;; i THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY Forty-Seventh Grand Annual Communication, held at Chicago, October 5, 6 and 7, A. L. 5886. iFZROCZEZEIDIIISra-S OF rr\ ^ H H OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS 7 REE & KCCEPTED MffiSONS M. W. ALEX. T. DARRAH, Grand Master. R. W. LOYAL L. MUNN, Grand Secretary. FREEPORT, ILL. : JOURNAL POWER PRKSS AND BINDERY. 1886. OFFICERS OF THE Grand Lodge of the Sthte of Illinois 1886-87. M. W. Alexander T. Darrah Grand Muster Bloomington. R. \V. John C. Smith Deputy Grand Master Chicago. K. W. [OHN M. Pearson Senior Grand Warden Godfrey. R. \V. MONROE C. CRAWFORD Junior Grand Warden Jonesboro. R. W. WILEY M. Egan Grand Treasurer Chicago. R. W. LOYAL L. Munn Grand Secretary Freeport. R. W. REV. II. W. Thomas, D. I). ...Grand Chaplain Chicago. R. W. W. S. Hooper Grand Orator PaxtOn. \Y. I). I!. Breed Deputy Grand Secretary Freeport. W. Edward L. Cronkrite Grand Pursuivant Freeport. W. R< iwley Page Grand Marsha/ Galesburg. W. W. II. Curtin Grand Standard Bearer Carlyle. W. |. II. C. Dili Grand Sword Bearer Bloomington. W. l.i'Kov A. GODDARD Senior Grand Deacon Marion. W. Thomas S. Mather .Junior Grand Deaeon Springfield. W. GEORGE W. Hamilton Grand Steward Prairie City. W. rosEPH Dixon Grand Steward < Ihicago. W. Ioiin SCHOFIELD Grand Steward Peoria. \V. R. 1). Lawrence Grand Steward Springfield. Bro. Robert R. Stevens Grand Tyler Chicago. IPIROOIEIEIDIIISra-S OF THE M. ¥. GRAND LODGE OF ILLINOIS, Free and Accepted Masons, At Its Forty-Seventh Grand Annual Communication. In compliance with the provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, the Forty-seventh Annual Grand Communication was held at the Armory of Battery D, in the City of Chicago, commencing on Tuesday, the 5th day of October, A. D. 1886, A. L. 5886, at 10 O'clock A. M. GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT: M. W. Alexander T. Darrah Grand Master. R. W. John C. Smith Deputy Grand Master. R. W. John M. Pearson Senior Grand Warden. R. W. Monroe C. Crawford .Junior Grand Warden. R. W. Wiley M. Egan Grand Treasurer. R. W. Loyal L. Munn Grand Secretary. R. W. Rev. George W. Scawthon Grand Chaplain. R. W. Isaac Clements Grand Orator. W. Leslie A. Munn Deputy Grand Secretary. W. Edward L. Cronkrite Grand Pursuivant. W. Rowley Page Grand Marshal. W. W. H. CURTIN Grand Standard Bearer. W. J. H. C. Dili Grand Sword Bearer. W. Leroy A. Goddard Senior Grand Deacon. W. Thomas S. Mather .Junior Grand Deacon. W. George W. Hamilton Grand Steward. W. A. B. Wicker Grand Steward. W. J. G. Marston Grand Stewai-d. W. Ben j. Stei ngardt Grand Steward. Bro. Robert R. Stevens Grand Tyler. 241364 Proceedings oftJu [Oct. 5th, The M. W. Grand Master proceeded to open the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illi- nois with prayer by the Grand Chaplain. The Grand Secretary announced that the Committee on Credentials had in- formed him that a constitutional number of lodges were represented, and asked for said committee further time to complete their report, which was granted. COMMITTEES. The M. W. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following named brethren to serve on the various committees during the present session : ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE. Joseph Robbins, D. C. Cregier, James A. Hawley, Daniel M. Browning, John R. Thomas. ON APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES. Joseph E. Dyas, II. J. Hamlin, George M. Haynes, William S. Cantrell, II. M. Gillmore. ON CHARTERED LODGES. George W. Hill, S. S. Chance, H. C. Cleaveland, Thomas M. Crossman, John R. Hodson. ON LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. H. E. Hamilton, C. J. Manvel, John B. Young, D. B. Grattan, C. C. Aldrich. ON CORRESPONDENCE. Theodore T. Gurney. ON MILEAGE AND PER DIEM. Edward S. Mulliner, George \V. Cyrus, John A. Ladd. ON FINANCE. E. C. Pace, Gil. W. Barnard, Samuel W. Waddle. TO EXAMINE VISITORS. M. 1). Chamberlin, W. 1'.. Grimes, James Douglas, J. E. Evans. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. ON C K EDEN HALS. II. C. Clarke, C. II. Patton, C. F. Tenney. ON PETITIONS. William E. Ginther, Edward Cook, J. S. Garrett. ON OBITUARIES. F. W. Havill, John Schofield, H. A. Forman. ON GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS. James I. McClintock, George Steyer, A. W. Blakesley. On motion of M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins, the reading of the minutes was dis- pensed with, printed copies being in the hands of the brethren. GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS. Brethren oe the Grand Lodge: We have assembled this morning in our Forty-seventh Annual Communication. We greet the representatives of nearly seven hundred lodges. This is an assem- bly of which we may well feel proud. What an influence for good this large num- ber of Masons, good and true, can, and doubtless does, exert. Eet us at the begin- ning of our labors, as our fathers have done before, cheerfully acknowledge the loving hand of that Divine Providence who has thus far safely brought us on our way, and who, if we are faithful to our trust — the tenets of our profession — will go with us, comfort, sustain, and gently lead us into that haven " where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest." Let us return Him our devout thanks for all the blessings and comforts of which we, as members of our noble Craft, have been the recipients, and in all our doings while here assembled, let us show by a spirit of brotherly love, concord and mutual forbearance that charity is the cement and support of our grand and beloved Institu- tion. Feeling confident that in this spirit we have assembled this morning, and trust- ing that this session of our Grand Lodge may be a time of enjoyment, only to be referred to in after years as a source of pleasant memories,- 1 extend to one and all a fraternal welcome, and proceed to recite my doings, as your servant, since we were last here assembled. OUR fraternal dead. Before doing this, however, let us bow our heads in sorrow while we pay a trib- Proceedings of tin [Oct. 5th, ute of respect to the memory of those of our brethren who have been called to re- freshment during the past year. Time, who is ever ready to swing his merciless blade, and who neither slumbers nor sleeps, has been more lenient to us during the past year than during the year previous. While this is true, yet the cry of sorrow and mourning is heard in our midst, and a number of our beloved brethren are at rest. Some who have borne the burden and heat of the day; some who were in all the vigor of manhood; others who were but in the youth of usefulness, are calmly, sweetly sleeping until the last trump shall sound, when let us trust that they, with us, shall awake in the likeness of Him who doeth all things well. The awful solemnity of death, and the importance of being always ready for the summons, which must sooner or later come, to call us to join those friends and broth- ers who have gone before, have been very forcibly impressed on my mind during the past year. Within this time my father and father-in-law have both been called from time to eternity. As never before this subject forces itself on my mind. I feel to stand, as it were, in the front rank of those who may fall at the next swing of the awful scythe of Time. By the warm sympathy of loving brethren and a firm reliance on Divine Providence, whose arms of love and compassion are around those who put their trust in Him, I have been comforted and sustained while passing through deep waters of sorrow and affliction. Let us cherish the memories of our departed brethren, emulate their virtues, and by their example be encouraged to faithfully discharge the duties incumbent upon us, so that, " when our dissolution draws nigh, and the cold winds of death come sighing around us, and his chill dews glisten upon our foreheads, with joy shall we obey the summons of the Grand Warden of Heaven, and go from our labors on earth to eternal refreshment in the Paradise of God." I will leave to the Committee on Obituaries the delicate and important duty of preparing suitable tributes to the memories of those of our brethren who have passed into rest during the year. I i; \ ll.RNAI. RELATIONS. It affords me pleasure to report that the fraternal relations of this Grand Juris- diction with that of the other Grand Jurisdictions of the Masonic world, with a single exception, are of the most fraternal and satisfactory character. Nothing lias trans- pired to mar that peace, unity and harmony which lias uniformly existed heretofore, and which we trust may continue until time shall be no more. CONDI riON OF I Hi: CRA1 l . From every part of the State comes the flattering report of the prosperity of the Graft. The I). 1 >. G. M.'s report a very satisfactory increase in lodge membership, ami greater care as to the material admitted. Further lighl is being called for and 1886.] Grand Lodg< of Illinois. cheerfully supplied by those who are competent and qualified to teach. The Grand Lodge and the Craft have a right to feel proud of the satisfactory condition of Ma- sonic affairs as they generally exist throughout this ( rrand Jurisdiction. In accordance with instructions received from the Grand Lodge at its last ses- sion, I issued the following edict, which explains itself : Edict from the Grand East of the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois. Bloomington, III., Nov. 12th, 1885. To the 11'. M., Wardens and Brethren in obedience to the M. W., the Grcuid Lodge 0/ Free and Accepted Masons of the State 0/ Illinois, Greeting : Brethren : Be it known unto you that at the last session of the M. W., the Grand Lodge of F. and A. Masons of the State of Illinois, (Oct. 6, 7, S, 1885,) "in vindication of the Sovereignty of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons ; and in vindication of a principle which is generally recognized throughout the Masonic world ; and of the interests, rights and pre- rogatives of our ancient, loyal and honorable fraternity," the following preamble and resolutions were offered by M. W. Bro. D. C. Cregier, which, on motion, were received and adopted : "Whereas, The M. W. Grand Lodge of Quebec, A. F. & A. M., in the Dominion of " Canada, is a lawfully organized Grand Body, and is, and has been, recognized as such for the past " fifteen years, by sixty-three Grand Lodges on this Continent and in Europe ; and " Whereas, The unquestioned legitimacy of the existence of the said Grand Lodge of Que- " bee, and the almost universal recognition thereof, by the extension of fraternal fellowship by her " peers throughout the Masonic world, clearly vests the said Grand Lodge with all the rights and " prerogatives of an independent sovereign governing Masonic body, which include the funda- " mental right of full and exclusive jurisdiction over all and every the constituent lodges of Free " and Accepted Masons located within her clearly defined territory; and " Whereas, Under and by virtue of these conditions, the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State " of Illinois was among the first to welcome the Grand Lodge of Quebec among the sisterhood of " Grand Lodges, and to extend to her the hand of fraternal fellowship and friendship ; and " Whereas, Authentic information has come to the official notice of this Grand Lodge that " the well settled principle of Grand Lodge sovereignty, sanctioned by time and usage, has, in the " case of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, been, and is now being, ignored, by the existence of certain " Masonic lodges within her territorial jurisdiction who do not recognize the authority of the Grand " Lodge of Quebec, but hold allegiance to and are working under the authority of a foreign Grand " Lodge, thus setting at defiance the sovereign rights and authority of the only Masonic governing " body of the Province ; Therefore, " Be it Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, jealous of her own independ- " ence and sovereign powers within her prescribed limits, will not only maintain and defend these " rights for herself, but has and will at all times record her voice and vote against a violation of " them by others. " Resolved, That while this Grand Lodge regrets the action of the recusant lodges in usurp- " ing the lawfully occupied territory of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, we venture the hope that said " lodges will transfer their allegiance to the only source of Masonic power within the Province in " which they are located, and that the M. W. Grand Lodge claiming their allegiance will take such " action that the unity and harmony so essential to true fraternity may be fully established. Be it " further " Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois regards all lodges in the Province " of Quebec holding allegiance to any Grand Lodge other than the recognized Grand Lodge of that Pivceedings <>l th< \ Oct. 5th, " Province, as illegal and irregular, and that all lodges and brethren under the jurisdiction of the " Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois are charged not to hold Masonic intercourse with such illegal " or irregular lodges, or any member thereof. " Resolved, That the M. W. Grand Master of the State of Illinois be requested to issue his " edict, in conformity herewith, to the lodges and brethren of his obedience. (Signed) Dewitt C. Crbgibr, P. G. M., Grand Representative Grand Lodge of Quebec. I therefore, by virtue of authority in me vested as Grand Master of Masons in Illinois, and by virtue of the action taken by the Grand Lodge at its last session, do hereby issue this, my EDICT, commanding all brethren acknowledging the author- ity of the Most Worshipful, the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, to hold no Masonic intercourse with any member or members of any lodge existing in the Province of Quebec enrolled on the register of any foreign Grand Lodge other than that of the Grand Lodge of Quebec. It is further ordered that in the examination of visitors from the above specified l'rovince, in addition to the usual questions, the questiou of whether the lodge from which they hail, acknowledges the authority of the Most Worshipful, the Grand Lodge of Quebec, must be specifically answered in the affirmative as a prerequisite to Masonic intercourse of any kind whatsover. It is also ordered that this edict be read at the first stated communication of the lodge after its reception. Fraternally, [Seal] A.LEX. T. DARK. VII, Attest : Grand Master. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary. The attention of the " United Grand Lodge of England " being called to this action of our ('.rand Lodge, it adopted the report of its "Colonial Board," which rec- ommended that the patent appointing Brother John M. Palmer as Representative of the " United Grand Lodge of England" near the Grand Lodge of Illinois be with- drawn, .and that the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near that of the " United Grand Lodge of England " be requested to resign his commission. Conse- quently, in March, formal notice was received from II. R. II. the Prince of Wales, Grand Master of Masons in England and its provinces, of the action had by said ( I rand Lodge. It is very much to be regretted that the Grand Lodge of England thought best to sever the fraternal relations existing between the two Grand Lodges, so far as the exchange of Representatives is concerned. On the part of the Grand Lodge of Illi- nois there certainly was no desire, and so far as we are able to judge, no sufficient cause for the severing of such relations. This edict only reasserted the American doc- trine of Grand Lodge sovereignty, and so far as the three English lodges in Montreal are concerned, they are no worse off now than before the edict was issued. Since the adoption of our present code of by-laws, years ago, it has not been possible for a L886.] Grand Lodgt of Illinois. member of either of the three lodges, which have given rise to all the trouble and dispute under consideration, to visit a lodge in the jurisdiction of Illinois. Section 2, Article XIX., Part Second ('.rand Lodge By-Laws, positively prohibits such visi- tations, for the reason that these lodges are not " working under and by virtue of a charter or dispensation issued by the Grand Lodge or Grand Master recognized by this Grand Lodge as having jurisdiction over the country, state, province or territory in which such lodge may be situated." It is with profound regret that I announce the severance of " direct relationship" hitherto so pleasant and fraternal, and productive only of a mutual desire to promote brotherly love and friendship and the welfare and prosperity of each other, and the sublime principles of our ancient Craft. It is earnestly to be desired that a way may be speedily found, alike honorable to all the parties interested, for the removal of this strife-producing cause, " that the unity and harmony so essential to true fraternity may soon be fully " and completely restored among all the jurisdictions of the Masonic world. AMENDMENTS TO BY-LAWS SUGGESTED. During the past year a number of subjects have been impressed upon my mind, and I desire now to call the attention of the Grand Lodge to a few of them, and ask for each a careful consideration. VOLUNTARY DIMISSION. Whatever may be said of the theory of voluntary dimission, as provided by our organic law, the facts are that its practical effects are not uniformly satisfactory, at least to the lodges from which the dimits issue. The law as framed was intended to prevent lodges from retaining members against their will ; and so far as this feature is concerned I believe it to be just and proper. I do not believe it to be desirable to retain members in our lodges against their will and pleasure. Membership ought to be entirely voluntary. Those who are not Masons at heart, and who do not love and respect the Institution sufficiently to cheerfully retain their lodge membership, will not likely be of any very great ser- vice or benefit to the Fraternity, and ought to be permitted to retire. This they may do of their own free will and accord, and if they would remain away from lodge meetings and other Masonic gatherings, there would be but little room for complaint ; this they fail to do, and hence the unsatisfactory working of the law. At almost every lodge meeting, and especially when a collation or banquet is to be spread, dimitted Masons are to be found. They are very zealous on such occasions. I have heard them boast of the glorious Institution of Freemasonry, and dilate on its grand teachings and principles, and of the distinguished members who have in all time patronized its assemblies, until one might think they were not only willing to help support one, but a dozen lodges. They never miss the banquets, but always fail to see the contribution- box. Every conceivable excuse is offered for non-membership. Not long since my attention was called to a case in point. The lodge had incurred some expense which 10 Proceedings oftfo [Oct. 5th, seemed to be fur the best interests of all; twelve of the must wealthy members ap- plied for and took their (limits, rather than pay dues to help liquidate the indebted- ness, although ii" more was asked of them than of the poorest member of the lodge. These same brethren failed not to be present at all the festive occasions, and espe- cially when it was likely that there would be something to eat. The Master of the lodge appealed to me to know what should be done under such circumstances, to which I replied that, under the present status of affairs, there was but one remedy, and that was to object to the brethren visiting the lodge or other Masonic gather- ings, and make it so uncomfortable for them that they would either remain away or petition for membership. The argument is that a Mason is such by virtue of his own free will and accord, and that he should be privileged to retire from the lodge in the same way. Now it happens that this is but a part of the truth. He not only comes in of his own free will and accord, but he consults the free will and accord of every member of the lodge, a single objection being sufficient to keep him out, notwithstanding his " own free will and accord." His own free will and accord amounts to but little toward getting him into the lodge, provided the " free will and accord" of a single member is opposed to him. The law does not reach far enough. Let the brother who wishes to do so, take his dimit and retire from the lodge ; but when he does so, let him leave at the threshold of the lodge every right and privilege acquired by " his own free will and accord " when he entered. Change the law so that it shall say to him, " Voluntary non-affiliated Masons shall not be permitted to visit or sit in any lodge in this juris- diction," and the evil is remedied at once. Give the brethren who care so little for the privilege of lodge membership as to withdraw, to understand that they can not again visit the lodge while dimitted, and that they are not wanted on festive occas- ions, and especially at the feast, and a very effectual remedy, as I believe, will be provided against the common practice of dimitting from our lodges simply to avoid paying dues. I submit this subject to the careful consideration of the Grand Lodge OBJECTIONS TO VISITORS. Another point to which 1 wish to call your attention, is the provisions of our law which places it in the power of any one member to arbitrarily object, and thus pre- vent any brother from visiting the lodge of which the objector is a member. This law is subject to so many abuses, the objector often being prompted by unworthy motives, that it seems reasonable that it should be modified. In justification of this law, it has been claimed that each individual lodge repre- sents a family, and that as such any member ought to be permitted to exclude any or all of the other families of lodges. If this be true, we are not a Craft and have been teaching a false doctrine to the present time. We are proud to say that the form of a lodge is an oblong square extending from east to west, between the north and south, from the earth to the heavens, and 1886.] Grand Lodgt of Illinois. 11 from the surface to the center. In this way the whole earth is represented as a lodge-room, and every member of the Craft entitled to be present at any and all lodge meetings. The time was when there was but one lodge; no one then thought of objecting to any member being present. In time the Craft prospered and spread over the face of the earth. For the sake of convenience, it became necessary to divide up and es- tablish more lodges; not that they might antagonize each other ; not that they might vent petty spite and malice by objecting to visitations, but solely as a matter of con- venience. This is, as I believe, the broad view tnat should be taken to-day : We are a Craft, a brotherhood, dispersed over the face of the globe, divided up into lodges for the sake of convenience and pleasure, each lodge or member thereof being interested in all the other lodges; in all the rules and regulations established ; in all the transactions, and of the material admitted to the several lodges, and all combined to uphold and perpetuate the noble tenets of our profession. If this is not the correct view, how comes it that a member of one lodge may object to the ma- terial being admitted into another lodge ? I fear that we have departed from the faith of our fathers. Is it not reasonable that a visitor who belongs to the same brotherhood, the same Craft, or calling, should be entitled to the same consideration accorded an E. A. or F. C, when objection is filed to advancement, and given an opportunity to be heard in his defense, or at least the lodge or Worshipful Master be permitted to judge of the validity of the objections ? Looking at this question as it appeals to my judgment, I believe that our law on this subject ought to be modified, and I sincerely trust that the Grand Lodge will give it that consideration which its merits demand. TRIAL OF SOJOURNING BRETHREN. The law of this Grand Lodge which prevents any lodge in this jurisdiction from placing on trial any sojourning brother, no matter what the offense may be, until the right to try the case has been waived by the lodge of which he may be a member, while in theory is all satisfactory, yet practically it is as far from subserving the ends of justice, at least in the few cases that have come to my knowledge, as anything could well be ; in fact, this law has simply had the effect of shielding the offending brethren. The proper place to try an offender is in the community where the offense has been committed. This is a matter of so much importance that every State in the Union, so far as I know, has provided by legal enactment that offenders shall be so tried. Take the case of a brother whose membership is with a lodge in Massachu- setts, and is sojourning in Illinois. Suppose he commits a Masonic offense ; he can not be tried by the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides unless his lodge waives its right in the premises ; the result is that the offender is so far from his lodge, and the lodge so far from the place where the crime was committed, that but little interest is taken in the case, and finally the matter is dropped. The result is disastrous to 12 Proceediiigs of tin \ Oct. 5th, the lodge where the offense is committed ; the offender can boast of his success in defeating the ends of justice, and proceed in open violation of Masonic law. The case would be different could the offender hut know that he would he placed on trial at once, and hy the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides. This law, with the one that allows any member of a lodge to arbitrarily object to a visitor sit- ting in a lodge, is the result of a misapprehension, as I believe, of the nature and ob- ject of our Institution, and only tends to confirm the impression that we are not really a Craft, but an association divided up into bodies or lodges, each being entirely in- dependent of the other, so that when an offense is committed by a brother no lodge but his own has a right to place him on trial. I fear that in this we are departing from the faith of our fathers, who taught that we are a noble brotherhood or frater- nity, divided up into lodges for the sake of convenience, and each lodge and brother being interested in what every other lodge or brother may do. Looking at the question in this broad sense, what valid reason can be urged against an erring brother being tried where the offense has been committed. I can not avoid the conviction that our law is wrong in principle, very unsatisfactory in practice, and ou^ht to lie amended. I trust that the Grand Lodge will seriously consider this subject. RETURNS OK LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. At the time the Grand Lodge By-Laws were changed, requiring the chartered lodges to make their returns not later than July 1st, the effect of the amendment was to require lodges Under Dispensation to make their returns at the same time, which prevents them from doing any work during the months of July, August and Septem- ber. This, I think, was simply an oversight, and ought to be remedied, so that lodges Under Dispensation could continue to work up to September i^t. I m|ii,k. JURISDICTION IN TOWNSHIPS UNDER THE SAME MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT. The question has been submitted, and I respectfully refer it to the Grand Lodge, whether or not in townships about Chicago, in which there may be a number of villages, but all under the same municipal government, police regulations, etc., in fact possessing all the essentials of a town or village within the meaning ot our or- ganic law, should not be considered as towns, and the lodges situated therein en- titled to concurrent jurisdiction, the same as now obtains in cities and towns more compactly populated. If this question can be so determined and declared, it will do away with the question of lodge boundaries, which in some cases is almost im- possible to determine. I trust that this question will receive that consideration which its merits demand. i\ rEMPERANCE and PROF \NI n . Among the common evils of the times, both in and out of lodge membership, are those of intemperance and profanity. It is with no small degree of shame, thai I 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 13 refer to these immoralities as being practiced by Masons; and while I would dis- miss the subject and fain believe that such are not the facts, I cannot do so, for the reason that on every hand the evidence is but too plain and positive to be disputed. That any brother who has been charged solemnly never to mention the name of his Maker except with that reverence which is due from the creature to his Creator could profane the name of Deity, is humiliating in the extreme, and only equaled by the fact that this same profane brother is likely to so far forget the first of the four car- dinal virtues as to become addicted to the use of intoxicating drinks to a degree that very far surpasses the boundary line of temperance. These evils have crept into our lodges, and to such a degree that it is time to " cry aloud and spare not." These offenders may be found in almost every lodge, and give more trouble and annoyance than all other causes combined. Not only so, but threaten the peace, prosperity and even the perpetuity of our Fraternity as a noble, grand and moral institution. These crimes have come to be looked upon, by so large a proportion of many lodges, as merely indiscretions, and not as serious offenses, that it is wholly impossi- ble for some lodges to discipline members for the common habit of drunkenness and profanity. So lost are some lodges to a sense of propriety, dignity and the character of Masonry as to be guilty of according public mortuary ceremonies to deceased mem- bers whose lives had been characterized by vile and vicious practices of drunkenness and debauchery. I trust that the like may never happen again in the State of Illinois. In some cases this has grown out of a misapprehension of the duties of the lodges toward de- ceased members. The impression seems to prevail, that a brother who is, technically, in good standing in the lodge, although the most disreputable, profane and debauched person in the community, is entitled, in case of death, to public Masonic mortuary services. No greater mistake could be made. A Masonic lodge is not obliged to accord a public Masonic burial to any brother, no matter what his standing may be in the community. A lodge may or may not perform such services. It remains for the lodge or Master to decide whether it is proper or not to turn out as a lodge on the death of a brother. Any other hypothesis would only be on a par with a growing sentiment that Masons have vested rights in the lodge, and under circumstances of adversity entitled to draw support from the lodge funds. This claim has but one tendency, and that is to degrade the Institution into an ordinary insurance society. The fact is lost sight of that we are simply a charitable organization, contributing at will, and always and only according to covenants, which should be familiar to all. Prompted by this same principle of charity, we should, when an erring and degraded brother dies, gently and softly, not as Masons in the garb of Masonry, but as citizens convey his remains to their last resting place, and having done so, commend them to the care of that merciful Father, one of whose principle attributes is charity. 11 Proceedings of. tin [Oct. 5th I am glad to know that in one case during the year a Worshipful Master re- fused to allow his lodge to turn out as such to attend the funeral of a deceased brother, whose life had not been in accordance with the principles of Masonry as taught in the lodge. B< 'i ND VOLUMES OF PROCEEDINGS. It lias been suggested that instead of furnishing each lodge with three copies of proceedings of Grand I. edge, in pamphlet form, that but two be furnished, and one of them be bound the same as the volumes now furnished to Grand Officers and others. It is claimed that the expense would be about the same as heretofore, and of much more value to the lodges. The subject is worthy of consideration. COPY OF RECORDS. May 25th I addressed an order to the Secretary of each lodge in the State, call- ing for an attested copy of the minutes of the last stated communication preceding date of order. While there were a number of items of interest I wished to obtain, the prime object was to ascertain the manner and system of keeping the records of the transactions of the different lodges. Principally through this source I have obtained many items of interest. ( Hit of nearly seven hundred Secretaries addressed, but few failed to send in promptly, the records as ordered. The few who failed, on receiving a duplicate of the order by registered letter, at once forwarded the required papers, with the exception of three, and these, after a little delay and legal suasion, forwarded theirs, so that I have a copy of the records of at least one stated com- munication of every lodge in good standing in this Grand Jurisdiction. In a few instances Secretaries forwarded copies of more than one communica- tion. The notes received with these papers from Masters and Secretaries, if pub- lished, would furnish a volume of items that would be of much interest to this Grand Lodge. The records as furnished show that there is no uniformity or system of keeping the transactions of the different lodges. A number of Secretaries keep very creditable records; a few such as the lodge might be proud to display. Taken a^ a whole, the records as kept are no great credit to the lodges, and in a number of in- stances a positive disgrace. In every instance where the Secretary happens to be a business man, and understands the art of book-keeping, very creditable records are kept. In a number of instances lodges have been subjected to great annoyance and inconvenience because of faulty records. The only satisfactory way of keeping the minutes of lodge meetings is to keep them according to business principles. It i^ not always an easy matter to secure the services of brethren who are qualified for this office, (if 50 much importance is this subject that the Grand Lodge, by committee or otherwise, might well furnish, for the use of each lodge, a form of records and ledger accounts that would be of very great value. The subject is commended to your consideration. Among the items ot interest obtained from records 01 lodges and otherwise, I submit tin- following: Two lodges had no seal; one has had no charter for five years, that instrument being destroyed by fire in 1SS1. In a few the Past Master's L886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 15 degree is still conferred upon Masters elect previous to installation. In many, (limits are granted by a vote of the lodge. In one instance a Secretary was reprimanded for keeping no record of proceedings of last stated communication. In another the Secretary had failed for months to keep the minutes of lodge meetings. In a num- ber, committees on application for degrees submit their report in writing. In one instance a Worshipful Master appointed a Past Master to go to the hall and open the lodge and transact its business, which was done, one of the Wardens being present but not consulted. One lodge initiated and passed a candidate who was under age. A few dispense with the services of a Tyler. These items are not submitted with a view of showing that lodges are any more careless than formerly, but simply to call attention to abuses that ought to be corrected. I believe that the condition of Masonry and the affairs of lodges are in a better condition than ever before. More interest and care are being taken as to material admitted, while there is a more gen- eral knowledge of the Standard Work adopted by the Grand Lodge, and degrees are more impressively conferred, and I have no doubt but that the report of the Grand Secretary will show that there has been a satistactory increase in membership during the past year. Vet many lodges are not up to that standard of excellence which is attainable. VOUCHING FOR VISITORS. A number of lodges have been imposed upon by visitors who have been improp- erly vouched for. In one instance a lodge had been frequently visited by a brother who had been suspended for eight years; in another instance a suspended brother had been visiting lodges for fifteen years, and had paid no dues for nearly twenty years. These two are only instances of what seems to be common. If lodges would only remember that, according to our Grand Lodge By-Laws, visitors must not only be vouched for as Masons, but also in good standing as well, much less complaint would be heard from this source. Many times a visitor will pass what is called a brilliant examination, and the committee will vouch to the Master that the brother is a bright Mason, and without asking for evidences of good standing. Documentary evidence may be largely depended upon for this information — a receipt for dues, a notice to pay dues, diploma, or certificate of standing of recent date might be ac- cepted, and especially if the name and number of the lodge on whatever document may be presented correspond with the name and number of the lodge first given to the committee. Under our code of by-laws a lodge would be warranted in refusing to admit a visitor who could not furnish some evidence of good standing in his lodge and among the Fraternity. lodges u. D. Soon after the close of Grand Lodge one year ago, and in accordance with its instructions, I issued dispensations authorizing the formation of new lodges at the following places : Grand Crossing, Cook county; Bro. L. A. Pierce, Master. New County Line Church, Johnson county; Bro. T- M. Keltner, Master. 16 Proceedings ofth [ Oct. 5th, Ravenswood, Cook count)-, Bro. Charles Truax, Master. March ist, Wright's Grove, Cook county; Bro. E. P. Chatfield, Master. The application for new lodge at this point was before the last Grand Lodge, l>ut was not granted because of informalities in the papers submitted. In addition to the above I issued, August 14th, a dispensation to form a new lodge at the corner of West Madison street and California avenue, Chicago, Cook county ; Brother Henry S. Albin, Master. These lodges, except the latter, will doubt- less present their work and ask for charters during the present session of Grand Lodge. DISPENS \ 1 IONS DECLINED. It will lie remembered that the Grand Lodge at its last session authorized the formation of a new lodge at Wheeler, Jasper county, and that M. W. Bro. Gurney filed a protest against the dispensation being issued until after certain distances had been determined by survey. I placed the matter in the hands of K. W. Bro. John Von Gunten, District Deputy, with instructions to ascertain, if need be by actual sur- vey, the distance from Wheeler, the site of the proposed new lodge, to each of the three nearest lodges — Mayo, 664, Delia, 525, and Newton, 316. These distances are given in the petition for dispensation as u}4, u}4 and 12 j4 miles respectively. Mr. John Wolf, a surveyor of Richland county, certifies the distances to be 7 1-5, 7 9-10 and 91-6 miles respectively, making the actual distance to be 4 3 10, 3 6-10 and 3 ' 3 miles respectively less than the distances as given in the petition. Pending the investigation, Bro. W. C. Harned, the proposed Master, demanded that either the dispensation or the fee be returned. I informed Brother Harned that the invest- igation had not been completed and that I was not prepared to issue the dispensa- tion, upon which he renewed the demand. I construed this to mean a withdrawal of the application for dispensation, and directed the Grand Secretary to return the money, and gave the subject no further consideration. I have declined to issue dispensations for new lodges at the following places, principally for the reason that the petitions and papers were filed so near the time of our annual meeting, I thought best to refer them to the Grand Lodge: Potomac, Vermilion county ; Colchester, McDonough county ; Norwood Park, Cook county ; and Chicago, Cook county. The papers in each case have been referred to the Committee on Petitions, and report maybe expected during the session of Grand Lodge. LODGES CONST! Hi EI>. November 2d, R. W. D. M. Wieder, as my proxy, constituted Omega Lodge, No. 775, located at Charleston, and installed its officers. This was the only lodge chartered at the last session of the Grand Lodge, and under the efficient manage- ment of R. W. Wm. E. Ginther, as Master, promises to be one of the first lodges in the State. Very flattering reports have been received from this young lodge. February 12, R. W. Bro. |ohn I). Crabtree, as my proxy, constituted Creston Lodge, No. 320, located at Creston, Ogle county, and installed its officers. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 17 LODGES INSTITUTED. Soon after the close of Grand Lodge last year, R. W. P. T. Chapman instituted Center Lodge, U. D., at New County Line Church, Johnson County. As we already have a Centre Lodge, No. 694, located at Pana, it will be necessary to adopt a different name for this new lodge. R. W. Wm. K. Forsyth instituted the new lodge at Grand Crossing. This lodge is doing good work, and promises much for the future. R. W. R. L. Tatham instituted Siloam Lodge, U. D., at the corner of Madison Street and California Avenue, Chicago. The brethren of this lodge are very en- thusiastic, and give evidence of building up a very creditable lodge. November 16th I had the pleasure of witnessing the impressive ceremonies incident to the instituting of Ravenswood Lodge, U. D., R. W. Francis S. Belden officiating. The ceremonies were witnessed by a large and appreciative audience. This lodge starts out under very flattering auspices, and under the watchful care and supervision of Bro. Charles Truax as Master, reports of work done, and well done, may be expected. March 4th, R. W. F. S. Belden instituted Wright's Grove Lodge, U. D. The brethren are zealous and determined to build up a good lodge. HALLS DEDICATED. October 28th, W. Bro. G. W. Hamilton, Grand Steward, as my proxy, dedicated the new Masonic Hall for the brethren of Youngstown Lodge, No. 387. Bro. Hamilton reports a very enjoyable evening, and that everything passed off pleasantly and harmoniously. Rev. Brother Kelsey, of Monmouth, delivered a very excellent address, which was listened to with close attention, and received the hearty endorse- ment of all present. November 16th, I had the pleasure of dedicating the new hall for Ravenswood Lodge, U. D. The brethren of this new lodge deserve credit for their zeal, spirit and liberality in providing themselves with so comfortable, neat and convenient quarters. The dedication followed immediately after the ceremony of instituting the lodge. The hall was well filled with the brethren and their ladies. After the dedication ceremonies, a sumptuous banquet was served, which did credit to the fair hands by which it was provided. On this occasion a pleasant saying of M. W. Bro. Gurney was fully verified, viz, that "a large number of M. W. and R. W. brethren of Illinois are not averse to free lunches." December 8th R. W. John C. Smith, D. G. M., as my proxy, dedicated the new and commodious hall for Cedar Lodge, No. 124, located at Morris, Grundy County. A very favorable report has reached me of the very impressive manner in which the ceremonies were performed. It is also reported that R. W. Bro. Smith delivered a very excellent address, which was listened to with close attention. The is Proceedings ofth \ Oct. 5th, brethren of Cedar Lodge are to be commended for the consummation of so grand an enterprise as appears in their hall and convenient rooms attached. January 26th R. W. F. S. Belden, as my proxy, dedicated the new hall for Lake View Lodge, No. 774. A full attendance and a very enjoyable time was had. The brethren of this new lodge deserve credit for their zeal in providing themselves with so comfortable a home. VISITATIONS. During the year it has been my pleasure to visit a number of lodges in different parts of the State. In a number of instances I have installed the officers elect, and have conferred and assisted in conferring a large number of degrees. On all such occasions I have uniformly been received with kindness and consideration, and have been accorded the honors due the station I happen for the time to occupy. I have, on all such greetings, felt that it was "good for brethren to dwell together in unity," and am inclined to think that it would be difficult to overestimate the importance of such official visitations. Of so much importance is this subject that I am persuaded that the Grand Lodge would do well to provide the means to defray the expenses of the D. D. G. M.'s in making an official visit to each lodge in the jurisdiction at least once in two years. Under the present system of requiring the lodges to pay the expenses of such visits, the greatest good is not accomplished. The lodges feel embarassed by being called upon to meet these expenses, and often refrain from calling for such visits when they are of great importance. The matter is a very delicate one to the District Deputies, who, often, rather than ask the lodge to do so, pay their own expenses. To secure the best results, a belter system should be devised. GALVESTON RELIEF FUND. December 3rd I received an appeal from M. W. Bro. Marcus F. Molt, of Gal- veston, Texas, asking for relief for members of the Craft and their families in that city, who had been rendered homeless and destitute by the disastrous conflagration of November 13th. I immediately issued a circular to the lodges in this jurisdic- tion, asking for such contributions as each lodge might feel free to give. I am pleased to report that a large number of the lodges responded promptly, and in a short time $1,914.36 was contributed. R. W. Bro. W. M. Egan, Grand Treasurer, kindly consented to receive the funds contributed and forward them to M. \Y. Bro. Mott. When S350 had been forwarded notice was received to the effect that no more funds would likely be needed to meet the wants of the Craft. The balance, less the expense of collecting and disbursing, was returned pro rata to the lodges contributing. The following is a detailed statement of the amounts contributed by Lodges and the disbursement of the same : 1886.] Grand Lodge of I Unmix. 19 HON. ALEX. T. DARRAH, M. W. Grand Master : Bloomington, Illinois : Dear Sir and M. IV. Brother : I have the honor to submit herewith my report of the "Gal- veston Relief Fund." The following is a copy of the letter accompanying my first remittance ; " Chicago, December 10, 1885. Hon. Marcus F. Mott, Past Grand Master, Galveston, Texas : Dear Sir and M. IK Brother : The Hon. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons in Illinois, on the 3d inst., issued his circular to his constituent lodges, A. F. & A. M., urging contri- butions for the relief of the craft suffering from the Galveston fire of November i^th ult. The lodges are responding to the appeal, and as Grand Master Darrah has directed me to forward the funds to you for said relief, herewith please find New York exchange §150. 00, payable to your order, on account, and I would thank you to acknowledge the receipt of same, for my files and oblige, Fraternally yours, WILEY M. EGAN, Grand Treasurer." Galveston Relief Fund, In account with Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer. DR. Dec. 10, 1885. To New York draft sent to Galveston, $ 150 00 Dec. 12, 1885. To New York draft sent to Galveston, 20000 Jan. 26, 1886. To paid postage, stationery, printing and clerk, 128 59 " To amount returned to contributors, pro rata, i,435 77 CR. Jan. 26, 1886. By total contributions to date, , „. 36 $1,914 36 $1,914 36 The following statement shows the amount contributed by, and the amount returned to each lodge : date. lodge and no. am't 1885. CON. Dec. 5, Whitehall, 80 $ 5 00 7, Kewanee. 159 5 00 8, Empire, 126 5 00 8, Mississippi, 385 5 00 8, Archimedes, 377 10 00 9, Matteson, 175 10 00 9, DeWitt, 84 10 00 9, Bradford, 514 3 00 9, Tonica, 364 1 00 9, New Boston, 59 5 00 9, Illinois Cental, 178... 10 00 9, Ionic, 312 10 00 9, Howard, 309 10 00 9, Somonauk, 646 ... 10 00 9, Newton, 216 1 00 10, Albany, 566 5 00 10, A. O. Fay, 676 5 00 10, Union Park, 610 15 00 10, Garfield, 686 25 00 10, Cyrus, 188 10 00 10, Paxton, 416 5 00 10, Occidental, 40 5 00 10, Heyworth, 251 2 00 10, Blair, 393 50 00 10, Mt Vernon. 31 2 00 10, Mt. Nebo, 76 500 10, Hermitage, 356 5 00 10, Scott, 79 2 50 10, Atlanta, 165 5 00 11, Harbor, 731 5 00 11, Orient, 323 5 00 11, Wilmington, 208 5 00 11, Goode, 744 2 00 11, Mason City, 403 2 00 11, Mattoon, 260 5 00 11, Bureau, 112 25 00 am't iET'D 3 75 DATE. 1885. II, I I, II, II, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, M, M, 14, 14, 14, '4, H. 14, '4, '5, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, ' ?, LODGE and no. i 7^ Cleveland, 211 3 75 Marcelline, 114 .. 3 75 7 5° Wade Barney, 512... Euclid, 65....' 7 59 7 5° Tyrian, 333 Sidnev, ^47 2 25 75 T. J. Pickett, 307 Urbana, 157 3 75 7 5° 7 5° Forrest, 614 Momence, 481 Dearborn, 310 7 50 7 5° 75 New Haven, 230 St Paul, 500 Virginia, 544 3 75 3 75 11 25 18 75 7 50 3 75 3 75 Pana, 226 Wm. B. Warren, 209 Vesper, S84 Lincoln Park, 611.... Aurora, 254 Bodley, 1. Schiller, 331; 1 50 Carmi, 272 37 So 1 5° Cherry Valley, 173... Chicago, 437 3 75 3 75 (jeneva, 139 Verona, 757 1 87 3 75 3 75 Marseilles, 417 Pacific, 400 Bowen, 486 3 75 Mound, 122 3 75 Harlem, 540 1 50 1 50 3 75 Pleiades, 478 Peotone, 636 18 75 Litchfield, 517 am't am't CON. ret'd $25 OO $18 75 25 OO iS 75 5 00 3 75 2 00 I 50 5 00 3 75 10 00 7 5o 3 00 2 25 3 00 2 25 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 10 OO 7 50 25 OO 18 75 2 OO 1 50 IO OO 7 50 3 00 2 25 5 00 3 75 25 00 18 75 IO OO 7 5° 25 00 18 75 5 00 3 75 20 00 IS 00 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 20 00 15 00 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 5 00 3 75 IO OO 7 5° 15 00 11 25 IO 00 7 50 5 00 3 75 2 00 1 5° 5 00 3 75 ■jn Proceedings of tfu [Oct. 5th, GALVESTON RELIEF FUND— Continuhd. AM T CON. Logan, 480 $ 4 99 Wabansia, 16" ' Sibley, 761 2 °° A W. Rawson, 145-. 4 97 Waldeck, 674 10 00 Peoria, 13 5 °° Palatine, 314 5 °° Princeton, 587 15 °° Batavia, 404 5 °° Edward Dobbins. 164 5 00 Golden Rule, 726 10 00 Western Star, 240 5 00 Cairo, 237 10 00 Tremont, 462 2 00 Cordova, 543 5 °° Horeb, 363 1 '5 Benjamin, 297 5 °° La Grange, 770 5 °° Clement, 680 3 °° Oquawka, 123 10 00 Hampshire, 443 IO °° Ml, Carmel, 239 10 00 Allendale, 752 5 °° Kinmundy, 398 5 °° Garden City, 141 5° °° Raven, 303 '° °° Minooka, 528 1 00 Lakeside, 739 10 00 Sullivan, 764 3 °° Piasa, 27 5 °° New Burnside, 772... 1 00 Winslow, 564 2 00 Kankakee, 3S9 10 Oo Lincoln, 210 5 5° Central, 71 6 00 Cuba, 434 500 Griggsville, 45 10 00 Arcana, 717 10 °° St. John's, 13 5 °° Meridian. 183 10 00 Mi/pali, 768 25 00 Circle, 707 2 00 Tarbolton, 351 5 °° Evening Star, 414.... 2 00 Bloomington, 43 2 00 Kinderhook, 353 3 °° St. Mark's, 63 5 °° Friendship. 7 5 °° Dundee, 190 5 00 Clay City, 488 4 95 Pleasant Plains, 700, 5 OO Edwardsville, 99 5 o0 Eldorado, 730 2 00 Patoka. 613 5 °-> Nokomis, 456 5 00 St. Clair, 24 7 °° East St. Louis, 504... 10 00 Home, 508 2500 Rii hard Cole, 697.... 25 00 \Vauconda,298 5 00 Landmark, 42a 10 00 Waterman, 728 5 00 Homer, [99 10 00 \\ arn n, 14 5 00 S I > Monroe, 447--- ' °° Mt. Moriah. 51 5 °° Waverly. 118 5 °° Wyoming 470 5 °° Trenton, tog AM' 1 DATE. ret'd 1885. $ 3 75 Dec. 21, 7 50 21, 1 50 21, 3 73 -I, 7 50 21, 3 75 21, 3 75 21, n 25 21, 3 75 21, 3 75 21, 7 50 21, 3 75 21, 7 5° 21, 1 50 21, 3 75 21, 86 21, 3 75 21, 3 75 21, 2 25 21, 7 50 21, 7 50 22, 7 5° 22, 3 75 22, 3 75 22, 37 50 22, 7 5° 22, 75 22, 7 50 22, 2 25 -22. 3 75 22, 75 22, 1 50 22, 7 50 22, 4 12 22, 4 5° 22, 3 75 22, 7 5° 22, 7 5" 22, 3 75 22, 7 5° 22, 18 75 22, 1 50 22, 3 75 22, 1 50 22, 1 50 22, 2 25 22, 3 75 22, 3 75 22, 3 75 22, 3 7' 23. 3 75 '-- 3 » 3 75 23, 1 50 23. 3 75 23. 3 75 23. 5 25 23. 7 5° 23. 18 75 23. 18 75 2 3, 3 75 23. 7 5° 23. 3 75 23. 7 50 ■ 3 75 ■ 75 23, 3 75 23. 3 75 23. 3 75 23. 1 LODGE AND NO. AM'T CON. Bunker Hill, 151 $ 5 00 Greenland, 665 5 00 ElDara, 388 500 Hancock, 20 10 00 Quincy, 296 10 00 Tamaroa, 207 3 00 Amity, 472 500 Ravenswood, U. D.. 6 00 Sherman, 535 5 00 Oneida, 337 5 00 Naples, 56 2 00 Cobden, 466 10 00 Highland, 583 5 00 Plum River, 554 5 00 Shannon, 490 5 00 Stewart, 92 1000 Antioch, 127 5 00 Bromwell, 451 5 00 Sycamore, 134 5 00 Acacia, 67 5 00 J R. Gorin, 537 10 00 Mendon, 449 10 00 Cheeney's Grove, 468 2 50 Arrowsmith, 737 2 00 Gillespie, 214 5 00 El Paso, 246 5 00 Mt. PulasKi, 87 5 00 Wenona, 344 > «> Knoxville, 66 5 00 Alpha, 155 5 °° Full Moon, 341 500 Barry, 34 5 °° King Solomon, 197... 10 00 Marion, 130 5 00 Carman, 732 1 00 Douglas, 361 5 00 Miners, 273 10 00 Valley, 547 3 °° Brooklyn, 282 1 00 New Hope, 620 2 00 Stark, 501 5 00 Sunbeam, 428 5 00 Dawson, 556 10 00 Vitruvious, 81 5 00 Staunton, 177 5 00 Anna, 520 1 00 Chester, 72 5 00 Bethalto, 406 5 00 Kingston, 266 5 00 Lee Centre, 146 3 00 Blackhawk, 238 4 5" Jas. Lafferty, personal 1 >»> Stone Fort, 495 2 00 Hutsonville, 136 1 35 Elgin, 117 25 00 Farmer's City, 710... 5 00 Wats, hi, 602 S 00 Levi Lusk, 270 3 00 Oblong City, 644 3 00 Seneca, 532 3 17 Denver, 464 5 °° Providence, 711, 5 °° Illinois City, 179 5 °° lerseyville, 394 5 °° Lena, 174 5 °o New Salem, 218 5 00 ( as. v. it • 3 6 5 . - La Harpe, [95 5 °° am't ket'd $3 7^ 3 75 3 7! 7 5° 7 5° 2 -'? 3 75 4 50 3 75 3 75 1 So 7 5° 3 :- .5 75 3 75 7 S° 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 7 5" 7 v> c.6 1 50 3 75 3 ; ; 3 75 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 7 5" 3 75 75 3 75 7 50 2 25 75 1 5'-' 3 75 3 75 7 50 3 75 3 75 75 3 75 3 7S 3 75 2 25 3 37 75 1 5<5 1 VI t8 75 1 75 3 75 2 *5 2 2 ■ ; 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 2 :■» 1 50 1 75 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 21 GALVESTON RELIEF FUND— Continued. Dec. 23 24 24 24 24 LODGE AND NO. AM T CON. Shiloh Hill, 695 $ 5 00 Libertyville, 492 5 00 Freedom, 194 5 00 Dongola, 581 5 00 Ark & Anchor. 354... 5 00 Evans, 524 1000 Shipman, 212 5 00 Milton, 275 4 99 Raritan, 727 1 00 Centre Star, 650 4 99 Perry, 95 5 00 Rob't Burns, 113 10 00 Andrew Jackson, 487 5 00 Taylor, 98 5 00 Fairmount, 590 2 00 Cambridge, 49 5 00 Rock River, 612 10 00 Farmers, 232 1 00 Sharon, 550 5 00 Collinsville, 712 5 00 Golconda, 131 3 00 Genoa, 288 3 15 Johnsonville, 713 5 00 Chatsworth, 539 15 00 Hardin, 44 5 00 Palace, 765 5 00 Englewood, 690 10 00 Mystic Star, 758 5 00 Apollo, 642 5 00 Raymond, 692 5 00 Fraternal, 58 2 00 Ogden, 754, 3 00 Newtown, 714 1 00 Troy, 588 5 00 Farmington, 192 5 00 Maroa, 454 5 00 Sullivan Center, 738.. 2 00 Herders, 669 15 00 Alta, 748 5 00 Summit, 431 2 00 National, 596 10 00 Martin, 491 5 00 Chapel Hill, 719 5 00 Cave-in-Rock, 444... 10 00 am't ket'd $ 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 7 50 3 75 3 75 75 3 74 3 75 7 5° 3 75 3 75 1 50 3 75 7 5° 75 3 75 3 75 2 25 2 36 3 75 11 25 3 75 3 75 7 5° 3 75 3 75 3 75 1 5° 2 25 75 3 75 3 75 3 75 1 50 11 25 3 75 1 5° 7 5o 3 75 3 75 7 50 DATE. LODGE AND NO. AM T 1885. CON. Dec. 31, Lake View, 774 $ 2 00 31, Walnut, 722 10 00 31. Murrayville, 432 5 00 1886 Jan. 2, Jackson, 53 5 00 2, Jo Daviess, 278 2 00 2, Darwin, 551 2 00 2, Liberty, 380 2 00 2, Chambersburg, 373... 5 00 2, Buda, 399 2 00 4, Windsor, 322 5 00 4, Excelsior, 97 5 00 4, Mayo, 664 1 00 5, Maquon, 530 1 00 5, Normal, 673 1 00 5, Sumner, 334 10 00 5, Bridgeport, 386 5 00 6, Chandlerville, 724.... 5 00 6, Herrin's Prairie, 693 2 00 6, Frankfort, 517 5 00 6, Fulton City, 189 10 00 7, O. H. Miner, .506 2 00 7, Lawn Ridge, 415 5 00 7, Reynoldsburg, 419... 1 00 8, Polk, 137 10 00 8, Rob't Morris, 247 10 00 9, Braidwood, 704 5 00 9, Germania, 182 10 00 11, Macomb, 17 5 00 14, Rock Island, 658 5 00 14, Temple, 46 25 00 16, Jonesboro, 111 3 00 16, Hinsdale, 649 5 00 18, Trio, 57 5 00 18, La Fayette, 657 3 00 19, Elwood, 589 3 00 19, Charter Oak, 236 5 00 20, Marine, 355 5 00 21, Hope, 162 2 00 25, Miles Hart, 595 1 00 Total amount contributed, $1,914 36 Total amount returned, j am't RET • D $ I 50 7 SO 3 75 3 75 1 5° 1 50 1 50 3 75 1 SO 3 75 3 75 75 75 75 7 5° 3 7^ 3 75 1 5° 3 75 7 50 1 SO 3 75 75 7 5° 7 5° 3 75 7 50 3 75 3 75 18 75 2 25 3 75 3 75 2 25 2 25 3 75 3 75 1 50 75 .435 77 The following contributions were received after January 26th, 1886, upon which date my account was closed, and have been returned to the contributors in full : January 29, 1886, Neoga Lodge, No. 279 $ 5 00 " 29, Manito Lodge, No. 476 3 00 29, Payson Lodge, No. 379 5 00 30, Rushville Lodge, No 9 5 00 February 4, Cerro Gordo Lodge, No. 600 5 00 " 5, Sparland Lodge, No. 441 5 00 Total amount returned, $28 00 All of which is fraternally submitted, WILEY M. EGAN, Grand Treasurer. Chicago, February 5th, 1886. CHARLESTON RELIEF FUND. September 14th I received an appeal from M. W. Bro. T. Edgar Smyth, Grand Master of Masons in South Carolina, asking for funds to relieve the sufferings and distress of the brethren and their families of Charleston who have suffered so severely 22 /'rnn-nliiif/s of the [Oct. 5th, from the disastrous earthquakes which have visited that city recently. On the ad- vice of the Grand Secretary, I at once drew a warrant on the Grand Treasurer for the sum of two hundred dollars to be forwarded without delay to M. \Y. Brother Smyth. I trust that this action will receive the approval of the Grand Lodge. The following correspondence explains itself : Chicago, September 17th, 1886, Hon. f. Adc;f.r Smith, Grand Master of Masons in South Carolina : Charleston, S. C. : Dear Sir and M. W. Brother: By direction of Hon. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons in Illinois, I hand you herewith Continental National Bank's exchange No. 28,313, on Kountze Bros., Bankers, New York, for $200.00, and am Fraternally yours, WILEY M. EGAN, Grand Treasurer. Charleston, S. C, September 20th, 1886. Hon. Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer of Masons, Chicago, Ills : Dear Sir and Brother : I beg to acknowledge the receipt to-day of your esteemed favor of 17th inst., enclosing check payable to my order for two hundred dollars, for our relief fund. I have turned it over to the Committee on Distribution, which consists of the Grand Treasurer, the Grand Secretary and myself. Please return our thanks to M. W. Grand Master A. T. Darrah, and the brethren of your jurisdiction, for this substantial token of their sympathy with us in our hour of distress and peril. Yours fraternally, J. ADGER SMITH, Grand Master of A. F. M. of South Carolina. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. It has afforded me much pleasure to commission the following named brethren as Representatives of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near that of other Grand Lodges: R. W. Wm. F. Black Ireland. R. W. James Whitehead Georgia. M. W. Hamilton Wallis New Jersey. W. Bro. W. S. Phares Ohio. GRAND EXAMINERS. Soon after the close of the Grand Lodge one year ago, I commissioned the fol- lowing named R. W. Brethren as a Board of Grand Examiners : Edward Cook, M. D. Chamberlin, W. B. Grimes, James Douglas and C. F. Tenney. DEPUTY GRAND LECTURERS. On the unanimous recommendation of the Board of Examiners I have appointed the following named R. W. Brethren Deputy Grand Lecturers: A. B.Ashley, Kewanee; ]■ II. C. Dill, Bloomington ; II. E. I luston, Monticello ; I. E. Evans, Monticello; G. A. Staddler, Monticello; W. II. Stevens, Steelville; I. M. McCol- lister, Whitehall; J. W. Rose, Litchfield; John E. Morton, Perry; W. < >. Butler, La Harpe; Geo. S. Fuhr, Blandinsville ; F. S. Belden, Evanston; Wm. E. Ginther, Charleston: \V. [. Elvrell, Shawneetown ; las. R. Ennis, Burnt Prairie; Norman A. Keeler, Kockford. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 23 These brethren constitute a corps of teachers of which the Grand Lodge may well feel proud. COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE. It becomes my unpleasant duty to announce the very serious illness of M. W. Bro. Theodore T. Gurney, Committee on Correspondence, who has been prostrated for months with paralysis. No fulsome praise of his merits is needed from me. No brother on the American continent stands higher in the estimation of the Craft than does Brother Gurney. His services to this Grand Lodge have been invaluable. Brethren let us indulge the hope that he may speedily be restored to health and use- fulness among his brethren. Brother Gurney had not concluded his report on correspondence, which is one of the best ever prepared by him, when he was suddenly compelled to cease from his labors. M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins very kindly consented to complete the report, which insures a complete review of the do- ings of various Grand Lodges during the past year and fully up to its usual standard of excellence. CORNER-STONES PLACED. December 16th, R. W. Wm. K. Forsyth, as my proxy, laid the corner-stone of the Woman's Hospital in the city of Chicago. The day was very cold and unpleas- ant, so that the attendance was not large. The ceremonies were impressively per- formed, and to the entire satisfaction of the parties interested in the enterprise. September 18th, R. W. L. A. Goddard, as my proxy, laid the corner stone of the Masonic Temple, to be erected for Andrew Jackson Lodge, No. 487, at Corinth, Williamson county. Brother Goddard reports a large attendance and a very enjoy- able time. Addresses were delivered by Rev. Bro. H. A. Doty and Bro. Goddard. LODGES REMOVED. All the provisions of the Grand Lodge By-Laws having been complied with, I authorized the removal of the following lodges : March 23d, Hickory Hill, No. 759, from Keenville, Wayne county, to Wayne City, Wayne county. April 9th, Annawan, No. 433, from Annawan, Henry county, to Atkinson, Henry county. May 26th, Fidelity, No. 152, from Fidelity, Jersey county, to Medora, Macoupin county. GRAND OFFICERS INSTALLED. April 5, R. W. Jacob Krohn, as my proxy, installed W. Bro. E. L. Cronkrite as Grand Pursuivant. May 13, R. W. E. J. Ingersoll, as my proxy, installed \V. Bro. Isaac Clement as Grand Orator. 24 Proceedings of tht [Oct. 5th, MASONS RESTORED. In accordance with the instructions of the Grand Lodge, and after all the pro- visions of law had been complied with, I restored to good standing in the Fraternity, leaving them unaffiliated, the following brethren : October 23d Samuel Hamilton, a F. C, who was a member of Frankfort Lodge No. 567, and expelled by Grand Lodge in 1875. October 30th, John T. Alexander, expelled by Clark Lodge in 1870. April 1st, Robert Steel, a member of Mitchell Lodge, No. 85, expelled by Grand Lodge 1872. LODGES CONSOLIDATED. The provisions of the law having been complied with, 1 authorized, January 25th, the consolidation of Malta, No. 320, and Dement, No. 515, as Creston, No. 320, located at Creston, Ogle County. A new charter was issued in conformity with the facts. \V. M. DEPOSED FROM OFFICE. January 20th formal complaint was filed against Bro. J. Alex. Montgomery, \Y. M. of Rock Island Lodge, No. 658, charging him with having initiated a can- didate over the objection of several members of the lodge. I appointed a commis- sion, consisting of R. W. Brethren Frank G. Welton, A. B. Ashley and John P. Hand, to investigate the charges. The report of the committee, which is quite ex- haustive, shows clearly that the charges were fully sustained. In fact the W. M. did not deny them, but simply pleaded ignorance of the law. It was also manifest that he was a willing tool in the hands of designing brethren, who were determined to override the prerogatives of the objecting brethren. It was shown by the records of the lodge that there were but six members of the lodge present when the candi- date was elected. Evidence was introduced to show that two brethren were present and voted who were not shown to be present by the records, while equally as posi- tive evidence was introduced to show that these two brethren were not present at the time the ballot was spread. There being no doubt of the guilt of the \V. M., I deposed him from office, and enjoined upon him not to exercise any of the functions of a W. M. during the pleasure of the Grand Lodge. As there was very serious doubt of the legal election of the candidate — Mr. Eli Monsfelder — and as he was very objectionable to a number of the members of the lodge, I stayed his advance- ment until after he had received a clear ballot by a constitutional number of brethren present, and after notice given to the members of the lodge of its proposed action. A LODGE WITHOUT A CHARTER. Early in May last I learned through R. W. Bro. I. M. McCollister, District Deputy, that Hamilton Lodge, No. 563, located at Otterville, Jersey County, had been working without a charter since September 22nd, 1881. On that date its hall, charter, furniture, etc., were consumed by fire. November iSth M. W. Bro. Scott, then 1886.] draw/ Lodg< of Illinois. 2~> Grand Master, issued his dispensation authorizing the lodge to meet in the I. O. O. F. Hall, and specifically asks the question, " Do you wish duplicate charter ? " On this point the Secretary says : " I applied for the charter when burned out, I being then Secretary, and in reply received the Dispensation sent you. I read this in open lodge and at the same time requested the lodge to at once apply for a new charter, but I have been ruled down every time I brought it up in lodge, and the matter would be in the old rut yet had I not informed Brother McCollister when he was here lecturing." Brother McCollister says : " That Hamilton Lodge has studiously, knowingly and willfully avoided the necessary course to cause the re- issue of its char- ter, and all steps loo/dug to that end, until the time (February last) of my visit is be- bond question." * * * * " So far as I can learn steps have not been taken heretofore to correct this matter, because of the supposed expense attached to the pro- curing of a duplicate charter P There is a strong feeling existing to the effect that if this lodge should fail to receive a duplicate charter and its members would unite with neighboring lodges, it would be much better for all the parties interested as well as for the Craft gen- erally. It is needless for me to say that I did not arrest the charter of this lodge; it had none to arrest. I ordered the lodge not to meet again or transact any business until such time as it could meet by authority of a warrant or charter. The matter is referred to the Grand Lodge. CHA KTERS SUR K ENDER ED. March 23d Trinity Lodge, No. 651, located at Monmouth, surrendered its charter and effects to R. W. Bro. James Peterson. July 13th Belleflower Lodge, No. 760, surrendered its charter and property to K. W. Bro. Owen Scott. At one time this was one of the most promising lodges in the State, but too many new lodges in its vicinity were established, and as a result this one had to go down. CHARTERS ARRESTED. In the case of Allin Lodge. No. 60^, which was before the Grand Lodge last year, and referred to the Grand Master with power to act, I would respectfully report that after waiting until the 5th of May last I became thoroughly convinced that the very best interests of all concerned would be subserved by cancelling its charter, and did so. The effects of the lodge were surrendered to R. W. Bro. Owen Scott, who forwarded them to the Grand Secretary. Sheffield Lodge, No. 678. — May 20th, R. W. Bro. I. M. McCollister, as my proxy, arrested the charter of Sheffield Lodge, No. 67S. This lodge was practically in a dormant condition. According to its records it had held but one communication in nearly two years, the exception being a meeting held in December, 1885, at which time officers were elected, but up to the time the charter was arrested the officers elect had not been installed. It is claimed by the W. M. that there were other meetings of the lodge held, the minutes of which do not appear of record. 4§ 26 Proceedings of tfu [Oct. 5th, The lodge was in a very badly demoralized condition, its property sold for taxes, and very little interest manifested on the part of its members. The trouble here, as in loo many cases, was too many lodges. One in the vi- cinity had to go down, and this seemed to be the fated one. I am fully persuaded that this lodge has survived the period of its usefulness, which opinion is fully con- curred in by the District Deputy, and recommend that its name and number be erased from the roll of lodges. Elizabeth Lodge, No. 2j6.— The charter of this lodge was arrested March 1st, for the offense of invading the jurisdiction of Cave-in- Rock Lodge, No. 444. A full investigation of the charges by R. W. Bro. W. J. Elwell showed that Elizabeth Lodge had received the petition of a candidate residing within the jurisdiction of Cave-in-Rock Lodge, and had conferred one or more degrees, when Cave-in-Rock Lodge called the attention of Elizabeth Lodge to the fact of the invasion, and pro- tested against any further degrees being conferred. Elizabeth Lodge entirely ignored the protest, proceeded and conferred the remaining degrees. Cave-in-Rock Lodge demanded the fees, which Elizabeth Lodge refused to surrender. At the next stated communication of the lodge, however, on a motion to reconsider the action of the previous meeting, the lodge voted to surrender the fees to No. 444, but subsequently failed to do so. At the time of the investigation, No. 276, while admitting the offense charged, tried to exonerate itself by the very flimsy excuse that the name of the candidate began with a different letter of the alphabet than that given by the protesting lodge. A very poor excuse, not warranted by the principles of Free- masonry. In view of the very serious offense committed, I felt warranted in sus- pending the functions of the lodge, and did so. Recently I have received a petition from the members of this lodge asking that its charter be returned, and promising in the future to strictly obey the law. Among the names signed to the petition appears that of the brother who was the subject of the trouble between the lodges. He signs the petition as a member of the lodge, while legally he does not belong to it. It is evident that while Elizabeth Lodge is asking for the return of its charter, it has in its possession property that does not belong to it. Propriety at least would suggest that Elizabeth Lodge make restitution so far as possible, and then with clean hands ask for a return of its charter. The case is submitted to the Grand Lodge. Bethesda Lodge, X<>. 66/. — February 20, 1885, I received a communication from Bro. A. W. Green, W. M. of Bethesda Lodge. No. 661, stating that while Bethesda was the nearest of any lodge to the village of Sibley, yet a lodge was estab- lished at that point without the consent of Bethesda Lodge, and wanting to know whether, under the circumstances, the lodge never having waived jurisdiction over- territory now occupied by Sibley Lodge, No. 761 petitions for the degrees in Ma- sonry could not be received from parties residing within the jurisdiction of Sibley Lodge, but who were in the jurisdiction of Bethesda, before Sibley was formed, and claiming that Sibley Lodge"was never legally formed. To this 1 replied in sub- stance that while Sibley Lodge mighl not have been regularly formed, it was legally formed and that his lodge could not receive petitions from persons residing within the territory of Sibley Lodge without it s consent. In looking up the matter 1 found that 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 27 Taijt Grand Master Scott, who issued the dispensation for the lodge at Sibley, says that the provisions of the Grand Lodge By-Laws had been complied with, that he had visited the proposed site of the new lodge and the neighboring lodges, etc. This together with the fact that the Grand Lodge had granted the charter to Sibley Lodge, and at a time when the Representative, of Bethesda Lodge ought, at least, to have been present and objected, if he thought best, but did not, seemed to me to estop Bethesda Lodge from any claim that Sibley Lodge was not legally formed. Subsequent to this correspondence, Bethesda Lodge petitioned Sibley Lodge for waiver of jurisdiction over three candidates residing in the jurisdiction of the latter lodge, which was refused. Up to this point no complaint could be reasonably urged against the action of Bethesda Lodge, but from this time on a very different state of affairs obtained. On the refusal of Sibley Lodge to waive jurisdiction over the three candidates, Bethesda Lodge seems to have determined to receive the petitions in spite of the ob- jection of Sibley Lodge and in disregard of the decision of the Grand Master. The petitions were received and the degrees conferred. On complaint of Sibley Lodge at this action of Bethesda Lodge, R. W. Bro. Scott was appointed to investigate the charges. At the trial the foregoing facts were elicited. Bethesda Lodge admitted all the material facts, but boldly and defiantly maintained that it had done nothing but what was proper and right; that it had never waived jurisdiction over the territory in dispute and intended to maintain its rights at all hazards. The brethren of this lodge seem to have forgotten that their lodge a few years since was moved quite a distance, and that they now exercise jurisdiction over quite a large territory that formerly be- longed to a neighboring lodge and that without its consent. After mature delibera- tion and advice I concluded that it was my imperative duty to arrest the charter of the offending lodge and did so March first. The last heard from the brethren of this lodge, they were perfectly defiant of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, the decision of the Grand Master and the protest of Sibley Lodge. In view of all the facts stated, and for other reasons which might be stated, I trust that my action in this case may be approved, and that the name and number of Bethesda Lodge, No. 661, be stricken from the roll of lodges. I am not alone of the opinion that this action will be for the best interests of all concerned, and that by it the dignity and good name of the Fraternity will be vindicated. A YOUNG MAN UNDER AGE MADE A MASON. October 27th I received a formal complaint from Bro. H. Gasaway, W. M. of Clark Lodge, No. 603, charging York Lodge, No. 313, located at York, Clark County, with having made a Mason of a young man under age, and asking for an official investigation. I referred the charges to R. W. Bro. John VonGunten, Dis- trict Deputy, with authority to investigate all material facts in connection with the case. Brother VonGunten very cheerfully undertook the very delicate duty imposed upon him, and at the expense of much time gave the subject a most thorough inves- tigation, for which he deserves great credit. Pending the investigation, a large amount of evidence was submitted to me, for the purpose of convincing me that the 28 Proceedings of flu | Oct. h~ih, candidate, John L. Forstcr, was of age when he petitioned for the degrees. I had the statement of the candidate, of his mother, his grandfather, who, I regret to say, is a Mason, of a number of Others, and la>t, but by ii" means of least importance, an old family Bible m which appeared a record of the birth of the candidate, which was evidently made to order, and to show that the candid ite was of age before his petition was presented to York Lodge. Brethren, think of an old family Bible being compelled to bear false witness as to the age of an unworthy candidate for the honor-, of Masonry, andsimplj and solely to shield him from his just deserts. Then think of the desecration carried still further, when the falsity of the record was shown, by the same parties trying to fix the responsibility of the record upon the youth's father, who had been dead fifteen or twenty years, and this in the face of the fact that the record bore unmistakable evidence, according to the opinion of experts, of having been recently made. Such desecration of a Holy Bible and the memory of a deceased father, could scarcely be e [ualed. The evidence in the case as taken and submitted by Hro. VonGunten, betrays a condition of affairs not often met with, and an absence of the last of the three tenets of a Mason's profession, to a degree not often met with in a candidate forthe mysteries of Masonry. The statements of the candidate, before and after he had taken two degrees, were so contradictory that no reliance could be placed in them. The evidence shows that before receiving his first degree he stated that lie was not of age, but he was going to join the Masons, that he had a dispensation from the < band Master, lie then stated that he had no dispen- sation, but that he would take his first and second degrees, and then the third after he was of age. That he would be of age in December, 1SS5. That he was of age in the Spring of 1885 and much more. The records of the County Court of Clark County show that the mother, when appointed his guardian in 1S71, filed an affidavit show- ing that he would not be of age until December 18th, 1885, one year later than claimed. The nurse who was with the mother when the boy was born testifies to hi- correct age. The records of the Soldiers' Orphans Home at Normal, of which institution he was once an inmate, show him to be a year younger than claimed; these and the statements of different persons who were well acquainted with him, all go to show positively that the candidate had deceived York Lodge as to his true age. When he and his friends were confronted with the array of evidence which was against them, they immediately abandoned their position that the boy was ol age, and suddenly remembered that he was not; that they and the old family Bible had all been mistaken. I ordered the lodge to place the candidate on trial for his offenses, which was done. At his trial he practically pleaded guilty. His plea was guilty of deceiving the lodge but not guilty of " willfully deceiving the lodge." The lodge voted him not guilty. I ordered the Lodge to again vote on the question of guilt, and it again voted not guilty. Why the lodge voted as it did 1 cannot con- ceive, unless it was because the evidence was not clearly before it. Considering it to be my duty, I Stayed the advancement of the candidate during the pleasure of the (band Lodge or ('.rand Master. before his advancement is authorized, I sincerely trust tint such time will elapse as shall clearly establish the fart of his being of lawful age, and thai he his been elected by clear ballot alter attaining his majority. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 29 C( IMPLAINTS. November 27th a formal complaint was filed with me against Garfield Lodge, No. 686, by Watertown Lodge, No. 49, of the Grand Jurisdiction of Wisconsin. It seems that a person was taken from a train at Watertown Junction, 130 miles from Chicago, who was very sick, and who after a few hours died. It was soon learned that he was a member of the Craft and very recently dimitted by Garfield Lodge. There seemed to be an impression that while in a dying condition and destitute cir- cumstances, he had been dimitted against his will and shipped from the city in order to avoid the expense of caring for him. The deceased brother was buried at con- siderable expense by Watertown Lodge. A statement of the facts and a bill for expenses incurred were forwarded to Garfield Lodge. The latter declined to con- tribute to the payment of expenses, on the ground that the deceased brother was not a member of Garfield Lodge. It was requested that Garfield Lodge be called upon to " explain why it dimits a member who is about to die, and then declines to assist in his burial upon the grounds that he is not a member." The complaint was referred to R. W. Bro. R. L. Tatham, who by the assistance of R. W. J. W. Laflin, Representative of this Grand Lodge near that of Wisconsin, gave the matter a thor- ough investigation, which showed that not a particle of blame could attach to Garfield Lodge. It was conclusively shown that what had been done was at the instance of the brother himself, and against the advice of members of Garfield Lodge. It was clearly shown that the lodge had paid the fare for the brother to the point of his destination in Minnesota, bought wearing apparel for him and gave him $15 in cash. Watertown Lodge became convinced that Garfield Lodge had acted in good faith, and had done all that could reasonably be asked, and at a stated com- munication passed resolutions exonerating Garfield Lodge Trom any blame in the matter. TENNESSEE LODGE, NO. 496. For more than a year complaints had from time to time reached me with refer- ence to the action of Tennessee Lodge, No. 496. There had been some action taken looking to the removal of the lodge to Colchester, a thriving village some three miles away. It was charged that when the time would come to vote on the proposition, under one pretext or another, the lodge from time to time was not opened. Finally, the idea of moving the lodge was abandoned, and a move made to organize a new lodge at Colchester, McDonough County. To prevent this it was claimed that the lodge was determined to keep its membership below sixty, so that the constitutional provision would prevent the formation of the proposed new lodge. To accomplish this a number of good Masons were rejected who had applied for membership. I had some correspondence with members of the lodge and a talk with the W. M., from all of which it was quite evident that an obstructive policy had been adopted, and simply to prevent the formation of a new lodge that might de- prive Tennessee Lodge of a few of its members. Finally, April 21, Brother E. D. Stevens, of Colchester, filed a formal complaint against the lodge on the basis above stated. M. W. Joseph Robbins and R. W. L. C. Seeley kindly consented to inves- tigate the matter, and did so. The report of the commission shows conclusively that 30 Proceedings ofth [ Oct. 5th, the charges were well founded. After a thorough investigation and a very free talk to the lodge, it was apparent that harmony could be restored and the lodge allowed to continue its work without interruption. That all has been accomplished that was desired is evidenced from the fact that Tennessee Lodge has recommended the for- mation of a new lodge at Colchester. The petition of the brethren at the latter point i> before this Grand Lodge for its consideration. NATIONAL LODGE NO. 596. March 10 a formal complaint was tiled against National Lodge No. 596, charging irregular and un-Masonic practices.* The complaint was thoroughly investi- gated by R. W. R. L. Tatham, District Deputy, who reported the charges sustained. These were of so serious a nature that I felt it to be my duty to see that the lodge was disciplined. Accordingly, April 13, R. W. Bro. R. L. Tatham, as my proxy, administered a reprimand to the W. M., Wardens and brethren of the lodge. EVANS LODGE NO. 524. August 28 Brother Harry Duvall, Sec. of Blaney Lodge No. 271, filed com- plaint against Evans Lodge No. 524, charging said Lodge with having violated the Grand Lodge By-Laws and one of the Ancient Landmarks of the (raft, by confer- ring the degrees of Masonry upon a candidate disqualified by reason of physical disability. The complaint was referred to a commission consisting of M. W. D. C. Cregier, R. W. \V. M. Egan and R. W, Gil W. Barnard. The commission gave the subject a very careful consideration, and have sub- mitted a very able, strong and comprehensive report. I have been tempted to quote largely from this very important document, and would do so but for the reason that the subject will be referred to the Grand Lodge and in its discussion all the impor- tant points will doubtless be brought out. INVASION OF JURISDICTION. April 20 Germania Lodge No. 182, filed complaint against St. Paul Lodge No. 3, of the jurisdiction of Minnesota, charging invasion of jurisdiction bv St. Paul Lodge, in conferring the degrees o( Masonry on Mr. Chas. A. Lambert, a rejected candidate of said Germania Lodge. The case was referred to M. W. R. II. Cove. ( band Master of Masons in Minnesota, who very promptly answered in words ol no uncertain meaning. He is a believer in " perpetual jurisdiction." and announces the correct faith in clear and unmistakable language. Under date of May 27, he informed me that he had ordered St. Paul Lodge, which seems to have been im- posed upon by the candidate, to prefer charges against him and place him on trial for a number of offenses, all called by their plain English names. Our corresp »n- deuce has been most cordial and fraternal. Prom his determination to see that justice is done, I have no doubt but what St. Paul Lodge has taken such action as will meet the approval of Germania Lodge. Oct. 27 Brother A. T. Peck, of Havana Lodge No. SS, hied a complaint against Southern Lodge (J. !>., located at Los Angeles, California. This Lodge L886.] Grand Lodgi of Illi had conferred the degrees of Masonry upon a candidate who had been rejected by Havana Lodge. The complaint and papers were referred to M. W. Bro. Jonathan Dean Hines, then Grand Master of Masons in California. After waiting several weeks, and hearing nothing from him, I again addressed him on the subject, but up to this time I have not heard a word from him. Why he should have entirely ig- nored my communications and failed after his term of office expired, to return to me the papers in the case as requested, I do not know. He perhaps has some plausable excuse for his silence. March 15th complaint was riled against W. C. Hobbs Lodge No. 306, specify- ing trespass on the jurisdiction of Danvers Lodge No. 742, by initiating a candidate whose residence was and is in the jurisdiction of Danvers Lodge. The question at issue was fully investigated by R. W. C. F. Hitchcock, District Deputy, who re- ported that the charge was sustained by the facts, that W. C. Hobbs Lodge was in error as to the actual residence of the candidate, and wished to do what was fair and right, and protested against any intention to trespass on the jurisdiction of Danvers Lodge. I directed W. C. Hobbs Lodge to turn the candidate and the fees collected over to Danvers Lodge which was cheerfully done. Harmony being restored be- tween the two lodges the case was dismissed. The following decisions are fraternally submitted: 1. A dimitted Mason is amenable, for his conduct, to the lodge in whose juris- diction he resides, until he is elected to membership in some other lodge. The fact of his having petitioned some other lodge for membership, does not relieve him from responsibility to the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides. This can only cease after he has been elected to membership in some other lodge. 2. A District Deputy Grand Master is not amenable to his lodge, for his offi- cial acts; for these he is responsible alone to the Grand Lodge or Grand Master. 3. After a candidate for the degrees in Masonry has been rejected, the re- jecting lodge may at any time waive jurisdiction in favor of another lodge ; and if necessary, the lodge may vote at each stated communication on the question of waiving jurisdiction. The waiver, if granted, cannot confer upon the candidate the right to again petition for the degrees in less time than one year from the date of his rejection. 4. In the formation of a new lodge, the recommending lodges must be char- tered lodges. 5. According to the ritual adopted by the Grand Lodge, there is no short form for opening or closing a lodge, for any purpose. The only proper way to open a lodge, in the Second and Third degrees, is to open regularly the degree or degrees below, as well as the one desired to be opened. After the business, for which the lodge has been opened, is transacted, it should be closed regularly, that is, each de- gree separately. This has been uniformily taught by the Board of Examiners for 32 Proceedings of the [Oct. 5th, the past twelve or fifteen years, and repeatedly so decided by Grand Masters at the schools of instruction during that time. 6. A W. M. lias no right to exclude from the meetings of his lodge any well be- haved member, who is in good standing: Provided, that after the lodge is opened he may decide as to the proper time to admit members. 7. When the officers of a lodge are to be installed in public, the lodge should first lie regularly opened on the Third degree, then called to refreshment; the public then admitted and after ceremonies are over and the public has retired, the lodge should be called from refreshment to labor on the Third degree and then 'arly closed on the Third, Second and First degrees. DISCIPLINE. As before stated, the Secretaries of three lodges failed to furnish copies of rec- ords as ordered. An investigation showed that there was no good reason in either case why the order should have been disregarded. The Secretaries of Nos. 277, 667 and 675 were those who were delinquent. The Secretary of 277, by my order, was dismissed from office and placed on trial by the lodge. The Secretary of 667 was dismissed from office and reprimanded, as per vote of the lodge. The Secretary of 675 was reprimanded, but continued in office. The very serious nature of the offense of disregarding an order from the Grand East, seems not to have been appreciated by these brethren, as all protested entire innocence of any thought of contempt for the Grand Master. The minutes of the meeting of lodge 675 as furnished by the Secretary contains two important items. I. There had been no stated communica- tion of the lodge from February 16 until after May 25. 2. The following quotation explains itself: " There being no minutes of last meeting, the Secretary was severely reprimanded and ordered not to let it occur again." This last sentence may serve to explain why the record was not promptly forwarded. PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATES. The question of the " Physical Qualification" of candidates is one that is being agitated very generally, not only in our own Grand Jurisdiction, but also in that of all others so far as my knowledge extends. This is a subject which is constantly being referred to Grand Masters for their decisions or opinions; and judging from my own experience, if there is one question more than another which serves to embarrass a Grand Master, it is this same question of the " Physical Qualification" of candidates. Of all the questions submitted, there is none more delicate, none that requires to be more tenderly handled. To enforce the rule laid down among the Ancient Landmarks of the (raft, is to exclude, very often, from the privileges and benefits of Masonry, gentlemen who are in every respect worthy and well qualified, save the question of physical qualifica- tion. It has come to my knowledge that a Past Grand Master of this Grand Juris- diction, while Grand Master,' was appealed to for an opinion that would warrant a lodge in conferring the degrees upon one of the most elegant, intelligent and refined 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. gentlemen to be found in the community, who had been so unfortunate as to be maimed for life, and withal a warm, intimate personal friend of the aforesaid Grand Master. It is under such circumstances as these that the question becomes so extremely delicate, and of so much importance in its final disposition. Not only among intelli- gent and well informed brethren of our own Grand Lodge, but among intelligent brethren of all other American Grand Lodges, so far as 1 am advised, there is a strong feeling in favor of relaxing the very stringent rules on this subject that have heretofore generally been observed. It is argued that when the Craft was simply an operative institution, it was important that none but perfect youths should be admit- ted, none but those who could perform manual labor without impediments by reason of physical imperfection ; that now since the institution had become simply a specu- lative science, and physical perfection no longer a necessity, the rule ought to be modified. That since it is the moral rather than physical, the " internal and not the external qualifications of a man that should recommend him to be made a Mason," the rule should no longer apply. While on the other hand there are equally intelli- gent and well informed brethren who insist that the Landmarks of Masonry should be rigidly enforced ; that it is " not in the power of any man, or set of men, to make innovations in the body of Masonry." That it is the duty of every Mason to "trans- mit unimpaired " the noble tenets of our Institution. I regret to say that there is con- fusion among the brethren of our own Grand Lodge by reason of a different construc- tion of our by-laws covering this point. Brethren, this question is of so much import- ance, so far reaching in its effects, that I have thought best to present it to the Grand Lodge, trusting that it will receive that careful and dispassionate consideration its importance demands. There are those who believe that this question threatens the perpetuity of our beloved Institution. I respectfully recommend that it be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, with the request that it present to this Grand Lodge, for its adoption, an exposition of the Landmarks bearing upon the question, as well as a construction of our own by-law on the subject, that will be alike com- prehensive and satisfactory, and that will be accepted by the Grand Lodge as a final settlement of this important subject. SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION. In accordance with a well established custom, and in compliance with the pro- visions of the Grand Lodge Constitution I felt it to be my duty to order the usual number of Schools of Instruction to be held during the past winter. Consequently the Board of Examiners, ably assisted by Deputy Grand Lecturers, held a three days' schools at each of the following places: Mt. Vernon, Paris, Bloomington, Bushnell and Chicago These schools were all well attended; and at two or three places the attendence was quite large. The enthusiasm and interest manifested were fully up to the standard attained in any preceding year. These schools are no longer an experiment. The good that has been accomplished by their means is beyond estimation. To appreciate the vast amount of good, that has been and is capable of being done in this way, it is not only necessary to attend their sessions throughout, but it is important to note the beneficial effects in the places where the schools are held and points contiguous thereto, for years afterward. The fact that a 34 Proceedings of tfa [Oct. 5th, lodge is in possession, not only of the correct ritual, but ol all the forms and ceremonies that so tend to beautify and impress the sublime principles of the degrees upon the novitiate as well as the members of the lodge, serves as a wonderful stimulus to secure a full attendance at lodge meetings. The Schools of Instruction are a power for good in this direction, as well as for the laudable purpose of affording the Craft an opportunity for cultivating more intimate social and fraternal relations. The Board of Examiners have labored earnestly and faithfully, and deserve the thanks ol the Grand Lodge. CONCLUSION. In concluding my report, I wish again to thank the Grand Lodge for the honor conferred upon me one year ago, by its kind partiality. As your servant I have labored, to the extent of my ability, in the interests of the Craft in Illinois. What I have conceived to be my duty, that I faithfully tried to perform. It has been a source of great pleasure to me to labor for the interests of our grand institution. My duties during the year must have been much more imperfectly periormed, had it not been for the very valuable assistance rendered by our very efficient Grand Secretary, R. W. Bro. L. L. Munn ; who very kindly and promptly not only discharged the laborious duties of his own office, but very materially assisted in the discharge of the duties of the office of Grand Master. In submitting my report I have purposely gone more into detail than many of my brethren may think desirable or advisable. I am of the opinion that the Grand Lodge ought to know more of the doings of the several lodges. That the best inter- ests of all will best be subserved by a candid statement of facts in each given case, and that the mistakes of lodges may best be avoided by others knowing what those mistakes were. I am fully pursuaded that there are many things going on among the lodges of this jurisdiction that ought to be known, to the end that serious abuses might be remedied, and the Craft generally benefitted thereby. Finally, for the uniform kindness and consideration shown me by my brethren I shall only again thank you. Fraternally, ( hand Master. On motion of K. W. BrO- Wiley M. Egan, the address of the M. W. ('.rand Master was referred to the Committee on Grand Master's Address. 1886.] Gram/ Lodge of Illinois. 35 REPORT OF THE GRAND TREASURER. The Grand Treasurer submitted the following report, together with his books and vouchers, which, on motion, were referred to the Committee on Finance : Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer, In account with Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Illinois. 1885. Dr. Oct. 5, To balance credit General Fund $36,031 47 5, " " " Charity Fund 326 20 Total credit balance per last report $36,357 67 1886. Jan. 2, To interest on Government bonds, 3 mos $ 50 00 " 4, " dividend on A. A. Glenn's life insurance 31 45 July 1, " am't rec'd of L. L. Munn, Grand Sec'y 523 03 Aug. 2, " " " " 7,000 00 *ept. 3. " " " " 9,2oS 33 Oct. 1, " interest on Government bonds, 9 mos 150 00 " 1, " am't rec'd of L. L. Munn, Grand Sec'y 14,000 00 " 4, " am't rec'd of L. L. Munn, Charity, 1885 126 48 " 4, " " " " 1886 172 45 " 4, " " " General 131 31 Total amount received since last report $3 I »393 05 $67,750 72 1885. Cr. Oct. 8, By mileage and per diem orders paid per vouch- ers $ 2,687 4° " 8, " mileage and per diem orders paid Grand Lodge representatives as per vouchers 15,048 80 #17,736 20 MISCELLANEOUS ORDERS PAID, AS FOLLOWS: DATE OF ORDER. NO. TO WHOM ISSUED. Aug. 6, 950 C. F. Hitchcock $ 3 50 Sept. 2, 956 John B. Young 10 00 " 30, 959 John R.Thomas 125 00 36 Proceedings oftfu | Oct. 5th, Alex. T. Darrah 77 70 Journal Printing Co 877 io Thomas Moore 13 00 T. T. Gurney 300 00 R. R. Stevens 100 00 L. A. Munn 25 00 Z. T. Griffin 25 00 Theodore Hubbard 15 00 Alfred Russell 150 00 Geo. W. Cyrus 25 00 M. II. Morgan IO 00 L. C. Seeley 10 00 James Douglas 9 00 Pontiac Lodge, No. 294 2 00 John R. Thomas 43 00 F. G. Welton 7 80 W. F. Bromfield 4 40 M. H. Morgan 10 00 R. R.Stevens 91 22 E. P. Tilley 217 00 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 ^ Journal Printing Co 1,230 34 American Express Co 183 89 John F. Smith 143 40 Scott Lodge, No. 743 4 50 Shober & Carqueville 225 00 L. L. Munn 208 ^^ Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 John Wolf. 6 00 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 ^^ Edward Cook 53 20 M. D. Chamberlin 55 50 James Douglas 32 00 C. F. Tenney 41 20 W. B. Grimes 45 50 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 1.1. Munn 20S 34 Edward Cook 41 20 M. D. Chamberlin 53 40 W. 1'.. Giimes 44 80 James Douglas 52 00 1 I. Tenney (4 60 Oct. 4, 966 4. 967 4. 968 7> 969 7, 970 7, 97i 7. 972 7, 973 7. 974 7, 975 7, 976 7. 977 7, 978 7. 979 7, 980 7, 981 8, 982 8, 983 8, 984 8, 985» " 31. 986 31. 987 Nov. 10, 988 14. 989 14, 990 23, 991 27, 992 " 30. 993 3°> 994 Dec. 21, 995 31. 996 ,; 31, 997 1886. Jan. 21, 998 " 21, 999 " 21, 1,000 " 21, 1,001 " 21, 1,002 3°. 1 ,003 3°. 1,004 Feb. 8, 1,005 8, 1,006 8 r 1,007 8, 1,008 8, 1,009 1886.] dram! Lodge of Illinois. :->7 Feb. i7> i ,010 " i7> i ,011 tt 17. i ,012 ft 17. " ,013 ti 17, > ,014 " 27, ] ,015 " 27, 1 ,016 March 3> ' ,017 " 3' ] ,018 " 3, 1 ,019 " 3> ] ,020 u 3> ' ,021 " 3, ' ,022 " 3- 1 ,023 It 3, ' ,024 " 3> ' ,025 " 3, ] ,026 " 17, 1 ,027 " n, 1 ,028 " 17, i ,029 " 17, J ,030 " 17, ,031 " 17, 1 ,032 ti 3>» 1 ,033 " 3i> ,034 April 14, 1 ,035 " 30, i ,036 " 3°, ,037 May 3i» 1 ,038 " 31. r ,°39 June 29, [,040 " 29, [,041 n 29, ,042 " 29, [,043 " 29, [,044 " 29, [,045 ti 29, 1,046 tt 3°, [,047 " 30> [,048 July 3i. 1,049 " 31, [,050 " 3'» [,051 Aug. 3', i,o53 " 3i. 1,054 Sept. 30, 1,055 Edward Cook 37 60 M. D. Chamberlin 39 00 W. B. Grimes 38 50 James Douglas 45 60 C. F. Tenney 31 00 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 23 W. J. Elwell 6 18 A.B.Ashley 5 10 John P. Hand 3 30 F. G. Welton 4 80 John M. Pearson 30 60 Edward Cook 44 20 M. D. Chamberlin 42 30 W. B. Grimes 34 60 James Douglas 50 20 C. F. Tenney 41 40 Journal Printing Co 99 50 Edward Cook 25 00 M. D. Chamberlin 37 10 W. B. Grimes 52 50 James Douglas 57 10 C. F. Tenney 40 60 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 ^^ W. L. Milligan 19 22 Alex. T. Darrah 12500 L. L. Munn 208 ^^ Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 ^^ E. C. Pace 49 00 Gil. W. Barnard 27 10 Jacob Krohn 5 00 John F. Smith 193 82 Brown & Dollmeyer 50 00 Journal Printing Co 151 OO L. L. Munn 120 87 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 34 Tohn M. Pearson 25 00 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn 208 34 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 L. L. Munn : 208 33 Alex. T. Darrah 125 00 38 Proceedings oftfo [Oct. 5th, Sept. 30, 1,056 L. L. Munn 208 34 " 30, 1,057 W. M. Egan 400 00 Oct. 4, 1,058 Alex. T. Darrah 306 74 " 4, 1,059 L. L. Munn 42 70 " 4, 1,060 John F. Smith 5200 " 4, 1,061 Brown & Dollmeyer 40 10 " 4, 1,062 journal Printing Co 146 25 |an. 4, Premium on A. A. Glenn's ins 162 45 Sept. 14, J. Adger Smyth 20000 Total miscellaneous orders paid $1 1,154 68 Oct. 4, By balance to credit Charity Fund $ 625 13 " 4, " " " General Fund 38,234 71 Total credit balance $38,859 84 ^"7-750 72 Of the balance to credit of General Fund, $5,000 is invested in Government bonds; cash on hand, $33,234.71. Fraternally submitted, WILEY M. EGAN, Chicago, October 4, 1886. Grand Treasurer. GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT. The Grand Secretary submitted the following report of the business of his offii e for the year, which was referred to the Committee on Finance : M. W. (Irami Master and Brethren of the Grand Lodge: It is with pleasure that I again submit a report of my doings as your Grand Sec- retary. Soon after the close of the Grand Lodge one year ago, a manuscript copy of the proceedings was placed in the hands of the printer, and on the 20th day of ( >CtO- ber, twelve days after the close of the Grand Lodge, I commenced the distribution of the printed proceedings to the Grand Officers and the constituent lodges, and com- pleted that task on the 24th day of that month, having sen) out by mail and express 2,276 volumes. A charter was issued to Omega Lodge, No. 775, located at Charleston, in Coles County, at the close of the Grand Lodge. From an examination of the returns of the constituent lodges for 1885, 1 find less errors than in any previous year of my official experience, and these errors were in most cases promptly explained or corrected, and it affords me great pleasure to re- port that fact to the Grand Lodge, as it demonstrates thai the Secretaries of the con- 1886.] Grand Lodgt of Illinois. Stituent lodges are performing their duty with greater care, and I am satisfied that an efficient, prompt, painstaking Secretary, who carefully performs his duty, can do as much, if not more, than any other officer to promote the best interests of his lodge. The following communication from the Grand Secretary of the United Grand Lodge of England, R. W. Bro. Colonel Shadwell H. Clerke, was received by me in April last, and with this letter he forwarded the report of the Colonial Board of that Grand Lodge. I now have the honor to submit them to you for your consideration : UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND. Freemasons' Hall. Great Queen St„ London, W. C, 31st March, 1886. R. W. Bro. L. L. Minn, Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of Illinois : • K. II'. Sir and Bro. : I am directed by the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, to transmit the accompanying copy of a report made by its Colonial Board to that Grand Lodge at its quarterly communication held on the 3d inst., and to inform you that the Grand Lodge unanimously approved of the report, and resolved in accordance with the recommendations therein contained. I am now desired to state, for the information of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, that our M. W. Grand Master, H. R. H. the Prince of Wales, approving of and acting on this resolution, has can- celled the appointment of R. W. Bro. Palmer as Representative of the Grand Lodge of England at the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and I am to add that official intimation of the withdrawal of his power is forwarded to that Brother by this mail. I am, R. W. Sir and Brother, Your obedient servant, SHADWELL H. CLERKE, Colonel, Grand Secretary of England. UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND. REPORT OF THE COLONIAL BOARD. Presented at Meeting of 3rd March, 1886. The Colonial Board have to report to Grand Lodge that they have had brought under their notice an Official Copy of a Circular issued by the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, United States of America, dated 12th November, 1885, and sent from that Grand Lodge to the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of England. This edict is addressed to the Lodges in obedience to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and recites a resolution of that Grand Lodge, to the effect that certain Lodges existing in the province of Que- bee, and not owing allegiance to the Grand Lodge of that province, are illegal and irregular, and charging the Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Illinois not to hold Masonic intercourse with such Lodges, or with any Members thereof, and the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Illinois thereon issues his edict accordingly. With reference to this announcement, the Colonial Board have to call attention to the pro- ceedings of Grand Lodge of the 3rd December, 1884, when a correspondence between His Royal Highness the Grand Master and the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Quebec was laid before the Brethren. It appeared by that correspondence that the Grand Lodge of Quebec demanded that the Warrants of the three Lodges holding under this Grand Lodge, which have existed and were work- ing in Montreal long before the formation of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, should be at once with- drawn, because of the subsequent creation of that Grand Lodge, to which demand the Grand Master replied that he was unable to accede so long as these three Lodges elected to remain under their original and lawful adherence to the Grand Lodge of England, and the Grand Lodge unanimously approved of the action thus taken by the Most Worshipful Grand Master. •in Proceedings qftht [ Oct. 5th } Since the Grand Secretary communicated the reply of the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge of Quebec no official communication on the subject has been received from that body, but in the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Illinois for the year 1885 an announcement appears in the Re- port of the Committee on Masonic Correspondence that the Grand Master of (Juebec had issued his edict " severing fraternal relations " with the " three recusant Lodges holding authority from the Grand Lodge of F.ngland," and stating that the claim to have these Lodges recognized as legally existing " does not find any justification in law or common sense," and after quoting the edict of non-intercourse by the Grand Lodge of Quebec, it reports that the Committee had requested the Representative of that Grand Lodge at the Grand Lodge of Illinois to present the subject for con- sideration. This having been done, the Grand Lodge of Illinois, at the instance of the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, requested its Grand Master to issue the edict of the uth November, 1885, whereby all intercourse with the three Lodges in question has been severed. Inasmuch as the sole ground for thus ostracising the three lodges is their continued allegiance to the Grand Lodge of England, the Colonial Board feels bound to submit to Grand Lodge that it would not be consistent that direct relationship should continue to exist between it and the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and that the action of that Body in thus intervening leaves no other course open than to vindicate the undoubted rights and privileges of this Grand Lodge by respectfully recom- mending to the Most Worshipful Grand Master that he should withdraw the Patent issued by him to the brother representing this Grand Lodge at that of Illinois, and should call on the brother who represents that Grand Lodge here to return the Patent appointing him its representative ; and this they submit accordingly. (Signed.) JOHN ANTHONY RUCKER, Freemasons' Hall, London, President, jjt/i February, /SSO. In the same mail that brought the foregoing letter and report of the Colonial Board from the Grand Secretary of the United Grand Lodge of England, I received the following letter from Bro. Brackstone Baker, in which he resigns his appoint- ment as Representative in England of our Grand Lodge, to which appointment he says he never received the patent. Upon examination I am unable to find evidence, in my office, that this brother ever was nominated or appointed as Representative of our Grand Lodge near that Grand Body. I submit his letter for your consideration : 8 Belmont Park, Lbk, Kent, S. E , 31st March, 1886. Dear Sik {s: V. W. BROTHER : When in November, 1S69, the then Grand Secretary of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient, 1-'. & A. M. of England was authorized to submit my name for the honorable appointment of Representative of your Grand Lodge near this Grand Lodge, the de- sires and intentions were to promote fraternal intercourse between the two Grand Lodges, and be- tween the subordinate lodges within their respective jurisdictions. Unity and concord was thus mutually engendered, and this has subsisted unbroken for the last sixteen years. I deeply regret that after the promulgation of your M. W. Grand Master's Edit t ol t.-th No vember, 1885, which stigmatizes three properly constituted lodges at Montreal (Canada), whose members have elected to continue under their English constitution, as being " illegal, irregular and recusant," moreover, interdicting, in your jurisdiction, all Masonic intercourse with the members of them,— I feel that the obedience and allegiance I owe to my own Grand Master and Grand I call upon me respectfully to resign my appointment, and withdraw from the representation in Eng- land of your Grand Lodge. The patent of my appointment I would also have surrendered had I ever received one. Be pleased to lay this letter before tin M. \V. your Grand Master, and accept. Dear Sit and V. \V. Brother, the assurance of my high respect and consideration. BRACKSTONE BAKER, P. G. D., &c, &c. To the V. W. Bro. L. L. MUNN, Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of Illinois, 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 41 All the constituent lodges, but one, in this Grand Jurisdiction made their returns to the Grand Secretary before the first day of October, for the present Masonic year, and all but nine paid their Grand Lodge dues. This is believed to be the most satis- factory showing our Grand Lodge has ever been able to exhibit. From these returns I have prepared a tabular statement, which is submitted, and from which I take the following summaries : Membership of all lodges, including those U. D., in 1885 40,013 Number rej ected 435 Number initiated 2,101 Number passed 1,908 Number raised 1 ,932 Number reinstated 277 Number admitted 694 Number added for error 100 Number suspended 950 Number expelled 26 Number dimitted 1 ,31 7 Number deceased 476 Number deducted for error 46 Total membership June 30, 1S86 40,203 Total membership resident in Illinois 36,236 The following lodges failed to pay their Grand Lodge dues on or before the 15th day of August, as the Grand Lodge By-Laws require, to- wit : Nos. 19,56, 277, 452, 468, 489, 578, 736 and 747. Two of this number have not paid their dues for two years, to-wit: Nos. 56 and 489. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. The following changes have been made in the Representatives of our Grand Lodge near other Grand Bodies : V. W. William F. Black, Provincial Grand Treasurer, was commissioned as Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near the Grand Lodge of Ireland, vice V. W. Francis Quinn, deceased. R. W. James Whitehead, of Warrinton, was commissioned as Representative of our Grand Lodge near the Grand Lodge of Georgia, vice R. W. Bro. Samuel Law- rence. M. W. Hamilton Wallis was commissioned as Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, vice R. W. Brother Marshal B. Smith. W. Bro. W. S. Phares, of Columbus, was commissioned as Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near the Grand Lodge of Ohio, vice W. Brother David Dunbar. [2 Proceedings of tfu '[Oct. 5th } CHARTERS SURRENDERED \\'l> ARRESTED. The charter of Trinity Lodge, Xo. 561, located at Monmouth, in Warren county, was surrendered to R. W. Bro. James Peterson, D. D. G. M. of the Thir- teenth District, and the charter and books were forwarded to me on the 31st of March. The charter of Belleflower Lodge, Xo. 760, located at Belleflower, in McLean county, was surrendered to R. W. Bro. Owen Scott, D. D. G. M. of the Fifteenth District, who forwarded the charter, books and property to the Grand Secretary in August. The charter of Allin Lodge, Xo. 605, located at Stanford, in McLean county, was arrested on the 4th of August, 1885, and their case was presented to the Grand Lodge one year ago, and referred back to the Grand Master with power to act, and the effects of the lodge were turned over to R. W. Bro. Owen Scott, D. D. G. M. of the Fifteenth District, and by him forwarded to your Grand Secretary on the 4th of August. LODGES CONSOLIDATED. On the 25th day of January the M. \V. Grand Master authorized the consolida- tion of Malta Lodge, Xo. 320, located at Malta, in DeKalb county, with Dement Lodge, Xo. 515, located at Creston, in Ogle county, and a charter was issued to them as Creston Lodge, Xo. 320, located at Creston, in Ogle county. I now have the honor of presenting to the Grand Lodge an itemized account of all moneys received by me as Grand Secretary for the past year, together with the cash-book and ledger, and would respectfully ask their reference to the Committee on Finance. All of which is fraternally submitted. Grand BeoretarT' 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 43 GRAND SECRETARY'S ACCOUNT. Loyal L. Munn, Grand Secretary, in account with The M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, F. & A. Masons, Dr. TO LODGE DUES FOR THE YEAR 1 886. Bodley Equality Harmony Springfield .. Friendship... Macon Rushville St. Johns Warren Peoria Temperance . Macomb Hancock Cass St. Clair Franklin Hiram Piasa Pekin Mt. Vernon. . Oriental Barry Charleston.... Kavanaugh... Monmouth.... Olive Branch Hermon Occidental Mt. Joliet.... Bloomington. Hardin Griggsville.... Temple Caledonia Unity Cambridge.... Carrollton .... Mt. Moriah.. Benevolent ... Jackson Washington . Trio Fraternal New Boston. Belvidere Lacon St. Marks.... Benton Euclid Kno.wille .... Acacia Naples Eureka Social Central Chester Rockton Roscoe Mt. Nebo I ■$65 25 2 18 00 3 69 00 4 95 25 7 71 25 8 123 00 9 61 50 n 42 00 M 35 75 IS 145 5° 16 46 50 17 93 00 20 38 25 2.3 47 25 24 49 50 2S 30 75 26 19 50 27 67 50 20 27 00 31 59 25 33 176 25 34 72 75 3S 53 25 36 31 50 37 57 75 3« 145 5° 39 54 °° 40 95 25 42 103 50 43 99 00 44 59 25 45 37 5° 46 i 2 5 25 47 18 75 48 25 5o 49 4i 25 So 70 50 Si 58 50 52 28 50 53 75 00 55 49 5o S7 H3 25 58 66 75 59 ■ 44 25 60 So 25 61 50 25 63 52 50 04 44 25 6S 37 50 66 46 50 67 57 75 68 17 25 69 38 25 70 21 75 7 1 29 25 72 39 75 74 33 75 7S 33 00 76 56 25 Prairie Waukegan Scott Whitehall Vitruvius DeWitt Mitchell Kaskaskia Mt. Pulaski Havana Fellowship Jerusalem Temple Metropolis Stewart Toulon Perry Samuel H. Davis Excelsior 97 Taylor Edwards ville Astoria Rockford Magnolia Lewis to wn Winchester Lancaster Versailles . Trenton Lebanon Jonesboro Bureau Robert Burns Marcelline Rising Sun Vermont Elgin Wa verly Henry Mound Oquawka Cedar Greenup Empire Antioch Raleigh Greenfield Marion Golconda Mackinaw Marshall Sycamore Lima Hutson ville Polk Marengo Geneva Olney Garden City 141 Ames 142 99 loo 102 103 104 ros 106 108 109 no III 112 "3 114 115 116 117 118 119 122 I2 3 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 [35 136 137 138 139 1411 $104 25 89 25 32 25 73 5o 34 50 101 25 29 25 30 75 49 5o 67 50 47 25 113 25 58 50 36 75 35 25 44 25 19 5o 81 00 3i So 69 00 50 25 169 50 27 00 32 25 5i 75 21 00 38 25 35 25 32 25 32 25 84 75 48 00 25 5o 19 5o 57 00 77 25 40 50 34 50 65 25 31 So 70 50 20 25 57 75 31 5o 14 25 48 75 48 75 34 50 34 5o 53 25 87 75 25 50 16 50 43 5° 59 25 34 50 62 25 199 5o 33 00 44 Proceedings of the [Oct. 6th, LODGE DUES FOR THE VKAR 1 886 — Continued. Richmond DeKalb A. W. Rawson ... Lee Centre Clayton Bloomfield Effingham Vienna Bunker Hill Fidelity Clay Russell Alpha Delavan Urbana McHenry Kewanee Waubansia Virden Hope Westfield Edward Dobbins Atlanta Star in the East... Milford Nunda Evergreen Girard Wayne Cherry Valley.... Lena Matteson Mendota Staunton Illinois Central.. Wabash Moweaqua Germania Meridian Abingdon Mystic Tie Cyrus Fulton City 1 lundee Farmington Herrick Freedom La] [arpe Louisville King Solomon's ( hrandview Homer Shcba Centralis Lavely Flora Corinthian Fairfield Tamaroa Wilmington Win. I'.. Warren Lincoln Cleveland Shipman [pava < rillespie . 9 2 •>', 94 95 9 8 99 200 201 203 J04 JOS 206 207 208 21 M 210 21 I 212 7' 25 34 50 24 00 57 75 41 25 39 00 50 25 33 00 10 00 x °5 75 50 25 82 50 2 5 5° 66 00 107 25 42 75 43 5° 22 50 30 00 24 00 96 75 34 5° 34 5° 86 25 48 75 2 5 5° 33 75 4.-; (). 1 102 75 61 50 33 75 74 25 3' 5° 22 50 M5 50 40 50 44 25 36 75 40 50 45 00 35 25 44 25 '5 75 35 25 1. .. ,. ' -'7 75 So 15 26 25 45 75 30 75 90 75 24 00 41 25 39 75 53 2 5 31 5° 67 50 1 17 00 53 25 267 75 21 00 44 25 -4 75 Newton 216 i?47 25 Mason 217 39 75 New Salem 218 3675 Oakland.... 219 42 75 Leroy 221 45 75 Geo. Washington 222 22 50 Keeney 223 15 75 Pana., 226 5100 Columbus 227 1875 Lovington 228 39 75 Manchester 229 17 2 5 New Haven........ 230 2400 Wyanet.... 231 2925 Farmers.... 232 22 50 Blandinsville... 233 61 50 DuQuoin.. 234 42 75 Dallas City 235 44 2 5 Charter Oak.... 236 8475 Cairo...... 237 75 °° Black Hawk.... 238 43 5° Mt. Carmel 239 4875 Western Star...... 240 84 00 Shekinah 241 60 75 Galva 243 5625 Horicon 244 56 25 Greenville 245 33 75 El Paso.... 246 5i75 Rob Morris 247 2700 Golden Gate.... 248 39 75 Hibbard.... 249 34 5° Robinson.. 250 21 00 Heyworth 251 51 00 Aledo 252 43 5° Avon Harmony 253 2550 Aurora 254 '01 25 Donnelson 255 2850 Warsaw... 257 22 50 Mattoon.... 260 91 5° Amon 261 367s Channahon 262 33 °° Illinois 263 5625 Franklin Grove 264 3 6 75 Vermilion 21 33 75 Kingston 266 3600 La Prairie 267 2925 Paris 268 in 7^ Wheaton 269 2325 Levi Lusk 270 2400 Blaney -'71 10275 Carmi 272 5250 Miners 273 51 75 Byron 274 39 00 Milton 275 5325 Accordia 277 54 75 [o Daviess 278 75 °° Neoga 279 \2 00 Kansas 280 34 5° Brooklyn 282 3225 Meteor 283 6975 Catlin 285 3750 Plymouth 286 2475 I >e Soto.... 287 27 75 288 27 75 Wataga 291 14-5 Chenoa 292 39 75 Prophetstown..... 293 51 75 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 45 lodge dues for the year 1886 — Continued. Pontiac Dills.. Quincy Benjamin.. Waconda.. Mechanicsburg Hanover.. Hinckley Durand.... Raven Onarga W. C. Hobbs T. J. Pickett Asblar Harvard Dearborn Kilwinning Ionic York Palatine Erwin Abraham Jonas J. L. Anderson Doric Creston Dunlap Windsor Orient Harrisburg Industry Altona Mt. Erie Tuscola Tyrian Sumner Schiller New Columbia Oneida Saline Kedron Full Moon Summerfield Wenona Milledgeville N. D. Morse Sidney Russell ville Sublette Fai rvie w Tarbolton Groveland Kinderhook Ark and Anchor Marine Hermitage Orion Blackberry Prince ville Douglas Noble Horeb Tonica Bement I 365 Areola 366 Oxford 367 Jeffersor. • 368 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 3°3 3°5 306 3°7 308 3°9 310 311 312 3i3 3i4 315 316 318 3'9 320 321 322 3 2 3 3 2 5 3 2 7 33° 33i 33 2 333 334 335 336 337 339 34o 34i 34 2 344 345 346 347 348 349 35° 35i 35 2 353 354 355 35° 358 359 360 361 362 363 164 $51 00 18 00 60 75 38 25 20 2 5 15 DO IO 50 18 75 33 75 35 25 32 ^5 34 5° 03 75 '74 75 70 5° 150 00 202 5° 90 00 20 2 S 40 SO 26 25 10 50 49 50 84 00 33 75 Sb 2 5 58 5° 22 5° 5i 00 34 5° 3° 75 20 2 S 63 00 75 00 61 50 69 00 35 2 5 4 1 2 5 21 OO 21 75 36 00 16 5° 33 75 18 75 17 2 5 21 75 18 75 21 00 39 00 59 2 5 24 75 3 2 2 5 47 2 5 31 So 46 50 21 00 3^ 2 5 18 75 3' 50 35 25 39 75 3* 50 5; 00 4' 75 31 50 2; 25 Newman 1 369 Livingston 371 Chambersburg 373 Shabbona I 374 Archimedes ! 377 378 379 380 381 382 383 384 385 386 387 Aroma, Payson Liberty M. R. Thompson, Gill LaMoille.. Waltham Mississippi Bridgeport Youngstown El Dara Kankakee 389 Ashmore.. 390 Tolono 39 1 Oconee 392 Blair 393 Jerseyville 394 Muddy Point 396 Shiloh 397 Kinmunay , 398 Buda 399 Pacific 4°° Odell.. 4 QI Kishwaukee 4 02 Mason City 4°3 Batavia 4°4 Ramsey 4°5 Bethalto... 4°6 Stratton 408 Thos. J.Turner 4°9 Mithra 4 J ° Hesperia 4 11 Bollen 41 2 Evening Star.. 414 Lawn Ridge 4 J 5 Paxton 4 l6 Marseilles 4 X 7 Freeburg.. 4 J 8 Reynoldsburg 4*9 Oregon 4 2 ° Washburn 4 21 Landmark 4 22 Lanark 4 2 3 Exeter 4 2 4 Scottville.. I 4 2 6 Red Bud.. Sunbeam ...... Chebanse... . . . Kendrick Summit Murray ville.... Anna wan.. .... Makanda Philo.. Chicago Luce Camargo ...... Sparland ...... Casey Hampshire Cave-in-Rock. 427 428 429 430 43i 43 2 433 434 436 437 439 440 441 442 443 444 #55 5° 38 25 25 50 19 50 36 00 20 25 38 25 26 25 57 °° 2 3 2 5 27 00 32 25 29 25 29 2 5 2 5 5o 23 25 88 50 24 00 26 25 17 25 141 75 51 75 38 2 5 13 5o 34 50 36 00 39 °° 2 4 75 3° 75 53 2 5 54 °° 2 4 75 19 5o 44 2 5 93 75 87 75 246 00 22 50 26 25 3° 75 38 25 42 75 3° 75 29 25 39 °° 9 00 I7 1 75 4 2 75 24 75 3° 75 24 75 33 00 40 50 21 00 19 50 27 75 20 25 44 2 5 58 50 169 50 57 °° 28 50 19 50 27 75 3 1 5o 23 25 If, Proceedings of the [Oct. 5ih LODGE i'i ES FOR THE YEAR 1S86 — Continued. ( Ihesterfield ... , , Watseka... S. 1 ). Monroe. . . Yates City Mention.... Loami Bromwell.. New Hartford . . Maroa Irving Nokomis Moscow Blazing Star Butler Jeffersonville Plainview Tremont Palmyra... Denver Huntsville Cobden.. South Macon.. . . Cheney's Grove . McLean.... Rantoul Kendall Amity Gordon Columbia Walshville Manito Rutland Pleiades Wyoming Logan Momence.. Lexington Edgewood Xenia Uowen Andrew Jackson. Clay City Shannon... Martin Libertyville Tower Hill . Bath Stone Fort Tennessee Alma.. Murphysboro St. Paul.... Stark.. Woodhull.. Odin.. East St. I rouis Meridian Sun. . . . O. II Miner....... I I'.IIir... Parkersburg .... . , I D. M I\ Clintonville Wade-Barney. . . . Bradford.. Andalusia Litchfield 445 $35 25 446 57 75 447 18 75 448 32 25 449 33 75 45o 18 75 45i 41 25 453 3° 75 454 68 25 455 30 00 456 27 75 457 24 75 458 27 75 459 11 25 460 29 25 461 21 00 462 15 00 463 32 25 464 17 25 465 40 50 466 32 25 467 39 00 468 3 1 50 469 28 50 470 26 25 47i 28 50 472 47 «5 473 10 50 474 44 25 475 19 50 476 15 75 477 12 00 478 '56 75 479 45 75 480 51 00 481 29 25 482 33 00 484 25 5° 48s 3° 75 486 20 25 487 25 5° 488 32 25 490 20 25 491 29 25 492 40 50 493 15 00 494 19 5o 495 4] 25 496 33 75 497 36 00 498 48 75 45 75 5°t 23 25 502 3 1 5° 503 2! OO 504 57 00 5°5 27 75 506 57 °° 508 197 25 5°9 21 00 5io .7 25 511 20 25 512 73 5° 5i4 27 75 516 1 ■ 5'7 42 00 Abraham Lincoln.... Roseville. Anna.. Illiopolis... Monitor.... Chatham Evans Delia.. Covenant Rossville Minooka Adams Maquon Ashton Seneca Altamont.. Cuba.. Sherman Plainfield J. R. Gorin Lockport. Chats worth Harlem Sigel.. Towanda.. Cordova.... Virginia Klkhart Valley... Apple River Sharon Darwin Long Point Plum River Humboldt Dawson Lessing Leland Thomson Madison Villa Ridge Hamilton.. Winslow... Pleasant Hill Albany Frankfort.. Time Jacksonville Bardolph.... ( lardner.... Pent... Capron O'Fallon 57" Viola 577 Elbridgc... 570 Hazel Dell 580 I >ongola.... 581 Shirley 582 Highland 5S3 Vesper 584 Fisher 585 Princeton s^7 Troy 588 Klwood sS.i Fairmount 590 Gilman 591 518 519 520 521 522 S23 524 525 526 527 528 529 53° 53' 532 533 534 S3S 536 537 538 539 54° 54i 542 543 544 545 547 548 55° 55i 552 554 555 556 557 558 559 560 562 563 564 565 566 567 569 57° 572 573 574 ?33 75 24 00 26 25 27 00 90 00 26 25 121 50 15 00 334 5° 42 75 22 50 26 25 31 50 23 25 21 75 18 00 29 25 3' 5° 39 75 49 5° 60 00 28 50 100 50 20 25 27 00 23 25 29 25 20 25 35 25 37 50 33 °° 9 75 14 25 47 25 34 50 44 25 59 25 11 25 35 25 18 00 20 25 20 25 26 25 31 5° 36 00 40 50 22 50 72 75 27 00 36 75 18 75 48 75 29 25 26 25 30 00 27 75 21 75 27 00 28 50 98 2 S ■ 58 SO 27 OO 44 7s 17 -!S 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 47 LODGE DUES FOR THE YEAR 1886 — Continued. Fieldon 592 Miles Hart 595 National.. 596 Lostant 597 Cerro Gordo... 600 Laclede 601 Watson 602 Clark ' 603 Hebron 604 Streator 607 Piper 608 Sheldon 609 Union Park.... 610 Lincoln Park.. 611 Rock River 612 Patoka 613 Forrest 614 Wadley.... 616 Milan 617 Basco ' 618 619 620 621 622 623 627 630 631 632 633 634 635 636 639 Berwick New Hope Venice Hopedale Locust Union Tuscan Norton Ridge Farm.... E. F. W. Ellis Buckley Rochester Peotone Keystone Comet Apollo 642 D. C. Cregier. 643 Oblong City.... 644 San Jose 645 Somonauk 646 Blueville.... 647 Camden Hinsdale 649 Irvington.. 650 Centre Star 651 Polar Star 652 Greenview 653 Yorktown 655 Mozart 656 Lafayette.. 657 Rock Island.... ' 658 Lambert 659 Grand Chain. Bethesda South Park Phoenix Mayo Greenland Crawford Erie Burnt Prairie.. Herder Fillmore , Eddyville Normal Waldeck 660 661 662 663 664 665 666 667 668 669 670 672 673 674 £i5 75 22 50 89 2 S 17 25 45 00 27 75 25 5° 3° 75 21 75 81 00 27 75 30 75 93 75 MS 5° 94 5° 38 25 49 5° 18 75 3° 75 23 25 17 25 23 25 16 50 29 25 19 5° 22 50 27 00 35 25 27 75 81 75 2 7 75 21 00 30 00 7 2 75 38 25 106 50 119 25 15 00 15 00 3° 75 28 50 40 50 24 75 9 75 33 75 M 25 37 5° 18 00 36 00 14 25 50 25 52 25 29 25 18 00 29 25 21 00 12 75 22 50 9 75 33 00 15 00 72 00 46 50 32 00 28 50 64 50 Pawnee A. O. Fay Enfield Sheffield Illinois City Clement Morrison ville Blue Mound Burnside Galatia Rio Garfield Orangeville Clifton Englewood Iola Raymond Herrin's Prairie. Centre Shiloh Hill Belle Rive Richard Cole Hutton Pleasant Plains... Temple Hill Alexandria Braidwood Ewing Joppa Circle Lemont Star Farmer City Providence Collinsville Johnsonville Newtown Elvaston Calumet Arcana May Chapel Hill Rome Walnut Omaha Chandlerville Rankin Golden Rule Raritan Waterman Lake Creek Eldorado Harbor Carman Gibson Morning Star Sheridan Arrowsmith Sullivan Centre... Lakeside Grant Park New Holland Dan vers Scott Land Goode Winnebago NO. DUES. 675 JS28 50 676 33 75 677 36 75 678 16 50 679 ■5 75 680 25 50 68l 3° 75 682 42 75 683 25 5° 684 21 75 68 S 34 SO 686 207 75 687 25 5° 688 19 SO 690 125 25 691 16 50 692 41 25 693 41 25 694 13 5° 695 26 25 696 33 °° 697 134 25 698 39 75 700 23 25 701 29 25 702 32 25 704 83 25 705 19 50 706 iS 75 707 61 50 708 19 5° 709 62 25 710 42 75 711 47 25 712 38 25 713 41 25 714 42 00 715 716 49 SO 717 96 75 71S 18 75 719 42 00 721 23 25 722 35 25 7^3 23 25 724 24 00 725 M 25 726 S9 25 727 27 00 72S 3' 50 729 21 00 730 30 00 73i 84 00 732 30 00 733 49 50 734 120 00 735 27 75 737 M 25 738 19 50 739 89-25 740 !5 75 74i 16 50 742 '9 5'3 743 18 75 744 29 25 745 24 75 is Proceedings qfth [Oct 5th, lodge dues for the year 1886 — Continued. Weldon Alta Akin Lyndon Lounsbury Allendale Cornell Ogden Pre-emption.. Hardinsville.. Verona Mystic Star... Hickory Hill Sibley 746 748 749 750 75i 752 753 754 755 756 757 758 759 761 #34 5° 20 25 28 50 r8 00 21 75 21 75 9 00 29 25 23 25 9 75 32 25 73 50 25 50 27 00 Van Meter 762 Crete 763 Sullivan 764 Palace 765 Littleton 766 Triluminar 767 Mizpah. St. Elmo La ('.range Bay City New Burnside. Mansfield Lake View Omega 768 769 770 771 772 773 774 775 5'8 75 26 25 33 °° 68 25 23 25 24 75 87 75 21 00 21 00 16 50 3' 5° 19 50 44 25 25 5o LODGE DUES FOR THE YEAR 1 885. Temperance 16 St. Clair 24 Tolono 93 Raleigh 128 Freedom 194 Lavely 203 Tamaroa 207 Mahomet... Dallas City 235 Levi Lusk 270 Chenoa ' 292 £40 00 75 75 75 32 25 29 25 75 75 42 75 1 50 39 °° Hinckley 301 Ashlar 308 Hermitage 356 Orion 358 Chambersburg 373 Aroma 378 Paxton 4 11 " 1 Madison 560 Gardner 573 Hopedale 622 Weldon ' 746 $7 50 183 75 75 21 75 26 25 20 25 1 50 22 50 1 5o 27 75 1 50 DUES OF 1884. Home 5"S I 75 LODGES U. 1). Wright's Grove *'° 5° Ravenswood '8 °° Grand Crossing ' Center '7 25 DISPENSATION FEES. New County Line Church, U. D t Ravenswood, U. D IO ° °° Wright's Grove, U. D 1QO °° Siloam, U. I) ,0 ° °° Grand Crossing, U. D lo ° °° 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 49 RECAPITULATION. Lues collected for 1SS4 v 75 Dues collected for 1885 511 50 Dues collected for 1886 29,774 9° Dues collected from Lodges U. D 57 75 Dispensations from Lodges U. D 500 00 Special Dispensations by Grand Master 124 00 Grand Lodge By-Laws sold 7 25 Book of Ceremonials sold 13 00 130,989 15 CHARITY FUND. Dues Defunct Lodges ;JS 56 45 Supplies from Defunct Lodges sold 20 00 Certitying Diplomas 96 00 172 45 Total s ; 1,161 60 M. \V. Bro. D. C. Cregier, in presenting the report of the Committee on Ma- sonic Correspondence, said : M. W. Grand Master : I have been requested by an absent brother to sub- mit to this Grand Body his Report on Masonic Correspondence. The circumstances that deprives M. W. Theodore T. Gurney, the author of this report, of the privilege of presenting the result of his labors in person, are so sad, that I am sure they will cause a deep feeling of regret on the part of every representative present. The absence of our M. W. Brother from the sessions of the Grand Lodge for the first time in many years, is caused as you are aware, by his being stricken down with paralysis; the severity of the attack will, I fear, at least terminate his active labors in Freemasonry, with which he has been so closely and zealously identified for nearly forty years. Should our fears be realized the Grand Lodge of Illinois will lose from her councils one of her brightest lights, a brother who has occupied her East for two years with marked ability, one who has contributed as much to the literature of Illinois Masonry as any man in the State ; a brother who has proved himself at all times and under all circumstances to be a Christian gentleman, a high minded, honorable citizen, a public officer of fearless and exalted integrity, and a devoted and distinguished Freemason. These elements of character have moulded Brother Gurney's long and useful life, and have governed him in all his relations with his fellow-man» And now M. W. Grand Master, as we assemble here on this beautiful autumn day, with a cloudless sky, permitting the rays of the sun at this hour of high twelve to make our surroundings cheerful and pleasant, and give a warmth and force to our fraternal affection for all who are in affliction, let us not forget our good Brother Gurney, who lies on his couch at home, his vision circumscribed by the limits of the chamber of sickness. But not so with his thoughts, M. W. Sir; they doubtless revert to this Grand Lodge and to those who compose it, and his prayers, I am sure, go forth to the Supreme Ruler of the universe for His blessing on our labors ami on n 50 Proceedings ofth [Oct. 5th, the institution of Freemasonry everywhere. Let us indulge the hope that Brother Gurney may soon be restored to health and usefulness. M. W. Grand Master accept the report of M. W. Brother Gurney, which is probably the last he will ever submit to this Grand Lodge, which I move be printed with the proceedings. Which motion was adopted by a rising vote. M. W. Bro. James A. Hawley moved that the usual appropriation be made to the Committee on Masonic Correspondence, which was referred to the Committee on Finance. M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins moved that a special committee of three be ap- pointed to formulate and engross resolutions of respect and sympathy for M. W. Bro. Theodore T. Gurney, which motion prevailed. The M. W. Grand Master named M. W. Bros. Joseph Robbins, D. C. Cregier and Daniel M. Browning as said committee. INVITATION TO VISIT BOARD OF TRADE. R. W. Bro. Wiley M. Egan, at the request of the Secretary of the Board of Trade, Mr. George F. Stone, extended a cordial invitation to the officers and repre- sentatives of the Grand Lodge to visit the sessions of the Board of Trade at any time during its sessions. On motion of the Grand Secretary, it was Resolved, That the invitation be accepted, with thanks. CALLED OFF. At I P. M. the Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment, until 2:30 o'clock p. M. FIRST DAY— Afternoon Session. Tuesday, October 5th, A. 1.. 58S6,\ 2:50 o'clock P. M. J The Grand Lodge was called to labor by the M. W. Grand Master. Grand Officers and Representatives as in the morning. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 51 ELECTION— Made Special Order. M. W. Bro. Daniel M. Browning moved that the election of Grand Officers be made the special order for 10 o'clock to-morrow (Wednesday) morning, which was adopted. REPORT— Committee on Grand Master's Address. R. W. Bro. James I. McClintock presented the following report from the Com- mittee on Grand Master's Address, which, on motion, was received and adopted and the recommendations concurred in : To the M. W. Grand Lodge F. &° A. Masons of Illinois : Your Committee on the Grand Master's Address would respectfully report that they have carefully examined said address, and recommend reference as follows : To the Committee on Obituaries, so much of said address as relates to our breth- ren who have passed away during the year. To the Committee on Lodges Under Dispensation, so much of said address as relates to dispensations to form new lodges. To the Committee on Petitions, that part of said address which refers to peti- tions for new lodges at Potomac, Colchester, Norwood Park and Chicago. To the Committee on Finance, the recommendation to provide for expenses of visitations of lodges by District Deputies. To the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence, so much of said address as relates to voluntary dimission, to objections to visitors, to trial of sojourning brethren, to an- nual returns of lodges under dispensation, to lodge jurisdiction in townships under the same municipal government, to bound volumes of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, to the invasion of the jurisdiction of Germania Lodge, No. 182, and Havana Lodge, No. 88, to physical qualifications of candidates, and also decisions Nos. 1 to 4 inclusive, and Nos. 6 and 7. To the Board of Grand Examiners, decision No. 5. Your committee would recommend that the cases of Elizabeth Lodge, No. 276, and the case of John L. Forster, charged with deceiving York Lodge, No. 313, be referred to the Grand Master with power to take such action in the premises as the nature of the case may demand. We further recommend that the action of the Grand Master in issuing his edict forbidding Masonic intercourse with members of certain lodges in the Province of Quebec; in the case of a proposed new lodge at Wheeler; in constituting lodges ; in extending relief to our brethren at Galveston and Charleston ; in appointing Grand Representatives, Grand Examiners and Deputy Grand Lecturers; in authorizing the 52 Proceedings of flu [Oct. 5th, removal of certain lodges ; in restoring Bros. Samuel Hamilton, John T. Alexander and Robert Steel ; in consolidating Malta and Dement Lodges ; in deposing the Worshipful Master of Rock Island Lodge, No. 658, and in staying the advancement of a candidate in said lodge; in arresting the charters of Bethesda Lodge, No. 661, of Allin Lodge, No. 605, and Sheffield Lodge, No. 678 ; and in the case of National Lodge, No. 596, and his action in other matters not specifically referred, be approved and confirmed. Your committee note with regret the serious illness of our distinguished brother, T. T. Gurney, and earnestly join with the Grand Master in the hope that he may be speedily restored to health and usefulness. Your committee deplore the fact that such immoral practices should exist any- where among Masons as are mentioned by the Grand Master, and while we hope that the evil is not widespread, we would say that lodges and individual brethren can not be too careful in maintaining the dignity and purity of Masonic character, and we commend his remarks on this subject to the thoughtful consideration of the mem- bers of this Grand Lodge and of the Craft at large. Your committee are pleased to see that the Schools of Instruction have been continued, and that they have produced the same valuable results as in former years. In conclusion, your committee desire to congratulate the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge on the thorough and satisfactory manner in which the duties of the office of Grand Master have been discharged. The labors and responsibilities of the office are a severe tax upon the time and strength of the Grand Master, but a careful perusal of the report will convince all that the responsibilities have been wisely and firmly met, and the duties faithfully performed during the past year. All of which is fraternally submitted. J. I. McCLINTOCK, THEODORE STEYER, A. W. BLAKESLEY, Committee. REPORT— Committee on Chartered Lodges. W. Bro. George W. Hill presented the following report for the Committee on Chartered Lodges, which was adopted : To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. cV A. Masons: Your Committee on Chartered Lodges would fraternally report : That we have carefully examined and considered the returns made by all con- stituent lodges submitted to us 1 >y Grand Secretary, R. \V. Bro. L. L. Munn. for the fiscal year 18S6, and submit, together with a tabulated statement, the following sum- mary of facts therein contained : 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 53 INCREASE. Raised 1 ,932 Reinstated 277 Admitted 694 Added for error 1 00 Total 3.003 DECREASE. Suspended 950 Expelled 26 Dimitted 1,317 Died 476 Deduct for error 44 Total 2,813 Net increase 190 Membership 1 886 40,203 1885 40,013 Increase 190 Resident membership 36,276 Non-resident membership 3,927 Total membership 40, 203 Rejections 435 Initiations 2, 1 24 Passed 1 ,933 Amount of dues reported paid $29,774 9° All constituent lodges, save No. 578, have made their annual report to Grand Secretary; and all, save Nos. 19, 56, 220, 276, 452, 488, 578, 736 and 747, have made payment of Grand Lodge dues. We note with pleasure that all constituent lodges but one have reported, and that all but nine have paid Grand Lodge dues; also that the reports, in the main, are correctly prepared, showing care and zeal on the part of officers and the Craft. We view, with alarm, the increase of dimitted brothers, as shown from the re- turns of the current year, and we beg to refer the Grand Lodge, for its approval, to the apt and appropriate remarks by our M. W. Grand Master in his annual report. •Respectfully submitted, GEO. W. HILL, S. S. CHANCE, JOHN R. HODSON, T. M. CROSSMAN, HENRY C. CLEAVELAND, Committee. 5 1 Proceedings of flu [Oct. <;il,, AMENDMENTS TO BY-LAWS. M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins moved that the proposed amendments to the Grand Lodge By-Laws be taken up, which was carried. W. Bro. John B. Fithian moved that the first proposed amendment to the Grand Lodge By-Laws lie adopted, as follows : No. I. Amend Section I, Article 2, Part Third of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by adding the following : " The sale of intoxicating liquors to be used as a beverage shall be considered an act tending to impair the good name of Masonry within the meaning of this section." JNO. B. FITIIIAN. Which amendment was lost. CALLED OFF. At 4:35 P. M. the Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment, until 9 o'clock a. M.j Wednesday, October 6th. SECOND DAY— Morning Session. Wednesday, October 6th, A. L. 58S6, 1 9 o'clock A. M. I The Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M. W. Grand Master, Grand Officers and Representatives as on the preceding day. ILLINOIS MASONIC ORPHANS', HOME. M. YV. Grand Master Darrah said : I wish to make a statement. Some time since I received a very kind invitation from the Trustees and Directors of the Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home, extending an invitation to dedicate the building which has been purchased for that purpose. The invitation was accepted by your Grand Master. This, of course, included not only the officers of the Grand Lodge but all of its representatives, ami all of the brethren in attendance at this Grand Lodge. The time fixed fortius dedication is on Thursday afternoon ; the hour fixed to meet lure at the Grand Lodge is 2:30 P. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 55 M. sharp, at which time we will try to be here brethren, and I trust that every brother who can possibly do so will be here at that time, to go with the Grand Lodge to see this beautiful home and know what is being done for the helpless orphans in our midst, as well as to enjoy and participate in the ceremonies of that occasion. R. W. Bro. John C. Smith — Perhaps I may be permitted to say a word on this subject ? M. W. Grand Master — You have permission, surely. R. W. Bro. Smith — The time fixed for the assembling of the Grand Lodge is 2 o'clock. A definite hour had to be appointed, because the Commanderies of Knights Templar, the several Chapters of this city, and the Grand Lodge will be there as or- ganizations — largely represented, at least. It is expected that a very large body of Masons will be present on that occasion. The column will form on Monroe street, the right resting on State. The Grand Lodge will assemble here in this hall, and take its position in the rear of the column. I trust that every member of the Grand Lodge will be present; and please bear in mind, 2 o'clock is the hour for assem- bling, 2:30 for the column to move, and I give you my word that it will move at that time if there are but a dozen present. M. W. BRO. IRA A. W. BUCK, P. G. M. R. W. Bro. L. L. Munn said : Since my arrival in this city for the purpose of attending this Grand Communication, I received a note from Past Grand Master Ira A. W. Buck, stating that he was ill and requesting me to call upon him. I called upon him, and found him quite poorly. He said that on Saturday when he saw in the papers a notice that this Grand Lodge was to assemble on Tuesday of this week, he felt very sad to think that his condition was such that it would be impossible for him to be present with you. He said that during the past summer he had been looking forward to this meeting anticipating the pleasure of meeting and greeting you once more; and he desired me to say to you that he wished to extend to you a hearty greeting. Bro. Buck was Grand Master of this Grand Lodge during the years 1858, 1859 and i860 — the only man who ever served this Grand Lodge for three successive years. At that time he was strong and vigorous, and no man in the State of Illinois has done more than he to place the Grand Lodge of Illinois in the proud position which it occupies to-day. During those three years of service he received no com- pensation, but cheerfully spent his own money, and devoted his time for the best in- terests of this Grand Lodge. And now, brethren, it seems, under the peculiar cir- cumstances ot his declining years, that this Grand Lodge ought to present him some token of their appreciation of his services and worth, therefore I have prepared a resolution that I will read, and ask its reference to the Committee on Finance : Resolved, That the Committee on Finance be and they are hereby instructed to devise a suitable Past Grand Master's jewel. 56 f'rnanliiif/s of flit \ < )rl . fjth . Resolved, further, That they are hereby instructed to procure such jewel and present it to M. W. Past Grand Master Ira A. W. Buck, on behalf of the M. W. (Jrand Lodge of the State <>f Illinois. PETITIONS— Presented. The Grand Secretary presented a petition from Voungstown Lodge, No. 387 ; also a petition for a lodge at Wheeler, in Jasper county, which, on motion, were re- ferred to the Committee on Petitions. SPECIAL ORDER— Election of Officers. M. W. Bro. Daniel M. Browning, presiding, announced the appointment of the following named brethren as tellers : COUNTING TELLERS. Owen Scott, Frank G. Welton, James Peterson, L. W. Shepherd, Jno. C. White, Jacob Krohn, G. II. B. Tolle and Jno. Kidder. COLLECTING TELLERS. C. F. Tenney, R. S. Mall, W. J. Elwell, J. B. Fithian, W. K. Forsyth, \Y. > >. Butler, J. II. C. Dill, Chas. Truax and J. W. Rose. During the collecting, assorting and counting of the ballots by the tellers, the Grand Lodge proceeded with the following business : W. Bro. H. C. Clarke submitted the following report for the Committee on Cre- dentials, which was, on motion, received and adopted: REPORT— Committee on Credentials. To the M. IV. (hand Lodge of Illinois F. 6° A. Masons: Your Committee on Credentials fraternally report that the following brethren, whose names appear in this report, are present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge. All of which is fraternally submitted. H. C. CLARKE, C. II. PATTON, C. F. TENNEY, Committee. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 57 GRAND OFFICERS. M. W. Alexander T. Darrah Grand Master. R. W. John C. Smith Deputy Grand Master. R. W. John M. Pearson Senior Grand Warden. R. W. Monroe C. Crawford .Junior Grand Warden. R. W. WlLEY M. Egan Grand Treasurer. K. W. Loyal L. Munn Grand Secretary. R. W. Rev. George W. Scawthon Grand Chaplain. R. W. Isaac Clements Grand Orator. W. Leslie A. Munn Deputy Grand Secretary. W. Edward L. Cronkritf. Grand Pursuivant W. Rowley Page Grand Marshal. W. W. H. CURTIN Grand Standard Bearer. W. J. II. C. Dili Grand Sword Bearer. W. Leroy A. Goddard Senior Grand Deacon. W. Thomas S. Mather .Junior Grand Deacon. W. George W. Hamilton Grand Steward. W. A. B. Wicker Grand Steward. W. J. G. Marston Grand Steward. W. Benj. Stei NGARDT Grand Steward. Bro. Robert R. Stevens Grand Tyler. PAST GRAND OFFICERS. M. W. DeWitt C. Cregier Past Grand Master. M. W. James A. Hawlf.y Past Grand Master. M. W. Joseph Robbins Past Grand Master. M. W. Daniel M. Browning Past Grand Master. R. W. James H. Matheny Past Deputy Grand Master. R. W. W. J. A. Delancey Past Deputy Grand Master. R. W. Asa W. Blakesley Past Senior Grand Warden. R. W. H. C. Cleaveland Past Senior Graf id Warden. R. W. Henry E.Hamilton Past Senior Grand Warden. 58 Proceedings of tlu [Oct. 6th, DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. R. W. W. K. FORSYTH First District. R. \Y. ROBERT L. TATHAM Second District. R. W. Francis S. Bklden Third District. R. W. A. W. Adams Fourth District. R. W. Jacob Krohn Fifth District. R. W. E. T. E. Becker Sixth District. R. W. W. L. MlLLIGAN Vinth District. R. \V. W. H. Kister Tenth District. R. W. F. G. WELTON Eleventh District. R. W. Lewis C. Seelev Twelfth District. R. W. James Peterson 'Thirteenth District. R. W. Owen Scott Fifteenth District. R. W. Fayette S. Hatch Sixteenth District. R. W. D. M. Wieder Seventeenth District. R. W. Chas. F. Tenney Eighteenth District. R. W. L. W. Shepherd Nineteenth District. R. W. W. O. Butler Twenty-first District. R. W. I. M. McCoLLESTER Twenty-second District. R. W. Wm. T. Vandeyeer Twenty-third District. R. W. John Von Gunten, Jr Twenty-fourth District. R. W. W. J. A. DELANCEY Twenty-fifth District. R. W. Samuel Rawson Twenty-sixth District. R. W. James Douglas Twenty-seventh District. R. W. E. J. Ingersoll Twenty-eighth District. R. W. W. J. Elwell Twenty-ninth District. R. W. Pleas. T. Chapman Thirtieth District. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 59 REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES. James A. Hawley Alabama. Monroe C. Crawford Arizona. Loyal L. Munn British Columbia. Wiley M. Egan Canada. James A. Hawley Colorado. D. C. Cregier Connecticut. John O'Neill Delaware. D. C. Cregier District of Columbia. W. J. A. DeLancey Georgia. John C. Smith Idaho. D. C. Cregier Indiana. Charles H. Patton Indian Territory. Joseph Robbins Iowa . Wiley M. Egan Ireland. Francis S. Belden K'a nsas. Ch as. H . Brenan Maine. Jacob Krohn Manitoba. D. C. Cregier Michigan. D. C. Cregier Mississippi. John C. Smith Nevada. Henry E. Hamilton New Hampshire. Henry E. Hamilton New Mexico. W. A. Stevens North Carolina. S. S. Chance Ohio. John M. Pearson Pennsylvania. DeWitt C. Cregi er Quebec. James A. Hawley Rhode Island. Charles H. Patton South Carolina. Haswell C. Clarke Tennessee. Edward Cook Texas. Owen Scott Utah . JOHN L. McCullough Vermont. D. M. Browning Virginia. Gil. W. Barnard Wisconsin. 60 I'rorrriliiH/s of tin [Oct. 6th, REPRESENTATIVES OF LODGES. 23 24 25 26 27 29 31 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 5i 52 53 55 57 58 59 60 61 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 7' 7- 74 75 76 77 78 H. K. Newby W. M. A. W. Blakesley* S. W. JoG. Bunker W. M. M. Minter " H. H. Biggs " G. I). Laing " T. W. Pinkerton* " Mark Bogue " F. D.Hardy S. W. L. H.Adams W. M. A. I Harbers " T. X. Pitkin " A. K. Lodge " J. G Strodtman " Peter Jackson " W. R. Hamilton* S. W. George N. Goodell W. M. Ch. Schutt S. W. J. S. Elwell W. M. A. B. Turpin* " H. R. Phinney " O. F. Fagelmark " John H. Mitchell " Wm. K. Steele " Ed. D. Cooke- S. W. D. \V. Greene W. M. Geo. M. Sefton S. W. L. D. ( Kerstreet " 1) 1). Dunkle* W. M. James C. Probst* " Wm. F. Bader " W. L Milligan " S. S. Tyler J. W. J. M. Smith W. M. C. F. Rickey J. W. L.J. Harvey W. M. John Schofield " John Flynn " H. T.Rockwell " John P. Hand .' "' George VV. Davis " A H. Clotfelter " Joseph Schmitt " Milton Barber J W. J. H. Sawyer W. M. M. M. Briggs " Samuel Cole " P. B. Keys J. W. George Lytic W. M. Jerome H. Thomas R. C. Newell '* E. I-:. Thomas* S. \\ F. M. Youngblood* W. M. Samuel Mather " |i)se]ih K. Si ..it S. W. Charles A. Coulter W. M W. C. Carver S. W. Charles K. Smith W. M. Martin Bauman S W Zimri A. Enos* \V. M. I.. A. Dudenbster I. W. I W Winsor W. M fabez Love " Alexandei II II. II " E. M. I'ropst " II. 1.. Hatlcy " ''Proxy. 90 91 92 93 95 96 97 98 99 100 102 J °3 104 105 I (If, 108 no in 112 "3 114 115 116 118 119 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 ■33 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 ' I! 144 MS 146 '47 John L. Nichols* "William A. Winn* Thomas Keats J. W. Coultis John D.Valentine*.... William M.Schuwerk. T. F. Whitaker L. R. Haack J. M. Burkhart C. C Nichols Ike Baer L. W. Bowker Charles Riley J. Knox Hall John E. Morton* Peter Householder J. L. Hughes J. F. Hoover k. I) Evans S. R. D. Palmer* E. S. Bartholomew S i;. Mitchell H. J. Benton Samuel W. Puffer J. M. Bolton John L Peters John Reimann David R.Sanders W. S. Day L. D. Romburger R. C. Humbert 1). A. Van Dyke E. J. Tower John H. Hunter I. D. Henry C.C. Slygh Wm. M. Chamberlain. Jonathan Simpson J. S. R. Scovill Thomas Cox James R. Cooper Alexander Trotter W H. Thomberry W. P. Ennis C. E Jennings A. D. Pierce* A I',. Brinenstol Philip Smith* James A. Michael F. A. Jones* I I 1 onover C. V. Newton* Samuel J. Pake Lester Barber S. B. Oakley A. W. Adams Thomas Tippit Henry McCall John Barton Payne .... ( 1. 11 in, c M . Stiles D. G. Moore lames V. Aldrich S. > I . \ aughan R \S . 1 ason Thomas Nicholson I . B, Ball .W. M. ,1 W. .W. M. .W. M. .s. w. .W. M. s. \v. .\V. M. . I. W. .W. M S. W. ,1. W. \V. M. ,.S. W. \V. M. .S W. \V M. .S. \\*. ,1. W. ,\V. M. 1880.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 01 representatives — Continued. 149 150 151 152 153 iS5 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 179 180 182 183 185 187 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 203 204 205 206 212 213 John S. Hartley W. M. JohnC. White " J. B. Kuykendall ' A. M. Yancey John Charney \V. II. Offitt " George W. Thompson James D. Taylor ' F. E. Eubeling Charles C. Colby C. E. McCullongh J. W. GeorgeS. Norfolk W. M. Lucius Fink S. W. A.T. I'.artlett W. M. Wm. P. Askins \\ Charles Downey Charles H. Martin ' O. Brinkerhoff " B. A. Weber James A McConnell* John H. Palmer O. F. Potter ' F. L. Thompson J. M. Burkholder " t Henry Andrus Orrin J. Wilsey John B. Fithian Jacob Scheidenhelm J. R. Ripley* " R. II. Badger S. W. A. V. Hart W -„ M - A. J. Combs Herman Parney S Ed. Snow L. B. Myers S. W. Clark " Chas. C. Farmer JohnC. Martindale A. W. Wilbern " E. C Hawley S. W. David Hill J W. J. T. Scudder W „ M ' A. B. Bonneville* C. W. Bradshaw " Geo. W. Soule S. W. W R. Whitman W.^M. Samuel E. Brown Geo. A. Gilbert " W. A. Conley Wm. H. Gilbert ' D. B. Robertson C. C. VanMeter " G. W.Smith " Wm. Nicholson* J. W. L. D. Bennett W. M, Cyril L. Willoughby ' Frank Martin ' Henry Lesch JnhnS. Stiles S. W Chas. S.Rankin J. W Robt. Goebel W. M Thomas G. Morris " D. F. Flannery S. » Geo. N. Davis J. W F. R. Kahl W. M I. M. Van Horn *Proxy. 217 218 219 221 222 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 257 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 278 279 280 282 283 Henry Behrans W. M. W. H. Lathrop " H. N Ruffner ' W. R. Hooper John Rutherford John F. McKenzie J. F. Thomas " W. A.Hubbard Warren Hettiger J. W. Bonney* W. S. Shivey " J. H.Wilson » " J. H. Graddy S. W. Thomas Roach* W. M. John R. Witherill " George S. Fuhr Jacob Messmore B. Mendenhall John N. Rose Rudolph Nebsacker W. H. Tyrrell Jacob Zimmerman J. B. A. Collan S. W. T.C. McKinney W. M. O. P. Stoddard " D. A. Baxter Isaac Norman W. R. Shinn S. W. M. Cassell J- W. Jacob McChesney W. M. W. W. Shoop S W. Thos. A. Peas W. ( M. Thomas S Price Geo. Stephenson A. M. Arthur ' F. M. Nance V. H. Snook P. D. Smith ' James F. Crawford P. A. Kemper David Springer S. W. John Martin J. W. John H. Tyler W. M. Albert F. Randall " W. H. Eastman* Geo. D. Black " ( J. Russ Grace Wm. Likes John G. Schwartz Chas. M. Hern S. W. Jacob L. Strickler J. W. Geo. F. Howard 3. W. Geo. W. Brown W M. F P. Knowles J- W. I. ((.Hills* W. M. Wm F. Crouse S. W. Thos. M. Logan „,."„ C. J. Bench W,M. Wm. A. Grove N. D. McEvers J. F. Taylor " W. L. Gale* " S. F. Wilson E. T Wiley " W. C. Hoedren I. 1>. Woodruff. " <;■_• Proceedings of the [Or/. 6th, R.EPRESEN I vitves — Continued. 286 287 288 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 305 306 3°7 312 313 314 316 318 319 320 321 322 323 325 327 33° 33' 332 333 334 335 336 337 339 34o 34' 342 344 345 346 347 348 349 35' 352 A. Jones W. M I . D Olmestcad " J. L. Davis " G. B. Davis S. W Jos. H. Cully J. W A. C. Senska W. M J. H. Merrill '* 1 ». < ). Sweet " H. A. Sturtevant " J. C. Kallun " F. M. Clark " Edwin ]). Smith " James K. P. Little S. W "Dr. C. R. Wells W. M. Miles H. Wilmot " A. B. White " J. A. Lalirant " Peter Patterson *' Doctor F.Ward " Andrew Tomb " W. J. Frische John McRobie " Harry Hammond S. W. J. E. Church J. W. F. M. Wilder W. M. John T. Richards S. W. Geo. M. Gross J. W. Giles Rendell W. M. R. V. Stanley S. W. A. S. Allen* J. W. F. C Hosteller* S. W. Omer T. Shawler W. M. T. P. Kellogg " T. N. Bone " E. B. West " Perry H. Davis J. W. H. C. Robbins W. M. G. H. Kentfield " J. H. Gilpin " N. I. Copleigh " J. S. Ferguson " Win. Kinkade S \V. H. L. Weaver W. M. Samuel Kronmiller " Cornelius Bye " Frank Hudson, J r* " Lewis H. Miner* S. \V. T. M. Stevens W. M. I. A. Wiel* " T. A. Cummins " S. C. Whitcomb " J- J. Fly " (dim W. Augur " 7. Tidball... " N B. Tindall S. W. I arl Dreher* W. M. Benjamin fudd* " T. P. Ruth *' Adam Wenger " W. \. Robinson " N. A. Little " Joel S. Cook " W B. Swogle " C. F. H. Carrithcrs " I'" 1 I' O' Brien " 1:, II Harris* S. \V. ♦Proxy. 353 154 355 156 [58 359 360 36] ;>>.■ (63 364 365 366 367 368 369 37' 373 374 377 378 379 380 381 382 383 384 386 387 39° 39' 392 393 394 39 6 397 398 399 400 401 402 4°3 404 40s 406 409 410 412 414 4'5 416 t'7 418 419 420 421 422 423 I I M D. Geggett W. M L. B. McCarter " Isaac Cox " II. 1!. Smith " Homer Darling S. W. Coit Spalding VY. M. A. M. Wilson* " B. Ritter J. W. H. E. Roberts W. M. A. J. Graham " F. Nickerson " Charles H. McCaffrey S. \V. T. L. Wardenburg W. M A. T. Forgy *' M. V. B. Montgomery " 0. H. Cappock " J. B. Parsons* " James L. Metz " M. V. Allen* " Curt. Heinfelden " H. P. Lowe " Aaron Lodge J. W. John Kidder W. M . S. F. McBride " D. B. Breed " Richard Boston " Daniel Clough " David Anderson " C. M. Piper " B H. Kidder " Mayberry Evans S W. Frank 1). Hatch W. M. J. E. Dudley " W. E. Handy " Philip Diefenthorter " Alfred Latcham " R. S. Beatty " Thomas J. Diehl S. W. A. J. Funkhouser W. M. Fred. Meinhart " Thomas Bagott " A. D. Boad " 1. 11. Stitson '* Charles E. Axt* " J. II. Fillmore " A. Damarin ' R.R.Hunt " I. P. leppeson " II. T.McCrea " J. J. Lamb W." A. Tweedy S. \V. J. E. Pettibone W. M. Charles Canisius " John L. Marvel John Weber ' John B. Phillips " Robert S. Hall " I i.i\ id Samuels Louis G. Joseph " J. II. Hood J. W. 11. I .. Currier !•'.. lltakingham I \. Harvey W. M. I', ti 1 I laggy" I w . R. P. Wales W. M S. II. Punk " 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. representatives — Continued. 426 427 428 429 430 43 1 432 433 434 436 437 439 440 441 442 444 445 447 448 449 45° 451 453 454 455 456 457 458 459 460 461 462 463 464 465 466 467 469 470 47i 47 2 473 474 475 476 477 478 479 480 481 482 484 485 486 487 488 490 491 William Feely* W. M. J. A.Turner S. W. Francis Kemp W. M. C. D. Rounds " L. A. Kinney " Jay Brown George F. Towne* " J. F. Self. " R. \V. Milan S. W. H. E. Ferrell W. M W. Fleming " Joseph B. Schlossman " Henry N. Greenebaum S. W. J. O. Gunn W. M. A. Salisbury '" T. E. Gapin " D. C. Sturdevant " B. L.Adams S. W. C. Ball W. M. C. E. Sholes S. W. D. F. Frayser W. M. E. G Duckels " L. S. Highsmith " Henry Saldwell *' S. H. Bradley " Joseph Jones " George Hutchinson S. W. Henry Poleard W. M. F. M. Smith " A. A. Rhinehart " J. W.Scott " L. Shaddrick " J. W. Ervin "\ W.G. Diddle " George H. Hilliard ■« W. J. Donahue " A. V. Norman " J. W. McCoy " E. McClure " C. H. Phelps " J. F. F. Wallace " S. G. Washburn S. W. P. M. Stubblefield J. W. Charles Damoran W. M. George F. Hoadley " J. P. Esmay* " S. J.Gullick " Albert L. Martin " A. T. Strange " E. S. Starrett " James Ball " Richard C. Nelson " Chas. D.Camp S. W. E. A. Ackerman J. W. T. W. Bloomer W. M. James Gillispie " Win, Astle " John L. Langstaff " Joseph Danks " H. R. Burton |. W. A. H. Porter W. M. Frank S Nash " T. M. Mitchell " J. T.Evans " J. Mastin '* H. J. Piatt " *Proxy. 492 493 494 495 496 497 5°i 502 5°3 504 5°5 506 508 509 5io 512 514 516 5i7 518 519 520 5" 522 523 524 525 526 528 529 53° 53i 532 533 534 535 536 537 539 54o 54i 542 543 544 545 547 548 550 55i 552 554 555 556 557 558 559 F. Z. Kimball W, J. K P McCullough D. C. Harmison J. C. B. Smith J.W. Aikin Samuel J. Steele R. J. Young Phillip J. Slenker Joseph Melprout* S. E. G. Hill W F. W. Turner }. G. W. Black W E. J Eggman J. W. Walker B. F. Hartman T. B. Dixon B. B. Wiley S. E. W. Adkinson (. M. L. Howe W John R McQuown E. D. Bone A. M. Mutchmore Benj. Dill A. T. Kiethley A. B. Holliday J.W. Conlee John Spire J. H. Grubb C. E Ahle B G. Smith S. M. B. Iott W. Geo. H. Hotchkiss* S. F. J. Davis W. J. T. Merry J. James Hibben W. Charles Rerfourder S. Samuel S. Friedley J. E. N. Weese W. Joseph H. Vickers ' L. J. Dawley ' J.J. Hodges ' C. H. P. Thomas* ' Thomas Craven ]. J. H. Johnson W. Henry Shiery* J. M Hanna A. H. Tyler ' H. J. Robinson* ' Wm. H Gearhart J. Alfred E. Bartelme W. F. Geren S. Samuel Marsh W. R. Freek W. G. T. Willey* ' Ellis W. Elden ' David Lyons ' James Charlton ' E. H. Harris ' Edward Pearce B. F. Colehowen ' Charles Robinson Otto I. Gondolf. ' A. M. Fidler J. Philip Mars W. George J. Henick ' John H.Taylor ' i;j Proceedings ofth [Oct. 6th t 'MAI [VES — Continued. 560 562 563 565 566 567 569 570 572 574 575 57 6 577 579 580 58i 582 584 585 587 588 589 59° 59 1 59 2 595 596 597 600 601 602 603 604 607 608 609 610 611 612 613 614 616 617 618 620 621 622 623 627 630 632 639 I 1 i Henry Scharf W. M. S. II. Graves " John S. Williams '• James M Rybolt " F. E. Zerenberg " J. G. Capper " John A. Baker " W. II. Pringle " W V.Edwards " II. B Skiles " Oscar Curlson " C. E. Kenton " B I . Van Court " Evan J. Morgan " W. \ Pearson " C. • ■. ( lochran " I), lerome Dellow " \ I . McCoy " W. G Heffner T. W. I A Keithe W M. "Win. R. Hoyle, Jr " Orlando Z. Housley " [ohn Pickels " Elias Buck S. W. W. H Wallace W. M. A L. White " ( ). R. Morey " William Eads I. W. R.N.Cnny W. M. George C Tate '* Nelson Dugan " Melvin Welty " S M. Gentry " W. M. Abraham " F. J. Haines J. W. D.A. Clary W. M. Ira D.Bullock* " W. C. Jones " R. I!. Myers S. W. I Efazzard W. M 1). R. Comode S. W. R. Furlong J. W. Henry C. Ward W. M. S. I). Gossert* S. W. William C. Kesner W. M. [•'red. Duckett '* W. I' Hast " E. \. Campbell " William Berger S. W. W. H. Haslit W. M Thomas P. McFell " S. M. Donley S. W. T. C. Handel W. M Marshall Culp '* J. S. Williams " W. \. Colton " Frank Kellers " John F. Woodyard J. W. John C. Carver \\ . M W \ l;. Tate " In I ■'. In ist " Tames I. Mi Malum " Simon Fisch 1 ( rraper S. W. August Olsen |. W. H. L. Ogden W. M . ♦Proxy. 685 686 |. K. Reilsback* F. W. William H. Elliott W. M. James Keats " B M. Ornolds " Wm. E. Carrothers " Silas Townsend " m Stokes " S F. Cady " David A. Cottrtcr " Alexanders. Johnston S. W. A. R Robinson I W. T. D Hinklev \\ M W.J Biggs../. S. W Henry Hudson W. M. John A. Petrie '" J. E. Gremman " Joseph Wetzle ■' Charles C. Huthweacher " William Kennedy " James B Fox " |. M . Jones " H. L. Terpening* k II. Garrigan. 1 W. Michael M< Morrow W. M. lames A. McCorkle " fames H.Alsop " T. I. Athey " A. M Lane* " Wesley Phillips " Frank Wenter J. W. Miller S. W. John S. Barger George Champion W. M. L. Vrenerdee " I . Eggers S. W. II D. Joerson f. W. i.i- l> Unman W. M. (1. K. Bennett* " W. R. Miller " William L. Spear " Joseph Ryan " Charles P. Jacobson " I. M. Pence " "William Marshall " Uriah 11. Ashcraft " J C. I). Carr " G. S Snow " C. W. Walduck " Herbert Preston S. W \\ M. Johnson I. W. (ohn !'' Kink* W. M. Peter Wright I 1 1 White " James C. Craig John Greene D. R. Harrison (I. I. I.add* '• I. I'. I .1n.ul.1v W. k k,.-s •• Thomas Ockerby 1 A Stall ' " William l.ynd I k.Houchin C. W. Postlewail " 1'. k. Charlton " R. D. Swain " 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 65 REPRESENTATIVES OF LODGES. 706 707 709 710 711 712 7'3 7M 715 716 718 719 721 722 7-^3 724 7 2 5 726 727 728 729 73° 73 1 732 733 734 735 737 738 739 74° 741 T. M. McCIanahan W. M. Ezra K Thornburg S. W. Jacob Cassell M. W. George Steeley " R. Clearmaters " S. A. Cameron " W. C. Hadley* S. \V. F. M. Galbraith W. M. John O'Farrell* " W. H. Avise " H. P, Robinson " W E.Jennings " T. J. Thrognoton " Robert F. Casey " Elijah Ross " L. E. Quigley " Levi Dick " B R.Cole *' Willard F. Riggle " R. L. Taylor " Enoch P. Rowley " G. W Duncan " T. H. Humphrey " Joseph D. Wright " R A. Lomax " S. J Lefevre " Isaac \V Ross " R W. Bower* " R. E. Howell " S. E.Lewis " T L. SpafFord S. W. Nicholas Martin W. M. E. H. Buck " A. M Caldwell " 743 744 745 746 748 749 750 75i 753 754 755 756 757 758 759 761 762 763 764 766 767 768 769 77i 77^ 773 774 775 George F. Pease W. M. J. W.Vance* S. W. Warren Newcomb W. M. Wm. H.Morris " George W. Weaver " A. M. Drew " C. J. Haller " Enoch Summers " John Roberts " E R Clark* " Henry M. Connell " T. E. Silkey " William C. Gray " C. P. Carlton " Nathan Small L H. Ames " • Lyria J. Branson " W. A. Bickett " J. B Vanmeter R. A. Hewes " John H. Dunscombe Isaac Mayer S. W. A McLachlan W. M. J. A. Kerr S W. James L. DeWitt* W. M. A. W. McLaughlin " F. T. Croxon P. M. Johnston " Wm. S. Moseley " G. W. Smott* S. W. L. L. layman " George H Frizzell W. M. Richard S. Curd S. W. G. W. Rosebrough* J. W. *Proxy. AMENDMENT TO BY-LAWS. The M. W. Grand Master announced that the second proposed amendment to the Grand Lodge By-Laws was now before the Grand Lodge for consideration. The amendment was discussed by W. Bro. John C. White, M. W. Bros. D. C. Cregier, Joseph Robbins and others. Upon motion to adopt the report a vote by lodges was demanded, ami being seconded by more than twenty lodges, was ordered. The lodges voting aye, and casting three votes each, were : Nos. 4, 14, 17, 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 35, 36, 37, 42, 44, 47, 50, 51, 58, 63, 66, 71, 77, 86, 87, 88, 93, 96, 99, 100, 104, in, 114, 115, 11S, 122, 126, 128, 130, 133, 136, 148, 149, 150, 151, 156, 157, 161, 162, 163, 164, 169, 171, 177, 179, 1G9, 192, 193, 195, 197, 199, 203, 206, 207, 209, 211, 212, 213, 217, 221, 223, 226, 231, 232, 234, 240, 241, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 255, 260, 262, 265, 268, 269, 272, 275, 279, 280, 286, 287, 295, 298, 299, 306, 313, 322, 323, 325, 331, 333, 336, 340, 347, 348, 35°, 354, 361, 3 6 5, 367, 380, 381, 388, 39°, 39 2 > 394, 399. 4*4, 4^9. 426, 431, 432, 441, 447, 448, 449. 45°, 455, 457. 459» 460, 474, 4 8 °, 48-2, 484, 485, 488, 493. 495, 497. 49 8 . 5°°. 5°9> 9i 66 Proceedings of tin [Oct. 6th, \, 5l6, 5'7, 5>8, 5-'', 533i 529. 533. 534, 535, 53$, 537, 54-', 554, 55<>, 55S, 5"4, 579, 581, 589, 601, 616, 617, 620, 623, 627, 630, 632, 635, 646, 647, 651, 652, 656, 657, 665, 666, 668, 677* 681, 682, 691, 694, 695, 698, 700, 701, 702, 706. 709, 710, 713, 719, 721, 725, 728, 732, 743, 748, 756, 762, 769, 771, 772, 773, 774. Lodges Nos. 64 and 775 cast two votes each aye. Lodges N os. 408 and 412 cast one vote each aye. The Oraml Officers voting aye, and casting one vote each, were Senior Grand warden and Grand Secretary. Total affirmative vote The- lodges voting no, and casting three votes each, were : Xos. 1, 3, 7, S, 9, 13, 16, 20, 25, 31, 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 45, 46, 48, 49, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59, 60, 61, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 79, 80, 81, 84, 85, 91, 92, 95, 97, 98, 102, 106, 108, 112, 116, 119, 125, 127, 129, ijl, 132, 134, 137, '38, 139, MO, Mi, 142, 144, "45, '47, 152. ! 53, '55, 159, 160, 165, 166, 168, 170, 172, 176, 178, 180, 183, 185, 187, 188, 194, 196, 200, 204, 205, 208, 214, 216, 218, 227, 228, 230, 233, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 243, 246, 247, 248, 257, 261, 263, 264, 266, 270, 271, 273, 274, 276, 282, 283, 285, 291, 292, 293, 294, 296, 297, 300, 302, 305, 307, 308, 310, 311, 312, 314, 316, 318, 319, 321, 327, 330, 334, 337, 339, 341, 342, 344, 351. 352, 3J 356, 358, 359, 362, 363, 364, 368, 37L- 373, 374, 377, 38^, 383- 386, 387, 389, 39', 393, 396, 398, 400, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 409, 410, 411, 416, 417, 418, 420, 421, 422, 423, 427, . 437, 439- 444, 445, 45', 453, 454, 45°, 458, 461, 462, 463, 464. 465, 4°°, 467, 469, 47°, 47?, 477, 478, 479, 481, 486, 487, 490, 492, 494, 496, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 508, 510, 519, 520, 524, 526, 53°, 53 2 , 540, 545, 547, 550, 551, 552, 555, 559, 562, 565, 567, 570, 572, 575, 576, 577, 580, 585, 587, 588, 590, 591, 592, 596, 600, 603, 604, 607, 608, 610, 611, 612, 613, 614, 618, 634, 636, 639, 641, 642, 643, 644, 649, 650, 653, 655, 659, 660, 662, 667, 670, 672, 673, 674, 676, 679, 680, 684, 686, 687, 688, 692, 696, 697, 705, 707, 711, 712, 715, 723, 724, 726, 729, 730, 734, 737, 738, 739, 740, 741, 742, 744, 745, 750, 751, 755, 757, 759, 761, 764, 765, 76°, 768. Nos. 2, 201, 408, 412 cast two votes each in the negative. Xos. 64, 775 cast one vote each in the negative The Grand Officers and Past Grand Officers voting in the negative, and casting one vole each, were Grand Treasurer, Past Grand Masters D. C. Cregier, Joseph Robbins and Daniel M. browning. Total negative vote, 983. And the amendment was declared lost. R. W. Bro. John O'Xiell asked leave to have a record made of the fact, that on the nth day of November, 1884, he, as District Deputy Grand Master, constituted Lake View Lodge, Xo. 774, located at Lake View, in Cook County, and installed its officers, which was, on motion, granted. W. Bro. lames Keatz submitted the following proposition, and moved its refer- ence to the Committee on Jurisprudence, which was adopted : To the M. IV. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. cV A. Masons : A Lodge is established at a certain locality, and is invested with certain terri- torial jurisdiction due to said location. Said lodge subsequently removes it- place of meeting to a distant point. Query : Does said lodge lose jurisdiction over its former territory, provided the latter is neater another lodge? Requested that the matter be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence. GRAND OFFICERS ELECTED. The tellers having collected and counted the several ballots, reported that the following named brethren had received a majority of all the votes cast : 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 67 Alexander T. Darrah, Grand Master. John C. Smith, Deputy Grand Master. John M. Pearson, Senior Grand Warden. Monroe C. Crawford, Junior Grand Warden. Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer. Loyal L. Munn, Grand Secretary. Whereupon they were each declared to be duly elected Grand Officers of this M. W. Grand Lodge for the ensuing Masonic year, and until their successors shall be duly elected and installed. M. W. Bro. D. C. Cregier moved that the bonds of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary be fixed at thirty thousand dollars each. Adopted. REPORT — Committee on Grand Master's Address. R. W. Bro. James I. McClintock submitted the following report for the Com- mittee on Grand Master's Address, which, on motion, was adopted : To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, F. & A. Masons ; Your Committee on Grand Master's Address, in addition to their former report, recommend that the name and number of Bethesda Lodge, No. 661, be stricken from the roll of lodges, as recommended by the Grand Master, and that the matter of Sheffield Lodge, No. 678, be referred to the Grand Master, with power to act. Fraternally submitted. J. I. McCLINTOCK, THEODORE STEYER, A. W. BLAKESLEY, Committee. CALLED OFF. At 12.30 p. m. the Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment, until 2:30 o'clock I'. M. SECOND DAY— Afternoon Session. Wednesday, October 6th, A. L. 58S6, 1 2.30 o'clock p. m. ) The Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M. W. Grand Master, Grand ( Miicers and Representatives as in the morning. 68 Proceedings of the [Oct. 6th } REPORT— Committee on Lodges Under Dispensation. R. \Y. l!ro. II. E. Hamilton submitted t lie following report from the Committee on Lodges Under Dispensation, which, on motion, was received and adopted : To the M. II '■ Grand Lodge of Illinois F. is- pensation. Contrary to their own provisions, which require that a proposed amend- ment shall lay over for four weeks before adoption, an amendment was proposed February 22d and adopted March Sth. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 69 The records of this lodge were well kept, and with few exceptions show that the business of the lodge was properly transacted. At a special communication held June 30th, business was transacted which could have been legally done at a stated communication only. The Worshipful Master seems, however, generally to have familiarized himself with the law of this Grand Jurisdiction, and there is abundant evidence of his skill and efficiency. Eleven petitions were received, and eleven Entered Apprentice, ten Fellow Craft and ten Master Mason degrees were conferred. Your committee recommend that a charter be granted to this Lodge, as Grand Crossing Lodge, No. 776. CENTRE LODGE. Dispensation was granted to this lodge on the 24th day of October 1885. It is located at New County Line Church in Johnson County. The returns of work show a fair degree of prosperity, and give promise of a strong and healthy membership. The records are generally correct, though their appearance is far from com- mendable. A code of by-laws was properly adopted, and more nearly conform to the law of this jurisdiction than is usually the case with the by-laws adopted by lodges under dispensation ; they provide, however, for the election and installation of officers, and assume other powers which are not supposed to be vested in lodges of that character. Ten petitions were received, all of which successfully passed the ordeal of the ballot. Twenty-eight degrees were conferred, viz : ten Entered Apprentice, nine Fellow Craft and nine Master Mason, and twenty-three names are appended to the petition for charter. Owing to the fact of there already being a lodge in this jurisdiction named Center Lodge, your committee have been compelled to drop that name, and gladly avail themselves of the opportunity thus afforded of doing honor to a distinguished brother, who for many years has assisted in our deliberations and aided us by his counsel, a brother distinguished alike at home and abroad for his great skill as a Craftsman, as well as for his honesty and integrity in all stations of life. To his fidelity to the interests entrusted to him by this Grand Lodge, is largely due the sickness and infirmity which deprives us of his presence, M. W. Bro. Theodore T. Gurney, Past Grand Master. We recommend that a charter be granted to this lodge as Gurney Lodge, No. 778. RAVENSWOOD LODGE is located in the village of that name, in Cook county ; dispensation was granted October 28, 1885 ; by-laws were adopted March 8, 1886, and are models of concise- ness and correctness. The records of this lodge are worthy of the fullest commend- ation. Your committee have failed to find a single error, erasure or interlineation. Proceedings of the [Oct. 6th, Twelve petitions were received and balloted upon. Thirty-six degrees were conferred, viz.: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, twelve each. Your committee recommend that a charter be granted t<> this lodge as Ravens- wood Lodge, No. 777. WRIGHT'S GR( >\ E L< »DGE. This lodge is located at Lake View, in < ook county, adjoining the northern lim- its of this city ; dispensation was issued March I, 1886, to thirty brethren. The rec- ords are complete and perfect in every particular, and the by-laws were evidently framed and adopted for the use of a lodge under dispensation, and present no objec- tionable features. Twenty-two petitions were received. Nineteen E. A., seven F C. and six M. M. degrees were conferred. Thirty-five brethren join in the petition for charter. We recommend that a charter be granted to this lodge as Wright's Grove Lodge, No. 779. Your committee have heretofore had occasion to call the attention of this Grand Lodge to the fact that lodges under dispensation are in the habit of borrowing money for the purpose of fitting up their halls, and for other expenses attending the forma- tion of a new lodge. Lodges under dispensation are nothing more nor less than committees of this Grand Lodge, appointed and designated for a particular purpose, and limited in their powers and existence to a certain specified time, and no reasonable doubt can exist that this Grand Lodge would be held liable for the payment of such indebtedness if the lodges themselves fail to do so. Your committee recommend that this subject be referred to the Committee on Finance, for such action as the brethren of that committee shall deem proper. All of which is fraternally submitted. H. E. HAMILTON, D. B. GRATTAN, JOHN B. YOUNG, C. C. ALDRICH, C. J. MANYEL, Committee on Lodges I nder Dispensation, The M. W. Grand Master appointed the Committee on Lodges Under Disperi sation as the committee named in the foregoing report. REPORT— Committee on Obituaries. W. Bro. F. W. llavill submitted the following report from the Committee on ( Ibituaries, which, on motion, was adopted 1 »y a rising vote. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 71 To the M. IV. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. &* A. Masons : Your Committee on Obituaries, to whom was referred that portion of the M. W. < irand Master's address which relates to those of our brethren who have joined the silent majority, fraternally report : In the literature of nations a vein of sorrow is wafted to succeeding generations in the prose and poetry of all the races of men. Death begins at birth. The forces of nature seem combined against the tender tenement which she herself has erected. From its very inception life is a continual contest, which has no laurels for the victor, and to the concmered, suffering, decay and death. Death at all times and under all circumstances is something that we contem- plate with terror. In the solemn and impressive providence of death there is some- thing appalling to the stoutest heart. It is the great antagonism of life. The cold thought of the tomb is "the skeleton at all our feasts." The human nature of our Saviour, though perfectly holy, shrank back lrom the agonies of dying, and He prayed that the cup might be removed. Even those whose lives have been most exemplary and blameless; who have illustrated by their walk and conversation the sublime end of morality taught by the Redeemer; even those who have risen to that high plane of spirituality where they can look unabashed upon the splendor of a purity that shines alone in the face of Jesus; when their heart strings are breaking; when their brows are damp with the spray of Jordan ; when memory stands like an unspotted saint by the cold river of death, and the rainbow of promise spans the dark flood, linking this world of gloom and graves to a shadowless and eternal world beyond, then, even then — " Still they shrink back again to life, Fond of their prison and their clay." Aye, when the heart turns back upon its buried years, and feels no regretful throb ; when the serene spirit remembers nothing that it wishes to lorget ; when the glories, the unshadowed glories of the better land gleam like the visions of the Apocalypse on the waiting soul of the sainted one already half immortal — the loves and hopes and dreams of this life twist and twine themselves around the heart flutter- ing in the throes of dissolution. Death is terrible, even when the Angel of Mercy comes to the sufferer with the clear Saviour's precious relic : " I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." If death ended all, we should indeed contemplate its coming with a horror un- speakable. But who can believe that beyond the grave there is only nothingness ? True, no thought comes to us from the mute lips of the dead. They do not speak to us across the darkness. They display no beacon light from the shoreless beyond to light us through the gloomy valley ; but — " A voice within us speaks the startling word, ' Man, thou shalt not die !' Celestial voices Hymn it round our souls ; according harps, By angel fingers touched, when the mild stars Of morning sang together, sound forth still The song of our great immortality." / •_' Proa < dings of th [Oct. 6th, Although our brethren are dead, He, who every springtime, with sunshine and shower touches the bosom of mother earth, that the rose and the jasmine may come forth and shed their fragrance on the world, will not allow a human soul, the very culmination of His creation, to remain forever in the night of the grave. " Immortality o'ersweeps All pains, all tears, all time, and peals Like the eternal thunders of the deep, Into our ears this truth, He lives forever." From the green mountains of Vermont come the sad tidings of the death of R. \V. Bro. William H. Root, late Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Vermont. The Grand Master of that Grand Jurisdiction says of him : " Bro. Root was an upright citizen, a man of unswerving integrity, and of earnest devotion to the cause of Freemasonry. * Ever prompt and faith- ful in the discharge of his duty, he served the Craft with marked ability." In our own jurisdiction we mourn the death of \V. Bro. Thomas Jefferson Wade, a patriarch in Masonry, who entered into eternal rest, at his late home in Ottawa, September 6. father Wade had reached the ripe old age of eighty-five years, more than one hajf of his life being a laborer in the Masonic vineyard. He was made a Mason in 1842, and in addition to tilling the various offices of a constituent lodge, he had served acceptably a number of years as Grand Lecturer, and also as District Deputy Grand Master. At the time of his death he was a member of Occidental Lodge, No. 40, and by that lodge his funeral services were conducted. In all the walks of life Father Wade was an upright man and Mason, whose heart was filled with kindness, and " Who never made a brow look dark, Nor caused a tear but when he died." He was broad and catholic in his views, and to all to whom Christianity holds out its promise of an existence continued somewhere, where the earthly virtues shall continue and grow, it is a matter of great exultation that a soul so pure and lofty has passed safely on— and without a stain — to another stage of being, where That, which is True life, lives on. father Wade's life was not fragmentary and unfinished, but full-orbed and com plete. Death was not an interruption, but a climax. His sun was neither clouded nor eclipsed, but followed the appointed path to the western horizon. The death of W. Bro. fohn Bennett, removes another Masonic veteran. Bro. Bennett was born in Virginia, December 21, 1S05; died in Petersburg, Illinois, De- cember 6, 1S85, aged 79 years, 11 months ami 15 days. For a uumberof years Bro. Bennett was an invalid, suffering acutely, but bearing his aches and pains with a rare courage worthy of emulation. His funeral services were conducted by the ('raft he 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. loved so well, and although the day was inclement, the attendance of his Masonic brethren from near and far was so unusually large as to command more than a pass- ing notice, indicating, as it did, the high regard and fraternal love in which our deceased brother was held by those who knew him best. Bro. Bennett was not unknown in this Grand Body, having served as Grand Junior and Senior Deacons, and on various Grand Lodge committees. For six years lie was District Deputy Grand Master. His death was regretted and lamented by all who knew him, but — " They cannot render back The golden bowl that's broken at the fountain, Or mend the wheel that's broken at the cistern, < )r twist again the golden cord that's loosed." A pang of genuine sorrow passed through many hearts when the announcement was made that " Frank Holcomb is dead." The grief manifested at his death was sincere, and in his funeral cortege there were many more genuine mourners than are often found following to the grave the remains of one more prominent in the affairs of men or the country than was our deceased brother. Hiram Francis Holcomb was born in Hartford County, Connecticut, December 11,1834; died at Jefferson, 111., July 30, 1886. He was W. M. of Garden City Lodge, No. 141, for five years, and also D. D. G. M. of the First Masonic District of Illinois. At the time of the great fire he was Vice President of the Masonic Board of Relief of Chicago. How well he executed that trust, doubtless there are many here to-day who can testify. In recalling his memory, in reviewing his life, we are forcibly reminded that — Our lives are albums, written through With good or ill, with false or true ; And as the blessed angels turn The pages of our years, God grant they read the good with smiles, And bless the ills with tears. Your committee is also advised of the death of W. Bro. Geo. C. Lanphere, of Knox County, Illinois. He was born in Oneida County, New York, June 30, 1814; died July 6, 1886. Bro. Lanphere was made a Mason in 1843. He was the first W. M. of Alpha Lodge, No. 155, and remained in the East of that lodge for a number of years, tilling that honorable position so worthily as to gain the lasting esteem and fraternal con- fidence of his brethren. In 1863 he was honored with the office of Grand Commander ot the Grand Commandery of Illinois, Knights Templar. His friends can review his character with satisfaction, for it was strong in its structure, complete in its appoint- ments and polished in its finish. After a long and upright life, he went down to the grave " like a shock of corn that cometh in his season." tog Proceedings of tin [Oct, 6th, To our honored M. W. Grand Master, whose heart has been stricken, and whose home has twice been desolated within the past year by the visits of the great destroyer, the sympathy of this Grand Lodge goes out. To the memories of our departed brethren, your committee recommend that a memorial page in the journal be dedicated. Fraternally submitted, FRANK W. IIAVILL, HAMILTON A. FORMAN, JOHN SCIIOFIELD, Committee. REPORT— Committee on Finance. R. W. Bro. E. C. Pace submitted the following report from the Committee on Finance, which was adopted : To the M. //'. Grain/ Lodge of Illinois, F. & A. Masons : Your Committee on Finance fraternally report that they have examined the re- port of moneys received by the R. W. Grand Secretary and accompanying vouchers, and find that he has received and disbursed as follows : RECEIPTS — GENERAL FUND. Dues for 1884 $ 75 1885 511 50 " 1886 29,774 90 " from Lodges U. D 57 75 Dispensations for Lodges U. D 500 00 Special dispensations by Grand Master 124 00 Grand Lodge By-Laws sold 7 25 Books of Ceremonials sold 13 00 $30,9*9 »5 CHARITY M ND. Dues from defunct lodges S 50 45 Supplies from defunct lodges sold 20 00 Certifying diplomas 96 00 172 45 Total 531,161 60 Which amount has been paid to K. W. Bro. W. M. Egan, Grand Treasurer. We further report, that the accounts and vouchers submitted by R. W. Bro. Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer, show receipts and expenditures as follows : 1SSG.J Grand Lodge of Illinois. 75 Dr. Balance in his hands Oct. 5, General Fund $36,031 47 " " " " Charity Fund 326 20 $36,357 67 Interest on Government bonds $ 200 00 Dividend on life insurance A. A. Glenn 31 45 Received from Grand Secretary — General Fund 30,862 67 " " " Charity Fund 29893 531,393 °5 Total $67,750 72 Cr. P>y M. and P. D. warrants Grand officers and committees $ 2,687 4° " " " lodge representatives IS>°4^ 80 " miscellaneous warrants II >I54 68 Balance Charity Fund 625 13 " General Fund 3 8 > 2 34 71 $67,750 72 An examination of the report of M. W. Bro. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master, shows that he has received : From special dispensations $ 1 24 00 " dispensations to form new lodges 5°° °° $624 00 All of which has been paid to the Grand Secretary. As required by the By-Laws, your committee, during the vacation of the Grand Lodge, examined and approved the following bills and accounts : Freeport Journal Printing Co., stationery, etc $ 151 °° 99 5° " " " printing and binding reports 1,23034 John F. Smith, Postmaster, Freeport, postage 193 82 " 143 40 L. L. Munn, sundry expenses 1 20 87 John M. Pearson, abstract of title to Missouri land 25 00 " " taxes on same 3° 60 Expense of Finance Committee, Freeport 81 10 7Q Proceedings of tfo [Oct. 6th, Expenses by order of Grand Master — Commission to Rock Island S 13 20 \\ . L. Milligan, official visits 19 22 John Wolf, services as surveyor 6 00 W. J. Elwell, official visit 6 18 L. W. Shepherd, official visit 5 25 49 85 Brown & Dollmeyer, office supplies 50 00 Shober & Carqueville, charters and engraving 225 00 L. L. Munn, express charges 183 89 Grand Examiners' expenses — School of Instruction, Mt. Vernon J 227 40 " " Paris 226 00 " " Bloomington 191 70 " " Bushnell 212 70 " " Chicago 212 30 1,070 10 Freeport Journal Printing Co., supplies G. Secretary's office 146 25 " " printing correspondence 847 90 Brown & Dollmeyer, supplies G. Secretary's office 40 10 L. L. Munn, sundry office expenses 42 70 J. F. Smith, P. M., Freeport, postage 52 00 A. T. Darrah, M. W. G. M., expenses of office 306 74 55,090 16 The following lodges are reported as having failed to pay Grand Lodge dues within the time required by the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, to-wit : Nos. 19, 24, 56, 150, 154, 205, 220, 276, 277, 452, 468, 4S7, 578, 675, 736, 747, 751. Your committee respectfully suggest the importance of so keeping the accounts of the Grand Lodge that the Grand Secretary's report and books shall show not only a detailed statement of receipts and expenditures, but that it shall also show the amounts expended for each of the following items, to-wit : 1'rinting and binding re- ports and correspondence, expenses of Grand Secretary's office, postage and express charges, expense of Deputy Grand Masters, expense of Schools of Instruction, books, stationery and blanks, printing other than reports and correspondence, expenses at- tending session of Grand Lodge, mileage and per diem of members, committees and representatives, miscellaneous expenses and charity. E. C. PACE, GIL. W. BARNARD, s. \Y. WADDLE, Committee. 188C] Grand Lodge of Illinois, 77 REPORT— Committee on Appeals and Grievances. R. W. Bro. Joseph E. Dyas presented the following report from the Committee on Appeals and Grievances, which, on motion, was received and adopted, except in the case of No. 13 vs. Farmers Lodge, No. 232, in which case the M. W. Grand Lodge sustained the action of the lodge : 7\> the M . W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, F. & A. Masons : Your Committee on Appeals and Grievances fraternally report as follows : vs. \ No. 1. Lewiston Lodge, No 104. ) In this case the appellant, a F. C, was placed on trial, found guilty and ex- pelled. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge, in finding the accused guilty, be sustained, and that the punishment be modified to indefinite sus- pension. vs. y No. 2. Charter Oak Lodge, No. 236. ) The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained. No. 3. Ii'AVA Lodge, No. 213. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained as to find- ing the accused guilty, and that he be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry. No. 4. Sibley Lodge, No. 761. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained. vs. J- No. 5. Heyworth Lodge, No. 251. J The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained. No. 6. Richard Cole Lodge, No. 697. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained. 78 Proceedings of tfo [OtA. 6th, ■ No. -. Caik<> I. i , No. 237. Your committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sustained. vs. ■ Xo. 8. Vork Lodge, No. 313. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge he sustained. 7's. \- No. 9. Si mm it Lodge, No. 431. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge he sustained. No. 10. O'Fali.on Lodge, No. 576. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge he sustained. vs. y No. 1 1. J. R. Gorin Lodge, No. 537. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge he sustained. No. 12. Fairview Lodge, No. 350. The committee recommend that the action ot the lodge, in indefinitely suspend- ing the accused, he set aside, and the accused restored to all bis former rights in Masonry, No. 13. Farmers L< >dge, N< >. 232. The lodge found the accused guilty, and fixed his punishment at three month's suspension. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be sel aside) ami the accused suspended for one year from March 13, 1 SSo 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 79 Xo. 14. Comet Lodge, No. 641. The committee recommend that the action of the lodge be set aside, and the accused be indefinitely suspended during the pleasure of said lodge. vs. ■ No. n Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 76. This case was tried in the lodge on the 19th day of June, A. D. 1886, which re- sulted in the acquittal of the defendant. The prosecuting witness, on the 19th day of June, A. D. 1886, gave verbal notice of an appeal. No statement in writing, giving the grounds of the appeal, was ever filed in the lodge below, nor was any appeal riled with the Grand Secretary. The record in this case was filed on the 9th day of September, 1886. This record does not disclose any appeal other than a mere verbal statement made on the 19th of June, 1886, that an appeal would be taken. Your committee are of the opinion that the papers in this case should be stricken from the files for want of jurisdiction, no appeal having been taken. All of which is fraternally reported, JOSEPH E. DYAS, GEO. M. HAYNES, W. S. CANTRELL, H. J. HAMLIN, H. M. GILLMORE, Committee. R. W. Bro. Edward Cook, from the Committee on Petitions, moved that the petition from Youngstown Lodge, No. 387, which had been referred to their com- mittee, be referred to the Committee on Finance, which was so referred. R. W. Bro. L. W. Shepherd presented an excuse for Pawnee Lodge, No. 675, for not paying their Grand Lodge dues within the prescribed time, their Secretary being absent from the State, and being unexpectedly detained until after the time they should have been paid. But on his return they were forwarded at once; there- fore he moved that, under the circumstances, it was the sense of the Grand Lodge that their dues were paid in time, which was adopted. Excuses were presented for the following lodges for their failure to pay their dues within the prescribed time, and in each such case it was voted that, under the circumstances stated, it was the sense of the Grand Lodge that their dues had been paid in time, viz: 19, 24, 205 and 751. 80 Proceedings of th( [Oct. 6th, ORATION. K. W. Bro, Isaac Clements, Grand Orator, delivered the following oration: M. W. Grand Master and Brethren: When a person begins looking over the field with a view to preparing a Masonic lecture, he finds himself bewildered by the number and importance of the subnets that present themselves for consideration. Masonry grows with the study of it. The questions arise when, and where and how did it originate ? Whence the name "Masonry?" What is its object ? What are its methods? What its use? And as he seeks an answer to these questions the field widens before him till it seems almost boundless in extent. If he turns to question of its origin, he finds himself at the very outstart exam- ining, not a merely benevolent organization, arising out of present necessities, tem- porary in its character and ephemeral in its existence, but standing at the portals of an Institution whose vista stretch far back to the dim twilight of earth's early morn- ing, where history is lost in tradition, ceases indeed to be history, and becomes only tradition. He finds it, or something akin to it, existing as an applied science, as its name indicates, in the midst of the prehistoric civilization of the Orient, and he sees the work of its hands, standing to-day challenging the admiration and wonder of the world ; which were old when Abraham, a wandering shepherd, trod the yet unpeopled wilds of Palestine. These works of art, temples, tombs, monuments, palaces, like mountain peaks gleaming in the light of the setting sun, tell of a (lay- that is past. A day of civilization and enlightenment that had well nigh reached its meridian before Joseph was sold by his not yet civilized brethren to the Midian- ites. A civilization the wings of whose commerce wdiitened every sea; w hose- architecture designed and erected buildings that modern times have never equaled ; whose mathematics calculated eclipses ; whose astronomy named the fixed stars, and gave the planets their places ; whose wise men knew Arcturus, and the "belt of Orion," and " felt the sweet influence ol the Pleiades," and whose other wise men two thousand years afterwards, saw the Star in the East and knew it, and came and knelt at the manger and worshiped. Turning to the question of its object, he finds that, as its name indicates, its ob- ject was largely architecture and building, but that in addition t" these there was a complete system of symbolic teaching ; that scientific knowledge and moral instruc- tion were thereby combined with practical skill and knowledge. As to its methods, he finds this ancient organization, thus combining the instruc- tion of the head and heart with that of the hands, taught the young student, through his instructors in architecture and in practical building, that every physical duty has its spiritual counterpart ; just as the young Freemason is now taught by his Masonic instructor. Was the novice learning to form a perfect circle, he was taught that there is a higher moral circle that bounds the perfectly rounded human character; 1886.] Grand Lodge <>/ Illinois. 81 was he learning the use of the common gavel, he was taught that there is a spiritual gavel whose work it is to remove the rough and the wrong from the moral charac- ter ; was he using the square and the compass, he was taught that there is another square to square his actions, and another compass to circumscribe his passions and keep them in due bounds. And, indeed, from the laying of the corner stone, when he was taught to lay firm and sure the principles of right and justice as the foundation of his life, to the time when he beheld the master builder take the stone, " hewn, drawn and number- ed " in the quarries, place it in its position, saw it fit neatly and perfectly in the place for which it had been prepared, and heard the whole building, from capstone to foundation, pronounced complete, perfect, without flaw or blemish. lie was taught to so shape his life that it might be fitted, as a living stone, for a place in that spiritual building that they taught and believe the " Supreme Architect of the Uni- verse " would erect in the eternal hereafter. And so the student finds that all through his work the young Mason was taught to apply the finishing and perfecting processes of his daily work — by symbol — to finishing and perfecting his own manhood. Having thus learned something of the probable origin of this ancient Institution its object, and its methods of teaching, the student turns to its precepts, and he finds them to have been intended, and still intended, for use in daily life. He sees them deeply graven on every stepping-stone as he moves upward, beckoning him on to- ward the infinite in good ; deeply engraven on every stepping-stone as he moves downward, warning him away from the infinite in evil. And thus, in whatever di- rection he turns, he finds the field of thought and of work widening before him even as the possibilities of man widen before him. Hence I have said, this student finds himself bewildered by the number and importance of the subjects that present them- selves for consideration. In thus looking over the field, it has occurred to me that a few thoughts based on the name of our organization might not be without profit to us, and have therefore selected the name " Ancient Free and Accepted Masons" as the subject for this lec- ture. Such an address, of course, must be largely historical, and will involve an in- vestigation of the much mooted, but ever unsettled, question of Masonic origin. In making this investigation it will be contended that in the midst of the most ancient civilization of which we have any knowledge, that of Egypt, the learning and wis- dom of the nation, including architecture, practical building, civil engineering, as- tronomy, and in fact all the " liberal arts" as we know them in Masonry, were con- signed to the keeping of certain organizations, reference to which has already been made, and that descended from these, in almost unbroken lineage, has come the Freemasonry of to-day. The points of resemblance, and the legitimate, logical con- clusions are strong enough, it seems to me, to convince fair-minded men of the cor- rectness of this position. In tracing the growth of the organization, also, the words " Free" and "Accepted " will each be found to mark important epochs of its devel- 82 Proceedings of tin [Oct. 6th, opment. Both enemies and friends concede greater or less antiquity to Freemas- onry. Masons themselves do not claim to know the exact date of its origin. In fact they willingly concede that since the earliest dates of which they have tradi- tional knowdedge Masonry has undergone changes, just as municipal governments have done — brought about as necessary results of the growth and development of man. But they do not concede that these changes in any wise affect the landmarks, the principles or the peculiar symbolisms of Masonry. But they claim, permit me to say, that in these Masonry remains what it was thousands of years ago. Xo, we do not claim to know the exact date of the beginning of Masonic organ- ization. Our earliest authentic history simply shows the Institution, already in exist- ence, fully organized and at work. Passing beyond the limit of authentic history, into the dimly outlined fields of tradition, we find that even here everything is not harmonious. Some of our traditions and ceremonies undoubtedly point toward the ancient Egyptian mysteries ; others refer directly to the kingdom of Tyre, and Hiram, its ruler; and others, and by far the stronger, let me admit, refer to Pales- tine and the reign of Solomon as the time and place, and the erection of the temple as the occasion of the origin of the organization. So strong are the latter, in fact, that Brother Mitchell, in his history of Masonry, says : " All our talk about ' an- cient landmarks,' ' ancient usages ' becomes an idle tale, if Masonry originated before or since the building of the temple." Yet, notwithstanding the recognized value of this authority, it would seem as if there should be some method of harmonizing our traditions and accounting for the apparently diversified origin of our ceremonies. This can be done on the theory here proposed, that is, that the Institution was cradled in the ancient Egyptian mysteries and modified afterwards, as already stated. Let us examine the evidences. Premising that as yet we know comparatively little of these ancient mysteries, and are as yet but on the threshold of discovery in regard to this wonderful people, there are certain things that can be safely stated. We do know that the wisdom of Egypt was consigned to the keeping of the priest- hood. Only certain selected persons were admitted into this priestly brotherhood, and of them long courses of study and initiation were required. Brother Rebold, Past Deputy of the Grand Orient of France, in his Masonic history says : " Among the Egyptians the priests formed a distinct class, and devoted themselves to teaching special branches of human knowdedge. The youth, who by them were instructed, were initiated into the mysteries of religion, and during their novitiate formed an outer class or corporation of artisans who, according to the designs drawn by the priests, erected the temples and other monuments consecrated to the worship of the gods." Dr. Samuel Birch, one of the most noted English Egyptologists, and for a number of years in charge of the Egyptian and oriental antiquities of the British Mu- seum, in the preface to a little work entitled " A History of Ancient Egypt from the Monuments," published by him, says : " The political constitution of Egypt appears to have consisted in a territorial aristocracy, at the head of which was the monarch and a powerful priesthood with richly endowed temples, in possession of the litera- ture and learning of the race. * :; ' * The priesthood was all powerful and divided into several grades." Among the priesthood that portion of them espe- 1886.] Gi*and Lodge of Illinois. 83 cially devoted to architecture were in high favor with the rulers. Egyptologists tell us that the king had his "Court Architect," and that this officer frequently inter- married with the royal family. One author tells us that •' these architects were among the most honored people of the kingdom. ' They were admitted to close in- tercourse with the king, and their names and faces were engraved upon the stone monuments." Time forbids further references. But these show that the priesthood was a powerful body, divided into grades or degrees, with its secret method of initi- ation, possessing the wisdom of the country and imparting it only to their initiates. That architecture was of the first importance with them, ranking apparently higher than any other branch of knowledge ; that the initiates into the secret, sacred mys- teries were required to devote special attention to architecture and building ; that they were organized into lodges of builders or masons and given charge of the work of erecting temples, monuments, tombs, etc., the designs for which had been pre- pared by the more advanced priests, their masters in the work. The drudgery of building was performed by the untaught masses, but the accurate cutting, the beauti- ful carving, the rare sculpture, the fine engraving, was performed by these young priests. This would seem to be reasonably strong proof of the correctness of the po- sition assumed. But let us go farther. In addition to these facts, the most doubting must admit that the remains of that civilization do show organized, well-directed, intelligent supervision and work. The pyramids were not built, the tombs were not fashioned the temples were not erected, the engraving in lines so fine that the microscope must be used to detect it, on material so hard that the edge of our finest steel tools is turned by it, was not accomplished by an untaught, unskilled, ungoverned mob. These things show the highest order of skill and ability, a broad knowledge of the liberal arts, organization, system and harmony of action. One illustration must suf- fice. Mr. R. G. Poole, a recognized authority, speaking of the great Pyramid, built at least 2000 years before the beginning of our era, says : " Its height was originally 4S0 feet 9 inches, and the base 764 feet square." (It covers over 12 acres of ground.) " It is virtually a mass of solid masonry. * * The finer stone used for casings and lining passages, was quarried on the other side of the river ten miles away, and the red granite used for linings was quarried at Syene, nearly 550 miles away by the course of the river. The labor of quarrying these huge blocks of stone was enormous, especially when the hard red granite, which turns the edge of our modern steel tools, and yet was cut by bronze ones, had to be hewn out and cut into accurate blocks. The great Pyramid is not a mass of piled up stone. It is a model of constructive skill. A sheet of paper cannot be placed between the casing stones." Now, think of it. A huge pile covering twelve acres of ground, five hundred feet high — a very mountain of masonry, in fact — cased with stone so hard that our best tools will scarcely make an impression on it ; yet with these stones so accurately cut and fitted in place that with this immense weight resting upon them for forty 84 Proceedings of tht \0d. 6Qi t centuries, there is not variance enough from the original position to admit the inser- tion of a sheet df paper between any two of them. Another writer tells us that this Pyramid was built with such exact reference to the zodiac, that at 12 o'clock precisely on the 2ist day of June — the summer solstice the sun shines on every side of it, North, South, East and West, and that to a per- son standing exactly at the centre of the north side at that moment, the sun seems to hang like a star over the exact apex of the Pyramid. Heroditus, the Greek his- torian, tells us that the work of building was carried mi by relays of 100,000 work- men each. That each relay worked ten months and was then relieved, and that the total number engaged in the work rose far up into the millions. Now, could this vast accurate work have been accomplished otherwise than by the most perfect system and thorough knowledge ? Further, must not the superin- tendent, the foremen and overseers, have had some place of meeting, where they could have made their reports and received instruction from the master of the work, as the work progressed ? Must not this have been some quiet place, retired from the 100,000 laborers encamped around? And what else was this place of meeting for the Master Masons, but a Masonic lodge ? The necessities of the case required that just such a state of affairs should exist, and history strongly points to the fact of its existence. Thus our knowledge of the facts, backed by legitimate reasoning, warrants the conclusion — may I not say conclusively proves — that inside the priestly order four and five thousand years ago, were schools of architecture and building into which a course of initiation was necessary, and that admission was accorded not to all who might desire it, but only to such as were selected therefor ? Hut, further, let me refer to a few significant facts in connection with our cere- monies and symbols. First, as to the position and duties of the three principal officers of the lodge. The temple of Osirus, the Egyptian god of light, contained three principal stations; Morning the opening in the East, Noon the resting in the South, Evening the closing in the West. How similar to our three principal officers and their duties. Osirus on first appearing in the East was met by the hosts of dark- ness, whom he easily dispelled ; at noon, they having rallied with additional force, a severer battle ensued; he again dispersed them; but in the evening, at the West, he encountered a still stronger force of the powers of darkness, was overcome, slain, carried to the East and buried, whence he arose again to begin the duties of the new- day. In the course of his initiation into the sacred mysteries, the novitiate was made to personate < isirus. I leave each Mason to " think on these things." The second section of the Fellowcraft's degree, with its instruction in the liberal arts, points very strongly to an Egyptian origin. Permit me also to refer to one or two of our symbols. The ancient Egyptians worshiped the ram, assigning him the place in the heavens which the sun entered at 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois, 85 the vernal equinox. It was to them the emblem of prosperity. Later in the season, at the harvesting, happy children climbed on the pet ram and rode him home, laden with the products of the field, his horns being hung with the fruits of the harvest. Hence our horn of plenty. Hence, also, possibly, our venerable custom of requiring the young Mason to ride the goat. One other instance must suffice. The early settlers in the fertile valley of the Nile found that annually there came a sudden over- flow of the river, when they had to seek the adjacent high grounds for safety. This overflow occurs about the last of June, regularly; but they had no means or dates by which to designate the time. It was before any calendar had been estab lished, and therefore no date could be assigned as the one when the rise would occur. However, they noticed that this overflow was preceded every year for a few days by a brilliant star showing itself in the east between dawn and sunrise. They named it " the dog star," since it was to them as a faithful watch dog, warning them of approaching danger. Now we have the "blazing star," whose teachings so closely correspond with this that we are almost forced to the conclusion that we ob- tained this symbol on the banks of the Nile. Time will not admit of further refer- ences, although they are abundant. But admitting all that is claimed in regard to this ancient organization, you ask how does this theory harmonize with Masonic references to Tyre and its workmen. Let us see. Some two thousand years before the beginning of our era Egypt was overrun and largely subdued by a foreign people. The native rulers were de- throned and the invaders installed their own rulers in their stead. These people are known as the Shepherds, and the era of their supremacy as that of the " Shepherd Kings." It was during their time that Joseph was sold into Egypt, and one of their kings was the Pharaoh to whom Joseph become prime minister; and one of their high priests, whose daughter he married. And it is not at all strange that this king, being himself of foreign blood and not of Egyptian ancestry, should look kindly on this wise youth from Palestine. These people ruled Egypt wisely. They had their own wise men initiated into the sacred mysteries, appointed to the priesthood, and taught in the learning and " w r isdom of the Egyptians." At length, after some centuries, the native Egyptians succeeded in throwing off the dominion of the invaders, driving them from the land and reinstating their own native rulers. It was one of these who, the Bible tells us, " knew not Joseph," and who enslaved the Israelites. The Shepherds had treated kindly the kindred of Joseph, who had saved them from famine, and who, like them, were strangers in the land ; the native Pharaoh's enslaved them. Now, our best Egyptologists, including Mariette, have decided that these Shepherds were from Phoenicia. But Phoe- nicia, as you are aware, was "the land of Tyre and Sidon." So that these Phoeni- cians, driven from Egypt, returned to their native land with their scholars learned in Egyptian wisdom, engineering, architecture, etc., and had nothing to do but to or- ganize their priesthood, as in Egypt. And we have enough in our Masonic tradi- Proceedings of the [Oct. Gth, tions and in Bible history to convince us this was done. Before their journey to Egypt they had been wandering tribes ; now they were an organized nation, with an educated priesthood, and history tells us they soon after rose to the front rank as merchants, manufacturers and builders. Tims it would seem there is no difficulty in harmonizing these two sets of traditions, the latest Egyptian discoveries furnishing this easy solution. Let us now return to Egypt. Israel is in bondage ; centuries pass; oppressions grow more terrible. At length an order is issued that all male children born to the Israelites be slain. A beautiful boy is born, and his mother, as I have no doubt tens of thousands of other Hebrew mothers did, tries to save the life of her boy by hiding him from the cruel murderer of little children. But he is discovered by the King's daughter, and, wonderful freak of fortune, if you choose to call it such, is adopted into the royal family. He is called Moses, and is known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. One author tells us he became a priest of Heliopolis. These were at the head of the scholars of Egypt, and their reputation for wisdom and learning was world-wide. To them came Solon, Thales, Plato for instruction. Josephus tells us that Moses became a general in the Egyptian army ; that at one time, as a large Ethiopian army was invading the land, and driving all before it, Moses was assigned to the chief command of the Egyptians, defeated the invaders, drove them from the land and saved the nation. Certain it is, at least, that all the knowledge that could be imparted to one of the royal family was imparted to him. All gateways of knowledge were open to him. He was exercised in handling and governing large bodies of men. He was being unwittingly prepared for the great work in reserva- tion for him. " He was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians," says the Bible. But we have already seen that this wisdom was in the keeping of the " powerful priesthood." Moses, therefore, must have been one of them, as the historian states. This wisdom was taught orally, just as our Masonic teachings are to-day, for of books, as we know them, they were ignorant. Moses, then, was familiar with Egyptian wisdom, a member of the learned priesthood, acquainted with their organization and their methods of teaching. Now, having known no other means of retaining or imparting wisdom than that of a selected priesthood, would it not have been natural for him, when leading his people, to have selected a body of men, organiz.ed them into a similar priesthood, and have imparted to their keeping the wisdom he had learned in Egypt, especially the principles of mathematics, engineering and architecture, so that when they arrived in Palestine, the home of their father Abraham, to which they were returning, they would be able to again build up their waste places and fortify their strong places ? Well, the Bible tells us that is exactly what he did do. He selected the tribe of Levi, his own tribe, and set them aside as a consecrated priesthood. Can it be doubted that this priesthood were taught by Moses the things he had learned in Egypt ? Would he be willing that, so far as his people were concerned, this valua- ble knowledge should die with him ? Lor what had he learned this wisdom, except thatthrough him it should go to them ? For centuries they had been kept in ignorance 1886.] Grand Lodge of 1 II iin >is. 87 and slavery. When they arrived at home how could they, an ignorant mass of ex- slaves, do the work assigned them ? If, as we believe, Moses had been specially set apart and prepared as the leader of his people, and had been taught all this wisdom, which was so essential to them, as the scriptures are careful to tell us he had, he could not have kept it locked up in his own breast and been guiltless. The very announcement that he had it means that he had it for them. They had it not for themselves ; he, their guide, had it for them. He alone 'mid all that vast surging multitude was wise, and his duty to them and his duty to his God required that some means should be adopted whereby they should have the benefit of that wisdom when he was gone. You who believe he was saved from death in infancy by miraculous power, and brought up in the very sanctum sanctorum of Egyptian knowledge, do you believe that all that wisdom died with him " on Nebo's lonely mountain," before the feet of his people had even touched the brink of Jordan, which yet rolled between them and their home ? Brethren, it could not have been so. During the forty years in the wilderness, these principles so necessary to their welfare, defense and protection as a people, must have been imparted by some one, that it might be preserved till the occasion for its use arrived. And the persons to whom it was imparted must have been this priest- hood, the Levites, his brethren. And I will go farther, and assert that when David was making the preliminary arrangements for building God's great temple, to be carried out by Solomon, he selected these same Levites to take charge of the work, and that too because they understood the principles of the work. Do you think this is imagination ? Listen. Says David, in talking to Solomon about building the temple : " There are workmen with thee in abundance, hewers and workers of stone and timber, and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work." i Chron., 22d chapter, 15th verse. And immediately afterwards occur these words : " And David gathered together all the princes of Israel, with the priests and the Levites. And the Levites were numbered from the age of thirty years and upward, and their number by their polls, man by man, was thirty and eight thous- and, of which twenty and four thousand were to set forward the work of the house of the Lord." Where did these men obtain their knowledge of the principles of working in brass, and iron, and stone, and fine building save from the stores ot wisdom obtained by Moses in Egypt, and by him imparted to their tribe during the journeys in the wilderness ? It has often seemed to me that the whole history ot Israel, from the time of Jacob to the time of Solomon, points to the grand consummation of Mt. Zion. That the long years of unrequited toil in Egypt ; the making of bricks without straw ; the working in iron, and brass, and bronze and stone, was but fitting them by toil and discipline for the work before them. Drilled and disciplined by labor and obedience, they were ready for work. And the Levites, taught by Moses the principles of engineer- ing, mathematics, philosophy and architecture learned by him in Egypt, were ready to design and superintend the erection of public works and public buildings in all their details, so that when the time came for the erection of the temple, the masses 88 Proceedings of tfu [Oct. 6th, being thus taught to work and accustomed to discipline, aud the Levites being so trained in the rules governing the erection of buildings, examining details, inspecting materials and superintending construction, the work could proceed. But one thing was lacking : skilled in theory as were the workmen, and extensive as may already have been their experience in building, Solomon needed some one with more prac- tical experience, more educated skill, to superintend the finer and more delicate work in castings, mouldings, engravings and colorings. To the northwest of him lies the city and kingdom of Tyre, the fame of whose workmen had already reached Jerusa- lem. There is a traditional friendship between the nations. The king of Tyre is the successor, and probable descendant of one who as king of Egypt had befriended Joseph centuries before. Indeed, the wisdom of Joseph had saved both nations from destruction in that foreign land. Accordingly Solomon sends to Hiram, king of Tyre, for the needed help. It is readily granted. One Hiram, a widow's son, a thoroughly practical, skillful man, comes and takes charge of the fine, intricate Color- ings, traceries and mouldings. Thousands of Tyriari workmen, skilled in hewing and cutting, go with Solomon's men into the mountains of Lebanon for cedar, and into the quarries for stone, and the work moves smoothly and harmoniously on, be- cause superintendents and builders have all been taught in the same school of archi- tecture, studied the same rules and been governed, by the same principles— the rules and principles that had governed the best school of architecture of that day, the ar- chitects and masons of Egypt a thousand years. Nor can it be doubted that here the same organization and instruction of foremen and superintendents, thousands in number, as the Bible tells us was requisite as at the building of the pyramids, and as is required today. For every one knows that no important or valuable building is erected in our times without a superintendent's office, where the foremen and over- seers go for instruction. And, indeed, up to the time when Masonry became a purely philosophical institution, to which reference will soon be made, there is ample evidence that the Masonic corporations erecting public buildings had their lodge- rooms and held their meetings in the buildings, combining there instructions both in philosophic or symbolic Masonry and in their work. There can be no doubt that such a Masonic lodge existed at the temple during its erection, its existence being an absolute necessity. And here I doubt not was perfected and developed the organi- zation and the forms and methods adopted that have largely governed Masonry ever since. Brethren, will any one say that there was not something of the divine ordering in this arrangement, whereby the descendants of the two men who jointly had ruled Egypt centuries before, and the two nations who had lived in Egypt as friends, should here meet on Mt. Zion, in Palestine, and erect the fust temple ever erected and dedi- cated to the one true, ever-living Jehovah, God. In distant Egypt, in far away India, in luxurious Babylon, temples, models of grace and beauty, glowing in ( Iriental splendor and magnificence, had been long erected and dedicated to the worship of their purely national gods. But here mid swinging censers and burning incense and chanting choirs; here while the Shekinah descended and rested between the wings of the Cherubim, and the cloud of God's glory tilled the whole house; here, and now for the first time in the world's history, was dedicated to the Almighty 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 89 Jehovah, a temple, the grandest ever erected on earth. Fitting reward for the years of discipline and toil and drudgery in Egypt. Grand consummation of the lessons learned and the friendships begun in distant Egypt centuries before. And grander consummation for us as Masons, my brethren ; our traditions do meet and harmonize around the Masonic altar erected there. Now, brethren, after examining our traditions, our symbols, our ceremonies, the historic evidence, the very necessities of the case, can we not safely conclude that an organization did exist in ancient Egypt with its secret ceremonies, initiations and degrees, having architecture and building as one of its special objects ? That this organization, possibly modified by circumstances, can be fairly traced, flowing through two streams, down to the time of and uniting at the temple, and that at the building of the Temple of Solomon was organized and perfected in the work? That this organization was for the purpose of commemorating certain events that trans- pired there, and perpetuating the memory of the friendship between the two nations, the Hebrew and the Tyrians ? Up to this point, then, we certainly have reasonably safe footing. Masonic or- ganization certainly existed as indicated. But we are asked, what connection there can be between these ancient organizations of operative Masons, engaged in the work of designing and erecting buildings, and our modern Freemasonry. Let us see if we can trace any connection other than the resemblance heretofore mentioned. Solo- mon's temple was erected about one thousand years before Christ. Passing down the stream 250 years, we find the work of building still going on at Jerusalem and Tyre. The temple is still standing, resplendent with its marble and gold and pre- cious stones, the crowning glory of Oriental architecture. Rome is founded. Numa Pompiliuz, one of its earliest rulers, became Emperor 715 years B. C. He fondly dreams that beneath that beautiful blue sky, in that glorious Italian climate, a city shall rise that will become mistress of the world. Her manufactures shall surpass those of Tyre. Her commerce shall drive that of Phoenicia from the sea; her tem- ples and public buildings shall surpass anything ever known. With the latter object specially in view, Numa determined on a system of public buildings and public works of great grandeur and magnificence, embracing streets, roads, aquaducts, via- ducts, palaces, temples and other public buildings. In order that his plans might be successful, it became necessary to obtain the services of educated and skilled men fmm other nations. Accordingly he established two sets of corporations or colleges. The one was to be composed of architects and designers, and were called " Collegia Fabrorum" The second, 132 in number, were composed of educated workmen, practical builders, and were called " Collegia Arii/icum." These two sets of colleges were organized to work in harmony, and were given entire control of the public works. And in order to induce foreign artists to come to Rome and assist in the work, they were given certain privileges or freedoms not granted to other citizens. They were free from the necessity of worshiping the gods of Rome ; free from the control of the local authorities in designing and executing their plans ; free from the necessity of performing military service, in fact they were free Masons. And to 12-i 90 Proceedings of tfu [Oct. 6th, these fraternities we can trace the origin of the word "free" in the name of our < (rder. These privileges had the desired effect, and gathered at Rome skilled archi- tects, artisans, civil engineers, men capable of building a city, and embellishing it with the most stately and beautiful buildings and public works. The fraternities prospered at Rome, and the beautiful remains of their work are yet a source of pleasure to thousands of tourists annually. Passing rapidly, however, we find that when Rome resolved on the conquest of Britain, a few years before the beginning of the Christian era, numbers of these fra- ternities were attached to the Roman legions that were sent to Britain, for the pur- pose of erecting fortifications, selecting, arranging and fortifying camps, and taking all necessary steps to secure and protect what Roman valor won. Here, as in Rome, they had entire charge of the erecting of fortresses, public buildings, in short, of all work requiring either scientific knowledge or skill. Constantine the Great, pro- claimed emperor A. D. 306, being converted to Christianity, immediately gave a new impetus to building by ordering the erection of Christian temples. Among the very first to be begun in England were St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. However, intrigues at Rome bringing on internal wars, compelled the abandonment of Britain by the Roman legions in the fifth century, after about five hundred years of possession. Thereupon those warlike German tribes, the Angles and the Saxons, and later the Danes, invaded Britain. For centuries the island was but little else than a field for war and bloodshed, and public work was almost suspended. The fraternities, however, continued their organization with varying degrees of prosperity. Early in the seventh century the cathedrals at Rochester and Canterbury were founded. During this century, also, we find persons who were not operative Masons admitted inside the lodges and known as "accepted" Masons. Just when or how this custom originated we do not know, but "accepted" Masons are mentioned in the seventh century, about twelve hundred years ago. Peace being at length largely restored, King Athelstan being himself, as history tells us, a friend of education and a lover of the arts of peace, determined to begin the work of rebuilding and restoring the destroyed public buildings and erecting new- ones. Accordingly he ordered the Masonic fraternities to assemble in general con- vocation under his son, Prince Edwin, at York, in the year 926, and granted them the charter of York. In the proclamation, after referring to the devastations pro- duced by the Saxons and the Danes, these words occur: " But the pious King Athelstan, who has much esteem for the art, and who has established many superb edifices, has desired to make up this deficiency. * It is in this in- tention that he has remitted to his son Edwin an edict by which ///:• Masons can . C. Cregier presiding. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 95 REPORT— Committee on Petitions. R. W. Bro. Wm. E. Ginther submitted the following report from the Committee on Petitions, which report was received and adopted, excepting that portion of the report referring to the petition for a dispensation for a lodge at South Park Avenue and 27th Street, in the City of Chicago, to work in German. With reference to this portion of said report, R. W. Bro. John C. Smith moved to strike out the recommen- dation of the committee, and insert that when the requirements of the constitution are complied with, that the Grand Master be authorized to issue his dispensation, which amendment was adopted. To the M. IV. Grand Lodge of Illinois, F. & A. Masons : Your Committee on Petitions, to whom was submitted the following cases, have diligently and exhaustively examined into all their bearings, and beg leave to report them in their order, viz : The petition of fifteen Master Masons for a dispensation for a lodge at South Park Avenue and 27th Street, in the City of Chicago, to work in German, involves several very serious questions, which prompt your committee to a little more elabo- rate statement than is usual for your proper understanding, endeavoring, however, to avoid undue prolixity. As an abstract question, shorn of local and extraneous considerations, the wis- dom of this Grand Lodge is not conspicuous in ever chartering lodges to work in any but the English, its own official language, and of our common country ; in which all its deliberations are conducted, all its records and official documents appear, and upon which its entire system of administrative government and traditional supervision are founded. It is certainly inconsistent, as well as unjust, to give Hie to lodges of this class, upon the plea of ignorance of the very language in which alone the constitution, laws and edicts are promulgated for their government ; to conform to and abide by which they are solemnly pledged under penalties, but which they can, confessedly, but imperfectly comprehend. But no less inconsistent is the fact, that bodies are thus created in languages wholly foreign to your Grand Officers, with possibly now and then an accidental but transitory exception, and yet these overseers are held responsible for their acts. The Grand Master being ex-officio W. M. of every subordinate in his jurisdic- tion, is expected to visit these, as well as English lodges, to preside therein when duty calls him, and possibly to hear evidence in case of Masonic trials, to decide questions between contending parties, and praise or reprimand the conduct of the lodge, or any of its officers, as occasion may require ; but all this time he has been !'•; Proceedings of th [Oct. 7th, unable to understand a word, while on the other hand, his audience is equally con- founded with half or more of what he utters. But if it be contended that all this can be done in English, the members gener- ally having advanced sufficiently to understand it, but not to talk it fluently, then the margin to their linguistic proficiency must be so narrow as to rob the plea for the ne- cessity of these lodges of all its force. It is asserted that Masonry being universal, all should be permitted to use their mother tongue ; but your committee are of the opinion that, to concede this argu- ment to be good outside of each Mason's native country and as a right for local lodges for the various nationalities among us, then logic also involves concession of exclusive territorial jurisdiction, when demanded, for independent (hand Lodges of their own. And it seems illogical, after the adoption of a certain English standard in the work and ritual, to every precise word of which its custodians are subjected, and to which all lodges are exhorted and expected to conform, to create a number of them in foreign languages, when no suitable brother can be found competent to teach it nor to prove their version, and when the petitioners for a new one are unable to com- ply with the constitutional requirement to iurnish a certificate of efficiency of their proposed W. Master, as in this case. It ought not to be an enigma to the more intelligent of the foreign born Ameri- can citizens, who have received Masonic light, that the sooner they assimilate them- selves to this country's institutions, its laws and customs, and learn to speak the Eng- lish language, for which end the English work and ritual of Masonry is a most effi- cient medium, the better it is for their prosperity and all concerned, and that clanish and exclusive organizations are not the proper vehicle to its rapid consummation. Moreover, it is well known that complaints loud and deep of an existing excess of lodges within this city, and verbal protests against an indiscriminate increase, have been heard for years. Investigation shows, however, that this evil — if so it is — exists mainly in and about the business centers, while the Craft in other parts are clamoring for more. To remedy this, removals have been proposed of such as languish for want of work, and yet the execution of this suggestion within this year, by Waldeck Lodge, No. 674, has resulted in the petition now before us for a duplicate. But while changes in location have thus proved inadequate to successfully meet the difficulty, the resistless logic of the detailed reasons and kindred arguments seem to be conclusive, that additional lodges, whenever deemed expedient or necessary, either within or beyond this city, should be English ; and although temporarily in- convenient to the petitioners, for lack of sufficient present knowledge to adopt that language as a basis for a future application, your committee are persuaded that they can come to the mountain much easier than it can come to them, and hence recom- mend that the prayers of this petition be fraternally declined, and that the following resolution be adopted, viz. : L886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 07 Resolved, That hereafter no dispensation or warrant be granted to any lodge in tins Grand Jurisdiction to work in any other than the English language. II. Thirty-seven brethren in good standing desire a dispensation for a lodge in the town of Colchester, McDonough County, which has a population of about 2000 All the papers are in form and in strict conformity to law, and accompanied by the requisite recommendation of the three nearest lodges. Hence your committee recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted. III. This is a petition by twenty-three Master Masons for a dispensation for a lodge at Potomac, in Vermilion County. A personal examination upon the spot, in addition to documentary evidence submitted, has convinced your committee that the best in- terests of Masonry will be subserved by granting them a lodge, and see no good reason why they should not succeed ; but as one of the three recommending lodges, viz : Newtown, No. 714, acted upon this petition in less than four weeks, in violation of the constitution, your committee recommend that this case be referred to the Grand Master, with power to act when that lodge shall have rectified its error. IV. In this nine Master Masons apply for a dispensation to open a lodge in the town of Norwood Park, Cook County. This is one of the growing suburban towns of this great city, with abundant first-class material for a prosperous lodge. The papers are in due form and complete, and a personal knowledge of the Masonic proficiency and general attainments of the petitioners, together with the surroundings of the pro- posed location, have prompted your committee to recommend granting of the prayer of this petition. V. This petition for a lodge at Monroe Center, Ogle County, lacks the constitutional requirement of a certificate from a Grand Lodge Lecturer, "that the proposed Mas- ter is able to open and close a lodge, and to confer the degrees of E. A., F. C, and M. M., correctly and in full;" fails to state the distances between the recommend- ing lodges and the proposed location, as required by Section 4, Article XXIII. , Part Second, Grand Lodge By-Laws, and violates bodily, by omission, Section 6 of same. Vour committee regret the evident oversight of these petitioners, but as the Grand Lodge cannot violate its own laws, we recommend that no further action be taken in this case. VI. By this petition Cobden Lodge, No. 466, prays for the restoration of B. F. Ross to good standing in the Fraternity, there being only fourteen out of over forty mem- 98 Proceedings of the [Oct. ;//>, bers present. He was suspended indefinitely by this Grand Lodge last year, after he had been tried twice by the petitioning lodge, and acquitted each time ; the sec- ond trial being by order of the M. \Y. Grand Master, who had set aside the action of the lodge after a thorough investigation of the case and examination of the evi- dence. The specific crime with which he was charged, and for which he was thus punished, upon recommendation of the Committee on Appeals and Grievances, is one of the blackest a Mason can commit. No evidence whatever is furnished your committee, tending to show contrition or reformation, nor is there a petition from said Ross asking to be restored. Hence we recommend that the prayer of this peti- tion be refused. In this connection your committee feel that they would be derelict in their duty if they failed to call your attention to an evident state of affairs in Cobden Lodge, No. 466, as revealed to them by a careful examination of the evidence and papers in the above case, which are quite voluminous, which must make the angels weep. In that part of his address to the Grand Lodge last year, devoted to the same subject, M. W. Grand Master Darrah said : " The correspondence in this case was very ex- tensive, voluminous, and with a number of the members of the lodge ; from all of which I infer that it is a serious question whether this lodge has not survived the period of its usefulness, and whether its charter ought not to be arrested." The recent actions of this lodge, as set forth in the papers now before us, give added emphasis to this question, and we would recommend that the propriety of ar- resting the charter of Cobden Lodge, No. 466, be referred to the Grand Master with power to act. VII. The petition of James I. Toler, who was expelled by Anna Lodge, No. 520, seeks restoration to good standing in the Fraternity, but the recommendation of said lodge accompanying it fails to state whether the meeting at the time of such action was a stated or called communication, nor how many members were present, neither does it disclose the time nor cause of expulsion, and your committee are left in the dark whether there has been any reformation ; hence we are compelled to recom- mend that no action be taken upon this case. VIII. Franklin Marsh, expelled by Toulon Lodge, No. 93, August 6, 1NS1, asks to be reinstated to good standing in the Fraternity. The recommendation of this lodge is equally faulty with the foregoing, except as already stated, and gives no data horn which your committee can form a proper conclusion upon which to base a recom- mendation, other than that no action be taken herein. [X. A recommendation of Sheba Lodge, No. 200, to restore Thomas Gravett, whom it expelled for un-Masonic conduct on the 13th day of November, 1S82, is not ac- 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 99 companied by any petition at all. It also fails to state the number of members pres- ent when the vote was taken, and whether there is any repentance or reformation, and hence your committee are again compelled to recommend no further action. In the following cases the papers are in due and lawful form, and convey full and explicit information, from which your committee have been enabled to form defi- nite conclusions, and are glad to recommend the restoration to all the rights and privileges of Masonry of the following, viz. : X. G. W. Logan, expelled by Windsor Lodge, No. 322, Oct. 10, 1871. XL John Bell, expelled by Monmouth Lodge, No. 37, in 1874. XII. Wm. II. DeBord, expelled by Hazel Dell Lodge, No. 580, Oct. 11, 1879. XIII. Thomas Nelson, expelled by Corinthian Lodge, No. 205, Jan. 25, 1872. XIV. Valentine G. Wehrheim, expelled by Kaskaskia Lodge, No. 86, March 20, 1852. XV. Joseph L. Thomas, expelled by Vienna Lodge, No. 150, June 2, 1857. XVI. C. B. Horrell, expelled by Tennessee Lodge, No. 496, Sept. 19, 1874. XVII. M. F. Emmerson, expelled by Herrin's Prairie Lodge, No. 693, Oct., 1881. XVIII. Hume Hodgson, expelled by Kendrick Lodge, No. 430, June 7, 1873. XIX. W. A. Linderman, expelled by Omaha Lodge, No. 723, June 5, 1884. 100 Proceedings of flu [Oct. 7th, XX. I. B. (ioshom, expelled by Gibson Lodge, No. 733, in 1879. XXI. This is a petition for restoration to good standing in the Fraternity of George X. Van Iloulen, who was expelled in 1870 by II. \Y. Bigelow Lodge, Xo. 438, now extinct, for alleged criminal complicity in the sale of stolen drugs. It is accompan- ied by a strong recommendation by Ashlar Lodge, No. 30S, after an exhaustive in- vestigation by its committee. A careful examination of the record, and other evidence, has raised a strong presumption in the minds of your committee that this brother has been too severely treated; for even if he was guilty as charged, sixteen years of Masonic disgrace, and exclusion from all the Masonic bodies of which he was a member, have been in the opinion of your committee, an extreme punishment. During all these years he has been in business in this city, and has borne a moral and upright life, abundantly vouched for by business men and firms, as well as Masons. His restoration to all the rights and privileges of Masonry is fraternally recommended. XXII. Center Star Lodge, No. 651, at Atwood, unanimously asks that its name be changed to conform to that of the place or town of its location, and your committee, seeing no good reason why their wish should not be respected, recommend that the name be changed upon our register, and that the lod^c be known hereafter as A.I wood Lodge, No. 651. XX TIT. Samuel B. Ilolloway, expelled by Olive r.ranch Lodge, No. 38, petitions for restoration. The papers are informal and incomplete, and your committee is unable to determine when the penalty was inflicted, nor whether the brother is now a better man, hence recommend no further action in this case. XXIV. W. Brother 1. Alexander Montgomery, who was deposed last spring from the office of Worshipful Master of Rock Island Lodge, No. 658, asks to have his disabil ities removed, and to be allowed to resume the functions of his office. As stated by the M. W. Grand Master, in that part of his recent address relating to this subject, the punishment was inflicted only after a thorough investigation by a commission appointed for that purpose, and who found the W. Brother guilt] of having initiated a candidate over the objection of several members of the lodge. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 101 After due deliberation, and a patient hearing of the petitioner, your committee be- lieve that the interests of the Craft will be best subserved by continuing the disability during the will and pleasure of the M. W. Grand Master, and accordingly so rec- ommend. XXV. Hamilton Lodge, No. 563, applies for a duplicate charter, the original having been destroyed by fire, with the hall and furniture, September 22d, 1SS1, since which time the lodge has met and worked without it. The details of the case are fully stated by the Grand Master in his recent address, and therefore need no further elucidation. After much deliberation, and considerable investigation, your commit- tee are not satisfied that it is for the best interests of all concerned to immediately comply with the request, but recommend that this case also be recommitted to the M. W. Grand Master, with power to act, when, in his judgment, a sound and pros- perous lodge can be maintained in that locality. XXVI. This is the same petition and accompanying documents, before the Grand Lodge last year, praying for a new lodge at Wheeler, Jasper County. The address of the M. W. Grand Master gives the necessary explanation of the disposition of this case upon these papers. Your committee are of the opinion that they have become too antiquated to serve as a basis for a new application, and as Section 6, Article XXIII., Part Second, Grand Lodge By-Laws, has not been complied with, your committee recommend no further action. All of which is fraternally submitted, WM. E. GINTHER, EDWARD COOK, J. S. GARRETT, Committee. 102 I'fonrfJ/iiys of the [Oct. 7th, REPORT— Committee on Mileage and Per Diem. W. Bro. Ed. S. Mulliner, from the Committee on Mileage and Per Diem, pre- sented the following report, which was adopted: To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. &> A. Masons : Your Committee on Mileage and Per Diem would fraternally report, that the following Grand Officers, Committees and Members of this Grand Lodge are entitled to mileage and per diem as set forth in the following pages : ED. S. MULLINER, GEORGE W. CYRUS, JOHN A. LADD, Committee. CRAND OFFICERS. A. T. Darrah.... .... John C. Smith John M. Pearson . Monroe C. Crawford. Wiley M. Egan Loyal L. Munn Geo. W. Scawthon.. Leslie A. Munn Isaac Clements E. I.. Cronkrite Rowley Page H. W. Curtin J. H. C. Dill Leroy A. Goddard. . . Thos. S. Mather Geo W. Hamilton . . . A. B. Wirker J. G. Marston Benj. Steingardt Robert R. Stevens.. Grand Master Deputy Grand Master. . . Senior Grand Warden.. Junior Grand Warden . . Grand Treasurer Grand Secretary Grand Chaplain Deputy Grand Secretary Grand Orator Grand Pursuivant Grand Marshal Grand Standard Bearer.. Grand Sword Bearer. . . . Senior Grand Deacon. . . Junior Grand Deacon. . . ( "»rand Steward Grand Steward Grand Steward Grand Steward Grand Tyler % 3° 6 33 9° 6 36 80 6 37 00 6 Bloomington Chicago Godfrey 1 Jonesboro Chicago Freeport Murphysboro Freeport Carbondale Freeport ( ralesburg Carlyle Bloomington Marion Springfield Prairie City Austin Jerseyville Chicago Chicago Chicago Chicago Evanston Geneva Freeport Mi. 1 larroll Henry ( Cambridge I mli ton Oquawka Bloomington Kankakee Paris Springfield la llarpe Whitehall Taylorville ( >lney ( L-ntralia l'roy 1 '.11 in indale Shawneetown Vienna 1886.] Grand Lodge of I ttinois. 10? REPORT ON MILEAGE AND PER DIEM — Continued. COMMITTEES. JURISPRUDENCE. Joseph Robbins .... I irWitt C. Cregier. . James A. Hawley... Daniel M. Browning s S - n H w 2 M p a 263 $26 30 #20 $46 30 20 20 00 98 9 80 20 29 80 307 30 70 20 50 70 RESIDENCE. Quincy. Chicago. Dixon. Benton. CHARTERED LODGES. Geo. W. Hill- 316 S S. Chance 249 H. C. Cleaveland I 162 Thomas M . Crossman j 266 John R. Hodson 3 1 6c > $20 $51 60 Murphysboro 24 90 30 54 9° Salem. 16 20 1 15 31 20 Rock Island. 26 60 30 56 60 Kdwardsville. .... 30 30 00 Chicago. APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES. loseph E. Dyas . . . H.J. Hamlin George M. Haynes William S. Cantrell H. M. Gilmore... 164 $16 40 #35 $51 4° 195 '9 5o 35 54 5o •••• 35 35 00 307 3° 7° 35 65 7° 1 157 15 70 35 50 70 Paris. Shelbyville. Chicago. Benton. Delavan. LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. Henry E. Hamilton C.J. Manvel John B. Young. . . D. B. Grattan .... C. C. Aldrich $ ■■■■ $30 $30 00 IS 15 00 352 35 20 3° 65 20 330 33 °° 30 63 00 141 14 10 15 29 10 Chicago. Chicago. Golconda. Galatia. McLean. MILEAGE AND PER DIEM. E. S. Mulliner I 263 |$26 30 George VV. Cyrus 242 24 20 John A. Ladd | no | 11 00 S56 30 I Quincy. 54 20 Camp Point. 41 00 I Sterling. Edward C. Pace I 266 !$26 6o|$20 Gil. W. Barnard I .... 20 Sam. \V. Waddle 126 12 60 20 $46 60 I Ashley. 20 00 Chicago. 32 60 I Bloomington. 10 Proceedings qfth. [Oct. 7th EXAM1NA riON I l] M . li i lhamberlin. \\ . I: i (rimes . . . James I 'ouglas. J . E. Evans ] - J>'5 - 255 25 50 '5 321 j2 I.. ■s 47 10 '45 M 5° ■5 I 1. epi ■! t Pittsfield. Chester. Montieello. CREDENTIALS. Ill Clarke I 56 1$ 5 6o|$2o I III 'alton 282 28 20 20 C. F. Tenney ! 153 | 15 30I 20 Kankakee. Mt. Vernon. 35 30 i Bement. PETI1 I INS. Win. E Ginther Edward Cook . . I . S, ( iarrett . ... -' - - J43 Charleston. .... 20 20 00 Chicago. 12 40J 20 I 32 40 I Normal. OBITUARIES. Frank W. Ha vill I 252 $25 21 £20 I $4 Mt. Carmel. John Schofield 145 1 14 50 20 34 50 Peoria. H. A. Forman | 288 | 28 80 1 20 | 48 80 | DuQuoin. GRAND MASTER'S ADD] James I. McClintOck Theo. Steyer A. W. Blakesley 283 |$2.S [O|j20 - ! I .'I 1111 339 33 90 20 53 90 Golconda. 263 I 26 30I 20 I 46 30 I Quini y. RAILROADS. William Jenkins 84 I #S 40 1 $35 I 54 ; 4.. I Mendota. 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 105 REPORT ON MILEAGE AND PER DIEM — Continued. RHI'KICSF.NTATIYIiS. Bodley Equality Harmony Springfield ... Friendship.... Macon Rushville St. Johns Warren Peoria Temperance .. Macomb Hancock Cass Franklin Hiram Piasa Pekin Mt. Vernon. . Oriental Barry Charleston Kavanaugh.... Monmouth ( Hive Branch.. Hermon Occidental Mt. Joliet Bloomington.. Hardin Griggsville Caledonia Unity Cambridge Carrollton Mt. Moriah... Benevolent Jackson Washington ... Trio Fraternal New Boston.. Belvidere Lacon St. Marks Benton Euclid Kno.wille Acacia Naples Eureka Social Central .. Chester Rockton Roscoe Mt. Nebo Prairie Waukegan Scott Whitehall Vitruvius DeWitt Mitchell H. K. Newby Jo G. Bunker M. Minter H. H. Briggs G. D. Laing T. W. Pinkerton Mark Bogue •F. D. Hardy L. H. Adams A. I. Harbers T. N. Pitkin A. K. Lodge Peter Jackson George N. Goodell. J. S. Elwell A. B. Turpin H. R. Phinney O. F. Fagelmark John H. Mitchell... Win. K. Steele D. W. Greene Geo. M. Sefton L. I ). ( Kerstreet D D. Dunkle James C. Probst Wm. F. Bader W. I, Milligan S. S. Tyler J. M Smith C. F. Rickey L. J. Harvey John Flvnn H. T. Rockwell John P. Hand George W. Davis... A H. Clotfelter Joseph Schmitt Milton Barber J. H. Sawyer M. M. Briggs Samuel Cole George Lytle Jerome H. Thomas . R. C. Newell E. E. Thomas F. M. Youngblood... Samuel Mather Joseph R. Scott Charles A. Coulter.. \V. C. Carver Charles E. Smith .... Martin Bauman Zimri A. Enos F. A. Dudenbster.... J. W Winsor Jabez Love Alexander H. Bell.. J. M. Propst H. L. Hatley John L. Nichols.. .. William A. Winn... Thomas Keats J. W. Coultis John D. Valentine.. 263 3°4 215 185 98 170 228 100 310 145 23 1 204 2 39 225 259 160 257 152 282 263 182 1S7 179 l -4 263 255 246 368 38 154 249 239 238 195 277 162 145 191 78 128 51 3°7 3° 169 99 236 168 118 185 321 9* 85 224 165 35 261 240 25 26 30 30 40 21 50 18 50 9 80 17 00 22 80 10 00 31 00 14 5o 23 jp 20 40 23 90 22 50 25 90 16 00 25 7° 15 20 28 20 26 30 18 20 18 70 17 90 12 40 26 30 8 40 3 7° 12 60 25 50 24 60 36 80 3 80 15 40 24 9° 23 9° 23 80 19 50 27 70 16 20 14 50 19 10 7 80 12 80 5 10 30 70 3 00 16 90 9 9° 23 60 16 80 it 80 18 50 32 10 9 10 8 50 22 40 16 50 3 50 26 10 24 00 2 50 14 80 29 (X $32 3° 36 40 27 5o 24 5° 15 80 23 00 28 80 14 00 37 °° 20 50 29 10 26 40 29 90 28 50 31 90 22 00 3 1 7° 21 20 34 20 6 00 32 3° 24 20 24 70 23 90 16 40 32 30 14 40 7 7° 18 60 3 1 5o 30 60 42 80 9 80 21 40 30 90 29 90 29 80 25 5° 33 7° 22 20 20 50 25 10 13 80 16 80 11 10 36 70 9 00 22 90 15 9° 29 60 22 80 17 80 24 5o 38 10 15 10 14 50 28 40 22 50 9 5° 32 10 30 00 8 50 20 80 33 00 '45 106 Proceedings ofiht [Oct. 7th, REPORT ON MILEAGE \M> PER DIEM — Continued. . 1 A 1 I '. I S Kaskaskia 86 Mt. Pulaski 87 II. iv. ma 88 Fellowship 89 Jerusalem Temple 90 "Metropolis yi Stewart y- Tottlon 93 Perry 9? Samuel H. Davis 96 Exi elsior _ 97 Taylor 98 Kd wards ville Astoria Rockford Magnolia Lewis to wn Winchester I ..in. aster Versailles Lebanon boro Bureau Robert Burns Man elline Rising Sun Vei ni'iiit Wn erly I I' III v Mound I Iquawka I ■ ilar Greenup Empire V.ntioi li ,. Raleigh < ireenfield Marion < " li 1 mda Mackinaw Marshall Sycamore Lima Hutson ville Polk Marengo I il ii' v.i 1 Hney 1 .11 di n City imi R ii limond DeKalb \ W. Rawson I ei I . Taylor F. E. Eubeling $ 39 4° 22 90 25 80 38 60 9 80 46 20 21 90 20 40 31 20 15 60 18 10 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. W REPORT ON Mil. hack and PER DIEM — Continued. McIIcnry Kewanee Waubansia Virden Hope Westfield Edward I >obbins. .. Atlanta Star in the East Milford Nunda Evergreen Girard Wayne Cherry Valley Lena M. meson Mendota Staunton Illinois Central Wabash Moweaqua Germania Meridian Abingdon Mystic Tie Cyrus Fulton City Dundee Parmington Herrick Freedom LaHarpe Louisville King Solomon's... Grandview Homer Sheba Centralia Lavely Flora Fairfield Tamaroa Wilmington Wm. B. Warren... Lincoln Cleveland Shipman Ipava Gillespie Newton.. Mason New Salem Oakland..... Leroy Geo. Washington.. Keeney Pana Columbus Lovington Manchester New Haven..... . . . Wyanet.. Farmers.... Blandinsville.... . . . 87 DuQuoin.. 234 ki,i-i;i>i:n i a jives. Charles C. Colby C. E. McCullough George S. Norfolk A.T.Bartlett Wm. P. Askins Charles Downey Charles H. Martin O. Brinkerhoff B. A. Weber James A McConnell.. lohn H. Palmer 0. F. Potter F. L. Thompson J. M. Uurkholder Henry Andrus Orrin J. Wilsey John B. Fithian Jacob Scheidenhelm... J. R. Ripley R. D. Badger A. Y. Hart A. J. Combs Herman Parney S Ed. Snow L. B. Myers S. W. Clark Chas. C. Farmer John C. Martindale... A. W. Wilbern J. T. Scudder A. B. Bonneville C. W. Bradshaw Geo. W. Soule W R.Whitman Samuel E. Brown Geo. A. Gilbert W. A. Conley Wm. H. (Albert D. B. Robertson C. C. VanMeter G. W.Smith L. D. Bennett Cyril L. Willoughby.. Frank Martin Henry Lesch Robt. Goebel Thomas G. Morris F. R. Kahl 1. M Van Horn Henry Behrens W. H. Lathrop H. N Ruffner W. R. Hooper John Rutherford John F. McKenzie.... J. F. Thomas W. A. Hubbard Warren Hettiger 1. W. Bonn^y W. S. Shivey J. H. Wilson J. H. Graddy Thomas Roach John R Witherill George S. Fuhr Jacob Messmore 51 _'<>7 310 43 121 21 I 152 84 !33 37 13 20 20 70 31 00 18 10 22 60 14 60 9 3° 8 80 4 30 12 10 21 10 15 20 8 40 13 3° 3 7° 8 40 245 24 5° 95 9 5° 180 18 CO 186 18 60 73 7 3° *73 17 3° no 11 00 127 12 70 136 13 60 42 4 20 171 17 10 225 22 50 77 7 7° 216 21 60 228 22 80 257 25 7° 162 16 20 144 14 40 268 26 80 253 25 3° '73 17 3° 23S 23 5° 2 S 8 25 80 280 28 00 53 5 3° 156 15 60 238 23 80 206 20 60 240 24 00 222 22 20 j 1 1 21 10 2SI 25 10 167 16 70 135 13 5o I42 14 20 I«0 18 00 202 20 20 247 24 70 175 17 5° 232 23 20 298 29 80 112 n 20 409 40 90 2IO 21 00 288 28 80 Si 1 i" 19 20 6 00 26 70 37 o° 24 10 28 60 20 60 1 S 30 14 80 10 30 18 10 27 10 21 20 14 40 19 30 9 7° ., ,. 1 30 50 15 5° 24 00 24 60 6 00 13 3° 23 3 C 17 00 18 7c 19 6c 10 2C 23 10 28 5 C 13 7 C 27 6c 28 80 3 1 7° 22 20 20 40 32 80 3 1 3° 23 3° 29 5° 31 80 34 00 11 30 6 00 21 60 6 00 29 80 26 60 30 00 28 20 27 10 31 10 22 70 19 50 20 20 24 00 26 20 28 70 2 3 5° 29 20 35 80 17 20 46 90 27 00 34 80 L08 Procei dings of tJu [Oct. 7th, rki'ok'i <>n mii.kack wi' per diem — Continued. , i i i i i -. i . i i i . Dallas City Charter Oak..... . Cairo. Bla< k Hawk...... Mt. Carmel Western Star... . Shekinah Galva Horicon Greenville El Paso.... Rob Morris Golden Gate.... . Hibbard.... Robinson.. Heyworth . Aledo Avon Harmony.. Aurora Donnelson Warsaw Mattoon... Ann in Channahon Illinois Franklin ( rrove.. Vermilion Kingston La Prairie Paris Wheaton Levi Lusk Blaney Carmi Miners Byron Milton Elizabeth Jo Daviess Neoga Kansas Brooklyn Meteor Catlin Plymouth De Soto Genoa Wataga Chenoa l'i < iphi I Pontiac Kills.. Quincy Bi Djamin.. \\ .M i inda Mi < hanicsburg .. Hanover.. H lej Durand.... . ...... < Inarga W ( Hobbs.... I I Pickett.... Ashlar I dearborn.. Kilwinning Ionic 236 238 240 241 243 -It 245 246 -47 248 249 250 -'.SI 252 253 254 - 257 j- 1 1 26 ; 264 265 266I -'''7 269] 270 271 272 273 274 2? l '7' 278 -!•> 287 288 2/ I 292 2i , ; 294 295 .•,,1, 297 298 299 ;l» , ;" V 12 |os ;■ 16 308 1 B. Mendenhall John N. Rose Rudolph Nebsacker W. 11. Tyrrell Jacob Zimmerman... J. B. A. Collan T. C. McKinney 1 ). 1'. Stoddard 1 >. A. Baxter Isaac Norman W. K Shinn Jacob McCli' W. W. Shoop Thos. L. Kees Thomas S Price Geo. Stephenson A. M Arthur F. M. Nance V. H. Snook P. D. Smith James F. Crawford... P. A. Kemper John H. Tyler Albert F. RandaM .... \V. H Eastman Geo. D. Black I. Russ Grace Wm. Likes John 0. Schwartz Geo. F. Howard Geo. W. Brown I 2 2 OO M 12 40 1. 18 40 i. -=4 50 i> 13 00 (. 36 50 b 27 60 .. 20 80 11 31 80 1. 2l OO 6 24 50 b 29 bo b 20 50 b 40 90 (1 21 20 1. 39 9° 2 5 3° b 33 °° b 34 2 ° b ii, 90 b 18 10 6 28 90 i' ■ n 70 «. 27 40 15 20 6 -5 4° n 15 80 i» 20 50 11 33 °° >i 2b TO 1. 6 33 7° 33 00 1. 1 _• 21 ■ (i 10 40 ii 24 70 b 36 10 b 30 10 22 30 b ib 90 b 21 30 b 21 80 b 22 10 b 35 00 6 22 bo b '3 40 b 30 bo b 12 90 b 6 35 5o 12 10 b 33 80 b 34 3° b 18 10 b 28 30 b 15 3° 15 4<> b 29 10 b 25 70 32 00 b 1 1 60 b 23 20 4 17 7,. 6 27 00 110 Proceedings oftfo [Oct. 7th REPORT ON MILEAGE AND VV.R DIEM — Continued. Blair... [erseyville Muddy Point Shiloh kinmunuy Buda Pai ific I idell.. Kishwaukee Mason City Batavia Ramsej Bethalto... Stratton Thos. J. Turner. Mithra Pollen Evening Star.. . . . Lawn Ridge... . . . Paxton Marseilles Kreeburg Reynoldsburg. . . . ( Iregon Washburn Landmark Lanark Exeter S^ OttS ilk'.. Red Bud.. Sunbeam ( Ihebanse.. Kendrick Summit Munay\ ille.... . . . Annawan.. Makallda.. Philo.. Chicago Luce < lamargo Sparland Hampshire in-Rock Chesterfield ....... S. 1). Monroe Vates City Ml udon.... I .oami Bromwell.. Mew Hartford..., Maroa [rving V ikomis Moscow Blazing Star.... liutler Teffersonville... , ... Plainview I nt Palmyra I >■ a\ er I [untsv ill' t lobden.. South Macon... . . . REPRESEN 1 VI IVES. 4 jo 421 I ' ' 423 424 426 427 428 429 H" 43 1 t :■' 433 434 436 437 439 440 441 442 it ; 444 445 117 I P 449 4 5< ' 45i 453 454 ■I < . 1 •" 1 17 1 |8 459 \6 ■ C'l 462 393 Alfred Latcham 394 R. S. Beatty 396 A.J. Funkhouser 397 Fred. Meinhard 398 Thomas Bagott 399 A. D. Boad 400 E. H. Stilson 401 Charles E. Axt 402 J. H. Fillmore 403 A. Damarin 404 R. R. Hunt 405 J. P. Jeppeson 406, H. T. McCrea 408 J. J. Lamb 409 J. E. Pettibone 410 Charles Canisius 412 John L. Marvel 414 John Weber 415 John 11. Phillips 416 Roberts. Hall 417 David Samuels 418 Louis G. Joseph 419 J. H. Hood H. L. Currier E. Buckingham I .. \ . Harvey R. P. Wales S. H. Funk William Feely Francis Kemp C. D. Rounds L. A. Kinney Jay Brown George F. Towne J. F Self. R. W. Milan H. E. Ferrell W. Fleming Joseph B. Schlossman J. O. Gunn A. Salisbury I I < ...pin D. C. Sturdevant C. Hall 55 D. F. Fray/er 333 E. G. Duckels 235 L. S. Highsmith -219 Henry Saldwell 165 S. II Bradley Joseph Jones George Hutchinson . Henry Pollard I M.Smith \ \. Rhinehart .1 W. Scott L. Shaddrick I W. Ervin \\ G Diddle 1 1. 1 [illiard . \V. J. I lonahue A. V. Norman 1' ; I. W . Mi I oy 464 E. McClure < II. Phelps 466 .1 I . I Wall 467 S. 1 ; Washburn 264 193 262 2 340 -•■*-' -'5> 334 -•-•1 '3 7° 10 90 14 00 10 30 7 7° 30 30 31 60 9 00 12 70 IJ -.; 2-' v> 3 » 80 5 to 6 JO -■4 80 '7 70 22 7" 1 J go 1' bo 15 20 26 30 15 60 13 00 19 20 5 50 33 3° 2 3 50 21 90 16 50 26 40 2< • 21 1 26 20 16 20 22 30 34 00 33 20 1 .- 25 Jo I '5 3° 22 10 24 80 23 20 26 20 - 18 00 6 9 00 » 22 90 11 80 6 16 90 8 20 (• 6 20 6 17 10 3 80 : 22 00 A 26 10 6 16 00 fi 6 $ 6 °° 32 20 24 00 15 00 28 90 17 80 22 90 14 20 23 IO 9 80 28 00 3-' lo 22 00 6 00 4 00 19 70 16 90 20 00 3 6 3° 37 60 15 00 18 70 6 00 18 10 j . _■ ■ 28 50 37 80 n 30 12 50 30 80 28 70 18 90 37 60 6 00 3 2 3° 19 60 19 00 39 3° 29 50 26 ..,, 25 30 29 30 4° 00 30 20 .1 1.. 21 30 28 10 30 80 -1 00 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. Ill report on mileage am> per diem — Continued. REPRESENTATIVES. McLean RantouL... Kendall Amity Gordon Columbia Walshville Manito Rutland Pleiades Wyoming Logan Momence.. Lexington Edgewood Xenia Bowen Andrew Jackson Clay City Shannon... Martin Liberty ville Tower Hill . Bath Stone Fort Tennessee Alma.. Murphysboro . . . St. Paul.... Stark.. Woodhull...... Odin.. Fast St. Louis. . Meridian Sun. . O. H. Miner...... Home.... Parkersburg ..... . J. D. Moody... . . Wade-Barney ' 512 Bradford.. 514 5i6 517 518 519 52° 5 ■' 470 47 1 472 473 474 475 476 177 478 479 480 481 4 s - 484 ; 485 ,:-., 487 |SS 490 491 492 493 494! 495 496 1 497 498 5< o 501 502 5°3 vm 505 506 S( 18 5°9 510 Andalusia Litchfield Abraham Lincoln Roseville Anna.. llliopolis... Monitor.... 522 Chatham.. 523 Evans 524 Delia.. ! 525 Covenant 526 Minooka 528 Adams . Maquon 530 Ashton Seneca Altamont.. Cuba.. Sherman Plainfield J. R. Gorin Chatsworth Harlem I 540 Sigel.. 54 i Towanda.. 542 Cordova.... 543 53' 532 533 534 555 53'5 537 539 P. M. Stubblefield Charles Damoran George F. Hoadley J. P. Esmay S. J.Gullick Albert L. Martin A. T. Strange E. S. Starrett James Ball Richard C. Nelson T. W. Bloomer James Gillispie Wm. Astle John L. Langstaff. Joseph Danks A. H. Porter Frank S. Nash T. M. Mitchell J. T. Evans.... J. Mastin H. J. Piatt F. Z. Kimball J. K P. McCullough D. C. Harmison J. C. B. Smith J.W.Aikin Samuel J. Steele R. J. Young Phillip T. Slenker E. G. Hill F. W. Turner G. W. Black.. E. J Eggman J. W. Walker B. F. Hartman T. B. Dixon M. L. Howe John R. McQuown E. D. Bone A. M. Mutchmore Benj. Dill A. T. Kiethley A. B. Holliday J. W. Conlee John Spire J. H. Grubb... C. E Ahle B G. Smith.... M. B. Iott F. J. Davis James Hibben E. N. Weese Joseph H. Vickers L. J. Dawley J. J. Hodges C. H. R. Thomas J. H. Johnson Henry Shiery J. M. Hanna A. H. Tyler H. J. Robinson Wm. H Gearhart Alfred E. Bartelme W. F. Geren Samuel Marsh W. R. Freek 14 10 4 60 6 80 6 b 1 .' 00 15 20 6 17 40 1 1 00 9 00 31 80 35 5o 29 90 -'-' l" 17 40 6 00 19 80 21 60 11 00 17 00 27 40 30 40 30 40 38 60 30 20 18 10 24 80 1 !0 26 40 25 IO 37 80 27 20 36 50 24 50 20 60 1 i" 30 40 34 00 "4 7" 13 60 4 OO [O [O 31 80 18 60 18 90 23 20 29 10 24 60 25 10 38 90 24 60 9 7° 25 4" 7 20 27 30 6 00 9 10 34 3° 23 30 14 40 27 10 25 ->o 22 50 [O I" 18 10 is 60 6 80 25 5° 18 00 I jo 112 Proceedings oftlu [Oct. ;/h, report on Mii. kali, and per diem — Continued. Virginia 544 Elkhart 545 Valley 547 Vpple River 548 Sharon 550 I l.irwin 551 1 ,ong Point 552 Plum River .. 554 Humboldt 555 1 lawson 556 I .essing 557 Leland 558 Thomson 559 Madison 560 Villa Ridge 562 1 [amilton.. 563 Winslow 564 Pleasant Hill 565 Albany 566 Frankfort.. 567 Time 569 Jacksonville.... .. 570 Bardolph.. 572 Pera... 574 Capron 575 ( >' Fallon... 576 Viola 577 Elbridge.... 57'* Hazel Dell 580 I >< mgi il.i.... 581 Shirley 582 Highland 583 Vesper 584 KKI'KESJ NI.V1 l\ ES. Fisher. Princeton Troy Elwood Fairmount .... ( rilman Fieldon Miles Hart National.. .... I.ostant 1 null lordo... I ai I' ile. ...... . H ai "ii (.'lark I lebron..., '!" ...... . Pipei Sheldon ....... Union Park.... I .i In Park.. Rock Rivei .. 589 590 592 59S 596 =."7 1 « 11 1 601 602 in 13 I HI) 607 1 1, ,8 (Kill i,l< 1 6ll 6l2 6l3 5«5 Forrest W adley.... . . Mil hi I: CO \ 1 .'. Hope.. Venii e I lopi dale. . 1 t 1 n in' .in Norton. . . . G. T. Willey... Ellis YV. Elden David Lyons... fames Charlton E. H. Harris... lidward Pearce B. F. Colehower Charles Robinson Otto J. Oondolf. A M. Fidler Philip -Mars George J. Herriek John H. Taylor Henry Scharf S. H. Graves John S. Williams fames M Rybolt F. L. Zerenberg J. (1. Capper .... John A. Baker W. H. Pringle W. A. Edwards II. B. Skiles Oscar Cnrlson C. E. Fenton 1!. I. Van Conn Evan J. Morgan W. A. Pearson C. G. Cochran D. Jerome Dillon A. E. McCoy (. A Keithe Win. R. Hoyle, Jr Orlando Z. fionslcy John Pickel: Elias Buck W. H. Wallace A. L. White R. Morey William Kails R.N.Curry George C. Tate- Nelson Dugan Melvin Welty S. M. Gentry U . M Abraham F. I. Haines D. 'A. Clarj l..i D. Bullock W. I '. Jones R. B. Myers L. Hazzard D. R. Comode Henri C. Ward William C. Kesner Fred. Din ketl W. I'. 11. 1st E. W. Campbell \\ illi.un Berber W. II. Haslit Thomas P. Mi 1 1 II S. M. Donley I.e. Handel Marshall Culp J. S. Williams W. \. Col ton i.vm;.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 11; report on mileage and per diem — Continued. Ridge Farm.... 632 E. F. \V. Ellis 633 Buckley 634 Rochester 635 Peotone 636 Keystone 639 Comet 641 Apollo 642 D. C. Cregier 643 Oblong City.... 644 San Jose 645 Somonauk 646 Bluevilie.... 647 Camden.... 648 Hinsdale 649 Irvington.. 650 Centre Star 651 Polar Star 652 Greenview 653 Yorktown 655 Mozart 656 Lafayette.. 657 Rock Island.... 658 Lambert 659 Grand Chain 660 P>ethesda 661 South Park 662 Phoenix 663 Mayo 664 Greenland 665 Crawford 666 Erie 667' Burnt Prairie 668 Herder 1 669 Fillmore 670J Eddyville 672 Normal 673 Waldeck 674 Pawnee 675 A. O. Fay 676 Enfield 677 Sheffield 678 Illinois City 679 Clement 680 Morrison ville 681 Blue Mound 6S2 Burnside 683 Galatia j 684 Rio 685 Garfield 686 Orange ville 687 Clifton 688 Englewood 690 Iola 691 Raymond 692 Herrin's Prairie 693 Centre 694 Shiloh Hill 695 Belle Rive 696 Richard Cole 697 Hutton 698 Pleasant Plains 700 Temple Hill 701 Alexandria 702 Braid wood 704 Ewing 705 152 KEPRBSBN 1 A riVES Frank Fellers John C. Garver W. A. B. Tate Ira F. Twist James J. McMahon Simon Fisch H L. Ogden William H. Elliott James Keats B M. Arnolds Wm. E. Carrothers Silas Townsend Iverson Stokes S F. Cady David A. Custer T. D Hinkley W.J Biggs Henry Hudson John A. Petrie J. E. Gremman Joseph Wetzle Charles C. Huthweacher. William Kennedy James B. Fox J. M. Jones H. L. Terpening R. H. Garrigue Michael McMorrow James A. McCorklc James H.Alsop T. J. Athey A. McLane Wesley Phillips Frank Wenter J. W. Miller John S. Barger George Champion L. Kneidle G. C. D. Denraan G. F. Bennett W. R. Miller William L. Spear Joseph Ryan Charles P. Jacobson J. M. Pence William Marshall Uriah H. Ashcraft J C. D. Carr G. S Snow C. W. Walduck John F. Fink Peter Wright Lee White James C.Craig John Greene D. R. Harrison G. I. Ladd T. B Canaday W. R. Ross Thomas Ockerby J. A.Stull William Lynd E. R. Houchin C. W. Postlewait C. K. Charlton R. D. Swain 142 93 93 193 to 216 163 61 239 18 259 160 297 180 121 126 333 162 263 353 "3 6 158 223 214 214 !33 272 233 333 124 276 257 187 225 307 163 1 -'3 69 7 221 220 321 202 315 2 93 $14 20 9 3° 9 3° 19 30 4 00 14 40 201 416 172 57 21 60 16 30 6 10 20 20 23 90 . 80 25 90 16 00 29 70 18 00 12 10 12 60 33 30 16 20 26 30 35 30 11 30 60 15 80 22 30 21 40 21 4(1 13 30 27 20 23 3° 33 30 12 40 20 30 2 30 27 60 25 70 18 70 14 80 21 10 18 40 22 50 30 70 16 30 12 30 6 90 70 22 IO 22 OO 32 IO 20 20 31 SO 29 30 18 80 20 IO 41 60 17 20 5 70 29 80 $20 20 11 30 15 30 25 3° 10 00 6 00 20 40 6 00 6 00 27 60 22 30 12 10 26 20 29 90 5 80 31 90 22 00 35 70 24 00 18 10 18 60 39 3° 22 20 32 30 4 1 3° 17 SO 6 60 21 80 28 30 27 40 27 40 19 3o 33 20 6 00 29 30 39 3° 18 40 6 00 26 30 8 30 33 60 31 70 24 70 20 80 27. 10 24 40 28 50 36 70 22 30 6 00 18 30 12 90 6 70 28 10 26 00 38 10 26 20 37 5o 35 30 6 00 24 80 26 10 47 60 2 . it 11 70 35 80 Ill Proceedings of thi | Oct. 7th, kkpok'i ON mileage AND per diem — Continued. KKl'KKM MA I IVI Joppa Circle Star Farmer City Providence Collinsville Johnsonville Newtown 1 l\ .i-tnii i lalumet May Chapel Hill Rome Walnut < hnaha Chandlerville Rankin Golden Rule Ran tan Waterman Lake Creek Eldorado 1 [arbor Carman ( libson Morning Star .... Sheridan Arrowsmith Sullivan Centre.. Lakeside ( irant Park New Holland Danvers Scott Land Goode Winnebago Weldon.: Aha Akin Lyndon Lounsbury ( i it nell I Igden Pre-emption I [ardinsville Verona Mystii Star Hickory Hill Sibley \ hi Meter Crete Sullivan I 'alai '■ I ittleton Triluminar M izpah St. Elmo Bay City New Burnside... Mansfield Lake View I M T. M. McClanahan ... Ezra K Thornburg... George Steeley R. Clearmaters S. A. Cameron \V. C. Hadley F. M. Galbraith John O'Farrell W. H.Avise H. B Robinson W. E. Jennings T.J. Throgmorton... Robert F. Casey Elijah Ross L. E. Quigley Levi Dick B R.Cole Willard F. Riggle R. L. Taylor Enoch P. Rowley G. W Duncan T. H. Humphrey Joseph D. Wright R. A. Lomax S. J. Lefevre Isaac W Ross R W. Bower R. E. Howell S. K. Lewis Nicholas Martin E. H. Buck A. M Caldwell George F. Pease Warren Newcomb Wm. H. Morris George W. Weaver ... A. M. Drew C.J. Haller Enoch Summers lohn Roberts E R Clark Henry M. Con nell .... I.I. >ilkey William C. Cray C. P. Carlton Nathan Small I. H. Ames Syria |. Branson W. A. Bickett 1. B. Vanmcter R. A. Hewes John H. Dunscombe.. \ Mi 1 . uhlan James L. DeWitl A. W. McLaughlin.... F. T. Croxon I' M lohnston Wm. S. Moseley G. W.Smott I .. 1 .. Fayman George II. Friz/ell K" hard S. i 'urd 208 vj, , gi 1 £6 '/-' b 99 9 9° 6 130 6 id 1 00 ft 286 28 60 6 252 25 20 6 '34 13 40 6 246 24 60 6 16 i 60 6 284 28 40 6 3^3 32 30 6 271 27 10 '. 1 10 11 00 6 291 6 201 20 i" 6 1 > 1 11 [O 6 6 20 20 6 64 6 40 6 320 32 00 6 297 29 70 b 12 1 20 6 213 21 JO 6 no I I OO 6 182 18 20 6 66 6 60 4 126 12 60 6 83 8 30 6 6 44 4 40 6 168 16 80 6 136 13 60 6 151 • 1 295 6 100 10 00 6 143 14 30 6 155 15 50 -1 316 31 60 6 123 6 3 2 too 2 10 00 fi 6 143 l-t (0 6 183 18 30 6 218 21 80 6 7' 7 III 6 276 6 104 IO 40 1 J 95 ■9 50 1. 3 00 b !73 6 12 b b 6 21 7 21 70 6 420 1 " b 1 ; to b 5 50 182 18 20 $26 80 23 20 '5 9° 19 00 7 00 34 Co 31 2C 19 40 30 60 7 60 34 40 *8 30 17 00 35 10 17 111 6 00 1 2 41 1 38 00 35 7° 7 20 ■*7 30 1 7 1* 1 24 20 10 60 18 60 14 jo 6 00 10 40 19 60 21 IO 35 50 16 00 20 30 1 9 20 16 00 20 30 13 10 6 00 1, ,. , 6 00 .|S 00 ig [Q I .11 24 20 188(3.] Grand Lodgt of Illinois. 1 1. The M. W. Grand Master: Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Illinois: — It affords me great pleasure, as it has heretofore, to present to you M. \Y. Brother Frederick Speed, Past Grand Master of the Grand Jurisdiction of Mississippi. You will join with me in according to the M. W. Grand Lodge of Mississippi, through Most Worshipful Brother Speed, the Grand Honors of Masonry. M. W. Brother Speed: M. W. Grand Master and Brethren: — I would he insensible to the compliment which the Grand Lodge has paid to me, were I not to acknowledge it. But I feel as though it was but an expression of that sentiment upon which we build the chief cornerstone of Masonry, and which, though it may be said to be a silken tie, is yet a band of iron, binds us together, whether we come from the North or the South, the East or from the West, in one band of brothers, united by fraternal love. I thank you. W. Bro. R. S. Hall presented the following resolution, which on motion was adopted: Whereas, It has come to the attention of many Masons in this vicinity that at a picnic given in July last by a subordinate lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, several members of said Lodge indulged their appetite for strong drink and their passion for fisticuffs to such an extent as to cause the Worshipful Master and one or more other members to return home with disfigured faces; and Whereas, Xo disciplinary sentence has been executed against the guilty par- ties and such feeble attempts as have been made to bring them to punishment have proven abortive; and Whereas, The condition of affairs as herein stated has created great scandal in the community where said lodge is located, to the serious detriment of the frater- nity; therefore, Resolved, That the Grand Master be respectfully requested to appoint a com- mission to fully investigate the case and report all the facts to him, to the end that he may take suitable action in the case. R. W. Bro. Edward Cook submitted the following report for the Board of Grand Examiners, which on motion was adopted: To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. &* A. Masons : The Grand Examiners, to whom wa^ referred the decision of the M. W. Grand Master with respect to the proper form of opening and closing a lodge, would fraternally report that the decision is in accordance with our understanding of the authorized work of this jurisdiction, to which we have uniformly conformed in our teachings at schools of instruction and elsewhere for many years, and which has Lie Proceedings ofth [Oct. 7th, been repeatedly endorsed by Grand Masters at schools which they have attended; and we would therefore recommend that it be confirmed by this < Irand Lodge. Respectfully submitted, EDWARD COOK, M. D. CHAMBERLIN, W. B. GRIMES, JAMES DOT GLAS, (HAS. F. TENNER . Committee. R. W. Bro. E. C. Pace, from the Committee on Finance, presented the follow- ing reports, which were adopted: To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois , /•'. & A. Masons : Vour Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the resolutions of R. \Y. Bro. Mnnn directing this committee to devise an appropriate Past Master's jewel, and that such jewel be procured and presented to M. W. Bro, Ira A. W. Buck on behalf of this Grand Lodge, fraternally recommend the adoption of the following resolution as a substitute for the resolutions offered by R. W. Bro. Munn: Resolved, That a special committee of three be appointed to draft resolu- tions expressive of the sentiment of this Grand Lodge towards M. \V. Bro. Puck, and that a copy of said resolutions be suitably engrossed and presented to him on behalf of the Grand Lodge. Fraternally submitted. E. C. PACE, GIL. W. BARNARD, S. YV. WADDLE, Committee. To the M. IV. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. eV A. Masons : In accordance with the requirements of the By-Laws your committee submit the following estimate of the probable expenditures of the Grand Lodge for the coming year: Mileage and per diem $iS,ooo Salaries of Grand officers 4,000 Printing, stationery and blanks 3»5°° Postage and expressage 1,000 Grand Master's expenses 300 Miscellaneous expenses 2,700 Total $30,000 Fraternally submitted, E. C. PACE, GIL. W. BARNARD, S. \V. WADDLE, Committee. 1880.] Grcvnd Lodge of Illinois, I 1/ To the M. II'. Grand Lodge of Illinois, /•'. & ./. Masons : The following bills and accounts, referred to us at this (hand Communication, have been examined and found correct, and we recommend that the Grand Secre- tary be directed to draw his orders on the Grand Treasurer for the respective amounts named: I. M. McCollister, official visit $ 2 50 Lewis C. Seeley, official visit 7 00 John Von Gunten, official visits 21 81 R. R. Stevens, expense bill 79 75 E. P. Tilley, partition, etc., in Battery D 147 65 Fraternally submitted, E. C. PACE, GIL W. BARNARD, S. W. WADDLE, Committee. W. Bro. J. W. Scott offered the following resolution, which on motion was adopted: Resolved, That a special committee of three be appointed to secure and pre- pare quarters for the meeting of this (hand Lodge for its next Grand Communi- cation. REPORT — Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence. M. W. Bro. Joseph Bobbins presented the following report from the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence, which was adopted : To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois F. 6° A. Masons: Your Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence reports as follows on the various subjects before it: In the matter referred to under the head of " Voluntary Dimissions," your com- mittee heartily concurs in the opinion expressed by the M. W. Grand Master that our law relative to dimission, intentionally framed to prevent lodges from retaining mem bers against their will, is just and proper, believing that no advantage can accrue either to a lodge or to the Fraternity by holding an unwilling member to his affilia- tion, but is constrained to dissent from his estimate of the value of more stringent legislation against voluntary non-affiliation as a remedy for the evils, whatever they may be, of voluntary dimission. The history of legislation upon this subject shows that added severity has not had the effect to check the evil, but that the exodus has increased in volume paripassu with the increasing stringency of the legislation de- signed to suppress it. It may well be questioned, too, whether the Grand Lodge is Proceedings ofth [ Oct. 7th, has not already gone to the very verge of its lawful authority, if it has not, indeed, exceeded it, in assuming that any of the rights of a Mason may be alienated by legis- lation, or by any other process except a judgment reached in due course under the penal laws of the Institution. But whatever view may be taken of this aspect of the question, the discretion still left to the lodges, and the right of summary objection fully recognized by our law in the hands of the individual member, lodges with those most directly interested the power to protect themselves absolutely against the intru- sion of unwelcome visitors, and as the acknowledged conservators of Masonry in their own neighborhood, they are the proper judges of the extent to which the interests of the Fraternity demand its exercise.- The matter of "Objections to Visitors," discussed by the Grand Master, is one beset with difficulties. The question whether the so called "right of visit," is really a right, or only a privilege, is one which has vexed, and still vexes, Masonic jurists. Our Grand Lodge has steadily refused to admit the absolute nature of the right, and in its legislation has treated it as a privilege by always recognizing the right of sum- mary objection in the individual member. It has advisedly adopted the theory that although the rights of the visitor and of the member are equal in the Fraternity of which they are members in common, the rights of the latter are superior in his own lodge, and that he must be vested with unquestioned power to exclude a visitor lest by the introduction of a person whom he cannot fellowship, he himself be compelled to retire, and the anomalous condition exist wherein the superior right is subordi- nated to the inferior. This view is firmly held by a majority of your committee. They do not deny that in the early days of the Craft the brother by his " making " may have been invested with the right to visit any regular lodge, but they hold that under the changed conditions slowly evolved in the lapse of time, what may have formerly been a right is of necessity now only a privilege. The chairman, \\ h<> holds in a general sense that the right is an absolute one, recognizes the fact that conditions have arisen not known at the time when it was everywhere exercised unquestioned, and that by the establishment of permanent lodges with fixed jurisdictions, interests which were formerly common ones have, in a measure, become private ones, so that we now have lodge interests as distinguished from the general interests of the Fra- ternity. When the right is confronted with these interests, he is obliged to concede that in so far as the departure of which they were born is accomplished and irremedi- able, the argument of the majority applies with some force ; but he still holds that while the lodge is engaged in the business of Masonry, such as the administration of the rites which confer Masonic character, then the absolute nature of the right should be maintained. But however the committee may divide on tlii- phase of the subject, there is a unanimous concurrence of opinion that it would not be wise to submit the validity of objections to the lodge or the Master, and that for the present it is better that our law on this subject should remain undisturbed. In the matter of disciplining sojourners, your committee concurs with the Grand Master in the opinion that the law as it now stands seem-- to leave room for doubt vvliethei the original jurisdiction vested in the lodge is absolute. In order that all 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 119 possibility of doubt may be removed, your committee recommends that Section 3, Article I., Tart Third, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws lie amended by striking out all after the word "sojourning," ami inserting the following: "Shall, in case the offender shall be suspended or expelled, give notice thereof to the lodge of which he may be, or shall have last been a member." In the matter of the time when lodges under dispensation are required to make their returns, your committee also concurs in the views expressed by the Grand Master, and recommend that Section 12, Article XXIII., Part Second, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws be amended by striking out all after the words "Grand Lodge" where they first occur in said section, clown to and including the words "Part Sec- ond," and inserting in lieu thereof the words "on or before the first day of Septem- ber next succeeding the .date of the dispensation. Touching the question submitted by the Grand Master, whether in townships about Chicago, in which there may be a number of villages all under one common government, our law should not be so construed as to make the territorial jurisdic- tion of the lodges situated therein concurrent, your committee is of the opinion that such a construction of the law would improperly affect the jurisdiction of lodges similarly situated in other portions of the State, and that it should, therefore, wait upon the time when the more compact settlement of such township shall practically solve the difficulty. With reference to the suggestion of the Grand Master that instead of furnishing each lodge with three copies ol the proceedings of the Grand Lodge in pamphlet form, only two copies be furnished, one of which shall be bound in substantial covers, your committee recommends that each lodge be furnished with three copies as" here- tofore, but that one of these copies shall be bound and the name of the lodge be printed upon the cover, provided this can be done at an added expense of not more than thirty cents for each bound copy. In the matter of the invasion of the jurisdiction of Germania Lodge, No. 1S2, by St. Paul Lodge, No. 3, of Minnesota, the fraternal attitude of the Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota, and his decided action in the premises, indicate that no action is necessary on the part of the Grand Lodge. With respect to the invasion of the jurisdiction of ^Havana Lodge, No. 88, by Southern Lodge U. D., of Los Angelos, California, the committee recommend that the Grand Master make further effort to secure an explanation from the ( hand Master of California. Your committee concurs with the (band Master in the opinion that the question of the " Physical (Qualifications " of candidates is an important one, but it does not seem to your committee that there is any perplexing ambiguity in our law to em- barrass those who are honestly minded to obey it. The fundamental law on this subject is found in the " Charges of a Freemason," and is as follows : " Xo Master L20 Proceedings of flu {Oct. 7th, should take an Apprentice * * * * unless he be a perfect youth, having no maim or defect in his body, that may render him uncapable of learning the art of serving his Master's lord." ( >ur own statute does not attempt to change this in the least, but only to inter- pret it. It therefore requires that he shall "have the senses of a man, especially I hearing, seeing and feeling," and possess "no maim or defect in his body that may render him incapable of conforming lilt-rally to what the several degrees respectively require of him." The law is here preserved as we find it in the Charges ol a freemason, with the explanation that the ability to learn the art of serving his Master's hud, means the ability to conform literally to the requirements of the seyeral degrees in respect to movements and positions, and that literally here also means with his own proper limbs, the limbs that are his because he was born with them, and not his simply in the narrow sense that he has paid for them at the wood carver's. Not only is the letter of the law so clear that it is difficult to see how the wayfaring man man could innocently err therein, but in practice it is almost invari- ably found, in cases where the law has been violated, that every effort has been made to evade the law before it has been finally broken, and in almost all cases the high character of the applicant is urged in defense of those efforts, thus betraying the con- sciousness on the part of those who urge it that they are meditating an act which will not justify itself. If the law respecting physical fitness were now to be framed for the first time, the argument that since the Fraternity has ceased to be an operative Craft there can be no reason for excluding maims, would apply with much force, and the manner in which the maiming was incurred might show the possession of qualities which would most strongly recommend their possessor to our judgment as well as to our sympathy, as one peculiarly fitted for such a society. But in this matter we are not permitted to write'our statutes on a clean sheet, and because of this the Grand Lodge has here- tofore tried to leave no excuse for misunderstanding. In addition to the clear lan- guage of the by-laws, so clear that the committee can suggest no improvement in I hat direction, the (hand Lodge gave its approval to the following, found in the re- port of the Grand Master at the session of 1877 : "The law of Masonry respecting the qualifications of candidates regards the fad of maiming, not the manner of its occurrence; and the question stands entirely separate from'questions of morals and reputation. The figure and proportions of an Adonis cannot 'qualify for the degrees of Masonry one reeking with the pollution of vice and crime ; nor can an exalted character so qualify one who lacks the indispen- sable physical 'qualifications. Neither is it a question of sympathy, but a naked question of law and fact." "The law is fundamental -not made by the Grand Lodge, and consequently not subject to be set aside by that body, or by the Grand Master. It is incorporated into the By- Laws of the Grand Lodge, and requires that the candidate ' shall possess no maim or defect in his body that ma) render him incapable of conforming literally to what the several degrees respectively require of him.' 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 121 In addition to this your committee would direct attention to the fact that the section into which it is so incorporated goes on to say that " no provision of this sec- tion shall be set aside, suspended or dispensed with by the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge," thus explicitly recognizing the fact that the question is one that has been settled by the fundamental law of Masonry, and is therefore not subject to changes by any man or body of men. With reference to the decisions of the Grand Master referred to us, and num- bered I, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 in his printed report, your committee is of the opinion that Nos. i, 2, 3, 4 and 6 should be approved. With reference to No. 7, your committee is not agreed as to the desirability of making the matter there referred to the subject of judicial decision, and therefore reports the same back without recommendation. Touching the question of W. Bro. James Keats, respecting the territorial juris- diction of a lodge which having been located at one point, subsequently removes its place ot meeting to a distant point, your committee reports that wheresoever the lodge may be located, during its location there its territorial jurisdiction extends half way on straight lines towards neighboring lodges, the only exception to this rule being in case of a lodge holding jurisdiction concurrently with other lodges. The following resolution was referred to us at the last annual communication, at too late an hour to be then considered : Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that the requirement of written evidence of Masonic standing, as a prerequisite to the examination of visi- tors, is an innovation upon the ancient customs of the Fraternity, and an attempt to abridge the inherent right of a Mason to prove himself a master workman ; and that the use of diplomas and other documents as collateral evidence of Masonic attain- ments, tends to lessen and discourage that proficiency in esoteric knowledge which it should be the honest pride of every Craftsman to possess. With the purpose of this resolution, as indicated by its general tenor, your com- mittee is in accord ; and with the distinct understanding that it is not designed to question that duty to which every Master is boiyid by his installation covenants, to admit no visitor without his " producing proper vouchers of his having been initiated in a regular lodge," but to question the propriety of making the production of such vouchers a prerequisite to examination instead of admission, whereby the right of a Mason to be hailed as a brother by his brethren might be or seem to be denied, your committee recommends that it be adopted. Fraternally submitted, JOSEPH ROBBINS, DEWITT C. CREGIER, JAMES A. IIAWLEY, DANIEL M. BROWNING, Committee. 122 Proceedings qftfo [Oct. 7th, AMENDMENTS TO BY-LAWS PROPOSED. M. W. liro. Joseph Robbins, from the Committee mi Masonic Jurisprudence, offered the following amendments to the By-Laws, which, being seconded by twenty representatives, lie over until the next Annual Communication: No. i. Amend Section 3, Article i, Part Third, i>f the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out all after the word " sojourning" and insert the following: " Shall, in case the offender shall be suspended or expelled, give notice thereof to the lodge of which he may be or shall have last been a member." No. 2. Amend Section 12, Article XXIII, Part Second, of the Grand Lodge l!y-Laws by striking out all after the words " Grand Lodge" where they first occur in said section down to and including the words " Part Second" and inserting in lieu thereof the words "on or before the first day of September next succeeding the date of the dispensation." R. W. Bro. M. D. Chamberlin presented the following report, from the Com- mittee to Examine Visitors, which was adopted: To tlie M. //'. Grand Lodge of Illinois, F. 6~ A. Masons : Your Committee to Examine Visitors would fraternally report that we have ex- amined the following named brethren and recommend their admission to the Grand Lodge: Lewis C. Josephs, of No. 418, Illinois. 1>. II. Harris, of No. 352, Illinois. L. I). Overstreet, of No. 36, Illinois. J. O. Farrell, of No. 714, Illinois. S. Wedeles, of No. 1, Santa Ee, New Mexico. J. S. Voorhees, of No. 160, New York. F. ML Thompson, of No. 400, Ipwa. All of which is fraternally submitted. M. I). CHAMBERLIN, W. B. GRIMES, JAMES DOUGLAS, J. E. EVANS, « ommittee. GRAND OFFICERS— Appointed. The M. W. Grand Master appointed the following named brethren as Grand < ifficers: 1886.] Grand Udge of Illinois. 123 R. W. Rev. H. W. Thomas Grand Chaplain. R. W. W. S. Hooper Grand Orator. YV. D. B. Breed Deputy Grand Secretary. W. Edward L Cronkrite Grand Pursuivant. W. ROWLEY PAGE Grand Marshal. W. W. II. CURTIN Grand Standard Hearer. W. J. II. C. Dill Grand Sword Bearer. YY. Leroy A. Goddakd Senior Grand Deacon. W. Thomas S. Mather Junior Grand Deacon. W. George W. Hamilton Grand Steward. W. Joseph Dixon Grand Steward. W. John Sci iofi ki.d Grand Steward. YY. R. I). Lawrence Grand Steward. Bro. Robert R. Stevens Grand Tyler. INSTALLATION— Of Officers. M. W. Bro. D. C. Cregier, assisted by M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins, as Grand Marshal, installed M. YV. Bro. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons of the State of Illinois, and conducted him to his seat in the Grand East, when he was duly proclaimed as such, and received with the Grand Honors of Masonry. INSTALLATION— Continued. M. W. Bro. D. C. Cregier, assisted by M. W. Bro. Joseph Bobbins as (band Marshal, then installed the following Grand Officers: R. W. John C. Smith Deputy Grand Master Chicago. R. W. John M.Pearson Senior Grand Warden Godfrey. R. W. Monroe C. Crawford Junior Grand Warden [bnesboro. R. W. Wiley M. Egan Grand Treasurer Chicago. R. W. LOYAL L. Minn Grand Secretary Freeport. R. W. Rev. H. W. Thomas, D. D.... Grand Chaplain Chicago. R. W. W. S. Hooper Grand Orator Paxton. W. D. B. Breed.. Deputy Grand Secretary Freeport. W. Edward L. Cronkrite Grand Pursuivant Freeport. W. ROWLEY Pace Grand Marshal Galesburg. W. W. II. CURTIN Grand Standard Bearer Carlyle. W. J. H. C. Dill Grand Sword Bearer Bloomin. Box 447. Chicago. M. I). Chamberlin, Freeport. W. B. Crimes, Kttsfield. lames Douglas, Chester. < has. F.Tenney, Bement, 1886.] dram! Lodge of Illinois. 1 25 DEPUTY GRAND LECTURERS. A. B. Ashley, Kewanee. II. E. Huston, Monticello. J. E. Evans, Monticello. G. A. Staddler, Monticello. W. H. Stevens, Steelville. John W. Rose, Litchfield. F S. Belden, 153 Wabash av., Chicago. I. M. McCollister, Whitehall. W. O. Butler, La Harpe. (!eo. S. Fuhr, Blandinsville. Samuel Rawson, Troy. John E. Morton, Perry. Wm. E. Ginther, Charleston. W. J. Elwell, Shavvneetown. Jas. R. Ennis, Burnt Prairie. N. A. Keeler, Rockford. Wm. J. Frisbee, Bushnell. CLOSED. At 1 o'clock p. m., no further business appearing, the M. W. Grand Master pro- ceeded to close the Grand Lodge in Ample Form, after prayer by the Grand Sec- retary. Attest : cT ■y. Grand Maste: Ciratui Seeretar" • 126 Proceedings of tfa [Oct. 7th, DEDICATION— Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home. The Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home was incorporated March u, 1885, to pro- vide and maintain a home for the nurture and intellectual, moral and physical culture of indigent children of deceased Freemasons of the State of Illinois, and a temporary shelter and asylum for sick or indigent widows of such deceased Freemason-. funds have been collected by means of membership fees, and all Master Masons id standing are eligible to membership. A few months ago the Hayes mansion, at the coiner of Sheldon Street and Carroll Avenue, was purchased by the Board of Directors. The building is brick, two stories high, with a high cut stone basement and mansard roof, making really a four-story building; the grounds are ample and well shaded. The building has been placed in good repair, and good and suitable furniture for the purposes intended has been provided. The building and grounds are beautiful and commodious, well adapted to the purposes for which they are to be used, and every Illinois Mason should gladly con- tribute his mite to sustain this noble Masonic charity. The M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, Free and Accepted Masons, assembled at the Armory of Battery D., on Michigan Avenue, at 2 o'clock 1'. M.. October 7th, A. L. 5886. The following Grand Officers were present : M. \V. Alex. T. Darrah, ( band Master; R. W. John C. Smith, Deputy Grand Master; K. W. [ohn M. Pearson, Senior Grand Warden ; R. W. Monroe C. Crawford, Junior Grand Warden; R. W. Wiley M. Egan, Grand Treasurer; R. W. Loyal L. Munn, Grand Secretary ; R. W. Rev. II. W. Thomas, D. D., Grand Chaplain ; W. Dwight B. Breed, Deputy Grand Secretary ; W. Kdward L. Cronkrite, Grand Pursuivant ; W. Wm. Jenkins, Grand Marshal, pro tern ; W. W. H. Curtin, Grand Standard Bearer; W. ]. II. C. Dill, ('.rand Sword Bearer; W. Leroy A. Goddard, Senior (Irand Deacon; W. Thomas S. Mather, Junior ('.rand Deacon; W. Geo. W. Hamil- ton, Grand Steward ; W. Joseph Dixon, Grand Steward ; W. John Seholield, (irand Steward ; W. R. D. Lawrence, Grand Steward ; Bro. Robt. R. Stevens, Grand Tyler. The procession was formed under the direction of R. W. Bro. John ( '. Smith. Deputy Grand Master, as Chief Marshal, on Michigan Avenue, in the following order: ( )riental Consistory, and Apollo, St. Bernard and Chevalier Bayard Com- manderies, Knights Templar, forming an e>Cort ; then followed the Chicago lodges, the representatives of the constituent lodges of the State who had been in alien. lame Mil the Grand Lodge, and the Grand < Hikers in carriages. The procession moved promptly at 2.30 o'clock I'. M., and proceeded by the mosl direct route to the Illinois Masonic Orphans' 1 tome, and on their arrival at that point the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of the < Irder of the Eastern Star met the head of the procession, and were passed to -eats in the main hallway of the building just back of the front entrance. The Knights were formed in two ranks on Sheldon Stn et, and the lodges and other bodies passed in review to places on the east and west of the main entrance, while the officers of the Grand Lodge took up 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 121 their places upon the front veranda, and the Knights funned again on Carroll Ave- nue, passing the Home. Immediately after the opening anthem by the quartette, Bro. Geo. M. Moulton, President of the Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home, presented the building, with the furniture and the adjacent grounds, to the M. W. Grand Master in the following words : M. W. Grand Master: The association, which has been incorporated under the general laws of the State of Illinois, under the name and title of the Illinois Ma- sonic Orphans' Home, composed entirely in its membership of Master Masons and aiming to be a representative body for the entire Craft throughout the length and breadth of this great State, have erected and furnished this edifice for the uses and purposes of a Masonic Orphans' Home, in all that the term implies. It has been an object to provide a safe and secure shelter from the winds of adversity for the helpless and dependent orphans of our deceased brethren, to nurture and to provide for the moral, physical and intellectual culture of the wards whom it should be one of our highest duties to support. In the name, and on behalf of the Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home, I have been requested by the Board of Trustees, as President of the association, to present to you this building, with its furniture and the grounds adja- cent, that they may receive your most careful examination and scrutiny ; and, Most Worshipful Brother, should the works we have performed meet with your approval, we fraternally petition you to dedicate and to solemnly consecrate, from now until time shall be no more, this building to the uses and purposes for which it was in- tended, according to ancient form and usage. Then the Grand Master began his address and the dedicatory services followed. Brother Moulton : To you, sir, belongs the distinguished honor of presiding over an organization of the Craft which has conceived and carried into effect the idea of providing a home for the orphans of our deceased brethren. What object could be more laudable ? What could be more in consonance with the teachings of a Fraternity whose principal corner-stone is that of charity; and how completely in accord with the principles of Him who will say : " Inasmuch as ye did it unto the least of these, ye did it unto Me." What a source of pleasure it must be to those brethren who have labored so zealously to provide so noble a charity, to think that it is possible for deceased brethren, who have left dear little ones behind, to look with infinite delight upon the ceremonies of dedicating this beautiful Home, which shall be for the comfort and well-being of those dear ones, who would be cheerless and destitute indeed but for the loving care and protection of brethren whose covenants bind them to see to it that none of this helpless class shall suffer. The providing of this Home for those left to our care, is but the practical effect of the teachings of those grand principles of the Brotherhood of Freemasonry. The object is worthy the consideration of every member of the Craft ; and may the day never come when the fifty thousand Masons of the great State of Illinois shall allow the interests of the Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home to languish for the want of means to meet its pecu- niary obligations. 128 Proceedings of the [Oct. 7th, sir and Brother, the object of the Craft in securing thi> beautiful structure being in conformity with the teachings of the Fraternity, it affords the Grand Lodge very great pleasure to accept your kind invitation to dedicate this building to the uses for which it has been provided. " In accordance with the teachings of our ancient Institution, it is our duty, be- fore entering upon any important undertaking, to invoke the blessing of Diety. We will therefore unite with our ( irand ( baplain in an address to the Throne of Grace." After prayer by the (irand ( Chaplain, the building was dedicated with the usual Masonic ceremonials. After the proclamation had been made by the (Irand Marshal, Brother J. J. Badenoch, one of the Board of Trustees of the Association, said : Mk. PresiDENI : We have a brother here from the distant State of California, who wishes to offer a few brief remarks, and I would therefore introduce to you Bro. George D. Metcalf, of Oakland, California. Bro. Geo. D. Metcalf, of California, then presented to the President of the Board, on behalf of Grand Treasurer Spaulding, of California, a beautiful Bible and stand, wrought with Masonic emblems. Bro. MetcalPs remarks were eloquent and appropriate, and we regret our inability to reproduce them. The gift was received by the President, Bro. Geo. M. Moulton, in the following language : Bro. Metcalf: This beautiful, costly, generous and altogether timely offer- ing, comes to us so unexpectedly and from so distant a quarter of the nation, that I am at a loss to find fitting words of acknowledgement with which to receive it. It is my great personal pleasure to be acquainted with Bro. Spaulding, in whose behalf you have so eloquently presented this beautiful and appropriate gift to our beloved Home. I recognize in this act another evidence of the large, noble and generous heart that throbs within his bosom, which has prompted him to this thoughtful act at this time, in expression of his love and warm sympathy for the cause in which we are engaged. Would that he and others there on the I'acilic slope, who are like Bro. Spaulding in the possession of the most noble and generous impulses of mind and heart, might be enrolled aiuong our brotherhood of Illinois. Bro. Spaulding is now far distant from us in his home by the sea — but though miles of distance may separate us, though rivers, high hills and mountains, and almost boundless plains may intervene between us in person, yet dear brother, when you return to your distant home and meet Bro. Spaulding, it is our desire that you say to him that his memory will be ever near and ever dear to those of our brethren who have to-day witnessed this occasion. In the name and in behalf of the Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home, I accept this token of love and sympathy with the most sincere thanks of a grateful heart. This (ileal light in Masonry, this grand chart from which all must take their reckoning who may wish to sail their course successfully through this voyage of life, shall re- 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. .129 ceive an honored and prominent place among the fittings and properties of this Home. In our behalf you will say to Bro. Spaulding, that we of Illinois highly appreciate this thoughtful act of his, which has provided us with this most necessary and most appropriate adjunct to every home, be it Masonic or be it domestic. Say to him in our behalf, and I know that he will rejoice with us in the fact, that heaven has smiled benignly upon us on this our opening day, and that we accept these cloudless skies, and the warm, cheerful rays of this October sun, as a bright harbinger of the future, assuring us of lasting success and good fortune in our enterprise. Brother Metcalf, accept our profound thanks to yourself and to the brotherhood you represent. Then followed the dedicatory sermon, by Rev. Bro. H. W. Thomas, D. D. Our space permits us only to give a few of its rich gems : " We are not permanent dwellers in this world, we are but pilgrims and strang- ers. The earth and stars, the mountains, rivers and seas remain, but man passes on. Now, everything that has a place in this world or that passes away leaves some mark. The great forces of nature have left their mark, and they tell us of the activities that were here before we came. So man leaves a record of where he has been and what he has done. Man as a builder has left his mark in the temples of Athens and the pyramids of Egypt, and as a thinker in the laws of Rome. There never was an age so marked in the line of benevolent outflowing as the present. It has become a matter of pride to give away millions of dollars for charity. The order of Masons has those in its midst who have that in their hearts which made them, passing through a world of misery and tears, say, 'We will make the way better for the poor, the weak, the fatherless who shall come after. We will plant and cause to spring up a fountain that will dry the tears of orphans an 1 of mothers who can not provide for them.' There is not an institution in this land over which Christ and the angels re- joice more than those of this character. I trust the fifty thousand Masons of Illinois will not suffer it to come to want. If each one will give $l, it will have an endow- ment of $50,000, and I am one who will. Or if you wish to make it $500,000, I am one who will give $10. It is an institution organized and equipped for work, and may God bless it and you, my friends." The following is the list of OFFICERS. Geo. M. Moulton, President. Wiley M. Egan, Treasurer. Jacob Krohn, Vice President. Gil. W. Barnard, Secretary. Geo. W. Warvelle, Counsel. BOARD OF VISITATION. N. T. Cassette. J. G. Elwood. L. L. Munn. 1'. W. Barclay. W. A. Stevens. Wm. L. Milligan. DIRF.CTORS. A. T. Darrah. Geo. M. Moulton. John J. Badenoch. A. B. Ashley. Thos. E. Miller. G. B. Coffin, lacob Krohn. S. T. Gunderson. Jno. A. Crawford- Wm. L. Milligan. Geo. W. Warvelle. Henry Turner. 130 Proceedings of th [Oct. DISTRICTS AND DIST. DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. FOR THE VEARS 1886-7. Ira W. liucll. Thos. (;. Morris. K. W. Wood. Jacob Krohn E. T. E. Becker... John I). Crabtree.. Chenery Puffer W. L. Milligan W. H. Kister I'' rank ( ). Welton.. Lewis C. Seeley... Wm. R. Hoyle C, F. Hitchcock... ( jwen Scott F. S. Hatch F. K. Eubeling Chas. F. Tennev. L. W. Shepherd. W . B, ( '.rimes \V. (). Butler I. M McCollister.. W. T. Vandeveer.. John Von Gunten.. John C. White Samuel Rawson. James I lunulas. .. C. M. Formaii... \V. I Elwell James A. Rose.. POSTOFFICE ADDRESS. I I .IN I 11 . . . IMPOSING DISTRICT. 78 LaSalle St., Chicago. 2 Franklin St., Chicago . Oak Park, Cook county. Freeport, Stephenson county. Mt. Carroll, Carroll county.... Dixon, Fee county Joliet, Will county < Ittawa, LaSalle county Henry, Marshall county Cambridge, Henry County Littleton, Schuyler county ( lalesburg, Knox county Peoria, Peoria county Bloomington. McLean county Kankakee, Kankakee county.. Urbana, Champaign county... Bement, Piatt county Springfield, Sangamon county. I'ittsfield, Pike county LaHarpe. Hancock county. Whitehall, Greene county. Taylorville, Christian i ounty. Olney, Richland county Effingham, Effingham < ounty.. It. .\ . Madison 1 ounty Chester, Randolph county Nashville, Washington county Shaw neetow n, 1 lalaiin ci iunty. I .oil 1 mil. 1 , Pope 1 ounty . " South Chicago," and all that part of Cook county lying south of the Chicago River, and east of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. All that part of West Chicago and the county of Cook lying south of the " Fulton I '.ranch " of tin- (/hi cago & Northwestern R. R., and ivest of the Illinois & Michigan Canal. All that part of the city of Chi* ago and the county of Cook lying north of the Fulton Branch of the Chi- cago & Northwestern R. R. Kane. McHenry and Lake. Boone, Winnebago and Stephenson. JoDaviess, Carroll and Whiteside. Ogle, Lee and DeKalb. Kendall, DuPage, Will and Grundy LaSalle and Livingstone. Bureau, Putnam, Marshall and Stark. Henry, Rock Island and Mercer. Mr 1 1. mough, Fulton and Schuyler. Knox, Warren and Henderson. Peoria, Woodford and Tazewell. McLean, DeWitt and Ford. Kankakee, Iroquois and Vermilion. Champaign, Douglas, Edgar and Coles. l'iatt. Moultrie, Mai on and 1 ogan Mason, Menard, Sangamon and Cass. Brown, Morgan. Scott and Pike. Vdams and Ham i .. k Calhoun, Greene, Jersey and Ma- coupin. Montgomery, Christian and Shelby Cumberland, Clark, Crawford, Jas- per, Richland and I awrence. i l.i\ . I fringham, I .i> ette and Ma rion. I lond, t linlou and Madison. St. Clair; M on u and Randolph. Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, Perry, Jackson .mil Williamson. Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, White, I [amilton, Saline and ( rallatin. Hardin, Pope, Massac, Johnson, I nion, Pulaski ami Alexander. iSSti.] annul Ln of Ittivn'i*. J 81 PERMANENT MEMBERS. M. W. Bro. William Lavely, P. G. M., Springfield, No. 4. M. W. Bro. Harrison Dills, P. G. M., Bodley, No. I. \I. W. Bro. Ira A. W. Buck, P. G. M., Jerusalem Temple, No. 90. M. W. Bro. Jerome R. Gori.n, 1'. < '.. M., Macon, No. 8. M. W. Pro. Harmon G. Reynolds, P. G. M., St. Paul, No. 500. M. W. Bro. DeWitt C. Cregier, P. G. M., Blaney, No. 271. M. W. Bro. James A. Hawley, P. G. M., Friendship, No. 7. M. W. Bro. Joseph Bobbins, P. G. M., Quincy, No. 296. M. W. Bro. Theodore T. Gurney, P. G. M., Cleveland, No. 211. M. W. Pro. W. H. Scott, P. G. M., Metropolis, No. 91. M. W. Bro. Daniel M. Browning, P. G. M., Benton, No. 64. M. W. Bro. John R. Thomas, P. G. M., Metropolis, No. 91. M. W. Bro. Alexander T. Darrah, G. M., Bloomington, No. 43. R. W. Pro. Edward R. Roe, P. D. G. M., Wade-Barney, No. 512 R. W. Pro. Ben. L. Wiley, P. D. G. M.. Makanda, No. 434. R. W. Bro. James H. Matheny, P. D. G. M., Springfield, No. 4. R. W. Pro. John C. Paker, P. D. G, M., Waukegan, No. 7S. P. W. Bro. Charles Fisher, P. D. G. M., Central, No. 71. R. W. Pro. W. J. A. DeLancey, P. D. G. M., Centralia, No. 201. R. W. Pro. John C. Smith, D. G. M., Miners, No. 273. R. W. Pro. Isaac R. Diller, P. S. G. W., Central, No. 71. R. W. Bro. Andrew J. Kuykendall, P. S. G,. W., Vienna, No. 150. R. W. Pro. Asa W. Blakesley^ P. S. (i. W., Bodley, No. 1. R. W. Bro. Edwin F. Bahcock, P. S. G. W., Summerfield, No. 342 R. W. Pro. Henry E. Hamilton, P. S. (',. W., Lincoln Park, No. R. W. Bro. Henry C. Cleaveland, P. S. G. W., Trio, No. 57. R. W. Pro. John M. Pearson, S. G. W., Piasa, No. 27. R. W. Pro. Carlton Drake, P. J. G. W., Landmark, No. 422. R. W. Bro. William H. Turner, P. J. G. W., Oriental, No. ^. R. W. Pro. Elijah M. Haines, P. J. G. W., Waukegan, No. 78. R. W. Bro. Monroe C. Crawford, [. (i. W., |onesboro, No. ill. L32 Proceedings oj the \ Oct, •- 1 < u E z CO > § 1—^ c *H O H I / K _ w ^w- Q ~ w X O o " ' Q O C/0 ;. J . < p W Q 2 ^ s < ►J H tf O w * -, 5 g X = y. H , .- ... ,- ... >. _ ... _, ... ^ .- _ ^ > .1.1.; ^.^X.X.^.^.X.^.U.^.U.^.X.^.U.X.X.X. '. 'J 'S - - - 'S 'Z c - - - - B B ncg'nnflnji E § E "-*««« ooooooooocc; : B' e g s e :-"'- = SS = S = = = = = = H = E = = = E = = = " ~ ~ in ~ ~ ~ ~ z ~ z ~ ~ z ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Hr-^^-H: — ? - £ - - - ' h b b fc 1 ^ >. >. ... = s s g «< g g ^-. ^-. 2 g g g ^i g Eg - 3 C 5 g M 1 ■ / 5 : iS* (J pq SO-S^^n -:■:■ ■>:■ ****** * * * * * ■ — i^ E £ y — 3 E =-- - e — ,— — .— — ZE '^ •5«ffl'3£S I o a — ' J{ C5 i JS -='- ^j:^:^;^ - fern -■2-2-2.- : = ~ M ' S « . . .? Eot-B-S^g - < I - __ 3 of Illinois. ]:;:: v v v v u _•_:_.•_:._: ^ -J _• c b c c c c scccc — — — r= — ~r=.~ceecce f. <-. •< >>!s:>5:^ o o - <-> <■> O OC/3C/3. 5 a u k — '-•=•= t t< s - g o S-* c u u S B^ A o E « — — 5 2^ ? - - ■ Ph. U 0J O O °* ^ • ■ *" ^.--- r- C "" >>>, >>>.t g g WW) : B B^g g bit bib " >22°Sg-g-oo : rt u ^ --.-.'- -^ / ^ - ; _j u - '- ~ ^ !Mfi - 44" -44h.-»:^c44< : vC'O t^.r^.f^r^t^t^.t^.1 .. x ■ ■■..;■ . ) CO 00 00 CO i;;i l'rncistri< t of Columbia. . Florida Ceorgia Idaho Indiana Indian Territory Iowa I reland Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Manitoba Maine Maryland \1 i higan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montata Nebraska New Hampshire New Mexico New Jersey New York Nevada North Carolina Nova Scotia Ohio < Jregon Pennsylvania Pi im e Edward Island . Quebei Rhode Island South Carolina Tennessee Texas Daniel Sayre George Whitefield Curtis. E. H. English Edward C. Neufelder Alex. G. Abell David McLellan Henry M. Teller James L. Gould H. H. Folk Daniel Goodwin Kdwin B. McGrotty D. C. Dawkins James Whitehead J. W. Brown Daniel McDonald J. S. Murrow Joseph Chapman William F. Black John H. Brown Edward B. Jones J. Q. A. Fellows Samuel L. Bedson George W. Deering Jonn A. Berry Henry Chamberlain A. T. C. Pierson J. M. Boon Martin Collins Cornelius Hedges ( reorge H. Thrummel. . . . Nathaniel W. Cumner . . Henry L. Waldo Hamilton Wallis fam.es E. Morrison Robert W. Bollen D. W. Bain Theodore A. Cossman . . W. S. Phares \V. T. Wright Richard Vaux Henry M. Aitkin Alexander Chisholm .. Alvonl <>. Miles Utah .... Vei mont Virginia '. Washington West Virginia Wisconsin W j oming Grand National Mother Lodge of the Three Globes, Berlin, Prussia \. \ . Warr Philip C. Tucker. lames I ,l >\vr Jonathan E. Mack Beverly R. Wellford, Jr. I louis Zeigler 11. R. Howard John W. I.aflin Montgomery. Prescott. Little Rock. Victoria. San Frani i Hamilton, ' int. Central. Bridgeport Milford. Washington. Jacksonville. Warrinton. Idaho CitJ . Plymouth. \toka. Dubuque. Wyandott< Padui ah. New Orleans. Winnipeg Portland. Three Oak-. St Paul. Maci in. St. Louis. 1 [elena. i Irand Island Manchester. Santa Fe. New Vorl ( arson City. Raleigh. Halifax. Columbus. Union. Philadelphia. Charlottetown. Montreal. Providence. Rossville. ( lal\ eston. Salt lake City Northfield. Richmond. Spokane Falls. Milwaukee. \ • 1 ■ . 1 1 . 1 1 Bohme Berlin 1886.] Grand Lodge of Illinois. 135 REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR THE GRAND LODGE OF FLLINOJS. GRAND LODGE. REPRESENTATIVE. RESIDENCE. Alabama Arizona Arkansas British Columbia California Canada Colorado Connecticut Dakota 1 )elaware District of Columbia Georgia Idaho Indiana Indian Territory Iowa. Ireland Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Manitoba Maryland Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska New Brunswick New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York Nevada North Carolina Nova Scotia Ohio Oregon Pennsylvania Prince Edward Island Quebec Rhode Island South Carolina Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Grand National Mother Lodge of the Three Globes, Berlin, Prussia James A. Hawley Dixon. Monroe C. Crawford Jonesboro. Loyal L. Munn Freeport. T. T. Gurney Chicago. Wiley M. Egan Chicago. James A. Hawley Dixon. DeWittC. Cregier Chicago. Robert L. McKinlay Paris. John O'Neill Chicago. DeWittC. Cregier Chicago. W. J. A. DeLancey Centralia. John C. Smith Chicago. DeWittC. Cregier Chicago. Charles H. Patton Mt. Vernon. Joseph Robbins Quincy. Wiley M. Egan Chicago. Francis S. Belden Evanston. John P. Norvell Danville. I. A. W. Buck Chicago. Charles H. Brenan Chicago. Jacob Krohn Freeport. D. A. Cashman Chicago. DeWittC. Cregier Chicago. Willliam Lavely Springfield. DeWitt C. Cregier Chicago. Jerome R. Gorin Decatur. A. B. Wicker Austin. John M. Palmer Springfield. VV. W. Estabrooke Chicago. Henry E. Hamilton Chicago. Ira A. W. Buck Chicago. Henry E. Hamilton Chicago. W.B.Allen Aurora. John C. Smith Chicago. W. A. Stevens Chicago. Wm, Floto Chicago. S. S. Chance Salem. Frank W. Havill Mt. Carmel. John M. Pearson Godfrey. Ira J. Bloomfield Bloomington. DeWitt C. Cregier Chicago. James A. Hawley Dixon. Charles H. Patton Mt. Vernon. Haswell C. Clarke Kankakee. Edward Cook Chicago. Owen Scott Bloomington. John L. McCullough Olney. Daniel M. Browning Benton. Vincent L. Hurlbut Chicago. Gil. W. Barnard Chicago. John C. Bagby Rushville. John M. Niglas Peoria. l:;i; [Proceedings of the [Oct. LIST OF GRAND LODGES \\l> NAMES AND ADDRESSES <>l GRAND SECRETARIE GRAND I ODGE . GRAND SE( HI l \i-:s . Alabama I hiniel Say re Arizona George J. Roskrugc Arkansas Fay Hempstead British Columbia Edward C. N'eufelder California Alex. G. A hell 1 i i J. J. Mason Colorado Ed. C. Parmalee Cuba Jose F. Pellon I iictu Joseph K. Wheeler Chas. T. McCoy D ire William S. Hayes District of Columbia William R. Singleton England Colonel Shadwell H. Gierke Florida DeWitt C. Hawkins I ia \. M. Wolehin I James H. Wickersham Illinois Loyal L. Mnnn Indiana William H. Smythe Indian Territory J. S. Murrow [■>\va Theodore S. Parvin Samuel B. Oldham, Dep. < 1. Sec. Kansas John H. Brown k. ntui ky Hiram Bassett Louisiana James G. Batchelor Maine- Ira Berry. ba William G. Scott Maryland Jacob H. Medairy Massachusetts Sereno D. Nickerson... Mil higan William P. [nnis VI ita A. T. C. Pierson .Mississippi J. L. Power Missouri John 1). Yincil Monl ina Cornelius Hedges Nebraska William K. Bo Nevada John D. Han New Brunswick EdwinJ Wei New Hampshire | George P ( New Jersey J >eph II It New Mexico A. A. Keen New VTork Edward M. I North Carolina Donald W. Bain Nova Scotia Benjamin Curren Ohio John D. Caldwell ( (regon K. J Babi oi k Pennsylvania Michael Nisbet Prii i yard [sland B. Wilson Hi Quebec John H. Isaai Rhode Gland Edwin Baker Scotland D. Murray Lyon South Australia J. H.Cunningham South i .o.l n.i Charles [ngli Tennessee I? nn ' ' ' ' •' •" " Texas T. W, Hudson Gtah Christopher I' I Vermont Lavant M Ri u Virginia William B. I • A ton Territory Thomas M R» trginia Geo W. Atkinson hi John W. I.allin Wyoming E. P. Snow Monl gomery. I Hi son Little Rock. Victoria. San Frarn i i Hamilton, I Int. town . Havana. Hartford. Aberdeen. Wilmingti in Washington. I ,1 'lidi '11 Jacksom ille Macon. Silver City. Freeport. Indianapolis. \toka.( \ Rapids. I luhlin. Wyandotte. Millersburg. Ni w ( Means. Portland. Winnipeg. Baltimi t< Bosti mi ( '.rand Rapids. St. Paul. Jackson St. Louis. I Kl. n.i. t Imaha. i larson. St. John. I uncord. Ii enton . 1 .as Vegas. \. « York. Raleigh. Halifax t iin innali. Salem. Philadelphia. Charlotti ti u n M . in i < .il Ton idem ■ Edinburg. Adelaide. t li.nl.-i n \. sonic right and reason condemns. It is lamentably true that the MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. claims of the numerous families of Masonic associations now thrust upon the attention of the Craft have attained prominence through the unthinking- leniency of the lodge. The growth of the Institu- tion has been so enormous, and the literature of the Craft so meager relating to the inauguration of associations of Masons that feign the prerogatives of the lodge, that it has taken it for granted that their claims to relations therewith are to be respected. We have but one purpose in this discussion. We emphatically protest against the assumption that there is a lawful Grand Lodge upon earth that did not have its foundations laid by the original Craft and their constitu- tional successors. We therefore contend that the recognition of "Grand Lodges" that exist by virtue of associations that are without this inherent right or authority to establish lodges, is not only an error in judgment, but an unequivocal desecration of the fundamen- tal law of Masonry. By this we mean that "Grand Lodges" rec- ognized as Masonic by a large number of legitimate Grand Bodies are without claims to the distinction and should not be tolerated, for the reason, that by accepting them into the fraternal family carries an acknoxvlcdgmcnt that lodges instituted by Supreme Couuci/s ( Grand Orients, or of her governing associations,') have a like legit- imate pare?ztage with every constitutional lodge in existence. A note of warning is sounded, brethren. Beware, and be in haste to withdraw recognitions that peril the exclusive jurisdiction of the lodge over the symbolic degrees. We, with Brother Vaux, will " stand still upon the eternal foundations of Masonry " in this regard, and will never concede a point that strikes a blow at every feature of our original Institution. Why were the "Grand Lodges" of the Mexican States recog- nized by the brethren of the District of Columbia and other juris- dictions? Can Brother Singleton give us an assurance that such " Grand Lodges " are not the issue of bodies as foreign to the lodge as are Commanderics, or any other association of Masons outside the lodge? It is not at all surprising that a Grand Lodge, sitting under the shadow of our Illustrious Brother, Pike, should perpetrate so gross an error. These acknowledgments are -what he seeks, and will be used by and by to establish the presumption that .Supreme Councils are "duly constituted Masonic bodies," necessarily and logi- APPENDIX. cally invested with the right to institute, rule and govern the sym- holic degrees. I>\ whal array of reasoning or logic would Brother Singleton contest the position, after recognizing lodges established and conducted by Supreme Councils or their dependencies? If his Grand Lodge accepts these bodies as legitimate Masonry, is it not a declaration that they are mantled with authority to perpetuate them- selves ? Attention is now directed to the right of a minority (| f lodges of a specific territory to organize a GRAND LODGE with exclusive jurisdiction over the majority dissenting. We did not suppose that there would be a dissenting voice to the proposition that such organization was without claim to being a Grand Bodv of the Craft. We showed conclusively by tables (1SS4) the common law upon the question; nevertheless, brethren of intelligence take issue with us upon the ground that such common law is not govern- ing with those that object (!), particularly referring to European Masonry. Then, again, thev object to its application because tyr- anny is said to have been exercised over lodges in some of the prov- inces of the British Empire. A sheer assumption, without a particle of official information to sustain it, is assumed to be a justification for disobedience of a law that is common to seven-eighths of the legitimate Fraternity of the globe. Why do brethren antagonize not only common law, but a principle that lies at the foundation of all representative government? PREROGATIVES OF GRAND MASTKUS. In this report we have examined this topic to a considerable extent, and in our review of Alabama have presented the report of the Committee on jurisprudence on the subject, and should be glad of a reply from cotemporaries — not declamations — but reasoning from law and usage, that is expected from such brethren as Vincil, Parvin and others who have so persistently inveighed against a doc- trine that has existed in lodges, as well as Grand Lodges, from the most remote periods. We think the paper referred to is one of the most conclusive documents upon record. Give it particular attention. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. PERPETUAL JURISDICTION OVER REJECTED CANDIDATES. Excited discussion has failed to reveal any reason, taken from the ancient law, that justifies a condemnation of the inalienable right of continuous objection to the admission of a profane to the rights or immunities of the lodge. The tirade against the doctrine is unac- companied by any evidence that a rejected candidate should not be compelled to have the assent of the rejecting lodge before his ambi- tion is gratified. On the contrary, the weight of evidence discloses an axiom in Masonry, that a rejection is the inherent right of the member and should be respected, because it is assumed by its secresy, to be the act of the lodge, and into which no inquiries can be insti- tuted. MASONIC CONGRESS. It is a pleasure to find that this suggestion is meeting with in- creased favor. There seems to be an insane jealousy that such a body would culminate in an organization with plenary powers. We do not entertain any fears in this direction. Grand Lodges, by vir- tue of their sovereignty, are wide apart upon many important ques- tions, and it is our firm conviction that if a congress of the legitimate jurisdictions of the world should adopt conclusions touching the jurisprudence of the Craft, it would soon lead to a unity that is now so desirable. Let the matter be under consideration from year to year, and by and by the project will take form. We are quite hos- tile to any governing powers being invested in such a body. It should be advisory, and only permitted to give its conclusions to the Fraternity, to be adopted or rejected at pleasure. Very fraternally, THEODORE T. GURNEY, Correspondent. ( irano Li idge. P m.i Alabama 9 Arizona 13 Arkansas 16 British Columbia 19 California 20 Canada 27 Colorado 31 Connecticut 35 Dakota 39 1 lelaware 43 District of Columbia 46 Florida 51 Georgia 53 Idaho 54 Indiana 57 Indian Territory 60 Iowa 65 Kentucky 70 Kansas 76 Louisiana 80 Manitoba 86 Michigan 87 Maryland 92 Minnesota 96 Mississippi 99 Missouri 103 Massachusetts 109 Montana 114 Nebraska 119 New Hampshire 120 New Mexico, 1884 127 New Mexico, 1885 129 New Jersey 130 New York 134 Nevada 1 37 North Carolina 142 Nova Scotia 145 New Brunswick 147 New South Wales 148 Ohio 150 Oregon 156 Pennsylvania 162 Prince Edward Island 167 Quebec 168 Rhode Island 170 South Carolina • 73 South Australia 174 Scotland 17 6 Tennessee 1 77 Texas 181 Utah 1S6 it 192 Virginia 198 Washington 202 West Virginia 208 Wisconsin no Wyoming 214 England MS Maine 119 REPORT OF THE Committee on Masonic Correspondence. ALABAMA, 1885. We have an interest in a vegetable farm near Mobile, now occupied by Brother Daniel Smith. We have never seen it, neither have we any conveyance for a rod of the plantation, but anything in which he is interested we have a regard for, that amounts (in our estimation) to a proprietary right. Grand Lodge met in Montgomery December 7th, M. W. John Mollis Bankhead, Grand Master, in the Grand East. He was of the opinion that an open objection to initiation, stating cause therefor, gave the lodge power to determine its validity. This should be true, but we question if it is the general law upon the subject. He also held, that one who holds a 32 patent, Scottish Hits, cannot be admitted into lodge simply on presentation of such patent and taking T. O. We go further than this and insist, that a person said to have been "made a Mason " in a "lodge " created by any other organization than an independent, sovereign Grand Lodge of the Craft, is not entitled to Masonic consideration. In this view, we were sustained by our Grand Lodge, (1880) justifying us in refusing visitation to two gentlemen from Brazil who bore with them diplomas from a "lodge" created by and acting under the authority of the Supreme Council of that Empire. The Grand Lodge of South Australia was recognized, and a like fraternal hand- shaking denied the "Grand Lodge of Mexico." Correct. One hundred dollars was granted Galveston fire sufferers. Our brethren of Alabama will, we trust, par- don us for what appears to be a want of attention to their proceedings. And so will Bro. Pillans, one of the best reporters of the period, for want of attention to his 10 APPENDIX admirable Report on Correspondence. The report of the Committee on Jurispru- dence, " on the powers of the ( Irand Master," is of SO much value, that at the risk of incurring displeasure, we give it entire. It was presented by Bro. Pillans. It is given here because of its importance to reading, thinking Masons. ON THE POWERS OF I III GR \M» MASTER. To thf Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Alabama : Voui Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence, to whom was referred l>y a resolution of this Grand I .odge, at its last Communication, so much of the annual address of the then < irand Ma iter, Kufus \V. I 'obh, published in the proceedings of 1883, as relates to the powers and prerogatives of the Grand Master, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to submit the following report — The question is one of the greatest importance, and demands the most serious consideration. In its solution there may be involved the making of innovations in the body 0/ Masonry, and a com- plete change in the original plan and ground-work of the Craft. In construing State Constitutions, courts of the highest character, and in an especially able manner the highest court of this Stale, has laid down certain fundamental rules that must be appli- cable to the construction of the Constitution of our body, as to that of the body politic. W • >\ must be as applicable because they are rules which the learning and experiem e of ages have taught us are founded in common sense, and which must, therefore, be as applicable to the construi tion oi the t Constitution of a society like ours, as to that which a free people have erected as a barrier against the usurpation and oppression of their rulers. ( )ne of the first of these rules is, that when powers are invested in the people of a State or nation, and they meet together and adopt a Constitution for their government, sue h Constitution must be regarded, not as a grant of powers, but as a limitation upon those already existing, and that except where such Constitution expressly, or by necessary implication, inhibits the exercise of a power existing in a person, or body of persons, it the time of its adoption, it continues to exist and may be as freely exercised after as before the adoption Constitution. The principle was firmly settled as a rule for the adoption of State t Constitutions in an opinion of one of the most learned and able judges that ever sat upon the Alabama bench an opinion that is justly regarded throughout this country as the leading and most exhaustive on< • \ • I delivered on this subject. Another principle equally well settled, is that in construing a Constitu- tion, reference must be had to the law as it stood at the time of its adoption, and no such law should be regarded as abrogated, unless its provisions were in direct conflict with that Constitution. The solution of the whole question rests upon the distinction between an instrument which is a limitation upon powers already existent, and one which is a grant of powers to a body which had none before SUi 1 1 Constitution was adopted. When powers existed before the instrument was adopted, th.it in- strument must be regarded as of the former class. In the State sovereignty resides in the people, and in those who represent them ; so when they meet together and adopt .1 Constitution, su< h repre- sentatives are held to retain the powers of sovereignty to the full extent they existed prior to its adoption, except in such cases as their exercise is prohibited by that instrument. Masonry owes not its existence to any Constitution. It existed long before such a thing as a « I ill' -n ( Constitution was ever framed. Masonic sovereignty was vested in the general body of Masons and its Grand Master, long before any Masonic Body ever adopted a Constitution. Neither Masonry nor the of- 1 1 1 irand Master is the 1 reature of any « ritten 1 '< institution. Kach existed centuries before any trument was ever dreamed of. It is our proud boast, that the origin of Free Masonry is to be found in the early history of man, and we know not of an existence when it did not have a Grand Mastei to govern and control it, •and its members. The history of one is the history of the other, and the existence of one is the existence of the other. If the position we assume be correct, that the Grand Master ol Masons is an office existent independent of the Constitution of any < '.rand 1 odge . and that to that office are attached certain powers and prerogatives; audit we are further correct oi asserting that in the construction of the Constitution of this C.r.md Lodge we must construe it as a limitation upon, and not a grant of powers, and in the correctness of both positions we arc fully satisfied; ill order to deieininn \\ I o 1 1 1 . 1 or nq the C.r.md M.isln of Masons in Uabama m. >■ masonic CORRESPONDENCE. 11 cise any named power, we must first inquire whether the power was one which Grand Masters ex- ercised before the adoption of the Constitution, and then whether there is anything in that Constitu- tion which expressly, or by necessary implication, repeals or abrogates that power. Did the Grand Master have powers, and what were those powers? The affirmative of the first part of the inter rogatory must be admitted by all who have investigated the question. The answer to the latter must be more difficult. It is not the less difficult because much of the laws of Masonry are based upon usage, or what may be termed the lex non scripta of Masonry. The usage and the landmarks of Masonry are to be our guides, when they can be known and have not been distinctly altered by some power competent to that end. " Landmarks" is a term of very uncertain signification; if applied only to the fundamental rules for the organization of lodges, and the principles underlying the Order, they can be easily imagined and readily understood — but there is something vague in the expression, and we are inclined to think it is not fully comprehended even by those most using it. Among the landmarks laid down by Simons, is that of the "prerogative of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight." Mackey says, " the universal language and the universal laws of Masonry are landmarks." Again, in his work on Masonic Jurisprudence, he says : " We should say that the unwritten laws or customs of Masonry constitute its landmarks ;" and, in speaking of the diversity ot opinion among recognized writers on this subject, he says : " Perhaps the safest method is to re- strict them to those ancient and therefore universal customs of the Order which gradually grew into operation as rules of action, or, if once enacted by any competent authority, were enacted at a period so remote that no account of their origin is to be found in the records of history ; or, as the lawyers say of the common law of England, that its principles and rules have existed for a time whereof the memory of man runneth not to the contrary." The government of the Fraternity by a Grand Master is laid down as the fourth landmark, and he claims that though elected by a Grand Lodge, he is not the Grand Master of that Grand Lodge, but the Grand Master of Masons of that jurisdiction. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for conferring degrees at irregular times, is laid down as the sixth landmark. The right to make Masons at sight is another landmark. Lockwood, in his chapter on candidates, speaks ot the necessity of the dispensation of the Grand Master to act contrary to prescribed rules ; he also recognizes the right of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight. We think it is established by the foregoing, that when we allude to landmarks of the Order, we are alluding to something of an uncertain character, it may be, to a great extent, we can only mean that which has been recognized and heretofore esteemed and treated as an established usage of the Fraternity. Is the power, then, to grant dispensations to confer degrees out of time, one which is estab- lished as a usual prerogative of the Grand Master? For this is the power referred to in the address of Grand Master Cobb. In Chase's Digest, page n, we find it said, "With the exception of the Grand Master, who possesses certain powers, prerogatives, and privileges by an immemorial right:" and on page 58, that the " Grand Master has the power to make more than five brothers at one meeting, and to dispense with the one month's previous notice in conferring degrees ; " also, on page yi', " The Grand Master, or the one acting for him in his absence, has the prerogative of granting dispensations for conferring degrees upon a candidate in less than Constitutional time, whenever he may consider it to be for the good of Masonry." Articles four and five, of the old Regulations, an- nouncing rules for the government of the Craft, declare what shall not be done, " unless by a dispen- sation from the Grand Master; " and one of these refers to the dispensation of the time required — exactly the case under consideration, presupposing that the power to dispense with the time existed with the Grand Master. These regulations were adopted in 1721, and were not considered then, and have not been considered since, as the establishment of new rules, but simply as a compilation of those fully recognized as in existence before that time; and hence, they were even then styled " the old Regulations." We think, then, it is sufficiently clear that this prerogative was inherent in the office, prior to the reduction of any rules or regulations for the government of Masonic Bodies, to writing; and under the principles we have laid down above, still exists in the office, if not expressly repealed, al- tered, or amended. If it is repealed, it must be done by some provisions of the Constitution ot our Grand Lodge. This brings us to the consideration of the second point in our argumeut : Is there 12 APPENDIX. anything in that Constitution which expressly or by necessary implication inhibits the exercise of that power? Section -. ol \* tii Le I V, of the Constitution says of the ' ! 1 ter, that he shall " ex a supervising control over the Craft throughout the State, conforming in all things to the t tion and Regulations of the ( ir.in.l Lodge, and the ancient la ml marks of the Fraternity." Thus, by the very terms of the provisions, it is conceded and admitted that then ! regulations to which the Grand Master must conform, independent and outside of those laid down and prescribed by the Constitution. When we come to inspect that instrument, to see whether or no it was deemed proper and lit to regulate the exercise by him of any of the powers of his office, we find that the only one regulated by it is the power to grant dispensations for new lodges. Thus, by the very failure of the Constitution to undertake in any manner to limit or prescribe his powers in any other respect, we are forced to the conclusion that it was the intention of the makers of that Constitution to suffer and permit those powers in all other respects to remain as they existed prior to its adoption. Nowhere do we find that in any particular, save this, are his inherent prerogatives either abridged or destroyed. And whence, then, the proposition that he possesses, since the adoption of that instrument, no powers save such as are distinctly provided for in that in- strument? If he possesses no powers but those expressly given by it, then Section 2, Article [V, ^ intended to prescribe all of his powers, and to repeal, abrogate, or annul, so much of the old regula- tions as give him any other authority. Assuming this construction to be a proper one, and we find that he can grant a dispensation on but that one subject. What then, becomes of his power to revive a slumbering lodge? What authority has he to allow elections at other times than those prescribed by the Constitution? And yet each of these powers has been for years regularly exercised, without dispute by any one. But the same section provides, that he shall see that the rules and usages of the Craft are strictly observed, as well as that he shall conform in all things to the Constitution and regulations of the Grand Lodge, and the ancient landmarks of the Fraternity. Again, in the examination of the section, the question presses itself upon our attention, what are the usages of the Craft? Article V, of the old regulations reads : " No man can be accepted a member of a particular lodge, without previous notice, one month before, given to the lodge, to make due inquiry into the reputation and capacity of the candidate, unless by a dispensation ;" and Article IV terminates with these words, to which, however, are added " from the Grand Masters." What then, is a dispensation? It is a " license lo do what is forbidden by laws or canons, or to omit something which is commanded." This, then, is a power recognized as existing somewhere ; and where does, or ought this power to lie? We think it is sufficiently clearly established, that originally this prerogative belonged to and was inherent in the office of the < Irand Master. If this be so, then some of the charges to a Master when installed ceases to be ambiguous or meaningless . they have a clear and unmistakable meaning, and are of great and significant import. We all re- member that Masters are required to give their assent to many charges, among whi< h are, to countenance impostors and all deserters from the original plan of Masonry, and also strictly to con- form to every edict of the Grand Lodge or General Assembly ol Masons that is not subversive of the prim iple and ground worl <.f Ma oni . ." and again, that it is not in the power of any man or body of men, to make innovations itt the body of Masonry. In . oni lusion, then, upon the second point of our argument, we respet tfully submit that the sections of our Constitution will be searched in vain to find an\ clause, sentence, Or word, which would indicate on the pari of it- framers a purpose or intent to inhibit a (irand Master from the ex- erci i ol those powers which are adherent in the office, and which have been recognized from time immemorial. It is said by I '.rand Master Cobb, in his address, that to hold that the (irand Master had othei powers than those expressly given by that Constitution, would be to subject the Craft to an arbitrarj and upn me, possibly to a weak. In kle, and vai illating will, whose love >.l authority may i .ruse him to disregard every am ient law mark, and leavi thi Fraternity " tossing helpless upon the weltering angrj wave: "I ambition, with no blessed haven in the distance, whose guiding star invites us to its v. i 1 . i .in. i . i Brother Cobb does not decide this qui tion, merely advancing this as an MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 13 argument and we would reply in the language of those same old regulations, Article 19, " If the Grand Master should abuse his great power and render himself unworthy of the obedience and sub- mission of the lodge, he shall be treated in a way and manner to be agreed upon in a new regulation, because hitherto the ancient Fraternity have had no occasion for it." Mackey, in his'mosCexcel- lent work on Masonic Jurisprudence, lays it down that there can be no doubt that the Grain! Mav ter was formerly responsible to the General Assembly of Masons for any abuse of his high trust. But the dangers which might result from an abuse in the exercise of those powers which are vested in that officer, outside and independent of the provisions of the Constitution, can be no argument against their existence. It is true that he may abuse those powers and oppress the Craft ; but if the powers which he has are limited to those given in the Constitution, it is equally true that he may abuse those ; and unless the power exists somewhere, to exercise jurisdiction over that officer, he might become as oppressive and tyranical by the abuse of powers granted by the Constitution as he could by the abuse of those found elsewhere. If that supervisory jurisdiction exists, there is no more danger of oppression or tyranny from the abuse of powers which are contained in the /<• x non scripta than there is in the abuse of those which are set out in the written Constitution. We are therefore of the opinion, that the Grand Master of Masons in the State of Alabama does possess and may exercise powers and prerogatives outside of those given by the written Con- stitution ; and that in determining whether or no in any given State he may exercise such power, we are to be .guided and controlled by the ancient landmarks of the Order, unless the power there found is expressly or by necessary implication prohibited by the written Constitution. Bro. Pillans' review of Illinois is fraternal, and the mention made of ourselves highly appreciated. M. W. John Gideon Harris, Montgomery, Grand Master. R. W. Daniel Sayre, Montgomery, Grand Secretary. ARIZONA, 1885. Grand Lodge met in the City of Phoenix, November 10. Its proceedings were printed in San Francisco, and we have a copy January 18. The Grand Lodge of California met about a month earlier, but its printed transactions have not arrived. The five lodges of the jurisdiction were present by their representatives. Last year there was a slight decline in lodge membership, but returns for 1885 show an in- crease. The Grand Master, M. W. Merrill P. Freeman, was not vexed with many claims upon his attention. It seems that this young jurisdiction is afflicted witli " Trial Commissions." From a report of the Committee on Grievances, the following paragraph is taken : " The commissions who tried the case were certainly better judges of the weight which should be given to the testimony of the several witnesses than any of 14 APPENDIX. US, and they having decided that the accused was not guilty, your committee does not feel warranted in disturbing that verdict." It would seem from the foregoing that the lodge has been divested of judicial functions as old as the organized exist- ence of the Fraternity. The oldest law upon the subject, of which we have any knowledge, provides : "If any complaint be brought, the brother shall stand to the award and determination of the Lodge, who are the proper and competent judges of all such controversies. * * " A few jurisdictions indulge in the luxury of trial commissions; but, as we understand it, it is their particular province to conduct trials, but without authority to usurp the judicial prerogatives of lodge members by determining the question <>f guilt or innocence. Perhaps we err in construing the law of this jurisdiction. Will Brother Goldwater enlighten us? The Grand Master had commissioned Manuel M. Bauche, Deputy Grand Mas- ter, as Grand Representative near the "Grand Lodge of the Federal District of Mexico." Subsequently he was informed that this brother "had been suspended for the offense of 'propogation of principles contrary to the Institution.' " It would be interesting to know the particular character of the dereliction. Cannot Bro. Titus give us the information ? Attention is directed to this matter because, if our advices are reliable, there is not a legitimate Grand Lodge in that Republic, unless brethren are content with the spawnings of Supreme Councils or Grand Orients. It may be, therefore, that a correct understanding of the crime for which Brother Bauche was suspended, would bring to light something of importance to the Craft, and of par- ticular interest to those Grand Lodges that have been too hasty in extending fraternal welcome to bodies that do not have remote claim to consideration as of constitutional Masonry. The Grand Master is to be congratulated upon his indisposition to per- petuate an error, by an appointment to fill the vacancy. Bro. Freeman concluded his paper with an announcement of the death of R. W. Brother George W. Curtis, Past Junior Grand Warden. The Committee on furisprudence enunciate a doctrine that should not have a place in fraternal law. It says : The third decision, as to granting new trials by subordinate lodges or the Master thereof; your committee would say that a new trial is always a creature of statute, and, unless specially pi for, cannot he granted. It is a principle of law that in. man is entitled to more than One fail trial, and the Grand Lodge has reserved to itself the power to say whether a trial has been a fait one. I hi ' on titution provides that the i ommissioners shall decide tin- question el the guilt or innoi i m • • it tin- accused, and that an appeal may he taken from theii decision to the ('.rami Lodge. The subordinate lodge loses juris. in tion ol the subjei i \vhen the commissioners have made their de< isi.m ... i iiu judgment i- pronoum ed. In the first place, the committee answera question heretofore asked of Brother Titus. It appears, therefore, thai a member, charged with an offense, is not answer- able to his lodge, bul to a commission, and in contravention of the immemorial tatute thai has been quoted. In the second place, tin- committee assume that the ml. ..I civil law an- applicable tn the jurisprudence of the Craft, Such rules are ; | ■ 1 1 ■ d.lc, however, when thej are in consonance with the law of our brother- M V.SONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 15 hood. This law never permits an avenue to fraternal justice to be closed, in the presence of fundamental obligations. These are laws which the rules of the courts cannot invalidate ; and although a Mason is found guilty of an offense, both by lodge and appellate jurisdiction, if he has evidence, not attainable at the time of convic- tion, and that will establish innocence, he has an immutable right to be heard, twice or thrice, else our covenants are myths and delusions. Every Master Mason can read " between the lines" and comprehend our allusions. If we understand Brother Alsap, he would be less merciful than the civil law; for although a man is convicted of crime and suffering imprisonment, yet if it becomes known that his conviction was unwarranted, the law provides a means of escape from the penalty notwithstanding supreme judicial authority may have confirmed the decree of the court of original jurisdiction. Brethren unjustly condemned by their peers cannot resort to writs of habeas corpus or executive clemency to rectify wrongs ; but they should have an approach to fraternal equity that, under our law, can never be closed by rules that run counter to Masonic covenants. Brethren, we all stand upon the broad, EQUAL floor of lodge, and if it is necessary to vindicate the charac- ter of a brother, whether by one or a dozen new trials, he cannot be estopped of the right to be heard in the pursuit of any "lawful or LAUDABLE undertaking," par- ticularly when his own good name is involved. Let Grand Lodge, governed by our obligations, see to it that governing principles of the Fraternity are not subverted by the dry, unfraternal dictums of the civil law. A vivacious and instructive Report on Correspondence was submitted by K. W. Bro. Morris Goldwater, J. G. \V. He is of the opinion that lodges U. D., should be permitted to perform mortuary services. Why not ? With Bro. Simons, of New York — if it should so happen that we were placed where the Master or other officers of a lodge could not be present upon such an occasion, we would give a worthy brother, at his request, a Masonic burial, lodge or no lodge, chartered or otherwise, and risk the consequences. Brother Goldwater gives our jurisdiction considerable attention. He quotes the conclusion or our " special report" upon bodies of other rites that assume the right to confer the degrees of Symbolic Masonry, and concludes that all Grand Lodges should take a like position; with the suggestion that all other associations of Masons should be interrogated upon the subject. If Bro. G. will point out any organization or organizations of Masons that propose to trespass upon the exclusive prerogatives of the Craft, we will give them a blow without regard to "sex, age or previous con- dition." Furthermore, if he will consult our reports, (all that we have ever written) he will find that we have entertained but one opinion upon this subject. He notices, approvingly, our dissent from the "Massachusetts departure;" also the reports of Bro. Munn, and the majority and minority on "retrenchment." His favorable opinion of our work is largely appreciated. From his review of Michigan, it is found that the supply of water in Arizona is rather limited. He says : " We are not a cold water man, but claim to be temperate in its use, as we hope to be in all other things." In this country water is abundant 16 LPPENDIX. — so abundant that its " temperate use " stamps a man a dirty tramp. Regarding civil ami ecclesiastical titles, sometimes employed in Masonry, he gives l!ro. Vincil a touching reminder. Looking through Nebraska, it is found that Bro. Goldwater (or the printer) speaks of Past Grand Master, Bro. Lininger, as of the unsavory production of the Limberger family, or " something to that effect." We are gratified to find this young jurisdiction prosperous. M. W. Benjamin Titus, Tombstone, Grand Master. R. W. George J. Roskrugc, Tucson, Grand Secretary. ARKANSAS, 1885. After dinner, feeling the necessity of stimulating digestion, we took up the pro- ceedings of this important jurisdiction with the perfect understanding that we had work before us. Grand Lodge assembled in Little Rock, November 25, M. W. W. II. II. Clay- ton presiding over two hundred and ninety lodges, of the three hundred and seventy- three of the jurisdiction. The Grand Secretary says : " Being twelve more in atten- dance than last year, and being the largest attendance that there has ever been .it any convocation of the (band Lodge in this State." The first two pages of his address is a brilliant contrast of conditions existing in tin old and new worlds. He will have learned by this time, however, that many of the ills with which Europe has been afflicted have been brought hither by the class who neither there nor here regard God or good government. lie mourns the loss of R. \V. bro. \V. II. Howes, Senior Grand Warden; Past Grand Master, R. P. Putliam, and Past Grand Master, Bro. E. R. DuVal, with others of local distinction. Surely our brethren of Arkansas have passed under the rod. The decisions of the Grand Master are quite numerous, and although they are in conformity with local regulations, probably some of them sound strange to unprac- ticed ears. A few are given: MASONIC CORRESPONDED I 17 On the trial of a brother, if the specifications be sustained and the charge be not sustained, the brother stands acquitted, and. vice versa, if the charges be sustained and the specifications be not sustained he stands convicted, and must be punished. A lodge, being the owner of a hall, has the right to charge the so-called " higher orders," rent for its use. When there are but seven members present at the opening of a lodge of Entered Apprentices, the Junior Deacon should lock the outer door and act as both Junior Deacon and Tyler, and same in Fellow Craft's lodge when only five are present. In a Master Mason's lodge, when only three are present, the Junior Warden should perform the Tyler's duties as well as those of his own office. From the latter it is to be presumed that the three first officers of a lodge can conduct the affairs of the body in the absence of a greater number. Again: It is not a violation of the M. M's. O. to hold Masonic Communication with a Mason who has been suspended merely for non-payment of dues. The words " suspended " and "expelled" as there used alludes only to those who have been suspended or expelled for some Masonic offense for which they have been duly tried and convicted. The suspension of a Mason for non-payment of dues, in this Grand Jurisdiction, is without trial. A brother suspended for non-payment of dues has not the privilege of visiting his lodge. The lodge may permit him to do so, but this is not a right which he may demand. And when permitted to visit the lodge, it is only as a visitor and not as a member, and therefore he cannot vote, sit on com- mittees, or otherwise participate in the business of the lodge. The Grand Secretary makes an elaborate report. Authority was issued for six new lodges. Six have demised, and one dispensation surrendered. Ten lodges delinquent. lie complains that Grand Lodge pays out more for mileage than it costs representatives. This is true of more than one Grand Jurisdiction. There is altogether too much of this class of nasty speculation. Where mileage is insisted upon, a representative should only be allowed his actual expenses. The treasury of a Grand Lodge should not be at the disposal of greed. The consequences are that the Grand Lodge of Arkansas is short $1790.50. In other words, the expenses of the last year were in excess of receipts the amount named. Brother George E. Dodge, Correspondent, makes a special report. He recommended the recognition of the Grand Lodge of South Australia, and followed this justifiable proposition, with a like recommendation for the so-called "Grand Lodge of Victoria." Sorry that we cannot agree with Bro. Dodge upon the pro- priety of the latter recognition. He objects to " Brazil, Portugal, et. a/.," upon the ground that they may be too closely identified with Supreme Councils and Grand Orients. In this he is correct; but why he should contend that three lodges of five hundred within a specific territory are authorized to organize a Grand Lodge therein with exclusive territorial jurisdiction, is more than we can comprehend. Grand Lodge softened a trifle regarding the rule that prohibited lodges from permitting the occupancy of their halls by associations not Masonic. Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Knights of Honor were the favored parties not embraced in the rule. What becomes of the sisters of the Eastern Star? They out in the cold? Too bad! The good Lord help the man who, in this region, should dare to perpetrate such an indignity ! 3t , . 18 APPENDIX. The Grand « Irator, bro. Taylor, says this : Follow the sublime teachings of our Order, and you will not only preserve the lamb skin in its spotless purity, and pass through this world bright exemplars of morality and charity, but when the alarm is made at the inner door and you are hurriedly i ailed before the ( Irand Architect of the universe, he will use you as perfect Ashlers in that grand Masonic temple not made by human hands, eternal in the skies. " Brethren, strive to build up your lodges, ornate them and make them true Masonic homes for yourselves and your visitors, ever remembering that high degreeism, with gaudy plumes and brilliant costumes, is not symbolic Masonry, and is, therefore, nothing without that solid foundation alone found in the lodge room." And after they have received the last artistic touch and bav< been fully embellished with all the implements of comfort and work, see that they are not con- verted from their lofty and pure design into places of bitter prejudice and personal wrong. Lodge rooms in their primitive purity, may be likened unto the perfection of girlish beauty — type of classic grace ideal, of feminine softness and truth, all tinged and shaded by a pervading modesty. A lodge room polluted by world influences becomes at once as the false-hearted harlot, flaunting her finery and figure before the world, artfully pretending all the chaste attributes of noble woman, yet secretly and shamelessly practicing all the wickedness of her depraved and deceitful heart. Guard well then, my brothers, all the avenues of this sacred temple. See that no personal motives influence any of your actions ; every initiate is promised, on the very commencement of his Masonic pilgrim- age, freedom from social, political and religious prejudice, and he should never awaken to bitter and sorrowful disappointment. The contributions for a monument to Past Grand Master English, are approach- ing fair proportions. The Committee on Appeals and Grievances had a considerable docket. The following does not reveal a high sense of Masonic integrity: I >n appeal of BrO. W. S. I.indsey, W. M. ot Campbell Lodge, Xo. 113, from the judgment of aid lodge, in refusing to inflict any punishment on Bro. Newton Cooper, who was therein regularly charged with un Masonic conduct. The first specification was, that the said Newton Cooper did, on the 1st day of April, 1885, in the town of Marshall, in the County of Searcy, and State of Arkansas, exhibit a Masonic emblem (that is to say. The Square, Compasses, and Letter G) on a signboard over a saloon door, in violation of the teachings and principles of Masonry." Another specification charged him with " profane swearing, contrary to the teachings pf Masonry." Other pecifications appropriately and definitely charged him with "drunkenness," and with "erecting and running a gambling-device, commonly called a nine-pin alley." The transi lipl shows that, on the trial day, June 6th, 1885, " Bro. Newton Cooper appeared in open lodge, and plead guilty to the charges, leaving it to the mercy of the lodge to inflict punishment." And yel your committee is p. him, I to Irani and report that the lodge voted down each grade of punishment, and .lid not even , ause reprimand our mildest mode of punishment i<> l>.- administered to this brother, who //<■,;. / guilty to such serious and un Masonic conduct. They acquitted him. Your committee feels ion strained to r< mend, — First, That the saidlodgebe censured, ami admonished to enforce our laws in the future; Second, Thai the said judgment of said lodge beset aside and annulled, and thai 1 he said l'.i other \ewtou t looper be indefinitely suspended from all tin rights and privileges 01 Masonry; Third, That, if the said Bro. Newton Coopei shall reform, and become ■■ an upright man,"— then, after the full period of twelve months from this .late, the lodge maj 1 ntertain and act upon a petition for his restoration. The only objection to the judgment of the committee, is found in permitting such an aggregation of corruption a Masonic life. We are glad to find .1 Report on Correspondence by oui distinguished Brother (..... I'. Dodge. He covers .1 good deal of ground, and covets it well. He makes fraternal mention of our jurisdiction, and speaks of our report as a "legal and his- MAsoNK' CORRESPONDENCE. 19 torical review of Masonry in the nineteenth century." It is much to be regretted that a brother of such marked ability should question the majority rule in the organ- ization of (hand Lodges. What he finds in the common law upon the subject to vindicate his views, surpasses any knowledge we have of that class of jurisprudence. The tables we published, 1S84, should have some weight in determining common law. Our name is T. T., instead of " T. H." lie is a believer in dual membership, and mentions the fact that Bro. Pike, Washington, recently (as we infer) united with a lodge of which Bro. 1). is a member, though he had not resided in the State for twenty years prior to his union therewith. We are unacquainted with the workings of such a system, therefore cannot speak advisedly; but it seems to us, that with our present system of penalties for non-payment of dues, dual membership would be attended with unsurmoun table difficulties; but as our Arkansas brethren look upon "suspension" for such class of deriliction as not of much consequence, it may not be there is an objection to the system. M. W. T. C. Humphry, Paris, (hand Master. R. W. Fay Hempstead, Little Rock, Grand Secretary. BRITISH COLUMBIA, 1885. The fourteenth annual communication was held in the City of Victoria, June 20, R. W. Bro. Thomas Trounce, Deputy Grand Master, in charge. The Most Worshipful, the Grand Master, Bro. Edgar Crow Baker, was attending to his duties as a member of the Dominion Parliament then in session at Ottawa. The six lodges of the jurisdiction were all represented by proxies or otherwise. Our representative, V. W. Bro. E. C. Neufelder, was present. He is also the " Min- ister Resident" of the "Grand Lodge of Italy." Will he have the kindness to ad- vise us of the symbolic character of that organization ? The Grand Master forwarded a brief address. It is a good paper, but largely occupied with disquisitions upon questions that have from time immemorial been the themes of Masonic antiquarians. He wisely dissents from the conclusion that the Fraternity had other origin than in the operative Masons of the middle ages. He quotes a number of authors, some of whom imagine that its conception was from the fertile brains of persons anterior to Adam, others to Moses, Joshua, Solomon and Pythagorus. The Essenes, Druids and Egyptians also come in for a share of the glories attributed to its ancient founders. All this senseless wishwash is a power in the hands of our adversaries to bring the Institution into disrepute; and why it is 20 APPENDIX. indulged by a single Mason, of even ordinary culture, is a matter of astonishment. I i< tion is well enough in its place, but entirely out of place as the foundation of an Institution that is to rank with the civilizing ami benilicent forces of the world. The Deputy Grand Master delivered a brief message. lie congratulates Grand Lodge upon the harmony within the jurisdiction, and that no perplexing questions have been propounded for consideration. He recommended the recognition of the '■ ( it and Lodge of Peru," but did not feel that the " Grand Lodge Symbolica [nde- pendienta Mexicana Vera Cruz,*' was worthy of like distinction — Grand Lodge assenting in both cases. The new Grand Lodge of South Australia was welcomed into the fraternal family. We are without reliable information regarding l'eru, neither has our Grand Lodge been called upon for its fraternal greetings; but our impressions are, that it, in organization, is not unlike the Vera Cruz, body that had its beginning (primarily) in other rites. It was resolved, " That the names of all rejected candidates in subordinate lodges shall be forthwith reported to the Grand Secretary, who shall keep a list of the same in a book for the purpose. That no candidate for the degrees in Masonry, or affiliation, shall be balloted for until information has been received from the Grand Secretary that his name is clear of the black list." The " Louisiana" resolutions were received and referred. No Report on Correspondence. M. W. Thomas Trounce, Victoria, Grand Master. V. W. Edward C. Neufelder, Victoria, Grand Secretary. CALIFORNIA, 1885. This Grand Body met October 13th, and concluded its session on the 17th. I niir days were consumed in the disposition of a large amount of important legisla- tion, but a few lodges were absent for want of representation. The Grand Master. M. W. Jonathan Doan I lines, congratulates the Craft upon the prosperity of the jurisdiction, and that the cardinal virtues are receiving increased consideration. lie thinks, however, that some lodges might be dispensed with — eight have not con- ferred degrees foi two, three for three years, and one foi four years; nevertheless, affiliations have l» en numerous in all the lodges. The < '.rand Master concludes Ins address with the announcement of the sudden demise of R. W. Hm. Moses Heller, MASONIC CORRESPONDED I 21 Grand Treasurer. He appears to have been a Mason in whom the brethren of California reposed the most implicit confidence. The elaborate report of the ( '.rand Secretary, Bro. Abell, is a precise compen- dium of duty well executed. His methods should excite the emulation of some of his cotemporaries. He reports the authorization ot four new lodges, together with the reception of a large number of communications from various associations of Masons asking recognition as Grand Bodies. He confines himself to the record without vouchsafing recommendations in their behalf. Wise. The report of the Grand Treasurer shows a balance of nearly $6,000.00 aside from $52,588.00 in good securities. The report of the Grand Lecturer, Bro. Shaeffer, exhibits rare efficiency. The Grand Secretary, in behalf of the Masonic Board of Relief of San Fran- cisco, presented a report showing an expenditure for relief of $9,772.50 as follows: For Masons of California $ 781 00 For Masons of other Jurisdictions 3'54 35 For wives, widows and orphans of other Jurisdictions 434 2 °S For wives, widows and orphans of California 1494 5° #9772 5° The Masons of Illinois were the recipients of $526.35; but we do not see that the brethren of our State refunded anything, except it may have been included in the item of receipts from "sundry brethren." The total amount refunded was $1964.42. Ten brethren, deceased, were buried with Masonic honors. This is a magnificent record, and it is to be hoped that lodges and brethren of Illinois, under such obligations, will make a determined effort to give some tangible evidences of appreciation. The Board at Sacramento shows disbursements of $1148.80; that at Oakland $1017.60; that of Los Angeles $1951.85, and that of Marysville $215.50; making total relief afforded $14,106.55. It is a pleasure to notice that our Hesperia Lodge, No. 411, refunded to the Board at Los Angeles, $150. The following is an extract from the report of the latter : The Board has buried seven brethren, during the year, belonging to other jurisdictions — three of them at its own expense ; and it has been the means of returning the widow and orphans of one brother to their home in England. The expenditures herein set forth do not include any relief extended to any member of either of the lodges in the city of Los Angeles, or to any member of their families— each lodge taking care of its own distressed. More than fifty brethren have found employment through the Board, and it has coll. ted $5,000 of insurance from other jurisdictions for the widows of deceased brethren. Many brethren of limited means visit our section of the State in pursuit of health or employ- ment, and their stay being often prolonged without the result hoped for, and their means becoming exhausted, they are compelled to apply to the Board for advice, recommendations, or pecuniary 22 LPPENDIX. assistance. The number of applications is constantly increasing, and the work and expenses of the Board will be correspondingly augmented in the future. The Committee on Grievances had a very considerable docket. The report, as we imagine, was gotten up by lawyers. Technical objections to proceedings were profuse, consequently trial commissions were not often sustained. Better by far, as it appears to us, to follow the old rule of simply protecting the rights of an accused or accuser in a trial, rather than overturning trials upon technical grounds that do not interpose obstacles to fair adjudication, [t is found in one report a conclusion with which we are in entire sympathy: The accused is charged with the grave offense of disturbing the peace and harmony of the lodge and disobedient e to tin- Master's gavel. Of these acts the commission found him guilty and affixed therefor the penalty of suspension. The evidence fully justifies the findings and warrants the punishment imposed. \ our committee, from the evidence adduced, are lorced to the conclusion thai there was a studied, persii tent, and willful disobedience of the Master's gavel on the part of the accused. The gavel is the emblem of authority. It is the lever which moves the Masonic world. When wielded by the Master in his lodge it is more potent than a Monarch's sceptre. The Mi tei there is sovereign, and bis will alone becomes the law by which the Craft are governed and to which they must how with graceful submission and strict obedience. For the Master to permit the slight- est deviation from this rule, would sap the foundation of his prerogative and plant the seed thai would produce turmoil, discoid, dissension anil, ultimately, anarchy. It is the province of the chosen few to command, while it is the duty of others to obey. Upon the very threshold of Masonry the novice is instructed that the peace and harmony of the lodge must not be disturbed. Whenever a Mason so farforgets himself as to bring anything offensive into the lodge whereby disturbance may be caused, or fails or refuses to render obedience to the powers that be, he becomes guilty of one of the greatest offenses known to our Masonic calender, and amen- able to the severest penalty which our Masonic Code can impose. In many instances of this char- acter the refractory brother is not alone at fault. The Master, by his indulgence or his desire to i oiirt the favor and good will of the brethren, may so far slacken the discipline of his lodge that members will feel warranted in encroaching upon his known prerogative. When such is the case the Master should be held responsible. He who loses sight of the dignity of his high office, or for- gets or forbears to exact the Strictest respect therefor, is unworthy to fill the Master's chair. Our discipline, to all, is exacting ; it must be observed, respected, and obeyed ; and the reins must lie held by tin: Master's hand. It will be of advantage to the brethren of anti prerogative school to read the foregoing with considerable care, keeping in mind the fact thai Masters ami Grand Masters are governed by the same general law. In reply to a question as to the right of a lodge to exercise its discretion in performing mortuary services over the remains of a suspended member, the Com- mittee <>n jurisprudence reply by saying in effect, that such power is vested in the lodge in cases where the penalty lias been inflicted for non-payment of dues. We have always supposed, that during the life of such penalty, meaning suspension from the "rights and privileges of Masonry," thai the offender was as completely cut off from the Fraternity as though expelled. This is the general rule whatever may be the charge upon which conviction was had. Suspension from membership is anothei matter, because in such case Masonu status is unimpaired. If. thru too'. M asonic intercourse with a suspended Ma on is interdicted, we cannot conceive of MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 23 the propriety of prohibiting a lodge from giving formal Masonic burial to an expelled Mason or to the profane — one standing in the same relation to a lodge as the other. The committee endorsed the conclusion " that where a lodge had, without right, received an application for the degrees from a person residing within the territory of another lodge, and rejected him, the latter lodge could not receive his application until the expiration of twelve months." We are of the opinion that the illegal act of the first lodge did not impair a single right of the lodge of jurisdiction — the re- ception and action upon the petition being altogether void. It is a pleasure to find that a venerable Past Grand Master (the first) was cared for. Brother James Wright Anderson submitted an exceptionally good Report on Correspondence. lie endorses the action of our Grand Lodge in its determination that the lodge is the only legitimate custodian of the symbolic degrees; but he gravely errs in the opinion that such action is " an endorsement of the Massachusetts departure" — far from it. We continue to deny the right of any association of Masons (aside a regularly constituted lodge) to exercise any authority in the degrees of E. A., F. C, or Master Mason. These are the exclusive heritage of the lodge. The " departure " is another question altogether, and if there is anything in the logic of that instrument, it assumes that all bodies therein mentioned are mantled with powers to which we emphatically object, because if it be true that the Chapter, Commandery, and bodies of other rites are " duly constituted Alasonic bodies," it follows that they are authorized to practice all things Masonic. In his review of Kentucky, he thus discourses: We are of the opinion that the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts — believing that boldly advertis- ing in the public prints for candidates for these degrees, and that the hawking of such degrees by ir- responsible and unscrupulous persons for their own emolument was calculated to bring discredit upon the Craft, — did right in prohibiting Masons from the illicit traffic. If a Grand Lodge has no right to enforce its own edicts, to protect its Freemasonry among the brethren, to exclude what it may deem wrong, to enforce its recognitions and exclusions, and to prevent indi- viduals from prostituting it to disgraceful and profane purposes, then what is the object or benefit of having a Grand Lodge ? If a handful of " schismatics and disturbers " can defy a Grand Lodge in one particular, what is there to prevent them irom doing so in others ? If the principles of the symbolic lodges are to be made the standard of admission to unrecognized higher degrees, what is there to prevent their being employed as the basis of any organization, however objectionable ? We believe it to be a duty that a Grand Lodge owes to the membership of subordinate lodges to protect them from the imposition, the pecuniary loss, and the mortification which would ultimately result in distrust of one another instead of that confidence, respect and harmony which constitutes the strength of our Fraternity. Massachusetts might have, with great propriety, warned brethren against hawk- ing of degrees unknown to the Craft, but we never could understand how it was possible for the brethren of that jurisdiction to assume something as Masonic of which they know nothing except by common report. Read again, Brother An- derson, the history of the Fraternity. Read once more the " Ancient Charges to a Free Mason," and tell us of authority given to Masons to reject the appli- cation of a Hebrew, because of being a Hebrew; yet you seem willing to class the 24 APPENDIX. Commandery, and bodies of the Scottish Rite, <.>f tliu Northern Jurisdiction, as " duly constituted Masonic bodies." This will not et forth. I am (and so with lodge) to consult my own opinion of the " worthy" char- acter of the applicant. We never heard of any other law upon the subject. If, however, California rituals contain obligations that compel the gratification of an applicant for relief, "worthy " or unworthy, we have nothing to say. Do your cove- nants demand this? Further on, he objects to the conclusion that Masonic mortuary services arc not the "right" of a Mason in good standing; meaning, of course, in lodge. There is nothing in the primary law of the Institution that insists that I sum. I. extend such courtesy or charity to the unworthy, /am to be the judge of duty in the premises, not lodge or Grand Lodge. We should not have a very exalted opinion of a Mason that would not give the needy the benefit of a doubt, or that would not feed the hungry, Mason or non-Mason; nevertheless, any com- pulsory legislation in the premises makes the Fraternity an insurance agency, entirely inconsistent with immemorial law upon the subject. Our objection to compulsory dues from non-affiliates rests entirely upon the insurance character of the demand . He does not pay his money for rights of membership, but with the express under- standing that he shall be cared for in the event of indigency. If there be any other principle involved, except mutual insurance, in such legislation, we fail to compre- hend the force or character of such regulations. Our covenants are laws that can not be disregarded, unless it be determined that they are vagaries and not worthy of consideration. We are at work, brethren, for the Masonry of our fathers before " Boards of Relief" were organized — when brethren, found worthy, could have their immediate wants supplied without a thought of remuneration. We do not object to relief organizations, but we are of the impression that they are engendering a sentiment inconsistent with the original purposes of the Institution. California lias done a noble work in this regard, and we would not for a world have them feel thai we oiler any opposition to their methods; but we do know that they have been imposed upon by wretched misrepresentations of the Craft from Illinois —men who ,u home could not have received one particle of consideration from their brethren. This is the natural result of organization, for where the carcass is, vultures will gather. We have had an abundant experience in this matter, and which has led ib to the belief that this class of organized Masonic charity has stimulated imposition. This subject has been considered in another place. Bro. Anderson is not in accord with the hospital project of the brethren of Arkansas; thinks with us that " dispensation " to give Masonic burial, entirely out MASONIC CORRKSPON'DKNCE. 25 of place ; strongly supports the single ballot rule, and does not agree with Brother Singleton (D. C.) upon the question of "penal jurisdiction." He gives our jurisdic- tion much attention, and quotes the major portion of our report on the assumptions of other associations of Masons of authority to confer the degrees of the Craft. He also quotes, approvingly, our views of the ■'* Massachusetts departure," and Grand Lodge organization. He quotes from Indian Territory thus: My conception of what I believe to be the spirit of the Fraternity brings rac in conflict with Article XIII of the by-laws of the subordinate lodge. I have not hesitated to overthrow it for the purpose of challenging your attention to its injustice and wrong. I hold that no brother can be punished until convicted, nor convicted without a fair trial. And then says: It seems to us that this is a dangerous assumption of prerogative on the part of a Grand Master. It is practically a nullification of the action of the very power that created him Grand Master, and, as such, is very reprehensible. If he can declare void and overthrow one law, what is to prevent his doing likewise with others. As we take it, the function of the Grand Master is to see the laws of the Grand Lodge properly executed, and that he has no power under general regu- lations or elsewhere to nullify any action of the body from whom he derives all his authority ; nor can he nullify any action of a subordinate lodge, unless it be in contravention of the regulations provided for its government. We are pleased to note that the Grand Lodge of Indian Territory refused to concur in the decision of its Grand Master. Our reply to all this will be found in a prerogative quotation heretofore made. Bro. Anderson does not think well of perpetual jurisdiction; does not "discover any material benefit accruing to the Master or to the lodge from conferring the degree^.) of Past Master;" is hostile to an affiliation fee; does not admire elec- tioneering for Masonic positions. We are rapidly coming to the conclusion that a good, rotund fee for installation, as in some foreign jurisdictions, would not result disastrously to the welfare of the Craft. Bro. Anderson does not, with us, think well of lodge incorporation. He has this to say under Montana: " Regarding non- payment of dues debarring a member from voting or holding office, Brother Hedges believes that, until a member is suspended by action of his lodge, he is entitled to vote or to be eligible to office. We fail to see anything unjust or unwise in such a regulation." Notwithstanding concurrence in the judgment of Bro Hedges, he emphasizes objection to a like doctrine contended for by the writer. If Bro. A. will refer to page 84 of his review, he will comprehend a conviction for inconsistency. All that we ask is, that a brother shall be formally adjudged guilty of an offense, before being deprived of a Masonic right. In the matter of perpetual jurisdiction he does not appear perfectly clear. In his review of Nebraska, he says upon that subject: Among other cases of grievance is reported one where a brother, a Fellow Craft, desired to advance, and, having removed from Nebraska, asked a waiver of jurisdiction. Under the law of Nebraska to grant this waiver required a unanimous vote, which in this case, had not been attained . Involving the principle oi perpetual jurisdiction, it was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence , 4t 26 APPENDIX. who reported that tlie right of waiver rested entirely with the lodge in whii h the brother h.ul taken the other degrees, and that the Grand Lodge had no jurisdiction in the premises. In tliis report the ( rrand I odge o «>• urred. \\ e remark that whilst this decision is in strict accord with the Ancient Regulations, we nevertheless think, if the brother was worthy that courtesy, that the interests of the Craft, he hav- ing removed from the jurisdiction, demanded thai tin- waiver and permission to receive the remain- ing degree should have been granted. Bro. A., with ourselves, cannot see the "goodness" in prohibiting lodges occu- pying premises with other reputable organizations. [n concluding this review of our sister jurisdiction we are constrained to give Bro. Anderson's views upon two important questions : We dissent from the views expressed by l!ro. Chadwick regarding the right of a brother to kiinu the party objecting to his advancement, or the reasons for such objection. < Ine who has re- ceived the Entered Apprentice or the Fellow Craft degree occupies a status very different from that of one whose original petition has bei n reji I ted, and has rights which the uninitiated cannot claim. Vfter initiation he is received as a brother, and, as such, is entitled to more consideration than the mere profane, and any allegation refiei ting upon his character or qualifications should be carefully ex- amined. < )ur Grand J.odgehas wisely provided that objections to advancement shall he made known to the Master, and referred to a committee, that their validity may be inquired into and determined by the lodge. In order to arrive at a proper conclusion as to the facts, the committee shotdd hear the testimony, not of the objector alone, but of the applicant also. As a Mason the candidate shotdd be heard in his own defense, and in order that he may make his defense, it is but just that he should be informed of the nature of the allegations made against him and of the party urging the objections. \n\ peace or harmony purchased at the cost of justice is worthless. Masons, however good, are possessed of the weaknesses incident to frail humanity. Bro. Chadwick says, " all will know the cause of the objection in due time." True, but why hold a brother in suspense, or deprive him of a right, until the cause of the objection /cak.s out. Such a course, it seems to us, would be a most fruitful source of discord and wrong in our lodges. The law upon this matter adopted by the Grand Lodge in the District of Columbia is identically the same as that adopted in California. Bro. I nadwick predicts that it will not meet the occasion. It has met every occasion in California, or over a quarter of a century, without any infringment of the peace and harmony of our lodges, and is not with us an experiment ; it is a regulation founded in equity and justified by experiem e. A motion to amend the Constitution of the Grand Lodge so as to prohibit a member engaged in the manufai ture or s.de ,,t intoxicating liquors, otherwise than for medicinal or sacramental pur- poses, from being eligible to any office in his lodge, received a majority vote, whi< h not being suf- fii i. in , the matter was laid over for one year. The brethren of Washington seem determined to root out the evil connected with the liquor traffic. We admire their zeal, but do not fully endorse their plans of procedure. We fear that in the impetuosity of their efforts they will overdo themattei ol oppo ition and thereby not only do harm to the cause which they advocate, but also to the Frater- nity. " The golden mean doth surest sit," and a proper observance of the di( tatcs of temperance in their attempt to extirpate the evils of saloon-keeping and saloon-drinking will in our opinion, prove more effective than the course which is now adopted. We observe that .1 I'.ro Charles \V. Taylor presented " .1 resolution making it a Masonic Offense for any member of a Masonic '.. enter a place where liquors are sold, and drink the same, (which —the place or the liquors?) under .1 pi nalt) of expulsion." The passage of such a resolution would seem to us to be an undue assump- tion upon the pari of the < (rder. We are in favor of temperance in all things, but we do nol 1" lievi that it 1 an be set ured by any SU( h proi ess. Hold brethren responsible for overstepping the limits ot a due propriety in the use of intoxicating liquors, as you would in the abuse of any other light or e, and good will b the result ; .00, :. , , iurse will, in our opinion, subject the Fraternity to injury without any equivalent of good. Without any hesitancy we say we are glad to see that the MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 27 Committee on Jurisprudence had the prudence to recommend that the resolution of Bro. Taylor be laid on the table, inasmuch as Freemasonry is not a temperance society ; and the Grand Lodge adopted the recommendation. The latter we turn over to the tender mercies of Brother Vincil. M. W. Wiley James Tinnin, Weaverville, Grand Master. R. W. Alexander G. Abell, San Francisco, Grand Secretary. CANADA, 1885. Three "especial" communications were held during the year for the purpose of placing the memorial stones of public edifices. The last was on July 1st, over which the Grand Maste% M. W. Brother, Hugh Murray, presided. These events are considered by our Canadian brethren (as they should be) of more than ordinary importance; giving the public, as they do, the best general conceptions of the rela- tions of the Fraternity to the world. Grand Lodge met in Hamilton July 8. Lodges were largely represented. The record presents also, a long list of Past Grand officers and representatives, including the R. W. Brother David McLellan, Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near the M. W. Grand Lodge of Canada. We take considerable pride in this men- tion of our distinguished brother, because of his well-known character as a faithful Craftsman at home and abroad. The annual address of the Grand Master is a production that will attract thoughtful, fraternal attention. Me authorized six new lodges, and continued the dispensations of others. Three Worshipful Masters incurred his displeasure, and were disciplined for violation of law. From a personal knowledge of Brother Murray, we give it as our opinion, that willful trespassers upon the good name of the Institution, would meet an unflinching determination in the Grand Master, to maintain its exalted professions. We cannot concur in the opinion of Brother Murray and his Grand Lodge, that " an affirmation, in lieu of the oath or obligation of Masonry, is not admissible." This is in reply to a question, if a Quaker, clinging to his convictions upon that sub- ject, can be made a Mason. As it seems to us, this is simply a question of phrase- ology. In the civil law, a misrepresentation under "affirmation," carries with it like pains and penalties as though tin- witness had "sworn" to a falsehood — an oath or affirmation therein being alike in their import and sanctity. The Grand 28 APPENDIX. Lodge of Illinois takes the same view of the subject, because the words "swear" or "affirm" are each terms that convey the same meaning and responsibilities, both in civil, and necessarily, in fraternal law. Webster defines an oath to 1 >e "a solemn affirmation ox declaration, made with an appeal to God for the truth of what is affirmed" If therefore, in all civilized communities, an oath is an affirmation, and an affirmation an oath, we are at a loss to comprehend the propriety of denying an initiate the choice of language, particularly when such denial is a trespass upon his religious convictions. There is not, upon earth, an organization more loyal to God and I lis word, as they understand it, than are the Quakers; therefore we insist that their devotion to the law that declares, " Bui I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne; nor by the earth ; for it is His footstool ; neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shall thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your commu- nication be, yea, yea; nay, nay; for whatsoever is more than these, Cometh of evil," shall not be disqualification for admittance to the Fraternity. The Grand Master is very forcible in his denunciation of infidelity — not too much so, and concludes that an Indian can be made a Mason, if the lodge is so inclined. • Touching Grand Honors he says: "Nine for Grand Masters; seven for Deputy Grand Masters, and for District Deputies; five for all other elected Grand officers; three for distinguished brethren. The honors to Past Grand officers are the same given to present officers." The views of the (band Master upon the question of benevolent association-, within lodges, are sound. We cannot conceive of reasonable objections to a fund set apart for the indigent coming from the general contributions of brethren, but any specific contribution that is to insure to the contributor relief in the event of want, is entirely antagonistic to the well defined principles of Masonic charity. lie comes down with a heavy hand upon the practice of employing emblems for busi- ness purposes There has been so much of this in times past that many distrust persons clad with the ensignia of the Fraternity. Brother Murray, as do most of provincial Grand Masters, refers to Kiel's rebellion, with congratulations that it did not menace the stability of the govern ment, and closes by saying: "Thus Masonry teaches loyalty to the Sovereign, obedi ence to the law, and subordination to constituted authority, without which civilized communities cannot exist." The ancient law, however, takes a more conservative view. It says: " A Mason is a peaceable subject to the civil powers, wherever he resides or works, and is never to be concerned in plots or conspiracies against the peace and welfare of the nation, nor In behave himself undutifully to inferioi magis- trates; for as Masonry hath been always injured by war, bloodshed and confusion, so ancient kings and princes have been much disposed to encourage the Craftsman because of their peaceableness and loyalty, whereby they practically answered the cavils of theii adversaries, and promoted the honoi oi the Fraternity, who ever MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 29 flourished in times of peace, so that if a brother should be a rebel against the state, he is not to be countenanced in his rebellion however he may be pitied as an un- happy man; and, if convicted of no other crime, though the loyal brotherhood must and ought to disown his rebellion, and give no umbrage or ground of political jealousy to the government for the time being, they cannot expel him from the lodge, and his relation to it remains indefeasible." The reservations in the forego- ing will be readily comprehended. We cannot endorse the conclusions of the (band Master in his reference to the trouble in which the Grand Lodge of Quebec is involved. He says : The Grand Master of Quebec has issued a proclamation to all brethren in obedience to his Grand Lodge, declaring all lodges in that Province working under any foreign Grand Lodge, to be illegally and irregularly existing, and prohibiting all brethren acknowledging his authority from holding Masonic intercourse with any of the members of such lodges, in so far as Ancient Cl ifl Masonry is concerned. The brethren affected by this edict are the members of St. Paul's Lodge, No. 374, St. George's Lodge, No. 440, and St. Lawrence Lodge, No. 640, all in the City of Montreal, and on the register of the United Grand Lodge of England. I sympathize strongly with the Grand Lodge of Quebec in the struggle for what I believe to be a correct principle, and I admit that from her standpoint she is not bound by the conditions that applied to the recognition of the Grand Lodge of Canada. Further than this, however, I think our Grand Lodge cannot go, for though we may regret that conditional recognition was accepted by our predecessors, who acted no doubt under circumstances peculiarly adverse, and at a time when the question ot Grand Lodge sovereignty was not so prominent as in the present day, yet we are, I be- lieve, bound honorably to carry out the agreement entered into by them, and which has remained undisturbed for twenty-six years. The reader will remember, that at the organization of the Grand Lodge of Canada the Grand Lodge of England declined recognition unless certain lodges (three) were permitted to retain allegiance to the mother Grand Body. To this stipulation the Grand Lodge of Canada assented, and until a subsequent division of the territory into the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, the Grand Lodge of Canada was bound by its covenants. In 1S67, however, the home government made the territorial change mentioned, and the brethren of Quebec (1869) organized an inde- pendent Grand Lodge embracing territorial jurisdiction over the three lodges in question, and with which our Grand Lodge at its last communication, declared non- intercourse. Bro. Murray admits that the Grand Lodge of Quebec is correct in principle, and " not bound by the conditions that applied to the recognition of the Grand Lodge of Canada" by the Grand Lodge of England. As there is not remote doubt but that he is correct, we fail to see the justice or propriety of continuing fra- ternal relations with bodies that, by virtue of lawful authority ; are declared irregu- lar and clandestine. The Grand Lodge of Canada is sovereign within its territorial limits, but no more so than is its friendly peer, the Grand Lodge of Quebec. The latter is entitled to the respect and protection of every Grand Lodge upon the con- continent, we cannot see how the former can find justification in defying the common law of the Fraternity by admitting to its constituent lodges brethren condemned for resisting authority which the Grand Lodge of Canada admits to be lawful and oO APPENDIX. supreme. It is an old adage, though perhaps not classically expressed, that "chickens may come home to roost." If therefore, in time to come our brethren of Canada should become involved in difficulties that commanded the sympathy and support of its sisters, its present attitude towards the Grand Lodge of Ouebec might lie found a troublesome precedent. Obedience to law is the better plan, though its enforcement may be attended with unpleasant consequences. We regret to find that Grand Lodge concurred in the suggestions of the (hand Master. lie thus con- cludes an able and interesting paper: It is gratifying at the end of my term to be able to announce that our Fraternity is in a more flourishing condition than at any previous time in our history. Though two Grand Lodges, ■ and Manitoba, have swarmed from the mother hive, we have more lodges on our register than ever before ; though envious and intolerent men have misrepresented and defamed our ( >rder, the membership of our lodges' is steadily increasing; though from year to year we have increased our benevolent gifts, the amount in the treasury is not lessened, our ability to aid those in distress is not impaired. While expressing our thanks to God for his goodness in the past, and praying for his con- tinued favor, let us not forget that where much is given much is also acquired. Let us strenuously endeavor to support the character of our profession as Free and Accepted Masons, by the practice of tolerance and forbearance towards those who differ from us, by forgetfulness and forgiveness of wrongs inflicted on us, by the exercise of charity and benevolence towards those having claims upon us, and by the honest performance of every trust, and thus prove to the world our at- tai hment to the principles of the ( trder. The reports of the District Deputy (hand Masters bear the impress of intelli- gent and faithful discharge of duty. The finances of Grand Lodge are in customary good condition. There remains in the treasury $68,394.49, after having expended in giants to the needy the sum of $10,625. Although we have given considerable attention to this jurisdiction, we do not feel justified in neglecting to give the following paragraphs from the report of the Committee on Grand Master's Address: In this age of scepticism and unbelief it cannot be too plainly asserted or too clearly under- stood that the Grand Lodge of Canada will admit none within the portals of our lodges, nor con tinue the privilegei oj Freemasonry to iiny who 1/0 not acknowledge their belief in God ; that He has revealed I lis will to man in the volume of the Sacred Law whi< h we re< ognize as the first oi the three great lights of Masonry, and the * >ne to rule and govern our faith, and Clod will certainly punish vii e an.l reward virtue. Men who claim a right to disbi lii v< . oi at all events doubt the ex- I 1 'if God, or to doubt that there will be a future life of rewards and punishments, have no I I lit to tpproai li "in altars, no footing on the floor ol oui lodges. hi worse than mockery 1 1 md the volume ol the Sacred Law to the seri 01 is con- templati f such nun, or • harge them to 1 onsiderit the unerring standard of truth and justii e and n. by the Divine precepts which it contains ; toad nish them that therein they will lie taught the important duty they owe to their God, to their neighbor and to themsi Ivi to deli an to them that such duty requires them never to mention God's name, hut with that awe erenci which an du< fi the creature to his Creator ; to implon His aid on all their lawful kings and to look up to Him in every emergencj for comfort and support. While it would savour.it blasphem) to invoke the aid ol th< llmightj upon the initiations of such men, and to im- plon Him that they may dedicate and devote their livi to His ervice, to ask that they may he en M A si >\[< ! COE R KSl't >XI >ENCE. dowcd with a competency of His divine wisdom, that they may display the beauties of true I iodli lies-,, or at a later stage to implore the Almighty to so piss them under His protection through the valley of the shadow of death, that they may finally arise from the tomb of transgression to shine as the stars for ever and ever. It is a pleasure to know that Past Grand Master, Daniel Spry, was the recipient of a testimonial "as a token of respect and esteem." "Notices of Motions" for the consideration of Grand Lodge at its next annual communication, include the following presented by V. W. P>ro. I. A. Wills: That no lodge shall permit to be used in any room used by them for either hall, lodge room or at the refreshment table, wines or spirits or other intoxicating liquors. No Report on Correspondence, notwithstanding there are a dozen D. D. Grand Masters eminently qualified for the position, and an abundance of money for the printer. M. W. Hugh Murray, Hamilton, Grand Master. R. W. J. J. Mason, Hamilton, Grand Secretary. COLORADO, 1885. Lodges largely represented. Twelve Past Grand Masters were also present, notwithstanding the absence of a pay roll. Grand Lodge met in Denver September 15th. M. W. James H. Peabody, Grand Master, represents the condition of the Craft, " good." He makes particular mention of the loss of a distinguished man and Mason, Sir Moses Montefiore. He also gives the " Nation's Hero" an extended notice. We had not before supposed that Gen. Grant was a Mason. We knew him as a distinguished President, soldier and citizen, but not as a member of the Fra- ternity. Bro. Peabody declined to appoint as his proxy, to preside at a trial, a Past Master not a member of the lodge in which the investigation was to take place. It would be a satisfaction to know the grounds for his position. We don't know of any law that thus circumscribes a Grand Master in the selection of such representa- tives. He however thought, " that if no objections were made, the brother was eligible to preside at the meeting." He also declined dispensations to hold public installations. He says : I believe that one of the most commendable features of Freemasonry, is its absence of ostenta- tion. I fear that the object of these public ceremonials is for mere show and display, to attract the 32 APPENDIX. attention of the profane, and should be classed as innovations A Ma onii lodge cannot t» regularly d a^ a lodge where the world at large art invited to seats, and i- in direct and positivi antag- onism ol - I i onservatn i tnd opens the door to other dangerous novelties. In depart- ing iii this partii ular from the i ustom of my predecessor, I have done so with an earnest desire, and soli purpose, to protect our Fraternity from any influence whii h might impair its true character, or I its hold i'ii the commendation of the wise, thi d the good among the Fraternity, and retain the admiration of all thoughtful men. We do not have a partical of sympathy for such views. If Masonry was de- signed for caves and knot-holes, there might be justification for a seclusion that would be impenetrable to the world; but as the Institution is a living force in the welfare of our race — so designed in profession and practice — it is difficult to under- stand why every reasonable avenue to its professions should not be opened up to the tion of those to whom we naturally look for countenance and support. It has been found in an experience of thirty-eight years that lodges bringing their purposes nearest the vision of family and friends, are those that are the most prosperous and influential. If the lodges of our sister jurisdiction are of a character that public exoteric exercises are liable to display too many imperfect ashlars, seclusion is advisable. It is a pleasure to know that the < irand Master assumes to be the Grand Ma Masons in Colorado, by replying to interrogatories from brethren not occupy- ing official positions. Sorry to see that the jurisdiction clings to that nondescript — the tlegree (!) of Past Master. Whence comes the authority to add a. fourth degree to the symbolic system ? Contrary to the opinions of some brethren, that a Grand Master is not invested with authority to suspend a Master from the rights of the Fraternity, Bro. Peabody did thus impose a penalty upon an officer that had been found guilty of un- Masonic conduct. Correct. The reports of financial officers show a surplus in the treasury of $8, 557. 90. Appropriation to establish a public charity was disagreed to. Wise. The Committee on Jurisprudence, in reply to a question submitted just prior to the close of the last session, report: Your committee arc of opinion that the officers, so far .is appointed, should, at th« propel time, and in the absence of the Master-elect, be installed by the retiring Master. The old Mastei continues to serve until the installation of his successor, with the right to app lint the subordinate 1 ml standing committees usually appointed by the Master at the beginning of the term. theless, no harm would be likely from appointing brethren to act temporarily until the return I tster elect, and it would be an act of courtesy to leave the permanent appointments to him. ( lur advice would therefore be to adopt such a 1 OUrse unless the absence of the Master el« t u.is in continue so long that the efficiency of the lodge required the permanent filling of the positions at once. In Illinois it is held that in the absence of the Master elect installation cannot take place; and for the valid reason, that such investiture precludes the possibility of the promotion of Wardens elert, eligible to the position, in the event of a new election for Master, unless local law provides for the resignation of installed officers' MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. The same committee declined to concur in the opinion of the Grand Master, that it was improper, while a Mason is under suspension, to prefer charges for another offense. We have read a good deal upon the question of "physical perfection," but we think the following minority report of P. G. M., Byron L. Carr, of the Committee on Jurisprudence, merits more than a passing notice : 1 approve the report of the majority of the committee with one exception, but I am unable to agree with the Grand Master and the majority of this committee upon the question of physical quali- fication for candidates as laid down in Decision No. ij, and approved by the majority of the com- mittee. The decision is based upon that ancient landmark which provides that " No Master shall take any apprentice who has any maim or defect in his body which shall render him incapable of per- forming the work and becoming proficient therein, etc." We are told that our ancient brethren wrought in both operative and speculative Masonry, but we work in speculative Masonry only. It was while Masonry was both operative and specula- tive that landmark was adopted as a law of Masonry, and the reason is obvious, no member to be re- ceived who was so defective in his physical form as to make it impossible for him to discharge the duties ofan operative Mason. The reason of the law has failed, and there is no principle of law that is better established than that " When the reason of the law fails, the law itself ceases to exist." We work in speculative Masonry only, and the essential qualifications of a speculative Mason are moral and intellectual rather than physical. To say that a man with one leg five inches shorter than the other, but who has an appliance which enables him to walk as uprightly as any other one, and whose moral principles and character are exceptional, is unqualified to learn the Masonic lectures and perform the speculative work of the Order, while at the same time we do admit, with- out question, men whose mental capacity is not sufficient to enable them to pass examination for ad- mission to a lodge after years of study, is a construction of the law which is repugnant to good sense. In English Masonry, and in some ot the Grand Jurisdictions of this country, no physical qualification is recognized, on the principle before stated, that " the reason of the law having ceased to exist the landmark no longer exists." I myself have seen a man initiated into a Masonic lodge, who walked upon a wooden leg, the amputation having been performed above the knee. This in one of the Eastern states. In one of the Southern states we have the record of the initiation of a man who had lost an arm. This is done under a construction of the leadership which follows reason rather than narrow technicalities, and holds that the maim or defect alluded to refers to mental and moral defects rather than physical ones. I am aware that I am giving utterance to sentiments which by some of my brethren will be considered almost, if not quite, verging on heresy. But although this Grand Lodge may not yet be prepared to adopt them, " the world moves," and the Masonic Institution moves with it, and I have full confidence to believe that the time will come, and that I shall live to see it, when the nar- row construction now placed upon that landmark will no longer prevail. I personally know the . andidate whose application called forth this decision of the Grand Master, and I know that no better material for our Masonic Temple is to be found throughout the broad jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge. It is not this particular decision that I contend against, as I know that it is in strict conformity with the uniform current of decisions in this jurisdiction, but it is the narrow construc- tion of the landmark that I oppose, and hope sometime to see severed. The mortal and intellectual qualifications of candidates are left with the lodges, and the physical should be left to the same tribunal. Holding these views I recommend that Decision No. 13 of the Grand Master be not approved. I also recommend the adoption of the following resolution : Resolved, That the moral, mental and physical qualifications of all candidates shall be de- termined by the lodge to which the application is made. 34 APPENDIX. Past Grand Master. Bro. W. I ». Anthony delivered a wee oration, embracing a amount of good sense for a two page paper. A paragraph or two shows that the drift of his thoughts are in the right direction: \s in the material so in the immaterial world, the tendency is combination. And so we have seen lately many bodies of men with avowed purpose of good, organized as secret societies. A limited knowledge of a few, with indiscreet information from members of such bodies, leads me to the belief that upon our order, its ritual, and its ancient and time-honored practices have these in- novators largely drawn, and I ask myself, how were these things learn 1. My second lesson in Masonry was to learn to subdue my passions, keep a tongue of good report, maintain secrecy, and practice charity. I have often thought that in these two lines lie all of Masonry that you and I need to have to improve upon our present Masonic life. The Grand ( >rator of the Grand Lodge of California last year pronounced these words : " Ma- sons all over our land are originating and participating in societies with rituals largely based upon our own. and framed through the knowledge of their authors acquired in the lodge room. It is damaging and very hazardous to dig as nearly as possible to the foundation of a building, and still not permit it to fall or weaken its standing." We believe in upholding all good enterprises ; a Mason's duty prohibits him from presenting any obstacle to that cause which is for the uplifting of the world: only the individual can decide as to his own action in the matter of modern organizations under the many forms and names promul- gated. But when a Mason discovers that he is about to be identified with a community whose tenets and practices are really copied from a part of his first loved organization, it is likely that witli that dis- covery the cardinal principles of our ( )rder will be strengthened in his heart, and that he will return with a deeper devotion. With the true man and Mason, synonymous terms, it must be so. He re- members an Institution venerable with age, and eminent in glorious achievements ; but age alone can no longer command respect. Upon invitation, the tire department of Denver was visited. How far the element entering into its usefulness was appreciated, the record does not show. The Louisiana '* international regulations" were read and refused. Past (hand Master, L. N. (ireenleaf, offered a resolution declining to recognize the " ( rrand I .odge of New South Wales. - ' The reasons as stated by Bro. < Ireenleaf, and adopted by Grand Lodge, reflect the good sense and law abiding tendencies of the Grand Body. An effort was made to abolish a ballot for each degree, but without success. Sorry, because we believe the single ballot is the only protection in the hands of an E. A., (or F. ( '. i for his vindication, when assailed by an objection to advancement. The Committee on Correspondence reported upon the contention of the Grand Lodge of Quebec with its three recusant lodges, and while very positive in its enun- ciation of the correct doctrine in the premises, declined to recommend unequivocal action. Bro. Fletcher, from the Committee on Jurisprudence, offered a resolution re- questing that it present an amendment to by-laws providing for uniform action of lodges in dealing with delin merits. If this is to limit penalties, then we submit an objection, though it is the law of our jurisdiction that indefinite suspension shall be MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. ."I." the extreme ol punishment in such cases. It lias been our uniform belief that there axe grades of offenses in non-payment of dues, and that the lodge is the only quali- fied body to determine them. There are brethren, whose first duty to self, family or friends, makes it impossible to respond to the claims of the lodge; to these extend charity. There are others, from a variety of causes, that are simply indifferent, and, without premeditated design, fail of duty; suspend such, but where there is obdur- acy and contempt for lodge and law, expell. The Grand Communication was closed with a banquet. The ninth and last toast — "To the absent ones, who we wish were here, our wives, daughters and sweethearts " — is not a very affectionate response to the opinions of the (hand Mas- ter respecting public demonstrations. Past Grand Master, Bro. Greenleaf, furnishes a Report on Correspondence that will merit the commendation of his readers. lie confines himself to a notice of transactions. He is so good a writer that we hope he may extend the sphere of his usefulness. lie is so much pleased with our report, (1884) that he quotes largely and approvingly from our condemnation of rites that assume the functions ol the lodge. He also endorses our hostility to the so-called " Massachusetts de- parture." He is not in love with " perpetual jurisdiction ; " believes in the physi- cal perfection of candidates. In his review ol New Mexico he properly denies the right of a Grand Body to dictate the charities of the lodge, and holds to the correct position that the latter should be permitted to bury Masons, if so disposed, whether affiliated ox unaffiliated. We protest against the habit of appointing a new reporter each year. The longer a person is in the harness, the more knowledge he acquires, and as a conse- quence is of enlarged credit to his jurisdiction. M. W. George Wyman, Longmont, (hand Master. K. W. Ed. C. 1'armelee, Georgetown, Grand Secretary. CONNECTICUT, 1886. The ninety-eighth annual communication was held in Hartford, January 20th. l'ast Grand Master, E. B. Rowe, alluded to its advanced years, and thought it wise to make some preparation for its centennial anniversary. The Grand Master, M. W. Brother Dwight Waugh, delivered an address of so much fraternal pathos, that we have been induced to give it a second reading, 36 APPENDIX. lie first gives the substance of reports of District Deputy Grand Masters; and from which is gathered the gratifying assurance that the Fraternity of our sister jurisdic- tion is prospering. But a very few lodges are delinquent. The < Irand Master says : "Taken as a whole, the reports and printed returns go to show that, with very few exceptions — in some districts a single lodge — the lodges are doing good work, are providing themselves as fast as possible with more commodious halls and suitable furniture, and are honestly striving to live up to their own by-laws aixl the by-laws of the Grand Lodge." Bro. Waugh alludes to the Masonic veterans of Connecti- cut. It appears that they were the guests of Union Lodge, No. 40. Fifty-two enjoyed the fifteenth annual reunion. We speak of the happy time thus enjoyed, because of the gratifying fact that we have a veteran association of our own. It was gotten up during the present year, with Past ( Irand Master, I tewitt < . < regier, Venerable Chief, and R. \V., (I. W. Barnard, Venerable Secretary. Past < irand Master Ilawley and the writer were admitted, though objections to both, as we have been informed, were fully discussed. After, however, our success had been an- nounced, applications for membership rolled in with so much rapidity, that larger books were required. We number at the present writing about 150 members, and reasonably expect a much larger representation as time for the annual approaches. It is now intended to notice a few of these characters at the conclusion of this report. The < irand Master paid the following fraternal tribute to the memory of our R. W. Brother, Hiram W. Hubbard: As usual, since our last annual communication, the shafts of the insatiate archer, death, have found their shining marks. One year ago to-day, died Brother Hiram W. Hubbard, a Past Masti 1 of K.ing Hiram Lodge, No. 12, and for fourteen years, l'istrict Deputy ( Irand .Master in our sister Jurisdiction of Illinois. To those present this morning, who knew him in the years gone by and who will ever hold him in loving remembrance, will come with a special depth and fullness of mean- ing, these words of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, when they say, " in his death, the Craft has h.st ., bright Mason and an earnest worker, the community, one who in life all felt honored to know, and in death, all remember with kindly emotions; the family, a true and devoted husband and an affei tionate and loving father. But, while his death lias made vacant a place so long and faithful!) filled in this Grand Body, and has brought sadness and sorrow to the home circle, we 1 an rejoice in the thought thai he has been raised to a higher position in the Grand Lodge above." The (irand Master urged immediate relief to Galveston sufferers. In response to this call, $646.30 was contributed by lodges. The "Charity Foundation Fund" grows apace. Br< ithet \\ heeler, ( irand Secretary, submitted a resolution recognizing the ( Irand Lodge of South Australia. It was promptly adopted. Past Grand Master, E. B. Rowe, suggested the propriety of making preparation for the coming centennial of the (Irand Lodge. The present communication was its ninety eighth. We don't see that any action was taken in the premises. •• I 11 cle" John Simons will read the insinuation of Bro. Rowe, and devote many a pleasant hour in anticipation of a " bee lunch." MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. The Committee on Grievance had but one case in review. A resolution was adopted requiring that Grand Masters be requested to file and deliver to their successors in office the papers upon which they base any decision they may render, and to preserve and deliver in like manner a copy of their corres- pondence relating thereto. As is customary with Brother Wheeler, he submitted a valuable Report on Correspondence, not quite as voluminous as usual, but quite as interesting as his former productions. He tells us that an installed officer can neither resign or dimit, (in Connecticut) and that their installation covenants hold them for a year, except in the event of death. This is the general rule, but we never heard of the existence of penalty for a disregard of such covenants. An officer may not be permitted to resign or dimit, but if one or all of the officers of a lodge remove from the jurisdic- tion, is it not, practically, dimission so far as their official relations to the lodge are concerned ? Would Grand Master Green permit a lodge to remain unofficered for a year because the Master, Warden and others installed had left Connecticut and dom- iciled in Illinois? As a further illustration: If the qualified officers of a lodge should decline to fill their places, where is the remedy except in a new election? We never heard of discipline growing out of such refusal, neither did we ever hear of any law that made it an offense to vacate any position to which a member had been elected and installed. Such regulations, denying resignation and dimission, are well enough in theory, but in practice, whimsical, as it seems to us. Our opinion is, that the Grand Master, the installing power, should be permitted to demand and accept the resignation of any officer declining to serve, or that has left the jurisdic- tion. Bro. Wheeler quotes with approbation the language of Grand Master Sumpter, who said : " However eloquently we may preach the doctrines of Masonry, and expatiate upon the beauty of its precepts, it matters little, unless we carry them into practice in the business transactions and social relations of our every day life, with- out which they become, in the language of St. Paul, as faith without works, mere sounding brass and tinkling cymbals." Bro. Wheeler might have gone further by saying, that a Mason disobedient to responsibilities that he has, of his " free will and accord," assumed, and that are recognized the world over as the underlying princi- ciples of our civilization, is not only a foe to lodge, but to his race. There is noth- ing in connection with the Institution so much to be dreaded by its friends as a member whose daily walk is but a reflection of folly and vice. We can endure anything from a man without pretentions, but when we see a Mason walking through life mantled with vestments that should indicate devotion to manhood, but whose acts are only contributions to the general influences that drag men down to death, our contempt for such an one is measureless, though he belong to all the associations of Masons on earth. Bro. Wheeler further discusses the subject: During the second day, the Craft were assembled for the purpose of attending divine service in St. John's Church, where a sermon was preached by the Grand Chaplain, Rev. Brother I n L>» yer, who took his text from Corinthians, " Charity never faileth." He observes a proper dis- 38 A.PPENDIX. tinction between Masonry and religion, and rightly contends that " the former makes no pretensions as a religions system in the moremodern sense, and least of all professes itself as a substitute for Christianity." They however draw from the same fountain, the Great Light, and thus radiate from one common center, each using for its stone of foundation, that cardinal principle, faith, which con- stitutes a portion of the underlying sentiment of ihe Masonic creed. The former is taught in a more primitive and symbolical sense, while the latter is received as of divine origin, and admits of no com- promise with any system of philosophy. We quote a few lines from his admirable sermon be recognize so plainly the truth presented in them. Brother W. correctly dissents from the absurd proposition that a non-affiliated Mason is only to be admitted to lodge membership in the < irand jurisdiction in which he resides. This question has been noticed elsewhere. lie is in accord with M. W. Brother Murray, Canada, that denial of God's exis- tence, anil practical atheism, should exclude from the Fraternity. He says: We think his rulings are correct, and there is not a Grand Lodge in the country that would not endorse them, especially relating to the question of faith. It was on this rock that French Ma- sonry was stranded, since which time every Grand Lodge in all English speaking countries has re- fused to recognize it, declaring, that the Grand Orient of France by such an act, had put itself out- side the pale of Freemasonry. It is belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, that constitutes the first landmark of our Fraternity, from which radiates all the sentiment in the ritual or Jurisprudence of Freemasonry. It would be as consistent to accept the Bible as a divine revelation, and at the same time ignore the existence of God. This is sometimes called the age of scepticism and unbelief, and there are many ideas being put forward that have a tendency to shake one's belief in anything of a religious nature, and yet, we doubt whether it is more so now than at any time during the last twenty centuries. There have al- ways been sceptics and unbelievers, and the modern Sadducee is the same specimen of the genus homo that he was two thousand years ago. But it should be clearly understood that such misguided mortals can find no entrance within the portals of Freemasonry. They have not yet learned the les- sons taught in thegreatbook of nature, and would make poor students in that other book enumerated among the lights, which we recognize as the first and greatest, and it would be worse than mockery to hold it up t'> them as their rule and guide, and charge them to regulate their actions by its divine precepts. Bro. W. does not appear in sympathy with the doctrine of " perpetual jurisdic- tion." We think more ol a brother's inherent right of objection than we do <>t "liberality " to the profane. He continues his sturdy defense of the rights of ma jorities in the organization of Grand Lodges. In his review of Kentucky, he takes a correct position thus: He does not quite agree with us on the doctrine of "inherent privileges" of the Grand Mas- ter ; but this fact will not tend to cause any ill feelings on our part, or lessen our estimation of him or his judgment. We can agree to disagree, if necessary, and in this case we do so, because we regard these privileges as inherent rights , that have been conceded to the office from time immemorial, by their long continued usage have become a landmark. He says, " he does not agree that Grand Masters can create new law by rendering decisions." Neverthi ill . thi fai t still remains, that the Jurisprudence of Masonry, as it exists to-day, has been largely derived from this very source, and he has only to consult the records of his own jurisdiction for many years back for proof of this fact. A dr. ision i^ rendered to cover some question of juris* prudence unprovided for in the Grand Lodge regulations, which, for the time being, is flu- law, but subject to the approval or disapproval of the Grand Lodge. If approved, it becomes a permanenl law of the Craft until repealed. This is the history that the iv. m,K of any < rrand Lodge "ill reveal, .m.l we are suprised thai our good brother should nut recognize it. "i had overlooked it. MASONK' CORRESPONDENCE. 30 In a reply to Bro. Drummond, who yet insists that " our order " may be em- ployed in Masonry, he "accepts the amendment," because that phraseology is found in many Masonic publications. If he will consult about the oldest regulations ex- tant, the "General Regulations" of 1721, he, with Bro. D., will find that "our order " is nowhere substituted for " Fraternity." Bro. Wheeler reviews our juris- diction fraternally, and makes mention of the remarks of brethren, Past Grand Masters, Joseph Robbins and James A. Hawley, on the death of our beloved brother, R. W. Hiram W. Hubbard. A good and true man has gone to his rest. Brethren, Bro. Hubbard was a man, God's best gift to the world. M. W. Henry H. Green, Danielsonville, Grand Master. R. W. Joseph K. Wheeler, Hartford, Grand Secretary. DAKOTA, 1885. This Grand Body occupied three days in its deliberations. Its members found a warm welcome from Masons and citizens of the City of Fargo, June 9th. But four of the sixty-one chartered lodges of the jurisdiction were without representa- tion. Nine lodges, U. D., also put in an appearance. R. W. Bro. William Blatt, D. G. M., opened Grand Lodge in the absence of the Grand Master, M. W. Bro. John F. Schrader, who did not materialize until the second day of the session. His annual address is a very intelligent and concise record of official acts. He reports dispensations for eighteen new lodges. Dakota has a large territory with a phenom- inally rapid increase of population, hence our readers will be prepared for this exceptional prosperity. The Grand Master concluded that a diploma would not "answer the same pur- pose as a dimit when a brother desires to unite with another lodge." This is correct in its application to lodges of this country, where it is the universal practice to issue certificates of dimission ; but if a brother from either the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland or Scotland, where such certificates are unknown, applies for membership in a Dakota lodge, will no attention be given his diploma, the only lodge evidence of his Masonic standing? Grand Lodge was correct in determining that Brother Schrader erred in the following: Q. Can a brother not a member of the lodge, but a Master Mason in good standing, avail himself of the right to make the secret objection to the Master? A. No, Q. Can he make any objection whatever ? I'» APPENDIX. \ In my opinion an affiliated Ma tei Ma on has the right to make an objection, but the i i be made openly, in writing, stating fully the objection to the initiation, passing or raising of the candidate, and the lodge musl pass upon the objections so m irity vote 10 decide. The < irand Master lakes a lively interest in promulgating the " Standard Work " of the jurisdiction. lie gives a vivid description of the publicity arising from ritu- als rinding their way into the jurisdiction from about every (irand Lodge <>n earth, lnit is of the belief that uniformity will be the rule, by and by. < lur Dakota brethren have .1 working Grand Lecturer in Bro. Huston, and there appears an earnest dispo- sition to sustain him. The Committee on Work, (irand Lodge concurring, reported : ist. That school* of instruction he established at such places and at such times as the Grand Ma tl i in Ins judgment may deem best for the interest of the Craft, and for that purpose we would recommend that the ( Irand Master lie authorized to appoint a (irand Lecturer whose duty shall be to promulgate the adopted work of this jurisdii tion under the direction of the Grand Master. -•d. That such schools of instruction lie composed of ii"t less than three nor more than ten to be held by the Grand Lecturer at such places as the ( Irand Master may designate, each particular lodge to be represented by a Worshipful Master or some member thereof appointed by him, and when so assembled the length of the session shall be determined by the delegates present. ;d. That each particular lodge when notified shall be represented at some school of instnu - tion, unless excused by the Grand Master, and the failure on the part of any lodge to be so repre- sented shall be reported at the next annual communication of this (irand Lodge. .(th. The Grand Lecturer shall be paid his traveling expenses and five dollars per diem for the time actually employed in holding such schools of instruction, to be paid out of the money appro- priated by this Grand Lodge, and each particular lodge shall pay its delegates to SUi h schools of in- struction $2. so per diem and traveling expenses to and from the same, and at thi the ('.rand Lecturer shall make a detailed report to the Grand Master showing the number ot lodges represented, the names of the representatives, the number of days session and the tlcgrec of pro- ficiency attained. 5th. That the sum of $500.00 be appropriated by this (Irand Lodge to be expended under the direction of the Grand Master for the services of the Grand Lecturer performed in accordance with these resolutions and an itemized report of the same be made by the Grand Lecturer to the next ses- sion of this Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge declined to adopt an amendment to its by-laws, to wit : Your committtec to whom was referred the following resolution, viz: " Resolved, Thai tion 48 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws be amended bj adding thereto, 'provided that no objections shall stand against an E. A. or F. C. preventing advancement upon the brother exhibiting proper pro- fit i' in y, for a longer period than six months, unless charges are preferred, in which case the .1. 1 usi d shall be entitled to a Masonic trial held in tin- highest degree which he has attained, a two majority being necessary to pass sentence of expulsion,' " report that they have given the subject matter therein contained due and careful consideration, and earnestly recommend that the resolution do not pass. The committee do not assign .my reasons lur its objections. It is reasonable in suppose; however, that its hostility was the result of dissent from general principles involved, rather than from the ambiguity of the proposed amendment. It is to be regretted that (irand Lodge was induced to deny, practically, that an E. A. or L. < '. were Masons, although recognized as such by fraternal covenants. It must have escaped attention that the ancient law and usage of the primal (irand 1 ..doe. and which yet obtains therein, acknowledges these brethren as Masons, clothed with the MASONIC CORK KSPONDK NCE. II authority of membership and paying dues to the lodge to which they belong. This is not only true of the mother Grand Lodges of Britain, but is equally true of the majority of Grand Lodges of the provinces. If we could discuss rituals we would show that, although the business of the lodges of this country has been transferred to the concluding degree, yet the fundamental thought of the early fraternity touching our bond of duty to Masons (not to degrees) is distinctly set forth, and that it cannot be tortured into an exclusive heritage of the third degree. In other words, Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts are Masons, and as such are clearly within the scope of the protection and care accorded to brethren of any degree. If we are correct in this matter, it follows that Masons cannot be assailed in any lawful under- taking without an opportunity is given for defense. The regulation of our Grand Lodge upon this subject rests upon the primitive truth already set forth, and pro- vides: "Whenever objection is made by any member of a lodge to the advancement of a brother therein, to the second or third degree, the reasons therefor must be made known, if required by the lodge or Master ; or the matter may be referred to a committee, with power to inquire into such reasons, who shall report thereon to the lodge as soon as practicable. Upon the reception of such report, if no cause for objection has been assigned, or if the reasons assigned be, in the opinion of a ma- jority of the members present, insufficient, the lodge may confer the degree in the same manner as if no objection had been made ; but if the reasons assigned shall be deemed sufficient to stay the degree, the candidate shall be entitled, upon appli- cation, to a trial upon the alleged objections." From the foregoing it will be seen that we do not permit a Mason to be assailed, without granting him the inherent right of self-defense. It is to be hoped that our brethren may renew an investigation of this subject. For distinguished services rendered Grand Lodge, by Past Grand Master, Theo- dore S. Parvin, (Iowa) it was ordered that a testimonial be presented him. We understand, from private sources, that he now carries a beautiful gold watch. We are pleased to know that the Masons and citizens of our neighboring jurisdiction are to have standard time as well as standard Masonry. We now come to a "standard" Report on Correspondence by Bro. Blatt, and sorry to say his last— for the present at least. He has been promoted to the highest dignity of his jurisdiction ; but it remains to be seen if the Grand Lodge has not made a mistake in depriving the Masons of the continent of one of the best reporters of the period. We bid a cordial welcome, however, to his successor, Bro. John Q. A. Braden. Bro. Blatt opens up his report with timely admonitions. He says : Of the questions at issue, the most prominent is to-day, doubtless, the "Massachusetts Amend- ment." That Grand Lodge has declared the Chapters, Commanderies, and A. and A. Scottish Rite to be Masonic bodies, and has forbidden, under pain of expulsion, all Masons of her obedience to associate with certain others. We have, in previous reports, expressed our views upon the sub- ject, and are more than ever convinced of its pernicious effect, and the unwarranted action of that Grand Lodge Hence we deem it our duty to remind the Craft of its high and solemn obligation as fit 12 APPENDIX. M i i; idditional one oi Masters and Past Masters, who have solemnly vowed that it is not in the power of man or any body of men to make innovations in the body of Masonry. Let us not be led astray by false notions nor high sounding degrecism. While many may be misled into fthat the lodge is but the threshold to a system of Masonry, let those who know the fallal y of such belief boldly avow their views and permit of no innovation that declan i mic any- thing but the three degrees in Masonry, and the supremacy of the ('.rand Lodge. We deem the action of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts as undermining the very foundation of the Institution and making it the battle ground of societies who live and thrive upon its very bone and marrow. From the information gathered during the two years since the passage ot the amendment to which the n tion of the (".rand Commandery of ( )hio has so far been a sequel, we are led to believe that the "high contracting parties " have had direct ami personal interests in this class legislation. The safest ground for Grand Lodges is to follow the example ofthat of Pennsylvania who claims to stand still. We do not agree with some of her laws and the views held and expounded by her teachers, yet we prefer her conservatism to the radicalism of Massachusetts. Let us once get adrift and we shall be thrown upon the rocks or stranded. We think he seriously ens in his conclusions, "that the Grand Lodge of Eng land obstructs and hinders with the fullest power at her command the independence of Masonry in her colonies." She did deny the right of a miserable minority of loc Iges in the cases of New South Wales and Victoria, to assume jurisdiction over overwhelming majorities, but when the brethren of South Australia, with practical unanimity, knocked at her doors, the mother bid her child an unalloyed welcome. Does this look like obstruction, Bro. Blatt? Don't be deluded by such misrepre- sentations. When those so-called Grand Lodges will respect the common law of representative organization, there is not a Grand Lodge upon our continent that will nol extend them courteous recognition, neither will the Grand Lodge of Britain object to receiving them into the family of Grand Bodies. Mark what we tell you. He cautions his readers against a too hasty greeting of Spanish, and Spanish-Ameri- can Grand Lodges. In all these kingdoms and states it is rare to find a legitimate lodge — a lodge that came from a sovereign, independent Grand Lodge of the Symbolic Craft. We hold that all else is spurious and not worthy of a moments consideration, and will never submit to the opinion that Chapters, Councils, Com- manderies, bodies of the Scottish Rite, or oleomargarine conglomerations known as Grand ( Orients, have a particle of authority over the three degrees of the Craft, ok \\Y PARI OR PARTS THEREOF, whether in matters of government or Klirwis; neither do we believe that any Mason, connected with any of the legitimate associa lions mentioned, can offer a reasonable apology for clasping hands with those that assume the government of the lodge. Bro. Blatt cannot be said to be settled in his convictions touching the law of Grand Lodge organization. From his opening remarks, (which have been referred to) and his condolence with Bro. Singleton upon the subject, we were quite unpre- pared to find him enunciating the correct doctrine, thus : "In the establishment of Grand Lodges the committee (Louisiana) holds that the union of a majority of all the lodges, no less than three, are requisite for the formation of a Grand Lodge. * * * in a u ijjjs we concur." Under Tennessee he reiterates a like position. He accepts as good law the rule of our Grand Lodge that permits investigation into objections to advancement. Our Grand Lodge does not demand that an MASONIC COBRKSl'OXDKXCK. 43 objector prefer charges, but makes it possible for the candidate to insist upon an inquiry. It is a pleasure to find Bro. Blatt dissenting from the views of his Grand Lodge on this subject. His review of our jurisdiction is very full. We asked him (1884) to explain why lodges, U. D., should not be permitted to affiliate members. His reply is a quotation from the late Bro. Mackey. We knew what that distinguished author thought upon the subject, but we wanted reasons coined from the sound judgment of Bro. Blatt. He gives extended notice to the plan proposed for a more economical administration of our Grand Lodge finances, and insists that mileage and per diem expenses are in contravention of ancient usage. We are not disposed to contest his conclusions. Our cotemporary is not friendly to "perpetual jurisdiction" or the "preroga- tives " of Grand Masters ; holds that lodges are to be consulted in matters of juris- diction over candidates, rather than Grand Lodges or Grand Masters; does not think well of Grand Masters for issuing dispensations to confer degrees at other times than provided by law ; is not in sympathy with Bro. Singleton, wdio holds that a Mason should not be tried for an offense except by the lodge to which he belongs ; does not take any stock in the proposition to establish a General Grand Lodge ; condemns the opinion (Georgia) that there is any authority to postpone a ballot after it has been entered upon; does not think non-affiliation a Masonic crime; takes the correct position that, although lodges should have penal jurisdiction over members, yet it is the province of the Grand Body when " a lodge fails or persistently refuses to mete out justice to an accused, it is not only the right but the duty of G. L., to take the case in hand and see to it that no guilty one escapes;" dislikes a regula- tion that enforces dues during suspension, neither does he admire the equities of a lodge that accepts the dues of a suspended member and then denies restoration ; does not concur with Bro. Drummond in his defense of the " Massachusetts depar- ture;" is strong in the opinion that intemperance is un-Masonic, and objects to the proposition that a member of lodge, under charges, can be denied admission thereto. He expresses other opinions that we would be glad to lay before our readers. M. W. William Blatt, Yankton, Grand Master. R. W. Chas. T. McCoy, Aberdeen, Grand Secretary. DELAWARE, 1885. The seventy-ninth annual communication of this Grand Lodge was held in Wilmington October 7th. Trior thereto, on the 24th of June, a special session was I I APPENDIX. held in Dover for the dedication of a new lodge hall. Past < band Master, Brother Thomas N. Williams, delivered the customary oration, followed by an address of great merit by the "Grand Chaplain." His name is not given. Singular oversight of the Grand Secretary. Turning, however, to the appointments of the (band Master, it is found that Rev. Brother James II. Caldwell was placed in that position, consequently it is taken for granted that he is the author of the address referred t<>. By whomsoever written, it is worthy of dissemination; but the space at our disposal will only justify the quotation of a single paragraph. That which ill its nature and mission has the divinity of permanence, which is so adjusted to the interests and needs of society as to find perpetual work to do, will be likely to build itself into granite and mortar, and live on through the incessant drift of the changeful centuries, Judged ''V this lau<. Masonry is no dream, no whim, no system at war with the best possibilities and i i of the human life ; but is, on the contrary, in harmony with principles that are beneficent and eternal, having a real errand in the darkness, sorrow and loneliness of the earth ; a mission in ac- cord with religion and truth, and therefore is here to stay. It is because of this that she builds ; builds high, grand and strong ; rears her splendid temples in great centres and her less preten- tious lodges in other localities ; carves her symbols in unwasting marble, and draws together the hearts of her great brotherhood in mystic and life-long fellowship. Nothing more deeply impresses the outside observer than this sense of permanency in Masonry ; this quiet and unostentatious sur- vival of its Fraternity through all the storm of leveling influences which has beaten down so many other institutions. The present dedication teaches us, I think, some such lesson as this, and so con- firms our confidence in the reality of its mission. Indeed all the surroundings of this very hour emphasize the same truth. The peculiar rites and ceremonies, the badges, the silent symbols, tin- words spoken, whence came they ? Who fashioned them? Are they things of to-day, the creations of the hour, and only for the first time wrought into the interest of an evening's entertainment ? To ask the question is to answer it. It is the great past 'which speaks to us. The flavor of am ienl times is in the cup of our pleasure. Centuries drop out, and we are back yonder clasping brotherly hands with the early men of the race. Kings and princes walk among us, royal crowns throw their shadows over our altars, and other tongues greet our ears. Strange scenes of toil and achievement are transpiring near us. The quarries of the hills are thronged and resonant with labor, r.ifts .it cedar float by us, trowels flash, levels test the true lines, square and compass straighten and bound the angles, while far-famed temples, white and golden, rise before our vision. These other men love Unci are true to each other. They toil, sufTer, obey, and remain, under severest trials, faithful to their vows. We stand among them to-night. The very genius of this Institution makes us students of their fidelity and witnesses of their deeds. Masonry is old, yet does not wane or die. It comes down to us fresh and vigorous from earlier times and bids us feel our oneness with the past. It pours the brightness of its great lights full on the faces of these heroes, that we may cad h inspiration from their noble examples. 1 know of no other merely human institution which preserves and transmits so much of this peculiar power as Masonry. It is true that these throngs of Mastei Ma sons, Fellow t.'rafts. and Entered Apprentii es are long ago dead. The earth is hard and dry where they sleep— dry as summer dust, yet the accacia lives green and beautiful about them, and the tides of time bear a sprig of it down to us. their sua essors. Masonry lives on, and this assemblage is the ■ n lln n nt proof. The (band Master, M. W. Bro. Thomas Davidson, notices the decease of R. \\ . George W. Johnson, Pasl , which were without charters, I of the last century, (about 1740,) and who finally were known as the Athol Grand Lodge, and self-styled " Ancients," to distinguish themselves from the old Grand Lodge of 1717, whom they derisively called " Moderns," on account of some injudicious changes made in the First and Second Degrees by transposition. Now, let us follow up this consistent body of the " Ancients," to the period immediately succeeding the visit of Chevalier Ramsey to England, 1 about 1738-40) who introduced a Royal Arch Degree. Lawrence Dermott, finding this degree to be so very at- tractive, took possession thereof and introduced it into his body. He totally changed the Third De- gree and took from it the most important mysteries and introduced a legend whereby the * * * was lost, and another was substituted, making it necessary to go to the new degree to find the original. Was there no innovation in the landmarks by this action '.' Pennsylvania Masonry fell heir to this innovation and continued it by conferring the " conclusion " of the Third I (agree, called Roj al Arch in the lodges under their charters, and the first Royal Arch Chapter ever formed was in Pennsylvania. The Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania was the outcome, but was strictly governed by the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master, if a Royal Arch Mason, e.x-o/Jicio being Grand High l'riest of such Grand Chapter. Finally, in consequence of disagreements as to the disposal of the funds de- rived from the Royal Arch I >egree, there was a separation in 1825, and the ( '.rand Chapter be< ame an independent body. Now let us refer to the Ahitnan Rezon of 1S23, published under authority of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, by Hon. Joseph R. Chandler, not only a distinguished Mason but a tiished man, and one of the ablest writers and editors of his day, a ripe and cultivated si holai and accomplished gentleman. Why did our brethren of the I irand Lodge of Pennsylvania, after retaining the name of Ancient York Masons for so many years, change that title to the present one of " Free and Accepted Ma sons " on all of its official documents > Was it not because it was well established by Bro. W. I Hughan and others that the Grand Lodge at York never issued a charter to any lodge out of Eng- land? Moreover, that the claim set up by Lawrence Dermott for his body to that appellation had no other foundation than the fact that after the third Duke of Athol consented to act as (Irand Mas. ter of that < irand Lodge, fraternal courtesies were exchanged between the ( irand Lodge of York and the \n< icnts; owing also to the hostility of York to the London Grand Lodge. Lawrence Dermott was a remarkable man and zealous Mason, and no doubt when he came from Ireland to act as Grand 1 y of the New Grand Lodge, he was honestly and sincerely convinced that the new body was as legitimately Mas,, nil- as the old Grand Lodge. No doubt when he obtained recognition for his body from the Grand Lodge of Scotland and from the one at York, he had argued the regularity of his proceedings. The Grand Lodge of London of 1717 was a self-constituted body, aw\ claimed thai thereafti r no one should be deemed a regular Mason unless made in a regular lodge chartered by a Grand Lodge. Could this resolve bind all other Masons then in existence'.' Certainly not. ev< that t'n M tland and Ireland had no idea of consulting the Grand Lodge of London thus formed ; but, with that example, Scotland's Grai and Ireland's at nearly the same time, each independent of the other. \ tirred in London whereby from a seceding lodge, violating its obligations to the old ('.rand MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. ~>1 Lodge, the other Grand Lodge was formed. All fair and impartial writers have held that this body was clandestine until, in 181 ;, it was received into union with the other, and they have been ever since the " United ( irand Lodge of England and Wales." Illinois is fraternally noticed. Commendation of our report coming from so enlightened a source is amply appreciated. M. W. Thos. P. Chiffelle, Washington, Grand Master. R. \Y. Wm. R. Singleton, Washington, (irand Secretin \. FLORIDA, 1886. The fifty-seventh annual communication of this Grand Body, was held in Jack- sonville, January 19th. M. W. Robert J. Perry presiding over the representatives of sixty-eight constituent lodges — seventy-seven in the register. Present member- ship 2, 502, a net gain of 1 14 for the year. The Grand Master concludes: Question. Can a lodge try an 1''.. A. or K. C? If so, in what lodge are they to be tried '.' Answer. Yes. Charges should be presented at a stated communication of the lodge, or at .1 special communication called for that purpose, and lodge opened upon the highest degree to which the accused has attained. Except for very gross Masonic offenses, a brother should not be excluded from the lodge room during his trial ; hence, if only an K. A. or F. C, he could not sit in a M. M. Lodge. The Committee on Jurisprudence aver that the organic law of the Grand Lodge provides that the trial must take place in a lodge of M. M., but do not reply to the last paragraph of the decision. We have never before heard that a Mason, whether he be an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft, was not at liberty to confront his ac- cuser by being in open lodge working upon the degree in which the accusation was presented. Perhaps we do not comprehend the scope of the decision; neither did we ever before hear of any law that inhibited a Mason from appearing in lodge be- cause of his gross un-Masonic character, and before being adjudged guilty of an of- fense. The law of Illinois provides that an E. A. or F. C. is to be tried upon charges in the highest degree attained. Where lie is permitted to conduct an examination, personally or by an attorney. The verdict, however, is rendered in a Master's lodge. If we understand the committee, the trial of an E. A. or F. < '. is a star chamber proceeding, not justified by enlightened, civil or fraternal law. This is what the committee say : APPENDIX. The first ruling in the Grand Master's address is upon the questions submitted from Lake City Lodge, No. 27. "Can a lodge try an E. A or I ■'. C ? If so in what lodge is he to be tried ? " The reply seems to imply that the final action in a lodge trial may be taken in an E. A. or F. C. lodge, while the accused may be heard and evidence be taken when a lodge is open in these degrees. The committee believe that, like all other business of the lodge, the actual trial must take place in an M. M. lodge. (Cons. Art. X. Sec. 12.1 < >ur impressions came of the last sentence. The committee condemn the suspension of a Mason in the absence of a formal trial. Correct. Brother Perry authorized the organization of nine new lodges. The Grand Secretary, Past Grand Master, I). C. Hawkins, reports the destruction, by fire, of Grand Lodge library and other property, valued at S6,ooo, upon which was insurance of $2,000, that had been adjusted. Manuscript records of Grand Lodge, from its inception, were saved. The Grand Orator, W. Brother R. IL Weller, delivered a very finely written oration of two and one-half pages. With the exception of his Solomonian allusion to the birth or origin <>f the Fraternity, we have read his paper with unalloyed pleasure. He says: For the onward progress of every better life has always and everywhere two aspects and two duties, and operated by two forces. The one is acquisition, or construction, the other defense and conflict. Kor the virtuous, manly character is not the accident of a mood, or the creature of cir- cumstance, but a steady onward growth under the leadership of a definite and fixed law of action. It is not bits of crude Masonry — "amoral patchwork thrown recklessly together— but exhibits a grand, all -con trolling principle of right-thinking, and right-living. It is ai quisition, the constant multiply ing of the high inward energies, out of which, ordinarily, the best deeds must come : the ini 1 temperance, prudence, justice, sincerity and integrity. This is building the moral fabric But it is a positive force. It has adversaries to meet. It is tried by opposition. So one has well said, "There is nothing real or useful that is not a seat of war : " and again defines 1 haracter, as " the im- possibility ofbeing displeased or overset." Alongside of every virtue to be gained, there is a vice to be repelled ; beside every nobleness there is a measure ; beside every love, a hate ; beside every self-denial, a self-indulgence. 1 1 every point along the line of a just growth there must be fighting. Here are Sanballot, the Arabian, and tli.- Ashdodite hovering in ambush to make us captives again, while we are trying to erect the inner temple. So the Craftsman who would build fittingly and strong, must always have the " sword girded by his side," and while he works " with one of his hands, in the other hand he must hold the- weapon." " Go where he will, in history or common life, the necessity for this two-fold office of righteous energies is before us. We need the watchful eye of the anchorite, without austerity, and the practical activity of the reformer, without his blindness to the force within his own heart ! " The power of such a character needs no spokesman. For this power Masonry has labored, and for this has borne its witness in the past. It is in this that its principal value consists to-day. Willi this power in hand it can bless the world, and there is room for it. and it is needed. We invite the particular attention of our readers to the quotation. No Report on Correspondence. M. W. George S. Hallmark, Pensacola, Grand Master. M. W, I '. < . Dawlcins, P. G. M., Jacksonville, Grand Secretary. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. •>:> GEORGIA, 1885. Grand Lodge assembled October 27th. Lodges well represented. Grand Master, M. W. Jobn S. Davidson, presented an interesting address, embracing a number of conclusions upon the jurisprudence of the jurisdiction. We are not dis- posed to interpose objections to their validity, neither was the Committee on Juris- prudence. He authorized three new lodges. Brother Davidson congratulates his readers upon the increased prosperity of the Craft within his bailiwick. Friendly relations with the M. W. Grand Lodge of Tennessee appear a trifle strained, growing out of an invasion of lodge jurisdiction. From the generous character of the two governments, we soon expect to hear of an amicable adjustment. Upon the invitation of the General Assembly of the State, Grand Lodge placed the memorial stone of the new Capitol being erected in Atlanta, September 3d. Five Lodges of Sorrow have been held during the year. The Grand Master announces the death of Bro. R. C. Mcintosh, S. G. Deacon. He submitted an affectionate tribute to his memory. Brother J. Emmett Blackshear laid before the Grand Lodge a series of resolu- tions touching matters therein set forth. Adopted. Whereas, The Grand Lodge of Georgia has for many years been in fraternal communication with the Grand Lodge of the Province of Quebec, in the Dominion of Canada, having, in common with Grand Lodges the world over fully recognized the said Grand Lodge as a sovereign and inde- pendent Grand Body, exercising exclusive jurisdiction over all Lodges and Masons in the said Province ; and // 'hereas, Three Lodges in the said Province, held under the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Kngland, have persistently refused to recognize the supremacy of the said Grand Lodge of Quebec, and repelled every effort that has been made to induce them to acknowledge allegiance thereto : Resolved, That this Grand Lodge, recognizing and maintaining the law of Grand Lodge sovereignty, fully sustains the action of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, in declaring non-intercourse with all Lodges and brethren in the Province of Quebec, who will not array themselves beneath her banner, and join her register. One Worshipful Master was promptly squelched for drunkenness. Brethren, don't tolerate this vice in lodges. Ifthereisa single lodge in the jurisdiction that fails of discipline for this crime against our civilization, wipe it out.. The Committee on Appeals and Grievances had a considerable docket. The report of the committee is terse, and like the reports of a similar nature by ]!ro. Dyas, the chairman of our committee, can be readily comprehended. We are glad to find the following from the Committee on Jurisprudence : As touching the query from Quitman Lodge, No. 106, concerning the passing and raising of an Entered Apprentice, hailing (with certificate of his initiation) from Vernon Lodge, No 41.., in the Jurisdiction of Iowa, and residing just beyond the line, in Tennessee, with the query : " Is it 54 APPENDIX. necessary for us to ask permission of Iowa and Tennessee both to do the work, if found worthy your Committee are of opinion that, in granting certificate of initiation, the Lodge in the Jurisdic- tion of the Grand Lodge of Iowa has thereby waived jurisdiction. As touching the second part of the query, your Committee would reply that, through courtesy existing between sister Grand Lodges, border candidates have been permitted to apply to the Lodge nearest their residence, .iid Lodge existed under the jurisdiction of a sister Grand Lodge. The following decision on this question has obtained in this Jurisdiction tor the guidance of its Subordinate Lodges, and is found in printed Proceedings for 1859, page 36 : " A Lodge, upon the border of the State, may receive and act upon the petition of a candi- date for the benefits of Masonry, who is a citizen of an adjoining State, residing in the more im- mediate vicinity of that lodge to which he applies, and nearer to than one in the State in which he This is the doctrine of Illinois, provided lodges interested are agreed. A Committee on Correspondence was provided lor, and we find our entertain- ing Bro. lilackshear at its head. No report this year. M. W. John S. Davidson, Augusta, Grand Master. R. \\ . A. M. Wolihin, Macon, (irand Secretary. IDAHO, [885. Our western sister issues a beautiful pamphlet. Grand Lodge assembled Sep- tember 8th. lis transactions were printed in Davenport, Iowa; nevertheless, we have them before us November 22d. Both the Crand Secretary, M. W. Bro. Jonas W. Brown, 1'. < Brother Gurney having taken the position that the Commandery is not a Masonic body, Brothei Parvin says . " It is not, it is true, a body of Ancient Craft Masonry. * * * A Commandery is as much a Masonic body as is a Chapter of Royal Arch .Masons. The latter sprung from the lodge, while the former sprang from the lodge and Chapter. Born of them, bone of their bone, and flesh of their flesh, if it is not Masonic it is nothing." Query : — Is every body of Masons a Masonic body 1 Is a horse-chestnut a chestnut horse ? Bro. Davis does not take any stock in Masonic fairs with the brethren adorned, for the occasion, with regalia. His review of Illinois is fraternal. He quotes largely and approvingly from the writer's reports upon Memphian Kites and the " Massachusetts departure." For his good opinions of us he has abundant thanks. Well, well! After having indulged in a large amount of vexation because of the displacement of Bro. Davis, we turned, as customary in closing a review, to the list of Grand officers, and find him at the head of the list. M. W. George H. Davis, Boise City, Grand Master. R. W. James H. Wickersham, Silver City, Grand Secretary. INDIANA, 1886. ( fur sister jurisdiction has been bereft of indebtedness. Grand Lodge met May 25th, not owing a dollar. Worse than this, she has nearly $12,000 in the treasury. Grand Master, Albert P. Charles, thus refers to the subject: During the period in which you have honored me with the position of Grand Master my lines have fallen in many pleasant places, and many agreeable duties have fallen upon me to discharge, but none more so than that of announcing, as I now do, that the Grand Lodge of the State of Indiana is out of debt and has nearly $12,000 in its treasury; that we meet here to-day under ourown roof-tree, freed from the grasp of the money-lender, and with the satisfaction of having paid our honest debt to the uttermost farthing. Many of us remember the struggle that preceded the levying of the as- sessment of a dollar per capita upon the affiliated Masons of this jurisdiction. We all have seen how nobly the Master Masons of Indiana have borne the heavy burden, until at last they have re- leased themselves from the thralldom of bond and mortgage. I call to mind no other Grand Juris- diction that has indulged in the luxury of a temple reared by debt that to-day is free. In this con- nection it is but proper to mention that credit is due two brethren who, when the debt was contracted ami the lender required endorsers of the bonds and mortgage, came forward and placed their names thereon as sureties — Brothers Nicholas R. Ruckle and James \V. Hess. Brethren, this is our year of jubilee, and it is but right that we lift our voices "with shouting and with praise." St 58 APPENDIX. [t had probably escaped the memory of Brother Charles, that Massachusetts occupies a like vantage ground. Like too many Grand Bodies, Indiana became infatuated with the apparent necessity of a hall. To accomplish its purposes, it submitted to an indebtedness of more than a hundred thousand dollars. For years the interest on this encumbrance, together with expenses that could not well he dispensed with, left but a small margin to the credit side of their bank account. Like good Masons, the brethren dispensed with luxuries, added to their revenues, dispensed with annual communications, until at last victory crowned their efforts to effect complete manumission from the thralldom to which they had been subjected. No wonder that a jubilee meeting was held. Alls volat properis. We tender hearty congratulations, and submit the experience of our neighbors to the consideration of bodies that would thoughtlessly incur heavy responsibilities. The address of the Grand Master is an admirable business document. From this report it is found that a lodge can try its Master for an offense. A quotation is given: "July 24, I S84, I received charges against , Worshipful Master of Center Lodge, No. 23, for un-Masonic conduct. I appointed Right Worshipful William II. Smythe Special Deputy to preside at the trial. After hearing the evi- dence the lodge decided Brother not guilty." It is the general rule as we understand it, that a Master, being a member of Grand Lodge, is held responsible to that tribunal. In Illinois, on presentation of charges against a Master to the < rrand Master, he directs a commission of three or more past or present Masters to take testimony. At the conclusion of the examination the commission report to the Grand Master, and he pronounces and enforces a penalty if guilt is established, but subject to the approval of Grand Lodge. We do not now bring to mind another jurisdiction that permits a constituent body to act in the premises. The late Brother Mackey, in his text book of Masonic Jurisprudence, 1859, page 357, s.ws upon this subject: "The last prerogative of a Master of a lodge to which I shall allude is that of exemption from trial by his lodge, on charges preferred against him. The Grand Lodge alone has penal jurisdiction over him." Chase in his digest, 1S04, page 41, says: ■• A subordinate lodge has not power to try its Master for any offense, however heinous, during his term of office. I le is amenable to Grand Lodge alone, which has full and original jurisdiction over him for un-Masonic conduct. This is .1 well settled rule, and admits of no exceptions." He fortifies his position by quotations from some thirty Grand Lodges, and other acknowledged authorities. The ( .land Master arrested the charters of quite a number <>\ delinquent lodges. Four charters surrendered, two new lodges authorized, and applications for seven others declined, lie refused in numerous instances to issue dispensations to ballot upon petitions for the degrees the same night they were presented. This is well enough, but the plan of Illinois, charging large sums for the issuance of such author - ative missives, the Grand Master of the burden and perplexity of denials. He also re fu ed " dispensations for lodges to meet in halls occupied by bodies nol Masonic, and to join in public civic processions, as lodges, on Memorial or Decora- lion Days, and upon July fourth; to remove from one town to another, and to initiate men without legs and arms." lie does not inhibit, how ever, the initiation of MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 59 candidates without heads; nevertheless, both Indiana and Illinois have scores of the latter in their lodges. We arc glad to find that four lodges were consolidated. It is to be regretted that a lodge suspended a member for non-payment of dues, after the brother stated in open lodge that he was unable to meet the demand. The Grand Lodge of Illinois would not sustain a lodge, if appealed to, in imposing the penalty, under the circumstances. The brother did appeal, and the judgment was set aside, but only for informalities in proceedings. Charity? In one case pre- sented by the Committee on Grievances and Appeals, it is found that lodges are authorized to grant new trials. As it should be. The brethren acted wisely in declining to reduce the minimum fee for conferring degrees, from $20. Too low now. It was determined to continue biennial communications for the present. The following sound conclusions from the Committee on Jurisprudence were concurred in : Your Committee on Jurisprudence, to whom was referred the resolution of J. M. Smith, of South Bend, providing for the annulment of Sections 85 and 86, would respectfully report that these rules are not a dead letter, and can not be a stumbling block in this Grand Jurisdiction if lodges do their duty. If lodges permit their members to engage in the sale of intoxicating liquors, the lodge is to blame for permitting it, and not the rule that govern cases of that kind. As to the second resolution, we are of the opinion that when members forget the injunctions and charges delivered to them at their initiation, and recommend unfit material for the degrees in Masonry, that any recommendation as to fitness by this Grand Lodge would be superfluous and of no effect. We therefore recommend that the resolutions be not adopted. As to the request of the Grand Master of Michigan that said George Washington Lodge be re- quired to dimit certain Master Masons whom said lodge had affiliated while residing in Michigan, as he claims they should have affiliated with some lodge in their own Grand Lodge Jurisdiction, the committee can only say that we recognize the right of any brother holding a regular dimit from his lodge to affiliate with any lodge he may see proper, without regard to location or place of residence. Brother Simon S. Johnson, chairman, submitted an excellent Report on Corres- pondence. He reviews fifty-four legitimate Grand Bodies; forty-three for two, five for three, and six for one year, and occupying 116 pages. He concludes his open- ing thus : " We are indifferent as to what may be said of this report by other com- mittees. Our labor has been devoted to the preparation of a report of matters of interest to the Craft of Indiana. If we have succeeded in our effort, our aim has been accomplished, and other reviewers are at liberty to say what they wish." Well, we shall not be the first to knock the chip from his shoulder. He, with us, cordially dissents from the law of Alabama that permits a secretary to strike from the roll for non-payment of dues. The right of a hearing is inherent. He does not applaud prerogatives of Grand Masters. We wish he had undertaken to answer the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence of Alabama, to which he refers; he approves the law of Arizona that does not permit dimission until the member has presented a certificate that he has applied to another lodge for membership ; doubts the propriety of permitting charitable organizations, other than Masonic associations, to meet in lodge halls ; does not favor commissions in trials, invested with penal powers, and does not agree to the proposition that a suspended Mason may !«■ 60 APPENDIX. expelled upon charges. If a suspended Mason should perpetrate an offense worthy of expulsion, please give us the argument that would justify his retention upon the suspended list. In his review of Illinois, (1884) Brother Johnson quotes approvingly the action of our Grand Lodge regarding bodies that assumed the right to trespass upon the functions of the lodge. He also gives our tables (same year) touching the common law of Grand Lodge organization. lie gives Iowa, and Bro. Parvin, a sly poke : The proceedings of this Grand Body come to us in a volume of over 400 pages elaborately gotten up. A "Special Meeting " was held May 7, 1884, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of a Masonic library building. This seems to have been done with all the pomp and display neces- sy, almost everybody delivering an address or welcoming speech — Masons, lawyers, doctors, and the civil authorities taking a hand at the flow of oratory. If talking would place the corner-stone firm, that building will be there when the Grand Lodge, as now composed, is. forgotten ; and to close up — Brother Parvin, as report says, proceeded to deliver the last oration, " omitting very much thereof, as the exercises had already been prolonged to a late hour." However, " he had lease to print," we presume, as it appears in full in the proceedings, and, like all the productions of this brother, is good, very good. This being the first occasion the Grand Bodge had enjoyed for forty years to "air itself" publicly, we presume they are excusable, but we really don't see the necessity of publishing the Mayor's proclamation and comments of the newspapers as a part oi the Grand Bodge proceedings. Perhaps one little occasion ol this kind would not have created such a sensation with them if they had ever " been there before." From his review of Maryland we gather the pleasant assurance that lie stands by the exclusive right of the Symbolic Lodge to propogate and govern the three degrees of E. A., F. C. and M. M. He is curious to know what Missouri " wants or can do with seven Chaplains." It is more than probable that if our distinguished brother would do a little introspection for his bailiwick, he would find a reasonable solution to his problem. Dissenting from the view of the Grand Master of < >regon, that a Master elect, having taken the degree of Past Master in a Chapter, further qualification in that direction was unnecessary, asks this pertinent question : " Will the brethren tell us what the Master Mason knows, as stub, about the Royal Arch or any Chapter degree- f " M. W. Mortimer Nye, Lal'orte, Grand Master. K. W. Win. II. Smythe, Indianapolis, Grand Secretary. INDIAN TERRITORY, 1885. ft is always a great pleasure to get the proceedings ol this aboriginal jurisdic- tion. Man\ of its cotemporaries are unacquainted with the labor and patient endur- MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 61 ance of the brethren there, in placing the Institution where it now stands, for intel- lectual and moral worth. No person rejoices more heartily than does the writer in the advances of this enterprising Grand Lodge. Its eleventh annual communica- tion was held in McAlester, Choctaw Nation, November 3d. But three of twenty - one lodges were without representation. The address of Grand Master, ML W. Edmond Henry Doyle, is a superior paper. Then again, the address of welcome to the Grand Lodge by the Rev. Bro. A. F. Ross, Grand Senior Warden, is happy in illustration. The response, by Past Grand Master, Joseph S. Murrow, is not in type — sorry to say. The Grand Master had not been called upon to exercise his authority in estab- lishing new lodges, and does not think that the Masonry of his dominion has suffered in consequence. Quite likely. The great injury to the Institution is found in planting lodges for the convenience of Masons, rather than for the perpetuity of the Fraternity by having organizations of strength and character. Weak bodies are certain to look upon a fee from petitions as of more importance than manhood. This has been the experience of the ages ; still, notwithstanding this history, Grand Masters too often sink our welfare in the crude, damaging ambitions of local zeal. An impecunious lodge is certain to Inint means for subsistence, and is to be likened to a hungry tramp who is not over particular as to quality of food. Although we differ with the < hand Master in some of his conclusions, yet they are so fairly and clearly put, they should be given entire : I am of the opinion that the Ancient Constitutions make it the duty of a ( '.rand Master to answer questions of Masonic law, only, when propounded to him by the \V. M. under seal and at- tested by the Secretary. Therefore, I hold, that it would be committing me beforehand upon points which might afterwards arise in the regular course of my administration. When you take thi-. view of the subject, I am sure you will excuse my not giving an opinion upon letters written by private members of a lodge, who often ask questions more through idle curiosity than for information. 1 trust the Committee on Law and Usage will give this subject a carefid consideration, that my suc- cessor may be saved the annoyance as well as the useless expenditure of time replying to the numer- ous letters that come to this office. Question 1st. Petition for initiation was received, committee appointed, but two were not present at the next standing meeting. The Master added two members to the committee, who re- ported instanter ; candidate is balloted for and elected. Were the proceedings regular? And if initiated, would the candidate be a clandestine Mason? Answer. 1 hold that the proceedings were not regular, and that no action should have been taken. The duty of a petition committee is to investigate the character and standing of the applicant, and if this cannot be done in one month they are entitled to longer time. I further hold that the candidate would be regularly made, and could not suffer tor the ignorance of uninformed officers, not- withstanding the proceedings were irregular. Q. 2d. Is it im-Masonic to confer degrees upon more than one candidate at the same time ? A. In my opinion, it is not in accordance with correct usage to initiate, craft, or raise, more than one candidate at one and the same time. It cannot be done without a violation of both the spirit and letter of the ritual, and at the expense of its most impressh e lessons, 1 am toned to be- lieve it is a dangerous deviation from the ancient landmarks of the Fraternity. 62 APPENDIX. I here is .1 man living in the jurisdiction of this lodge who is anxious to be m .1 ; in, but unfortunately has lost one of his arms. He is a good and influential man, having plenl v of means. Would il be a violation of the landmarks to entertain his application? A. I am fully of the opinion, and believe the ancient landmarks bear me out in it, that no one can in perfection be made a brother if he is not a man with body free from maim and deformity, ami the admission of such il is clearly a violation of the landmarks, usages and An. ient Constitutions of Masonry. Q. fth. l!ro. A. deposits his dimit and applies for membership. The committee report favor- able. The ballot ordered anil he was rejected. He made a second and third application witli like result. What are we to do in a case of this kind ? A. There is no law in Masonry more clear than this : That neither the ('.rand Lodge nor 1 he 1 .land Master can interferere with the decision of the ballot box. Every member has a right to vote as he pleases, and cannot and must not be questioned, or called to account for his vote on any pretext whatever. Again the by-laws of 1776 declare : " That in case of a negative ballot, no ques- tion shall be asked except by the Master, and that only when there has been a mistake." Q. 5th. Is a man who can neither read or write, legally qualified for admission, he in other things being a good man ; moral, worthy and respectable ? An early answer will oblige yours, &C. A. I am of the opinion, as a general rule, a petition of such a man should not be entertained. However, there may be exceptions and the subordinate lodge sould decide as the case may be present- ed. I am unable to find anything in the Ancient Constitutions, prohibiting a person who cannot read and write being initiated. Yet as speculative Masonry is a scientific institution, and from thi- ol reasoning, I am clearly of opinion that a person who cannot read or write is not legally qualified for admission. As this subject is of vast importance to this young Grand Lodge, I trust you will bear with me a little for trespassing upon your time, and allow me to quote from others. " Any in- dividual who cannot write is ineligible to be admitted into the Order." — Const, of Kng. " Nor shall any candidate be initiated who cannot read and write." Const, of Ireland. " We should hesitate to admit into the Order one who could neither read nor write." — Morris. A. M . F. M. It is difficult to find from whence comes the opinion that the ancient constitu- tions make it the duty of a Grand Master to answer questions of " Masonic law." " (inly when propounded to him by the W. M., under seal and attested by the secretary." It is not to be found in our library, though we have authorities that are thought to be reliable in furnishing information upon all useful topics concerning the primary brotherhood. If Bro. Doyle had known that his ideas originated with some torpid dignitary, more impressed with official distinctions than with duty, he would not have attributed the scandal to our early progenitors. Bro. Doyle is (or was 1 the Grand Master of Masons in Indian Territory. He is not, as some imagine, the ( band Master of the < band Lodge, only, but he is the executive and judicial head of the Fraternity for 362 of the 365 days of the year, or when the Grand body is not in session. 1 le can, therefore, enforce obedience to law whether violators are Masons 01 lodges. In other words, he is the chief of the Fraternity of his jurisdic- tion for the two fold purpose of holding lodges to their responsibilities, and for the protection of all Masons, should lodges fail of duty to their humblest adherents. Every member thus stands upon the EQi \i 1 LOOl? of the lodge, and has the inher- ent right, as we understand it, to seek advice and instruction from a Grand Master. whether in his own behalf or in the welfare of a brother or brethren, though his interrogatories may involve questions of law. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. The Grand Master is forninst dancing in lodge halls, though he does not object to the amusement. lie is also, and very properly, adverse to the employment of Masonic emblems for private or public business purposes. Bast Grand Master Murrow, Grand Secretary, urges with much force the feasi- bility of establishing a public library. There does not appear to be anything of the kind in the Territory. It is our opinion that if this Grand Lodge should take hold of the matter by appealing to the Grand Lodges of the continent, and through them to constituent bodies, for contributions of books that many Masons can spare, that in a short time Bro. Murrow would find himself in possession of all the literature he could care for; particularly when it became known that the collection was for the benefit of aborigines struggling for light and knowledge. Bro. M. says : "There is a great lack of general information among all classes of our people. A great many whites and Indians, young and old, would read and improve if they could gel books. A good public library of miscellaneous books, history, agriculture, arts, science, religion, etc., as well as Masonry, open to all classes and under proper re- strictions and rightly managed, would supply a great want and do a vast deal of good/' Ten per cent, of the surplus funds of Grand Lodge was donated as a starter for carrying out the suggestions of the Grand Secretary. Resolutions were offered, thus: ''■Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge the system of perpetual jurisdiction works great hardship upon the Craft, especially in the Western country." " Resolved, That this Grand Lodge has, and of right should have, exclusive jurisdiction upon all material that has been domiciled within the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge for the term of three years." Consideration deferred. In the first place, it is difficult to conceive how such jurisdiction works to the disadvantage of the Craft, unless it be that a fee is of primary importance — more so than the character of a petitioner. If a rejected candidate can not secure waiver of jurisdiction, it is prima facie evidence of unworthiness, and we can't imagine why time, alone, should be permitted to obliterate such testimony. In the second place, a rejected candidate is not the "material" of any lodge in whose jurisdiction he may subsequently find domicile. Take the case of a candidate for advancement. Do our brethren of Indian Territory permit any other than the initiating lodge to ad- vance an E. A. or F. C. except upon waiver of jurisdiction? If not, why not? Is not continuous jurisdiction in one case just as permissible or justifiable as in the other? The mover of the resolutions will reply by saying, that work has been com- menced upon the candidate for advancement and of right should be concluded by the initiating lodge. This is true, but just as true is it that when a rough ashlar is brought up from the quarries, presented and received by the lodge for inspection, labor upon it has commenced, and just as completely and legitimately as upon the E. A. or F. C. applying for further distinction. When a lodge has been opened, it is at work. The Committee on Appeals and Grievances were without employment. • '»! APPENDIX. The Grand Lodge enjoyed a banquet tendered by the " Red Sisters of the) >rder of the Eastern Star." The Grand Secretary explains that Grand Lodge attended unofficially. The Grand Orator, Bro. J. N. Moore, delivered an oration upon the occasion, and entirely Masonic in its character, we are glad to say. A resolution was adopted authorizing a Junior Past Master of a lodge to open it and conduct its exercises in the absence of the Master and two Wardens. Bro. Murrow is Correspondent. He has given his readers the best of his pro- ductions, lie was aided by Bro. V. W. Baxter, of Vermont, who reviewed eleven jurisdictions. The only fault with Bro. Murrow is his neglect of quotation marks — nothing else, except here and there a slight sprinkling of heresy, just a little. We have high admiration for his sturdy devotion to the ethical necessities ol the lodge. Without moral culture it would soon become a blot upon our civilization. In his notice of Illinois, he pays merited compliment to Bro. Past Grand Master Browning, and to our indefatigable Grand Secretary, Bro. Munn. This is followed by our special report (1884) upon the claims of associations of Masons, outside the lodge, to appropriate its functions It is copied entire, because of its "great value.'" lie tailed to state, however, that it was adopted with but a few dissenting votes. Bro. Baxter, in his review of Massachusetts, thus manfully abandons an c in part : When I wrote my review of this Grand Lodge in 1883, 1 defended tier in what is now known as the Massachusetts Amendment. Since then, a more extended investigation of the case, coupled with certain facts that have come to my knowledge, have c aused me to modify my views in some particulars. I yet believe that cacli Grand Lodge lias the right to protect herself, but no further, thai ii is not within its power to legislate for bodies not of itself I believe that then- is enough in the York Kite to fully occupy any person's time and ability. I believe that all other so-called rites are but branches of the York Kite and that many of them are wholly without merit. I believe that the movement on the part of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was not a " /><>«.; fide" movement on their part to protect herself; but that she was made a " catspaw " of by the A. and A. S. Kite t.i protect herself (the A. and A. S. Rite) against the inroads of the Cernean Branch of tint rite. Were that movement Z. genuine one I would yet defend it, but 1 am 1 onvini ed that it was not. 1 am a York Kite Mason through and through, and know nothing personally ol any othei t ii<- . and have no desire to. To my knowledge, the Grand Lodge ol Massachusetts has not even at- tempted X.0 enforce that amendment ; it is virtually a dead letter. Unless I am misinformed, the in- terdicted rites have nourished to a greater extent than ever before. Why does not the Grand I odgi of Massachusetts enforce that amendment'.' Is it because she dare not do it '.' If she dare not, then it would be better that she repeal it, and let the interdicted rites die a natural death. I have acknowledged my error, and now say that the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts erred when she passed the amendment. With this apology, retraction or modification, call it what you will, 1 await the criticisms of the reviewers. " Lay me down geniK , ' please, The Symbolic lodge does not have any " branches." It is an organization ol l tself, by itself and within itself; and should, as a body, be totally emancipated from all alliances with outside institutions, though created by its members. Tin well enough in their places and are doing a good work, but can not have, lawfully. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 65 any endorsement of a Masonic character. Masons will adjust such questions by and by, and when they come to know the facts of history we have no fears for the future. While life lasts we shall insist that the rights of the lodge be respected, notwith- standing the forces of prejudice are arrayed against light and reason. M. W. Florian H. Nash, Fort Gibson, Grand Master. M. W. Joseph S. Murrow, P. G. M., Atoka, Grand Secretary. IOWA, 1886. We don't take hold of this review with much heart. Looking over the address of the Grand Master it is found that Brother Parvin has, for economic reasons, omit- ted his customary Report on Correspondence. Iowa readers may not appreciate the fact, but it is a truth that these papers, contributed by Brother Parvin, have accom- plished more in the elevation of the Grand Lodge of Iowa to a first-class Masonic power than all other agencies combined. When the brethren of our sister jurisdic- tion comprehend the influences that Brother Parvin has exerted over the Fraternity of our country, they will not submit to a loss that his retirement would entail. Bro. Parvin says : The Grand Secretary could see no other way in which he could economize to save the Grand Lodge a few dollars, save in the omission to prepare and publish his annual Report on Correspond- ence. This he has done, and this year again the readers of our proceedings will miss that document from the volume. Did we not write that report, we might have more to say, and as it is, our mod- esty does not forbid the remark that these reports command and have for years elicited much inter- est and commendation. Hence we do not think it wise or just to the Grand Lodge that this omis- sion should be repeated. The Grand Lodge could easily, did a majority of the members appreciate it as they should, by any sacrifice on their part , provide for all that should be done. Brother Granger (G. M.) delivered an address of great length. It is a fine document. He authorized seven new lodges. One charter surrendered, one ar- rested, and four permitted removals to other localities. He reports a fine donation to Galvestion fire sufferers. In that connection he calls attention to the difficulties in reaching the treasury for charitable purposes (for immediate relief), and recom- mends that powers be conferred upon the Grand Master to make disbursements, at once, when the necessities of a case warrant an expenditure. In the matter of reim- bursement for assistance to the needy, by lodges, he thus gives expression to the cor- rect Masonic doctrine : That is the law of this jurisdiction made as against its own lodges and members. And we believe our record does not show us wanting in the proper exercise of that greatest ot Masonic vir- 9t 6G APPENDIX. arity. [ think one-half of our Masonic charity is expended up< ,01 members ofthi Ordei outside of this jurisdiction. It will be a sorry day when Masonii charity is bounded bj State lines, or is given under a law for reimbursement. The Grand Lodge of this jurisdiction initely settled the obligation of subordinate lodges in ibis respect. It leaves each lodge and brothel the judge of what 1 harity shall be bestowed under Masonu obligations. It will not recog- nize the rule that it is a loan or trust, but a Charity. With ibis view, 1 can not, of course, hold that Formal Lodge is under obligation for reimbursement. The ( Iranil Master urges a change in the law that requires a vote of two thirds of members present to convict, in disciplinary proceedings, and thinks that the old law, that permitted a majority to determine such questions, the belter rule. lie di- rt cted attention to this subject last year, but (.rand Lodge was not then in sympathy with his conclusions. When we get the entire printed proceedings of the year, will give the action of the (hand Body, if any was had. To illustrate his position, he presents a case : To illustrate : In one case a majority, and less than a two-thirds, voled for conviction. It w.is then discovered that tile case would be certified to this lodge for trial, and under a claim of a mistake in the ballot, a re-ballot was taken, when two-thirds voted for conviction. As a matter of justice, expulsion should have followed conviction ; but on a ballot, less than two-thirds voted for expulsion, and less than two-thirds for suspension, and the Master, under a misapprehension, sub- mitted the question of a reprimand, which was also voted down. It is sad to record, but neverthe- less true, that in another case one brother had taken the life of another, and on charges preferred therefor he was convicted, which conviction could have been for nothing less than manslaughter, H In. Ii under the law of the Slate is a felony, and the lodge refused by a vote of nine to fifteen to either expel or suspend, and a reprimand was so insignificant in comparison with the punishment merited, thai it was regarded as a mere farce in a role of discipline, and served no useful purpose. These instances are not all, but enough to illustrate the present state of the law, as bearing upon this important branch of our work. At the last session the Grand Lodge did not vote upon the proposition to convict and punish by a majority vote, as recommended in my address, lint the committee substituted the present law, which was adopted without argument or question, and in the moment between its presentation and adoption, its defects were not apparent. The new law is no improvement upon the old, as against that 1 las-, of persons whose influ- ence and purposes it was intended to defeat. In my judgment. Masonic life is no more secure with this law than where a majority can convict and punish. Let us see : Under the present law a ma- jority can not convict, but their votes send the case to this lodge, where it is tried on its merits, as U] appeal. If a majority could convict, what would be the result? On such conviction the ac- cused could appeal, and the case would be tried here on its merits. In both cases the cause is, or 111.1 \ be, disposed of in the Grand Lodge, and the only prai in al different e to the a. .used is that the slight burden of serving a notice of appeal is upon him. The Grand Lodge is his protc against a majority, as the law now is. It would be his protection with the law .1^ 1 rei ommended it. In tin- latter case, the cause would never come here unl< :ss at his instance. And why should it come here, if the accused is satisfied with the judgment below ; or if not satisfied, if he is convinced that the action of this lodge would avail him nothing? We like a two-third vote in such cases, presumably for the reason thai we have n accustomed to it. In our jurisdiction, however, if a lodge will not convict upon competent evidence, br-after a verdict of guilty, will not Impose a penalty! a complaint to the Grand Master during recess, or to Grand Lodge while in session', is certain of a vindication of law. It is of but little consequence as h seems to us, whether conviction 15 to be had by a majority or a two third vote. If a lodge is MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. disposed to protect the vicious — if it is of a character that defies the law of our civilization — it is a nuisance to society, a disgrace to the Fraternity, and should no more be tolerated than would any other den of infamy. Read the first paragraph of the quotation; a brother that had taken the life of a brother, reprimanded! It does not appear, from the language of the Grand Master, that there was justification for the act that should have called for a less penalty than a lodge should impose for manslaughter; yet, as we understand it, that lodge is permitted to remain a wretched, purulent deformity upon an Institution founded in justice and purity. Are we mis- taken in inferring that this lodge is located in Iowa ? Hope so. It appears that the jurisdiction has been invaded by constitutional black bailers, who imagine that their disappointments in not securing the admission of their friends, can only be avenged by the indiscriminate use of that class of warfare. Brother Granger would not deny the right to reject, nevertheless is of the opinion that " every resident non-affiliate in good standing in any local jurisdiction should have the absolute right of membership in any lodge therein." There are emergencies in the history of the Craft that are certain to develope such opinions. It is true that they may rest in local welfare, in advantage to a lodge or lodges infested with re- venge or pollution ; still, all this would not afford justification for a regulation that would be too serious in its consequences to the Fraternity. The true remedy in such cases, is to wipe out the contumacious lodge. When a body becomes thus paralyzed, it should be treated as should be any other case of insubordination to the principles of the brotherhood. Why permit such organizations to exist? The Grand Master suspended a Master of his functions for disobedience of law. In this he was entirely correct. We hold it to be within the province of a Grand Master, even in the absence of complaint, when it is known to him that Master or lodges are living in open defiance o( law, justice or common sense, to assert the law at the expense, if need be, of the life of either. Brother Granger presents a singular case. A brother had received the degrees of E A. and F. C. Prior to the reception of the third degree, a new Master was elected. The former Master, under whose administration the brother had been elected and initiated, objected to an advancement upon the ground that the candi- date was irregularly made, there not being at initiation or passing a constitutional lodge quorum. It was insisted by the objector that the Digest of Statutes provided that, before advancement could take place, a unanimous vote of the lodge was nec- essary, accompanied by a dispensation from the Grand Master. The latter right- eously overruled the objection. We are writing, as the reader will understand, in the absence of the transactions of the Grand Body. When these come to hand the disposition of the case will be announced, also upon other questions heretofore noticed. In Illinois it is held that a Mason, whether an E, A. or F. C., is invested with rights that can not be abrogated upon the prejudice of a member, If objection is 68 APPENDIX. made to advancement, the party thus assailed can demand an investigation; and should it be found by the lodge that such objections are not well founded, progress is not withheld. It seems to the writer remarkable that tins Past Master should in- terpose objections resting upon his own disregard lor law. He should be disciplined for the offense by Grand Lodge. A question arose as to the right of a lodge to exempt members from lodge dues who had held unquestioned membership for fifteen consecutive years. It appears, from the Grand Master and Bro. 1'arvin, that the organic law of Grand Lodge is 1 1< >t definite upon this or many other topics, notwithstanding the " < iuilbert 1 >igest." Under the heading of " Masonic Conduct in < >pen Lodge," Bro. < Iranger rend- ers the following. It is good law, whether authorized by Grand Lodge or not. Will Brother Drummond give his conclusions upon this "dodge ?" In one case, a member came into the lodge in a state of intoxication (unquestionably so). The Master sought information from me as to what should be done in such a case. I held that he should have called the brother at once before him, and asked him to show cause why he should not be pun- ished for thus presenting himself in open lodge, and that unless he could excuse himself to the satis- faction of the lodge, that he should be then and there punished, and to that end he should be or- dered to retire, and the question put to the lodge, " Shall he be expelled ?" And if not, " Shall he be suspended?" And if not, a reprimand must follow. This course may be too direct, and the distance too short for a free use of evasive and technical resorts, but I am sure, if sustained, it will bear good fruit for the Craft. These cases are distinguishable from those governed by our code of criminal procedure, in this : That they are committed in the pretence of the lodge, are particular offenses against the lodge as well as the order, and the necessity for prools are obviated by the fact that the lodge witnesses the facts, and the burden then falls on the wrong-doer to excuse I duct, in the absence of which he stands convicted. The Grand Master enters into a lengthy disquisition in defense of the right of Grand Lodges to make Masons of sojourning profanes, ami* concludes with urging "that it should be the law of this jurisdiction that Masons made under the laws of any jurisdiction are Masons in Iowa, and if consequences must follow for a violation of law, let them rest with the parties at fault." He refers to a case wherein a resi- dent of Iowa, visiting the mother country, received the degrees in this home ol former days. Complaint was made, only to get the stereotyped reply, that the law of the latter jurisdiction permitted the practice. England, Scotland and Ireland in- sist upon the prerogative. In principle, the Grand Master is correct as to what should be the law. Ma- sonic jurisdiction over a profane never obtains until his petition for the degrees has been received by a lodge. Notwithstanding this axiom, it is the prevalent opinion (and law) that a profane can not apply for degrees except to the lodge in whose jurisdiction he is a resident. Under this law a party, initiated in Ireland, was inhib- ited intercourse with the Masons of Iowa until he had received the healing lotion prescribed by law. This matter is noticed to express an oft repeated opinion that such jurisdictional limitations should be abolished. We confess to a considerable radicalism, but until it can be established that a profane is remotely responsible to a MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. Ofl lodge until he applies for admission iherclo, we can not conceive the logic ^that justi- fies a control over his choice of lodge relationship. We have contended for this position in Chapter and Commandery, and can not see why it should not be applica- ble to the lodge. The present law of territorial jurisdiction in such cases makes it possible for the establishment of bodies with limited territory — not enough for con- tinuous prosperity. As a result, they soon become weak, and are only active when engaged in a quarrel or in an attempt to deplete the treasury of the governing body. Take a broad survey of the Fraternity in our country, and what do you find ? Ts it not true in the older, and in some of the younger jurisdictions, that there exists a large minority of lodges that are not of any credit to the Institution ? Is it not true that the abolition of lines would build up strong organizations and weed out the use- less? If the brethren of Illinois will refer to the statistics presented by the < '.rand Secretary in his report of last year, they will there find arguments that will warrant attention to the subject. Brother Granger does not, glad to say, agree to the opinion of some brethren, that a sojourning Mason can not be tried for an offense except by the lodge in which he holds membership. He concludes an able address by a merciless condemnation of electioneering for official positions. The report of the Grand Secretary, P. G. M. Brother Parvin, is, in naval par- lance, a raker. He refers to the many errors in legislation by the Grand Body, and calls for a reform in language that can not be misunderstood. We should like to give the entire paper. A paragraph or two is given that should attract attention to jurisdictional limitations of lodges : The curse of Masonry is that we have too many lodges ; the natural sequence of which is, that many are weak, sickly and indifferently ministered to. Masonry has become dog-cheap, now that a dispensation can be had for $\o, and obtained for the asking, and the degrees for £20. In the Chapter and Commandery they are, $40 for the degrees and $90 for dispensation, and ought to lie the same in the lodge. Read— if only the brethren would— our Masonic periodicals, and see how languishing and lukewarm our lodges have become. Read, then, again, and see that at the meet- ings of the Consistories of the Scotch Rite at one or more cities in each State, how largely they are attended by great numbers from many and very distant places. To get the charter-papers for such bodies costs from $500 to 51,000. The necessary paraphernalia (and all have it), from $ 1,000 to 510,000 more. Trained officers do the work, and in costume, as do the Knights Templar and Royal Arch Masons; and all are prosperous and happy; and herein we may see why the Master Mason of a month seeks to become a Templar at the earliest possible date. To set the wheels of a Com" mandery in motion costs at least £500, and yet we find them at all our prominent points. Once this Grand Lodge charged £20 for a dispensation, and reduced it to $10. We demanded that it be put up to $40, and though a plebian, and poor as a church-mouse, the foolish ones said we were an aristocrat. We are, in our view of worth of character and efficiency in our lodges and their membership, and also in the number of lodges really demanded for the good of the order, as well as of their individual membership. The day the Grand Lodge reduced the price of the dispensation and the degrees, and propor- tionately increased the number of the lodges and their membership, she lowered the standard of Masonry throughout the jurisdiction, in interest and in character, as every comparison abundantly proves. 70 APPENDIX. July 8. — Printed proceedings have arrived. The Committee on Jurisprudence commends the Grand .Master in all his conclusions. The Committee on Appeals had a lengthy docket to consider. Legislation of local significance. M. \V. William P. Allen, Dubuque, Grand Master. M. W. Theodore S. Parvin, P. G. M„ Cedar Rapids, Grand Secretary. KENTUCKY, 1885. ( rrand Lodge met in Louisville, October 30, M. W. l!ro, John Grubbs Orndorff presiding. In Kentucky, as in Illinois, the pay-roll stimulates representation from lodges. It is a moot question if such incentive to the appearance of brethren at Grand Lodge is in consonance with the highest welfare of the Fraternity, particularly when mileage is extortionate, or where lodges extract from the treasury sums largely in excess of their contributions thereto. If we read correctly, new lodges in Ken- tucky are not permitted a larger sum for such expenditure than their annual dues to the I rrand Body, and we think the rule a good one. The Grand Master presented a lengthy address, devoted principally to the many important interests of the great jurisdiction over which he presided. Not much else than local affairs engaged his attention. He did not accomplish as much in visita- tion as he expected, but wherever he did go he was received and entertained with the Kentuckian proverbial hospitality. Nine new lodges were authorized. Sixty lodges were summoned to appear at the liar of Grand Lodge to show cause, " if any they can, why their charters should not be arrested." This is a startling statement, but the following is quite as much so : " There are something like two hundred dead lodges in Kentucky, including those V. I ». not chartered, yet the archives of Grand Lodge have the imperfect records of about forty only." This reminds us of the remark of a gentleman of wealth of this city, who once said : " If I was to go through life again, and wanted to acquire a competency in a hurry, 1 would hire a country cobbler for a book-keeper, speculate in everything within reach, keep all I could get hold of, then bust and hand over my books to my creditors.'' When < !rand plant lodges at every cross-road, as many do, without regard to populations ny to their permanent support, unpleasant consequences are certain to follow. Illinois has not been without her experiences in this regard. The Grand Master renders six decisions, nearly all resting upon local regula- tion - The second is one of general interest. lie says: ••The Master elect /'- not Master until he is installed, and after his installation he should appoint deai MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 71 In other words, the successful candidate for Master is without authority to appoint officers till he is Master de jure. Entirely correct ; although it lias been the general custom in Illinois for both the Grand Master and Masters elect to appoint subordi- nates prior to installation. The (hand Master referred to the Quebec difficulty. Upon this subject we quote resolutions (adopted) presented by the Committee on Foreign Relations, Bro. Staton : Resolved, That in order to heal the bitter animosities now existing between the Grand Lodges of Quebec and England, the ('.rand Lodge of Kentucky most fraternally requests the Grand Lodge of England to advise the three lodges mentioned, located in the city of Montreal, in the Province of Quebec, to unite with the Grand Lodge of Quebec, and on their failure or refusal to do so, that the charters of the same be arrested or withdrawn. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge reiterates its firm adhesion to the doctrine of unequivocal, undivided Grand Lodge sovereignty, and that none other can be tolerated by sovereign Grand Lodges without endangering the peace of the Masonic powers of the world. This action is well enough ; nevertheless, we think that the appeals for justice by our sister Grand Lodge for the whole period of its existence, warrants the knife rather than further time. Bro. Orndorff next touches upon the propriety ol permitting installed officers to dimit. We well know that such a regulation would be inconsistent with general law upon the subject; still, we could never comprehend its impropriety. In Illinois a Master, or other installed officer, the day after his or their installation, may find domiciles in another lodge or Grand Jurisdiction, and still retain their official au- thority. It has been repeatedly the fact, here, that Masters have represented lodges in Grand Lodge months after they had permanently removed from the State or lodge boundaries, receiving mileage and per diem, leaving Wardens to represent their lodges at their personal expense. Is this correct ? We repeat the opinion, often expressed, that permanent removal from a Grand Jurisdiction should deprive an officer of his official functions. More than this, that any officer should be al- lowed dimission if in the opinion of the Grand Master such dimission was found to be in the welfare of the lodge. Much attention is given by the Grand Master to the Widows and Orphans Home. We take it, that its resources have been somewhat crippled through the failure of lodges to respond to assessments in its behalf. The report of the (hand Secretary, our distinguished bachelor friend, Past ( hand Master, Hiram Bassett, is a full and comprehensive paper. The special committee to which was referred, 1884, a plan for the consolida- tion of lodges, submitted a report. The chairman of the committee, our deservedly honored friend and brother, Past Grand Master Rob Morris, had corresponded with many distinguished Masons of our country, and found a variety of opinions prevail- ing. The following, however, is the principal feature of the report: " At the stated 7'J APPENDIX. meeting named in the notice each lodge shall vote upon the resolution. If a ma- jority of the members present vote in favor of the resolution, (to consolidate) and if li i ili. in seven members vote against it the same shall be declared adopted. 11 seven members or more vote against it, the resolution shall be declared rejected." The rule for consolidation in the several States named is as follows : \i \i\ma. — R W. Daniel Sayre, Grand Secretary. The members of one lodge dimit (down to the number of seven) and join the other. The remaining seven fail to meet, and so forfeit their charter. Then they take certificates from the Grand Secretary ami join any other lodge in the juris- California, R. W. A. G. Abell, Grand Secretary. The two lodges agree by vote to con- solidate, and appoint a committee of conference to arrange terms of consolidation. If three-fourths .■I the members ofth* respective lodges then agree 10 the union it goes into effect, This is a consti- tutional rule of our Grand Lodge. Indiana. — R. W. Wm. H. Smythe, Grand Secretary. The law of the Grand Lodg< the power of consolidation to two or more lodger, if the negative vote in either is less than seven members. The law works well with us. Iowa. — R. W. T. S. Parvin, Grand Secretary. Recognizes the same necessity and the same difficulties stated in the Kentucky circular. Iowa's rule is that by a vote of two-thirds the members of the respective lodges consolidation may be effected. It is based upon the general principle that the good of the whole and not an individual should govern. Mississippi. — R. W. J. L. Power, Grand Secretary. A vote of two-thirds the members in the respective lodges may effect a consolidation. Missouri. — R. W. John I). Vincil, Grand Secretary. A two-thirds vote of the members oi the respective lodges may effect a consolidation. Ohio. — R. W. John D. Caldwell, Grand Secretary. Ohio permits consolidation if threc- fourths the members of the respective lodges favor it. Many Grand Lodges, and Masons of distinction, declare for entire unanimity. The writer's personal opinion is also published; that where less than seven members of a lodge vote against a proposition to consolidate, the majority should govern. This view comes of a law of our jurisdiction which reads: " The charter of a lodge may be surrendered, if the proposition be presented at a stated communication thereof, and the same be acted upon at a subsequent stated communication, of which all the members whose residence is known shall have due and timely notice ; but no charter can be surrendered as long as seven Master Masons, members of the lodge, desire to continue to work under it, in accordance with the laws of Masonry, and the laws and regulations of this Grand Lodge." Action upon the report of the committee was deferred for one year. An unsuccessful effort was made to introduce some system of lecturing. Breth- ren offered the subjoined resolutions, which were received and referred : Bro I D. Campbell offered the following resolution : Resolved, by the Grand Lodge Ancient York Free and Accepted Masons of Kentucky, in Grand Lodge assembled, That all questions upon what contains legitimate Mason rj belongs ex- clusively to the Grand York Lodge Kile of .Master Masons, and any attempt upon the part of any MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. Rite other titan the York Rite to so legislate is highly offensive to this Grand Lodge, and will meet with our condemnation. Bro. H. B. Grant offered the following as an amendment : That this Grand Lodge has jurisdiction over the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason within its territory, and none other. The leaven is working. Still another : Whereas, Hampton Lodge, No. 235, has been charged with dues and the assessment on Bro. W. B. Williams, who has been heretofore reported a member of that lodge, but who the Most Worshipful Grand Master has decided is not a member of that lodge ; therefore be it Resolved, That the Grand Treasurer be directed to refund to Hampton Lodge the amount paid on Bro. Williams in this and former years. Whhrfas, Hampton Lodge, No. 235, has, by the permission of a lodge within the State ol West Virginia, conferred the Master's degree upon W. B. Williams, a Fellow Craft ; and, Whereas, The organic law of said foreign jurisdiction does not grant a dimit to an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft, and also declares the brother to be a member of that lodge in which he receives the Master's degree ; and, Whereas, Our Most Worthy Grand Master has decided that the brother is not a member of said lodge ; therefore be it Resolved, That this Grand Lodge declare the Masonic membership of the said brother in- valid. Without information regarding the local regulations of the two Grand Jurisdic- tions, and supposing that there is nothing in the law of Kentucky that inhibits its lodges from acquiring jurisdiction of an E. A. or F. C. of another bailiwick with the latter's surrender of legal rights in the premises, we cannot understand by what legitimate authority Bro. Williams should be denied lodge membership. If a Wisconsin or Kentucky lodge, surrenders jurisdiction over an F. C. to a lodge in Illinois, the latter would be justified in receiving to membership by conferring the third degree, after the customary formalities of a petition and ballot. Perhaps we do not under- stand the scope of the resolutions. The Grand Lodge of South Australia was accorded fraternal recognition ; also the so-called Grand Lodge of Cuba and Colon. We profoundly regret the latter action. It is a well known fact that there were but three legitimate lodges in that dominion when the "Grand Lodge of Colon " was instituted. The eleven others that participated in that consummation were creatures of a Supreme Council (A. & A. Rite) or Grand Bodies organized by it or by its authority. The brethren of Kentucky and other Grand Lodges that have clasped hands with this abnormity, will some day repent their want of wisdom — so we think. The argument employed by a former Grand Secretary of that "Grand Lodge" was, that as there were three legitimate lodges on the Island, and that participated in the movement, their pres- ence hailed the remainder .' We replied by saying, that it was competent for the three bodies to form a Grand Body, then if disposed, the remainder could have been cleansed of their irregularities. A full and complete history of he inception of that Grand Lodge can be found in our Grand Lodge proceedings for 1877, page hi. 10% APPENDIX. We have another admirable Report on Correspondence by Bro. Staton — nut Stanton, as we have heretofore had it. We are always impressed with hi-- produc- tions, because he is a brother of opinions with ample ability to present them. He don'l admire compulsory membership. " You may lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink." fust SO. He is of the opinion that "the ceremony of burying the dead is just as much 'labor' as is that of conferring degrees." True enough, Bro. Staton, hut hear in mind that the one is esoteric and the other, exoteric. We do not know of a single justification for taking a lodge from its quarters in its esoteric character. As it is customary to open a lodge in form upon such occasions, Illinois provides for dispensing with its secret features, (by calling off' and entering upon the public or exoteric ceremonial. Would not Bro. Staton he astonished and di>git>ted to hear the Master of his lodge (in the midst of the ceremonial of a de- gree tell the brethren to quit work and without "calling from labor," for the pur- pose of enjoying a lunch in the presence of the profane? This is an extreme illus- tration to be sure, but is not the same principle involved in the one case as in the other? There is no place where a lodge can be opened and remain open, EX< i ri WITHIN ivi.il > APARTMENTS. He holds lightly that an E. A. or F. ('. should not be barred advancement because of bodily injuries received subsequent to his initia- tion or passing; is forninst us on the "prerogative" question, neither is he greatly enamoured of "physical perfection." He gives Illinois extended notice by quoting in full our special report on Memphian Rites, and our tabhj upon organization of Grand Lodges; all of which he approves. He refers to our review of Massachu- setts ( 1 884) and with us condemns the action of that Grand Lodge in its attempt iSNj: to convince the Craft that it was justifiable to extend official recognition to bodies of Masons not known to the Fraternity. I'.io. Staton in dissenting (in part) from the proposition that a Mason should not have imposed upon him a penalty in the absence of a hearing, refers to the impro- priety of granting dimission during pendency of charges. This, however, does not disturb the general principle involved; although it is held in Illinois, and in nearly all other jurisdictions, so far as our knowledge extends, that severance of member- ship can not take place during the existence of such charges. This law is at fault, but not the elemental axiom for which we contend, and for two reasons: First, a dimissory letter should embrace the facts of the applicant's relations to the lodge ; and second, the fact of dimission does not act as a vacation of proceedings against him. We are glad to find Bro. Staton well grounded in the doctrine o( line qui exclusivi Crand Lodge sovereignty. He also agrees with us " that there is no Ma- sonry beyond the third degree," of which the lodge cm take official Cognizance, lb- commends Bro. Vincil for his war upon whisky, but does not endorse the view that Grand Lodges should, in any event, exercise original (penal) jurisdiction over mem- bers of constituent bodies. We can no! forbear giving a reply to Bro. Hedges: igain from the Nestor of Freemasonry in Montana, none odicr than the able and effii ient Grand Secretary, Bro. Cornelius Hedges. In tins one In- .Iocs not MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. i 5 come short of his ormer prestige as an able and efficient writer. His re\iew is written up in about seventy-four pages, followed by three pages of conclusion, which is longer than Bro. Hedges usually writes up his " conclusion," but just at the time he was finishing up he received the proceedings of Illinois for 1884, and finding Bro. Gurney had been after him on his recommendation of recognition to the ('.rand Lodges of the Australian Colonies, in which the charge of heresy was made by Bro. Gurney, Bro. fledges proceeds to answer and defend himself against the charges made, and while he has made an able defense for what we regard a weak cause, we can not agree with him. Bro. Hedges says that the common law of Masonry for Grand Lodge recognition has no existenci of] this continent. Yes, but it does exist throughout the length and breadth of these 1 Imted Slates and Territories, including the British Provinces in the Dominion of Canada, and it is by the standard erected by the American Grand Lodges that those Grand Lodges propose to judge the legitii new organizations on or off of this continent. The table presented by Bro. Gurney shows con- clusively that the Grand Lodges of this country were all organized on that basis, to-wit : by a ma- jority of the subordinate lodges then existing. We care not what standard England, Scotland and Ireland have erected, whether any at all or not, we can only be governed by the rule established, and which has always prevailed ever since the organization of Grand Lodges in this country. We do not propose to include the Grand Lodge of South Australia, because that has certainly been or- ganized with a unanimity that is able to satisfy any one who believes in the majority rule. We sincerely sympathize with the organizations of New South Wales and Victoria, because we believe there ought to be independent Grand Lodges in both those colonies, but they have not taken the conservative course to organize them that was taken by the Grand Lodge of South Australia. We do not take any stock about the brow-beating cry. by those at the head of the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland, because we do not believe the Masons of those Provinces would have submitted to it. Why didn't that rule apply in South Australia'/ But we have said more than we intended, for really we did not intend to say anything at all on this subject. We regret to find the following : Bro. Richards seems shocked at the ruling of the Grand Master of Texas, on the admission of visitors hailing from jurisdictions who practice the A. and A. Scottish Rite only. Why not? We are informed that in such jurisdictions the symbolic degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason are conferred in the bodies of that Rite, and while the ceremony may not be exactly like that of the York Rite, yet we are assured it is similar, at least enough to show that the applicant knew something about Symbolic Masonry, as taught in the first three degrees. We suspect that if our brother should visit some jurisdictions professing to confer the degrees according to the York Rite, he would find the work very little like the work in Ohio. If visitors hailing from A. and A. Scottish Rite jurisdictions are to be turned away from our doors simply because they have not received the degrees after the manner practiced by the York Rite, we would like to know what our boasted universality of Masonry would amount to. Until within a very short period the York Rite has been almost, if not entirely, confined to English speaking nations. If persons of the class referred to can visit, certainly they should be permitted to affiliate. This is too gross a denial of exclusive Grand Lodge jurisdiction over Symbolic Masonry to pass by unnoticed. It is doubtful if Bro. S. clearly comprehends the se- quences of thus admitting the authority of the Scottish Rite, or any other association of Masons, to arrogate to themselves the provinces of the lodge that were never questioned until usurpation succeeded, in Europe, in convincing the Craft that the only avenue to greatness was through systems that robbed it of its Masonic character, vitality and independence. It does seem a little incomprehensible that our distin- guished brother has failed to comprehend the logic to which his conclusions direct. He loses sight of his endorsement of our special report condemning Rites that as- sumed to appropriate the functions of the lodge, in recognizing men as Masons whose only claim to such distinction is found in the fact that their so-called fraternal parent- , r> APPENDIX. age has been derived from bodies that have perpetrated offenses which he so promptly condemns in others. But we must close. M. \V. B. ur nl.uions with Foreign ( >rand Jurisdictions have been of the most pleasant and fraternal character, nothing has arisen to disturb the peace and concord of this jurisdiction. The very full and complete report of the Committee on Correspondence precludes the necessity of further com- ment on my part. The only matter which I desire to refer for your consideration and tor which no provision is made, is the practice which holds in some sister jurisdictions of issuing from subordinate certificates to Masons who are not at the time connected with said lodges, and who have not been dimitted therefrom, we have a I ase in point, that of Bro. Samuel YVhitcbread, of < Htawa, Kansas. This matter has been ih<- subjei t of considerable correspondence between the Grand Master of the 1 Irand Lodge of Pennsylvania and myself, which with all the papers in the case, 1 have submitted to the Committee on Jurisprudence for such ai tion as they may deem most advisable. This is something beyond our ken. This is the first time that we have heard of such practice. How it would be possible for a lodge to issue a certificate under the circumstances, we do not comprehend. The Grand Master makes serious complaint of the onerous duties of his position. He thinks the care of 275 lodges is too much of a task. Well, it is a _o ( „ H l deal of a job; bul Illinois has 600, and we do not hear of any complaint from brother Darrah. During our incumbency of a like position (two years) we wrote nearly six thousand letters, and other missives. He suggests the remedy of having a I). I >. Grand Master for each judicial district, then having MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. correspondence come to the Grand East through such officials. He'further suggests " that all questions arising in lodges or among the brethren be first submitted by the W. M. to the District Deputy, and then if the W. M., lodges or brethren are not sat- isfied, direct reference might be had through the D. D. to the (band Master." Brother Miller was (band Master of Masons in Kansas. Every Mason of his juris- diction had a personal right of appeal to him. It would not do to place a brother in a position where his appeal from a supposed injustice, inflicted perhaps by a Mas- ter, was to be placed in the hands of the supposed aggressor. It may be, and is often the case, that a Grand Master is overpowered by tares, but, in our opinion, he should not be relieved of responsibilities that inhere to his station. The system of District Deputies works well in Illinois, but they are not troubled with duties outside their visitations and inspections, except, as from time to time, imposed by the Grand Master. Brother Miller announces the death of the Rev. Dr. Charles Reynolds, (band ( )rator. '1'he (band Master decided : i. A is elected in lodge at B and receives first degree, moving out of the jurisdiction of B, lie asks permission from B for lodge at C to confer remaining degrees ; it is granted, and lodge at C rejects his application. He now resides at D and wishes lodge at B to grant permission for lodge at D to confer the degrees. Is it correct for lodge at B to grant the permission ? Is he in any manner subject to lodge at C? Ans. The lodge at B still retains jurisdiction and will, until it waives it in favor of the lodge at D or some other lodge where the candidate may hereafter reside. The Entered Apprentice named is in no manner subject to lodge at C. 2. Mailing a notice to attend a lodge trial to one living in the jurisdiction of the lodge is not a sufficient basis for preferring charges of contempt for failure to appear. 3. There is no provision in the Grand Lodge By-Laws, nor in common justice could there be, by which a member of a Masonic lodge can be brought to trial for an offense against the body oj Masonry, where personal service cannot be made upon him in the jurisdiction of the lodge, and his whereabouts are unknown. A lodge certificate that " A. B., late a member of lodge, No. 303, of Pennsylvania, has ceased to be a member thereof, and is in good Masonic standing," is not a dimit, and does not furnish the evidence of dimission required by Section s, Article VI, of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. The consideration of the latter was deferred one year; and a decision, that a Master elect has not been properly installed until he had been invested with the so- called degree (!) of Past Master, was disagreed to. The first three were approved. Perhaps we do not have a clear conception of Xo. 1. As we read it, Lodge B granted waiver of jurisdiction to Lodge C. Else how is it that the latter enforced the ballot ? We have understood the rule to be, that a lodge can confer degrees for another lodge as an act of courtesy, the candidate retaining his connection with the electing lodge. It would appear, however, that such courtesy can not be extended in Kansas, except authorized by the second body through lis ballot. How is this, Bro. Brawn ? 78 APPENDIX. The third decision is not in accord with the practice in Illinois. If charges are preferred against a member, without the jurisdiction of the lodge, and place of resi- dence not to be found, the law is satisfied if summons and charges are mailed to his la-t known domicile. The fourth conclusion of Brother Miller, that a Pennsylvania dimit is not a dimit under the law of his jurisdiction, is rather of a surpris reads: " Brother A. II., late a member of — Lodge, No. 303, of Pennsylvania, has ceased to be a member thereof, and is in good Masonic standing." When th< objection ? The (band Secretary, M. W. John II. Brown, 1'. G. M., submitted an extended and admirable report. Seventeen new lodges have been organized during the year. His sound advice comes from a world of fraternal experience, that lodges and their should work. He does not seem to think that Grand Lodge representatives are very much of factors in the welfare of the Craft; nevertheless, he compliments our Brother Francis S. Belden, and brother Stephen M. Wright, New York, for faithful attention to their duties. Enough to save the systrm — Sodom. Reports from lodges show them occupying 153 stone or brick buildings; 75 in buildings of wood; lodge rooms carpeted, 204 ; not carpeted, 24 ; lodges in rented halls, 163; lodges owning halls, 65; lodges with property insured, 121 ; without in- surance, 93; lodges meeting in halls with other societies, 141; not meeting with other societies, 87. The < irand Lodge of South Australia was recognized. The recognition of New South Wales further deferred. Touching the claims of Spain, Portugal and Mexico, Vera Cruz, Peru, brazil, La Republica Argentina and Venezula, bio. brown wisely suggests that "there seems to be too much < trientism mixed up with the Masonry of those countries to suit the American idea of York Masonry." Nothing more true. The Committee on Jurisprudence say: "A motion for reconsideration of a ballot upon a petition for the mysteries of Masonry, by which a candidate has been rejected, can not be entertained by the lodge, even on the same evening the ballot was taken." Pro. brown submitted a Report on Correspondence of great merit. The following extract is given from his review of British Columbia, hoping that it. may stimulate greater devotion to the fundamental interests of the Fraternity : "Indeed, these are pertinent questions, and well disciplined is the brother who can an Mil the affirmative. That such should be the fact every true Mason will aver ; but that such is ,,,111,. fact thi in and confusion, often prevalent, but too plainly prove. Grand Lodges do their nine, 1 to root out the elements and dry up the sources of discord. \ • 1 in 1 to accomplish the work, implj 1, 1,, hi 1 not earnestly and persistently sustained by their subordinates. through theii neg | ec t bad men are suffei m'e members, and through their want of firmness in maintaining ,i,, 1 ,,,,. an d thereby expelling such pretenders, peace is broken, strite engendt red, and tin »ni, on the tempi I onlj delayed but far too often that which was well d by pure hands is grossly de- faced when not broken down, Verily, il reform, sound ami lasting, is to be expected, the mean to MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 70 effect it imlst be first and last employed in the subordinate lodges. And one of the first steps will be to induce Grand Masters to refuse dispensations to open lodges I'. D. in sparsely peopled dis- tricts, and, in case they are weak enough to grant them, to bring Grand Lodges up to the resolution to refuse them charters ; a second step needful, is to compel weak lodges -always inefficient — to consolidate where it is possible, and where not, to require them either to increase thei send up their charters. Again, lodges which suffer members to remain affiliates, whose daily lives are a libel on the tenets to which they have given voluntary assent, must lie forced by legislation, if no other argument will avail, to exclude such persons from the brotherhood, or else have their char- ters revoked. It is high time to stop experimenting in the attempt to institute useless lodges, to brighten stupidity, to enlighten stolid ignorance, reform mean instincts and elevate base desires. Ours is a high moral and intellectual Institution, and the man who is not so constituted by native gifts and social training as to add by his words and acts to its efficiency as a mighty civilizing factor, should seek in some more genial organization for fellowship. We are glad to note that in many jurisdictions the Fraternity are arousing to action, and from their vigorous proceedings expect to see plans devised and carried out which will relieve the Institution of the ugly burdens it is forced to bear. In a righteous crusade against vice and unclean- ness in the Masonic domain, we trust Kansas will not be found in the rear. Bro. Brown does not object to public installations; insists upon the right of lodges to bury non-affiliates ; thinks lodge officers should be permitted to resign ; is of the opinion that the " social element" should be fostered, and does not indulge in the unwise conclusion that the charter of a lodge must be exposed upon the de- mand of a visitor. To all of which we can ejaculate an "amen." Illinois is re- viewed for 1884 and 1885. Much attention is given our jurisdiction. He endorses our special report ( 1SS4) upon Memphian Rites, and thinks it would be wise if all Grand Lodges should " take a similar position." Bro. Brown thinks well of a Masonic convention of Grand Lodges if not in- vested with legislative authority. Our only plea for such temporary organization, is to get the best heart and mind of the Fraternity together, and, after thoroughly ex- changing views upon the ethics and jurisprudence of the Craft (and their conclusions given to the Masonic world), it would result in an enlargement and strengthening of fraternal bonds, and finally bring about a system of uniformity in law that would be gratifying to every friend of the lodge. We do not ask that such meeting should be invested with a particle of legislative authority. It is a pleasure to find a brother of so much varied experience not adverse to the plan. The reports of our Committee on Appeals are highly complimented. Brother Dyas will take notice. He speaks of our statistical tables upon the voting franchises of members, past and present, of Grand Lodges, and directs attention to the subject. Alluding to our remark of last year, that "he appeared to have less sympathy for an E. A. or F. C. than a profane," he thinks us "slightly mixed." Perhaps we are a little off color, but we then supposed that he held an E. A. or F. C. perpetually to the jurisdiction of the lodge until the conclusion of the ritualistic work of the three degrees. Under Indian Territory, he says: But to hold up those sublime truths is not enough, duty does not stop there. Our brethren must exemplify them in every walk and phase of life, in public and private, and thus spread light where darkness now retards moral development and hinders the march of healthful, enduring reform- 80 APPENDIX. hi th< fai e of obstai les, neither few nor feeble, great changes have been wrought by the Fraternity ; and now when they stand on Srm vantage ground peai efully won, with hinderances growing fewer ami weaker, greatei advani es can, and we trust, will lie made in the future. M. W. Silas E. Sheldon, Topeka, Grand Master. M. W.J. II. Brown, P. G. M., Wyandotte, Grand Secretary. LOUISIANA, 1886. The seventy-fourth annual communication was held in New < Orleans, February cSth. The pamphlet before us is embellished with a portrait of the Grand Master, M. W. D. K. Graham, accompanied by a brief record of his Masonic career. He delivered an exceptionally good address. The mortuary list of the jurisdiction is not large. Mention is made of the death of R. W. Bro. Regnault, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Virginia. In the remarks of the Grand Master touching "the good of the order," he has not a great deal of sympathy for delinquents. Although not inclined to be without charity for the unfortunate, he, with us, is hos- tile to a want of charity for the lodge in which so many are not disposed to indulge. I letter by far for the welfare of the lodge and the general Fraternity, that chronic delinquents be cut off. This does not refer to brethren that wouldpzy if they could. He is not entirely pleased with life memberships. Looking over Grand Lodge statistics it is found that there are 125 lodges, with a membership of 3826, or thirty and a fraction to each body. In older lodges life membership is increasing under a rule that provides for such relation after a certain period of association therewith probably twenty years — and as the increase of lodge membership is not active, it is easy to conceive that the rule is depleting resources, and liable to become perplex- ing. Under the circumstances, the Grand Master seems t<> be justified in bringing the subject to the attention of the Grand l'.ody. lie also complains of light mem bership dues to lodges. In many of the lodges of Illinois they have but a miserable margin after annual settlements with Grand Lodge. This should not be. Lodges are nol of one particle of consequence to the Fraternity th.it abstract more from Grand Lodge, for mileage andper diem expenses, than they pay into its treasury, except in cases of new lodges. The Grand Master wisely urges the consolida- tion of lodges. He revises the question of '-joint occupancy" of Masonic quarters with other organizations. Of all the mistaken ideas that have taken possession ol Masons, the conclusion that dedicated Masonic halls are invested with pecu- liar sanctity, so much so, that no body of respectable men and women should be permitted therein, lest an offense be perpetrated against the Institution, is the most MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 81 whimsical upon record. If a lodge is able to maintain its quarters, well and good ; but to apply a rule that may jeopardize the existence of a weak body, is without reason resting in the welfare of the Fraternity. We believe with the Grand Master that such matters should be left to the discretion of lodges. If a lodge should be found so intellectually weak that it was unable to discern between a disreputable and reputable association of people, it should not be permitted to exist. The Grand Master presented a singular view: " ist. Can two-thirds of an ordinary quorum of seven or more members, at any stated or othei meeting, reinstate a brother who had been suspended by two-thirds of the full membership of the lodge, summoned on the trial? " "2d. Does it require a majority only of an ordinary quorum to recommend to' the Grand 1 ,odgi the reinstatement of an expelled brother, when it required three-fourths of all the members, at a summoned meeting, to inflict the penalty ? " I replied as follows : Inasmuch as under the law (Section 79, General Regulations), " on the day fixed for trial the lodge is required to summon all the members thereof, then living in the juris- diction, etc., to appear at the time appointed," that to consider the reinstatement of a brother who had been suspended, or a recommendation to the Grand Lodge, if expelled, an ordinary quorum should not entertain either proposition ; and that the vote required to relieve a brother from the effect of any punishment should be equivalent to that necessary to inflict it, to be ascertained only when all the members of the lodge within hail had been duly summoned or notified that a considera- tion of the specific object was contemplated to that effect. The Committee on Jurisprudence dissented, but recommended the adoption of an amendment to By-Laws, " Providing that an application for reinstatement shall be read at one stated meeting and laid over for action until the next stated meeting, due notice having been given in writing to the members of lodge of the intended action." To the writer, there are two objections to the amendment. The first, as to the requirement that commands a notice in " writing," meaning the chirography of an officer or his assistant. The second, and more serious dissent, is found in the tendency of lodges to follow the lazy member with information that his presence in lodge should secure The whole bearing of legislation that panders to an apology for absence from the meetings of the lodge, is both pernicious and unnecessary. If a member has so little interest in its assemblies that he is indisposed to give them the attention that his relations to lodge demand, let him suffer the consequences of its legislation. Follow this kind of thing up, and soon the lodge will find it necessary to ape the methods of the Salvation Army in heralding its meetings with a brass band. In the matter of " Foreign Relations," the Grand Master has this to say : Our Committee on Foreign Correspondence will treat this subject in extenso. Nothing of note has transpired during my regime outside of what I have referred to in my report on representa- tives, except that the S. C. and Grand Orient of Columbia, S. A., furnished an official notice of their election with names of officers. Discovering in our P. O. box that they had sent a similar notice to a so-called S. C. in this city, I directed the Grand Secretary to return the document with the information that said body was clandestine, and that we would decline to correspond with any body who knowingly disregarded the jurisdictional supremacy of this Grand Lodge. 82 APPENDIX. What Bro. Graham means by a so-called S. ('., the writer fails to comprehend. Will he or Brother Whitaker explain? Is the Grand Master inclined 10 enter into .i contest for "i against the claimants of rites unknown to the ('raft? He is of the opinion that the condition of the lodges of the jurisdiction have not materially changed during the past year, but feels that a revival of interest has taken place. The Grand Master having recently learned that Past Grand Master, M. W. Bro. Lucien Herman, had passed away, paid a very fraternal tribute to his memory. The Grand Secretary, R. W. Brother Batchelor, submitted an exceptionaly fine report. It is a mass of detail that must attract not only the attention of home readers, hut of every Mason that is a defender of Craft Masonry against the assump- tions of rites. He says: Grand ( >rient S. . Co. - ., and Grand Lodge, Columbia, S. A., October 30th. 1 found in box a communication (tableau of officers), (and at same time found matter showing that they corresponded with a clandestine body in New Orleans). By direction, I notilied them of the clandestine nature of certain bodies, and sent a list of the regular bodies of Masonry in Louisiana, and that this Grand Lodge would not correspond with bodies who knowingly continue to correspond with any clandes- tine body of Masons in Louisiana. We take the liberty of asking Brother Batchelor, if there are any other bodies of Masons within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and under its immediate control and direction, that are recognized as " regular bodies of Masonry" except lodges authorized by it ? With what body was the Grand ( Irient S.\C.\, and Grand Lodge Columbia, S. A., communicating with? It will be of great interest to Grand Lodges to know of clandestine organizations in New Orleans. It is to be inferred from the remarks of our distinguished brother, that reference is made to some organization antagonizing the Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction. If we are correct in this, we would like to ask by what authority the Grand Lodge (jf Louisiana enters the lists for or against associations that do not have official asso- ciation with the Symbolic Lodges? Would it not be well to stand aloof from such contentions, and let associations, outside the lodge, care for themselves? Why is it necessary for the lodge to participate in controversies over rites as foreign to the ( i.ili a- is a body of Royal Arcanum, and of which the Craft cannot know anything except incidentally through a meager minority of its membership? If they in any way trench upon, invade, or encroach upon the prerogatives of the lodge, then strike 30 effectively that you will not be misunderstood. We don't have the least hostility to any reputable associations among Masons. We belong to many and are happy in such relations, and so long as they keep hands off the Craft we are 'perfectly content therewith; but we hold that neither Supreme Councils, neither bodies created by them, can assume any functions of the lodge directly or itidirectly ; neither can we with remote consistency extend fraternal recognition to •• Grand Lodges" made up of the constituency of such organizations. We are not disposed to enter into any controversy with them, and only ask that legitimate Grand Bodies of the Craft do MASONIC CORRESl'ONDKNCE. 83 not extend recognitions that will be certain, by and by, to be used as a justification for encroachments that we now so persistently condemn. To us, it is worse than folly to extend fellowship to claimants upon our fraternal sympathies until it is an established fact that they are the fruitage of lodges coming from a constitutional Grand Lodge of the three Symbolic degrees, originating with the primal Grand Lodge of the world, and its constitutional successors. Brother Batchelor gives a long list of lodges whose charters are forfeited or sur- rendered. (Jet rid of them at your earliest convenience. They are dry, without branches, and exert no other than a baneful influence upon the Grand Lodge. Louisiana Relief Lodge was provided for. Bro. Hamburger makes an elabor- ate and interesting report. Fifty-three dollars and twenty-five cents was expended upon sufferers from Illinois. This is the first intimation of a visit from either Past Grand Masters Bobbins or Cregier to that locality. We do not now bring to mind the regulations of Grand Lodge upon the subject, but the following was adopted : That a brother suspended for non-payment of dues may, by majority vote, be reinstated at any stated meeting, on payment, or remission of the lodge, or on part payment and part remission of the amount due at the time of suspension ; prmnded ', that no charges be then pending against him . A quotation is given from an address by Bro. Pinckard, Representative of the M. W. the United Grand Lodge of England. We call his attention to our review of South Carolina : The only possible difference of opinion that may ever arise, I take it, is upon the subject of what is known as the American doctrine of exclusive jurisdiction, and upon this subject I feel au- thorized to state that the United Grand Lodge of England has, and always will concede to the ut- most limits of her power, so far as consistent with her traditions, custom and usage. We now come to an earnest Report on Correspondence by Brother, Past Grand Master Win. R. Whitaker. Bro. W. is an excellent writer, and for this reason it is to be regretted that he is not continued on the committee. He is of the correct opin- ion that a dimit granted by lodge, and made of record, can not be revoked ; does not admit the propriety of attending church services in regalia ; thinks that in this country, where the avenues to an education are so broad and cheap, that attempts of Grand Lodges in that direction are unnecessary ; does not think well of lumbering the Fraternity with insurance features, and thinks there is no compatibility between them and the lodge, and is forninst claims of Boards of Relief for expenses incurred in caring for the distressed. He says: The authority for such claim is not apparent. Wherever a Mason is in need, his brothers should aid him without hope of fee or reward. Debit and credit make no part in such accounts. It is an advantage to a good Mason to be given an opportunity to practice practical charity. He ought to be thankful for the occasion for the exercise of brotherly relief. Neither lodges nor Masons have a claim to be reimbursed for anything that may have been done in the way of benevolence, whether the benevolence be exercised with reference to members of the order, their families, those dependent upon them, or the profane. Bro. W. is not in sympathy with the visionary deductions of Masonic enthusi- asts, that Masonry has a history colemporaneous " with the dawn of civilization;" 84 APPENDIX. is adverse to charging dues to suspended Masons, and is not well pleased with the idea of a Masonic congress. Touching the right to charity, he says : There can be no doubt that Masonry extends the open hand to the needy. No man has a right to claim from the Masonic treasury a disbursement in his behalf ; but every man has a right Masons to do charity, to exercise benevolence, to exemplify that love which recognizes all men as brothers. He thinks well of social gatherings, and approves the determination of the Grand Lodge of Florida to have an entertainment at each annual communication, and takes the laudable position that the Quaker, with his affirmation, is ample for his entrance into the mystic temple. The Grand Lodge of Illinois is largely noticed, and as a rule, our work for 1885 approved. He however, dissents thus : Under Kentucky (1884) we have what seems like an heretical opposition to well recognized Masonic law. Brother Gurney says : " To us it appears that any officer, from Master down, can vacate his position to accept an office of lesser importance. 1 ect '.' ' ' We see no reason for such an opinion. The Master, having accepted his position and prom- ised to perform its duties for his Masonic term, has no right to vacate his responsibility. If we understand Brother Whitaker, he holds that an officer has no right /,> die or otherwise remove from the jurisdiction ol a Grand Lodge during the term for which he was elected. He is in entire accord with the opinion that affiliation fees are prejudicial to the welfare of the Fraternity. We thought as much. In his review of Maryland he announces a position for which we cannot find remote justification: The Report on Correspondence is from the able pen of our esteemed brother, Dr, < roigas. A considerable part of his review is devoted to what has been of late called the Massachusetts question —a subject considered iii another part of this review. Bro. Gorgas approaches this subject with much feeling, and discusses it with considerable vehemence. As we say elsewhere, we see no oc- casion for the introduction of this matter as one of consequence to the Fraternity. Sim e i£ I Isiana has recognized the Southern Jurisdiction of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish kite of the United States ot America ; it has recognized tin- 1 .rand Council of Koyal and Select Masters of the State of Louisiana, and the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the state of Louisiana. It has recognized other Grand Masonic Bodies of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Kite, and no harm has come to the Grand Lodge by reason of such recognition. Let every Grand Lodge ai i foi itself in this. It is useless to attempt to establish, by any sort of condemnatory measures, a ride that will fetter Grand Lodge independence in this matter. If a Grand Lodge desire to recognize Cernean Masonry, which would be a balm to the soul of Bro. Gorgas, so be it. It is none of our business, If a < irand Lodge choose b • affiliate with the Rite of Memphis in any of its branches, it is at liberty to do so, and no other Grand Lodge or body of Mason- lias a right to protest against it. If a ( Irand Lodge 1 hoose to refuse rei ognition to a body of the Scottish Kite beyond the fourth de- to a Grand Royal Arch Chapter that is the concern of the body that refuses. The Grand Lodge ot Louisiana lias taken its stand on this subject, and is not likely to be moved from its p.. si- tion. A brief reply is offered. The independent sovereignty of a Grand Lodge does no! permit, it to evade a landmark. Il is not mantled with any authority to dispense MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. with its Great Lights, neither with Masters or Wardens. It is also a landmark that the lodge is made up of three degrees, with supreme authority over them, and alone authorized to perpetuate their mysteries. No other body, though composed of Ma- sons, can assume its functions or prerogatives. Our Illustrious brother Pike, the Sovereign Grand Commander of the Southern Supreme Grand Council, de- nies that the Scottish Rite has any constitutional authority over the Craft, to establish lodges or otherwise interfere with its affairs. This Bro. W. will find in his own report, page 137. Brother Drummond, Past Grand Commander of the Northern Scottish Rite jurisdiction, made a like avowal ; yet Bro. W. would have us believe that bodies of this Rite, which never did have a particle of right from its own constitutions, or from any other source, to establish lodges of the Symbolic degrees, are rightfully to be recognized in establishing lodges. It is true that the jurisdictions mentioned do not assume any powers in the premises, but it is just as true that cotemporaneous organizations of the same Rite, and with which Bro. W. appears in sympathy, do presume to trench upon prerogatives in Craft Masonry. A legitimate organization is established in accordance with law. If not so established, it is clandestine and can not be legally approved even by the extension of a friendly recognition. Here is more of the same ilk to be found in his review of Missouri : The Grand Lodge had granted a charter to a lodge in the City of Mexico, notwithstanding the fact that there was Masonic authority then existing there. This was a clear invasion of juris- diction. Brother Vincil defends it, but his argument is weak. The Grand Lodge of Hamburg issued a charter many years ago for the organization of a lodge within an American jurisdiction. The result was that the then existing Grand Lodges of the United States severed fraternal inter- course with the Grand Lodge of Hamburg, and since that date Hamburg has had no fraternal inter- course with any Grand Lodge of the United States. Brother Vincil attempts to maintain himself by reference to the establishment of lodges in Chili by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. We have no interest in the matter between Chili and Massachusetts, under present relations, but, ac- cording to our view of that matter, Massachusetts was wrong. The C.rand Lodge of Missouri had and could obtain no jurisdictional rights in the Federal District of Mexico, where there was a Grand Lodge already established. That the ground was fully occupied we know ; that there are contend- ing powers there we Know, and it was ill-timed and ill-advised to thrust a new element of discoid into the Masonic situation in the Federal 1 >istrict of Mexico. Both the Grand Lodges of Massachusetts and Missouri were justifiable, because at the establishment of those lodges the territories in question were unoccupied, in- dependent, Sovereign Grand Lodges of the Craft. The Supreme Councils of those countries were no more to be considered than were lodges of Odd Fellows or Divis- ions of Sons of Temperance. We must close, with comments upon the Prerogatives of Grand Masters, found in his review of Mississippi : The Grand Master avoided " official decisions ," and prompted by " a desire to avoid possi- ble conflicts, and in view of the existing (Mississippi) statute, which requires all ' decisions ' of the ( Irand Master to be referred to the Committee on Masonic Law and Jurisprudence for considera- tion," determined that if any law should be promulgated, that it should emanate from the Commit- tee on Law and Jurisprudence. And so the Grand Master referred to that committee all questions calling for categorical answer. Some Grand Masters have been ready to deny the existent 1 1 ill prerogatives entrusted to them by virtue of their high office. We have always doubted the wisdom of such relinquishment of vested authority. We have always doubted that a (Irand Master could so evade his responsibility. But this is the first occasion where we have seen the Grand Master de 80 APPENDIX. clare that lie abandoned his position as Chief Judge. It is noticeable, however, that the Grand Master did not fail to issue and refuse dispensations, exercising his prerogative, and decided on and against law, according to his good will and pleasure. In view of the necessities of the cases pre- sented, lie granted permission to lodges to resume work while their charters were suspended by the ( Irand Lodge, to waive time on a petition for membership, and refused, no doubt for good reason, and after careful consideration ot the law, to grant dispensations in numerous instances. These were official decisions, and categorical answers were required and received by the applicants. Under the head "I complaints and appeals we find several decisions of the Grand Master on points of law. M. \Y. Joseph P. Hornor, New Orleans, Grand Master. R. \V. |. ('. Batch elor, New Orleans, Grand Secretary. MANITOBA, 1886. A special communication of this Grand Lodge was held at Rat Portage August II, for the purpose of laying the corner stone of a church edifice. The eleventh an- nual communication was held in Winnipeg, February 10. M. W. C. F. Forrest, Grand Master, presented a concise statement of his official acts. lie had been engaged in suppressing rebellion, and did not have the oppor- tunity to make extended lodge visitations. He fraternally refers to the death of Past Grand Master, Lieut. Col. W. N. Kennedy, who died while on his return from a campaign in Egypt. Reports of I). P). G. Masters give evidence of fair prosperity of lodges. One new organization was authorized. These reports include a paper from the 1 >. I >. Grand Master of Morocco. The Al Moghreb Al Aksa Podge has forty-four mem- bers, and is holding its own. The Grand Secretary, R. W. William (1. Scott, presented an exceptionally able and interesting report. lie finds a net gain in lodge membership of 113 for the past year. Grand Lodge Library under his direction is also assuming dignified propor- tions. Finances upon an even keel. The Board of General Purposes compliment Pro. Scott. There is a report published, emanating from P.m. A. Burne, Representative of the so-called Grand Podge of New South Wales, lie says: " Besides the forty- three lodges, we have still one Royal Arch and Mark Chapter, and one Priory of the Temple." It appears that this irregular organization lias been recognized by thirty- eight Grand Lodges. More's the pity. MASONIC COKKKSI'ONDKNCK. 87 A committee on revision of the constitution reported a recommendation that it finds the organic law of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, with the necessary changes, as best adapted to their wants, and asked its adoption. Consideration deferred one year under the rule. V. W. Brother W. G. Bell offered an amendment abolishing affiliation fees. Wise. Past Grand Master, M. W. John H. Bell, was the recipient of a testimonial. He is a zealous Mason, and deserves the consideration of his brethren. A resolution was offered, as follows : That the members of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba shall only comprise brethren who have been duly installed as \V. Masters in lodges holding warrants under the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, and that brethren who have been duly registered as members of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, pre- vious to the adoption of this resolution, shall not be interfered with. No Report on Correspondence. M. W. Alfred Pearson, Winnipeg, Grand Master. R. W. Wm. G. Scott, Winnipeg, Grand Secretary. MICHIGAN, 1886. A magnificent pamphlet is before us, embellished with a likeness of M. W., James H. Farnum, Past Grand Master. lie appears more of a blonde than does Bro. Innes. Grand Lodge met in Detroit January 26th, M. W. James II. Farnum, presiding over a large representation from lodges. Bro. Farnum honored our Grand Lodge with his presence in October last, and had a hearty reception ; so with our distin- guished brothers Roots, of Arkansas, Zeigler and Reed of Washington Territory. The writer was too ill to be present much of the time, and lost the pleasant speeches of these brethren. Fifteen Past Grand Masters were present, and among them the friends and companions of our early youth in Masonry, brethren Johnson and Coffin- bury. Brother Farnum delivered an earnest address of ten pages. It is gratifying to find that he does not have the disposition to encourage the formation of new organ- izations. One was authorized, and several dispensations for a like purpose refused. Every Grand Master will do the Fraternity the best possible service by exercising great caution in this regard. It is exceptional that a Grand Body is not encumbered 88 APPENDIX. with too many lodges. Five lodge halls were consumed by fire — four insured, i harters surrendered. The Grand Master presents a large array of decisions, some of which are ob- jectionable to the writer, though in accord with local regulations: i. A lirothcr takes a (limit from ;i lod^e in thi>i State, and rem ies not make application there, but returns his dimit, and petitions his former lodge for membership, re- taining his residence in Chicago. Should his petition lie received ? Answer. — No. See section six, article sixteen, Grand Lodge regulations. 3. Can a petition for membership be received from a brother residing at Sault St. Marie, ( >ntario? Answer.- No See section six, article sixteen, Grand Lodge regulations. ]!y what general law of the Fraternity, confirmed by usage, is warranted the assumption that a Mason is not permitted to seek a Masonic home of his own selec- tion ? Is it a fact that a dimitted Mason, domiciled in Chicago, is barred the right under the common law to present his application for membership in a Detroit lodge? There must be some valid reason for such position, else it does not have any place in the general principles that are supposed to be governing in the rights of Masonry. It is quite true that the Grand Lodge of Michigan, as a sovereign body, can inhibit a non-affiliate residing in another Grand Jurisdiction from becoming a member of oik ol its lodges, but does this settle the question of the general rule, or common law, upon iln subject? The lodges of the mother country know nothing of (limits. Members are held to be members of their lodges until notified of their union elsewhere. They carry with them diplomas with the general statement that they are Masons in good standing and entitled in consequence to the fraternal good will of brethren wherever dispersed. Would the Grand Lodge of Michigan, therefore, reject an application of an English Mason for affiliation because he was not in possession of documentary evidence that had severed connection with the home lodge? It is the custom there, as with other jurisdictions of Lurope, that its Masons are at liberty to go where they will for lodge associations. This is not only the prerogative of a Master Mason, but is the right of an Entered Apprentice or Fellois Craft. In all this the principle is recognized that any Mason in good standing is at liberty to disregard political or fraternal boundaries in seeking his affiliations. If this be true of the rights of mem- bers, how much more the principle involved should apply to members without affilia- tion. If an Illinois or Michigan unaffiliate should conclude to find a Masonic home in England, would a lodge there object to his connection with the Fraternity upon the ground that he was domiciled in Chicago or Detroit, and did not propose to re- main upon English soil ? Again. A non-affiliate is a Mason at large. Neither a Grand nor constituent lodge has control over him except for infractions ol the moral law within the jurisdiction of the lodge in which he resides, lie can not be com- pelled into any service, and owes only allegiance to the general Fraternity; and, as we understand the case, such general allegiance permits him to seek affiliation with any lodge in or out of the jurisdiction in which he resides. More than this, if the MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 89 principle adopted by our sister jurisdiction be correct, a member of an Illinois lodge is not justified in connection therewith should he be a permanent resident of Mich- Bro. Farnum also decides that jurisdiction of a lodge over petitions for the de- grees does not extend into another Grand Jurisdiction. In Illinois it is held that lodges interested have authority to determine such questions for themselves, provided that no local regulation is invaded. To explain. If a Wisconsin lodge is satisfied with the qualifications of a candidate resident of Illinois, and acquires waiver of jurisdiction from the lodge in whose jurisdiction the candidate resides, no objection to the negotiation is interposed. Michigan responded magnificently to the needs of the brethren of Galveston. Seven hundred and thirty-five dollars were contributed, leaving a balance collected of $586.90. The Grand Master had the courage to wipe out a lodge that violated the plainest injunctions of the Fraternity. It appears that the Master of Washtenong lodge, Iona, had disgraced himself by appearing in public in a beastly state of intoxication. He was suspended from his official functions for the year, but prior to the expiration of the sentence the lodge re-elected him! This temerity of the lodge aroused the just indignation of Brother Farnum, and on January 5th he arrested its charter. We are glad to place these administrations of justice upon record. When a lodge is so far forgetful of duty to itself, and to a great Fraternity whose very exis- tence is jeopardized by such flagrant and indefensible transgressions of every precept of the Institution, it should be crushed as promptly as would be a viper. Whiskey ! What won't this infernal instrument of hell do to encompass the destruction of mankind ? We find its terrific influences in church, lodge and in every other relation of life. The voice of reason, of religion, and the commonest interests of society do not seem to be barriers to the consummation of its purposes; and not until lodges sit squarely down upon habitual drinking, will Masonry be relieved of the disgraceful burden that is now imposed upon it. Bro. Farnum has done well. Let Bro. Shoemaker do more of the same kind of work. Brother Farnum strongly recommends aid for the Michigan Masonic Home Association, recently organized in Grand Rapids. The Grand Master makes extended and fraternal mention of the death of R. \Y. Samuel H. Norton, Senior Grand Warden. This is a great loss to the jurisdic- tion. He was an active worker, and enjoyed in the largest degree the confidence of the Fraternity. M. W. Arthur M. Clarke, 1'. G. M., was the recipient of a Past Grand Master's jewel, (ilad to know that the brethren of Michigan appreciate the unselfish labors of its officers. Further on it is found that like testimonials were ordered for fiyk Past Grand Masters who had been thoughtlessly neglected. Still better, brethren. I2t 'Ill APPENDIX. The following is taken from the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence: In his eleventh decision, the Grand Master holds that where the rejected material ot Lodge A is initiated in Lodge B, in the absence of a waiver of jurisdiction on the part of Lodge A in favor of Lodgi 1'.. the material remains the property of Lodge A. We submit that in case the rejected ma- terial of Lodgi \ i ei eives a degree in Lodge 15, without consent of A, that Lodge C should not ad- van< e without a full investigation, and as a matter of Masonic courtesy, where the fact of rejection in Lodge A is known, without the consent of A. But we submit that Lodge C, in the absence of actual knowledge, is not bound to go behind the fact of initiation in Lodge 1!. If from investigation it appears that the applicant was guilty of misrepresentation and fraud upon Lodge B, Lodge C should not ad\ am ( (wnership of material, we insist, follows the work. When jurisdiction has been invaded, the penalty for the invasion may be enforced, but the ownership of the material is with the lodge con- ferring tin: degrei This has been frequently held in cases of invasion of territorial jurisdiction. [f the candidate is guilty of misrepresentation, the lodge initiating should not only refuse to advance, but should discipline the candidate. If that lodge has been guilty of willful invasion, it should be disciplined, even to the seizure of its charter. The conferring of the degree is not void or voidable. Both lodge and candidate may have acted in entire good faith, in which case the application of the rule laid down by the Grand Master would be unjust, but the adoption of the rule for which we contend, gives ample opportunity for redress in case either lodge or candidate has been guilty of willful wrong. This Grand Lodge has held that when the territorial jurisdiction of a lodge has been invaded, without knowledge or misrepresentation, the injured lodge can not demand that the candidate be not advanced, but only that the fees received be paid to it. Grand Lodge has frequently had to do with cases of conflict of personal jurisdiction, but Grand Lodge has iii no case divested the lodge conferring the degree or degrees of ownership of the material, except by insisting upon charges, trial and expulsion, when the very penal jurisdiction which is invoked is dependent upon ownership somewhere. So long as the material is rejected material, it is the rejected material of the lodge rejecting, but when it becomes Kntered Apprentice, or Fellow Craft, or Master Mason, it belongs to the lodge conferring the degree or degrees. It would but aggravate the wrong to permit Lodge B to make the rejected material of Lodge A, the Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft, material of that lodge. 1'nder other provisions ot law, injured lodges have ample remedy against both lodge and candidate. The Craft at large has no better protection under the rule sought to be enforced, for the degree or degrees can not be recalled. We therefore recommend that the eleventh decision be not concurred in. Although the report of the committee was not concurred in, yet there is so much fallacious reasoning introduced into the document that we can not refrain from giv- ing it brief notice. first— Alluding to the conclusions of the first paragraph— a lodge is a fraternal body, not an election board, and is bound to go behind any fact entering into a question where wrong is surmised. In the second place, ownership of material docs not, necessarily, follow work. If Lodge 1! initiated a candidate without its jurisdic- tion, the act is void so far as it relates to itself, because no illegal proceeding could jeopardize the rights of the lodge within whose realm the candidate resided. It is MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 91 quite as true, also, that the initiate becomes possessed of rights as a Mason, of which the error of Lodge B can not divest him. He becomes a Mason because the lodge that received him was a regular and constitutional body, and through no fault of his own he acquired the distinction; but if he had become a Mason through misrepre- sentation or other fraud, he could have been expelled by Lodge A for the offense, and in no other way could he be dispossessed of his Masonic status — Lodge B hav- ing no jurisdiction over him before or after the fact. If a court of record of Michi- gan convict for an offense, and it is subsequently established that such offense is not against State law, but against the law of the general government, the conviction falls to the ground for want of jurisdiction. The report of the committee is an ingen- iously framed paper, nevertheless Grand Lodge sustained the Grand Master. The committee made an extended report, assuming that an objection after elec- tion should have the same force as black ball. So also thought Grand Lodge. < >ur rule is, that such objection is to be recognized for one year, unless sooner withdrawn. We now come to the elaborate Report on Correspondence by Bio. limes. He has succeeded in grouping a review of fifty-six Grand Bodies (six for two years) into three hundred and fifty-six pages. He seems to be studying brevity and economy. He devotes ten pages to Illinois, and would have exercised greater latitude if he could have found more in our proceedings worthy of mention. He gives everything, not sparing a deserved compliment to Brother Murin for his alacrity. He notices the afflictions through which Past Grand Master Thomas has passed, and expresses much fraternal sympathy. He makes liberal quotations from our work of last year, and as a rule is in accord with our sayings. Well, we did make a blunder last year in commenting upon the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence touching the right of visitation, by a member, to his lodge. "We own the corn" as to facts, but " deny the beans" as to intention. Do you see the point, Bro. Innes ? To think that we administered a rebuke when com- mendation should have appeared, is annoying as well as perplexing. If you won't say anything further upon the subject, you are at liberty to appropriate the " butter- milk" of an entire creamery, provided, however, that Bro. Jennings is not tempted beyond what he is able to bear. As in his preceding reports, he is not very generous with personal opinions, but gives copious extracts from the transactions of other Grand Lodges. With his ( band Lodge, he deprecates the joint occupancy of halls with other associations. We don't think there is enough in the question to justify a contest, and have always held to the opinion that to the common good sense of lodges should be left such matters. " Per- sonally," he is of the correct opinion that objections to advancements are unwar- ranted unless it is permitted the applicant to know, if he so elects, why his progress is disputed. He takes the sensible view that an E. A. or F. C. are Masons, invested with all the rights that their fraternal relations imply. He is considerably tender upon the question of " physical qualifications," and would give liberal construction to the ancient regulation. Our inclinations tend to the same direction, because the 92 AI'I'KMUX ancient regulation upon which Masons found their conclusions is quite as liberal as could be asked. The Grand Lodge of Illinois, however, is rigid upon the subject so far as externals are concerned, but don't object to a petitioner because of defect- in lungs, stomach, kidneys or bowel-. If any of these were visible an objection might be in order; but if a candidate is presented minus a toe or a linger he is not eligible. The old rule provides that a candidate should not be employed "unless he be a perfect YOUTH, having no maim or defects on his body that may render him incapable of learning the art of serving his Master's Lord." If this rule is observed — if it is a landmark — the petitioner should be & youth as well a- having other physi- cal qualifications. We don't intend, however, being drawn into this controversy again. It may be, that some day, a line may be drawn upon which the Fraternity can find a resting place. The Grand Lodge of Illinois insists upon perfec tion in this regard, because by such construction of the ancient regulation controversy thereupon is out of the question. < lur private opinion is, that the matter should be relegated to the lodges. The pamphlet before us is finely gotten up. The arrangement of its contents reflects the highest credit upon the Grand Secretary. M. W. Michael Shoemaker, Jackson, (band Master. R. W. Win. P. [nnes, Grand Rapids, (band Secretary. MARYLAND, 1885. We have upon our table the proceedings of the semi-annual communication of May 12th, M. W. Brother John S. Tyson, Grand Master, again presiding. Our brethren of this jurisdiction understand the value of an energetic and competent officer. His address is of customary brevity. Grand Inspectors submitted an encouraging report. Lodges under its supervi- sion 1 Baltimore) are prosperous and harmonious. Brother Gorgas presented a very significant special Report on Correspondence : Mexii o. A.I the M.iy i ommunication, 1885, of this Grand Lodge, the Committee on Corre- spondence submitted a report on the appli< ation for recognition by the < '.ram! Lodgi ol Maryland of two organizations in Mexico, each claiming to be a sovereign Grand Masonii Body, which report was referred bai k to the 1 ommittee for further investigation. While your committei in theii formei report was disposed to of these organizations, entitled the "Mexican Independent Sym- bols Grand Lodge," a the most regular and legitimate of the two bodies asking foi rei ognition, cm .11 < a nf it- being independent of a Supi I I of the Scottish Rite, and also becausi it had MASONtC ( okkKSI'oXDKXCK. 93 been organized under the auspices of a Grand Lodge, that of Colon and Cuba, with which the Grand Lodge of Maryland holds fraternal relations, yet from the fact that Freemasonry in Mexico is in such an unsettled and complicated condition that it is difficult to determine the proper status of the different bodies existing in that Republic, your committee was unwilling to recommend recognition in either case. Since the May communication, another request for recognition has been received from the body entitled the " Grand Lodge of the Federal District," located at the City of Mexico, and which has again appointed Grand Secretary Medairy its Grand Representative near this Grand Lodge. A careful examination of the claims of these two organizations for recognition necessarily includes investigation into the history of Freemasonry in Mexico, which, so far as relates to the claims of the two bodies under consideration, may be briefly stated as follows : In 1859, Lafou de Ladebat, under the authority of Albert Pike, organized in Mexico a Supreme Council ot the Scot- tish Rite, with jurisdiction over the three symbolic degrees, E. A., F. C. and M. M. The unsettled condition of the country, and the revolution which culminated in the establishment ot the Maximil- lian Empire, its overthrow, and the later revolution which resulted in the present government, very seriously interfered with the prosperity of the Masonic organizations, until peace and a more stable administration enabled the Fraternity to again endeavor to resuscitate and establish Masonic bodies. An organization entitled "The National Mexican Rite of Masonry" was accordingly formed, which, however, although composed of some of the prominent citizens of the Republic, was so irregular and foreign to true Masonic principles, especially on account of its innovations, that it failed to be recognized either at home or abroad as a legitimate Masonic organization. The Su- preme Council of the Scottish Rite, which had, as before stated, been established by Ladebat in 1859, and which claimed jurisdiction over the symbolic degrees, was therefore the only order of Ma- sonry that was regarded with favor. The lodges in each State were under a Provincial or State Grand Lodge, and these were subordinate to a Central Grand Lodge located in the City of Mexico. One of these Provincial Grand Lodges, under the control of the Central Grand Lodge, existed in Vera Cruz at the time the Grand Lodge of Colon (afterwards Colon and Cuba) granted charters which established the Mexican Independent Symbolic Grand Lodge, one of the bodies now claiming recognition from the Grand Lodge of Maryland. The action of the Grand Lodge of Colon in thus forming a new Grand Body in a foreign jurisdiction, was based upon the allegation that the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite had no authority whatever over the symbolic degrees, and therefore the territory of Mexico was unoccupied ; hence the body thus created claims entire jurisdiction over the Republic of Mexico. The origin of the second of these bodies, known as "The Sovereign and Independent Sym- bolic Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Federal District of Mexico," which also claims recognition by the Grand Lodge of Maryland, is as follows : As soon as the Grand Lodge of Colon had established the Mexican Independent Symbolic Grand Lodge at Vera Cruz, the Cen- tral 1 .rand Lodge, which existed under the authority of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, issued a proclamation denouncing such action as illegal ; and in 1883 the Supreme Council issued a balustre which defined the powers of the Central Grand Lodge, and declared all lodges illegal ex- cept those under the authority of the Central Grand Lodge, and still claiming jurisdiction over the symbolic degrees. The effect of this balustre was to add to the confusion which already existed among Mexican Masons, and, accordingly, a convention of prominent Masonic brethren was called during the same year (1883), which declared that the proclamation of the Supreme Council did not satisfy the aspirations of this body, and should be abrogated. Accordingly, an independent Grand Body under the above mentioned title was organized by lodges styled " The Lodges of the Federal District of Mexico," which announced its right to issue patents and diplomas to all the regular Rites, permitting them to work in the corresponding symbolic degrees of the A. A. R., and to make the dignitaries and officers of the bodies of those Rites participate in their labors. The Supreme Council consented to renounce all jurisdiction over the symbolic degrees, and to delegate such au- thority to this new body. This was referred back to the committee for additional investigation. We are not particularly interested in the controversy with Brother Pike, and will only for the present say that a complete history of the organization of the Grand Lodge of Cuba will be found in the proceedings <>f the Grand Lodge of Illinois 1 1877) page 94 APPENDIX. iii. That paper is referred to because Bro. G. shows sympathy for the " Grand Lodge" at Vera Cruz, which is known to have derived its " authority " from < !uba. The justification for the establishment of the " Grand and Independent Masonic Symbolic Lodge at Vera Cruz," will be found quite as repulsive to law as is that of the constitution of the " Central Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Mexican United States." The attention of Brother Pike is directed to the state- ments of Bro. ( ioigas. The " Louisiana resolutions" were also presented by Bro. Gorgas. Action upon them was deferred. He announces a proposition that with concurrence of a majority of the lodges of a territory, when the number is five or more, a Grand Body may be organized. We don't admire the word " live." If tliree (now recognized a> common law i be substituted, there will be harmony between us. lie fully and emphatically endorses exclusive Grand Lodge jurisdiction within its prescribed limits; that a Grand Lodge cannot recognize "other degrees than those of Symbolic Masonry as illustrated by the E. A., F. C. and M. Masons rituals, and that such degrees are under the unreserved control of the lodge." Sound. Bro. G. The legislation of the session was of local importance only. Brother Gorgas presented his concluding Report on Correspondence. We have expected this, but have continued in the hope that he would find opportunity to hold a post to which he is so well adapted. If he can administer an alterative in medicine with as much success as he has in Masonry, we don't see the necessity of a Baltimorian " going hence " till the doctor is of the opinion that his absence is more to be desired than his presence. He opens his review with a slap at Massachusetts for its indefensible " departure." As a Master Mason, we don't propose to enter into a contest relating to the legitimacy of Rites. These must care for themselves. A Mason has the in- herent right to be connected with any reputable association of Masons that does not directly or indirectly trench upon the functions of the lodge. He quotes approv- ingly from our " special report" (1884) touching this question. He does not seem to lie intensely enamored of prerogatives of Grand Masters; believes that a vote granting dimission dissolves membership, and thinks it better to recogni/e " New South Wales" than a body under the dominion of the Scottish Rite. We decline to do either, Bro. Gorgas. The annual communication was held in Baltimore, November 17. The Grand Master makes very fraternal mention of R. W. Brother William II. Jordan, 1'. |. G. W., who died the previous October. I le speaks encouragingly of the " condition of Masonry " within his jurisdiction. I [e also announces four decisions that were commended by Grand Lodge : A virtual Pasi Mastei should not be admitted into a lodge ot actual Past Masters. \ virtual Past Ma ter, if elected Master of his lodge, may lie installed without again r< ing the degree in a lodge of at tual Past Masters. I am not aware ..t any authoritative del isiun on MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 95 this point in Maryland. My own judgment would lead me to decide differently, but the authorities seem to sustain the decision as made. Lock-mood' s Masonic Law, ck. 10, sec. 4. That the Masonic funeral ceremony is Masonic work — and this is the chief reason why none but Masons should participate therein. The lodge should not be " called off" to proceed to the funeral. It remains "open " until the members have returned to the lodge room and the lodge has been closed. A dimitted Mason is not entitled to Masonic burial as a matter of rigid, but the lodge may give him Masonic burial if so disposed. Cases may occur in which this would be eminently proper, as for instance, when he has but lately dimitted with the intention of affiliating with some other lodge, or when he has died after application for membership, and before action thereon. A logical observation of the first two, reveals, as it seems to us, a rare inconsist- ency. The Grand Master's "judgment" leads him in the right direction, and he should have followed that, rather than the proposition that there are four degrees in a lodge of Masons. The immemorial law provides for but three — no wore — not- withstanding Bro. Tyson's authorities are of another opinion. Years ago the Grand Lodge of Illinois kicked this barnacle {degree of P. M.) from her doors, and upon the ground that the ancient, fundamental law did not make any provision for its in- corporation into the lodge — not any more than it has for the multitude of degrees and orders now clamoring for Masonic parentage upon the plea that they have been the product of Masons. Bro. Tyson says that a Masonic funeral ceremony is Masonic work. Ouite true ; nevertheless it is exoteric, but not esoteric. It does seem to be an indefensi- ble stretch of the imagination to assume that, under certain circumstances, a lodge can be opened 'in public. If our distinguished brother will produce any authority for opening, and holding open, a lodge beyond its tyled apartments, we will yield the point. We have come across many queer things in local law and practice among Masons, but the proposal to lyle a public street or cemetery is the most absurd and objectionable of all. The last opinion of the Grand Master is correct ; but we go further; and insist that a member of a lodge "is not entitled to a Masonic burial as a matter of right." In the first place, there is no such thing as enforced charity, neither does there exist any courtesy that can command my appearance upon such an occasion. A Master can summon members to appear at their quarters, but he can not take them, by vir- tue of law, beyond its precinct — not an inch — for any purpose. ( >ur distinguished Brother Gorgas presented a brief special Report on Corre- spondence, referring only to the propriety of recognizing Grand Bodies. Grand Lodge concurred in his opinions by the passage of the following resolutions : Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Maryland hereby extends to the Grand Lodge of South Australia fraternal and a cordial welcome into the sisterhood of Masonic Grand Lodges. Resolved, That action upon the application for recognition from the organization entitled the "Grand Lodge of Victoria" be postponed for the present. Resolved, That while this Grand Lodge sympathizes with the Symbolic Masons of Mexico in their efforts to bring order out ol chaos, and is pleased to hear of the surrender of the claim of the 96 APPENDIX. Scottish Rite of jurisdiction over the first three degrei ent at the present time id recognition to cither of the two Mexican organizations in question. He also reported a resolution commending the action of the Grand Lodge of Quebec. Actum thereon was deferred until the May communication. M. W. Thomas J. Shryock, Baltimore, Grand Master. R. W. Jacob II. Medairy, Baltimore, Grand Secretary. MINNESOTA, 1885. A very noticeable feature of the pamphlet before us, is a correct likeness of our venerable friend, l'ast (hand Master A. T. C. Pierson, the present efficient Grand Secretary and correspondent. If he would get a portion of that white tleece from his face he might yet pass for a young man. Further on is found a representation of Pasl < irand Master George W. I'rescott. We wager a generous sum [as n physiog- nomist) that both are female suffragists. The thirty-second annual communication assembled in St. Paul, January 13. As is usual in this active, important jurisdiction, but few lodges were without repre- sentation—ten. The annual address of the (hand Master, M. W. Bro. Henry K. Denny, is a brief affair, only alluding to local topics. lie reports the Fraternity of the jurisdic- tion prosperous, and " marching in the van of the intellectual and moral influences which have been so largely instrumental in advancing our beautiful State to her pies ent proud position." lie tenderly alludes to the decease of l'ast Grand Master Grove B. Cooley, in August, 1SS4. Our distinguished brother was an accomplished educator, lawyer, and an earnest, exemplary Mason. The (irand Master authorized four new lodges. Other applications were de- clined. Fxperience has convinced him of the impropriety of planting lodges in communities where populations do not warrant active and growing bodies. Entirely correct, Bro. Denny. He thinks it unjust that members of lodges I . D. should pay dues both to the parent body and the new creation, finances of Grand Lodge im- proving. A resolution was offered, as follows : Whereas, Master Masons removing from oni part ol the State to another, and dimitting from their old lodge, have been rejected, and so become permanently unaffiliated. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 97 Resolved, That the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence be requested to report a resolu- tion to this Grand Lodge, embodying in substance the following, viz. : That a M. M. may petition for membership in any lodge in this State without dimitting from his lodge. That, if he is elected to membership in the new lodge, he shall not, however, become a member of it, unless he shall with- in three months thereafter file with the Secretary his dimit from his former lodge, and sign the by- laws of the new one. The Committee on Jurisprudence, to which the proposed regulation had been referred, declined to recommend its adoption (Grand Lodge assenting) upon the par- ticular ground that, "if a Mason can not, under our rules, which allow him to apply for membership anywhere, at any time, regain lodge membership, it must be for the reason that lie is unworthy.'' We are of the opinion that the committee did not " materially err" in its conclusions. Fifteen hundred dollars of the "General Fund" was transferred to " Widows' and Orphans' Fund." In connection with this subject, it is to be regretted that Grand Lodge submitted to a reduction of 20 per cent, of its revenues. As we have so frequently said, a reduction in this direction never meets with obstinate resistance, but when a Grand Body becomes impoverished in consequence of such mistaken policy, an advance rarely meets with favor, and particularly from lodges that pay the least into the treasury of the Grand Lodge. One of the legitimate fruits of this depletion of finances is the action of Grand Lodge in declining to establish remuner- ation to District Deputy Grand Masters (mileage and per diem expenses) for attend- ance at annual communications. Lodges, as a rule, are very economical in ad- ministering finances so long as this thrift does not squeeze a pay-roll. We now come to an address by R. W. Brother J. A. Kiester, Grand Orator. Our readers will bear us witness that we have rarely put Grand Lodge to the expense of printing these fulminations, or any parts of them, but the paper before us is of such rare good sense that it is impossible to forego the pleasure of giving a few para- graphs of one of the best productions of the kind that has come to our notice. After making mention of the attention the Craft of the jurisdiction has received from the most cultivated and exemplary of its citizens, and of principles in which it is rooted, he says : But, suggests the critic, are not the principles of such a society so superficial, so vague, or devoid of substance, as to be of no practical value? We answer that Ancient Craft Masonry, which is not only the foundation, but also the super- structure, of Freemasonry, and is the only Masonry of which I speak here, presents a definite code, not formulated as such indeed, but plainly embraced in its permanent teachings, embracing the primary and unchangeable principles of religion, of politics, of civil rights, of morality, of social and universal relations, and covering all of man's temporal rights, duties and interests. This fact will become evident to the student of the teachings of Masonry who will take the trouble to codify them. He will discover a grand, definite and beautiful system, not, indeed, origin- ated by Masonry, but one which Masonry has had the wisdom to adopt. And here we may chal- lenge the philosopher, the moralist, within or without the order, to test this declaration. As it appears to be necessary to my purposes in these remarks, you will permit me the state- ment of a brief summary of the leading or salient principles of the Masonic code, and here we find, first : i3t 08 APPENDIX. Belief in God, who will reward virtue and punish vice. mity, or the brotherhood of men. The obligation resting upon ;ill men to obey the moral law. The exercise of that toleration which grants to others the same right to entertain and ex] opinions which we claim for ourselves. The equality of all men before God and in natural right and in the eye of the law, and the ex- ercise of that liberty of action, opinion and speech, which, regulated by wise laws, is necessary to the pursuit of happiness. The promotion of peace and the amicable adjustment by arbitration of all difficulties, state or individual, where possible, by mutual friends, instead of a resort to law or to arms. Respect for and obedience to the civil government and the laws under which we live. The cultivation and practical application of that broad charity which " thinketh no evil," and bestows upon the needy with open hand. ( )n such principles all men disposed to be just and inclined to peace, may unite and together work for the good of all. This Institution does not build its platform of principles so high that none but such as are already saints having wings can get up to it, nor so narrow that few can stand upon it when they get there, but it is made for mortal men, full of infirmities, and is broad and strong and may be reached by " all sorts and conditions of men " who are worthy and desire to be made wiser and better and do good to others. And from all this it is seen that Freemasonry has not only the purpose of uniting men in a universal brotherhood above the boundaries ot states, above sectarian creeds and political opinions, but by its teachings to develop and build up character in its members. It is designed to make men more manly, charitable, tolerant, temperate, full of fortitude, prudent in all things, just to all men, to fear God and love his fellow. Is not such an Institution worthy the respect, nay, of the labors, of intelligent men '.' And in answering we need not forget or ignore that other kingdom on earth whose purposes are spiritual — a kingdom higher, more extensive, more lasting, than any merely earthly empire, the kingdom of the soul, of divine origin — the church of the living God. We, as well as others, know lh.it when the true church with its sacred principles shall obtain universal dominion over the hearts and lives of men, there will then be no need for Masonry with its merely temporal objects, as there will then be no need for human governments, or human laws, or human associations of any kind. But we must now take men and the world as we find them, not as we would have them, and we find unhappily that all men are not within that blessed fold, and the war of sects, the clashing "I creeds and the fulmination of dogmas go on, and vice and ignorance and infidelity abound in the world, and the reunion of Christendom delays, and the people, the great mass of the people as a body, as has been elsewhere well remarked, " with its multitudinous form, it gregarious instincts, its multitudinous strength, its aggressive ambition," its panics, its fevers, its delusions, its passions and prejudices, and which should be guided by the exercise of Christian principle in the daily life of the people, and within tbe pale of the church, is not so practically, except to a limited extent. In the meantime this old order of ours, of merely human origin and purposes, working not on s. religious lines, not on political parly lines, not on socialistic or communistic lines, but upon the fundamental and universally recognized principles of morality and justice, is seeking m. in tion, endeavoring to harmonize his conflicting interests ami helping in the moral government of the world. And this it is doing without usurping the place of the church, without interference with it .is has been falsely charged, but with the highest sympathy and affection for it, existing in tens of thousands of hearts, throbbing in the bosoms of those who are members ot both the church .md tin Mason'n Past Grand .Master, Bro. A. T. C. Pierson, now the vigorous Grand Secretary, furnishes a Report on Correspondence that we have read with pleasure. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 99 In his review of Illinois, he quotes without comment our special report upon Rites that assume the function of establishing bodies of the Symbolic Craft. Al- though he says nothing upon the subject, nevertheless we conclude, from his silence, that his convictions are in accord with the action of our Grand Lodge. He also quotes liberally from our review of Massachusetts, upon the " departure " of that jurisdiction, though he is not entirely convinced that our strictures should apply to " Chapter, Commandery and Past Master's degree," etc. This is an important ques- tion, therefore it is to be hoped that he will find time for full investigation. He clings to his " unity" theory in the organization of Grand Lodges; in other words, that the objection of a single lodge estops the organization of a Grand Body, with sovereign jurisdictional powers, notwithstanding the ninety and nine others of the same territory desire the consummation. We do not like to feel that a brother of his acknowledged intimacy with and love for a freedom-loving Fraternity should take a position that elects a single lodge to the Czarship over the whole. His disagreement with the Grand Master of California, that a lodge therein was not at liberty to act upon a petition for affiliation from a resident of another Grand Jurisdiction, meets our hearty approval. In his comments under Colorado, he coin- cides with the suggestion that salaries of Secretaries of lodges should be measured by the amount of dues collected. We are not certain but that some plan (resting upon the proposition) would be of advantage to lodges. He is also of the opinion that lodges should not be invested with power to expel. This opinion we could not endorse. If a constitutional majority is of the belief, after a fair trial, that a member is unfitted for membership, it should not be within the power of any authority to re- verse their conclusions, or determine the measure of a penalty, except upon an ap- peal that finds gross irregularities or injustice in the court of original jurisdiction. M. W. Henry R. Denny, Carver, Grand Master. M. W. A. T. C. Pierson, P. G. M., St. Paul, (band Secretary. MISSISSIPPI, 1886. Grand Lodge is getting from under its financial embarrassments. Members were patriotic enough to submit to a liberal reduction of mileage and per diem ex- penses. The brethren came together in their sixty eighth annual communication Febru- ary 10. The Grand Master (Pro. J. B. Morgan) was greeted by the representatives Illlt APPENDIX. of 259 lodges — only 17 failing to make returns. Membership, 8,422. Three new lodges were authorized, and three charters arrested. The Grand Master recom- mended that "a quorum (lodge) for all purposes, except the conferring of degrees and at funerals, shall be three ; and no business shall be transacted unless that num- ber of members be present." It was not concurred in — Bro. Speed, Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence, being of the opinion: We do not think that it would be wise or expedient to reduce the number necessary to consti- tute a quorum in a subordinate lodge from seven to three, which would practically result in two de- termining, in the event of there being but a bare quorum present, every matter brought before it. This would not be a safe delegation of power, nor would it probably give satisfaction to the absent members. There are ritualistic reasons why a quorum should not be less than seven, which we do not think it expedient to discuss in writing, but which, it seems to us, will readil) suggest them- selves, and which are of sufficient weight to defeat the change contemplated We may add that, in our judgment, a lodge which is so far reduced in strength, or is so far wanting in zeal, that it can not muster a quorum of seven, has not vitality enough to serve any useful purpose. Such lodges are an element of weakness to the Craft generally, and their days are numbered ; they are already in artic- ulo mortis. The remedy proposed will not galvanize them back to life, and it is better to let them die while there is enough remaining of them to make a decent corpse. As there was not any law of inhibition in such cases, the Grand Master came to the conclusion that it was justifiable in a lodge to lease its premises, (or a portion of them) for a grog shop, though he questioned the propriety of thus indirectly com- promising the Fraternity with avenues to the vice of intemperance. Although an- cient lodges were accustomed to meet in caravansaries, yet it was a regulation as far back as 1725 (York) that " no more persons shall be admitted as brothers of this Society that shall keep a public house." Vide Gould, page 407, 4th vol. Even at that early day it was not thought wise to be implicated in associations that then threatened hostility to our professions. Although Masonry does not determine rai- ment, food, or drink, nevertheless it is a temperate organization, and should not indulge in any act that will convey other impressions of its character. The Grand Lodge of Illinois interdicts the use of intoxicants in lodge quarters. The Grand Master concludes his address with an array of decisions that are not objectionable. The report of the Grand Secretary, Bro. J. I.. Power, opens up with illustrations of the impecunious condition of the Grand Body. Happily, during the session, mileage and per diem was reduced, as it should have been. Willi this reduction, another year will place the Grand I'.ody upon a solid basis — so we hope. The following was presented for the consideration of Grand Lodge: Believing, as we do, that the Masonic Air.' of perpetual jurisdiction, as it now is in the State • .I Mississippi, is an unjust one, and one thai i> worthy ol tin- earnest thought and . onsideration ot lb.- ( '.rand I ,odge soon to assemble at Jackson, we would respectfully request ami urge that the mat ter be given the 1 areful • onsideration that it justly demands. We think thai justii e demands that then be a limit to the time lodges have jurisdicti vei theii rejected candidates. Is we now un- .;, 1 tand ili' Ma oni< lato "t Mississippi, a lodge r< i' 1 ting a candidate has perpetual jurisdii tion over MASONIC CORRESPON DENCE. 1 01 him, and can neither confer nor grant any other lodge the permission to confer the degrees on him except by a unanimous vote of the lodge, no matter how many years have passed since he was re- jected. A rejected candidate may move and live for years far distant from the lodge which rejected him, yet that lodge (as the law now stands) is deemed better able to judge of his worthiness to I><- made a Mason than the lodge in whose jurisdiction he may now be living. A few years often make a ^reat change in a man's life, and all other laws recognize the fact. In bringing the above matter before the Grand Lodge of Mississippi we can but believe that we have not only expressed the demands of justice but also the wishes of many lodges and members in this jurisdiction. < The old law was not disturbed. The report of the Committee on Masonic Law and Jurisprudence is an elabor- ate affair. The chairman of the committee, Past ('.rand Master, Brother Frederick Speed, is a lawyer of distinction, and a Mason largely known for his ability and fraternal worth. We regret to find that there are Masons in that dominion who find it necessary to propound queries, as follows : Question 3. What ladies are entitled to receive the Daughter's Degree in Masonry'.' Answer. There are no Masonic degrees into which a female can be admitted. The so-called degrees known as " Adoptive Masonry " are not recognized by this Grand Lodge, and it expresses no opinion as to the qualifications of candidates therefor. Question 4. When a Master Mason's daughter or sister marries a profane is she entitled to the privileges and protection she enjoyed previous to marriage ? Answer. Yes. Question ;. Has a Chapter Past Master authority to install the officers of a lodge? Answer. No. Chapter Past Masters are not recognized in the lodge. Question 6. Is it necessary to confer the Past Master's degree upon one who has received the degree of Past Master in a Chapter previous to his installation as Master of his lodge? Answer. As Blue Lodge Masons we know nothing whatever regarding the Chapter degrees, and the fact that the Master elect of a lodge has received the degree called "Past Master" in a Chapter, does not exempt him from compliance with all the prerequisites to installation as Master, The Committee on Subordinate Lodges make a report, thus : We have also considered the petition of seven members of Lafayette Springs Lodge, No. 274, for the restoration of the charter of said lodge. The facts in the case are as follows ; The charter was surrendered some time during the past year, and the property improperly sold, but bought in by the seven members now petitioning for a restoration of the charter. We recommend that the Grand Secretary be instructed to restore the charter to the seven members petitioning for the same, and that they be allowed to elect and install officers under the regulations of this Grand Lodge, and that the other members be granted certificates of membership on application to the Grand Secretary, in compliance with the law. There are two points in the foregoing that will warrant criticism. It is the general law, that upon the surrender of a charter and its obliteration from the L02 APPENDIX. register, that its life is extinct and cannot be restored. A nnv lodge can be author- ized by dispensation only. In the second place, we don't understand how it is possible to restore a charter without recognizing the rights of all members that were in good standing (legally) at the dale of surrender. If we read correctly, it is a fair inference that some brethren were left out. How could this he., fraternally, accomplished? Does the local law of the jurisdiction justify that class of forced non-affiliation? Perhaps Brother Barkley will explain. We find several reports from ( irand Representatives. Past < irand Master Bro. A. II. Barkley submitted a Report on Correspondence of fifty-two pages. If he had * not so informed us, we should have known upon reading his paper that he had " been there before." In his review of Arkansas he raises this question : I AN A GRAND LODGE CONFER DEGREES? We raised this question several years since, and argued it then at some length, and we simply raise the question now for the purpose of stating one or two facts tor the consideration of those whom it may concern. Our attention was called to this question in the following way : A brother, and member of Magnolia Lodge, No. 60, stated that they had elected Rev. T. C. Tupper, of Little Rock, to receive the degrees in Masonry in said lodge, and was in readiness to proceed therewith ; that if it was the desire of the Grand Lodge to exemplify the work at this present session, Magnolia Lodge tendered the said candidate for that purpose. On page 90 of the proceedings it is stated : " The Craft was then placed in charge of R. W. Grand Lecturer, who proceeded to confer the E. A. degree, and to deliver to the candidate the lectures and charge pertaining thereto." The work was also exemplified in the F. C. and Master Mason's degrees by the Grand Lec- turer. It will be observed that this is not the work of Magnolia Lodge, which elected the candidate, but of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Lecturer presiding, and it is reported as a part of the proceed- ings of Grand Lodge. We know that it is claimed as one of the prerogatives of the Grand Master, that he may make Masons at sight, but that the Grand Lodge may do it is beyond our comprehension. The power to make Masons is one of the things ceded by the Grand Lodge to its subordin- ates at the time the dispensation is issued, and this power is not revoked in the return of the dis pensation, and granting of the charter or warrant. If this fact be true (and we are of the opinion that no well informed Mason will undertake to controvert the position here assumed), then it is fair to infer that the power to make Masons is in tin: subordinate and not in the Grand Lodge. Is Brother Barkley serious in insisting that the officers of a Grand Lodge are not authorized to exemplify rituals for a lodge upon actual candidates? This is something fresh. He objects to the rule that an objection to advancement may be inquired into, and asks the difference between an objection to initiation and advance- 1111 nt. < >ur reply is, that the first relates to a profane and the latter to a brother— a Mason. We would like to have our distinguished brother reconcile his Masonic nants with a rule that permits an attack upon a Mason without granting an op- MASONIC CORRESPONDENT 'K. 103 portunity for defense. His illustration of his position is not seasonable — so it seems to us. His review of our jurisdiction is fraternal. M. W. 1!. T. Kimbrough, Oxford, Grand Master. R. W. |. L. Power, Jackson, Grand Secretary. MISSOURI, 1885. Most Worshipful Brother Robert F. Stevenson, Grand Master, presided over a large representation of the Craft of his jurisdiction, October 13. His address is a cultured production, and in rhetorical display the peer of the best. Sharp and la- conic, too, is the record of his official acts: ARRESTED CHARTERS. The first victim was Dardenne Lodge, No. 124, at O'Fallon, St. Charles County. This lodge, in defiance of law, contracted a debt for hall, the Master and Wardens making the note. The debt has hung over them like a cloud until interest in the lodge had ceased. The Grand Secretary had to dun repeatedly for Grand Lodge dues, and its prospects of recuperation were invisible. Their usefulness departed. I ordered a funeral. McGee Lodge, No. 146, at College Mound, Macon County, was next decapitated. It had ceased to meet, and a number of its members found themselves tied to a carcass from which only the knife could relieve them. It was applied. The Brethren at Austin, in Cass County, had been trying for some time to decently prepare the corpse of Meridian Sun, No. 405, but were unable to do so. They were relieved to the fullest extent. He pours out vials of hot reprobation upon lodges that neglect reasonable in- surance upon their property, and earnestly recommends, " that in the future no indulgence or charity be granted to any fire sufferer which cannot show a clear record on the subject of insurance of its property." Correct. " Cipher rituals," published on speculation, receive merited castigation. Brother Stevenson also comes down with a heavy hand upon some person who has invaded the jurisdiction with his pretentious Masonry, thus : Using the Blue Lodge organization for the advertising and propogating reputed higher de- grees, which wear the livery unauthorized while claiming the recognition of Ancient Craft Masonry, should also receive severe condemnation. It is a growing evil. A short time since I listened for ten minutes only, to the opening words of what was represented would be a Masonic address in which the research and acquirements of intelligent Masons would be unfolded, exhibiting the Insti- tution in all its purity. I am informed that after my departure there was delivered such a tirade of obscenity and vulgarity, garbed as Masonic symbolism, as would shame the fiends of hell. An illustration by means of human forms was even attempted as exemplifying the idea to be conveyed. In I APPENDIX. This vendor of Oriental Paganism, hailing from Massachusetts, and armed with documents from New York, affirming him to be a Master Mason, Royal An li Mason and Knight Templar, is of intelligent appearand and possesses some use of language, but is cither ignorant of Masonic principle or a willful perverter of Masonic Truth and Symbolism. His discourses are poison to Ma- sonry, and his utterances and acts show him disloyal to the bodies which have certified him into re- spectability. I will not name him for he can easily he recognized. We can guess at whom the thunderbolt was aimed. II it be true that th is star in the Masonic firmament was guilty of "obscenity and vulgarity," he should be charged with the offense and expelled the Fraternity. The proposed " Home for the Indigent " receives warm support from the < irand Mister. His remarks upon the question of " Relief" are, in one point of view, ob- jectionable, because they seem to run counter to well established Masonic law — law that comes from God, and thus has its foundations deep down in the best and must manly sympathies of the fraternal heart. We may fail of a correct understanding of Bro. Stevenson's meaning, but from the drift of his remarks we gather the impression that he insists upon the rule of reciprocity or compensation. If we are mistaken in this, we do not find a solitary objection to his beautiful illustration of the subject. In former reports we have held, and now hold, that Charity did not demand any re- turn for her ministrations. While this is true, we should not court membership in a lodge that, being able, should decline an appeal from a sister organization that had exhausted its treasury in behalf of a distressed member; neither should we have a particle of respect for a Mason who had been the recipient of Masonic bounty, who neglected, when opportunity offered, to express his gratitude by some tangible evi- dence of his appreciation of the Samaritan that had cared for him. Neither does charity know anything of jurisdictional lines. The Grand Secretary, M. W. Brother Vincil, Past Grand Master, reports the constitution of thirteen new lodges, and authority to recognize seven new bodies. Three charters were arrested, and quite a number of lodges permitted removal to other localities. Reports from Boards of Relief show that nine Masons hailing from Illinois have received $]2, of which #10.50 has been returned. It is a noticeable feature of the able report of the Committee on Grievance, that simple legal technicalities were not permitted to disturb the action of lodges. Al- though there appeared irregularities in disciplinary proceedings, yet, if the testimony was such that warranted the verdict, and a defendant has had a fair trial, informal- ities were not allowed to set aside the conclusions of brethren. This is just as it should lie. The Committee on Charity take up the subject discussed by the Grand Master, and say : Vour Committee on Charity beg leave to report : That they have given to that portion of the address of our M. W. Grand Master referred t" them, such consideration as our limited time would allow. We heartily endorse his views in regard to inter state regulation by the several Grand Lodges on the subject of Masonic relict, and trust that ere long our sistrr Grand Lodges will adopt such measures as that the giver of relict to a worthy, distressed brother, whose affiliation may be in MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 105 another State, may feel justified in asking the lodge of which the applicant is a member, to refund the amount advam ed, and that upon its refusal so to do, the Grand Master, within whose jurisdic- tion such lodge is located, may compel it to make good such advancement, if in its power so to do. We think the distinction drawn by the Grand Master between charity and te»i/>orary relief, while a brother is sojourning and in distress, is well made, and that in all cases where money is fur- nished to a brother under such circumstances, who has property or means not then at his command, or who, by a provident husbandry of his resources, might be able to refund the same, it should be regarded as a loan, and, in case his lodge has endorsed him as worthy, it should be treated as surety for the amount so advanced, and pay the same, charging it up against the brother, and in case he willfully refuses to pay it, deal with him as for un-Masonic conduct, and rid the Craft of one whose sfongey propensities entirely unfit him to be a Mason. In the language of our Grand Master : " Our law places penal jurisdiction primarily in the immediate lodge of the offender. If it is understood, as it should be, that Masonic relief is conferred as a trust, the recipient thereof having a duty therein, failure to perform that duty, except for just cause, should incur a penalty. There- fore, "under the moral obligation and failure of the recipient, according to ability, to replace all or any portion of the sum expended for him by his brethren, while sojourning and in distress, his lodge having reported him worthy, a claim against it, receiving the sanction and approval of Grand Lodge or Grand Master, should also receive executive enforcement, to the extent at least of the ability of the lodge to meet. It then becomes an indebtedness to his lodge, which only inability can cancel. Such a rule will at least prevent the imposition of unworthy Masons upon us, and restore the faith needed to sustain the principle of relief. Lodges will be careful how they recommend their members as well as of their selection. They can also rid the Fraternity of professional tramps and mendi- cants." We therefore recommend that the Committee on Jurisprudence be instructed to draw up and submit to the Grand Lodge such amendments to our By-Laws as will enforce these views. We hold, primarily, that a lodge can not be held for disbursements to its mem- bers without its assent. It follows, therefore, in fraternal as well as in civil law, that there must be two parties to a contract — that it is not admissible for A to obligate B to the payment of money in the absence of his consent thereto. Missouri may en- dorse the views of the committee, and enact that one lodge may thus be held for the expenditures of another; but would not such legislation be antagonistic to the funda- mental law of the Institution touching the " principal tenets " of our professions ? If it should be thought wise to introduce a distinction between "relief" and " charity," as suggested by the Grand Master and approved by the committee, there does not appear remote justification that the lodge should be legally held for a contract made by a member, except with its authority. We know how to sympathize with brethren of Boards of Relief. Years ago we represented our lodge in an organization of the kind in this city. It was the expe- rience in those days that not to exceed two of twenty applications were worthy of a friendly thought. It was also another experience, that the more money at our dis- posal the more plenty and persistent were leeches. We had one of the most cautious and best of brethren as the representative of the board, nevertheless he was so fre- quently imposed upon that it was often thought wise to dispense with the organiza- tion, and but for the sudden precipitation of its dissolution through the misfortunes of its financial head, it would have disappeared through the weight of imposition constantly thronging its approaches. We are not by any means hostile to this class of benevolence, nevertheless it is undeniably the fact that where there is publicly ad- vertised prey, vultures congregate. We admire the pluck of our Missouri brethren, 106 APPENDIX. l>ut if experience is of any value we are inclined to the belief that they will ere long find it the better plan to throw such responsibility upon lodges. [f " Masonic relief is to be conferred as a trust," it becomes a mere business transaction between the almoner and the beneficiary, and should be conducted ac- cordingly, and by sending papers to his lodge for collection ; and if it can then be established thai he has the ability and won't pay, treat the thief as you would any other fraud. ( >ur Grand Lodge will not permit its constituents to be collecting agen- cies at the same time if a brother is said to be indebted to another, and it can be proven that the debtor fraudulently withholds an adjustment of his obligations, he can be disciplined for that as for any other offense. It is a pleasure to state that a venerable brother, a Past 'band Master, was ten- derly cared for. In view of difficulties that had arisen in consequence of a lodge ventilating its grievances by means of a printed circular, Grand Lodge wisely ordered "that here- after no subordinate lodge in this jurisdiction shall issue a circular letter to its sister subordinates, or to the public, until it has presented the same to the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge, and obtained his or its approval thereof." The difficulties afflicting the Grand Lodge of Quebec were referred to a special committee. The Grand Body concurred in the opinion of the committee, heartily condemning the contumacious lodges in question, but did not advise further action in the premises for the present. The Committee on Correspondence reported a series of resolutions, to-wit : Vour Committee on Foreign Correspondence would submit the following, and asL its approval : Whereas, The Grand Orient of France, some years since, by an official act, eliminated from tin- Ritual and Constitution of Freemasonry in that country the name of God, ami repudiated all allusions to Him as the Grand Architect of the Universe ; and, WHEREAS, Most of the Grand Lodges of the world have proclaimed non-intercourse with the ( irand ( hient of France, on account of its atheistical deliverances ; and, Whereas, Freemasonry, without God, is nothing; and, Whereas, We must regard all Masons and lodges who acknowledge and accept the atheisti- cal anil un -Masonic doctrines, promulgated by said Grand Orient, as unworthy of our recognition ; and, Whereas, There are Masons who hail from lodges in that jurisdiction who disclaim and re- pudiate all and every sentiment of atheism enunciated by said Grand ( hient of France, and, being g 1 iiien and Masons, are entitled to recognition and consideration ; therefore be it Resolved, By the t irand Lodge ■>( Missouri, thai ..II Masons hailing from lodges ai knowledge in allegiance to the Grand < Irienl of France, who may apply to visit lodges in this jurisdiction, be n quin d, in addition to the usual test, to solemnly declare an unfeigned belief in the one living ami tl lie ( rod. Resolved, That unless said proposed visitor shall express his « ilHngneSS to make such de< l.n ation iii ad\ of .my test presented, thai bis claims to examination be ignored ; and, further, that he must affirm that he was made a Mason in a lodge in said jurisdiction before the Grand Orient proclaimed its atheistii al i reed, and that the lodge required and he assumed the obligations of Ma sonry in the name of God. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 1 1 >1 No Mason will object to the condemnation of French infidelity ; but many will object to the proposition that it is possible for a Mason to retain connection with an organization avowedly hostile to the recognition of the Supreme Being. Further than this, we decidedly question the propriety of recognizing" a person as a Mason whose only claim to the distinction rests upon the supposition that any power outside the lodge is mantled with authority to confer the Symbolic degrees. By what law of the Symbolic Craft is a Supreme Council justified in assuming jurisdiction over the Masonry of our fathers ? Would Bro. Vincil, or the Grand Lodge, acquiesce in an assumption of the Grand Chapter or Grand Commandery of Missouri, that they are charged with authority to confer the degrees of E. A., F. C. and M. M. ? This is the Masonry | ! i of France, pure and simple, except in the name of the organiza- tion (Grand Orient) that presumes to trespass upon the immemorial law of the Fra- ternity. The brethren of most Grand Lodges of our continent are yet indifferent to the subject, but the day is not far off when the question will be asked of Grand Orients, by every legitimate Grand Lodge of the world, by what right they, or other organizations, assume control of the Symbolic degrees. It will also be asked, pointedly too, by what law of the Fraternity is a Craftsman, belonging to associations of Masons disconnected with the lodge, and outside thereof, permitted to recognize bodies and their members as Masons, that unlawfully claim and practice the prerog- atives of the lodge. The Grand Lodge of Illinois, long since, recognizing the exclusive jurisdiction of independent, sovereign Grand Lodges over the Symbolic de- grees, declined to admit to her lodges visitors hailing from, and having so-called de- grees conferred by, associations of which the lodge knorus nothing. M. W. Past Grand Master, Bro. John D. Vincil, is correspondent. For econom- ical reasons, breathed upon him as we suppose by brethren who have a much higher regard for lucre than intelligence, he has shortened up his work to 143 pp. If our brethren of Missouri apprehended the standing they occupy, and coming from the labors of such Masons as Brother Vincil, they would permit him time and space with- oul a grudge. When he touches upon the prerogatives of Grand Masters and perpetual juris- diction over rejected candidates, his invective is terrific. He neither " spares age, sex nor previous conditions" in denouncing doctrines that we, with others, find at the foundation of the ancient Fraternity. 'In one place he derides the fact that labor commences with rough ashlar brought up from the quarries of life. Upon this de- nial rests, as it would appear, his conclusions that the teachings of the ancient law, touching intermeddling with the work of another, is without application, and that " work " only applies to conferring degrees. If this be sound doctrine, then a re- jected or elected candidate should be at liberty to try elsewhere without regard to time or />lace; because, unless labor has been commenced with the reception and reference of his petition, he can not be said to be under obligations to the rejecting or electing lodge. As a sequence, therefore, he should be allowed to consult his own inclinations in the selection of a Masonic home; and upon the hypothesis that any act of the lodge while not at labor is valueless. A lodge, however, is said to beat labor when opened for the transaction of business; hence it is that Grand HIS AIM-KNDIX. Lodges will not permit the withdrawal of an application for the degrees after it has been formally received by a lodge and the rough ashlar thus placed before the breth- ren for their inspection. " Work " then commences, Bro. Vincil. His review of Illinois is a frank avowal of some positions that we do not have inclination to controvert; particularly the expediency or propriety of our pay-roll. An ineffectual attempt was made to modify this abnormity. He compliments Bro. Munn, and declines to enter into competition with him or Bro. Parvin " for the honor of being first in bringing out their Grand Lodge journals." He also thinks our Grand Lodge was "well opened" if the length of our Grand Chaplain's invocation is good testimony. Well, Bro. Vincil, his heart was yearning for Western brethren, and he did not know when or where to stop. Nothing selfish about Bro. Gillham. (hand Master browning is complimented for an excellent address, and Bro. Munn for a painstaking officer. We also come in for a share of his coveted good will. In his observations under Indian Territory, he is found taking Strong, sensible ground against the barbarity of inflicting penalties in the absence of a hearing. He concurs in the opinion of Bro. Gorgas ( Maryland I, that : The Vera Cruz Body, in the opinion of your committee, is the most legitimate of the two Mexican organizations asking for recognition, as this is not composed of lodges which hold their charters from a Scottish Rite Supreme Council ; was not created by such a Supreme Council ; but, on the contrary, derives its power and authority from a Symbolic Grand Lodge, that of Colon and Cuba, in fraternal accord and recognition with the Grand Lodge of Maryland. The facts of history are, that but three of the eleven lodges that entered into that organization were legitimate bodies — the remaining eight coming from a Su- preme Council, or bodies erected by such organization or organizations. Bro. Vincil quotes a decision of the Grand Master of Michigan, justifying a de- mand for dues during suspension, and says: The above law requires a money consideration for disabilities suffered by some poor brother who could not pay his dins. \ Ys, a money equivalent must be forthcoming for the time he was cut o IT from all Masonic privileges, as well as the amount for which he was suspended. Money exacted to support a lodge from a man who was dead to Masonry for years, under sui h circumstances, is secured upon principles too questionable to bear discussion. To charge a brother for something he never received, savors of everything but Masonry. , For what was he chargeable while under sus- pension? Membership? He had none For privileges? These were taken away when his sus- pension began. Rights and benefits? He enjoyed none. He was therefore chargeable for being suspended, for that was his only status. We ask our Michigan brethren one question. Do not all Masonic disabilities end, when the cause of those disabilities is removed''. If not, why not ? But the ruling of (hand Master Clark ends in these words : I lut if the suspension was for any other cause than non-payment of dues, then your lodge has no right whatever to make the aforesaid requirement as .1 1 ondition of restoration. Bro. Jones was suspended for non-payment of dues, because he could not pay and meet other Claims upon him. When able to pay, and seek restoration, he found that the lodge had kept a " running account" against him during the years of his suspension. What must 1 pay this big bill lor? I nevei received any benefit from the lodge or Masonry. " But you must pay this bill be- cause you did not pay your former bill" replies his lodge. A double punishment , imposing pen allies twice for the same offense [t is as tin-Masonic as it is cruel. But here is Bro. Smith, who MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 109 was suspended for "gross un-Masonic conduct." He lost his membership at the same meeting when Bro. Jones went out for pecuniary inability — dollars and cents. Bro. Jones must /ay up for the time he was out and unable to get back. At the same meeting when he is restored, Smith's suspension is removed by remission or expiration of sentence, and he and Jones came in together. Jones says to Smith, ■* how much did you have to pay before the lodge restored you? " " < >li. nothing at all, I was under suspension for GROSS un-Masonic conduct. They did not charge mc any dues while I was out." And Jones says, sotto voce, " and this is Freemasonky." Under Mississippi, he concurs in the conclusion that : The special matter relative to Rite of Memphis referred to the Committee on Law and Juris- prudence by the Grand Lodge at its last annual communication has been under consideration, and we respectfully report that said Rite is one with which we have no personal acquaintance or knowl- edge, and that we deem it a matter over which the Grand Lodge of Masons, or their subordinates, have no jurisdiction whatsoever. Well, suppose the Rite of Memphis, or any other association of Masons, insist upon the right to establish Craft lodges, then what ? Bro. Vincil will probably re- ply, that it is time enough to act when such attempt is made. Would it not be bet- ter, however, to instruct lodges and brethren in their duties touching such matters, rather than permit them (ignorantly) to cherish a viper that you would be called upon to destroy ? It is said " that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." It had been our intention to have given place to much more of Bro. Vincil's valuable report, but having been complimented by a good brother, who suggested that our last paper was the better for being of less proportions than its predecessor, we must quit Missouri or suffer loss in his estimation. The good Lord permitting, we shall be in St. Louis next year, when we expect to meet the hundreds of brethren who have given our sister jurisdiction its deserved distinction. Give us a plank upon which to rest our sixty-tive-year-old bones and we will be content. Securing forage is the least of our propensities, at home 0) abroad. M. W. James W. Boyd, St. Joseph, Grand Master. M. W. John D. Vincil, P. G. M., St. Louis, Grand Secretary. MASSACHUSETTS, 1885. The first special communication of the year was held in Hyde Park, February 16, M. W. Abraham II. Howland, Jr., officiating at the dedication of a new Masonic hall. The first quarterly communication was held in Boston, March II. A petition Ill) APPENDIX. was presented asking a charter for St. John's Lodge, Concepcion, Chili. Granted. A very fraternal memorial to the memory of Past Senior Grand Warden, R. \V. I •'. Lyman Winship, was made of record. The question of avouchment came up upon an amendment to the constitution proposed by the Grand Secretary, R. W. Sereno D. Nickerson, providing that " ex- cept on a duly authorized public occasion, no person shall be admitted into a tyled lodge who is not known to be a Mason in good and regular standing, unless he is vouched for by some brother, or produces the certificate of some Grand Lodge and passes a satisfactory examination. Provided, however, that such certificate shall not lie required from brethren coming from jurisdictions where certificates are not issued." This proposed amendment was followed by another proposition, that "a brother vouching for a visitor must be able to say that he has sat in a lodge with him, and on what degree the lodge was open." As the questions growing out of such pro- posed legislation were fully considered at the annual communication, they will be considered hereafter. A special communication was held in Fall River, May 22, M. \V. I low land pre- siding over dedicatory exercises. ]5oth the Grand Master and Rev. Bro. Martyn Summerbell delivered able addresses. In the evening there was a large social gath- ering. Music, dancing, recitations and a supper "crowded the hours with amuse- ment and enjoyment for all present." Just so. In a community of Masons where the social element predominates will be found thriving lodges. The quarterly communication of Tune 10 was well attended. The Grand Mas- ter announced the death of R. W. Brother Charles W. Slack, Corresponding Grand Secretary; also the death of R. W. Brother P. C. Jones, Past Grand Warden. Three thousand dollars was restored to the Sigourney Fund. A complaint was made against Tuscan Lodge for acting upon the petition of a rejected candidate, and conferring the degrees in less time (six months 1 than was permissable by the law of the Grand Body. The committee to whom the matter was referred determined that the calendar month was contemplated by the constitution, and not the lunar period as insisted upon by the lodge. The committee also re- ported : " Being of the opinion that calendar months were intended by the Grand Constitutions, we think that was admitted to the degrees in Tuscan Lodge contrary to Masonic law, and is a clandestine Mason, and we recommend that the question whether he shall be healed, or not, be left to the discretion of the M. \Y. ( irand Master, agreeably to the Grand Constitutions." Italics ours. We demur to the conclusions of the committee that "Masonic law" punishes the guiltless party to the transaction. It may be the law of Massachusetts that the blunder of the lodge is to be visited upon the head of the poor blind candidate, who through no fault of his own acquired the degrees, but we do not know of but a jurisdiction or two that cherishes a like ab- normity; hence it is not " Masonic law," except within the borders of Massachusetts, MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. Ill Pennsylvania and one or two other jurisdictions. Jt would have been held in Illi- nois that the lodge was the transgressor and should have been disciplined, rather than the innocent party. Webster defines "clandestine' - as something " hidden, se- cret, private, concealed, underhanded, sly, fraudulent." Did Mr. get through the lodge slyly, fraudulently ? If so, he should have been arraigned and expelled. The quarterly communication of September 9 was held in Boston. The Grand Master announced the death of R. W. Brother Charles R. Train. It was also an- nounced that the Senior Past Grand Master of the jurisdiction, the venerable Brother William D. Coolidge, was seriously ill. Soon thereafter, on the 15th day of Sep- tember, a special communication convened in Newton to perform the funeral rites of the Fraternity over his remains. The annual communication was held in Boston, December 9, M. W. Brother Abraham H. 1 lowland, Jr., presiding over a large representation from lodges. He opens his annual address with a pleasant assurance of the prosperous and united con- dition of the Craft throughout the jurisdiction. He presents a long list of brethren who have passed to the other shore. His official visitations were numerous, and at- tended with happy results, showing, moreover, that he has given his best energies to the welfare of his charge. The visit to Washington to participate in the exercises of the dedication of Washington Monument, is graphically set forth. Under the heading of dispensations, it is found that authority was issued for the election of a Master, the brother elected declining installation. Under such circum- stances the Grand Master in Illinois would have ordered a new election of officers, upon the ground that all eligible to the position of Master, though elected to other stations, should not be barred the right to sit in the East should the brethren so de- termine. The Grand Master considered two applications for new lodges. Neither granted. The first was for a lodge in Elmina, a British possession on the west coast of Africa. Bro. Howland thus states the case : " Lodges under the English Constitution already exist at Elmina, and the country is under English rule and protection, being gar- risoned by English soldiers. If a new lodge were needed in that locality it seemed to me advisable that it should be established under the authority which had already occupied the ground, and which could better judge in regard to the situation." If we understand Brother Howland, he does not relinquish the right to estab- lish lodges in any political division of the earth not occupied by a local Grand Lodge. We should have been glad, however, if the dispensation had been granted, for the purpose of giving Mother England another opportunity to assert her sovereignty, as in the case of Manitoba in 1882, in an attempt to establish a lodge in the Province of Gibraltar. At the last communication of our Grand Lodge the sovereign right of jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Quebec over all the lodges of her domain was vindicated by interdicting fraternal relations with the three recusant bodies therein holding charters from the Grand Lodge of England. The latter (as we are in- formed) seems to be incensed. We shall, nevertheless, survive the shock, at the I 1 2 APPENDIX. same time feeling a regret that an old ami distinguished Grand Lodge declines to take its own prescriptions. We should have been glad, therefore, if Grand Mas- ter Howland had issued the dispensation, if for no other purpose than to have given the aged parent an additional opportunity to have denied to others what -lie so per- sistently claims for herself. Brother Rowland alludes to "Masonic Ciphers." It has been a mystery to the writer that these pestiferous publications have not received the attention of jurisdic- tions from which they emanate. There is a concern in New York composed, as we understand, of Masons in regular standing, who have been engaged for years, in violation of law and obligation, in publishing their trash. Why are they permitted communion ? The remainder of Brother Ilowland's admirable address' is devoted to matters local. The (Irand Lodge of South Australia was recognized. Grand Lodge adopted a resolution thanking the heirs of William F. Weld for their courtesy in restoring the box and silver-plate deposited on the 14th of October, 1830, in the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple erected on the corner of Tremont street and Temple Place. An interesting relic. In the matter of an amendment to the constitutions offered by Bro. Nickersoni on avouchments, at the quarterly communication of March, 1SS5, ami to which al- lusion has been heretofore made, the committee to which it was referred made a lengthy and able report, concluding as follows ; " 1. Being vouched for by some brother present. 2. Producing a certificate of some Grand Lodge, and passing a satisfactory ex- amination. 3. Being personally known to and recommended for examination by some brother present and passing such examination." Then amendments were offered as the conclusion of Section 26, which reads : " Except on duly authorized public occasions, no visitor shall be admitted into a tyled lodge, unless he complies with the following conditions." A query arises : Why the distinction between "tyled lodges" upon public and private occasions? We can not understand why we should not be as guarded in the admission of visit- ors into "tyled lodges" upon public occasions as upon any ordinary lodge meeting. The consideration of tin- subject was deferred. A staled communication was held on the 27th of December for installing officers and celebrating the Least of St. John the Evangelist. There were many good speeches, and we hope our home readers will be interested in a tew extracts. Pro. William Parkman, Senior Past Grand Master, said; MASONIC CORRESPO N DENC E. 1 1 3 Let me say to you, brethren, that where I find a lodge that never has a social gathering, that lodge never has any strength, never has any growth, and is not of much good to the Grand Lodge or anybody else. But when I find a lodge whose members sit down and break bread together and enjoy these creature comforts, I find that lodge is growing in strength and good-fellowship. I cannot help feeling that those brethren who expressed the sentiments which you heard down- stairs, and those who shall follow me, will exert a beneficent power, and with renewed strength, and they will infuse into their fellow-members a touch of that fraternal sentiment which is the strength of Masonry, underlying the very foundation of this Institution. Old King Solomon used to call his men together for feasting and social enjoyment, and every Grand Master must have his men together in these days, charged with good-fellowship. Every jurisdiction should feel the influence of such meetings, from year to year. There is not a brother within the sound of my voice but will feel richer for this entertainment — not simply for what he eats and drinks, but because of his share in the good-fellowship and sincere Fraternity. We call particular attention to selections from an admirable speech delivered by the Rev. Past Master, Fielder Israel : I have nothing wise or witty at my command at this moment, and you have heard a speech, as usual, from a greatly admired Past Grand Master, brimful of both. So you will allow me to be a little grave, or, as an old preacher, a holy, happy man, and Ma- son, used to say, " sweetly solemn," while I detain you for a moment or two. I want to say then, Most Worshipful and brethren, that after careful and patient study of the principles and practices of Masonry for nearly forty years, I think I have found in it a solid, sound, substantial philosophy of life ; a true doctrine of human duty and human destiny. It teaches us that life is for enjoyment, for blessedness. As men — "living souls" — we are permitted to be here for the very purpose of enjoying ourselves after the manner of our fathers. And when I remember that there is not only a feast of " fat things full of marrow, and wines on the lees well refined," for our bodies — but one of mutual, manly love and good-will for our souls — when I remember, too, that here before me are men whose hands I have grasped as only a Mason can, and upon whose hearts I have laid my heart, and felt the responsive beat of love, then I know what your duty is towards me, and what my duty is towards you. In other words, I find in the sys- tem and service of Masonry the true Fraternity of race and the fulfillment of the commandment which was in the beginning, " Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." (Applause.) The attention of men was at first called to the recognition and realization of the Being of God. They were required to love Him, under both promises and penalties. But when The Divine Man came. He turned the minds and manners of men, Manward — not away from the heart of God, but towards each other's hearts as well and equally. " For the Second is like unto the First." Then the foundations of this Institution were laid, and the stone which the builders rejected became the head stone of the Corner. Our venerable Brother Parkman mentioned the name of Coolidge a moment ago. The brother who sat next me said, " Brother Coolidge is just as near to us as he can be to-night." I believe it. We know where he is, if there is any reliable revelation in the human book and in the human bosom. We believe he knows " the great secret," and stands in the wisdom, and strength, and beauty of his glorified manhood before God, and looks in the face of the good Father and says, " Here am I." The shadow of his presence is to us to-night, in the midst of our festivities, a benediction. Brother Parkman met him a little while before his translation, and in his genial and cordial way said, " William, how are you to-day?" Coolidge replied: "William, if you want to know how I feel, just turn to the eighth chapter of Deuteronomy and the second verse." Do you know how it reads, brethren? «5J 1 1 I AITKXDIX. " \in! thou shall remember all ihc way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee and to prove thee, to know what was in thy heart, whether thou wouldest Keep his commandments, or no." The disappointments, and even the hard disciplines of life, are means of enjoyment, and serve to educate us for greater and divine bliss in The Beyond. Brethren, our destiny does not depend upon our death, but upon our doings. " The Beyond" should give us no concern. Only let us do as we are taught here, and fill up the measure of our days with everything good, and true, and excellent ; and then some night we may lie down to sleep in peace and quietness, and wake up in the morning sweetly folded in the " Everlasting Arms." So, brethren, let us live on in the faithful discharge of the duties of life, and with the great hope that we shall enjoy eternity together, according to our several capacities and our individual characters. Bro. Woodbury and others made elegant addresses. M. W. Abraham II. I low land, Jr., Boston, Grand Master. R. W. Sereno D. Nickerson, P. G. M., Boston, Grand Secretary. MONTANA, 1885. Of age ! This is the twenty-first annual communication of our sister jurisdic- tion, held in Helena, October 7. A special communication convened in the same locality June 16, to place the corner-stone of a new Masonic Temple being there erected. Four lodges and one Commandery participated. A complimentary banquet to Grand Lodge followed, under the auspices of a chapter of the Eastern Star. The estimated cost of the fabric is $50,000. The oration was delivered by M. W. Brother II. K. Comly, 1'. G. M It is an excellent paper. He does not indulge in a reprehensible effort to trace the origin of the Institution to Solomon or his ancestors. We looked it over before reading, and not rinding Israel's great king mentioned, turned back and gave it the attentive perusal it merits. From the report of the Grand Secretary, Fast Grand Master Bro. Hedges, it is found that the reduction of dues last year is working financial degeneration. Quite likely. We never knew a different result. It was unanimously voted to amend by laws of Grand Lodge, providing that " 110 piow issued by the Master or Wardens, except by vote of the lodge, shall en- title the holder to a vote in the Grand Lodge." MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 1 1 5 The address of the Grand Master, M. \V. S. W. Langhorne, is a four and one- half page document. Two questions are presented. A quotation is given, embody- ing the first : It often happens that a Grand Master is appealed to by some member of a lodge, who dissents from a ruling of the Master, asking an opinion on the point in controversy, and to which a reply is looked for, and some brethren may feel aggrieved that their communications elicit no response. There must be two sides to make an issue. No brother has the right to call in question the ruling of a Master, except by an appeal in the usual form, showing the issue he will present to the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge, so that the Master may present his side of the case. It would be man- ifestly unjust and unfair for the brother to obtain a decision from a Grand Master upon an ex parte statement and then flaunt it in the face of the Master and say " I told you so." To all such I would say that the failure to receive answers does not arise from a feeling of superiority or that the (hand Master is deaf to their appeals, but that it is a necessary precaution he exercises, that he does not venture opinions upon the showing of one side of the case, and has due regard for what the conse- quences might be from an opinion given to others than the Master of the lodge, or to the lodge under seal. It is true that a member is not at liberty to question the validity of a Master's conclusions while in lodge assembled, but it is equally true that right of appeal there- from involves the right to be heard. It is the doctrine in Illinois that its Grand Master is not only the presiding officer of Grand Lodge, but the Grand Master of Masons within the jurisdiction, and to whom the humblest of the Fraternity may ap- ply for advice or information. The brethren of our bailiwick would not long toler- ate a Grand Master who continued deaf to their wants. To whom would a Mason go lor official opinions upon questions of law if not to the Grand Master, who is ex- clusive authority for three hundred and sixty-two days of the year? We do not im- agine that Bro. Langhorne intended any want of good feeling or respect for the brethren, but we feel that he does not comprehend his relations to the Fraternity of his jurisdiction. He next mentions a case wherein a Master had issued a pamphlet " bitterly as- sailing the Holy Bible and casting ridicule upon' its teachings." The matter was re- ferred to a special committee, who reported as follows: Your special committee to whom you referred that portion of the Most Worshipful Grand Master's address, referring to certain pamphlets or books written and promulgated by a certain Worshipful Master of this Grand Jurisdiction, in which the author denounces in bold and defiant terms the fundamental principles upon which our Institution is planted, to-wit : Faith in God and a hope of a future state of reward. The said author also ridicules the teaching of the " Book of the Law" which Masonry pro- claims to be the " First Great Light" in our order, and declares himself as holding no allegiance to the Bible or its God. For these reasons your committee denounce the holding and promulgation of such sentiments as High Treason against Masonry and totally subversive of all its teaching and foundation, and if permitted to pass unrebuked would render us as Masons obnoxious to the charge of gross hypocrisy and dereliction of duty. Your committee feel deeply the magnitude and importance of responsibility resting on them, from the fact that a crime of such magnitude charged against a Mason as the denial of our " Faith in God " and hope of immortality has never before come up before this Grand Lodge, and is unknown in this jurisdiction. 110 APPENDIX. In view of these facts we feel a delicacy and hesitancy in recommending such punishment as we believe should be inflicted upon one so recreant to every principle of our loved order. We would therefore respectfully refer the meed of punishment of so grave a crime to the Grand Lodge for their infliction. After some discussion, it was agreed to suspend the offender from the functions of his office, and cite him to appear before a commission for trial. It is gratifying to see that Grand Lodge acted promptly. Such characters have no place in the lodge. A man is at perfect liberty to think as he is inclined — to make a donkey of himself, if so disposed — but he is not at liberty to deride the fundamental doctrines of the Fraternity and continue within its borders. The following regulation was adopted: Resolved, That all non-affiliated Masons in this jurisdiction shall have the privilege of visit- ing lodges for the period of sixty days, but such non-afliliates shall petition some lodge within thirty days thereafter for membership, or contribute to some chartered lodge in this jurisdiction its regular dues, and in case of non-compliance shall be debarred from all Masonic rights and privileges, as fol- lows : First — They shall not be allowed to visit any lodge. Second— They shall not be allowed to appear in any Masonic procession. Third— They shall not be entitled to Masonic charity. Fourth — They shall not lie entitled to Masonic burial. That all laws in conflict with the provisions of this resolution are hereby repealed. Sorry to see legislation that drops a Grand Lodge from its exalted position as a charitable body to that of an insurance agency. If a non-affiliate declines the pay- ment of lodge dues he is cut off from Masonic charity. If, on the other hand, he makes contributions he becomes a legal claimant to lodge funds in the event of in- digency. Is this not a correct statement of the case? For what other purpose does the unaffiliate pay dues? He does not attain to a solitary right of membership by so doing — not one ; but by the very terms of the regulation rights are acquired that could be enforced by a civil tribunal. If this does not constitute insurance, we do not comprehend the meaning of language. If Brother A, a non-affiliate from Illinois, permanently domicile-, in Mon- tana, and pays dues to some lodge therein to retain Masonic standing and rig/Us to charity (!), will it be contended that in the event of want he could not enforce charity (!) (for which he has paid his money) through the courts. > We well know the burdens imposed by tramps, claiming Masonic parentage, upon the sympathies of Montana brethren. We also know that there are thousands perambulating our Western domain living upon the food that comes from willing hands; but we are not of the opinion that such condition of things justifies a disre gard for a fundamental law of the Fraternity. I'ast Grand Master, Bro. Cornelius I ledges, submitted a Report on Correspond' ence that fully justifies the commendations of his cotemporaries. I lur distinguished brother is a writer of much more than ordinary merit, and, as a rule, entertains cor- rect views of the jurisprudence of the ('raft. It is a pleasure to End him in accord with the opinion of I!ro. Mill (California), thai both Entered Apprentices and fellow Crafts are Masonic brethren ami entitled to Consideration in the event of objections MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 11' to advancement. How a Grand Lodge can tolerate any other doctrine is a mystery beyond our comprehension. He also brings his gleaming battle-ax to bear upon those who bring the Fraternity into merited contempt by their " extravagant claims to the antiquity of Masonry." This attempt to trace the Fraternity back, back, to the dawn of human history, is twaddle too cheap for any sensible man to repeat. Masonry is old enough. Men of worth are not to be captivated by such stretches of the imagination ; neither do they attempt investigation of whimsical tradition that is without a scintillation of fact to be found in its favor. Good men, such as are wanted for the edifice, will judge of our utility to the world by what we are — they will not ask our age, but will weigh our professions by the lives we live. Is this not true ? In his review of the District of Columbia, he says : The center of interest in the volume before us is in the report of Bro. Grand Secretary Single- ton, who was an active Mason when we were quite a small boy, and whose funded experience con- stitutes an almost exhaustless resource tor almost any emergency. Naturally we found satisfaction in Bro. Singleton's views on Grand Lodge sovereignty and the formation of new Grand Lodges. His long familiarity with Masonic history and his access to authorities, enable him to quote texts by chapter and verse, where we could only steer by general principles and a self-respecting inde- pendence. When the British Grand Lodges acknowledge as binding what is laid down as settled law in America on this subject, we will agree to be bound by the same. We believe Grand Lodges to be the creatures of lodges as well as their creators. Instead of Provincial Grand Lodges being imposed on Provinces, without act or assent, we prefer, on general principles, to see the lodges of such Provinces form their own Grand Lodge. In fact we know of no sort of Grand Lodge deserving the name, that is not composed of the Masters and Wardens of particular lodges. His remarks are for a purpose, and which will hereafter appear. We totally dissent from his assertion that Grand Lodges are the creatures of lodges and by them created. On the contrary, lodges are the creations of Grand Lodges since the con - stitutional organization of the latter. From the original constitution in 1717, Grand Lodges have succeeded each other by virtue of inherent powers entering into their organization, and derived from principles in fraternal government that have never been questioned. To illustrate : The officers of the three lodges who organized the Grand Lodge of Montana derived their powers and authority from the Grand Lodge or Grand Lodges that made them Masters and Wardens. Lodges, as such, were without power in the premises. They are not the organizers of Grand Bodies. They may advise that such supreme authority be established, but it remains for those, Masters and Wardens, who are alone vested with the power to act to establish a paramount government. Are we not correct? If not, why not? Did Bro. Hedges ever know of lodges creating a Grand Body? Certainly not ; but he does know that all Grand Lodges come of authority created by their progenitors, and not from any powers existing in lodges. Officers of lodges are selections by the brethren, but it remains for a Grand Body to confirm by installation — 'the installing officer represent- ing the Grand Lodge through its Grand Master. Bro. Hedges intended by his re- marks to fortify a justification for the recognition of the "Grand Lodges of New South Wales and Victoria." Let us turn back a little. He presented for the con- sideration of Grand Lodge what are known as the "Louisiana Resolutions," the first two reading : 118 APPENDIX. ist. A majority of the lodges, regularly constituted in a territory, may organize a Grand Lodge, with all the powers usually conceded to a Grand Lodge ; provided, not less than three lodges do concur therein, and all the lodges within the territory have been duly notified of the intended action to form a Grand Lodge. 2d. A Grand Lodge, thus legally constituted in a new territory, is sovereign over the whole of that territory, anil all the lodges therein located must yield obedience to her and receive new char- ters from her or be considered in insubordination and irregular. Bro. Hedges presented a modification of the foregoing, which was adopted, at his suggestion, by the Grand Body, The first reads : A majority of the lodges, not less than three in any Country, State, Province or Territory, may lawfully organize a Grand Lodge for their own government, with all the powers conceded to and ex- ercised by any independent Grand Lodge, provided, all the lodges within such territorial limits have been notified and invited to participate in such organization, and the Grand Lodge thus organized shall thereafter have the exclusive right of organizing new lodges within such Country, State, Pro- vince or Territory, and those receiving charters from any other source shall be held as irregular. Upon this same subject he says, in his " conclusion:" Many of the Grand Lodges base their refusal to recognize the Grand Lodges of Australia on the fact that the British Mother Grand Lodges have not yet recognized them. Bro. Gurney says he cares not for this, but bases his refusal wholly upon the fact that a majority did not concur in the movement for independence. His position in this regard is much more to be respected. The right of majorities to rule is something of a fundamental principle to every American citizen. And we confess that we should be somewhat embarrassed what to do if the majority of the lodges in New South Wales should still unite and form another Grand Lodge. They would have the right to do so perhaps, or at least the power. The situation would be as unfortunate and anomalous as when there were two Grand Lodges in England and New York. We should certainly not withdraw the recognition we had extended, for they were at the time the only Australian lodges, the others were only British, Scotch or Irish lodges. Those that first set up their independence were the first rightfully entitled to recognition. We must confess that we do not comprehend Bro. Hedges. At his request, two " Grand Lodges" (New South Wales and Victoria), without a remote claim to recoo-nition, were adopted into the family of Grand Lodges, and now he recommends to his Grand Body the acceptance of the position for which we have been contend ing with so much earnestness. More than this, he comes to the confession, in the last quotation, that neither can he supreme in their jurisdictions I ! Once more, and we leave the subject. In his review of Maine he refers to the "tyranny" of the Mother Grand Lodges. We have heard of this from our Ameri- can writers ever since the controversy commenced over the recognition of the two bodies. Why do they not give us some tangible evidence of the truth of what they charge ? We have been a constant reader of the proceedings of the Grand Lodges of England and Scotland, and have failed to find a single act of theirs that confirmed such declarations. It may be that some officious bull head has blurted disapproba- tion; Inn is a respectable body of Masons to be charged with an offense because om e dunce of a provincial official has been anxious to display his loyalty? South Australia found no difficulty in perfecting her organization. We never heard of threatenings in her case. Everything of official relations between the Grand MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 11!) Lodges of the mother country and the new body were pleasant, were they not ? They did denounce the right or propriety of an insignificant coterie of manipulators extending their Masonic powers (.') by an overwhelming majority. We think you are wrong in this thing, Bro. II., but we don't have the least dis- position to throw a brick into your domain of intention. You write an admirable report, and for this particular reason we are anxious that you dispense with your boundless charity in this direction, and come to the rescue of law and justice. Sorry, indeed, that you have been afflicted with rheumatism. We supposed, last year, that we should soon be across the river, but the good Lord has ordered otherwise, and we are now in the enjoyment of excellent health. Our respects and congratulations for yourself and the Masons of Montana. M. W. Joseph E. Hyde, Butte, Grand Master. M. W. Cornelius Hedges, P. G. M., Helena, Grand Secretary. NEBRASKA, 1885. This Grand Body met in Omaha June 23. The growth of the jurisdiction is rapid. Thirteen lodges were constituted during the year, and dispensations issued for the organization of seventeen others, with more "clamoring for admission." Ne- braska is a large State, however, and fast developing in population and material re- sources. The Grand Master, M. W. Brother John J. Wemple, has had a busy year. He visited many lodges, and otherwise labored zealously and efficiently in the welfare of his bailiwick. His address is evidence of his industry. He received an applica- tion for recognition from the " Grand Master of Mexico." This, to us, is a new ju- risdiction. There are three or four (perhaps more) Grand Lodges in that territory, but we don't know of one that is entitled to recognition by virtue of being organized by constitutional lodges. If information is at all reliable, lodge organization therein comes of bodies created and governed by Supreme Councils, or directly from the latter. The Grand Secretary was directed to correspond with this supposed Masonic power for the purpose, as is supposed, of learning its origin and claims to recogni- tion. We hope that Bro. Bowen will be thorough in this thing, that sister jurisdic- tions may acquire light upon a somewhat dark subject. Recognition of the Grand Lodge of South Australia was also deferred. !•_'<» APPENDIX. The Grand Master decides that a person " blind in the left eve is not eligible to Masonry." lie also came to the conclusion, that, " after a ballot had been taken, and the Master declares the result, a brother arises and openly states that he cast a black ball, under the impression that it was altogether a different person," the Ma- ter was authorized to repass the ballot. The Committee on Jurisprudence reported adversely, Grand Lodge concurring, in both cases. Quite correct. The Grand Master makes fraternal mention of the demise of Past Grand Master Isaac 15. Sharp. lie calls attention to the whisky question. This was followed by a resolution declaring, " That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that it is a Masonic offense for a Mason to engage in retailing or wholesaling intoxicating liquors as a beverage." Included in his recommendations is the suggestive proposition that the Grand Secretary renew reports on correspondence. It is really too bad that a juris- diction of so much importance should neglect an important matter. Grand Lodge was of like opinion, glad to say. The report of the Grand Secretary mentions the reception of 3jOO of relief funds from our Past Grand Master, Bio. Browning. From the Committee on Returns it is found that there has been the substantial gain of 724 to lodge membership. The Grand Custodian, Bro. Benjamin F. Rawalt, presented an elaborate report. We are glad to find that a proposition to make Past Masters members of Grand Lodge was defeated. Make them members, but with one vote collectively. The same fate befell an amendment to make Past Grand Wardens members of Grand Lodge. Worshipful Bro. Leese delivered the customary oration. He seems to think that Masonry came into existence with the construction of Babel. We are weary of such speculations. Give us facts, Bro. Leese. No Report on Correspondence. M. W. Manoah 1!. Reese, Wahoo, Grand Master. R. W. Wm. R. Bowen, Omaha, Grand Secretary. NEW HAMPSHIRE, 1885. A semi-annual communication was held in Manchester, December 30, 1884. Exemplification of rituals was the feature of the session. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 1 "_' 1 The ninety-sixth annual communication was held in Concord, May 20, M. W. Brother John Francis Webster presiding. Before proceeding further, we must notice a tine engraved likeness of Major General John Sullivan, first Grand Master of the jurisdiction, and taken from a painting now in possession of his descendants. The Grand Master notices the decease of R. W. Pro. Clinton Warrington Stan- ley, Past D. D. G. Master, and a Mason of merited local distinction. He reports lodges maintaining an excellent degree of interest, with a gain of 79 in lodge mem- bership. He also makes mention of the pleasant experiences of a visit to Washing- ton upon the occasion of the dedication of the monument erected to the memory of the distinguished brother, George Washington; and concludes a brief paper by call- ing attention to the progress of the committee having in charge the proposition to erect a Masonic Orphans' Home. The first matter that attracts undivided attention is a report from the Committee on Jurisprudence upon the so-called Massachusetts departure, concluding with the following expressions, that were concurred in by the Grand Body: Resolved, That this Grand Lodge declares its understanding of the law in relation to its powers and authority over the Craft within its jurisdiction to be — 1st. That it is the supreme authority in Masonry. 2d. That it has the power to determine what Masonry is. 3d. That it has the power to decide what Masonic bodies are regular, wherein Symbolic Masonry is used, shown, or made a part of the ceremonies. 4th. That it has the power and authority to prohibit the Masons of its obedience from prac- ticing as Masonic any other rites than those which it declares to be Masonic ; and from using any of its esoteric ceremonies as Masonic ceremonies in any other body than those it shall hold to be Masonic. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge affirms the well established doctrine that it is a violation of the jurisdictional rights of any Grand Lodge or other grand body for a foreign organization of the same grade or rite to establish subordinates within the jurisdiction of such grand body, and it is due as well to Masonic comity as to the watchful care of our own rights that all attempts of such a nature should meet with the stern disapproval of this Grand Lodge. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge, trusting to the fidelity and intelligence of the Fraternity, deems it unnecessary to legislate at this time in the manner of the proposed amendment. The paper is of great literary merit. We would give it to our readers entire but for the six or seven pages that it would occupy, set up in agate. We shall give enough of it, however, to present a clear understanding of the grounds upon which the committee rest for their conclusions justifying the action of our Massachusetts brethren. First, attention will be given to the paper in its principal details, and then to the conclusions of the committee heretofore cpioted. It first and correctly assumes that with the "age of speculative Masonry began the invention and. expansion of de- grees." Italics ours. The committee next say that "the Royal Arch, the Mark and i6J 122 APPENDIX. other degrees were practiced soon after the * revival,' " and that " the ineffable de- grees appeared upon the Continent about the same time. It i> probable that the Royal Arch was the first ceremony incorporated with the Craft degrees. The time can not he fixed, but it must have been about 1740. * * * All the higher degrees, which were then practiced when the York Kite prevailed, began under and by permission of the Grand Lodge. There was no other view enter- tained." The committee further say : There was another reason why the higher degrees sprung from Symbolic Masonry. As is well known there were several Grand Lodges in England during the last half of the eighteenth cen- tury, each claiming to be the head of the Fraternity, and in the contentions between the "Ancients" and "Moderns," and other organizations, in the style and performing the functions of Grand Lodges, it was claimed by all that they possessed severally superior powers and greater advancement in the higher degrees, and there was rivalry in this respect. The effect was to enhance the importance in a general sense of such degrees, and stimulate the practice of embellishment and expansion, and there can be no doubt about their origin and promotion. They grew in importance and multiplied in numbers, until they had spread throughout the countries where the Symbolic Degrees had been established, but no controversy arose as to the powers of a Grand Lodge at that time. There are several objections to the foregoing statements. Will mention two or three : First — The language of the committee conveys the impression that the Royal Arch degree "was incorporated with the Craft degrees about 1740." This is histor- ically untrue. This degree or order was invented about the year 1740 to '44, but until it was taken up by the Athol or schismatic Grand Lodges, at or about the year 1762, it was an "invention" hawked about Britain, as degrees and orders are now hawked over this continent. Bro. Hughan remarks : " The oldest minutes of Royal Arch Masonry preserved are of the year 1762 (at York); but the degree is mentioned in the 'Athol' records of March, 1752, and is particularly alluded to in A printed work of 1744.'' Italics ours. Touching the " inventions" of early days, a distinguished Mason, Filield Das- signy, said in 1744: " Now as the landmarks of the constitution of Freemasonry are universally the same throughout all kingdoms, and are so well hxt that they will not admit of removal, how comes it to pass that some have been led away with ridicu- lous innovations, an example of which I shall prove by a certain propagator of a false system, some few years ago, in this city, who imposed upon several worthy men, under a pretence of being Master of a Royal Arch, which he asserted he had brought with him from the City of York, and that the beauties of the Craft did principally consist in the knowledge of this valuable piece of Masonry. However, he carried on his scheme for several months, and many of the learned and wise were his fol- lowers, till, at length, his fallacious art was discovered by a brother of probity and wisdom, who had some small space before attained that excellent part of Masonry in London." Now, all this does not seem to show that the Royal Arch was incor- porated with the Craft degrees at a period mentioned by the committee. Our second objection is found in the misleading assertion, that, " All the higher degrees, that were then practiced when the York Rite prevailed, began under and MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 123 by permission of the Grand Lodge." If the distinguished committee had said that these "inventions" were tolerated by the schismatic Grand Lodges, Athol and others, we should not demur ; but when it says, by inference, that the primal and only reg- ular Grand Lodge of England incorporated such excresences with the symbolic de- grees, we emphatically dissent. In this connection, Bro. Hughan says : " Tolera- tion of all 'additional degrees,' neither prohibiting nor recognizing any, appears to be the approved course of action, and allowed by the Grand Lodge of England." As the committee rely upon Bro. Hughan, we are glad to give it what that distin- guished author has to say. We also object to the proposition that the " higher de- grees sprung from Symbolic Masonry." They were doubtless the production of Masons, but not in a single instance were they authorized by the premier Grand Lodge of England until its union with the Athol organization in 1813, when the Royal Arch, nothing else, was for the sake of unity accepted as a conclusion of the third degree, where it yet remains, not as a degree, but as an order or honorarium, to be conferred upon Masters, or perhaps others, who may be thought to merit that class of distinction. In another section of the report the committee seem to rely largely upon the credulity of the Fraternity. It says : Masonry stands upon the maxim that where there is need of a law, the law exists. It is moulded and developed by the pressure of events. It holds its important place in the world because there is a great work for it to do. It will be so while charity and mercy are needed by suffering humanity. The Grand Lodge was created as the sole governing body and power of the Craft in all things Masonic. It was deemed to have absolute control over the Fraternity. The Landmarks were a guaranty that it would not trample upon their rights. They were to be observed as the Magna Charta, but all other powers and prerogatives were ceded to and vested in the Grand Lodge. No limit was set upon its authority. No line of separation was drawn between Craft Masons as such and as adherents to the higher degrees, then rapidly increasing, but by universal consent, in obedi- ence to the imperative demand, full power and authority was lodged in the governing Grand Body. Such questions as we are considering were not heard of in the early days of speculative Ma- sonry, but other matters called out expressions from the Grand Lodges which indicated clearly what was then regarded as law touching their powers and prerogatives. In 1723 the Grand Lodge of England declared, "that it is not in the power of any man or body of men to make any alteration or innovation in the body of Masonry without the consent first obtained of the Grand Lodge, which is the supreme power in Masonry." There has been discussion about what was lawful, and it was said that the first three degrees only were pure Masonry, but, if the Grand Lodge recognized the higher degrees, or its consent ob- tained, they were legitimate. It also declared "that all alterations must be for the good of Ma- sonry," and again that nothing could be "allowed to be added to Masonry which was calculated to produce disorder and interfere with the harmony of the brethren." "Extra degrees" were regarded as foreign to the good of the Craft, and it was resolved that they must be practiced, if at all, "without breaking in upon the antient rules of the Fraternity or infringing upon the old Landmarks." We have not the time or disposition to examine the " maxims " embraced in the first and second paragraphs, their object being to convey the thought that Grand Lodges did have, and now have, the authority to control " all things Masonic," 1 2 1 APPENDIX. meaning thereby to say that associations of Masons beyond the lodge are rightfully under the dominion of Grand Lodges. We can only deny the assumption upon the ground thai if this be true, a Grand Lodge of the Craft lias the same right to wipe every organization of Masons, beyond the lodge, out of existence (or of Masonry), as it has to accept them as " duly constituted Masonic bodies." This power in one direction can not exist without a like power in the Other. This is an axiom from which there can not be a successful appeal. The three concluding paragraphs of the quotation are not only also misleading, but do not rellect any credit upon the researches of the committee. In the first of the three paragraphs it is asserted that the Grand" Lodge of England ordained,/;/ 1721, "that it is not in the power of any man or body of men to make any alteration or innovation in the body of Masonry without the consent first obtained of the Grand Lodge, which is the supreme power in Masonry: 1 This quotation had entirely es- caped attention. We had been familiar with a portion of it in installation ceremon- ial, but had never come across it in the earlier constitutions of the Fraternity. The facts appear to be (as we have recently learned) that it first appears in the Anderson constitutions of 1738, but without the concluding scute/ice in italics. Feeling that the committee must have inadvertently fallen into an error, or have acquired sup- posed authority for the quotation from some testimony not of recognized validity, we first inquired of our well known Past Grand Master, Bro. Joseph Robbins, and find- ing him unable to give us desired information, application was made to Bro. Jacob Norton (Boston), receiving the following reply : Boston, November 18, 1S85. Theodore T. Gurney, Esq., Bear Sir anil Bro.: I received your letter, etc., yesterday afternoon, and in answer to your questions I beg to state, that the first quotation in the N. H. Proceed- ings, p. 8, you will find in Anderson's Constitutions of 1738, on the page devoted to "New Regulations," Article XXXIX, or 39, minus, however, of " which is the su- preme power in Masonry." The two passages given between quotation marks in the next paragraph, I could not find in either of Anderson's Constitutions, nor in the Ahiman Re/on. " for the good of Masonry" is given in the New Regulations, in both works, but not in the manner or way Bro. J. W. Fellows gives it. The last quotation, beginning with " allowed to be added to Masonry," to the end of the par- agraph, is certainly not in either of the constitutions above referred to. 1 shall, however, consult, before I mail this letter, Entrick's and Noorthouck's Constitutions, and if I don't find the said quotations in cither of them you may pronounce them " fishy." Since the above was written I have examined the original Constitutions of 1738, Entrick's Constitution, and another constitution of about 1767, and also Noorth- ouck's of 17S4. In the latter I found, word for word, in the <>th Article, the first passage you quoted, but minus of " which is the supreme power in Masonry." The last two quotations of Bro. bellows' 1 could find nowhere. Respectfully and fraternally yours, [acob Nob i on. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 125 Tt now remains for the committee to show from whence comes their quotation, and that it was recognized in the regulations of the original Grand Lodge. The old- est Monitor of which we have any knowledge, and which is in our possession, was published by Webb in 1S18, and contains the following, page 94: " You admit that it is not in the power of any man, or body of men, to make innovations in the body of Masonry." Italics ours. It does not seem possible that, at that early day, this distinguished authority in rituals was not conversant with law upon this subject ; it is reasonable, therefore, to suppose that if the Grand Lodge of England had ever adopted the law referred to, either in 1723, 1738, or subsequently, that Webb would not have omitted the addenda published by the committee. It is impossible with the space at our disposal to follow the committee through its elaborate report, but must now confine ourselves to giving attention to its conclusions heretofore quoted. In the first place, we unhesitatingly endorse the position of the committee, that a Grand Lodge is of supreme authority in Masonry; but we positively deny that there is any Masonic body beyond the lodge. It is, therefore, true in law, logic and com- mon sense, that the powers of a legitimate Grand Body are limited to defining and regulating that Masonry only found in the three degrees of E. A., F. C. and Master Mason. For a vindication of this truth, appeal is taken to the ancient constitutions of the organization, at the same time contending that the acts of any schismatic body of the Fraternity are without remote authority over the Craft. It is also unreservedly denied that there is any justification for associations of Masons, outside the lodge, to employ or use its esoteric rituals or ceremonials — adding to this denial a denial of the right of a Grand Lodge to grant authority for " innovations." We furthermore maintain that the fundamental law which interdicts innovations in the body of Ma- sonry, is rooted in the very essence of lodge law, and has its only but irrevocable ap- plication therein ; therefore arriving at the irresistible conclusion that there is not any approved law of the ancient and only Masonic Fraternity that justifies the as- sumption that there can be associations of Masons, apart from the lodge, that a Grand Lodge can recognize as " duly constituted Masonic bodies." Following the report of the committee, is an historical sketch of the A. and A. Rite of the Northern Jurisdiction of our country, and presumably for the purpose of vindicating the right of that association of Masons to be classed as a Masonic body. We do not have any disposition to wield a sword in defense of that distinguished as- sociation of eminent brethren, or the legitimacy of their organization, because we be- lieve in botli. We now come to the elegant Report on Correspondence by Brother Albert S. Waite. Having given so much attention to the report of the Committee on Juris- prudence, we find it impossible to give Bro. Waite the attention he merits. He writes as a lawyer, and is not a whit the less technical than Brother Fellows. We have only place for one topic found in his review of Maine. He thus quotes Bro. Drummond : In reviewing Brother Brown's "unity theory," he crystallizes the views we have announced, into a single sentence, which deserves to be emblazoned on the walls of every Masonic hall in the land: Unity in Masonky is submission to tiir will of a Majority. 126 Al'l'KNDIX. Then follows his criticism : Within certain limits this is very reasonable, and probably in most cases works just results. But within those limits the right of the majority to rule is so universally conceded, in this country at least, and in Masonry everywhere, that such a declaration is so nearly commonplace that it is with- out substantial significance, In the ordinary transactions of lodges, grand as well as subordinate, the majority is generally empowered to decide, but in matters at all fundamental in Masonry we think it quite safe to affirm that no such principle prevails. A majority cannot admit a member, either of the order, or to affiliation in a lodge ; so far from that, the rule is universal that such an admission requires universal consent, Wc know of no jurisdiction where expulsion or suspension of a member from the privileges of the order can be by a less preponderance than two-thirds. We know of no jurisdiction where the constitutions can undergo alteration by a less than two-thirds vote. In all these matters Masonry refuses to accept the examples in civil government both in this country and England, in quite analogous cases. It is generally, probably universally, the case in judii ial proceedings that a majority of the court decides all questions before it, even where it involves the question of life. In capital cases before the British House of Lords a bare majority decides the life or death of one of its members. A bare majority of the two Houses of Parliament, with the royal assent, may change the constitution or put a subject to death. Masonry has seen the conse- quences of a power like this entrusted to a mere majority, and has refused it any such momentous power; and we know no Mason who desires that the rule of our Institution in these respects should be changed. Our constitutions, indeed all constitutions, are founded on the idea of protecting the minority against the power of the majority. Within such limits as have usually been adopted the majority principle is doubtless the safe and convenient one ; but its unlimited adoption would be the end of all stability in anything which distinguishes the Masonic institution. We are quite sensible that the point at which Bro. Drummond is driving, as was also that of Bro. Gurney in the passage quoted, was in reference to the power of a majority of lodges in a terri- tory to form a Grand Lodge, and thereupon to coerce the obedience of the others. Upon that sub- ject we have already expressed our views, and we are not disposed here to return to the discussion. We only refer to it at all for the reason that we think our brethren, both of Maine and Illinois, in their zeal for what they term Grand Lodge sovereignty, have stated a theory which cannot bear the light and if adopted would be fraught only with mischief. In all assemblies of people, prior to organization and in the absence of specific legislation by a supreme power, the majority governs. After such organization, an assembly may determine what number of votes shall constitute a majority, or what numerical force is necessary to adopt or reject measures before it. The people of a Territory, under our form of government, determine if a State government shall be established, and by an absolute majority of its voters. After such organization has been perfected their representatives, or legislators, provide rules for their own gov- ernment, including laws for the general welfare, always providing for the numerical force that is to determine questions submitted to people, legislatures and courts. He- fore going further, it is proper to state that an error occurred in printing the words attributed to us by Bro. Drummond, and which was not noticed in reading proof. The word "constitutional" should have appeared before the word "majority." We therefore intended to say, that unity in Masonry is submission to the voice of the Fraternity when Masonically expressed, either under the common /aw of Grand Lodge organization or by any vote tbat their organizations should provide for in the government of their internal affairs. Now, in the absence of sovereign authority (ex< ept in common law), for the construction of Grand Bodies, Brother Waite well knows that Common law in such cases governs, and that resistance thereto, after the will of lln majority has been lawfully expressed, is as much of an offense in Masonry MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 127 as it would be in the formation of a State. Tories did not meet with syntpathym the organization of the government of the United States. Neither should Masons be justified in open hostility to a Masonic Stale, after it has been legally established. If a minority of a lodge or lodges are not pleased with the new order of things, they are at perfect liberty to disband, without destruction to the Masonic status of mem- bers. They have a perfect right to do this, but have not remote right to bid defiance to the properly expressed will of their brethren. We must close, but not without conveying our hearty congratulations to one of the best reporters of the times. M. \V. Henry E. Burnham, Manchester, Grand Master. R. W. George P. Cleaves, Concord, Grand Secretary. NEW MEXICO, 1884. R. \V. Pro. Cornelius Bennett, Deputy Grand Master, presided over the seventh annual communication, November 18, in the absence of the M. W. Grand Master, William B. Childers. Ten lodges were present by their representatives. In one in- stance we find one brother representing two lodges, and in each case by proxy. The address of Brother Childers was read by the Deputy Grand Master. In- cluded in his decisions is the cruel and un- Masonic dictum of Grand Lodge that an unaffiliated Mason could not be buried by the lodge. Of the case the Grand Master says : " During the year I was called on to sanction the burial of an unaffiliated hrother by a subordinate lodge, under circumstances that peculiarly addressed themselves to the sympathy of the lodge extending Masonic burial. This I declined to do, as it was forbidden by positive law, and neither the lodge nor I had a right to set the law aside." Small-caps ours. This is a serious matter, brethren — more so than appears upon the surface. It is one of those parasites that is so frequently to be found upon the body of Masonry, not only liable to attract others equally as mis- chievous and misleading, but certain, if persisted in, to sap the corner-stone of the Institution. When such a statute appears, thoughtful Masons naturally turn to the fundamental and immemorial law of Masonry to find upon what principle or prin- ciples it is rooted. If they find none, the conclusion seems irresistible that it is un- lawful and should be abandoned. It is not a purpose to instruct the brethren of New Mexico in the vitalities of the lodge. They are quite as competent as the writer to place constructions upon law, but we do feel that our Western brethren have been so thoroughly imposed upon by impostors and impecunious tramps, that their 12S APPENDIX. better judgment has been so warped that, in the effort to ri'l themselves of this species of drift, they are losing sight of a primal thought (charity) upon which the Fraternity rests for its consequence to the world and to our common humanity. These are so interwoven one with the other — Faith, Hope, Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice — that they represent a fortress so im- pregnable that neither hate, prejudice, malice or falsehood can successfully assail ; but when either one is disregarded or eliminated liy a Grand Lodge, it is an entering wedge and liable to raze the structure to the ground. This entire question, which we propose to examine, rests upon the right or pro- priety of a Grand Body to dictate the charities of its constituents. If it has such right, upon what law or Masonic virtue is it founded? We insist that the entire theory of the Craft in this regard is rooted in obligations, both esoteric and exoteric. The first and most important can not be discussed except to direct attention to the truth that a "worthy" BROTHER, whether in or out of the lodge, may receive all the attention that Masons, as individuals or lodges, are inclined to extend, and that there is no inhibition therein that justifies a Grand or subordinate body in imposing restric- tions to charitable deeds of brethren, in their personal and Collective capacity, and particularly in the welfare of those of the fraternal household. Please bear in mind that we do not question the right of brethren or lodges to consult propriety in the ad- ministration of its charities and courtesies, because the provisions of the ancient law declare a right to determine the " worthy" character of an applicant, and our ability to measure deeds of beneficence by our power for their exercise. If the authority, therefore, of the Grand Lodge to restrict its constituents to certain lines of charity and courtesy is not to be found in the primal law of duty to a " BROTHER," where is it to lie found? In the case before us it will be seen that the Grand Master recog- nizes the dead, by plain inference, to be a worthy " BROTHER," yet in obedience to a human statute the law of Masonry and that of the great Creator must be ignored and a " BROTHER " left to the tender mercies of the profane, although the lodge ( presumably without a dissenting voice) consigned his remains to their last resting place. All that we ask for (and in the name of Masonry) is, that a lodge shall be at liberty to act upon its judgment in such cases, that it may not be barred its legitimate functions — functions that come of its original and inherent powers that lor ages were never questioned ( >ur readers will bear in mind that we have never questioned the authority of brethren or lodges to act their pleasure in matters of charity, because the law thus provides, not only in like cases referred to, but in all others. No brother has any vested rights in the funds of the lodge. If he applies thereto lor relief, his request is governed and adjusted by the same regulation that is imposed upon breth- ren, no more, neither less obligatory. Many Grand Lodges (including Illinois) de- clare that a non-affiliate is not "entitled" to Masonic burial, meaning to say (and so construed by our authorities) that the lodge must be the judge of propriety in the premises. We have never liked the phraseology of the law, and for the reason that, by implication, a member is endowed with a right to its charities and courtesies. If this was true, we have drifted into mutual insurance associations in principle and practice. We freely and gladly admit that a " worthy brother" may of right expect MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 129 of his brethren the fulfillment of a moral obligation, so far as "ability" will permit, but we most emphatically deny his legal claims by reason of any contribution to the material resources of the Fraternity. We conclude by asking that lodges, under the ancient usages and law of the Craft, be not estopped of a plain and inherent right. The Grand Master further concluded that it was objectionable in a lodge to use its apartments until "dedicated and consecrated." We can't comprehend the pro- priety of his opinion. It is well enough that the ceremonial be had, but we do not think its absence should prevent its occupancy. Proceedings of local importance only. No Report on Correspondence. Pro. Max. Frost, correspondent, says: Santa Fe, April 20, 1885. The Committee on Foreign Correspondence is compelled to announce that the report pre- pared by it to accompany the Grand Lodge proceedings for the year 1884 cannot be published. The said report was handed to R. W. Brother David J. Miller, Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge for the year 1884. Owing to severe illness of Bro. Miller, the report was first mislaid and subsequently lost. It being impracticable for the committee to, at this time, prepare a new report, the proceedings must be published without such one, much to the regret of the committee. MAX. FROST. It would be a joke on our Grand Secretary to lose (!) one of our manuscript re- ports. It occupies about all his spare room ! M. W. Cornelius Pennett, Silver City, Grand Master. R. W. Alpheus A. Keen, Las Vegas, Grand Secretary. NEW MEXICO, 1885. Grand Lodge convened in Las Vegas November 10. Ten lodges represented. The address of the Grand Master, M. W. Cornelius Pennett, is a brief paper. He decided that an unaffiliated Mason, if rejected upon application for membership, could not again apply until the expiration of one year. Grand Lodge did not concur, but came to the conclusion that he could apply as often as he was so inclined. This is the correct rule. The law of Illinois gives the right to apply " without regard to time or place." Other decisions of the Grand Master are endorsed, practically. One new lodge was authorized. Reports of financial officers report a good condition of affairs. *7l 130 APPENDIX. Charges were preferred against a member of Grand Lodge. The substance of charges were, that Bro. Fountain, a lawyer as it would appear, bad agreed to defend, in the courts, a brother who had been arraigned for an offense. The bargain ap- pears to have been, that if the defendant was acquitted S500 was the limit of the fee, but if an appeal was taken, then a note for $500 should be additional compensation. The money was paid and the note given, with sureties. The trial resulted in a ver- dict of not guilty. Bro. Fountain, however, sold the note, involving the brethren endorsers. As we understand it, a trial was had in lodge, and an appeal taken to Grand Lodge. The committee of investigation found the charge of violation of con- tract sustained, and recommended that Bro. Fountain be required to refund the money paid on the note and stand suspended for one year, and until restitution be made. Grand Lodge declined to adopt the report of the committee, on the ground "that it had exceeded its duties and had imposed a sentence and punishment." As we understand it, the committee did not impose a penalty, but did "recommend" to Grand Lodge a punishment for the offense. We apprehend that Brother Fountain is more popular with the boys than is Masonic law or equity. R. W. Bro. Max. Frost submitted a short Report on Correspondence. A num- ber of jurisdictions are omitted, including Illinois. M. W. Max. Frost, Santa Fe, Grand Master. R. W. Alpheus A. Keen, Las Vegas, Grand Secretary. NEW JERSEY, [886. The printed proceedings of the session January 27 come embellished with a por- trait of an elegant looking gentleman, but who it is, is a mystery in chirography be- yond our comprehension. Cave it up, after a search through the pamphlet for a name that approximated, in form at least, to these hieroglyphics. We find the names of Van Rensselaer, Loudenslager, Brinkerhoff and Fortmeyer, but these occupy too much space to furnish any relief to our perplexity. Lodges largely represented. Seven Past Grand Masters, with other dignitaries, were in attendance. The Grand Master, M. W. Brother Joseph W. Congdon, de- livered an admirable address. This was the ninety-ninth annual communication. Although of considerable age, our brethren of this jurisdiction are increasing in vi- tality and strength. The necrological presentation of the Grand Master shows the loss of several MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 131 brethren of local distinction, together with the death of Brother Regnault, Grand Treasurer of Virginia, and Brother Almedia, Grand Secretary of the "Grand Lodge of Cuba." He announces fraternal relations with the Grand Bodies of the earth, including Michigan, and says: There are a few certain Grand Lodges with which, as it at present appears, we are unlikely to he able consistently to again hold fraternal relations, and there are others, notably the Grand Lodges of Germany, Saxony, Frankfort, Darmstadt, Australia and Pern, with which we should doubtless be pleased to cultivate Masonic courtesies. Our intercourse with Grand Lodges in proximity to our own has been peculiarly pleasant, and all questions arising have been amicably adjusted with the exception of one of jurisdiction over a candidate, which remains as yet unsettled. Our courteous acknowledgments are especially due to our Most Worshipful Brethren Grand Masters Lawrence, Mitchell, Davidson and Parker, ot New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and the District of Columbia, respectively. Wish the Grand Master had named the objectionable bodies. It is more than probable that he is in sympathy with us in declining to recognize "Grand Lodges" born out of wedlock. He rather complains of the rule of Massachusetts, exacting from visitors a Masonic certificate as a condition precedent to visitations, and sug- gests the propriety of retaliation. We are not of the opinion that any paper should be relied upon. If a visitor is so stupid in Masonry that he has to rely upon a paper for vindication, he had better be told to go in peace. Of what consequence is a cer- tificate to a lodge that knows nothing of its signers ? It may be, in some instances, collateral testimony, but of itself worthless. It is a pleasure to find the Grand Master favorably disposed toward a Masonic Congress. This project is growing in favor. The more of thoughtful attention given it, the more friends it will find. The Grand Master assures his readers of the harmonious and prosperous condi- tion of the Craft of his jurisdiction. He does not seem to be in perfect unison with the system of fixed dues for the support of lodges, and hopes to witness a change to voluntary contributions. It would, indeed, be pleasant to see the rich brother dis- pensing such favors in behalf of the less favored in lucre; but we do not expect to witness this beautiful self-sacrifice in our day and generation. Perhaps Brother Congdon may have the ability to impress his truly Masonic suggestion upon the Fraternity. Regarding summonses, he says : A summons is an imperative order issued by the Master and duly attested by the Secretary. The obligation to obey it is absolute and unqualified, save by the one condition of physical disabil- ity, or the existence of a greater and more urgent necessity of duty in another equally important di- rection. The neglect to obey a proper summons furnishes ample ground for the exercise of wholesome Masonic discipline. No brother can regard a regular summons with indifference, and be honorable and true to his own conscience. It is. therefore, of grave importance that a Worshipful Master should avoid issuing summonses in any other than proper form, under cover and seal, and never for trivial purposes. L32 APPENDIX. Masters who order members to be summoned upon every pretext, or for every ostensible ne- cessity, thereby causing unrequired exertion, or a fight with one's own conscience, are unfit to ad- minister the duties of an office that calls for the frequent exercise ot reasonable discretion and a due regard for the comfort and consciences of others. There is rarely sufficient warrant for summoning brethren to attend a funeral— it would best be always avoided ; and one who has pride in the secluded dignity that is supposed to pertain to a Masonic lodge, should never be a party avoidably to such a violation of good taste, if not propriety, as the publication of a summons in a newspaper. The views of the Grand Master are entirely correct, excepting in the last para- graph, wherein it is found that lodges are accustomed to issue such mandatory missiles upon funeral occasions. This is objectionable upon the ground that it is a forced charity or courtesy. Again, a Master is authorized to summon a member to meet in lodge, but he can not take him beyond its tyled recesses. If a brother, upon such an occasion, appears in lodge in obedience to a mandate, by what law would you disci- pline him for declining to go further? 1 le can be compelled to appear in lodge, but not beyond it. We hardly agree with the Grand Master, that a "Master has the right, before the minutes have been approved, to order the record of any matter of business transacted in the lodge expunged therefrom, for just reasons, valid in his own conscience, and in the interest of peace and harmony." The Committee on Jurisprudence concur in the opinion of the Grand Master as to the "right" of the Master in the premises, but that " the 'right' therein recognized should only be exercised in extreme cases and with the utmost caution." Under the common law of the Craft, a Master can exercise his own judgment in such matters, but subject to an appeal to Grand Lodge. Cases in this connection often arise; and, as we understand it, an aggrieved member or members are cut ofl from an appeal, provided the Master insists that his act or acts were to him the re- sult of "just reasons, valid in his own conscience, and in the interests of peace and harmony." Under this rule a Master can not be disciplined or his conclusions dis- turbed for whatever he may do in such connection, if he aver that his conscience dic- tated his judgment. As it seems to us, this is a wider latitude than should be ac- corded to any unregenerated son of Adam. Again, the right of appeal is inherent, and not to be denied, directly or indirectly. No man's conscience should interpose objections to an inquiry made by the humblest Mason on earth. The interminable question of "physical qualification" came to the surface. It appears that Past Grand Master Marshall B. Smith, deceased, 1878, declared an in- itiation void in consequence of the candidate having lost, as we imagine, a portion of a thumb, right or left, we don't know which. The Grand Lodge never having adjudicated the case, Bro. < 'ongdon permitted the remaining degrees to be conferred. The Committee on Jurisprudence respond: M. \V. Brother Smith referred, at length, to this occurrence in his address at the following communication of the I Irand Lodge, but did not, except by inference, give his reasons for his action. The fair inference, however, from his address upon this subject, is. thai he considered the a< tion oi the W. M. of Falls City Lodge in the ease in question, to have been in violation ol one 1 if the land* marks ol Masoni j . MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 138 Neither the committee to whom the address was referred, nor the Grand Lodge itself, took any action upon this portion of the address of the M. W. Grand Master further than to direct that the address itself should be read in the lodges for the instruction of the brethren; nor was any com- plaint made to the Grand Lodge concerning the action of the M. W. Grand Master in the premises. The present M. W. Grand Master, for the reason, as he states it, that, in his judgment, this person was " in all respects fit and worthy," permitted Falls City Lodge to confer the F. C. degree upon him, and himself assisted in conferring upon him the degree of M. M. The Grand Lodge, neither in 1879, nor at this time, has any positive knowledge as to the ex- tent of this mutilation— M. \V. Bro. Smith stating that he "had lost the thumb of his right hand," and M. W. Bro. Congdon that he was " in all respects fit and worthy." In the opinion of your committee, the position of this individual in the Craft, and the law applicable to his case, are as follows : 1. The action of M. W. Grand Master Smith fixed the status of the individual as a profane, as though no initiation had ever taken place. 2. He thereupon became material to be dealt with by Masons as any other profane, under their consciences and Masonic obligations. 3. The action of M. W. Grand Master Smith, in this specific case, was neither affirmed nor disaffirmed by the Grand Lodge, and therefore, except in so far as it fixed the status of the individ- ual, it had only the force of his personal opinion. 4. The passing and raising of the individual in question, without his having been first re- instated, was irregular. 5. His present status is that of an irregularly passed and raised Mason, in that his initiation has been lawfully annulled; and the irregularity should be healed. In submitting these conclusions, your committee would state that, never having seen the mutilated thumb of the individual in question, they are unable to determine whether a landmark has or has not been violated in his case ; but they feel that the Craft can safely leave that question to the conscience of the M. W. Grand Master. Bro. Congdon suggested the impropriety of demanding a majority vote for non- affiliation, but Grand Lodge determined not to change the rule. Finances easy. No deficit for the year. The Centennial Anniversary of the Grand Lodge will be observed January 25, 18S7. The Committee on Jurisprudence insist that the Fast Master's degree comes to us from ancient times, and should be conferred. If Bro. Pembroke will tell us when, and from whence this fourth (!) degree of the Symbolic System of three de- grees had its lawful origin, he will confer a favor. Touching that thumb question, this committee make a good suggestion : " If a W. M. is in doubt in any particular case, he should not, in our opinion, proceed with the candidate until after a personal inspection has been made by the Grand Master, and the instructions of the Grand Master should be followed without question." Brother James A. Norton submitted a Report on Correspondence both creditable to himself and to a creditable Grand Jurisdiction. lie is not flush with opinions, however. He has no affection for the "absurdity" known as the degree of Pasl Master; thinks that too much attention is given to the Pope's encyclical ; is consid- i:;i AI'l'KNOIX. erably inclined to " physical perfection ; " is of the belief that a lodge, for satisfac- tory reasons to itself, may decline formal mortuary services over the remains of a brother. In his review of Michigan lie alludes to a recent paroxysm of Bro. Innes. Well, we are glad Bro. Innes was really stirred up. We have, for years, been mak- ing the effort to get him on a tare, but it remained for New Jersey to accomplish our purpose. He is a good brother — too good to entertain anger. Send him a jug of buttermilk or hard cider and you have him. M. W. Joseph W. Congdon, Paterson, Grand Master. R. W. Joseph II. Hough, Trenton, Grand Secretary. NEW YORK, 1885. The Grand Master, M. W. Frank R. Lawrence, had the pleasure of meeting a large representation from lodges, on June 1st. There was also present a consider- able number of past dignitaries of the Grand Body. This last record of the Grand Secretary embraces a likeness of the Grand Master, together with a good one of a distinguished brother, M. W. Joseph D. Evans, Past Grand Master. The latter looks a trifle fresh. * The Grand Master makes fraternal mention of the death of several brethren of local distinction. He did not, to his credit be it said, authorize any new lodges, feeling that the jurisdiction was already blessed with an abundance. In an examination of the legislation of the various Grand Bodies, it is a pleasure to note that, as a rule, conservatism in this regard is rapidly gaining ground. The Grand Master finds a couple of leaky brethren, in finances. ( rive them a home with the Statr. No better preventive remedy within our knowledge. For the first time in the history of the Quebec controversy have we found a Grand Master arrayed against that jurisdiction for its resistance to the presumptuous claims of the Grand Lodge of England. He says: The lodges now declared to be irregular were in existence before the establishment of the last named Grand Lodge, and bave always retained their obedience to the Grand Lodge of England, declining to place themselves under the jurisdiction either of the Grand Lodge of Canada or of Quebec. The latter Grand Lodge claims that as .1 consequence of its establishment and general recognition it acquired such exclusive jurisdiction within the territory accorded to it as to render it ih. -duty of all the lodges previously erected therein to sever their existing allegiance and place 1I1. mselves under it^ control. The « Irand Lodge of England, besides disputing the soundness of the principle here asserted, declares thai its recognition of the Grand Lodge of Canada was mad.- and MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 135 accepted with the express condition that the English lodges within the territory of that Grand Body were to continue undisturbed in their allegiance and privileges, and in view of this arrangement it is contended that when, in 1869, the Grand Lodge of Quebec became the successor to the Grand Lodge of Canada, it acquired no greater rights within the territory to which it succeeded, than had pre- viously been possessed by the latter Grand Body. As to the compact claimed to have been made between the Grand Lodges of England and Canada, the English contention is fully supported by the report of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence made to this Grand Lodge in 1871, which com- mittee, before recommending the recognition of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, appears to have given exhaustive attention to this general subject as it then existed. While fully believing in the Ameri- can doctrine of the supreme and exclusive jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge within the territory which it controls, I do not consider that that doctrine should extend to the length of rendering Masonic bodies previously enjoying a lawful existence in such territory clandestine and illegal, because of their refusal to abandon their original allegiance and place themselve under the authority of the newly created Grand Lodge. Referring to the first sentence of the quotation. Did Brother Lawrence ever know of the organization of a Grand Lodge that did not come of lodges older than itself, and working under jurisdictions from which they derived their existence ? The Grand Lodge of Quebec "claims" just what all other Grand Bodies have claimed and do now claim — exclusive jurisdiction within its territorial limits. When the Province of Quebec came into existence her Masons had the inherent, lawful right to organize into a Grand Lodge. This they did, and for sixteen years, and in the most courteous terms, have appealed to the Grand Lodge of England, and the three recusant lodges, to respect her jurisdictional rights. The compact between England and Canada in no wise interferes with the rights of Quebec. The latter was a new territorial division of the earth, and her Masons assumed to do just what Masons of this continent have done from the earliest history of our existence here. The subject was referred to the Committee on Correspondence. We have said a good deal upon this question elsewhere. Sentimentalism has no place in a common law that is at the foundation of our peace and prosperity. We think the Grand Master erred in declining to grant a dispensation for a lodge in the Republic of Honduras. The Spanish-American States, of both South and North America, are occupied by so-called lodges of the Craft, authorized by Supreme Councils. It seems to us that Honduras, being unoccupied by any legiti- mate Grand Lodge, it would have been a wise move to have established constitu- tional bodies therein. As a matter of course, the Grand Master directs a great deal of attention to finances. Lodges seem to be animated with a strong desire to relieve Grand Lodge of its heavy responsibilities — $73,348.85 had been contributed during the year, and more coming. Glad to make the announcement. Both the Librarian and Board of Relief make extended reports. Each is doing good work. ( >ur old and esteemed friend, R. W. John F. Collins, whom many of the Masons of this city will remember with pleasure, presented the following resolutions, receiv- ing the approval of Grand Lodge : l:;r, appendix. Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that no brother should be accredited, or hold the position of Representative near this Grand Rody for more than one jurisdiction at the same time. Resolved, That upon the adoption of these resolutions the Grand Master be and is hereby re- quested to invite any brother now accredited as a Representative near this Grand Lodge for two or more jurisdictions to designate which position he desires to retain, and thereupon to procure a new appointment or appointments to be made. Resolved, That whenever a Representative fails to attend the communications of this Grand for two consecutive years, unless excused by the Grand Master, it shall be the duty of the I irand Master to request that a new appointment be made. The same brother offered an amendment to the statutes, erasing the provision : " Provided, however, that a lodge may enact and enforce a by-law, which will dis- franchise a member, at an election of officers, for non-payment of dues." The amendment was not approved. In the childhood of the Fraternity, this class of ex- parte condemnation of brethren without a hearing was not infrequent; hut as it grows in knowledge of the inherent rights of Masons, rooted in our covenants, the barbarism of depriving a member of lodge of lawful rights, in the absence of investi- gation and conviction, is rapidly disappearing. If a lodge can inflict a penalty, with- out trial, in one case, it can in all cases. As it seems to us, a by-law providing for the suspension or expulsion of a Mason without trial, and simply because of the presence of charges, would be quite as justifiable. Would any court, in New York, of appellate jurisdiction, sanction a conviction by a tribunal below that had con- demned a citizen of his rights as such, in the absence of a formal investigation ? A Masonic right is as much to be respected as a civil right. It may be said that a de- linquent is advised by law of the penalty to be imposed. Well, suppose that to be- true; yet it is quite as true that every criminal is aware that penalties are imposed by law, but this knowledge does not warrant a conviction in the absence of a fair trial, though the testimony has been found conclusive of guilt — was seen to commit murder by a thousand witnesses. From a paragraph in some Masonic journal we learned of the serious illness of our distinguished friend, Past Grand Master John W. Simons. It would seem, how- ever, from having his brief Report on Correspondence before us, that he is again in working order. He dissents from the Jurisprudence Committee of Alabama, touch- ing the powers of a Grand Master. We have given that paper in our review of that jurisdiction. Our opinion of the matter is, as we have often stated, that such oflicer is invested with all the ancient prerogatives of that dignitary, unless a written consti- tution expressly inhibits the common law, and makes distinct provision that his [low- ers are circumscribed by that instrument. Common law is of equal force with writ- ten law, so long as its provisions are not contravened by the latter. Bro. Simons is opposed to the view of the Grand Master of Colorado, who re- fused dispensations for public installations. We congratulate Bro. Yaux upon having a disciple or two. Is forninst the recognition of the "Grand Lodges " of Victoria or New South Wales; thinks that "if the so-called degree of Past Master VMOl NTS \i> \\\ i him;, it is clear that it ought to be conferred before installation," but thinks "it makes no difference whether it is conferred before, after or N. Hammond, Carson, (irand Secretary. NORTH CAROLINA, 18S6. The ninety-ninth annual communication was held in Raleigh, January 12. Not- withstanding the entire absence of "mileage and per diem," ninety eighl of the two hundred and nine lodges of the jurisdiction were present by their representatives. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 143 M. W. Brother Fabius II. Busbee, Grand Master, expresses gratification that the Fraternity of his dominion is prosperous. "Upon a survey of the whole field, the outlook is decidedly encouraging. Purged of many drones, the lodges for the most part are in good working condition, and hopeful for the future." lie authorized ten new lodges, and says with composure: "While I have not seen fit to deny any pe- titions for new lodges, concerning their formation, I desire to sound a note of warn- ing (!) to my successor." Included in his decisions is a case that, to us, is not creditable to the jurisdic- tion, from the fact that he trespassed upon local law. He thus represents the matter: 10. A Mason who had become non-affiliate by non-payment of dues (his failure to pay arising partly from want of means caused by ill-health), desired to be reinstated, and had slowly accumu- lated by day-labor money to pay his dues. He was taken ill and died before reinstatement. Upon a petition by the lodge for a dispensation to bury him with Masonic honors; Held, that, as it was stated that if the facts had been fully Known the Mason would not have been dismembered, it was one of the rare cases in which a dispensation should be granted to bury a non-affiliate with Masonic honors. The propriety of this dispensation is questioned, and the opin- ion of the Grand Lodge is asked upon it. The Committee on Jurisprudence treat the subject as follows : That portion of the Grand Master's address marked as Decision No. 10 having been referred to them, they are of opinion that the action of the Grand Master should be sustained and approved, owing to the peculiar circumstances attending the case considered by him. In rendering this opinion your committee have looked to the motives which evidently influ- enced our Grand Master in this seeming departure from the law as we have heretofore understood it. In the exercise of his discretion he has, in our opinion, shown the high regard in which he holds the privileges, as well as the rights, of a Master Mason. But your committee desire particularly and emphatically to call the attention of the members of the Grand Lodge to the fact that this decision should not be viewed in the light ot a precedent. The penalty of non-affiliation is clearly and unequivocally prescribed by law, and rare indeed should be the case which warrants its remission. Your committee would further state that they reflect the sentiments of the Grand Master him- self in embodying in their report this notice and admonition, which sentiment he expressed orally to this Grand Body. It is the law of which we complain. Our readers will understand that the brethren of North Carolina " dismember" Masons for non-payment of dues. In other words, they suspend from lodge membership, leaving the party non-affiliated without trenching upon his Masonic status. We take it, from the language of the Grand Master and committee, that an unaffiliate is barred any fraternal consideration whatsoever. Lest we be not misunderstood, notwithstanding repeated assurances to the contrary, it is held by the writer that neither a member nor unaffiliate are vested with any right or claim to the material or other charities of the lodge or its members. By this we mean to say that a lodge, alike with its members, are governed in their beneficences by the primary law that defines our duties to each other. If the reader will rehearse covenants embraced in the concluding degree of the lodge, he will not fail to find the immemorial statute governing Masonic charities. There is nothing 1 1 1 APPENDIX. therein that enforces benefactions. These arc governed by the worthy character of the applicant anil our ability to meet the demand. We insist, therefore, that a Grand Lodge is without powers in the premises, and particularly to declare discriminations between classes of Masons. Will the learned committee point us to any common law of the Craft that commands my material or other sympathy for the indigent — member or non-member? What would be the result of charges for declining attend- ance upon formal mortuary services? It is quite true that a member may be re- quested or notified to attend lodge for the purpose of such service, but there i> not any fraternal law that can take him beyond its tyled recesses, by notification or sum- mons — is there ? The common law is guarded upon this subject, so that Masonic bodies shall be distinct from mutual assurance. Illinois provides that a non-affiliate is not entitled to mortuary services, but leaves it with the lodge to act its pleasure. The Grand Master further decided — concurred in — that a lodge officer, installed, could not dimit. This is the general rule, although, as we think, unfortunate and not called for by any interest of the Craft. He also decided that the Master of a chartered lodge could not be made Master of a lodge U. D. This appears to be the local regulation of the jurisdiction, though in disregard of the general powers of the ( Irand Master in the appointment of otlicers of the new lodge. Brother Busbee expresses much anxiety for a Report on Correspondence. It seems unfortunate that an important jurisdiction like that of North Carolina should be without such a paper, particularly as it has so much talent within its borders. ( >ur brethren will formally recognize the centennial anniversary of ( irand Lodge. Brother Bain, Grand Secretary, reports the Orphan Asylum prosperous, and Grand Lodge Library increasing in importance and value. The Deputy Grand Master, Brother Robinson, makes a vivid report of the ded- ication of Washington Monument. He represented his Grand Lodge upon that oc- casion. The Grand Master is adverse to co-operative insurance connected with the (hand Body. Correct. A project upon that subject, introduced last year, was de- feated. It is a regret to find that Grand Lodge determined that a prosecutor, or other member (in lodge), was without the right of appeal. With us this right is inherent in any member, whether the defendant is found guilty or not guilty. This is the great safeguard against the conclusions of the Master or the combinations of mem- bers. M. W. Fabius II. Busbee, Raleigh, ('.rand Master. R. W. Donald W. Bain, Raleigh, Grand Secretary. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 145 NOVA SCOTIA, 1885. Reil's rebellion called out many expressions of loyalty from brethren of Domin- ion Grand Lodges. Some buckled on the sword, others shouldered the musket, and more acted as " home guards" — just as did we during our troubles nearly a quarter of a century ago. M. W. Brother J. W. Laurie, a Major General in the service of Her Majesty, volunteered his services and went forth to the contest. Upon the field he penned a short address, which he mailed to Grand Lodge, that convened in the city of Halifax on June 3d. It dates from " Headquarters, Moose Jaw, N. W. Ter- ritory, 26th May, 1885." It is a pleasure to find that this distinguished Mason ob- jects to the proposition that a Mason, applying for advancement, shall not be permit- ted a reply to objections. The fact that an E. A. or F. C. is a Mason and entitled to sympathy and support, is rapidly taking the place of the barbarity that places him upon a level with the profane in fraternal estimation. The R. W. W. E. Starratt, Deputy Grand Master, presided. His report is also quite brief, recounting a limited number of official acts. The R. W. Grand Secretary, Bro. Benjamin Curren, reports general stability in lodges, the surrender of one charter and a more healthy condition of finances. The reports of D. D. Grand Masters are creditable to those brethren. The notice of motion of the Grand Master, proposing to dispense with the regu- lation making it obligatory upon a member (before membership is consummated) to sign by-laws, was not concurred in. The signatures of members are well enough, but making them (as we suppose is the intention of the law) a condition precedent to membership is unwise and often times leads to unpleasant complications. We regret to find that the so-called Grand Lodges of New South Wales and Victoria were taken by the hand as Masonic powers. Many of the most ardent ad- vocates of the legitimacy of these bodies, in this country, do not assent to the claim that the minorities that entered into those organizations have jurisdiction over the majorities that declined to co-operate. This being true, we would ask the brethren of Nova Scotia if these majorities should organize Grand Bodies and ask recognition, what would be the nature of your response thereto ? Perhaps Bro. Moore will reply. Nothing is found referring to the difficulties between the Grand Lodge of (Que- bec and the recusant lodges located therein. It does not take much of a guess to define reasons for this silence. The Report on Correspondence is by R. W. Bro. Rev. D. C. Moore. Notwith- standing its good qualities, we should like it better if there was a larger representa- tion of an excellent writer. He notices and commends the opinion of the Grand Master of Georgia, that members of a lodge should take a greater interest in the work of an investigating committee. Quite true. Such committee represents the lodge, and every member knowing anything of the petitioner should come to its as- sistance in determining qualifications for the degrees. Again, the appointment of *9t 1 16 APPENDIX. such committee presupposes the duty of every member to see to it that imperfect ashlars are not accepted. If brethren would have a higher regard for duty in such cases, there would not appear many objections after an election, or to advancements. I Ie is of the correct opinion that there is too much of a disposition in Grand Masters to acquiesce in applications for permission to confer degrees regardless of constitutional limitations. As might be expected, Bro. Moore is very pronounced in hostility to vice. He can not do better than to level his batteries upon profanity, drunkenness, licentious- ness and kindred derelictions. Happily, there is a growing disposition to rid the Fraternity of these blisters upon the organization. Of titles, he says: If a man has a right to a title, he certainly should have it. Of course it is right to object to applying titles to which men have no right. Major General Laurie is a Major General in the Brit- ish service, and it would be wrong to call him by any other title — as Mr. or Major or Colonel. We candidly confess we are not republican in our feelings, but sincerely respect the great Republic of the United States, under whose stars and stripes we lived some years ; but even there, and in Ma- sonic proceedings, we have heard titles applied, and were not always positive as to the claim of those to whom they were applied ; and as to the "Throne" we would simply ask Masonically — " On what does Royal Solomon sit? " The following is found in his review of West Virginia : " The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence beg leave to submit the following report : " We have considered the several decisions of the M. W. Grand Master as reported in his ad- dress and we agree with him in the same, as in accordance with the law of this Grand Lodge." Now this suggests an important question : What is the effect of a decision by a Grand Mas- ter, even if adopted by a majority vote of Grand Lodge? Is it binding upon the Craft equally with a constitutional enactment ? Can a law be sprung upon Grand Lodge without the usual previous notice of three months for the consideration of the constituent lodges? Our own constitution, chapter 2, section 12, says : " No motion shall be entertained for altering or amending the laws, rules or regulations of this ( '.rand Lodge, or for adding a new law, rule or regulation thereto, without notice in writing, stating the amendment or alteration proposed, having been given to the Grand Secretary at least three months previous to the communication at which it is to be brought before the Grand Lodge ; and no alteration or addition to the constitution shall be binding, unless supported by two-thirds of the votes present." Yet, in face of this positive enactment, standing regulations and decisions of Grand Masters have been accepted and adopted by Grand Lodge upon the recommendation of a committee on the address of a Grand Master who have only hurriedly examined the address in a short half-hour, per- haps during an afternoon recess. Can a law, we ask, or a decision having the effect of law, be sprung upon a Grand Lodge in this manner? Let us reflect. When the decisions of a Grand Master are concurred in. it is supposed that they are in accord with the established law of the jurisdiction over which he presides. In a somewhat long experience we have never known it to be otherwise. Grand Mas His do not make law, neither do Grand Bodies except in accordance with prescribed methods, but Grand Lodges do place constructions upon an ambiguous statute. 1 II the so-called degree of Past Master, he says: MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 147 What is this Past Master's Degree, so-called? Are there four degrees in Ancient Craft Ma- sonry ? If there are, all right ; but if pure Ancient Craft Masonry consists of three degrees and no »wn', as we have always been taught, then we also are anxious to get more light. Dermott, it is true did, somewhere about the year A. D. 1756, with the assistance of other fertile brains, concoct the Royal Arch (unknown, we believe, to the old Grand Lodge of England of 171 7), and as a com- promise, at the Union of 1813, that — the Royal Arch was recognized as an appendant order — at- tached to the 3rd ; but we ask for information, and being only an occasional hand, we want to be dealt gently with, and do not wish our Rev. and R. W. chairman to be held responsible for what some of the Great Lights may consider a very stupid question. If Brother Moore will turn to the review of Ohio (1884) he will find the facts touching the Royal Arch. Our proceedings for that year were tardy, consequently he did not have much time in which to give our Grand Lodge attention. What he says of the writer's work is appreciated. M. W. J. W. Laurie, D. C. L., Oakfield, Grand Master. R. W. Benjamin Curren, D. C. L., Halifax, Grand Secretary. NEW BRUNSWICK, 1885. Grand Lodge met in the city of St. John, April 28. Seventy-eiglit Past Masters were present, together with thirty-five Masters and Wardens. See our last Report on Correspondence, Rhode Island. The Grand Master, M. W. Brother John V. Ellis, takes pleasure in assuring his readers that the past year has been one of progress— lodges have been harmonious, and the Grand Body at peace with the Masonic world. The following expressions of Brother Ellis are indicative of the proverbial conservatism and wise caution of the brethren of that jurisdiction : Applications for recognition from bodies of Masons in South Australia, Mexico and Spain have been sent to the Committee on Foreign Relations. With the condition of the Craft in Mexico I am not well acquainted, as there have been many changes there recently. The tendency is, I be- lieve, towards a system of State Grand Lodges, although for many years the principal governing body was the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Where we are not sure of our ground it is best to make no step. No great disadvantage can come to individual Masons by proceeding cautiously as to the recognition of a body claiming territorial jurisdiction. As to the bodies striving for the supreme power in the Spanish peninsula, it is next to impossible to decide between them. But if the whole Spanish system of what is called Freemasonry is as largely politi- cal now as it was a few years ago, the more slowly we make haste the better. The question of the formation of a Grand Lodge in South Australia presents some difficulty. Last year we admitted that the Grand Lodge of Victoria might be regularly formed, but we declined to say that it had ex- clusive possession of the territory of that Province while a majority of the regularly constituted lodges did not submit to it. A principle has been generally recognized by Masonic authorities on 148 APPENDIX. this continent that three subordinate lodges could form a Grand Lodge. 1' his is good enough law when the parent < Irand Lodges offer no opposition, where often there are no more than three lodges, and where the prevailing idea is that a Grand Lodge shall at once be formed and grow up as one of the institutions of a new territory or state. But the case is materially altered when the rule is ap- plied to countries or colonies in which there is a large number of lodges. It seems an absurdity that in a country where there are say twenty lodges three of these should be able to set up a Grand Lodge and declare all the other lodges clandestine if they do not submit to its authority. Some modification of the rule is necessary which will protect the rights of. perhaps, the majority. The formation ot our own Grand Lodge was, I think, consented to at the outset by three-fourths or more of the lodges in the Province. Upon the recommendation of the Board of General Purposes, the Grand Lodge of South Australia was accorded recognition, and the consideration of other applica- tions, mentioned by the Grand Master, deferred. The board also concurred in the advisability of the system of D. D. Grand Masters. The Grand Master exercised authority that would have been questioned by the Grand Lodge of Illinois. He says: Lebanon Lodge has failed to make returns for this year, and has practically ceased to exist. I directed the Grand Secretary to make an effort to get it to surrender its warrant, but he was not successful. As, however, there is no probability that it will again resume Masonic labor, I have caused Sussex Lodge, Dorchester, to be notified of the fact, so that it might resume the territorial jurisdiction of which the establishment of this lodge deprived it. If any persons there seek Masonic light they should not be kept in darkness because the lodge is not able to do its work. The Grand Lodge is wrestling with financial perplexities. General legislation of local interest only. M. W. |ohn V. Ellis, St. John, (band Master. R. W. Edwin 1. Wetmore, St. John, (band Secretary. "NEW SOUTH WALES," 1885. This body met in Sydney, July I. There were prior quarterly communications, at which its business was transacted. It appears that the Board of General Purposes is mantled with authority in disciplinary proceedings. It is found that an acting (band Secretary was a defaulter to Grand Lodge. The board investigated the mat- ter (ex parte as would be inferred), and finding him guilty of the offense, " Resolved. That the explanation by Bro. Withers, late acting (band Secretary, of the deficiency in the Grand Lodge accounts, while administered by him, being considered unsatis- factory, the board hereby suspends bro. Withers from all further Masonic privileges, MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 149 until the deficiency be made good by him." Italics ours. In another place is found & judicial transaction of a similar character. It was not for the purpose, however, of criticising the transactions of this body that they are noticed, but to reply to Bro. Weekes, Grand Secretary and Correspondent. In his review of Illinois, he says : " Ole John Brown, who for years has been rampageous over the establishment of our Grand Lodge, still twangs the same old string. His successor, Bro. Gurney, is a disciple of his, and has the same love for atrabilious adjectives. He calls the found- ers of the Grand Lodge of Victoria 'An insignificant coterie of manipulators,' a proof that our versatile brother has no room for the useful knowledge of facts. Give some arguments next year, Bro. Gurney." In another place Bro. Weekes holds forth as follows : " The Report on Corre- spondence (Bro. Drinkard, Virginia,) is a peculiar one, indeed, the word 'eccentric' would perhaps be the more correct definition. Its notices ot Grand Lodge proceed- ings are short and uninteresting to the non-local reader. But to us the criticism on the action of the Grand Lodges which have recognized the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, is what we call a ' follow-my-leader style,' the leader being Illinois. He copies the snarl of Bro. Gurney, of Illinois, and adopts it on the ' them's my sentiments ' principle. As Bro. Gurney states, so do we. ' Concealment of facts is the most mischievous kind of prevarication,' and he should 'read up' more carefully ere he again attempts to ' squelch ' us. ' Bless the brudder,' we are progressing like wildfire. We have not twelve but forty-three lodges, with a roll-call of nearly 3,000 members. We have absorbed the Irish lodges, and if the brethren of the English and Scotch lodges were permitted to discuss 'secesh' in their lodges, our lodge would be doubled within a month. But those muzzled brethren are prohibited under threat of expulsion from discussing the question of a local Grand Lodge. Does Virginia endorse that as Masonic ? We will wait till next year for a reply. In the mean- time, we trust Virginia will just think over the facts of our position, and let us have its unbiassed opinion in due course." It is not our purpose to enter upon a defense of " Ole (!) Bro. Brown" or Bro. Drinkard. They are abundantly able to care for themselves. Referring to the second paragraph of the quotation — it is certainly cool, even to frigidity, to call upon us for "some arguments" in objecting to the recognition of his " Grand Lodge." Bear in mind that Bro. Weekes is reviewing the proceedings of Illinois for 1884, and notwithstanding our Reports on Correspondence of that and prior years are loaded down with " arguments " dissenting from the unnatural propo- sition that an insignificant minority of the lodges of a territory can lawfully usurp powers inherent in the majority, he calls upon us for arguments ! ! We are not to be diverted from our position by clever bandinage, neither do we intend that Brother Weekes nor the Masonic world shall lose sight of the flagrant assumption that twelve of the forty-five lodges of the territory had a right to organize a Grand Body, and thus arrogate to themselves exclusive Masonic jurisdiction therein. It is for him to explain why this wretched attempt to establish an unprovoked tyranny should find justification in any law of a freedom loving Fraternity, and that has its only parallel 150 APPENDIX. in the encroachments of depotisms upon the public welfare. Where is the brother upon this continent who has the temerity to assume that the twelve lodges of New South Wales are authorized to enforce the obedience of tne thirty-three others ? If there is such an one, let him speak. It may be that the Mother Grand Lodges have threatened their constituents with dire calamity if they presumed to consider the question of a Grand Lodge ; nevertheless, we have regularly read the proceedings of England and Scotland, and have yet to find a single justification for an assertion so freely put forth, and which seems to be the only pretext fur overturning the natural law of representative organ- ization. We would ask l!ro. Weekes why the action of the brethren of South Aus- tralia was not assailed by the home governments? Without a purpose to be ungenerous or unfraternal, we do not believe that the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland or Scotland indulged in such foolishness. If our distinguished brother will place in our hands a record of what he asserts to be facts, we shall be glad to sec it. Furthermore, puerile threats, from any source, can not deter the exercise of lawful rig/its, neither are they justification for violations of Masonic law by the threatened. If " threats " are the only foundation upon which the organization of the "Grand Lodge of New South Wales" rests, the sooner it abandons its attempted usurpations the better for the credit of the brethren concerned in it. We again repeat our remarks of last year, that we have not a particle of hostility to the brethren of this Province. Hostility to their supposed organization comes of a purpose to maintain law that is in the welfare, peace and prosperity of the Masonic world. When a majority of the original lodges determine upon " home ride," it will be a pleasure to recommend their recognition as a Masonic power. OHIO, 1885. A large representation of the Ohio Fraternity was present at the seventy sixth annual Grand Communication of the Craft held in Cincinnati. < >ctober 20, the Most Worshipful, the Grand Master, Brother Joseph M. Goodspeed, presiding. He au- thorized four new lodges, and granted a host of dispensations to elect and install officers of lodges. In one instance he declared an election of officers void because of the presence of and vote of a suspended member — concurred in by Grand Lodge. It may be, although not so slated, that this vote transformed the majority into a mi- nority, but if such was not the case, the officers elected did receive a constitutional MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 151 majority, notwithstanding the illegal vote. We fail to discern upon what ground the Grand Master predicated his action. In municipal, town, county or State elections, the bare fact that illegal votes were polled does not invalidate proceedings; neither do such illegal votes disturb the rights of declared majorities unless it be judicially established that they were sufficient in number to change the result of the legal vote. This is the common law in political contests, and being founded in common law, common sense and justice, is entirely applicable to elections in Masonic bodies, if a like contest is permitted to arise therein. More than this (as it seems to us), if the mere fact that the presence of a suspended member, and his participation in the transactions of a lodge, nullified or made void any particular proceeding therein, a similar shadow was cast over its entire labors. It is also noticeable that the Grand Master authorized the installation of a Master and Warden of different lodges. Of course, the mere statement of Bro. Goodspeed, without explanations, does not justify us in the conclusion that there were not valid reasons for such dispensations, but they are noticed to present a general law upon the subject, and which is governing in Illi- nois. It is here held that an installation can not take place in the absence of the Master elect. This rule rests upon the unquestioned right of any eligible member of a lodge to preside if elected. It therefore follows that, in the event of installation of the Senior or Junior Warden (both of whom may be eligible to the Mastership) prior to the investiture of the Master elect, who may after an election become disqualified by removal from the jurisdiction, discipline or death, the officers thus installed are cast off from rights inherent in any member who the law declares fitted for the posi- tion. The Grand Master makes of record a long list of official visitations and services performed by his proxies. He decided that "the election and installation of a brother as Worshipful Mas- ter of a lodge who had not previously been elected and installed Warden of a lodge, or who had not served as Warden of a lodge under dispensation by appointment of the Grand Master or Grand Lodge, is void." In our jurisdiction this rule admits of a qualification. If a lodge elects a Master " from the floor," and it comes to the knowledge of the Grand Master, over the signatures of all those eligible for the po- sition that they are satisfied with and approve the selection, including also the unani- mous declaration of the lodge requesting a dispensation, the Grand Master may au- thorize installation. We had to do with a case or two of this character while at the head of our Grand Body. The Grand Master also insisted that a lodge " should not elect one of its own members an honorary member." Why not ? If by reason of old age or physical disability, or if by reason of either combined with poverty, the member is unable to give any attention to the active duties of the lodge, where's the harm in giving him a position that, in Illinois, does not invest him with the franchises of active member- ship? Brother J. D. Cook asked a reconsideration of a former ruling, " requiring eight 152 APPENDIX. members to be present to open a lodge.'' The Committee i>n Jurisprudence re- led thus : The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence having had under consideration the resolution of Bro. J. 1>. Cook referred to us, asking reversal of the decision of 1884, that 8 members of the lodge are required to open it, respectfully report that, whilst in its speculative or symbolic I haracter the numbers three, live, and seven in the constitution of a lodge are of necessity used in the ritual, and in their symbolic character are eminently proper therein, yet their use in that connection has no reference to the number eight necessary to open a lodge or transact business therein, as decided by the M. \V. Grand .Master in 1884. Grand Lodge concurring. The same committee came to correct conclusion- upon another subject : The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence have considered the matters presented by the Representative of our sister Grand Lodge of Louisiana in the memorial referred, and while we find much in the proposed measures to approve, yet until some convention or agreement is made between the several Grand Lodges, or some of them with the ('.rand Lodge of Ohio, there is nothing in the communication requiring the action of this committee or the Grand Lodge, and we ask to be dismissed from further consideration of the subject. Regarding the fust. Brethren who, like Bro. Cook, rely upon a ritualistic allu- sion to the operative organization for their opinions, fail to discover its intent as ap- plying to the speculative. A Master Masons' lodge is said, ritualistically, to be com- posed of "THREE or more," and " WHEN" (by virtue of law, of course,) thus com- posed of three, it includes its three first officers only. It is doubtless true that a (band Lodge may ordain that a Master and his Wardens shall lie empowered to open a Masters' lodge and transact its business; provided, however, that it abolish all other official positions therein ; but so long as constitutional provision is made for the organization of lodges, embracing other officers that are to take part in opening and closing, together with other ritualistic exercises, the position of brother Cook is untenable— if we understand him. The Grand Lodge of Illinois provides in its or- ganic law that every lodge shall consist of a Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Jun- ior Warden, Treasurer, Secretary, Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Tyler. This is a fundamental regulation in every Grand Jurisdiction of which we have any knowl- edge. These are also elected, or appointed, in a Masters lodge, and not elsewhere; " WHEN," therefore, a Master and Wardens are empowered to meet and transact the business of a lodge, their authority thus to do must lie specific, and not resting upon the misconstruction of a ritualistic declaration. The Committee on Grievances had a very considerable calendar. The commit- tee correctly determined that the bare evidence of indebtedness did not justify a con- viction for fraud. In a case of appeal from the penalty of expulsion, the committee say: " We find that the record shows that the Master of the lodge presided at the trial, and was a witness against the accused ; that two of the committee who took the evidence were also witnesses against the accused ; that after the trial was had. and after the accused had retired from the lodge room, the Master gave instructions to the mem- bers in regard to the law, in which instructions there is error prejudicial to the aC- MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 153 cused." The committee speak of "other errors," but do not point them out. They may have been sufficient for a reversal of the judgment of the lodge; but if the re- versal rested, primarily, upon the fact that the "Master and two of the committee" were witnesses, we very much doubt if the conclusion arrived at be correct. Upon the recommendation of the Grand Master, it was ordered that he be au- thorized to draw upon the Treasurer " for sums necessary to pay some responsible in- demnity company as bondsmen and security for R. W. Grand Secretary and R. W. ( irand Treasurer." Fifty dollars was appropriated for the relief of an aged and infirm brother. The Grand Lodge of Quebec was "sustained" in its action interdicting frater- nal intercourse with the three recusant lodges located within her territorial jurisdic- tion, to-wit : St. Paul, St. George and St. Lawrence, all situated in Montreal. Nominations (at elections) for lodge officers were interdicted. The following resolution was adopted : " That the case of Brother Asa H. Bat- tin, a Past Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, be referred to a commission of five, of which the M. W. Grand Master shall be chairman. That this committee shall have full power to try Bro. Battin upon certain charges pending in this Grand Lodge, and report their finding at the next session of this Grand Body." Grand Lodge will next meet in Cleveland, on the third Tuesday of October, 1886. As Brother B. D. Babcock is chairman of the Committee of Arrangements for the occasion we, with some others, will try for free transportation. Past Grand Masters Cregier, Hawley, Robbins and Browning, with others, enjoy free lunches. Don't forget this, Bro. B. — please don't. With your permission, we will open up the " route " to Cook, McNeil, Barnard and Munn. They are each able bodied, and were never known to reject sausage and kraut should nothing else, more delicate, be within reach. If they can't make a host look nervous over profits, we don't know who can. If, again, you want to perpetrate a cruel, remorseless joke upon Cleve- land hotels, invite this Illinois crowd, who are also known to enjoy the gastronomic sympathies of Carson ! ! We now confront an admirable Report on Correspondence, prepared by our dis- tinguished brother, R. E. Richards. Our readers will regret the announcement that he has retired from this department of his fraternal activities. He is succeeded by Past Grand Master, Bro. W. M. Cunningham. In Bro. R.'s review of Illinois, he says: What if they do claim the right to organize "Blue Lodges?" So long as they do not commit the overt act, what matters it ? And, if they should go so far as to make Master Masons, the reg- ular lodges would simply declare them clandestine, and treat them accordingly. The bare declara- tion that they can, if they wish, establish and work "Blue Lodges" does not of itself constitute an excuse for the intermeddling of Grand Lodges. There is altogether too much discussion. As we have heretofore asserted, they — the Rites and Rite peddlers — are being advertised into a notoriety and standing for which, in our opinion, they do not possess even the shadow of a claim. The action ?ot l.">4 APPENDIX. of the ( '.rami Lodge of Illinois, in condemnation of the so-called "Massachusetts Amendments," was justifiable, because it had reference to the, as claimed, ill-advised legislation of a sister < '.rand Lodge, and, had she rested there we would be content. But she has gone further— and in this we see no material difference between her and Massachusetts — and declared the "Egyptian Rite of Memphis and other organizations of a like character" illegitimate. The civil code provides that, if you are threatened with persona] violence, it is an assail// for which the offender may be held to answer. More than this, the law justifies you in a personal attack upon the threatener if you find it necessary for your protection. If a person stands by your side flourishing a weapon, declaring that he will assail you, the law does not insist that you must await the "overt act" before you can offer resistance. No, no. The threat is an overt act in law. Now, what were the facts regarding the two bodies of the Egyptian Kite which induced the ac- tion of our Grand Lodge to which Bro. Richards refers? Did they not frankly an- nounce the right to establish symbolic lodges, and did they not threaten to do this unclean thing ? Was the Grand Lodge of Illinois, therefore, to stand with folded arms in the presence of an "assault" that placed its interests, and possibly its very life, in jeopardy ? Our Grand Lodge struck first, and thus did just exactly what Bro. Richards would have done if assailed by threats of personal violence. In what contempt would our National Government be held if a Mexican or British army stood upon our borders threatening invasion, and no notice taken of their declared purposes. Nations would hold such threats as a declaration of war, and would re- spond accordingly. One thing further. The charters of these Egyptian Bodies came from a French Grand Orient — an organization made up of Egyptian and Scot- tish Kites— and having control of the so-called lodges of that country. Their char- ters expressly pro-ride for the institution of lodges, as will be seen from our special report of 18S4. We repeat what we said a score of times in our reports, that neither the writer nor his Grand Lodge has ever objected to the affiliation of Masons with any reputable organization of men or women. A Mason's inclinations in this respect, as we think, are not to be questioned so long as he does not enter organizations that assume the prerogatives of the lodge, or that do not assimilate with those that are guilty of the offense. Bro. Richards errs, notwithstanding the assertion of Bro Drummond, that there is no "material difference" between the action of our Grand Body upon the " Massachusetts Departure" ami Egyptian Rites. If he will turn to our review of Maine, of last year, he will find a vital distinction set forth. This, brethren, is a fraternal contest for the right of the lodge to maintain exclusive control over the three degrees of I-;. A., F. C. and Master Mason, and it will never cease until that right is conceded by the Masonic world. Mark what we tell you. We don't have any contest with rites, as such; but we will wage upon any association of men or Masons that would wrest from the Symbolic Craft its indefeasible and im- memorial prerogatives. God said to llis chosen people: "I have set watchmen upon thy walls, n here, MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 150 The brethren of Oregon seem to forget that, in the Mother Grand Lodge of the world, and in large majority of Grand Lodges having their origin therein, Entered Apprentices are not only contributing members of lodges, but enjoy all the rights of membership accorded to Master Masons. In other words, they are Masons and are treated as such. In Illinois also, we hold an E. A. or F. C. to be Masons, although business and legislation has been transferred to the third degree. If this should fall under the eye of Bro. Clyman, we advise a prosecution of the objector to secure that justice from the civil courts denied him by his brethren. If he is not "dishonest," let the assailer suffer a penalty for slander. A creditable oration was delivered by Reverend Brother R.W. Hill. He points out very clearly that manhood is the objective headland of the Institution. It is an underlying feature of Masonry, that all the elements of our civilization should be concentrated in the life of a Mason ; thus the lodge should be as completely divorced from dishonor, of every shade, as are the principles upon which it is founded. Past Grand Master, Brother S. F. Chadwick, furnishes a Report on Correspond- ence replete with interest to the reader. He is not a whit behind Bro. Hill and the Grand Master in their clearly drawn pictures of what should be the well defined axioms of the Craft in the lives of its votaries. " Line upon line, precept upon pre- cept," brethren, will ere long crystalize the present disposition of the Fraternity to place the lodge in the exalted position to which its truths direct. It is not a matter of surprise to us that the brethren of Oregon are so rapidly falling into line in unre- served hostility to the prominent vices of the day, with such Craftsmen as Hill, Chadwick, Mason and the scores of others engaged in the laudable undertaking of impressing the truths that are the chief corner-stones of our Christian civilization. Work while the day lasts, and even though the present generation of active workers in the vineyard may not witness the culmination of our hopes, our children will. We wish Brother Chadwick would omit distinctions appertaining to other asso- ciations of the Fraternity. If we were writing for a Supreme Council, they would not be out of place. In his review of California, and speaking of Michigan, he is of the opinion that objections to advancements are a "landmark" (!), and says : There are some reasons why this rule should prevail, but we question very much, after a full examination of the subject, if the " landmark," so to speak, is not correct. The right to object by no means can be considered the right to accuse. Our system forbids the privilege to accuse, and al- lows only an objection to be made by an actor byword. If the objector was made an accuser, fewer objections would be made, perhaps not any. A true Mason will not object without cause, and he does it, if he has cause, for the protection of the Craft, and not from personal considerations beyond his duty to his brethren. If lodges were opened to discuss the character of candidates for advance- ment or of profanes, they would soon be opened so wide that they could not be closed again. We do not act on the principle if a man is objected to he has a right to know it and defend himself. We make no accusation in using the ballot or objecting word. If we open our lodges for one to defend himself we may for another — for the person rejected by ballot as well as for advancement. The greater safety lays in exclusiveness. The more Masons, as a body, keep within themselves, the stronger they are in every way. It strikes us thus this morning. If Bro. Chadwick can satisfy us that an E. A. or Fellow Craft are not Masons, then will his conclusions be accepted as " landmarks." 11)0 APPENDIX. In his review of Canada, he dissents from the opinion that a suspended M should not have a Masonic burial, and says: " So far as the lodge is concerned this decision is correct ; but if the deceased had, before his death, requested a Masonic burial at the hands of some brother or brothers, could they deny the request ? We think these brothers would be under obligation to grant the request." This depends upon circumstances. If any number of Masons desire to bury a suspended Mason, it is their right and duty to do so in the character of citizens and friends, but they would not be justified, in the distinctive character of Masons, employing its insignia and rituals, to grant formal Masonic mortuary honors to a person who had been de- prived of all Masonic intercourse with his former associates, in and out of the lodge. It must be kept in mind that a Mason suspended for any cause is as much out of the Fraternity, during the life of the penalty, as if expelled. Referring to a case found in the proceedings of Virginia, wherein an 1-'.. A. left the jurisdiction of the initiating lodge and received the degrees in another body, thai the brother was entitled to membership in either, at his own election. Common law does not give the brother referred to any choice in the matter. If the initiating l< idge surrendered jurisdiction then he became, upon receiving the degrees, a member of the lodge that conferred them ; if, however, the latter did the work of the former for and in its behalj \ and as an act of courtesy (not infrequently extended in our jurisdiction), then he became a member of the initiating lodge. Bro. Chadwick speaks very kindly of Illinois. He quotes approvingly our spe- cial report ( 1S84) upon the assumptions of Rites that claim jurisdiction over the sym- bolic degrees, and thinks that "it may be that every Grand Lodge will have to fol- low that of Illinois in this matter." He thinks well of our Schools of Instruction, ami is of the opinion that Bro. Browning "made an excellent Grand Master." Not a doubt about it. Bro. Chadwick enters into a lengthy disquisition to show that we err in the pre- sumption that a lodge stands in the same relation to charity as do individual Masons. It is impossible, at this time, to renew the discussion. If he will bring to mind the fact that the fundamental law of Masonic charity is without remote connection with insur- ance in any of its phases, and that relief remains with members and lodges to be dis pensed zs> fraternal judgment shall dictate, and without regard to any supposed insur- ance investment that the indigent may have upon the funds of either, he will, as we think, find an easy solution of the difficulties under which he labors. In concluding the subject, will only say, that a lodge asking "compensation" for relief afforded the member of another body is openly a transgressor of Ins. 5. That the n. Nisbet, received acknowledgment of $500, contributed to the relief of Galveston sufferers. The address of the Grand Master is an excellent paper. lie congratulates the Craft of his jurisdiction that Grand Lodge was in entire harmony with all legitimate Grand Bodies. Brother Mitchell alludes to the introduction to the Fraternity of the distinguished divine heretofore mentioned, lie remark-: The Grand Lodge has been already informed that in the month of February last I called an Emergen) Meeting of the Grand Lodge for the purpose of making a Mason atsightof the Right Reverend William Stevens Perry, Doctor in Divinity, Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church ot the 1 liocese of Iowa. \s be is a resident oi Iowa, 1 obtained the consent of the Most Worship- ful Charles T. Granger, Grand Masti 1 .1 Masons ol I 1 onierring the degrees upon him. 1 tin am i' in pr< rogative of the ('.rand Masti rs oi Pennsylvania by me was warranted MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 1 (">." by the occasion. The gentleman who was thus made a Mason had been long personally known to me as suitable in every particular for the distinction which was conferred upon him, — a ripe scholar, a distinguished clergyman, and an honest man. I have since been informed that he has connei ted himself with the Craft in the State of Iowa, by joining a lodge in the city of Davenport, where he resides. The brethren of the Grand Lodge of Iowa will be pleased to receive the work w<: have done upon this most suitable material. We are glad of information presented by the Grand Master that did not appear in the record of that interesting emergent communication. We wager a trifle that Bro. Parvin's back is on a curve upward, although Grand Masters, in olden time, did likewise confer Masonic dignities upon Kings and Princes, as suited conveni- ence. We are thoroughly in sympathy with the "prerogatives" of Grand Masters, where they are exercised for the well being of the Fraternity, but we question the advisability of recognizing ecclesiastical, social or other distinctions as of sufficient importance to the Craft to warrant a disregard for the customary requirements of law. There is not a man living that can confer honor upon a lodge by his presence therein. King, prince, ecclesiastic or exalted civilian is honored by admission within the mystic circle — the lodge confers honor upon a candidate, not the candidate upon the lodge. In the olden time when Masons were struggling to place themselves in an attitude that should command the attention of mankind, such " prerogatives " were thought to be, and probably were, legitimately exercised; but in this close ol the nineteenth century, when distinctions in political, ecclesiastical, military or civil life shed no luster upon the Craft, they should be avoided as peculiar qualifications for the degrees. This is our impression, notwithstanding our Pennsylvania brethren are determined to " stand still on the eternal foundations of Masonry." The Grand Master gives pleasant assurances of the continued prosperity of his jurisdiction. He says : " Lodges which have, for a long time, received few or no additions to their membership, are now receiving applications from that class of the community whom we especially desire to have among us. There can be no better evidence of lodge prosperity than this." Well said. It will probably be remembered that heretofore the writer has questioned the propriety of law that indicted penalties upon initiates and applicants for membership because of the blunders of the lodge or its officers. We therefore call attention to the remarks of Brother Mitchell upon that topic: EDICTS. It has been my unpleasant duty during the year to issue a large number of edicts, in a great many cases declaring void the admission of members to lodges and the initiation of candidates by lodges. I am not unmindful of the fact — indeed, it has been very much upon my mind — that in tak- ing this method of rectifying the errors of a Worshipful Master, or of the Secretary of a lodge, the punishment falls most hardly upon the innocent man who has had nothing to do with the unlawful- ness of the method by which he has been taken into the lodge. If another way of satisfying my obligation to see the regulations of the Grand Lodge fully enforced could have been discovered by me, I would gladly have taken it. When an edict for any such cause as that is issued, the real of- fender is either the Worshipful Master or the Secretary of the lodge, or both, and, if the vexation of undoing it could entirely full upon the sinners, exact and accurate justice would be done. For in- stance, an unaffiliated Mason in good standing applies to a lodge by petition for membership. The Secretary neglects to make inquiry of the Grand Secretary as to whelhcr there is anything on the 166 APPENDIX records against him. The omission is not noticed by the Worshipful Master at the time that the re- port of the committee is presented . the ballot is taken, the brother is elected, pays his membership fee, and supposes that he is a full-fledged member of the lodge, when suddenly, like lightning from a clear sky, comes an edict from the Grand Master, which declares the whole proceeding void from the time the inquiry ought to have been made, an I that the newly-elected member must be stricken from the roll of members, and the fee which he has paid returned to him. It is a pity that the un- offending brother should be punished for the negligence of the Secretary of the lodge, and yet it is unavoidable. I regret to say that cases like the one I have supposed are unhappily common. They could all be avoided if the Secretaries of lodges would read the Ahiman Rezon, and make use of the " Form of Minutes " which has been provided for them by the Grand Lodge (and of which each of them has a copy), and if they would give a little more careful attention to the duties of their stations. Where edicts to a lodge become frequent, it would be well for the brethren of that lodge to inquire whether a change in their Secretary would not be of advantage. A question arose as to the propriety of holding mortuary services over the re- mains of a brother. It appears that the (hand Master had issued a dispensation For that purpose not knowing that the deceased was a suicide, and that his remains were to be cremated. lie did not come to any conclusions upon the subject, but proposes, should occasion arise, to define his position. We hope that Grand Lodge will re- view the matter, from the record of the Grand Master. In Illinois such matters are left to the discretion of lodges, no dispensation being required for burial services over the remains of a Mason with Masonic status unimpaired. We well remember two cases — one a brother who had taken his life in a drunken brawl, and another whose death was the immediate result of vice and debauchery. In both cases they were buried by the brethren, but without formal ceremonial, and upon the ground that our rituals would convict us of falsehood, and that their rendition, under the circumstances, would convey the impression that an impure Mason, in death, was entitled to the same consideration that would attach to a Mason whose Masonic career had been a blessing to his race. The address of R. W. Brother Mitchell has been read with a good deal of in- terest, because it reflects a disposition to live closely upon the line of our professions and pretensions. The Report on Correspondence was written by the distinguished chairman of the committee, the HON. and Right Worshipful Last (hand Master, Bro. Richard Vaux. In the prelude to his report he wisely says : If perchance one may disregard a landmark as not progressive enough to suit the whims or caprices of its constituents, then one at least of these essential principles is ignored or denied. A man without a leg, or an arm, may claim to be a Mason be( ause In- was made in one of those pro gressive bodies. As " woman's lights" is now an ism in profane progress, might it not happen that one of these bodies hastily associated without due caution, into tile family of Grand Lodges might make a woman a Mason in the bravado of its disregard of the old fogyism of the past? What then? Or it may 1"-, and this is most likely to happen, that three or more lodges desiring to |„ the style, rank , and title of a (".rand Lodge, should Organize such a body within a territorial or try in which many other associations claiming to be lodges of Freemason on their work. These disagree to the action of the lodges so acting. Another Grand Lodge may inized. It ma^ be thi reafter .1 third is established. Here is discord Whii h is to be recognized? MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. If Illinois and the writer; and although he can not accept some of our views of law and usage, still so long as he maintains conclusions that lie at the foun- dations of the peace, unity and strength of Masonic jurisdictions, we shall remain content regarding differences of opinion that do not have any bearing upon the gen- eral welfare. R. W. E. Coppee Mitchell, Philadelphia, Grand Master. R. W. Michael Nisbet, Philadelphia, Grand Secretary. PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, 1885. Grand Lodge met in the city of Charlottetown, June 24. The Most Worshipful, ' the Grand Master, Brother John Veo, presided over the representatives of seven of the eleven lodges of the jurisdiction. Thirteen Masters and Wardens were present, l''' s APPENDIX. presumably the direct delegates from constituent bodies, while twenty-six Past Mas- ters enjoyed the possibility of directing legislation. See Rhode Island, in our report of last year. The address of the Grand Master is of customary brevity, but not lacking in ev- idences of culture. He represents reasonable prosperity in lodges, and has author- ized the establishment of a new one. The proceedings of the Grand Body were of local interest only. The following quotation will educate home readers in the opinions of their co- temporaries: Physical Qualification.— There i>. nothing in the constitution or landmarks for disquali- fying a hunchback from being initiated into Masonry, provided lie could comply with all the cere- monies of the initiated in the several degrees. Lod(jk BUSINESS. — It is not competent for a subordinate lodge at an emergent meeting to en- ter on any other business than that specified on the summons. Restoration. — A brother who has been indefinitely suspended, can be restored to member- ship by a majority vote of the lodge at any regular communication, notice having been given at a previous regular communication that a motion to that effect would lie made. MASONIC Burial, — The friends ot a brother who died while under suspension for non-pay- ment of dues, can not, by paying his dues, entitle him to Masonic burial. Motions. — A brother who gives notice of motion to amend the constitution can not delegate another brother to move in the matter in his absence. Dimits can not be granted to Entered Apprentices or Fellow Crafts. Lodge working U. D. can not affiliate brethren. M. W. John Yeo, Port Hill, Grand Master. K. \V. 1]. Wilson Higgs, Charlottetown, Grand Secretary. QUEBEC, 1886. Our personal interest in this jurisdiction does not abate. for years she has waged a dignified but persistent contest for rights that appertain to her sovereignty, and today stands the peer of the Grand Lodges of the world. It must be borne in mind, by the American reader at least, that Quebec, in insisting upon exclusive jur- isdiction within its borders, has maintained the only attitude consistent with good government, and the peace, dignity and rightful authority of every Masonic power in existence. Some brethren are indulging in large surplus of sentimentalism upon MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 1G9 the subject; notwithstanding, there is not a jurisdiction more tenacious of her juris- dictional dominion than is the mother Grand Lodge of the world. We do not mean that the Masons of our country or of the world shall forget the prompt rebuke administered by her to the Grand Lodge of Manitoba (1S82) for presuming to au- thorize a lodge in the territory of Gibraltar, a community without a Grand Body. Grand Lodge met in Montreal January 27th. From the address of the Grand Master, M. W. Brother E. R. Johnson, we gather the gratifying information that unity and reasonable prosperity is general. Two new lodges have been authorized. Applications for dispensations to con- fer degrees at other times than provided by the statute, have been infrequent. He is of the opinion, that, "the wearing of regalia on public occasions must not become so frequent as to be in any way considered common. A Mason should be known by the life he leads and not by his apron and scarf pin." Unnecessary display in- duces enervation. No body or association of men can live upon display alone. That which attracts only the crowd, does not find continued sympathy with the better elements of society. Let display be occasional and in the line of ritualistic duty; then the " apron and scarf pin " will not detract from the dignity and sacred- ness of our professions, except they be displayed by those whose lives are but representations of the depravity to which men can&iak themselves. Brother Johnson is much pleased that II. R. II., Prince Albert Victor, has been made a Mason; his Royal Father, Prince Albert, presiding in lodge. The reports of D. D. Grand Masters confirm the pleasant assurances of the Grand Master, touching activity in lodges. The following was adopted : " That, whereas the issue of the edict by the M. W. the Grand Master of this Grand Lodge forbidding intercourse between the Master Masons of this jurisdiction and the three lodges in Mon- treal warranted by the English Grand Lodge, has produced no perceptible effect in the settlement of the difficulty as to the supreme jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, in the territory of this Province. And whereas this Grand Lodge cannot honorably recede from its rightful claim to supremacy in Ma- sonic matters in this Province, or leave its future chances for success to the chapter of accidents ; And whereas the Grand Lodge of England has refused to withdraw the warrants of its said three lodges, therefore be it " Resolved, That the Grand Master of this Grand Lodge be, and he is hereby instructed to issue an edict in the name and on behalf of this Grand Lodge, severing all intercourse between this Grand Lodge, its subordinate lodges and members on the one hand, and the Grand Lodge of Eng- land, its subordinate lodges and members thereof on the other hand, unless the warrants of said three lodges be withdrawn, or unless they affiliate with this Grand Lodge on or before the first day of July next." As Brother Johnson well says : " Our sovereignty must be maintained at any cost." The R. W. Grand Chaplain, Rev. Bro. Robert Kerr, delivered an able address, principally devoted to a defense of the Institution. We do not quite agree with the 22t 170 APPENDIX. distinguished brother, that such vindications are necessary. If one falsehood is re- futed, a score of others are promulgated to take its place. The best justification for our existence, are lives devoted to the welfare of our race. In this country an anti- Masonic demonstration, of any kind, is welcomed by lodges. We never knew of one that did not add scores to lodge membership. We invite rather than object to tlie maledictions of liars and hypocrites, because of the financial aid their harangues are certain to influence. Any Grand Lodge could well afford to defray the expenses of one or more of the apostles of Blanchard and his associates, in a crusade against the lodge, provided they will deliver at least two lectures per week, the remaining five days to be devoted to the distribution of their literature. The Grand Lodge of Australia was accorded fraternal recognition. The con- sideration of like questions, upon the applications of the so-called Grand Lodges of Spain and the Federal District of Mexico, were deferred. We sincerely hope that the brethren of this Grand Lodge will not be drawn into any alliances with bodies that do not have a constitutional origin. The subject is noticed elsewhere. K. W. brother ]ohn II. Isaacson, Grand Secretary, presented a well-considered Report on Correspondence. It is of great value to the Craft of the bailiwick, be- cause of the fund of information embraced in the limited space at his command, lie quotes the resolutions offered by Past Grand Master Cregier (1885), inhibiting fraternal relations with the three recusant lodges that have given Quebec so much trouble. His complimentary allusions to Brother C, are appreciated. M. W. J. Fred. Walker, Montreal, Grand Master. R. W. John II. Isaacson, Montreal, Grand Secretary. RHODE ISLAND, 1885. It is difficult to understand why a pamphlet of about one handled pages should occupy the attention of Rhode Island printers for eleven months. The proceedings of May iS, 1885, have just made their appearance, April 20, [886 An emergent communication was held in Bristol (" Plantations"), June 21, M. W. brother Lyman Klapp presiding over brethren who had assembled to aid Grand Podge in performing mortuary services over the remains of R. W. Philip 1!. liourn, I'a^t 1 deputy < band Master. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 171 The semi-annual communication assembled November 17, thirty-three lodges represented. The Grand Secretary, R. W. Bro. Edwin Baker, reported the business of the preceding half year, but nothing is found therein that would interest home readers, except the mention of a banquet. Two hundred and fifty brethren were present. The ninety-fifth annual communication was held May iS. The Grand Master, M. W. Bro. Klapp, was present, with an address abounding in food for reflection. A few paragraphs are given : First of all ; — it is necessary for us to fully realize and clearly understand, that the corner and chief foundation stone of Freemasonry is a definite belief in God the Father Almighty, Grand Architect of Heaven and Earth and of all things visible and invisible. This is so essential to the existence of our Institution, that whenever any Grand Lodge strikes " Believe in God " from its work — as was done by the Grand Orient of France — it ceases to be a Masonic body. And if, un- happily, a candidate be admitted to our mysteries without this fundamental belief and pass through all our ceremonies, yet he is not, and while he remains without this faith in God, he cannot be con- sidered a Free and Accepted Mason. We should also remember that, although this belief in God is the corner-stone of our Institution, and our whole history illustrates the profound reverence all genuine Freemasons have ever mani- fested for the great and sacred name of Jehovah, yet that Freemasonry is not a system of religion, nor a substitute for that Divine Institution established by Almighty God in the earliest days of the human race, and which has extended onwards down to the present time. No, my brothers, let us never forget that our Ancient Society is of human origin, limited in its membership to one sex and to only a small proportion of that part of the human family. It has not that germ of life which amid all the changes and chances of the world, evermore preserves among men and for every child ot Adam, that Divine Institution planted in the world at the beginning by God Himself. Therefore, because it is an organization of man's devising — although the grandest human Institution the world has ever seen — it is of the utmost importance that we should guard with jealous care this great Divine Truth upon which our Order is builded ; and whether in the faith of Israel of old we are waiting for the promised Messiah, or as believers in Him already come, let us all bow in lowly reverence and adoring worship, before the Great I Am, Who Was, and Is and Is to come, the same yesterday, to-day and forevermore. We also call your attention to one other foundation principle of our Institution, which we sometimes fear is not understood and realized in all its length, breadth, depth and height as it should be, and that is the Brotherhood of Freemasonry. My dear brothers, our Institution teaches that not only as members of individual lodges we are all brothers — but that this Great Brotherhood embraces all the lodges of our own State, all the Grand Lodges in this country and throughout the world. But further, we are taught that a Mason's " Charity extends beyond the grave to the boundless realms of eternity." Whether therefore we are numbered with those this side the grave or with that far larger host on the other side, Masonry teaches and we should firmly believe and fully realize that we are all one, in a Brotherhood that is eternal and everlasting. This great and most comfortable doctrine is interwoven with many of our customs and usages, but especially in our office for the burial of the dead. Whenever we form that unbroken circle around the grave of a departed brother, let us remem- ber this significant ceremony symbolizes that although death has entered our ranks and removed a brother from earthly labor, yet the circle of our everlasting Brotherhood remains unbroken, (and in the language of the first Office for the Burial of the Dead, adopted by this Grand Lodge in 1748, a copy of which I hold in my hand) : " We commit his body to the ground ; earth to earth ; ashes to ashes ; dust to dust ; in hope that it shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day, when the glory of the Lord shall bring to light all who are under the darkness and shadow of death ; causing 172 APPENDIX. the earth and sea to give up their dead no more to see corruption. And as we leave his mortal body in the grave in faith and hope, there to await the morning of the resurrection, so we also follow the soul of that brother, with the charity of our prayers and beseech Almighty C>"i> in whom he ami we ' put our trust,' that of His infinite love, He would grant that his soul ' may find mercy in the day ofjudgment, and be numbered with the saints of the Most High, in glory everlasting.' " We had something to say upon this subject last year, and then came to the con- clusion that although Masonry was not a religion represented by creeds and ecclesi- astical organization, yet it was religion if the definitions of the word by lexicograph- ers were to be accepted. Webster defines religion to be a " recognition of ( Jod as an object of worship, love and obedience ;" second, " any system of faith and worship." Masonry accepts all that is implied by the first quotation; and more than that, em- bodies in such acceptation, " faith in Clod, hope in immortality, and charity for all mankind." There is not any system of " faith and worship" that embraces anything more, except in details, by those organizations that are held together by creeds and ecclesiastical governments. It is true that Masonry is not a system of religion. It does not pretend (neither has it ever done so) to occupy the place of the church, nevertheless it is religion, though not a religion, because any organization of men that recognizes " God as an object of worship, love and obedience," are religious, though they may not administer the sacraments of the church. Again, Masonry would not be of any advantage to the world unless it were religious. It is rooted in the fundamental laws of our civilization, consequently all its teachings run parallel therewith. More, the Bible is accepted as a guide for faith and practice, and no legitimate lodge ever convened that did not accept the guidance of the Deity as rep- resented by the Great Light of the Institution. Bro. Klapp is rather tender upon the subject. He lives, probably, in a community of adversaries that are constantly charg- ing the lodge with an attempt to usurp the place and functions of the church. Let them charge, if it is any consolation to them. Such apologetic disquisitions, how- ever, imply a defense of the Craft. We ask no such defense. We "stand still (in such matters) upon the eternal foundations of Masonry." They are plain, open ami unequivocal, and have had a public existence since the dawn of the brotherhood. Legislation of local importance only. The Committee on Correspondence a-ked anne new lodge consecrated. The Hoard ot General Purposes reported: "That an important communication has been re- ceived from the V. W., the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of England, in ref- erence to recognition and the retention of Original Warrants. The V. W. Brother writes by command of the M. W. the Grand Master, His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, to the effect that upon the receipt of satisfactory evidence as to the num- ber of members who have joined the Grand Lodge, and the assurance that any lodge at present working under the English Constitution, should it wish to continue to do so, may be recognized as a regular lodge, the M. W. the Grand Master will be pre- pared to lay the petition for recognition before the Grand Lodge of England, with a recommendation that it be favorably considered." The committee further report : " All necessary information having been supplied in the fullest manner, and the re- quired assurances given, the Board now venture to congratulate the Craft upon the satisfactory relations which will shortly be established between the Grand Lodges of England and South Australia." Italics ours. When the writer reported, at our last annual convocation, a resolution recognizing the Grand Lodge of South Australia as a Masonic power, we did not have a doubt but that it was an independent, sovereign Grand Lodge. Had we have known that this "Grand Lodge " was not assuming exclusive jurisdiction over the territory of the Province, we should not have had any disposition to have the Grand Lodge of Illinois compromising a principle in Grand Lodge organization, and for which we have contended for so many years. As we understand it, the same conditions have been imposed by the Grand Lodges of Ire- land and Scotland. The brethren of South Australia should spurn any conditions that reflected upon its sovereignty. We should think that the controversy going on between England and Quebec would be an ample lesson of what subserviency leads to. The quarterly and annual communication was held April 15, M. W. S. J. Way occupying the Grand East. He delivered a brief address. It is found therein that the last lodge, under English constitutions, " have resolved" to surrender its warrant and I lecome identified with the Grand Lodge of South Australia. Officers were elected and finances considered. A quarterly communication was in session July 15. The Board of General Pur- poses are in receipt of information that the Grand Lodge of England had extended fraternal recognition. At the quarterly communication of October 21 the Board of General Purposes report, "that official intimation has been received from the Grand Lodges of Eng- land, Ireland and Scotland that the Grand Lodge of South Australia has been recog- nized and acknowledged by those bodies as a regular Grand Lodge. It is a pleasure to know this, notwithstanding conditional recognition is humiliation. M. W. S. J. Way, Adelaide, Grand Master. Y. W. J. II. Cunningham, Adelaide, Grand Secretary. 176 APPENDIX. SCOTLAND, 1885. A quarterly communication was held August 6th. " The Most Worshipful The Grand Master Mason, Brother Colonel Sir Archibald C. Campbell, Baronet," pre- siding. Included in visitors present, was Brother Darasha R. Chichgur, Honorary Substitute Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of All Scottish Freemasonry in India. He was introduced to (hand Lodge by the Grand Master, and made a very sensible speech in response. This distinguished guest of Grand Lodge is a native of India. One lodge was established in New South Wales. What has become of the independent sovereignty (!) of the "Grand Lodge of New South Wales?" The legitimate Grand Lodges of the world that have recognized this abnormity, are Alabama, Arkansas, British Columbia, Canada, Delaware, District Columbia, Idaho, Indian Territory, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Brunswick, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, South Australia, Washington Territory, West Virginia, Wisconsin anil Wyoming — 28. Now, which of these are to take up the cudgels for their protege? If the "Grand Lodge of New South Wales" is a legitimate institution, why not some of the foregoing protest to the Grand Lodge of Scotland against its aggressions upon a friendly indepi •ndt >it poise r .' Perhaps Bro. Parvin (Iowa) can be induced to take the initiative; if not, let Bro. Singleton, (D. C), Pro. Reed I W. Territory), or Bro. Hedges, (Montana), grasp the battle ax. If any or all these fail of duty, we recommend that Bro. Innes, of Michigan, take a "turn at the crank." We suppose, however, that all will wait till a wail comes up from New South Wales — perhaps longer. Brethren, "you are in a box," should the latter demand your interposition. Ain't you? In this same connection is found the recommendation that : Communications were submitted from the District Grand Secretary of New South Wales, Brother William Higstrim, in which it was shown that the ('.rand Lodge of South Australia, recent- ly recognized by this Grand Lodge, had, in establishing fraternal relations with the so called Grand Lodge of New South Wales, virtually ignored the existence of the Scottish District Grand Lodge in that colony, with its train of torty-four lodges. On the motion of Brother Dr. John falconer, Rep- resentative of New South Wales, it was resolved to recommend to Grand Lodge to withdraw its recognition of the Grand Lodge of South Australia. It will be interesting to learn the result of this movement, and we will give it if received in time for this report. It appears that annual dues (per capita) are not demanded of lodges. Instead thereof, is a list of fees from which is derived the revenues of the Grand Body. The account of the Grand Cashier for the quarter ending October 24, will be an explanation : [NO >MK. 1355 Intrants at 6s 6d .<.■)»" 7 6 3 " 5s 6d 16 6 115 Certificates at ss ;8 15 o MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 177 1358 Diplomas at 5s .£339 IO ° 30 " 2s 6d 3 15 o 50 Installed Master's Diplomas at 2s 6d 6 10 o Laws sold 3 17 10 Demits sold 1 1 o Members' Fees (Grand Lodge) 6 15 6 Rents- Hall 37 14 o Side Hall 880 46 2 o Charters 31 10 o Commissions to Provincial Grand Masters 21 o o Sundries o 12 11 Suspense 26 16 6 ^957 9 9 . Those brethren of Illinois looking for retrenchment, may find something in this upon which to predicate financial reforms. " Intrants" refer to initiations and other memberships — as we understand it. Grand Lodge, in testimony of its affection for its Past Grand Master, The Earl of Mar and Kellie, presented his Countess with a marble bust of his Lordship. The committee were not only graciously received, but enjoyed marked hospitality at the hands of that distinguished Lady. M. W. Col. Archibald C. Campbell, Grand Master. R. W. D. Murray Lyon, Grand Secretary. TENNESSEE, 1886. Grand Lodge convened in Nashville, January 26, M. \V. Henry M. Aiken pre- siding. Lodge representation was quite full. There was also a long array of dis- tinguished past Grand officers present, together with a considerable number of Past Masters, whose voting franchises bring them to the front. The address of the Grand Master is very brief. He gives the glad assurance of the harmony and prosperity of lodges within his bailiwick. lie also announces the death of several brethren of the jurisdiction, including R. W. Brother John McClel- land, Past Grand Treasurer, and R. W. Brother Ambrose R. Reid, Past Junior Grand Warden. "3t 178 APPENDIX. He did not think that a candidate with a stiff knee should be initiated. He fur- ther decided that, ''under the Masonic law, as it exists in this (hand Jurisdiction, a petition may be withdrawn by majority vote." The Committee on Jurisprudence found the Grand Master correct, and offered an amendment (adopted) : "That Edict No. 26 be so amended as to require a unanimous vote to withdraw petitions and to restore indefinitely suspended and expelled Masons." The same committee give Brother Aiken a touching reminder, thus : "He issued a dispensation to Rugby Lodge, 518, authorizing the raising of a F. C. out of time. We find that many of his predecessors have so practiced, but such action was contrary to the expression of this Grand Lodge in 1873. It says: 'The Grand Master does not possess the power to suspend, by dispensation or otherwise, the operation of any edict or regula- tion of the Grand Lodge, and no case of emergency can possibly be presented which would authorize the attempt to do so.' The peculiarity of this case, and the many precedents our M. W. brother had from his predecessors, we think probably justified his action." Which will you have, " precedent " or law? The latter is a good thing, but, to us, it does seem a want of wisdom to place a Grand Master in a posi- tion where he is not, by written law, at liberty to direct affairs in the supposed wel- fare of the Fraternity. Why was not the Grand Master prosecuted for violation of edicts? Is it not an offense to disregard law? It does seem to us that those juris- dictions so hostile to "prerogatives" should discipline offenders, rather than come forth with the rather humiliating and lame conclusion that " precedents " are of more force than written statutes. Brother Aiken thus closes his address: And now, brethren, what of the future? Masonry contains within itself the elements of strength and harmony. Its membership possesses the ingredients of weakness and discord. Then how scrupulously careful should we be in our " walk and conversation," lest the shadow of a stain should come upon it through our conduct or our speech. There is a legend somewhere which tells of a magic cloak that was taken from the body of a great monster of the sea. The story goo that it was fabricated and thus preserved for < irendil, a peerless Knight, the sole survivor from a Meet that had been wrecked within sight of the Holy Sepulchre, whether he was voyaging to secure the bride which the fates had decreed him. When another than he had attempted to put on this garment, il was torn ; but when ( Irendil donned it, not only did it become as good as new, but it made him in- vulnerable. And so, my brethren, of Masonry. He who lives up to its teachings and obeys its in imii tions will not display to the world an unshapely and tattered garment, but each such one will, like Orendil, find it a perfect fitting and becoming habiliment, and, clad in it, he will cm \ tl tidence and esteem of his fellows, and will be shielded and strengthened against many evil influences, May we all be so clothed. The following record will awaken considerable interest. Home readers will be rather surprised that an old side degree is permitted a distinct organization, and under the tacit patronage of a Grand Lodge of the three degrees of the Graft. PAST MASTERS. \i .1 Convocation uf Past M tsters, held in Freemason's Hall, in Nashville, on Januarj lSS'3, there were present MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 170 Wor. Jas. L. Sloan, \V. M. Wor. Geo. H. Morgan, S. W. Wor. B. A. Phillips, J. W. Wor. N. F. Harrison, Sec. Wor. R. M. Edwards, Treas. Wor. E. E. Arnold, S. D. Wor. Jno. E. Featherston, J. D. Wor. Ewin Burney, Tyler, And a large number of Past Masters. The Secretary presented a certificate from John Frizzell, Grand Secretary of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Tennessee, that the following brethren had been regularly elected to preside over and govern their respective lodges, to-wit : (Here follows a list of names.) They were presented and duly installed. ( )n motion of Brother Ewin Burney, Brothers Chas. M. Carroll, Geo. H. Morgan and P. II. Craig were appointed a committee to formulate and report a constitution for a permanent organiza- tion of the Past Masters of Tennessee. The Convocation then closed to assemble again to-morrow evening. January 27. The Convocation reassembled with the same officers as at the previous meeting, except the J . W., which place was filled by W. A. Smith. The committee, through their Chairman, submitted the following report, which was adopted : Your committee respectfully submit the following : CONSTITUTION. Article I. The Convocation shall be known as the Grand Convocation of Past Masters of Tennessee. Article II. The officers shall be the same as those required in a Past Masters Lodge, to be elected an- nually by ballot, and the members shall be all the Past Masters of Tennessee who have heretofore received the degree and sign this Constitution and those who may hereafter be elected to member- ship or elected and receive the degree. Article III. The meetings shall be held annually during the meeting of the M. W. Grand Lodge on such a day as the Worshipful Master may designate. Article IV. This degree may be conferred on all who may present proper certificates of their election as Worshipful Master of a legally constituted lodge of Master Masons. Article V. This Constitution may be amended at any annual meeting by a two-thirds vote of all memberi present. The following signed the constitution and became members ; (Here follows a list of names.) The following officers were elected : LSO APPENDIX. i lux. M. Carroll, Memphis, Worshipful Master. Geo. H. Morgan, Gainesboro, Senior Warden. las. L. Sloan, Linden, Junior Warden. Win. A. Smith. Columbia, Treasurer. P. H.Craig, Waynesboro, Secretary I I Arnold, Decaturville, Senior Deacon. D. K. Deakins, Jasper, Junior Deacon. I.uin Bumey, Nashville, Tyler. On motion the Secretary was directed to request the Grand Secretary of the M. W. Grand Lodge to publish the proceedings of this Convocation with the proceedings of the M. W Grand Lodge. No further business appearing, the Grand Convocation was closed. Chas. M. Carroll, P, H. Craig. Worshipful Master. Secretary. Brother Frank M. Smith (reporter), speaking of this degree (!) in his review "f Kansas, agrees with Grand Master Buck, that it is time to lay aside this useless orna- ment. It is not only a useless ornament, but its indulgence weakens our lines of de- fense against the horde of parasites that would fasten their poisonous fangs upon the body of the Fraternity. It is our opinion that if the brethren of Tennessee fully comprehended their error, they would, at once, abandon it. If the Past Masters of this jurisdiction desired yearly social intercourse, these convocations would be com- mendable ; but when a secret organization is established within the body of the lodge, t<, propagate a DEGREE (in the name of Masonry) entirely unknown to the ancient constitutions of the Craft, they encourage treason against the Fraternity. It is quite true that the nondescript has considerable age. So has the multitude of degrees and orders with which the lodge has no connection. Why any discrimination? The Report on Correspondence was presented by Bro. Frank M. Smith. The chairman of the committee, Bro. Frizzell, thus speaks of him : No one regretted more sincerely than the undersigned the declination of Brother Foster to continue as Chairman of our Committee on Correspondence. His reports had won for him a reputa- tion as a Masonic writer and reviewer second to but few, if any, of the many able brethren engaged in this department of work. Brother Foster felt that under the circumstances surrounding him he must del line, and imr brethren in this jurisdiction will, we are sure, unite with us in the expression of the hope that he may be long spared to give the Fraternity the benefit of his eminent Masonic abilities. It is lortunate that the mantle of Brother Foster has fallen upon such worthy shoulders. Bro. Smith, though a new band, wields a ready pen, and presents .111 ex< ellent report which is most heartily commended. I am under obligations to him for performing this labor, which, on account of othei engagements, 1 could not undertake. Although we sincerely regret the loss of Brother Foster, Brother Smith's prede- cessor, we find no cause to regret the substitution. He does not see any reason why dispensations to confer degrees out of time is objectionable. Neither do we, if any good can be promoted thereby. He quotes the action of our Grand Lodge, last year, in declining to insist upon the payment to a lodge of California, by one of our lodges, the expenses attending the care of a member thereof. He also refers to our MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 181 tables upon the voting franchises of Grand Lodge memberships. In his review of Kentucky, he righteously denounces the reception of dues for which a member was suspended and then declining restoration; and in the same spirit speaks of a decis- ion of the Grand Master of Michigan, that a Master was authorized to exclude a member from his lodge who had become " notoriously obnoxious." lie thinks it was "sensible" in Mississippi to decline any action against bodies that assume the functions of the lodge — referring to the Rites of Memphis. We would like it if Bro. Smith would give this subject more thought. If a man stands by your side swinging a weapon, threatening your life, would you not disarm him if possible? Please refer to our report on this subject for 1884, page 21 of our printed transac- tions. Bro. Smith does not think well of any insurance features being tacked upon Masonic charity ; is pronounced in hostility to gambling and drinking. We have read this report with pleasure. M. W. Thomas O. Morris, Nashville, Grand Master. M. W. John Frizzell, P. G. M., Nashville, Grand Secretary. TEXAS, 1885. A special communication was held March 2, to place the memorial stone of the Capitol of the State, now being erected in Austin. The ceremony was conducted by R. W. Z. E. Coombes, Deputy Grand Master. Past Grand Master F. B. Sexton de- livered an able and lengthy address. We can only give the concluding paragraph : If Texans desire, as none should doubt that they do, the steady and healthy growth of the State, they must cherish an honest State pride. This has always been and always will be commended and encouraged by just and thinking people. Cannot Texas and her people do as well as any other State or people in all the fields and departments of labor and enterprise? We believe that they can, and the lessons we read in their past history justify the belief. Let us all hope for and labor to- ward this end. As already suggested, let the idea of dividing the State never find encouragement. The pine woods are interested in the prairies, and the prairies in the pine woods. The sugar and cotton of the south and middle are interested in the cattle and grain of the west and north. All are interested in the vast mineral resources of the northwest. The products of our soil and of our varied industries are demanded by the markets of all the world. We should never forget the singleness of purpose, devotion and sacrifices of our fathers who gave us this great inheritance, and whose earnest desire was to see it remain one in territory, interest and destiny. Besides the names already mentioned, we are following up the work of Burnet and Lamar, the Whartons, and Jacks, of Jones, Henderson and Van Zandt, of Albert Sidney Johnson and James H. Starr and many others. Let us never tear in pieces the fabric which they erected, for the preservation of which Travis, Crockett, Bowie, Milam, Fannin and their comrades died ; on which so many of their successors have builded wisely and well. We have resources which can make us equal in population and material wealth to any of our sister States. In developing these let us take care to keep/Vy far pitch the nondescript into the cold. There are but three de- grees in Masonry, and any ceremonial beyond these is unauthorized by the immem orial, fundamental law. By what right, therefore, is legalized in lodge signs, grips and words that are not the common heritage of every Mason ? Please explain. A California lodge granted relief to a member of a Texas lodge. The former demanded remuneration. The latter demurred. This is a question pretty well along MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 183 in years, and has crystallized into the conviction that charity never asks compensa- tion for its kind offices; nevertheless, there is a thought gathering strength among Masons that a Craftsman or lodge (with ability) that will not volunteer a material recognition for the kindly, helping hand of brethren who administer relief, don't have a very distinguished claim to the respect of the Fraternity. While we insist that there can not be any lawful claim for restitution, by virtue of our covenants, yet there remains a moral Masonic obligation to do the best -we can. There is another ques- tion in connection with the matter that should receive the attention of Boards of Re- lief and of lodges. There are hundreds of Masons and impostors who, by reason of their indiscretions could not, at home, command the respect or benevolence of their brethren; therefore, lodges of which they are members should be asked concerning them before any considerable expenditures are made in their behalf. It is our de- liberate opinion that a profane is much more entitled to charity than a drunken, worthless or debauched Mason. The Grand Master alludes to the retirement of R. W. Bro. Bringhurst from the Secretaryship of Grand Lodge after twenty-two years of service, and after entering upon the seventy-sixth year of his age. He retires with the plaudits of the brethren* There is so much to be noticed in the deliberations of the Grand Body that each topic must be considered separately. First, then, to the reports of Committees on Ap- peals and Grievances. The first case attracting attention is an appeal from a licentious profligate against the judgment of a lodge in his expulsion for debauching a young woman. This case had been previously before Grand Body upon the ground that it was not a Masonic (!) offense, and presumably for the reason that she was not the daughter of Masonic parentage. The Grand Lodge honored itself by affirming the verdict of its constitu- ent. The report is a magnificent vindication of the Fraternity. Travis Lodge, No. 1 17, appealed from the verdict of the lodge in administering reprimand upon a brother for an attempt to blackmail a Mason who had applied fo r the degrees of the Chapter. The difficulty grew out of business matters, the threa t being made that unless the applicant paid a debt his petition would be rejected. The committee appeared to entertain the opinion that such threat was a punishable offense, because, as the committee say : " To state the matter plainly to the lodge, the ac- cused was charged with making a piece of merchandise out of his vote for admission to Masonry . The lodge found him guilty of the charge, and yet refused to do any- thing more than reprimand him." Balics ours. The question arises, by what au- thority did the lodge presume to adjudicate a case in which it had no Masonic inter- est ? Would it not have been quite as justifiable to have insisted upon the propriety of determining the supposed offender guilty of an offense if the threat had been em- ployed to keep a person out of a body of Odd Fellows, made up exclusively of Ma- sons ? A lodge knows nothing officially of the Chapter, and nothing else, excepting incidentally through memberships therein. The latter, if feeling aggrieved, might have dealt with Brother Zank, but for the life of us we can not conceive of the pro- 1 8 I APPENDIX. priety of disciplining a Mason upon a charge that does not remotely concern the lodge. The supposed offender did not object to the brother's admission to "Ma- sonry" but to an association of Masons as distinct from the lodge as is a body oi Knights Templar or Royal Arcanum. The committee affirmed the verdict of a lodge in expelling a member there- from for murder, although, as we infer, admitted by the courts. The committee wisely conclude : But your committee are clearly of the opinion that the defenses urged in the courts to the charge of murder are not to be considered as binding in the jurisprudence of Masonry and the lodge below having, by a vote of 17 to 6, found Bro. Gctzwiller guilty of the charge of gross un-Masonic conduct and having, by a vote of 17 to 7, expelled him from all his rights and privileges as a Ma- son, from which findings liro. Getzwiller brings this appeal, we unhesitatingly concur in the action of the lodge. It is sad to know that one Master Mason should be even compelled to slay his brother 111 anger, but we believe that the slayer should expiate his crime in sackcloth and ashes and not come among his brethren clothed in the emblems of innocence and with the blood of his brother fresh upon his hands. From a report of the Committee on Jurisprudence it is found that an elected candidate is not held to the jurisdiction of the electing lodge, provided he removes from the bailiwick. In Illinois it is held, that, upon the acceptance and reference of a petition juris- diction obtains, whether the candidate be elected or rejected. Papers coming from both the Committees on Appeals and Jurisprudence reflect great credit upon the jurisdiction. They are well written, and show a knowledge of fraternal things that is rarely to be met with. A Lodge of Sorrow was held in memory of brethren who had passed away during the year. Included in the list is the Grand Master, M. W. Benj. A. Botts, Past Grand Masters, N. II. Darnell, John R. FretWell and Henry Sampson. The Grand Orator, R. W. F. B. Sexton, delivered a beautiful address upon the occasion. His conclusion is given : Let us cherish the memory of our brethren for the good they have done. Let us sp.-.ik of and imitate that. Do not let us forget the obligations we are under to those they have lett behind. We should give them not only sympathy and kind words, but encouragement, benevolence and help, as well, when needed. Hut more than all, on this occasion the question recurs which was asked centuries ago in the .lis, ussion between the Prophet of 1/ and his self-constituted comforters : " If a man die shall he live again V" All who have ever dropped a sprig of evergreen at the head of a deceased brother's grave —all who have ever assisted in raising a Master Mason ; all who have ever penetrated the secret vault and brought to light the hidden treasure ; all who have ever visited the 1 loly Sepulchre or as- sembled round the triangle, can answer and say, " He will? " If " the few lurid pleasures that dawn on us here," are all of life, then, indeed, would the but ,1. 11 be hardly worth the bearing. We can believe that " Lilly is the subliinest word in our language," we believe its reward will come in the future beyond the tomb. We Can part from our to. nds, our children, our loved ones, even though it be with breaking hearts, because we believe that they shall live again ; that we can meet them in a better land— in a sinless hereafter. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 185 The edict of Grand Lodge ordering a Past Grand Master's jewel for Grand Master Botts, deceased, was continued in force, with directions that it be presented to his daughter, Miss Kate Botts. The following resolutions were adopted by a rising vote : Whereas, R. VV. Geo. H. Bringhurst has served this Grand Lodge as Grand Secretary for twenty-two consecutive years, and owing to his advanced age he has voluntarily retired from a posi- tion which he has so long and faithfully filled ; and Whereas, This Grand Lodge desires to express its sense of the valuable services which our venerable brother has rendered to it during all the years he has labored as Grand Secretary ; there- fore, be it i. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge hereby tenders its thanks to R. W. George H. Bring- hurst, for his zealous and efficient services in the cause of Masonry and this Grand Lodge; that in his retirement from official position he carries with him the gratitude of this Grand Lodge and the affectionate regards and fraternal esteem of its members. 2. Resolved, That a special committee of three be appointed by the Grand Master to pro- cure and present to Bro. Bringhurst a jewel, as a token of the appreciation of this Grand Lodge for his services as Grand Secretary, and of its regard for his Masonic virtues and character, said jewel to be of gold and appropriately inscribed, and the Grand Master be authorized to draw a draft on the Grand Treasurer in payment thereof. 3. Resolved, That the foregoing preamble and resolutions be spread upon the minutes of this Grand Lodge, and a certified copy thereof be furnished Bro. Bringhurst. It was ordered that the $23,000 now in the Charity Fund should be appropri- ated to the establishment of a Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home. A committee was appointed to carry the order into effect. The Report on Correspondence (a par- tial one) was presented by brethren Gillaspie, Simpson and Ilawley. Illinois does not appear to have attracted the attention of either. But few jurisdictions were noticed, for want of time. Brother Gillaspie retires. Sorry. Of the action of the Grand Master of Pennsylvania in making a Mason of a young man under age, Bro. Simpson pertinently remarks: This action is fully sustained by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. It is perhaps warranted by the ancient landmarks of the Order. There were times when the exercise of this prerogative conferred marked benefits upon the Craft. Those times may come again ; but in the present en- lightened age, when the Craft is everywhere prosperous, it seems to us that this is a prerogative, by the exercise of which no benefits accrue to Masonry ; and what does not benefit Masonry ought not to be indulged in, even by a Grand Master. While landmarks, in a few instances, permit " short cuts," we are satisfied that the old beaten track, though It may wind a little, that we have all traveled over, is much the safer and by far the best. In the matter of an educational qualification for the degrees Brother Gillaspie says: It is possible that in this jurisdiction, that inability to read and write would be inexcusable; but then, it has been a long time since Kentucky was a frontier State, and hence a long time since she labored under the disability and the lack of opportunity of such facilities as are necessary to acquire those arts. Bro. Staton, study " Put yourself in his PLA£E." It makes a wonderful difference when it comes to locality and time. *4t lSfi AITKNDIX. Texas, in a very few years, lias stepped from the conditions of a pioneer State to that of wealth, refinement and culture, and the question which here so much vexes our brother, with the . hanged condition, will pass away. But we still assert that ignorance of reading and writing should U0t,perse, disqualify. The condition and circumstances of life, should enter as a factor in determin- ing cjualifications. Masons often point with pride (?) to the fact that the aborigines of this country quainted with our knowledge ; if so, they being ignorant of the art of reading and writing, why not one who is intelligent to a greater degree, but still labors under the same disability. We are no apologists of ignorance, except when it becomes next to an impossibility for the individuals to acquire knowledge. We are aware that many finely spun sentences may be spun out of what we have said on this subject, but we are also satisfied when it is taken soberly and thought over, in the light in which we gave our opinion, one cannot but agree. i if the rejection of the action of our Grand Lodge by Ohio, touching Memphis Rites, brother G. further says: We fail to sec by force of what logic the Grand Lodge took such a course. We arc firmly convinced that the time has come when the body of Masonry should pronounce, and that very decidedly, upon these so-called Masonic rites. They are surely sapping the life blood of this ancient and most honorable Institution. The three degrees, composing the Institution of Masonry are made so cheap that they are only used as a means to acquire some of those 90 rites which are continually flaunting their showy g< wgaws and highly numbered degrees. And these so-called Masonic rites all claim jurisdiction over the three degrees, but apply an oily unction to the dosing Grand Lodge Jurisdictions by averring that they will not exercise that rite. By what right do they claim this privilege, and how magnanimous to give over this great authority. The time will come, possibly too late, when the Grand Lodges will claim their own. ( >ur Grand Secretary, Bro. Munn, receives credit for statistical tables prepared by Bro. Staton. M. W, /. E. Coombes ; Dallas, (hand Master. K. W. T. W. Hudson, Houston, Grand Secretary. UTAH, 1886. The fifteenth annual communication was held in Salt Lake City, January 19th. M. W. Brother Parley Lycurgus Williams presided over the representatives of the eight lodges of the jurisdiction. Five Past Grand Masters, with other dignitaries, were m attendance. The Grand Master congratulated the brethren upon the Mess- MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 187 ings bestowed upon the jurisdiction, and although "disquietude" which has so long perplexed the citi/ens of the Territory was not quite obliterated, nevertheless he an- ticipated its early removal. He refers to the Mormon question. It is a sincere grat- ification to find that, although the Fraternity has not taken any part, politically, as a Fraternity, in the contest against the barbarous, lecherous defamers of our civiliza- tion, yet as citizens they have given their moral support to law ordained for the ob- literation of Utah's social horror. It is this position of the Masons of Utah, and the unflinching determination of Masons everywhere, where kindred questions are at- tracting attention, that will soon convince the world that one of the strongest allies of good government, one of the most sturdy defenders of our civilization, is to be found in the lodge. Its principles direct to the identical thoughts and practices that enter into every contest with impurity. The Grand Master is adverse to hasty legislation — referring to propositions be- fore Grand Lodge. The first was a discrimination against Salt Lake City in the mat- ter of a minimum price for the degrees. All lodges were placed upon an " equality before the law" in this regard. The next suggestion was the abolition of the office of Deputy Grand Master, and was disagreed to. As old as anything in constitu- tional Masonry is this position. In some jurisdictions, and in consonance with the old practice, it is an office by appointment of the Grand Master. It may be " a thing of beauty " rather than that of utility; nevertheless, it has the sanction of universal custom, and from remote periods. Brother Williams is also adverse to biennial sessions of the Grand Body. He thinks there may be a gain in dollars and cents by adopting the system, but is of the opinion that such change should not be made. In this we agree with the Grand Master. Annual gatherings, as he remarks, operate as a Masonic revival. Masons are peculiarly social beings, and the more they breathe of that kind of influence the more there is of unity and strength. This is as true of a church, or any benevolent or beneficent institution. Unless there are some reasons fundamental to the welfare of the Craft, come together every year. These gather- ings cost money, it is true ; but this expenditure is insignificant as compared with the loss of vitality that would follow biennial communications. He says : My observations have led me to the conclusion that there is not cultivated in Utah that friend- ly intercourse, and those social features which should characterize, and, indeed, constitute a part of Masonry. This should be otherwise. The great object of Masonry is to cultivate and develop those qualities of human nature, which are most prominent in the most advanced stages of civilized society. This cultivation and development can only be attained by coming in contact, closely and frequent* ly» by tne interchange of ideas, and by the encouragement of the social qualities. It this course is pursued amongst the brethren a more intimate acquaintance results, an increased interest in each other's society and welfare is felt, lodge meetings are better attended and a prosperous condition of the Fraternity follows. The cultivation of our social natures was looked upon by our ancient breth- ren as one of the foundation stones of Masonry, and I believe it may be justly claimed as a universal rule that where you find a lodge whose members practice and cultivate sociability, you will there find a prosperous lodge. A reform in this particular is greatly needed among the Fraternity in this juris- diction. More frequent social reunions should be introduced for the attainment of the desired end, and while at first a little effort to bring the brethren together might be required, ere long the pleasure experienced and profit derived would be a sufficient incentive to popularize such gatherings. The two Masonic holidays in the year (St. John the Baptist, and St. John the Evangelist) should never be permitted to pass without being noticed by the Craft, and in some appropriate way celebrated. 188 APPENDIX, The Grand Master is inclined to hesitate in the exercise of his prerogatives. Well, brethren will differ upon this and kindred questions: We respectfully invite the attention of Brother Williams to a discussion of this subject in another part of this report. The Grand Master is also forninst perpetual jurisdiction over rejected candi- dates, and had the sympathy of Grand Lodge. Sony, indeed, that another good man and Mason has gone astray. If brethren would deign reasons for objections, we should feel under renewed obligations. Perhaps Bro. Diehl will furnish us in- formation resting in our covenants, one with the others. Why is it that a person against whom my lodge interposes objections should be made my peer and the peer of every other member thereof without its assent ? To be consistent, as it appears to us, an E. A. or F. C. should be at liberty to go wherever he will for advancement. Why restrain a Mason and not a profane ? The Grand Master relates a slight tiff with the Grand Lodge of Nevada. It is the oft repeated story of an invasion of jurisdiction; and looking for a precedent, the latter accepted the action of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in a similar case, and interdicted fraternal relations with the offending lodge. The following is the action of Nevada : To the M. W. Grand Lodge o/F. and A. M. of Nevada : Your committee, to whom w:is referred that part of the M. W. Grand Master's address in re- lation to charges ordered by him to he preferred by Eureka Lodge, No. in, against M. 1>. Foley, who, while a resident of Eureka, Nevada, received the three degrees of Masonry in Wasatch Li dge No. i, Utah, would report as follows : The ordering that such charges be brought, would seem to be regular and justifiable in ac- i onl. mi e with precedents established by this Grand Lodge; more particularly in the case of Stephen A. Kinsey, similar to this. (See pp. 9 and 326, Vol. n, Proceedings of ('.rand Lodge.) Upon investi- gation we find the facts to be as follows : About the first of April, 1884, M. 1). Foley, a resident of Eureka, State of Nevada, he being at that time a hold-over Senator of that State, and a Representa- tive of that State, then on his way to attend the Republican National Convention at Chicago, and who subsequently took his seat as a State Senator in the Legislature of said State, presented his petition for the three degrees of Masonry to Wasatch Lodge, No. 1, at Salt Lake City, Utah. He was elected and initiated in said lodge about April 1st, 1884, and was passed and raised in said lodge about 25th of May, in the same year. A Past Grand Master of Nevada being present in Salt Lake at that time warned the Senior Warden and another member of said Wasatch Lodge of the status of said M. I >. Foley in the State of Nevada, and also warned said M. D. Foley of the illegality of the proceedings; but, notwithstanding his protest, they continued to confer said degrees. In view of the foregoing facts, we find that M. 1 ». Foley illegally received the degrees of Masonry in Was. it, h Lod [i . Nil 1 , Utah. We also find that said Wasatch Lodge, No. 1, Salt Lake City, Utah, in the conferring the -.lid degrees upon said M.D. 1'', .ley, was guilty of an invasion ol this ( '.rand Lodge Jurisdiction. We accordingly report the following resolutions : Resolved, Thai the said M 1 ' Foley be and is hereby suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry. Resolved, That it is the opinion ol this Grand Lodge thai Wasatch Lodge, No. 1, Utah, has on, ntionall) invadi ,1 thi Grand Lodge Jurisdii tion, and should be dealt with accordingly MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 189 Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be instructed to notify the Grand Lodge of Utah that neither this Grand Lodge nor its constituents will hold Masonic intercourse with Wasatch Lodge, No. i, nor its members, until the final settlement of this case to the satisfaction of this Grand Lodge. Resolved, That the M.W.Grand Master continue his efforts in carrying out the foregoing resolutions. Perhaps we do not have a correct understanding of this matter, but from action by the Grand Lodge of Nevada we gather the following as presented by Brother Diehl, who copies the address of Grand Master Baily. It appears that one M. D. Foley, a resident of Nevada, a rejected candidate, removed to Salt Lake City, there applied for and received the degrees. This becoming known, charges were pre- ferred against him in Eureka Lodge, Nevada, while (as we suppose) he was a resi- dent of Utah. He was suspended, but upon appeal to Grand Lodge it was decided, by the Committee on Grievances, that there was no cause of action. Subsequently the foregoing resolutions were passed. As is represented by Utah (Bro. Diehl |, that Nevada in her hot haste to vindicate her sovereignty, issued her pronunciamento be- fore Utah had concluded an investigation of the transaction. If the latter, after in- quiry, had adjudicated the case, not in accord with law and equity, or to the satis- laction of Nevada, there then might appear some ground for precipitating the con- test; but until Utah had acted for or against its constituent, or had declined interpo- sition, her sister was without remote justification in pouring out its vials of indigna- tion. Then, again, the attempted suspension of Foley was a worse blunder than the edict of non-intercourse. How is Cleveland Lodge, of Illinois, to try and suspend a member of a Wisconsin lodge not domiciled within its own jurisdiction ? More than this, the hasty action of Nevada was predicated upon the opinio>i that Wasatch, No. I, had violated law. Why not have waited till an investigation by its superior had determined the question of intention ? If we are acquainted with the facts, Nevada has been very unwise. Bro. Diehl presents admirable reports as Grand Secretary and Librarian. He does not represent lodges flourishing. There has been a slight falling off of mem- bership — eight. Don't worry. This has been the history of every benevolent en- terprise. So long, however, as you keep the Fraternity cleansed of impurities, like gold the lodge will never die of corrosion. God in His wisdom will not permit His dutiful followers to faint by the way. If there is lukewarmness in lodges there is cause for it. Thus it is the world over. The brethren of Utah owe it to their pres- ent high standing to vindicate themselves, and thus preserve a well-earned reputa- tion. Brother Diehl reports the library in a nourishing condition. An unsuccessful attempt was made to reduce fees to Grand Lodge. Correct. Bro. Diehl presented the following : PAST MASTER'S DEGREE. Whereas, This Grand Lodge has jurisdiction over the three degrees of Ancient Craft or Symbolic Masonry only, viz: The degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Ma- son, and none other; and 190 APPENDIX. Whereas, The Ancient Regulations of Symbolic Masonry recognize these three degrees only, and do not authorize a fourth degree, or give permission for a secret organization within the body of the lodge ; and WHEREAS, Any degree conferred in a lodge that was fabricated beyond the precincts of the lodge is a humiliation to Ancient Craft or Symbolic Masonry, which is fully able to stand upon its own merits, and need not borrow part of its ceremonials from an association of Masons outside of the lodge, be it therefore Resolved, That the conferring of the Past Master's degree upon the Master-elect, heretofore considered by the Grand Lodge of Utah a part of the installation ceremonies, be and is hereby abolished, CHRIS I' 'I'll I R DIEHL. At the request of the Board of Custodians, the matter will lie over until the next Annual Com- munication. [What will its fate be.— C. D.] The retention of any such abnormity is a constant menace to the purity of Craft Masonry. We hope that the brethren of our sister jurisdiction will dispense with it for the valuable reason that the lodge knows nothing of degrees beyond those of E. A., F. C. and M. M. If there is a Mason of Utah that thinks otherwise, let him give us the data upon which he rests his conclusions. We are after information. The Committee on Jurisprudence submitted a resolution, thus : Resolved, That Weber Lodge, No. 6, having claimed George Marth, an Entered Apprentice of Corinne Lodge, No. 5, as its material, and having been sustained in such claim by the decision of the Grand Master at the time the claim was made, it is the duty of Weber Lodge, No. 6, either to confer the remaining degrees upon the brother, or to prefer charges against him, and if found un- worthy to expel him as an Entered Apprentice. The Grand Lodge of Ouebec receives the moral support of the Grand Lodge of Utah. Bro. Diehl submitted a special report upon application of the " Grand Lodge of the Federal District of Mexico" for fraternal recognition. As in a like case, last year, he declined to recommend such sympathy to the so-called (band Lodge of Vera Cruz, and upon the ground that lodges entering into the organization were nol bodies of constitutional Craft Masonry, but had their origin in Rites of which the Fraternity know nothing. It is incomprehensible how Grand Lodges can so far stultify their claims to exclusive jurisdiction over Symbolic Masonry by acquiescing in such usurpation. A Supreme Council has the same authority over the Craft as has a body of the Royal Arcanum — no more. ( lur distinguished brother, 1 >iehl, gives his readers 10S pp. of a Report on Cor- respondence, and, like all his productions, is worthy of thoughtful consideration. lie lias been, and continues to In-, an important factor in Utah Masonry. \\ e agree with him that a lodge should be permitted to exercise all the functions of a chartered organization in granting (limits, receptions into membership !>y initia- tions and affiliations. Why they should be deprived of such powers is as much a mystery to us ;b the necessity of a Past Master's degree (t) to qualify a Master elect. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 191 Upon the question of Masonic degrees, he says to Brother Wheeler, of Connec- ticut : If any blotting out is necessary Bro. Wheeler will standby Symbolic Masonry, but he thinks it is not, and says : " If Bro. Diehl had ever taken the higher degrees, we feel satisfied he would have much to appreciate." May be so, but I can assure my friend Wheeler, that I have found the very essence of Masonry in the three first degrees, and with them I propose to stay and work for. Ma- sonry pure and simple is my motto and Masonry pure and simple I love, because on its altar all men, no matter of what nationality, religion and politics, can unite and cultivate a truly fraternal spirit. Such was the intention of the founders of speculative Masonry and we challenge any or all the advo- cates of the High Degree system to prove the contrary. The men who in 171 7 in London created out of operative Masonry the speculative system knew that if their society should gain ground and command the respect of the world, it had to be neutral in religion, politics and caste, and that only then Masonry would be destined to bridge over all differences of opinion and teach in the lodge and through it to the whole race the true principles, and, if you please, the art of humanity. That was their idea of Masonry and it was the idea of the great German Humanitarian, Bro. Gotthold Ephraim Lessing. It is ours. Religion is taught in the Commandery, and as for caste, well we have yet to see the brother wearing a Keystone, or the K. T. Cross, or the Prussian Eagle who does not look down upon a Master Mason with a sort of pitiful smile thinking thereby : " Poor soul, only three degrees, what do you know of Masonry, look at me and be gone." We could write more on the subject and could cite more of the inconsistencies of the so-called higher degrees, but it is unnecessary to waste time and space on it. Bros. Parvin, Simons, Gurney, Pierson, Robbins and many other learned Masons have openly declared that Masonry ends with the Master's Degree, and that all degrees above that are not Masonic, but that they are only com- posed of Master Masons. These brothers have been there, and they know whereof they speak when they say that the Chapter, the Council, the Commandery, the Consistory or any other degree, call ;t by what name you may, are not more Masonic than a lodge of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, Workmen, or any other of the many mushroom orders that live for a few years and then die. The "higher degrees" are well enough in their places. By way of parenthe- sis, however, there is not any " higher" degree in Masonry than that of Master Mason, notwithstanding the assertions of monitorial publishers. We should speak of every- thing beyond the lodge as associations of Masons. As such they are entitled to our respect so long as they remain within their own enclosures. In this connection we ask for " instruction," by what authority a Supreme Council furnishes a co-ordinate body of its Rite the " rituals and secret work of the Blue Degrees for instruction." See constitutions of the Scottish Rite of the Southern Jurisdiction, pages 61 and 62, published by authority of that association of Masons in 1884. Would it not be well for Grand Lodges within that bailiwick to ask from whence comes the power to publish the rituals of the Craft. Is there any such authority in existence ? We call upon the Grand Lodges of Minnesota, Iowa, Kentucky, with others, to rise and ex- plain. This is something new to us, and will be to the great body of the Fraternity. This is a pointer, brethren, and should not be overlooked. Bro. Diehl is not in sympathy with the dictum of the Grand Master of Colorado, "that negro Masons are not entitled to any Masonic recognition in that jurisdiction." We care not for the color of a man if he be a Mason — legitimately introduced to the brotherhood. Bro. Diehl is not a physical perfectionist; is pleasantly and righteously impressed with perpetual jurisdiction. On this latter subject he says: "We are sorry to find Bro. Simons a little tender on the question of perpetual jurisdiction over L92 APPENDIX. rejected candidates. We firmly believe in the doctrine, and shall respect it as long as we have any rcspcit fur the inalienable right of objection." lie is of the opinion that a candidate without ability to read or write should be rejected; and hopes that his jurisdiction may soon dispense with the degree of Past Master. Correct in both. Upon the question of the propriety <>f installing the Mas- ter elect of a lodge in Grand Lodge, he is not quite settled. We do not see its im- propriety. The (band Master is supreme in his jurisdiction, and when a Master is installed by a P. M. the latter is the proxy, de facto, of his superior. The fact that a Master elect appears in Grand Lodge only adds force to the immemorial doctrine that such ceremonial is primarily vested in the (band Master. He can, of course, act by his proxy, a Past Master, who in consonance with usage is the representative of the head ol (band Lodge. Under our installation services the installing officer is thus represented. Bro. Diehl continues his righteous castigation of Mormonism. His review of Illinois is fraternal, and we are glad to note that our work has his commendations. M. W. Parley Lycurgus Williams, Salt Lake City, (band Master. R. W. Christopher Diehl, Salt Lake City, Grand Secretary. VERMONT, 18S5. The transactions of this jurisdiction are never without interest. The Grand body met in Burlington, June 10, but in consequence of unavoidable delay in print- ing its transactions they did not reach us in time for our last report. Lodges largely represented, and visitors abundant. Included in the latter are found the names of P. G. M. George O. Tyler and Junior (band Warden Bro. Wm. Brinsmaid, both of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Quebec. The Grand Master, M. W. Ozro Meacham, presented a very elaborate paper, minutely detailing his official duties. He submit- ted two decisions to which the Committee "ii Jurisprudence took exceptions. The first, that "a brother should be deemed innocent of any charge that may be preferred against him until he is proven guilty; and he is entitled to vote on all questions be- fore the lodge, except questions relating to his own trial." The committee demur, because it contravenes the provisions of a by-law of (band Lodge. Perhaps the scope of the conclusions of the legal advisers of the (band Body may not be compre- hended, but if it is a fact that its law condemns a brother prim to a verdict by a jury of his peers, the statutes of Grand Lodge should be cleansed of the abnormity. To MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 10:> a second decision, namely: "A Mason who willfully withholds from his lodge, or a brother, their just dues, is guilty of a Masonic crime, and charges should be pre- sented against him for cheating, wronging and defrauding." The committee enters its protest, as follows: They disapprove of Decision No. 2, so iar as the same relates to lodge dues, it is at a variance with the Grand Lodge By-Law, which provides a penalty and exclusive method of procedure for such case. So far as it relates to the collection of dehts or loans of money voluntarily made, it is ob- jectionable, because Masonry should not be made use of to enforce the adjustment of private claims, or the settlement of private disputes. It is only when the transaction is tainted with fraud or im- morality, so as to affect the Fraternity at large, that it becomes a Masonic offense. While we are entirely in sympathy with the committee touching the impropriety of making a lodge a court for the adjudication of financial contests or differences be- tween brethren, nevertheless we can not understand why a promise to pay, fraudu- lently disregarded, should not subject the offender to discipline. The lodge should not be made a city of refuge for cheats. It should and has within itself ample power to enforce obedience to a primal law of the organization. It is true that the courts should decide legal liabilities in a controversy, but it is just as true that where there can not arise any reasonable doubt regarding the obligation of one brother to another, or to lodge, that is " willfully " withheld, the debtor does "cheat, wrong and de- fraud," and should be held responsible for a crime that is explicitly named in and condemned by the immemorial, fundamental Ta'w of the Institution. The difficulties of establishing fraud in such cases is not the question at issue, but we are decidedly of the opinion that where fraud is conclusively established, that a penalty should be imposed upon the guilty. The law of Illinois provides, in such cases, that fraud shall be set up in complaints or charges, and clearly substantiated by evidence. It has long been the view of the writer that, in the matter of delinquency for dues, lodges should be untrammeled, and permitted to inflict any of the penalties provided by our laws for a breach of faith in this regard; because it not infrequently happens that a delinquent, with confessed ability, is defiant. In such case expulsion should be allowed to follow conviction, if testimony exhibits such radical contempt for the claims of the lodge. If palpable, open, confessed and unquestioned violation of ob- ligation is not a Masonic "crime," then we have failed in comprehending law upon which the Fraternity rests for its consequence to the world. The Grand Master is emphatic in his approval of the action of the Grand Lodge of Quebec in cutting oft intercourse with the three recusant lodges of its jurisdiction. His approval was concurred in, but we don't find any edict in the premises. Brother Meacham directs attention to the sore afflictions of the Grand Secretary, Brother William II. Root, who has lost a mother, wife and son within a brief period. " Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me ; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me." Brother Root will have the profound sympathies of his brethren. From the report of the Committee on Finance it is found that provision (for life) has been made for the care of the venerable Past Grand Secretary, Brother John B. Ilollenbeck. 25t li'l APPENDIX. It is also found that of the Iui active lodges of the jurisdiction nine have failed to report. The reports of I). D.Grand Masters are quite elaborate, and must be of rare local interest. They are also of general interest, because, as a rule, they exhibit activity and prosperity of lodges. Past Grand Master L. C. Butler submitted the Report on Correspondence, and, like all else that comes from his pen, should have attentive consideration. In his review >>( Arizona, lie notices the distinction between "dimits and diplo- mas." The more attention is given to this subject induces a belief that issuing so- called diplomas, or certificates, is unwise. When a Mason has cancelled all his obligations to the lodge, it is generally held that it is his right to dissolve member- ship relations therewith; a (limit, therefore, embracing only the fact of withdrawal, is all that should issue ; because a paper sweetened and garnished with adulation makes it possible for an impostor to impose himself upon the attention of lodges and brethren. It is a significant fact, too, that those least entitled to such documents are the most certain to have them. In his review of Dakota, and referring to Bro. Blatt's opinion "that there is no Masonry above that controlled by the Grand Lodge," E. A., F. C. and M. M., he replies : We arc not prepared to endorse the view that " no Masonic degrees are entitled to recogni- tion by the Grand Lodge but those of E. A., F. C. and M. M.," or " that there is no Masonry above that controlled by the Grand Lodge." The Chapter and Council degrees have certainly in them sufficent Masonic light to warrant their recipients in saying that they develop more fully, and complete the preceding degrees, and that without the light therein revealed, the Masonic student would remain in ignorance of some important lessons which the preceding degrees have wakened in him a desire to know. The Chapter and the Council degrees, to our apprehension, as supplemen- tary to those of the lodge, afford all the "light" there is in Ancient Craft Masonry. To comprehend these is a sufficient study for a lifetime. And we agree with our brother that " if the brain, time and money spent upon the said higher degrees (that is, those above the Council) had been made tn flow in the channel of Ancient Craft Masonry, our record would have been much more glorious, our inspirations much loftier, and much grander practical results would have been attained." It is quite true that something may be learned of Ancient Masonry in Chapter and Council; it is quite as true, however, that Masons may organize, ad libitum, asso- ciations for the purposes of amplification and illustration, but this does not make them "duly constituted Masonic bodies," neither does it justify the conclusion that there can be any Masonry except the three foregoing degrees instituted by the pre- mier ( Irand Lodge of the world. Rather than go over the subject again, we give a contribution by the writer to the "Voice of Masonry," of this city, a few months since : " Brother Ginther (Illinois) arraigned us before our Grand Chapter in October last. Upon the same topic he appears in the March number of the Voice, with a presumable purpose to refute the axiom that there is nothing of Masonry, per sr, beyond the three degrees of the Craft. It is a difficult tiling to discuss this question, because of unwarranted opinions and beliefs grOWine out of pre-existing usurpation that had its origin about the middle of the last century. Any MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 195 hostility, therefore, to that which has had an existence from that period, is assumed to be a warfare for the extinction of the Masonic associations to which Brother Ginther refers, though they be the product of an early ambition to excel in the creation of degrees and orders that now so persistently and unwisely claim to be legitimate appendages to the lodge. The consequences of that claim will be referred to. We once more repeat that which we have so fluently announced, and upon every occasion when the subject was under discussion, that we entertain the most exalted fraternal regard for Chapter, Council, Commandery, and bodies of the Scottish Rite. We are honored with mem- bership in each, and hope to retain associations that have afforded us so much gratification and profit. Yet, and notwithstanding our affection for those organizations of Masons, we can not admit that they have remote claims to the distinction of being " duly constituted Masonic bodies." Here is the line of distinction upon which we insist; nothing more, nothing less. It may be asked, "why raise a question that is assumed to be without practical importance, and that directs to the disturb- ance of some peculiar relations existing between the membership of lodges and the bodies named?" In reply : The question was raised because the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts had assumed a position entirely untenable, and designed to impress upon the Masonic world the rightful authority of a Grand Lodge of Symbolic Masonry to determine the Masonic legitimacy of something of which seventy-five per cent, of the Fraternity knew nothing whatever, and of which it (the Grand Lodge) was without knowledge except through an insignificant minority of its membership. It was a ques- tion, however, that had for many years enlisted our attention, and we have for a long time felt an assurance that, without being an aggressor, an opportunity would surely present itself that would afford justification for the exposure of errors that have for so many years imposed themselves upon the Craft, and that have not been of any advantage to associations of Masons beyond the lodge. Brother Ginther seeming particularly interested in the Chapter as a " duly constituted Ma- sonic body," the validity of his claims in that direction will first receive attention ; and, as he curtly disposes of the late Brother Mackey in the premises, we must rely upon his favorite author, the dis- tinguished Brother Hughan, for authority. There is not a remaining doubt but the Royal Arch had its incipient origin about the year 1740. Upon this point Brother Mackey remarks : " The result of our investigations, in which we have mainly relied on the authority of the learned Oliver, is that until the year 1740, the essential element of the Royal Arch constituted a component part of the Master's degree, and was of course its concluding portion ; that as a degree it was not at all recog- nized, being but the complement of one." It would occupy too much space to quote all Brother Mackey says upon the subject : but all that he does say is in unison with the foregoing quotation. Now, as Brother Ginther asks, " Why was the mass of Mackey's statements referred to printed as facts, in the face not only of Brother Hughan's history, but of averments of other equally reliable and distinguished historians of the Craft 1 " As a reply, is given the following from Brother Hu- ghan : " We favor the theory that a -word was placed in the ' Royal Arch,' prominently, which was previously given in the sections of the Third Degree, and known 'as the ancient word of a Mis ter Mason.' We understand it is still so communicated in some Master Masons' lodges on the con- tinent, and we know that it is to be found on old tracing boards of early last century. The amplifi- cation and prominence which followed such removal and incorporation into another degree, appears to us to provide the key to the problem, harmonize the statements of Dr. Dassigny with those of later years, and permit a change being made without any violence to the ordinary ritual, besides allowing the old system being followed, or otherwise, without any difficulties worth mentioning oc- curring between the Craft authorities and the votaries of Royal Arch Masonry." Now, if it is un- questionably true that the first Grand Lodge was organized in 171 7 and its system of degrees subse- quently perfected, and long before the Royal Arch was thought of, how can it successfully be con- tended that the latter is a " duly constituted Masonic body," with the inhibition, positively and clearly enunciated, that Masons were not permitted " to make innovations " upon the body of the Fraternity ? We care nothing for the opinions of Brother Hughan and other writers touching the " mutilation " of the third degree, because that is not the question at issue ; although we are justified in the conclusion, and from the statements of Brother Hughan, that the true " word " of a Master Mason was never lost, but was eliminated from the lodge to make it possible for a fourth degree that -was fabricated about the year 1740. We do not so much object to the fabrication as we do to the assurance of those who contend that the Chapter is a " duly constituted Masonic body," when in 196 APPENDIX. fact it was not known to the Ancient Craft, and Can not, therefore, found its claims to a parentage therefrom. The original of the Royal Arch (by whom gotten up and by whom introduced to Masonry) is an enigma that has not yet funnel a sulution. It is possible that authentic records may yet be dis- covered that will relieve us of doubt, but thus far it is questionable if its introduction was not at a much later period than that pointed out by Masonii historians. Upon this point Brother Hughan remarks : " The oldest minutes of Royal Arch Masonry preserved are of the year 1762 (at Vorl but the degree is mentioned in the ' Athol' records of March 4th, 1752, and it is particularly alluded to in a printed work of 1744." To carry its origin back to 1740, representations of "itinerant Ma- sons " are relied upon as evidence of its existence prior to the year 1744, but we do not find a particle of reliable testimony in support of that opinion. Brother Ginther says: " It may be, however, that my obtuse mind is incompetent to grasp " the right construction of some of the passages involved [referring to our view of " chusetts last yearj like the following : ' It will be asked if a Grand Lodge has not supervision " over all the Masonry within its borders? It certainly has; it can and should, as we think, pro- " hibit the employment of its rituals by an association of men, notwithstanding such association em- " braces Masons exclusively. It can interdict the Chapter, Council, Commandery or bodies of the " Scottish Rite, from assuming any function of the lodge, either directly or indirectly." We hope " the reader will keep the foregoing in mind, for the day, when it comes, when the lodge will de- " mand its own. * * * ' The practice of employing the esoteric rituals, signs, grips, words and " symbols of the lodge, is an indefensible usurpation and groundwork of error and contention.' * * * " I do sincerely hope others will sec what I fail to comprehend, that the foregoing is evidence of a " peaceable desire to let such Masonic bodies alone, and that the Grand Lodge is to confine itself " to Symbolic Masonry only. Some of these utterances to be puerile and others as containing " specious sophistry." We are in no wise inclined to deny what he says of his own mind, when he penned the forego- ing, because it does seem unaccountable that a Mason of his acknowledged ability should fail to comprehend the force of plain, unequivocal English. We made the point (in our review of Massa- 1 husetts heretofore referred to), and again substantiate and reiterate it, that there is no authority de- rived from the ancient, immemorial, fundamental law, for the existence in Masonry of other degrees than those of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. A little further: We have read of Brother Hughan's work with considerable attention, and arrive at the conclusion, irresistible to ourselves, that not only the Royal Arch, but the mass of other degrees were fabricated upon this continent and in Britain, the first half of the eighteenth cen- tury, and were in the possession of degree-mongers for years thereafter, until the Royal Arch was seized upon by the scceders (Athol) about 1762, and at or about that year was made an appendage to the third degree by that body, although there are no records of the assimilation until sixteen years thereafter, 1778. It is also true that the regular Grand Lodge of England suffered its constituents to the incubations of degree-fabricators, though they were not recognized by it as having any relations to tin- Craft until i!ii ;. At the union of the two Grand Bodies that year tin- Royal An li admitted to the system to bring about the much desired consummation of alliance. To shoM with what facility any kind of imposition gained the attention of Masons of that early period, anil how little attention was given to the powers entering into the primary constitutions of the lodge, we have only to again quote Brother Hughan : " < >n the 20th of June, 1780, certain resolutions 'from " the Grand Chapter were introduced ' to the members of the York Grand Lodge (Athol) and " adopted. They confirmed the authority of the ( rrand Bodge over 'fi7>c degrees or orders ofMa- " sonry,' the Rite consisting of, first, Entered Apprentice; second, Fellow Craft: third, Master ■• Mason; fourth, Knight Templar ; fifth, Sublime Degree of the Royal Arch. This arrangement is " likely to refer to the order in which they were worked, rather than their position in what then " might have appropriately been termed the ' York Rite,' for the Royal Arch is distinctly termed " the ' fourth degree of Masonry ' in February 7th, 17(1-'. The Yo>k Grand Lodge is the only body " of the kind that has ever recognized the Knight Templar degree in this country, and it is rather " a singular circumstam e that it collapsed soon afterward. Toleration of all 'additional di " neither prohibiting ing any, appears to be the appro\ ed course of action and allowed MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 197 " by the Grand Lodge of England ; thus leaving the brethren to discover for tlie»isehes those worth " supporting." Last italics ours. We give the foregoing quotation to further impress upon the reader the in- contestible truth that neither the Royal Arch, Knight Templar, or any degrees or orders, had either their origin in or authority from the primal Grand Lodge, but were sheer fabrications forced upon the Fraternity by the persistence of those interested in their dissemination. Further quotations from Brother Hughan and other distinguished authors are not necessary to show that there does not exist any Masonic organizations beyond the lodge. There are associa- tions of Masons worthy of any consideration with which Masons may be inclined to invest them, and to which thousands of brethren belong ; but we insist that they are without the semblance of authority to transfer to such associations any inherent property of the lodge, whether of rituals, or other esoteric methods or terms of recognition. To this part of the subject we turn our attention. Brother Ginther says : " If not puerile, how inconsistent is the statement that the Grand " Lodge can ' interdict the Chapter, Council, etc., lrom assuming any functions of the lodge, directly " or indirectly? ' While it is true, and while that undoubted power and prerogative of the Grand " Lodge has ever been not only acknowledged but vigorously supported by the class of Masons re- " ferred to, it is superfluous to throw the gauntlet until they or any of them undertake to do so, or " until there is some reasonable probability that they will so interfere. The functions of a lodge " are, to make its own by-laws, consistent with the general laws of Masonry, and to see them duly "executed; to confer the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, in a " regular and constitutional manner, with business incidental thereto, and to the general manage- " ment of a subordinate. Which of these functions has the Chapter assumed ? or, which is it likely " to assume ? " Our distinguished brother has well stated some of the " functions " of the lodge, but has neg- lected to bring its other prerogatives to the reader's attention. It is also a " function " of the lodge to maintain exclusive jurisdiction over its rituals. This is a question, in all its bearings, that will not admit of discussion except within the tiled recesses of a body of Masons ; but we can say that the Fraternity has unlawfully submitted to an emasculation of the third degree ; its " word " now being employed in the Chapter, together with signs, grips and other esoteric portions of its ceremon- ials. This is true of all associations of Masons, except as regards the first — the "word." To conclude this paper, and to get our views clearly within the understanding of brethren and companions, we will state that the assumption of the rituals of the lodge, by the Chapter, is entirely unnecessary and humiliating to the bodies indulging therein. It makes the Chapter subservient to a body with which it can not have official intercourse, and to which homage is paid without even a courteous recognition therefor. Not only this, but such subserviency forecloses the possibility of the independent sovereignty of the Chapter, by voluntarily placing its membership at the disposal ot the lodge. To this we object, and shall continue objecting to such anomalous relations to a body that does not demand such humble vassalage at the hands of any association of Masons. We want to see the Chapter, Council, Commandery, and bodies of the Scottish Rite, as they of right ought to be, sovereign organizations, controlling their own membership, and legislating for their adherents, without dictation from any source. When, therefore, they banish the rituals of the lodge, so that a member of the bodies named can meet in their assemblies without a violation of primary obligation that inhibits Masonic intercourse with a Mason disciplined and under suspension or expulsion by lodge, they will have peaceably accomplished a revolution in the welfare of every department of the Fraternity." Under Indian Territory, he says: This question of perpetual jurisdiction can hardly be considered as finally settled. It is under discussion. Vermont limits it to a certain period of time, after which the perpetual part of the juris- diction as applied to other Grand Jurisdictions ceases, and local jurisdiction begins. Nevertheless the rejected material of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and other Masonic jurisdictions even though accepted in Vermont, will not be received in those States without "healing." Nor will a Vermont Mason, in such situation, be allowed " visitation " in those States. He is a Mason in this 1 ! is APPENDIX. State, but not recognized as such in Massachusetts. And each Grand Lodge is supreme in its juris- diction, and has the inherent right of making its own " rules " and "regulations," provided, we suppose, they are not in contravention of the " Landmarks of Masonry " Of which who is to de- ride '.' i )pinions differ. Where is the ultimate authority to interpret ? the supreme court of Masonic judicature from which there is no appearand whose decision we must all take heed and obey? U !,. ther it is not better as a matter of interstate policy and comity to recognize the right of each Grand Lodge to establish its own regulations on this subject, and wherein we differ in practice ac- commodate ourselves to them, in such way as to insure every Master Mason his right of recognition as a brother in good and regular standing among " Masons wheresoever disposed around the globe? '* We are glad to believe that the brother "is under conviction." We should like to ask him, if it would not be just as justifiable for the brethren of Vermont to receive the petition of an Entered Apprentice of Massachusetts, for the remaining degrees, denied to him in the lodge from which he hailed (and after he had gained domicile in Vermont), as to receive the petition of a rejected profane of Massachusetts under like conditions and circumstances? In other words, whence the propriet) of hold- ing perpetual jurisdiction over a Mason, and extend exalted courtesies to a rejected ashlar? Bro. Butler's notice of our jurisdiction is full and exceedingly fraternal. The action of our Grand Lodge upon Memphian Rites, and the writer's report upon the "Massachusetts Departure," receive extended notice. He is not inclined to "ex- press full concurrence " with our views upon the latter subject, though he fails to submit his objections. Upon the first mentioned topic, he commends our action, and says that " this position will be sustained by every other Grand Lodge." Brother Butler writes a valuable paper. It would be a gratification to notice many more of his opinions if it was not necessary to cultivate the good opinions of our financial officers. M. W. Marsh < >. Perkins, Windsor, Grand Master. R. W. William II. Root, Burlington, Grand Secretary. VIRGINIA, 1S85. For the one hundred and eighth time has tins revered jurisdiction met in annual communication, December 14 — some fifteen years older than the Right Worshipful, the Past I). 1'. istrict, 1NN4 The •'■rand Master announces the death of Right Worshipful Brother John Far- ran Regnault, Grand Treasurer, on the 10th of June, lie was a Mason distinguished MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. l'JO for great purity of character, as well as continuous devotion to the welfare of the Fraternity. Brother Hill (G. M.) decided that "one brother can vouch for another without having been in a lodge with him." Very many brethren entertain the idea that nothing but actual presence in lodge with a brother justifies avouchment. It is proper to be cautious, but if the writer meets Bro. Hill anywhere, and upon exam- ination or other proof finds him to be a Mason, and should he thereafter appear at the door of Cleveland Lodge for visitation, it is my duty and right to vouch for him ; if, however, the Master is not satisfied with my testimony, it is his right and duty to ask for further evidences of Bro. Hill's Masonic standing, but he can not exact of me my ground of belief — whether or not I have met him in lodge. He can either ac- cept my avouchment or dismiss it as unworthy of credence, and resort to an examin- ation. He also concluded that it " is proper for a lodge to decorate the graves of de- ceased brethren." We agree with him, as he thus expresses himself: " If a lodge desires to turn out as lodge on ' Memorial Day' to participate in the public ceremonies usually had on such occasions, I think it would be improper ; but if they want to turn out without any other organization or citizen procession or cele- bration to decorate the graves of their deceased brethren, I can see no objection to their so doing. I know of no precedent for such action, but I think it appropriate and commendable, as evincing the respect and fraternal regard which they have for the memory of ' Those that they loved so long and see no more, Loved and still love; not dead, but gone before.' " Let some day, however, not of a public character, be observed, and thus make it a Masonic ceremonial distinctively. Brother Hill, with many distinguished Masons of Virginia, attended the dedica- tion of Washington Monument. They were well pleased with their reception, all they saw and heard, and particularly with the elegant menu prepared for the occas- ion. Wonder if they had access to Bro. Spafford's private hotel office ? The Grand Master is not much inclined to the establishment of a State Board of Relief; neither are we as favorably disposed toward such local bodies as formerly. They answer a good purpose in many instances, but in the majority of cases they are grievously imposed upon. Buzzards are certain to congregate around a carcass. He closes a pointed address with a fraternal compliment to Grand Secretary, Bro. Isaacs. R. W. Bro. Charles E. Wingo, successor to the lamented Bro. Regnault, re- ports the treasury in good condition. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Correspondence, the Grand Lodge of South Australia was recognized. A communication of condolence was re- ceived from the "Grand Lodge" of Peru, upon the death of Brother Regnault. 200 APPENDIX. Two hundred dollars was contributed to Galveston sufferers. To the credit of Grand Lodge, the Committee on Appeals and Grievances had a limited ducket. As is customary with Bro. Drinkard, he opens his Report on Correspondence with a review of his own jurisdiction. As we said last year, we are in accord with his practice, but as our report is necessarily printed before the session of our Grand Lodge, we can not indulge in a like pleasure. We are not in accord with Bro. Drummond in his opinion that there is no legal objection to a member of a North Carolina lodge uniting with a Virginia lodge, where dual membership is recogni/.ed ; because if the law of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina objected to dual membership its constituent members would be without au- thority to indulge in that class of polygamy. If a member of an Illinois lodge ap- plies for membership in Virginia, our law in relation thereto is governing and must be obeyed, else discipline would legitimately follow. Virginia would have a perfect right to receive him, and could not be charged with an offense, but a penalty here, of suspension or expulsion, would follow the offender there. Is this not correct ? Dual membership is interdicted in Illinois. Me publishes a resolution adopted by (hand Lodge, to-wit : " Resolved, by tlu- Grand Lodge of 1 'irginia, That it hereby expresses its undiminished con- h I. in e in the distinguished brethren Most Worshipful Beverly R. Wellfortl, Jr., Right Worshipful William F. Drinkard, Right Worshipful William B. Isaacs, Worshipful Alfred R. Courtney ami Worshipful Thomas J. Evans, whose names have been wrongfully used in several anonymous pub- lications sent out from this city ; which this Grand Lodge unqualifiedly condemns." Were these distinguished brethren charged with too great familiarity with hen- roosts (!), too frequent visits at the spigot (!), or wdiat was insinuated in the said cir- cular letters ? lie notices a law of Delaware, providing: " But if a Mason in this jurisdiction remain for one year non-affiliated, or without application for affiliation, he may be expelled for un-Masonic conduct, after charges preferred and due trial ; " and asks for an opinion upon the subject. Well, our judgment is not of great significance, nevertheless, we hold that the law is not only judicially unlawful, but intensely in- consistent with our covenants. In the first instance, we deny the fraternal right of a Grand Lodge to declare its own nets unlawful by lapse of time. It can hold a mem- ber to membership, for specific reasons, but it can not grant a dimit and subsequently limit its duration ; because, and secondly, it is a fundamental law of the Craft that a person comes in of his own free will and accord, and is at liberty to retire from the lodge at his pleasure, provided that he has conformed to its legitimate demands and no charges for un-Masonic conduct are of record against him. In the third place, a dimit severs, unqualifiedly, relations with the lodge. This has been the force and understanding of such papers from time immemorial. The moment, therefore, such paper is voted, it is effective ami can not be recalled, except, as some writers contend, the vote granting a dimit may be reconsidered at the same meeting. In the fourth MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 201 place, the common law upon the subject contemplates the perpetuity of a dimit, un- less the dimitted elects otherwise by asking for affiliation. In the fifth place, we have yet to hear of any accepted law of the Craft that forces a man into or out of the lodge, except in the latter case, for offenses against the general law of the Fraternity. We do not have remote conception of the propriety of a law of Grand Lodge that permits an unqualified dimit — a complete severance from the lodge — and then de- clare it, by lapse of time, without force. It seems to us that it is without justification to be found in the general and immemorial jurisprudence of the Fraternity. In some of our Western jurisdictions it is provided that a non-affiliate, without an attempt at affiliation, may be disciplined except dues are paid to some lodge, thus making the Craft mutual assurance associations. The latter topic has been noticed elsewhere. Our Grand Lodge is extensively and fraternally noticed, with liberal quotations from our report of last year. He refers to our table referring to the voting franchises of members of Grand Lodges, but don't think that his jurisdiction needs the admoni- tion, and agrees with us as to the propriety of recognizing the "Grand Lodges" of Victoria and New South Wales. Referring to our remark, that we wished " to re- mind him that Masonry does not, neither has it ever, taught a belief in a Supreme Being. It does, however, recognize the existence of God, not a God ; " then asks us to explain the difference. A Supreme Being, in the minds of men, means nothing so far as Masonry is concerned, but the God of the Bible is held by our Great Light to be a living, supreme entity — something tangible, not mystical — and to whom we acknowledge obedience and submission. We are much pleased to find this vindication of our Grand Lodge : Illinois having adopted a resolution declaring that the " Egyptian Masonic Rite of Memphis," and the " Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis," and all associations of persons ot whatever de- gree or name (other than lodges of Free and Accepted Symbolic or Craft Masons, and the Grand Lodges duly constituted by the representatives of such lodges), that shall arrogate to themselves the authority, under any circumstances or conditions, to confer the degrees of Symbolic or Craft Ma- sonry, to-wit : Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, or whose charters, constitu- tions, laws, edicts or decrees shall assume, or permit the powers organized under them to assume, the authority to constitute lodges, or bodies of any other name, for the conferring the said three de- grees of Symbolic or Craft Masonry, are clandestine bodies within the meaning of the fundamental law of Masonry, Brother Drummond exultingly says that "thus has Illinois reached practically the same result as Massachusetts, though by a different path." But we do not so understand it. Illinois denounces outside organizations which claim the right to make Ancient Craft Masons, and Illinois names two of those bodies. All pretended Masons so made are evidently clandestine. Therefore every Grand Lodge has the right to declare them so, and to denounce as spurious the organizations that pretended to make them Masons. The difference is this, Brother Drummond : Massachusetts for- bids her Masons to join or recognize a body of outsiders that does not pretend to make Masons. Illinois only forbids her Masons to join or recoganize bodies that make spurious Masons. Massachusetts puts innocent outsiders on a level with clandestinely-made Masons. Illinois ignores the former, but de- nounces the latter. If the Royal Arcanum were to require all its members to be Freemasons, it would come under the ban in Massachusetts, but in Illinois would be ignored. In a word, Illinois will not discipline a Mason for joining a body that allows none but Masons to become members, if that body does not claim the right to make Masons itself, whereas Massachusetts disciplines its members for doing that very thing. In the one case, every Mason can see that he has no right to be in such an organization, and will know for himself that its Masons are clandestine. In the other case, every Mason joining it knows that none but real Masons are admitted. 261 202 APPENDIX. He gives " Uncle John" a good shot, thus: Does Brother Simons really hold that New York has jurisdiction for twelve months, or even twelve days, over profanes who have removed from the jurisdiction? We suspect thai he does not. Brother Simons replies as follows : " We most certainly do not ; but only this, that where a party having a legal residence in New York removes his domicile to Virginia, he must live there one year to acquire a legal residence ; but if the New York Lodge choose to waive jurisdiction, at least such jurisdiction as it had up to the time of removal there, then Virginia need not wait any longer than it wants to; but as to follow- ing a profane for twelve hours, we do not believe in it." We guessed aright ; and yet Brother Simons sets up, in the next breath, the claim which he- had just repudiated. He says he certainly does not claim that New York has jurisdiction for even twelve days over profanes who have removed from that jurisdiction ; but before he finishes the sentence ontaining disclaimer, he adds that " if New York choose to waive such jurisdiction as it had up to the time of removal," &C., &c. But that jurisdiction, you have agreed, was lost the moment the can- didate moved out of the State. It is impossible, therefore, for New York to have any jurisdiction to waive. Virginia needs no waiver of jurisdiction. Her jurisdiction attaches the moment the profane enters Virginia, and all subsequent proceedings need conform to her law only. New York has abso- lutely nothing to do with the matter at any stage of the proceedings, and Brother Simons, we are sure, will say the same. We have read Bro. Drinkard's report with a great deal of pleasure. He is a good writer, a logical reasoner, and a man who occupies a deservedly high place in the affections of the Virginia Fraternity. The good Lord be with the Craft of the memorable and grand old Commonwealth. M. W. Francis H. Hill, Madison C. II., Grand Master. R. W. William B. Isaacs, Richmond, Grand Secretary. WASHINGTON, 1885. At the last session of our Grand Body we were agreeably surprised to meet M. W. Bro. Louis Ziegler, Grand Master of this jurisdiction, accompanied by Brother Reed, Past (band Master and the present notably efficient Grand Secretary and Cor- respondent, of the same bailiwick. The first is an old-time Mason of Illinois, and at the date of his emigration westward was the esteemed S. Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Here he met a large number of Masonic friends who were only too glad of the opportunity to extend fraternal welcome. He left us for Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he expects to be relieved of physical infirmities with which he is afflicted. We ardently pray for his perfect restoration. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 203 To our friends east of the "Rockies," who have not had the pleasure of meet- ing ]!ro. Reed, we can only say that a personal acquaintance with him adds a charm to the earnest efforts with his pen in the welfare of the Craft. Grand Lodge met June 3, thirty-seven of the forty-two lodges represented. This is remarkable for a jurisdiction of so large territorial proportions and limited facilities for transportation. Grand Master Ziegler informs us that to get from his home, Spokane Falls, to Tacoma, he had to travel about seven hundred miles ! The Grand Master, M. W. Bro. W. H. White, opens his address with an allus- ion to his introduction into Washington Territory, thus: Fourteen years ago when I floated for the first time over this island specked inland sea, lying at our feet, the place where this beautiful city, with its broad and well lighted avenues and stately buildings, with its six thousand energetic American citizens, now stands, was an unbroken wilder- ness. Looking out over that crystalline sea, to that magnificent mountain sentinel towering in its white robe heavenward, we feel stirring within us nobler, higher, grander aspirations. To the true lover of nature, and where is the child of Masonry who loves her not, no spot could have been se- lected in our diversified Territory more fitly calculated to arouse and awaken better thoughts and higher resolves'for the advancement of the good, than the city of Tacoma. Anything here seen " towering in its white robe heavenward" would be taken ior our distinguished brother, " Long John." We don't have any mountains in this country that approximate his altitude. Included in his necrological notices is a mention of the loss of brethren, M. W. Thornton F. McElroy, the first Grand Master of the jurisdiction, and Past Grand Master Oliver P. Lacy, who had also presided over the Washington Fraternity. He makes the customary record of official duties, and concludes that a gambler is not a sound ashlar ; that a member of a lodge is entirely justified in objecting to visitation therein by a member of another lodge; that a saloon-keeper may be made Master, because there is not any law of the jurisdiction that interposes an objection, but says : We know that there are men, and Masons too, who are noble-hearted, generous to a fault true to their families, true to the state, true to every obligation of manhood, but who are neverthe- less engaged in the barter and sale of intoxicating liquors. They justify themselves by saying, that the law authorizes it, society in general does not condemn it, if they do not engage in the business other and worse men will do so. The giant evil of the age is the excessive use of intoxicating liquors. The victim of an unconquerable thirst, the home, the foundation of all society and all government, cry out for protection against its ravages. Lead us not into temptation, is the wailing sob that goes up all over this land. It is a cry that will be heard and will be heeded. The moral sentiment of mankind is being educated and aroused against the inroads of this giant evil. Masonry, with her mighty opportunities for the accomplishment of good, must keep abreast of this moral sentiment, must in no way retard its growth, must in every way aid it. This can best be done by us, not by the passage of laws, not by amendments of constitutions, not by repressive and harsh legislation, but by an exercise of good judgment, and a fearless determination to do our duty regardless of self and self interests. Let it be distinctly understood, that hereafter, in this jurisdiction at least, the fact of engaging in the sale of intoxicating liquors bars the doors of Masonry against him who would enter for the first time, and, to him already clothed with the lamb skin, is an insurmountable obstacle to the obtainment of Masonic honors. 204 APPENDIX. Brother White gives attention to the late Culminations oC Pope Leo, and follows with brief extracts Crom a criticism by Bro. Albert Pike. Unbiased by "iir relations to the lodge, >ve are constrained to say that his Holiness, Corming an opinion oC the Institution Crom much of the so-called continental Masonry, could not do less than has the Grand Lodges oC Illinois, England ami the English-speaking Grand Lodges of America, in denouncing radical departures from the fundamental axioms of the Craft. Masonry is not infidelity, neither is infidelity remotely related to Masonry. ICthe Roman Pontiff had confined his anathemas to the miserable misrepresentations of the Fraternity by which he is largely surrounded, we should have hailed his criti- cisms with pleasure. Every reading Mason, however, should secure Brother Pike's reply to that distinguished ecclesiast. The report of the < I rand Secretary, Brother Reed, is a comprehensive document. Our Past Grand Master, Brother Ira A. W. Buck, has been reappointed Representa- tive near the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Brother Reed records the demise of James- town Lodge, No. 35, located in Sitka, Alaska. He also reports the organization oC Cour new lodges, and finds that, as a rule, there has not " been any very marked progress" in the lodges oC the jurisdiction. He speaks rather gloomily oC the finances of the Grand Body. The Grand Lodge of South Australia was recognized as a Masonic power. Correct. Our brethren appear to have been considerably exercised over rituals, but a proposition to consider the subject was laid upon the table. Chapter Past Masters (as we understand it) were incontinently disqualified from having any official relations to the lodge. Thus, slowly but surely, is this, together with kindred abnormities, being relegated to their rightful domains. Whisky came up for cast igat ion. The Committee on Jurisprudence, to which the subject was referred, reported amendments to the constitution, thus: /. Resolved, Th.it hereafter any person engaged in the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors, for other than medicinal or sacramental purposes, shall not he eligible to the dej Freemasonry in this jurisdiction. 2. Resolved, That Section i of Art. 3, part 3 of the Constitution he amended to read : " Sec riON t. Every memher of a lodge in good standing is entitled to vote. Kvcry voter is eligible to any office in the lodge ; provided, however, that if a memher is engaged in the manufac- ture oul sale of intoxicating liquors, Otherwise than for medicinal and sacramental purposes, lie is ineligible to any office in the lodge." The report of the committee was received by a large majority, but being an amendment to the organic law, its consideration was deferred for one year. Under an existing statute, a vendor of intoxicants is nut eligible to the Mastership. Brother keed had the valuable aid of Grand Master Ziegler in preparing a Re- put mi Correspondence. With his customary vigor, the former says: MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 205 In our opinion the largest percentage of willful unaffiliation of to-day is caused by the ineffi- ciency or gross neglect of lodge officers. The difficulty is, primarily, that the standard of intelli- gence and moral fitness is held at too low a grade in many of our Masonic lodges. Capability and intellectuality stand back abashed and in disgust at the thrusting forward of ignorance and unfitness to places which wisdom and moral force can alone adorn. Many intelligent men of high moral prin- ciple have sought connection with Freemasonry with pure motives, a proper conception of its tenets, and in admiration of the principles it assumes to inculcate, but alter advancing to the third degree, they are seldom seen in the lodge. It is not the fault of Masonry ; it is not their fault. The cause is found in the moral and intellectual atmosphere of the lodge or the elements that dominate and control its work and business affairs. It behooves every Mason to see that none but good men and true, men of capability and trust-worthiness, are admitted to our lodges, for then such alone can be called upon to govern and instruct. In his review of California, he busies himself with an argument to prove that striking from the roll of membership is not unaffiliation, "because a non-affiliate, as the term is generally understood, is free from all affiliation, and under no restraint or censure imposed by the lodge ; is one who has been honorably discharged from mem- bership, and who, it is presumed, has forfeited no right to membership, nor violated any law by assuming such relation to the Fraternity." Our only reply is, that juris- dictions, " striking from roll," expressly provide that the penalty does not disturb the Masonic stains of the delinquent. Brother Reed further says : " Occupying this re- lation, he can not be said to be a ' Mason in good standing.' " This is another mis- take. So long as a Mason's Masonry is unimpeached, he has good standing as such, notwithstanding the loss of membership. In this connection, he justly con- demns the imposition of a penalty in the absence of formal trial anil conviction. In his review of Kentucky, Brother Reed displays his gleaming battle-ax over our head. He says : But he (Brother Staton) differs with us on the New South Wales question, we are sorry to say, although the principle of lain for which he contends, viewed from our American standpoint, may be right. But the circumstances and condilion of the lodges and brethren of the British Colo- nies in Australia change the entire base or foundation upon which the American theory rests, in re- spect to the rights of subordinate lodges in territory over which no Grand Lodge has exclusive con- trol, to determine, by their free, unrestricted and independent action upon the propriety and feasi- bility of organizing an independent Grand Lodge. To attempt to enforce the American idea, or so- called law, upon the Australian lodges, ignored as it is by the British " Mother Grand Lodges," is an outrage upon free thought, free action, free government, Freemasonry, and the most sacred rights of man — the right of self-defense and self-respect. Let us not forget, Bro. Staton, that the British Grand Lodges have no respect for our American law or policy in this regard, and would scornfully laugh at any attempt to enforce it in any territory under their political or Masonic domi- nation. Do we not all know (the pretended ignorance of Bro. Gurney, of Illinois, and the holy hor- ror he expresses over the fact, to the contrary notwithstanding), that no lodge of the " mother" obe, dience in Australia can ever discuss the propriety of establishing an independent Grand Lodge, without its members being subjected to reprimand and possibly expulsion? We refer to Bro. Gur- ney here, inasmuch as the review of Illinois in this report has been written by Bro. Ziegler, and be- cause Bro. Gurney has volunteered some of his caustic strictures on what he assumes to be the posi- tion of the chairman of this committee on the New South Wales question. He disingenuously charges that we have committed sinful indignity against our New South Wales brethren, while at- tempting their defense. And, as we shall perhaps not refer to this question again, in this report, a word in reply to Bro. Gurney may not be out of place here. He says : " Bro. Reed is again so un- wise as to charge cowardice upon the brethren of New South Wales who were not inclined to enter into the organization of a Grand Lodge," etc Italics ours. This would imply, of course, that we 206 APPENDIX. have made this " charge " more than once, and lack of wisdom is the sorrowful cause. We see no reason to boast of our superior wisdom. But we defy Bro. Gurney to quote any language of ours, a fair interpretation of which will justify his allegation. He is welcome to all the glory he can make out of U. We have said, in effect, that lodges and brethren in those Australian provinces who were doubtless not only willing bu\ anxious to join and take part in measures looking toward the estab- lishment of an independent Grand Lodge, were restrained, possibly intimidated, from so doing, un- der threatening penalties, the severest known to Masonic law. If Bro. Gurney, who expresses such profound astonishment over the word " intimidation," persists in denying this statement, he denies well authenticated facts in history known to otlier intelligent men. We beg Bro. Staton's pardon ror this seeming digression. We would gladly make further reference to his excellent report, but have already largely encroached upon an allotted space. In the first place, British Grand Lodges do " have respect" for our American law of Grand Lodge organization, because it is a law founded in justice and pro- priety. They rejected (as in the cases of N'ew South Wales and Victoria) the prop- osition that an insignificant minority could assume the government of the majority; hut when a majority of the brethren of South Australia declared for an independent government, the brethren of Britain readily and cordially acquiesced. This is con- clusive evidence of two things. First, that there has never been " intimidation " from any authorized source ; second, that the "Grand Lodges of New South Wales and Victoria" would have been recognized long ago if there had been reasonable unity of purpose in their organization. We are not anxious for "glory'" in this contro- versy, but only anxious to convince Brother Reed, and the few that think with him, that when a province of the Empire pursues a lawful course, the Mother Grand Lodges will not rear obstructions to their purposes. Even though they had, in the cases mentioned, it would not follow that New South Wales or Victoria were to be justified in their unlawful assumptions. Brother Reed returns to the subject quite often, and in his review of Tennessee seems to convey the opinion that a Grand Lodge may no/ be a sovereignty : " He still battles with undiminished zeal in behalf of the newly organized Grand Lodges in Australia, and maintains that any 'three or more ' lodges in unoccupied territory may lawfully form a Grand Lodge regardless of the non-concurrence of an overwhelming majority of lodge* in tin- same territory which prefer to continue their allegiance to the Grand Lodges whose charters they hold. We regret our inability to agree with Bro. Reed." Hold, Bro. Foster, strike those words we have italicized from the above, and you will have reported us correctly. We never have entertained such thought of disregarding any majority who " prefer to continue their allegiance to the Grand Lodges whose charters they hold." This, indeed, would be an absurd position to assume, and equally as absurd to credit us with entertaining such opinion. We refer our brother to our remarks on this question under ( )hio and in other portions of tliis report. We will give Grand Master Ziegler's dissent from this proposition, taken from his review of Indian Territory: We hold that as soon as a Grand Lodge is properly organized in unoccupied territory, she be- comes the exclusive Masonic Sovereign within that territory : invested with sole and supreme Ma sonic powi r within that territory, and every sister Grand Lodge according to her Masonic recogni- tion surrenders her supreme and ex< lusive jurisdii tion within her borders. We maintain that subor* dinate lodges who stand out after the new Grand Lodge is properly organized and duly recognized should be compelled to pa; to the new Grand Lodge or be discontinued. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 207 Brother Ziegler is correct. It is hard to "kick against the pricks," Bro. Reed. He is justified in the opinion that a lodge can not revoke a dimit after it has been made of record; thinks that three-fourths of the trouble arising from non-payment of dues is chargeable to the neglect or incompetency of secretaries ; is not <>f the opin- ion that a brother should be held for dues during suspension ; thinks, correctly, that a petition for affiliation can be withdrawn at any time prior to ballot ; does not ad- mire Masonic insurance associations. Neither do we, if officially connected with Grand or constituent lodges. Is not a perpetual jurisdictionist, and don't see why lodges U. D. should not be permitted to affiliate members. Neither do we. But we must close up with Brother Reed, and turn our attention to Brother Ziegler. Those that have personal knowledge of our distinguished brother, will not be at all surprised to find him a positive writer. He opens up his review of Illi- nois with a " Dogberrian " criticism upon the propriety of troubling ourselves about Rites, and says : We believe them to be distinct in character and form, and all rest upon the undisputed and unrivaled basis — Symbolic Masonry. We believe that the gist and kernel of all that is of true worth and value in Masonry lies in the three first degrees. Symbolic Masonry is modest and retired and not aggressive. Neither is she warlike. Then why this "Much Ado About Nothing?" Why these repeated attacks on Chapters, Councils, Commanderies and the Ancient and Accepted Scot- tish and other Rites, of which we know nothing, by continually declaring against them as spurious and clandestine ? Symbolic Masonry needs no such Dogberrian demonstrations ; neither hath she need of any defense as to her virity and correctness, as ages and centuries stand ready to bear wit- ness as to her worth and value, as in like manner the fruit bears testimony as to the quality of the tree. We believe that little good can come out of these attacks, and outcrying against other institu- tions with whom we have nothing in common. But, like the noisy Polemic, who petulantly cries against all other systems and wholly to the great detriment and injury of his own. We dislike these contentions, these outcryings against each other, these interruptions of fraternal relations, these whirling of Masonic anathemas for the most trivial causes. They should be discouraged and dis- continued. Replying briefly, we will only remark that we are not engaged in any warfare upon Rites, except they assume that which is the exclusive heritage of the Craft. He expresses gratification that his "brethren of Illinois are learning something," re- ferring particularly to a report of our Committee on Jurisprudence. He also thinks the rule "infamous" that denies the right of a petitioner for the degrees to withdraw his application after it has been referred ; condemns perpetual jurisdiction; does not concur in the opinion of Brother Singleton, that penal jurisdiction over sojourners does not obtain in Grand Lodges. After scolding in the preceding quotation, we were not a little surprised to find the following ("Much Ado About Nothing"), in his review of Oregon : " Since when, Brother Wright, has Templarism became a part of Freemasonry ; since when has Templarism, as such, taken rank among legitimate Masonic bodies ? We know of no such time or period. We do not object to Templarism as such, but we do protest against any effort of trying to make it a part or parcel of Freemasonry, of which it is not. Templarism may be good, may serve good purposes, its aims may be high and lofty, its objects and tendencies may be grand and even august, but its pageantry and sectarian injunctions and inculcations preclude it from the wide and ■Jlls APPENDIX. broad realm of Freemasonry upon which all men can stand and agree. In short, it is not Freemasonry." It is a pleasure thus to find our distinguished brother " learning something." Brother Ziegler called upon us on his return from Hot Springs. We had a number of pleasant hours with him, calling up those memories of the past that have afforded each of us so much gratification. It was a comfort to find his health re- stored. Brother Reed has been heard from occasionally. He was seen in Kentucky, and may have visited "Bourbon" County. If Brother Croninger had gotton hold of him, he would have soon mastered the significance of "Old Crow." Looking over our manuscript it is found that this review has reached its limits — more too. M. W. Louis Ziegler, Spokane Falls, Grand Master. M. \Y. Thomas M. Reed, P. G. M., Olympia, Grand Secretary. WEST VIRGINIA, 1885. Three special communications were held during the year — two to lay a corner- stone, and the other to dedicate Masonic quarters. The annual communication was held in Wheeling, September loth, M. W. George E. Thornburg presiding. His annual address is a brief mention of his official acts. lie does not think a candidate, with a loss of the three first lingers of his right hand, should be tolerated; is of the opinion that Chapter Past Masters have no part in conferring the degree (!) upon lodge officers; is of the view that a motion to lay on the table is correct; does not think it expedient that Labor Unions should be per mitted to meet in a Masonic hall, and believes thai money paid to reinstate when suspended for non-payment of dues, should be returned if the application is not favorably considered. ('.rand Secretary, Bro. < ». S. Long, now Grand Master, made an elaborate report, embracing suggestions to the local Fraternity of much value. In his Report on Correspondence he recommends a Masonic Congress, Grand Lodge concurring. So MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 209 many of his views upon this subject are well considered, that the major portion of his paper is here given : The relations between the several Grand Lodges in the United States and those in Mexico, Cuba, Central and South America, and upon the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia, are somewhat hazy and undefined. There is a Freemasonry in all of these countries, in all quarters ot the world. In ritual and ceremonial there are doubtless many points of difference, and a Free- mason from any of the States in this country, no matter how well skilled in this esoteric work as authorized by and taught in his Grand Lodge, might find it very difficult to prove his worthiness to pass the scrutiny of the guards in Spain or in Egypt. In fact, I have heard of more than one tourist, brethren in good standing and well posted in Masonic work in the United States, who fail to gain admittance to lodges in England. And then, there are spurious organizations claiming to be Ma- sonic in nearly all of these countries and the traveler from the States is utterly destitute of in- formation as to which of the rival claimants is genuine and safely to be trusted. The Committees on Foreign Correspondence in the several American Grand Lodges are often unable to decide between rival claimants for recognition. The several documents sent to Grand Lodges in this country recounting Masonic history and asserting authority and denouncing pre- tenders are in the native language of the country from which they come — usually French, German, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese, and I have received some documents in the Hungarian or Magyar tongue. It is not often that a member of a foreign correspondence committee, or even a Grand Secre- tary who is popularly supposed to know everything, is fully conversant with all of these languages and able to read them with as good understanding as if written in his own vernacular, and the result is that American Grand Lodges have sometimes given recognition to the wrong body and have thus ignorantly countenanced clandestine Masonry abroad. To remedy this present confusion, we suggest the formation of a Masonic Congress for the United States, with power to recommend to the several Grand Lodges the recognition of such Foreign Grand Bodies as, having passed the scrutiny of the Congress, may be considered regular and legitimate, and perhaps (but this is to be matter of future discussion) to prescribe some rules or furnish some instructions that may enable a Freemason in good standing in his own country to visit upon terms of equality a Masonic Lodge held anywhere in the world. We know very well and are in full sympathy with the spirit of independence which has suc- cessfully resisted several attempts for the formation of a National Grand Lodge in the United States, and this committee would be the last to recommend any action that would abate one jot or tittle of the authority of this or any sister Grand Lodge to independent and exclusive sovereignty within its own domain. We would not give the proposed Congress any compulsory power or authority what- ever, but the Congress of our idea is to be merely an advisory committee, which, after giving the claims of foreign Masonic bodies a more careful and intelligent examination than is possible to the several State Committees, will recommend for recognition such Grand Lodges as in the opinion of the Congress have been legitimately formed, leaving the question of recognition or non-recognition still within the independent and untrammelled action of each Grand Lodge. What we desire of the proposed Congress is a careful and intelligent examination of all newly formed Masonic Grand Lodges, especially of those in countries foreign to the United States, and information and advice as to which are regular and duly authorized and which are to be avoided as shams and pretenders. This committee has present need of such advice as the proposed Congress could give. In Mexico there are several independent Grand Lodges, probably one for each State of the Mexican confederation ; there is certainly one for what is called " the Federal District," having its seat in the City of Mexico ; and there is another at Vera Cruz ; another at Pueblo ; and probably others in other States, and it may be that all are regularly formed and entitled to recognition. Their printed proceedings, letters, pronunciamentos and all that sort of thing are in the Spanish language. We know enough Spanish to learn from some of these documents that that old Masonic freebooter, the Grand Lodge of Hamburg, has been organizing lodges in Mexico without any more color of right than it had for establishing lodges in New York and New Jersey some years ago, but we must admit with the proper amount of shame-facedness that we do not know enough Spanish to arrive at positive conclusions concerning the condition of Masonry in Mexico, and so advise you as to what 2 7 J 210 APPENDIX. Grand Bodies arc entitled to recognition and the exchange of representatives. A letter to one of the best informed Masons in the United States, elicited the advice that we would better "go slow" in the matter of the formal recognition of the Mexican Grand Lodges, and he mentioned one American Grand Lodge that had acted too hastily and had withdrawn the recognition extended without full knowledge of all the facts in the case. If a Masonic Congress can be convened, all of these conflicting claims of Grand Lodges may be referred to it for careful examination and report, and the several American Grand Lodges may be saved from many a blunder, and individual members of the Fraternity may avoid many mistakes and much consequent mortification. Ail amendment to the constitution advancing dues from lodges was rejected. Our brethren of other jurisdictions are reminded that dues from lodges are easily reduced, but to advance them is an exploit rarely consummated. Beware of reduc- tions. We wish to congratulate Bro. Long. M. W. Odell S. Long, Charleston, Grand Master. R. W. Geo. W. Atkinson, Wheeling, Grand Secretary. WISCONSIN, 1885. M. W. Brother Oliver Libbey presided over the forty-first annual communica- tion of our bordering neighbor June 9. An engraved likeness of this praiseworthy Mason embellishes the pamphlet before us. The attendance was large, embracing many names with which the Fraternity of a continent are familiar. ( >ne hundred and ninety of the two hundred and three lodges of the jurisdiction represented. The address of the Grand Master is brief but business like, lie represents the Craft as having enjoyed a year of harmony and prosperity, with a net gain to lodge membership of 293. Two new lodges were authorized, one suppressed, and another permitted to exhibit clean aprons on Decoration Day. He decided that, " under the strict provision of our constitution, a petition for the degrees must invariably be presented to the nearest lodge. Its reception by an- other, witli permission of the lodge having jurisdiction, is irregular." Grand Lodge assenting. We do not have the constitution of Wisconsin before us, therefore it would nut be proper to assume that the conclusion of Brother Libbey is not in con- sonance with its provisions. The law of Illinois upon the same subject says: "The territorial jurisdiction of a lodge shall extend in all directions half-way on straight MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 211 lines between neighboring lodges, without regard to county or other geographical divisions, and includes the exclusive ri^ht, on t'le part of the lodge, to accept or re- ject all original petitions for the degrees from p rsons residing within its territory.'' This is followed by other provisions, that provide for waivers of jurisdiction, when lodges so desire. In this it distinctly recognizes the right of con- stituent bodies to settle such matters between themselves — State lines not interposing objections to the right of contiguous lodges to adjust jurisdiction between themselves by formal relinquishment of their prerogatives in the premises. As it seems to us, the rule of Wisconsin is not only a practical prohibition of such courtesies between lodges, but is at variance with generally approved law. Perhaps the scope of the decision is not understood. It is a pleasure to know that the financial condition of Grand Lodge is steadily improving, and that Brother Suessmilch continues in possession of the bag. In the report of the Grand Secretary, Brother Laflin, mention is made of courte- ous attention to the widow of Tast Grand Master, Bro. C. F. G. Collins. The report of the Grand Lecturer, Past Grand Master Brother M. L. Youngs, one of the best instructors of the period, is submitted. As a rule, he finds lodges in fair ritualistic condition, but many are suffering loss in this regard from the absence of authorized lecturers. Brethren, Past Grand Masters Emmons E. Chapin and Lewis E. Reed, were each the recipients of Past Grand Master's jewels. They are to be congratulated. The following was adopted : " That the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin hereby extends full fraternal recognition to the Grand Lodge of Victoria, in Australia, as a just and legitimate Grand Lodge, exercising exclusive Masonic jurisdiction over the territory it claims, and we give it a cordial welcome, and will reciprocate in the ap- pointment of representatives and correspondence." This came from Bro. Chapin, and we wish to say to him, that eighteen hundred years ago a certain dignitary in spiritual life (distinguished now as then for his impudence) made a like claim upon every kingdom of earth. Sorry to see the brethren of Wisconsin tolerating the as- sumption of "New South Wales," equally as fallacious. Brother Chapin says that the abnormity around which his fraternal affections cluster, exercises " exclusive Ma- sonic jurisdiction over the territory it claims." Brother Singleton, and other writers that are formidable in their friendship for this minority organization, do not admit the position. They are too shrewd for that, because it may come to pass, at any time, that the "Grand Lodges of New South Wales or Victoria " may demand of their friends that they repudiate fraternal relations with the Mother Grand Lodges (England, Scotland and Ireland) that are constantly planting lodges, and in those provinces. Thinking over the matter, we were not greatly surprised that Past Grand Master Bouck presented the following : " That the report of the Committee on For- eign Correspondence, upon the theory and basis for many years made, should be abandoned." 212 Ari'KNinx. Action upon the proposition to discipline a former Grand Lodge official was de- ferred. Our heart goes out for a brother that confesses his faults and is making a supreme effort to undo the wrongs he has perpetrated. A question was asked of the right of a lodge to exempt brethren from dues who had contributed thereto for twenty years. Brother Bouck, chairman of the Commit- tee on Jurisprudence, returned the sensible reply, that: " Lodge dues are a matter wholly within the jurisdiction of the lodge, subject only to review by (Irand Lodge for any abuse of the power. A lodge may remit dues or relieve a certain class of members from the payment in whole or in part. < irand Lodge dues are a matter be- tween the Grand Lodge and the subordinate lodge, and not between the (irand Lodge and the individual members of the subordinate lodge. This has no reference to charges for receiving the degrees." A special communication of Grand Lodge was held in Ashland, and lodge- apartments dedicated. Past Grand Master Youngs presided, and delivered an ex- cellent, practical address. Another special was held April 6, in Racine, and another new Masonic hall dedicated. M. W. Bro. Chapin, P. G. M., is the author of a Report on Correspondence. It is a very readable paper, but would be much more interesting if he would give personal attention to the many questions that are being agitated in Masonic circles. About the only topic upon which he ventures an opinion, is in the ensuing : " Ordered by the M. W. (Irand Master that these proceedings be read in each lodge immedi- ately after the receipt of the same." Why is this not a good rule to be adopted? We take it that this order does not require to be read the tables and appendix, but the proceedings. Otherwise none but the members who could obtain possession of one of the three books sent to each subordinate lodge, would or could know what business the Grand Lodge had transacted, while every member by listening would know just what had been done by his Grand Lodge, and all would receive pleasure and profit thereby. It don't follow that the entire proceedings of the Grand Lodge should be read at one sitting — but from session to session until completed, and if anything has been done in Grand Lodge which is not " up to snuff," discuss it and have your representative look after the matter at the next Annual Communi- cation. It strikes us that this is a very reasonable and good order. Brother Chapin quotes, with a species of grim satisfaction, the opinions of those who are in accord with him in the right and propriety of New South Wales and Vic- toria to defy the common determinations of the Masonic world in the matter of ( irand Lodge organizations. He relies much upon Brother Singleton's ideas of law. We did not have space for them last year, but produce them here : We now present some remarks as to the formation of Grand Lodges in unoccupied territories, and we have this to say : That in the United Stales, from a very early day, it lias been a general, but not universal, sentimi nl that there should be a majority of the lodges within the territory (and not less than three i to make the organization of such < irand I .odge sufficiently legitimate or regular to obtain the recognition and fraternal interchange of Masonic courtesies from other regularly estab- lished Grand Lodges We have failed to trace this doctrine to any authentii source. Outside the United States this doctrine is unknown. Nevertheless, we feel sure that the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, would nevei recognize any Grand Lodge in the United States, unless formed by a majority of the lodgi s. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 2 1 •' < We protest, however, against the dictatorial tone adopted by some of our critics, when they dogmatically assert that to regularize a Grand Lodge formation anywhere, a majority of the lodges must concur, particularly when said Grand Lodge is in a foreign country, where no such doctrine was ever known or considered. Moreover, we do not hesitate to say that every Grand Lodge and Orient in Europe maintains the right (and they have all exercised that right since 1730,) to establish a Grand Lodge in any unoccupied territory, even where there is not a single subordinate lodge hold- ing a charter ; and in every province belonging to Great Britain there are now Provincial Grand Lodges established by the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland. They prefix the word provincial — but they are Grand Lodges — and are not representative in their character ; for the breth- ren belonging to the subordinate lodges under the separate constitutions of England, Scotland and Ireland, are governed by those who are appointed over them from those Grand Lodges, respectively, without representation. How American Masons can sustain, by their moral support, any such monarchical system in Masonry is beyond our ken. The oldest Constitution, as to a Grand Lodge, says : " The Grand Lodge consists of, and is formed by, the Master and Wardens of all the regular particular lodges upon record," &c. The lodges in the colonies and provinces are practically debarred this privilege. Hence we hold that so soon as three lodges agree in convention, and do organize a Grand Lodge, that Grand Lodge is the only legitimate Grand Body in every such territory. We, therefore, insist that in any foreign country, where three lodges shall unite to form a Grand Lodge, outsiders have nothing to do with its formation, We, however, do not hold to the dictum that such an organization can claim exclusive jurisdiction in that territory. Other Grand Lodges cannot charter lodges therein, but may continue to exercise control over their lodges therein until they unite with the new body. This seems to us to be equitable. It is quite different in all foreign countries from what is considered right in American jurisprudence ; and here we think our writers make the mistake in measuring European Masonry, in all things, by our American bushel. Their standards and ours differ. Now, we propose to deal out to them their own measures, and recognize every Grand Lodge formed, to get rid of their provincial system, and approach our own system of exclusive jurisdiction, which is in a measure, unrecognized in Europe. In the kingdom of Great Britain there are three Grand Lodges, each having Provincial Grand Lodges in all the provinces of Great Britain. For the sake of peace each one of these has withdrawn from their American provinces and left the home Grand Lodges to take care of the Craft, except in Quebec. It is well known that each of these Grand Lodges claims the prescriptive right again to enter those provinces with charters whenever they may see proper. The contest now going on between the Grand Mark Lodge of England and the Grand Chapter of Quebec shows their animus well enough ; and there will be no peace on this continent until we " carry the war into Africa," and aid all the independent Masons abroad to assert the original, Masonic, inherent right of self-government, by due representation in the highest legisla- tive Masonic body. We plant ourselves upon the old constitution, which provides for every Grand Lodge formation as given above, viz., that the Grand Lodge, in its membership, shall consist of the Masters and Wardens of all the lodges under its constitution. As we said before, until a majority of all the lodges, holding under a particluar constitution, unite in the organization, no claim can be made to exclusive territorial jurisdiction, nor should that feature obtain until, as in the joint occupancy of the three Grand Lodges, a majority of all that should unite ; and it is only conventional to demand the surrender of the minority ; they may be de- clared irregular ; but if outside Grand Lodges still acknowledge them as regular, as in the case of the English lodges in Canada and Quebec, then of course they must be regular to all who receive them as such. We will now show, in our quotations from the histories of Grand Lodges in Europe in the last century, great differences in the practice of our Order; and inasmuch as Masonry in Europe was so permanently established in the northern part as to create no discussion upon that point within this century, yet we have only to look now at Italy, Spain, and Portugal to observe the utmost con- fusion in regard to Grand Lodge jurisdiction, and this also extends to Cuba, South America, and (this very year) to Mexico, where the Masonic yarn has taken a new tangle, in the formation of Grand Lodges. 214 APPENDIX. If the reader can gain information from the foregoing medley it will be a pleas- ure to know it. We want Illinois Masons to read every word from Bro. Singleton, if they want to know upon what slight foundations men sometimes rest for their con- clusions. Criticism unnecessary. M. W. < Hiver Libbey, (been Bay, Grand Master. R. W. fohn W. Laflin, Milwaukee, Grand Secretary. WYOMING, 1884, Grand Lodge met in the city of Laramie, October 14. The Grand Master, M. W. John K. Jeffrey, was unavoidably absent. R. W. E. F. Cheney, D. G. M., oc- cupied the Grand East. Three lodges were present by their representatives — six in the jurisdiction with a membership of 432, the largest being Cheyenne, No. 1, with 132 members. The address of the Grand Master is a brief mention of local affairs. The report of the Grand Secretary is an excellent paper. He makes a number of recommenda- tions that do not appear to have enlisted the sympathies of Grand Lodge. Here- ports a surplus of $790.89. One lodge was chartered. The Committee on Grievances report harmony. M. W. J. H. I lay ford, P. G. M., delivered a short but facetious address, or ora- tion. Read the following paragraph : I have lived to see the pitch-pine knot give place to the saucer of grease with a rag in it, that give way to the tallow dip, this superseded by coal-oil, this by gas, and gas pale before the electric light. What more is left but to improve the electric light? We compel the sun to paint our pictures ; we make the steam do our work and carry us whithsoever we will — on land or water ; we ha\ e made the lightning our errand boy, and what other force of nature is there for us to subline and utilize? There is certainly a limit to human power. Hy the aid of the spectroscope we can analyze the urn Ms around us, but it is not probable we can emigrate to them, even if we should find them com- posed of the purest gold. The inventions of the past will doubtless be improved. Many of us can recollect the slow, difficult and tedious process by which— 40 years ago— daguerreotypes were made. Now the artist photographs the cannon-ball in its lliyht. The telephone may be so improved and per- fected that we can converse from here to London as well as from here to Cheyenne, but that would suprise no one— the wonder is that we can converse even with our nearest neighbor by it. A maga- zine writer declares that he expects to sec the time when they will load a man into a mortar and shoot him from New Vurk to San FranclsCO in three-fifths of a second, and when he lights he will jump to tu 1. 1 1 and swear the powder was poor. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 215 Our sister jurisdiction appears to have permanent prosperity. No Report on Correspondence. M. W. E. F. Cheney, Lander, Grand Master. R. W. John II. Symons, Laramie, Grand Secretary. ENGLAND, 1884-1885. A quarterly communication was held at Freemasons' Hall, London, December 3, over which the Right Honorable the Earl of Carnarvon, Pro. Grand Master, pre- sided, in the absence of the Grand Master, H. R. H. the Prince of Wales. The prominent feature of the communication is the appearance of correspond- ence between the Grand Master and the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Quebec. It refers to the difficulties existing between the two bodies, and which has recently culminated in an edict by the latter cutting off friendly relations with the three lodges that continue in obedience to the former. There is nothing new in the correspondence that would justify a retraction of the action of the Grand Lodge of Illinois in the premises, but in justice to the Grand Lodge of England the concluding reply of its Grand Master thereof is given: Freemasons' Hall, London, 27th November, 1884. To Most Worshipful Brother E. R. Johnson, Grand Master Grand Lodge of Quebec : Most Worshipful Sir and Brother : I am commanded by the Most Worshipful Grand Master of United Grand Lodge of England to acknowledge the receipt of your letter to him, of the 3rd October last, on the subject of the three English lodges in Montreal, viz., St. Paul, No. 374 ; St. George, No. 440 ; and St. Lawrence, No. 640, still remaining under this Grand Lodge, in which you urge, on similar grounds to those put forward by your predecessors in the years 1877, an d '88o and 1881, the supercession of these lodges, and intimate that, in the opinion of your Grand Lodge, the time has now arrived for a settlement of the question, explaining that such settlement, to be satis- factory, involves the unconditional admission of the supremacy of the Grand Lodge of Quebec over all lodges and Masons in that province. You therefore convey to our Grand Master the request of your Grand Lodge that a withdrawal of the authority of the Grand Lodge of England from over these three lodges should take place on or before the 1st of January, 1S85, failing which you will de- clare a severance of intercourse between the Grand Lodge of Quebec and its members, and the three lodges in question and their members. The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England does not desire unnecessarily to repeat what has been already communicated in the letters which have been addressed by my predecessor and myself, in obedience to his commands, to the late Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Quebec ; but his Royal Highness must point out that when the Grand Lodge of Canada was formed in the year 1857, and assumed jurisdiction over the territory of Montreal, the three lodges in question were already 216 APPENDIX. in existence and working— the St. I'anl since 1824 ; the St. George since 1S36 ; and the St. Lawrence since 1854; and these three lodges have declined to join the movement which resulted in the forma- tion of tlie Grand Lodge of Canada, or to sever their allegiance from the Grand Lodge of England— when the former body sought recognition from this Grand Lodge, it succeeded to and adopted the expressed condition that the existing status of these three lodges should be maintained — this point was stipulated for by the Grand Lodge of England, and was distinctly agreed to by the Grand Lodge of Canada. .Matters remained on this footing until theyear 1869, when the Quebec Masons separated from the Grand Lodge of Canada, and formed themselves into the Grand Lodge of Quebec and declared their independence, which was utimately acknowledge by the Grand Lodge of Canada : but on the in wly established < irand Lodge of (Juebec applying for recognition they were reminded of the terms previously entered into by our Grand Lodge with that of Canada, relative to the three lodges in question, and were informed that such recognition could only be accorded them on similar terms. To these conditions the Grand Lodge of Quebec declined to assent, and the matter has since re- mained in statu i/uo, although various letters have passed on the subject between the two Grand Masters. It has been repeatedly explained that the Grand Lodge ot Kngland would offer no obstacle to these lodges entering into allegiance to the Grand Lodge of Quebec ; but that is a matter entirely for these lodges to determine. The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England has always de- clined to use coercive measures to bring about this result, holding that the lodges are entitled to act independently without pressure. The request now made involves the principle that because a Grand Lodge is founded in a territory, lodges therein already lawfully existing, become unlawful if they do not join in adhering to the newly formed body. To this doctrine the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England cannot subscribe. A Grand Lodge by its mere creation cannot invalidate actual lodges already legally existing in the territory over which it assumes jurisdiction. The creation of a new body does not annul the prior right ; indeed, the request to withdraw the warrants implies that under them the continuance of these lodges is justified. The Grand Lodge of England has consistently adhered to the position thus stated. At the formation of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, a lodge under the Grand Lodge of England continued its allegiance, and is still working at Halifax in harmony with the local Grand Lodge. The reference in your letter to two Masonic bodies bidding for support and struggling for supremacy does not appear to apply in any way to the present position. His Royal Highness is naturally anxious that peace and harmony should prevail amongst all Masons, but he does not see that he would be justified in forcing upon these three lodges, against their expressed desire, their extinction. Whilst, therefore, much regretting his inability to comply with the wish of the Grand Lodge of Ouebec, he cannot undertake to ask the Grand I odge ol Eng land to reverse its former decision upon the grounds and for the reasons advanced. — I have the honour to be, &c, (Signed) Shadwell H. Clerke, G. S. The Pro. Grand Master, the Earl of Carnarvon, in a speech, concluded thus : I will only say in conclusion that which substantially has been said in the letter of our ('.rand Master, that we have and can have no selfish or jealous wishes or desires in this matter. I >ur one object is to promote the welfare of our brethren in every part of Canada and all over the world ; but we undoubtedly do contend that the doctrine which is laid down by the Grand Lodge of Quebec would be a very abnormal, and a very dangerous, and a very unjus.t one, that when lodges enjoy a legal existence in any particular territory it should be lawful for some new body to constitute ami connect themselves, and to swamp and declare invalid those lodges which preceded them, and wlii. h had that leg ll 1 KlStence. No doctrine, it seems to me, could be more unjust and unfair than that, and it appears to me to be our bouuden duty, so long as those lodges of their own free will cling to the < '.rand Lodge of England, to see that they shall not, so far as we can help it, by any word or act of ours be driven or compelled into an allegiance which they repudiate and objei t t,.. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 217 when we have in years previously specially covenanted for their freedom and stipulated for it ; and further, I should be disposed to say that when the Grand Lodge of Quebec came into existence as an offshoot of the Grand Lodge of Canada, it inherited the liabilities, and it accepted, and it was honorably bound to accept, the obligations of its predecessor. Brethren, this has been the principle upon which this Grand Lodge has acted hitherto ; it is the principle upon which it has acted in other similar questions which from time to time arise ; and, however painful it may be to us to see Ma- sonic concord in any way disturbed— disturbed, I trust, for a very short time, and in a very small degree — still, I think it is incumbent upon us to maintain the good faith which we have pledged, and to insist, so far as we can insist, upon those stipulations for the independence and the freedom of allegiance enjoyed by these three English lodges being still enjoyed, no matter what Masonic au- thority comes into existence now or hereafter in the Province of Quebec. Neither our Grand Lodge nor the writer entertains a doubt but that the Mother Grand Lodge has been governed in its action by a sincere desire to promote the wel- fare of the Fraternity at home and abroad ; but the brethren of England seem to for- get that the exclusive sovereignty of a sister jurisdiction is as vital to its prosperity, rights and dignities as is that of their own just claims to unequivocal independence. They also appear to forget that the common law of Grand Lodge sovereignty, prac- tically insisted upon by every legitimate Grand Body of earth, and particularly by the Grand Lodge of England, originated in a necessity to the harmony of the Ma- sonic world, ami to which the Masons of England are as much indebted for their present security as is the Grand Lodge of Illinois. The early history of Masonry in Britain is a practical vindication of the common law of Grand Lodge sovereignty now so universally endorsed. We were not, therefore, prepared for the remark of the distinguished Pro. Grand Master, " that the doctrine which is laid down by the Grand Lodge of Quebec would be very abnormal, and very dangerous, and a very unjust one, that when lodges enjoy a legal existence in any particular territory it should be lawful for some new body to constitute and connect themselves, and to swamp and declare invalid those lodges which preceded them, and which had that legal existence." The argument of the Pro. Grand Master is specious, consequently misleading. There is not any power in Masonry that can lawfully "swamp" a le- gally constituted lodge except for a disregard for law, written or unwritten. A Grand Lodge comes into existence by the unquestioned will of a majority of the lodges of a specific territory. When the organization is perfected, and so acknowledged by its peers, it becomes supreme within its constitutional limits, and all lodges therein are logically and necessarily subject to its government. If this be not true, the doctrine of Grand Lodge sovereignty so persistently insisted upon by our British brethren is a myth and a delusion. They can not have forgotten the prompt rebuke administered to the Grand Lodge of Manitoba (18S2) for authorizing a lodge in the Province of Gibraltar, notwithstanding the absence of a Grand Body within that territory. This is alluded to for the purpose of exhibiting the tenacity with which the Grand Lodge of England clings to its jurisdictional sovereignty. The plea, therefore, of the Pro. Grand Master is a sentimentality that should not be permitted to interpose objections to the enforcement of the plain and universally acknowledged provisions of common law upon the subject. Again, though the three recusant lodges of Quebec disband rather than submit to constituted authority, the Masonic status of their members is not impaired. The Pro. Grand Master errs in the statement that the Grand Lodge 2SJ 218 APPENDIX. of Quebec " inherited the liabilities " of the Grand Lodge of Canada, "and it ac- cepted, and it was honorably bound to accept, the obligations of its predecessor." In reply, we can only refer to the fact that the Grand Lodge of Quebec did unquali- fiedly decline to assuim tAt responsibilities of the Grand Lodge of Canada, and was, therefore, perfectly justified in its condemnation of a contract with which it had no concern, and for which it was in no wise responsible, either in law or equity. V. W. Brother Thomas Fenn, President of the Board of General Purposes, re- ported a recommendation that the venerable Brother Puss, for long years in active service as a subordinate in the Grand Secretary's office, be retired with a pension of £400 per annum, the full amount of his salary. We may not agree with many of the opinions of this Grand Lodge, but we cordially commend the adoption of the recommendation to the thoughtful consideration of the worldwide Fraternity. This is but one of the manifestations of the charitable inclinations of our English brethren. The good Lord have the Grand Lodge of England in His holy keeping. The Grand Registrar, V. W. Bro. Frederick A. Philbrick, Q. C, presented the appeal of a brother from the unprecedented rulings of the District Grand Master of the Bahamas. They are too lengthy for quotation, and too ridiculous for serious thought. The purpose for a notice of them is to recommend a leather medal to that distinguished Masonic jurist. The appeal was sustained. A motion was lost, " That it be referred to the Board of General Purposes to consider and report upon the best means for the prevention of continued impositions practiced upon Metropolitan and Provincial lodges by mendicant Freemason-.'" This is a subject that has taxed the ingenuity of Grand Lodges of this country. The general sentiment, however, obtains that lodges must assume such responsibilities. If Masters and other officers are intelligent, and just to the lodge, impositions spoken of will be the exception and not the rule. Such are the facts in this country. At the quarterly communication of March 4, 1885, His R. II. the Prince of Wales was again placed in the Oriental chair. From a statement by \V. Brother ( loldney, nominating His Royal Highness, it is found that during his administration of eleven years $1,750,000 has been disbursed for charitable purposes. The follow - ing is an official proclamation : Whereupon Sir Albert \V. Woods, Garter, P. G. W., Grand Director of Ceremonies, pro- claimed : The Most High, Puissant and Most Illustrious Prince Albert Edward, Prince of Wales. Duke of Saxony, Duke of Cornwall and Rothesay, Karl of Chester, Carrick and Dublin, Baron of Ren- frew and Lord of the Isles, Great Steward of Scotland, Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Gar- ter, Knight of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, Knight Grand Cross of the Most Honorable Order of the Hath, Knight of the Most Illustrious Order of St. Patrick, Knight ( rrand Commander of the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, and Knight Grand Cross of the Must Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, &c, &C, iS:e., &C, Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of England. A lodge was properly suspended for issuing a circular inviting members to dis close their voles in a case of rejecting an applicant for the degrees. It had been the MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 219 ruling that suspension of a lodge suspended its members. This understanding of the law was corrected, and now the brethren of a suspended body do not lose their Ma- sonic status. M. W. H. R. H. the Prince of Wales, (hand Master. R. W. Colonel Shadwell II. Clerke, Grand Secretary. MAINE, 1886. Grand Lodge met early in May. We hope to get printed proceedings in time for our printer. Brother Drummond has been kind enough to send us his Report on Correspondence, and as this paper will absorb the greater part of our attention, we commence work upon it now. Reviewing Arizona, he approves the judgment of Grand Lodge, that a lodge should not be allowed to grant a new trial. He does not harmonize with the opin- ion of that body, that Past Masters (of other jurisdictions) should be squelched, but approves the view we have always entertained, that all " Past Masters, while mem- bers of a lodge in the jurisdiction, shall stand upon a level in all respects, although some of them may have received the honor elsewhere." To us, this appears the correct doctrine. In Illinois, Past Masters, members of lodges, are members of Grand Lodge. They have the liberty of speech therein, may suggest legislation, but are not permitted personal votes. They vote collectively one ballot. This fixes membership, at the same time entitling them to official position if the brethren of the Grand Body so incline. He refers to this topic in his review of Illinois, alluding to a table furnished by us (1885) touching franchises of past officers, together with the remarks of Brother Cregier upon the subject. The trouble in New York, mentioned, grew out of the influences and votes of Past Masters. It is true that the attempt in that jurisdiction to disfranchise members of Grand Lodge that the law of that period recognized as such, was unjustifiable ; nevertheless, the contest culminated in ultimately giving actual representatives of lodges the influences to which they were naturally entitled. We are not urging the propriety or advisability of depriving past officers, Grand or constituent, of any franchise or prerogative awarded them, but we are strongly of the opinion that the continuation of the present system, adopted by many governing bodies, making new Past Masters permanent members of the Grand Body, with per- 220 APPENDIX. sonal votes, should case, then the evil would correct itself in a few years. Brother Drummond says : We do not share in his fears ; the fact is that " the principles of representative government." as now understood, and as evidently understood by P>ro. Gurney, were never dreamed of when the Grand Lodge system of Masonic government was formed. Bro. Cregier will find that the " drift- ing " has been remarkably small. He will find that the " ancient moorings " were almost identical with the present system. The system was not perfected at once ; but within less than ten years, the Grand Lodge was composed of the Grand Officers, Past Grand Master, Past Deputy Grand Masters, Past Grand Wardens, and the Masters and Wardens of the lodges. This was one hun- dred and sixty years ago ; and the Grand Lodge of Maine (and of many other States) has the same law now. A few Grand Lodges have added Past Grand Treasurers and Past Grand Secretaries. So far there has not been much " drifting." Quite a number of Grand Lodges make Past Masters members ; of the American Grand Lodges, twenty-three do not ; eight make them members with one vote collectively ; two more give those from each lodge one vote ; while the remaining twenty-odd give them full membership with a vote. Now, before settling that this admission of Past Masters is a new thing, one other question must be settled. It is well known that anciently the term " Master " was applied only to one who was or had been a Master of a lodge, and it was applied not only to the one who at the time was Master, but to all who had been Master. The term " Past Master " is not found in the I >ld Regu- lations. When did the term "Master" become restricted in its meaning to a " Master in the chair? " Is it certain that the term " Masters " in the Old Regulations did not include those now called Past Masters ? It is true that the word " Master " is used therein frequently when it can ap- ply only to the actual Master. On April 6, 1736, rules were adopted for the government of the Grand Lodge; one provided that none should be admitted but members, " viz. : The four pres- ent and all former Gr. Officers, the Treasurer and Secretary, the Master and "Wardens of all regular lodges, the Masters and Wardens and nine more of the Ste7uards Lodge." It will be seen that the rule says Masters of regular lodges and A/asters of the Ste wards lodge ; the latter had but one actual Master, and the term Masters must include the Past Masters, or else it is meaningless a The term " Past Master " is not found in the Regulations up to that date. In reply to the first and closing paragraphs of the quotation (the latter a sur- mise), we produce the unequivocal language of the General Regulations adopted in 1721: "The majority of every particular lodge, when congregated, shall have the privilege of giving instruction to their Master [not Masters) and Wardens, before as- sembling of the Grand Chapter, or Lodge, at the three quarterly communications be- fore mentioned, and of the annual Grand Lodge, too; because their Master [not Masters) and Wardens are their representatives and arc supposed to speak their mind." Our italics. Regulation 10. Further on ( Rule 12), says: "The Grand Lodge consists and is formed by the Masters and Wardens of all the regular partic- ular lodges upon record, with the Grand Master at their head, and his Deputy on his left hand and the Grand Wardens in their places; and must have a quarterly com- munication about Michaelmas, Christmas and Lady Day, in some convenient place, as the Grand Master may appoint, where no brother shall be present who is not at that time a member thereof, without a dispensation; and while he stays, he shall not be allowed to vote, nor even to give his opinion, without leave of the Grand Lodge asked and given, or unless it be duly asked by said lodge." Brother Drummond quotes regulations adopted in 1736; but, by what seems to us to be an extraordinary stretch of the imagination, he arrives at the conclusion that the word Master then meant Masters, notwithstanding an explicit provision to the contrary, found in his MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 221 reference. We are of the decided opinion that the regulation upon which he rests his speculation means just what it says. This is it : The Master and Wardens (not Masters and Wardens) of all regular lodges. * * * We do not think there need be any misconception of language of 1736. There has, therefore, been a "drifting" from ancient regulations, as Brother Cregier stated; yet there is not a question but that Past Masters at an early day ( 1813) were admitted to membership, and after the union of the English bodies. The primal regulations, however, do not afford Brother Drummond any comfort. This departure, at or about the date of the union, is entirely consistent with that other departure establishing a fourth degree! We are entirely content that past officers in lodge and Grand Lodge maintain membership. It would be unfortunate to cut them off entirely. Make them perma- nent members, with one vote collectively ; they can then serve on committees and occupy other distinctive and distinguished positions as lodge representatives or the Grand Master may elect. It is a pleasure to find the following expression in his talk with Canadian breth- ren : "we hold that the grand lodge of quebec acquired its sovereign authority from the inherent right of a majority of the lodges in that Province to form a Grand Lodge with exclusive jurisdiction therein, without the permission of any man or body of men." Please do not forget this, brethren. He quotes us as saying : " Bro. Drummond seems perverse ; for with all our definitions of Masonry, he insists, hy im- plication, that we recognize something beyond the portals of the lodge as of the Fraternity. This is untrue. ' Bro. Gurney ' does not concur in the opinion that a Grand Lodge of the symbolic degrees ' has the power to^define what Masonry is,' except as concerning that Masonry alone authorized by the immemorial, fundamental law of the Craft— the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason." And thus replies : We think he splits hairs and is illogical. Who or what has the power to define what Masonry is, if the Grand Lodge has not? Does he say, find it in the " immemorial, fundamental law of the Craft?" Well, who decides what is that law? Who construes it ? Is not the Grand Lodge the final arbiter? He seems to assume that we hold that the Grand Lodge can make a new Masonry ; whereas we hold no such thing and have never said so ; but we do hold that the Grand Lodge is the tribunal to define what, under the laws of the Institution, Masonry is. And Bro. Gurney can not help holding the same. If we understand him, he insists that we are " morally " under obligations to perpetuate a violation of law ! ! A Grand Lodge can not make law that is a travesty of any fundamental regulation that enters into the constitutions of the Fraternity. He might as well insist that the Grand Lodge of Maine was at liberty to declare the display of the three Great Lights unjustifiable because of its sovereignty, or that any other absolute requirement of the Institution should be subject to displacement if the 222 APPENDIX. Grand Lodge so directed. A Grand Lodge can make a donkey of itself, but it can not be recreant to its trusts and remain a member of the household. We hold that a Grand Lodge has a right to legislate in behalf of its constituents — lodges of the de- grees of E. A., F. C. and Master Mason — these are within its control ; but beyond this, it does not have remote authority except over members of associations of Ma- sons that may be trespassers. We do "assume" that Brother Drummond, in following the lead of Massachu- setts, does attempt to make "new Masonry" — a Masonry entirely unknown to the primitive Institution. lie says that certain associations of Masons are "duly consti- tuted Masonic bodies." What is the legitimate meaning of the expression? What (hand Lodge did " constitute" these bodies? If they are "duly constituted " they have lodge parentage. Where is it ? We particularly invite attention to another of Brother Drummond's utterances. He reproduces what we said in our last report : " The sophistry of his argument will not save him ; because there is no right admitted in civil law except that which involves a right to life, liberty, property, or the pursuit of lawful avocations. Rights at law do not refer to social, religious or fraternal life, except where material interests are in- voked, and never have. We are not a lawyer, nevertheless we never heard of a civil statute that de- manded of the Presbyterian a continued recognition of the Methodist as a Christian organization, simply for the reason that for a century or centuries such recognition had not been questioned. The former, so far as the civil law is concerned, is at perfect liberty to denounce every other ecclesiasti- cal organization upon earth as unchristian, notwithstanding former declarations to the contrary." He then adds : Our brother does not meet the case. In our report last year, we stated that one of the objects of this crusade was to pi-event the other bodies' using any oj the secret work of the lodge : and in this report Bro. Gurney suggests the same thing. The right of the other bodies to do so groivs out of recognition ; of course, the civil tribunals have no jurisdiction, but Kro. Gurney, though no law- yer, is intelligent enough to know that if they had, they would prevent what he proposes to do, by injunction. So we say the Grand Lodge is morally bound not to attempt it. Italics ours. Here is a plain, outspoken assumption that should startle the legitimate Grand Lodges of the world, who, without thought of consequences, have unwisely recog- nized so-called Grand Lodges that have had their origin in Supreme Councils. Vide our introduction to this paper and our review of District of Columbia. "GROWS OUT OF RECOGNITION !!" We want our readers to thoroughly digest the remarks of our distinguished brother in this connection. We have no contention with outside organizations, of any name. They are well enough in their places, and a number are doing good work for humanity; but we do have contention with (irand Lodges that recognize associations as Masonic of which they can not have any other knowledge except that which comes through non-official sources. We are entirely friendly to the Chapter, Council, Cornmandery and bodies of the Scottish Rite; we belong t" them, and have labored, and will continue to MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 223 work for their welfare while we live ; but we can not consent that they are " duly constituted Masonic bodies," for two principal reasons. First, they are not authorized by the primitive Masonry of the world, as handed down to us in unbroken succession by the first and primary Grand Lodge ; second, extending recognition to them as Masonic bodies is a justification for a claim, that they may hereafter raise, that they are invested with authority to assume the govern- ment of the lodge and practice its rights in jurisdictions that have awarded them Ma- sonic legitimacy. In our explanation of his statements of last year, and to which he takes excep- tions, he disclaims the intention attributed to him of characterizing the action of Massachusetts and Illinois as identical — the first upon its "departure," the latter upon its movement upon Egyptian Rites. Well, we won't discuss the matter. It was never intended to charge Bro. D. with misrepresentation ; but we will wager a small amount that cotemporaneous writers will agree that the language of that criti- cism of last year, to which we refer, will convey to them our impressions of its meaning. He gives Iowa brethren a merciless scoring for their law upon discipline, that denies the right of appeal from acquittal. We endorse his views, and regret a want of space for his concise and conclusive argument. He does not agree to the propo- sition that suspension for non-payment of dues is justifiable in the absence of oppor- tunity for defense ; thinks the penal code of California too heavy; believes that the affirmation of a Quaker is admissible; does not believe that a neutral position be- tween Quebec and England can be maintained; is not particularly enamored of ex- treme "physical qualification," and stands by the prerogatives of Grand Masters. All unobjectionable. He thus properly castigates Montana : " Resolved, That all non-affiliated Masons in this jurisdiction shall have the privilege of visit- ing lodges for the period of sixty days, but such non-affiliates shall petition some lodge within thirty days thereafter for membership, or contribute to some chartered lodge in this jurisdiction its regular dues, and in case of non-compliance shall be debarred from all Masonic rights and privileges, as fol- lows : First, They shall not be allowed to visit any lodge. Second, They shall not be al- lowed to appear in any Masonic procession. Third, They shall not be entitled to Masonic charity. Fourth, They shall not be entitled to Masonic burial." Bro. Hedges announces in advance that he expects this will be criticized ; and his expecta- tions are certainly in accordance with the "eternal fitness of things," for it might to be criticized. In the first place, the law is mandatory and allows no exceptions. In Montana, a Mason too poor to pay the large dues there exacted, loses all his Masonic privileges simply on account of his poverty. The old clergyman, whose case we noticed in our review of Mississippi, could not have visited a lodge, joined in a funeral procession, or claimed relief or Masonic burial, any more than a profane. In the second place, the Grand Lodge has exceeded its powers : it had the power to say that a non- affiliate shall not be entitled to Masonic relief from lodge funds, but when it omits that qualifying clause it undertakes ?uhat all the Grand Lodges in the world cannot do. The obligation of the individual Mason to his brother, assumed when he became a Mason, is beyond the power of even a Grand Lodge to release or take away, except as a punishment for a violation of his own obliga- tions. But he assumes no obligation to become and remain a member of a lodge. If he is able, and 224 APPENDIX. will not be a member, he is properly denied all privileges growing out of the lodge organization ; but when we come to the attempt to interfere with individual rights and obligations, we say " hands off," even to a Grand Lodge. Modify the resolution so that it shall be limited to lodge privileges, and so that lodges can make exceptions in cases deemed by them to be meritorious, and we have no objection to it. He holds with Ohio, "that the so-called Past Master's degree is merely a part of tlie installation service." Better kick the abnormity out. It has no place in the Craft — no more than has the degree of Kadosh. Bro. D. rejects the senseless proposition that a lodge can not receive an applica- tion for membership from a Mason of another Grand Jurisdiction, and holds that lodge funds can not be divided among members. He also objects to the Pennsyl- vania law, that an error of the lodge should be visited, by a penalty, upon the head of an unoffending initiate. All correct. He does not, with us, concur in a decision (South Carolina) that a candidate found physically ineligible, after reception and reference of petition, should suffer re- jection by ballot. The reception of the application was unwarranted, hence the pe- tition should have been returned. Discussing the Masonry of Peru, Bro. U. says : In the meantime, the lodges under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Council are diminishing in number. Two, Cruz Astral, No. 4, and I.ibertad y Justicia, No. 24, have surrendered their char- ters and closed their doors ; the former was in Callao, and the latter in Lima. The Supreme Coun- cil has now only six lodges under its jurisdiction — three in Lima, and one each in Callao, Cerro de Pasco and Huanuaco ; and one of its Lima lodges has not met for over two years. We should think that, by this time, the Supreme Council of Peru would have learned that it is acting in direct conflict with the policy of almost all the Supreme Councils of the world. It is found upon examination that there are (if we understand a correspondence upon the subject) TWELVE Supreme Councils, assuming government of the three sym- bolic degrees of their jurisdictions. We had intended a further review of this mat- ter, but our space is exhausted. We want to ask Bro. D., however, how he recon- ciles his loyalty to the lod^c while in another association of Masons he is in fraternal communication with TWELVE kindred organizations that assume control over its functions? The root of this whole matter will be fully apprehended by and by. (hand Lodges at no distant day will propound like questions; hence we would sug- gest that all associations of the Fraternity take steps to affirm their devotion to the lodge, by discarding any relations with bodies that openly, or covertly, trench upon its immemorial and acknowledged prerogatives. Bro. Drummond, in concluding his report, on "special subjects" (just received 1 -ays, speaking of the writer, "that he denies our proposition ' that the (band 1 odge has the power to decide what Masonry is.' " If he had added our oft repeated as sertions, •• except as touching that Masonry embraced in the three symbolic degrees," he would have given a correct representation of our views. Upon the question of the propriety of public ceremonials by lodge, he gives Bro. Vaux, of Pennsylvania, an aggregation of historical facts which, as it would seem to MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 22$ us, should settle the question as to the right of Grand Lodges to employ exoteric rit- uals in public. As we have time and again put it: "It is not only the right, but the duty of governing bodies to open up every avenue to the purposes of the Fra- ternity, by permitting lodges any public exercises not inconsistent with esoteric in- junctions." CONCLUSION. The hand that essays to write the conclusion to this report is not the hand that wrote the report itself. That was the work of Brother Gurney. In the actual order of writing, though not of arrangement, the last jurisdiction reviewed by him was New York, and it is a singular coincidence that in the closing words of that review, refer- ring to the rumored serious illness of Past Grand Master Simons, of which he had before spoken, he said what not only every Illinois Craftsman, but scores of thous- ands elsewhere will echo with reference to himself: " Well, Bro. S. has given his readers one of his comprehensive papers, and it is our sincere prayer that he may be preserved to the Fraternity for many years to come." No hand is quite fit to finish another's work, and we can claim but one qualifica- tion for taking up the pen that dropped from our beloved Past Grand Master's palsied hand, and that is a complete accord with him of sympathy and judgment on the chief matters which he had at heart. This may enable us to forecast in a measure the points on which he would probably have dwelt in his summing up, and on which he would certainly have dwelt could he have been forewarned that his utterance might be — what in spite of our hopes it may prove to be — his last legacy to the Craft he lias served so well. They are the subjects on which he has dwelt most in the body of his report — pointing out the danger signals which mark where and how the integrity and, in some directions, the identity of the Institution is threatened. These, speaking more specifically, are the tendency to convert Masonry into a benefit society by such legis- lation respecting unaffiliated Masons as can only be defended upon the principle that Masonic rights depend upon a system of fixed contributions, by the putting forward in some quarters and the toleration in others of claims to reimbursement for money expended by lodges for the care of sick and destitute sojourners, by tolerating the use of the prefix "Masonic" by mutual life insurance societies, and in some in- stances by proposing to engraft the principle of life insurance upon the constitutions of grand lodges themselves ; the tendency to choke out the representative principle 2 9 t 226 APPENDIX. in grand lodges by the increasing voting power of their permanent membership ; and the mischievous and revolutionary influence of high degreeism, which having already robbed what was originally Masonry of the characteristics by which it could be iden- tified as such throughout most of continental Europe, has proved itself strong enough in this country to reduce the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts to a condition of vassal- age, and placed it where the next logical step for that body to take is to merge itself in a " Grand Orient" and become the conscious instead of the unconscious registrar of the decrees of a so-called supreme council. A survey of the field, as shown to us in the foregoing review of Pro. Gurney, affords the gratifying assurance that these insidious disintegrating and revolutionary influences are daily becoming better understood and more intelligently resisted. When in our earlier reports on correspondence we began to call attention to the dan gers which threatened Masonry from the reflected influence of the modern secret societies by which it had become surrounded, all organized on the basis of a quid pro quo, and pointed out how the establishment of the fixed dues system in Masonry had already made this its point of least resistance to such influences, we stood almost if not quite alone. Notwithstanding these influences became strengthened many fold by the organization of scores of imitative insurance societies among Masons, unwar- rantably using the Masonic name, yet to-day the Institution is righting itself wherever it has temporarily careened before them ; and wherever a proposition raises its head looking to an admission that Masonry may be regarded under any circumstances as an investment for pecuniary profit or return, it finds watchful men waiting for it, club in hand. When in our first report (1869) we attacked the absurd pretensions of the miscalled Scottish Rite system which in this country assumed to magnanimously waive the right to confer the three degrees of Masonry in favor of grand lodges, t he- Grand Lodge of Illinois, like most other American grand lodges, was in correspond- ence with several so-called grand lodges of that system in continental Europe, treat- ing them as independent sovereignties, and taking their Masonic character for granted. Not only this, but nowhere was any voice raised to warn the Craft that the claim that its Masonry, the Masonry of the lodge, was incomplete and that that por- tion of it which had somehow got away from its original custodians must be sought in chapters, commanderies, consistories and what not, was simply a bald imposition perpetuated by the innocent successors of those who with guilty knowledge first started it on its mischievous errand. Now not only is it so well understood that the •• grand lodges " of the Grand Orient system are simply fictitious, dependencies of the supreme councils, that American grand lodges as a rule would not think of entering into diplomatic relations with them, but the general trend of Masonic opinion in the United States is unquestionably towards the position occupied by the Grand Lodge of Illinois, viz. : that they and all other bodies built upon lodges that assume to con fer the three degrees under other sanctions than the Charges of a Freemason and the Old Regulations, and that can not show a regular succession bom the Grand Lodge by which those charges were agreed to and those regulations were adopted, are ille- gitimate and can not be recognized as Masonic without disloyalty to the fundamental law of the Institution. MASONIC CORRESPONDENCE. 227 Although much yet remains to be done in educating the Craft upon these sub- jects, much has already been accomplished ; so much that we hope it may be safely doubted whether we shall have a repetition of the impertinence exhibited by the Grand Chapter of Wisconsin and the Grand Commandery of Ohio in assuming to de- clare what are and what are not " duly constituted Masonic bodies," a function which can only be properly exercised by the Grand Lodge, or a repetition of the spectacle presented by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts when, in the pretended exercise of this function, it abdicated its position as the conservator of genuine Ma- sonry, and assumed to add forty-odd degrees to that in the body of which the unal- terable law, upon whose acceptance in good faith and maintenance unchanged the very existence of grand lodges is predicated, declares it to be not in the power of any man or body of men to make innovations. To this enlightened condition of the Craft Bro. Gurney's discussions have very largely contributed. If, unhappily, he should now be compelled to lay down the pen, he can do so with the consciousness that he has fought the good fight ; and with the echoes of his ability, fraternal courtesy, and moral earnestness ringing in his ears from the mouths of all his brother reviewers, he can feel assured that in his own per- son and work the high standard of Masonic character which he demanded of others has been fully realized. JOSEPH ROBBINS. Quincy, III., Sept. 17, 1886. TABUnATED StATRMMTS, DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS' AND OTHER REPORTS. 230 APPENDIX. ^ - S S i s ^ ^ * ^ ^ H V. w w EH H D < Membership resid- ing in Illinois It £ ■■£. ??£" T* iC ^ in m ", n NfnNN«"0 no r^io cm cm — r-~ t ■ '- ~ ' ' ' : : -*-«l»H - « ; m m r^*o oo-f-r. : - : n : ^- ( _ . . : ■. ^; ir.t« m- Rejections ; ; • ro en ; CM ;m^- : : ; . ro ; — M « ; ;m ; ; ; en ; « CM CM CM ; — 1 lues previous Years Dues 1886 .... mggininQOQmOOQ : m in c in Q m u-, .r ,.- eMOOCM»)Oin5r-inmo :eM->mr^inmOcMiAfi ^ Present membership 1886 r-~ -1- cm Nm -t «)vO t*. mJ- m -1-00 w PIvO ih \o O NO C " f - • •- — ■ » M 0>1 OiNO 00 in -1- OnnO CM ON mNO no ■«*- CM (JimNmON^SO»NN fOmr^ in\ Total Decrease.... I ONH\000-MOl Y iO*«'0>OfONin-'+HinflH onoo CI O w «< - — - < H X U S a Ded. for error. 1 liiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMiiiM" Died .- w ~ en : en m ►* ; cm : el en ; cm cm 1- ;-. ; ci «_,-_-. - -, ;-« ; r*. m « ; nno ro ; {*> ; rsct « n n : ; :*-; i *:M-*t , % ;«■*■« -■— - Expelled H;:MNin;>cn::N:K:r:;;-::T;-[. — .-- Total Increase ennwNor^cn'^-cMcor-.-c tno n :-ii-eMe>itvincneMCMCMoo~0'-oeMMin - < M K O z Add. for error. ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::":": : : : ih O m -• ; m CM >-< -a- ; ~ CM w ; ; ; ; e» ; M 'mO o» :cnnm ; ;m :::w:::::m;;;;;; : «:::M:w ;wc*:::n;: en M M en t^00 en CM r^ CM ; CM ; CM 00 M ;«CMCMini*-M"-~ ; r*..i00 men— »-"C 1 Membership 1885 in n c-^no cm On -*- cm no -1--1-0 « ifi OvM>c on On -*- cm en (J\ cm inNO MOif^MH r ctn cm On enoo no c^no -J-00 no cm o m mv© ir cm 00 nsmo t>. •-*- r^oo r*. ~ en moo mN£ COUNTY. Fayette McDonough ... Menard St. Clair .Madison Pike LaSalle Will Pike POST-OFFICE. Rushville Belleville H,.,,,l.-rcnn Alton 1 ittawa Joliet NAME. St. Clair Franklin Hiram Pekin Barry ECavanaueh Hermon Mt foliet Bloomington Hardin Griggsville Lodf e No w fl P» i 1 NO -1- in no r-. On «-« en •*■ inNO e^-oo on cm en -r mio cm cm m■ co mvo moo n onvo f -- oo m if oo t^ rn onvo in w oo m invc \c m if mvo n m . t*. r*. n o oj - t->vo r*- t^oo mi qs qv rn mvo « N PI ^f o\ CJ 1 CO f iO O in in in mine mw mmw 0) t>.mmN n m t** cn (*)■**— on on *•*• t** moo vo i/ iNno r 1 mi vO if C t- u 1 rn O p lO - ■* i M : if C4 H - H . N m m ; h m h N j M. M M. M. M CV> « " : m avo h M M M M mw-n O O tN-cO w CO vo mi vo vo rnvo i onoo -^- onvo N if CO vo vo vo CO m Ov O f** O t*- t ) if CO if id- On O nov* -f h\o o mo rnvo n vo ■ t-. ONVO t^.00 IP) O ^ OnvO « C c .^ E ° c ^ ■ §§*£§ ■7^ S O rS b c^ Mi : ^ SCS c^ g^ m £ c~-r— 9" « a u - ? ; V tuD_^ C ?\ n S g'e c c Ph tn C-! ? ^SWmKJ O U Q Pk Pi tJ § ? W § ffi m PL, O do H . S fa « c a a H j. C u _^ / u C O rt - ■- i. — -a ~C v v ' 2-= g c o O J D 3 — Ilia S 81 5*51 sillgi^ I Jl f Bl tfi-IH i mvo t>.oo on m m f mvo t^co on o if mvo noo on o m - vo *>-O0 OnC vOvOvOvOvQVOvOvOvO NtsNNiSSNN NOO OOOOOOOOOOOOCO OnOnOnOnOnOnOnOnOn 232 APPENDIX. r-* r-»oo o\ o H w w < H CO P* < D < Membership H - ) M •■- -i t> t~» fO H IN r~ r- ir, O C 1-00 *£> 00 m\D O >-. rO^O - in O O OO == c s Ja,t §j^ifo§Pi u ! i« : ||||l|l« x nFuWUcflpPQ Sn Q\ * h oo vO cm co n«vo id tj->o vo ■nnvb o\ro n ro t i ■**- rovo O m^HVO i+fOH t^ mvo t-. •* o\ ■<*- roco -Ot I vO O ■*• ^f IN O -1-M3 ■* ^^O CO u"> roco CM m ' " On fO > ro* row on o Tj-mt-.'-' ^--^-m t-* cm m cm oaO" o> o co -- CM CM ■*■ O -<*■ « ro CM M M " : : ^ CM H ~ CI H CO H •<*■ cm ro H . C- H M H CM M C** "*" : "' « m <* M " rn - i— :« m rOCO m CM CO CM VO CO t-CO VO — it m IT) CM m CM CO ; W N H ^ COCO •3- ^ - ir> in on CM VO CM -*- c - w d 01 OV CM VO CO Ov t>. mvo CM VO — VO Ov I r^. ir> cm • -4-vO lO rOCO VO NO "">CO 00 OVMD CM — -*■ **■ Ov G\ t^CO lOVO CO m ) N - fOOO ^*-vO CO <-*- Ov ■*• ro 0\ u-)VO id u-ivO SSI c „ « m^ 5 " ^ ^ £ ° k rt-E = o ii c b ■: bfl= a« g-y „,.= g"= S _ < W W -,^-. -^3 >fe4HuSMuSp^§cflgQ^cng ■ag O rt ^ g.S^gfgSb - . . mvO oo o D — "1 n-i -t- invo t^co ON D A l ro ul t^-00 O- _ vovovovonovonovo r^c^r^e-.t-,t^r^r^r^ t^oo co co co co oo oo C7\ 3°t •J.; I APPENDIX. I E- - w < H pel < D PS < Membership resid- in r* ir, r-» ir. -^ ro m C in m t - rn it — m m OMn -j «■ - mr^ro;««mm-'N~ ; h r^ ; -1 . — - _ -i ; CI H CO in 1-1 - : ah - ;iO * : : ci : — : "> m ::"::" Dues previous m • -1 Dues 1886 .r, m ■/-. c .r ir, m tr, in in m 10 in : in in in in m • in O v n r>« ci mtxM ^ r^i^r^o n r^c* m in w t^c ei t^ ei t^ t-. t-* : mono r^ r* n ■3- in in Q r*. iO m "3- •- C»m»-t r^ r*» ~-, r^ - -r-rt^ >io w : tfltl ui-UO l>N « - w Present Membership 1886 - - t^ — t- r - - - - - »(o inncn in n ^- fn ro^ m\c -^-i-" nmmN^jOiMni in c^}\o in v in mio m«^ w m w — ~ tn rn on pin m : ^moo ei -s- •* •«■ n ai>c -< ro — » w t-^00 w ; u-i ci m « a /. < - - - - Ded. for error. Died ; h ; : ; | M WIS . - .-- 1 c : - : ■-■ « ; w h ; ; , « : : m -1 - --« :Mmnr»m's-«- -3-*c \o ; m— w i- : "' n : ;m ;HP)t : : « rn : : " N \d : Add. for error. N : : : w ::"::" « ; H / < M _---!-_- : N - r^ m ; : : « - _ - 2 : ** - : : : w ro in : ma) w : — p* m •<*■ :fn«H-Nj\M\c : - H V. - - c c C L fa 5 u'-JS ! ' • '« = I i u r- 1 * = "' : ■'-•5 ?: i j E (J O W U £ c : - : E j - '. - x _ - 4* C - b c ( : c L c - : ft is - ; -- i - ■s - = I : p :.£? : '« : ■ — .- - :T3 : : = : . ' -. x-^.i E r x - r v --- S 1 pi 1 01 1 11 1 : c O L G 7 E c II td z ■-- : li u : : : . = OS • : : _: " rt r - = _£ t _ _ _ ^ _ - z r "j ' 1 g^ - : i : 2 J ic 9c .= £i " "i> '— — ^ t r j C C - z l - - B - a > ■- - 7i 'II it ~zv 1 c : 1 - 2 - = « = > 31: ■5 ? ! L x — - z II ■J B Q ^ J 2 • — V -J- •r c * N \MI c si — '■ ■ '■ "c : : : : : : J. BiisoS '• : C"? OT > >- - — • = ■« = £ X k « o-s e * - c - '■ i e .- ;.« u n c : ' C : : c 2 §1 E - - E > 1 C — c i 5 1 - p. .. ■; " — c /- i -- 1 u rr - : = : - i " C / s ■■ = ■ : 3d ■ b : 2 ; i - Loi r. : ^ O* CT* -' c ■ ~ ': -1 -1 - i^o t^oc - : -1 - ., ., N ., ., ., ., -, -, -, -, ., - APPENDIX. 23f> ■»*-co >i rovo vo o "tmNoo n on "* ~ o\ On ■<*- »n ro ro rovo ionion ro n r-»N nvo vo onoo n^o on m o\ in sm * o p*. iroN Niomo^ mvo O t^ Nvo *4-<0 01 f roN<0 in ro — row -4- ■<*- t-» ■<*- -4- 0« mmin -*vo oo f] in tN fOMin oa vO -*vO !-• m :oo m CO ■«- ; O H H a H on c ro m « in ro ro N N w -. o *rot*)flM h * ""• N M WN " H •■• : ■* : : : : « w : « : m : : : t-. ; ; CO H : H : iO o ■ OMN m » o o o o o ro in .- oo o» on o» NONrnOco m« i m mvo mm nn -^-vo i OWO rovO OO OO OO O't'O^ moo C\ on ► no a« o\oo i ro ro ro ro n -*--4-t*-,-rt-T$-rj-roT)-rocoro r-.vo mvo *4- r*. viZ WOO m in ro m OvtH ^NNHh » m W N MNMinroMTj-MrowMtM^ M H (N m oi vo ■* : vo o» H vo mo t*» -^- ^- <*■ m m o -4-vo oo on -4- on m oo h ro -4- m "4-m m\o n -4- m oi vo — oi m m in^j-"4-M invo ^f vo ro oi ; " " N ■* N N * N , -4- h ro " M "4-vO ro -4- ^4- 01 vo ■" NO OCO c\ invo I- vo *}VO -1-NOM i a 3 w ■*- ; 2> 3 3 « r" -- S ^ S^ :J « -S = -. ^3 =| s « g ^^^ J 2^3 So 3-3 u g g 8 S^^^S = 8-=^ u^ 3 «-? 3 ; Q C Mo 11 u c o c - O O- C Hji > 2 O '-S Sj;- !« -y ■ - V -/ T" ^ -- -^ - > " — ~, = .S °" ^^faMQQ^U0Q^geflO PCM^OK^ M^;!^i-J&ues pre\ i"ii^ \ • us Dues 1886 , rooo 00 n mo r* t^ ry. m c vo mo -* n o mo "too m»t « moo m o o* •* ' 00 T cm m ( — r^ « t^oo «ON tn«ino N OO mO *OCO -. -f . m M»o .« Present Membership 1886 Total Decrease.. or^-t-r^t^**-r>i-i — 00 000 o »noco mi mNNino o M "in inmo t^N - — : *i o O o ~ 1 mo nmao Of) **■ n — fco r, ir, t-* r*. o m 000 -*■ m mnn i/io o « 00 O r^ -J- ir> -»-o . r x 30 *c O < H D «! Ded. for error Dimitted . Expelled. Suspended. «n 00 m ~» -r c m • -* Total Increase. Add. for error Admitted. Reinstated. Raised . ■ M mO 1/100 O m -O • W mo m -»-■<*- < *» ■ - ct 00 vo fO h r-00 Membership m e» *3-000>vN « 'Htt OMnmro^-H 10 r^O M sinm- 1 ON -r -r r*. r--o O O ■ -*oo -*• o* t-^o mO r^ mO ^ C\ -*-CO N •■1- ~ o C -r t^ i £-9' = -= l 2 = !£ 2 : S >■? u rt O-P o • v : e . : X ° o •o-o « 5 0^5 1 St2« °« o °-- o- £~ fls Sen g . rt rt-i'i" 3. : i. o . — — ■-'3 S^Jl *■■ 'i e a Sic «22 « o <1 c gsl- 5^H ytillittll If! i 15^ ill ij|| : fi Lodge No 00 CO CO 00 ( — cm fl -*• ino r-^oo o* « cm m ino r^oo OMM>OOCM>0 0>0 O O O PUQ A1TEND1X. 237 s. — — r-» on r** r*-co ov •**• — O ■**■ < < CO o r^.co ^t-^-iN N -* m - - co • N • ■ - . ro « vo r- 1 * "?" *> it^O °° £~ "l £j t-- mvo ■^-^J-wco oco o\ >o m « ro -j- n -1-cj N "i *i ci in t--. ro -<*-vo -i-vo ^ **• n 't i- irct tsm-t mN't nw ~t r > > r > ro ■<*• ro co « rooo n o\ m row « co m co « « co « m — *-* co ro w « f >-«m toco i^ w w vo ~ • o « — h tf- mn M ■« . M ..W •« - MM««M . -MM . H H H H * H . - • ~ • N • ~ • ■ ~ ; ; « ^ ~ m... - m '■- 3 « 3-£ r> - - HO ^■oj c 2 K c 8 • : : a | M-f.2. 6 « §2> .a E B^< u «c„ « J-s K S 5 c S32 6 » S J; «T^t o o o o 3 " z* ",ix| i >■ r.5 gao saa^anffi^ :-/. j ;-> x <- - - ■ mvo CO ON O m ^>o •* - 1- t in m m0 minioo mo in in m in in o O O mulino mo m in in o mm in in OwwNmNmONNt^t^Ninmoor^i^^iOf^mcii^t^O"", > r^ n o\ o\ m rooo *mo t^ m — 00 m -s-io o\ ■* o m -»■ -* o -»- m i^.vo p» *o o 00 c* NfOnwNMooN^* — ij-mm'- w n oO^Oco r^r^o 1 ro -*00 00 ro N %0 ro ~ N N £ _■ a o H3£gg^isiito!!*H m § — -J ' J — £ e- W u c J; c £ v bi £ « 2 «! m'E fcO : - J >. £ .2 o o o ^ j .3 u — — bo M btoD 1=5 big S ej? 6 S " Lodgi No s!l|«ii|Ijfiri|||HlII1II|T| ^ C T! n d (f. n (J.r- ~ J* U •— —. CT3- <■• -> a -, :i — r; r; q_ rt P(flM>'Mt4 i ^SH!^BQ!^O^ggaPOUU(ioQ = £ i :■: E ■— :" ': > o- 6 2 : > B rt * >> o d — , 1 f , ■ J I ■ i - . ■ 1 **o t-.00 oi mvo >- o ro 01 ro ■**• « ^j-t^N ro *t- tN m« tj-oo nn« co <- ro n — ■* oj '*-•**-■ ro ■ .- mo .m . ■♦ .« ■ m wminMvo ^ . — rovo m • 01 • ^ « « • • .«mt^wvo - fOH « M « • ■ 0J - - "* MM . .MfOM • • -C*M« u-)inoo mmminino O O mirnro O O mommininuiininin ■ m in o mmmmmo Ommomo O c^w t^r^t^t^r^omo io r*» oj n mine mmt^mw w r-* t-» cm r>. r-. . n o r>- r-* t*- n n o o oj n m«0 m O On O* On — « "<*- O ^ rO O m On r*. "*00 On t-*00 O^N- Mm r-»00 OJ (O00 ~ •0c0 0r*.'*J-t*s.MONMm01t-<.0 0IONM co oj co NtN on mf « h pi n t m«o m^MNfOcjrom—rofOM-^ . rovo con oj n m oj . — mvoco o noo -3- oj no o) -^-no Tj-moj mro-J-ONrO'-s-roro-' tkn oj tJ- oj : £.0 P 'J o c a a -^ o g (3 O E S _ O O 5 be tn , E ° u £■"" a ' 3 O n O ^ 0-OT3 A - ~. ~ ■I — Soi s? c it s S"2B ^2 M ° hHOHW Wa3 Pi P< U S MS < § CmO DO w U WOO? patx§ i-l .S i. M '> o o 2 • S u c' rt ' - ; • O 1 C m l- t ; > o >,« i> h a £ c > -^ oi ^- , re ^ . PQ — fin r^ - ^ I S"S 8-° — ^ a 3 3 5-° E-^ ►•sea S 5 «. r birS T! « m. " aj •j „• r m -a : 3i« 3^1^-1^ § i S.SJ OI" ^J 1 2 a I §| oJJl>c| g-§ g.i-g m°o 8.SS 2 c § ^ o 2 So ) 'l-'O t>-oo on o m ro ■*■ m*o t^>oo t iA"0 'O'O'OvO'O'OnOsD 240 APPENDIX. APPENDIX. 241 mso CM ttmm'tro^rt -^-00 coso o oo w o co mso VO CM t^- ^ O'O m cm t^ t-*co so » o ion m o\ --i- as cm coso co oo ->f r-«.so m ast^t^c i-roc>nt>.o\a\in ro r-.\0 CM cm cm OvfOH lOTj-mrorocM coso CM •>*• in co co Tt- co CM cm ro -*■ inso c*» co co CM ro co co CM * io -t h m so ^it>Nm CM M H <*• H " H Q\ CM CM] CO CO CO ■*• CM M CO Os COsO CO •* CO c-. -" vNHCM^H-^-CMCOCMCM CM "O H CM CM m h co ^ cm co a Tj- - M CM ro m ■» : N CM • M M CM N CM ; tt io *~> m m cm CO CM MIOhOh^-IDIT, CM M M M CM CM M CM VO CM M CM M CM CM CM M t-t CM CO CO co CO M cm w ; CM CM CM CO M COCO CM Q\ : w : CM CM * CM W M M M W O M CM CO N CM CM w C-v cm in co co CM —\o CM CM VO ONt-IVO 0) CM « in cm m NNincO ; H CM m cm ; in CO oo M IH OO - H. CO ro : fo M CM CM h " r rt H O H HVO ~ m m ; CM CM m M O O CO N CM CO HI 0) IO M (N "*" t~- M t^ CM HI H m cm m SO SO CM CO ; NinO N ^00 SO C\sO C>-so CO <*• t^OO COMCOOCOCMCMOCMt^iOrt-CMlOMCO OWO OssO Os COCOC m n i" ts COOO CO CO ^f r>.-0 COCM CM Os CO M in ^- CO CO CO COSO CM COiOCOCOiOCOCM CM CO-*" msO t>. CO CM CM CO *- iO - : o : S ui w ;? o JJ 6 sl s =1 c .- !; -c -a rt ni J ~.& i c mill iisi iii si iii i Jim-sis I illiill j Ph o P U J c 5 ™ > .^ is Qjj mvo t"-co oo h i * mso r^soo os o 3it 242 APPENDIX. o H a < H D Mi mbership resid- -!- ro r^\C O « ro « \D n^N^i^H n - •<»■ r^ -^ r^oo vO o\ O c% ~ -00 no n ; :«w«m:'*fo«ON: , « , c* : :m : : n ; m « *o ; ; en - i/l "- - •-^m ; « iAN h m nm ; pi : ; « ; w :« ; ;oo :« ; ; w ro m - Expelled ■■:;;;;:;:;;;; ;;::::; : ; ; ;:;;:;;; m« ; 10 ; M ; ; ; h ; O ; ; ; ; ; ; H ; ; ; 0\ : « ; ; ; ;w ^itihvO Total Increase oi ; ; in w ro\o mmmro— mu">m ; ; m h t ; m n ^ n ; ; m't m m « ; -*> ni in < a K Add. for error w : : co : : : : cj : : : : :::::::: w : : •"•::::: — Admitted :::;::m:mmm;:«;;:;;;:wov:: :::;;;::« :::::: : : : i : s : : : : :::::::::: : : : : . . . - • • • u • • • ■ m :;: w ;:«:::::::: 3 : - *i :: ir : "- 1 :; « ; m ; 'o ; : : : . .... i i :Z : : i ! 1 = Membership 1885 oo o oo oo in in in ro\o r* t». w \o n ooo n «-• rN.\o vo in m mvo »o m- m« ^ t^oo r-s ^■nn . • -j- ■ ; ; ; ;-s i|s SjS 8-2 g a| 2 h-§ a : * o- g s g^^ S | o |.g| 3 Sj 8 g ti < z Thomson. . . . Madison Villa Ridge Pleasant Hill. Time . . Jacksonville Pera...... <)• Fallon... .. Viola Hazel Dell Highland .... Vesper Fisher Princeton.. . Klwood Fairmount. . . Miles Hart Lod CAO PI flt irivo t^ O N CO •*■ WO r^00 On « N CO -t "*> C^OO C7\ O m n irno c-^ Q ""<<■ no*£>vovd^ovovo r>-r^.r^.r^r^r^r-.r^ r^oo otoooomoooooooo o\ o\ c\ 0\ o^ o^ ^ 11 D inifimtrtiotfii/noiniomuiinimn^ininifiiflirtininininifiiri^tflin invo APPENDIX. •21:; t-- n onpooco ro t-% o no t " on -*■ ^*o co w is o Onoo oo\o no w« r- m ^- « «n ro -^ ro ro co cm o w ro .t on M m m- cn ij-mh n n ro cn MfOf no row moo •■*■ i •* co •« ■*« ^J-^i -^-m »n\0 co ■* « vD ro m \o on <*• « tj- : ro ; w ; : ■* ; ^N\0 niO « H -tHVO M « M N ro ; c> -. - — - ", T - *" N u-) W »0 CMOPI t" m« « : ; t^. ; -tPJM N in M MNO H - M « : co ro ; cn ; « : -t h tj-idn "*• M « w -^- ; m ; . h ; ; : : N : ™ : : H : : : M : : : : : r-su-it^t^o t*- ^ t"- i » t^ r^ ci N -+■ DO D> do ; l t^ co\o on o\ r ■ o\ co ■**■ t^-oo NO ■-*• r^ -^- m o\co t~^ - > "*-vO m CO )^ 'J-fON ro ei ro « ro w o*o o>o tsNn t^-oo o t*> - -n on O o — co *fonmo\0 moo o\ ^ o On in ttmofOM tj- i if) ""f « VO t>- < ■- w « t-»\o o "O ■<*■ m co "*■ • w - n - : : ■*■ ro : ; nroo>0\Ci tn\o f mo\Ch co\0 co ^- *• u"> r** rr it On ,.- - ,_oj i. - o oj: ; > j- j a « 3 ; ;~ ; ^ r.: ; = - onoo -. - — — ij c E o o> >v 2-Tii;i£,!Sb; .-- — ,- Jj o "C g ;r o « o o 2 s«-c ^ v ra cj o t-fcl: -'^'j --k^.— u"k , 11 8-31 ^ ^ !!P 2" tT*°2 ON O *-" r^ f -f vc, tv.00 q^ M OOOOOOOMMh-MMh-M«liW'N NDVDvO\0iOv0vCvC\ON0\0\DiO\0v0^OvO\O N O m CN ro ■*■ "TO Q\ — **l ro •»*• mvO Nco On O t 'N ro mvO NOO On O )VO^vOvC\0^^^^nOvO\Ov0^vOn0^iOnOvOvO*0^^iOvO^OnOnO 244 APPENIUX. Membership resid ing in Illinois.... Passed Initiations Rejections Dues previous Years Dues 1886 n 0\0 t^ O* rn O\00 O O ( M ro M ~ M ~< n- 1 "*■ rnoo f> ^ ■ -j -«• in tr, 1 in « in in « m -r c*» o t^ — -» tv -*J- . c* N OOOOO rv+mfl^o 10 mo 100 O iftO lAino in in « *r r-* in {^ m\c - - " c Present membership iE ■O* « moo *o 00 m o\ n ■ « 0\*0 ■■*• cnoo r*-i -r -r u Total Decrease. n w *o 10 m EH w Cm D < Ded. for error. Died. Dimitted. ■o m Expelled . Suspended. WMOrn . « « 1-1 — Total Increase. Add. for error. Admitted. Reinstated. Raised . ■*-.-. . - 1 •*■ -" f>00 • N N Membership 1885. O nNrs^p) co*o o\ invo O w lO\fO't , *-« "- <*> ' ) CO tJ-vO N CI Mf» ■ 0000 n^ = _; -^ E c c s " .r " c D : = : = £ r= r 1 5 J; ~Ji c a "S •£ " c .i -= -i: .1: ^ = - S'jii:i:jtf?'j«'.-<5J-/.-?C3!SuSll| x ^ U ■^2 "" bi§8 B S W Hi 6 ?» ^ Mo E.8J . . = ■§ ':- _ - = : Lodge No — : • : a : - ~s x - o u . • o'5 2 3 — 2 KgsSa i= 5 C I - ■ • H N n't vr.vO r^oo -■ *< <^> -J" "I*© vO >C ^O ^O *C ^O ^ c c r^.r-.r^t^.t-xt^t-^h*. r-*oo ooooocoocoooocoo o\ o* 0\ o\ Q\ O* O* ^ *. ^ j c ■■_ .. . O^O^^OV «. .- - '- - - '— < C >C '- -" '«. < J *C -' C '~ : ~ - APPENDIX. 245 vovo o t*-co co mioh vo -tnwmO « «vO r** mvo tmmh\o »h cj m n ^-nMi- w ro co ts co o covo ^j-fin h m m n'sw n nci ^- n m ro -1 n cm co - - 00 ^*- 0\ ro Ov N coco m >- "O «-" VO "*■ ' ■*• On -< "t- -. vo moivo ro r- rp ~ mvo -^ vo Ov mvo - o* w co On OnvO 0J000«CO0r^f*» onvo on « ^ vo mo\ rovo -*■ r-* in ro co 'i- ~ m cm 00 woo mvo in in in cm vo cm cm 10 co tj- ro co ~ m co •<*- n *<*• it **vo \o co « m in « « o n *■ rovo m r«- Tf-co m ro\o n-co n -^-vC in ■**- -*■ 1 ) mro-i-'TO cocNco « 00 in in in in in cm m J ji F G '- = ^sE c~- = ^^ = S '' : - : > IS — i= £ = '/. =~'c = i;i , "S l r';':;i-n:=^s • = s =iS ^ : oo,J -_-._• u •- c :rrr; = - - v z ->^-~~ - " : = « -2 " .S o « o " -o 2 ^ " jc • w 3 i cm . o : o 3 i: 2 oj -p "^ 2-2 '« S«'g •^ - - ^ < - a-c wo J2 ^^ ='^--^i:^^ 3 .n— : : U .Jiilli ,_i;6>i3C>nl-l P< - — - < zc w 1-,'jj^ :— :^ :^ ■c = S»? > — :.SCJ :^i2 • -a o •__• a\o\ooooooooo C v : : : ;W a v o -^ — ." '■> u c -° c t. & y -^^ MOu - : M -1 ro ■*• i^\o t^co ^h CJ rn -1- u-lvo t^co a\ O h w n t mvo t^oo o\ H d ro* UVO t^ : -■ 246 Al'I'KNDIX. I H w w H Membership resid- ing in Illinois 1^ cs m «i N M - s + nftu " 1 - - - mw - moo m m n m it-oo ■/■ ro m - "'. cr. » -l -5- If - -*- rn c> in - en « n m n « « - : h (*)M ;00 -r - *r « m m « -^- ov fmo « -*-m»n-ro\w f^o h — « - - : Si roro- — ; — « « ;CCvO i n , f«flO+*'tKPlMMP) COiO w -. Rej - -1 : : n in ; : M M "2 " : ^ m -) : m - Dues previous : : D C'. — r- 1- -' 7. n _ Dues 1886 mOOminOinininmOOQinincmininincCOOOmc : : : NinOf'-t^ONNr^«mino«' s .NCNC-ic~r^OOinmin«in . . r$ N •-• w « ** rc m e^ *( c* w ?* mio N*soON«~m--*-w : Present Membership 1886 t-^CO -4- G\ On « Ox — m m^O -1-vC m IO ■+■ M - r^; t^co CO o « ro ;m Oiflti H-tH»c ro ; : 1- r w « *-> : <-• nuNon ; w n m\c n ij-oo « m -r>o in in n vo O Mi nbership 1885 e* ■"!-« m • , c u i _ 1 - / aJ rt a a . ; • je ■• u cj) 2 : : jO-o^* -3cc;> . c j;—, X S - u x - ^ - NAME. < t c - : 1-5 = 3 « i c 1 o~ i a.s s •a - r«5 J- 7 : ° j i 1 3 : u : a c = "J c i t7 1 c 1 - 1 s - - -0 • ,oq£> - | IRRO e i! « toe c >'C n D OS ? C j — L01 CO Oi - <*» m -S- Inv £> ^33 C^- "1 fO+ mvO I^CO OnO h M m; ^*- Ej. tn in in m in in in in in inic »o \o O 10 ic iO iO 10 t^r^r^c^r ^ t^ APPENDIX. 247 REPORT OF GRUND EXAMINERS. Pittskield, III., May i, 1886. Alex. T. Darraii, Grand Master. M. W. and Dear Brother : I herewith transmit my report of the several Masonic Schools of Instruction held by the Board of Grand Examiners, pursuant to your order, during the current year. MOUNT VERNON. At the School held at Mount Vernon, on the 12th, 13th and 14th days of Janu- ary, 1886, there were present M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master; R. W. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary; R. W. Edward Cook, President; R. W. W. B. Grimes, Secretary; R. W. M. D. Chamberlin, R. W. James Douglas and R. W. C. F. Ten- ney, members of the Board ; and R. W. W. E. Ginther, R. W. F. S. Belden and R. W. W. H. Stevens, Deputy Grand Lecturers; R. W. Owen Scott and R. W. W. J. Elvvell, D. D. G. M's. Forty lodges were represented and ninety-six names registered. At the School held at Paris, on the 26th, 27th and 28th days of January, 1886, there were present R. W. Edward Cook, President ; R. W. W. B. Grimes, Secre- tary ; R. W. M. D. Chamberlin, R. W. James Douglas and R. W. C. F. Tenney, members of the Board ; R. W. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary; R. W. W. E. Gin- ther, Deputy Grand Lecturer, and R. W. D. M. Weider, D. D. G. M. •J IS APPENDIX. Thirty-two lodges were represented, and one hundred and thirty-six names were registered. BLOOMINGTON. At the School held at Bloomington, on the 9th, 10th and nth days of February, 1886, there were present M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master; R. W. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary; R. W. Brethren Edward Cook, President; W. B. Grimes, Secre- tary ; James Douglas, M. D. Chamberlin and C. F. Tenney, members of the Board; and K. W. Brethren F. S. Belden, J. II. C. Dill, II. E. Huston, A. B. Ashley, J. E. Evans and John W. Rose, Deputy Grand Lecturers; and R. W. Brethren Owen Scott, Rowley Page and Jacob Krohn, D. D. G. M's. Seventy-two lodges were represented, and two hundred and ninety-six names were registered. BUSHNELL. At the School held at Bushnell, on the 23d, 24th and 25th days of February, 1886, there were present M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master; R. W. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary; and R. W. Brethren Edward Cook, President; W.B.Grimes, Secretary; M. D. Chamberlin, James Douglas and C. F. Tenney, members of the Board ; and R. W. Brethren A. B. Ashley, J. II. C. Dill, J. E. Morton, G. S. Fuhr and W. O. Butler, Deputy Grand Lecturers ; Owen Scott, L. C. Seeley and James Peterson, D. D. G. M's. Sixty-three lodges were represented, and two hundred and twenty-two names were registered. At the School held in Chicago, on the 9th, 10th and nth days of March, 1SS6, there were present M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master; M. W. T. T. Gurney, Past Grand Master; M. W. D. C. Cregier, Past Grand Master ; R. W. J. C. Smith, Dep- uty Grand Master; R. W. L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary; R. \Y. R. R. Stevens* Grand Tyler; and R. W. Brethren Edward Cook, President ; W. IS. Grimes, Sec- retary ; M. D. Chamberlin, [ames Douglas and C. F. Tenney, members of the Board ; and R. W. Brethren A. B. Ashley, J. II. C. Dill, F. S. Belden, II. E. Huston, G. A. Stadler, J. E. Evans, I. M. McCollister, G. S. Fuhr and \Y. E. Ginther, Deputy Grand Lecturers; R. W. Brethren R. L. Tatham, W. K. Forsythe, Owen Scott, Jacob Krohn aud A. W. Adams, D. D.G. M.'s; K. W. A. S. McDowell, Grand Lecturer of Missouri, and R. \Y. M. L. Young, (.rand Lecturer of Wisconsin. One hundred and sixty-seven lodges were represented, and live hundred and nineteen names were registered. APPENDIX. 249 At each of these Schools the work was fully exemplified, a general course of instruction and lectures given, and each of the three degrees conferred on actual candidates for resident lodges. In concluding this report I desire, M. W. G. M., in behalf of the members of the Board to tender to you our most profound thanks for courtesies extended, and to congratulate you on the general prosperity of the Craft, and of their hearty endorse- ment of the Schools of Instruction. We also desire, through this report, to heartily thank our R. W. Brethren, L. L. Munn, Grand Secretary, and the several Deputy Grand Lecturers, for their most valuable assistance; the D. D. G. M.'s for their presence and encouragement; the officers and members of resident lodges where Schools were held for their uniform kindness and courtesy ; and to the representatives attending the Schools for their presence, and zeal in acquiring the standard " Work." Respectfully and fraternally submitted, W. B. GRIMES, Sec. of the Board. 3*X APPENDIX. 251 REPORTS DEPUTY GRRND LECTURERS, Pittsfield, III., Sept. 4, 1886. A. T. DARRAH, Grand Master. M. W. and Dear Brother : As one of the Board of Grand Examiners, I wish to report that, aside from my labors in the several Schools of Instruction, an account of which has already been furnished you by the Secretary of the Board, I visited and instructed lodges at the following named places during the current Ma- sonic year, viz. : Clayton, one week (in December) ; Milton, one week ; Mason City, one week ; Cambridge, one week ; Virginia, one week ; Time, three days ; Greenview, one week ; Clayton, one week (in March), and Bushnell one week, at each of which places I found the brethren ready and anxious to obtain further light in the Standard Work, and left them feeling assured that they were worthy and well qualified, and that the grand aim of securing uniformity of work in this Grand Juris- diction was that much nearer accomplished. Respectfully and fraternally yours, W. B. GRIMES, Grand Examiner. Chester, III., Aug. 31, 1886. Alex. T. Darrah, Esq., Bloomington, III. M. W. Grand Master : In rendering an account of my stewardship as a member of the Board of Grand Examiners, I now respectfully submit my report for the past year. 252 APPENDIX. I attended all of the Schools of Instruction which were held, at Mount Vernon, Paris, Bloomington, Bushnell and Chicago. 1 also instructed the brethren of the following lodges in the Standard Work of this Grand Jurisdiction, so far as my feeble efforts would permit, namely : East St. Louis Lodge, No. 504, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 7. Makanda Lodge, No. 434, from Dec. 28 to Jan. 2. Eldorado Lodge, No. 730, from Jan. 5 to Jan. 11. Equality Lodge, No. 2, from Jan. 18 to Jan. 23. Akin Lodge, No. 749, from Jan. 29 to Feb. 1. Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 31, from Feb. 2 to Feb. S. St. Clair Lodge, No. 24, and Archimedes Lodge, No. 377, from Feb. 16 to Feb. 19. Akin Lodge, No. 749, from Feb 27 to March 1. Harrisburg Lodge, No. 325, from March 2 to March 6. T. J. Tickett Lodge, No. 307, from March 13 to March 19. Mitchell Lodge, No. 85, April 13. Tamaroa Lodge, No. 207, from April 14 to April 17. Lafayette Lodge, No. 657, from July 15 to July 17. I find a strong desire by the brethren everywhere I have been to acquire the Standard Work. Fraternally yours, JAMES DOUGLAS. Grand Examiner and Grand Lecturer. Kf.wanee, III., Sept. 6, 1886. M. W. ALEX. T. DARRAH, Grand Master. M. W. Brother : As required, I have the honor to report to you that, owing toother business matters, I have done but little "lecturing" during the past year. and have been obliged to decline several invitations from lodges. I have, however, done considerable " posting " to individuals, the most of whom were Masters of lodges. I have, by invitation, conferred several degrees in different lodges, and was per- mitted to attend the Schools of Instruction at Bloomington, Bushnell and Chicago, and to assist in the work. Fraternally yours, ALBERT B. ASHLEY, Deputy Crand Lecturer. APPENDIX. 253 Steeleville, III., Aug. 30, 1886. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and Brother : As one of the Deputy Grand Lecturers, I report that I lectured Shiloh Hill Lodge, No. 695, five days ending January 8, and at- tended the School of Instruction at Mount Vernon and assisted in. exemplifying the work at that place. Also, on the evening of August 14, I again visited Shiloh Hill Lodge and conferred the third degree of Masonry. Thanking you for favors conferred, I am, Fraternally yours, W. H. STEPHENS, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Monticello, III., Aug. 11, 1886. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : In reply to your circular of the 10th inst., I would say that as one of the Deputy Grand Lecturers during the past year I have been "A drone in the hive of nature, a useless member ot society, and unworthy," &c. The rest is monitorial, and you can read it at your leisure. In other words, I have done no lecturing away from home, but have rested content that there was an abundance of willing workers among the other Deputies who have, I am sure, at- tended promptly to all calls that have been made for assistance. Fraternally, H. E. HUSTON. Perry, III., Sept. 4, 1886. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : I herewith submit my report as Deputy Grand Lecturer. On Tuesday, November 24, I visited Payson Lodge, No. 379, and remained five days with the brethren, and found the lodge in a very healthy condition. 2." 1 APPENDIX. On Saturday, the 16th day of January, I installed the officers of Kingston Lodge No. 266, and on the Monday following met the brethren and remained with them five days, 18th, 20th, 21st, 22d and 23d. Have visited several lodges in the vicinity, and assisted in conferring the several degrees. Also attended the School of Instruction held at Bushnell. Fraternally yours, JNO. E. MORTON, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Charleston, III., Aug. 31, 1S86. Alexander T. Darrah, M. D., Grand Master of Masons of Illinois. M. W. and Dear Brother : In obedience to law, I have both the honor and pleasure to report that I have given instruction to the following lodges at the times named, viz. : To Mt. Carmel, No. 239, Mt. Carmel, from Jan. 16 to 24 inclusive. To Bloomfield, No. 148, Chrisman, from Feb. 16 to 19 inclusive. To Kansas, No. 128, Kansas, from Feb. 24 to 25 inclusive. To Muddy Point, No. 396, Lerna F. O., Coles county, from March 22 to 25 in- clusive. To Mattoon, No. 260, and Circle, No. 775, combined, at Mattoon, on the even- ings of June 2, 4, 8 and 9. On January 2 I installed the officers of Ashmore, No. 390, and gave instruction in opening and closing, and in E. A. degree. I presided in conferring the M. M. degree in Paris, No. 268, in November, 1885; Prairie, No. 77, at Paris, in February ; Windsor, No. 322, in June; Kansas, No. 128, in Tuly, and in Bloomfield, No. 148, in August. I was also present and assisted in the Schools of Instruction at Mt. Vernon, Paris and at Chicago. It will be remembered that some years ago a cyclone destroyed the greater part of the beautiful town of Mt. Carmel, and with it the convenient and well-furnished lodge-room of our brethren at that place — not a vestige remaining. There is no sign left now of that terrible calamity to the latter, except their charter, which was picked up several months afterward, after they had procured a duplicate, about ten miles away, over in Indiana. I have found everywhere an earnest determination to support the Schools of Instruction, a general desire to master the authorized work and lectures, and u> work up to the Standard, as close as possible. All of which is respectfully and fraternally submitted. \YM. E. GINTHER, 1 leputy ( irand Lecturer. APPENDIX. 255 Bloomington, III., Sept. 15, i{ M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and Brother : During the past year I have lectured the following lodges : Empire Lodge, No . 126, 6 days, ending Nov. 16, 1885 Streator Lodge, 607, 8 Nov. 30, 1885. Wenona Lodge, 344. 3 Dec. 3, 1885. Matteson Lodge, I75> 7 Dec. 24, 1885. Peotone Lodge, 636, 4 Jan. 9, 1886. El Paso Lodge, 246, 7 Jan. 17, 1886. Geo. Washington Lodge, 222, 4 Jan. 20, 1886. Tarbolton Lodge, 35i. 6 Jan. 30, 1886. Matteson Lodge, 175. 2 " March 1, 1886. Hampshire Lodge, 443. 2 " March 13, 1886. Morning Star Lodge, 734, 7 March 20, 1886. Star Lodge, 709, 7 March 27, 1886. Verona Lodge, 757. 6 April 2, 1886. Richard Cole Lodge, 697, 9 April 25, 1886, Hampshire Lodge, 443, 2 " May 8, 1886. Kishwaukee Lodge, 402, 5 May 23, 1886. Horeb Lodge, 363, 6 Aug. 16, 1886. Fairview Lodge, 35°, 4 Aug. 21, 1886. In addition to the above I have given instruction to brethren at different times, amounting to ten days. Have conferred the first degree on seventeen, the second on twelve, and the third on twenty-five candidates. Also attended Schools of In- struction at Bloomington, Bushnell and Chicago. Fraternally, &c, J. II. C. DILL, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Monticello, III., Sept. 6, 1886. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and Bro. : I have the honor to report my official labors as Deputy Grand Lecturer. I instructed the following lodges and brethren : |. R. Goi'in Lodge, No. 537, 14 days, ending February 27. Centre Star Lodge, No. 651, 6 days, ending March 6. Brethren at Potomac and Armstrong, 13 days, ending June 18. 256 APPENDIX. I also attended the Schools of Instruction at Bloomington and Chicago. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOSEPH E. EVANS, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Whitehall, III., Sept. i, 1886. ALEX. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : As Deputy Grand Lecturer, I have the honor to report having instructed the following lodges : Winchester, No 105, Jan. 6, also 14th and 15th, and again February 15, 16, 17 and 18; Hamilton, No. 563, February 3 and 4; and Jacksonville, No. 570, March 25 and 26, 1886. I attended the School of Instruction at Chicago. Beyond this my work has been with individual Masons, of which I made no note. Fraternally yours, I. M. McCOLLESTER, Deputy Grand Lecturer. LaHarpe, III., Sept. 4, 1886. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : As one of the Deputy Grand Lecturers I would report that, during the past year I have received a number of calls to lecture, but circumstances prevented my accepting, and the duty ivas assigned to others. I have conferred fifteen degrees in neighboring lodgo, and given the brethren such instruction as time would permit. 1 attended the School of Instructional Bushnell. Yours fraternally, W. o. BUTLER, 1 k'puty ( rrand Lecturer. APPENDIX. 257 Blandinsville, III., Aug. 23, 1886. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : I have the honor to herewith submit my report as Deputy Grand Lecturer. During the year past I have lectured the following lodges : Milan Lodge, No. 617, Jan. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9. Macomb Lodge, No. 17, Jan. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 and 19. Bowen Lodge, No. 486, Jan. 27, 28 and 29. Sherman Lodge, No. 535, Feb. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Bardolph Lodge, No. 572, March 16, 17, 18 and 19. I have conferred the first degree on seven, the second on four, and the third on six candidates. I also attended the Schools of Instruction at Bushnell and Chicago. Fraternally yours, GEO. S. FUHR, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Troy, III., Aug. 30, 1886. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons of Illinois, Bloomington, III. M. W. Sir and Bro. : As Deputy Grand Lecturer, and in compliance with the requirements of my commission as such, I herewith render a report of my official labors during the year now drawing to a close. I have assisted and instructed the following lodges, to-wit : Edwardsville Lodge, No. 99. Highland Lodge, No. 583. Greenville Lodge, No. 245. Marine Lodge, No. 355. Bethalto Lodge, No. 406. I can not refrain from stating in this connection that, in my opinion, some legis- lation should be had in order to more fully and generally enforce the " Standard Work." There is much more deficiency in our knowledge of " the work" than there is in a knowledge of jurisprudence. To me it seems as if a thorough under- standing of the former is absolutely necessary to the prosperity of a lodge. The ex- istence of this vital part of lodge life should be apparent at a glance and in every movement should be unmistakable. I am sorry to say, however, that in a large number of our lodges the reverse is the existing state of affairs, and I am unfalter- ingly of the opinion that some more stringent measures should be adopted to enforce 33t 2."),S APPENDIX. the "Standard Work" which the Grand Lodge has edicted. Until this (.diet is practically enforced, and not merely legislated, there allowed passively to remain, knowledge, full, thorough knowledge of the work will fail to he universal. J 'lease excuse me if I am making too bold in thus expressing my views, but they are the result of experience, and I respectfully submit them for your consider- ation. Accept, Most W. sir, my most sincere gratitude for the confidence reposed in me in thus commissioning me, and with renewed personal regards, I am, Most fraternally yours, SAMUEL RAWS* >N, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Shawneetown, III., Aug. ij, 1SS6. M. W. ALEX. T. Dakraii, Grand Master. DEAR Sir AND Bro. : I have the honor to report my official labors as Deputy Grand Lecturer. I lectured Enfield Lodge, No. 677, four days, ending January 28. In this pleasant labor I was ably assisted by Bro. J. R. Ennis, who was commis- sioned on same date as myself. Great interest was taken by the brethren and line progress made. I also had the pleasure of attending the School of Instruction at Mount Vernon. This is all the labor I have been able to perform in this pleasant field. I have had some calls besides, but owing to business and sickness in my family could not attend them. With many thanks for the honors conferred upon me, I am, Truly and fraternally yours, W. J. EI AY ELL, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Hi km Prairie, III., Sept. 7, 1886. Ai EX. T. DARRAH, Grand Master of Masons, Bloomington. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother: By request I assisted R. W. Elwell four days, ending [anuary 28, in his instruction to Enfield Lodge, No. 677. I lectured New Haven Lodge, No. 2^0. six days, ending February 6; also Omaha Lodge, No. 723, six days, ending February 13, 1886. My time from Feb- APPENDIX. L'V.I ruary 15 to November 15 is almost all taken up with my business at home. I have conferred the first degree on five, the second on four, and the third on seven candidates. I have given a reasonable amount of time to the work in my own lodge. I find the brethren in this section, as a general thing, anxious to learn the Standard Work. Thanking you for the honor conferred upon me, and hoping to meet you at the annual meeting of the Grand Lodge, I am. Fraternally, J. R. ENN1S, Deputy Grand Lecturer. Rockford, Aug. 19, 1886. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : In compliance with your circular, and instruc- tions contained in commission, I submit report of my official acts to date : On March 15 I visited the lodge at Belvidere in the interests of the " Orphans' Home," and conferred the third degree for them; on March 18, at Lanark, first degree; on March 19, Star in the East at Rockford, first degree; on March 29, at Pontiac, giv- ing them general instruction in the opening and closing ceremonies and lectures ; on April 5, at Belvidere again, conferring the second; April 15, at Capron, third de- gree; April 19, at Richmond, third degree. Have also worked here in Rockford, in Rockford Lodge and Ellis Lodge, of which I kept no dates. Have visited no lodges in the official capacity of Lecturer, but have tried to hold myself in readiness at all times to help any brother who seemed anxious to " improve in Masonry." For my services thus far I have received the munificent sum of $5.00, which was at Pontiac, so do not think I can be charged with prostituting my office for per- sonal gain. At every place I have visited have found a good proportion of earnest Masons who manifest a disposition to get nearer to the "Standard Work," particu. larly if the cost is not too much. Many lodges have expressed a desire for " more light." Later in the season, when the evenings are longer and cooler, should any of them desire my services I shall be only too glad to attend to them. With many kind regards, I am. Fraternally, N. A. KEELER, 1 )eputy Grand Lecturer. APPENDIX. 261 REPORTS DISTRICT DEPUTY GRIND MISTERS FIRST DISTRICT. Chicago, Sept. 10, 1886. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. M. IV. Sir and Brother : I herewith submit my annual report as your Deputy for the First Masonic District. Immediately after the receipt of my commission I (in conjunction with the Deputies of the Second and Third Districts,) issued a circular to the different lodges, notifying them of my intention to pay them an official visit. In pursuance of that expressed intention, I have visited twenty-five of the twenty-seven lodges in this district, and expect to see the other two during the present month. On every occasion on which I have made an official visit, I have been received with that fraternal courtesy that is shown to the representative of the Grand East, and I feel satisfied that if official visits were more frequent they would be productive of a vast amount of good to the Fraternity at large. On the evening of November nth, 1885, assisted by W. Bro. James E. Hardy, of Ashlar Lodge, and W. Bro. R. C. Griffith, of Dearborn Lodge, I instituted Grand Crossing Lodge, at Grand Crossing. The result of their labors will be presented to you in their application for a charter at the coming session of the Grand Lodge. On the 16th day of December, 1885, by virtue of your special proxy, and assist- ed by the requisite number of brethren, I laid the corner stone of " The Woman's •ji;-_> APPENDIX. Hospital of the C'iiy of Chicago," situated at the corner of Rhodes Avenue and 32d Street in said city. The weather was so intensely cold and stormy that very little interest was taken in the ceremonies. The details were furnished you in my report at the time. The rest of my official acts have been confined to the installation of officers, and the answering of such simple questions as were already clearly defined in the ( rrand Lodge By-Laws. On the 9th, ioth and nth of March, 1886, the Grand Examiners convened in the drill room of St. Bernard Commandery, in this city, and exemplified the Standard Work and Lectures of the different degrees in their usual impressive manner. The full report of this School will come from R. W. Bro. Belden, in whose district it was held. It was a meeting long to be remembered by those who had the pleasure of attending it, and was in some respects the most successful Masonic School ever held in the State, no less than 167 different lodges being represented on the registry, and at least half that number unregistered. The amount of enthusiasm created by this School, and the general desire on the part of the officers of the different lodges in the First Dis- trict to acquire the "Standard Work," is very gratifying, and I sincerely hope that in future the " Chicago School" will be a fixture. Acting under your instructions of July 20th, I visited Accordia Lodge, No. 277, and ordered the W. M. to discharge the Secretary from his office, and place him on trial for contempt, in refusing to obey an order from the Grand East. This was done > and the trial is fixed for September 24th, full report of which will be made in due time. I also visited Richard Cole Lodge, No. 697, under your instruction of July 29th, and called the W. M.'s attention to his non-compliance with Section 3, Article 9, Part 3d Grand Lodge By-Laws. I am satisfied that the omission was unintentional on their part, and as I understand the W. M. has seen you about the matter, I pre- sume that it has been satisfactorily adjusted. After commencing this report I visited Lemont Lodge, No. 708, located at Le- mont. This lodge seems to be in a state of "innocous desuetude." They have done no work for over two years ; have only held about a dozen meetings during that time, and have not been able to get a quorum since last May. I called their attention to Section 5, Article 4, Part 2d, Grand Lodge By-Laws, which they have been violat- ing almost ever since their organization. They have about twenty-six members, half of whom live over five miles from the place of meeting, have no money in their treasury, and are, generally speaking, in a state of decay. I can offer no suggestions at the present time, as my visit was only made on Friday night last, and I was unable to lind out where the trouble lay. Thanking you for the honor conferred upon me by appointing me as your 1 (eputy, 1 am. Fraternally yours, WM. K. FORSYTH, H. D. G. M. First District. APPENDIX. 26! SECOND DISTRICT. Chicago.. III., Aug. 12, 1886. ALEXANDER T. DARRAH, M. D., Grand Master of Masons of Illinois. Upon receipt of my commission as District Deputy Grand Master for the Sec- ond Masonic District of Illinois, I notified all lodges in the district of your expressed desire that frequent visits be made by me to all lodges within the district, and of my readiness and willingness to respond to all calls as promptly as practicable. I am pleased to report, that as your representative, I have been received and treated with the utmost kindness and courtesy at all times, and can assure you that I found the Second District loyal to the Most Worshipful Grand Master and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Illinois. Comparatively few difficult questions requiring official action have arisen during the year, and my duties have been a source of pleasure, and nut in the least burden- some. Remembering the suggestion contained in your letter of instructions to District Deputies, to the effect that the Grand Master of Masons in Illinois would be access- ible at all times, I have, as you will recollect, from time to time, reported to you my official acts, when considered of sufficient importance, for which reason I deem it unnecessary to now refer in detail to such acts, as many questions arising were fully covered and determined by the Grand Lodge By-Laws and by decisions by yourself and your predecessors. The matters more particularly referred to by you as worthy of special attention, viz. : A strict adherence to the Standard Work, and greater care, accuracy and uni- formity in the matter of keeping records and the transaction of the business of the lodge, have received my earnest attention. The School of Instruction held in Chicago in March, and the interest engen- dered in the preparation therefor, and by the attendance at the several sessions, has been productive of much good, and I think it will be conceded by all who have had occasion to investigate the matter, that there is now a nearer adherence to the Stan- dard Work in Chicago than heretofore. I am happy to report that harmony prevails in all lodges in the Second District, and that the lodges are in a fine financial condition so far as I can ascertain. The amount of work done during the past year is I think above the average, taking into account all the lodges in the district, and the quality of the material well up the standard. Thanking you for the honor conferred upon me, by my appointment as your representative in the Second Masonic District of Illinois, I remain, Fraternally yours, R. L. TATHAM, D. D. (1. M. Second Masonic District of Illinois. 204 APPENDIX. THIRD DISTRICT. Chicago, III., Sept. 15th, 1886. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : As required l>y the Grand Lodge By-Laws, I submit my report as District Deputy Grand Master of the Third Masonic District, which now includes the following named lodges : Vitruvius Lodge, No. 81, Wheeling. Germania Lodge, No. 182, Chicago. Kilwinning Lodge, No. 311, Chicago. Palatine Lodge, No. 314, Palatine. Mithra Lodge, No. 410, Chicago. Evans Lodge, No. 524, Evanston. Covenant Lodge, No. 526, Chicago. Harlem_ Lodge, No. 540, Oak Park. Lincoln Park^Lodge, No. 611, Chicago. Keystone Lodge, No. 639, Chicago. D. C. Cregier Lodge, No. 643, Chicago. Providence Lodge, No. 711, Jefferson. Lounsbury Lodge, No. 751, Barrington. Lake View Lodge, No. 774, Lake View. Also Ravenswood Lodge, U. D., Ravenswood. Wright's Grove Lodge, U. D., Wright's Grove. During the Masonic year'ending July 1st, 1SS6, the changes in membership of the fourteen constituted lodges have been as follows : Members reported July 1st, 18S5 L943 Number "raised, 145 Number reinstated, 12 Number admitted, 46 Added for error in last year's report 1 Total gain , 204 Number suspended , 43 Number expelled , O Number dimitted, 54 Number died 26 Total loss, 123 1 'resent membership 2,024 U. D. Lodges as follows : Ravenswood Lodge, U. D., 11 Wright's Grove Lodge, I . 1> 6 Total, 17 APPENDIX. 265 Soon after my appointment I visited all the lodges in the district, anxious to be- come familiar with their methods of work and transacting business, and acquainted with their officers and members. My official visits were made in order to examine their books, records, etc., as you directed ; and this has been done with all, except the two German lodges. The lack of previous experience in this direction led some of the lodges to doubt the propriety ot my investigating too closely ; but the slight irritation apparent in some instances at first, readily gave way when an explanation was made of the duties which had been imposed on me by the Grand Master. It is of great importance that the records of lodges should be carefully made up and well kept ; when this is done, much valuable matter is preserved for constant reference, which will be of historic interest in future years. Most of the Secretaries are entitled to great credit for their correct and detailed reports of the meetings, although in many cases I had occasion to suggest changes and additions, which were made with- out delay. In general these lodges are in a prosperous condition. Twelve of them show an increase in membership, the total over last year being Si. One lodge, however, reports no candidates raised, and has omitted ten stated communications since July ist, 1885, in violation of the provisions of Section 5, Article IV., Part Second. The attendance at the lodge meetings during the year has been good, showing a continued interest on the part of the members, and that harmony and good fellow- ship prevail. As a general thing there is abundant evidence of the value and good influence of each lodge in its separate community, as an exponent of the principles of our beloved Institution, of which we may be justly proud. In some of the lodges the Standard Work and Lectures adopted by the Grand Lodge are rigidly adhered to, and the work bears unmistakable evidence of much care and attention on the part of the officers. In other lodges there is manifestly a commendable and earnest purpose to become exact and conform to the requirements of the Grand Lodge as soon as it can be done. In yet other lodges but little interest is felt in having accurate and beautiful work. I know of more than one Entered Apprentice in the Third District who cannot be induced to go higher on account of the impressions he received when he was initiated. My observations during the past year have confirmed my previous impressions, that where the most attention is paid to accuracy in work, the greater is the interest felt by officers and members in all that pertains to the welfare and good of the Institution. To those lodges in which the degrees are conferred with marked excellence, correctness and impressiveness, the brethren always go with pleasure, and both visitor and novitiate receive impressions for good that are never forgotten. To most of the lodges in the Third District I have made frequent visits, and have uniformly been received in a most cordial and fraternal manner; with honor as the representative of the Grand Master, and personally with every manifestation of respect and esteem. 34t 2i'>i; appendix. On November 16th, 1885, I instituted Ravensw 1 Lodge, I • I)., and on the same evening 1 assisted you in dedicating their beautiful hall to Masonic purposes. ( in March 4th, 1886, I instituted Wright's Grove Lodge, I". D. Both of these oc- casions were very profitable and enjoyable. I take pleasure in testifying to the zeal, earnestness and good work of the officers, and to the great prosperity which has come to these two new lodges. On January 26th, 1886, as your proxy, I dedicated the new hall of Lake View Lodge, No. 774, to Freemasonry, and installed their officers for the ensuing Masonic year. I have installed the officers of live other lodges in the district during the year. An incorrect idea of the extent of their territorial jurisdiction has been held by many of the Chicago lodges, some believing that this jurisdiction included any por- tion of Chicago, regardless of the location of outside lodges, and their previous prac- tice in receiving petitions (for the degrees) had been in accordance therewith. The provisions of Section 3, Article XL, Part Second, of decision 22, 1877, and the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence, adopted October, 1885, clearly show that the line of concurrent territorial jurisdiction of the Chicago lodges extends only half way to the nearest outside lodges in all directions, regardless of the boundaries of the city. Under this law a portion of Chicago is nearer Lake View Lodge, No. 774, than any of the Chicago lodges, hence it is vvithin the territorial jurisdiction of that lodge only. ( ifficial notice came to me that three Chicago lodges in the Third District had received petitions from and conferred degrees upon candidates from the above-named territory. I at once arrested further work, and directed that the fees which had been collected be turned over to Lake View Lodge. Each of these lodges, when fully informed of the error, cheerfully complied with the requirement and the settle- ment with Lake View Lodge was made in a manner quite satisfactory to all inter- ested. Evans Lodge, No. 524, received the petition (for degrees) of a candidate, a portion of whose limb had been removed and an artificial one substituted therefor. Being present when the petition was to be acted on, I was asked by the W. M. whether the degrees could be conferred. After being assured by him in open lodge that the candidate could conform literally to all that would be required of him as set forth in Section 1, Article XII., Part Second, I could only reply that if he was oth- erwise worthy, I could see no reason why he might not receive the degrees, if elected thereto by the lodge with full knowledge of the facts. The lirst and second degrees were conferred when a protest was made, and the matter, by your direction, is now in the hands of a commission. I have been called on to decide other questions during the year, but none which could not be satisfactorily answered by reference to the appropriate clause of the ( band Lodge By I >aws. lust north of Chicago is Lake View, a portion of which has a compact popula- tion of at least 20,000 people. Within this territory are Lake View Lodge, No. 774 APPENDIX. 26* and Wright's Grove Lodge, U. D.,and hitherto concurrent territorial jurisdiction has been denied them. If a charter be granted to Wright's Grove Lodge, I recommend that such action be taken as will give this concurrence, as is provided in Section 3 Article XL, Part Second. I recommend that the center of the territorial jurisdiction of Lake View Lodge, No. 774, be changed from the place at which it was instituted to its present location, corner of Racine Avenue and Diversy St. It has a beautiful and permanent Ma- sonic home there, while the exact location of its former home cannot now be deter- mined, inasmuch as the buildings have been removed and a large factory erected in their place. By this change, much confusion which now exists relative to the line of territorial jurisdiction of adjacent lodges in Chicago will be removed. I recommend that the attention of all Chicago lodges be called to the line which bounds their concurrent territorial jurisdiction, as I am informed that some do not hesitate to receive and act on petitions (for the degrees) of parties who live in por- tions of Chicago outside of said line. I recommend that the attention of Illinois lodges be called to the provisions of Section 1, Article XIII., Part Second, in that all petitions for the degrees should >tate whether previous application had been made. Some of the blank petitions now used do not contain any reference to this. Within a short time in a Chicago lodge on account of this omission, a portion of the Entered Apprentice's degree was con- ferred on a candidate before it was ascertained that his petition had been rejected by another lodge. Much benefit has resulted from the three days' session of the Board of Grand Examiners, which was held last March in the Third District, for the purpose of ex- emplifying the Standard Work of this jurisdiction. The large attendance, the marked interest and the enthusiasm were very gratifying. Many of our officers and members for the first time witnessed a correct rendition of the Illinois Masonic Ritual. The zeal of the brethren to acquire and practice the established work and lec- tures has been greatly stimulated, and in some quarters there is already a generous rivalry as to " who best can work." The good resulting from the opportunity for social and fraternal intercourse at such a gathering should not be overlooked. I earnestly recommend that at least one such school be held in Chicago every year. I can not close this report without mentioning how much I have been encour- aged in finding that in all our lodges there are earnest, sincere Masons, who not only desire to see the business properly transacted and the work correctly done, but that the grand principles of our Institution be taught, lived up to, and practiced in the daily lives of the Craft. As long as such earnest men abound in our ranks there is no danger that Masonry will be dragged down to degradation and disgrace. I am not unaware of the grave perils which menace our Institution, or of the vicious prac- tices of some who are called Masons; but I have faith to believe that Masonry will 268 APPENDIX. continue lo be a living, resistless moral power for good, and that it will prosper in the future as it has in the past. In the performance of my official duties I have been guided by a sincere desire to advance the best interests of the lodges you confided to my care. If I have suc- ceeded in doing this, even in a small way, I shall be content. Please accept my sincere thanks for the confidence reposed in me by my appointment to this position, and for your kind words of counsel in the performance of its duties. Fraternally, V. S. BELDEN, 1). D. G. M. Third District. FOURTH DISTRICT. Geneva, III., Sept. i, 1886. Alexander T. Darrah, M. D., Gra)ul Master of Masons of Illinois. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : T am much gratified to be able to report that nothing has occurred during the past year to disturb the peace and harmony of the lodges in the Fourth Masonic District. I had hoped to report that I had visited, during the year, every lodge in this district, but a serious illness during the spring and early summer prevented me from carrying out your instructions in this respect. I have, however, visited four-fifths of the lodges, many of them more than once, and I am pleased to state that I have been invariably received with extreme kindness and courtesy by the officers and members of those lodges, for which I wish to return my sincere acknowledgments. While there has been, perhaps, no very great increase in the aggregate number of Masons in this district, the lodges appear to have exercised great care in admitting only those who were worthy and well qualified, and to have fully held their own 111 the matter of membership. I have, in my official visits, taken occasion, in all cases where I thought neces- sity fur it existed, to recommend to the lodges to invite the attendance of some of the Grand Examiners or Grand Lecturers, and perfect themselves, as far as convenient, in the authorized work of this ('.rand Jurisdiction. Thanking you for your fraternal courtesy during our official connection. I am. Respectfully yours, A. W. ADAMS, 1). D. C. M. Fourth District. APPENDIX. '-<'>•> FIFTH DISTRICT. Freeport, Tt.l., August 3 1 st , 1886. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and Bro. : Another Masonic year is about to close, and it reminds me, as your District Deputy, to make my report to you of the state of the ( >rder in this the Fifth Masonic District. It affords me great pleasure to report*peace and har- mony prevailing throughout my district. I have visited many lodges in the district, and installed officers, also examined the books and found them kept properly. On April 5th, as per your appointment as special deputy, T installed \V. Bro. E. L. Cronkrite as Grand Pursuivant, in Evergreen Lodge, No. 170, R. W. Bro. L. L. Mum acting as Grand Marshal. This being the first Grand Officer installed in Freeport, a large number of brethren were present, and we had a fine meeting. My other labors for the year have been confined to answering such questions as generally come up for discussion. Thanking you for the honor conferred, and congratulating you on the success of your administration, I am, Fraternally yours, JACOB KROHN, D. D. G. M. Fifth District. SIXTH DISTRICT. Mr. Carroll, Sept. 4, 1886. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : I have the honor to report that, during the year now closing, this district has sustained its old-time reputation for harmony and unity. My duties have been of the most pleasant character, consisting mostly of in- formal visitations, installations of officers, etc. In some localities in the district, it seems to me, lodges are too numerous and near together to properly sustain themselves, thrive and accomplish the greatest good. The construction of new railways has in many places changed the conditions that existed a few years ago, and lodges once strong now find themselves weak. In a few cases I believe it would be best for such lodges to surrender their charters, and their members to attach themselves to the nearest, most convenient neighboring lodges. •J7<> AI'I-KNKIX. On July 2ist I received your letter stating that the Secretary of Erie Lodge, No. 667, had failed to respond to your circular order of May 23d, and a subsequent order of June 23, also transmitting all the papers in the case. On account of sickness I did not visit Erie until July 28th, when I called the at- tention of the Senior Warden, acting Master of the lodge, to the matter, and had a long conference with the Secretary. lie had obeyed your order, and sent the re- quired report July 22. He had no excuse to make, other than he had mislaid the papers and forgotten all about it. At the regular communication of the lodge, Aug. 12, the Secretary was removed from office by the acting Master, charges were pre- ferred against him for violation of his installation vow, and the trial fixed for Aug. 2 1st. On the trial the Secretary was adjudged guilty upon his own confession, and the lodge fixed his punishment at a reprimand. Although this case has been humiliating to the Bro. Secretary, the lodge and myself, it has served, I trust, as a good lesson to us all. Too many of us assume Masonic obligations without a proper conception of their force and character, and as a result they rest lightly upon our consciences. These faults, however, I am glad to think, need only to be brought to our attention to insure, as I am sure will be true in this brother's case, their speedy amendment. With great respect and esteem, I am, Fraternally, &c, E. T. E. BECKER, D. D. G. M. Sixth District. EIGHTH DISTRICT. Joliet, 111., Sept. 6th, 1SS6. ALEX. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M . II'. Bro.: Another year has come and gone, and the duty devolves upon me of rendering an account of my doings. When I received my ap- pointment as District Deputy, I was in hopes that my business engagements would permit of my visiting every lodge in this district, but as has been the case in other years, have failed. In the early part of the year I visited several of the lodges and witnessed work on the different degrees by some who thought they had the Standard. I found it so far from the line, in almost every instance, that the fathers of it would not have recognized it. ( )n ( >ctober 14th, 1885, I visited Cedar Lodge, No. 124, at Morris, on the invi- tation of W. M. J. S. R. Scoville, extended to me by your advice, to assist in formu- lating charges against Bro. A. W. Crawford, and also visited and presided at the re- ception of the charges and specifications November 21. 1 presided ai the trial of APPENDIX. 271 Bro. A. W. Crawford, and I must say that the members of Cedar Lodge, No. 124, were very lenient in the punishment inflicted. November 16, 1885, I sent the usual notices to the several lodges of my willing- ness to visit them whenever they should so desire. December 9 I again visited Cedar Lodge, No. 124, at Morris, and assisted Dept. ('.. M. John C. Smith in formally dedicating one of the finest lodge-rooms in the State of Illinois for the uses of our most honorable Institution. It was an occasion long to be remembered by all who participated therein, and the only source of regret was your inability to be present. But be assured that you had the heartfelt sympa- thy of every one present in your bereavement. December 10th the workers of Matteson Lodge, No. 175, accompanied me to Cleveland Lodge, No. 211, of Chicago, where we assisted in conferring the third degree. December 22d 1 publicly installed the officers of Plainfield Lodge, No. 536, after which the brethren and their ladies partook of a sumptuous banquet. January 7th, 1886, I went to Lockport and installed the officers of Lockport Lodge, No. 538, assisted by Bro. F. C. Wilcox, who acted as Grand Marshal. A fine collation having been prepared by the wives of the brethren, we finished the labors of the evening in an agreeable manner, to ourselves at least. Of my labors in the home lodges it is unnecessary for me to speak of dates, as I have been present at almost every communication. Peace, prosperity and good feeling prevail in all the lodges of the Eighth Dis- trict, so far as I know, and the coming year promises a rich harvest of those who will reflect credit on our order. Kindly thanking you for the honor conferred upon me in the appointment as your representative in this district, I am, Fraternally yours, CHENERY PUFFER, D. D. G. M. Eighth District. NINTH DISTRICT. Ottawa, III., Sept. 9th, 1886. M. W. ALEX. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomiiigton, III. Dear Sir and A/. IV. Bro. : As your Deputy for the Ninth Masonic District, I -i- APPENDIX. herewith submit an account of my .stewardship during the Masonic year now drawing to a close. < Iwing to sickness in my Family, and pressure of business affairs, I have been unable to visit every lodge in my district as 1 originally intended. In obedience to your orders, 1 officially visited Odell Lodge, No. 401, on Nov. 13th, 1S85, and again on March 30th, 1886. The latter time I was accompanied by R. W. Bro. < Kven Scott, D. D. G. M. of the 15th District, reports of which were submitted to you in due time. On January 1st, 1886, on invitation, I visited Chatsworth Lodge, No. 539, and installed the officers. Chatsworth Lodge is in a healthy condition; lodge room well furnished ; money invested in notes and mortgages ; officers and brethren upright men and Masons, and fairly posted in the Standard Work. They did much to make my visit enjoyable. On January 8th, 1886, I installed the officers of Humboldt Lodge, No. 555. The installation was public and a very enjoyable affair. I lumboldt is one of the most pros- perous lodges in the Ninth Masonic District, and much of its prosperity is due to the zeal and energy of W. Bro. Otto J. Gondolf. On January 15th, 1886, I visited Cornell Lodge, No. 753, installed the officers and conferred the First Degree on one candidate, after which the brethren repaired to Bro. Lilley's, where a sumptuous banquet was in waiting. Their lodge room is well furnished ; their membership is small but their zeal is truly commendable. From my visitations, and from reports which I have received, I am pleased to say that peace and harmony prevails throughout the Ninth Masonic District. I >n yesterday 1 performed the last sad rites for an old and distinguished Mason, R. W. Bro. Thomas J. Wade, P. D. D. G. M., of the Ninth District and Past Grand Lecturer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois. lie had also held the office of Grand King in the Grand Chapter of R. A. M., and Deputy Grand Master in the Grand Council of R. & S. M., of Illinois. Father Wade was born at Lunsbury, Mass., September 3d, 1S01, and on September 6th, 1886, was called by our Supreme Grand Master from labor on earth to eternal refreshment in the paradise of God. The funeral ser- vices were conducted by Occidental Lodge, No. 40, whose foundations had been laid by his skillful hands. Thanking you for distinguished honor which you have conferred upon me, I re- main, Fraternally yours, W. L. MILLIGAN, I). D. G. M. Ninth District. APPENDIX. 273 TENTH DISTRICT. Henry, III., Sept. 13th, 1886. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons, Bloomington, Dear Sir and M. IV. Bro. : I have nothing of a strictly official character to report. It gives me pleasure, however, to be able to say that I believe the best in- terests of Masonry to have been carefully guarded in this sub-jurisdiction during the past year, and that, in several important particulars, a commendable advance has been effected since my last annual report. I take the liberty of quoting from my letter to the several lodges apprizing them of my appointment, a few suggestions which may be alluded to here without impro- priety. In the way of suggesting means by which the interests of Masonry in gen- eral, and this sub jurisdiction in particular, might be subserved, I offered the follow- ing : " Adhere closely to the ancient landmarks ; Exercise a vigilant discretion in admitting new members; Disseminate good Masonic literature ; Render faithfully the work and lectures as adopted by the Grand Lodge ; Consider it a duty to attend lodge meetings as punctually as possible ; Manifest a personal interest in making lodge meetings attractive; Cultivate the social feature of lodge meetings ; Cultivate the sentiment of brotherhood ; Let each individual Mason endeavor to make his life reflect the virtues incul- cated by the lessons of the several degrees. Masonry is doing a noble work for humanity. Let us see to it that we do our part in furthering the fulfillment of her great mission." That these suggestions were not unfruitful of good results may perhaps be justly concluded from the fact that the close of the Masonic year is marked by a more in- timate acquaintance with the Grand Lodge Constitution and By-Laws, a wider dis- semination of Masonic literature, and a juster and more liberal view and broader in- terpretation of lodge duties and ministrations. I believe it can also safely be said that there exists, on the part of the general public, a more liberal attitude toward the Masonic Institution, to which result I made some effort to contribute by means of public addresses on Masonic subjects whenever suitable opportunity was presented. I allude to this result with some degree of satisfaction, on account of the anti-Ma- sonic sentiment existing in our midst. I should be among the last to advise openly combatting anti- Masonic utterances, inasmuch as they must always prove inoperative by reason of their inherent inconsistency and unreasonableness. The education of public sentiment, however, by appropriate and dignified methods, is never inadvis- able. Please accept the assurance of my cordial appreciation of the honor of my ap- pointment, and my sincere congratulations upon the highly successful manner in 35t 274 APPENDIX. which, during the past year, you have administered the great and varied Masonic interests entrusted to your care. Fraternally and sincerely, W. II. KISTEK, I). D. G. M. Tenth District. ELEVENTH DISTRICT. Cambridge, III., August nth, 1SS6. M. W. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. IV. Brother: The usual routine of installing officers and answering a few questions by mail, has constituted my principal labor as your Deputy during the past year. The few cases referred to me specially have been fully reported in their order, and it would be surplusage to refer to them here. Yours fraternally, F. G. WELTON, D. D. G. M. Eleventh District. TWELFTH DISTRICT. Littleton, III., August 28th, 1S86. Alex. T. DARRAH, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M. IV. Rro. : Another year has drifted down upon the ever- flowing river of time, and lost itself in the great gulf of the past, bringing with it many changes unknown to us in the beginning, yet admonishing us that we are traveling upon the level of time to "that undiscovered country'from whose bourne no traveler returns." Life is but a probationary state of existence, and although many may have had bright hopes and great expectations for the future, the absent forms of some familiar faces from our next Grand Lodge Communication will remind us that their bodies have suffered the pangs of dissolving nature, and their spirits have returned to God who gave them. Thus the closing of another Masonic year reminds me of a duty to perform, and in accordance with the Grand Lodge By-Laws I have the honor to submit the fol- lowing report : APPENDIX. 275 Immediately upon receipt of my commission, I sent to the various lodges the usual notices. I have visited quite a number of the lodges, and from the reports that I have received from the others, I am satisfied that in this district Masonry is enjoying the usual prosperity. 1 have made but one official visit during the year, which is evidence that peace, harmony and concord prevail among the brethren. I have answered many questions upon points in the Grand Lodge By-Laws, and am sorry to see so little notice taken of the statutes. The errors to be found in the minutes are too varied to be enumerated here, but they are enough to show the tendency Secretaries have of abridging the records. Every business transaction that occurs within the tyled lodge "proper to be written" should be made a matter of record. In reference to the work, I find a continued growing interest among the breth- ren to obtain a correct knowledge of the Standard Work and when such desire has been followed by an acquired knowledge the results obtained have been very ap- parent and can not be estimated upon a financial basis but by the increased active interest in the welfare of the lodge, augmentation of the general attendance, the great improvement in expression and impression in conferring degrees and a general stimu- lation of the brethren of " who can best work and best agree." I desire here to thank you for the honor conferred upon this district by appoint- ing within its jurisdiction at Bushnell a " School of Instruction." It was my pleas- ant privilege to be present and see the beautiful exemplification of the work by the Grand Examiners. I feel under many obligations to the Grand Lecturers and breth- ren for the fraternal courtesies extended to me while there. Feeling a deep interest in the promotion of the .Standard Work, and that all the lodges in the district should avail themselves of this propitious occasion, I issued the following circular letter : office of District Deputy Grand Master i2th District, F. & A. Masons. Littleton, III., Jan. 20, 1886. To the Worshipful Masters and Brethren of the Masonic Craft throughout the Twelfth District, Greeting : Dear Brethren: Whereas the Grand Master of Masons in the State of Illinois has been pleased to call a meeting of the " Board of Grand Examiners " at Bushnell, in this Jurisdiction, and recognizing the great importance of these " Schools of Instruction " in promoting accurate work among the Craft, I desire to further this purpose by calling especial attention to this important meeting. True, correct, and impressive work produces the most effective results on the candidates ; causes a deeper interest in the success of the lodge, and stimulates the brethren to labor with free- dom, fervency and zeal. The object of these Schools are high and praiseworthy, and the results 276 APPENDIX. obtained from them are of incalculable worth, enabling the officers and members of the Constituent Lodges to become familiar with the Standard and recognized work of this Grand Jurisdiction. I hope the brethren will avail themselves of this favorable opportunity, and not only consider it a privilege, but an incumbent duty to attend this meeting, and be eager to possess a correct knowledge of the various degrees of Symbolic Masonry. *«=-The meetings will convene at 10 o'clock A. M. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, February 23, 24 and 25, with three sessions each day— forenoon, afternoon and evening. Hoping the brethren will take due notice and govern themselves accordingly, I am, Fraternally, LEWIS C. SEELKV, I 'istrict Deputy Grand Master. This meeting was more largely attended than was anticipated, and the avidity with which the brethren sought to profit by it has been followed by results beyond the most sanguine expectation. Especially would I commendably praise T. J. Pick- ett Lodge, No. 307, for the earnest study they have made of the work. Since this meeting there have been increased calls for the services of the lecturers, and I would therefore say " let the good work go on." I installed the officers of the following lodges : Rushville Lodge, No. 9, at Rushville, December 15, 1885; Littleton Lodge, No. 766, at Littleton, December 19, 1885. On the 16th day of March it was my sad privilege to perform the solemn cere- monies of the Craft over the remains of Brother Julius Elliott, of Astoria Lodge, Xo. 100. Brother Elliott was a minister of the gospel, and had recently come to Little- ton to take charge of his church work. His sickness was of short duration, but his suffering was intense ; and as the anguish of his body finally clouded his mind, it was evident he felt that his end was drawing near, by the utterance of his last intel- ligent words, " I have fought the good fight, I have kept the faith." As I stood be- side his grave I felt that I good brother, an affectionate husband and Christian man had gone to his reward. His daily life clearly taught that lie knew the All-Seeing Eye was guiding him, and it was of little importance how soon the brittle thread of life was severed by the scythe of time; he was in the ark of safely to be finally an- chored in that " peaceful harbor where the wicked cease from troubling ami the weary shall find rest." < >n the 10th day of July, in compliance with your order, I proceeded to Ten- nessee to meet M. W. Brother Joseph Robbins, P. G. M., to investigate the trouble existing between the brethren at Colchester and Tennessee Lodge, Xo. 400. After we had freely discussed and explained the situation of affairs' to the lodge, and all had partaken of the refreshments that had been prepared, Brother Robbins and*my- self felt that a better feeling and a better understanding had been engendered, and that the future would develop the fact that all their disturbances would be amicably adjusted. I have been recently informed that good feeling now exists between them, APPENDIX. 27" and no doubt the little contentions that they have had will give place again to the " strong bonds of friendship and brotherly love." And now in conclusion to this lengthy report I desire to thank you for the honor conferred upon me, and hoping that I have given a satisfactory account of my stew- ardship, I am, Fraternally yours, LEWIS C. SEELEV, D. D. G. M. Twelfth District. THIRTEENTH DISTRICT. Oquawka, III, August 28th, 1886. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. IV. Bro. : Thanking you for the honor conferred by my appointment as District Deputy Grand Master of the Thirteenth District, I have the honor to report : That I visited Carman Lodge, No. 732, and installed their officers, and found the books and furniture of the lodge in good condition. During the month of March I received the charter of Trinity Lodge, No. ^61, from the W. Master, and visited Monmouth and secured and forwarded to the Grand Secretary such property as I could find. Nothing of special importance has transpired in my district, but the kindest of fraternal feelings prevail. Truly and fraternally yours, JAMES PETERSON, D. D. G. M. Thirteenth District. FOURTEENTH DISTRICT. Peoria, III., Sept. 6, 1886. Alexander T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons of Illinois. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother : Your circular letter of the 10th ult. admon- ishes me that the time is arriving when an account of my stewardship for this district is required. 278 APPENDIX. November 9, 1885, I installed the officers of Peoria Lodge, No. 15. November 25, 1885, installed the officers of Temple Lodge, No. 46, and December 31, 1885, installed the officers of Phoenix Lodge, No. 663, at Mapleton. This lodge had but recently been moved from Kingston Mines. The installation was public, and though the brethren had not got fairly settled in their new quarters, everything passed oft" in a pleasant manner. There was a large number of ladies present; a good represen- tation from Lancaster Lodge, No. 106, at Glasford, accompanied by the Glasford band, which discoursed music for us during the evening ; a sumptuous repast was spread, and a very enjoyable time was had. I predict a bright future for Phoenix Lodge. January 27, 1886, I performed the last sad rites of our order at the grave of P>ro. William Mill, of W. C. Hobbs Lodge, No. 306, at Eureka, 111. Bro. Mill died Jan- uary 25, at his home at Eureka, of paralysis, aged 65. He had been S. W. three years and W, M. two years of W. C. Hobbs Lodge. I have also visited Princeville Lodge, No. 360, Princeville ; Alta Lodge, No. 748, Alta, and Empire Lodge, No. 126, at Pekin. Have witnessed and assisted in conferring degrees in these lodges. The work was done in a very creditable man- ner. I found the records written up neat and regular, order enforced, a fraternal feeling existing among the brethren, and their hospitality unlimited. In the early part of April I received notice from you that Danvers Lodge, No. 742, at Danvers, had preferred charges against W. C. Hobbs Lodge No. 306, at Eureka, for invasion of jurisdiction, with directions to investigate. I at once notified the lodges, and though delayed somewhat at first I finally suc- ceeded in getting at the facts. Danvers Lodge clearly showed that the candidate was in their jurisdiction some three and a half miles. W. C. Hobbs Lodge un- doubtedly labored under a misapprehension as to distance and acknowledged an in- vasion of jurisdiction, and expressed a desire to make proper acknowledgment to Danvers Lodge. The evidence and papers were referred to you, and your direc- tions that the candidate with the fees should be surrendered to Danvers Lodge, to- gether with proper acknowledgments, have been fully complied with. [uly 26, at the request of the W. M. of Comet Lodge, No. 641, at Minier, I vis- ited Comet Lodge and assisted the W. M. in a lodge trial, where charges had been preferred by your orders against a brother formerly a member of Allin Lodge, No. 605. The members of Minier Lodge were very patient, and but one desire seemed to pervade the entire lodge, and that was to render justice according to the evidence as they saw it. The result of the trial has been reported to you. Whatever differ- ence of opinion there may be as to the action ot Comet Lodge, I must give them the credit of being sincere in their desire to render justice. The past year, 1 am pleased to report, has been a successful one generally with the lodges in this district. Most of the lodges have done some work, many of them have done a good deal, and, with the exception of the case spoken of, 1 believe there APPENDIX. 279 has been a generous and fraternal feeling among the brethren and their several lodges, and desire to testify to the uniform kind and fraternal greeting received at the hands of those brethren with whom it has been my pleasure to meet. Thanking you for the honor conferred, I am, Fraternally yours, C. F. HITCHCOCK, D. D. G. M. Fourteenth District. FIFTEENTH DISTRICT. Bloomington, III., Sept. iSth, 1S86. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : Upon receiving your commission as your Deputy for the Fifteenth Masonic District, I began a studied investigation to discover the duties devolving upon me. My search left the matter greatly in doubt. I have, however, done those things which I conceived to be most important, and in the line of my duty. There are twenty-five lodges in my district. To twenty of these I have already made official visits. I am happy to say that all, so far as I have been able to ascer- tain, are doing good work and are prosperous. Belleflower Lodge, No. 760, felt that its jurisdiction was too small, and that for the good of Masonry it should not exist. It, therefore, decided to surrender its charter. Its effects I received and transmitted to the Grand Secretary. My report in the case of Bethesda Lodge, No. 661, I made at the conclusion of the investigation, and is now in your hands. The report also of the conference with D. D. G. M., W. L. Milligan, of the Ninth District, with reference to Odell Lodge, was made at the time. The greatest need that seems to press upon the lodges of the Fifteenth District, is the means to acquire greater proficiency in the Standard Work. The most excel- lent School for Masonic Instruction, held at Bloomington February 11-13, furnished a valuable opportunity. Almost every lodge in the district was represented. Though not being able to acquire the perfect work in three days, the Worshipful Masters, Wardens and brethren who attended became so eager to learn that they went to their lodges determined to become more proficient. This School was productive of great good, and the district would be greatly benefitted if another could be held within its territory next year. Fraternally yours, ( >\YFN SCOTT, D. D. G M. Fifteenth District. 280 APPENDIX. SIXTEENTH DISTRICT. Kankakee, III., Sept., 3d, 1886. A 1 1 \. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : In conformity to custom and law, I respectfully submit the following report : My official acts during the year have been as follows : Upon receiving notice of my appointment as District Deputy, I forwarded to all of the lodges of the Sixteenth District the usual notices, informing them of that fact and my readiness to be of any service to them should opportunity offer. On the 24th of December, 1885, I received your communication in reference to matters connected with Rossville Lodge, No. 527, and after some correspondence, met with the lodge on the evening of January 2d, 1886. A full record of the pro- ceedings had was forwarded to you at the time. At the same meeting I also instructed the newly elected officers of the lodge, and after a very pleasant evening's inter- course, notwithstanding'the natural perplexity incident to the performance of some of the duties that made my visit necessary, I returned to my home satisfied that the members of Rossville Lodge, No.^527, are peers of any in those_qualities that go to make genuine Masons. On the evening of January 5th" I had the pleasure of installing the officers of Kankakee Lodge, No. 389. I was also'invited to install the officers of several of the neighboring lodges,'but an unexpected "and^unavoidable absence for the remainder of the month prevented my "availing myself of any of the invitations. On the evening of March 26th, by invitation, I visited Momence Lodge, No. 481, with, I trust, both pleasure and profit to the lodge, as well as myself. June 5th I received from your hands the complaint of Peotone Lodge, No. 636, against Grant Park Lodge, No. 740, and onthe evening of June 12th met Grant Park Lodge at a regular communication. With the action had at that time, and the papers in the case,"myjeport, under date of June 25th, would so fully inform you that further mention is unnecessary, except to state that Peotone Lodge has thus far failed to'answer the request — made by your direction of June 25th — to furnish evidence in the'ease. There is good reason for believing that the state of Masonry in this jurisdiction is satisfactory, and that there is a marked improvement in the interest taken in Ma- sonic affairs by many of the lodges and large numbers of the brethren. This I con- sider largely to be the result of the " Schools of Instruction," which, though not held at any time within this jurisdiction, have been attended by many of the brethren who do reside within the jurisdiction. Of the condition of the lodges in this jurisdiction, so far as I am acquainted, they are nearly all in a progressive and improving state, and where there possibly APPENDIX. 281 may be a different condition I have not been able to obtain the necessary informa- tion to justify an attempt to particularize. In the way of suggestion, permit me to hope that the " Schools of Instruction " will be continued, for I believe them to be the most available means for accomplish- ing the greatest good with the least cost. Thanking you most sincerely for the kindness and favor conferred in appointing me District Deputy, I remain, Yours fraternally, F. S. HATCH, D. D. G. M. Sixteenth District. SEVENTEENTH DISTRICT. Paris, III., Sept. 6th, 1886. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington. M. IV. Brother: In consequence of continued illness, I have not been able to visit the lodges of the district as I had contemplated, but from correspondence with every lodge in the district I am pleased to report that universal peace, harmony and a fair degree of prosperity prevail in all the lodges. In January I visited Rantoul Lodge, No. 470, and Stratton Lodge, No. 408, and installed their officers. On both occasions I was kindly assisted by W. Bro. R. L. McKinlay. January 26, 27, 28 and 29 the Grand Examiners held a School of Instruction at Paris. Though the attendance was not as large as desired, yet all who availed them- selves of the privilege speak in terms of the highest praise of the efficiency of the Board, and their thorough manner of imparting instruction. We hope the Board is a permanent institution of this Grand Jurisdiction. Fraternally yours, D. M. WIEDER, D. D. G. M. Seventeenth District. EIGHTEENTH DISTRICT. Bement, III., Sept. 13th, 1886. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M . IV. Bro. : I herewith submit my report as District Deputy Grand Master of the Eighteenth District for the past year. 36J 2VJ APPENDIX. ( in December 17th, 1885, I installed the officers of Mansfield Lodge, Xo. 737; December 22(1 the officers of South Macon Lodge ; December 28th the officers of Blue Mound Lodge, and December 30th the officers of Sullivan Lodge. These, with one other, are all the official calls 1 have had during the year. The latter I could not accept owing to a previous engagement. It is an open question, I believe, whether it is the duty of a District Deputy to visit each lodge in his district, whether called on or not, the Grand Lodge By-Laws being silent on that point. I think it would be well to have the duties of District Deputies more clearly defined in the by-laws. As a member of the Board of Grand Examiners, I have been invited to assist 111 the work in quite a number of lodges, and have accepted all invitations of that kind. I was also with the brethren of Sullivan Lodge, Xo. 764, on March 24, 25 and 26. T attended all the Schools of Instruction held during the winter, a detailed account of which will, no doubt, be furnished you by the President of the Board. Regretting that I have not been able to do more "for the good of Masonry," and thanking you for many personal favors, I am, Fraternally yours, C. F. TENNEY, D. D. G. M. Eighteenth District. NINETEENTH DISTRICT. Springfield, III., Sept. 8th, 1880. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. IV. Brother : It affords me great pleasure to report that peace and concord prevail, so far as my knowledge extends, within this district. When my commission was received, or soon thereafter, the usual circular notices were transmitted to the several lodges under my charge, stating my willingness to respond to all calls, and, thus far, I have had but little demand for my services in the adjustment of difficulties within my jurisdiction. Dining the last week in December, 1885, the brethren of the Springfield lodges gave their annual banquet and sociable to the brethren and families of the country lodges 111 Sangamon county. If the entertainment of a similar character in 1SS4 was a decided success, and it certainly was, this one was far belter in respect of numbers and character. Our best Masonic ladies gave attendance and welcomed their coun- appendix. i's:; try friends with cordiality and good will. The addresses, readings, and music, both vocal and instrumental, were refined and elegant, as I can testify to, because I pre- sided on the occasion. A good supper followed, and every one went away happy. Again I commend such fraternal gatherings to the Craft of Illinois. I have installed the officers of the following lodges: St. Paul's Lodge, No. 500, at the December regular communication. This is a very prosperous lodge. Springfield Lodge, No. 4, on the 4th of January. This lodge has a grand history. Van Meter Lodge, No. 762, of Cantrall, publicly, on the 5th of January, when pub- lic addresses were made by Prof. A. J. Smith (W. M. Central Lodge, No. 71,) my- self and several others. A good time followed. Chatham Lodge, No. 523, on the 16th of January, supplemented by a most elegant banquet, such as these good breth- ren know how to prepare for the many Springfield brethren present, who knew how to dispose of the good things. Tyrian Lodge, No. 333, on the 18th of January. This lodge is a good body of Masons, prosperous, contented. I have performed other Masonic duties, well known to the Grand Master, which may not be enumerated here. Again has death removed another venerable and beloved brother from this dis- trict. Like a ripened sheaf, at his residence in Petersburg, Menard county, on Sun- day, December 6, 1885, R. W. Bro. John Bennett fell on sleep, aged 80 years, sur- rounded by his sorrowing wife and children and friends. His funeral, which I could not attend, occurred on the Tuesday following from the Presbyterian church (Rev. T. C. McFarland officiating, and Revs. Momyer and Slagle assisting), and, although the weather was very inclement, yet a large number of the Craft, with vis- itors from the adjoining towns, participated in the obsequies. R. W. Bro. Enos was present, and Brethren C. M. Morse, T. W. McNeely, G. B. Welch, Anson Thomp- son, Homer Stewart and George C. Spears acted as pall-bearers. The remains were interred with Masonic honors in Rose Hill Cemetery. The casket was loaded with rare flowers, which kind hands had formed into appropriate Masonic crosses. The following notice, prepared by an intimate friend, first published in Peters- burg, Illinois, is deemed worthy of insertion here : R. \V. Bro. John Bennett was born in Halifax County, Va., December 21, 1805. He passed his boyhood and early manhood at the old homestead in Virginia, receiving such an education as the common schools of that period afforded. At the age of 14 he entered his father's store as clerk, in which capacity he continued nntil his father's death in 1828, after which he continued business on his own account until 1835, when he moved to Sangamon County, near Rochester, thisState. Here remained until January, 1836, when he came to Petersburg, Menard County, and opened a dry goods store, in which business, with one or two changes, he continued until 1858, when he retired from active business. During his business career he was among the foremost in many enterprises that tended to develop our city and county, and represented this county in the legislature in 1840 and 1841. He was for four years director of the Tonica & Petersburg, now the Kansas City branch of the C. & A. railroad. Always prompt and honorable in his business transactions, conspicuous for his liberality, enterprise and charity, he won the respect and esteem of his fellows, and his modesty was only equalled by his worth. For nearly sixty years he has been a Mason. He has performed a pominent part in the history ot Masonry in the State, organizing many lodges, partici- pating in the general councils of the brotherhood and bestowing much labor and thought to the field 284 APPENDIX. of Masonic Jurisprudence. Probably no man in the State has been a Mason longer, as the follow- ing record will show : He petitioned Halifax Hiram Lodge, Halifax, Va., for degrees in Masonry in December. 1826, a few days after attaining his majority, was accepted and received the degrees of Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft and Master Mason, in due time. Remained a member of that lodge nearly eight years. On coming to Petersburg in 1836 he joined Springfield Lodge, No. 4, which was then the nearest organization. In 1842 he was instrumental in securing a petition to the Grand Lodge for a dispensation to organize Clinton Lodge U. D. (Bro. Bennett suggesting the name in honor of DeWitt Clinton, of New York.) The dispensation was granted, and in about one year Clinton Lodge, No. 19, was chartered. Bro. Bennett was its first, second and third Worshipful Master, and from the granting of dispensation for U. D. Lodge in 1842 up to and including 1883, served as Worshipful Master seventeen terms. During that time he presided over 369 regular and special meetings of the lodge and was a regular attendant at the balance of the 973, the total number of meetings of the lodge from organization to 1883. Bro. Bennett was also a member of DeWitt Chapter, No. 119, R. A. M., and St. Aldemar Commandery, No. 47, K. T., and several times had served as District Deputy Grand Master and Grand Lecturer for this district. His punctual attendance at all regular and special meetings of the lodge was proverbial, and his absence from any of them at once elicited the inquiry : " What is the matter with uncle John ? " as he was familiarly called. He was also a regular attendant at meetings of the Chapter and Commandery, but his special pride and interest was in the Blue Lodge to which he devoted his Masonic life work. • Bro. Bennett belonged to a Masonic family. His grandfather, Walter Bennett, a native of Ire- land, was made a Mason in Lancaster County Pennsylvania, in 1767; his father, soon after he was grown, in Halifax County, Va. , and himself an Entered Apprentice in Hiram Lodge, t Virginia, (where his father was affiliated), on the 4th Monday of January, a Fellow Craft 4th Mon- day of February, and a Master Mason 4th Monday of March, 1827, was exalted the following sum- mer ; received the Cryptic degrees in Springfield, Illinois, in 1854 ; and was Knighted in St. Aldemar Commandery, No. 47, K. T., at Petersburg in 1874. Here it is proper to say his good wife also manifested great interest in the success and prosperity of the Order, and was never happier then when encouraging her husband in advancing the interest of the Craft. He was always ready and willing and oftentimes went many miles to at- tend the meetings of neighboring lodges and aid them with his counsel and advice in their Masonic work and would have gone the distance of forty miles, barefoot and alone, to aid a worthy brother in need. Among the many good men and Masons true there have been but few in the past or present more enthusiastic for the success of the Order, consistently practicing its tenets, or who believed more sincerely that the more numerous the membership and general its teachings were practiced the more good would result to mankind. Masons, and all who knew him, are ready to inscribe on their memory the following for his epitaph : " A Mason true and good ; Sincere in friendship, ready in relief, Discreet in trust, faithful in brotherhood, Tender in sympathy and kind in grief. On grateful memories his name is writ ; His genial heart our hearts did kindle up ; We drew our inspiration from his light, And buoyancy from his all-buoyant hope." He was married twice. First in December, 1829, to Miss Mary A. Boyd. Deceased was bereft of his early companion and mother of his children in 1849, after twenty years of married happiness. In September, 1850, he was again married, to Miss Mary J. Cabanis, who with two children survive him. The news of the death of John Bennett will sadden the hearts of all who knew him. He lived four score years and leaves a record of an eventful, honorable and well-spent life. Another pioneer lias Tilled the measure of his days faithfully and well. APPENDIX. 285 I respectfully recommend that a page be set apart in the Grand Lodge proceed- ings of this year to his memory, bearing the first four lines of the above epitaph. Fraternally yours, L. W. SHEPHERD, D. D. G. M. Nineteenth District. TWENTIETH DISTRICT. Pittsfield, III., Sept. 4th, 1886. A. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : Soon after receiving notice of my appointment as District Deputy Grand Master of this the 20th District, I sent the usual notices to the several lodges in the district. I am pleased to be able to report that nothing has transpired since my appoint- ment, to my knowledge, requiring my official services. I have been able to visit but few of the lodges, but from information received, I find but little work has been done during the current year, which is more on account of the hard times than of a lack of interest in Masonry. Respectfully and fraternally, W. B. GRIMES, D. D. G. M. Twentieth District. TWENTY-FIRST DISTRICT. LaHarpe, III., Sept. 4, 1SS6. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and M. W. Bro. : Another Masonic year is drawing to a close and it is my pleasing duty to report to you that peace and harmony has prevailed among the lodges in the Twenty-first District. I have received no calls for official visits, and answered but few questions on Masonic law and usages. Your queries and answers as published in the Illinois Freemason, has very materially lessened the labors of the District Deputies and fur- nished the entire Craft much needed valuable information. l'si; appendix. It has been my pleasure to meet with a number of the lodges, installing officers, conferring degrees, etc., and after careful and diligent inquiry into the general con- dition and affairs of the lodges, I find in each and all much to commend. Allow me to express my fraternal thanks for the confidence you reposed in me, and also congratulate you and the Craft throughout this jurisdiction on the llattering results of your administration. Fraternally yours, W. O. BUTLER, D. D. G. M. Twenty-first District. TWENTY-SECOND DISTRICT. Whitehall, III., Sept. ist., 1886. M. W. A. T. DARRAH, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. W. Brother; Upon the receipt of my commission as your Deputy, I mailed to each of the lodges of the district a circular notice of my appoint- ment. During the year I have visited about one-half of the lodges in the district, in- spected their records, methods of transacting business, etc., and given them such advice and instruction as the occasion indicated. In March your were apprised that Hamilton Lodge, No. 563, was meeting with- out the presence of proper authority as the evidence of it — a charter. Under date of April 2d, I was ordered by you to investigate and report thereon. In due time you were informed as to the facts, at the same time the lodge was directed to make application for duplicate charter. Learning sometime after that this had not been done, I wrote the W. M. that since but a short time would elapse before meeting of Grand Lodge, it would be as well to defer action until then. They will probably present their petition for duplicate charter at the coming session of Grand Lodge. May 20th, as your proxy, I arrested the charter of Sheffield Lodge, Xo. 07N, and forwarded the same to you, with my report of such action. The affairs of the lodge were in a deplorable condition. The lodge will, possibly, petition the restora- tion of its charter. Under existing circumstances I could not recommend it. May 27th I received the dispensation for the removal of Fidelity Lodge, No. 152, from Fidelity, Jersey Co., to Medora, Macoupin Co., and forwarded the same. 1 the more willingly recommended the removal of this lodge, as it afforded it an APPENDIX. 287 opportunity to recover from its lethargy. There is sufficient material within its pres- ent jurisdiction to build up a reputable lodge. June 13, Virden Lodge, No. 161, met with a serious misfortune. They had but lately finished re-roofing their hall, and had contracted indebtedness thereby, when, on the above date, their building was unroofed by severe wind, accompanied with rain which otherwise damaged them. I find much confusion existing as to methods of procedure for non-pay- ment of dues. In addition to that furnished by Grand Lodge By-Laws and the de- cisions of Grand Masters, lodges will find a clear exposition of the subject in 1'ast Grand Master Robbins' annual address of 1877, page 31. My official acts, beyond the above, have been few and were reported to you in the order of their happening. The observation of the year has confirmed that of those preceding relative to the importance of official care, visitation and instruction by Grand officers and others qualified for such work. If there is any one subject, above another, to which I would direct attention of Grand Lodge it is this. Many of our lodges are starving for the want of attention ; many of them feel that no one cares for them. During the year I have endeavored by visitation, personal inquiry and corre- spondence to inform myself of the status of the lodges of the district. With one or two exceptions, my advances in this direction have been met in the right spirit. I am able to report a fair degree of prosperity. Good will generally prevails. Thanking you for your uniform courtesies and honors conferred, I am, Fraternally yours, I. M. McCOLLESTER, D. D. G. M. Twenty-second District. TWENTY-THIRD DISTRICT. Taylorville, III., Sept. 7, 1886. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. IV. Bro. : The duties which devolved on me during the past year as your representative in the Twenty-third Masonic District, have been very few, but without exception most pleasant in their character. No difficulties or serious misunderstandings have been referred to me for adjustment. No question of law, custom or procedure has arisen involving any new principle, or not fully covered by our written laws. 288 APPENDIX. The accounts of many lodges are imperfectly and inartistically kept. A lodge, like a man, a firm, or a corporation, is placed on a safer and better foundation by a strict compliance with the rules of book-keeping. Would it not be well for the Gland Secretary to suggest proper forms to Secretaries of subordinate lodges, with a view to securing uniformity in method, and uniform correctness in lodge accounts? Fraternally yours, WM. T. VANDAVEER, D. D. G. M. Twenty third District. TWENTY-SIXTH DISTRICT. Troy, III., August 30th, 1886. M. W. ALEX. T. Darrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and M. IV. Bro. : Another Masonic year, with its perfections and shortcomings, has almost closed, and the time of rendering an account has arrived. In reporting to you the condition of this the Twenty-sixth Masonic District, little, in in fact nothing, of special importance has occurred, beyond that already specially reported. Feace and harmony, so far as I am aware, prevails throughout the entire district. But one case calling for official attention, the account of which was promptly reported to you. During this year I have mingled, or have held more or less correspondence, with the lodges of this district, to enable me to report a fair degree of prosperity. It has been my privilege to assist a number of the lodges in their labors, and everywhere I have been received with sincere brotherly love, finding a commendable degree of zeal prevailing, and whatever council given was received readily and ardently in the repositories of "faithful breasts." True it is that a greater and much to be desired state of proficiency in the Standard Work could, and indeed ought to exist, but, as I have heretofore stated in previous reports, this is, in a great measure, the fault of the law relating to the efficiency of District Deputy Grand Masters, as defined, if at all defined, in their powers and prerogatives, and to the discretion allowed lodges in choosing whether or not they shall use the means provided for promoting and secur- ing the needed proficiency. In this connection I cannot refrain from here giving my hearty approval of our noble Schools of Instruction, which have done so much to promote that knowledge which proper legislation would greatly improve and make universal. A marked degree of quiet prosperity is in reality the summing up of the general condition among the Craft here. APPENDIX. 289 Thanking you for the confidence reposed in me, and congratulating you on the successful administration of your high and responsible office, I am, Respectfully and fraternally yours, SAMUEL RAWSON, D. D. G. M. Twenth-sixth District. TWENTY-SEVENTH DISTRICT. Chester, III., Aug. 31, 1886. M. W. Alex. T. Darrah, Grand Master, Bloomington, III. Dear Sir and Brother : At the close of this Masonic year I now, in compli- ance with Grand Lodge By-Laws, submit to you an account of my stewardship as District Deputy Grand Master for this district. On receipt of my commission I notified all the lodges in this district of my ap- pointment, and my readiness to visit them when required, and, to my great satisfac- tion, have not had an official call to any of them, showing conclusively that peace, harmony and unanimity prevail among the brethren down here in Egypt. I have visited a large majority of the lodges, and intended to visit them all be- fore the close of the year, but business matters and family affairs prevented me in carrying out my intentions. Thanking you for the honors conferred, I am, Fraternally yours, JAMES DOUGLAS, D. D. G. M. Twenty- seventh District. TWENTY-EIGHTH DISTRICT. Carkondale, III., Sept. 8, 1886. Alexander T. Darrah, Grand Master of Masons of Illinois. M. W. Brother : In obedience to your instruction, on the evening of May 13, at a stated communication of Shekinah Lodge, No. 241, A. F. & A. M.,held in their hall, I, as your proxy, instituted an Occasional Grand Lodge and installed R. W. Bro. Isaac Clements Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, a large number of brethren from neighboring lodges being present. 37t 290 APPENDIX. On the 20th day of August, in obedience to your order, I visited the \Y. M. and brethren of Grant Lodge, No. 452. Found the lodge somewhat embarrassed finan- cially by debt on hall, but willing to make an effort to relieve themselves, and after an evening pleasantly spent left them fully devoted to the best interests of the Craft, and I cheerfully recommend them to your mercy and the mercy of the Grand Lodge if they should this year fail to forward their Grand Lodge dues (it being their first), they making an effort to relieve their property from debt, and suffering from the drouth, none more worthy than the faithful brethren of Grant Lodge. At no time in my Masonic life have I seen so much good work in the lodges of this district. The instruction given at the Schools of Instruction held in Southern Illinois is commended and its good influence felt by all who avail themselves of its privileges. Respectfully submitted. Fraternally your.--, E. J. INGERSOLL, D. D. G. M. Twenty-eighth District. TWENTY-NINTH DISTRICT. Shawneetown, III., August 13th, 1886. M. W. ALEX. T. Uarrah, Grand Master. Dear Sir and Bro. : I again have the pleasure of submitting my report as District Deputy Grand Master of the 29th Masonic District. Owing to sickness in my family, I have not been able to visit very many of the lodges in my district. I have, however, visited several of them, and communicated with all, and find peace and good will prevailing. < Hiite a number of the lodges have a good deal of work, and a number of them have become so interested in the Standard Work as to have employed the services of the Grand Lecturers. All who have done so have shown great interest and made rapid improvement. I find that last year the twenty-four lodges in my district (the fartherest district but one from the seat of the Grand Lodge), withdrew only $61.65 above their Grand Lode dues, which, I think, is much less than ever before, showing the growth and interest of the Craft in this portion of the jurisdiction. I sincerely wish that some more efficient system could be adopted whereby the lodges could be more frequently visited by some of the Grand Lodge officers, and hope some wise brother will plan something at an early date looking to that end. APPENDIX. 2!»1 I think that we have a bright future before us in this portion of the State. Crops are abundant and times improving, which will naturally cause more Masonic work to be done. Sincerely thanking you for the honor conferred, I am, Fraternally yours, W. J. ELWELL, D. D. G. M. Twenty-ninth District. THIRTIETH DISTRICT. Vienna, III., Sept. 5th, 1886. M. W. A. T. DARRAH, Grand Master. Dear Sir and Brother : At the close of this Masonic year I herewith submit to you my report as District Deputy Grand Master for the Thirtieth Masonic District. Immediately on receiving my commission I notified each of the lodges in the district of my appointment. But three cases of complaint have been brought to my notice calling for my aid in their adjustment. In one of these cases, involving an in- fringment of jurisdiction, I was unable to attend, on account of sickness, and Brother W. T. Elwell, of the Twenty-ninth District, attended to the matter in my stead, and, as I have been informed, settled the matter satisfactorily to all parties. The other two were cases of minor importance. My opinion was accepted as satisfactory, and com- plete harmony restored between the brethren and the lodges. In December, 1885, I installed the officers of Vienna Lodge, No. 150. I also, in November, 1885, instituted Center Lodge U. D.,and installed its officers. I have visited a few of the lodges in the district semi-omcially and have uniformly found them prosperous and harmonious. With thanks for the honor conferred on me, I am, Fraternally yours, PLEAS. T. CHAPMAN, D. D. G. M. Thirtieth District. Proposed Amendments. 293 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO GRAND LODGE BY-LAWS. No. i. Amend Section 5, Article XIII, Part Second of the Grand Podge By- Laws, by striking out the words "or jurisdictional residence." JOHN II. TYLER. Section 5, Article XIII., Part Second, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, as pro- posed to be amended, reads as follows : Section 5. Master Masons applying for membership shall not be required to state whether they have or have not applied to any other lodge ; nor shall the regu- lations of these by-laws concerning physical qualifications apply to such applicants ; nor shall any of the requirements of the preceding sections (1, 2 and 3) apply to Entered Apprentices or Fellow Crafts seeking advancement in the lodge in which they were initiated or passed; but the requirements of said Sections I, 2 and 3, and Section 2, of Article XV., shall apply to the petitions of Entered Apprentices or Fellow Crafts seeking advancement in any lodge other than the one in which they may have been initiated or passed. No. 2. Amend Section 3, Article 1, Part Third, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out all after the word " sojourning" and insert the following: " Shall, in case the offender shall be suspended or expelled, give notice thereof to the lodge of which he may be or shall have last been a member." COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE. Section 3, Article 1, Part Third, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, as proposed to be amended, reads as follows : Section 3. In case of offending Masons who are members of any other lodge, the lodge within whose jurisdiction the offender resides, or is sojourning, shall, in case the offender shall be suspended or expelled, give notice thereof to the lodge of which he may be or shall have last been a member. No. 3. Amend Section 12, Article XXIII. , Part Second, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out all after the words "Grand Lodge " where they first occur in said section down to and including the words " Part Second " and inserting in lieu thereof the words " on or before the first day of September next succeeding the date of the dispensation." COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE. Section 12, Article XXIIL, Part Second, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, as pro- posed to be amended, reads as follows : Section 12. Every lodge under dispensation shall make its returns to the Grand Lodge on or before the first day of September next succeeding the date of its dis- pensation, and shall transmit therewith its letter of dispensation, a copy of its by-laws, and a record of its proceedings. After making such return, no lodge meeting shall be held until the Grand Lodge shall grant a charter, and the requirements of Section 14 of this article are complied with. 38J •J! 1 1 List of Exchevnges The Grand Secretary desires to thank the editors of the following magazines and papers for kindly supplying his office with their publications during the past year, in exchange for our proceedings. We shall be happy to exchange with all Masonic publications, and papers having a Masonic department : Voice ok Masonry — 182 South Clark Street, Chicago. M iSONlc Advocate — Indianapolis, Ind. The Illinois Freemason — Bloomington, 111. Masonic Chronicle — Columbus, Ohio. Corner Stone — New York. Masonic Review — Detroit, Mich. Masonic Token — Portland, Maine. Texas Masonic Journal— Fort Worth, Texas. Light — Topeka, Kansas. Odd Fellowship's Register and Masonic Journal — Portland^ Maine. Masonic World — Boston, Mass. The Anchor and Shield — Paris, 111. Masonic Chronicle — New York. Masonic Truth — Boston, Mass. Masonic Home Journal — Louisville, Ky. Tin; FREEMASON — Sidney, New South Wales. Victoria Freemason — Melbourne, Australia. MASONIC Tidings— Milwaukee, Wis. Freemason's Journal — New York City. INDEX. Appointments — page. ( If Committees 4, 124 ( If Grand Officers 123 Of Grand Examiners 124 Of Schools of Instruction 33 Of Deputy Grand Lecturers 125 Amendments to By-Laws — Acted on 54,65 Proposed and Seconded 94, 122 List of (in Appendix) 293 Amendment to Constitution — Proposed 94 Appeals and Grievances — Committee on 4, 124 Report of. 77 Committees — Appointment of 4, 124 Appeals and Grievances, report of 77 Chartered Lodges, report of 52 Correspondence, report of 49 Credentials, report of 56 Finance, report of 74, 92, 116 Grand Master's Address, report ot 51, 67 Jurisprudence, report of 117 List of 4,1-4 Lodges U. D., report of 68 Mileage and Per Diem, report of 102 ( Ibituaries, report of . .... 70 Petitions , report of 95 i".n; Index. < BARTERED Ll IDGES— Committee on 4, 124 Report of .... 52 I abulai statement of (in Appendi x) 230 PON DENCB — Committee on 4. I2 4 Report of. 49 Report of (in Appendix) 1 to 227 Credentials — Committee on 5 Report of. . . . 56 Deputy Grand Lecturers — Reports of (in Appendix) 251 List of 125 Distrji r Depute Grand Masters — List of; 13° Reports of (in Appendix) 261 I >EDI< ATION — I )rphans' Home 12^ Extrai ts from I»r. Thomas' Sermon 129 I'll 1 ION — Made special order 5 ' ( )f ( trand < >fficers 66 Exchanges — List of (in Appendix) 1 Finance — Committee on 4. ' -'4 Report of 74. 9 2 . ll6 Grand Li idgbs — List of 136 ( rRAND Master — Address of. 5 Committee on, report of 51, 67 Remarks of 54 Index. 297 Grand Examiners — Appointment of 12, \i\ Report of. n; Grand Officers — Election of. 66 Appointment of Appointed officers 122 Installation of. 123 List of. 1 List of Elected Grand Officers from formation of the Grand Lodge to date 1-52 Grand Secretary — Reported a constitutional number of lodges represented. Report of. Submitted his books and accounts Grand Secretaries — List of Grand Treasurer- Report of Invitation — To visit Board of Trade. Illinois Masonic Orphans' Home- Dedication of Installation — Of Grand Officers. Jurisprudence — Committee on 4, 124 Report of t 1 7 Lodges Under Dispensation — Committee on 4,1-4 Report of. 68 Minutes — Reading of dispensed with 5 Mileage and Per Diem — Committee on 4 ; 124 Report of 102 298 Index. Oration — R. W. Bro. Isaac Clements, ( '.rand (Orator .... 80 Obitiaries — Committee on. Report of Petitions— Committee on 5 Report of 95 Presented by ( '.rand Secretary 56 Pbrmanbni Members — List of 1 si Rim arks — By M. W. Bro. D. C. Cregier, presenting Report on Correspondence 4 • By Grand Master, referring to Masonic Orphans' Home 5.4 By Deputy Grand Master, referring to Masonic Orphans' Home 55 By Grand Secretary, referring to M . W. Bro. Ira A. W. Buck 55 By M. W. Ero. D. C. Cregier, introducing Past Grand Master Frederick Speed, of Mississippi 115 By M. W. Bro. Frederick Speed, of Mississippi 1x5 By Bro. George M. Moulton 127, 128 By M. W. Grand Master 127 By Bro. J. J. Badenoch 128 By George D. Metcalf, of California 128 Representatives — Of Constituent Lodges 60 < >f other Grand Lodges near this Grand Lodge 1 ; ; < )f this Grand Lodge near other Grand Lodges 134 Reports — < )t Grand Master ; 1 >f Grand Secretary 38 Of Grand Treasurer 1 if Committee on Appeals and Grievances 77 ( )f Committee on Chartered Lodges ( )f Committee on Credentials 1 If Committee on Correspondence 1 if Committee on Finance 74,9 Of Committee on J urisprudence 117 I if Committee on Lodges Under Dispensation 68 ( If Committee on Grand Mister's Address M ( If Committee on Mileage and Per Diem ( If Committee on < >bituaries 70 1 >f Committee on Petitions Index. 299 Resolutions — Of thanks to Board of Trade 5° By M. W. Bro. Joseph Robbins, of respect and sympathy for M. W. Bro. Gurney 50 By Grand Secretary, regarding Past Grand Master's Jewel 55 By W. Bro. R. S. Hall "5 Ki STORATION — OfG. W. Logan 99 Of John Bell 99 Of Win. H. De Bord 99 Of Thomas Nelson 99 Of Valentine G. Wehrheim 99 Of Joseph L. Thomas 99 Of C. B. Horrell 99 Of M. F. Emerson 99 Of Hume Hodgson 99 Of \V. A. Linderman 99 Of J. B. Goshom too Schools of Instruction — Reference to, in Grand Master's Address .... 33 Report of Secretary of (in Appendix) 247 Tabulated Statement, showing amount of dues, number of members, etc., (in Appendix) . 230