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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
being present , they would have had a third . From the exhibition they had all had of the working of the lodgeon that occasion he felt sure th it the brethren were very pleased indeed to have such a Master to preside over them as Bro . Creaton . ( Hear , hear . ) He had been known for many years in connection with Freemasonry , in everything where stern duty was required . They had only to appeal
to the officers presiding over any of the Chanties to know how hardworking a Mason their W . M . had been , and he felt certain he was expressing the opinion of all the brethren when he said they would always consider his presence as a ruling spirit amongst them , and hoped that the Great Architect of the Universe would long give him health and strength to be amongst them . The W . M . felt
at a loss to know how to return thanks after all the kind things that had been said about him . He could assure the brethren that he esteemed it a very grtat compliment to have been selected to be their first Master , and , while thanking them for their kindness , he ventured to assure them that as long as he lived he would endeavour to merit it by attention to his duties as W . M , and after he ceased
to hold office by his constant attendance at and interest in the lodge which bore his humble name . ( Heir , hear . ) He had done all that he could during his connection with the brotherhood to advance the Charities , and he was vain enough to believe that he had done a little good in that direction , and as long as the Great Architect of the Universe spared him he would lose
no opportunity to continue to do what he could for the Charitable Institutions of the Craft . ( Hear , hear . ) " The Initiates" having beer , proposed and duly honoured , " The Visitors" followed , anil was briefly antl appropriately acknowledged by Bros . Cottebrune , P . G . P ., and John Finch , W . M . 173 , both of whom took occasion to congratulate the members of the Creaton Lodge on the large
accession of brethren to their lodge that evening . The remaining toasts , " The Secretary and Treasurer , " "The Officers , " and "To all poor and distressed Masons , " having been drunk the meeting broke up . During the evening Bros . Kift and C mile enlivened the proceedings with some fine singing , and H ro . Levy gave a few of his theatrical imitations , much to the amusement of the
company . MANCHESTER . —Caledonian Lodge ( No . 204 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lotlge was hi Id at the Freemasons' Hall , Cooper-street , on Wednesday , the 12 th inst ., Bro . J . Roberts occupying the chair ol K . S ., supported by his respective officers , viz .: —Bros . G . T . Mullock , S . W . ; W . Bagnall , J . W . ; J . C . Hind , Treas .,
P . M . 4 R . L . Spencer , Sec ; H . T . Rot . bcrds , Org ., P . M . ; J . Sutcliffe , J . D . ; C . Duckworth , I . G . ; R . A . Eldcrshaw . I . P . M . ; J . Battye , P . M . ; W . Aldrcd , P . M . ; and J . Sly , Tyler . There was a fair sprinkling of members present and a few visitors . This lodge , which musters some sixty or seventy members , was at one time the strongest in the province , so much so that it was found necessary and
advisable to break off some branches from the parent tn e , and form them into other lodges ; and we helieve that the Faith , Strangeways , Yarborough , Shal egpere , Rolert Burns , Alexandra , and De Grey and Ripon Lodges have all sprang from the Caledonian . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , Bro . J . Clille was duly passed to the degree of Fe'low Craft by the
Worshipful Master , assisted by his officers , after which Bros . Henry Pauldcn and Benj . Taylor were respictively raised to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., the ceremony being performed in the first case by the W . M . and in the second by Bro . J . Battye , P . M ., who also presented the working tools , and delivered the charge to both the newly raised brethren , in a most efficient manner .
The lodge was then lowered to the First Degree , when a proposition was made by Bro . R . A . Eldcrshaw , P . M ., and seconded by Bro . J . Battye , P . M ., that the sum of two guineas be given to the Warehousemen and Clerks' School , which was unanimously carried . This being all the business the lodge was formally closed , and the brethren adjourned to the banquet room , where a very excellent
supper was served , to which 29 sat down . The cloth being cleared and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts responded to . "The Healths of Bros . Paulden and Taylor , " the newly raised brethren , were proposed and drank with enthusiasm . Bro . Taylor responded in a very flowing and eloquent speech , in which he thanked the brethren on behalf of himself and Bro . Paulden for the honour conferred on them
by the Caledonian Lodge in enrolling them among its members , and trusted they might long be spared to render Freemasonry all the assistance in their power . Other toasts followed , including " The Visitors , " which were duly responded to , and with some singing , to which Bro . H . T . Robberds , P . M ., rendered valuable assistance , this very pleasant evening was brought to a close at 10 . 30 .
ROCHDALE . —Lodge of Harmony ( No . 298 ) . —The regular monthly meeting of this exceedingly well worked lodge was held at the Masonic Rooms , Ann ' sstreet , on the 5 th inst . The lodge was opened by the W . M ., Bro . R . R . Grey , assisted by his Wardens and officers , an unusual number of members , and several visiting Past Masters , when the minutes of the previous meeting were read and declared to be correctly recorded .
The lodge was opened in the Second degree , when Bro . Robinson claimed preferment , and having sustained his claim , was entrusted and retired . The lodge was opened in the Third Degree , when the W . M . invited Bro . John Bowes , P . M ., P . P . G . J . W . Cumberland and Westmoreland , to take the chair , which he did , and raised Bro . Robinson in ample form . The lodge was lowered , tbe further business transacted , and finally closed in harmony .
"WHITBY . —Lion Lodge ( No . 312 ) . —In the large Masonic Hall , John-street , which is handsomely furnished and artistically decorated with Masonic emblem < _
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the brethren of this lodge assembled on Monday hut . The W . M ., dro . John Stevenson , P . P . G . J . W . Yorks N . anil E . Ridings , opened the lodge with solemn form at 7 30 , supported by the following brethren : —Bros . J . S . Moss , P . M ., P . P . G . S . B . ; Major W . H . Marwood , P . M . ; T . N . Marwood , P . M . ; H . Ha ' ilgat-, P . M . ; F . Thornton , S W . ; G . H . Croivther , J . W . ; John H . Lawson , P . M .,
Treas . ; J . B . Dale , Sec ; W . E . Wolsey , S . D . ; George Farrow , J . D . ; J . T . Thornton , I . G . ; T . H . Tru * man and Thomas Harland , Stewatds ; Capt . W . Sanderson , J . H . Breckon , W . Pattison , R . Johnson , VV . Turner , J . Brooks , T . B lton , J . Antlrcw , and F . A . Kelly ( Freemason ) . The lodge was opened in the several degrees , the bu-iness of the evening consisting in the initiation of Mr . John Brand .
This ceremony was performed by the W . M . in so perfect a manner as to elicit unanimous praise from the Past Masters and admiration from the brethren . 'The W . M . was ably assisted by his officers , especul praise being due to Bro . Farrow , the Junior Deacon . After the closing of the lodge the brethren partook of refreshment , during which the usual toasts were proposed . Bro . H . Hallgate
replied to the toast of "The Past Masters , " Bro . John Brand that of " The Initiate , " and Bro . Kelly " The Visitors " and ' The Pnss , " proposed , in very complimentary terms , by Bro . John Steven .-on , tbe W . M . This veteran brother has . erved the office of W . M . to the lodge four years . In the lodge-room is a tablet , upon which is inscribed the names of each Master since the year 171 , 7 ,
from which we learn that Hro . Stevenson was in the chair in the years 1850 and 1851 , and again in 18 7 8 , at the expiration of which he was unanimously rc-i leetcd . 'The brethren separated at an early hour , after spending an enjoyable evening . On Friday next , the 28 th inst ., ihe members of this lodge put pose holding a conversazione in their well propcrtioned and commodious hall . Each
number may iniite two fiiet . ds . The entertainment will consist of two pa . ts—the first musical , the second miscellaneous . Half an hour will be spent between the parts art und the social board and in the inspection of various articles of interest lent by the brethren . The musical arrangements
aie in the hands of Bro . H . Hallgate , who has been fortunate in securing the valuable aid of Bro . Padel , of Yi . rk , the eminent pianist . The general arrangements are under the control of the W . M ., Bro . J 1 . I 111 Stevenson , Br . i . T . N . Afarwood , P . M , and the Senior Warden , Bro . F . Tliornloi . A viry pleasant evening is anticipated .
MANCHESTER . —Lodge of Affability ( N . i . 3171 . —An emergency meeting of this lotlge was held at the Freemasons' Hall , Co . iper-street , on Wedms- ' ay , the 12 th inst ., at 4 . 30 , for the purpose of initiating into the mjsteries of Freemasonry Mr . John Lawton , who was proposed by Bro . Daniel Donbavaud , I . P . M ., and seconded by Bro . J . II . Sillitoe , P . M ., P . P . G D . C . Bro . John Roger
Lever , W . M , presided , suppoi ted by the following officers , viz . ; Bros . Mark Vickers , S . W . ; William Nicholl , J . W . ; R . Tomlins , S . D . ; J . HilUday . l " \; Jno . Smethurst , Treas . ; John Church , Sec . ; Ezra Johen , I . G . ; Wilson , Steward ; and J . Sly , Tyler . There were also present Bros . Daniel Donbaiand , I . P . M . ; Dawson , P . M . ; Albert Brennir , and several other brethren . Visitors : F . Stanislaus ,
l & 33 i J- Wainwright , 1609 ; C . H . Stevenson , H . Hallam , jun ., John Cavanah , P . G . A . D . C . Cheshire , and others . The minutes of the last lodge night having been read and confirmed , M ' . John Lawton was duly halloed for , and unanimously elected a member , and afterwards initiated by the W . M ., who performed the ceremony in a most praiseworthy manner . Bro .
Dawson , P . M ., then delivered the E . A . Charge to the candidate in a highly commendable style , and at the conclusion of the ceremony the lodge was formally closet ) , and the brethren adjourned to refreshment and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts proposed and responded to . The W . M . then proposed " The Health of the Newly-Initiated Candidate , Bro .
Lawton , " which was received and drank with acclamation and true Masonic " fiie . " Bro . Lawton , in a short but telling speech , thanked the brethren for the honour they had done him by electing him a member of the Affability , and further stated it to be his earnest desire to continue advancing up the ladder of Freemasonry , and stepping over the different degrees until he should be able to be on
a par with some of the great workers > vhose portraits adorned the -walls around the room . The W . M ., in proposing " The Health of the Visitors , " said he felt proud to see an array of talent around him , as it was not often that the lodge was honoured with the presence of so many of the dramatic profession , and it simply manifested the high esteem in which Bro . Lawton was held , to see around
him such a goodly number of brethren who had assembled to witness the ceremony of his initiation . He was quite sure the brethren would coincide with him in n questing that , instead of the usual verbal response to the toast of " The Visitors , " some of them would reply by obliging them with a song , and he therefore called upon Bro . H . Hallam , jun ., of ' . he True Friendship Lodge , Calcutta , to
favour them with a specimen of his vocal abilities , Bro . Hallam , who has a very sweet tenor voice , sang " Molly Bawn , why leave me pining ? " with great taste and feeling , and called forth the admiration of all present , after which Bro . J . Wainwright gave a reading from Shakespeare ' s " As You Like It " in a highly creditable manner , and then followed a humorous song , given by Bro . C . H . Stevenson , entitled " Gee Ho , Dobbin , " and which , by
reason of the intensely comic manner in which it was sung , produced shouts of laughter . Bro . Albert Brennir , who was labouring under a slight hoarseness , sang " Good Bye , Sweetheart , Good Bye , " with great pathos , and called forth the warmest applause ; antl , lastly , the W . M ., Bro . J . L . Lever , by desire , gave " The Low backed Car " in his inimitable style , which song concluded one of the most pleasant meetings of this lodge .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS . —Holmesdale Lodge ( No . 874 ) . —The installation meeting of this lodge was held on Wednesday last , at the I ' ump Room , The Parade , Tunbridge Wells . The rooms at this establishment are admirably sjited for the convenience of the brethren , th ; re being every accommodation for lodge business , and no lack of space . There is a most commodious preparing
and clothing room , and the lodge room , which is nearly fquire , is large enough to hold what in London would be considered a crowded lodge . 'Thelodge has been fumi 5 hed wiih very handsome ar . d substantial oak furniture , every detail of which has been most studiousl y considered and m ; st effectively worked out . A tesseUted carpet covers the floor , and two dozen
substanuil oak chairs with leather se _ , ts , including half-a-d ( zen arm chairs for the Pist Masters , are ranged on two sides of the room . Special chairs of oak are provided fe , r the Master , I . P . M ., Treasurer , Wardens , and Secretary , surmounting each being the jewel in gilt of the officer whose chair _ . it is . For these chairs there is also a dais , s > that the principal officers of the lodge are t ^ ated higher than the
other brethren .. The pedestals also have the jewels of thiir respective officers in front , and the panels are surrounded with a b ailing e . f black . 'The Ionic , Doric , and Corin - thii'i columns are plac-. d at a short distance from the pedest lis . s . ) that no inconvenience is experienced in the introduction of candidates to the officers in the different ( 'egrees . The perfect ashlar , which is very heavy , is of
polished marble of beautiful workmanship , and depends from shear legs of some five feet high . All the other furniture is in keeping , and affords altogether a fine example of what can be done in furnishing a lodge to make Masonic ceremonies impressive to those who join the Order , and probably in no lodge could the paraphernalia create a greater impression than
in the Holmesdale Lodge . 'The brethren assemb ' ed at half-past two , and at the time mentioned in the summons the lodge was opined by Bto . William Beadcll Bacon , W . M . The following brethn n were present : —Bros . VV . B . Bacon , W . M . ; H . D . M . William" ! , S . W . ; W . H . Hodgkin , J . W . ; J . Button , S . D . ; J . Dunkley , J . D ., 11 . W . Delves , IG . ; G . Strange , Tyler ; J . F .
Bates , Sec . ; W . S . Elers , P . M ., Treas . ; P . M . 's Roper , Beckley , Read , AY . Delves ; Bros . Salchell , M . Williams , Ramsbotham , Boorman , Graham , Whitehead , Holt , Dowden , Durrant , Loid George Pratt , J . K . Pain , S . Cheale , Dickinson , Rule , Lord Nevill . Visiters : Bros . Grcig , G . M . of the Grand Lotlge of Pennsylvania , j . Nichdls , P . P . G . S . W , P . M . 1050 ; J . M . Cuthbert , P . M .
540 ; W . Stephens , P . M . 1505 and 1489 ; Thos Kingston , P . M . S 62 and W . M . 1612 ; J . Brothers , P . M . 709 ; J . Hughes Hallett , P . M . 709 , P . P . G . R . ; W . Denies , P . M . 341 , P . P . G . R . Sussex ; H . Carnell , 1414 ; T . G . Wilkinson , 1449 ; — Whitehead , Bagshaw Lodge ; and II . Massey , P . M . 619 ( Freemason ) . After the reading and cotifitmation of the minutes , and the adoption of the
Auditors' report , wtveh was read and moved I y the Treasur r , Lord George Montacute Nevill and Bro . William Dickinson , of 1678 , were elected members of the lodge , after which , on the motion of Bro . J . Read , P . M ., s- conded by the Treasurer , a Past Master's jewel was voted to Bro . Bacon . The W . M . then installed Bro . H . D . M . Williams , S . W . and W . M . elect , as Master of the lodge , | erfonning
all the work in first-class style . 1 he officers invested were Bros . W . II . Hodgkin , S . W . ; J . Burton , J . W . ; W . S . Elers , Treasurer ; J . F . Bates , Secretary , — Boorman , Organist ; J . Dunkley , S . D . ; J . Waterman , J . D . ; — Cheale I . G . ; R . Delves , M . C . ; C . Graham , A . M . C . After the delivery of the charges , the new W . M . informed tbe brethren that Bro . Pclton hatl presented the lodge with
a fine portrait cf H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M ., framed and glazed , whereupon the portrait was placed upon the wall , and the W . M . moved a vote of thanks to Bro . Pelton for the handsome present . In proposing the vote the W . M . said the brethren were very much pleased at the gift , at : d they would like to see the lodge-room adorned with othir portraits . Probably the example set
by Bro . Pelton might induce other brethren to make similar presents , and for his own part he would like to see portraits of the Past Masters of the lodge on the walls , as a memento of their connection with the lodge . The Treasurer seconded the motion , and said it was very kind and thoughtful of Bro . Pelton to make such a present . Every brother of the lodge would appreciate it . The W . M .
then closed the lodge , and the brethren adjourned to the Calverley Hotel , where a charming banquet was in readiness for them . When this had been disposed of and grace said , the usual toas ' . s were proposed . After the toasts of " The Queen and the Craft , " " The M . W . G . M . " "The Pro and Deputy G . M ., & c , " had been honoured , the W . M . proposed " Lord Holmesdale , Prov .
G . M . Kent , the Deputy Prov . G . M ., Bro . Eastis , the Prov . G . S . W ., and other Prov . Grand Officers , Past and Present . " To this toast Bro . Hallett , P . Prov . G . Keg . Kent , responded , and said he hardly knew why his humble name should have been associated with this toast , stranger as he was in that immediate neighbourhood , although he was not a stranger in the county of Kent , where his name
was pretty well known . Still , for the honour the W . M . and brethren had been pleased to pay him along with the Prov . G . Master and other Prov . G . Officers , he returned his most sincere thanks . He was sure when he reported to them the compliment that had been passed on them they would be highly gratified . He exceedingly regretted that his old friend the Dep . Prov . G . M ., Bro . Eastes , was
not present , because that esteemed brother would have responded more ably than he . Bro . Read , P . M ., in proposing the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . Bacon , " said the brethren would all agree with him that to propose that toast in suitable terms was a very arduous duty . Bro . Bacon must have paid great attention to the task if learning the ceremony to have been able to install the present W . M . with the great fluency and ability that tha
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
being present , they would have had a third . From the exhibition they had all had of the working of the lodgeon that occasion he felt sure th it the brethren were very pleased indeed to have such a Master to preside over them as Bro . Creaton . ( Hear , hear . ) He had been known for many years in connection with Freemasonry , in everything where stern duty was required . They had only to appeal
to the officers presiding over any of the Chanties to know how hardworking a Mason their W . M . had been , and he felt certain he was expressing the opinion of all the brethren when he said they would always consider his presence as a ruling spirit amongst them , and hoped that the Great Architect of the Universe would long give him health and strength to be amongst them . The W . M . felt
at a loss to know how to return thanks after all the kind things that had been said about him . He could assure the brethren that he esteemed it a very grtat compliment to have been selected to be their first Master , and , while thanking them for their kindness , he ventured to assure them that as long as he lived he would endeavour to merit it by attention to his duties as W . M , and after he ceased
to hold office by his constant attendance at and interest in the lodge which bore his humble name . ( Heir , hear . ) He had done all that he could during his connection with the brotherhood to advance the Charities , and he was vain enough to believe that he had done a little good in that direction , and as long as the Great Architect of the Universe spared him he would lose
no opportunity to continue to do what he could for the Charitable Institutions of the Craft . ( Hear , hear . ) " The Initiates" having beer , proposed and duly honoured , " The Visitors" followed , anil was briefly antl appropriately acknowledged by Bros . Cottebrune , P . G . P ., and John Finch , W . M . 173 , both of whom took occasion to congratulate the members of the Creaton Lodge on the large
accession of brethren to their lodge that evening . The remaining toasts , " The Secretary and Treasurer , " "The Officers , " and "To all poor and distressed Masons , " having been drunk the meeting broke up . During the evening Bros . Kift and C mile enlivened the proceedings with some fine singing , and H ro . Levy gave a few of his theatrical imitations , much to the amusement of the
company . MANCHESTER . —Caledonian Lodge ( No . 204 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lotlge was hi Id at the Freemasons' Hall , Cooper-street , on Wednesday , the 12 th inst ., Bro . J . Roberts occupying the chair ol K . S ., supported by his respective officers , viz .: —Bros . G . T . Mullock , S . W . ; W . Bagnall , J . W . ; J . C . Hind , Treas .,
P . M . 4 R . L . Spencer , Sec ; H . T . Rot . bcrds , Org ., P . M . ; J . Sutcliffe , J . D . ; C . Duckworth , I . G . ; R . A . Eldcrshaw . I . P . M . ; J . Battye , P . M . ; W . Aldrcd , P . M . ; and J . Sly , Tyler . There was a fair sprinkling of members present and a few visitors . This lodge , which musters some sixty or seventy members , was at one time the strongest in the province , so much so that it was found necessary and
advisable to break off some branches from the parent tn e , and form them into other lodges ; and we helieve that the Faith , Strangeways , Yarborough , Shal egpere , Rolert Burns , Alexandra , and De Grey and Ripon Lodges have all sprang from the Caledonian . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , Bro . J . Clille was duly passed to the degree of Fe'low Craft by the
Worshipful Master , assisted by his officers , after which Bros . Henry Pauldcn and Benj . Taylor were respictively raised to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., the ceremony being performed in the first case by the W . M . and in the second by Bro . J . Battye , P . M ., who also presented the working tools , and delivered the charge to both the newly raised brethren , in a most efficient manner .
The lodge was then lowered to the First Degree , when a proposition was made by Bro . R . A . Eldcrshaw , P . M ., and seconded by Bro . J . Battye , P . M ., that the sum of two guineas be given to the Warehousemen and Clerks' School , which was unanimously carried . This being all the business the lodge was formally closed , and the brethren adjourned to the banquet room , where a very excellent
supper was served , to which 29 sat down . The cloth being cleared and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts responded to . "The Healths of Bros . Paulden and Taylor , " the newly raised brethren , were proposed and drank with enthusiasm . Bro . Taylor responded in a very flowing and eloquent speech , in which he thanked the brethren on behalf of himself and Bro . Paulden for the honour conferred on them
by the Caledonian Lodge in enrolling them among its members , and trusted they might long be spared to render Freemasonry all the assistance in their power . Other toasts followed , including " The Visitors , " which were duly responded to , and with some singing , to which Bro . H . T . Robberds , P . M ., rendered valuable assistance , this very pleasant evening was brought to a close at 10 . 30 .
ROCHDALE . —Lodge of Harmony ( No . 298 ) . —The regular monthly meeting of this exceedingly well worked lodge was held at the Masonic Rooms , Ann ' sstreet , on the 5 th inst . The lodge was opened by the W . M ., Bro . R . R . Grey , assisted by his Wardens and officers , an unusual number of members , and several visiting Past Masters , when the minutes of the previous meeting were read and declared to be correctly recorded .
The lodge was opened in the Second degree , when Bro . Robinson claimed preferment , and having sustained his claim , was entrusted and retired . The lodge was opened in the Third Degree , when the W . M . invited Bro . John Bowes , P . M ., P . P . G . J . W . Cumberland and Westmoreland , to take the chair , which he did , and raised Bro . Robinson in ample form . The lodge was lowered , tbe further business transacted , and finally closed in harmony .
"WHITBY . —Lion Lodge ( No . 312 ) . —In the large Masonic Hall , John-street , which is handsomely furnished and artistically decorated with Masonic emblem < _
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
the brethren of this lodge assembled on Monday hut . The W . M ., dro . John Stevenson , P . P . G . J . W . Yorks N . anil E . Ridings , opened the lodge with solemn form at 7 30 , supported by the following brethren : —Bros . J . S . Moss , P . M ., P . P . G . S . B . ; Major W . H . Marwood , P . M . ; T . N . Marwood , P . M . ; H . Ha ' ilgat-, P . M . ; F . Thornton , S W . ; G . H . Croivther , J . W . ; John H . Lawson , P . M .,
Treas . ; J . B . Dale , Sec ; W . E . Wolsey , S . D . ; George Farrow , J . D . ; J . T . Thornton , I . G . ; T . H . Tru * man and Thomas Harland , Stewatds ; Capt . W . Sanderson , J . H . Breckon , W . Pattison , R . Johnson , VV . Turner , J . Brooks , T . B lton , J . Antlrcw , and F . A . Kelly ( Freemason ) . The lodge was opened in the several degrees , the bu-iness of the evening consisting in the initiation of Mr . John Brand .
This ceremony was performed by the W . M . in so perfect a manner as to elicit unanimous praise from the Past Masters and admiration from the brethren . 'The W . M . was ably assisted by his officers , especul praise being due to Bro . Farrow , the Junior Deacon . After the closing of the lodge the brethren partook of refreshment , during which the usual toasts were proposed . Bro . H . Hallgate
replied to the toast of "The Past Masters , " Bro . John Brand that of " The Initiate , " and Bro . Kelly " The Visitors " and ' The Pnss , " proposed , in very complimentary terms , by Bro . John Steven .-on , tbe W . M . This veteran brother has . erved the office of W . M . to the lodge four years . In the lodge-room is a tablet , upon which is inscribed the names of each Master since the year 171 , 7 ,
from which we learn that Hro . Stevenson was in the chair in the years 1850 and 1851 , and again in 18 7 8 , at the expiration of which he was unanimously rc-i leetcd . 'The brethren separated at an early hour , after spending an enjoyable evening . On Friday next , the 28 th inst ., ihe members of this lodge put pose holding a conversazione in their well propcrtioned and commodious hall . Each
number may iniite two fiiet . ds . The entertainment will consist of two pa . ts—the first musical , the second miscellaneous . Half an hour will be spent between the parts art und the social board and in the inspection of various articles of interest lent by the brethren . The musical arrangements
aie in the hands of Bro . H . Hallgate , who has been fortunate in securing the valuable aid of Bro . Padel , of Yi . rk , the eminent pianist . The general arrangements are under the control of the W . M ., Bro . J 1 . I 111 Stevenson , Br . i . T . N . Afarwood , P . M , and the Senior Warden , Bro . F . Tliornloi . A viry pleasant evening is anticipated .
MANCHESTER . —Lodge of Affability ( N . i . 3171 . —An emergency meeting of this lotlge was held at the Freemasons' Hall , Co . iper-street , on Wedms- ' ay , the 12 th inst ., at 4 . 30 , for the purpose of initiating into the mjsteries of Freemasonry Mr . John Lawton , who was proposed by Bro . Daniel Donbavaud , I . P . M ., and seconded by Bro . J . II . Sillitoe , P . M ., P . P . G D . C . Bro . John Roger
Lever , W . M , presided , suppoi ted by the following officers , viz . ; Bros . Mark Vickers , S . W . ; William Nicholl , J . W . ; R . Tomlins , S . D . ; J . HilUday . l " \; Jno . Smethurst , Treas . ; John Church , Sec . ; Ezra Johen , I . G . ; Wilson , Steward ; and J . Sly , Tyler . There were also present Bros . Daniel Donbaiand , I . P . M . ; Dawson , P . M . ; Albert Brennir , and several other brethren . Visitors : F . Stanislaus ,
l & 33 i J- Wainwright , 1609 ; C . H . Stevenson , H . Hallam , jun ., John Cavanah , P . G . A . D . C . Cheshire , and others . The minutes of the last lodge night having been read and confirmed , M ' . John Lawton was duly halloed for , and unanimously elected a member , and afterwards initiated by the W . M ., who performed the ceremony in a most praiseworthy manner . Bro .
Dawson , P . M ., then delivered the E . A . Charge to the candidate in a highly commendable style , and at the conclusion of the ceremony the lodge was formally closet ) , and the brethren adjourned to refreshment and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts proposed and responded to . The W . M . then proposed " The Health of the Newly-Initiated Candidate , Bro .
Lawton , " which was received and drank with acclamation and true Masonic " fiie . " Bro . Lawton , in a short but telling speech , thanked the brethren for the honour they had done him by electing him a member of the Affability , and further stated it to be his earnest desire to continue advancing up the ladder of Freemasonry , and stepping over the different degrees until he should be able to be on
a par with some of the great workers > vhose portraits adorned the -walls around the room . The W . M ., in proposing " The Health of the Visitors , " said he felt proud to see an array of talent around him , as it was not often that the lodge was honoured with the presence of so many of the dramatic profession , and it simply manifested the high esteem in which Bro . Lawton was held , to see around
him such a goodly number of brethren who had assembled to witness the ceremony of his initiation . He was quite sure the brethren would coincide with him in n questing that , instead of the usual verbal response to the toast of " The Visitors , " some of them would reply by obliging them with a song , and he therefore called upon Bro . H . Hallam , jun ., of ' . he True Friendship Lodge , Calcutta , to
favour them with a specimen of his vocal abilities , Bro . Hallam , who has a very sweet tenor voice , sang " Molly Bawn , why leave me pining ? " with great taste and feeling , and called forth the admiration of all present , after which Bro . J . Wainwright gave a reading from Shakespeare ' s " As You Like It " in a highly creditable manner , and then followed a humorous song , given by Bro . C . H . Stevenson , entitled " Gee Ho , Dobbin , " and which , by
reason of the intensely comic manner in which it was sung , produced shouts of laughter . Bro . Albert Brennir , who was labouring under a slight hoarseness , sang " Good Bye , Sweetheart , Good Bye , " with great pathos , and called forth the warmest applause ; antl , lastly , the W . M ., Bro . J . L . Lever , by desire , gave " The Low backed Car " in his inimitable style , which song concluded one of the most pleasant meetings of this lodge .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS . —Holmesdale Lodge ( No . 874 ) . —The installation meeting of this lodge was held on Wednesday last , at the I ' ump Room , The Parade , Tunbridge Wells . The rooms at this establishment are admirably sjited for the convenience of the brethren , th ; re being every accommodation for lodge business , and no lack of space . There is a most commodious preparing
and clothing room , and the lodge room , which is nearly fquire , is large enough to hold what in London would be considered a crowded lodge . 'Thelodge has been fumi 5 hed wiih very handsome ar . d substantial oak furniture , every detail of which has been most studiousl y considered and m ; st effectively worked out . A tesseUted carpet covers the floor , and two dozen
substanuil oak chairs with leather se _ , ts , including half-a-d ( zen arm chairs for the Pist Masters , are ranged on two sides of the room . Special chairs of oak are provided fe , r the Master , I . P . M ., Treasurer , Wardens , and Secretary , surmounting each being the jewel in gilt of the officer whose chair _ . it is . For these chairs there is also a dais , s > that the principal officers of the lodge are t ^ ated higher than the
other brethren .. The pedestals also have the jewels of thiir respective officers in front , and the panels are surrounded with a b ailing e . f black . 'The Ionic , Doric , and Corin - thii'i columns are plac-. d at a short distance from the pedest lis . s . ) that no inconvenience is experienced in the introduction of candidates to the officers in the different ( 'egrees . The perfect ashlar , which is very heavy , is of
polished marble of beautiful workmanship , and depends from shear legs of some five feet high . All the other furniture is in keeping , and affords altogether a fine example of what can be done in furnishing a lodge to make Masonic ceremonies impressive to those who join the Order , and probably in no lodge could the paraphernalia create a greater impression than
in the Holmesdale Lodge . 'The brethren assemb ' ed at half-past two , and at the time mentioned in the summons the lodge was opined by Bto . William Beadcll Bacon , W . M . The following brethn n were present : —Bros . VV . B . Bacon , W . M . ; H . D . M . William" ! , S . W . ; W . H . Hodgkin , J . W . ; J . Button , S . D . ; J . Dunkley , J . D ., 11 . W . Delves , IG . ; G . Strange , Tyler ; J . F .
Bates , Sec . ; W . S . Elers , P . M ., Treas . ; P . M . 's Roper , Beckley , Read , AY . Delves ; Bros . Salchell , M . Williams , Ramsbotham , Boorman , Graham , Whitehead , Holt , Dowden , Durrant , Loid George Pratt , J . K . Pain , S . Cheale , Dickinson , Rule , Lord Nevill . Visiters : Bros . Grcig , G . M . of the Grand Lotlge of Pennsylvania , j . Nichdls , P . P . G . S . W , P . M . 1050 ; J . M . Cuthbert , P . M .
540 ; W . Stephens , P . M . 1505 and 1489 ; Thos Kingston , P . M . S 62 and W . M . 1612 ; J . Brothers , P . M . 709 ; J . Hughes Hallett , P . M . 709 , P . P . G . R . ; W . Denies , P . M . 341 , P . P . G . R . Sussex ; H . Carnell , 1414 ; T . G . Wilkinson , 1449 ; — Whitehead , Bagshaw Lodge ; and II . Massey , P . M . 619 ( Freemason ) . After the reading and cotifitmation of the minutes , and the adoption of the
Auditors' report , wtveh was read and moved I y the Treasur r , Lord George Montacute Nevill and Bro . William Dickinson , of 1678 , were elected members of the lodge , after which , on the motion of Bro . J . Read , P . M ., s- conded by the Treasurer , a Past Master's jewel was voted to Bro . Bacon . The W . M . then installed Bro . H . D . M . Williams , S . W . and W . M . elect , as Master of the lodge , | erfonning
all the work in first-class style . 1 he officers invested were Bros . W . II . Hodgkin , S . W . ; J . Burton , J . W . ; W . S . Elers , Treasurer ; J . F . Bates , Secretary , — Boorman , Organist ; J . Dunkley , S . D . ; J . Waterman , J . D . ; — Cheale I . G . ; R . Delves , M . C . ; C . Graham , A . M . C . After the delivery of the charges , the new W . M . informed tbe brethren that Bro . Pclton hatl presented the lodge with
a fine portrait cf H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M ., framed and glazed , whereupon the portrait was placed upon the wall , and the W . M . moved a vote of thanks to Bro . Pelton for the handsome present . In proposing the vote the W . M . said the brethren were very much pleased at the gift , at : d they would like to see the lodge-room adorned with othir portraits . Probably the example set
by Bro . Pelton might induce other brethren to make similar presents , and for his own part he would like to see portraits of the Past Masters of the lodge on the walls , as a memento of their connection with the lodge . The Treasurer seconded the motion , and said it was very kind and thoughtful of Bro . Pelton to make such a present . Every brother of the lodge would appreciate it . The W . M .
then closed the lodge , and the brethren adjourned to the Calverley Hotel , where a charming banquet was in readiness for them . When this had been disposed of and grace said , the usual toas ' . s were proposed . After the toasts of " The Queen and the Craft , " " The M . W . G . M . " "The Pro and Deputy G . M ., & c , " had been honoured , the W . M . proposed " Lord Holmesdale , Prov .
G . M . Kent , the Deputy Prov . G . M ., Bro . Eastis , the Prov . G . S . W ., and other Prov . Grand Officers , Past and Present . " To this toast Bro . Hallett , P . Prov . G . Keg . Kent , responded , and said he hardly knew why his humble name should have been associated with this toast , stranger as he was in that immediate neighbourhood , although he was not a stranger in the county of Kent , where his name
was pretty well known . Still , for the honour the W . M . and brethren had been pleased to pay him along with the Prov . G . Master and other Prov . G . Officers , he returned his most sincere thanks . He was sure when he reported to them the compliment that had been passed on them they would be highly gratified . He exceedingly regretted that his old friend the Dep . Prov . G . M ., Bro . Eastes , was
not present , because that esteemed brother would have responded more ably than he . Bro . Read , P . M ., in proposing the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . Bacon , " said the brethren would all agree with him that to propose that toast in suitable terms was a very arduous duty . Bro . Bacon must have paid great attention to the task if learning the ceremony to have been able to install the present W . M . with the great fluency and ability that tha