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Contents.
CONTENTS .
REPORTS or M ASONIC MEETINGSCraft Masonry , 345 Instruction , 345 " Royal Arch 34 S United Grand Lodge 346 New Lodges 346 Provincial Grand Lodge of Devonshire , 346 Provincial Grand Mark Lodee of Devonshire 346
Provincial Grand Alark Lodfrc of Cornwall ; 34 6 How Bro . Jones Spent His Holiday , , 347 Royal Masonic Institution for Girls 347 The Royal Masonic Pupils' Assistance Fund 34 S Charity Reform 34 S Servants' Characters 34 S C ORRESPONDENCE : — Scenes at Masonic Elections 349 ACantion 349 Lodges of Instruction 349
Provincial Grand Lodge of Hampshire , , 349 Impostors 350 r Freemasonry in Suffolk 350 Masonic Notes and Queries ; 350 The Monde Maconnique for August 351 The Royal Masonic Pupils' Assistance Fund , 351 Specimens of Society Journals 351 Masonic and General Tidings 352 Lodge Meetings for Next Week 352 Advertisements , i .. ii ., iii .. iv ., v ., vi .
Ar00101
REPORTS , etc ., intended , for insertion in current number , should reach the Office , ( 198 , Fleet-street ) , by Six o ' clock p . m ., on 'Wednesdays .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
( Craft Masoimr * HIGH CROSS LODGE ( No . 754 ) . —The installation meeting of this lodge was held on Wednesday , at the Seven Sisters , Page Green , Tottenham . The lodge was opened by the W . M ., Bro . Henry Stephens , who was supported by the following officers and Past Masters : — Bros . G . Burford , S . W ., W . M . elect ; J . Karrin , J . W . ; D . Roberts , P . M ., Treas . ; T . Cunningham , P . M ., S ' ec . ; Past
Masters John Mailer , G . Townsend , W . Dance , W . Steedman , W . Kelly , J . Linzell , and J . Jones ; H . V . Clements , S . D . ; T . H . Thompson , J . D . ; Wm . Tegg , I . G . ; J . Garrod , D . C . ; J . Very , Tyler ; and several members . The following visitors were also present : —Bros . G . C . Voung , 820 ; J . E . Brown , J . Driscoll , P . M . 30 ; S . Hill , 109 ; W . W . Morgan , jun ., 138 : ;; A . J . Manning , P . M . 1472 ;
J . H . Thompson , 1580 ; J . Barber , 033 ; H . B . Carter , J 43 Z ! . !• Badkin , 1365 ; J . Pinder , H . Cleverly , 1107 ; J . B . Reid , 946 ; J . F . Pinder , 1707 . The lodge having been regularly opened and the usual formalities observed , the report of the Audit Committee was submitted . Bro . Mitchell was passed , and later on Bro . H . Cooper was raised . Bro . Dance , P . M ., then presented Bro . Burford , the W . M .
elect , for the benefit of installation . A Board of Masters being formed , that brother was regularly placed in the cViair , and in due course he appointed the following brethren as his officers : Bros . Farrin , S . W . ; Clements , J . W . ; Roberts , Treas . ; Cunningham , Sec ; Thompson , S . D . ; Tcgg , J . D . ; Garrod , I . G . ; W . S . Blenkinsop , D . C . ; Stevenson , Steward ; Lewis , Asst . Steward ; Very , Tyler .
The Installing Master , Bro . Stevens , then gave the addresses usual after the installation ceremony . One candidate for initiation having been proposed , the W . M . proceeded to close the lodge , and the brethren adjourned to the banquet room , where a most enjoyable repast was provided by Bro . Oddy . At the conclusion of the banquet , and grace having been sung , the W . M . gave the first
toast , " The Queen and the Craft , " which was followed by the National Anthem . "The Health of H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . Grand Master , " followed , and was most heartily received . The toast of "The Pro G . M ., the Deputy G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers , Present and Past , " was the next honoured . After a song , Bro . Stephens proceeded to give the toast of " The W . M . "
He said he could not speak much of his ability as W . M ., as he was new to that position , but as a member of the lodge , and a faithful officer , he paid him a great compliment . The W . M . had ever been at his post , and was well qualified to fill the position he now occupied . He trusted that at the end of his year of office Bro . Burford would be able to look back upon as successful a year as
he , Bro . Stephens , had just passed through . The S . W . having favoured the brethren with a song , the W . M . replied as follows : —Brethren , I have to return my very sincere thanks for the kind manner in which you have accepted the tcast proposed by Bro . Stephens . I am sure it is a very great honour to be elected as W . M . of the High Cross Lodge . There are few metropolitan lodges
that can boast as many members as the High Cross Lodge , and if they have as many they have not so great a number of sincere Masons as we have . I cannot do more than thank you for placing me in the chair . Whatever I may do I will endeavour to do my duty , and work in unison with you all , and thereby please the members of the lodge . Should I seem to be averse to some of your
wishes you may rely that I am differing only in the interests of Freemasonry . Ideas are not the same in all brethren , it being natural that we should have different views on certain subjects . It will be my endeavour to carry out the duties of my office satisfactorily , and I hope that I shall have a successful year ; but to secure this I must ask for the aid of the brethren and mv officers . The next toast
tne W . M . characterised as a most pleasing one for him to propose , it was that of "The I . P . M ., Bro . Stephens . " He was sure that those brethren who had been in the lodge during the past six or seven years must agree with him that Bro . Stephens had had one of the most successful years on record in the High Cross Lodge . The brethren must be all agreed that he had endeavoured to do his best ( or the lodge , and the result , he considered , had been proved
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
without a doubt to be a success . More especially was this the case with regard to the handsome surplus he had left in the hands of the Treasurer . The W . M . then proceeded to place on Bro . Stephens ' s breast the jewel that was voted to him at the last meeting . In doing so , he expressed the great pleasure he felt in presenting this- mark of the esteem of the lodge to so worthy a brother . Bro . Stephens ,
in reply , after thanking the brethren for the reception that had been accorded him , said : I do not know if I am deserving of the many kind things that have been said of me to-nig ht . I have endeavoured to do my utmost while in the chair for the benefit of the lodge , and , as you are all aware , I have in a measure succeeded . If I have pleased you I am more than amply rewarded for any
exertions I have made . I thank you most heartil y for the splendid jewel your W . M . has just placed on my breast . I hope it may be handed down to my children and their children as a token of the respect in which their father and grandfather were held by the High Cross Lodge . I must again thank you for the kind , way in which you have supported me during my year of office . The W . M .
announced that the collection made on behalf of the Charity Fund ofjhe lodge amounted to thirty-three shillings . The next toast proposed from the chair was that of " The Visitors . " The W . M . said this was one always well received by the High Cross Lodge . Scarcely a meeting passed but they had a goodly array of visitors . On the present occasion they did not fall short , but had many
visitors around them , all of whom were welcome . He considered that the lodge would hardly be complete without its array of visitors . With the toast the W . M . coupled the name of Bro . Driscoll . That brother , in reply , said : It will be my endeavour to do as much justice to the toast as will , I hope , satisfy my brother visitors . If the reception accorded this evening is an indication of the usual welcome given by
the members of the High Cross Lodge , we can only hope for another invitation . For myself , I am an old hand , having been present at the anniversaries of the lodge for several years past . One thing I have noticed with pleasure at this lodge is the interest taken in its affairs by the Past Masters . On the present occasion I hear there is only one absent , and he , I believe , is far from home or would be
among us . This fact must be a great pleasure to you all , and the way in which the brethren who have passed the chair are honoured should be an incentive to young members to take an interest in the lodge . The W . M . in giving the next toast said it was one that would doubtless be new to most of those present . That day happened to be the twenty-first anniversary of the establishment of
the High Cross Lodge . Most of those around him could form their own opinion of the position of the lodge at the present time , but few could remember what was its condition at the time of its formation . They had one brother , however , who could tell them something on the subject , he having been the first initiate . The W . M . hoped that in another twenty-one years' time the lodge would number
on its roll twice as many brethren as at the present time , and that it would ever remain in a flourishing condition . He then called upon the brethren to drink to " The Prosperity of the High Cross Lodge , " coupling with the toast the name of Bro . Steedman , who was initiated on the night of its consecration , twenty-one years since . Bro . Steedman said : Brethren , you have thought proper to
associate my name with a very peculiar toast , and I feel very peculiar in rising to respond to it . Our lodge was founded 21 years since , next Friday being the anniversary of its consecration . If you refer to the warrant you will find that at first the meetings were held every fortnight . This was continued for about three years , at which time the lodge found itself in debt to the extent of £ 250 . I
could record other difficulties that the lodge has gone through , but will content myself , as we are now only concerned with its prosperous career . Bro . Steedman concluded by wishing that the lodge might be in as good a position twenty-one years hence as it was then , and trusted he might be there to see it . " The Health of the Past Masters " was next given , the W . M . referring to the
great interest shown in the lodge by those who had passed the chair . He stated that he had received a letter from their only absent P . M ., explaining that ill-health precluded his undertaking a long journey ia order to be with them , but he hoped that at no distant date he would again be among the members present at their regular assemblies . The W . M . exptessed his pleasure at having so large a Board
of Masters to assist at his installation , and considered it something for the lodge to be proud of when eleven of its own Past Masters came to assist in placing a new Mason in the chair they each in turn had filled . He felt he could rely on their support during the term of his presidency . Bro . Wells was the first to reply . He tendered the
heartiest thanks of the Past Masters for the way in which they were at all times received , and hoped that the newly-installed Master would be enabled to conduct the affairs of the lodge with satisfaction—he could assure the ^ W . M . that he would at all times have the co-operation of those who had preceded him in the chair . Bro . Dance followed to the same purport , specially referring to the indebtedness
of the lodge to Bio . Cunningham , P . M ., the Secretary , who had , he said , faithfully discharged his duties for the whole of the time he had filled the position . The toast of " The Treasurer and Secretary " followed . The W . M . was extremely gratified at having cwo such worthy brethren to rely on . Bro . Treasurer replied , thanking the
company for the way m which the mention of the names of the Treasurer and Secretary had been received . He had , he said , watched the lodge for a matter of twenty years , and was pleased to see it now in so prosperous a condition . Bro . Secretary followed , adding his thanks . Although it was some time since he had raised his voice to express his thanks for the kindness of the members it was not that he had not thanked them . He did so at all times , and only hoped he might continue to deserve the respect and esteem
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
of his brethren that he now enjoyed . The work of Secretary of the lodge was no light task , but the thanks which he received from the members from time to time were ample to repay any little trouble he went to in carrying out the duties of his office . The toast of " The Press " was next given , and the proceedings terminated with the Tyler ' s toast .
GATESHEAD . —Lodge of Industry ( No . 48 ) . —The regular meeting of this well known lodge was held at 34 , Denmark-street , on Monday , the 25 th inst ., when , the W . M ., Bro . Robt . Whitfield , was assisted bv the officers as follows : —Bros . M . Corbitt , I . P . M . ; R . B . Reed , P . M . ; John Wood , S . W . ; John Dunkitt , acting J . W . ; W . Brewis Elsdon , Treas . ; Edw . Liddell , Sec ; E . W . Middlemast ,
S . D . ; John Moult , J . D . ; Jos . Boyatt , I . G . ; R . Ferry , Org . ; J . C . S . Liddle , S . S . ; J . W . A . Boyatt , A . S . ; and Joshua Curry , Tyler . Amongst the brethren of the lodge and the visitors present were : —Bros . Jacob Matthews , Matthew Swinburne , Jas . Liddle , B . P . Ord . I . P . M . 1427 ; Jos . Cook , P . M . 48 r , P . P . G . S . W . ; J . F . Taylor , P . M . 1676 ; T . S . Wraith , P . M . 1643 ; John Duckitt , jun ., S . W . 481 ; R . A .
Forster , 481 ; E . A . Gibson , 424 ; G . S . Sims , 1342 ; T . O . Smith , 991 ; T . McDermott , 24 ; E . Marston , J . D . 1676 ; W . H . Dunn , 1676 ; and others . The lodge was opened in due form shortly after 7 p . m . by the W . M ., after which the ballot was taken for Mr . Donald McLeod , who was duly elected . The candidate being in attendance was regularly initiated into the mysteries of the First
Degree by the W . M . The working tools were explained by the acting J . W ., and the charge was given in an impressive manner by the S . W . Bro . Matthew Swinburne afterwards was examined as to his proficiency , received the test of merit , and retired . The lodge was then opened in the Second Degree , when Bro . Swinburne was admitted and passsed to the degree of F . C . by the WM , The S . W .
explained the working tools . The lodge was again closed down to the First Degree , when the W . M . received the " Hearty good wishes " of the visiting brethren . There were three candidates proposed for initiation during the evening . The lodge was closed shortly after nine p . m ., when an adjournment was made for refreshment , and , in spite of the very hot weather , an enjoyable evening was
spent in harmony . The usual round of Masonic toasts was given and responded to . The first ballot of the second tontine for Life Governorships to the Masonic Charities was given in favour of Bro . G . S . Sims . The lodge appears to be in a thriving condition , judging from the quality and quantity of the new members , and we are pleased to see that it keeps up its reputation for good work
GATESHEAD-ON-TYNE .-Borough Lodge ( No . 424 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lodge was held on the 18 th inst ., at Mr . Thomas Pearson ' s , Half Moon Hotel , High-street , Bro . Jesse Marchant , P . M ., W . M ., presiding , assisted by the following brethren : —Bros . A . G . Anderson , P . M ., S . W . ; John Mackay , J . W . ; W . F . Poad , Sec . ; John F . Boyes , S . D . ; E . A . Gibson , acting
J . D . ; G . W . Wealleans , I . G . There were also present Bros . John Beeby , Joseph Probert , P . M . ; Robt . Nicholson , John Shipley , T . S . Miller , Robt . Colquhoun , and William Colquhoun . Visitors : Bros . Jacob Matthews , 48 ; M . J . Wheatley , 48 ; J . Boyett , I . G . 48 ; J . Usher , W . M . 481 ; Thos . Prentice , S . D . 481 ; William Healey , 405 ; M . H . Dodd , J . D . mg ; J . E . Macdonald , 124 ; J . J . Taylor , P . M ;
1676 ; Jos . Cook , P . M ., P . P . G . S . W . Northumberland , 481 and Thomas Smith , P . M . 541 . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . The lodge was then opened in the Second , or Fellow Craft Degree , when Bro . T . Prichard was examined as to his proficiency ere being raised to the Sublime Degree of a M . M . The lodge was then raised
to the Third Degree , when Bro . Prichard was re-admitted , and was raised to the Sublime Degree of a M . M . by the W . M ., Bro . Marchant , in such a way so as to elicit great praise from all present . Bro . John Mackay , J . W ., explained the working tools in his usual and careful manner . The lodge was closed from the Third down to the First
Degree . " Hearty good wishes " were then expressed by the numerous visitors , and the lodge was closed in due form . The brethren afterwards assembled at the social board , where the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given , and the brethren separated after having spent a most pleasant evening .
ERITH . —St . John and St . Paul's Lodge ( No . 615 ) . —The installation meeting of the above lodge took place on Wednesday , the 13 th inst ., at the Avenue Hall , and was a most brilliant and impressive affair throughout . The hall was nicely decorated with flags and appropriate mottoes on tastefully designed shields , and over the' Master's chair hung the silken banner of the
lodge . Outside the hall , and across the road , fluttered variously coloured flags , imparting an air of festivity and welcome to the scene that had the effect intended . The brethren began to assemble soon after 3 o ' clock , and then the W . M ., Bro . G . W . Churchley , took the chair , and the lodge was duly opened . The minutes of the past meeting were read and passed . The lodge was then
closed for refreshment , and after a short time resumed for labour again . Among the company present , besides the W . M ., were Bros . F . Binekes , Sec . Boys' School , & c . ; Dr . Spurrell , P . M ., W . M . 829 and P . P . J . W . Kent ; T . W . Knight , P . M . and P . P . Dir . of Cer . Kent ; E . Macknay , P . M ., 299 , and P . P . G . O . Kent ; T . Smith , P . M . and Treas . 829 and P . P . G . P . Kent ; J . R . Foord , W . M . S 03
and P . G . S . Kent ; R . Stone , S . W . and W . M . elect ; F . Fletcher , J . W . ; R . G . Stone , Sec . ; E . Tomkins , S . D . ; G . Fletcher , J . D . ; C . L . Boardman , I . G . ; S . Chittenden , J . Hutton , W . Hills , J . Aillud , J . C . Sheffield , and C . Bishop , all of the lodge ; W . W . Medcalf , W . M . 16 71 ; C . Eltham , W . M . 1827 ; H . Tuff , W . M . 1273 ; W . Barlow , W . M . 77 ; G . H . Cmell , P . M . 1050 ; T . Butt , P . M . 700 ;
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Contents.
CONTENTS .
REPORTS or M ASONIC MEETINGSCraft Masonry , 345 Instruction , 345 " Royal Arch 34 S United Grand Lodge 346 New Lodges 346 Provincial Grand Lodge of Devonshire , 346 Provincial Grand Mark Lodee of Devonshire 346
Provincial Grand Alark Lodfrc of Cornwall ; 34 6 How Bro . Jones Spent His Holiday , , 347 Royal Masonic Institution for Girls 347 The Royal Masonic Pupils' Assistance Fund 34 S Charity Reform 34 S Servants' Characters 34 S C ORRESPONDENCE : — Scenes at Masonic Elections 349 ACantion 349 Lodges of Instruction 349
Provincial Grand Lodge of Hampshire , , 349 Impostors 350 r Freemasonry in Suffolk 350 Masonic Notes and Queries ; 350 The Monde Maconnique for August 351 The Royal Masonic Pupils' Assistance Fund , 351 Specimens of Society Journals 351 Masonic and General Tidings 352 Lodge Meetings for Next Week 352 Advertisements , i .. ii ., iii .. iv ., v ., vi .
Ar00101
REPORTS , etc ., intended , for insertion in current number , should reach the Office , ( 198 , Fleet-street ) , by Six o ' clock p . m ., on 'Wednesdays .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS .
( Craft Masoimr * HIGH CROSS LODGE ( No . 754 ) . —The installation meeting of this lodge was held on Wednesday , at the Seven Sisters , Page Green , Tottenham . The lodge was opened by the W . M ., Bro . Henry Stephens , who was supported by the following officers and Past Masters : — Bros . G . Burford , S . W ., W . M . elect ; J . Karrin , J . W . ; D . Roberts , P . M ., Treas . ; T . Cunningham , P . M ., S ' ec . ; Past
Masters John Mailer , G . Townsend , W . Dance , W . Steedman , W . Kelly , J . Linzell , and J . Jones ; H . V . Clements , S . D . ; T . H . Thompson , J . D . ; Wm . Tegg , I . G . ; J . Garrod , D . C . ; J . Very , Tyler ; and several members . The following visitors were also present : —Bros . G . C . Voung , 820 ; J . E . Brown , J . Driscoll , P . M . 30 ; S . Hill , 109 ; W . W . Morgan , jun ., 138 : ;; A . J . Manning , P . M . 1472 ;
J . H . Thompson , 1580 ; J . Barber , 033 ; H . B . Carter , J 43 Z ! . !• Badkin , 1365 ; J . Pinder , H . Cleverly , 1107 ; J . B . Reid , 946 ; J . F . Pinder , 1707 . The lodge having been regularly opened and the usual formalities observed , the report of the Audit Committee was submitted . Bro . Mitchell was passed , and later on Bro . H . Cooper was raised . Bro . Dance , P . M ., then presented Bro . Burford , the W . M .
elect , for the benefit of installation . A Board of Masters being formed , that brother was regularly placed in the cViair , and in due course he appointed the following brethren as his officers : Bros . Farrin , S . W . ; Clements , J . W . ; Roberts , Treas . ; Cunningham , Sec ; Thompson , S . D . ; Tcgg , J . D . ; Garrod , I . G . ; W . S . Blenkinsop , D . C . ; Stevenson , Steward ; Lewis , Asst . Steward ; Very , Tyler .
The Installing Master , Bro . Stevens , then gave the addresses usual after the installation ceremony . One candidate for initiation having been proposed , the W . M . proceeded to close the lodge , and the brethren adjourned to the banquet room , where a most enjoyable repast was provided by Bro . Oddy . At the conclusion of the banquet , and grace having been sung , the W . M . gave the first
toast , " The Queen and the Craft , " which was followed by the National Anthem . "The Health of H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . Grand Master , " followed , and was most heartily received . The toast of "The Pro G . M ., the Deputy G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers , Present and Past , " was the next honoured . After a song , Bro . Stephens proceeded to give the toast of " The W . M . "
He said he could not speak much of his ability as W . M ., as he was new to that position , but as a member of the lodge , and a faithful officer , he paid him a great compliment . The W . M . had ever been at his post , and was well qualified to fill the position he now occupied . He trusted that at the end of his year of office Bro . Burford would be able to look back upon as successful a year as
he , Bro . Stephens , had just passed through . The S . W . having favoured the brethren with a song , the W . M . replied as follows : —Brethren , I have to return my very sincere thanks for the kind manner in which you have accepted the tcast proposed by Bro . Stephens . I am sure it is a very great honour to be elected as W . M . of the High Cross Lodge . There are few metropolitan lodges
that can boast as many members as the High Cross Lodge , and if they have as many they have not so great a number of sincere Masons as we have . I cannot do more than thank you for placing me in the chair . Whatever I may do I will endeavour to do my duty , and work in unison with you all , and thereby please the members of the lodge . Should I seem to be averse to some of your
wishes you may rely that I am differing only in the interests of Freemasonry . Ideas are not the same in all brethren , it being natural that we should have different views on certain subjects . It will be my endeavour to carry out the duties of my office satisfactorily , and I hope that I shall have a successful year ; but to secure this I must ask for the aid of the brethren and mv officers . The next toast
tne W . M . characterised as a most pleasing one for him to propose , it was that of "The I . P . M ., Bro . Stephens . " He was sure that those brethren who had been in the lodge during the past six or seven years must agree with him that Bro . Stephens had had one of the most successful years on record in the High Cross Lodge . The brethren must be all agreed that he had endeavoured to do his best ( or the lodge , and the result , he considered , had been proved
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without a doubt to be a success . More especially was this the case with regard to the handsome surplus he had left in the hands of the Treasurer . The W . M . then proceeded to place on Bro . Stephens ' s breast the jewel that was voted to him at the last meeting . In doing so , he expressed the great pleasure he felt in presenting this- mark of the esteem of the lodge to so worthy a brother . Bro . Stephens ,
in reply , after thanking the brethren for the reception that had been accorded him , said : I do not know if I am deserving of the many kind things that have been said of me to-nig ht . I have endeavoured to do my utmost while in the chair for the benefit of the lodge , and , as you are all aware , I have in a measure succeeded . If I have pleased you I am more than amply rewarded for any
exertions I have made . I thank you most heartil y for the splendid jewel your W . M . has just placed on my breast . I hope it may be handed down to my children and their children as a token of the respect in which their father and grandfather were held by the High Cross Lodge . I must again thank you for the kind , way in which you have supported me during my year of office . The W . M .
announced that the collection made on behalf of the Charity Fund ofjhe lodge amounted to thirty-three shillings . The next toast proposed from the chair was that of " The Visitors . " The W . M . said this was one always well received by the High Cross Lodge . Scarcely a meeting passed but they had a goodly array of visitors . On the present occasion they did not fall short , but had many
visitors around them , all of whom were welcome . He considered that the lodge would hardly be complete without its array of visitors . With the toast the W . M . coupled the name of Bro . Driscoll . That brother , in reply , said : It will be my endeavour to do as much justice to the toast as will , I hope , satisfy my brother visitors . If the reception accorded this evening is an indication of the usual welcome given by
the members of the High Cross Lodge , we can only hope for another invitation . For myself , I am an old hand , having been present at the anniversaries of the lodge for several years past . One thing I have noticed with pleasure at this lodge is the interest taken in its affairs by the Past Masters . On the present occasion I hear there is only one absent , and he , I believe , is far from home or would be
among us . This fact must be a great pleasure to you all , and the way in which the brethren who have passed the chair are honoured should be an incentive to young members to take an interest in the lodge . The W . M . in giving the next toast said it was one that would doubtless be new to most of those present . That day happened to be the twenty-first anniversary of the establishment of
the High Cross Lodge . Most of those around him could form their own opinion of the position of the lodge at the present time , but few could remember what was its condition at the time of its formation . They had one brother , however , who could tell them something on the subject , he having been the first initiate . The W . M . hoped that in another twenty-one years' time the lodge would number
on its roll twice as many brethren as at the present time , and that it would ever remain in a flourishing condition . He then called upon the brethren to drink to " The Prosperity of the High Cross Lodge , " coupling with the toast the name of Bro . Steedman , who was initiated on the night of its consecration , twenty-one years since . Bro . Steedman said : Brethren , you have thought proper to
associate my name with a very peculiar toast , and I feel very peculiar in rising to respond to it . Our lodge was founded 21 years since , next Friday being the anniversary of its consecration . If you refer to the warrant you will find that at first the meetings were held every fortnight . This was continued for about three years , at which time the lodge found itself in debt to the extent of £ 250 . I
could record other difficulties that the lodge has gone through , but will content myself , as we are now only concerned with its prosperous career . Bro . Steedman concluded by wishing that the lodge might be in as good a position twenty-one years hence as it was then , and trusted he might be there to see it . " The Health of the Past Masters " was next given , the W . M . referring to the
great interest shown in the lodge by those who had passed the chair . He stated that he had received a letter from their only absent P . M ., explaining that ill-health precluded his undertaking a long journey ia order to be with them , but he hoped that at no distant date he would again be among the members present at their regular assemblies . The W . M . exptessed his pleasure at having so large a Board
of Masters to assist at his installation , and considered it something for the lodge to be proud of when eleven of its own Past Masters came to assist in placing a new Mason in the chair they each in turn had filled . He felt he could rely on their support during the term of his presidency . Bro . Wells was the first to reply . He tendered the
heartiest thanks of the Past Masters for the way in which they were at all times received , and hoped that the newly-installed Master would be enabled to conduct the affairs of the lodge with satisfaction—he could assure the ^ W . M . that he would at all times have the co-operation of those who had preceded him in the chair . Bro . Dance followed to the same purport , specially referring to the indebtedness
of the lodge to Bio . Cunningham , P . M ., the Secretary , who had , he said , faithfully discharged his duties for the whole of the time he had filled the position . The toast of " The Treasurer and Secretary " followed . The W . M . was extremely gratified at having cwo such worthy brethren to rely on . Bro . Treasurer replied , thanking the
company for the way m which the mention of the names of the Treasurer and Secretary had been received . He had , he said , watched the lodge for a matter of twenty years , and was pleased to see it now in so prosperous a condition . Bro . Secretary followed , adding his thanks . Although it was some time since he had raised his voice to express his thanks for the kindness of the members it was not that he had not thanked them . He did so at all times , and only hoped he might continue to deserve the respect and esteem
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
of his brethren that he now enjoyed . The work of Secretary of the lodge was no light task , but the thanks which he received from the members from time to time were ample to repay any little trouble he went to in carrying out the duties of his office . The toast of " The Press " was next given , and the proceedings terminated with the Tyler ' s toast .
GATESHEAD . —Lodge of Industry ( No . 48 ) . —The regular meeting of this well known lodge was held at 34 , Denmark-street , on Monday , the 25 th inst ., when , the W . M ., Bro . Robt . Whitfield , was assisted bv the officers as follows : —Bros . M . Corbitt , I . P . M . ; R . B . Reed , P . M . ; John Wood , S . W . ; John Dunkitt , acting J . W . ; W . Brewis Elsdon , Treas . ; Edw . Liddell , Sec ; E . W . Middlemast ,
S . D . ; John Moult , J . D . ; Jos . Boyatt , I . G . ; R . Ferry , Org . ; J . C . S . Liddle , S . S . ; J . W . A . Boyatt , A . S . ; and Joshua Curry , Tyler . Amongst the brethren of the lodge and the visitors present were : —Bros . Jacob Matthews , Matthew Swinburne , Jas . Liddle , B . P . Ord . I . P . M . 1427 ; Jos . Cook , P . M . 48 r , P . P . G . S . W . ; J . F . Taylor , P . M . 1676 ; T . S . Wraith , P . M . 1643 ; John Duckitt , jun ., S . W . 481 ; R . A .
Forster , 481 ; E . A . Gibson , 424 ; G . S . Sims , 1342 ; T . O . Smith , 991 ; T . McDermott , 24 ; E . Marston , J . D . 1676 ; W . H . Dunn , 1676 ; and others . The lodge was opened in due form shortly after 7 p . m . by the W . M ., after which the ballot was taken for Mr . Donald McLeod , who was duly elected . The candidate being in attendance was regularly initiated into the mysteries of the First
Degree by the W . M . The working tools were explained by the acting J . W ., and the charge was given in an impressive manner by the S . W . Bro . Matthew Swinburne afterwards was examined as to his proficiency , received the test of merit , and retired . The lodge was then opened in the Second Degree , when Bro . Swinburne was admitted and passsed to the degree of F . C . by the WM , The S . W .
explained the working tools . The lodge was again closed down to the First Degree , when the W . M . received the " Hearty good wishes " of the visiting brethren . There were three candidates proposed for initiation during the evening . The lodge was closed shortly after nine p . m ., when an adjournment was made for refreshment , and , in spite of the very hot weather , an enjoyable evening was
spent in harmony . The usual round of Masonic toasts was given and responded to . The first ballot of the second tontine for Life Governorships to the Masonic Charities was given in favour of Bro . G . S . Sims . The lodge appears to be in a thriving condition , judging from the quality and quantity of the new members , and we are pleased to see that it keeps up its reputation for good work
GATESHEAD-ON-TYNE .-Borough Lodge ( No . 424 ) . —The usual monthly meeting of this lodge was held on the 18 th inst ., at Mr . Thomas Pearson ' s , Half Moon Hotel , High-street , Bro . Jesse Marchant , P . M ., W . M ., presiding , assisted by the following brethren : —Bros . A . G . Anderson , P . M ., S . W . ; John Mackay , J . W . ; W . F . Poad , Sec . ; John F . Boyes , S . D . ; E . A . Gibson , acting
J . D . ; G . W . Wealleans , I . G . There were also present Bros . John Beeby , Joseph Probert , P . M . ; Robt . Nicholson , John Shipley , T . S . Miller , Robt . Colquhoun , and William Colquhoun . Visitors : Bros . Jacob Matthews , 48 ; M . J . Wheatley , 48 ; J . Boyett , I . G . 48 ; J . Usher , W . M . 481 ; Thos . Prentice , S . D . 481 ; William Healey , 405 ; M . H . Dodd , J . D . mg ; J . E . Macdonald , 124 ; J . J . Taylor , P . M ;
1676 ; Jos . Cook , P . M ., P . P . G . S . W . Northumberland , 481 and Thomas Smith , P . M . 541 . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . The lodge was then opened in the Second , or Fellow Craft Degree , when Bro . T . Prichard was examined as to his proficiency ere being raised to the Sublime Degree of a M . M . The lodge was then raised
to the Third Degree , when Bro . Prichard was re-admitted , and was raised to the Sublime Degree of a M . M . by the W . M ., Bro . Marchant , in such a way so as to elicit great praise from all present . Bro . John Mackay , J . W ., explained the working tools in his usual and careful manner . The lodge was closed from the Third down to the First
Degree . " Hearty good wishes " were then expressed by the numerous visitors , and the lodge was closed in due form . The brethren afterwards assembled at the social board , where the usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given , and the brethren separated after having spent a most pleasant evening .
ERITH . —St . John and St . Paul's Lodge ( No . 615 ) . —The installation meeting of the above lodge took place on Wednesday , the 13 th inst ., at the Avenue Hall , and was a most brilliant and impressive affair throughout . The hall was nicely decorated with flags and appropriate mottoes on tastefully designed shields , and over the' Master's chair hung the silken banner of the
lodge . Outside the hall , and across the road , fluttered variously coloured flags , imparting an air of festivity and welcome to the scene that had the effect intended . The brethren began to assemble soon after 3 o ' clock , and then the W . M ., Bro . G . W . Churchley , took the chair , and the lodge was duly opened . The minutes of the past meeting were read and passed . The lodge was then
closed for refreshment , and after a short time resumed for labour again . Among the company present , besides the W . M ., were Bros . F . Binekes , Sec . Boys' School , & c . ; Dr . Spurrell , P . M ., W . M . 829 and P . P . J . W . Kent ; T . W . Knight , P . M . and P . P . Dir . of Cer . Kent ; E . Macknay , P . M ., 299 , and P . P . G . O . Kent ; T . Smith , P . M . and Treas . 829 and P . P . G . P . Kent ; J . R . Foord , W . M . S 03
and P . G . S . Kent ; R . Stone , S . W . and W . M . elect ; F . Fletcher , J . W . ; R . G . Stone , Sec . ; E . Tomkins , S . D . ; G . Fletcher , J . D . ; C . L . Boardman , I . G . ; S . Chittenden , J . Hutton , W . Hills , J . Aillud , J . C . Sheffield , and C . Bishop , all of the lodge ; W . W . Medcalf , W . M . 16 71 ; C . Eltham , W . M . 1827 ; H . Tuff , W . M . 1273 ; W . Barlow , W . M . 77 ; G . H . Cmell , P . M . 1050 ; T . Butt , P . M . 700 ;