The Scottish Rite In California.

those from whom we expected material aid , were discouraging its propagation . After struggling against a passive indifference , if not an active opposition , this Grand Consistory was established , thus giving an animated and dignified head to the

various bodies iu the State . And through the great zeal of our very Illustrious Grand Commander-in-Chief , Bro . Win . T . Reynolds , a heart and lifo arc given to tlie Scottish Eite which will make it flourish and gain favour with our brethren

throughout the State ; ancl I regret to be obliged to announce that his illness prevents him from being present to-day , and deprives us of the privilege and pleasure of listening to his eloquent address upon Masonry , its teachings and its benefits .

In the Scottish Eite we have a broad comprehensive , cosmic , and universal Masonry , which teaches us lessons of charity and benevolence , of

lorbearance towaras one another—a quick andclear comprehension of right , and a ready and cheerful performance of every duty . It also encourages the education of the masses , the advancement of civilization , of science and art , a noble and exalted

patriotism , and the cultivation of all the virtues which adorn society and elevate the moral and social condition of life . " Genuine Masonry is a never-ending warfare against evil , an unceasing struggle against wrong , a constant endeavour to

alleviate the sorrows of the wretched , to relieve the wants of the destitute , and to lighten the burdens of the oppressed . " If we would enjoy all the benefits of Masonry , we must exercise patience , charity , and fidelity

towards one another , then harmony will prevail , and in harmony we shall find unity and strength . In the language of Schiller : —

" True faith , I tell thee , ATusfc ever be the dearest friend of man ; 'Tis only in the forehead Nature plants Tho watchful eye—the back , without defense , Must Audits shield in man ' s fidelity . " Before we can appreciate all its beauties and

benefits , we need a more thorough Masonic education than is received by the novitiate at the altar ; ive need an education that will plant all the beautiful teachings of symbolic Masonry in the heart aud affections of man , to be his rule and guide in

all the pursuits of life ; for all our precepts are dead without noble and generous action . A Mason should be the living example of all social and heroic virtue , for in that man finds his true nobility ° ~ nohilUas sola est alone uniea virtus .

The Scottish Rite In California.

The reflecting mind grows sad in the contemplation of the moral aspect of the world , with its discords and dissensions ; and it is the duty of ui all to labour with more earnestness to bring ordei out of chaos , and restore harmony and good-wil

among- all men , especially among Masons . While it is right and honourable for men to differ , ane an honourable difference is entitled to respect , il is wrong and debasing for men to allow passioE to assume the prerogatives of reason and lead them into error .

The benefits of the Eite upon the human heart and upon society , will depend upon the zeal , intelligence , honesty , and sobriety of all who come within these walls to be saluted with the " mys = terious numbers , '' ' and we should govern ourselves

with great care , and with a conscious conviction that the eye of the Supreme Architect of the Universe is ever upon us , and guard ivell the outer walls of the temple . However humble the station , the life of every man is great who labours to do good and to benefit his fellow man .

" The simple annals of the poor have a poesy as sweet , a truth as touching , and a melody as perfect , as though the grand diapason had been struck by a master hand , and had reverberated throughout the universe . "

Much labour and great care will be required of the members of this Grand Consistory to see that the subordinate bodies work zealously with that spirit of emulation which is the admiration of all just men and good Masons . Too much care cannot

be exercised to see that none gain admission who cannot maintain true dignity and command tha respect and confidence of all men . In all we dOj we must remember we are labouring for the good of mankind .

" The shadows of the evening of our days are lengthening , my brethren , and the way that remains for each of us to go , before the judgment of those who will live after us shall be passed upon us , is not very long . " Then let us strive to live

so that the world may derive some good from our example , and that our deeds may form a lasting monument over our memories , in the hearts of those ivho shall live long after we shall have passed from a brief experience of a mortal existence , and

seeing our good works , shall exclaim , " Behold , how good it is for brethren to dwell together in unity . "