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Article INSTRUCTION. ← Page 2 of 2 Article Mark Masonry. Page 1 of 1 Article MASONIC PRESENTATIONS AS REWARDS OF HEROISM. Page 1 of 2 Article MASONIC PRESENTATIONS AS REWARDS OF HEROISM. Page 1 of 2 →
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Instruction.
CORINTHIAN LODGE ( No . 1382 ) . —The members of this lodge assembled , as usual , on 1 uesday last , at Bro . Wm . " Clark ' s comfortable quarters , the George Hotel . Cubitt Town . Bro . Finch , P . M ., the veteran Preceptor , being present , was invited to Pres * de > and was ablv supported as follows : Bros . Stapleton , S . W . ;
Carnaby , P . M . I . W . ; C . Sea roll P . M lion . sec . ; McLeod , S . O ., Alarsh , J . D . ; Uaiker , I . G . ; J . Delves , P . AL , Preceptor ; Millington , P . M . ; Shayes , I . M ., Willson , P . AL : Lowrie , and others . . Lodn-e was duly opened , and thc minutes having been read , lodge was fully advanced . On its resumption to the wori tne vmucoi
Second Degree , Bro . Finch , by desire , -co the Sections of the Lecture , which were highly appreciated . Subsequently a sum of £ 5 5 *" - , . unanimously voted , on behalf of Bro . Willson ' s list as Steward , for the Koyal Masonic Benevolent Institution . A vote of thanks was accorded Bro . Finch for his kindness in coming down and working the Sections , and lodge was closed in harmony .
TREDEGAR LODGE ( No . 1625 ) . —This lodge met , in better numbers than of late , on Monday last Present-. Bros . Chitson , in the chair ; Hammond , S . W . ; I . P . Cohen , P . M ., I . W . ; » . Stewart , Hon . Sec . ; Clcmr-nts , S . D . ; Hubbert . " j . D . ; Oxley , I . G . ; T . J . Barnes , P . M ., as Preceptor : Hopkins , Aloss , Peterkin , Stephens , Davies ,
J . Gander , Picking , and others . . Lodge was duly opened , and preliminaries being disposed of , the ceremony of initiation was worked , Bro . Hopkins being the candidate . Bro . I . P . Cohen worked the I ' irst , Second , and Third Sections of the Lecture , assisted by the brethren . Bros . Picking , 144 5 w - Hopkins , 144 ; and J . Gander , 171 , were elected members of the lodge , and returned thanks . A vote of thanks was unanimously accorded
Bro . Chitson , VV . AL ,-for the very able manner in which , as VV . M ., be had carried out his duties for the Iirst time in the lodge , the same to bc recorded on the minutes . On the motion of our esteemed Bro . Barnes , I . M ., seconded by Bro . Stewart , Sec , and supported by Bro . Cohen , Bro . D . Moss was appointed Preceptor of the lodge , and lodge was closed , Bro . Hammond having been elected to preside on Alonday next .
BRIXTON LODGE ( No . 1949 ) . —The usual weekly meeting was held on Tuesday evening last , the 2 Gth inst ., at Bro . Geo . Monks , the Prince Regent , Dulwichroad , East Brixton , when there was a large attendance of brethren , including Bros . Henry Baldwin , VV . AL ; R . Poore , S . W . ; C . IT . Phillips , Treasurer , J . W . ; E . A . Francis , Preceptor ; H . AL Williams , Secretary ; VV . Lucas , S . D . ; R . VV . Pooler , J . D . ; E . A . Albert , I . G . ;
IT . Lovegrove , VV . M . 11 ) 49 , •&«"• ' vv- M " " * 1 * - ' - - Richardson , R . R . Johnstone , Geo . Alillen , G . Alonk , F . A . Pullen . J . VV . 742 ; J . S . Lewis , 493 ; Alex . Laing , 58 ; J . VV . Woodthorpe , 1 G 79 ; and others . Lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Lodge was
opened in the Second Degree , and Bro . Lovegrove , W . AL 1940 , having kindly offered himself as candidate , proved his proficiency , and was entrusted . Lodge was opened in the Third Degree , and the cercmonv of raising most impressively rehearsed by the W . AI . Lodge was regularly closed down to the First Degree . Thc following brethren were unanimously electei > members and dulv returned thanks ; Bro . Wm . Lucas , J . D .
1 GG 9 ; Alex . Laing , 58 ; and John Wm . Woodthorpe , 16 79 . On the motion of the Preceptor , Bro . Richard Poore was elected VV . AL for theensuing week , who returned thanks and appointed his oflicers in rotation . " Hearty good wishes " having been expressed , lodge was closed in due form , in perfect harmony and adjourned .
The usual social hour after lodge was closed was rendered especially pleasant by the musical talents of Bros . Johnstone , Laing , Alonk and Poore , with Bro . Williams , Secretary , as accompanist on the pianoforte . The toasts of " The New Members and Visitors , " being as usual received with warm approbation , and responded to by the brethren referred to .
Mark Masonry.
Mark Masonry .
GATESHEAD . —Industry Lodge ( No . 293 ) . — This lodge , which was consecrated in January last , has been well supported since its commencement . The first meeting after the summer recess was held on Wednesday , the 20 th inst ., at the Industry Alasonic Hall , when there was an average attendance . The VV . M ., Bro . John Wood , was supported b 3 ' the following officers : Bros . T . J . Armstrong , P . G . Sec . as I . P . AL ; D . Sinclair , S . W . ; J . S . Bell , as J . VV . ; I . G . Smith , AI . O . ; K . C . Symonds , as S . O . ;
Adam Wilson , J . O . j VV . F . Cannon , Sec ; John Page , R . of AL ; A . Simpson , S . D . ; J . T . Harrison , J . D . ; C . Macnamara , as I . G . ; and J . Curry , Tyler . The ballot was taken for Bros . John Moult , S . W . 4 8 , and Robt . Whitfield , P . AL 4 8 , and both were duly elected . Bro . Whitfield was afterwards advanced by the VV . AL and his officers , the ceremony being carefully and creditably performed by all concerned , and augured well for the future working of the ritual . Some formal business was then transacted and the lodge closed .
The buildinrr creeled for the Sydney International Exhibition of 1879 was on Friday , the 22 nd inst ., totally destroyed by lire . It liar , recently been devoted to purposes similar to those of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham . The Post Ollice authorities have issued a notice to the effect that on and after the 1 st of October next , double or reply inland post-cards , bearing an impressed halfpenny stamp on each portion , will be sold to the public
at all post-ollices at the following prices : Stout cards—One i . ' . d ., two 2 ; d ., three 4 < 1 ., four 5 ' d ., five Gyd ., six Sd ., Gs . Sd . for a parcel of Ou . Thin cards—One i ' , d ., two 2 . \ d ., three 3 \ d ., four 4 ' i d ., five Od ' ., six 7 d ., I is . Sd . for a parcel of 120 . The reply cards will not be sold in sheets , like thc single cards . 'I'he cards will only be available for transmission between places in the United Kingdom . The regulations laid down in regard to single post-cards will be equally applicable to reply post-cards .
Masonic Presentations As Rewards Of Heroism.
MASONIC PRESENTATIONS AS REWARDS OF HEROISM .
On the 3 rd July last a most imposing and impressive ceremony took p lace , in the lodge room of St . John ' s Lodge , No . 1137 , E . G ., Timaru , New Zealand , the occasion being the presentation of medals to all those who were in any way instrumental in saving life on the 14 th of Alay last , when the upsetting of a boat belonging to the ship City of Perth led to a scries of fatal boating disasters in the bay .
While other organisations attended to the needs of the actual sufferers by thc disasters , the members of the St . John's Lodge determined among themselves to bestow upon all who had played the part of brave men upon that eventful day tokens , not only of their own appreciation of theirbravery , but of the appreciation of the public at large . They caused a number of silver medals commemorative of the event to be struck , and the ceremony above alluded to
was the presentation ot these to the men who had taken an active part in endeavouring to lessen the loss of life on that memorable day . The presentation ceremony proceeded without a single hitch . Beingitnade a Masonic ceremony , it could not be conducted elsewhere than under the roof of the mystic Brotherhood , and consequently the space for the accommodation of spectators was unfortunately more limited
than was perhaps desirable . As it turned out , however , the weather was most unpropititious , and there was plenty of room , a great many who had obtained tickets being prevented from attending . There were about 130 Alasons , members of St . John ' s Lodge , and visiting brethren present , and about sixty ladies . In response to special invitations , also , the
Venerable Archdeacon Harper , Rev . Air . Hallowes , His Worship the Mayor , Mr . Turnbull , ALH . R . for Timaru , and Ah . E . Wakefield were present and occupied seats on the dais ,. Lodge having been opened in due form , the visitors were marshalled to their places , and then the recipients of the medals were conducted to seats near the dais . On a
table in front of this was placed the case containing the medals , surrounded by several Alasonic symbols and emblems . The procceedings were opened by a trio , " Peace to the Souls of the Heroes , " followed by thc song , " Alan the Lifeboat . " Bro . A . J . Parsons , VV . AL , then gave thc following address on behalf of the lodge : —Ladies and gentlemen , —
Wc have given ourselves thc pleasure of inviting your attendance this evening in order to witness the presentation of these mementos of our respect and esteem for the worthy men now seated before you . You are all too well acquainted with the circumstances ofthe fearful catastrophe which cast such a gloom over the whole community to render it necessary for me to recapitulate them . Suffice it to say , that the members of this lodge felt deeply the
terrible foss we had suffered , especially as among those noble men who had laid down their lives for their fellows there were three brother Alasons . Alany of us witnessed their departure from shore , leaving friends , home , and safety , and rushing as it were into thc very jaws of death to try to rescue the poor fellows who were battling with the turbulent sea , and we determined , with one voice , to present to each one a silver medal to mark our appreciation
of the noble manner in which they had illustrated in their own persons the beautiful virtues of heroic courage and self-sacrifice . This , ladies and gentlemen , is the cause of our presence here this evening . So deeply were we impressed with the importance of giving this presentation every possible publicity ; so anxious were we that the ceremony we are now performing should impress itself lastingly upon those present , that we have departed from the strict
rule of Alasonry , and have obtained from the District Grand Lodge a dispensation to enable us to invite you to share with us the pleasure and satisfaction of seeing brave men receive the honour and homage which is their due . It is so very rarely that circumstances permit us to depart from the iron rule of our Order , which strictly forbids the entrance of any but Masons within Masonic halls , that perhaps you will expect to hear from me something about
this mysterious Order , that you hear so much about and know so little of . This is , perhaps , the first time you have ever been within a Alasonic lodge , and emblems you see around you will naturally have excited your curiosity . I regret that 1 cannot enter into a full explanation of their meaning , and thereby prove to you that Alasonic lodges are not , as many deem them , simply clubs for the diversion of their members , but that they are institutions formed on
the purest principles of piety and virtue . I do not , ladies and gentlemen , intend to entrust you with any of our secrets , or to exhibit any of those dreadful instruments of torture which we are generally supposed to have concealed in our lodges , but ( pointing to an open Bible ) I would point out to you the first great Light that we acknowledge in Alasonry , which is the foundation and keystone of the whole Alasonic structure , the volume of God ' s holy law .
I his we are charged to consider the unerring standard of truth , justice , piety and virtue , and arc exhorted to regulate our every action by the Divine precepts that Hol y Book contains . Therein we are taught to implore His aid in every undertaking , and to look up to Him in every emergency for help and support . The principles of Alasonry are based upon pure morality ; its ethics are the ethics of Christianity ; its doctrines are the
doctrines of patriotism and brotherly love ; and its sentiments are sentiments of exalted benevolence . Everything that is good , kind , and charitable Masonry encourages ; all that is vicious , cruel , and oppresive , it reprobates . We acknowledge Faith , Hope , and Charity because Alasonry is founded upon faith in God , hope in immortality , and charity to all mankind ; but thc greatest of these is charity —faith ends in sight , hope terminates in fruition , but
charity extends beyond the grave , ft is by the practice of these virtues that the worthy Alason hopes to gain access to Him who is the subject of faith , the object of hope , and the fountain of charity . Our ceremonies , which to the outer world are a scaled book , are but a veil which partly conceals the three great fundamental principles of our Order—brotherly love , relief , and truth . These require no further
elucidation from mc . You will perhaps say that a better result should emanate from the Fraternity who claim to be the exponents of such lofty thoughts . Let me remind you that a Alason is but a man after all , and subject to the common infirmities of human nature . Some people are apt to deride Alasonry ; that is because they do not understand it , and , forgetting thc weakness of their own mind ,
Masonic Presentations As Rewards Of Heroism.
they condemn what , if they were better acquained with it they would venerate . Referring to the medals , he said Vou will observe on the obverse of the medals a lifeboatj surmounted by the All-seeing eye ( which sun , moon , and stars obey ) , under whose watchful care men are enabled to perform the most daring deeds , the emblem of an overseeing Providence . On the reverse is a double wreath of oak and laurel , emhlemniir nf fniih an' „' , ^ r . r „ „ .:. i , „_ \ t
. . . , ' ~ ~ - .. * .... ...... YI \ ^ . J . , ,... | . Ill inscription to thc effect that they are presented by this Alasonic lodge for bravery displayed in saving life on the 14 th Alay , 1 SS 2 . The W . AL then ( ail the Masons standing up ) addressed the recipients of the medals as follows May the Almighty Architect , who preserved and protected you from a fearful death by His merciful interposition again preserve you should you ever be placed in a similar position ; and whatever your future may be , rest assured that we shall never hear vour names mentlnnptt rv . " . tin ™ , t v ... „ : ~„ : _
J - U . M ... UU . IIU « III our hearts most ardent wishes for your welfare . Alay the kindly feelings that we cherish towards you , and the remembrance of this evening , float across your fading vision when your parting hour arrives ; and after having passed safely through the Valley of the Shadow of Death" under the protection of the Great Geometer of the Universe , may you ascend to that celestial temple above , there to enjoy the heritage of immortality which awaits you in the mansions of eternal bliss .
To this solemn wish was given the response , " So mote it be . " "The Lifeboat on thc Cornish Coast " having been sun > r Airs . A . J . Parsons then proceeded to the dais , and addressing the recipients , said : I have the honour to present to you these tokens from the Freemasons of St . John ' s Lodge , in commemoration of the heroic courage you displayed in savinu-life on the uth Alavlast . I el m * . •>¦ ==., ¦•„„„ ..
that your gallant deeds will ever remain engraven on the hearts of us all . I sincerely trust you may all long be spared , and remember that your preservation was due to the watchful care cf the All-seeing One above . The names of those entitled to receive medals were then called out by Bro . H . VV . Hammond , and as each stepped forward , Airs . Parsons pinned the medal , engraved with his name , on his left breast , expressing to each her pleasure
in presenting him with a medal for such brave service . The following are the names of the recipients : ' VV Collis , j . Mcintosh , A . H . Turnbull , J . Crocknel " , " Thompson , G . Sunnaway , R . Collins , John Reid Houliham , Al . Lekoy , J . A . Petterson , G . Findlay C Gruhm , J . Hemmeker , W . Hartford , G . Shirtcliffe , VV Walls , R . IT . Balsom , T . Hart , G . Davis , VV . S . Smith , F AlcKenzie , T . Alorgan , C . Vogeler , P . Bradley , D . Brad
ley , S . J . Passmore , J . Crocome , C . Moore , A . Schaob , T . Martin , AL T hompson , VV . Oxby , I . J . Bradley , H . Trouselot , VV . H . VValls , J . Isherwood , A . L . Haylock , John Ivey , and VV . Budd . Aledals had also been prepared for G . Mentac , C . McDonald , and W . R . AlcAteer , but these three men having gone home , their medals will be forwarded to thc Grand Lodge of Scotland , under whose auspices they will be distributed .
Two of the recipients had not recovered from injuries received on the 14 th of Alay , and a third had crutches , owing to an accident since the 14 th Alay . The first to receive the decoration was Bro . VV . Collis . Addressing the ladies and gentlemen present and his ' brethren of the lodge , he thanked them for thc medals bestowed on him and others for the work of that day , a day that would long be remembered in Timaruespecially
, by those who had lost husband or brother or warmhearted comrade , cutting adrift in a few moments friendships that had been growing for years . It was a consolation , however , to know that those who were lost were taken away in performing a most honourable duty , in attempting to save the lives of fellow-men . He hoped a similar occasion would never occur again , but if it shouldif ever the cry " Man the Lifeboat' - should be heard—he
felt sure the call would be responded to as it was on the 14 th of Alay . He thanked them heartily for the honour conferred upon them , but he would sooner go out in the lifeboat than make a speech . All the recipients briefly returned thanks for the honour conferred upon them , many naivel y observing that Mr . Wakefield would speak for them . At the conclusion of the presentation the W . AL called
for three cheers for the gallant fellows , and these were heartily given . " Tom Bowling" having been very effectively rendered . Mr . WAKEI-II-I . II rose and said : Worshi pful Alaster , members of St . John ' s Lodge , ladies and gentlemen—I have been asked to speak on behalf of thc recipients of the medals that have been presented to-night , by way of expressing their feelings on this occasion . From what several
of them have said I feel that my task might well have been dispensed with , for each of them has expressed his own feelings in a manner that must have gone straight to the heart and intelligence of every one present . At the same time , as many ot the men have expressed a desire that I should say a few words for them . I do not hesitate for a moment to undertake a duty which , if somewhat difficult , is certainly an exceedingly honourable one . I think that the feeling all these men have is , that the service they performed on the ij . th Mav was- a rlutv fhnf nut . ™ f .-.. « ..-. « « ,.,.-. «¦• 1
, . - I "J . . J — - v ...-. J . u .- Mt . 1 . 1 IIIU 3 L yield without hesitation whenever such a service is called for . What they feci , is that when the life of their fellow men is in danger , it is not a question of whether they will go or will not go , but that it is a solemn duty that rests upon them at once to go , regardless of risks—that it is a duty which God has placed upon every human being . They also feel that , while a duty of this kind must be and is done without the slightest thought of reward , it is a privilege to render a duty that cannot be adequately rewarded by human hands . A man docs not risk his life
under such circumstances for anything he can " -et for it , but because hemust do it , and because he would feel less a man in his own estimation if be did not do it . This feeling has weighed with these men and led them to hide as far as possible from the public gaze the fact that they had done their duty on the 14 th Alay , and there is no doubt a difficulty in receiving a
reward for services of this particular kind . They feel , however , that if from any quarter such a distinction or reward might be received , it is from such a quarter as that from which they received it—from the representatives of a brotherhood which from very ancient times has brought down traditions of virtue and goodness ; an Order of whose principles those outside of it know but little , but whose good works are of world-wide fame . They feel that they may
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Instruction.
CORINTHIAN LODGE ( No . 1382 ) . —The members of this lodge assembled , as usual , on 1 uesday last , at Bro . Wm . " Clark ' s comfortable quarters , the George Hotel . Cubitt Town . Bro . Finch , P . M ., the veteran Preceptor , being present , was invited to Pres * de > and was ablv supported as follows : Bros . Stapleton , S . W . ;
Carnaby , P . M . I . W . ; C . Sea roll P . M lion . sec . ; McLeod , S . O ., Alarsh , J . D . ; Uaiker , I . G . ; J . Delves , P . AL , Preceptor ; Millington , P . M . ; Shayes , I . M ., Willson , P . AL : Lowrie , and others . . Lodn-e was duly opened , and thc minutes having been read , lodge was fully advanced . On its resumption to the wori tne vmucoi
Second Degree , Bro . Finch , by desire , -co the Sections of the Lecture , which were highly appreciated . Subsequently a sum of £ 5 5 *" - , . unanimously voted , on behalf of Bro . Willson ' s list as Steward , for the Koyal Masonic Benevolent Institution . A vote of thanks was accorded Bro . Finch for his kindness in coming down and working the Sections , and lodge was closed in harmony .
TREDEGAR LODGE ( No . 1625 ) . —This lodge met , in better numbers than of late , on Monday last Present-. Bros . Chitson , in the chair ; Hammond , S . W . ; I . P . Cohen , P . M ., I . W . ; » . Stewart , Hon . Sec . ; Clcmr-nts , S . D . ; Hubbert . " j . D . ; Oxley , I . G . ; T . J . Barnes , P . M ., as Preceptor : Hopkins , Aloss , Peterkin , Stephens , Davies ,
J . Gander , Picking , and others . . Lodge was duly opened , and preliminaries being disposed of , the ceremony of initiation was worked , Bro . Hopkins being the candidate . Bro . I . P . Cohen worked the I ' irst , Second , and Third Sections of the Lecture , assisted by the brethren . Bros . Picking , 144 5 w - Hopkins , 144 ; and J . Gander , 171 , were elected members of the lodge , and returned thanks . A vote of thanks was unanimously accorded
Bro . Chitson , VV . AL ,-for the very able manner in which , as VV . M ., be had carried out his duties for the Iirst time in the lodge , the same to bc recorded on the minutes . On the motion of our esteemed Bro . Barnes , I . M ., seconded by Bro . Stewart , Sec , and supported by Bro . Cohen , Bro . D . Moss was appointed Preceptor of the lodge , and lodge was closed , Bro . Hammond having been elected to preside on Alonday next .
BRIXTON LODGE ( No . 1949 ) . —The usual weekly meeting was held on Tuesday evening last , the 2 Gth inst ., at Bro . Geo . Monks , the Prince Regent , Dulwichroad , East Brixton , when there was a large attendance of brethren , including Bros . Henry Baldwin , VV . AL ; R . Poore , S . W . ; C . IT . Phillips , Treasurer , J . W . ; E . A . Francis , Preceptor ; H . AL Williams , Secretary ; VV . Lucas , S . D . ; R . VV . Pooler , J . D . ; E . A . Albert , I . G . ;
IT . Lovegrove , VV . M . 11 ) 49 , •&«"• ' vv- M " " * 1 * - ' - - Richardson , R . R . Johnstone , Geo . Alillen , G . Alonk , F . A . Pullen . J . VV . 742 ; J . S . Lewis , 493 ; Alex . Laing , 58 ; J . VV . Woodthorpe , 1 G 79 ; and others . Lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Lodge was
opened in the Second Degree , and Bro . Lovegrove , W . AL 1940 , having kindly offered himself as candidate , proved his proficiency , and was entrusted . Lodge was opened in the Third Degree , and the cercmonv of raising most impressively rehearsed by the W . AI . Lodge was regularly closed down to the First Degree . Thc following brethren were unanimously electei > members and dulv returned thanks ; Bro . Wm . Lucas , J . D .
1 GG 9 ; Alex . Laing , 58 ; and John Wm . Woodthorpe , 16 79 . On the motion of the Preceptor , Bro . Richard Poore was elected VV . AL for theensuing week , who returned thanks and appointed his oflicers in rotation . " Hearty good wishes " having been expressed , lodge was closed in due form , in perfect harmony and adjourned .
The usual social hour after lodge was closed was rendered especially pleasant by the musical talents of Bros . Johnstone , Laing , Alonk and Poore , with Bro . Williams , Secretary , as accompanist on the pianoforte . The toasts of " The New Members and Visitors , " being as usual received with warm approbation , and responded to by the brethren referred to .
Mark Masonry.
Mark Masonry .
GATESHEAD . —Industry Lodge ( No . 293 ) . — This lodge , which was consecrated in January last , has been well supported since its commencement . The first meeting after the summer recess was held on Wednesday , the 20 th inst ., at the Industry Alasonic Hall , when there was an average attendance . The VV . M ., Bro . John Wood , was supported b 3 ' the following officers : Bros . T . J . Armstrong , P . G . Sec . as I . P . AL ; D . Sinclair , S . W . ; J . S . Bell , as J . VV . ; I . G . Smith , AI . O . ; K . C . Symonds , as S . O . ;
Adam Wilson , J . O . j VV . F . Cannon , Sec ; John Page , R . of AL ; A . Simpson , S . D . ; J . T . Harrison , J . D . ; C . Macnamara , as I . G . ; and J . Curry , Tyler . The ballot was taken for Bros . John Moult , S . W . 4 8 , and Robt . Whitfield , P . AL 4 8 , and both were duly elected . Bro . Whitfield was afterwards advanced by the VV . AL and his officers , the ceremony being carefully and creditably performed by all concerned , and augured well for the future working of the ritual . Some formal business was then transacted and the lodge closed .
The buildinrr creeled for the Sydney International Exhibition of 1879 was on Friday , the 22 nd inst ., totally destroyed by lire . It liar , recently been devoted to purposes similar to those of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham . The Post Ollice authorities have issued a notice to the effect that on and after the 1 st of October next , double or reply inland post-cards , bearing an impressed halfpenny stamp on each portion , will be sold to the public
at all post-ollices at the following prices : Stout cards—One i . ' . d ., two 2 ; d ., three 4 < 1 ., four 5 ' d ., five Gyd ., six Sd ., Gs . Sd . for a parcel of Ou . Thin cards—One i ' , d ., two 2 . \ d ., three 3 \ d ., four 4 ' i d ., five Od ' ., six 7 d ., I is . Sd . for a parcel of 120 . The reply cards will not be sold in sheets , like thc single cards . 'I'he cards will only be available for transmission between places in the United Kingdom . The regulations laid down in regard to single post-cards will be equally applicable to reply post-cards .
Masonic Presentations As Rewards Of Heroism.
MASONIC PRESENTATIONS AS REWARDS OF HEROISM .
On the 3 rd July last a most imposing and impressive ceremony took p lace , in the lodge room of St . John ' s Lodge , No . 1137 , E . G ., Timaru , New Zealand , the occasion being the presentation of medals to all those who were in any way instrumental in saving life on the 14 th of Alay last , when the upsetting of a boat belonging to the ship City of Perth led to a scries of fatal boating disasters in the bay .
While other organisations attended to the needs of the actual sufferers by thc disasters , the members of the St . John's Lodge determined among themselves to bestow upon all who had played the part of brave men upon that eventful day tokens , not only of their own appreciation of theirbravery , but of the appreciation of the public at large . They caused a number of silver medals commemorative of the event to be struck , and the ceremony above alluded to
was the presentation ot these to the men who had taken an active part in endeavouring to lessen the loss of life on that memorable day . The presentation ceremony proceeded without a single hitch . Beingitnade a Masonic ceremony , it could not be conducted elsewhere than under the roof of the mystic Brotherhood , and consequently the space for the accommodation of spectators was unfortunately more limited
than was perhaps desirable . As it turned out , however , the weather was most unpropititious , and there was plenty of room , a great many who had obtained tickets being prevented from attending . There were about 130 Alasons , members of St . John ' s Lodge , and visiting brethren present , and about sixty ladies . In response to special invitations , also , the
Venerable Archdeacon Harper , Rev . Air . Hallowes , His Worship the Mayor , Mr . Turnbull , ALH . R . for Timaru , and Ah . E . Wakefield were present and occupied seats on the dais ,. Lodge having been opened in due form , the visitors were marshalled to their places , and then the recipients of the medals were conducted to seats near the dais . On a
table in front of this was placed the case containing the medals , surrounded by several Alasonic symbols and emblems . The procceedings were opened by a trio , " Peace to the Souls of the Heroes , " followed by thc song , " Alan the Lifeboat . " Bro . A . J . Parsons , VV . AL , then gave thc following address on behalf of the lodge : —Ladies and gentlemen , —
Wc have given ourselves thc pleasure of inviting your attendance this evening in order to witness the presentation of these mementos of our respect and esteem for the worthy men now seated before you . You are all too well acquainted with the circumstances ofthe fearful catastrophe which cast such a gloom over the whole community to render it necessary for me to recapitulate them . Suffice it to say , that the members of this lodge felt deeply the
terrible foss we had suffered , especially as among those noble men who had laid down their lives for their fellows there were three brother Alasons . Alany of us witnessed their departure from shore , leaving friends , home , and safety , and rushing as it were into thc very jaws of death to try to rescue the poor fellows who were battling with the turbulent sea , and we determined , with one voice , to present to each one a silver medal to mark our appreciation
of the noble manner in which they had illustrated in their own persons the beautiful virtues of heroic courage and self-sacrifice . This , ladies and gentlemen , is the cause of our presence here this evening . So deeply were we impressed with the importance of giving this presentation every possible publicity ; so anxious were we that the ceremony we are now performing should impress itself lastingly upon those present , that we have departed from the strict
rule of Alasonry , and have obtained from the District Grand Lodge a dispensation to enable us to invite you to share with us the pleasure and satisfaction of seeing brave men receive the honour and homage which is their due . It is so very rarely that circumstances permit us to depart from the iron rule of our Order , which strictly forbids the entrance of any but Masons within Masonic halls , that perhaps you will expect to hear from me something about
this mysterious Order , that you hear so much about and know so little of . This is , perhaps , the first time you have ever been within a Alasonic lodge , and emblems you see around you will naturally have excited your curiosity . I regret that 1 cannot enter into a full explanation of their meaning , and thereby prove to you that Alasonic lodges are not , as many deem them , simply clubs for the diversion of their members , but that they are institutions formed on
the purest principles of piety and virtue . I do not , ladies and gentlemen , intend to entrust you with any of our secrets , or to exhibit any of those dreadful instruments of torture which we are generally supposed to have concealed in our lodges , but ( pointing to an open Bible ) I would point out to you the first great Light that we acknowledge in Alasonry , which is the foundation and keystone of the whole Alasonic structure , the volume of God ' s holy law .
I his we are charged to consider the unerring standard of truth , justice , piety and virtue , and arc exhorted to regulate our every action by the Divine precepts that Hol y Book contains . Therein we are taught to implore His aid in every undertaking , and to look up to Him in every emergency for help and support . The principles of Alasonry are based upon pure morality ; its ethics are the ethics of Christianity ; its doctrines are the
doctrines of patriotism and brotherly love ; and its sentiments are sentiments of exalted benevolence . Everything that is good , kind , and charitable Masonry encourages ; all that is vicious , cruel , and oppresive , it reprobates . We acknowledge Faith , Hope , and Charity because Alasonry is founded upon faith in God , hope in immortality , and charity to all mankind ; but thc greatest of these is charity —faith ends in sight , hope terminates in fruition , but
charity extends beyond the grave , ft is by the practice of these virtues that the worthy Alason hopes to gain access to Him who is the subject of faith , the object of hope , and the fountain of charity . Our ceremonies , which to the outer world are a scaled book , are but a veil which partly conceals the three great fundamental principles of our Order—brotherly love , relief , and truth . These require no further
elucidation from mc . You will perhaps say that a better result should emanate from the Fraternity who claim to be the exponents of such lofty thoughts . Let me remind you that a Alason is but a man after all , and subject to the common infirmities of human nature . Some people are apt to deride Alasonry ; that is because they do not understand it , and , forgetting thc weakness of their own mind ,
Masonic Presentations As Rewards Of Heroism.
they condemn what , if they were better acquained with it they would venerate . Referring to the medals , he said Vou will observe on the obverse of the medals a lifeboatj surmounted by the All-seeing eye ( which sun , moon , and stars obey ) , under whose watchful care men are enabled to perform the most daring deeds , the emblem of an overseeing Providence . On the reverse is a double wreath of oak and laurel , emhlemniir nf fniih an' „' , ^ r . r „ „ .:. i , „_ \ t
. . . , ' ~ ~ - .. * .... ...... YI \ ^ . J . , ,... | . Ill inscription to thc effect that they are presented by this Alasonic lodge for bravery displayed in saving life on the 14 th Alay , 1 SS 2 . The W . AL then ( ail the Masons standing up ) addressed the recipients of the medals as follows May the Almighty Architect , who preserved and protected you from a fearful death by His merciful interposition again preserve you should you ever be placed in a similar position ; and whatever your future may be , rest assured that we shall never hear vour names mentlnnptt rv . " . tin ™ , t v ... „ : ~„ : _
J - U . M ... UU . IIU « III our hearts most ardent wishes for your welfare . Alay the kindly feelings that we cherish towards you , and the remembrance of this evening , float across your fading vision when your parting hour arrives ; and after having passed safely through the Valley of the Shadow of Death" under the protection of the Great Geometer of the Universe , may you ascend to that celestial temple above , there to enjoy the heritage of immortality which awaits you in the mansions of eternal bliss .
To this solemn wish was given the response , " So mote it be . " "The Lifeboat on thc Cornish Coast " having been sun > r Airs . A . J . Parsons then proceeded to the dais , and addressing the recipients , said : I have the honour to present to you these tokens from the Freemasons of St . John ' s Lodge , in commemoration of the heroic courage you displayed in savinu-life on the uth Alavlast . I el m * . •>¦ ==., ¦•„„„ ..
that your gallant deeds will ever remain engraven on the hearts of us all . I sincerely trust you may all long be spared , and remember that your preservation was due to the watchful care cf the All-seeing One above . The names of those entitled to receive medals were then called out by Bro . H . VV . Hammond , and as each stepped forward , Airs . Parsons pinned the medal , engraved with his name , on his left breast , expressing to each her pleasure
in presenting him with a medal for such brave service . The following are the names of the recipients : ' VV Collis , j . Mcintosh , A . H . Turnbull , J . Crocknel " , " Thompson , G . Sunnaway , R . Collins , John Reid Houliham , Al . Lekoy , J . A . Petterson , G . Findlay C Gruhm , J . Hemmeker , W . Hartford , G . Shirtcliffe , VV Walls , R . IT . Balsom , T . Hart , G . Davis , VV . S . Smith , F AlcKenzie , T . Alorgan , C . Vogeler , P . Bradley , D . Brad
ley , S . J . Passmore , J . Crocome , C . Moore , A . Schaob , T . Martin , AL T hompson , VV . Oxby , I . J . Bradley , H . Trouselot , VV . H . VValls , J . Isherwood , A . L . Haylock , John Ivey , and VV . Budd . Aledals had also been prepared for G . Mentac , C . McDonald , and W . R . AlcAteer , but these three men having gone home , their medals will be forwarded to thc Grand Lodge of Scotland , under whose auspices they will be distributed .
Two of the recipients had not recovered from injuries received on the 14 th of Alay , and a third had crutches , owing to an accident since the 14 th Alay . The first to receive the decoration was Bro . VV . Collis . Addressing the ladies and gentlemen present and his ' brethren of the lodge , he thanked them for thc medals bestowed on him and others for the work of that day , a day that would long be remembered in Timaruespecially
, by those who had lost husband or brother or warmhearted comrade , cutting adrift in a few moments friendships that had been growing for years . It was a consolation , however , to know that those who were lost were taken away in performing a most honourable duty , in attempting to save the lives of fellow-men . He hoped a similar occasion would never occur again , but if it shouldif ever the cry " Man the Lifeboat' - should be heard—he
felt sure the call would be responded to as it was on the 14 th of Alay . He thanked them heartily for the honour conferred upon them , but he would sooner go out in the lifeboat than make a speech . All the recipients briefly returned thanks for the honour conferred upon them , many naivel y observing that Mr . Wakefield would speak for them . At the conclusion of the presentation the W . AL called
for three cheers for the gallant fellows , and these were heartily given . " Tom Bowling" having been very effectively rendered . Mr . WAKEI-II-I . II rose and said : Worshi pful Alaster , members of St . John ' s Lodge , ladies and gentlemen—I have been asked to speak on behalf of thc recipients of the medals that have been presented to-night , by way of expressing their feelings on this occasion . From what several
of them have said I feel that my task might well have been dispensed with , for each of them has expressed his own feelings in a manner that must have gone straight to the heart and intelligence of every one present . At the same time , as many ot the men have expressed a desire that I should say a few words for them . I do not hesitate for a moment to undertake a duty which , if somewhat difficult , is certainly an exceedingly honourable one . I think that the feeling all these men have is , that the service they performed on the ij . th Mav was- a rlutv fhnf nut . ™ f .-.. « ..-. « « ,.,.-. «¦• 1
, . - I "J . . J — - v ...-. J . u .- Mt . 1 . 1 IIIU 3 L yield without hesitation whenever such a service is called for . What they feci , is that when the life of their fellow men is in danger , it is not a question of whether they will go or will not go , but that it is a solemn duty that rests upon them at once to go , regardless of risks—that it is a duty which God has placed upon every human being . They also feel that , while a duty of this kind must be and is done without the slightest thought of reward , it is a privilege to render a duty that cannot be adequately rewarded by human hands . A man docs not risk his life
under such circumstances for anything he can " -et for it , but because hemust do it , and because he would feel less a man in his own estimation if be did not do it . This feeling has weighed with these men and led them to hide as far as possible from the public gaze the fact that they had done their duty on the 14 th Alay , and there is no doubt a difficulty in receiving a
reward for services of this particular kind . They feel , however , that if from any quarter such a distinction or reward might be received , it is from such a quarter as that from which they received it—from the representatives of a brotherhood which from very ancient times has brought down traditions of virtue and goodness ; an Order of whose principles those outside of it know but little , but whose good works are of world-wide fame . They feel that they may