and naturally brothers ) , Grand Masters of Nos . 1 and 3 respectively , the
two rival bodies united in December , 1813 , and formed the " United Grand Lodge of England , " London , since which period its title has been well maintained . The " Articles of Union " provided for the " Fourth Degree " or " Royal Arch " being recognised , as before then No _ 1 only authoritatively worked the three Cralt Degrees , whereas No . 3 acknowledged the Royal Arch . Hence in
England the recognised Degrees are E . A ., F . C , M . M ., and R . A ., all the rest being virtually permitted , but not on any plea to be worked in an open Craft ( or R . A . ) Lodge . The Grand Master is elected annually by the Grand Officers ( present and past ) , Masters , Past Masters , and present Wardens , who personally attend the quarterly communication in March , No proxy voting is allowed ,
and , if R . A . Masons , the Grand Master , the Pro Grand Master , Deputy Grand Master , Grand Treasurer , Grand Registrar , and Grand Secretary become in like manner the holders ol similar offices in the Grand Chapter of the R . A . There are about 1650 active lodges , and over 300 R . A . chapters , and the government is very « imilar under each Body , the business being conducted most ably by the
same staff and apartments in Freemasons' Hall , I-ondon . No " mileage" is paid to tbe representatives , and such hard worked officers as the Grand Treasurer , Grand Registrar , the two Presidents of the Board of General Purposes and of Benevolence , and the Grand Director of Ceremonies , not only give their valuable services freely but pay large " Fees of Honour" on accepting office , the revenue of the
two Bodies being obtained from " Fees of Honour , " and Fees for warrants , certificates , registration , annual dues , & c . These payments are all required by the Constitution , each member being obliged through his lodge to procure ei certificate from the Grand Lodge . The expenses are light considering the magnitude of the two societies , and large sums are devoted to the relief of necessitous brethren , ot
to their wives and families after due scrutiny . 1 he business is so well conducted by the Boards , & c , that two or three hours a quarter transacts all tbe work of the Grand Lodge at their communications . The great Masonic Charities are supported by voluntary donations from the Craft and the Grand Bodies , yielding usually about £ 40 , 000 (§ 200 , 000 ) annually , and support about 400 boys and girls ,
and about as many aged freemasons and widows . In the Provinces ( or counties over which rule the Provincial Grand Masters , appointed ud vitam . by the M . W . G . M . ) there are also similar charitable organisations , only minus the buildings , by -which about the same number are supported or educated , and each Provincial Grand Lodge is within its jurisdiction in effect a Grand Lodge , and has
similar officers , only all subservient to the M . W . G . M ., and have to report their principal work every year to the Grand Secretary . The "unrecognised degrees" ( as they are called ) comprise the Mark Grand Lodge , which takes care chiefly of the Mark Degrees , which has 240 active lodges ; the Royal Arch Chapters only working the Royal Arch , not ( as in the United States , Scotland , & c ., ) the intermediate
Degrees . The Grand Priory of the Knights Templar looks after the Templar and Malta Degrees ; the Grand Conclave of the Red Cross of Rome and Constantine , that particular degree ]; and the Supreme Council , the Fourth to the Thirtythird Degree . The Mark Grand Lodge has its offices at 2 , Red Lion square , the Knights Templar ih Chancery-lane , and the " Ancient and Accepted Rite " at 33 , Golden square ,
allin the City'of London . The latter Body has a magnificent library at its Gtand East , valued at 2000 guineas ( $ 10 , 000 ; , and as respects influence and management , it stands certainly as the accepted chief of the " High Degrees . " The Grand Master , Pro Grand Master , Deputy Grand Master , and many Provincial Grand Masters , belong to one or more of these Bodies , for though not actually or
officially recognised , they are virtually so . The Grand Lodge of England is unseclarian ; any gentleman , otherwise eligible , is accepted irrespective of his colour , country , or creed , provided he believes in the Great Architect of the Universe , and practises the sacred duties of morality , and over all rules the Prince of Wales as Grand Master , the Heir apparent to the Throne . —Masonic Review , Cincinnati .
Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.
ROYAL MASONIC BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION .
The monthly meeting of the Committee of this Institution was held on Wednesday at Freemasons' Hall . Col Creaton , Grand Treasurer , presided . There were also present Bros . Richard H . Giraud , Dr . Jabez Hogg , Col . Somerville Burney , F . Adlard , John Newton , W . Clarice
E . Bowyer , Capt . Philips , A . H . Tattershall , J . M . Case , J . A . Farnfield , Griffiths Smith , S . Rawson , James Brett , C G . Dilley , William Stephens , John G . Stevens , John H . Leggott , J . J . Barnes , C . F . Hogard , C . Atkins , James Terry ( Sec ) , and H . Massey ( Freemason ) . Bro . Terry informed the Committee that the day fixed by the Prince of Wales for the next festival of this
Institution happened to be on Ash Wednesday . Immediately he became aware of that fact he wrote to the Earl of Zetland , who was to preside , to know whether it would make any difference to his lordship . The noble earl replied that he would prefer to have it on the 9 th of February . He ( Bro . Terry ) then wrote to the Earl of Carnarvon , requesting his lordship to lay this letter before the Prince of Wales
and he had no doubt that his Royal Highness would give his assent to the alteration of the day . Bro . Terry then announced that since the last meeting of the Committee a West Yorkshire male annuitant had died , and also a female annuitant , a resident in the Institution at Croydon . Bro . Thomas White , acanddidate placed on the list at last meeting , had likewise died .
A letter from Bro . Recknell , thanking the Committee lor the increase made in his salary , was read , and the Chairman was authorised to sign cheques foi annuities , salaries , and wages . The application of the widow of the late Bro . John Dawson for half her late husband's annuity was granted . Five male candidates and four widows were placed on the list for the election in May next .
With respect to the petition of one applicant , deferred at last meeting , Bro . Terry said he had received a communication from Bro . Macrae Moir , the Secretary to the Scottish Corporation , saying that the candidate was a pensioner on his fund . As he was in receipt of £ 40 a year he was ineligible for the Masonic Benevolent Institution .
Bro . J . G . Stevens said he was very sorry that the Yarborough Lodge had recommended the case . At the last meeting of that lodge he had explained the case , and the brethren deliberately said they would not recommend it , Notwithstanding that the brother was ineligible , having £ 40 a year , he had the effrontery again to come before them for assistance .
Bro . Leggott , before the Committee adjaurned , said he wished to bring a subject before the brethren . He went down to the Asylum at Croydon on Tuesday and examined it . He found the building in good condition , with plenty of good air , well ventilated and well lighted ; but he considered that the buildings were quite inadequate to the demands of the Institution . When he knew that as
Freemasons the Craft extended over the face of the whole earth , he felt that the building was small . The Board room vvas not half large cnongh , the library was nothing more than a cupboard , though the inmates of the Asylum thought it quite sufficient . He believed a fund might bc raised by which there could be added an infirmary and a chapel , as well as a very large board room . There
was a large piece of land adjoining . which he thought could be obtained . Close by it would be found there were numerous small buildings , mere rabbit hutches , being erected , which were no credit to such a respectable Institution . The approaches to the Asylum were also bad . He thought he could see a plan by which money might be raised to build another wing in the Tudor style , as
well as an infirmary , a chapel , and a large board room . The brethren must understand that this was only a suggestion , but everything were be done by perseverance , and if a Committee was formed to to go fairly into the matter and study it , he thought they might succeed in getting a wing built on one side for an infirmary , which woultl be detached , and another for the chapel and board
room over it . Then there might be an additional wing on the other side in the course of time—not perhaps at once , but in the course of ten years . By this means the building would be rendered worthy of the great body of Freemasons ; at present he thought it was quite inadequate . He found the inmates were very cleanly , and the building was in a very good state of repair , and did great credit to
the Committee who had the management of it . He called on the inmates , who were not prepared for his visit , and found them cleaning up their residences and polishing the stoves , & c . If an appeal was set on foot he thought it would be responded to all over England . If the site he had referred to was lost the building would not maintain its character , and the object of the founders would not be
realised , because the ground would be sold and small tenements built on it . The matter was worthy of consideration , and , if necessary , he would give notice of a motion for carrying out his proposition . The Chairman said that with regard to the land , he did
not thmk there was any chance of the Institution getting it , and with respect to enlarging the building , it was very rarely that the present building was full . In answer to Br <" . Leggott , Bro . Terry said there were thirty-three inmates at the present time , and only five times since the Asylum had been erected had it been quite
full . The Chairman said that , of course , if notice of motion vvas given the whole subject would be in order , and it could be discussed at a future time . Bro . Leggott said he would send to Bro . Terry a proper notice of motion , and tnen ask the Committee to discuss it . A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings .