Testimonial To The Prov. Grand Sec. Of North And East Yorks.

preserved and enactments passed for the good of the Craft . He was extremely jealous of the prestige ol York Masonry , and he objected to any attempt to filch from her the ancient fame of being the cradle of English Masonry . A number of other toasts were honoured . We may add that the value of the testimonial exceeded £ 160 . Amongst the brethren present on the occasion , in addition to those already named , were Bros . T . B . Whytehead ,

P . M . 1611 , P . P . G . D . of C . ; C . Palliser , P . M . 1416 , Prov . G . Sup . of Wks . ; J . Todd , P . M . 23 6 , P . P . G . R- ; A . Buckle , P . M . 236 , Prov . G . S . D . ; W . H . Gainforth , P . M . 236 ; S . Middleton , P . M . 17 G 0 ; I- Copland , P . M . 1010 ; l . Tesseyman , W . M . 57 ; Clark , P . M . 57 ; W . A . Covyper , W . M . 561 ; A . W . Walker , W . M . 6 G 0 ; G . Balmford , P . M . 236 , P . P . G . O . ; J . Murray , P . M . 200 , Prov . G . S . W . ] . S . Cumberland , P . M . 1611 , Prov . G . S . W . ; W . Lawton , P . M . 236 , P . P . G . lJ . j and others .

Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.

ROYAL MASONIC BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION .

THE OLD FOLKS AT H OME . From the Traders' Times . "Where is this Benevolent Institution of ours , that we hear so much about ? " inquired a young friend of mine who had iust cautrht the enthusiasm which fires the neti'lj * -

initiated ; and for the life of me I could hardly say exactly where . I expect , like many more of my brethren , I had been content to hear and read all about the substantial benefits towards which we had subscribed our little mite —to know that the Institution is ably and economically managed , and that it would far extend its sphere of usefulness , if it had the means . I had pictured to myself a

stately and superb edifice , where " want and age sit smiling at the gate , " and vvas quite satisfied to believe that those who had , through " unforeseen circumstances of calamity and misfortune , " been compelled to throw themselves upon the bounty of the brethren werc tenderly cared for , and the autumn of their lives made happy through the instrumentality of the great principles of brotherly love , reliefand truth .

, £ My provincial friend , however , vvas not to be put off in any such fashion . A sturdy North-countryman , with a big heart , andabigpocket too , be had comeupto " see the sights o' town , " and paramount amongst these was the Benevolent Institution , on whose behalf he had promised his lodge to become a Steward for next year . It vvas " somewhere down Croydon way , " a brother told

me ; and , accordingly , Croydon-ward we turned our attention . Down across the emerald meadows , beyond the din and bustle of Great London , past smiling gardens and lawns , skirting the clumps and wooded knolls , which ere three months are oyer will again be dressedin greenest livery , a pleasanthour's ride brought us to East Croydon . A more charming spot could

nowhere be found , even in thc very heart of the country , lor Dame Nature looked blushing and fair on this sparkling winter's afternoon , vvhen the ice vvas just beginning to crunch beneath the feet of the visitors to thc " Old People's " Institution . Nearing the station we had noticed , as most observant travellers along that much frequented "iron road" have

done , a handsome building in the Tudor style ol architecture , before which staid old ladies and gentlemen werc sauntering contentedly , and wishing each otheron the way the " compliments of the season . " For was not to-day the anniversary of that festival of the New Year when the House Committee and their many friends come down , and shake hands heartily all round with Bro . 'Terry ' s numerous nnd hnnnv familv ?

" Upon my word , old fellow , this is a magnificent place , " exclaimed my enthusiastic companion . " If there is one spot on God ' s earth to which I should like to retire to spend my declining ' years , here it is . " And , truly this is the sentiment which must be inspired in the heart of any one who takes an interest in this noble branch of our Masonic Charitiesand who visits it , as we did , for the first time .

, The only wonder is that the brethren do not more generally and personally acquaint themselves , as some have done , with the good work in progress at East Croydon . Not only would they be more emphatic in its praise , as they point to it in answer to the oft-repeated question as to what Masonry does , but they would be stimulated to a far more intense and practical determination to enlarge the basis of

its beneficent work in every conceivable way . We have dropped fdown , as Artemus Ward would say , quite " promiscuous-like , " to sec the House and its residents in one of the happiest of moods . At the principal entrance door stands a venerable brother , whose snowy beard rivals in its whiteness the steps from which he smilingly bids us welcome as he beckons us along the neatly

gravelled walks . Nor is any formal introduction needed to the oldest living Mason in the kingdom , who for nearly twenty years has ruled discreetly and well as the Warden of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution . Bro . Norris , though past ninety years of age , " carries himself , " to say the least , remarkably well . Clear-headed , well-informed , sparkling with anecdote , and possessed of a perspicuity

which many a much younger man might envy , you are immediately at home in his companionship . He is not so young , or so nimble on bis " pins , " as he used to be ; but still there isan intelligence beaming on his open countenance that sets you at once at ease with him . In the course of our tete-a-tete he informed us with unaffected freedom that he was the oldest Mason in the country—about a month or

¦ so older than the venerable Sir Moses Montefiore , whom I had hitherto regarded as our oldest brother—having been initiated as far back as . March , 1 S 12 . With thc aid of an estimable daughter , who plays the rule oi matron , he has , as I have already stated , superintended tbe Institution now

for nearly twenty years ; and may his shadow never grow less , say I . Bless you , what changes he has witnessed in that time , living hale and hearty amidst the many vicissitudes which have befallen his large and happy family ! He may be almost likened lo the brook in the song , which

says" Men may come , and men may go , But 1 go on for ever . " When first , by fortuitous circumstances , Bro . Norris was installed there as Warden , the Benevolent Institution occupied but a comparatively insignificant place among thu

Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.

noble Charities which are the pride and boast of English Freemasonry . 'Thanks to emr excellent Bro . 'Terry , who , as the brethren well know , is indefatigable , both in season and out of season , in its behalf—surrounding himself with such an earnest and hearty following—the Home at Croydon has reared its head far above most of thc great benevolent institutions which are among the landmarks of Britain's o-reatness . The establishment of a House Committee has

been one great outcome of his exertions , anel by which thc machinery of the interior economy of the Institution has been developed and perfected . But let us take a stroll around the place , and try to j } icture it as it now stands . Entering by the canopied door way , we are struck by the spick and span cleanliness everywhere apparent , the apple-pie order in which everything is found . Ascending the broad staircase , in the centre of the

pile , we are ushered into the halL , where the House Committee sit in conclave and devise their schemes for the comfort and happiness of the "residents . " A spacious vaulted chamber , with panelled ceiling , and cornices pierced in quatrefoil , with walls painted a delicate blue , and through its stained g lass windows the sun's rays shine as with a " dim religious light . " In the quarries of the windows are the mystic symbols , blended with the initials of the founders

and others who have taken an active interest in the Institution , and the light falls softly on the many pictures which adorn the sides ' of the cosy and luxurious apartment . At one end of the room is an oil painting of the venerable Dr . Crucifix , who may be ranked amongst the founders of the building , and vvho smiles mutely from the canvas upon such a development of his early conception as , probably , he little dreamt of in his philosophy . Amongst the pictures , a ' so , were oointed out a couple of capitally executed

crayons , representing- the exterior anel interior of the Institution , from the pencil of Bro . T . J . Kilpin , who , having outlived his profession as an architect , is now amongst the members who repose in their latter days upon the well-earned bounty of their fellow-Craftsmen . _ Aeljoining thc hall is a small but compact library , principally the gift of the Supreme Grand Council , from which the residents have the privilege of drawing books suited to their tastes and inclinations ; and in thc ante-rooms are lavatories

and other convenient offices . Amongst those who contributed to the happiness and enjoyment ot the "dear old folks , " wc saw Bro . H . j . Strong , AI . D . ( Honorary Medical Officer to the Institution ) , who presided with his accustomed geniality and good humour ; Bro . James 'Terry ( Secretary to the Institution ) , whom everybody knows ; Mrs . Terry ; Miss Kate S . Terry ; Bro . J . Steel , W . M . 207 ; Bro . E . Dagoussct ,

Bro . Edgar Bowyer , P . M ., P . S . G . W . Herts , and Mrs . Bowyer ; Bro . John Mason , P . S . G . D . Middlesex ( Collector to the Institution ); Bro . Raynham W . Stewart ; Bro . J . A . Winsland , P . M . 22 S ; Bro . Charles John Perceval , P . M . 1607 ; Bro . Charles G . Hill , P . M . 1366 ; Bro . A . H . Tattershall ; Bro . Constable ; Bro . Edward Davies and Miss Davies ; Bro . H . J . Amphlett ; Mrs . Mayhevv ; Bro . Robert H . Halford and Mrs . Halford ; Bro . R . Pearcy and Mrs . Pearcy ; Bro . H . li . Frances

and Mrs . Frances ; Bro . H . Massey and Mrs . Massey ; Bro . Thomas Goode and Mrs . Goode ; Bro . John Newton and Mrs . Newton ; Mr . C . B . Newton ; Bro . A . Trewinnard ; Bro . P . Forge ; Bro . Thomas Cubitt ; Bro . John G . Stevens ; liro . j . J . Berry and Mrs . Berry ; Bro , William Stephens and Mrs . Stephens ; Bro . W . IT . Wallington and Mrs . Wallington ; Bro . Edward Sjjooner ; Bro . J " . W . Simmonds and Miss Windsor ; Bro . Charles

Daniel ; Bro . Henry Waits ; Bro . Bernard Butler , and many others . 'The hall is so beautiful in itself , that it needs no extraneous aid from decoration , for with its painted windows and artistic surroundings it is , as I have said , recherche . Well , the dear Doctor took thc chair , and if old ladies ' smiles are to be regarded as a test of happiness , Dr . Strong had plenty of them . On his right sat Bro . Norris , the

"father" of the Masons , and Bro . Terry , although not so well ( physically ) as wc ordinarily see him , vvas here , there , and everywhere , seeing that all were attended to . It is almost superfluous to say that the excellent cuisine of Miss Norris was done " amjile justice" to , for there were all smiles around the table , and " Bro . Norris's daughter " vvas the mistress of the situation . At the conclusion of a sumptuous feast , in which the

residents most heartily participated , Bro . Dr . STRONG gave the customary loyal and Craft toasts , which were received with all due honours . In proposing "The Founders of the Feast , " the CHAIRMAN associated with it the name of Bro . Bowyer , a household word amongst all the residents in this Institution . There was no one he knew 50 entirely devoted to Masonic benevolence as the brother he had just mentioned . ( Cheers . )

Bro . BOWVEK could not taker credit to himself for all the kind tilings which hatl been spoken of him . He hael endeavoured to do his best to promote the interests of Freemasonry , and trusted these annual entertainments would be continued with success . ( Cheeis . ) Bro . Dr . STRONG said he now came to the third antl last toast—because they were limited to three —( hear , hear)—and it was a toast that would be received with acclamation

by all present , especially by the residents 111 this building . A better Warden than Bro . Norris never entered the Masonic Benevolent Institution . ( Cheers . ) His kindliness and courtesy cxcclleel all he had ever seen , and the " soothing syrup " he employed —( laughter)—was conducive to the good feeling and the amenities which prevaded the Institution . Freemasonry knew no bounds save those of prudence ¦—( much cheering)—antl all present would do their best to

aid in promoting the welfare of this Institution . ( Cheers . ) He believed—although the fact had been disputed—that Bro . Norris was the oldest Mason in the world . ( Loud cheers . ) Somebody had had the impudence to say he was not . ( Laughter . ) But the production of Bro . Norris ' s certificates and credentials vvas sufficient to prove the fact , and all present would be ready tn admit that Bro . Norris was a credit to Freemasonry . ( Cheers . ) For the domestic arrangement they were very much ( indebted to

Miss Norris , the worthy matron of the Institution . If he might be allowed to parody , be might say that Bro . Norris hail been a father to them all , and Miss Norris had been a mother to them all . ( Loud langhler . ) Morning , noon , and night she was interesting herself foi the benefit of the rcsitlents in the Institution , and it was almost as much as he could elei to curb her youthful impetuosity . ( Laughter . ) Bro . NORRIS , who was received wilh continued cheering , wished the task of responding had devolved upon some one more able to do justice to it , but he assured the

Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution.

brethren hc had endeavoured , to the best of his ability , to promote thc interests of the Institution , in whicii hc had been most ably seconded by his daughter . ( Cheers . ) During the time the old folks were regaling themselves with speeches and " old associations , " some of the brethren were enjoying themselves on the'ground floor , and one cr two pleasing episodes may be mentioned . Bro . Terry remarked upon the limited accommodation afforded in the

hall , and which must be remedied ; and in the best of terms ( although we have seen Bro . Terry physically better ) hc described how that , seeing that the old people required some recreation , he purchased a piano , trusting to the Craft to reimburse him . It was refreshing to see how the brethren dived into the breeches pocket , and excited emulation with the Upper House ! At all events the money was raised , and while Bro . Terry contemplated the urbanity and the

other distinguished characteristics of a Freemason ' s heart , the "old folks" will sing , to a new tune , in honour of Freemasonry in general , and Secretary Terry in particular . Several complimentary toasts werc honoured , amongst which vvas that of the " Editor of the Traders' Times , " a journal which a brother kindly said was destined to work in the right direction for the benefit of trade and for the Institutions which were the landmarks and the glory of

this country . ( Cheers . ) . ' , ' : ¦ ¦ ' The EDITOR of the Traders' Times and Bro . IT . MASSEY responded , and a number of cojniplimentary toasts were honoured in the course of the evening . Turn we now to the " homes " of the dear old people , and hear from their own lips the story of their peace and happiness , and the overflowing of their gratitude for tho blessings they enjoy under the benign influences of our

Order . With hearty freedom they invite you to come and see and admire the exquisite neatness and perfect comfort of their domiciles . But let us inform those vvho are not already aware ofthe fact , that two rooms , " with the use of a kitchen , " are allotted to every resident—our aged brethren having in aeldition an annnuitv of £ 40 , and everv

widow £ 32 , a year , and coals during the winter . These good people . Kaye all of them " seen better days , " and , as a rule , bring . their own furniture and household gods with which to make themselves at home in their new abodes . But , in case they have not sufficient of their own , the Society giants them a table , a bedstead , and four chairs by way of " housewarming , " though these accessories are scarcely ever needed . .

•Accepting a coujjle of hearty invitations to "come inside , " we may describe them as a sample of the rest , and these for comfort and convenience left nothing to be desired . The front apartment , overlooking the beautiful gardens , is used as a sitting-room , and on the walls we were pointed out , with a glow of pride and satisfaction , the treasured reminiscences of our departed brethren in the Craft , and which their relicts regard as the credentials by which

they were helped to gain the haven of their present rest . Comfortably , and even luxuriously , furnished are some of these rooms , whilst "my lady ' s chamber" presented an appearance of comfort and ease , absolutely perfect and unique . The domestic arrangements are settleel upon the principle of mutual help ; and it is almost past belief—from a cynical point of view—that never during Bro . Norris ' s long reign as Warden has a word of angry altercation been

heart ! amongst the ladies who occupy these suites of apartments ! In thc case of a couple being admitted , and the husband dying , thc widow is allowed three years' residence with £ 20 a year , pending her own election , which invariably happens before the time has expired . Indeed , when once a needy brother or widow is admitted within the sheltering portals of this Institution it is regarded as . a life interest , and from the moment of taking up their quarters

here all care and anxiety for the future takes to itself wings and flies away . Such an event as any one leaving the Institution on account of separation of husband and wife by the death of either of them is unknown in thc history of the Institution , except at their own request . All the good ladies whom it was our pleasure to interview , and who were

profuse in their courteous acknowledgments of our visit , were the very picture of health , happiness , and contentment ; and it made the heart light to receive the expressions of their gratitude for ( the blessings whicii had been thus secured to them through their husbands' connection with the Craft .

A word must be said for the comfortable-looking old widowers who are jogging along the downhill of lifc in this snug retreat . It may be very easy and natural for the opposite sex to minister to their own personal requirements in the way of making beds and ( the manufacture of puddings . But how do our brethren adapt themselves to those household duties to which in their days of affluence they must have been strangers ? Splendidly , sir . They take to

it most naturally ; and if there is any accidental dilemma in matters of culinary importance , the " ministeringangel " appears in the person of a friendly and compassionate widow , who lends her sisterly aid in the most delicate way imaginable . One joll y old fellow , a ship's carpenter , can manipulate his " duff or wash his own shirt in masterly fashion ; and does it , too . Another old gent we saw wns " not going to dine at home to-day , " but having received a

polite invitation from a widow neighbour , was going to share the frugal meal and an hour ' s agreeable chat at her residence . 'Thus the etiquette and the amenities ofjsociety are exemplified by respectable old age ; and the picture is a pleasant one to gaze upon . We could dwell with satisfaction upon the scenes which arrest the attention of the visitor to this retreat at every stej ); but the train docs not wait , and it would be unwise

to tire the reader . Let those who would learn more , and profit by it , do as I have done—see for themselves , and hear from the lips of our grateful recipients of our aid the story of their happiness , comfort , and peace . Let them read for themselves eloquent sermons in the flowers which peer through every jiane of those cosy apartments , where age and want are cared for so tenderly—in the peaceful

countenances of those men and women who have been raised to new hopes through the instrumentality of our-Order . Even for this alone it is worth while belonging to the ancient and honourable Institution of Freemasonry , which in this , as in thousands of other instances , proves the value cf that Charity which is twice blessed—in him who gives equally with him who receives .

Old Matured Wines antl Spirits . —I . E . SHAND & Co ., Wine Merchants ( Experts and Valuers ) , 2 , Albert Mansions , Victoria * street , London , S . W . I ' ricc lists on apjilicution . [ AUVT J