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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
During the evening the proceedings were enlivened by mdrv S'ings and rrcitations by members and visitors , S , . tably by Bros . Dillon , Stevens , Bird , and J . Mason . The Tjlei ' s toast brought a very happy day to a close . YORK . —Eboracum Lodge ( No . 1611 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lodge was held on the 14 th inst ., at Freemasons' Hall , St . Saviourgate . Bro . William Brown W M . was in the chair , and there were also
, , " ' sent Bros . T . B . Whytehead , P . M . j J . T . Seller , & M G . Simpson , P . M . ; G . Balmford , P . M . ; J . BJenkin , P M . ; W . Dyson , S . W . ; S . J . Dalton , J . W . ; 7 Kay , Secretary ; W . Lackenby , S . D . ; J . Lamb , ' LD . ; W . Storey , I . G . j and a number of other brethren . The business consisted of the raising of Bro . Archer to
the Third Degree , which was done by the W . M . in good = tyle . Bro . Whytehead then presented to the lodge , on behalf of Bro . Hughan , a facsimile of the Engraved List of 17 62 , which had been framed by Bro . Coates . He also presented a set of the symbolic engravings by Lambert de Lint ! t , which had been framed by Bro . James Smith , and enr / raved portraits of the Earl of Bedford , Grand Master .
, 567 ; Dukeof Somerset , Grand Master , 1549 ; and Sir Richard Steele , which had been framed by Bro . Lackenby . Votes of thanks were cordially passed to the respective donors of these valuable additions to the lodge collection . The names of three candidates for initiation were brought forward , and after the close of the lodge a very harmonious evening was spent .
WADEBRIDGE—Lodge Molesworth ( No . 1954 ) . —The installation and annual banquet of this Iodge was he'd on the 7 th inst ., at Lees Assembly Rooms , when Bro . H . Lander was presented by Bro . Bassett , P . M . S 56 , and impressively installed by Bro . Dorey , P . M . 856 , as W . M . for the ensuing year . The W . M . appointed as his officers Bros . R . Bonney , S . W . ; I . Brewer , J . W . j H . Jones ,
Treas . ; J . Goodfellow . Sec ; N . Robbins , S . D . ; S . Pollard , jun ., J . D . j S . Martyn , Org . ; H . Hare , D . C . S . ; j . R . T . Turner , I . G , ; C . Higman and J . Matthews , Stwds ; R . George , Tyler . At the close of the lodge about forty brethren , including the following visitors , sat down to a good banquet provided by Bro . Bonney : Bros . J . W . Bishop , 75 ; Bassett , 856 ; J . Doney , 856 ; T . H .
Spear , 330 ; W . T . Cock-, 330 ; J . C Sandoe , 330 ; W . R . Brewer , 330 ; R . F . Edyvean , 330 ; F . J . Heft , 330 ; G . Hext , 330 ; C . E . Julipp , 496 ; T . W . Perry , 856 ; W . H . Beckerlegg , 856 ; J . B . Moulder , 189 ; W . Rowe , 330 ; E . Rickard , 1529 j S . Waters , 1528 ; J . Stribley ,
1785 j W . E . Mitchell , 1528 j W . H . Martyn , 175 s j J . Rendle , 1247 ; and R . P . Griffith , 1785 . During the evening the usual Masonic and loyal toasts were given , interspersed with singing by Bros . Rendal , Hicks , and others . Bro . Bishop at intervals played selections on the harmonium presented to the lodge , by Bro . S . ^ H . Hare .
LEEDS . —Prudence Lodge ( No . 2069 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge took place on the 12 th inst ., at the Masonic Hall , Great George-street . The W . M ., Bro . C . L . Mason , P . M ., P . P . G . Treas ., was supported by the following officers and members : Bros . Dr . Smyth , I . P . M ., P . G . Chap , j Tudor Trevor , P . M ., S . W . j W . Watson , P . M ., J . W . j Rev . H . Butler , as Chap . ; Robt .
Abbott , Treas . ; C . Middleton , Sec . ; S . Scottyoung , S . D . ; J . J . Fretwell , J . D . ; M . W . Jameson , I . G . ; Tom Atkinson , D . C . ; Butterworth and Melling , Stwds . ; R . Craig , P . M ., P . P . G . D . ; B . S . Bailey , Smithson , Cryer , Robinson , and L . Howard , Org . This day had been fixed for the official visit of Alfred Lodge , No . 306 , and the invitation had been accepted by a large number of
brethren of that lodge . The W . M ., Bro . Councillor Burns , was unavoidably absent , but was represented by Bros . McQuat Batt , Sec . j J . Sutcliffe , J . W . ; Stallard , P . M ., Treas . ; Musgrave , Thompson , J . B . Jowett , S . D . ; Thrippleton , l . P . M . ; and others . The D . P . G . M . of West Yorks ., Bro . H . Smith , was present and received the salutation due to his exalted rank . There were many other
visitors who had been attracted to Prudence Lodge for the purpose of hearing Bro . T . B . Whytehead , P . M . 1600 , and P . P . S . G . W . North and East Yorks , deliver a lecture on Freemasonry . Mr . Harris Regbie Abbott , the son of the popular Treasurer of the lodge , was impressively initiated into the mysteries of the Craft by the W . M ., who was assisted by Bros . Watson , Smyth , and Trevor .
Bro . Whytehead then gave an admirable address upon " Masonry from an Archajological point of view . " He said : Before begining to say anything upon the particular subject I have chosen to address you upon , I should like to Wake a _ few remarks generally upon Freemasonry as an Institution , and upon its present position . We seem to I've in what may be described as the halcyon or golden
days of Freemasonry . Never was there a time , certainly within the historic period , when Freemasonry was so Prosperous or numbered amongst its members so many men of high rank in life , and when so many of them were active members of the Craft . It is a remarkable fact that this should be so , because in these days every Institution is liable to criticism , and in fact I know of no human
organisation which is not now subject to strict examination , and concerning which it is not asked " Why does this exist ?" freemasonry has been criticised , but that is no new thing fi history of Freemasonry , for in the last century we find that it has been subjected to very frequent and virulent attacks . About the year 1730 these attacks began to be niarje with exceeding great rancour . We have in existence Works
published at that time purporting to expose the Secrets of Freemasonry , and endeavouring to throw ridicule u Pon the whole organisation . Cartoons to the same end were published between that time and the end of the century . For a long time it seemed as if Freemasonry was atf 1 ' ° ^ fr ° m these persistent attacks . These attacks however nothing to those made the
, , were upon y raft ln America at the time of the so-called abduc" ° " of Morgan . At that time such a dead set ™ as made against Freemasonry in America , from " ! P'ghest down to the lowest in the Republic , that tick i- s were run ^ Congress upon the anti-Masonic nn ' . * violent and fierce were the onslaughts made
a P . " > e Order that in many parts of America it was Wh fil unsafe f ° r any one to be known to be a Mason , read P 'he consequence of this ? As I have alt ^ y sa 'd , in Great Britain our Order is more prosperous com eV 6 j ye ' S ' 'ha' prosperity is it is nothing as rerjaTf to its condition 'n the United States . —I mean in i . ard to the numbers enrolled under our banners , and the
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
great amount ot time , labour , and money spent upon it by the brethren across the Atlantic . At the same time it is not always when an Institute is most popular that it is most prosperous . Yet , as I have said , its prosperity is great . Still , we every now and again find people saying , "What loes Freemasonry do ? You meet and dine , and it is true you have some Charities . We also meet and dine , but we
nave none oft his tinsel and jewellery you wear . We enjoy our dinners quite as much as you do ; we have our hospitals , and almshouses , and Charitable Institutions innumerable , but we don ' t make any fuss about it as you do about Freemasonry . What is the meaning of all this Masonic fuss ? " The reply I generally make to such enquiries is this . In the first place , 1 deny there is any fuss or
parade . As a rule Freemasons don ' t parade . Our leaders are not in favourof any kind of out-door parade , and when these demonstrations take place , they are , generally speaking , of such a character as not to invite criticism from outsiders . Ihe best answer to make to these critics is to tell them that if they were Masons they would know more about it . There are points in Freemasonry which no
outaid ; r can appreciate , especially the point that we must meet in Masonry men whose names we should otherwise have been ignorant of . That may be said of other organisations , but the friendships made under the banners ot our Order are of a different character altogether to the friendships made under other circumstances . Some of my most treasured friendships have been made in a Masonic lodge ,
and I trust I shall ever be able to look back with intense pleasure to the honest regard I have acquired of many men whom I should never have known had I not been a Mason . Still , there are critics inside Freemasonry . There are many Institutions at the prsent moment that are more in danger from internal criticism than from attacks from the outside , and I am not sure that this is not in some
measure the case with Freemasonry . We are careful in the matter of candidates , and only receive them after we are satisfied that they are fit and proper persons to be made Masons . We even get as initiates men of considerable attainments and high offices . These come into our lodges and hear our beautiful ceremonies and thoroughly agree vvith the teaching therein enunciated ; but
after a time they lose their freshness . It is to be remembered that freemasonry was founded at a time wnen learning and literature were at a low ebb , when few people could do more than read and write , and when general knowledge was confined to the few . Now all this is changed , and it is from the intelligent brother we have the most to fear . Unless we can retain the interest and regard
of the most cultivated of our brethren , we , as an Urder , shall not be as prosperous in the future as we have been in the past , and it is for that reason I believe that something more should be attempted in ourlodges than the mere ritual of the Order ; not that I would wish to throw the slightest discredit upon ritualism . If we can , however , introduce into the lodges anything outside the usual working which
may interest intelligent Masons , we shall have a far better chance of retaining the continued respect and regard of those for whose opinion we certainly had the most esteem . This Lodge ( Prudence ) seems to have taken a very good starting point in this respect , inasmuch as it has already had lectures from brethren well qualified to address you .
There are many ways in which Freemasonry may be looked upon . There is the social aspect , and there is its political aspect , and although neither religious nor political systems are discussed , yet the lodge has a bearing on this point-In the lodge a man learns to be obedient to the powers that be , and a man who has learned that lesson is likely to make an admirable member of Parliament or a ruler of
any society , because the man who can obey can also rule . And Freemasonry also has its religious aspect . Although it does not teach religion , yet I have always been told that Freemasonry is the handmaid of religion . Its ritual and teaching are based upon the great groundwork on which all religions have their foundations j it decidedly discountenances all irreligion . Freemasonry , too , has its scientific
aspect , and 1 suppose that the archaeology of Freemasonry is one of its scientific branches . To my mind the archaeology of Freemasonry is by far the most interesting branch ot Masonic study . 1 here is no more interestingstudy than the study of the past , and Freemasonry offers you a very fair field in that direction . To many Masons 1 shall be making an astounding assertion , because in young lodges
where the brethren have not been favoured as in this by the lectures of distinguished brethren , it would be quite news to hear that there was anything interesting in the past history of Freemasonry . To the members ot Prudence Lodge it would no doubt be astonishing to hear the number of works published on various subjects connected with Freemasonry . These works would be numbered by thousands .
The last 150 or 160 years has seen the publication of legions of works on Freemasonry , especially in Germany and France . 1 do not know whether it is that the Germans and French have been greater students than ourselves ; perhaps they have been . In late years America has produced a vast number of Masonic works j in fact , almost every week there is a book produced on some branch of the
science . I think one reason why the Germans have produced so many Masonic works is that their rulers have endeavoured to make thelodges more scientific than wehave . In some lodges the W . Master is an " ad vitam " appointment . In Stuttgard the present VV . Master of the lodge has occupied the position for 18 years , and will probably retain it as long as he lives . In that lodge papers on
scientific subjects are introduced and discussed , and the W . M . being a leader of scientific thought in that place , it has been thought right to keep him in office . 1 am not advocating that practice , because 1 do not think it would suit our lodges . In Germany the lodges are not so numerous as here j they are very particular as to the persons they admit , insisting upon certain qualifications , including
a certain standard of knowledge . In England we are by no means behind in the matter of Masonic literature . The work of Bro . Gould , now almost completed , is probably the most exhaustive work on Freemasonry in the English language . The later editions of Preston are very valuable . Then Bro . Hughan , of Torquay , has published valuable and reliable works j his work dealing with the extinct
Grand Lodge at York being most interesting . Then there is Findel , who advocated the Steinmetzen theory of Freemasonry , and Bro . Fort . These are amongst the most valuable authors . The ritual of Freemasonry is another branch that will well repay study . The ritual has been altered a great many times , Anderson and Desaguliers having done much in this direction . It suffered various mutilations and emendations previous to 1814 , and in that
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
year the Ancient and Modern Grand Lodges coalesced , and the ritual now in use was fixed upon . As to the origin of the Masonic rite , I cannot on this occasion fully discuss that . There is no que-tion that the rite has been known from the earliest days . The collection of Masonic medals and jewels is another interesting branch of the archaeology of Freemasonry j Bro . Cumberland has long been engaged in
this branch , and has one of the best collections exlant . Nothing has more tended to the extension of Masonic learning , than the exhibitions we have had , such as those at York , Worcester , and Shanklin , and 1 hope we shall see our way to have another exhibition in York this year , on the Queen's Jubilee . We know that Freemasonry has existed from time immemorial , and that it still exists all
over the world . 1 ravelling Masons have found our signs used all over the world . Dr . Tristram says that in North Africa an Arab Sheik recognised the Masonic signs , and that he was recognised as a member of the Secret Societies to which that Sheik betanged , because he knew their signs , which resulted in his being hospitably received . In conclusion , Bro . Whytehead urged on the brethren the
desirability of their making Masonry a study , and reaping the rich reward such a study would give . A hearty vole ol thanks was accorded Bro . Whytehead , on the motion of Bro . Dr . Smyth , I . P . M ., seconded by Bro . W . Watson , P . M ., J . W ., and supported by Bro .
1 udcr Trevor , P . M ., S . W ., whostated the pleasure it gave him to again meet Bro . Whytehead . They were boys together at St . Peter's , York j each had travelled abroad , and they had not met again till they did so in a Masonic lodge , and thus Masonry had afforded them a renewal of their early friendship .
HARLESDEN . —Harlesden Lodge ( No . 2098 ) . —The regular meeting was held at the National Schools , on Monday , 7 th inst . Present : Bros . Major C . A . Cooper , W . M . ; A . Ball , S . W . j G . Goldney-Cary , J . W . ; W . O . Lyon , P . M ., Sec ; F . S . Long , S . D . ; Rev . H . Courtenay Atwool , J . D . ; Fred . Levick , P . P . S . G . D ., P . M .,
D . C ; O . C . Robson , I . G . ; W . O . Wedlake , Bell , Butler , Cross , and a visitor . After the usual formal business , the W . M . raised Bro . Rowland Hughes to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., and subsequently passed Bros . T . Harley Jones and John Farrer to the F . sJ . Degree . The Worshipful Master
read the communication he had received from the M . W . the Pro Grand Master , when it was resolved that the consideration of the same be postponed until the next tegular meeting , that the brethren might have better opportunity of deciding as to the course the lodge would adopt . A gentleman having been proposed for initiation the lodge was duly closed .
Instruction.
INSTRUCTION .
PRINCE FREDERICK WILLIAM LODGE ( No . Hi ) . —A meeting was held on Tuesday , the 15 th inst ., at the fcagle Tavern , Clifton-road , Maida Hill . Present : Bros . J . Thwaites , VV . M . j I . VV . Curtis , S . W . ; M . J . Green , J . W . ; F . G . Baker , P . M ., I ' reas . and Preceptor ; J . J . Thomas , Sec . ; J . Millier , S . D . ; J . Stevens , . J . D . ; C . Coleman , I . G . ; C . StaJIibrass , Stwd . ; W . Chappie , C . J . Biorn , VV . J . Stratton , and ri . W . tastwood . Bro . J . Webster , 177 , was a visitor . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last
meeting were read and confirmed . The ceremony of initiation was rehearsed , Bro . Chappie candidate . Bro . Biorn was examined and entrusted . The lodge was opened in the second Degree , and the ceremony of passing rehearsed , Bro . Biorn candidate . The lodge was opened in the Third Degree . The lodge was closed down to the First Decree . Bro . Webster was elected a j lining member .
Bro , Curtis , S . W ., was elected W . M . for the ensuing week , and the officers were appointed in rotation . A vote of thanks was passed , and entered on the minutes , to the VV . M . for the able and efficient manner in which he presided for the first t me in this lodge of instruction . All Masonic business being ended , the lodge was closed .
, THE GREAT CITY LODGE ( No . 1426 ) . —A meeting of this lodge of instruction was held at Masons' Hall , Masons ' -avenue , Colcman-strect , E . C , on Thursday , the 10 th inst . Present : Bros . James Stevens , H . iVl ., P . Z ., Preceptor , W . M . ; VV . J . Yates , S . W . ; B . Williams , J . W . j L . V . Walker , S . D . ; VV . Bailey , J . D . j C . Thomassett , I . G . ; W . H . Paddle , P . M ., P . Z ., Treas . ; W . J . Ball , Sec . ; VV . Berry , F . C . Hush , A . Jardine , R . Baker , J . K . Pitt , J , Tattersall , and others .
The work of the evening comprised the 1 st and 2 nd Sections in the Second Degree and the ceremony of passing . Several points of interest in ritual and ceremonial were discussed for information of enquiring bre . hren , Bros . L . V . Walker and VV . Bailey , both of 22 , were elected members . Bro . Yates was elected to preside on the occasion of the Preceptor ' s lecture , to be given at the ensuing meeting . An agenda of Masonic ivwrk , set out for this and next munth , was distributed , and a resolution to invite the VV . M ., Wardens , and officers of the mother lodge , The Great City , to
occupy their respective positions in the lodge of instruction on the occasion of the installation ceremony being rehearsed on the 3 rd prox ., was unanimously carreid . The lodge was then closed . We are asked to remind brethren that the Fifteen Sections are to be worked in this lodge next Thursday , the 24 th inst . As that date has been appointed by the Chine Lodge , No . 1884 , at Shanklin , Isle of Wight , for the delivery of Bro . Sterens' lecture at that place , Bro . Thomas Poore , P . M ., has kindly consented to preside , in the absence of the Preceptor .
IVY LODGE ( No . 1441 ) . —A meeting was held at the Railway Tavern , Battersea Rise , S . W ., on Thursday , the 10 th instant . Present : Bros . Higerty , W . M . ; Cow . ey , S . W . ; Ellis , J . W . ; Prince . S . D . ; Wright , J . D . ; Gill , I . G . ; George , Sec . ; Cooper , W . M . 1441 ; Collick , VV . M . i $ 8 i ; Featherstone , P . M . 1502 ; Beddoes , and James . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed . The lodge then opened in the
Second Degree . Bio . Burcham Cooper was presented for installa . tiou , and was duly installed Dy Bro . Higerty , Preceptor , VV . M , 1044 , P . M . 1714 , P . J . G . D . Surrey , in the chair of K . S . On the return ot the brethren , the VV . M . invested his ollicers as follows ; Bros . Cowley , S . W . ; Ellis , J . W . ; Prime , S . D . ; Wright , J . D . ; Gill , I . G . ; and George , Secretary . Bro . Higerty gave the charges in his usual perfect manner , his elocutionary powers giving zest to
the ritual . Ihe lodge was resumed in the First Degree , when the bye-laws were submitted and passed . The W . M . rose for the first time , and dues were collected . The VV . M . rose for the second time . Bro . Cowler was unanimously elected VV . JVI . for next meet , ing , and appointed his ollicers in rotation . Bro . Collick , W . M , 1585 , was dulv elected a member . The VV . M . rose for the third time , and nothing iurther offering , the lodge was closed .
KENSINGTON LODGE ( No . 1767 ) . —A meeting was held uti the 15 th inst . at the Scarsdaie Arms , Euwardes-srjuare , Kensington , Present : Bros . Cochrane , VV . M . ; Hubbard , S . W . and Sec ; Woods , J . W . ; Barker , Treas . ; Keene , S . D . ; VV . B . Neville , J . D j J . P . Davies , I . G . ; Read , P . M ., Preceptor ; Marsh , Walters , Wilton , Worth , Kirk , Wiggins , Coat , J . H . Neville , Wcise , Swanson , Rayner , Aslett , Weeks , and Lovat . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of last meet " ing were read and confirmed . Bro . f H . Neville having answered the questions leading to the Second Degree , was entrusted . Lodge
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
During the evening the proceedings were enlivened by mdrv S'ings and rrcitations by members and visitors , S , . tably by Bros . Dillon , Stevens , Bird , and J . Mason . The Tjlei ' s toast brought a very happy day to a close . YORK . —Eboracum Lodge ( No . 1611 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lodge was held on the 14 th inst ., at Freemasons' Hall , St . Saviourgate . Bro . William Brown W M . was in the chair , and there were also
, , " ' sent Bros . T . B . Whytehead , P . M . j J . T . Seller , & M G . Simpson , P . M . ; G . Balmford , P . M . ; J . BJenkin , P M . ; W . Dyson , S . W . ; S . J . Dalton , J . W . ; 7 Kay , Secretary ; W . Lackenby , S . D . ; J . Lamb , ' LD . ; W . Storey , I . G . j and a number of other brethren . The business consisted of the raising of Bro . Archer to
the Third Degree , which was done by the W . M . in good = tyle . Bro . Whytehead then presented to the lodge , on behalf of Bro . Hughan , a facsimile of the Engraved List of 17 62 , which had been framed by Bro . Coates . He also presented a set of the symbolic engravings by Lambert de Lint ! t , which had been framed by Bro . James Smith , and enr / raved portraits of the Earl of Bedford , Grand Master .
, 567 ; Dukeof Somerset , Grand Master , 1549 ; and Sir Richard Steele , which had been framed by Bro . Lackenby . Votes of thanks were cordially passed to the respective donors of these valuable additions to the lodge collection . The names of three candidates for initiation were brought forward , and after the close of the lodge a very harmonious evening was spent .
WADEBRIDGE—Lodge Molesworth ( No . 1954 ) . —The installation and annual banquet of this Iodge was he'd on the 7 th inst ., at Lees Assembly Rooms , when Bro . H . Lander was presented by Bro . Bassett , P . M . S 56 , and impressively installed by Bro . Dorey , P . M . 856 , as W . M . for the ensuing year . The W . M . appointed as his officers Bros . R . Bonney , S . W . ; I . Brewer , J . W . j H . Jones ,
Treas . ; J . Goodfellow . Sec ; N . Robbins , S . D . ; S . Pollard , jun ., J . D . j S . Martyn , Org . ; H . Hare , D . C . S . ; j . R . T . Turner , I . G , ; C . Higman and J . Matthews , Stwds ; R . George , Tyler . At the close of the lodge about forty brethren , including the following visitors , sat down to a good banquet provided by Bro . Bonney : Bros . J . W . Bishop , 75 ; Bassett , 856 ; J . Doney , 856 ; T . H .
Spear , 330 ; W . T . Cock-, 330 ; J . C Sandoe , 330 ; W . R . Brewer , 330 ; R . F . Edyvean , 330 ; F . J . Heft , 330 ; G . Hext , 330 ; C . E . Julipp , 496 ; T . W . Perry , 856 ; W . H . Beckerlegg , 856 ; J . B . Moulder , 189 ; W . Rowe , 330 ; E . Rickard , 1529 j S . Waters , 1528 ; J . Stribley ,
1785 j W . E . Mitchell , 1528 j W . H . Martyn , 175 s j J . Rendle , 1247 ; and R . P . Griffith , 1785 . During the evening the usual Masonic and loyal toasts were given , interspersed with singing by Bros . Rendal , Hicks , and others . Bro . Bishop at intervals played selections on the harmonium presented to the lodge , by Bro . S . ^ H . Hare .
LEEDS . —Prudence Lodge ( No . 2069 ) . —The monthly meeting of this lodge took place on the 12 th inst ., at the Masonic Hall , Great George-street . The W . M ., Bro . C . L . Mason , P . M ., P . P . G . Treas ., was supported by the following officers and members : Bros . Dr . Smyth , I . P . M ., P . G . Chap , j Tudor Trevor , P . M ., S . W . j W . Watson , P . M ., J . W . j Rev . H . Butler , as Chap . ; Robt .
Abbott , Treas . ; C . Middleton , Sec . ; S . Scottyoung , S . D . ; J . J . Fretwell , J . D . ; M . W . Jameson , I . G . ; Tom Atkinson , D . C . ; Butterworth and Melling , Stwds . ; R . Craig , P . M ., P . P . G . D . ; B . S . Bailey , Smithson , Cryer , Robinson , and L . Howard , Org . This day had been fixed for the official visit of Alfred Lodge , No . 306 , and the invitation had been accepted by a large number of
brethren of that lodge . The W . M ., Bro . Councillor Burns , was unavoidably absent , but was represented by Bros . McQuat Batt , Sec . j J . Sutcliffe , J . W . ; Stallard , P . M ., Treas . ; Musgrave , Thompson , J . B . Jowett , S . D . ; Thrippleton , l . P . M . ; and others . The D . P . G . M . of West Yorks ., Bro . H . Smith , was present and received the salutation due to his exalted rank . There were many other
visitors who had been attracted to Prudence Lodge for the purpose of hearing Bro . T . B . Whytehead , P . M . 1600 , and P . P . S . G . W . North and East Yorks , deliver a lecture on Freemasonry . Mr . Harris Regbie Abbott , the son of the popular Treasurer of the lodge , was impressively initiated into the mysteries of the Craft by the W . M ., who was assisted by Bros . Watson , Smyth , and Trevor .
Bro . Whytehead then gave an admirable address upon " Masonry from an Archajological point of view . " He said : Before begining to say anything upon the particular subject I have chosen to address you upon , I should like to Wake a _ few remarks generally upon Freemasonry as an Institution , and upon its present position . We seem to I've in what may be described as the halcyon or golden
days of Freemasonry . Never was there a time , certainly within the historic period , when Freemasonry was so Prosperous or numbered amongst its members so many men of high rank in life , and when so many of them were active members of the Craft . It is a remarkable fact that this should be so , because in these days every Institution is liable to criticism , and in fact I know of no human
organisation which is not now subject to strict examination , and concerning which it is not asked " Why does this exist ?" freemasonry has been criticised , but that is no new thing fi history of Freemasonry , for in the last century we find that it has been subjected to very frequent and virulent attacks . About the year 1730 these attacks began to be niarje with exceeding great rancour . We have in existence Works
published at that time purporting to expose the Secrets of Freemasonry , and endeavouring to throw ridicule u Pon the whole organisation . Cartoons to the same end were published between that time and the end of the century . For a long time it seemed as if Freemasonry was atf 1 ' ° ^ fr ° m these persistent attacks . These attacks however nothing to those made the
, , were upon y raft ln America at the time of the so-called abduc" ° " of Morgan . At that time such a dead set ™ as made against Freemasonry in America , from " ! P'ghest down to the lowest in the Republic , that tick i- s were run ^ Congress upon the anti-Masonic nn ' . * violent and fierce were the onslaughts made
a P . " > e Order that in many parts of America it was Wh fil unsafe f ° r any one to be known to be a Mason , read P 'he consequence of this ? As I have alt ^ y sa 'd , in Great Britain our Order is more prosperous com eV 6 j ye ' S ' 'ha' prosperity is it is nothing as rerjaTf to its condition 'n the United States . —I mean in i . ard to the numbers enrolled under our banners , and the
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
great amount ot time , labour , and money spent upon it by the brethren across the Atlantic . At the same time it is not always when an Institute is most popular that it is most prosperous . Yet , as I have said , its prosperity is great . Still , we every now and again find people saying , "What loes Freemasonry do ? You meet and dine , and it is true you have some Charities . We also meet and dine , but we
nave none oft his tinsel and jewellery you wear . We enjoy our dinners quite as much as you do ; we have our hospitals , and almshouses , and Charitable Institutions innumerable , but we don ' t make any fuss about it as you do about Freemasonry . What is the meaning of all this Masonic fuss ? " The reply I generally make to such enquiries is this . In the first place , 1 deny there is any fuss or
parade . As a rule Freemasons don ' t parade . Our leaders are not in favourof any kind of out-door parade , and when these demonstrations take place , they are , generally speaking , of such a character as not to invite criticism from outsiders . Ihe best answer to make to these critics is to tell them that if they were Masons they would know more about it . There are points in Freemasonry which no
outaid ; r can appreciate , especially the point that we must meet in Masonry men whose names we should otherwise have been ignorant of . That may be said of other organisations , but the friendships made under the banners ot our Order are of a different character altogether to the friendships made under other circumstances . Some of my most treasured friendships have been made in a Masonic lodge ,
and I trust I shall ever be able to look back with intense pleasure to the honest regard I have acquired of many men whom I should never have known had I not been a Mason . Still , there are critics inside Freemasonry . There are many Institutions at the prsent moment that are more in danger from internal criticism than from attacks from the outside , and I am not sure that this is not in some
measure the case with Freemasonry . We are careful in the matter of candidates , and only receive them after we are satisfied that they are fit and proper persons to be made Masons . We even get as initiates men of considerable attainments and high offices . These come into our lodges and hear our beautiful ceremonies and thoroughly agree vvith the teaching therein enunciated ; but
after a time they lose their freshness . It is to be remembered that freemasonry was founded at a time wnen learning and literature were at a low ebb , when few people could do more than read and write , and when general knowledge was confined to the few . Now all this is changed , and it is from the intelligent brother we have the most to fear . Unless we can retain the interest and regard
of the most cultivated of our brethren , we , as an Urder , shall not be as prosperous in the future as we have been in the past , and it is for that reason I believe that something more should be attempted in ourlodges than the mere ritual of the Order ; not that I would wish to throw the slightest discredit upon ritualism . If we can , however , introduce into the lodges anything outside the usual working which
may interest intelligent Masons , we shall have a far better chance of retaining the continued respect and regard of those for whose opinion we certainly had the most esteem . This Lodge ( Prudence ) seems to have taken a very good starting point in this respect , inasmuch as it has already had lectures from brethren well qualified to address you .
There are many ways in which Freemasonry may be looked upon . There is the social aspect , and there is its political aspect , and although neither religious nor political systems are discussed , yet the lodge has a bearing on this point-In the lodge a man learns to be obedient to the powers that be , and a man who has learned that lesson is likely to make an admirable member of Parliament or a ruler of
any society , because the man who can obey can also rule . And Freemasonry also has its religious aspect . Although it does not teach religion , yet I have always been told that Freemasonry is the handmaid of religion . Its ritual and teaching are based upon the great groundwork on which all religions have their foundations j it decidedly discountenances all irreligion . Freemasonry , too , has its scientific
aspect , and 1 suppose that the archaeology of Freemasonry is one of its scientific branches . To my mind the archaeology of Freemasonry is by far the most interesting branch ot Masonic study . 1 here is no more interestingstudy than the study of the past , and Freemasonry offers you a very fair field in that direction . To many Masons 1 shall be making an astounding assertion , because in young lodges
where the brethren have not been favoured as in this by the lectures of distinguished brethren , it would be quite news to hear that there was anything interesting in the past history of Freemasonry . To the members ot Prudence Lodge it would no doubt be astonishing to hear the number of works published on various subjects connected with Freemasonry . These works would be numbered by thousands .
The last 150 or 160 years has seen the publication of legions of works on Freemasonry , especially in Germany and France . 1 do not know whether it is that the Germans and French have been greater students than ourselves ; perhaps they have been . In late years America has produced a vast number of Masonic works j in fact , almost every week there is a book produced on some branch of the
science . I think one reason why the Germans have produced so many Masonic works is that their rulers have endeavoured to make thelodges more scientific than wehave . In some lodges the W . Master is an " ad vitam " appointment . In Stuttgard the present VV . Master of the lodge has occupied the position for 18 years , and will probably retain it as long as he lives . In that lodge papers on
scientific subjects are introduced and discussed , and the W . M . being a leader of scientific thought in that place , it has been thought right to keep him in office . 1 am not advocating that practice , because 1 do not think it would suit our lodges . In Germany the lodges are not so numerous as here j they are very particular as to the persons they admit , insisting upon certain qualifications , including
a certain standard of knowledge . In England we are by no means behind in the matter of Masonic literature . The work of Bro . Gould , now almost completed , is probably the most exhaustive work on Freemasonry in the English language . The later editions of Preston are very valuable . Then Bro . Hughan , of Torquay , has published valuable and reliable works j his work dealing with the extinct
Grand Lodge at York being most interesting . Then there is Findel , who advocated the Steinmetzen theory of Freemasonry , and Bro . Fort . These are amongst the most valuable authors . The ritual of Freemasonry is another branch that will well repay study . The ritual has been altered a great many times , Anderson and Desaguliers having done much in this direction . It suffered various mutilations and emendations previous to 1814 , and in that
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year the Ancient and Modern Grand Lodges coalesced , and the ritual now in use was fixed upon . As to the origin of the Masonic rite , I cannot on this occasion fully discuss that . There is no que-tion that the rite has been known from the earliest days . The collection of Masonic medals and jewels is another interesting branch of the archaeology of Freemasonry j Bro . Cumberland has long been engaged in
this branch , and has one of the best collections exlant . Nothing has more tended to the extension of Masonic learning , than the exhibitions we have had , such as those at York , Worcester , and Shanklin , and 1 hope we shall see our way to have another exhibition in York this year , on the Queen's Jubilee . We know that Freemasonry has existed from time immemorial , and that it still exists all
over the world . 1 ravelling Masons have found our signs used all over the world . Dr . Tristram says that in North Africa an Arab Sheik recognised the Masonic signs , and that he was recognised as a member of the Secret Societies to which that Sheik betanged , because he knew their signs , which resulted in his being hospitably received . In conclusion , Bro . Whytehead urged on the brethren the
desirability of their making Masonry a study , and reaping the rich reward such a study would give . A hearty vole ol thanks was accorded Bro . Whytehead , on the motion of Bro . Dr . Smyth , I . P . M ., seconded by Bro . W . Watson , P . M ., J . W ., and supported by Bro .
1 udcr Trevor , P . M ., S . W ., whostated the pleasure it gave him to again meet Bro . Whytehead . They were boys together at St . Peter's , York j each had travelled abroad , and they had not met again till they did so in a Masonic lodge , and thus Masonry had afforded them a renewal of their early friendship .
HARLESDEN . —Harlesden Lodge ( No . 2098 ) . —The regular meeting was held at the National Schools , on Monday , 7 th inst . Present : Bros . Major C . A . Cooper , W . M . ; A . Ball , S . W . j G . Goldney-Cary , J . W . ; W . O . Lyon , P . M ., Sec ; F . S . Long , S . D . ; Rev . H . Courtenay Atwool , J . D . ; Fred . Levick , P . P . S . G . D ., P . M .,
D . C ; O . C . Robson , I . G . ; W . O . Wedlake , Bell , Butler , Cross , and a visitor . After the usual formal business , the W . M . raised Bro . Rowland Hughes to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., and subsequently passed Bros . T . Harley Jones and John Farrer to the F . sJ . Degree . The Worshipful Master
read the communication he had received from the M . W . the Pro Grand Master , when it was resolved that the consideration of the same be postponed until the next tegular meeting , that the brethren might have better opportunity of deciding as to the course the lodge would adopt . A gentleman having been proposed for initiation the lodge was duly closed .
Instruction.
INSTRUCTION .
PRINCE FREDERICK WILLIAM LODGE ( No . Hi ) . —A meeting was held on Tuesday , the 15 th inst ., at the fcagle Tavern , Clifton-road , Maida Hill . Present : Bros . J . Thwaites , VV . M . j I . VV . Curtis , S . W . ; M . J . Green , J . W . ; F . G . Baker , P . M ., I ' reas . and Preceptor ; J . J . Thomas , Sec . ; J . Millier , S . D . ; J . Stevens , . J . D . ; C . Coleman , I . G . ; C . StaJIibrass , Stwd . ; W . Chappie , C . J . Biorn , VV . J . Stratton , and ri . W . tastwood . Bro . J . Webster , 177 , was a visitor . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last
meeting were read and confirmed . The ceremony of initiation was rehearsed , Bro . Chappie candidate . Bro . Biorn was examined and entrusted . The lodge was opened in the second Degree , and the ceremony of passing rehearsed , Bro . Biorn candidate . The lodge was opened in the Third Degree . The lodge was closed down to the First Decree . Bro . Webster was elected a j lining member .
Bro , Curtis , S . W ., was elected W . M . for the ensuing week , and the officers were appointed in rotation . A vote of thanks was passed , and entered on the minutes , to the VV . M . for the able and efficient manner in which he presided for the first t me in this lodge of instruction . All Masonic business being ended , the lodge was closed .
, THE GREAT CITY LODGE ( No . 1426 ) . —A meeting of this lodge of instruction was held at Masons' Hall , Masons ' -avenue , Colcman-strect , E . C , on Thursday , the 10 th inst . Present : Bros . James Stevens , H . iVl ., P . Z ., Preceptor , W . M . ; VV . J . Yates , S . W . ; B . Williams , J . W . j L . V . Walker , S . D . ; VV . Bailey , J . D . j C . Thomassett , I . G . ; W . H . Paddle , P . M ., P . Z ., Treas . ; W . J . Ball , Sec . ; VV . Berry , F . C . Hush , A . Jardine , R . Baker , J . K . Pitt , J , Tattersall , and others .
The work of the evening comprised the 1 st and 2 nd Sections in the Second Degree and the ceremony of passing . Several points of interest in ritual and ceremonial were discussed for information of enquiring bre . hren , Bros . L . V . Walker and VV . Bailey , both of 22 , were elected members . Bro . Yates was elected to preside on the occasion of the Preceptor ' s lecture , to be given at the ensuing meeting . An agenda of Masonic ivwrk , set out for this and next munth , was distributed , and a resolution to invite the VV . M ., Wardens , and officers of the mother lodge , The Great City , to
occupy their respective positions in the lodge of instruction on the occasion of the installation ceremony being rehearsed on the 3 rd prox ., was unanimously carreid . The lodge was then closed . We are asked to remind brethren that the Fifteen Sections are to be worked in this lodge next Thursday , the 24 th inst . As that date has been appointed by the Chine Lodge , No . 1884 , at Shanklin , Isle of Wight , for the delivery of Bro . Sterens' lecture at that place , Bro . Thomas Poore , P . M ., has kindly consented to preside , in the absence of the Preceptor .
IVY LODGE ( No . 1441 ) . —A meeting was held at the Railway Tavern , Battersea Rise , S . W ., on Thursday , the 10 th instant . Present : Bros . Higerty , W . M . ; Cow . ey , S . W . ; Ellis , J . W . ; Prince . S . D . ; Wright , J . D . ; Gill , I . G . ; George , Sec . ; Cooper , W . M . 1441 ; Collick , VV . M . i $ 8 i ; Featherstone , P . M . 1502 ; Beddoes , and James . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed . The lodge then opened in the
Second Degree . Bio . Burcham Cooper was presented for installa . tiou , and was duly installed Dy Bro . Higerty , Preceptor , VV . M , 1044 , P . M . 1714 , P . J . G . D . Surrey , in the chair of K . S . On the return ot the brethren , the VV . M . invested his ollicers as follows ; Bros . Cowley , S . W . ; Ellis , J . W . ; Prime , S . D . ; Wright , J . D . ; Gill , I . G . ; and George , Secretary . Bro . Higerty gave the charges in his usual perfect manner , his elocutionary powers giving zest to
the ritual . Ihe lodge was resumed in the First Degree , when the bye-laws were submitted and passed . The W . M . rose for the first time , and dues were collected . The VV . M . rose for the second time . Bro . Cowler was unanimously elected VV . JVI . for next meet , ing , and appointed his ollicers in rotation . Bro . Collick , W . M , 1585 , was dulv elected a member . The VV . M . rose for the third time , and nothing iurther offering , the lodge was closed .
KENSINGTON LODGE ( No . 1767 ) . —A meeting was held uti the 15 th inst . at the Scarsdaie Arms , Euwardes-srjuare , Kensington , Present : Bros . Cochrane , VV . M . ; Hubbard , S . W . and Sec ; Woods , J . W . ; Barker , Treas . ; Keene , S . D . ; VV . B . Neville , J . D j J . P . Davies , I . G . ; Read , P . M ., Preceptor ; Marsh , Walters , Wilton , Worth , Kirk , Wiggins , Coat , J . H . Neville , Wcise , Swanson , Rayner , Aslett , Weeks , and Lovat . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of last meet " ing were read and confirmed . Bro . f H . Neville having answered the questions leading to the Second Degree , was entrusted . Lodge