Masonic N0tes And Queries.

" It is also said that the preservation of the secrets of Masonry is due only to some ridiculous or shameful practices , which compels the initiate to be silent after he has undergone the ceremony . Can any one believe it possible , that the thousands of illustrious men of every rank , age , and country ; philosophers , statesmenjudgesdivinesprinceskingsand emperors

, , , , , , AA'hose names emblazon the anuals of Masonry , would aid in supporting ancl perpetuating an imposture ? The whole world is appealed to , iu justification of our moral system ; our constitutions are well known , they have been freely submitted to universal investigation , they are solemnly declared to be the principles by

which we are governed , the foundations on which we build , and the rules by which we work . It will be seen that the morality of Masonry is on a broader basis than Paiey ' s , and its religion , free from sectarianism , is purity ancl truth . Every social aud moral virtue Avill adorn those who reduce to practice

the teachings of the lodge-room , and the principles upon Avhich they are built . " But I must bring these remarks to a close , for I fear I have already detained you too long , and wearied your patience . I sincerely thank you for your attention , but permit me in conclusion to recapitulate a few of the results of this ancient and noble science .

"It has rendered atheism less popular ; for the atheist and irreligious libertine cannot pass the threshold of a Masonic lodge . It has exalted the name of Jehovah as an object of reverence ; induced a belief iu revelation and directed the attention of mankind to the Holy Scriptures . It tends to circumscribe human passions and to render the conscience

more sensitive . It lessens the frequency and reduces the horrors of Avar , by removing national prejudice and bringing nationalities into communion with each other . It inspires mutual esteem , confidence , aud philanthropy , in the breast of man , and implants there habits of self-restraint aud benevolence , and finally , it

has tended to preserve , perpetuate , and advance the arts and sciences , and every useful branch of human knowledge . " Such are some of the results and tendencies of Masonry ; and if the imperfect sketch I have here presented , should tend to clear a * vay one prejudice , or dispel one doubt , it will be to me a sweet reward .

"To the AVorshipful Masters , respected officers , and beloved brethren of the lodges assembled here to-day . ' 'I should feel that my duty was not accomplished were I to permit this occasion to pass Avithout a Avord or two to you . Let me remind you , that although Masonry is not a proselytizing institutionneither is

, it a passive and inert one ; but demands constant , Unremitting action . To you peculiarly belongs the luxury of doing good . Benevolence in thought , in word , and in deed , is a Mason ' s bounden duty . That holy spirit you should ever exercise towards each other especially , and towards all mankind . Wait not

for objects of suffering and sorrow to be brought to your notice for sympathy aud aid by persons of the world ; shoAV that the teachings of tiie lodge room have had their legitimate effect , by seeking them out , and ministering such consolation as necessity requires , and your means will permit . Por thus are you summoned by Him , who spake as never man spake . The needy and unfortunate ever demand it of you , the

Masonic N0tes And Queries.

affiliations of the homeless , the sorrows of the orphan , the woes and tears of the wretched , and the cries of the widow are at all times appealing to you . All the noble and generous impulses which infinite tenderness and compassion have implanted in your hearts call

upon you . " To you , also , is committed the vast responsibility of adorning the Masouic temple . I charge you to be careful how you select the materials for it . Bememberthat numbers do not necessarily constitute strength , neither does apparent respectability imply fitness . Bear in mind that one faulty stoue defaces and

weakens the whole structure . The sordid and avaricious man , however respectable iu the eyes of the world , is as unfit to enter the portals of our glorious temple , as the physical and intellectual imbecile . Ever keep before you the symbolic teachings of the square , that you may do your duty to your God and your

fellow-men . Let the rectitude of your daily life be a living refutation of every slanderous report ; copy the example of that pure and holy man , Avhose day we have assembled to celebrate , and may the great light of the lodge-room illumine your pathway and direct you onward until you gain admission to the Grand

Lodge above . Peace be with you , my brethren , in your varied occupations , may prosperity aud happiness attend you ; and finally , let me part with you in the beautiful hues of a highly gifted Craftsman of another land .

" Trust not the future , the present is open , Earnestly strive thy vocation to fill , Would you be useful , take this for a token , Never from virtuous action be still . Go to the widow and cancel her weeping , Harbour the orphan in charity ' s keeping , Waken the soul , that ' s remorsefully sleeping , All may do good if they have but the will .

Trust not the future , then ; be not a dreamer , Join in the ranks of truth , justice , and love , AA ' alk in the presence of God your Redeemer , To-day—the present is yours to improve . Work for your Milker , it is not laborious , AVork for your brother , the task is all glorious , Work for yourself , and if only victorious , Angels will crown you in heaven above . "

Correspondence.

CORRESPONDENCE .

The Editor is not responsible for the opinions expressed by Correspondents . GEAND CONCLAVE . 10 THE EDITOR OP Till ! FItEEMJASONS' MAGAZINE AUD ltASO : aO MlliHOH . DEAE SIE AXU BEOTHEE , — While disclaiming any wish or intention to enter into a controversy with Bro . Havers on the subject of my remarks at the last

Grand Conclave , with reference to his speech when presiding at the annual festival of the Stability Lodge of Instruction , I cannot , in justice to myself , allow the letter in your last publication to pass altogether unnoticed , because I am there stated to be " entirel y iu error , " though the error is kindly admitted as

unintentional . Unfortunately , ' owing to a misunderstanding , no reporter was present ; but I can summon witnesses of character and position to testify to the correctness of my assertions . Some brethren in my immediate neighbourhood , and many in various parts of the room , united Avith me iu regretting the tone of Bro . Havers' remarks , aud that , in the exercise of his dis-