VI. You agree that no visitors36 shall be received into

the Lodge without passing under due examination, and producing proper vouchers of a regular initiation.
These are the Regulations of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.
The Grand Master then addresses the Master Elect in the following manner : — " Do you submit to those Charges, and promise to support those Regulations as Masters have done in all ages before you?"
Having signified his cordial submission, the Grand Master thus salutes him : —
" Brother A.B., in consequence of your cheerful con-
88 At a Quarterly Communication, held at Freemasons' Hall, on Wednesday, June 2d, 1819, " A Report from the Board of General Purposes was read ; in which it was stated, that a complaint had been preferred against a lodge in London, for having refused Admis- sion to some Brethren who were well known to them, alleging that, as the Lodge was about to initiate a Candidate, no visitor could be admitted until that ceremony was concluded. The several parties having attended the Board, it appeared that the officers of the Lodge complained against, had acted under an erroneous opinion of the gene- ral laws, and not from any intention to infringe them or the estab- lished custom of the Craft, and they assured the Board of their anxiety at all times to conform themselves to every regulation of the Grand Lodge, and that they should not again fall into a similar error. Whereupon, the Board RESOLVED, That it is the undoubted right of every Mason, who is well known, or properly vouched, to visit any Lodge during the time it is opened for general Masonic business, observing the proper forms to be attended to on such occasions, and so that the Master may not be interrupted in the performance of hii duty." — EDITOR.
62 ' ILLUSTRATIONS
formity to the Charges and Kegulations of the Order, I approve of you as Master of the Lodge ; not doubting of your care, skill, and capacity."
The new Master is then conducted to an adjacent room, where he is regularly installed,37 and bound to his trust in ancient form, in the presence of at least three installed Masters.
On his return to the Lodge, the new Master is con- ducted by the [Grand] Stewards to the left hand of the Grand Master, where he is invested with the badge of his office, and the warrant of constitution is delivered over to him in form ; after which the Sacred Law, with the square, and compasses, the constitutions, the minute- book, the rule and line, the trowel, the chisel, the mal- let, the movable and immovable jewels, and all the insignia of his different Officers, are separately presented to him, with suitable charges to each.38 He is then
87 This part of the ceremony can only be orally communicated ; nor can any but installed Masters be present. — EDITOR.
88 The same ceremony and charges attend every succeeding instal- lation.
For the accommodation of Brethren, whose distance from the metropolis may deprive them of gaining the necessary instruction in this important rite, we shall here insert a few moral observations on the instruments of Masonry, which are usually presented to the Master of the Lodge, at installation.
The various implements of the profession, emblematical of our con- duct in life, are upon this occasion carefully enumerated.
"The Rule directs, that we should punctually observe our duty; press forward in the path of virtue, and, neither inclining 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 dissimu- lation in conversation and action, and to direct our steps in the path which leads to immortality.
" The Trowel teaches, that nothing can be united without proper cement, and that the perfection of the building must depend on the suitable disposition of the cement ; so Charity, the bond of perfection and social union, must link separate minds and separate interests ; that, like the radii of a circle, which extend from the centre to every part of the circumference, the principle of universal benevolence may be diffused to every member of the community.
" The Chisel demonstrates the advantages of discipline and educa- tion. The mind, like the diamond, in its original state, is unpolished; but as the effects of the chisel on the external coat soon present to view the latent beauties of the diamond, so education discovers the latent virtues of the mind, and draws them forth to range the large field of matter and space, in order to display the summit of human knowledge, our duty to God and to man.
" The Plumb admonishes to walk upright in our station, to hold the
OP MASONRY. 63
chaired amid the acclamations of the Brethren ; after which he returns his becoming acknowledgments to the Grand Master, and the acting officers, in order. The members of the new Lodge then advance in procession, pay due homage to the new Master,39 and signify their
scale of justice in equal poise, to observe the just medium between intemperance and pleasure, and to make our passions and prejudices coincide with the line of our duty.
k' The Level demonstrates, that we are descended from the same stock, partake of the same nature, and share the same hope ; and that, though distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordina- tion, yet no eminence of station can make us forget that we aro brethren, and that he who is placed on the lowest spoke of Fortune's wheel may be entitled to our regard ; because a time will come, and the wisest knows not how soon, when all distinctions, but that of goodness, shall cease ; and Death^ the grand leveller of human great- ness, reduce us to the same state.
" The Square teaches us to regulate our actions by rule and line, and to harmonize our conduct by the principles of morality and virtue.
"The Compasses teach us to limit our duty in every station; that, rising to eminence by merit, we may live respected, and die regretted.
" The Mallet teaches us to lop off excrescences, and smooth sur- faces ; or, in other words, to correct irregularities, and reduce man to a proper level ; so that, by quiet deportment, he may, in the school or discipline, learn to be content. What the Mallet is to the workman, enlightened reason is to the passions ; it curbs ambition, depresses envy, moderates anger, and encourages good dispositions; whence arises that comely order.
Which nothing earthly gives, or can destroy ; The soul's calm sunshine, aud the heartfelt joy."
89 •'' No Brother shall continue in the office of Master for more than two years iu succession, unless by a dispensation, which may be granted by the Grand Master, or the provincial Grand Master, in cases of real necessity j but he maybe again elected after he has been out of that office one year." (CONST., Art. 4. p. 78.) The operation of this law was expounded at a quarterly communication, March 5. 1817, when, " A report from the Board of General Purposes was read, stating, that a memorial had been presented to the Board, by two of the Past-masters of the Lodge, No. 82, representing that the said Lodge had, in Novem- ber last, re-elected a brother to fill the chair as Master, for the current year, who had been in that office, during the years 1815 and 1816, and which re-election the memorialists considered to be contrary to the law of the Grand Lodge, Article 4, p. 78, of the book of Constitutions. They, therefore, submitted that such re-election ought to be declared void, and the Lodge be directed to proceed to the election of another Master. That the Board having heard thejirguments of the several parties, after much deliberation, Resolved, that in the opinion of the Board, the said election was legal under the law abwe quoted. Ihe Board, however, were of opinion, that the memorialists were prompted
64 ILLUSTRATIONS
subjection and obedience by the usual salutations in the three degrees.
This ceremony being concluded, the new Master enters immediately on the duties of his office, by appointing his wardens, who are separately conducted to the pedestal, presented to the Grand Master, and installed40 by the Grand Wardens; after which he41 proceeds to invest them with their badges of office in the following manner : —
"Brother C. D., I appoint you Senior Warden of the Lodge : and invest you with the ensign of office.42 Your regular attendance on our stated meetings is essentially necessary ; as, in my absence, you are to rule the Lodge ; and, in my presence, to assist me in the government of it. I firmly rely on your knowledge of the Art, and attachment to the Lodge, for the faithful discharge of the duties of the office."
" Brother E. F., I appoint you Junior Warden of the Lodge; and invest you .with the badge of office. To you I entrust the examination of visitors, and the intro- duction of candidates. Your regular and punctual attendance is particularly requested ; and I have no doubt that you will faithfully execute every duty which you owe to your present appointment."
The new Master then addresses the Wardens together :
"Brother Wardens, you are both too expert in the principles of Masonry, to require much information as to the duties of your respective offices: suffice it to men- tion, that what you have seen praiseworthy in others, it is expected you will carefully imitate : and what in them may to you have appeared defective, you will in your- selves amend. Good order and regularity you must
to present their memorial, by a desire only of obtaining a decision on so material a question, and in regard to which a diversity of opinions had prevailed in the Craft." — EDITOR.
40 The Master and Wardens are installed as the representatives of all the Master-masons who are absent.
1 When the Grand Master and his Officers attend to constitute a new Lodge, the D.G.M. usually invests the Master, the Grand Wardens invest the Wardens, the Grand Treasurer and Grand Se- cretary invest the Treasurer and Secretary, and the Grand Stewards the Stewards.
4* Here specify its moral excellence.
OF MASONRY. 65
endeavour to promote ; and, by a due regard to the laws in your own conduct, enforce obedience to them in the conduct of others."
The Wardens retiring to their seats, the Treasurer43 is next invested. The Secretary is then called to the pedestal, and invested with the jewel of his office ; upon which the new Master thus addresses him : —
" I appoint you, Brother G. H., Secretary of the Lodge. It is your province to record the minutes, and issue out the summonses for the regular meetings. Your good inclinations to Masonry and the Lodge will, no doubt, induce you to discharge the duties of the office with fidelity ; and by so doing you will merit the esteem and applause of your brethren."
The Deacons44 are then named and invested ; on which the Master addresses them as follows: —
"Brothers I. K. and L. M., I appoint you Deacons of the Lodge. It is your province to attend on the Master, and to assist the Wardens in the active duties of the Lodge ; such as in the reception of candidates into the different Degrees, and in the immediate practice of our rites. Those columns,45 the badges of your office, I entrust to your care, not doubting your vigilance and attention."
The next officer appointed is, the Inner Guard, whom the new Master addresses $hus : —
"Brother N., I appoint you inner guard of the Lodge. Yo'ur duty is, to admit Masons on proof, to receive candidates in due form, and to obey the commands of the Junior Warden."
The Stewards46 are next called up, and invested; upon which the following charge is delivered to them by the new Master : —
"Brothers 0. P. and Q. R., I appoint you Stewards of the Lodge. The duties of your office are, to introduce
43 This officer is not appointed by the Master, but elected by the Lodge.
44 The Deacons are the acting Deputies of the Wardens, ana Kepresentatives of all the absent Craftsmen.
45 When the work of Masonry in the Lodge is carrying on, the oolumn of the Senior Deacon is raised ; when the lodge is at refresh- ment the column of the Junior Deacon is raised.
46 The Stewards are assistants to the Deacons, and the representa- tives of all the absent Entered Apprentices.
66 ILLUSTRATIONS
visitors, and see that they are properly accommodated ; to collect subscriptions and other fees, and keep an exact account of the lodge expenses. Your regular and early attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal and attachment."
The new Master then appoints the Tyler, and delivers over to him the instrument of his office, with a short charge on the occasion; after which he addresses the members of the Lodge as follows : —
"BRETHREN,
"Such is the nature of our constitution, that as some must of necessity rule and teach, so others must of course learn to submit and obey. Humility, in both, is an essential duty. The Brethren whom I have appointed to assist me in the government of the Lodge,, are too well acquainted with the principles of Masonry, and the rules of good manners, to extend the power with which they are entrusted ; and you are too sensible of the pro- priety of their appointment, and of too generous dispo- sitions, to envy their preferment. From the knowledge I have of both Officers and Members, I trust that we shall have but one aim — to please each other, and unite in the great design of communicating happiness."
The Grand Master gives the Brethren joy of their Officers, recommends harmony, and expresses a wish that the only contention in the Lodge may be, a generous emulation to vie in cultivating the royal Art, and the moral virtues. The Lodge then joins in the general salute, and the newly-installed Master returns thanks to the Grand Master for the honour of the Constitution.
The Grand Secretary proclaims the new Lodge three times ; with the honours of Masonry, and a flourish of horns, each time : after which the Grand Master orders the Lodge to be registered in the Grand Lodge books, and the Grand Secretary to notify the same to the regular Lodges.
A song with a chorus, accompanied by the music, con- cludes the ceremony of Constitution, and the Lodge is closed with the usual solemnities in the three Degrees by the Grand Master and his Officers ; after which the pro- cession is resumed, and returns to the apartment whence it set out.
OF MASONRY. 67
This is the usual ceremony at the Constitution of a new Lodge, which the Grand Master may abridge, or extend at pleasure; but the material points are on no account to be omitted.
The Ceremony observed at laying the Foundation- Stones of Public Structures,
This ceremony is conducted by the Grand Master and his Officers, assisted by the members of the Grand Lodge only. No private Mason, or inferior officer of any Lodge, can be admitted to join in the ceremony. Provincial Grand Masters are authorized to execute this duty in their separate provinces, when they are accompanied by their officers, and the Master and Wardens of the •regular Lodges under their jurisdiction ; but the Chief Magistrate and civil officers of the place where the building is to be erected must be invited to attend on the occasion. The ceremony is thus conducted :
The Grand Lodge having been opened at a convenient place, and the necessary directions and instructions given, it is adjourned. The Brethren being in their proper clothing and jewels, and wearing white gloves, the pro- cession move sin the following order, viz. :
Two Grand Tylers, with drawn swords;
Music ;
Brethren, not members of any Lodge, two and two ; The Lodges, according to their numbers ;
Juniors going first ;
Members of Grand Stewards' Lodge;
Officers of Grand Stewards' Lodge ;
Architect or Builder, with the Mallet;
Grand Organist ;
Grand Superintendent of Works, with the plan ; Grand Director of Ceremonies ;
Grand Deacons; Grand Secretary, with Book of Constitutions on a cushion t
Grand Registrar with his bag ; Grand Treasurer, with his staff;
Grand Chaplain;
Past Grand Wardens ;
Past Provincial Grand Masters ;
Provincial Grand Masters; Past Deputy Grand Masters ;
68 ILLUSTRATIONS
Visitors of Distinction ; Junior Grand Warden, with Plumb ;
! Standard of *e Grand Lodge; j
Senior Grand Warden, with Level ;
Steward ? Volume of the Sacred Law, Square, J Steward
with wand. $ and Compasses, on a velvet cushion ; J with wand
Deputy Grand Master, with Square ;
with". [Standard of the Grand Master; \ ,*™«L
Grand Sword Bearer; MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER;
Two Stewards with wands ; Grand Tyler, with drawn sword.47
Having arrived within a proper distance of the spot, the procession halts, the Brethren open to the right and left, so as to leave room for the Grand Master to pass up the centre ; he being preceded by his Standard and Sword Bearer, the Grand Officers and Brethren following in succession from the rear, so as to invert the order ot the procession. The Grand Master having arrived at his station, on a platform, an ode is sung or music played (as previously arranged). The stone being prepared, and the plate with the proper inscription, the upper part of the stone is raised by an engine; the Grand Chaplain
47 These processions are conducted with much greater splendour on the Continent ; although ft is much to be doubted whether an aug- mented degree of pomp be more consistent with real dignity than the simple ceremonies which the wisdom of our governors has pre- scribed and sanctioned by the efficacy of their own example. The superior Officers of foreign Lodges wear splendid robes of silk and velvet, of the three pure colours, decorated with gold and precious stones. I copy from a ritual of Helvetian ceremonies in my posses- sion, some other attendant circumstances, which are calculated to swell out the gorgeous magnificence of a Masonic procession. " The Great Master walks under a purple, blue, and crimson canopy, with fine linen and bells. The staves of his canopy are four or eight, which are borne by Master Masons of the oldest Lodge present. On the right hand of the Great Master is a sword-bearer, and on his left hand is a sword-bearer. Before the Great Master is a standard, and behind him is a standard. All Masters of Lodges present are under blue canopies, each borne by four Master Masons of his own com- pany. The canopies are six feet long, and three feet broad: the staves are six feet long ; the frame- work is of cedar, or pine, or box- wood ; the covering hangs down not less than three feet on each side, and in the front likewise. In the middle of the procession is carried the Ark, covered over with the veil of blue, purple, and crimson, by four of the oldest Masons present." — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 69
repeats a prayer ; and the Grand Treasurer having, by the Grand Master's command, deposited on the plate various coins of the present reign, the cement is laid on. the lower stone, and the upper one is laid down slowly, solemn music playing. Being properly placed, the Grand Master descends to the stone, proves that it is properly adjusted, by the plumb-rule, level, and square, which are successively delivered to him by the Junior Grand War- den, Senior Grand Warden, and Deputy Grand Master ; after which the Architect or Builder delivers to him the mallet, with which the Grand Master gives three knocks. The Grand Master then delivers to the Architect or Builder the several implements for his use. The plan and elevation of the building are presented by the Grand Superintendent of the works to the Grand Master, for his inspection; and, having approved them, he gives them to the Architect for his guidance. The Grand Master re-ascends the platform, music playing. An oration suita- ble to the occasion is delivered. Some money for the workmen is placed on the stone by the Grand Treasurer.48 The procession then returns to the place from which it set out, and the Lodge is closed.
The Ceremony observed at the Dedication of Masons1 Halls.
On the day appointed for the celebration of the cere- mony of Dedication, the Grand Master and his Officers, accompanied by all the Brethren who are members of the Grand Lodge, meet in a convenient room adjoining to the place where the ceremony is to be performed; and the Grand Lodge is opened, in ample form, in all the Degrees. The order of procession being read by the Grand Secretary, and a general charge respecting propri- ety of behaviour given by the Deputy Grand Master, the lodge is adjourned, and the procession formed as
follows : —
Two Tylers, with drawn swords ;
Music ; Members of the Grand Lodge, two and two ;
tion is made in aid of its funds.
70 ILLUSTRATIONS
A Tyler in his uniform; Past Grand Stewards ;
Grand Tyler ;
Present Grand Stewards, with white rods ;
Secretary of the Stewards' Lodge;
Wardens of the Stewards' Lodge ;
Master of the Stewards' Lodge ;
Choristers ;
One Brother carrying a gold pitcher, containing corn ; ^ Two Brethren, with silver pitchers, containing wine and oil ; Four Tylers carrying the Lodge, covered with white satin ;
Architect ;
Grand Sword-bearer, with sword of state ; Grand Secretary, with his bag ; Grand Treasurer, with his staff;
Bible,49 Square, and Compasses, on a crimson velvet cushion,
carried by the Master of a Lodge, who is
supported by two Stewards ;
Grand Chaplain ; Provincial Grand Masters ;
Past Grand Wardens ; Past Deputy Grand Masters;
Past Grand Masters ;
Chief Magistrate and Civil Officers of the place ;
Two large lights;
Grand Wardens ;
One large light ;
Deputy Grand Master,
Constitutions, carried by the Master of the oldest Lodge ;
GRAND MASTER; Two Stewards close the procession.
The ladies are then introduced, and the musicians repair to their station. On the procession reaching the Grand Master's chair, the Grand Officers are separately proclaim- ed according to rank, as they arrive at that station ; and on the Grand Master's being proclaimed, the music strikes up, and continues during the procession three times round the Hall. The Lodge is then placed in the centre, on a crimson velvet couch j50 and the Grand Master having
4 9 Where the Bible is mentioned, it applies to whatever is considered to be the law of God.
50 The Helvetian ritual, already referred to, contains some good remarks relative to the furniture of a Lodge, which may be usefully inserted in this place. "A good lodge may be well known by its ornaments ; in many Lodges all sorts of decorations are heaped toge- ther, without the slightest attention to propriety. There should be no picture, statue, nor emblem of heathen deities ; no bust, picture, or statue of the heathen philosophers. The proper images or emblems are to bo taken from the Bible, and the Bible only ; as it contains the
or THC DIVERSITY .
OF MASONRY. ,' 71
3(TY I
taken the chair, under a canopy of state, the Grand Offi- cers, and the Master and Wardens of the Lodges, repair to the places which have been previously prepared for their reception : the three great lights, and the gold and silver pitchers, with the corn, wine, and oil, are placed on the Lodge, at the head of which stands the pedestal, on which is laid a crimson velvet cushion, with the Sacred Law, open, the Square and Compasses put thereon, and the Constitution Roll. An anthem is then sung, and an exordium on Masonry delivered : after which, the Archi- tect, addressing the Grand Master, returns thanks for the honour conferred on him, and surrenders up the implements which had been entrusted to his care at laying the Foundation-Stone. The Grand Master expresses his approbation of the Architect's conduct ; an ode in honour of Masonry is sung, accompanied by the band ; and the ladies retire, as do also such of the musicians as are not Masons.
The Lodge is then tiled, and the business of Masonry resumed. The Grand Secretary informs the Grand Master, that it is the design of the Fraternity to have the Hall dedicated to Masonry; he then orders the Grand Officers to assist in the ceremony ; during which the organ con- tinues playing solemn music, excepting only at the inter- authentic records of ancient Masonry. Paintings of figures, to repre- sent the virtues or properties of the mind, such as Charity, &c., are in bad taste. The decorations should be masonic emblems, intersect- ing triangles, f\ , square and compass, &c. These, if properly man- aged, can be made highly ornamental. A picture of Solomon or Moses would be appropriate. A marble slab, containing the names of the founders of the Lodge, and the date, should be let into the north wall. Window-curtains, as in rooms, there are* none; but one great curtain, very thick, draws across all the windows, along a brass rod, on brass rings. There is no valance, or fringe, or other ornament. The colour of the curtain is purple, crimson, and blue, in alternate stripes ; each stripe the common breadth of moreen, or other stuff furniture. The curtain is made of woollen, and not of linen. Silk may be used, if worsted is not liked, but no cotton or linen : the lining is black. The Master's throne is on three steps. Behind it should be a screen, three sides of *a square, and higher than his head when seated. This screen should be painted by a cunning Mason, with a death's head, intersecting triangles and fl, in white, as the ground of the screen is black, or a dark purple. Facing the Master's throne is an organ, or a gallery for singers and musicians who are brothers ; and behind the throne, at the end of the Lodge, and high up in the ceiling, should be a well-toned bell, or Indian gong." — EDITOR.
72 ILLUSTRATIONS
vals of Dedication. The Lodge being uncovered, the first procession is made round it, and the Grand Master having reached the East, the organ is silent, and he pro- claims the Hall duly dedicated to MASONRY, IN THE NAME
OF THE GREAT JEHOVAH, TO WHOM BE ALL GLORY AM)
HONOUR ; upon which the Chaplain strews corn over the Lodge. The organ plays, and the second procession is made round the Lodge; when, on the Grand Master's arrival at the East, the organ is silent, and he declares the Hall dedicated, as before, to VIRTUE ; on which the Chaplain sprinkles wine on the Lodge. The organ plays, and the third procession is made round the Lodge; when, the Grand Master having reached the East, and the music being silent, the Hall is dedicated to UNIVERSAL BENEVOLENCE ; upon which the Chaplain dips his fingers in the oil, and sprinkles it over the Lodge; and at each period of Dedication the grand honours are given. A solemn invocation is then made, and an anthem sung . after which, the Lodge being covered, the Grand Master retires to his chair, and the business of Masonry is ad- journed.
The ladies are again introduced ; an ode for the occa- sion is performed ; and an oration delivered by the Grand Chaplain, which is succeeded by an anthem. Donations for the charity are then collected, and the grand proces- sion is resumed. After marching three times round the Hall, preceded by the Tylers carrying the Lodge as at entrance, and the music continuing to play a grand piece, the Brethren return to the place whence they set out; where, the laws of the Order being rehearsed, the Grand Lodge is closed in ample form in all the Degrees.
The Ceremony observed at Funerals, according to ancient Custom; with the Service iiscd on that Occasion.
No Mason can be interred with the formalities of the Order, unless it be at his own special request, communi- cated to the Master of the Lodge of which he died a Member ; foreigners and sojourners excepted ; nor unless he has been advanced to the Third Degree of Masonry, from which restriction there can be no exception. Fellow-
OF MASONRY. 73
crafts, or apprentices, are not entitled to the funeral obsequies.
The Master of the Lodge having received notice of a Master-mason's death, and of his request to be interred with the ceremonies of the Order,51 he fixes the day and
51 By an express law of the Grand Lodge, it is enacted, ' That no regular Mason do attend any funeral, or other public* procession, clothed with the badges and ensigns of the Order, unless a dispensa- tion for that purpose has been obtained from the Grand Master, or his deputy ; under the penalty of forfeiting all the rights and privileges of the Society, and of being deprived of the benefit of the general fund of charity, should he be reduced to want."
Dispensations for public processions are seldom granted but upon very particular occasions ; it cannot, therefore, be thought that these will be very frequent, or that regular Masons will be induced to infringe an established law by attending those which are not properly author- ized. Many public parades under this character have been made of late years; but these have not received the sanction of the Grand Master, or the countenance of any regular Mason conversant with the laws of the Society. Of this the Public may be convinced, when they advert to the circumstance, that the reputation of the whole Fraternity would be at risk by irregularity on such an occasion. It cannot be imagined, that the Grand Master, who is generally of Noble or Royal Birth, would either so far degrade the dignity of his office, or the character of the Society at large, as to grant a dispensation for a public procession upon so trifling an occasion as a private benefit at a play- house, tea-garden, or other place of public resort ; where neither the interest of the Fraternity, nor the general good, can be concerned ; and which, though it may be of some private advantage, can never redound to the credit of Masonry, or the honour of its patrons.
The above law was planned to put a stop to mixed and irregular conventions of Masons, aad to prevent them from exposing to derision the insignia of the Order, by parading through the streets on unim- portant occasions ; it was not intended, however, to restrict the privi- leges of any regular Lodge, or to encroach on the legal prerogative of any installed Master. By the universal practice of Masons, every regular Lodge is authorized by the Constitution to act on such occa- sions, when limited to its own members, if the Society at large be not dishonoured; and every installed Master is sufficiently empowered by the Constitution, without any other authority, to convene and govern his own lodge on any emergency, at the funeral of its own members, or on any occasion in which the honour of the Society is concerned ; he being always amenable to the Grand Lodge for miscon- duct. But when Brethren from other Lodges are convened, who are not subject to his control, in that case a particular dispensation is required from the Grand Master, or his deputy, who are the only General Directors of Masons. The Master of the Lodge will never issue a summons for a public appearance of the Lodge on a trifling
* By public procession is meant a general convention of Masons for the purpose of making a public appearance.
5
74 ILLUSTRATIONS
hour for the funeral, and issues his command to summon the Lodge ; if Brethren from other Lodges are expected to attend, he must make application through the Grand Secretary to the Grand Master, or his deputy, for a dis pensation, to enable him to supply the place of the Grand Master at such funeral, and to regulate the procession, which is to be solely under his direction; and all the Brethren present must be properly clothed.52
The dispensation being obtained, the Master may invite as many Lodges as he thinks proper, and the members of those Lodges may accompany their officers in form ; but the whole ceremony must be under the direction of the Master of the Lodge to which the deceased belonged, for which purpose only the dispensation is granted ; and he and his officers must be duly honoured, and cheerfully obeyed, on the occason, as the representative, for the time being, of the Grand Master, or his Deputy.
The Funeral Service.59
The Brethren being assembled at the place where the body of the deceased lies, the Master of the Lodge to which he belonged opens the Lodge in the Third Degree, with the usual forms, and an anthem is sung. The body being placed in the centre on a couch, and tin- coffin in which it is laid being uncovered, the Master proceeds to the head of the corpse, and the service begins.
" MASTER. 'What man is he that liveth, and shall not seedeath ? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave ?
' Man walketh in a vain shadow, he heapeth up riches, and cannot tell who shall gather them.
occasion, or without approbation ; well knowing that he is amenable to the General Assembly for his conduct, and, by the charges of his office, must submit to their award ; should he, however, be so impru- dent as to act on this occasion improperly, the Brethren of the Lodge are warranted by the laws to refuse obedience to his summons ; but they are also amenable to the Grand Lodge for contumacy.
52 All the Brethren who walk in procession should observe, as much as possible, an uniformity in their dress. Decent mourning, with white stockings, gloves, and aprons, is most suitable and becoming. No person should be distinguished by a jewel, who is not an officer of one of the Lodges invited to attend in form ; and all the officers of such Lodges should be ornamented with sashes and hatbands ; as also the officers of the Lodge to whom the dispensation is granted, who are, moreover, to be distinguished with white rods.
53 I retain the funeral service as prescribed by Brother Preston, though I greatly doubt whether it could be consistently performed.— EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 76
4 When he dieth, he shall carry nothing away ; his glory shall not descend after him.
' Naked he came into the world, and naked he must return : the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken, away : blessed be the name of the Lord !'
The grand honours are then given, and certain forms used, which cannot be here explained. Solemn music is introduced, during which the Master strews herbs or flowers over -the body ; and, taking the SACRED ROLL in his hand, he says : —
1 Let us die the death of the righteous, and let our last end be like his!'
The Brethren answer : —
4 God is our God for ever and ever ; he will be our guide even unto death!'
The Master then puts the ROLL into the coffin, and says : — ' Almighty Father ! into thy hands we commend the soul of our loving Brother!'
The Brethren answer three times, giving the grand honours each time,
' The will of God is accomplished ! So be it !' The Master then repeats the following prayer : — ' * Most glorious God ! Author of all good, and Giver of all mercy pour down thy blessings upon us, and strengthen all our solemn engage- ments with the ties of fraternal affection ! May the present instance of mortality remind us of our approaching fate ; and draw our atten- tion to Thee, the only refuge in time of need ! that when the awful moment shall arrive that we are about to quit this transitory scene, the enlivening prospect of thy mercy may dispel the gloom of death and that, after our departure hence in peace, and in thy favour, we may be received into thine everlasting kingdom, and there enjoy, in union with the souls of our departed friends, the just reward of a pious and virtuous life ! Amen."1 "
An anthem being sung, the Master retires to the pedestal, and the coffin is covered. An oration, suitable to the occasion, is then deliver- ed ; and the Master recommending love and unity, the Brethren join hands, and renew to each other their pledged vows. The Lodge is then adjourned, and the procession to the place of interment is formed.
The different Lodges rank according to seniority, the junior pre- ceding ; and each Lodge forms one division. The following order ;CT then observed : — i
The Tyler, with his sword ;
The Stewards, with white rods ;
The Brethren, out of office, two and two ;
The Secretary, with a roll ;
The Treasurer, with his badge of office ;
The Senior and Junior Wardens, hand in hand ;
The Past Master ;
The Master;
The Lodge to which the deceased Brother belonged, in the
following order ; all the members having
flowers or herbs in their hands;
The Tyler:
76 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Stewards ;
Martial Music [Drums muffled, and Trumpets covered;]
The Members of the Lodge ;
The Secretary and Treasurer ;
The Senior and Junior Wardens ;
The Past Master ;
The Holy Writings, on a cushion, covered with black cloth carried by the oldest Member of the Lodge ;
The Master ;
The Choristers, singing an anthem ; The Clergyman ;
The BODY, with the regalia placed thereon,
and two swords crossed ;
Chief Mourner ;
Assistant Mourners •
Two Stewards ;
A Tyler.
One or two Lodges advance, before the procession begins, to the church-yard, to prevent confusion, and make the necessary prepara- tions. The Brethren are not to desert their ranks or change places, but keep in their different departments. When the procession arrives at the gate of the church-yard, the Lodge to which the deceased Bro- ther belonged, the mourners, and attendants on the corpse halt, till the Members of the other Lodges have formed a circle round the grave ; when an opening is made to receive them. They then advance to the grave ; and the Clergyman and Officers of the acting Lodge taking their station at the head of the grave, with the choristers on each side, and the mourners at the foot, the service is resumed, an anthem sung, and the following exhortation given : —
" Here we view a striking instance of the uncertainty of life, and the vanity of all human pursuits. The last offices paid to the dead are only useful as lectures to the living ; from them we are to derive instruction, and consider every solemnity of this kind as a summons to prepare for our approaching dissolution.
" Notwithstanding the various mementos of mortality with which we daily meet, notwithstanding death has established his empire over all the works of Nature, yet, through some unaccountable infatuation, we are apt to forget that we are born to die. We go on from one design to another, add hope to hope, and lay out plans for the employment of many years, till we are suddenly alarmed with the approach of death when we least expect him, and at an hour which, amidst the gaieties of life, we probably conclude to be the meridian of our existence.
" What are all the externals of majesty, the pride of wealth, or charms of beauty, when Nature has paid her just debt ? Fix your eyes on the last scene ; view life stript of her ornaments, and exposed in her natural meanness ; you will then be convinced of the futility
OF MASONRY. 77
of those empty delusions. In the grave all fallacies are detected, all ranks levelled, and all distinctions done away.
" While we drop the sympathetic tear over the grave of our deceased friend, let charity incline us to throw a veil over his foibles, whatever they may have been, and not withhold from his memory the praise which his virtues may have claimed. Suffer the apologies of human nature to plead in his behalf. Perfection on earth has never been attained ; the wisest, as well as the best of men, have erred. His meritorious actions it is our duty to imitate, and from his weaknesses we are to derive instruction.
';Let the present example excite our most serious thoughts, and strengthen our resolution of amendment. Life being uncertain, and all earthly pursuits vain, let us no longer postpone the important concern of preparing for eternity ; but embrace the happy moment, while time and opportunity offer, to provide against that great change when all the pleasures of the world shall cease to delight, and the reflections of a virtuous conduct yield the only comfort and consolation. Our expectations will not then be frustrated, nor shall we be hurried, unprepared, into the presence of an all-wise and powerful Judge, to whom the secrets of all hearts are known, and from whose dread tribu- nal no culprit can escape.
" Let us, while in this stage of existence, support with propriety the character of our profession, advert to the nature of our solemnities, and pursue with assiduity the sacred tenets of the Order: with becom- ing reverence, let us supplicate the Divine protection, and ensure the favour of that eternal Being, whose goodness and power know no bounds ; and when the awful moment arrives, that we are about to take our departure, be it soon or late, may we be enabled to prosecute our journey, without dread or apprehension, to that far distant country from which no traveller returns. By the light of the Divine countenance, we may pass, without trembling, through those gloomy mansions where all things are forgotten ; and at the great and tremen- dous day of trial and retribution, when arraigned at the bar of Divine Justice, we may hope that judgment will be pronounced in our favour, and that we shall receive our reward, in the possession of an immortal inheritance, where joy flows in one continued stream, and no mound can check its course."
The following invocations are then made by the Master, the usual honours accompanying each:
MASTER. " May we be true and. faithful ; and may we live and die in love !"
ANSWER. " So mote it be."
MASTER. " May we profess what is good, and always act agreeably to our profession !"
ANSWER. '; So mote it be."
MASTER. " May the Lord bless us and prosper us j and may all our good intentions be crowned with success !"
ANSWER. "So mote it be !"
The Secretaries then advance, and throw their rolls into the grave with the usual forms, while the Master repeats, with an audible voice : —
" Glory be to God on high ! on earth peace ! good will towards men!"
ANSWER. " So mote it be, now, from henceforth, and for evermore."
78 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Master then concludes the ceremony at the grave, in the follow- ing words : —
" From time immemorial it has been a custom among the Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, at the request of a Brother on his death- bed, to accompany his corpse to the place of interment ; and there to deposit his remains with the usual formalities.
" In conformity to this usage, and at the special request of our deceas- ed Brother, whose memory we revere, and whose loss we now deplore. we are here assembled in the character of Masons, to resign his body to the earth whence it came, and to offer up to his memory, before the world, the last tribute of our fraternal affection ; thereby demonstrat- ing the sincerity of our past esteem, and our inviolable attachment to the principles of the Order.
" With all proper respect to the established customs of the country in which we live, with due deference to our superiors in church and state, and with unlimited good-will to all mankind, we here appear clothed as Masons, and publicly express our submission to order and good government, and our wish to promote the general interests of mankind. Invested with the badge of innocence, we humbly bow to the universal Parent, implore his blessing on all our zealous endeavours to extend peace and good-will, and earnestly pray for his grace to enable us to persevere in the principles of piet}r and virtue.
''The great Creator having been pleased, out of his mercy, to remove our worthy Brother from the cares and troubles of this transitory life, to a state of eternal duration, and thereby t<> weaken the chains by which we are united, man to man; may we, who survive him. antici- pating our approaching fate, be more strongly cemented in the ties of union and friendship; and during the short space which is allotted to our present existence, wisely and usefully employ our time in the reciprocal intercourse of kind and friendly acts, and mutually promote the welfare and happiness of each other.
" Unto the grave we have resigned the body of our deceased friend, there to remain until the general resurrection; in favourable expecta- tion that his immortal soul will then partake of the joys which have been prepared for the righteous from the beginning of the world : and may-Almighty God. of his infinite goodness, at the grand tribunal of unbiassed justice, extend his mercy toward him and all of us. and crown our hope with everlasting bliss, in the expanded realms of a boundless eternity ! This we beg, for the h.onour of his Name, to whom be glory, now and for ever. Amen."
Thus the service ends; and, the usual honours being given, the procession returns in form to the place whence it set out. where the necessary duties are complied with, and the business of Masonry is renewed. The regalia and other ornaments of the deceased, if he has been an officer of the Lodge, are returned to the Master, with the usual ceremonies; after which the charges for regulating the conduct of the Brethren are rehearsed, and the Lodge is closed in the Third Degree with a blessing.
OP MASONRY. 79