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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
»* ooil dinner was not thc least of the enjoyments of thc evening , though he confes cd be was sorry to hear Bio . Simpson allude so pointedly to it . ( Laughter ) . Certainly it bad proved so , and long mi g ht the brethren find similar enjoyment . Long too , mig ht Bro . Hogg have health to participate in it . Bro . Hogg had mentioned in proposing tbe health of the M . W . G . M . that they all
wished H . R . H . might long reign over them . lie , ( Bro .-Hervey ) wished the same good wish for Bvo . Hogg , and that all thc brethren present might live , to congratulate him upon the position which he had taken in the lodge , ( great cheering . ) The W . M . in acknowledging the toast said lie conld scarcely find words to express his feelings for thc kind and generous way in which Bro . 1 Iervey had
proposed this toast ; but on more than one occasion he had experienced the same kindness and generosity not only on the part of Bro . 1 Iervey , but on the part of thc brethren of the lodge for six years , from the birth of thc lodge , at which he assisted . I le had assisted at a great many births in his early days , ( laughter ) but he did not know that he had ever assisted at one which gave him a greater degree
of pride and satisfaction than thc birth of the Hervey Lodge . I le was very much impressed with thc impressive way that Bro . Hervey consecrated the lodge , and at that time be thought , but he did not then expect that he would have any more to do with assisting thc bantling . However , it was so to be , and he was glad he had been dissappointcd , for he had now attained a position which he could
not relrain from saying , was a very distinguished position . He owed it to the kindness of the brethren , and to their generous feeling . 1 le felt that he should have to ask the brethren to act with indulgence towards him during his Mastership , for although Bro . Hervey had said so much in his favour , he still felt very rusty . He was an old Mason ; but perhaps in thc presence of Bro . Hervey he ought
not to say so , because he learned Masonry in in Bro Hervey ' s Lodge of Emulation many years ago . The present was his one-and-twentieth year in Masonry , and soon after joining the Order he became acquainted with his distinguished brother I Iervey . From that time he had always felt the utmost regard and affection for him , ( hear hear . ) If the brethren observed any shortcomings
in him ( Bro . Hogg ) , during his year of office , he hoped the brethren would excuse them , for his head would be in his work , and all his endeavours wonlil be to promote the good of Freemasonry in general , and of the Hervey Lodge in particular . ( Cliejrs . ) Before sitting down he had much p leasure in proposing as a toast , the health of the Godlather of the lodge , Bro . I Iervey , and he wished it had
fallen to better hands to do so . I le asked the brethren to drink " Long Life , I lealth , and Happiness " to him . The lodge had passed , as Bro . Hervey had told them , through some phases of difficulty and danger , but they had been surmounted , and he trusted the brethren would all live to see what Bro . I Iervey had that night predicted , great prosperity for the lodge , aud thc existence of peace avid
harmony for many years to come . ( Hear , hear . ) Bro . 11-. ivey thought there was a conspiracy against thc comfort of the brethren seated at the W . M . ' s end of the table , otherwise the W . M . would not have asked him to inflict another speech on them . But it should he but a short one . If the Lodge had not had good men at its head it would not have been
in its present position . There were two brethren who had followed its Masters , Bro . King , senr . and Bro . King , junr ., who had done their best for the Lodge's welfare ( I lear , hear ) , and the Lodge ought to be very grateful to them . ( Hear , hear . ) To go to another subject he would advert for a moment to what was now going on in the Craft at large , and from that they would find that this
Lodge during its brief existence had lived in the reign of three Grand Masteas , lt was consecrated during Lord Zetland ' s Grand Mastership , who granted the warrant ; it had passed through the Grand Mastership eif thc Marquess of Ripon , and it was now under the Grand Mastership of the Prince of Wales . On that ilay fortnight one of the most striking ceremonies which had ever taken
place in Masonry either in this country or elsewhere would be performed , and it was lo be hoped that considering the exertions which were being made by the brethren who had undertaken the management of the arrangements on that occasion , it would be carried out with success . Of course a great deal of detail had to bc considered , much more than met the eye , or would ever meet the eye , of
any brother Mason . There was a large mass of brethren to be introduced into a building * for every one of whom there was a place under their respective banners . They would find that they had not to light for a seat , and that they bad not when they g it into the building lo wander far and wide of the point to which they wished to attain . It was to be
hoped that the result of the endeavours which were being made at the present moment would obviate all difficulties when the brethren went to the building , that they would find that various blocks which were parcelled out for their accommodation would accommodate all who had tickets for those blocks , they also would find that they would have no difficulty in being piloted to the-ir seats ,
because the Stewards of the- day would take care that the brethren were directed in the proper course , and that they would consequently , according to the letter on their cards , have to go to a particular block . These arrangements had not been arrived at without much thought and labour ; . and when the brethren came- to consider that there were 1068 lodges in England , whose convenience had to be
considered , they would agree with him ( Bro . Hervey ) lhat the brethren who undertook the duty were entitled to the gratitude of thc Craft . ( Hear , hear . ) liro . Sir Albeit Woods and Bra . Fenn were doing their utmost to render the d iv sjjc--.-i . sful as a matter of ( ceremony , ! but niso euiisulli ig Ihe convcnieiie :.. * and comfort ol each aud every lir . itln-i- vlio woti . d congregate at the Albert Hall on tile ijth ins ' .., to show 'heir loyalty lo the Prince * of Wales and
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
their loyalty to the Craft . He did not know that he could give them any more detail , because thc various circulars that had been sent out had g iven all thc details which it was possible to give to enable the brethren to come to a conclusion as to what they had to do and to look forward to . Without going beyond "the secrets of the prison house" ( laughter ) he mig ht inform the brethren that thc
various Stewards would all be accepted from the different lodges . It had been considered desirable to have them all , and that it would not be quite fair to ballot one out and another in . A redundancy of Stewards was deemed best , that they might all have the honour of acting on that great occasion , and doing their best for the success of such a gathering . ( Hear , hear . ) He was reminded by Bro .
Simpson that the executive were very sorry indeed that the number of applications for the admission of Master Masons was so great that space could not be found for them , and that their admission was necessarily restricted to one Master Mason from each lodge . As there were 1068 lodges in England , this would g ive 1068 brethren beyond those whose rank entitled them to admission . ( Hear , hear . )
Bro . Hervey concluded by again thanking the brethren for drinking his health . The W . M ., in proposing " The Initiates , " hoped those brethren would feel that they had that day entered a body whose principles would do great service to them . If they kept their eyes open and studied thc various emblematical and peculiar devices of Freemasonry , they would be very much pleased ; perhaps it would
prove to them that it was just what philosophers and men of all ages had been looking for , thc best and shortest way of finding true human happiness . ( Hear , hear . ) He himself looked on the Masonic body as one of the best types of true brotherhood . He was going to say , but in presence of Bro . Simson he must ask pardon for saying , it was an entrance upon life of as much importance as the
Christian life ; in that it was thc binding of true happiness . Cicero mentioned a somewhat similar institution , in which he said he felt lhat those who entered it entered on a new phase of life . They were called initia , and they were supposed to be initiated into a new union with men , a truer happiness with their fellow creatures , a universal brotherhood , a more perfect clysium . He hoped that
mig ht bc the initiates' experience that evening ; that they had joined a society which taught what the Christian relig ion taught , brotherly love , relief and truth ; . a society of men they might trust , to whom they mig ht confide the secrets of their hearts , and look for support in any kind of adversity . ( Hear , hear . ) The initiates having replied , the toast of " Thc Visitors "
followed , for which Dr . Erasmus Wilson , Bro . C . II . Hopwood , M . P ., and D . Richardson responded . Bro . C . Derby replied as the P . M . to that toast . Bro . King , junr ., for the " P . M ., " Bro . Harrison , Southwood , and other brethren responded as " officers , " and the T yler's toast brought the evening to a close . Bros . Seymour Smith , Frank Elmote and Van Noorden entertained thc brethren
with some excellent music during the evening . Among the visitors present were thc following brethren : — Bros . Rev . R . J . Simpson , Past Grand Chaplain ; Professor Erasmus Wilson , No . 2 , P . G . Steward and W . M . H 94 ; C . 11 . Hopwood , P . M . 263 , Q . C . and M . P . ; Wright , W . M . 1138 ; Holland , P . M . 172 ; Gamer , P . M . 890 ; Richardson P . M . St . Andrews ; Harvey , P . M . 902 ; Defreiz , S . D . 45 ;
Green , S . W . 27 ; Van Noorden , 118 ; Ballard , 511 ; Sears , 299 -, Davis , Burdett Coutts Lodge ; Hennctt , Universal Lodge ; G . S . Marks , 205 ; Evans , 212 ; Massey , P . M . 619 , ( Frce-usou ); F . Elmore , 12 ; Seymour Smith , 742 . KEWSINOTON LODGE ( No . 1381 ) . —The last meeting of the . season of this lodge was held al the Surrey
Club 1 louse , Kennington Oval , on I uesday , the 6 th inst . The proceedings commenced al six o ' clock in the evening . In addition to Bro . Gardner , the W . M ., there were present the following brethren , who in the absence of the regularly appointed oflicers acted for them , viz ., Bros . Drysdale , P . M ., S . W . ; Walls , J . W . ; Higgins , S . D .,- Webb , J . D . ; Pope , I . G . ; Stuart , P . M ., I . P . M . The Secretary , Bro .
Stuart , read the minutes of the meeting in March last , and also the minutes of an emergency meeting , held on Friday the 19 th ultimo ., which was convened' to consider the communication received from Grand Lodge , respecting the installation of H . R . H . the M . W . Grand . Master , the proceedings of which meetings were confirmed . Letters were then read from Bros . Everett and Painter , the S . and
J . W ., explanatory of their absence from the lodge that day . The W . M , assisted by Bro . Stuart , P . M ., and the rest of the officers , raised Bros . Fallows and Richardson to the third degree . Bro . Koch , I . P . M ., having arrived , introduced , at length , a notice of motion given by him at the meeting in March ,. that a Benevolent Fund in connection with the lodge should be established . I le stated that a very
handsome amount could be accumulated by applying the sum of three shillings , which could be deducted annually from the subscriptions of the members—towards that worthy object , which woulel enable the lodge to assist a distressed brother or the family of a deceased one , in addition to what might be obtained for him or them from the Board of Benevolence . This matter was full y
discussed by the W . M . and other brethren , and ultimately a resolution was passed that ihe further consideration of the subject should be adjourned until after the vacation . Bro . Koch then brought forward another notice of motion or agenda , that the services of the Secretary should bc considered , with a view to their being remunerated , lie spoke very highly of the efferts at all limes made b y Bro . Stuart
to further the interests of Freemasonry , and the welfare of the lodges which he represented , and in conclusion he moved that the sum of not less than five guineas should be annually voted lo Bro . Stuart as Secretary to the Kennington lodge , which was seconded b y Bro . Robinson . Bro . Webb moved ,-n . d Bro . Cruse seconded the feillowing amendment , "that ( lie sum of ten guineas should be awarded Bro . Stuart for his service : * . " Bro . Walls moved
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
as a further amendment , lhat thc sum of five guinea should bc immediately paid thc Sccrctaiy as a gratuit y for his past services in addition to an amount of not less than five guineas to be voted annually ; this motion was seconded by Bro . Sirgood , but upon discussion this was withdrawn in favour of Bro . Webb's amendment , which was passed and carried . The lodge was then duly
closed-T here being no banquet , at the refreshment which followed , labour the toasts were necessarily few , and but briefl y given by thc W . M . Bro . Koch proposed "The Health of the W . M ., " which was heartily received . Bio . Gardner in reply thanked the brethren for their kindness , and said he would take that opportunity of also tendering his acknowledgment to the brethren who had so kindly elected him
on the iqth ult ., to represent the Kennington Lodge as Steward at the installation of thc Prince of Wales , the duties of which position he would endeavour to discharge to the best of his ability . Tbe remainder of the evening was agreeably and convivially spent by the brethren , assisted by the vocal and dramatic efforts of the W . M ., Bros . Stokes , Walls , and Richardson . Bro . Creed ( 1445 ) was
the only visitor . DUKP . or CONNAUGHT LODGE ( NO . 1524 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on the 7 th inst . at the Sisters Tavern Pownall Road , I laggerston , when Bro . W . H . Lee , W . M ., presided , assisted by the following officers , Bro . T . C . Chapman , S . W . ; 11 . Lister , J . W . ; B . Meyer , Treasurer ; N . Green , Secretary ; Shackleton , S . D . ; Syree , J . D . ; and
Baker , I . G . Thc business of thc evening consisted of thc initiation of thc Rev . Joscphus Bailey and Messrs . Watson and Dallor , also thc passing c > f Bro . Brand , II . Meyer and Johnson , the work being ably performed by thc W . M ., assisted by his efficient staff of officers . The bye-laws were approved , and it was agreed that thc lodge should
meet on the last Thursday in every alternate month . Bro . Lee , W . M ., has been nominated to serve as Steward at the installation of tht M . W . Grand Master . Refreshment followed labour , and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured . The visitors were' Bros . Reed , Stretton , ( 1326 ) , and Klcimcnhagen ( i 298 ) .
INSTRUCTION . STRONG MAN LODGE OF INSTRUCTION ( No . 45 ) . —This lodge held its regular weekly meeting on the 5 th inst ., at the Crown Tavern , Clerkenwell Green . Present—Bros . Halford , W . M . ; Stock , S . W . ; Cook , J . W . ; Hill , S . D . ; Read , J . D . ; Crawley , I . G . ; Beckett , Preceptor ; Foxcraft , Hon . Sec . ; and a numerous gathering of brethren . The
lodge was opened in due form , and thc minutes of the last lodge meeting read and confirmed . The W . M . rehearsed the first and second ceremonies in a very able and impressive manner . The lodge was then resumed to the first degree . Bro . Defriez was unanimously elected Treasurer , and Bro . Killick , Secretary , lt was unanimously ordered that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to Bro . Foxcraft , for
thc able and efficient manner in which he had performed the duties of Secretary during the past three years ; and a pair o £ elegant vases were presented lo him in recognition of his services , in acknowled ging which he said , that although retiring from active duty , his heart vvould always
bc with thc lodge . A vote of thanks was awarded to Bro . Gardner , for his services in connection with the testimonial presented to thc late Secretary . Bro . Stock was elected W . M . for thc ensuing week , and appointed officers in rotation . Thc lodge was closed in due form , and adjourned .
PROVINCIAL . SHEERNESS-ON-SEA . —ADAMS LODGE ( NO . 158 ) . — The annual meeting of this lodge took place at 4 p . m . on Thursday , March 25 th , at thc board room of thc Sheerness Local Board of Health , for thc purpose of installing Bro . Thomas Jno . Firniinger , S . W ., W . M . elect , who was about to bc p laced in the chair , as his father had
previously been , with honour to himself and credit to the lodge , which event attracted an unusually large attendance of members and visitors . The lodge was opened in due form and with solemn prayer , by tlie W . M ., Bro . A . Oystou , assisted by his officers , when letters were read from the Deputy Prov . Grand Master , Bro . J . I * . Eastes , and thc Prov . G . Secretary , Bro . A . Spencer , of
Kent , expressing their regret at being unable to attend , which deprived the brethren of the pleasure anticipated . The lodge being opened in the second degree , the W . M . elect was presented for the benefit of installation , by Bro . Jas . Bagshaw , P . M . and Secretary . After thc Ancient Charges and Regulations were given and assented to , the chair of K . S . was then assumed b y Bro . A . Spears , P . M .
and P . P . G . O . of Kent , whose ceremony was most impressively rendered , and appreciated by all , who congratulated him on his excellent working . After Bro . Firniinger had been placed in the chair of K . S ., by the Board of Installed Masters , he by the power invested in him , closed the lodge down to the first degree . 1 le then appointed and invested his officers for the ensuing year , as follows :
Bros . J . Woodlcy , S . W . ; J . R . Brett , J . W . ; A . Spears , P . M . Treas . ; J . Bagshaw , P . M . Sec . ; J . P . Watts , S . D . ; J . F . Nunn , J . D , ; C . Perkins , I . G . ; G . Wiggins , S . ; and II . Foster , Tyler . Amongst thc visitors we were glad to see such a number of the brethren of the De Shurland Lodge , No . 108 9 , namely—Bros . I . M . Rigg , W . M ., and Prov . G . Reg . of . Marks of Kent ; A . Bourne ,
J . W . ; T . Dutnal , S . D . ; C . Clarkson , I . G . ; J . M . West , P . M . ; and J . Saffery : also Bros . J . Wood , W . M . 1273 ; . / . Lewis , S . Constitution ; and J . Cox , St . Aubin , 954 , and several other brethren . Before closing the lodge , Bro . A . Oyston , I . P . M ., proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman and members of Ihe local Board of Health , for their kindness in granting them the use of the room ,
which was carried unanimously . The lodge was then closed in accordance with ancient custom and with solemn prayer . The brethren , about fifty in number , then adjourned to the Mason's Hall , where a -Host sumptuous banquet had been prepared under the direction of Mrs . Given , widow of late B . J . Green , P . M ., which gave great satisfaction to till .
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
»* ooil dinner was not thc least of the enjoyments of thc evening , though he confes cd be was sorry to hear Bio . Simpson allude so pointedly to it . ( Laughter ) . Certainly it bad proved so , and long mi g ht the brethren find similar enjoyment . Long too , mig ht Bro . Hogg have health to participate in it . Bro . Hogg had mentioned in proposing tbe health of the M . W . G . M . that they all
wished H . R . H . might long reign over them . lie , ( Bro .-Hervey ) wished the same good wish for Bvo . Hogg , and that all thc brethren present might live , to congratulate him upon the position which he had taken in the lodge , ( great cheering . ) The W . M . in acknowledging the toast said lie conld scarcely find words to express his feelings for thc kind and generous way in which Bro . 1 Iervey had
proposed this toast ; but on more than one occasion he had experienced the same kindness and generosity not only on the part of Bro . 1 Iervey , but on the part of thc brethren of the lodge for six years , from the birth of thc lodge , at which he assisted . I le had assisted at a great many births in his early days , ( laughter ) but he did not know that he had ever assisted at one which gave him a greater degree
of pride and satisfaction than thc birth of the Hervey Lodge . I le was very much impressed with thc impressive way that Bro . Hervey consecrated the lodge , and at that time be thought , but he did not then expect that he would have any more to do with assisting thc bantling . However , it was so to be , and he was glad he had been dissappointcd , for he had now attained a position which he could
not relrain from saying , was a very distinguished position . He owed it to the kindness of the brethren , and to their generous feeling . 1 le felt that he should have to ask the brethren to act with indulgence towards him during his Mastership , for although Bro . Hervey had said so much in his favour , he still felt very rusty . He was an old Mason ; but perhaps in thc presence of Bro . Hervey he ought
not to say so , because he learned Masonry in in Bro Hervey ' s Lodge of Emulation many years ago . The present was his one-and-twentieth year in Masonry , and soon after joining the Order he became acquainted with his distinguished brother I Iervey . From that time he had always felt the utmost regard and affection for him , ( hear hear . ) If the brethren observed any shortcomings
in him ( Bro . Hogg ) , during his year of office , he hoped the brethren would excuse them , for his head would be in his work , and all his endeavours wonlil be to promote the good of Freemasonry in general , and of the Hervey Lodge in particular . ( Cliejrs . ) Before sitting down he had much p leasure in proposing as a toast , the health of the Godlather of the lodge , Bro . I Iervey , and he wished it had
fallen to better hands to do so . I le asked the brethren to drink " Long Life , I lealth , and Happiness " to him . The lodge had passed , as Bro . Hervey had told them , through some phases of difficulty and danger , but they had been surmounted , and he trusted the brethren would all live to see what Bro . I Iervey had that night predicted , great prosperity for the lodge , aud thc existence of peace avid
harmony for many years to come . ( Hear , hear . ) Bro . 11-. ivey thought there was a conspiracy against thc comfort of the brethren seated at the W . M . ' s end of the table , otherwise the W . M . would not have asked him to inflict another speech on them . But it should he but a short one . If the Lodge had not had good men at its head it would not have been
in its present position . There were two brethren who had followed its Masters , Bro . King , senr . and Bro . King , junr ., who had done their best for the Lodge's welfare ( I lear , hear ) , and the Lodge ought to be very grateful to them . ( Hear , hear . ) To go to another subject he would advert for a moment to what was now going on in the Craft at large , and from that they would find that this
Lodge during its brief existence had lived in the reign of three Grand Masteas , lt was consecrated during Lord Zetland ' s Grand Mastership , who granted the warrant ; it had passed through the Grand Mastership eif thc Marquess of Ripon , and it was now under the Grand Mastership of the Prince of Wales . On that ilay fortnight one of the most striking ceremonies which had ever taken
place in Masonry either in this country or elsewhere would be performed , and it was lo be hoped that considering the exertions which were being made by the brethren who had undertaken the management of the arrangements on that occasion , it would be carried out with success . Of course a great deal of detail had to bc considered , much more than met the eye , or would ever meet the eye , of
any brother Mason . There was a large mass of brethren to be introduced into a building * for every one of whom there was a place under their respective banners . They would find that they had not to light for a seat , and that they bad not when they g it into the building lo wander far and wide of the point to which they wished to attain . It was to be
hoped that the result of the endeavours which were being made at the present moment would obviate all difficulties when the brethren went to the building , that they would find that various blocks which were parcelled out for their accommodation would accommodate all who had tickets for those blocks , they also would find that they would have no difficulty in being piloted to the-ir seats ,
because the Stewards of the- day would take care that the brethren were directed in the proper course , and that they would consequently , according to the letter on their cards , have to go to a particular block . These arrangements had not been arrived at without much thought and labour ; . and when the brethren came- to consider that there were 1068 lodges in England , whose convenience had to be
considered , they would agree with him ( Bro . Hervey ) lhat the brethren who undertook the duty were entitled to the gratitude of thc Craft . ( Hear , hear . ) liro . Sir Albeit Woods and Bra . Fenn were doing their utmost to render the d iv sjjc--.-i . sful as a matter of ( ceremony , ! but niso euiisulli ig Ihe convcnieiie :.. * and comfort ol each aud every lir . itln-i- vlio woti . d congregate at the Albert Hall on tile ijth ins ' .., to show 'heir loyalty lo the Prince * of Wales and
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
their loyalty to the Craft . He did not know that he could give them any more detail , because thc various circulars that had been sent out had g iven all thc details which it was possible to give to enable the brethren to come to a conclusion as to what they had to do and to look forward to . Without going beyond "the secrets of the prison house" ( laughter ) he mig ht inform the brethren that thc
various Stewards would all be accepted from the different lodges . It had been considered desirable to have them all , and that it would not be quite fair to ballot one out and another in . A redundancy of Stewards was deemed best , that they might all have the honour of acting on that great occasion , and doing their best for the success of such a gathering . ( Hear , hear . ) He was reminded by Bro .
Simpson that the executive were very sorry indeed that the number of applications for the admission of Master Masons was so great that space could not be found for them , and that their admission was necessarily restricted to one Master Mason from each lodge . As there were 1068 lodges in England , this would g ive 1068 brethren beyond those whose rank entitled them to admission . ( Hear , hear . )
Bro . Hervey concluded by again thanking the brethren for drinking his health . The W . M ., in proposing " The Initiates , " hoped those brethren would feel that they had that day entered a body whose principles would do great service to them . If they kept their eyes open and studied thc various emblematical and peculiar devices of Freemasonry , they would be very much pleased ; perhaps it would
prove to them that it was just what philosophers and men of all ages had been looking for , thc best and shortest way of finding true human happiness . ( Hear , hear . ) He himself looked on the Masonic body as one of the best types of true brotherhood . He was going to say , but in presence of Bro . Simson he must ask pardon for saying , it was an entrance upon life of as much importance as the
Christian life ; in that it was thc binding of true happiness . Cicero mentioned a somewhat similar institution , in which he said he felt lhat those who entered it entered on a new phase of life . They were called initia , and they were supposed to be initiated into a new union with men , a truer happiness with their fellow creatures , a universal brotherhood , a more perfect clysium . He hoped that
mig ht bc the initiates' experience that evening ; that they had joined a society which taught what the Christian relig ion taught , brotherly love , relief and truth ; . a society of men they might trust , to whom they mig ht confide the secrets of their hearts , and look for support in any kind of adversity . ( Hear , hear . ) The initiates having replied , the toast of " Thc Visitors "
followed , for which Dr . Erasmus Wilson , Bro . C . II . Hopwood , M . P ., and D . Richardson responded . Bro . C . Derby replied as the P . M . to that toast . Bro . King , junr ., for the " P . M ., " Bro . Harrison , Southwood , and other brethren responded as " officers , " and the T yler's toast brought the evening to a close . Bros . Seymour Smith , Frank Elmote and Van Noorden entertained thc brethren
with some excellent music during the evening . Among the visitors present were thc following brethren : — Bros . Rev . R . J . Simpson , Past Grand Chaplain ; Professor Erasmus Wilson , No . 2 , P . G . Steward and W . M . H 94 ; C . 11 . Hopwood , P . M . 263 , Q . C . and M . P . ; Wright , W . M . 1138 ; Holland , P . M . 172 ; Gamer , P . M . 890 ; Richardson P . M . St . Andrews ; Harvey , P . M . 902 ; Defreiz , S . D . 45 ;
Green , S . W . 27 ; Van Noorden , 118 ; Ballard , 511 ; Sears , 299 -, Davis , Burdett Coutts Lodge ; Hennctt , Universal Lodge ; G . S . Marks , 205 ; Evans , 212 ; Massey , P . M . 619 , ( Frce-usou ); F . Elmore , 12 ; Seymour Smith , 742 . KEWSINOTON LODGE ( No . 1381 ) . —The last meeting of the . season of this lodge was held al the Surrey
Club 1 louse , Kennington Oval , on I uesday , the 6 th inst . The proceedings commenced al six o ' clock in the evening . In addition to Bro . Gardner , the W . M ., there were present the following brethren , who in the absence of the regularly appointed oflicers acted for them , viz ., Bros . Drysdale , P . M ., S . W . ; Walls , J . W . ; Higgins , S . D .,- Webb , J . D . ; Pope , I . G . ; Stuart , P . M ., I . P . M . The Secretary , Bro .
Stuart , read the minutes of the meeting in March last , and also the minutes of an emergency meeting , held on Friday the 19 th ultimo ., which was convened' to consider the communication received from Grand Lodge , respecting the installation of H . R . H . the M . W . Grand . Master , the proceedings of which meetings were confirmed . Letters were then read from Bros . Everett and Painter , the S . and
J . W ., explanatory of their absence from the lodge that day . The W . M , assisted by Bro . Stuart , P . M ., and the rest of the officers , raised Bros . Fallows and Richardson to the third degree . Bro . Koch , I . P . M ., having arrived , introduced , at length , a notice of motion given by him at the meeting in March ,. that a Benevolent Fund in connection with the lodge should be established . I le stated that a very
handsome amount could be accumulated by applying the sum of three shillings , which could be deducted annually from the subscriptions of the members—towards that worthy object , which woulel enable the lodge to assist a distressed brother or the family of a deceased one , in addition to what might be obtained for him or them from the Board of Benevolence . This matter was full y
discussed by the W . M . and other brethren , and ultimately a resolution was passed that ihe further consideration of the subject should be adjourned until after the vacation . Bro . Koch then brought forward another notice of motion or agenda , that the services of the Secretary should bc considered , with a view to their being remunerated , lie spoke very highly of the efferts at all limes made b y Bro . Stuart
to further the interests of Freemasonry , and the welfare of the lodges which he represented , and in conclusion he moved that the sum of not less than five guineas should be annually voted lo Bro . Stuart as Secretary to the Kennington lodge , which was seconded b y Bro . Robinson . Bro . Webb moved ,-n . d Bro . Cruse seconded the feillowing amendment , "that ( lie sum of ten guineas should be awarded Bro . Stuart for his service : * . " Bro . Walls moved
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
as a further amendment , lhat thc sum of five guinea should bc immediately paid thc Sccrctaiy as a gratuit y for his past services in addition to an amount of not less than five guineas to be voted annually ; this motion was seconded by Bro . Sirgood , but upon discussion this was withdrawn in favour of Bro . Webb's amendment , which was passed and carried . The lodge was then duly
closed-T here being no banquet , at the refreshment which followed , labour the toasts were necessarily few , and but briefl y given by thc W . M . Bro . Koch proposed "The Health of the W . M ., " which was heartily received . Bio . Gardner in reply thanked the brethren for their kindness , and said he would take that opportunity of also tendering his acknowledgment to the brethren who had so kindly elected him
on the iqth ult ., to represent the Kennington Lodge as Steward at the installation of thc Prince of Wales , the duties of which position he would endeavour to discharge to the best of his ability . Tbe remainder of the evening was agreeably and convivially spent by the brethren , assisted by the vocal and dramatic efforts of the W . M ., Bros . Stokes , Walls , and Richardson . Bro . Creed ( 1445 ) was
the only visitor . DUKP . or CONNAUGHT LODGE ( NO . 1524 ) . —A meeting of this lodge was held on the 7 th inst . at the Sisters Tavern Pownall Road , I laggerston , when Bro . W . H . Lee , W . M ., presided , assisted by the following officers , Bro . T . C . Chapman , S . W . ; 11 . Lister , J . W . ; B . Meyer , Treasurer ; N . Green , Secretary ; Shackleton , S . D . ; Syree , J . D . ; and
Baker , I . G . Thc business of thc evening consisted of thc initiation of thc Rev . Joscphus Bailey and Messrs . Watson and Dallor , also thc passing c > f Bro . Brand , II . Meyer and Johnson , the work being ably performed by thc W . M ., assisted by his efficient staff of officers . The bye-laws were approved , and it was agreed that thc lodge should
meet on the last Thursday in every alternate month . Bro . Lee , W . M ., has been nominated to serve as Steward at the installation of tht M . W . Grand Master . Refreshment followed labour , and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured . The visitors were' Bros . Reed , Stretton , ( 1326 ) , and Klcimcnhagen ( i 298 ) .
INSTRUCTION . STRONG MAN LODGE OF INSTRUCTION ( No . 45 ) . —This lodge held its regular weekly meeting on the 5 th inst ., at the Crown Tavern , Clerkenwell Green . Present—Bros . Halford , W . M . ; Stock , S . W . ; Cook , J . W . ; Hill , S . D . ; Read , J . D . ; Crawley , I . G . ; Beckett , Preceptor ; Foxcraft , Hon . Sec . ; and a numerous gathering of brethren . The
lodge was opened in due form , and thc minutes of the last lodge meeting read and confirmed . The W . M . rehearsed the first and second ceremonies in a very able and impressive manner . The lodge was then resumed to the first degree . Bro . Defriez was unanimously elected Treasurer , and Bro . Killick , Secretary , lt was unanimously ordered that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes to Bro . Foxcraft , for
thc able and efficient manner in which he had performed the duties of Secretary during the past three years ; and a pair o £ elegant vases were presented lo him in recognition of his services , in acknowled ging which he said , that although retiring from active duty , his heart vvould always
bc with thc lodge . A vote of thanks was awarded to Bro . Gardner , for his services in connection with the testimonial presented to thc late Secretary . Bro . Stock was elected W . M . for thc ensuing week , and appointed officers in rotation . Thc lodge was closed in due form , and adjourned .
PROVINCIAL . SHEERNESS-ON-SEA . —ADAMS LODGE ( NO . 158 ) . — The annual meeting of this lodge took place at 4 p . m . on Thursday , March 25 th , at thc board room of thc Sheerness Local Board of Health , for thc purpose of installing Bro . Thomas Jno . Firniinger , S . W ., W . M . elect , who was about to bc p laced in the chair , as his father had
previously been , with honour to himself and credit to the lodge , which event attracted an unusually large attendance of members and visitors . The lodge was opened in due form and with solemn prayer , by tlie W . M ., Bro . A . Oystou , assisted by his officers , when letters were read from the Deputy Prov . Grand Master , Bro . J . I * . Eastes , and thc Prov . G . Secretary , Bro . A . Spencer , of
Kent , expressing their regret at being unable to attend , which deprived the brethren of the pleasure anticipated . The lodge being opened in the second degree , the W . M . elect was presented for the benefit of installation , by Bro . Jas . Bagshaw , P . M . and Secretary . After thc Ancient Charges and Regulations were given and assented to , the chair of K . S . was then assumed b y Bro . A . Spears , P . M .
and P . P . G . O . of Kent , whose ceremony was most impressively rendered , and appreciated by all , who congratulated him on his excellent working . After Bro . Firniinger had been placed in the chair of K . S ., by the Board of Installed Masters , he by the power invested in him , closed the lodge down to the first degree . 1 le then appointed and invested his officers for the ensuing year , as follows :
Bros . J . Woodlcy , S . W . ; J . R . Brett , J . W . ; A . Spears , P . M . Treas . ; J . Bagshaw , P . M . Sec . ; J . P . Watts , S . D . ; J . F . Nunn , J . D , ; C . Perkins , I . G . ; G . Wiggins , S . ; and II . Foster , Tyler . Amongst thc visitors we were glad to see such a number of the brethren of the De Shurland Lodge , No . 108 9 , namely—Bros . I . M . Rigg , W . M ., and Prov . G . Reg . of . Marks of Kent ; A . Bourne ,
J . W . ; T . Dutnal , S . D . ; C . Clarkson , I . G . ; J . M . West , P . M . ; and J . Saffery : also Bros . J . Wood , W . M . 1273 ; . / . Lewis , S . Constitution ; and J . Cox , St . Aubin , 954 , and several other brethren . Before closing the lodge , Bro . A . Oyston , I . P . M ., proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman and members of Ihe local Board of Health , for their kindness in granting them the use of the room ,
which was carried unanimously . The lodge was then closed in accordance with ancient custom and with solemn prayer . The brethren , about fifty in number , then adjourned to the Mason's Hall , where a -Host sumptuous banquet had been prepared under the direction of Mrs . Given , widow of late B . J . Green , P . M ., which gave great satisfaction to till .