English Gilds. *

after the confiscation of their lands at the dissolution , continued their stated meetings in the common room , or hall , for the purposes either of charity , or of conviviality . " ( To lie Continued ?)

Extracts From The Constitution Of The Grand Orient Of France.

EXTRACTS FROM THE CONSTITUTION OF THE GRAND ORIENT OF FRANCE .

We give below a translation from the " Calendrier Maconnique , " of " Extracts from the Constitution and General Statutes of the Order . " OP THE MASONIC OEDEE AND OF FREEMASONS . Freemasonry , an institution essentially

philanthropic , philosophical and progressive , has for its object the seeking out of truth , the study of universal morality , science and arts , and the exercise of benevolence . Its principles are based upon the existence of

God , the immortality of the soul , and the solidarity of the human race . It regards the liberty of conscience as right of every man , and excludes no man for his belief . Its motto is , "Liberty , Equality , Fraternity . "

In the exalted sphere in which it is placed , Freemasonry respects the religious faith and the political opinions of each of its members ; but at its meetings , the discussion of political or religious matters is strictly prohibited , whether relating f o

differences of religion , criticism of the acts of the civil authorities , or of different forms of government .

True Masonry calls upon all its members to respect , as a first duty , the laws of the country in Avhich they reside . Freemasonry , considers the obligation to labour one of the imperious laAvs of humanity , and

imposes duties on each according to his ability , and proscribes in consequence , voluntary idleness . Freemasonry aspiring to extend to all the human race the fraternal ties Avhich unite Freemason over the whole land , recommends the practice of

its principles by word , by deeds , and by good example to all its members . It requires every Mason under all circumstances to aid , enlighten , and protect a brother even at the peril of his life , aud to defend him against

injustice . None can become a Freemason , nor enjoy their rights unless he possesses the following qualifications : — 1 . He must be of the full age of 21 years .

2 . He must be of irreproachable reputation . 3 . He must be of a profession , free and honourable , and be possessed of the means of livelihood . 4 . He must possess sufficient education , so as

to enable him to understand and appreciate the Masonic truths . 5 . He must have resided at least six months in the department in which the lodge is situated , or Avithin a distance of 100 kilometers , ( exceptions

may be made in the case of a candidate residing in a department in Avhich no lodge exists . ) The conditions of age are dispensed Avith in the case of sons of Masons , who may be initiated atthe age of 18 , Avith the consent of his parents or

guardians ; but he cannot receive the degree of " FelloAV Craft or Master Mason till he reaches the age of 21 . The conditions of residence are dispensed with » in the case of members of the naval and military professions , and those Avhose profession necessitates change of residence .

At all Masonic meetings every man is placed on terms of perfect equality . There exist no distinction except the precedency of office in the lodge . The rights of and prerogatives of a Freema- - son are forfeited by the following : —

1 . By any dishonourable action . 2 . By the exercise of a disreputable occupation .. 3 . By the violation of the oath of fidelity to the engagements contracted at initiation . None can be deprived of his rights as a

Freemason except in virtue of a judgment rendered according to the form prescribed in the constitution and the general statutes . Every Mason has a right to express his opinion upon Masonic subjects .

Oi ? POAVEES . The Masonic SoA ^ ereignty rests in the universality of the Masons under one jurisdiction . The central Masonic authority , placed under the direction of the Grand Master of French

Masonry bears the title of the Grand Orient of France . The location of the Grand Orient of France is at Paris . The Grand Orient of France consists of : —

1 . The Grand Master . 2 . The Council of the Order . 3 . All the Masters of the lodges in obedience .