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Article PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK LODGE OF BERKS AND OXON. ← Page 2 of 2 Article New Zealand. Page 1 of 1 Article A LADIES' NIGHT AT THE RANELAGH LODGE, No. 834. Page 1 of 1 Article A LADIES' NIGHT AT THE RANELAGH LODGE, No. 834. Page 1 of 1 Article FREEMASONRY AT ROYTON. Page 1 of 1
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of Berks And Oxon.
more they liked him ; and there could be no doubt that uneler his genial and able presidency the province would long continue to flourish . ( Cheers . ) The PROV . GRAND MASTER , in reply , said he highly valued the kind expression of Sir Francis , and also the warm and hearty reception given to the toast . It gave him sincere pleasure to find himself supported by so many of the brethren , and he earnestly hoped the Provincial Grand
Lodge would long continue to flourish . ( Cheers . ) His lordship concluded by proposing " The Health of the Deputy Prov . Grand Master , " thanking him for the kind interest he had taken in the affairsof the province , which he felt were perfectly safe in Bro . Stephens' hands . ( Cheers . ) The DEPUTY PROV . GRAND MASTER said he wished he could feel he vvas entitled to the kind words used , and the good feeling manifested towards him . He was willing to
render such services as he could , and should feel it to be his duty to visit the lodges in the province and see the work performed during the ensuing year . ( Cheers . ) Bro . STEPHENS gave "The Health of the Warden , Treasurer , and other Officers of the Province , Present and Past , " and Bro . ANSELL responded . Bro . J WALKER ( D . P . G . M . for Gloucestershire ) , proposed "The Health of the W . M ., Wardens , and Brethren
of the Leopold Lodge , " for whom Bro . SAMUEL BRADLEY , W . M ., returned thanks . Bro . PULLEY , in the course of an able speech , proposed "The Mark Benevolent Fund , " remarking that he did so vvith very great pleasure , the subject of the toast being connected with his dearest thoughts of Masonry , namely charity ( cheers ) . He thought he might say without any egotism that no member of the Mark Degree had taken
more interest in the Mark Benevolent Fund than he had done ( hear , hear , and cheers ) . He had spared no effort to ensure its prosperity and promote its success whenever he had had the opportunity , not only by advocating its claims to their support , but also by ensuring as far as possible the thorough working of the benevolent objects which they had in view ( hear and cheers ) . He referred to the good work being carried on by means of this fund , and expressed his
hope that the Province would continue to accord it liberal support , and that he would be in a position to present a very substantial amount at next year ' s festival . ( Cheers . ) Bro . DON . M . DEWAR , in reply said he took the greatest possible interest in the Mark Benevolent Fund , and they were fortunate in having such a splendid advocate and supporter of the fund as Bro . Pulley , who vvas not a man ot mere words , but a man of a : tion , as regards every
Degree of Masonry to which he belonged . ( Cheers ) . Bro . Pulley ' s name appeared in the lists of many Stewards , and he was undoubtedly the right man to advocate the claims of the fund . ( Hear , hear ) . Bro . Dewar then gave a history of the fund , and the excellent objects carried out in connection therewith , and concluded by remarking that he felt extremely g lad they would have the advantage of the able stewardship of Bro . Pulley for the next festival .
( Applause ) . The health of " The Visiting Brethren , " vvas proposed by Bro . TOMKINS , and acknowledged by Bro . EVE , in an eloquent speech ; the speaker observing that the more the brethren made themselves acquainted with the Masonic Charities the greater would be the support given to them . ( Hear , hear ) . The PROV . GRAND MASTER then gave the health of "The Host , " remarking upon Bro . Flanagan ' s excellent
catering . Bro . FLANAUAN , P . G . J . W ., having returned thanks , the Prov . Grand Master took his departure for home , being much cheered as he withdrew . A smoking concert followed , and proved a splendid success , the arrangements devolving upon Bro . W . Hickie , P . P . G . Org . An attractive programme was rendered vvith great taste by Madame Worrell , and Bros . Cozens , Ashton , Nettleship , and Tower , and the applause vvas hearty throughout . Bro . Pulley vvas warmly congratulated upon the unqualified success of the day ' s proceedings .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
FEILDING ( WELLINGTON ) . —Fielding Lodge ( No . 1940 E . C . )—Theceremonyof installing the officers for the ensuing year of this lodge was performed in the Masonic Hall , on Thursday , the 19 th July last , Bros . W . J . Batt , T . King , R . N . Keeling , Past Masters from the United Manawatu Lodge , No . 1721 , E . C , Palmerston North , were the Installing officers , assisted by P . M . Bro . the Rev . Joshua Jones , 470 , S . C ., Chap ., and Bro . E . W .
Perkins , No . 1721 , E . C , Org . Ihe following are the names of the officers installed : Bros . W . G . Haybittle , W . M . ; H . J . Booth , S . W . ; A . Dawson , J . W . ; T . W . K . Foster , Secretary ; P . Bartholomew , Treasurer ; J . H . Stevens , S . D . ; P . Thomson , J . D . On the Board of Installed Masters were Bros . W . J . Batt , T . King , R . N . Keeling , Jones , Bray , F . Thompson , Hankins , Nannestad , and Xirton . Visitors : Bros . A . R . Curtis , 4 63 , S . C . ; J .
King , 1721 , E . C ; H . Hankins , R . W . M . Manawatu Kilwinning , S . C ; IL W . Haybittle , 1 7 , E . C ; S . Abrahams , 1721 , E . C . ; J . R . Bryant , 1 7 21 , E . C . ; _ R . G . Logan , 1 7 , E . C . ; S . 5 . Quinn , 1721 , E . C ; J . T . Bray , M 53 . E . C ; E . W . Perkins , 1 7 21 , E . C ; E . Malcom , 450 , l . C . ; Major John Liddle Celtic , of Liverpool , 491 , S . C . ; and others . At the conclusion of the ceremony the brethren
adjourned . After the installation a ball vvas held in the Town Hall . The music was under the direction of Bro . King , of Wanganui , and , as usual , gave perfect satisfaction . The W . M ., Bro . VV . G . Haybittle , vvas Master of Ceremonies , assisted by the S . W ., Bro . H . J . Booth . The hall vvas beautifully decorated with Masonic emblems , supported by an abundance of ferns , Sec , which gave the
room a pleasant and picturesque appearance . Dancing commenced at 9 . 30 p . m ., and continued until 4 a . m . the following morning . Upwards of Go couple were present , and theassembly vvas a most brilliant one . The decorations of the ladies , whose dresses were magnificent , in connection with the Masonic regalia also had a very pleasing effect .
MADAME Tuss . H'ii AND SON ' EXHIBITION . —Portrait Models of President Grevy , the Cointe < lc Paris , Due de Nemours , fate Comte etc Cliamlionl , and M . Wafldington . Costly Court Dresses from thc first Parisian houses . Captain Webb ( taken from life ; . "J . ' Charles Parnell , M . P . Also James Carey , the Informer . MARWOOD ( taken from sittings just prior to his death ) now on view . Admission is . Extra rooms fid . Open from 10 till 10 . — [ ADVT . ]
A Ladies' Night At The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
A LADIES' NIGHT AT THE RANELAGH LODGE , No . 834 .
The winter session of this prosperous lodge vvas inaugurated on the 9 th inst ., with a ladies' banquet at the Criterion Restaurant , Piccadilly , W ., and will be remembered by the brethren of the lodge as a red-letter day in its history . Lodge was opened by Rro . F . J . Oliver , W . M ., supported by Bros . Webb , S . W .: H . Perdue , J . W . ; Goringe , S . D . ;
Burton , J . D . ; and Blake , I . G . The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed , and Bros . Willcox , Hewitt , and Anschel had conferred on them the benefit of the Second Degree , and Bros . Williams , Ward , Wildman , Gossling , and Southvvood were raised to the Sublime Degree of M . Ms . The Secretary , Bro . John Tuck , then read the special dispensation granted by the Most Worshipful Grand
Master , H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , permitting the brethren to wear Masonic Craft clothing and regalia at the banquet table upon the occasion of ladies being present . The W . M . deputed Bros . Shaw , P . M ., and Tuck , Sec , who , in conjunction with himself , and the cordial assistance of Bros . Madell and Bretigni , the manager and deputy manager , succeeded in arranging a meeting which passed ofi with the utmost iklat .
The banquet vvas of the most recherche description and the arrangement of the tables a perfect work of art in respect to decorations , which gave evident delight to the ladies , who in their elegant costumes added considerably to the " tout ensemble " of the scene . The manager of the establishment had kindly placed at the disposal of the brethren the Princes' Room as a reception room , and at 7 . 30 , the time fixed for the banquet , the VV . M . with his lady led
the way to the Victoria Hall , followed by a procession of 45 ladies and brethren , who vvith those who had not brought ladies assembled to the number of no . When all had taken their places grace vvas sung , and upon the cloth being cleared grace was again sung , after which the Worshipful Master gave the usual loyal and Masonic toasts . In reply to the toast of "The Worshipful Master , "
proposed in the most flattering and eulogistic terms by the l . P . M ., Bro . Ellingford , Bro . Oliver said that he felt quite unequal to adequately reply to the kind observations made respecting him by the l . P . M . He had upon all occasions endeavoured to acquit himself to the satisfaction of the brethren and the credit of the lodge , and he vvas most gratified at being surrounded by such a splendid gathering of brethren , and the pleasure of the meeting vvas much
enhanced by the presence of so many ladies . The Worshi p ful Master then gave the next toast , which vvas rather an inovation on the toast list , viz ., " Prosperity to the Ranelagh Lodge , " vvith which he coupled the name of Bro . Slack , P . M ., the oldest Past Master of the lodge , who in reply gave a summary of the history of the lodge during the 20 years he had been connected vvith it . The Worshipful Master then gave the toast of the
evening , "The Ladies , " vvith which he coupled the name of Bro . H . Shaw , P . M ., and in a graceful and flattering speech welcomed them _ to the social board . Bro . Shawinrespondingsaid : W . M ., ladies , andbrethren : Many of you will remember that Shakespeare says " Some men are born great , and some achieve greatness , and some have greatness thrust upon them . " 1 think I may at the present moment consider myself as belonging to the latter
category , for I am at a loss to understand why the W . M . has thrust upon me the very great honour though somewhat difficult task of responding on behalf of the ladies to the toast he has just so pleasantl y submitted to your notice , but as obedience to the Worshipful Master is one of our first principles , I obey his call , and on behalf of the ladies who have honoured you vvith their presence and graced your assembly this evening , I ttndir
you my very sincere thanks for the hospitable reception you have given them and for your efforts to entertain them . I believe that down to a very short time since they have considered you rather a selfish set , and although the peculiar constitution of your Order debars them from participating in its secrets and mysteries , they know of no valid reason why they should not long ago have been invited to participate with you in some of the pleasures and
enjoyments you invariably give yourselves after the arduous duties of the lodge are disposed of . But it has been reserved for you , VV . M ., to break through that selfish and exclusive custom and to inaugurate this pleasant meeting at which your fair friends are enabled to sit vvith you at your social board , and to see you , to observe you , and form some idea how you conduct yourselves at times when they are not present ; and as this meeting has passed with so much
unanimous pleasure the ladies hope thc future Masters of the lodge will look upon this as a precedent , and that it is only the | beginning of a series of happy reunions , at which the brethren and their ladies may meet each other in pleasant social intercourse and renew the acquaintances they will make this evening . Again , Worshipful Master , for the genial manner in which you submitted this toast , and to you , brethren , for the very
enthusiastic manner in which you have received it , the ladies give you their sincere thanks . This speech was received with the greatest enthusiasm . The W . M . then gave the toast of "The Visitors , " of whom there vvas a goodly number , and connected vvith it the name of Bro . Michael , P . P . G . P . of Kent , vyho made rather a lengthy reply , referring to the necessity of the exchange of courtesies between various lodges in order to
maintain thorough Masonic sociability . The toast of " The Past Masters " was then given by the Worshipful Master , and in the course of his observations said it vvas a difficult toast to submit , as a VV . M . always tried to speak of them in the most suitable terms . It was only when a brother attained the proud distinction of being the Master of his lodge that he could fully appreciate the assistance , support , and encouragement given by the Past
Masters . I hey had not only in the past sustained the prestige of the lodge , but they would in the future assist to make the lodge even more successful than it now is . The name of Bro . Alais , P . M ., vvas mentioned in connection with this toast , and it vvas very heartily responded to . Bro . Alais replied in a very humorous speech , causing
much laughter . The toast of "The Officers" was then given in suitable terms , and replies given equally appropriate . During the evening and between each toast some very excellent music vvas given , which considerably enlivened the entertainment and gave great delight and satisfaction to the fairer portion of the company . The musical arrange-
A Ladies' Night At The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
ments were under the direction of Bro . J . Ion Cantlc , as sistedby Miss Grace Godolphin , Miss Florence Davis , Bro Arthur Thomas , and Bro . J . Kift . Amongst those brethren members of the lodge and visi tors present we noticed Bro . Oliver , Mrs . Oliver , Bro Ellingford , Bro . Alais , P . M ., Mrs . Alais , Miss Alais , Bro Shaw , P . M ., Mrs . Shaw , Bro . John TuckMrs . TuckBro
, , Guest , Mrs . Guest , Miss Guest , Bro . Wright , Mrs . Wright , Bro . Denton , Mrs . Burton , Bro . Goringe :, Mrs . Goringe , Miss Goringe , Bro . Dipple , Mrs . Dipple , Bro . Crumplen , Mrs . Crumplen , Bro . J . K . Ward , Mrs . Ward , Bro . Lucas , Mrs . Lucas , Bro . Michael , P . P . G . P . Kent , Mrs . Michael , Bro . Millward , Mrs . Millward , Bro . Kipps , P . P . G . O . Kent , and others .
Freemasonry At Royton.
FREEMASONRY AT ROYTON .
( COMMUNICATED . ) An extremely interesting and pleasant reunion , held under Masonic auspices , took place at the Half-way House , Thornham , near Royton , a few Saturdays since . The meeting , which had been convened by special circular issued by brethren—or rather , to speak correctly , f
should say companions—composing the Chapter of St . John , No . 325 , vvas well attended . The visitors were in most cases accompanied by their wives , and arrived at Royton Station by saloon carriage a little before four o'clock in the afternoon . Leaving the station the party turned Rochdalewards , and after an exhilarating walk of about 10 minutes along
a pleasant country road they reached the home of the Gallaghers ' . I need hardl y describe the next phase of the business—the pleasant smiles of welcome all round , the handshaking , the congratulations , the denuding oneself of coats , capes , macintoshes , and other impedimenta of travel previous to partaking a glass of " Sir Wilfrid Lawson's Own , " I mean the royal blend whiskey , which the host and his
" clientele" accustom themselves to swear by ~ l mean this in a legal , and not in a big , big " D" sense . Under the guidance of Host John Gallagher some of the party afterwards made a tour of inspection , and expressed themselves satisfied . Your correspondent was previously unacquainted vvith Royton and its neighbourhood , having been under the
impression that it was one of those murk y places where a month ' s residence would be certain to insure a skin so swarthy as only to be a few degrees removed from the colour of a nigger . But any illusions of mine in this respect were soon dispelled . The Half Way House , a modest unassumingstructure , is pleasantly situated on the roadside mid-way between Oldham
and Rochdale . Its rooms even now are sufficiently commodious for pic-nic parties , hut vvith the contemplated addition of a large wing , it will eventuallybe the retreat for those seeking to escape from the distractions of town . The view in front of the house embraces the far distant Saddleworth with its hills , Shaw lying in the valley ; you can sec the tall gaunt chimneys rearing their high heads into the
sky , an evidence of the life and activity of these manufacturing districts . Perhaps there is a greater amount of manufacturing wealth concentrated in thc districts of Oldham and Royton , than in any other portion around . At the rear of the house is the Tandle Hill , with its well cultivated meadows , while scattered here and there are the residences of several justices of the peace , who , bv the
neat way in which their grounds are laid out , evidently find attraction in the neighbourhood where rises the river Irk . The garden in connection vvith the establishment is one of no mean order , and while its comfortable summer-house will be dear to lovers of the weed , those who desire it can , as Millikin says of the groves of Blarney , wander " down by the purling of a sweet silent stream " which pursues its
course along a lovely little valley in the immediate vicinity , and is banked on either side vvith a profusion of ferns . From Thornham to Manchester , the drive , which I afterwards took , is simply delightful , and would well repay any expense incurred . Of course the same remark will apply with regard to a drive from Manchster to the Half Way House . Proceeding up the Cheetham-hill road you pass
the boundary wall of Heaton Park , and then on to the Three Arrows , calling upon our old friend Whitehead . Continuingon you go through Middleton and , after a pleasant drive round the Tandle Hill , emerge at last in view of host Gallagher ' s house . But I am digressing . A most substantial repast had been provided for the visitors , which reflected the greatest amount of credit as a
caterer upon Mrs . Gallagher , who acted as " chef . " I may here incidentally mention that amongst the company were several Provincial Grand Officers and other popular brethren belonging to Provincial Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Chapter respectively . After the removal of the cloth the time was devoted to various enjoyments . Comp . Benjamin Taylor occupied
the chair , being supported as vice by Comp . 11 . C . Miller . The Chairman in the course of a most interesting speech , referred at length to the services which Comp . John Gallagher had so repeatedly and unostentatiously rendered to the cause of Freemasonry . Indeed no man had been more capable , more eagerand more willing than he to
, render aid in any capacity whatever . More than one lodge in the province of Lancashire owed its advancement to his zealous spirit and assistance . Few people out of the pale of the mystic circle realised the advantages derived from Freemasonry , and that a rigid adherence to its sublime principles could not fail to make a man all that was
necessary to meet the requirements of society . Comp . Gallagher vvas a typical Freemason , who possessed a large heart and warm sympathies . The VICE-CHAIRMAN full y endorsed all that had been uttered by Ex . Comp . Benjamin Taylor , and sincerely hoped vvith him that it would be a long time before their host fell out of the Masonic embrace .
The toast of " The Ladies" vvas charasteristically given by Bro . J ACKSON , P . M ., and vvas responded to by E . Comp . ROBERT CALDWELL in his usual humorous and happy vein . Host GALLAGHER replied for himself and family , after which the party returned home , acknowledging that the poetical aspiration of the writer who found " the warmest welcome at an inn " had been realised during their visit .
Thc Marquis of Lome and the Princess Louise will land at Liverpool on their return from Canada , on 01 about November 5 .
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Provincial Grand Mark Lodge Of Berks And Oxon.
more they liked him ; and there could be no doubt that uneler his genial and able presidency the province would long continue to flourish . ( Cheers . ) The PROV . GRAND MASTER , in reply , said he highly valued the kind expression of Sir Francis , and also the warm and hearty reception given to the toast . It gave him sincere pleasure to find himself supported by so many of the brethren , and he earnestly hoped the Provincial Grand
Lodge would long continue to flourish . ( Cheers . ) His lordship concluded by proposing " The Health of the Deputy Prov . Grand Master , " thanking him for the kind interest he had taken in the affairsof the province , which he felt were perfectly safe in Bro . Stephens' hands . ( Cheers . ) The DEPUTY PROV . GRAND MASTER said he wished he could feel he vvas entitled to the kind words used , and the good feeling manifested towards him . He was willing to
render such services as he could , and should feel it to be his duty to visit the lodges in the province and see the work performed during the ensuing year . ( Cheers . ) Bro . STEPHENS gave "The Health of the Warden , Treasurer , and other Officers of the Province , Present and Past , " and Bro . ANSELL responded . Bro . J WALKER ( D . P . G . M . for Gloucestershire ) , proposed "The Health of the W . M ., Wardens , and Brethren
of the Leopold Lodge , " for whom Bro . SAMUEL BRADLEY , W . M ., returned thanks . Bro . PULLEY , in the course of an able speech , proposed "The Mark Benevolent Fund , " remarking that he did so vvith very great pleasure , the subject of the toast being connected with his dearest thoughts of Masonry , namely charity ( cheers ) . He thought he might say without any egotism that no member of the Mark Degree had taken
more interest in the Mark Benevolent Fund than he had done ( hear , hear , and cheers ) . He had spared no effort to ensure its prosperity and promote its success whenever he had had the opportunity , not only by advocating its claims to their support , but also by ensuring as far as possible the thorough working of the benevolent objects which they had in view ( hear and cheers ) . He referred to the good work being carried on by means of this fund , and expressed his
hope that the Province would continue to accord it liberal support , and that he would be in a position to present a very substantial amount at next year ' s festival . ( Cheers . ) Bro . DON . M . DEWAR , in reply said he took the greatest possible interest in the Mark Benevolent Fund , and they were fortunate in having such a splendid advocate and supporter of the fund as Bro . Pulley , who vvas not a man ot mere words , but a man of a : tion , as regards every
Degree of Masonry to which he belonged . ( Cheers ) . Bro . Pulley ' s name appeared in the lists of many Stewards , and he was undoubtedly the right man to advocate the claims of the fund . ( Hear , hear ) . Bro . Dewar then gave a history of the fund , and the excellent objects carried out in connection therewith , and concluded by remarking that he felt extremely g lad they would have the advantage of the able stewardship of Bro . Pulley for the next festival .
( Applause ) . The health of " The Visiting Brethren , " vvas proposed by Bro . TOMKINS , and acknowledged by Bro . EVE , in an eloquent speech ; the speaker observing that the more the brethren made themselves acquainted with the Masonic Charities the greater would be the support given to them . ( Hear , hear ) . The PROV . GRAND MASTER then gave the health of "The Host , " remarking upon Bro . Flanagan ' s excellent
catering . Bro . FLANAUAN , P . G . J . W ., having returned thanks , the Prov . Grand Master took his departure for home , being much cheered as he withdrew . A smoking concert followed , and proved a splendid success , the arrangements devolving upon Bro . W . Hickie , P . P . G . Org . An attractive programme was rendered vvith great taste by Madame Worrell , and Bros . Cozens , Ashton , Nettleship , and Tower , and the applause vvas hearty throughout . Bro . Pulley vvas warmly congratulated upon the unqualified success of the day ' s proceedings .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
FEILDING ( WELLINGTON ) . —Fielding Lodge ( No . 1940 E . C . )—Theceremonyof installing the officers for the ensuing year of this lodge was performed in the Masonic Hall , on Thursday , the 19 th July last , Bros . W . J . Batt , T . King , R . N . Keeling , Past Masters from the United Manawatu Lodge , No . 1721 , E . C , Palmerston North , were the Installing officers , assisted by P . M . Bro . the Rev . Joshua Jones , 470 , S . C ., Chap ., and Bro . E . W .
Perkins , No . 1721 , E . C , Org . Ihe following are the names of the officers installed : Bros . W . G . Haybittle , W . M . ; H . J . Booth , S . W . ; A . Dawson , J . W . ; T . W . K . Foster , Secretary ; P . Bartholomew , Treasurer ; J . H . Stevens , S . D . ; P . Thomson , J . D . On the Board of Installed Masters were Bros . W . J . Batt , T . King , R . N . Keeling , Jones , Bray , F . Thompson , Hankins , Nannestad , and Xirton . Visitors : Bros . A . R . Curtis , 4 63 , S . C . ; J .
King , 1721 , E . C ; H . Hankins , R . W . M . Manawatu Kilwinning , S . C ; IL W . Haybittle , 1 7 , E . C ; S . Abrahams , 1721 , E . C . ; J . R . Bryant , 1 7 21 , E . C . ; _ R . G . Logan , 1 7 , E . C . ; S . 5 . Quinn , 1721 , E . C ; J . T . Bray , M 53 . E . C ; E . W . Perkins , 1 7 21 , E . C ; E . Malcom , 450 , l . C . ; Major John Liddle Celtic , of Liverpool , 491 , S . C . ; and others . At the conclusion of the ceremony the brethren
adjourned . After the installation a ball vvas held in the Town Hall . The music was under the direction of Bro . King , of Wanganui , and , as usual , gave perfect satisfaction . The W . M ., Bro . VV . G . Haybittle , vvas Master of Ceremonies , assisted by the S . W ., Bro . H . J . Booth . The hall vvas beautifully decorated with Masonic emblems , supported by an abundance of ferns , Sec , which gave the
room a pleasant and picturesque appearance . Dancing commenced at 9 . 30 p . m ., and continued until 4 a . m . the following morning . Upwards of Go couple were present , and theassembly vvas a most brilliant one . The decorations of the ladies , whose dresses were magnificent , in connection with the Masonic regalia also had a very pleasing effect .
MADAME Tuss . H'ii AND SON ' EXHIBITION . —Portrait Models of President Grevy , the Cointe < lc Paris , Due de Nemours , fate Comte etc Cliamlionl , and M . Wafldington . Costly Court Dresses from thc first Parisian houses . Captain Webb ( taken from life ; . "J . ' Charles Parnell , M . P . Also James Carey , the Informer . MARWOOD ( taken from sittings just prior to his death ) now on view . Admission is . Extra rooms fid . Open from 10 till 10 . — [ ADVT . ]
A Ladies' Night At The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
A LADIES' NIGHT AT THE RANELAGH LODGE , No . 834 .
The winter session of this prosperous lodge vvas inaugurated on the 9 th inst ., with a ladies' banquet at the Criterion Restaurant , Piccadilly , W ., and will be remembered by the brethren of the lodge as a red-letter day in its history . Lodge was opened by Rro . F . J . Oliver , W . M ., supported by Bros . Webb , S . W .: H . Perdue , J . W . ; Goringe , S . D . ;
Burton , J . D . ; and Blake , I . G . The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed , and Bros . Willcox , Hewitt , and Anschel had conferred on them the benefit of the Second Degree , and Bros . Williams , Ward , Wildman , Gossling , and Southvvood were raised to the Sublime Degree of M . Ms . The Secretary , Bro . John Tuck , then read the special dispensation granted by the Most Worshipful Grand
Master , H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , permitting the brethren to wear Masonic Craft clothing and regalia at the banquet table upon the occasion of ladies being present . The W . M . deputed Bros . Shaw , P . M ., and Tuck , Sec , who , in conjunction with himself , and the cordial assistance of Bros . Madell and Bretigni , the manager and deputy manager , succeeded in arranging a meeting which passed ofi with the utmost iklat .
The banquet vvas of the most recherche description and the arrangement of the tables a perfect work of art in respect to decorations , which gave evident delight to the ladies , who in their elegant costumes added considerably to the " tout ensemble " of the scene . The manager of the establishment had kindly placed at the disposal of the brethren the Princes' Room as a reception room , and at 7 . 30 , the time fixed for the banquet , the VV . M . with his lady led
the way to the Victoria Hall , followed by a procession of 45 ladies and brethren , who vvith those who had not brought ladies assembled to the number of no . When all had taken their places grace vvas sung , and upon the cloth being cleared grace was again sung , after which the Worshipful Master gave the usual loyal and Masonic toasts . In reply to the toast of "The Worshipful Master , "
proposed in the most flattering and eulogistic terms by the l . P . M ., Bro . Ellingford , Bro . Oliver said that he felt quite unequal to adequately reply to the kind observations made respecting him by the l . P . M . He had upon all occasions endeavoured to acquit himself to the satisfaction of the brethren and the credit of the lodge , and he vvas most gratified at being surrounded by such a splendid gathering of brethren , and the pleasure of the meeting vvas much
enhanced by the presence of so many ladies . The Worshi p ful Master then gave the next toast , which vvas rather an inovation on the toast list , viz ., " Prosperity to the Ranelagh Lodge , " vvith which he coupled the name of Bro . Slack , P . M ., the oldest Past Master of the lodge , who in reply gave a summary of the history of the lodge during the 20 years he had been connected vvith it . The Worshipful Master then gave the toast of the
evening , "The Ladies , " vvith which he coupled the name of Bro . H . Shaw , P . M ., and in a graceful and flattering speech welcomed them _ to the social board . Bro . Shawinrespondingsaid : W . M ., ladies , andbrethren : Many of you will remember that Shakespeare says " Some men are born great , and some achieve greatness , and some have greatness thrust upon them . " 1 think I may at the present moment consider myself as belonging to the latter
category , for I am at a loss to understand why the W . M . has thrust upon me the very great honour though somewhat difficult task of responding on behalf of the ladies to the toast he has just so pleasantl y submitted to your notice , but as obedience to the Worshipful Master is one of our first principles , I obey his call , and on behalf of the ladies who have honoured you vvith their presence and graced your assembly this evening , I ttndir
you my very sincere thanks for the hospitable reception you have given them and for your efforts to entertain them . I believe that down to a very short time since they have considered you rather a selfish set , and although the peculiar constitution of your Order debars them from participating in its secrets and mysteries , they know of no valid reason why they should not long ago have been invited to participate with you in some of the pleasures and
enjoyments you invariably give yourselves after the arduous duties of the lodge are disposed of . But it has been reserved for you , VV . M ., to break through that selfish and exclusive custom and to inaugurate this pleasant meeting at which your fair friends are enabled to sit vvith you at your social board , and to see you , to observe you , and form some idea how you conduct yourselves at times when they are not present ; and as this meeting has passed with so much
unanimous pleasure the ladies hope thc future Masters of the lodge will look upon this as a precedent , and that it is only the | beginning of a series of happy reunions , at which the brethren and their ladies may meet each other in pleasant social intercourse and renew the acquaintances they will make this evening . Again , Worshipful Master , for the genial manner in which you submitted this toast , and to you , brethren , for the very
enthusiastic manner in which you have received it , the ladies give you their sincere thanks . This speech was received with the greatest enthusiasm . The W . M . then gave the toast of "The Visitors , " of whom there vvas a goodly number , and connected vvith it the name of Bro . Michael , P . P . G . P . of Kent , vyho made rather a lengthy reply , referring to the necessity of the exchange of courtesies between various lodges in order to
maintain thorough Masonic sociability . The toast of " The Past Masters " was then given by the Worshipful Master , and in the course of his observations said it vvas a difficult toast to submit , as a VV . M . always tried to speak of them in the most suitable terms . It was only when a brother attained the proud distinction of being the Master of his lodge that he could fully appreciate the assistance , support , and encouragement given by the Past
Masters . I hey had not only in the past sustained the prestige of the lodge , but they would in the future assist to make the lodge even more successful than it now is . The name of Bro . Alais , P . M ., vvas mentioned in connection with this toast , and it vvas very heartily responded to . Bro . Alais replied in a very humorous speech , causing
much laughter . The toast of "The Officers" was then given in suitable terms , and replies given equally appropriate . During the evening and between each toast some very excellent music vvas given , which considerably enlivened the entertainment and gave great delight and satisfaction to the fairer portion of the company . The musical arrange-
A Ladies' Night At The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
ments were under the direction of Bro . J . Ion Cantlc , as sistedby Miss Grace Godolphin , Miss Florence Davis , Bro Arthur Thomas , and Bro . J . Kift . Amongst those brethren members of the lodge and visi tors present we noticed Bro . Oliver , Mrs . Oliver , Bro Ellingford , Bro . Alais , P . M ., Mrs . Alais , Miss Alais , Bro Shaw , P . M ., Mrs . Shaw , Bro . John TuckMrs . TuckBro
, , Guest , Mrs . Guest , Miss Guest , Bro . Wright , Mrs . Wright , Bro . Denton , Mrs . Burton , Bro . Goringe :, Mrs . Goringe , Miss Goringe , Bro . Dipple , Mrs . Dipple , Bro . Crumplen , Mrs . Crumplen , Bro . J . K . Ward , Mrs . Ward , Bro . Lucas , Mrs . Lucas , Bro . Michael , P . P . G . P . Kent , Mrs . Michael , Bro . Millward , Mrs . Millward , Bro . Kipps , P . P . G . O . Kent , and others .
Freemasonry At Royton.
FREEMASONRY AT ROYTON .
( COMMUNICATED . ) An extremely interesting and pleasant reunion , held under Masonic auspices , took place at the Half-way House , Thornham , near Royton , a few Saturdays since . The meeting , which had been convened by special circular issued by brethren—or rather , to speak correctly , f
should say companions—composing the Chapter of St . John , No . 325 , vvas well attended . The visitors were in most cases accompanied by their wives , and arrived at Royton Station by saloon carriage a little before four o'clock in the afternoon . Leaving the station the party turned Rochdalewards , and after an exhilarating walk of about 10 minutes along
a pleasant country road they reached the home of the Gallaghers ' . I need hardl y describe the next phase of the business—the pleasant smiles of welcome all round , the handshaking , the congratulations , the denuding oneself of coats , capes , macintoshes , and other impedimenta of travel previous to partaking a glass of " Sir Wilfrid Lawson's Own , " I mean the royal blend whiskey , which the host and his
" clientele" accustom themselves to swear by ~ l mean this in a legal , and not in a big , big " D" sense . Under the guidance of Host John Gallagher some of the party afterwards made a tour of inspection , and expressed themselves satisfied . Your correspondent was previously unacquainted vvith Royton and its neighbourhood , having been under the
impression that it was one of those murk y places where a month ' s residence would be certain to insure a skin so swarthy as only to be a few degrees removed from the colour of a nigger . But any illusions of mine in this respect were soon dispelled . The Half Way House , a modest unassumingstructure , is pleasantly situated on the roadside mid-way between Oldham
and Rochdale . Its rooms even now are sufficiently commodious for pic-nic parties , hut vvith the contemplated addition of a large wing , it will eventuallybe the retreat for those seeking to escape from the distractions of town . The view in front of the house embraces the far distant Saddleworth with its hills , Shaw lying in the valley ; you can sec the tall gaunt chimneys rearing their high heads into the
sky , an evidence of the life and activity of these manufacturing districts . Perhaps there is a greater amount of manufacturing wealth concentrated in thc districts of Oldham and Royton , than in any other portion around . At the rear of the house is the Tandle Hill , with its well cultivated meadows , while scattered here and there are the residences of several justices of the peace , who , bv the
neat way in which their grounds are laid out , evidently find attraction in the neighbourhood where rises the river Irk . The garden in connection vvith the establishment is one of no mean order , and while its comfortable summer-house will be dear to lovers of the weed , those who desire it can , as Millikin says of the groves of Blarney , wander " down by the purling of a sweet silent stream " which pursues its
course along a lovely little valley in the immediate vicinity , and is banked on either side vvith a profusion of ferns . From Thornham to Manchester , the drive , which I afterwards took , is simply delightful , and would well repay any expense incurred . Of course the same remark will apply with regard to a drive from Manchster to the Half Way House . Proceeding up the Cheetham-hill road you pass
the boundary wall of Heaton Park , and then on to the Three Arrows , calling upon our old friend Whitehead . Continuingon you go through Middleton and , after a pleasant drive round the Tandle Hill , emerge at last in view of host Gallagher ' s house . But I am digressing . A most substantial repast had been provided for the visitors , which reflected the greatest amount of credit as a
caterer upon Mrs . Gallagher , who acted as " chef . " I may here incidentally mention that amongst the company were several Provincial Grand Officers and other popular brethren belonging to Provincial Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Chapter respectively . After the removal of the cloth the time was devoted to various enjoyments . Comp . Benjamin Taylor occupied
the chair , being supported as vice by Comp . 11 . C . Miller . The Chairman in the course of a most interesting speech , referred at length to the services which Comp . John Gallagher had so repeatedly and unostentatiously rendered to the cause of Freemasonry . Indeed no man had been more capable , more eagerand more willing than he to
, render aid in any capacity whatever . More than one lodge in the province of Lancashire owed its advancement to his zealous spirit and assistance . Few people out of the pale of the mystic circle realised the advantages derived from Freemasonry , and that a rigid adherence to its sublime principles could not fail to make a man all that was
necessary to meet the requirements of society . Comp . Gallagher vvas a typical Freemason , who possessed a large heart and warm sympathies . The VICE-CHAIRMAN full y endorsed all that had been uttered by Ex . Comp . Benjamin Taylor , and sincerely hoped vvith him that it would be a long time before their host fell out of the Masonic embrace .
The toast of " The Ladies" vvas charasteristically given by Bro . J ACKSON , P . M ., and vvas responded to by E . Comp . ROBERT CALDWELL in his usual humorous and happy vein . Host GALLAGHER replied for himself and family , after which the party returned home , acknowledging that the poetical aspiration of the writer who found " the warmest welcome at an inn " had been realised during their visit .
Thc Marquis of Lome and the Princess Louise will land at Liverpool on their return from Canada , on 01 about November 5 .