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Craft Masonry.
Craft Masonry .
St . Luke s Lodge , No . 144 . The installation meeting of this very old-established lodge ( consecrated in 176 . il , was held at Anderton's Hotel , Fleet-street , on the 5 th inst . Bro . Fred Thomas , W . M ., oresided , supported by Bros . J . H . Beauchamp , S . W . elect ; T . A . Markland , j . W . , * § C . M . Austin , S . D . ; A . Marriott-Matthews . J . D . ; Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., Treas . ; E Witts , P . M ., Sec ; Jarvis Maples , P . M ., D . C ; F . E . Choveaux , Org . ; \ V H . Royle , Stwd . ; W . J . Forscutt , P . M . ; A . Saunders , P . M . ; F . Stutfield ,
P . M . ; W . J . Sharpe , S . E . Storr , V . Honour , J . Pulling . P . M . ; Chas . Mallows , G . E Murrell , E . J . Winsborroiv , J . Weller , A . W . Thompson , W . Murdock , T . J . Nicholls , G . Westron , F . J . Ingram , H . Hayward , H . A . Place , C . Ebborn , G . Allen , P . M . ; A . Dupree , J . Fletcher , G . S . Ellis , H . E . Sleeo , and T . Bowler , Tyler . Visitors : Bros . F . Douglas-Norman , 172 ; VV . J . Wall , I . P . M . 1743 ; R . Bradley , I . P . M . 1694 ; J . Oliver , 2346 ; VV . Vassilla , P . M . 1326 ; A . M . Graham , 1694 ; G . Evans , P . M . 172 ; J . Hopkins , 753 ; A . Schott , 1694 ; J . W . Burgess , P . M . 1325 ;
A . Carlstrom , 733 ; L . N . Abbott , 937 ; C . Tuckfield , 1694 ; A . Grace , 2521 ; J . H . Pearson , P . M . ; G . Chandler , 753 ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . ; A . B . Stutfield , 1920 ; j . Hawkins , 19 S 6 ; and R . T . West , 1744 . Alter the conclusion of the ordinary business , which included passing Bro . Joseph Fletcher to thj Second Degree , the ceremony of installing the W . M . elect , Bro . j . H . Beauchamp , into the chair was performed in a most impressive manner by the outgoing W . M ., Bro . F . Thomas . The new W . M . then invested the following as his officers :
Bros . T . Markland , S . W .,- S . C . M . Austin , J . W . ; Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., Treas . ; E . Witts , P . M ., Sec ; A . Marriott-Matthews , S . D . ; VV . H . Royle , J . D . ; E . J . Winsborrow , I . G . ; Jarvis Maples , P . M ., D . C ; F . E . Choveaux , Org . ; T . W . Morley and J . Weller , Stewards ; W . Murdock , A . D . C ; and T . Bowler , Tyler . Bro . F . Thomas afterwards gave the customary addresses in splendid style . The VV . M . then initiated Messrs . G . S . Ellis and H . E . Sleep , the working being carried out in an excellent manner . Bro . Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., having announced his intention of "ointr up as Steward for the Old People , 10 guineas was unanimously voted from the
odge funds to be placed on his list , with the promise that if before the Festival the funds permitted the amount should be increased . A gentleman having been proposed for initiation at the next meeting , after other business the lodge was closed with the usual formalities . An excellent banquet followed , which was prepared by Bro . A . Clemow in his wellknown good style , and gave every satisfaction . At the conclusion of the repast , the usual toasts were given and loyally received .
Bro . F . Thomas , I . P . M ., in proposing "The Health of the Worshipful Master , " stated that it was his pleasing task for the first time to submit that—the toast of the evening . He could not say sufficient to extol his virtues , and it was his honour to have installed him into the chair . He ( the W . M . ) had started well with his work , and having two initiates , it was a severe task to perform the moment after he was installed ; but he had carried out the ceremony in an admirable manner ; he would he felt do everything asked of him , and it would be no fault of his if his year of office was not a great
success , and when he vacated the chair they would be all able to say that he was one of the best of Masters the St . Luke ' s Lodge had ever had . The toast was drunk most cordially . Bro . Beauchamp , W . M ., was well received on r sing to respond . He said that it was only four years ago since he was initiated in the lodge , and he was proud and appreciated the great honour of being the Master . He felt he had the respect of all the members , and he would do his utmost to carry out his duties to their satisfaction . He
should follow in the lines of the LP . M ., and study the ladies and give them some consideration during his year of office by having a ball and a summer outing , and with the assistance of his officers he hoped his term would be a success . In giving "The Initiates , " the W . M . stated that they were his first , and from what he knew of them , he thought they would be an acquisition to the lodge and the Craft , but he was certain that when they became better acquainted with the members thc better they would like them . The initiates , on rising to respond , had a hearty reception .
Bro . G . S . Ellis said that he thanked them very much for having received him as a brother , and he hoped to prove , as the W . M . had predicted , a credit to the lodge and the Craft . Bro . H . S . Sleep also responded , observing that it was a great honour to him to be allowed to be initiated in such a good lodge , and it was his earnest wish to prove worthy of it .
The toast of "The Visitors " followed , the W . M ., in the name of the lodge , giving them all a most hearty greeting , and spoke of the honour the brethren felt in welcoming their guests , and he coupled with the toast the names of Bros . J . W . Burgess , P . M . 1325 ; W . Vassilla , P . M . 1326 ; VV . J . Wall , I . P . M . 1743 ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . ; and R . T . West . Bro . J . W . Burgess , P . M ., said it was a great pleasure for an old Mason to attend so ancient a lodge , which was still going ahead and well able to keep pace with the new
ones . The I . P . M . had done his work that evening in a splendid manner and he could not , if he tried 20 years hence , do it better . The VV . M . by initiating . two members had done great things by so ably performing the ritual . In Masonry it was a great feature to entertain visitors and the St . Luke's Lodge was certainly not backward in that respect . He was pleased they had given Bro . Col . Unite 10 guineas for his Stewardship for the Old People , but , if they would allow him to say so , he certainly deserved more for the great things he had done for the Charities and the Craft in general . In conclusion he
made a most eloquent and earnest appeal on behalf of the three Institutions , and we hope thc result will be that Bro . Col . Unite will go up with a list large in amount at the next Festival of the Old People's Institution . The toast was also most suitably replied to by Bros . W . Vassilla , P . M . ; W . J . Wall , P . M . ; R . Bradley , P . M . ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . j and R . T . VVest . The W . M . proposed "The Immediate Past Master , Bro . F . Thomas , " and said
that he had endeared himself to every member b y his courtesy and kindness . His working was masterly , a thorough good Mason , and they were all proud to acknowledge him as one of the best of friends , lie took that opportunity to present him , in the name of the lodge , with a Past Master's jewel , as a small token for his eminent services , and he hoped he would live long to wear it , and it would ever remind him of his successful year of office as W . M .
Bro . F . Thomas , I . P . M ., on rising to respond , wis enthusiastically received . He said that after their reception it was difficult for him to acknowledge the toast and the find things said of him . When he was installed 12 months ago , he thought that was the proudest moment of his life ; but that was overtopped by that night's proceedings . It was gratifying to him to hear that he had given satisfaction , and to receive the Past Master ' s jewel , for which he thanked them , was the summit of his Masonic career . He had had every assistance from them all and he should never forget the happy time he was the Master of the lodge .
The jewel bore the following inscription : " Presented by the brethren of the St . Luke ' s Lodge , No . 144 , to Bro . Frederick Thomas , in recognition of ellicient services rendered as W . M . October , 1896 . " In submitting the toast of * ' The Past Masters , " the W . M . remarked that they were a great power in the lodge and he was gratified to have so many present at his installation , which he took as a personal compliment , and he appreciated it . Bro . larvis Maples , P . M ., said he thought that after so many years he would have
been excused to respond , but he must obey the command of the W . M . That was the 33 rd installation he had attended in the lodge , and within two months of his initiation he was in office , thanks to the lodge of instruction connected with the lodge , but he Worked hard to attain the chair . The lodge was consecrated in Chelsea and did not leave there for 150 years , so it was beyond doubt a Chelsea lodge and they had the niinute books from the consecration of the lodge . In a humorous strain he gave some 'nteresting details of the things that occurred many years ago in the lodge . So long as he had strength he would continue to do his best for that , his mother lolgc .
Bro . A . Saunders , P . M ., said it was a pecu'iar pleasure to him to respond to the toast , because the W . M . was one of his initiates , and he wis proud to see him in the cnair , and he had given Bro . Thomas , the I . P . M ., his first collar in Masoiry , which was gratif ying to him , as no one in the lodge had ever excelled his ( the I . P . M . ' s ) working . "The Treasurer and Secretary " having been honoured , Bro . Col . Unite , P . M ., Treas ., responded , and said that he was taking away that jjay m jre money than he had received on any one night for the last 20 years , and he "oped that that would be a good omen for his Stewardship for the Old People , and that
Craft Masonry.
all the members would each give him 10 guineas and so swell the amount voted from the lodge funds . It is pleasing to announce that in response to the appeal , the W . M . stated that he would give 10 guineas to Bro . Col . Unite ' s list . Bro . E . Witts , P . M ., Secretary , also responded . He thought they could , with the materials they had , publish a good history of their very old lodge , which would ba a very interesting volume , and would sell well . The warrant wis so old that the only word legible was " Blaney " ( Lord Blaney ) . Twenty-seven years ago he was initiated in the lodge , in which he had served as Secretary for 19 years .
" The Officers " was acknowledged by Bros . T . Markland , S . W . ; A . Marriott-Matthews , S . D . ; W . H . Royle , J . D . ; E . J . Winsborrow , I . G . ; T . VV . Morley and J . Weller , Stewards ; and VV . Murdock , A . D . C ; and the Tyler ' s toast brought the happy proceedings to a close . During the evening an excellent programme was carried out , in which the following took part * . Bros . T . W . Turner , A . Saunders , and S . C . M . Austin , Mr . J . W . Josey , Miss Bessie Spells , and Madame Alice Sampson . Bro . F . E . Choveaux , Org ., presided with his well-known ability at the pianoforte .
Lome Lodge , No . 1347 . The installation meeting of this lodge was held at the Public Hall , Sutton , on Saturdav , the ioth inst ., when Bro . R . G . Goatcher was raised to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., and Bro . E . M . Gibson , jun ., was passed to the Second Degree . Bro . A . Stribling , I . P . M ., worked the beautiful ritual in a most able and impressive manner , and Bro . Hugh Taylor was placed in the chair of King Solomon . The W . M . appointed his officers as follows : Bros . A . Stribling , I . P . M . ; T . S . Cookes ,
S . W . ; H . Griffiths , J . W . ; Rev . H . W . Turner , P . M ., Treas . and Chap . ; C A . Hardwick , P . M ., Sec . ; J . H . Asman , S . D . ; H . W . Lofts , J . D . ; T . A . Hill , Org . ; E . D . Frost , P . M ., D . C . ; G . W . Dixon , A . D . C . ; J . W . Imray , I . G . ; T . R . Porter , W . H . Smith , and Dendy Napper , Stwds . The W . M . was honoured by the presence of the following visitors—Bros . E . T . Perkin , 63 j W . E . Poole , P . M . S 60 ; T . Smith , P . M . 30 ; L . Antill , W . M . 1982 ; W . J . Baker , W . M . 1892 ; G . Free , P . M . 73 :
G . L . Henderson , 1643 ; W . R . Church , H . F . Burrows , P . M . 7 S 6 ; E . Farley , P . G . S . ; G . R . Foster , 534 ; T . G . Detmar , 90 ; and J . Husbands , I . G . 23 . The other members of the lodge present were Bros . G . C . Burry , P . M . ; C . A . Gibbs , P . M . ; W . Pile , P . M . Prov . G . Treas . * , C E . Stribling , R . J . Ward . P . M . ; T . E . Leigh , St . Leger Bunnett , G . Bower , M . H . Cotton , C . Price , R . R . Ward , J . G . Spencer , J . H . Hayes , F . N . Smyth , N . B . Payne , Serving Brother ; and L . G . Reinhardt , Tyler .
The brethren afterwards adjourned to the Greyhound Hotel , when host Bro . F . Tomlin , J . P ., placed an excellent banquet on the table , served in first-class style , to the great satisfaction of every one . The musical talent of some of the brethren of this lodge is known all through the province , and the programme on that occasion was fully up to its former excellence . The W . M . entrusted the arrangements to Bro . T . A . Hill , P .. VL , P . P . G . Org ., who was ably assisted by Bros . A . Stribling , F . Ward , J . Asman , H . W . Lofts , T . G . Detmar , J . Forrester , M . H . Cotton , and W . H . Smith . It is hardly necessary to add that with such talent and under the genial guidance of the W . M ., a most enjoyable evening was spent .
Duke of Connaught Lodge , No . 1558 . The installation meeting of this prosperous South London lodge took place on the Sth inst ., at the Surrey Masonic Hall , Camberwell , when there was a numerous attendance of members and visitors . The W . M ., Bro . Dr . Visger , was unfortunntely absent through illness , but his place was ably filled by Bro . F . V . Catt , P . M . —the genial and energetic Secretary—who installed Bro . James Alfred Shelton as W . M . for the ensuing year . Bro . Shelton is well known in this and other lodges as an enthusiastic Mison , and
under his auspices and excellent working a prosperous year should be the result . The members present included Bros . J . A . Shelton , S . W ., W . M . elect ; T . Taylor , P . M ., Treas . ; F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec ; A . Blenkarn , P . M ., Prov . G . Treas . Middx .: Smith , P . M . ; Hargroves , P . M . ; Clark , P . M . ; Plummer , P . M . ; Stokes , P . M . ; J . T . Parker , C . W . G . Hammond , and others . Visitors : Bros . Diprose , P . M . 1855 Holland . W . M . 2055 ; Lamb , P . M . ; J . Speller , P . P . G . D . Essex ; J . Lusty , P . M . 1259 ; Layton A . Richardson , LP . M . 157 , 1556 ; C . Lamb , P . M . 1907 , W . M . elect
2579 ; Christopher Sims , W . M . 2579 , P . M . 1208 , S 61 ; Tilling , P . M . 7 65 ; J . Wise , P . M . 115 S ; Laing , W . M . 2469 ; W . Smith , P . M . 902 ; VV . W . Lee , P . M . ; and many others . After the formal opening of the lodge and the confirmition of the minutes , Bro . F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec , took the chair , and installed Bro . J . A . Shelton as VV . M . in an impressive and able manner . The following officers were appointed and invested : Bros . J . T . Packer , S . W . ; H . Havens , J . W . ; T . Taylor , P . M ., Treas . ; F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec . ; A . Blenkarn , P . M ., Prov . G . Treas . Middx ., D . C . ; C . W . G . Hammond , S . D . , * F . Lever , J . D . ; H . Lewis , I . G . ; Richd . Ball and VV . J . Gilbert
Stewards , * J . W . Battenbury , Org . ; and H . Thomas , Tyler . The newly-installed W . M . next had an opportunity of showing his qualifications for the post—of which he made ample use—by raising a candidate to the Third Degree and afterwards initiating two gentlemen into Freemasonry . The rendering of both ceremonies reflected the greatest credit on the W . M . Other business was transacted , and the lodge was closerl . The brethren adjourned to the banquet-room , which was tastefully elecorated with palms and flowers by Messrs . Laing and Sons .
Ample justice having been done to an excellent repast , the usual toasts were given , the speeches were interspersed with selections from a capital programme , which included items , by Bros . Hall , Gunstone , Hawkins , H . A . Nash , and Battenbury . The loyal toasts having been disposed of , Bro . J . Smith , P . M ., as the senior Past Master of the lodge present , rose to propose
" The Health of the W . M . " He had not expected to have the privilege of performing that pleasant task , which he undertook with the greatest pleasure . From what they had seen of the working of their W . M . he was convinced they would be proud of him during his year . They hoped Bro . Shelton would have a prosperous anel successful term of office , and they had no fear but that he would carry out his duties to the satisfaction of the lodge .
Bro . J . A . Shelton , W . M ., assured the brethren that he felt the honour . devolving upon him by his election as W . M ., and during his year he would use every effort to conduct the work in the lodge as he had been taught it should be carried out . Hi would endeavour to give them every satisfaction . Immediately after his initiation he joined a lodge of instruction under the advice of Bro . Clarke , P . M ., and had since attended regularly . They had seen the result that night , and he mentioned that in ord ; r to
advise the younger brethren not to neglect lodges of instruction , for otherwise they could never fill the offices with satisfaction to the members or the lodge . He hoped the members would give him plenty of work , as he was fond of it . He hop ; d on the next occasion to give the initiates the ancient charge , which time alone had prevented him from doing that evening . He again thanked them Ior their kindness , and pro .-nised them to carry out the work as he had been taught it should be done .
The Worshipful Master proposed " The Initiates , " and said he hoped that the two brethren who had been initiated would not consider their initiation too lightly for it was a serious obligation and one they should fully appreciate . He strongly advised them to get all the instruction they could , and when they again saw the ceremony performed they would more full y appreciate what they had gone through . The initiates having replied , " The Visitors " was cordially given by the Worshipful Master .
Bro . Diprose , P . M . 1855 , thanked the VV . M . for the privilege afforded him of b ; ing present . Although he had visited many lodges , he had never before seen a VV . M . perform the ceremonies of the Third and First Degrees immediately after his installation , and had , in fact , never seen those ceremonies better performed . 111 thought that lodge should be exceedingly proud of having such a Master , and trusted Bro . Shelton ivould have health and strength to go through his year of oilice .
Bro . L . A . Richardson , I . P . M . 157 , said he fully concurred in th ? remarks of Bro , Diprose . He had been particularly impressed with the working of the D . C , Uro , Blenkarn , P . M ., for nothing better could be desired . Bro . J . Speller , P . P . G . D . Essex , also returned thanks , and said the li xretary , Bro . Catt , P . M , had worked the installation in a quiet , but very impressive manner , which would leave a lasting impression on the minds of those present .
Bro . Christopher Sims , W . M . 2579 , expressed his admiration at the working of the lodge . Many members of ihis lodge also belonged to the Lewisham Lodge , where they were much appreciated .
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Craft Masonry.
Craft Masonry .
St . Luke s Lodge , No . 144 . The installation meeting of this very old-established lodge ( consecrated in 176 . il , was held at Anderton's Hotel , Fleet-street , on the 5 th inst . Bro . Fred Thomas , W . M ., oresided , supported by Bros . J . H . Beauchamp , S . W . elect ; T . A . Markland , j . W . , * § C . M . Austin , S . D . ; A . Marriott-Matthews . J . D . ; Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., Treas . ; E Witts , P . M ., Sec ; Jarvis Maples , P . M ., D . C ; F . E . Choveaux , Org . ; \ V H . Royle , Stwd . ; W . J . Forscutt , P . M . ; A . Saunders , P . M . ; F . Stutfield ,
P . M . ; W . J . Sharpe , S . E . Storr , V . Honour , J . Pulling . P . M . ; Chas . Mallows , G . E Murrell , E . J . Winsborroiv , J . Weller , A . W . Thompson , W . Murdock , T . J . Nicholls , G . Westron , F . J . Ingram , H . Hayward , H . A . Place , C . Ebborn , G . Allen , P . M . ; A . Dupree , J . Fletcher , G . S . Ellis , H . E . Sleeo , and T . Bowler , Tyler . Visitors : Bros . F . Douglas-Norman , 172 ; VV . J . Wall , I . P . M . 1743 ; R . Bradley , I . P . M . 1694 ; J . Oliver , 2346 ; VV . Vassilla , P . M . 1326 ; A . M . Graham , 1694 ; G . Evans , P . M . 172 ; J . Hopkins , 753 ; A . Schott , 1694 ; J . W . Burgess , P . M . 1325 ;
A . Carlstrom , 733 ; L . N . Abbott , 937 ; C . Tuckfield , 1694 ; A . Grace , 2521 ; J . H . Pearson , P . M . ; G . Chandler , 753 ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . ; A . B . Stutfield , 1920 ; j . Hawkins , 19 S 6 ; and R . T . West , 1744 . Alter the conclusion of the ordinary business , which included passing Bro . Joseph Fletcher to thj Second Degree , the ceremony of installing the W . M . elect , Bro . j . H . Beauchamp , into the chair was performed in a most impressive manner by the outgoing W . M ., Bro . F . Thomas . The new W . M . then invested the following as his officers :
Bros . T . Markland , S . W .,- S . C . M . Austin , J . W . ; Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., Treas . ; E . Witts , P . M ., Sec ; A . Marriott-Matthews , S . D . ; VV . H . Royle , J . D . ; E . J . Winsborrow , I . G . ; Jarvis Maples , P . M ., D . C ; F . E . Choveaux , Org . ; T . W . Morley and J . Weller , Stewards ; W . Murdock , A . D . C ; and T . Bowler , Tyler . Bro . F . Thomas afterwards gave the customary addresses in splendid style . The VV . M . then initiated Messrs . G . S . Ellis and H . E . Sleep , the working being carried out in an excellent manner . Bro . Col . J . G . Unite , P . M ., having announced his intention of "ointr up as Steward for the Old People , 10 guineas was unanimously voted from the
odge funds to be placed on his list , with the promise that if before the Festival the funds permitted the amount should be increased . A gentleman having been proposed for initiation at the next meeting , after other business the lodge was closed with the usual formalities . An excellent banquet followed , which was prepared by Bro . A . Clemow in his wellknown good style , and gave every satisfaction . At the conclusion of the repast , the usual toasts were given and loyally received .
Bro . F . Thomas , I . P . M ., in proposing "The Health of the Worshipful Master , " stated that it was his pleasing task for the first time to submit that—the toast of the evening . He could not say sufficient to extol his virtues , and it was his honour to have installed him into the chair . He ( the W . M . ) had started well with his work , and having two initiates , it was a severe task to perform the moment after he was installed ; but he had carried out the ceremony in an admirable manner ; he would he felt do everything asked of him , and it would be no fault of his if his year of office was not a great
success , and when he vacated the chair they would be all able to say that he was one of the best of Masters the St . Luke ' s Lodge had ever had . The toast was drunk most cordially . Bro . Beauchamp , W . M ., was well received on r sing to respond . He said that it was only four years ago since he was initiated in the lodge , and he was proud and appreciated the great honour of being the Master . He felt he had the respect of all the members , and he would do his utmost to carry out his duties to their satisfaction . He
should follow in the lines of the LP . M ., and study the ladies and give them some consideration during his year of office by having a ball and a summer outing , and with the assistance of his officers he hoped his term would be a success . In giving "The Initiates , " the W . M . stated that they were his first , and from what he knew of them , he thought they would be an acquisition to the lodge and the Craft , but he was certain that when they became better acquainted with the members thc better they would like them . The initiates , on rising to respond , had a hearty reception .
Bro . G . S . Ellis said that he thanked them very much for having received him as a brother , and he hoped to prove , as the W . M . had predicted , a credit to the lodge and the Craft . Bro . H . S . Sleep also responded , observing that it was a great honour to him to be allowed to be initiated in such a good lodge , and it was his earnest wish to prove worthy of it .
The toast of "The Visitors " followed , the W . M ., in the name of the lodge , giving them all a most hearty greeting , and spoke of the honour the brethren felt in welcoming their guests , and he coupled with the toast the names of Bros . J . W . Burgess , P . M . 1325 ; W . Vassilla , P . M . 1326 ; VV . J . Wall , I . P . M . 1743 ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . ; and R . T . West . Bro . J . W . Burgess , P . M ., said it was a great pleasure for an old Mason to attend so ancient a lodge , which was still going ahead and well able to keep pace with the new
ones . The I . P . M . had done his work that evening in a splendid manner and he could not , if he tried 20 years hence , do it better . The VV . M . by initiating . two members had done great things by so ably performing the ritual . In Masonry it was a great feature to entertain visitors and the St . Luke's Lodge was certainly not backward in that respect . He was pleased they had given Bro . Col . Unite 10 guineas for his Stewardship for the Old People , but , if they would allow him to say so , he certainly deserved more for the great things he had done for the Charities and the Craft in general . In conclusion he
made a most eloquent and earnest appeal on behalf of the three Institutions , and we hope thc result will be that Bro . Col . Unite will go up with a list large in amount at the next Festival of the Old People's Institution . The toast was also most suitably replied to by Bros . W . Vassilla , P . M . ; W . J . Wall , P . M . ; R . Bradley , P . M . ; C . L . Ramsden , P . M . j and R . T . VVest . The W . M . proposed "The Immediate Past Master , Bro . F . Thomas , " and said
that he had endeared himself to every member b y his courtesy and kindness . His working was masterly , a thorough good Mason , and they were all proud to acknowledge him as one of the best of friends , lie took that opportunity to present him , in the name of the lodge , with a Past Master's jewel , as a small token for his eminent services , and he hoped he would live long to wear it , and it would ever remind him of his successful year of office as W . M .
Bro . F . Thomas , I . P . M ., on rising to respond , wis enthusiastically received . He said that after their reception it was difficult for him to acknowledge the toast and the find things said of him . When he was installed 12 months ago , he thought that was the proudest moment of his life ; but that was overtopped by that night's proceedings . It was gratifying to him to hear that he had given satisfaction , and to receive the Past Master ' s jewel , for which he thanked them , was the summit of his Masonic career . He had had every assistance from them all and he should never forget the happy time he was the Master of the lodge .
The jewel bore the following inscription : " Presented by the brethren of the St . Luke ' s Lodge , No . 144 , to Bro . Frederick Thomas , in recognition of ellicient services rendered as W . M . October , 1896 . " In submitting the toast of * ' The Past Masters , " the W . M . remarked that they were a great power in the lodge and he was gratified to have so many present at his installation , which he took as a personal compliment , and he appreciated it . Bro . larvis Maples , P . M ., said he thought that after so many years he would have
been excused to respond , but he must obey the command of the W . M . That was the 33 rd installation he had attended in the lodge , and within two months of his initiation he was in office , thanks to the lodge of instruction connected with the lodge , but he Worked hard to attain the chair . The lodge was consecrated in Chelsea and did not leave there for 150 years , so it was beyond doubt a Chelsea lodge and they had the niinute books from the consecration of the lodge . In a humorous strain he gave some 'nteresting details of the things that occurred many years ago in the lodge . So long as he had strength he would continue to do his best for that , his mother lolgc .
Bro . A . Saunders , P . M ., said it was a pecu'iar pleasure to him to respond to the toast , because the W . M . was one of his initiates , and he wis proud to see him in the cnair , and he had given Bro . Thomas , the I . P . M ., his first collar in Masoiry , which was gratif ying to him , as no one in the lodge had ever excelled his ( the I . P . M . ' s ) working . "The Treasurer and Secretary " having been honoured , Bro . Col . Unite , P . M ., Treas ., responded , and said that he was taking away that jjay m jre money than he had received on any one night for the last 20 years , and he "oped that that would be a good omen for his Stewardship for the Old People , and that
Craft Masonry.
all the members would each give him 10 guineas and so swell the amount voted from the lodge funds . It is pleasing to announce that in response to the appeal , the W . M . stated that he would give 10 guineas to Bro . Col . Unite ' s list . Bro . E . Witts , P . M ., Secretary , also responded . He thought they could , with the materials they had , publish a good history of their very old lodge , which would ba a very interesting volume , and would sell well . The warrant wis so old that the only word legible was " Blaney " ( Lord Blaney ) . Twenty-seven years ago he was initiated in the lodge , in which he had served as Secretary for 19 years .
" The Officers " was acknowledged by Bros . T . Markland , S . W . ; A . Marriott-Matthews , S . D . ; W . H . Royle , J . D . ; E . J . Winsborrow , I . G . ; T . VV . Morley and J . Weller , Stewards ; and VV . Murdock , A . D . C ; and the Tyler ' s toast brought the happy proceedings to a close . During the evening an excellent programme was carried out , in which the following took part * . Bros . T . W . Turner , A . Saunders , and S . C . M . Austin , Mr . J . W . Josey , Miss Bessie Spells , and Madame Alice Sampson . Bro . F . E . Choveaux , Org ., presided with his well-known ability at the pianoforte .
Lome Lodge , No . 1347 . The installation meeting of this lodge was held at the Public Hall , Sutton , on Saturdav , the ioth inst ., when Bro . R . G . Goatcher was raised to the Sublime Degree of M . M ., and Bro . E . M . Gibson , jun ., was passed to the Second Degree . Bro . A . Stribling , I . P . M ., worked the beautiful ritual in a most able and impressive manner , and Bro . Hugh Taylor was placed in the chair of King Solomon . The W . M . appointed his officers as follows : Bros . A . Stribling , I . P . M . ; T . S . Cookes ,
S . W . ; H . Griffiths , J . W . ; Rev . H . W . Turner , P . M ., Treas . and Chap . ; C A . Hardwick , P . M ., Sec . ; J . H . Asman , S . D . ; H . W . Lofts , J . D . ; T . A . Hill , Org . ; E . D . Frost , P . M ., D . C . ; G . W . Dixon , A . D . C . ; J . W . Imray , I . G . ; T . R . Porter , W . H . Smith , and Dendy Napper , Stwds . The W . M . was honoured by the presence of the following visitors—Bros . E . T . Perkin , 63 j W . E . Poole , P . M . S 60 ; T . Smith , P . M . 30 ; L . Antill , W . M . 1982 ; W . J . Baker , W . M . 1892 ; G . Free , P . M . 73 :
G . L . Henderson , 1643 ; W . R . Church , H . F . Burrows , P . M . 7 S 6 ; E . Farley , P . G . S . ; G . R . Foster , 534 ; T . G . Detmar , 90 ; and J . Husbands , I . G . 23 . The other members of the lodge present were Bros . G . C . Burry , P . M . ; C . A . Gibbs , P . M . ; W . Pile , P . M . Prov . G . Treas . * , C E . Stribling , R . J . Ward . P . M . ; T . E . Leigh , St . Leger Bunnett , G . Bower , M . H . Cotton , C . Price , R . R . Ward , J . G . Spencer , J . H . Hayes , F . N . Smyth , N . B . Payne , Serving Brother ; and L . G . Reinhardt , Tyler .
The brethren afterwards adjourned to the Greyhound Hotel , when host Bro . F . Tomlin , J . P ., placed an excellent banquet on the table , served in first-class style , to the great satisfaction of every one . The musical talent of some of the brethren of this lodge is known all through the province , and the programme on that occasion was fully up to its former excellence . The W . M . entrusted the arrangements to Bro . T . A . Hill , P .. VL , P . P . G . Org ., who was ably assisted by Bros . A . Stribling , F . Ward , J . Asman , H . W . Lofts , T . G . Detmar , J . Forrester , M . H . Cotton , and W . H . Smith . It is hardly necessary to add that with such talent and under the genial guidance of the W . M ., a most enjoyable evening was spent .
Duke of Connaught Lodge , No . 1558 . The installation meeting of this prosperous South London lodge took place on the Sth inst ., at the Surrey Masonic Hall , Camberwell , when there was a numerous attendance of members and visitors . The W . M ., Bro . Dr . Visger , was unfortunntely absent through illness , but his place was ably filled by Bro . F . V . Catt , P . M . —the genial and energetic Secretary—who installed Bro . James Alfred Shelton as W . M . for the ensuing year . Bro . Shelton is well known in this and other lodges as an enthusiastic Mison , and
under his auspices and excellent working a prosperous year should be the result . The members present included Bros . J . A . Shelton , S . W ., W . M . elect ; T . Taylor , P . M ., Treas . ; F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec ; A . Blenkarn , P . M ., Prov . G . Treas . Middx .: Smith , P . M . ; Hargroves , P . M . ; Clark , P . M . ; Plummer , P . M . ; Stokes , P . M . ; J . T . Parker , C . W . G . Hammond , and others . Visitors : Bros . Diprose , P . M . 1855 Holland . W . M . 2055 ; Lamb , P . M . ; J . Speller , P . P . G . D . Essex ; J . Lusty , P . M . 1259 ; Layton A . Richardson , LP . M . 157 , 1556 ; C . Lamb , P . M . 1907 , W . M . elect
2579 ; Christopher Sims , W . M . 2579 , P . M . 1208 , S 61 ; Tilling , P . M . 7 65 ; J . Wise , P . M . 115 S ; Laing , W . M . 2469 ; W . Smith , P . M . 902 ; VV . W . Lee , P . M . ; and many others . After the formal opening of the lodge and the confirmition of the minutes , Bro . F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec , took the chair , and installed Bro . J . A . Shelton as VV . M . in an impressive and able manner . The following officers were appointed and invested : Bros . J . T . Packer , S . W . ; H . Havens , J . W . ; T . Taylor , P . M ., Treas . ; F . V . Catt , P . M ., Sec . ; A . Blenkarn , P . M ., Prov . G . Treas . Middx ., D . C . ; C . W . G . Hammond , S . D . , * F . Lever , J . D . ; H . Lewis , I . G . ; Richd . Ball and VV . J . Gilbert
Stewards , * J . W . Battenbury , Org . ; and H . Thomas , Tyler . The newly-installed W . M . next had an opportunity of showing his qualifications for the post—of which he made ample use—by raising a candidate to the Third Degree and afterwards initiating two gentlemen into Freemasonry . The rendering of both ceremonies reflected the greatest credit on the W . M . Other business was transacted , and the lodge was closerl . The brethren adjourned to the banquet-room , which was tastefully elecorated with palms and flowers by Messrs . Laing and Sons .
Ample justice having been done to an excellent repast , the usual toasts were given , the speeches were interspersed with selections from a capital programme , which included items , by Bros . Hall , Gunstone , Hawkins , H . A . Nash , and Battenbury . The loyal toasts having been disposed of , Bro . J . Smith , P . M ., as the senior Past Master of the lodge present , rose to propose
" The Health of the W . M . " He had not expected to have the privilege of performing that pleasant task , which he undertook with the greatest pleasure . From what they had seen of the working of their W . M . he was convinced they would be proud of him during his year . They hoped Bro . Shelton would have a prosperous anel successful term of office , and they had no fear but that he would carry out his duties to the satisfaction of the lodge .
Bro . J . A . Shelton , W . M ., assured the brethren that he felt the honour . devolving upon him by his election as W . M ., and during his year he would use every effort to conduct the work in the lodge as he had been taught it should be carried out . Hi would endeavour to give them every satisfaction . Immediately after his initiation he joined a lodge of instruction under the advice of Bro . Clarke , P . M ., and had since attended regularly . They had seen the result that night , and he mentioned that in ord ; r to
advise the younger brethren not to neglect lodges of instruction , for otherwise they could never fill the offices with satisfaction to the members or the lodge . He hoped the members would give him plenty of work , as he was fond of it . He hop ; d on the next occasion to give the initiates the ancient charge , which time alone had prevented him from doing that evening . He again thanked them Ior their kindness , and pro .-nised them to carry out the work as he had been taught it should be done .
The Worshipful Master proposed " The Initiates , " and said he hoped that the two brethren who had been initiated would not consider their initiation too lightly for it was a serious obligation and one they should fully appreciate . He strongly advised them to get all the instruction they could , and when they again saw the ceremony performed they would more full y appreciate what they had gone through . The initiates having replied , " The Visitors " was cordially given by the Worshipful Master .
Bro . Diprose , P . M . 1855 , thanked the VV . M . for the privilege afforded him of b ; ing present . Although he had visited many lodges , he had never before seen a VV . M . perform the ceremonies of the Third and First Degrees immediately after his installation , and had , in fact , never seen those ceremonies better performed . 111 thought that lodge should be exceedingly proud of having such a Master , and trusted Bro . Shelton ivould have health and strength to go through his year of oilice .
Bro . L . A . Richardson , I . P . M . 157 , said he fully concurred in th ? remarks of Bro , Diprose . He had been particularly impressed with the working of the D . C , Uro , Blenkarn , P . M ., for nothing better could be desired . Bro . J . Speller , P . P . G . D . Essex , also returned thanks , and said the li xretary , Bro . Catt , P . M , had worked the installation in a quiet , but very impressive manner , which would leave a lasting impression on the minds of those present .
Bro . Christopher Sims , W . M . 2579 , expressed his admiration at the working of the lodge . Many members of ihis lodge also belonged to the Lewisham Lodge , where they were much appreciated .