C. D."

R.W.M. Brethren, you must appoint some one to fill the chair. I must leave immediately, I cannot stay to confer this degree.
•7. IT". Right worshipful, I really hope you will stay to confer this degree ; brother Dupeasy has come some dis- tance, and expects to receive it. I believe he is in the room, he can speak for himself, and unless he is willing to put it off, you will be under the necessity of staying.
The candidate (who all this time does not mistrust this is part of the degree), sometimes rises and says he is will- ing to put it off, he is perfectly willing to accommodate, as the right worshipful's family is sick.
J.TF. Right worshipful, I am very anxious you should stay to confer this degree this evening, as it is very uncer- tain when I shall be able to attend again. We might not get so many brethren together at another meeting ; and as this is a very difficult degree to confer, I feel that you ought to stay.
E.W.M. Brethren, it is impossible for me to stay. You will therefore appoint some one to fill the chair. There is a number of brethren present who are well qualified to con- fer the degree; you will therefore please to nominate.
J.W. I nominate brother Senior to fill the chair.
TT'.J/. Brethren, it is moved and seconded that brother senior warden fill the chair this evening to confer this de- gree on brother Dupeasy. All those in favour of it sig- nify it by saying Aye. [One or two say aye.] All those opposed to it so signify by saying No. [All the lodge ex- claim no.] It is not a vote. Brethren, you will please to nominate a new master.
$.W. I nominate brother junior warden to fill the chair.
Right worshipful master tries the question as before ; but cannot get a vote, and requests the brethren to nominate.
The candidate is now nominated, and voted into the chair by a unanimous vote.
* The letter is generally addressed as may best apply to the master
88 PAST MASTER.
S.W.M. Brother Dupeasy (or some other name, as the case may be), you are elected master of this lodge. You will step this way and take the chair. The candidate steps along, and as he is about to take the chair the right worshipful master pulls him back, and says, " Before you occupy the master's chair you must take an obligation to discharge with fidelity the duty of master of the lodge." The candidate having no objections, he is conducted to the altar, kneels on both knees, lays both hands on the holy bible, square, and compasses and takes the following oath, viz. :
"I, A. B., of my own free will and accord, in the pre- sence of Almighty God, and this worshipful lodge of past master Masons, do hereby and hereon, most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, in addition to my former ob- ligations, that I will not give the secrets of past master Mason, or any of the secrets pertaining thereto, to any one of an inferior degree, nor to any person in the known world, except it be to a true and lawful brother or breth- ren, past master Masons, or within the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such ; and not unto him or 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 examination, or lawful information.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will obey all regular signs and summons, sent, thrown, handed, or given, from the hand of a brother of this degree, or from the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of past mas- ters.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will support the constitution of the general grand royal arch chapter of the United States of America ; also that of the grand chapter of this State, under which this lodge is held, and conform to all the by-laws, rules, and regulations of this, or any other lodge, of which I may hereafter become a member.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will not assist or be present at the conferring of this degree upon any person who has not, to the best of my knowledge and belief, regularly received (in addition to the degrees of entered apprentice, fellow craft, and master Mason), the degree of mark master or been elected master of a regular lodge of master Masons.
PAST MASTER.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will aid and assist all poor and indigent past master Masons, their widows and orphans, wherever dispersed round the globe, they applying to me as such, and I finding them worthy, so far as in my power, without material injury to myself or family.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that the secrets of a brother of this degree, delivered to me in charge as such, shall remain as secure and inviolable in my breast, as they were in his own, before communicated to me, murder and treason excepted, and those left to my own election.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will not wrong this lodge, nor a brother of this degree, to the value of one cent, knowingly myself, nor suffer it to be done by others, if in my power to prevent it.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will not govern this lodge or any other, over which I may be called to preside, in a haughty and arbitrary manner, but will at all times use my utmost endeavours to preserve peace and harmony among the brethren.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will never open a lodge of master Masons, unless there be present three regular master Masons, besides the tyler, nor close the same without giving a lecture or some section, or part of a lecture, for the instruction of the lodge.
Furthermore do I promise and swear that I will not sit in a lodge where the presiding officer has not taken the degree of past master Mason. To all of which I do most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, with a fixed and steady purpose of mind, to keep and perform the same, binding myself under no less penalty than (in addition to all my former penalties), to have my tongue split from tip to root, that I might for ever thereafter be unable to pronounce the word, should I ever prove wilfully guilty of violating any part of this, my solemn oath, or obligation of a past master Mason. So help me, God, and make me steadfast to keep and perform the same."
P.W.M. Kiss the book five times.
The right worshipful master then says to the candidate, " You now behold me approaching you from the east, under the step, sign, and due-guard of a past master Mason."
The right worshipful master steps off with the left foot, placing the heel of the right at the toe of the left, so as to
90 PAST MASTER.
bring the feet at right angles, " forming the right angle of a square."
He then gives this sign, placing the thumb of the right hand upon the lips, the finger clenched. [See plate 9, fig. 1.1
It alludes to the penalty of a past master Mason, to have his tongue split from tip to root.
The following is also a sign of a past master. It alludes to a part of the penalty of this degree, which covers all the former penalties. Place the right hand upon the left side of the neck (as in plate 9, fig. 2), draw the hand edgewise downwards, in a diagonal direction, from left to right side, so as to cross the three former penalties.
Right worshipful master then takes the candidate by the hand, and says : " Arise, brother, and take a seat in the 1 Oriental chair of Solomon.' ' A chair is then placed in front of the " master's chair," and the candidate is directed to take a seat in it.
The right worshipful master then says to him, " King Solomon, when a very old and decrepid man, was attended by his two old friends, HIRAM, KING OF TYRE, and HIRAM ABIFF; [ ! !] who raised and seated him in his chair, by means of the past master's grip."
The right worshipful master and senior warden take the candidate by this grip [see plate 9, fig. 3], and the can- didate is raised on his feet, and seated several times.
Senior warden then takes his seat, and the right worship- ful master instructs the candidate in the grip and word of a past master. [See plate 9, fig. 3.]
This is done by taking each other by the master's grip, and saying, " From a grip to a span " : at the same time slipping the right hands so as to catch each other just above the wrist; then raising the left hand and catching each other by the elbow of the right arm; while one says, "a three-fold chord is strong," the other says, "a four-fold chord is not easily broken."
The master then conducts the candidate to the master's chair, places a hat on his head, and comes down to the front of the newly installed master, and addresses him as follows: "Worshipful master, I now present you with the furniture and various implements of our profession. They are emblematical of our conduct in life, and will now be enumerated and explained, as presented.
PAST MASTER. 91
" The holy writings, that great light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth ; it will direct your path to the tem- ple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man.
"The square teaches to regulate our actions by rule and line ; and to harmonise our conduct by the principles of morality and virtue.
"The compasses teaches to limit our .desires in every station ; thus rising to eminence by merit, we may live re- spected, and die regretted.
" The rule directs that we should punctually observe our duty, press forward in the path of virtue, and neither in- clining to the right nor to the left, in all our actions have eternity in view.
"The line teaches the criterion of moral rectitude, to avoid dissimulation in conversation and action, and direct our steps to the path that leads to immortality. The book of constitutions you are to search at all times, and cause it to be read in your lodge, that none may pretend ignor- ance of the excellent precepts it enjoins. Lastly, you re- ceive in charge the by-laws of your lodge, which you are to see carefully and punctually executed. I will also pre- sent you with "the mallet : it is an emblem of power. One stroke of the mallet calls to order, and calls up the junior and senior deacons ; two strokes calls up all the subordin- ate officers; and three, the whole lodge."
R.W.M. Brethren, you will salute your new master.
He then walks up in front of the candidate, and gives the signs of an entered apprentice Mason, and passes on ; and each brother present does the same, in like manner, until the signs of each degree are given up to the past master.
The right worshipful master then says to the candidate : " I now leave you to the government of your lodge." [Tak- ing his seat.]
The senior warden now goes and delivers up his jewel and gavel to the new master, and vacates his seat, and all the subordinate officers, each in his turn according to rank, do the same. After a few minutes' pause, the old master rises, and addressing the chair, says: "Right worshipful, I perceive the officers have all left their seats, probably out of compliment to me. Brother Seekorfice was senior war- den, I have no doubt he will serre under you, if you re-
92 PAST MASTER.
quest him. The new master asks brother S. to take the senior warden's jewels, who very promptly complies, and takes his seat ; and in like manner all the officers are rein- stated, until they come to the treasurer, when the old mas- ter addressing the chair, says: "Right worshipful, the treasurer's is an office of considerable responsibility, he holds all the funds and property of the lodge ; the brethren all wish to have a voice in appointing or filling that office, and it is generally customary to do it by nomination. If you will request the brethren to nominate, I presume they will select some one that will suit them."
The new master requests the brethren to nominate a treasurer. Here a scene of confusion takes place which is not easily described. The new installed worshipful is made the butt for every worthy brother to exercise his wit upon. Half a dozen are up at a time, soliciting the master to nominate them for treasurer, urging their several claims, and decrying the merits of others with much zeal ; some crying out order, worshipful ! keep order ! others propose to dance ! and request the master to sing for them ; some whistle or sing, or jump about the room, or scuffle, and knock down chairs or benches. One proposes to call from labour to refreshment ; another compliments the worship- ful master on his dignified appearance, and knocks off his hat, or pulls it down over his face, and sometimes he is dragged from his oriental chair ; [see plate 9, fig. 4], an- other informs him a lady wishes to enter. Senior warden or some other brother makes a long speech about reducing the price of the chapter degrees from twenty dollars to twelve, and recommends that it be paid in country produce, etc. His motion is seconded, and the new master is pressed on all sides to " put the question." If the question is put, the brethren all vote against it, and accuse the new master of breaking his oath, when he swore he would support the constitution of the General Grand Royal Arch Chapter, which establishes the price of the four chapter degrees at twenty dollars.
If the master attempts to exercise the power of the gavel, it of ten has the contrary effect; for if he gives more than one rap instead of seating the noisy fraternity, it calls them all up on their feet. If he gives one rap and calls to order, every on© obeys the signal with the utmost promptness, and drops on the nearest seat. The next in-
PAST MASTER. 93
stant, before the master can utter a word, all are on their feet again, and as noisy as ever. Some brother now pro- poses that the lodge be closed ; another one hopes it will be closed in a short way. The old master then addresses candidate : " Right worshipful, it is moved and seconded that this lodge be closed. You can close it as you please. You can merely declare the lodge closed, or in any other way."
The candidate, who often is much embarrassed, some- times rises and says, " / declare this lodge " — at this, an- other general confusion takes place. The old master catches him by the arm and says, " Brother, you swore in your obligation that you would not close this, or any other lodge over which you should be called to preside, without giving a lecture or some part thereof. Do you intend to break your oath?" The candidate says he does not recol- lect taking that oath : he is very sorry ; he does not intend to break his oath, etc. On being told he can resign to the old master, who will close for him, he very cheerfully ab- dicates the oriental chair. The worshipful master informs him that the preceding scene, notwithstanding its appar- ent confusion, is designed to convey to him in a striking manner, the important lesson never to solicit or accept any office or station for which he does not know himself amply qualified.
The ceremony being hrough, the lodge is closed as in the preceding degrees.
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER'S DEGREE.
A part of the ceremonies of opening this lodge is the same as that of the preceding degrees. The officers and brethren take their seats as in plate No. 1.
No. 1. Most excellent master; 2. Senior warden; 3. Junior warden ; 4. Secretary ; 5. Treasurer ; 6. Senior deacon ; 7. Junior deacon.
The tyler being stationed, the most excellent master then gives two raps with his gavel, which brings all the officers on their feet ; and each recites his duty, commencing with junior deacon, in regular course to senior warden; who also recites the duty of the mosi excellent master, which is the same as in the mark or past master's lodge.
The most excellent master then says, " Brother senior warden, assemble the brethren round the altar for the pur- pose of opening this lodge of most excellent master Masons."
S.W. Brethren, please to assemble round the altar, for the purpose of opening this lodge of most excellent master Masons.
In pursuance of this request, the brethren assemble around the altar, and form a circle; and stand in such a position as to touch each other, leaving a space for the most excellent master : then all kneel on their left knee, and join hands ; each giving his right hand brother his left hand, and his left hand brother his right hand, their left arms uppermost, and their heads inclining downwards. All being thus situated, the most excellent master reads the following portion of scripture :
PSALM xxiv. " The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof ; the world, and all that dwell therein. For he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the floods.
94
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. 95
Who shall ascend to the hill of the Lord ? And who shall stand in his holy place ? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart ; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, 0 Jacob. Selah. Lift up your heads,* O ye gates ! and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in : Who is this Kinr of Glory? The Lord, strong and mighty ! the Lord, mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates ! even lift them up, ye everlast- ing doors, and the King of Glory shall come in."
When the most excellent master has read thus much, he leaves his seat, and fills a space left for him in the circle, which had been kept open for this purpose, and continues reading: "Who is this King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, 0 ye gates ! even lift them up, ye everlasting doors ! and the King of Glory shall come in. Who is this King of Glory? Selah."
The reading being ended, the most excellent master then kneels, joins hands with the others, which closes the circle, and they all lift their hands, as joined together, up and down, six times, keeping time with the words, as the most excellent master repeats them ; " one, two, three : one, two, three." This is masonically called balancing. They then rise, disengage their hands, and lift them up above their heads, with a moderate and somewhat graceful motion, and cast up their eyes ; turning at the same time to the right, they extend their arms, and then suffer them to fall loose and somewhat nerveless, by their sides. [See plate 11, fig. 2.]
This sign is said by Masons to represent the sign of as- tonishment made by the Queen of Sheba, on first viewing Solomon's Temple.
The most excellent master now resumes his seat, and says, " Brethren, attend to giving the signs."
The most excellent master then gives all the signs from
* As the most excellent master reads the ^Yords, "Lift up your heads, 0 ye gates!" each brother raises his head; and as he continues, " Let the King of Glory come in!" he steps along a few steps towards the space left for him in the circle.
96 MOST EXCELLENT MASTER.
an entered apprentice Mason up to the degree of most ex- cellent master, in which they all join, and imitate him.
M.E.M. Brother senior warden, you will please to in- form brother junior, and request him to inform the breth- ren, that it is my will and pleasure that this lodge of most excellent master Masons be now opened for dispatch of business, strictly forbidding all private committees, or profane language, whereby the harmony of the same may be interrupted, while engaged in their lawful pursuits ; under no less penalty than the by-laws enjoin, or a major- ity of the brethren may see cause to inflict.
S.W. Brother junior, it is the will and pleasure of the most excellent master, that this lodge of most excellent master Masons be now opened for dispatch of business ; strictly prohibiting all private committees, or profane lan- guage, whereby the harmony of the same may be inter- rupted, while engaged in their lawful pursuits ; under no less penalty than the by-laws enjoin, or a majority of the brethren may see cause to inflict.
J. W. Brethren, you have heard the most excellent mas- ter's will and pleasure, as communicated to me by brother senior. So let it be done.
The lodge being now opened and ready for the reception of candidates, the junior deacon repairs to the prepara- tion room, where the candidate is in waiting ; takes off his coat, puts a cable-tow six times round his body ; and in this situation, conducts him to the door of the lodge, against which he gives six distinct knocks, which are an- swered by the same number by the senior deacon from within. Junior deacon then gives one knock, and the senior deacon answers it by giving one more ; the door is then partly opened by the senior deacon, who then says, "Who comes there?"
J.D. A worthy brother, who has been regularly initi- ated as an entered apprentice Mason, passed to the degree of fellow-craft, raised to the sublime degree of master Mason, advanced to the honorary degree of a mark master, presided as master in the chair, and now wishes further light in Masonry by being received and acknowledged as a most excellent master.
S.D. Is it of his own free will and accord he makes this request?
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. 97
J.D. 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. Has he made suitable proficiency in the preceding degrees ?
J.D. He has.
S.D. By what further right or benefit does he expect to obtain this favour?
J.D. By the benefit of a pass-word.
S.D. Has he a pass-word?
J.D. He has not; but I have it for him.
S.D. Give it to me.
Junior deacon whispers in the ear of the senior warden the word Eabboni. [In many lodges the past master's word. " Giblem," is used as a pass-word for this degree, and the word " Rabbojii " as the real word.]
S.D. The word is right. You will wait until the most excellent master in the east is made acquainted with your request, and his answer returned.
Senior deacon repairs to the most excellent master in the east, and gives six raps, as at the door.
M.E.M. Who comes there?
S.D. A worthy brother who has been regularly initi- ated as an entered apprentice Mason, passed to the degree of a fellow-craft, raised to the sublime degree of a master Mason, advanced to the honorary degree of mark master, presided as master in the chair, and now wishes for further light in Masonry, by being received and acknowledged as d most excellent master.
M.E.M. Is it of his own free will and accord he makes this request?
S.D. It is.
M.E.M. Is he duly and truly prepared? •S.D. He is.
M.E.M. Is he worthy and well qualified?
S.D. He is.
M.E.M. Has he made suitable proficiency in the pre- ceding degrees?
S.D. He has.
8
98 MOST EXCELLENT MASTER.
M.E.M. By what further right or benefit does he ex- pect to obtain this favour?
S.D. By the benefit of a pass-word.
M.E.M. Has he a pass-word?
S.D. He has not; but I have it for him.
M.E.M. Give it.
Senior deacon whispers in the ear the word " Babboni."
M.E.M. The pass is right. Since he comes endowed with all these necessary qualifications let him enter this lodge of most excellent masters, in the name of the Lord.
The door is then flung open, and the senior deacon re- ceives the candidate upon the Key Stone. The candidate is then walked six times round the lodge by the senior deacon, moving with the sun. The first time they pass round the lodge, when opposite the junior warden, he gives one blow with the gavel ; when opposite the senior warden he does the same ; and likewise the most excellent master when opposite him. The second time round, each gives two blows ; the third, three ; and so on, until they arrive to six. During the time, the most excellent master reads the fol- lowing passage of scripture.
PSALM cxxii. " I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together : whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and companions' sakes I will now say Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek thy good."
The reading of the foregoing is so timed, as not to be fully ended, until the senior deacon and candidate have performed the sixth revolution, and arrived at the junior warden's station in the south ; when the same questions are asked and answers returned as at the door. The junior warden directs them to pass on to the senior warden in the west for further examination, where the same questions are asked and answers returned as before. The senior warden directs them to be conducted to the right worship- ful master in the east for further examination. The right
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. 99
worshipful master asks the same questions, and receives the same answers as before; and says "Please to conduct the candidate back to the west, from whence he came and put him in the care of the senior warden ; and request him to teach the candidate how to approach the east, by ad- vancing upon six upright regular steps, to the sixth step in Masonry ; and place him at the altar, in a proper posi- tion to take upon himself the solemn oath or obligation of a most excellent master Mason."
The candidate is conducted back to the west, and put in care of the senior warden, who informs him how to ap- proach the east, as directed by the most excellent master.* The candidate kneels on both knees, and places both hands on the Bible, square, and compasses. The most excellent master now comes forward and says, " Brother, you are now placed in a, proper position to take upon you the solemn oath or obligation of a most excellent master Mason, which I assure you as before is neither to affect your religion nor politics. If you are willing to take it, repeat your name and say after me." The following obligation is then ad-
"I, A. B., of my own free will and accord, in presence of Almighty God, and this lodge of most excellent master Masons, do hereby and hereon, in addition to my former obligations, most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, that I will not give the secrets of most excellent master, to any of an inferior degree, nor to any person in the known world, except it be to a true and lawful brother of this degree, and within the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such : and not unto him nor 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 obey all regular signs and summons, handed, sent, or thrown to me from a brother of this degree, or from the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such ; provided" it be within the length of my cable-tow.
* The candidate in taking the first step in Masonry, steps off with the left foot first, and brings up the right so as to form a square ; this is the entered apprentice's step ; the second degree, he takes two steps, viz. : first, as above described ; second step, right foot first, and so on, always beginning at the first step
100 MOST EXCELLENT MASTEB.
Furthermore do I promise and swear, that I will sup- port the constitution of the general grand royal arch chap- ter of the United States of America ; also that of the grand royal arch chapter of this State, under which this lodge is held, and conform to all the by-laws, rules, and regulations of this, or any other lodge of which I may hereafter become a member.
Furthermore, do I promise and swear, that I will aid and assist all poor and indigent brethren of this degree, their widows and orphans, wheresoever dispersed around the globe, as far as in my power, without injuring myself or family.
Furthermore do I promise and swear, that the secrets of a brother of this degree, given to me in charge as such, and I knowing them to be such, shall remain as secret and inviolable in my breast, as in his own, murder and treason excepted, and the same left to my own free will and choice.
Furthermore do i promise and swear, that I will not wrong this lodge of most excellent master Masons, nor a brother of this degree to the value of any thing, know- ingly myself, nor suffer it to be done by others, if in my power to prevent it.
Furthermore do I promise and swear, that I will dis- pense light and knowledge to all ignorant and uninformed brethren at all times, as far as in my power, without ma- terial injury to myself or family. To all which I do most solemnly swear, with a fixed and steady purpose of mind in me to keep and perform the same ; binding myself under no less penalty than to have my right and left breasts torn open, my heart taken from thence, and thrown on a dung- hill to rot, if ever I violate any part of this my solemn oath or obligation of a most excellent master Mason. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in the due perform- ance of the same.
M.E.M. Detach your hands, and kiss the book six times.
The candidate is now requested to rise, and the most ex- cellent master gives him the sign, grip, and word apper- taining to this degree. The sign is given by placing your hands, one on each breast, the fingers meeting in the cen- tre of the body, and jerking them apart as though you were trying to tear open your breast. [See plate 11, fig. 1.] It alludes to the penalty of the obligation. The grip is given by taking each other by the right hand, and clasp-
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. 101
ing them, so that each compresses the third finger of the other with his thumb. [If one hand is large and the other small, they cannot both give the grip at the same time.] It is called the grip of all grips, or covering grip, because it is said to cover all the preceding grips. [See plate 11, fig. 3.]
The most excellent holds the candidate by the hand, and puts the inside of his right foot to the inside of the candi- date's right foot, and whispers in his ear, " Rabboni." In some lodges the word is not given in a whisper, but in a low voice. If there is more than one candidate to take this degree in one evening, the candidate in this place is requested to take his seat in the lodge, until the rest have come " thus far "; and then all receive the remaining part together. After these ceremonies are over, and the mem- bers seated, some noise is intentionally made by shuffling the feet.
^[.E.^L Brother senior, what is the cause of this con- fusion ?
S.W. Is not this the day set apart for the celebration of the cape-stone, most excellent?
M.E.M. I will ask brother secretary. Brother secre- tary, is this the day set apart for the celebration of the cape-stone ?
Sec. [looking in his book]. It is, most excellent.
M.E.M. Brother senior warden, assemble the brethren, and form a procession for the purpose of celebrating the cape-stone. The brethren then assemble (the candidate stands aside, not joining in the procession), and form a procession double file, and march six times round the lodge, against the course of the sun, singing the following song, and giving all the signs from an entered apprentice to that of most excellent master • when opposite the most excellent a second time, they then give the second sign and continue it in the same manner up to the signs of this degree.
All hail to the morning, that bids as rejoice ; The temple's completed, exalt high each voice ; The cape-stone is finished — our labour is o'er, The sound of the gavel shall hail us no more.
To the power Almighty, who ever has guided The tribes of old Israel, exalting their fame ; To him who hath governed our hearts undivided, Let's send forth our vows to praise his great name.
102 MOST EXCELLENT MASTER.
Companions, assemble on this joyful day,
(The occasion is glorious) the key-stone to lay;
Fulfilled is the promise, by the ancient of days,
To bring forth the cape-stone with shouting and praise.
The key-stone is now brought forward, and placed in its proper place, that is, two pillars or columns, called Jachin and Boaz, each about five feet high, are set up, and an arch placed on them, made of plank or boards, in imitation of block work, in the centre of which is a mortice left for the reception of a key-stone ; the most excellent master takes the key-stone, and steps up into a chair, and places it in the arch ; and drives it down to its place by giving it six raps with his gavel.
As soon as this ceremony is through, all the brethren move around as before, continuing the song :
There is no more occasion for level or plumb line, For trowel or gavel, for compass or square ;
As they come to these words, all the brethren divest themselves of their jewels, aprons, sashes, etc., and hang them on the arch as they pass round.
Our works are completed, the ark safely seated, And we shall be greeted as workmen most rare.
The ark, which all this time has been carried round by four of the brethren, is brought forward and placed on the altar, and " a pot of incense is placed on the ark."
Now those that are worthy, our toils who have shared. And proved themselves faithful, shall meet their reward ; Their virtue and knowledge, industry and skill. Have our approbation— have gained our good-will.
The brethren now all halt, and face inward to the altar. and beckon the candidates to join in the ceremonies.
We accept and receive them, most excellent masters, Invested with honour and power to preside, Among worthy craftsmen, where'er assembled. The knowledge of Masons to spread far and wide.
As they strike the following verses each brother throws his hands up (turning up his eyes), and giving the sign of admiration [ ! ] as before described, holds them in that posi- tion through the two verses. [See plate 11, fig. 2.]
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. 103
Almighty Jehoi-ah, descend now and fill
This lodge with thy glory, pur hearts with good-will ;
Preside at our meeting, assist us to find
True pleasures in teaching good-will to mankind.
Thy wisdom inspired the great Institution ;
Thy strength shall support it till nature expire,
And when the creation shall fall into ruin,
Its beauty shall rise through the midst of the fire.
The members all kneel and join hands, as in opening : and while in this attitude the most excellent reads the fol- lowing passage of scripture: 2 Chron. vii. 1, 4: "Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering, and the sacrifices ; and the glory of the Lord filled the house, and the priests could not enter into the house of the Lord, because the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord's house. And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the Lord upon the house, they bowed themselves with their face to the ground upon the pave- ment, and worshipped, and praised the Lord, saying, For he is good,* for his mercy endureth for ever." The most excellent master now kneels, and joins hands with the rest. They all then repeat in concert the words, " For he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever," six times, each time bowing their heads low towards the floor. [See plate 11, fig. 4.]
The members then balance six times as in opening, rise and balance six times more, and disengaging themselves from each other, take their seats.
The most excellent master then reads a charge to the candidate.
The lodge is closed as in preceding degrees.
* As the most excellent master reads these words, some brother who stands back of the candidates touches a piece of gum-camphire to a candle, and throws it with a sort of sleight of hand, all blazing, into the pot of incense, of the same combustible matter, which stands on the altar before the kneeling brethren, which instantly ignites and makes » very brilliant light.
104 ROYAL 4RCH.
ROYAL ARCH DEGREE.
The circumstances on which this degree was founded, ac- cording to Masonic tradition, are briefly these: —
At the destruction of Jerusalem, by Nebuchadnezzar, three most excellent master Masons were taken prisoners, and conveyed captives to Babylon, where they remained in bondage seventy years, until the reign of Cyrus, king of Persia, by whose proclamation they were liberated, and permitted to return to Jerusalem, to assist in rebuilding the temple. After travelling over rough and rugged roads, for many days, they arrived at the " outer veil of the taber- nacle," erected near the ruins of the temple. This taber- nacle was an oblong square, inclosed by four veils, or cur- tains, and divided into separate apartments, by four cross veils, including the west end veil, or entrance. The veils were parted in the centre, and guarded by four guards, with drawn swords.
In the " Easternmost " end of the tabernacle, Haggai, Joshua, and Zerubbabel usually sat in grand council, to examine all who wished to be employed in the noble and glorious work of rebuilding the temple. Since that time, every chapter of royal arch Masons, if properly formed, is a correct representation of this tabernacle. [See plate 12.]
These three most excellent masters, on their arrival, were introduced to the grand council,* and employed, furnished with tools, and directed to commence their labours at the north-east corner of the ruins of the old temple, and to clear away and remove the rubbish, in order to lay the foundation of the new. The grand council also gave them strict orders to preserve whatever should fall in their way (such as specimens of ancient architecture, etc.), and bring it up for their inspection.
The three most excellent masters repaired to the desig-
* High priest, king, and scribe.
ROYAL ARCH. 105
nated place, and commencing work, discovered, among other things, " a secret vault," in the vortex of which they found treasures of incalculable benefit to the craft, and to the world generally.
For the remaining part of this history the reader is re- ferred to the ceremonies of exalting companions to this degree, which (if Masonic veracity can be relied on), is literally a recapitulation of the adventures of the notori- ous three who founded this degree.
All legally constituted bodies of Masons, from the degree of entered apprentice to that of most excellent master, are called Lodges ; and all legal assemblies of royal arch Masons, Chapters.
A chapter consists of nine officers, acting under a charter or warrant, from the grand chapter within whose jurisdic- tion it is convened. The charter or warrant empowers each chapter to confer four degrees, viz., mark master, past master, most excellent master, and royal arch.
The officers of the chapter when installed, have not only a right of ruling and conducting its own affairs, but also those of the three lodges under their jurisdiction.
The following list of officers of the chapter will show how they rank in the lodges.
CHAPTER OFFICERS. OFFICERS OF A MARK MAS-
TER'S LODGE.
1. High priest as 1. Right worshipful master.
2. King, 2. Senior warden
3. Scribe, 3. Junior warden.
4. Captain of the host, [as marshal, or master of
ceremonies.]
5. Principal sojourner, 4. Senior deacon.
6. Royal arch captain, 5. Junior deacon.
7. Grand master of 3d veil, 6. Master overseer.
8. Grand master of 2d veil. 7. Senior overseer.
9. Grand master of 1st veil, 8. Junior overseer.
These are the requisite number of officers to open a chap- ter or lodge, according to the oaths and rules of these de- grees. In addition to these they have three other officers, viz. :
Secretary, as Secretary.
Treasurer, Treasurer.
Guard, Tyler.
106 ROYAL ARCH.
The officers and companions of the chapter being sta- tioned [as in plate 12], the presiding officer proceeds to business as follows :
H.P. Companions, I am about to open a chapter of royal arch Masons in this place for the dispatch of busi- ness, and will thank you for your attention and assistance. If there is any person present who is not a royal arch Mason, he is requested to retire.* [Gives one rap with his gavel, which brings the captain of the host on his feet, and continues], Companion captain of the host, the first care of congregated Masons ?
C.H. [giving the sign, as in plate 13, fig. 1]. To see the tabernacle duly guarded, most excellent.
H.P. Attend to that part of your duty, and inform the guard that we are about to open a chapter of royal arch Masons in this place for the dispatch of business, and direct him to guard accordingly.
Captain of the host stations the guard at the outside of the door, gives him his orders, closes the door, and makes an alarm of three times three on the inside, to ascertain that the guard is on his post ; the guard answers by nine corresponding raps ; the captain of the host then gives one, and guard does the same ; the captain of the host re- turns to his post, and addressing the high priest, says, " The chapter is duly guarded, most excellent."
H.P. How guarded?
C.H. By a companion of this degree at the outer avenue, with a drawn sword in his hand.
H.P. His duty there?
C.H. To observe the approach of all cowans and eaves- droppers, and see that none pass or repass but such as are duly qualified.
H.P. Companions, we will be clothed.
The companions place the furniture of the chapter in proper order, clothe with their various jewels, robes, and badges of this degree, and draw aside the veils, which bring the hall into one apartment, and resume their seats. The bio-b nriest then gives two raps with the gavel, which brings all the officers on their feet, while the following lecture is
* If there are any strangers present or persons who are not known to be royal arch Masons, they are invited into the preparation room, and a committee appointed to examine them.
ROYAL ARCH.
107
given, or questions asked by the high priest, and answered by the captain of the host, or some other officer that is qualified.
Q. Companion captain of the host, are you a royal arch Mason ?
A. I a?n, that I am.
O. How shall I know you to be a royal arch Mason?
A. By three times three.
0. Where was you made a royal arch Mason?
A. In a just and legally constituted chapter of royal arch Masons, consisting of most excellent high priest, king and scribe, captain of the host, principal sojourner, royal arch captain, and the three grand masters of the veils, assembled in a room or place, representing the tabernacle, erected by our ancient brethren, near the ruins of king Solomon's temple.
Q. Where is the high priest stationed, and what are his duties?
A. He is stationed in the sanctum sanctorum. His duty with the king and scribe is to sit in the grand council to form plans and give directions to the workmen.
0. The king's station and duty?
A. Station, at the right hand of the high priest; duty, to aid him by his advice and counsel, and in his absence, to preside.
Q. The scribe's station and duty ?
A. Station, at the left hand of the high priest : duty, to assist him and the king in the discharge of their duties, and to preside in their absence.
Q. The captain of the host, station and duty?
A. Station, at the right hand of the grand council; duty, to receive their orders, and see them duly executed.
Q. The principal sojourner's station and duty?
A. Station, at the left hand of the grand council; duty, to bring the blind by a "way that they knew not ; to lead them to paths they have not known, to make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight.
Q. The royal arch captain's station and duty?
A. Station, at the inner veil, or entrance to the sanc- tum sanctorum ; duty, to guard the same, and see that none pass, but such as are duly qualified, and have the proper pass-words and signet of truth.
Q. What is the colour of his banner?
108 ROYAL ARCH.
A. WJtiite, and is emblematical of that purity of heart and rectitude of conduct, which is essential to obtain ad- mission into the divine sanctum sanctorum above.
Q. The stations and duties of the three grand masters of the veils?
A. Station, at the entrance of their respective veils; duty, to guard the same, and see that none pass but such as are duly qualified, and in possession of the proper pass- words and tokens.
Q. What are the colours of their banner?
A. That of the third, scarlet; which is emblematical of fervency and zeal, and the appropriate colour of the royal arch degree. It admonishes us to be fervent in the exer- cise of our devotions to God, and zealous in our endeavours to promote the happiness of men. Of the second, purple ; which being produced by a due mixture of blue and scarlet, the former of which is the characteristic colour of the sym- bolic, or three first degrees. It teaches us to cultivate and improve that spirit of harmony between the brethren of the symbolic degrees, and the companions of the sublime degrees, which should ever distinguish the members of a society founded upon the principles of everlasting truth and universal philanthropy. Of the first, blue ; the pecu- liar colour of the three ancient or symbolical degrees. It is an emblem of universal friendship and benevolence, and instructs us, that in the mind of a Mason those virtues should be as expansive as the blue arch of heaven itself.
Q. The treasurer's station and duty?
A. Station, at the right hand of the captain of the host ; his duty, to keep a just and regular account of all the pro- perty and funds of the chapter placed in his hands, and exhibit them to the chapter when called upon for that purpose.
Q. The secretary's place in the chapter?
A. Station, at the left of the principal sojourner ; his duty, to issue the orders and notifications of his superior officers, record the proceedings of the chapter proper to be written, to receive all monies due to the chapter, and pay them over to the treasurer.
Q. Guard's place and duty?
A. His station is at the outer avenue of the chapter : his duty, to guard against the approach of cowans and
ROYAL ARCH. 109
eavesdroppers, and suffer none to pass or repass but such as are duly qualified.
The high priest then directs the companions to assemble around the altar for the purpose of opening a chapter of royal arch Masons. The companions kneel upon the right knee in a circle round the altar, leaving an opening for the high priest, king, and scribe. The high priest standing up reads the following passage of scripture. [2 Thess. iii. 6—18.]
" Now we command you, brethren, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition that ye received of us; for yourselves know how ye ought to follow us ; for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you, neither did we eat any man's bread for nought, but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you ; not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we command you, that if any would not work neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busy-bodies. Now, them that are such, we command and exhort that with quietness they work and eat their own bread," etc.
The high priest, king, and scribe, then take their places in the circle, kneeling on the right knee, each companion crosses his arms and gives his right hand to his left hand companion, and his left hand to his right hand companion. In this position they all give the pass-word, " RABBONI," commencing with the king on the right of the high priest, who whispers in his ear the word " Eabboni " ; the king receives it from his right hand companion, and he from the next; in like manner the word goes round to the scribe, and from him to the high priest, who says, "the word is right" ; all balance " three times three," with their hands joined, bringing them down on their knees nine times, making a pause between each three ; they then rise and give the signs from the entered apprentice degree to the royal arch inclusive, after which the companions join in squads of three, for the purpose of giving the grand omnific royal arch word. [See plate 13. fig. 6.] This is done as follows : Each of the three companions with his right hand takes hold of the right wrist of the left hand companion,
110 RCYAL ARCH.
and with his left hand takes hold of the left wrist of the right hand companion, and places their right feet in front, with the hollow to the centre so that the toe of each one touches the heel of the right hand man ; this is called " three times three," that is, three right feet forming a triangle ; three left hands forming a triangle, and three right hands forming a triangle. In this position each re- peats as follows :
As we three did agree,
In peace, love and unity.
The sacred word to keep,
So we three do agree,
In peace, love, and unity,
The sacred word to search ;
Until we three,
Or three such as we, shall agree
To close this royal arch.
They then balance "three times three," bringing the right hand with some violence down upon the left. The right hands are then raised above their heads, and the "word," Jah-buh-lun Je-ho-vah, G-o-d, are given at low breath : each companion pronounces each syllable or letter as follows :
1st. 2nd. 3rd.
JAH ....... BUH ....... LUN.
----- ..... JAH ------- BUH.
LTJN ------------ ..... ---
......... - ----------- JAH.
BUH ....... LUN.
JE ........ HE -------- VAH.
-- ....... JE -------- HO -
vah. - — — — --- ___________
- - ........ - - ........ JE -
HO ........ VAH.
G ..... --- O ..... --- D.
- ........ G --------- O
---- .......... ------- G
0 ........ D.
After the " word " is thus given, the high priest in- quires if " the word is right?" each squad replies, " the word is right."
The officers and companions resume their seats. The high priest raps three times with his gavel, the king re-
ROYAL ARCH. HI
peats it, as also the scribe; this is done three times. The high priest rising, says, "I now declare this chapter of royal arch Masons opened in due and ancient form; and I hereby forbid all improper conduct whereby the peace and harmony of this chapter may be disturbed, under no less penalties than the bye-laws, or a majority of the chap- ter may see fit to inflict." He directs the captain of the host to inform the guard that the chapter is open, which being done, the chapter is ready for business.
The secretary reads the minutes of the last meeting, and if there were candidates proposed, they are generally bal- loted for, as in the preceding degrees. The principal sojourner then repairs to the preparation room, prepares them for the degree, and makes the alarm at the door.*
The captain of the host rises and says, "There is an alarm at the door, most excellent."
H.P. Attend to the cause of that alarm, and see who comes there.
The captain of the host repairs to the door, and raps nine times, and the principal sojourner once, which the captain of the host answers, and opens the door, inquiring "Who comes there?"
P. S. Three worthy brothers, who have been initiated, passed, and raised to the sublime degree of master Masons, advanced to the honorary degree of mark master, presided as master in the chair ; and at the completion and dedica- tion of the temple, were received and acknowledged most excellent masters ; and now wish for further light in Mas- onry, by being exalted to the august sublime degree of holy royal arch.
C.H. [to candidates]. Is it of your own free will and accord you make this request?
Can. [prompted]. It is.
C.H. Are they duly and truly prepared?
* A clause in the oath of a royal arch Mason runs thus : " I further- more promise and swear, that I will not be at the exaltation of more or less than three candidates, at one and the same time." In case there is not that number to take the degree, the deficiency is made up by volunteers from the chapter. The candidates are prepared by taking their coats off, tying a bandage round the eyes, and coiling a rope seven times around the body of each, which unites them together, with about three feet of slack rope between them. As they enter the " living arches." groping one after the other, it reminds one of the economical manner of fattening hogs in Westphalia, as described by Hudibras.
112 ROYAL ARCH.
P.S. They are.
C.H. Have they made suitable proficiency in the pre- ceding degrees?
P.S. They have.
C.H. By what further right, or benefit, do they expect to gain admission to this chapter of royal arch Masons?
P.S. By the benefit of a pass.
C.H. Have they that pass?
P.S. They have it not; but I have it for them.
C.H. Advance and give it.
The principal sojourner whispers in his ear the word RABBONI.
C.H. The word is right ; you will wait a time, until the most excellent high priest be informed of their request, and his answer returned.
The captain of the host closes the door, and returns to his place in the chapter, gives the alarm, which is answered by the high priest, who asks the same questions, and re- ceives the same answers from the captain of the host, as were asked and given at the door.
H.P. Since this is the case, you will let them enter this chapter of royal arch Masons, and be received under a living arch.
The captain of the host repairs to the door, opens it and says, "It is our most excellent high priest's order, that the candidates enter this chapter of royal arch Masons, and be received under a living arch."*
P.S. [walks in, leading the candidates by the rope, and says], Companions, you will follow me. I will bring the blind by a way that they know not; I will lead them in paths they have not known ; I will make darkness light
* The living arch is formed by a number of companions standing in two lines, extending from the door to the centre of the chapter ; the two lines face inwards, and each companion takes hold, and locks his fingers with those of his companion opposite ; and as the candidates pass under each couple, they place their knuckles upon the necks and backs of the candidates (similar to the manner that old women some- times knead bread), the candidates generally find themselves prostrate on the floor, before they get half way through the living arch ; and one placing his feet against the shoulders (and perhaps face) of the one behind him, endeavours to force his way through, like a man swim- ming.
ROYAL ARCH. 113
before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and will not forsake them. Stoop low, brethren : he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted.* Having got through the arches, the candidates are con- ducted once round the chapter, and directed to kneel at the altar to receive the obligation.
P.S. [then addresses the candidates], Brethren, as you advance in Masonry, your obligation becomes more bind- ing. You are now kneeling at the altar for the seventh time; and about to take a solemn oath, or obligation, which, like your former obligations, is not to interfere with the duty you owe to your country, or Maker. If you are willing to proceed, you will repeat your Christian and sur- name, and say after me :
" I, A. B., of my own free will and accord, in presence of Almighty God, and this chapter of royal arch Masons, erected to God, and dedicated to Zerubbabel, do hereby and hereon, most solemnly and sincerely promise an swear, in addition to my former obligations, that I will not reveal the secrets of this degree to any of an inferior de- gree, nor to any being in the known world, except it be to a true and laAvful companion royal arch Mason, or within the body of a just and legally constituted chapter of such ; and never unto him, or 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 examination, or lawful informa- tion given.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not wrong this chapter of royal arch Masons, or a companion of this degree, out of the value of any thing, myself, or suffer it to be done by others, if in my power to prevent it.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not reveal the key to the ineffable characters of this degree, nor retain it in my possession, but will destroy it whenever it comes to my sight.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not speak the grand omnific royal arch word, which I shall hereafter receive, in any manner, except in that in which I shall re-
The principal sojourner passes under the arch, which is raised up for him, but lowered when the candidates come under it; and unless their backs are very stubborn, will be forced to the alternative of crawling upon knees and elbows.
9
114 ROYAL ARCH.
ceive it, which will be in the presence of three companion royal arch Masons, myself making one of the number ; and then by three times three, under a living arch, and at low breath.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not be at the exaltation of candidates in a clandestine chapter, nor converse upon the secrets of this degree with a clandestine made Mason, or with one who has been expelled or sus- pended, while under that sentence.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not assist, 01 be present at the exaltation of a candidate to this de- gree, who has not received the degrees of entered appren- tice, fellow craft, master mason, mark master, past master, and most excellent master.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not be at the exaltation of more or less than three candidates at one and the same time.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not be at che forming or opening of a chapter of royal arch Masons, unless there be present nine regular royal arch masons, myself making one of that number.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not speak evil of a companion royal arch Mason, behind his back, nor before his face, but will apprize him of all approaching danger, if in my power.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will support the constitution of the general grand royal arch chapter of the United States of America ; together with that of the grand chapter of this state, under which this chapter is holden ; that I will stand to, and abide by all the bye-laws, rules, and regulations of this chapter, or any other chapter of which I may hereafter become a member.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will answer and obey all due signs and summons, handed, sent, or thrown to me from a chapter of royal arch Masons, or from a com- panion royal arch Mason, if within the length of my cable- tow.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will not strike a companion royal arch Mason, so as to draw his blood in anger.
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will employ a companion royal arch Mason, in preference to any other person of equal qualifications.
ROYAL ARCH. 115
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will assist a companion royal arch Mason, when I see him engaged in any difficulty, and will espouse his cause so far as to ex- tricate him from the same, whether he be EIGHT or WRONG!!!
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will keep all the secrets of a companion royal arch Mason (when communi- cated to me as such, or I knowing them to be such), without exceptions.*
I furthermore promise and swear, that I will be aiding and assisting all poor and indigent companion royal arch Masons, their widows and orphans, wheresoever dispersed around the globe; they making application to me as such, and I finding them worthy, and can do it without any ma- terial injury to myself or family. To all which I do most solemnly, and sincerely promise and swear, with a firm and steadfast resolution to keep and perform the same without any equivocation, mental reservation, or self evasion of mind in me whatever ; binding myself under no less penalty, than to have my skull smote off, and my brains exposed to the scorching rays of the meridian sun, should I knowingly or wilfully violate, or transgress any part of this my solemn oath or obligation of a royal arch Mason. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in the due performance of the same." [Kissing the book seven times.]
P.S. Companions, you will arise and follow me. For al- though you are obligated royal arch masons, yet as the secrets of this degree are of infinitely more importance than any that precede it, it is necessary that you should travel through rough and rugged ways, and pass through many trials, in testimony of your fidelity to the order, be- fore you can be instructed in the more important secrets of this degree.
The candidates are conducted once round the chapter, and directed to kneel; while the principal sojourner reads the following prayer.
P.S. " Supreme Architect of universal nature, who by thine Almighty word, didst speak into being the stupend- ous arch of heaven, and for the instruction and pleasure of
* I have seen this point in the oath given in three different ways, that is, the phraseology of the sentence varied, but it always covers or comprehends, murder and treason ; sometimes it is expressed " murder and treason not excepted."
116 ROYAL ARCH.
thy rational creatures, didst adorn us with greater and lesser lights, thereby magnifying thy power and endearing thy goodness unto the sons of men, we humbly adore and worship thine unspeakable perfection ! We bless thee, that when man had fallen from his innocence and his happiness, thou didst leave him the powers of reasoning, and capacity of improvement and of pleasure. We thank thee, that amidst the pains and calamities of our present state, so many means of refreshment and satisfaction are reserved to us, while travelling the rugged path of life ; especially would we at this time, render thee our thanksgiving and praise for the institution, as members of which we are at this time assembled, and for all the pleasures we have de- rived from it. We thank thee that the few here assembled before thee, have been favoured with new inducements, and been laid under new and stronger obligations of virtue and holiness. May these obligations, O blessed Father, have their full effect upon us. Teach us, we pray thee, the true reverence of thy great, mighty, and terrible name. Inspire us with a firm and unshaken resolution in our virtuous pur- suits. Give us grace diligently to search thy word in the book of nature, wherein the duties of our high vocation are inculcated with divine authority. May the solemnity of the ceremonies of our institution be duly impressed on our minds, and have a happy and lasting effect upon our lives ! O thou who didst aforetime appear unto thy servant Moses in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush, enkindle, we beseech thee, in each of our hearts, a flame of devotion to thee, of love to each other, and of charity to all mankind ! May all thy miracles and mighty works fill us with thy dread, and thy goodness impress us with a love of thy holy name ! May holiness to the Lord be engraven upon all our thoughts, words and actions ! May the incense of piety ascend continually unto thee, from the altar of our hearts, and burn day and night, as a sacrifice of a sweet smelling savour, well pleasing unto thee ! And since sin has de- stroyed within us the first temple of purity and innocence may thy heavenly grace guide and assist us in rebuilding a second temple of reformation, and may the glory of this latter house be greater than the glory of the former ! Amen, so mote it be."
After prayer, the principal sojourner says, "Com- panions, arise, and follow me."
ROYAL ARCH. 11?
He conducts them once around the chapter, during which time he reads from Exodus, iii, 1-6.
i; Xow Moses kept the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian ; and he led the flock to the back side of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even Horeb. And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire, out of the midst of the bush ; and he looked, and behold the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed."
By the time this reading is ended, the candidates hav» arrived in front of a representation of the burning bush, placed in a corner of the chapter : when the principal sojourner directs them to halt, and slips up the bandage from their eyes.
A companion who neU'orms this part of the scene, viz., personating Deity, steps behind the burning bush, and calls out vehemently, " Moses ! Moses ! !" [The principal sojourner answers for candidate, " Here am I."]
The companion behind the bush exclaims still more vehe- mently, " Draw not nigh hither : put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob."
The principal sojourner then directs them to kneel down and cover their faces, and says, " And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God."
The principal sojourner then says to the candidates, " Arise and follow me," and leads them three times around the chapter during which time he reads the following pas- sage of scripture.
II Chron. xxxvi, 11-20. " Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet, speaking from the mouth of the Lord. And he also rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar, and stiffened his neck and hardened his heart from turning unto the Lord God of Israel. Moreover, all the chief of the priests and the people transgressed very much, after all the abominations of the heathen, and polluted the house of the Lord, which he had hallowed in Jerusalem. And the Lord God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, be- cause he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling
118 ROYAL ARCH.
place. But they mocked the messengers of God, and de- spised his word, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, till there was no remedy.
" Therefore he brought upon them the king of the Chal- dees, who slew their young men with the sword, in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion upon young men or maidens, old men, or him that stooped for age : he gave them all into his hand. And all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the Lord, and the treasures of the King, and his princes : all these he brought to Babylon.
" And they burnt the house of God, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt all the palaces thereof with fire, and destroyed all the goodly vessels thereof. And them that had escaped from the sword, carried he away to Babylon, where they were servants to him and his sons, until the reign of the kingdom of Persia."
As the principal sojourner commences reading, "There- fore he brought upon them the king of the Chaldees," etc., a scene of confusion takes place not easily described. The intention of it is to represent the siege and destruction of Jerusalem. They commence by rolling cannon balls, clash- ing old swords, and discharging pistols, and finally a general shouting, groaning, whistling, stamping, and throwing down benches, etc., are heard in all parts of the hall.
In the meantime, the candidates are thrown down, bound, and dragged out into the preparation room, and the door closed.
In a few minutes there is heard a great shout of rejoic- ing, each one in the chapter exclaiming, " Hurrah, for the captives!" This is repeated several times : the door is then opened by the captain of the host, who informs the candi- dates that Cyrus has made a proclamation to build a second temple at Jerusalem, and that they are at liberty to return.
The principal sojourner (who is all this time with the candidates), requests that the proclamation be read to them.
The captain of the host reads as follows :
" Now in the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus, king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also
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in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus, king of Persia : The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all his people? His God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of Israel, which is in Jerusalem."
C.H . What say you to the proclamation ; are you willing to go up?
P.S. [After consulting the candidates, says] : We are willing to go up to Jerusalem ; but we have no pass-word, whereby to make ourselves known to our brethren ; when we arrive there, what shall we say to them ?
C.H. [Reads Exodus iii, 13, 14.]
11 And Moses said unto God, Behold ! when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, the God of your fathers hath sent me unto you, and they shall say unto me, what is his name ; what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I am, that I am: and thus thou shalt say unto the children of Israel, I am hath sent me unto you."
P.S. We will go up. Companions, you will follow me : our pass-word is, "7 am, that I am."
As they enter the chapter, they again pass under the liv- ing arch, and the principal sojourner says, "Stoop low, brethren. He that humbleth himself shall be exalted.* The arches grow heavier every time they are passed ; but the conductor consoles his dupes by reiterating, "This is the way many great and good men have travelled before you : never deeming it derogatory to their dignity to level themselves with the fraternity. I have often travelled this road from Babylon to Jerusalem, and generally find it rough and rugged. However, I think I never saw it much smoother than it is at the present time."
By this time, the candidates have stumbled over the rugged road, and arrived again at the entrance of the liv- ing arch. [See plate 15.]
P.S. Companions, here is a very difficult and dangerous
* On one side of the hall or chapter, the living arches are formed ; on the other side is what is called the " rugged road." This is gener- ally made of blocks and logs of wood, old chairs, benches, etc.
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place ahead, which lays directly in our way. Before we attempt to pass it, we must kneel down and pray.
Principal sojourner reads Ps. cxli.
"Lord I cry unto thee ; make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice. Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, 0 Lord, before my mouth ; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity. Let the righteous smite me ; it shall be a kindness : and let him reprove me ; it shall be an excellent oil. Mine eyes are unto thee, O God, the Lord : in thee is my trust ; leave not my soul destitute. Keep me from the snare which they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape."
The candidates arise, pass under the arch, over the rugged road, and kneel, while the principal sojourner reads from Ps. cxlii.
P. 8. Let us pray :
"I cried unto the Lord with my voice; with my voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication. I poured out my complaint before him ; I showed before him my trouble. When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knowest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me. I looked on my right hand, and behold, but there was no man that would know me ; refuge failed me ; no man cared for my soul. I cried unto thee, 0 Lord : I said Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. Attend unto my cry, for I am brought very low ; deliver me from my persecutors ; for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name."
Passing round as before, the candidates kneel while Ps. cxliii is read.
P.S. Let us pray.
" Hear my prayer, 0 Lord, give ear to my supplications ; in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness. And enter not into judgment with thy servant : for in thy sight shall no man living be justified. For the enemy hath persecuted my soul ; he hath made me to dwell in darkness. Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me ; my heart within me is desolate. Hear me speedily, O Lord : my
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spirit faileth : hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit. Cause me to hear thy lov- ing kindness in the morning : for in thee do I trust : cause me to know the way wherein I should walk : for I lift up my soul unto thee. Bring my soul out of trouble. And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies ; for I am thy servant."
The principal sojourner now informs the candidates they have arrived in sight of the ruins of the old temple, near the outer veil of the tabernacle,* at the same time making an alarm, by stamping on the floor, " three times three,'1 which brings out the master from the first veil.