Preface

A RITUAL
AND
ILLUSTRATIONS
OP
FREEMASONRY
ACCOMPANIED BY NUMEROUS ENGRAVINGS
AND A KEY TO THE
PHI BETA KAPPA
WILLIAM REEVES 83 CHARING CROSS ROAD BOOKSELLER LIMITED. LONDON, W.C.2. -
CONTENTS.
Degree of Entered Apprentice ... 1
Fellow Craft's Degree 35
Master Mason's Degree 46
Mark Master's Degree 64
Past Master's Degree ... ... 86
Most Excellent Master's Degree 94
Royal Arch 104
Select Master 136
Degree of Ark and Dove 148
Knights of Constantinople 149
Secret Monitor or Trading Degree ... ... 152
Heroine of Jericho .. ... ... .-• 156
Knights of Three Kings 16?
Order of Knights of the Red Crosa 167
IV CONTENTS.
PAGE
Order of Knights Templars 188
Knights of the Christian Mark, and Guards of the
Conclave ... 214
Knights of the Holy Sepulchre 218
The Holy and Thrice Illustrious Order of the
Cross, called a Council 222
Eleven Ineffable Degrees 231
Perfect Master 233
Intimate Secretary ... ... ... ... ... 234
Provost and Judge ... ... ... ... 237
Intendant of the Buildings, or Master in Israel ... 239
Elected Knights of Nine 240
Elected Grand Master 243
Sublime Knights Elected 244
Grand Master Architect 244
Knights of the Ninth Arch 244
Grand Elect, Perfect, and Sublime Mason ... 245
Phi Beta Kappa ... 247
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A
RITUAL OF FREEMASONRY
DEGREE OF ENTERED APPRENTICE.
Seven Freemasons, viz. : six entered apprentices, and one past master, acting under a charter or warrant from the grand lodge, is the requisite number to constitute a lodge of entered apprentice Masons, and to initiate a candidate to the first degree of Freemasonry.
They assemble in a room, or place, representing the ground floor of king Solomon's temple.
The officers take their seats, as in plate 1.
The master then says, Brethren, I am about to opei» a lodge of entered apprentice Masons in this place, for the dis- patch of business. — I will thank you for your attention and assistance. If there is any person in the room who is not a Freemason, he is requested to retire.
The master then gives one rap, with his gavel, and says, Brother junior deacon, — the first care of congregated Masons ?
Junior deacon rises on his feet, at the same time gives this sign [see plate 4, fig. 1] and says, To see the lodge tyled, worshipful.
W.M. Perform that part of your duty, and inform the tyler that we are about to open a lodge of entered appren- tice Masons, in this place, for the dispatch of business, and direct him to tyle accordingly.
The junior deacon then walks very quick to the door, and stations the tyler on the outside of it, with a drawn sword in his hand, whispers the order of the worshipful master in
2
2 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
his ear, closes the door, and gives three distinct knocks on the inside, which are answered in like manner by the tyler on the outside. The junior deacon then giving one rap, which is also answered in like manner, returns to his station in the lodge and says,
W.M. How tyled?
J.D. With secrecy and brotherly love ; also a brother of this degree, without the door, with a drawn sword in his hand.
W.M. His duty there?
J.D. To keep off all cowans and eaves-droppers ; to see that none pass or repass, but such as are duly qualified, and have permission from the chair.
W.M. Let us be clothed, brethren.
Here all the officers and members of the lodge put on their aprons and jewels, and resume their seats as before.
The worshipful master then gives two raps with his gavel, which brings all the subordinate officers on their feet ; and each standing in his place, recites his duty in his turn, as follows :
W.M. The junior deacon's place in the lodge?
"We are tyled, worshipful."
J.D. At the right, in front of the senior warden in the west.
W.M. Your duty there, brother junior?
J.D. To carry messages from the senior warden in the west, to the junior warden in the south ; and elsewhere about the lodge, as he may direct.
W.M. The senior deacon's place in the lodge?
S.D. At the right, in front of the worshipful master in the east.
W.M. Your duty there, brother senior?
S.D. To carry messages from the worshipful master in the east, to the senior warden in the west ; and elsewhere about the lodge, as he may direct ; to assist in the prepara- tion and initiation of candidates, and to welcome and clothe all visiting brethren.
W.M. The secretary's station in the lodge?
Sec. At the left hand of the worshipful master, in the east.
W.M. Your duty there, brother secretary?
Vec. To record the doings of th« lodge ; collect all money,
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 3
pay it over to the treasurer, and keep a true and correct ac- count of the same.
W.M. The treasurer's place in the lodge?
Treas. At the right hand of the worshipful master in the east.
\Y.M. Your duty there, brother treasurer?
Treas. To receive all money from the hand of the secre- tary, to keep a true and correct account of the same, and pay it out by order of the worshipful master, with the con- sent of the brethren.
W.M. The junior warden's place in the lodge?
J.W. In the south, worshipful.
W.M. Your duty there, brother junior.
J.IT. As the sun is in the south, at high twelve, which is the glory and beauty of the day, so stands the junior warden, in the south, to call the craft from labour to re- freshment, and from refreshment to labour, that the wor- shipful master may have profit and pleasure thereby.
W.M. The senior warden's place in the lodge?
S.W. In the west, worshipful.
W.M. Your duty there, brother senior?
S.W. As the sun sets in the west, to close the day, so stands the senior warden in the west to assist the worship- ful master in opening and closing his lodge; to pay the craft their wages, if any be due ; and see that none go away dissatisfied ; harmony being the strength and support of all institutions, but more especially this of ours.
W.M. The master's station in the lodge?
S.W. In the east, worshipful.
W.M. His duty there, brother senior?
S.W. As the sun rises in the east to open and adorn the day, so rises* the worshipful master in the east to open and adorn his lodge, and set the craft to work with proper in- structions for their labour.
W.M. After that manner so do I. It is my will and pleasure, that a lodge of entered apprentice Masons be opened in this place, for the dispatch of business. Brother senior, you will please communicate the same to the junior warden in the south, that the brethren may have due and timely notice thereof.
* At these words the Master rises.
4 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
S.W. (addressing the junior warden). Brother junior, it is the worshipful master's order, that a lodge of entered apprentice Masons be opened in this place, for the dispatch of business. You will please inform the brethren thereof.
J.W. Gives three raps with his gavel, and says : brethren, it is our worshipful master's order, that a lodge of entered apprentice Masons be opened in this place, for the dispatch of business. You are ordered to take due notice thereof, and govern yourselves accordingly.
W.M. Then says : Attend to the signs, brethren.
The signs of this degree are three, viz., Eight A-nylcat Horizontals and Perpendiculars; and are given by the master and brethren, with great accuracy and precision. [See plate 4, figs. 1 and 2.]
1. This sign is made by placing the hands at right angles, about one foot in front of the centre of the body — the palms together, and the left hand under. 2. To draw a horizontal ; raise the right hand, with a quick motion, to the neck; the hand open, the palm down, the thumb partly under the hand, parallel with the fingers, the main joint of the first finger pressed against the "guttural," the elbow raised as high as the hand ; with a quick motion draw the hand from left to right until the hand comes nearly over the right shoulder. 3. Let the hand drop perpendicularly by the side, the palm in the rear.
The worshipful master then gives one rap with his gaveL (the senior warden one, and junior warden one), and says: I now declare this lodge opened in due and ancient form ; hereby forbidding all improper conduct, whereby the peace and harmony of this lodge may be disturbed ; under no less penalty than the bye-laws, or a majority of the lodge may see fit to inflict.
The master then reads the passage of Scripture com- mencing, "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity," etc.
The worshipful master gives one rap with gavel, and all the brethren are seated.
W.M. Brother senior, have you anything in the west, for the good of Masonry, or this lodge in particular?
S.W. Nothing in the west, worshipful.
W.M. Anything in the south, brother junior?
J.W. Nothing in the south, worshipful.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 5
\\'.M. Has any brother present anything to lay before
this lodge of entered apprentice Masons? [Some brother
now proposes that the minutes of the last meeting be read.]
Jl"..1/. Brother Secretary, you will read the minutes of
the last meeting.
[Sec. reads as follows] :
Sept. 10, 5825. Rising Sun Lodge, No. — opened on the first degree.
Officers present. Joseph E. Tipple, Master. William Gamester, Senior Warden. Simon Jockey, Junior Warden. Peter Scribble. Secretary. John W. Catchpenny, Treasurer. Samuel R. Drowers, Senior Deacon. Judah C. Hoodwink. Junior Deacon. The lodge voted $5 for the relief of the widow and orphan children of brother Drinkall.
The bill of brother David Barter ( grocer), for candles. |S=* etc., etc., .^51 for the last meeting, $17,94, was pre- sented and paid.
Timothy Seekoffice, Geo. L. Redface. and Josiah G. Counterfeit, were present as visiting brethren.
Jonathan Lovetavern balloted for, and elected a mem- ber in ancient form.
Received of brother J. Lovetavern, cash $15. Brother J. W. Catchpenny proposes Mr. James Dupeasy to become a Mason and a member of this lodge, who left a deposit of $3.
Half past eight o'clock. Lodge called from labour to re- freshment.* Nine o'clock ; called from refreshment to labour.
A stranger examined, and admitted to sit. A commit-
* Refreshment.— This means tippling or drinking; in some lodges it is tanght systematically, and performed with mechanical accuracy. The stewards furnish each officer and brother in hia place with a glass of whatever he chooses to drink. The master then says, Are you all charered in the west, brother senior?
S.TT". All charged in the west, worshipful.
W.M. Are you all charged in the south, brother junior?
J .W. All charged in the south, worshipful.
Worshipful master then gives a toast, and then all drink, giving a sign, etc.
6 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
tee of three persons was appointed by the chair, to inquire into the character of James Dupeasy, viz., brother Simon Hatelaw, Oliver Playcard, and Joshua Swearwell.
Half past eleven o'clock. Lodge closed until the next " regular communication."
W.M. Brethren, you see there was a proposition at our last regular meeting; how shall we dispose of it?
Some brother now proposes that the candidate be balloted for.^
W.M. Brethren, if there are no objections the ballots will be sent round. Brother senior deacon, you will dis- tribute the ballots.
Senior deacon places a black and a white ball in the hand of each brother present, who is a member of the lodge.
W.M. Brethren, we are now about to ballot for James Dupeasy to become a Mason and a member of this lodge. All those who are in favour of it will so signify, by putting a white ball into this box. All those opposed to it will put in a black one. Brother senior deacon, you will collect the ballots.
Senior deacon presents the ballot box to each member, who puts in the affirmative or negative ball as he may see cause.
Senior deacon then brings the box to the master, who looks into it, and orders him to carry it to the senior war- den.
W.M. How stands the ballots in the west, brother senior?
•S'.PP. The ballot is clear in the west, worshipful.
W.M. How stands the ballot in the south, brother junior?
•T.W. The ballot is clear in the south, worshipful.
W.M. Brethren, I have the pleasure to inform you that the ballot is clear, and the candidate is elected a member of this lodge ; brother senior deacon, you will collect the negative balls.
S.D. Collects the balls and returns to his seat.
W .M. Does any brother know whether the candidate has come on this evening?
J.D. Worshipful, he is below in waiting.
W.M. Brother senior and junior deacons, you will pre- pare the candidate for the first degree of Freemasonry, and cause him to make the regular alarm at the inner door.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 7
The deacons now introduce the candidate into the pre- paration room, and the following short conversation some- times takes place before the candidate is prepared.
S.D. Well, friend, I perceive you look rather pale; you feel somewhat frightened, don't you?
Can. Pale? No, I am not frightened. Is your grid- iron pretty warm to-night?
J.I). I guess you'll think so in the course of half an hour.
S.D. Friend, you must have a great deal of fortitude if you intend to appear in this lodge as a candidate for the mysteries of Freemasonry ! [very gravely].
J.D. Yes ; and he must remember, too, that we don't joke with candidates. We shall be under the necessity of adjusting his apparel more appropriately to fit the oc- casion.
S.D. Oh yes ; but we shall require nothing of you but what is absolutely necessary. Some of our ceremonies may at first sight appear trifling ; but after you have taken the degree you will be satisfied that every ceremony is truly mysterious and right.
J.D. You will consent. I presume, to conform to all the ceremonies^ which a Washington, a Warren, and a Clinton have done ? Or does your heart fail you ?
Can. Heart fail? No ! my heart is not very apt to fail.
S.D. Ha, ha, ha ! — no, no ; not if our committee has been correctly informed as to your stability and courage.
Can. I guess I shall be able to stand it.
S.D. Well, then, you will take off your coat, shoes, and stockings, also vest and cravat ; and then your pantaloons ; we have a pair that will become you much better as a Mason [handing him a pair of red flannel drawers']. The candi- date by this time begins to suspect they are jesting with him, but being told they are not, he proceeds.
S.D. You will now slip your left arm out of your shirt- sleeve, and put it through the bosom of your shirt, that your arm and breast may be naked.
The candidate now puts on the old red drawers, which are prepared for the occasion. The conductor then ties a handkerchief or hoodwink over his eyes, and afterwards puts a rope, called a cable-tow, round his neck. The senior deacon now returns to the lodge and informs the worshipful master that the candidate is prepared. The master gives
8 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
a rap, which brings the lodge to order, and is a signal for the junior deacon to make the alarm — which he does by taking the candidate by the wrist, and raps his knuckles three times, pretty hard, against the outside of the door.
S.D. Then rises in his place, and says, Worshipful, there is an alarm at the door?
W.M. Attend to the alarm, brother, and see who comes here.
Senior deacon steps to the door and raps three times on the inside ; the candidate gives one rap, which the senior deacon answers. The door is then opened about two inches.
S.D. Who comes here ? who comes here ? who comes here ?
J.D. A poor blind candidate, who has long been desirous of being brought from darkness to light ; he wishes to re- ceive and enjoy part of the rights and benefits of this wor- shipful lodge, erected to God and dedicated to the holy St. Johns ; as all true fellows and brothers have done, who have gone this way before him.
S.D. Is this of your own free will and accord?
J.D. Prompts the candidate to say, "It is."
S.D. Is he duly and truly prepared?
J.D. He is.
S.D. Is he worthy and well qualified?
J.D. He is.
S.D. Is he of lawful age, and properly vouched for?
J.D. He is.
S.D. By what further right or benefit does he expect to gain admission into this lodge of entered apprentice Masons?
J.D. By being a man, free born, of good report and well recommended.
S.D. Since this is the case, you will let him wait for a time, until the worshipful master in the east is informed of his request, and his answer returned.
Senior deacon now returns to the master, and gives three raps upon his desk, which the master answers by three raps ; junior deacon one ; master one.
W.M. Who comes here? who comes here? who comes here?
S.D. A poor blind candidate, etc. (The same questions are asked and answers returned as at the door.)
W.M. You will let him enter this lodge and be received in due form.
ENTERED APPRENTICE.
S.D. (steps to the door, opens it, and says) : It is the worshipful master's order that the candidate enter this lodge and be received in due form — " at the same time presses the point of the compass against his naked left breast."
S.D. (to candidate). Do you feel anything?
Junior deacon prompts the candidate, who says — " I do."
S.D. What do you feel?
Can. (prompted). A prick.
S.D. As this is a prick to your flesh, may the recollection of it be to your mind and conscience, and instant death in the case of revolt. Follow me.
Senior deacon conducts the candidate to the centre of the lodge, and directs him to kneel for the benefit of the lodge prayer. The master gives three raps with a gavel, which brings all the brethren upon their feet, and says, Let us pray with the candidate.
PRAYER. W.M. ll O thou whose temple we are, on the mountain of thy truth, let our sublime edifice display its glory. Let the eye of the master meet the sun of light as he enters. Let the greater lights, by the help of the less, illuminate the whole scene of his duty, and of his pleasure. Behold us with thy brightness at this hour leading the young servant into thy temple. Like the temple let him be beauteous without and all glorious within. Let his soul be capacious as thy truth, and his affections as pure as the serene heavens when the silent moon gives her light. Let him obey as the sun who labours until perfect day with in- creasing strength ; and let the purposes of his heart be as the stars that tell of worlds unknown, and are notices of a boundless benevolence. Let him move like the heavenly orbs in harmony ; and should he stretch across the universe, may he disturb* no soul in his course. Within this temple may he be as sacred as the altar, sweet as the incense, and pure as the most holy place. Among thy ministering ser- vants may he be ready as an angel of God and faithful as a beloved son. And when his service is finished, may his memory be celebrated by love on the durable monuments of eternity ; and his reward in the silent, calm joy of heaven, be sure from the hand of God, the grand master of us all."
* This means, if the candidate should attempt to run away, may he run against no Freemason.
10 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
After prayer, the master, placing his hand upon the can- didate's head, says: In whom do you put your trust? He is directed to say, in God. The master takes him by the right hand, and says : Your trust being in God, your faith is well founded. Arise ! follow your leader, and fear no danger.
The candidate is now conducted with a quick pace around the lodge, with the sun ; during which time the master re- sumes his place, and reads :
" Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." It is like precious ointment upon the head that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard, that went down the skirts of his garments. As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion : for there the Lord commanded the blessing even life for evermore.
The reading being finished about the time the candidate has made his third evolution around the lodge, he is halted at the junior warden's in the south ; and caused to make the regular alarm of three distinct knocks, when the same questions are asked, and answers returned, as at the door.
The junior warden directs him to the senior warden in the west, where the same questions are asked, and answers returned, as before. Junior warden directs him to the worshipful master in the east, where the same questions are asked, and like answers returned, etc.
W.M. Then inquires, From whence came you?
S.D.* From the west.
W.M. Which way are you travelling?
S.D. To the east.
W.M. Why do you leave the west and travel to the east?
S.D. In search of light.
W.M. Since this is the case, you will conduct him back to the west, and place him in the care of the senior warden, who will teach him to approach the east, the place of light, with one regular and upright step to the first step of Masonry, his body erect, his feet forming the right angle of an oblong square. He will then kneel in due form to take upon himself the solemn oath and obligation of an en- tered apprentice Mason.
* The senior deacon is with the candidate, and answers all questions for him during the ceremonies.
ENTERED APPRENTICE.
11
The senior warden receives the candidate at his place and leads him up the hall or lodge, to within about two paces of the altar, and stops. He directs the candidate to step off a full step with his left foot, and bring up the right and places the heel thereof in the hollow of the left, so that the feet stand at right angles. He then steps off with his right foot, and kneels upon his naked left knee, so that his left knee forms a square, and his right knee also forms a square. His left hand is placed with the palm up under the Holy Bible, square and compasses (resting upon the altar), and the right hand rests on them.
S.D. says : Worshipful, the candidate is placed at the altar in due form to receive the solemn oath and obligation of an entered apprentice Mason.
Worshipful master now gives three raps with the gavel. At this signal the brethren all form a circle as near the can- date as their numbers will admit. They approach in breathless silence so as not to apprise the candidate of their movements.
W.M. now addresses the candidate : Mr. James Dupeasy, you are kneeling at the altar of Masonry, for the first time in your life. Before we can communicate to you the mys- teries of Masonry, you must take an obligation that you will never reveal the secrets of the order. And I assure you, as a man. as a Mason, and as master of this lodge, that it will not interfere in any way with the duty you owe to your country or your Maker. If you are willing to pro- ceed you will repeat your Christian and surname, and say after me.
Can. James Dupeasy.
TV.3/. Of my own free will and accord —
Can. Of my own free will and accord.
W.M. In presence of Almighty God —
Can. In presence of Almighty, etc. Thus, sentence by sentence, and word by word, the candidate repeats after the worshipful master until he has taken the following oath :
"I, James Dupeasy. of my own free will and accord, in presence of Almighty God, and this worshipful lodge of free and accepted Masons, erected to God and dedicated to the holy St. Johns, do hereby and hereon, most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, that I will always hail,
12 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
ever conceal, and never reveal, any part or parts, art or arts, point or points, of the secret arts and mysteries, of an- cient Freemasonry, which I have received, am about to re- ceive, or may hereafter be instructed in, to any person or persons, in the known world ; except it be to a true and law- ful brother Mason, or within the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such ; and not unto him nor unto them, whom I shall hear so to be, but unto him and them, only, whom I shall find so to be ; after strict trial, and due exam- ination, or lawful information. Furthermore do I promise and swear, that I will not write, print, stamp, stain, hew, cut, carve, indent, paint or engrave it, on anything mov- able, or immovable, under the whole canopy of heaven ; whereby or whereon, the least letter, figure, character, mark, stain, shadow, or resemblance of the same, may be- come legible, or intelligible to myself, or any other person, in the known world ; whereby the secrets of Masonry may unlawfully be obtained through my unworthiness. To all which I do most solemnly, and sincerely, promise and swear, without the least equivocation, mental reservation, or self-evasion of mind in me, whatever : binding myself under no less penalty than to have my throat cut across, from ear to ear, my tongue torn out by the roots, and my body buried in the rough sands of the sea, a cable-tow's length from the shore, at low water mark where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-four hours ; so help me, God, and keep me steadfast, in the due performance of the same."
W.M. In token of your sincerity you will now kiss the book on which your hand rests. [Candidate kisses the book.]
W.M. In your present situation, what do you most de- sire ?
Can. (being prompted) says, " Light."
W.M. Brethren, will you stretch forth your hands and assist in bringing this candidate from darkness to true Masonic light? "And God said, let there be light, and there was light."
At these words, some brother standing near the candi- date for the purpose, strips off the bandage from his eyes ; and at the same instant the brethren give the grand shock.
The ''grand shock" is given by the brethren clapping their hands and stamping their feet at the instant the ban- dage is removed from the candidate's eyes.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 13
After the candidate is brought to light, the master ad- dresses him as follows: "Brother, on being brought to light, you first discover the three great lights in Masonry, by the assistance of the representatives of the three lesser. The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses ; and are thus explained ; the Holy Bible is given to us as a rule and guide to our faith and practice ; the Square to square our actions : and the Com- passes to keep us in due bounds with all mankind ; but more especially with the brethren.
These three burning tapers standing in a triangular form, are the representatives of the three lesser lights in Masonry. They represent the Sun, Moon, and Master of the lodge ; and teach us this important lesson, viz., as the sun rules the day, and the moon governs the night, so ought the worshipful master to endeavour to rule and govern his lodge.
The master then steps back a few paces, and the senior deacon addresses the candidate as follows :
S.D. You now behold the master approaching you from the east, under the step, sign, and due-guard of an entered apprentice Mason.
The master steps off with his left foot, brings the heel of the right into the hollow thereof, so that his feet form a right angle.
He then gives the sign and due-guard, as before de- scribed, and explains them to the candidate. FSee plate 4, figs.^L 2.]
JT'.. V. (advancing to the candidate) says: In token of friendship and brotherly love, I now present you with my right hand ; and with it you will receive the grip and word of an entered apprentice Mason. Take me as I take you. [See plate 4, fig. 6.] As you are not instructed, brother, senior deacon, you will answer for him.
Q. What is that?
A grip.
Q. A grip of what?
A. The grip of an entered apprentice Mason.
Q. Has it a name?
A. It has.
0. Will you give it to me?
/-L. I did not so receive it, neither can I so impart it
Q. What will you do with it?
14 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
A. Letter it, or halve it. 0. Halve it, and begin. A. You begin
0. Begin you. A. BO
Q. AZ.
1. BOAZ.
Master says, Right, brother Boaz. I greet you. [it is the name of the left hand pillar of the porch of king Solo- mon's temple.] Arise, brother Boaz, and salute the junior and senior wardens, and convince them that you have been regularly initiated as an entered apprentice Mason, and have got the sign, grip, and word. The master returns to his seat, while the wardens are examining the candidate, and gets a lambskin or white apron, and presents it to the candidate, saying, Brother, I now present you with a lamb-skin, or white apron. It is'an emblem of innocence and the badge of a Mason. It has been worn by kings, princes, and potentates of the earth, who have never been ashamed to wear it. It is more honourable than the dia- dems of kings, or the pearls of princesses, when worthily worn. It is more ancient than the golden fleece, or Roman eagle ; more honourable than the Star and Garter, or any other order that can be conferred on you at this, or any other time, except it be by a just and lawfully constituted lodge. You will carry it to the senior warden in the west, who will teach you how to wear it, as an entered appren- tice Mason. The senior warden ties the apron on, and turns up the flap, instead of letting it fall down in front of the top of the apron. This is the way the entered appren- tice Masons wear, or ought to wear, their aprons, until they are advanced.
The candidate is now conducted to the master in the east, who says, "Brother, as you are dressed, it is neces- sary you should have tools to work with. I will now pre- sent you with the working tools of an entered apprentice Mason,* which are the twenty-four inch gauge, and com- mon gavel : the twenty-four inch gauge, an instrument with which operative Masons measure and lay out their work ; but we, as free and accepted Masons, make use of
* The master's carpet is here placed on the floor before the candidate, and the working tools of an entered apprentice are pohxted out.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 15
it for a more noble and glorious purpose. It being divided into twenty-four equal parts, it is emblematical of the twenty-four hours of the day, which we are taught to divide into three equal parts : whereby are found eight hours for the service of God, and a worthy, distressed brother ; eight for our usual vocation, and eight for refreshment and sleep. The common gavel is an instrument made use of by operative Masons, to break off corners of rough stones, the better to'fit them for the builder's use ; but we, as free and accepted Masons, use it for the more noble and glorious purpose of di vesting our hearts and consciences of all the vices and superfluities of life ; thereby fitting our mind, as living stones, for that spiritual building, that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. I also present you with a new name. It is Caution. It teaches you that, as you are barely instructed in the rudiments of Masonry, that you should be cautious over all your words and ac- tions, particularly when before the enemies of Masonry.
W.M. (to candidate). Brother, agreeable to an ancient custom adopted among all regular Masons, it is necessary that you should be requested to deposit something in this lodge of the metallic kind; not for its intrinsic worth, or value, but that it may be laid up in the archives of the lodge, as a memorial that you was here made a Mason. A small trifle will be sufficient ; any thing of a metallic kind. The candidate says he has no money about him. If you have no money, any thing of a metallic nature will do, even a button will be sufficient. It is known he has no money. Search yourself, the master replies. He is assisted in searching; nothing is found. Perhaps you can bor- row a trifle, says the master. He tries to borrow ; none will lend him. He proposes to go into the other room, where his clothes are, but is not permitted. If a stranger, he is very much embarrassed. [Master then says], Brother, let this ever be a striking lesson, to teach you, if you should ever see a friend, but more especially a brother, in a like penniless situation, to contribute as liberally to his relief as his situation may require, and your abilities will admit, without material injury to yourself or family. Brother (to senior deacon), You will conduct the candidate back from whence he came, and invest him of what he has been divested ; and let him return for further instruction.
The candidate is now invested of what he has been
16 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
divested, returns to the lodge, and is placed in the north- east corner of the lodge, as the youngest entered appren- tice Mason,* and is told by the worshipful master that he there stands a correct upright Mason ; and must ever con- duct himself as such. He then takes his seat. (But by the time he gets seated, he is saluted by the secretary of the lodge, in a very friendly and brotherly manner, who wants a little more of the metallic — fourteen dollars will do this time.)
The business of the lodge being now about through, the secretary is called upon to read the minutes.
W.M. Then says, if there is no more business before this lodge I shall proceed to close.
The master of the lodge, who of course must be a past master, is bound by the past master's oath, never to close a lodge over which he may preside, without giving or caus- ing to be given, a lecture, or some part of one. The brethren are all seated as in opening; and the lecture commences, as follows :
LECTURE. SECTION FIRST.
W.M. Brother senior warden, from whence came you, as an entered apprentice Mason ?
S.W. From a lodge of the Holy St. Johns of Jerusalem.
W.M. What came you here to do?
S.W. To learn to subdue my passions and improve my- self in Masonry.
W.M. You are a Mason then, I conclude?
S.W. I am so taken, and accepted, among brothers and fellows.
W.M. How do you know you are a Mason?
S.W. By being often tried, and never denied, and I am ready and willing to be tried again.
W.M. How shall I know you to be a Mason?
S.W. By signs, tokens, a word, and the perfect points of entrance.
W.M. What are signs?
S.W. Right angles, horizontals, and perpendiculars.
W.M. Give me the sign. [See plate 4, fig. 1.]
* Sometimes the candidate is conducted to the east, where the master is seated upon an elevation of three steps. He is allowed to ascend one step, when the master addresses him as above.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 17
W.M. To what does that sign allude?
S.W. Right angles allude to the manner in which my hands were placed when I received the oath and obligation of an entered apprentice Mason, my left hand supporting the Holy Bible, square, and compasses ; my right hand resting thereon. Horizontals and perpendiculars [see plate 4, fig. 2] allude to the penalty of the obligation ; when I swore I would have my throat cut across from ear to ear, my tongue torn out by the roots, and my body buried in the rough sands of the sea, a cable's length from shore, at low water-mark, where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-four hours.
W.M. Thank you, brother. What are tokens?
S.W. Certain friendly grips, whereby one brother can tell another, in the dark, as well as in the light.
W.M. Give me a token. [See plate 4, fig. 6.]
W.M. What is that?
S.W. A grip.
W.M. A grip of what?
S.W. A grip of an entered apprentice Mason.
W.M. Has it a name?
S.W. it has.
W.M. Will you give it me?
S.W. I cannot. I did not so receive it, neither can I so impart it.
W.M. How will you then dispose of it?
S.W. I will halve it, or letter it.
W.M. Letter it, and begin.
S.W. No, you begin.
W.M. No, begin you.
S.W. A
W.M. B
S.W. 0
W.M. Z.
S.W. BO
W.M. AZ.
S.W. BOAZ.
W.M. Right, brother Boaz, I greet you.
W.M. Where was you first prepared to be made Mason ?
S.W. In my heart.
W.M. Where was you secondly prepared?
18 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
S.W. In a room adjacent to the body of a just and law- fully constituted lodge.
W.M. How was you prepared?
S.W. I was divested of all metallic substance; neither naked, nor clothed, barefoot, nor shod ; hood-winked ; with a cable-tow about my neck ; in which situation, I was led to the door of the lodge, by one whom I afterwards found to be a brother.
W.M. How did you know this to be a door, you being hood-winked ?
S.W. By first meeting resistance, and afterwards gain- ing admittance.
W.M. How gained you admission?
S.W. By three distinct knocks without, which were an- swered by three from within.
W.M. What was there said to you?
S.W. Who comes here? who comes here? who comes here?
W.M. Your answer?
S.W. One who has long been desirous of being brought from darkness to light ; and wishes to receive and enjoy part of the rights and benefits of this worshipful lodge, erected to God, and dedicated to the holy St. Johns, as all true fellows and brothers have done, who have gone this way before.
W.M. What further was said to you?
S.W. Is it of your own free will and accord? Is he duly and truly prepared? Is he worthy, and well qualified? Is he of lawful age, and properly vouched for? All of which being answered in the affirmative, it was asked, By what further right or benefit does he expect to obtain this favour?
W.M. Your answer?
S.W. By being a man, free-born, of good report, and well recommended.
W.M. What was then said to you?
S.W. Let him wait until the worshipful master be in- formed of his request, and his answer returned. W.M. What was his answer returned? S.W. Let him enter and be received in due form. W.M. What was that due form?
S.W. I was received upon a sharp pointed instrument piercing my naked left breast.
ENTERED APPRENTICE.
19
:
W.M. What was then said to you?
8.W. Do you feel anything?
W.M. Your answer?
S.W. I do. A prick.
W.M. What was then said to you?
»S.ir. As this is a prick to your flesh, so may the recol- lection be to your mind and conscience, and instant death in case of revolt.
W.M. How was you then disposed of?
S.W. I was conducted to the centre of the lodge, and there caused to kneel for the benefit of lodge prayer.
W.M. After prayer, what was said to you?
S.W. In whom do you put your trust?
W.M. Your answer?
S.W. In God.
W.M. How was you then disposed of?
S.W. I was told my trust being in God, my faith was well founded. Being taken by the right hand, I was or- dered to arise, follow my leader, and fear no danger.
W.M. Where did you follow your leader?
S.W. Three times round the lodge to the junior war- den's in the south, where the same questions were asked and answers returned, as at the door.
W.M. How did the junior warden dispose of you?
S.W. He directed me to be conducted to the senior war- den in the west, where the same questions were asked and answers returned as before.
W.M. How did the senior warden dispose of you?
S.W. He directed me to the worshipful master in the east, where the same questions were asked and answered.
W.M. How did the worshipful master dispose of you?
S.W. He ordered me to be conducted back to the west, from whence I came, and put in care of the senior warden, who would teach me how to approach the east, the place of light, by advancing upon one upright regular step, to the first step, my feet forming the right angle of an oblong square, my body erect at the altar before the worshipful master.
W.M. What did the worshipful master do with you?
S.W. He made me a Mason in due form.
W.M. What was that due form?
S.W. Kneeling upon my naked left knee; my right forming a square ; my left hand supporting the Holy Bible,
20 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
square and compasses, my right resting thereon. In this situation I took upon myself the solemn oath and obliga- tion of an entered apprentice Mason, which is as follows — [Here the oath is repeated].
\V.M. After receiving the obligation, what was then said to you?
S.W. What do you most desire?
W.M. What was your answer?
S.W. Light.
W.M. Did you receive that light?
S.W. I did, by order* of the worshipful master, with the assistance of the brethren.
W.M. After being brought to light, what did you first discover?
S.W. The three great lights in Masonry, by the assist- ance of the representatives of the three lesser.
W.M. What were those three great lights in Masonry?
S.W. The Holy Bible, square, and compasses.
W.M. How are they explained?
S.W. The Holy Bible is given to us as a rule to guide our faith ; the square to square pur actions ; and the com- passes to circumscribe our desires, and keep us in due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason.
W.M. What were the three lesser lights?
S.W. Three burning tapers, or candles.
W.M. What do they represent?
S.W. The sun, moon, and master of the lodge.
W.M. How are they explained?
S.W. As the sun rules the day, and the moon governs the night, so ought the worshipful master to rule and govern his lodge with equal regularity.
W.M. What did you next discover?
S.W. The worshipful master approaching me from the east, under the step, sign, and due-guard of an entered ap- prentice Mason, who presented me with his right hand, in token of brotherly love and esteem, and proceeded to give me the grip and word of an entered apprentice Mason ; and bid me arise go and salute the junior and senior war-
* It will be observed that the master always orders the subordinate officers and brethren, and never requests.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 21
dens, and convince them I was an initiated entered ap prentice Mason.
11 .M. What did you next discover?
time from the east, who presented me with a lamb-skin, or white leather apron, which he said was an emblem of in- nocence and the badge of a Mason : that it had been worn by kings, princes, and potentates of the earth ; that it was more ancient than the golden fleece, or Roman eagle ; more honourable than the star, or garter, or any other order, that could be conferred on me, at that, or any time there- after, by king, prince, potentate, or any other person, ex- cept he be a Mason : and bade me carry it to the senior warden in the west, who would teach me how to wear it, as an entered apprentice Mason.
W.M. What was next presented you?
S'.H". The working tools of an entered apprentice Mason.
W.M. What were they?
S. W. The twenty-four inch gauge, and common gavel.
If .M. How were they explained?
•S'.TF. The twenty-four inch gauge is an instrument made use of by operative Masons, to measure and lay out their work ; but we. as Free and accepted Masons, are taught to make use of it. for the more noble and glorious purpose of dividing our time. The twenty-four inches on the gauge are emblematical of the twenty-four hours of the day. which we are taught to divide into three equal parts: whereby we find eight hours for the service of God, and a distressed worthy brother : eight for our usual vocation : and eight for refreshment and sleep. The common gavel is an instrument made use of by operative Masons, to break off the corners of rough stones, the better to fit them for the builder's use : but we, as free and accepted Masons, are taught to make use of it for the more noble and glori- ous purpose of divesting our hearts and consciences of all the vices and superfluities of life : thereby fitting our minds as living stones for that spiritual building, that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
W.M. What was you next presented with?
(SMT7. A new name.
W.M. What was that?
S.W. Caution.
22 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
W.M. What does it teach?
S.W. It teaches me, as I was barely instructed in the rudiments of Masonry, that I should be cautious over all my words and actions ; especially when before its enemies.
W.M. What was you next presented with?
S.W. Three precious jewels.
W.M. What were they?
S.W. A listening ear; a silent tongue; and a faithful heart.
W.M. What do they teach?
S.W. A listening ear teaches me to listen to the instruc- tions of the worshipful master, but more especially to the cries of a worthy, distressed brother. A silent tongue teaches me to be silent in the lodge, that the peace and harmony thereof may not be disturbed ; but more especi- ally before the enemies of Masonry. A faithful heart, that I should be faithful, and keep and conceal the secrets of Masonry, and those of a brother, when delivered to me in charge as such, that they may remain as secure and in- violable in my breast, as in his own, before communicated to me.
T. \f. What was you next presented with?
S.W. The grand master's check word.
W.M. What was that?
S.W. "Truth."
W.M. How explained?
S.W. Truth is a divine attribute, and the foundation of every virtue. To be good and true, are the first lessons we are taught in Masonry. On this theme we contemplate and by its dictates endeavour to regulate our conduct ; hence, while influenced by this principle, hypocrisy and deceit are unknown amongst us. Sincerity and plain dealing distinguish us ; and the heart and tongue join in promoting each other's welfare, and rejoicing in each other's prosperity.
W.M. What followed?
S.W. The worshipful master in the east made a demand of me of something of a metallic kind, which he said was not so much on account of its intrinsic value, as that it might be deposited in the archives of the lodge, as a me- morial that I had therein been made a Mason, but upon strict search I found myself entirely destitute.
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 23
W.M. How did the worshipful master then dispose of you ?
S.W. He ordered me to be conducted out of the lodge, and invested of what I had been divested, and returned for further instructions.
W.M. After you returned how was you disposed of?
N.IT. I was conducted to the north-east corner of the lodge, and there caused to stand upright like a man, my feet forming a square, and received a solemn injunction, ever to walk and act uprightly before God and man, and in addition thereto receive the charge. SECOND SECTION.
W.M. Brother, you have satisfied me as it respects your initiation, but there remains many things, yet unex- plained, therefore I should like to know the REASON why you was divested of all metallic substance?
S.W. Because Masonry regards no man on account of his worldly wealth or honours ; it is therefore the internal and not the external qualifications that recommends a man to Masons.
W.M. A second reason?
S.W. There was neither the sound of an axe, hammer, nor any other metal tool heard at the building of King Solomon's temple.
W.M. How could so stupendous a fabric be erected without the sound of axe, hammer, or any other metal tool?
S.W. All the stones were hewed, squared, and num- bered in the quarries where they were raised, all the tim- bers felled and prepared in the forests of Lebanon, and carried down to Joppa on floats, and taken from thence up to Jerusalem and set up with wooden malls, prepared for that purpose; which, when completed, every part thereof fitted with that exact nicety that it had more the resem- blance of the handy workmanship of the Supreme Archi- tect of the Universe than of human hands.
W.M. Why was you neither naked nor clothed?
S.W. As I was an object of distress at that time, it was to remind me if ever I saw a friend, more especially a brother, in a like distressed situation, that I should con- tribute as liberally to his relief as his situation required and my abilities would admit, without material injury to myself or family.
24 ENTERED APPRENTICE.
\V.M. Why was you neither barefoot nor shod?
S.W. It was an ancient Israelitish custom adopted among; Masons ; and we read in the Book of Ruth concern- ing their mode and manner of redeeming and changing, " for to confirm all things, a man plucked off his shoe and gave it to his neighbour, and this was testimony in Is- rael." This then, therefore, we do in confirmation of a token, and as a pledge of our fidelity; thereby signifying that we will renounce our own will in all things, and be- come obedient to the laws of our ancient institutions.
W.M. Why was you hood-winked?
S.W. That my heart might be taught to conceal, before niy eyes beheld, the beauties of Masonry.
W.M. A second reason?
S.W. As I was in darkness at that time it was to re- mind me that I should keep the whole world so respecting Masonry.
H~.J/\ Why had you a cable-tow about your neck?
8.W. For two reasons ; first, had I not submitted to the manner and mode of my initiation, that I might have been led out of the lodge without seeing the form and beauties thereof; secondly, had I recanted before being obligated, and made my escape, the people in the streets would have thought me either a crazy or a madman ; and some worthy Mason, knowing my situation, would have led me back to the lodge.
W.M. Why did you give three distinct knocks at the door?
S.W. To alarm the lodge, and let the worshipful mas- ter, wardens, and brethren know that a poor blind candi- date prayed admission.
W.M. What does those three distinct knocks allude to?
S.W. A certain passage in Scripture, wherein it says, ". Ask, and it shall be given ; seek, and ye shall find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
W.M. How did you apply this to your then case in Masonry?
S.W. I asked the recommendations of a friend to be- come a Mason, I sought admission through his recommen- dations, and knocked, and the door of Masonry opened unto me.
W.M. Why was you caused to enter on the point of some sharp instrument pressing your naked left breast?
ENTERED APPRENTICE. 26
N.H". As this was a prick to my flesh, so might the re- collection of it ever be to my heart and conscience if ever I attempt to reveal the secrets of Masonry unlawfully.
ir.J/. Why was you conducted to the centre of the lodge and there caused to kneel for the benefit of a prayer ?
S.W. Before entering on this, or any other great and important undertaking, it is highly necessary to implore a blessing from Deity.
W.M. Why was you asked in whom you put your trust?
S.W. Agreeable to the laws of our ancient institution, no atheist could be made a Mason ; it was therefore neces- sary that I should profess a belief in Deity ; otherwise, no oath or obligation could bind me.
W.M. Why did the worshipful master take you by the right hand, and bid you rise, follow your leader, and fear no danger?
S. W. As I was in darkness at that time and could neither foresee nor avoid danger, it was to remind me that I was in the hands of an affectionate friend, in whose fidel- ity I might with safety confide.
W.M. WThy was you conducted three times regularly round the lodge ?
•SMT7. That the worshipful master, wardens, and breth- ren might see that I was duly and truly prepared.
W.M. WTiy did you meet with those several obstruc- tions on the way ?
S.W. This, and every other lodge, is, or ought to be, a true representation of king Solomon's temple, which, when completed, had guards stationed at the east, west, and south gates.
W.M. Why had they guards stationed at those several gates ?
S.W. To prevent any from passing or repassing that was not duly qualified.
W.M. Why did you kneel on your left knee, and not on your right, or both?
S.W. The left side has ever been considered the weak- est part of the body ; it was therefore to remind me that the