SECTION III.

History of Masonry in England, during the — ~^.,~ v Henry III., Edward I., Edward II., Edward III., Richard II., Henry IF, Henry F., and Henry VI.
ON the accession of Edward I., A.D. 1272, the care of the Masons was entrusted to Walter Giffard, Archbishop of York; Gilbert de Clare, Earl of Gloucester; and Ralph, Lord of Mount Hermer, the progenitor of the family of the Montagues. These architects superintended the finishing of Westminster Abbey, which had been begun in 1220, during the minority of Henry III.
The collegiate chapel of Westminster, in honour of St. Stephen, was begun to be rebuilt by King Edward ; at which the Masons were employed more than two years.12
That the building of this , chapel was completed we are not informed ; but we learn from Stowe, that a great fire broke out in the lesser hall of the royal palace at Westminster, which communicated to the adjoining monastery, and consumed the whole. It does not appear that the building was restored during this reign, as the wars in Scotland, in which the king was engaged, did not allow him leisure to renew his labours ; nor had he sufficient wealth to carry on such a work.
In the reign of Edward II. the Fraternity were employed in building Exeter and Oriel Colleges, Oxford ;
12 In the Exchequer rolls is preserved a curious account of the expenses incurred on that occasion. It appears, that the daily pay of the carpenters was 5d. ; that of the other workmen 3£rf., 3rf., and 2$d. Although the weekly expenses were but trifling, the amount of the whole was considerable.
Thomas of Canterbury. Master Mason, is supposed to have been the principal architect ; and Hugh dc St. Albans, and John de Cotton, were the chief painters, and had the highest wages, viz., a shilling a day. — EDITOR.
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Clare-hall, Cambridge ; and many other structures , under the auspices of Walter Stapleton, Bishop of Exeter, who had been appointed Grand Master in 1307. Masonry flourished in England during the reign of Edward III., who became the patron of science, and the encourager of learning. He applied with indefatigable assiduity to the Constitutions of the Order ; revised and meliorated the Ancient Charges, and added several useful regulations to the original code of laws.13 He patronized the Lodges, and appointed tive deputies under him to inspect the proceedings of the Fraternity; viz. 1. John de Spoulee, who rebuilt St. George's chapel at Windsor,
13 An old record of the Society runs thus:
"In the glorious reign of King Edward III., when Lodges were more frequent, the Right Worshipful the Master and Fellgws, with consent of the lords of the realm (for most great men were then Masons), ordained:
" That, for the future, at the making or admission of a brother, the Constitution and the Ancient Charges should be read by the Master or Warden.
" That such as were to be admitted Master-Masons, or masters of work, should be examined whether they be able of cunning to serve their respective lords, as well the lowest as the highest, to the honour and worship of the aforesaid art. and to the profit of their lords ; for they be their lords that employ and pay them for their service and travel."
The following particulars are also contained in a very old MS. of which a copy is said to have been in possession of the late George Payne. Esq., Grand Master in 1718:
" That, when the Master and Wardens meet in a Lodge, if need be, the sheriff of the county, or the mayor of the city, or alderman of the town, in which the congregation is held, should be made fellow and sociate to the Master, in help of him against rebels, and for upbearing the rights of the realm.
" That entered prentices, at their making, were charged not to be thieves or thieves' maintainers ; that they should travel honestly for their pay, and love their fellows as themselves, and be true to the king of England, and to the realm, and to the Lodge.
" That, at such congregations, it shall be inquired, ^ whether any master or fellow has broke any of the articles agreed to ; and if the offender, being duly cited to appear, prove rebel, and will not attend, then the Lodge shall determine against him, that he shall forswear (or renounce) his Masonry, and shall no more use this craft ; the which if he presume for to do, the sheriff of the county shall prison him, and take all his goods into the king's hands, till his grace be granted him and issued. For this cause principally have these congregations been ordained, that as well the lowest as the highest should be well and truly served in this art aforesaid, throughout all the kingdom of Eng- land. Amen, so mote it be ! "
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where the order of the garter was first instituted, A.D 1350; 2. William aWykeham, afterwards bishop of Win Chester, who rebuilt the castle of Windsor, at the head of 400 Freemasons, A.D. 1357; 3. Robert a Barnham, who finished St. George's Hall at the head of 250 Free- masons, with other works in the castle, A.D. 1375; 4. Henry Yeuele, (called in the old records the King's Free- mason,) who built the Charter House in London ; King's hall, Cambridge; Queensborough Castle; and rebuilt St. Stephen's Chapel,14 Westminster; and 5. Simon
14 On the 27th of May, 1330, in the 4th year of Edward III., the works of this chapel were recommenced. From a charter preserved in the Tower of London, it is evident that this chapel was not finished for several years. In this charter, the motives which induced King Edward to rebuild and endow it, are expressed with peculiar elegance and neatness. On the 1st of January, 1353, he granted to the Dean and Canons of this collegiate chapel a spot of ground, extending to the Thames, whereon to build cloisters ; he also made a grant of some houses in the neighbourhood, and vested several manors for the endowment of the college in John, Duke of Lancaster, as trustee The college of St. Stephen was valued at its suppression at 1085/. 10« bd.; and was surrendered in the first year of Edward VI. The chapel was afterwards fitted up for the meeting of the House of Com- mons, to whose use it has ever since been appropriated.
The following account of the plan and ornaments of this chapel, which, in consequence of some projected alterations in the House or Commons, have lately, after a lapse of ages, been unveiled, may be considered as curious and interesting ; as there is no contemplation that imparts a higher degree of satisfaction, than that which presents to the mind images of ancient and departed splendour.
The eastern part of this chapel serves for the House of Commons, and the western is occupied by the lobby, and adjoining rooms and offices. In the latter, there are no traces of any enrichments ; but in the former are the remains of the altar, stone-seats, and other rich works. The elevation of the western front, or entrance to the chapel, presents these observations. From the ground line in the centre rise two arches, supporting the open screen. On the right of the screen is the entrance into the porch adjoining, which is the wall of the Court of Requests. On the left is a space, corresponding once, it may be presumed, with the perfect side of the screen extending to the south wall of the hall. Above the screen, some remains of the centre building are still visible. On the south front, the centre window is complete ; five others are filled up with the brick-work between the windows which at present light the House of Commons. The but- tresses are entire, as well as the tracing in the spandrels of the arches On the east front, from the ground line, were three windows of the chance}, the east window of which is now filled up. The buttresses are entire, as well as the octanguku towers. On the right is part of an ancient wall, .which now belongs to the Speaker's house. On the east end were three windows from the ground of the chancel ; over
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Langham, abbot of Westminster, who rebuilt the body of that cathedral as it now stands. Ai this period,
the groins are part of the remains of the altar; and on each side stone-seats, and clusters of columns, the capitals of which rise to the present ceiling of the House of Commons. The whole is of the richest workmanship. On the south side, from the ground line in the centre, is a perfect window, painted with the arms of Westminster. On the left of the chancel are clusters of columns ; on the right side of the left clusters is the eastern window, and without is the profile of the buttresses. At the east end of the column is an open part ; to the right is the chancel, and the bases are two feet below the pavement, which shows that there must have been a great ascent to the chancel. The whole of the undercroft is perfect, excepting the bases of the outer columns, and forms a fine superstructure of gigantic support to the light and delicate parts above. In the inside you behold the east window, the altar, and the stone-seats, which are broken through. The clusters of columns, the imposts of the windows, the arches, the spandrels, the entablature, the beautiful proportion of the windows, and the enrichments of the whole, crowd on the sight, and fill the mind with wonder and admiration. At the upper end of the chapel, near the altar, on the south side, there are evidently the remains of a black marble monument ; but to whose memory it was erected, we are left to conjecture. Over the monument are three angels, standing upright, with their wings half-expanded, and covered with golden eyes, such as are on -the peacock's tail. These paintings, which must have been done in the reign of Edward III., are for that period, when the art of painting was in its infancy, wonderfully well executed ; the colouring has preserved a considerable portion of its original fresh- ness. The expression and attitude of the angels are singularly inter- esting. You may suppose the body of the deceased stretched before them, the three angels are holding palls or mantles before them, which they are preparing to throw over the body, and at the same time the one in the middle seems to say, " Behold all that remains on earth of him who was once so mighty ! " while the countenances of the two others are epxressive of regret and commiseration. The stretched-out pall in the hands of the central angel is powdered over with the irradiated gold circles, in the middle of which are spread-eagles with two heads. This affords room for a supposition whose the tomb was : the armo- rial bearings of Peter of Savoy, uncle to Queen Eleanor, the wife of Henry III., who beautified the chapel, consisted of an eagle with two heads: but his shield displayed "Or, an eagle, with two heads, sable." Now as the eyes of the peacock's tail are painted in gold, so different from the natural colouring, it is not improbable, that for the sake of adding elegance to the pall, the painter preferred representing the eagle's head in gold rather than in sable ; it may, therefore, be the tomb of St. Peter of Savoy that we are describing.
On the left side of the altar is a painting of the adoration of the shepherds. Though the group is not disposed in the most accurate style of design, yet theie is something in it which highly interests the imagination ; the Virgin on one side is described holding the new-born infant, while Joseph is extending the swaddling clothes. The cattle behind are not ill expressed ; and the devotion of the shepherds with
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Lodges were numerous, and the communications of the Fraternity were held under the protection of the civil magistrate.
Richard II. succeeded his grandfather Edward III. in 1377, and William a Wykeham was continued Grand Master. He rebuilt Winchester-hall as it now stands; and employed the Fraternity in building New-College, Oxford, and Winchester-College; both of which he founded at his own expense.
Henry, Duke of Lancaster, taking advantage of Rich- ard's absence in Ireland, got the parliament to depose him, and next year caused him to be murdered. Having
their flocks is very appropriately delineated ; the shepherd's boy, blowing the double flutes to his dancing dog. and the fighting rams, seem but ill to accord with the subject', but, as the painter has placi> them without the stable, perhaps the inconsistency may be overlooked There are several paintings on the right side of the altar: they appeal to be figures of different kings and queens, tolerably well drawn, and in good proportion, and strongly mark the durability of the colouring of that day. On the north side of the chapel there are paintiiu men in armour ; beneath two of them are the names of Mercure and Eustace. In short, the whole of the architecture and enrichments, colours and gilding, are extremely fresh and well preserved. It is remarkable, that the colours are decorated with a sort of patera, and several of the mouldings are filled up with ornaments so minute, that those of the spandrels and ground entablature could hardly have been perceived from the chapel.
The blockings and frieze of the entablature over the windows of the chapel, contain, some of them, leaves and flowers, others perfect ma>k-. and others shields, with the arms of Edward the Confessor, Geneville, Mandeville, and Bruyere, — the arms of Castile and Leon, and ancient France, — the arms of the kingdom of the West Saxons — vine leaves and grapes, supported by a figure issuing out of a cloud — and shields with the arms of Strabolgi, earls of Athol, in Scotland, and barons ol Chilham in Kent, together with the shields of several other kings and barons.
The artist was, doubtless, desirous that the whole work should have the same attention, and that one uniform blaze of magnificence and splendour should shine around, making this chapel the ne plus ultra of the arts, worth}- the saint whose name it bears, and of its founder Edward HI., the great patron of ancient architecture.
•Several curious fragments of the paintings lately discovered on the walls of this chapel have been presented to the Society of Antiqua- ries ; of which body a committee was appointed to superintend the execution of drawings of all curious remains that have been brought to light by the late alterations in this celebrated old building.
%* Since the above description was written, this beautiful speci- men of ancient masonry has been entirely destroyed by a devastating fire, which occurred on the IGth of October. 1834.
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supplanted his cousin, he mounted the throne by the name of Henry IV., and appointed Thomas Fitz-Allen, Earl of Surrey, Grand Master. After the famous victory of Shrewsbury, he founded Battle-abbey and Fotheringay ; and in this reign the Guildhall of London was built. The king died in 1413, and Henry V. succeeded to the crown; when Henry Chicheley, Archbishop of Canterbury, obtained the direction of the Fraternity, under whose auspices Lodges and communications were frequent.
Henry VI., a minor, succeeding to the throne in 1422, the parliament endeavoured to disturb the Masons, by passing the following act to prohibit their chapters and conventions :
3 Hen. VI., cap. 1., A.D. 1425.
MASONS shall not confederate in Chapters or Congregations.
" Whereas, by the yearly congregations and confeder- acies ma$e by the Masons in their general assemblies, the good course and effect of the statutes of labourers be openly violated and broken, in subversion of the law, and to the great damage of all the commons ; our sovereign Lord the King, willing in this case to provide a remedy, by the advice and consent aforesaid, and, at the special request of the Commons, hath ordained and established that such chapters and congregations shall not be here- after holden ; and if any such be made, they that cause such chapters and congregations to be assembled and holden, if they thereof be convict, shall be judged for felons: and that the other Masons that come to such chapters or congregations be punished by imprisonment of their bodies, and make fine and ransome at the king's will."15
15 Judge Coke gives the following opinion on this statute : ** All the statutes concerning labourers before this act, and where- unto this act doth refer, are repealed by the statute of 5 Eliz., cap. 4, about A.D. 1562 ; whereby the cause and end of making this act is taken away, and consequently the act is become of no force ; cessante ratione legis, cessat ipsa lex ; and the indictment of felony upon the statute must contain, That those chapters and congregations are to the violating and breaking of the good course and effect of the statutes of labourers ; which now cannot be so alleged, because these statutes
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This act was never put in force, nor the Fraternity deterred from assembling, as usual, under Archbishop Chicheley, who still continued to preside over them.1' Notwithstanding this rigorous edict, the effect of pre- judice and malevolence in an arbitrary set of men, Lodges were formed in different parts of the kingdom, and tranquillity and felicity reigned among the Fraternity.
As the attempt of parliament to suppress the Lodges and communications of Masons renders the transactions of this period worthy attention, it may not be improper to state the circumstances which are supposed to have given rise to this harsh edict.
The Duke of Bedford, at that time Regent of the king- dom, being in France, the regal power was vested in his brother Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester,17 who was styled Protector and guardian of the kingdom. The care of the young king's person and education was entrusted to
be repealed. Therefore this would be put out of the charge of jus- tices of the peace." — INSTITUTES, Part III., fol. 19.
It is plain, from the above opinion, that the above act, though never expressly repealed, can have no force at present. The Masons may rest very quiet, continue to hold their assemblies, and propagate their tenets, as long as a conformity to their professed principles entitles them to the sanction of government. Masonry is too well known in this country, to raise anjf- suspicion in the legislature. The greatest per- sonages have presided over the Society ; and under their auspicious government, at different times, an acquisition of patrons, both great and noble, has been made. It would therefore be absurd to imagine, that any legal attempt will ever be made to disturb the peace and harmony of a Society so truly respectable, and so highly honoured.
16 The Latin Register of William Molart, prior of Canterbury, in manuscript, page 88, entitled, " Liberatio generalis Domini Grulielmi Prioris Ecclesiae Christi Cantuariensis, efga Festum Natalis Domini, 1429," informs us, that in the year 1429, during the minority of this prince, a respectable Lodge was held at Canterbury, under the patronage of Henry Chicheley, the archbishop; at which were present Thomas Stapylton, the Master ; John Morris, custos de la lodge lathomorum, or warden of the Lodge of Masons ; with fifteen fellow-crafts, and three entered apprentices ; all of whom are particu- larly named.
17 This prince is said to have received a more learned education than was usual in his age, to have founded one of the first public libraries in England, and to have been a efreat patron of learned men. If the records of the Society may be relied on, we have reason to believe that he was particularly attached to the Masons ; having been admitted into their Order, and assisted at the initiation of King1 Henry in 1442 J
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Henry Beaufort, Bishop of Winchester, the duke's uncle. The bishop was a prelate of great capacity and experience, but of an intriguing and dangerous character. As he aspired to the sole government of affairs, he had continual disputes with Iris nephew, the protector, and gained fre- quent advantages over the vehement and impolitic temper of that prince. Invested with power, he soon began to show his pride and haughtiness, and wanted not fol- lowers and agents to augment his influence.18
The animosity between the uncle and nephew daily increased, and the authority of parliament was obliged to interpose. On the last day of April, 14^5, the par- liament met at Westminster. The servants and fol- lowers of the peers coming thither armed with clubs and staves, occasioned its being named THE BATT PARLIA- MENT. Several laws were made, and, among the rest,
18 In a parliament held at Westminster, on the 17th of November, 1423, to answer a particular end, it was ordained, " That if any per- son, committed for grand or petty treason, should wilfully break out of prison, and escape from the same, it should be deemed petty trea- son, and his goods be forfeited."* About this time, one William King, of Womolton, in Yorkshire, servant of Sir Robert Scott, lieutenant of the Tower, pretended that he had been offered by Sir John Mortimer, (cousin to the lately deceased Edward Mortimer, Earl of March, the nearest in blood to the English crown, and then a prisoner in the Tower,) ten pounds to buy him clothes, with forty pounds a-year, and to be madr an earl, if he would assist Mortimer in making his escape ; that Mortimer said, he would raise 40,000 men on his enlargement, and would strike off the heads of the rich Bishop of Winchester, the Duke of Gloucester, and others. This fellow undertook to prove upon oath the truth of his assertion. A short time after, a scheme was formed to cut off Mortimer, andean opportunity soon offered to carry it into execution. Mortimer being permitted one day to walk to the Tower wharf, was suddenly pursued, seized, brought back, accused of breaking out of prison, and of attempting his escape. He was tried ; and the evidence of King being admitted, was convicted, agreeably to the late statute, and afterwards beheaded.
The death of Mortimer occasioned great murmuring and discontent among the people, and threatened a speedy subversion of those in power. Many hints were thrown out, both in public and private assemblies, of the fatal consequences which were expected to succeed this commotion. The amazing progress it made justly alarmed the suspicions of the ambitious prelate, who spared no pahjs to exert hi§ power on the occasion.
* Wolfe'* Chronicle, published by Stowe.
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the act for abolishing the Society of Masons ;19 at least, for preventing their assemblies and congregations. Their meetings, being secret, attracted the attention of the aspiring prelate, who determined to suppress them.20
18 Dr. Anderson, in the first edition of the Book of Constitutions, in a note, makes the following observation on this act :
" This act was made in ignorant times, when true learning was a crime, and geometry condemned for conjuration ; but it cannot dero- gate from the honour of the ancient Fraternity, who, to be sure, would never encourage any such confederacy of their working brethren. By tradition, it is believed, that the parliament were then too much influenced by the illiterate clergy, who were not accepted Masons, nor understood architecture (as the clergy of some former ages), and were generally thought unworthy of this brotherhood. Thinking they had an indefeasible right to know all secrets, by virtue of auricular confession, and the Masons never confessing anything thereof, the said clergy were highly offended ; and at first suspecting them of wickedness, represented them as dangerous to the state during that minority, and soon influenced the parliament to lay hold of such supposed arguments of the working Masons, for making an act that might seem to reflect dishonour upon even the whole Frater- nity, in whose favour several acts had been before and after that period made."
20 The bishop was diverted from his persecution of the Masons, by an affair in which he was more nearly concerned. On the morning of St. Simon and Jude's day, after the lord mayor of London had returned to the city from Westminster, where he had been taking the usual charges of his high oflice, he received a special message, while seated at dinner, from the Duke of Gloucester, requiring his imme- diate attendance. He immediately repaired to the palace ; and being introduced into the presence, the duke commanded his lordship to see that the city was properly watched the following night, as he expected his uncle would endeavour to make himself master of it by force, unless some effectual means were adopted to stop his progress. This com- mand was strictly obeyed ; and, at nine o'clock the next morning, the Bishop of Winchester, with his servants and followers, attempting to enter the city by the bridge, were prevented by the vigilance of the citizens, who repelled them by force. This unexpected repulse en- raged the haughty prelate, who immediately collected a numerous body of archers, and other men-at-arms, and commanded them to assault the gate with shot. The citizens directly shut up their shops, and crowded to the bridge in great numbers, when a general massacre would certainly have ensued, had it not been for the timely interposi- tion and prudent administration of the mayor and aldermen, who hap- pily stopt all violent measures, and prevented a great effusion of blood
The Archbishop of Canterbury, and Peter, Duke of Coimbra, eldest son of the King of Portugal, with several others, endeavoured to appease the fury of the two contending parties, and, if possible, to bring about a reconciliation between them ; but to no purpose, as neither party would yield. They rode eight or ten times backward
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The sovereign authority being vested in the Duke of Gloucester, as Protector of the realm, the execution of the laws, and all that related to the civil magistrate,
and forward, using every scheme they could devise to prevent further extremities ; at last they succeeded in their mediation, and brought the parties to a conformity ; when it was agreed, that all hostile pro jeedings should drop on both sides, and the matter be referred to the award of the Duke of Bedford ; on which peace was restored, and the city remained in quiet.
The bishop lost no time in transmitting his case to the Duke of Bedford ; and, in order to gloss it over with the best colours, he wrote the following letter :
" RIGHT high and mighty prince, and my right noble, and after one leiuest [earthly] lord ; I recommend me unto your grace with all my heart. And as you desire the welfare of the King our sovereign lord, and of his realms of England and France, your own weal [health] , with ali yours haste you hither ; For, by my troth, if you tarry long, we shall put this land in jeopardy [adventure] with afield; such a brother you have here ; God make him a good man. For your wisdom well knoweth that the profit of France standeth in the welfare of England, &c. The blessed Trinity keep you. Written in great haste at London, on Allhalloweneven, the 31st of October, 1425. By your servant, to my lives end,
" HENRY WINCHESTER."
This letter had the desired effect, and hastened the return of the Duke of Bedford to London, where he arrived on the 10th of Janu- ary, 1425-6. On the 21 st of February he held a great council at St. Alban's, adjourned it to the 15th of March at Northampton, and to the 25th of June at Leicester. Batts and staves being now pro- hibited, the followers of the members of parliament attended with stones in a sling and plummets of lead. The Duke of Bedford em- ployed the authority of parliament to reconcile the differences which had broken out between his brother and the Bishop of Winchester ; and obliged these rivals to promise, before that assembly, that they would bury all quarrels in oblivion. Thus the long wished-for peace between these two great personages was, to all appearances, accom- plished.
During the discussion of this matter before parliament, the Duke of Gloucester exhibited the following charge, among five others, against the Bishop of Winchester : " That he had, in his leUer to the Duke of Bedford in France, plainly declared his malicious purpose of assembling the people, and stirring up a rebellion in the nation, con- trary to the king's peace."
The bishop's answer to this accusation was, " That he never had any intention to disturb the state of the nation, or raise a rebel- lion; but that he sent to the Duke of Bedford to solicit his speedy return to England, to settle all those differences which were so pre- judicial to the peace of the kingdom : That, though he had indeed written in the letter, That if he tarried, we should put the Land in adventure by afield: such a brother you have here; he did not mean it of any design of his own, but considering the seditious assemblies
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centred in him ; a fortunate circumstance for the Masons at this critical juncture. The Duke, knowing them to be innocent of the accusations which the Bishop of Win- chester haid laid against them, took them under his pro- tection, and transferred the charge of rebellion, sedition, and treason, from them to the bishop and his followers; who, he asserted, were the first violaters of the public peace, and the most rigorous promoters of civil discord.
The bishop, sensible that his conduct could not be justified by the laws of the land, prevailed on the king, through the intercession of the parliament, whose favour his riches had obtained, to grant letters of pardon for all offences committed by him, contrary to the statute of provisors, and other acts of praemunire; and five years afterwards procured another pardon, under the great seal, for all crimes whatever, from the creation of the world to the 26th of July, 1437.
Notwithstanding these precautions of the cardinal, the Duke of Gloucester drew up, in 1442, fresh articles of impeachment against him, and presented them in person to the king; earnestly entreating that judgment might be passed upon him, according to his crimes. The king referred the matter to his council, which was at that time composed principally of ecclesiastics, who extended their favour to the cardinal, and made such slow progress in the business, that the duke, wearied out with their tedious delays and fraudulent evasions, dropped the prosecution, and the cardinal escaped.
Nothing could now remove the inveteracy of the car-
of Masons, carpenters, tylers, and plasterers : who, being distasted by the late act of parliament against the excessive wages of those trades, had given out many seditious speeches and menaces against certain great men, which tended much to rebellion :* That the Duke of Gloucester did not use his endeavour, as he ought to have done in his place, to suppress such unlawful assemblies ; so that he feared the king, and his good subjects, must have made a field to withstand them ; to prevent which, he chiefly desired the Duke of Bedford to come over."
As the Masons are unjustly suspected of having given rise to the above civil commotions, I thought it necessary to insert the foregoing particulars, in order to clear them from this false charge. Most of the circumstances here mentioned are extracted from Wolfe's Chron- icle, published by Stowe.
* The above particulars are extracted from one of Elias Ashmole's MSS. on the subjecl of Freemasonry.
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dinal against the duke ; he resolved to destroy a man whose popularity might become dangerous, and whose resentment he had reason to dread. The duke having always proved a strenuous friend to the public, and, by the authority of his birth and station, having hitherto prevented absolute power from being vested in the king's person,^ Winchester was enabled to gain many partisans, who were easily brought to concur in the ruin of the prince.21
To accomplish this purpose, the bishop and his party concerted a plan to murder the duke. A parliament was summoned to meet at St. Edmondsbury in 1447, where they expected he would be entirely at their mercy. Having appeared on the second day of the sessions, he was accused of treason, and thrown into prison ;# where he was found the next day, cruelly murdered. It was pretended that his death was natural ; but though his body, which was exposed to public view, bore no marks of outward injury, there was little doubt of his having fallen a sacrifice to the vengeance of his enemies. After this dreadful catastrophe, five of his servants were tried for aiding him in his treasons, and condemned to be hanged, drawn and quartered. They were hanged accord- ingly, cut down alive, stripped naked, and marked with a knife to be quartered; when the Marquis of Suffolk, through a mean and pitiful affectation of popularity, produced their pardon, and saved their lives; the most barbarous kind of mercy that can possibly be imagined!
21 The bishop planned the following scheme, at this time, to irritate the Duke of Gloucester: his duchess, the daughter of Reginald Lord Oobham, had been accused of the crime of witchcraft; and it waa pretended that a waxen figure of the king was found in her possess- ion, which she, and her associates, Sir Roger Bolingbroke, a priest, and one Margery Jordan of Eye, melted, in a magical mariner, before a slow fire, with an intention of making Henry's force and vigour waste away by like insensible degrees. The accusation was well cal- culated to affect the weak and credulous mind of the king, and gain belief in an ignorant age. The duchess was brought to trial, with her confederates, and the prisoners were pronounced guilty: the duchess was condemned to do public penance in London for three days, and to suffer perpetual imprisonment; the others were executed.
The protector, provoked at such repeated insults offered to his duchess, made a noble and stout resistance to these most abominable and shameful proceedings; but it unfortunately ended in his own destruction.
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The Duke of Gloucester's death was universally la- mented throughout the kingdom. He had long obtained, and deserved, the surname of GOOD. He was a lover of his country, the friend of merit, the protector of Masons, the patron of the learned, and the encourager of every useful art. His inveterate persecutor, the hypocritical bishop, stung with remorse, scarcely survived him two months; when, after a long life spent in falsehood and politics, he sunk into oblivion, and ended his days in misery.22
After the death of the cardinal, the Masons continued to hold their Lodges without danger of interruption. Henry established various seats of learning, which he enriched with ample endowments, and distinguished by peculiaj immunities; thus inviting his subjects to rise above ignorance and barbarism, and reform their turbu- lent and licentious manners. In 1442, he was initiated into Masonry, and, from that time, spared no pains to obtain a complete knowledge of the Art. He perused the Ancient Charges, revised the constitutions, and, with the consent of his council, honoured them with his sanc- tion.23
Encouraged by the example of the sovereign, and allured by an ambition to excel, many lords- and gentle- men of the court were initiated into Masonry, and pur-
32 The wickedness of the cardinal's life, and his mean, base, and unmanly death, will ever be a bar against any vindication of his memory, for the good which he did while alive, or which the money he had amassed could do after his death. When in his last moments he was heard to utter these mean expressions: "Why should I die. /who am possessed of so much wealth ? If the whole kingdom could save rny life. 1 am able by my policy to preserve it, or by my money to purchase it. Will not death be bribed, and money do everything ?" The inimitable Shakspeare, after giving a most horrible picture of despair, and a tortured conscience, in the person of the cardinal, introduces King Henry to him with these sharp and piercing words:
" Lord Cardinal, if thou think'st on heaven's bliss, Lift up thy hand, make signal of that hope.
He dies, and makes no sign."
HRN. VI., Act. 3.
" The memory of the wicked shall rot, but the unjustly persecuted shall be had in everlasting remembrance."
23 A record in the reign of Edward IV. runs thus : " The company of Masons, being otherwise termed Freemasons, of auntient staimding and good reckoninge, by means of affable and kind meetyngs dyverse tymes. and as a lovinge brotherhode use to doe. did frequent this
OF MASONRY. 125
sued the Art with diligence and assiduity.24 The king, in person, presided over the Lodges, and nominated William Wanefleet, Bishop of Winchester, Grand Mas- ter; who built, at his own expense, Magdalene College, Oxford, and several pious houses. Eton College, near Windsor, and King's College, Cambridge, were founded in this reign, and finished under the direction of Wane- fleet. Henry also founded Christ's College, Cambridge ; and his queen, Margaret of Anjou, Queen's College in the same university. In short, during the life of this prince, the arts flourished, and many sagacious statesmen, consummate orators, and admired writers, were support- ed by royal munificence.
SECT. IV. .
History of Masonry in the South of England, from 1471 to
1567.
MASONRY continued to flourish in England till the peace of the kingdom was interrupted by the civil wars between the two royal houses of York and Lancaster ;
mutual assembly in the tyme of Henry VI., in the twelfth yeare of his most gracious reign, A.D. 1434." The same record says farther, " That the charges and laws of the Freemasons have been seen and perused by our late soveraign King Henry VI., and by the lords of his m >st honourable council, who have allowed them, and declared, That they be right good, and reasonable to be holden. as they have been drawn out and collected from the records of auntient tymes." &c., &c.
From this record it appears, that before the troubles which hap- pened in the reign of this unfortunate prince. Freemasons were held in high estimation.
24 While these transactions were carrying on in England, the Masons were countenanced and protected in Scotland, by King James I. After his return from captivity, he became the patron of the learned, and a zealous encourager of Masonry. The Scottish records relate, that he honoured the Lodges with his royal presence; that he settled a yearly revenue of four pounds Scots (an English noble), to be paid by every Master-mason in Scotland, to a Grand Master, chosen by the Grand Lodge, and approved by the crown, one nobly born, or an emi- nent clergyman, who had his deputies in cities 'and counties ; and every new brother, at entrance, paid him also a fee. His office empow- ered him to regulate in the Fraternity what should not come under the cognizance of law-courts. To him appealed both Mason and lord, or the builder and founder, when at variance, in order to prevent law- pleasj and, in his absence, they appealed to his Deputy or Grand Warden, that resided next to the premises.
126 ILLUSTRATIONS
during which it fell into an almost total neglect, that continued till 1471, when it again revived under the auspices of Richard Beauchamp, Bishop of Sarum, who had been appointed Grand Master by Edward IV., nml honoured with the title of Chancellor of the Garter, for repairing the castle and chapel of Windsor.
During the short reigns of Edward V. and Richard III., Masonry was on the decline; but on the accession of Henry VII., A.D. 1485, it rose again into esteem, under the patronage of the Master and Fellows of the order of St. John at Rhodes (now Malta), who assembled their Grand Lodge in 1500, and chose Henry their protector. Under the auspices of this prince, the Fraternity once more revived their assemblies, and Masonry resumed its pristine splendour.
On the 24th of June, 1502, a Lodge of Master Masons was formed in the palace, at which the king presided in person as grand Master; who, having appointed John Islip, abbot of Westminster, and Sir Reginald Bray, knight of the garter, his wardens for the occasion, pro- ceeded, in ample form, to the east end of Westminster Abbey, where he laid the foundation-stone of that rich master-piece of Gothic architecture, known by the name of Henry the Seventh's Chapel.25 This chapel is sup- ported by fourteen Gothic buttresses, all beautifully ornamented, and projecting from the building in different angles ; it is enlightened by a double range of windows, which throw the light into such a happy disposition, as
25 This chapel was erected by William Bolton, prior of St. Bartholo- mew's, who is denominated the " Master of the work," in the will of King Henry VII. Leland styles it the miracle of the world, orbis miraculum; and Bntton (Arch. Ant., vol. 5. p. 178.) adds, "However extravagant that eulogium may appear, there is probably no other edifice on the globe in which such profound geometrical skill has been displayed, mingled with such luxuriancy of ornament and such aspiring lightness of design. It would seem, indeed, as though the architect had intended to give to stone the character of embroidery, and enclose his walls in the meshes of lace-work. The buttress towers are crested by ornamental domes, and enriched with niches and elegant tracery ; the parapets are gracefully wrought with pierced work; the cross springers are perforated into airy fcxrms ; and the very cornices are charged, even to profusion, with armorial cogni- zances, and knotted foliage. The interior is yet inore embellished ; and, at the same time, altogether unparalleled for its surrounding ranges of rich statuary, and the gorgeous elegance and peculiarly scientific construction of its vaulting," — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 127
at once to please the eye, and afford a kind of solemn gloom. These buttresses extend to the roof, and are made to strengthen ii oy being crowned with Gothic arches. The entrance is from the east end of the abbey, by a flight of black marble steps, under a noble arch, leading to the body of the chapel. The gates are of brass. The stalls on each side are of oak, as are also the seats, and the pavement is black and white marble. The cape-stone of this building was celebrated in 1507.
Under the direction of Sir Reginald Bray, the palace of Richmond was also built, and many other stately works. Brazen-nose College, Oxford, and Jesus and St. John's Colleges, Cambridge, were likewise finished in this reign.
Henry VIII. succeeded his father in 1509, and ap pointed Cardinal Wolsey Grand Master. This prelate built Hampton Court, Whitehall, Christ-church College, Oxford, and several other noble edifices; all of which, upon his disgrace, were forfeited to the crown, A.D. 1530. Thomas Cromwell, Earl of Essex, succeeded the cardinal in the office of Grand Master ; and employed the Fraternity in building St. James's Palace, Christ's Hospital, and Greenwich Castle. In 1534, the king and parliament threw off allegiance to the pope of Rome ; and the king being declared supreme head of the church, no less than 926 pious houses were suppressed; many of which were afterwards converted into stately mansions for the nobility and gentry. Under the direction of John Touchet, Lord Audley, who, on Cromwell's being beheaded in 1540, had succeeded to the office of Grand Master, the Frater- nity were employed in building Magdalene College, Cam- bridge, and several other structures.
Edward VI., a minor, succeeded to the throne in 1547, and his guardian and regent, Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, undertook the management of the Masons, and built Somerset-house, in the Strand; which, on his being beheaded, was forfeited to the crown in 1552. John Poynet, Bishop of Winchester, then became the patron of the Fraternity, and presided over the Lodges till the death of the king, in 1553.
The Masons remained without any nominal patron1 till the reign of Elizabeth, when Sir Thomas Sackville accepted the office of Grand Master. Lodges were held
128 ILLUSTRATIONS
during this period, in different parts of England; but the General or Grand Lodge assembled in York, where the Fraternity were numerous and respectable.
The following circumstance is recorded of Elizabeth : Hearing that the Masons were in possession of secrets which they would not reveal, and being jealous of all secret assemblies, she sent an armed force to York, with intent to break up their annual Grand Lodge.28 This design, however,^ was happily frustrated by the interpo- sition of Sir Thomas Sackville, who took care to initiate some of the chief officers whom she had sent on this duty. They joined in communication with the Masons, and made so favourable a report to the queen on their return, that she countermanded her orders, and never afterwards attempted to disturb the meetings of the Fraternity.
Sir Thomas Sackville held the office of Grand Master till 1567, when he resigned in favour of Francis Russell, Earl of Bedford, and Sir Thomas Gresham,27 an eminent
26 This confirms the observations in a former note, on the existence of the Grand Lodge at York, p. 108. et seq.
91 Sir Thomas Gresham proposed to erect a building, at his own expense, in the city of London, for the service of commerce, if the citizens would purchase a proper spot for that purpose. His proposal being accepted, and some houses between Cornhill and Threadneedle- street, which had been purchased on that account, having been pulled down, on the 7th of June, 1566, the foundation-stone of the intended building was laid. The work was carried on with such expedition, that the whole was finished in November, 1567. The plan of this edifice was formed upon that of the Exchange at Antwerp; being, like it, an oblong square, with a portico, supported by pillars of marble, ten on the north and south sides, and seven on the east and west; under which stood the shops, each seven feet and a half long, and five feet broad; in all, 120; twenty-five on each side east and west, thirty -four and a half north, aiid thirty-five and a half south; each of which paid Sir Thomas £4 10.5 a year on an average. There were, likewise, other shops fitted up in the vaults below ; but the dampness and darkness rendered them so inconvenient, that the vaults were soon let out to other uses. Upon the roof stood, at each corner, upon a pedestal, a grasshopper, which was the crest of Sir Thomas's Anns, This edifice, on its being first erected, was called simply the Bourse; but, on the 23d of January, 1570, the queen, attended* by a great number of her nobles, came from her palace of Somerset-house iii the Strand, and, passing through Threadneedle-street, dined with Sir Thomas at his house in Bishopsgate-street ; and, after dinner, her Majesty returned through Cornhill, entered the Bourse on the south side, and having viewed every part of the building, particularly the gallery which extended around, the whole structure, and which was
OF MASONRY. 129
merchant, distinguished by his abilities, and great success in trade. To the former, the care of the Brethren in the northern part of the kingdom was assigned, while the latter was appointed to superintend the meetings in the south, where the society had considerably increased, in consequence of the honourable report which had been made to the queen. Notwithstanding this new appoint- ment of a Grand Master for the south, the General Assembly continued to meet in the city of York, as heretofore, where all the records were kept ; and to this assembly appeals were made on every important occasion.
SECT. V.
Progress of Masonry in the South of England, from the Reign of Elizabeth to the Fire of London, in 1666.
THE queen, being assured that the Fraternity were composed of skilful architects and lovers of the arts, and that state affairs were points in which they never inter- fered, was perfectly reconciled to their assemblies, and Masonry made a great progress during her reign. Several Lodges were held in different parts of the kingdom, par- ticularly in London and its environs, where the Brethren increased considerably, and many great works were carried on under the auspices of Sir Thomas Gresham, from whom the Fraternity received every encouragement.
Charles Howard, Earl of Effingham, succeeded Sir Thomas in the office of Grand Master, arid continued to preside over the Lodges in the south, till the year 1588 ; when George Hastings, Earl of Huntingdon, was chosen, who remained in that office till the death of the queen, in 1603.
On the demise of Elizabeth, the crowns of England and Scotland were united in her successor, James VI. of Scotland, who was proclaimed King of England, Scot- furnished with shops, filled with all sorts of the finest wares in the city, she caused the edifice to be proclaimed, in her presence, by a herald and trumpet, "The Royal Exchange;" and, on this occasion, it is said, Sir Thomas appeared publicly in the character of Grand Master. The original building stood till the fire in London, in 16G6. when it was destroyed, and a magnificent building erected in its place, which, also, was burnt to the ground on the 10th January, 1838. 7*
1 80 ILLUSTRATIONS
land, and Ireland, on the 25th of March, 1603. At fchig period, Masonry flourished in both kingdoms, and Lodges were convened under the royal patronage. Several gen- tlemen of fine taste, who had returned from their travels, ' full of laudable emulation to revive the old Roman and Grecian Masonry, brought home fragments of old columns, curious drawings, and books of architecture. Among the number was the celebrated Inigo Jones, son of Inigo Jones, a citizen of London, who was put apprentice to a joiner, and had a natural taste for the art of designing. Being first renowned for his skill in landscape painting, he was patronised by the learned William Herbert, after- wards Earl of Pembroke. Having made the tour of Italy at his lordship's expense, and improved under some of the best disciples of the famous Andrea Palladio, on his return to England, he laid aside the pencil, and, con- fining his study to architecture, became the Vitruvius of Britain and the rival of Palladio.
This celebrated artist was appointed general surveyor to King James I., under whose auspices the science of Masonry flourished. He was nominated Grand Master of England, and was deputised by his sovereign to preside over the Lodges. During his administration, several learned men were initiated into the Order, and the society considerably increased in consequence and repu- tation. Ingenious artists daily resorted to England, where they met with great encouragement ; Lodges were instituted as seminaries of instruction in the sciences and polite arts, after the model of the Italian schools the Communication's of the Fraternity were established, and the annual festivals regularly observed.
Many curious and magnificent structures were finished under the direction of this accomplished architect ; and, among the rest, he was employed, by command of his sovereign, to plan a new palace at Whitehall, worthy the residence of the kings of England, which he accordingly executed ; but, for want of a parliamentary fund, no more of the plan than the present Banqueting-house28 was fin-
28 This building is said to contain the finest single room of its ex- tent since the days of Augustus, and was intended for the reception of ambassadors, and other audiences of state. The whole is a regu- lar and stately building, of three stories ; the lowest has a rustic wall, with small square windows, and by its strength happily serves as a
OF MASONRY. 131
ished. In 1607, the foundation-stone of this elegant piece of true Masonry was laid by King James, in presence ol Grand Master Jones, and his Wardens, William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke, and Nicholas Stone, Esq., Master- masons of England, who were attended by many brother^ clothed in form, and other eminent persons, who had been invited on the occasion. The ceremony was conducted with great pomp and splendour, and a purse of broad pieces of gold laid upon the stone, to enable the Masons fco regale.
Inigo Jones continued in the office of Grand Master till 1618, when he was succeeded by the Earl of Pem- broke, under whose auspices many eminent, wealthy, and learned men were initiated, arid the mysteries of the Order held in high estimation.
On the death of King James, in 1625, Charles ascended the throne. The Earl of Pembroke presided over the Fraternity till 1630, when he resigned in favour of Henry Danvers, Earl of Danby; who was succeeded, in 1633, by Thomas Howard, Earl of Arundel, the progenitor of the Norfolk family. In 1635, Francis Russell, Earl of Bedford, accepted the government of the Society ; but inigo Jones having, with indefatigable assiduity, continued to patronize the Lodges during his lordship's administra-
oasis for the Orders. Upon this is raised the Ionic, with columns and pilasters ; and between the columns are well-proportioned windows, with arched and pointed pediments : over these, is placed the proper entablature ; on which is raised a second series of the1* Corinthian order, consisting of columns and pilasters, like the other, column be- ing placed over column, and pilaster over pilaster. From the capitals are carried festoons, which meet with masks and other ornaments in the middle. This series is also crowned with its proper entablature, on which is raised the balustrade, with Attic pedestals between, which crown the work. The whole is finely proportioned, and happily exe- cuted. The projection of the columns from the wall has a fine effect in the entablatures ; which, being brought forward in the same propor- tion, yields that happy diversity of light and shade so essential to true architecture. The internal decorations are also striking. The ceil- ing of the grand room, in particular, which is now used as a chapel, is richly painted by the celebrated Sir Peter Paul Rubens, who was ambassador in England in the time of Charles I. The subject is, tho entrance, inauguration, and coronation of King James, represented by Pagan emblems ; and it is justly esteemed one of the most capital performances of this eminent master. It has been pronounced one ot the finest ceilings in the world.
132 ILLUSTRATIONS
tion, he was re-elected the following year and continued in office till his death, in 1646.29
89 That Lodges continued regularly to assemble at this time, appears from the Diary of the learned antiquary Elias Ashmole, where he says : — " I was made a Freemason al Warrington, Lancashire, with Colonel Henry Mainwaring, of Kerthingham, in Cheshire, by Mr. Richard Penket, the Warden, and the Fellow Crafts, (all of whom are specified,) on 16th October, 1646." In another place of his diary he says : " On March the 10th, 1682, about 5 hor. post merid., I re- ceived a summons to appear at a Lodge, to be held the next day, at Masons' Hall in London — March 11. Accordingly I went, and about noon was admitted into the fellowship of Free-masons, Sir William Wilson, Rnt., Captain Richard Borthwick, Mr. William Woodman. Mr. William Gray, Mr. Samuel Taylour, and Mr. William Wise. I was the senior fellow among them, it being thirty-five years since I was admitted. There were present, beside myself, the fellows after named ; Mr. Thomas Wise, Master of the Masons' Company this present year, Mr. Thomas Shorthose, and seven more old Freema- sons. We all dined at the Half-moon Tavern, Cheapside, at a noble dinner prepared at the charge of the new accepted Masons."
An old record of the Society describes a coat of arms much the same with that of the London company of freemen Masons : whence it is generally believed that this company is a branch of that ancient Fraternity ; and in former times, no man, it also appears, was made free of that company, until he was initiated in some lodge of free and accepted Masons, as a necessary qualification. This practice still prevails in Scotland among the Operative Masons.
The writer of Mr. Ashmole's Life, who was not a Mason, before his History of Berkshire, p. 6, gives the following account of Masonry :
44 He (Mr. Ashmole) was elected a brother of the company of Free- masons ; a favour esteemed so singular by the Members, that kings themselves have not disdained to enter themselves of this Society. From these are derived the adopted Masons, accepted Masons, or Free- masons ; who are known to one another all over the world, by certain signals and watch words known to them alone. They have several Lodges in different countries for their reception ; and, when any of them fall into decay, the Brotherhood is to relieve them. The manner of their adoption or admission is very formal and solemn, and with the administration of an oath of secrecy, which has had better fate than all other oaths, and has ever been most religiously observed : nor has the world been yet able, by the inadvertency, surprise, or folly of any of its members, to dive into this mystery, or make the least discovery."
In some of Mr. Ashmole's manuscripts, there are many valuable collections relating to the history of the Freemasons, as may be gathered from the letters of Dr. Rnipe, of Christ-church, Oxford, to the publisher of Ashmole's Life ; the following extracts from which will authenticate and illustrate many facts in this history :
44 As to the ancient Society of Free-masons, concerning whom you are desirous of knowing what may be known with certainty, I shall only tell you,' that if our worthy Brother, E. Ashmole, Esq., had exe-
OF MASONRY. 133
The taste of this celebrated architect was displayed in many curious and elegant structures, both in London and the country ; particularly in designing the magnificent row of Great Queen-street, and the west side of Lincoln's Inn Fields, with Lindsey-house in the centre ; the late Chirurgeons'-hall and theatre, now Barbers'-hall, in Monk- well-street ; Shaftesbury-house, late the London Lying- in-Hospital for Married Women, in Aldersgate-street ; Bedford- ho use, in Bloomsbury-square, which is now taken down to make room for the new buildings in the improve- ment of the Duke of Bedford's town estate; Berkeley House, Piccadilly, lately burnt, and rebuilt, now in the possession of the Duke of Devonshire ; and York-stairs, on the bank of the Thames, &c. Beside these, he
cuted his intended design, our Fraternity had been as much obliged to him as the Brethren of the most noble Order of the Garter. I would not have you surprised at this expression, or think it at all too assuming. The Sovereigns of that Order have not disdained our fel- lowship, and there have been times when Emperors were also Free- masons. What, from Mr. Ashmole's collection, I could gather was, that the report of our Society taking rise from a bull granted by the pope in the reign of Henry VI. to some Italian architects, to travel over all Europe to erect chapels, was ill founded. Such a bull there was, and those architects were Masons ; but this bull, in the opinion of the learned Mr. Ashmole, was confirmative only, and did not by any means create our Fraternity, or even establish them in this king- dom. But as to the time and manner of that establishment, some- thing I shall relate from the same collections.
" St. Alban. the proto-martyr, established Masonry here, and from his time it flourished, more or less, according as the world went, down to the days of King Athelstane who, for the sake of his brother Edwin, granted the Masons a charter. Under our Norman princes they fre- quently received extraordinary marks of royal favour. There is no doubt to be made, that the skill of Masons, which was always tran- scendently great, even in the most barbarous times ; their wonderful kindness and attachment to each other, how different soever in con- dition; and their inviolable fidelity in keeping .religiously their se- crets ; must have exposed them, in ignorant, troublesome, and super- stitious times, to a vast variety of adventures, according to the dif- ferent state of parties, and other alterations in government. By the way, it may be noted, that the Masons were always loyal, which ex- posed them to great severities when power wore the appearance of justice, and those who committed treason punished true men as trai- tors. Thus, in the 3rd year of Honry VI., an act passed to abolish the society of Masons, and to hinder, under grievous penalties, the holding Chapters, Lodges, or other regular assemblies ; yet this act was afterwards [virtually] repealed ; and even before that, King Henry and several lords of his court became fellows of the Craft.
134 ILLUSTRATIONS
designed Gunnersbury-house, near Brentford; Wilton- house, in Wiltshire ; Castle- Abbey, in Northamptonshire , Stoke-park ; part of the quadrangle at St. John's, Oxford; Charlton-house, and Cobham-hall, in Kent ; Coles-hill, in Berkshire ; and the Grange, in Hampshire.
The breaking out of the civil wars obstructed the progress of Masonry in England for some time ; but after the Restoration it began to revive under the patronage of Charles II., who had been received into the Order during his exile.30
On the 27th December, 1663, a general assembly was held, at which Henry Jermyn, Earl of St. Alban's, was elected Grand Master ; who appointed Sir John Denham, Knt., his deputy, and Mr. (afterwards Sir) Christopher Wren,31 and John Webb, his wardens. Several useful regulations32 were made at this assembly, for the better
30 Some Lodges, in the reign of Charles II., were constituted by leave of the several noble Grand Masters, and many gentlemen and famous scholars requested at this time to be admitted among the Fraternity.
31 He was the only son of Dr. Christopher Wren, dean of Windsor, and was born in 1632. His genius for arts and sciences appeared early. At the age of thirteen, he invented a new astronomical instru- ment, by the name of Pan-organum, and wrote a treatise on the origin of rivers. He invented a new pneumatic engine, and a peculiar instru- ment of use in gnomonics, to solve this problem, viz. : " On a known plane, in a known elevation, to describe such lines with the expedite turning of rundles to certain divisions, as by the shadow the style may show the equal hours of the day." In 1646. at the age of four- teen, he was admitted a gentleman commoner in Wadham-college, Oxon, where he greatly improved under the instructions and friend- ship of Dr. John Wilkins and Dr. Seth Ward, who were gentlemen of great learning, and afterwards promoted by King Charles II. to the mitre. His other numerous juvenile productions in mathematics prove him to be a scholar of the highest eminence. He assisted Dr. Scar- borough in anatomical preparations, arid experiments upon the muscles of the human body ; whence are dated the first introduction of geo- metrical and mechanical speculations in anatomy. He wrote dis- courses on the longitude ; on the variations of the magnetical needle ; de re nautica veterum ; how to find the velocity of a ship in sailing ; of the improvement in galleys ; and how to recover wrecks. Beside these, he treated on the convenient way of using artillery on ship- board ; how to build on deep water ; how to build a mole into the sea, without Puzzolan dust, or cisterns ; and of the improvement of river navigation, by the joining of rivers. In short, the works of this excellent genius appear to be rather the united efforts of a whole century than the production of one man.
38 Among other regulations made at this assembly were the following ; 1. That no person, of what degree soever, be made or accepted a
OF MASONRY. 136
government of the Lodges, and the greatest harmony prevailed among the brethren at their various meet- ings.
Thomas Savage, Earl of Rivers, having succeeded the Earl of St. Alban's in the office of Grand Master in June, 1.666, Sir Christopher Wren was appointed deputy under his lordship ; in which office he distinguished himself more than any of his predecessors in promoting the pros- perity of the few Lodges that occasionally met at this time, particularly the old Lodge of St. Paul's,33 now the Lodge of Antiquity, which he patronized upwards of eighteen years. The honours which this celebrated character afterwards received in the Society, are evident
E roofs of the attachment of the Fraternity towards im.
Freemason unless in a regular Lodge, whereof one to be a Master or a Warden in that limit or division where such Lodge is kept, and ano- ther to be a craftsman in the trade of Freemasonry.
2. That no person hereafter shall be accepted a Freemason, but such as are of able body, honest parentage, good reputation, and an observer of the laws of the land.
3. That no person, hereafter, who shall be accepted a Freemason shall be admitted into any Lodge or assembly, until he has brought a certificate of the time and place of his acceptation from the Lodge that accepted him, unto the Master of that limit or division where such Lodge is kept. And the said Master shall enrol the same in a roll of parchment to be kept for that purpose, and shall give an account of all such acceptations at every general .assembly.
4. That every person who is now a Freemason, shall bring to the Master a note of the time of his acceptation, to the end the same may be enrolled in such priority of place as the Brother deserves ; and that the whole company and fellows may the better know each other.
5. That, for the future, the said Fraternity of Freemasons shall be regulated and governed by one Grand Master, and as many Wardens as the said Society shall think fit to appoint at every annual general assembly.
6. That no person shall be accepted, unless he be twenty-one years old or more.
Several records of the Society, of this and the preceding reign, were lost at the Revolution : and not a few were too hastily burnt in our own times by some scrupulous brothers, from a fear of making dis- coveries prejudicial to the interests of the Order.
J3 It appears from the records of the Lodge of Antiquity, that Mr. Wren at this time attended the meetings regularly : and that, during his presidency, he presented to that Lodge three mahogany candlesticks which are still preserved, and highly prized, as a memento of the esteem of the honourable donor.
ILLUSTRATIONS
SECT. VI.
The History of Masonry in England frvm the Fire of Lon- don34 to the Accession of George I.
THE year 1666 afforded a singular and awful occasion for the utmost exertion of Masonic abilities. The city of London, which had been visited in the preceding year by the plague, to whose ravages, it is computed, above 100,000 of its inhabitants fell a sacrifice,85 had scarcely recovered from the alarm of that dreadful contagion, when a general conflagration reduced the greatest part of the city within the walls to ashes. This dreadful fire broke out on the 2d of September, at the house of a baker in Pudding-lane, a wooden building, pitched on the outside, as were also all the rest of the houses in that narrow lane. The house being filled with faggots and brushwood, soon added to the rapidity of the flames, which raged with such fury as to spread four ways at once.
Jonas Moore and Ralph Gatrix, who were appointed surveyors on this occasion to examine the ruins, reported, that the fire over-ran 373 acres within the walls, and burnt 13,000 houses, 89 parish churches, besides chapels, leaving only 11 parishes standing. The Royal Exchange, Custom-house, Guildhall, Blackwull-hall, St. Paul's cathe- dral, Bridewell, the two compters, fifty-two city com- panies' halls, and three city gates, were all demolished. The damage was computed at 10,000,000/. sterling.30
After so sudden and extensive a calamity, it became
34 For many of the particulars contained in this section, I am indebted to Mr. Noorthouck's edition of the Book of Constitutions, published in 1784 ; which, much to the honour of that gentleman, is executed in a masterly manner, and interspersed with several judicious remarks.
10 The streets were at this time narrow, crooked, and incommodious ; the houses built chiefly of wood, close, dark, and ill-contrived ; with several stories projecting beyond each other as they rose, over the contracted streets. Thus the free circulation of air* was obstructed, the people breathed a stagnant and unwholesome element, replete with foul effluvia, sufficient of itself to generate putrid disorders. From this circumstance, the inhabitants were continually exposed to con- tagious disorders, and the buildings to the ravages of fire.
*e Anderson's History of Commerce, vol. ii.. p. 130.
OP MASONRY. 137
necessary to adopt some regulations to guard against any such catastrophe in future. It was therefore deter- mined, that in all the new buildings to be erected, stone and brick should be substituted in the room of timber. The King and the Grand Master immediately ordered Deputy Wren to draw up the plan of a new city, with broad and regular streets. He was also appointed sur- veyor-general and principal architect for rebuilding the city, the cathedral of St. Paul, and all the parochial churches enacted by parliament, in lieu of those thai were destroyed, with other public structures. This gen- tleman, conceiving the charge too important for a single person, selected Mr. Robert Hook, professor of Geometry in Gresham college, to assist him ; who was immediately employed in measuring, adjusting, and setting out the ground of the private streets to the several proprietors. Dr. Wren's model and plan were laid before the King and the House of Commons, and the practicability of the whole scheme, without the infringement of property, clearly demonstrated : it unfortunately happened, how- ever, that the greater part of the citizens were absolutely averse to alter their old possessions, and to recede from building their houses again on the old foundations. Many were unwilling to give up their properties, into the hands of public trustees, till they should receive an equivalent of more advantage; while others expressed distrust. All means were tried to convince the citizens that, by removing all the church-yards, gardens, &c., to the out- skirts of the city, sufficient room would be given to aug- ment the streets, and properly to dispose of the churches, halls, arid other public buildings, to the perfect satisfac- tion of every proprietor; but the representation of all the'se improvements had no weight. The citizens chose to have their old city again, under all its disadvantages, rather than a new one, the principles of which they were unwilling to understand, and considered as innovations. Thus an opportunity was lost, of making the new city the most magnificent, as well as the most commodious for health and trade, of any in Europe. The architect, cramped in the execution of his plan, was obliged to abridge his scheme, and exert his utmost labour, skill, and ingenuity, to model the city in the manner in which it has since appeared.
138 ILLUSTRATIONS
On the 23rd of October, 1667, the King, in person, levelled in form the foundation-stone of the new Royal Exchange, now allowed to be the finest in Europe; and on the 28th of September, 1669, it was opened by the lord mayor and aldermen. Round the inside of the square, above the arcades, and between the windows, are the statues of the sovereigns of England. In the centre Of the square is erected the King's statue to the life, in a Caesarean habit of white marble, executed in a masterly manner by Mr. Gibbons, then Grand Warden of the society.
In 1668, the custom-house for the port of London, situated on the south side of Thames-street, was built, adorned with an upper and lower order of architecture. In the latter are stone columns and an entablement of the Tuscan order ; arid in the former, are pilasters, enta- blature, and five pediments of the Ionic order. The wings are elevated on columns, forming piazzas; and the length of the building is 189 feet; its breadth in the middle, 27 ; and at the west end, 60 feet.37
This year also, Deputy Wren, and his Warden Webb, finished the Theatrum Sheldortium at Oxford, designed and executed at the private expense of Gilbert Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury, an excellent architect, and able designer. On the 9th of July, 1669, the cape-stone of this elegant building was celebrated with joy and festivity by the craftsmen, and an elegant oration deli- vered on the occasion by Dr. South.
Deputy Wren, at the same time, built, at the expense of the university, that other master-piece of architecture, the pretty museum, near this theatre.
In 1671, Dr. Wren began to build that great fluted column called the Monument, in memory of the burning -and rebuilding of the city of London. This stupendous pillar was finished in 1677.38
37 This building was destroyed by fire a few years ago, and an elegant structure erected in its stead. — EDITOR.
38 It is 24 feet higher than Trajan's pillar at Rome, and built ot Portland stone, of the Doric order. Its altitude, from the ground, is 202 feet ; the greatest diameter of the shaft or body of the column. 15 feet ; the ground plinth, or bottom of the pedestal, 28 feet square j and the pedestal, 40 feet high. Over the capital is an iron balcony, encompassing a cone 32 feet high, supporting a blazing urn of gilt brass. Within is a targe staircase of black marble, containing 345
OF MASONRY. 189
The rebuilding of the city of London was vigorously prosecuted, and the restoration of St. Paul's cathedral claimed particular attention. Dr. Wren drew several designs, to discover what would be - most acceptable to
steps, each step ten inches and a half broad, and six inches thick. The west side of the pedestal is adorned with curious emblems, by the masterly hand of Mr. Gibber, father to the late poet-laureate, Colley Cibber ; in which eleven principal figures are done in alto, and the rest in basso relievo. That to which the eye is particularly directed, is a female, representing the City of London, sitting in a languishing posture, on a heap of ruins Behind her, is Time, gradually raising her up ; and at her side, a woman, representing Providence, gently touching her with one hand, while, with a winged sceptre in the other, she directs her to regard two goddesses in the clouds; one with a cornucopia, denoting Plenty; the other, with a palm branch, the emblem of Peace. At her feet is a bee-hive, to show that, by industry and application, the greatest misfortunes may be overcome. Behind Time, are the Citizens, exulting at his endeavours to restore her ; and beneath, in the midst of the ruins, is a dragon, the supporter of the city arms, who endeavours to preserve them with his paw. At the north end, is a view of the City in flames, the inhabitants in con- sternation, with their arms extended upward, crying for assistance. Opposite the city, on an elevated pavement, stands the King, in a Roman habit, with a laurel on his head, and a truncheon in his hand ; who, on approaching her, commands three of his attendants to descend to her relief. The first represents the Sciences, with a winged head, and circle of naked boys dancing thereon, and holding Nature in her hand, with her numerous breasts, ready to give assistance to all. The second is Architecture, with a plan in one hand, and a square and pair of compasses in the other. The third is Liberty, waving a hat in the air, and showing her joy at the pleasing prospect of the City's speedy recovery. Behind the king, stands his brother the Duke of York, with a garland in one hand, to crown the rising city, and a sword in the other for her defence. The two figures behind them are Justice and Fortitude ; the former with a ct>ronet, and the latter with a reined lion ; while, under the pavement, in a vault, appears Envy gnawing a heart. In the upper part of the background, the re-construction of the city is represented by scaifolds and unfinished houses, with builders at work on them. The north and south sides of the pedestal have each a Latin inscription, one describing the desolation of the city, the other its restoration. The east side of the pedestal has an inscription, expressing the time in which the pillar was begun, continued, and brought to perfection. In one line, continued round the base, are these words : — ;: This pillar was set up in perpetual remembrance of the most dreadful burning of this Protestant city, begun and carried on by the treachery and malice of the Popish faction in the beginning of September, in the year of our Lord 1666, in order to the carrying on their horrid plot for extirpating the Protestant religion, and old English liberty, and introducing Popery and slavery." On the Duke of York's accession to the crown, this inscription was erased; but was again restored soon after the Revolution.
140 ILLUSTRATIONS
the general taste ; and, finding persons of all degrees declare for magnificence and grandeur, he formed a design according to the very best style of Greek and Roman architecture, arid caused a large model of it to be made in wood ; but. the bishops deciding that it was not suffi- ciently in the cathedral style, the surveyor was ordered to amend it, and he then produced the scheme of the present structure, which was honoured with the King's approbation. The original model, however, which was only of the Corinthian order, like St. Peter's at Rome, is still kept in an apartment of the cathedral, as a real 'curiosity.
In 1673, the foundation-stone of this magnificent cathedral, designed by Deputy Wren, was laid in solemn form by the King,39 attended by Grand Master Rivers, his architects and craftsmen, in the presence of the nobility and gentry, the lord mayor and aldermen, the bishops and clergy, &c. During the whole time this structure was building, Dr. Wren acted as master of the work, and surveyor, and was ably assisted by his wardens, Mr. Edward Strong and his son.
St. Paul's cathedral is planned in the form of a long cross ; the walls are wrought in rustic, and strengthened, as well as adorned, by two rows of coupled pilasters, one over the other ; the lower Corinthian, and the upper Composite. The spaces between the arches of the win- dows, and the architecture of the lower order, as well as those above, are filled with a variety of enrichments.
The west front is graced with a most magnificent por- tico, a noble. pediment, an is a grand flight of steps of black marble that extend the whole length of the portico, which consists of twelve lofty Corinthian columns below, and eight of the Com- posite order above; these are all coupled and fluted. The upper series support a noble pediment, crowned with its acroteria; and in this pediment is an elegant representation in bas-relief of the conversion of St. Paul, executed by Mr. Bird, an artist whose name, on account of this piece alone, is worthy of being transmitted to
39 The mallet with which the king levelled this foundation-stone was delivered by Sir Christopher Wren to the old Lodge of St. Paul, now the Lodgo of Antiquity where it is still preserved as a great curiosity.
OF MASONRY. 141
posterity. The figures are well executed ; the magnificent figure of St. Paul, on the apex of the pediment, with St. Peter on his right, and St. James on his left, produce a fine effect. The four Evangelists, with their proper emblems, on the front of the towers, are judiciously dis- posed, and skilfully finished ; St. Matthew is distinguished by an angel ; St. Mark, by a lion ; St. Luke, by an ox ; and St. John, by an eagle.
To the north portico, there is an ascent by twelve cir- cular steps of black marble, and its dome is supported by six grand Corinthian columns. Upon the dome is a wrell-proportioned urn, finely ornamented with festoons ; over the urn is a pediment, supported by pilasters in the wall, in the face of which are carved the royal arms, with the regalia supported by angels. Statues of five of the apostles are placed on the top, at proper distances.
The south portico answers to the north, and, like that, is supported by six noble Corinthian columns ; but as the ground is considerably lower on this side of the church than the other, the ascent is by a flight of twenty-five steps. This portico has also a pediment above, in which is a phoenix rising out of the flames, with the motto, RESURGAM,40 underneath it, as an emblem of rebuilding the church. On this side of the building are likewise five statues, which correspond with those on the apex of the north pediment.
At the east end of the church is a sweep, or circular projection, for the altar, finely ornamented with the orders, and with sculpture ; particularly a noble piece in honourof King William III.
The dome, which rises in the centre of the whole, is superlatively grand. Twenty feet above the roof of the church is a circular range of thirty-two columns, with niches place'd exactly against others within. These are
*° A curious accident is said to have given rise to this device, which was particularly observed by the architect as a favourable omen. When Dr. Wren was marking out the dimensions of the building, and had fixed on the centre of the great dome, a common labourer was ordered to bring him a flat stone from among the rubbish, to leave as a direction to the masons. The stone which the man brought hap- pened to be a piece of a gravestone, with nothing remaining of the inscription but this single word, in large capitals, RESURGAM ; and this circumstance left an impression on Dr. Wren's mind, that could never afterwards be erased.
142 ILLUSTRATIONS
terminated by their entablature, which supports a hand- some gallery, adorned with a balustrade. Above these columns is a range of pilasters, with windows between ; and from the entablature of these, the diameter decreases very considerably; and two feet above that, it is again contracted. From this part the external sweep of the dome begins, and the arches meet at 52 feet above. On the summit of the dome is an elegant balcony, and from its centre rises the lantern, adorned with Corinthian columns. The whole is terminated by a ball, on which stands a cross, both of which are elegantly gilt.
This noble fabric is surrounded, at a proper distance, by a dwarf-stone wall, on which is placed the most magnificent balustrade of cast iron perhaps in the uni- verse, four feet six inches in height, exclusive of the wall. In this enlcosure are seven beautiful iron gates, which, together with the balustres, in number about 2500, weigh 200 tons and 85 pounds.
In the centre of the area of the grand west front, on a pedestal of excellent workmanship, stands a statue of Queen Anne, formed of white marble, with proper decorations. -The figures on the base represent Britannia, with her spear; Gallia, with the crown in her lap; Hibernia, with her harp; and America, with her bow. These, and the colossal statues with which the church is adorned, were executed by the ingenious Mr. Hill.
A strict regard to the situation of this cathedral, due east and west, has given it an oblique appearance with respect to Ludgate-street in front; so that the great front gate in the surrounding iron rails, being made to regard the street in front, rather than the church to which it belongs, the statue of the Queen Anne, which is exactly in the middle of the west front, is thrown on one side the straight approach from the' gate to the church, and gives an idea of the whole edifice being awry.
Under the grand portico, at the west end, are three doors, ornamented at the top with bas-relief. The middle door, which is by far the largest, is cased with white marble, and over it is a fine piece of basso-relievo, in which St. Paul is represented preaching to the Bereans. On entering the door, the mind is struck by the extent of the vista. An arcade, supported by lofty and massy
OF MASONRY. . 143
pillars on each hand, divides the church into the body and two aisles; and the view is, terminated by the altar at the extremity ofv the choir; subject, nevertheless, to the intervention of the organ standing across, which forms a heavy obstruction. The pillars are adorned with columns and pilasters of the Corinthian and Composite orders; and the arches of the roof are enriched with shields, festoons, chaplets, and other ornaments. In the aisle, on one hand, is the consistory; and, opposite, on the other, the morning-prayer chapel. These have very beautiful screens of carved wainscot, which are much admired.
Over the centre, where the great aisles cross each otheu, is the grand cupola, or dome, the vast concave of which inspires a pleasing awe. Under its centre is fixed, in the floor, a brass plate, round which the pavement is beautifully variegated; but the figures into which it is formed can nowhere be so well seen as from the whispering-gallery above. Here the spectator has at once a full view of the organ, richly ornamented with carved work, and the entrance to the choir directly under it. The two aislqs on the side of the choir, as well as the choir itself, are inclosed with veiy fine iron rails and gates.
The altar-piece is adorned with four noble fluted .pilasters, painted and veined with gold, in imitation of lapis lazuli, and their capitals are double gilt. In the intercolumniations below are nine marble panels, and above are six windows, in the two series. The floor of the whole church is paved with marble ; and within the rails of the altar with porphyry, polished, and laid in several geometrical figures.
In the great cupola, which is 108 feet in diameter, the architect seems to have imitated the Pantheon at Rome, excepting that the upper order is there only umbratile, and distinguished by different coloured marbles; while, in St. Paul's, it is extant out of the wall. The Pantheon is no higher within than its diameter; St. Peter's is two diameters; the former shows its concave too low, the latter to high ; St. Paul's is proportioned between both, and therefore shows its concave every way, and is very lightsome by the windows of the upper order. These strike down the light through the great colonnade that
144 ILLUSTRATIONS
encircles the dome without, and serve for the abutment, which is brick of the thickness of two bricks ; but as it rises every way five feet high, it has a course of excellent brick of 18 inches long, banding through the whole thickness; and, to make it still more secure, it is sur- rounded with a vast chain of iron, strongly linked together at every ten feet. The chain is let into a channel, cut into the bandage of Portland stone, and defended from the weather by filling the groove with lead. The concave was turned upon a centre, which was judged necessary to keep the work true ;. but the centre was laid without any standards below for support. Every story of the scaffolding being circular, and the ends of all the ledgers meeting at so many rings, and truly wrought, it supported itself.
As the old church of St. Paul had a lofty spire, Dr. Wren was obliged to give his building an altitude that might secure it from suffering by the comparison. To do this, he made the dome without much higher than within, by raising a strong brick cone over the internal cupola, so constructed as to support an elegant stone lantern on the apex. This brick cone is supported by a cupola, formed of timber, and covered with lead : between which and the cone are easy stairs up to the lantern. Here the spectator may view contrivances that are truly astonishing. The outward cupola is only ribbed, which- the architect thought less Gothic than to stick it full of such little lights as are in the cupola of St. Peter's, that could not without difficulty be mended, and, if neglected, might soon jdamage the timbers. As the architect was sensible that paintings are liable to decay, he intended to have beautified the inside of the cupola with mosaic work, which, without the least fading of colours, would be as durable as the building itself; but in this he was over-ruled, though he had undertaken to procure four of the most eminent artists in that profession from Italy, for the purpose. This part, therefore, is now decorated by the pencil of Sir James Thornhill, who has represented the principal passages of St. Paul's life, in eight compart- ments. * These paintings are all seen to advantage by means of a circular opening, through which the light is transmitted with admirable effect from the lantern above; but they are now cracked, and sadly decayed.
'JF MASONRY. 14t>
Divine service was performed in the choir of this cathedral, for the first time, on the thanksgiving day for the peace of Ryswick, Dec. 2, 1697 ;41 and the last stone on the top of the lantern laid by Mr. Christopher Wren, the son of the architect, in 17 10.42
While the cathedral of St. Paul's was carrying on as a national undertaking, the citizens did not neglect theii own immediate concerns, but restored such of their halls and gates as had been destroyed. In April, 1675, was laid the foundation-stone of the late Bethlehem-hospital for lunatics, in Moorfields. This was a magnificent build- ing, 540 feet long, and 40 broad, besides the two wings, which were not added until several years afterwards. The middle and ends of the edifice projected a little, and were adorned with pilasters, entablatures, foliages, &c., which, rising above the rest of the building, had each a flat roof, with a handsome balustrade of stone. In the centre was an elegant turret, adorned with a clock, gilt ball, and vane. The whole building was brick and stone, inclosed by a handsome wall, 680 feet long, of the same materials. In the centre of the wTall was a large pair of iron gates ; and on the piers on which these were hung, were two images, in a reclining posture, one repre- senting raving, the other melancholy, madness. The expres- sion of these figures is admirable; and they were the workmanship of Mr. Gibber, the father of the laureat before mentioned. This building is now destroyed.43
The College of Physicians also, about this time, dis- covered some taste in erecting their college in Warwick- lane, which, though little known, is esteemed by good judges a delicate building.
41 Howell's Medulla Hist. Aug.
42 This noble fabric, lofty enough to be discerned at sea eastward, and at Windsor to the west, was begun and completed in the space of thirty-five years, by one architect, the great Sir Christopher Wren ; one principal mason, Mr. Strong ; and under one bishop of London, Dr. Henry Compton ; whereas, St. Peter's at Rome was 155 years in building, under twelve successive architects, assisted by the police and interest of the Roman see, and attended by the best artists in sculpture, statuary, painting, and mosaic work.
The various parts of this superb edifice I have been thus particular in describing, as it reflects honour on the ingenious architect who built it. and as there is not an instance on record of any work of equal magnitude having ever been completed by one man.
43 A new edifice, for the same purpose, has been erected in Stt George's Fields. — EDITOR.
8 r
140 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Fraternity were now fully employed ; and by them the following parish churches, which had been consumed by the great fire, were gradually rebuilt, or repaired :
Allhallows, Bread-street, finished 1694; and the steeple completed 1697.
Allhallows the Great, Thames-street, 1683.
Allhallows, Lombard-street, 1694.
St. Alban, Wood-street, 1685.
St. Anne and Agnes, St. Anne's-lane, Aldersgate-street, 1680.
St. Andrew's, Wardrobe, Puddledock-hill, 1692.
St. Andrew's, Holborn, 1687.
St. Anthony's, Watling-steet, 1682.
St. Augustin's. Watling-street, 1683; and the steeple finished 1695.
St. Bartholomew's, Royal Exchange, 1679.
St. Benedict's, Gracechurch-street. 1685.
St. Benedict's, Threadneedle-street, 1673.
St. Bennet's, Paul's Wharf. Thames-street, 1683.
St. Bride's, Fleet-street, 1680; and farther adorned in 1699.
Christ-church, Newgate-street, 1687.
St. Christopher's, Threadneedle-street, (since taken down to make room for the Bank,) repaired in 1696.
St. Clement Danes, in the Strand, taken down 1680, and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren, 1682.
St. Clement's, East Cheap, St. Clement's-lane, 1686.
St. Dionis Back, Lime-street, 1674.
St. Dunstan's in the East, Towei-ptreet, repaired in 1698.
St. Edmond's the King, Lombard-street, rebuilt in 1674.
St. George, Botolph-lane, 1674.
St. James, Garlick-hill, 1683.
St. James, Westminster, 1675.
St. Lawrence Jewry, Cateaton-street, 1677.
St. Magnus, London-bridge, 1676 ; and the steeple in 1705.
St. Margaret, Lothbury, 1690.
St. Margaret Pattens, Little Tower-street, 1687.
St. Martin's, Ludgate, 1684.
St. Mary Abchurch, Abchurch-lane, 1686.
St. Mary's at hill, St. Mary's-hill, 1672.
St. Mary's, Aldermary, Bow-lane, 1672.
St. Mary Magdalen, Old Fish-street, 1685.
St. Mary Somerset, Queenhithe, Thames-street, 1683.
St. Mary-le-bow, Cheapside, 1683. This church was built on the wall of a very ancient one in the early time of the Roman colony ; the roof is arched, and supported with ten Corinthian columns ; but the principal ornament is the steeple, which is deemed an ad- mirable piece of architecture, not to be paralleled by that of any other parochial church. It rises from the ground a square tower, plain at bottom, and is carried up to a considerable height in this shape, but with more ornament as it advances. The principal de- coration of the lower part is the door-case ; a lofty, noble arch, faced with a bold and well-wrought rustic, raised on a plain solid course from the foundation. Within the arch is a portal of
OF MASONRY. 147
the Doric order, with well-proportioned columns; the frieze is ornamented with triglyphs, and with sculpture in the metopes. There are some other slight ornaments in this part, which is termi- nated by an elegant cornice, over which rises a plain course, from which the dial projects. Above this, in each face, there is an arched window, with Ionic pilasters at the sides. . The entablature of the order is well wrought : it has a swelling frieze, and supports on the cornice an elegant balustrade, with Attic pillars over Ionic columns. These sustain elegant scrolls, on which are placed urns with flames, and from this part the steeple rises circular. There is a plain course to the height of half the scrolls, and upon this is raised an elegant circular series of Corinthian columns. These support a second balustrade with scrolls ; and above there is placed another series of columns of the Composite order ; while, from the entablature, rises a set of scrolls supporting the spire, which is placed on balls, and terminated by a globe, on which is fixed a vane.
&i Mary Woolnoth's, Lombard- street, repaired in 1677.
St. Mary, Aldermanbury, rebuilt 1677.
St. Matthew, Friday- street, 1685.
St. Michael, Basinghall-street, 1679.
St. Michael Royal, College-hill, 1694.
St. Michael, Queenhithe, Trinity-lane, 1677.
St. Michael, Wood-street, 1675.
St. Michael, Crooked-lane, 1688.
St. Michael, Cornhill, 1672.
St. Mildred, Bread-street, 1683.
St. Mildred, Poultry, 1676.
St. Nicholas, Cole-abbey, Old Fish-street, 1677.
St. Glare's, Old Jewry, 1673.
St. Peter's, Cornhill, 1681.
St. Sepulchre's, Snow-hill, 1671.
St. Stephen's, Colernan-street, 1676.
St. Stephen's, Walbrook, behind the Mansion-house, 1676. Many encomiums have been bestowed on this church, for its interior beauties. The dome is finely proportioned to the church, and divided into small compartments, decorated with great elegance, and crowned with a lantern : the roof is also divided into compart- ments, and supported by noble Corinthian columns raised on their pedestals. This church has three aisles and a cross aisle, is 75 feet long, 36 broad, 34 high and 58 to the lantern. It is famous all over Europe, and justly reputed the master-piece of Sir Christo- pher Wren. There is not a beauty, of which the plan would admit, that is not to be found here in its greatest perfection.
St. Swithin's, Cannon- street, 1673.
St. Vedast, Foster-lane, 1697.
While these churches, and other public buildings, were going forward, under the direction of Sir Christo- pher Wren, King Charles did not confine his improve- ments to England alone, but commanded Sir William Bruce, Bart., Grand Master of Scotland, to rebuild the palace of Holyrood House, at Edinburgh, which was ac-
148 ILLUSTRATIONS
cordingly executed by that architect in the best Augustan style.
During the prosecution of the great works above de- scribed, the private business of the Society was not neglected: Lodges were held at different places, and many new ones constituted, to which the best architects resorted.
In 1674, the Earl of Rivers resigned the office of Grand Master, and was succeeded by George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham. He left the care of the Brethren to his wardens, and Sir Christopher Wren, who still continued to act "as deputy. In 1679, the duke resigned in favour of Henry Bennet, Earl of Arlington. Though this nobleman was too deeply engaged in state affairs to attend to the duties of Masonry, the Lodges continued to meet regularly under his sanction, and many respecta- ble gentlemen joined the Fraternity.
On the death of the king, in 1685, James II. succeed- ed to the throne, during whose reign the Fraternity were much neglected. The P^arl of Arlington dying this year, the Lodges met in communication, and elected Sir Chris- topher Wren Grand Master, who appointed Mr. Gabriel Gibber and Mr. Edward Strong 44 his wardens. Masonry continued in a declining state for many years, and a few Lodges only occasionally met in different places.
At the Revolution, the Society was so much reduced in the South of England, that no more than seven regu- lar Lodges met in London and its suburbs, of which two only were worthy of notice; the old Lodge of St. Paul's, over which Sir Christopher had presided during the building of that structure ; and a Lodge at St. Thomas's Hospital, South wark, over which Sir Robert Clayton, then Lord Mayor of London, presided during the re- building of that hospital.45
King William, having been privately initiated into Masonry in 1695, approved the choice of Sir Christopher Wren as Grand Master, and honoured the Lodges with his royal sanction, particularly one at Hampton Court, at
44 Both of these gentlemen were members of the old Lodge of St. Paul, with Sir Christopher Wren, and bore a principal share in all the improvements which took place after the fire of London ; the latter, in particular, displayed his abilities in the cathedral of St. Paul.
45 See the Book of Constitutions. 1738, pp. 106, 107.
OF MASONRY, 149
which, it is said, his majesty frequently presided during the building of the new part of that palace. Kensington Palace was built during this reign, under the direction of Sir Christopher ; as were also Chelsea Hospital, arid the Palace of Greenwich, the latter of which had been re- cently converted into an hospital for seamen, and finished after the design of Inigo Jones.
At a general assembly and feast of the Masons, in 1697, many noble and eminent Brethren were present, and among the rest, Charles Duke of Richmond and Lenox, who was at that time Master of the Lodge at Chichester. His Grace was proposed and elected Grand Master for the following year ; and having engaged Sir Christopher Wren to act as his deputy, he appointed Edward Strong, senior, and Edward Strong, junior, his wardens. His Grace continued in office only one year, and was suc- ceeded by Sir Christopher, who continued at the head of the Fraternity till the death of the King in 1702.
During the following reign, Masonry made no consider- able progress. Sir Christopher's age and infirmities drawing off his attention from the duties of his office, the Lodges decreased, and the annual festivals were en- tirely neglected46. The old Lodge of St. Paul, and a few others, continued to meet regularly, but consisted of few members47. To increase their numbers, a proposi- tion was made, and afterwards agreed to, THAT THE
PRIVILEGES OF MASONRY SHOULD NO LONGER BE RESTRICT- ED TO OPERATIVE MASONS, BUT EXTEND TO MEN OF VARI- OUS PROFESSIONS, PROVIDED THEY WERE REGULARLY AP- PROVED AND INITIATED INTO THE ORDER. In consequence of this resolution, many new regulations took place, and the Society once more rose into notice and esteem.
SECT. VII. History of the Revival of Masonry in the South of England.
ON the accession of George I. the Masons in London and its environs, finding themselves deprived of Sir Christopher Wren, and their annual meetings disconti- nued, resolved to cement themselves under a new Grand
46 Book of Constitutions, 1738, p. 108. 4T Ibid-
150 ILLUSTRATIONS
Master, and to revive the communications and annual festivals of the Society. With this view, the Lodges at the Goose and Gridiron, in St. Paul's Church-yard — the Crown, in Parker' s-lane, near Drury-lane — the Apple- tree Tavern, in Charles-street, Co vent-Garden, and the Rummer and Grapes Tavern, in Channel-row, Westmin- ster, (the only four Lodges in being in the South of England at that time,) with some other old Brethren, met at the Apple-tree Tavern, above-mentioned, in Feb- ruary, 1717; and, having voted the oldest Master-mason then present into the chair, constituted themselves a Grand Lodge, pro temporc, in due form. At this meeting it was resolved to revive the Quarterly Communications of the Fraternity, and to hold the next annual assembly and feast on the 24th of June, at the Goose and Gridiron, in St. Paul's Church-yard (in compliment to the oldest Lodge, which then met there), for the purpose of elect- ing a Grand Master among themselves, till they should have the honour of a noble brother at their head. Ac- cordingly, on St. John the Baptist's day, 1717, in the third year of the reign of King George I., the assembly and feast were held at the said house ; when the oldest Master-mason, and the Master of a Lodge, having taken the chair, a list of proper candidates for the office of Grand Master was produced; and the names being sepa- rately proposed, the Brethren, by a great majority of hands, elected Mr. Anthony Sayer Grand Master of Ma- sons for the ensuing year, who was forthwith invested by the said oldest Master, installed by the Master of the oldest Lodge, and duly congratulated by the assembly, who paid him homage. The Grand Master then entered on the duties of his office, appointed his Wardens, and commanded the Brethren of the four Lodges to meet him and his Wardens quarterly in communication ; en- joining them, at the same time, to recommend to all the Fraternity a punctual attendance on the next annual assembly and least.
Amongst a variety of regulations which were pro- posed and agreed to at this meeting, was the following : * That the privilege of assembling as Masons, which had been hitherto unlimited48, should be vested in certain
43 A sufficient number of Masons, met together within a certain
OF MASONRY. 161
Lodges or Assemblies of Masons convened in certain places ; and that every Lodge to be hereafter convened, except the four old Lodges at this time existing, should be legally authorized to act by a warrant from the Grand Master for the time being, granted to certain individuals by petition, with the consent and approbation of the Grand Lodge in communication ; and that without such warrant no Lodge should be hereafter deemed regular or constitutional." In consequence of this regulation, seve- ral new Lodges were soon after convened in different parts of London and its environs, and the Masters and Wardens of these Lodges were commanded to attend the meetings of the Grand Lodge, make a regular report of their proceedings, and transmit to the Grand Master, from time to time, a copy of any by-laws they might form for their own government ; that no laws established among them might be contrary to, or subversive of, the general regulations, by which the Fraternity had 'been long governed, arid which had been sanctioned by the four Lodges when convened as a Grand Lodge in 1717. In compliment to the Brethren of the four old Lodges, by whom the Grand Lodge was first formed, it was resolved, " That every privilege which they collectively enjoyed by virtue of their immemorial rights, they should still continue to enjoy; and that no law, rule, or regula- tion, to be hereafter made or passed in the Grand Lodge, should ever deprive them of such privilege, or encroach on any landmark which was at that time established as the standard of masonic government." This resolution being confirmed, the old Masons in the Metropolis, agree- ably to the resolutions of the Brethren at large, vested all their inherent privileges, as individuals, in the fourfold Lodges, in trust that they would never suffer the old charges and ancient landmarks to be infringed. The four old lodges then agreed to extend their patronage to every lodge which should hereafter be constituted by the Grand Lodge, according to the new regulations of the Society;
district, with the consent of the sheriff or chief magistrate of the place, were empowered, at this time, to make Masons, and practise the rites of Masonry, without warrant of Constitution. The privilege was inherent in themselves as individuals ; and this privilege is still enjoyed by the two old Lodges now extant, which act by immemorial constitution.
152 ILLUSTRATIONS
and while such lodges acted in conformity to the ancient Constitution of the Order, to admit their Masters and Wardens and to share with them all the privileges of the Grand Lodge, excepting precedence of rank.
Matters being thus amicably adjusted, the Brethren of the four old lodges considered their attendance on the future Communications of the Society as unnecessary ; and therefore, like the other lodges, trusted implicitly to their Master and Wardens, resting satisfied that no measure of importance would be adopted without their approbation. The officers of the old lodges, however, soon began to discover, that the new lodges, being equally represented with them at the Communications, might, in process of time, so far outnumber the old ones, as to have it in their power, by a majority, to encroach on, or even subvert, the privileges of the original Masons of England, which had been centred in the tour old lodges, with the concur- rence of the Brethren at large, therefore, they very wisely formed a code of laws for the future government of the Society; to which was annexed a conditional clause,40 which the Grand Master for the time being, his successors, and the Master of every lodge to be hereafter constituted, were bound to preserve inviolate in all time coming. To commemorate this circumstance, it has
49 The conditional clause runs thus: — "Every annual Grand Lodge has an inherent power and authority to make new regulations, or to alter these, for the real benefit of this ancient Fraternity ; provided always,
THAT THE OLD LAND-MARKS BE CAREFULLY PRESERVED: and that Such
alterations and new regulations be proposed and agreed to, at the third quarterly communication preceding the annual grand feast; and that, they be offered also to the perusal of all the Brethren before dinner in \priting, even of the youngest apprentice ; the approbation and con- sent of the majority of all the Brethren present being absolutely necessary to make the same binding and obligatory."
This remarkable clause, with thirty-eight regulations preceding it, all of which are printed in the first edition of the Book of Constitu- tions, were approved and confirmed by one hundred and fifty brethren, at an annual assembly and feast, held at Stationers'-hall. on St. John the Baptist's day, 1721,* and in their presence subscribed by the Masters and Wardens of the four old lodges on the one part ; and by Philip, Duke of Wharton, then Grand Master, Theophilus Desaguliers, M.D. and F.R.S., Deputy Grand Master, Joshua Timson and William Hawkins, Grand Wardens, and the Masters and Wardens of sixteen lodges, which had been constituted between 1717 and 1721. on the other part.
• See the first edition of the Book of Constitutions, p. 68.

.•; ..
OF MASONRY. V #* OP 163
been customary, since that time, for the Master of the oldest lodge to attend every Grand Installation: and taking precedence of all present, the Grand Master only excepted, to deliver the book of the original Consti- tutions to the newly installed Grand Master, on his engaging to support the ancient charges and general regulations.
By this prudent precaution of our ancient Brethren, the original Constitutions were established as the basis of all future masonic jurisdiction in the south of England ; and the* ancient land-marks, as they are emphatically styled, or the bounderies set up as checks to innovation, were carefully secured against the attacks of future invaders. The four old lodges, in consequence of the above compact, in which they considered themselves as a distinct party, continued to act by their original authori- ty; and, so far from surrendering any of their rights, had them frequently ratified and confirmed by the whole Fraternity in Grand Lodge assembled, who always acknowledged their independent and immemorial power to practise the rites of Masonry. No regulations of the Society which might hereafter take place could, therefore, operate with respect to those lodges, if such regulations were contrary to, or subversive of, the original Constitu- tions, by which only they were governed: and while their proceedings were conformable to those Constitu- tions, no power known in Masonry could legally deprive them of any right or privilege which they had ever enjoyed.
iThe necessity of fixing the original Constitutions, as the standard by which all future laws in the Society are to be regulated, was so clearly understood and defined by the whole Fraternity at this time, that it was estab- lished as an unerring rule, at every installation, public and private, for many years afterwards, to make the Grand Master, and the Masters and Wardens of every lodge, engage to support the oiiginal Constitutions; to the observance of which, also, every Mason was bound at his initiation. Whoever acknowledges the universality of Masonry to be its highest glory, must admit the pro- priety of this conduct; for were no standard fixed for the government of the Society, Masonry might be exposed to perpetual variations, which would effectually destroy 8*
154 ILLUSTRATIONS
all the good effects that have hitherto resulted from its universality and extended progress.50
During 'the administration of Mr. Sayer, the Society made little progress. Several Brethren joined the old lodges; but there appear to have been only two new lodges constituted under his auspices.
Mr. Sayer was succeeded, in 1718, by George Payne
60 When the earlier editions of this book were printed, the author was not sufficiently acquainted with this part of the history of Ma- sonry in England. The above particulars have been carefullj^extracted from old records and authentic manuscripts, and are, in many points, confirmed by the old books of the Lodge of Antiquity, as well as the iirst and second editions of the Book of Constitutions.
The following account of the four old lodges may prove acceptable to many readers.
1. The old Lodge of St. Paul, now named the Lodge of Antiquity, formerly held at the Goose and Gridiron, in St. Paul's Church-yard, is still extant (in 1820.) and regularly meets at the Freemasons' Tavern, in Great Queen-afreet, Lincoln's- Inn-Fields, on the fourth Wednesday of January, February, March. May, June, October, and November, every year. The lodge is in a very flourishing state, and possesses some valuable records and curious ancient relics..
2. The old Lodge, No. 2, formerly held at the Crown, in Parker's- lane, Drury-lane. has been extinct above fifty years, by the death of its members.
3. The old Lodge, No. 3, formerly held at the Apple-tree Tavern, in Charles-street. Covent-garden, has been dissolved many years. By the list of Lodges inserted in the Book of Constitutions, printed in 1738, it appears that in February, 1722-3, this lodge was removed to the Queen's Head, in Knave's Acre, on account of some difference among its members, and thai the members who met there came under a new Constitution ; though, says the book of Constitutions, they wanted it not, and ranked as No. 10 in the list. Thus they inconsider- ately renounced their former rank under an immemorial Constitution.
4. The Lodge No. 4, formerly held at the Rummer and Grapes Tavern, in Channel Row, Westminster, was thence removed to the Horn Tavern, in New Palace Yard, where it continued to meet regularly, till within these few years; when, finding themselves in a declining state, the members agreed to incorporate with a new and flourishing lodge, under the constitution of the Grand Lodge, intitled TJie Somerset- house Lodge, which immediately assumed their rank.
It is a question that will admit of some discussion, whether any of the above old lodges can, while they exist as lodges, surrender their rights, as those rights seem to have been granted by the old Masons of the Metropolis to them in trust; and any individual member of the tour old lodges might object to the surrender, and in that case they never could be given up. The four old lodges always preserved their original power of making, passing, and raising Masons, being termed Masters' Lodges; while the other Ibdges, for many years afterwards, !.ad no such power; it having been the custom to pass and raise the .Masons made bv them at the Grand Lodge only.
OF MASONRY. 165
Esq.; who was very assiduous in recommending a strict observance of the Communications. He collected many very valuable manuscripts on the subject of Masonry; and, being determined to spare no pains to ma"ke himself acquainted with the original government of the Craft, he earnestly desired that the Brethren would bring to the Grand Lodge any old writings or records concerning the Fraternity, to show the usages of ancient times. In consequence of this general intimation, several old copies of the Gothic Constitutions were produced, arranged, and digested.
On the 24th of June, 1719, another assembly and feast was held at the Goose and Gridiron before-men- tioned; when Dr. Desaguliers was unanimously elected Grand Master. At this feast, the old, regular, and peculiar toasts or healths of the Freemasons were intro- duced ; and from this time we may date the rise of Free- masonry on its present plan in the south of England. The lodges, which had considerably increased by the vigilance of the Grand Master, were visited by many old Masons, who had long neglected the Craft; several noblemen were initiated, and a number of new lodges constituted.
At an assembly and feast, held at the Goose and Grid- iron, on the 24th June, 1720, George Payne. Esq., was re-elected Grand Master, and under his mild and vigilant administration the lodges continued to flourish.
This year, at some of the private lodges, to the irre- parable loss of the Fraternity, several valuable manu- scripts, concerning the lodges, regulations, charges, secrets, and usages of Masons (particularly one written by Mr. Nicholas Stone, the warden under Inigo Jones,) were too hastily burnt by some scrupulous Brethren, who were alarmed at the intended publication of the masonic Constitutions.
At a Quarterly Communication, held this year at the Goose and Gridiron, on the festival of St. John the Evangelist, it was agreed, That, in future, the new Grand Master should be named and proposed to the Grand Lodge some time before the feast;51 and, if
51 By an old record of the Lodge of Antiquity, it appears, that the new Grand Master was always proposed, and presented for approba- tion in that lodge, before his election in the Grand Lodge.
156 ILLUSTRATIONS
approved, and present, he shall be saluted as Grand Master elect ; and that every Grand Master when he is installed, shall have the sole power of appointing his deputy and wardens, according to ancient custom.
At a Grand Lodge held in ample form on Lady-day, 1721, Brother Payne proposed for his successor, John, Duke of Montagu, at that time Master of a lodge. His ( * race, being present, received the compliments of the Grand Lodge. The Brethren expressed great joy at the prospect of being once more patronized by the nobility ; and unanimously agreed, that the next assembly and feast should be held at Stationers'-hall ; and that a proper number of stewards should be appointed to provide the entertainment. Mr. Josiah Villenau, an upholder in the Borough, however, generously undertook the whole management of the business, and received the thanks of the Society for his attention.
While Masonry was spreading its influence over the Southern part of the kingdom, it was not neglected in the North. The General Assembly, or Grand Lodge, at York, continued regularly to meet as heretofore. In 1705, under the direction of Sir George Tempest, Bart., then Grand Master, several Lodges met, and many worthy Brethren were initiated in York and its neighbourhood. Sir Qeorge being succeeded by the Right Hon. Robert Benson, lord mayor of York, many meetings of the Fra- ternity were held at different times in that city ; and the grand feast during his mastership is said to have been very brilliant. Sir William Robinson, Bart., succeeded Mr. Benson in the office of Grand Master, and the Fra- ternity seem to have considerably increased in the North under his auspices. He was succeeded by Sir Walter Hawkesworth, Bart., who governed the Society with great credit. At the- expiration of his mastership, Sir George Tempest was elected, a second time, Grand Master; and from the time of his election in 1714 to 1725, the Grand Lodge continued regularly to assemble in York, under the direction of Charles Fairfax, Esq., Sir Walter Hawkesworth, Bart., Edward Bell, Esq., Charles Bathurst, Esq., Edward Thomson, Esq., M.P., John Johnson, M.D., and John Marsden, Esq. ; all of whom, in rotation, during the above period, regularly filled the office of Grand Master in the North of England
OF MASONRY. 167
From this account, which is authenticated by the books of the Grand Lodge in York, it appears, that the revival of Masonry in the South of England did not interfere with the proceedings of the Fraternity in the North. For a series of years, the most perfect harmony subsisted between the two Grand Lodges, and private Lodges flourished in both parts of the kingdom under their separate jurisdiction. The only distinction which the Grand Lodge in the North appears to have retained after the revival of Masonry in the South, is in the title which they claim, viz., The Grand Lodge of all England; while the Grand Lodge in the South passes only under the denomination of The Grand Lodge of England. The latter, on account of its situation, being encouraged by some of the principal nobility, soon acquired consequence and reputation, while the former, restricted to fewer, though not less respectable, members, seemed gradually to decline. Till within these few years, however, the authority of the Grand Lodge in York has never been challenged; on the contrary, every Mason in the king- dom has always held it in the highest veneration, and considered himself bound by the charges which originally sprung from that assembly. To be ranked as descendants of the original York Masons, was the glory and boast of the Brethren in almost every country where Masonry has been regularly established ; and from the prevalence and universality of the idea, that in the city of York Masonry was first authorized by charter, the Masons of England have received tribute from the first states in Europe.52
52 It is much to be regretted, that any separate interests should have destroyed the social intercourse of Masons ; but it is no less remarkable than true, that the Brethren in the North and those in the South are now, in a manner, unknown to each other. Notwith- standing the pitch of eminence and splendour at which the Grand Lodge in London has arrived, neither the Lodges of Scotland nor Ireland court its correspondence. This unfortunate circumstance has been attributed to the introduction of a few modern innovations among the Lodges in the South. To remove this prejudice, the Grand Lodge resolved to resume the original practices of the Society, and instituted a Lodge of Promulgation, for the more regular diffusion of the Art. They also established a friendly intercourse with the Grand Lodge of Scotland. As to the coolness which has subsisted between the Grand Lodge in York and the Grand Lodge in London, another reason is assigned. A few Brethren at York having, on some trivial occasion
1 58 ILLUSTRATIONS
SECT. VIII.
History of Masonry from its Revival in the South of England, till the death of King George I.
THE reputation of the Society being now established, many noblemen and gentlemen of the first rank desired to be received into the Lodges, which increased con- siderably during the administration of Mr. Payne. The duties of Masonry were found to be a pleasing relaxation from the fatigue of business ; and in the Lodge, uninflu- enced by politics or party, a happy union was effected among the most respectable characters in the kingdom.
On the 24th of June, 1721, Grand Master Payne and his 'Wardens, with the former grand officers, and the Masters and Wardens of twelve Lodges, met the Grand Master elect at the Queen's Anus Tavern, in St. Paul's Church-yard,53 where the Grand Lodge was opened in ample form. Having confirmed the proceedings of the last Grand Lodge, several gentlemen were initiated into Masonry, at the request of the Duke of Montagu ; and, among the rest, Philip Lord Stanhope, afterwards Kail of Chesterfield. From the Queen's Arms, the Grand Lodge marched in procession, in their clothing, to Sta- tioners'-hall, in Ludgate-street, where they were joyfully received by one hundred and fifty Brethren, properly clothed. The Grand Master, having made the first pro- cession round the hall, took an affectionate leave of his Brethren ; and being returned to his place, the Duke of Montagu was proclaimed his successor for the ensuing year. The general regulations which had been compiled
seceded from their ancient Lodge, they applied to London for a war- rant of constitution ; and, without inquiry into the merits of the case, their application was honoured. Instead of being recommended tc the Mother Lodge to be restored to favour, these Brethren were en- couraged in their revolt; and permitted, under the banner of the Grand Lodge in London, to open a new Lodge in the city of York itself. This unguarded act justly offended the Grand Lodge of York, and occasioned a breach, which time, and a proper attention to the rules of the Order, only can repair.
53 The old Lodge of St. Paul's, now the Lodge of Antiquity, having been removed thither.
OF MASONRY. 169
by Mr. Payne in 172 1,54 and compared with the ancient records and immemorial usages of the Fraternity, were read, and met with general approbation ; after which Dr. Desaguliers delivered an elegant oration on Masonry.
Soon after his election, the Grand Master gave con- vincing proofs of his zeal and attention, by commanding Dr. Desaguliers and James Anderson, A.M., men of genius and education, to revise, arrange, and digest the Gothic Constitutions, old charges, and general regula- tions. This task they faithfully executed; and at the ensuing Grand Lodge, held at the Queen's Arms, St. Paul's Church-yard, on the 27th of December, 1721, being the festival of St. John the Evangelist, the same was presented for approbation. A committee of fourteen learned Brothers was appointed to examine the manu- script, and make their report. On this occasion several very instructive lectures were delivered, and much useful information given by a few old Masons.
At a Grand Lodge held at the Fountain Tavern in the Strand, in ample form, on the 25th of March, 1722, the committee reported, that they had perused the manu- script, containing the history, charges, regulations, &c., of Masonry ; and, after some amendments, had approved thereof. The Grand Lodge ordered the whole to be prepared for the press, and printed with all possible expedition. This order was strictly obeyed, and within less than two years, the Book of Constitutions appeared in print, under the following title : "The Book of Con- stitutions of the Free-Masons; containing the History, Charges, Regulations, &c., of that Most Ancient and Right Worshipful Fraternity. For the use of the Lodges." London, 1723.
In January, 1722-3, the Duke of Montagu resigned the office of Grand Master in favour of the Duke of Wharton, who was very ambitious to attain it. His resignation pro- ceeded from the motive of reconciling the Brethren to this nobleman, who had incurred their displeasure, by having convened, in opposition to the resolutions of the Grand Lodge on the 25th of March, an irregular assembly of Masons at Stationers'-hall, on the festival of St. John the Baptist, in order to get himself elected Grand Mas-
54 See the Book of Constitutions, printed in 1723.
160 ILLUSTRATIONS
ter. The Duke of Wharton, sensible of the impropriety of his conduct, publicly acknowledged his error; and, promising in future a strict conformity and obedience to the resolutions of the Society, he was, with the general consent of the Brethren, approved as Grand Master elect for the ensuing year. His grace was regularly invested and installed on the 17th of January, 1722-3, by the Duke of Montagu, and congratulated by upwards of twenty-five Lodges, who were present in the Grand Lodge on that occasion. The diligence and attention of the Duke of Wharton, to the duties of his new office, soon recovered and established his reputation in the Society ; and, under his patronage, Masonry made a considerable progress in the South of England. During his presi- dency, the office of Grand Secretary was first established, and William Covvper, Esq., appointed, who executed the duties of that department several years.
The Duke of Buccleugh succeeded the Duke of Wharton in 1723. Being absent on the annual festival, he was installed by proxy at Merchant-tailors'-hall, in presence of four hundred Masons. This nobleman was no less attached to Masonry than his predecessor.
In the following year his grace was succeeded by the Duke of Richmond, under whose administration the Committee of Charity55 was instituted.56 Lord Paisley,
66 Now called the Lodge of Benevolence. — EDITOR.
56 The Duke of Buccleugh first proposed the scheme of raising a general fund for distressed Masons. Lord Paisley, Dr. Desaguliers, Colonel Houghton, and a few other brethren, supported the Duke's proposition; and the Grand Lodge appointed a committee to consider of the most effectual means of carrying the scheme into execution. The report of the committee was transmitted to the Lodges, and afterwards approved by the Grand Lodge. The disposal of the charity was first vested in seven Brethren ; but this number being found too email, nine more were added. It was afterwards resolved, that twelve Masters of contributing Lodges, in rotation, with the grand officers, should form the Committee ; and, by another regulation since made, it has been determined, that all Past and Present Grand Officers, with the Masters of all regular Lodges which shall have contributed within twelve months to the charity, shall be members of the Committee.
The Committee meets four times in the year, by virtue of a sum- mons from the Grand Master, or his Deputy. The petitions of the Brethren who apply for charity are considered at these meetings; and it' the petitioner be found a deserving object, he is immediately relieved with h've pounds: if the circumstances of his case are of a peculiar nature, his petition is referred to the next communication, where he is
OF MASONRY. 161
afterwards Earl of Abercorn, having been active in pro- moting this new establishment, was elected Grand Master in the end of the year 1725. Being in the country at the time, his lordship was installed by proxy. During his absence, Dr. Desaguliers, who had been appointed his Deputy, was very attentive to the duties of his office, by visiting the Lodges, and diligently promoting Masonry. On his lordship's return to town, the Earl of Inchiquin was proposed to succeed him, and was elected in Febru- ary, 1726. The Society now nourished in town and country ; and under the patronage of this nobleman the Art was propagated with considerable success. This period was rendered remarkable, by the Brethren of Wales first uniting under the banner of the Grand Lodge in London. In Wales are found some venerable remains of ancient Masonry, and many stately ruins of castles, executed in the Gothic style, which evidently demon- strate, that in former times, the Fraternity must have met with great encouragement in that part of the island. Soon after this union, the office of Provincial Grand Master57 was instituted, and the first deputation granted
relieved with any sum the Committee may have specified, not exceed- ing twenty guineas at one time. By these means the distressed have always found ready relief from this general charity, which is solely supported by the voluntary contributions of different Lodges out of their private funds, without being burdensome on any member of the Society.
Thus the Committee of Charity has been established among the Free and Accepted Masons in London ; and though the sums annually expended to relieve distressed Brethren have, for several years past, amounted to many thousand pounds, there still remains a considera- ble sum in reserve, which is continually accumulating by fresh contri- butions.
All complaints and informations are considered at the Committee of Charity ; from which a report is made to the next Grand Lodge, where it is generally approved.
57 A Provincial Grand Master is the immediate representative of the Grand Master in the District over which he is limited to preside; and, being invested with the power and honour of a Deputy Grand Master in his province, may constitute Lodges therein, if the consent of the Masters and Wardens of three Lodges already constituted within his district has been obtained, and the Grand Lodge in London has not disapproved thereof. He wears the clothing of a Grand Officer, and ranks, in all public assemblies, immediately after Past Deputy Grand Masters. He must, in person, or by deputy, attend the quarterly meeting of the Masters and Wardens of the Lodges in his district, and transmit to the Grand Lodge, once in every year, the proceedings of
162 ILLUSTRATIONS
by Earl luchiquin, on the 10th of May, 1727, to Hugh Warburton, Esq., for North Wales ; and on the 24th of June following, to Sir Edward Mansell, Bart., for South Wales. The Lodges in the country now began to in- crease, and deputations were granted to several gentle- men, to hold the office of Provincial Grand Master in different parts of England, as well as in some places abroad where Lodges had been constituted by English Masons; and, during the Earl of Inchiquin's mastership, a warrant was issued for opening a new Lodge at Gibral- tar.
Among the noble edifices which were finished during the presidency of this nobleman, was that excellent structure, the church of St. Martin in the Fields; the foundation-stone of which, it being a royal parish church, was laid, in the king's name, on the 29th of March, 1721, by Brother Gibb, the architect, in presence of the Lord Almoner, the surveyor-general, and a large company of the Brethren.
SECT. IX.
History of Masonry in England during the Reign of King Gewge II.
THE first Grand Lodge after the accession of George II. to the throne, was held at the Devil Tavern, Temple-bar, on the 24th of June, 1727 ; at which were present, the Earl of Inchiquin, Grand Master, his officers, and the Masters and Wardens of forty Lodges. At this meeting, it was resolved to extend the privilege of voting in Grand
those meetings, with a regular state of the Lodges under his jurisdic- tion. The provincial Regalia is as follows : P. G. M.. the compasses and square, with a five-pointed star in the centre. D. P. G. M., the square. All other P. G. Officers, Jewels of the same description as those worn by the officers of the Grand Lodge. The Jewels of the P. G. M. and other P. G. Officers, are to be placed within a circle, on which the name of the province is to be engraven. All Past Officers, the jewel of their respective offices on a blue enamelled oval medal. All these jewels to be gold or gilt; and the collars to be garter blue, four inches broad. The aprons, a white lambskin. 14 to 16 inches wide, 12 to 14 deep, lined with garter blue; edging 2 inches wide, ornamented with gold, and blue strings, and may have the emblems of their offices in gold or blue in the centre. (Const, of Regalia.) — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 163
Lodge to past Grand Wardens;58 that privilege having been heretofore restricted to Past Grand Masters, by a resolution of 21st November, 1724; and to Past Depu- ties, by another resolution of 28th February, 1726.
The Grand Master, having been obliged to take a journey into Ireland before the expiration of his office, his lordship transmitted a letter to William Cowper, Esq., his Deputy, requesting him to convene a Grand Lodge for the purpose of nominating Lord Colerane Grand Master for the ensuing year. A Grand Lodge was accordingly convened on the 19th of December, 1727 ; when his lordship was regularly proposed Grand Master elect, and, being unanimously approved, on the 27th of the same month, was duly invested with the ensigns of his high office at a grand feast at Mercers'-hall, in the presence of a numerous company of the Brethren. His lordship attended two Communications during his Master- ship, and seemed to pay considerable attention to the duties of his office. He constituted several new Lodges, and granted a deputation to hold a Lodge in St. Bernard- street, Madrid. At the last Grand Lodge under his lord- ship's auspices, Dr. Desaguliers moved, that the ancient office of Stewards might be revived, to assist the Grand Wardens in preparing the feast ; when it was agreed that their appointment should be annual, and the number restricted to twelve.
Lord Kingston succeeded Lord Colerane, and was invested with the ensigns of his high office on the 27th of December, 1728, at a grand feast held at Mercers'-hall. His lordship's zeal and attachment to the Fraternity were very conspicuous, not only by his regular attendance on the Communications, but by a generous present to the Grand Lodge, of a curious pedestal, & rich cushion, with gold knobs and fringes, a velvet bag, and a new jewel set in gold for the use of the Secretary. During his lordship's administration, the Society flourished at home
58 This privilege was certainly a peculiar favour ; for the Grand Lodge, by the old Constitutions, could consist only of the Masters and Wardens of regular Lodges, with the Grand Master and his Wardens at their head ; and it had been customary even for these Officers, at their annual election, and on other particular occasions, tc withdraw, and leave the Masters and Wardens of the Lodges to con- sult together, that no undue influence might warp their opinion.
164 ILLUSTRATIONS
and abroad. Many Lodges were constituted; and, among the rest, a deputation was granted to George Pomfret, Esq., authorizing him to open a new Lodge at Bengal. This gentleman first introduced Masonry into the English settlements in India, where it has since made such rapid progress, that, within these few years, upwards of fifty Lodges have been constituted there, eleven of which are now held in Bengal. The annual remittances to the charity and public funds of the Society, from this and the other factories of the East India Company, amount to a considerable sum.
At a Grand Lodge held at the Devil Tavern, on the 27th of December, L729, Nathaniel Blackerby, Esq., the Deputy Grand Master, being in the chair, in the absence of Lord Kingston, produced a letter from his lordship, authorizing him to propose the Duke of Norfolk to be Grand Master for the ensuing year. This nomination meeting with general consent, the usual compliments were paid to his Grace, who, being present, was saluted Grand Master elect; and, at an assembly and feast at Merehant-tailors'-hall, on the 29th of January following, he was duly invested and installed, according to ancient form, in the presence of a numerous and brilliant company of Masons. His absence in Italy, soon after his election, prevented him from attending more than one Communication during his Mastership; but the busi- ness of the Society was diligently executed by Mr. Blackerby, his Deputy, on whom the whole manage- ment devolved. Among other signal proofs of his Grace's attachment to the Society, he transmitted from Venice to England the following noble presents for the use of the Grand Lodge: 1. Twenty pounds to the charity. 2. A large folio book of the finest writing paper, for the records of the Grand Lodge, richly bound in Turkey, and gilt, with a curious frontispiece in vellum, containing the arms of Norfolk, amply displayed, and a Latin inscription of the family titles, with the arms of Masonry elegantly emblazoned. 3. A sword of state for the Grand Master; being the old trusty sword of Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, which was next worn by his brave successor in war, Bernard, Duke of Saxe- Weimar, with both their names on the blade, and further enriched with the arms of Norfolk, in silver, on
OF MASONRY. 166
the scabbard. For these presents his Grace was voted
the public thanks of the Society.
It is not surprising that Masonry should flourish under so respectable a banner. His Grace appoined a Pro- vincial Grand Master over the Lodges in the Circle of Lower Saxony, and established by deputation a Pro- vincial Grand Lodge at New Jersey, in America. A provincial patent was also made out, under his auspices, for Bengal. From this period we may date the com- mencement of the consequence and reputation of the Society in Europe; as daily applications were made for constituting new Lodges, and the most respectable characters of the age desired their names to be enrolled in our records.
The Duke of Norfolk was succeeded by Lord Lovel, afterwards Earl of Leicester, who was installed at Mercers' -hall, on the 29th of March, 1731. His lordship, being at the time much indisposed with an ague, was obliged to withdraw soon after his installation. Lord Colerane, however, acted as proxy during the feast. On the 14th of May, the first Grand Lodge, after Lord Level's election, was held at the Rose Tavern in Mary-le-bone ; when it was voted, that in future all Past Grand Masters and their Deputies shall be admitted Members of the Quarterly Committee of Charity, and that every Com- mittee shall have power to ' vote five pounds for the relief of any distressed Mason ; but no larger sum, without the consent of the Grand Lodge in Communication being first had and obtained. This resolution is still in force.59 , During the presidency of Lord Lovel, the nobility made a point of honouring the Grand Lodge with their presence. The Dukes of Norfolk and Richmond, the Earl of Inchiquin, and Lords Colerane and Montagu, with several other persons of distinction, generally attended ; and, though the subscriptions from their Lodges were inconsiderable, the Society was enabled to relieve many worthy objects with small sums. As an encourage- ment to gentlemen to accept the office of Steward, it was ordered, that in future each Steward should have the privilege of nominating his successor at every annual grand feast.
w See the note m pp. 160, 161.
166 ILLUSTRATIONS
The most remarkable event of Lord Level's adminis- tration was, the initiation of Francis, Duke of Lorraine, Grand Duke of Tuscany, afterwards Emperor of Germany. By virtue of a deputation from his Lordship, a Lodge was held at the Hague, where his Highness was received into the First Two Degrees of the Order. At this Lodge, Philip Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield, then ambassador
there, presided ; Strickland, Esq., acted as Deputy,
and Mr. Benjamin Hadley, with a Dutch Brother, as Wardens. His Highness coming to England the same year, was advanced to the third Degree, at an occasional Lodge convened for the purpose, at Houghton-hall, in Norfolk, the seat of Sir Robert Walpole; as was al*<> Thomas Pelham, Duke of Newcastle.
The Society being now in a very flourishing state, deputations were granted from England for establishing Lodges in Russia and Spain.
Lord Viscount Montagu was installed Grand Master at an assembly and feast at Merchant-tailors'-hall, on the 19th of April, 1732. Among the distinguished per- sonages present on that occasion were, the Dukes of Montagu and Richmond; the Earl of Strathmore; and Lords Colerane, Teynham, and Carpenter; Sir Francis Drake and Sir William Keith, Barts., and above four hundred other Brethren. At this meeting it was first proposed to have a country feast, and agreed that the Brethren should dine together at Hampstead on the 24th of June, for which purpose cards of invitation were sent to several of the nobility. On the day appointed, the Grand Master and his Officers, the Dukes of Norfolk and Richmond, the Earl of Strathmore, Lords Carpenter and Teynham, and above a hundred other Brethren, met at the Spikes, at Hampstead, where an elegant dinner was provided. Soon after dinner, the Grand Master resigned the chair to Lord Teynham, and from that time till the expiration of his office never attended another meeting of the Society. His lordship granted a deputation for constituting a Lodge at Valenciennes, in French Flanders, and another for opening a new Lodge at the Hotel de Bussy, in Paris. Several other Lodges were also con- stituted under his lordship's auspices;60 but the Society
60 "Freemasons' Lodges in America date their origin from this
OF MASONRY. 167
was particularly indebted to Thomas Batson, Esq., the Deputy Grand Master, who was very attentive to the duties of his office, and carefully superintended the gov- ernment of the Craft.
The Earl of Strathmore succeeded Lord Montagu in the office of Grand Master, and, being in Scotland at the time, was installed by proxy at an assembly at Mercers'- hall on the 7th of June, 1733. On the 13th of December a Grand Lodge was held at the Devil Tavern, at which his Lordship and his officers, the Earl of Crawford, Sir Robert Mansel, a number of Past Grand Officers, and the Masters and Wardens of fifty-three Lodges, were present. Several regulations were confirmed at this meeting respecting the Committee of Chanty; and it was deter- mined that all complaints in future, to be brought before the Grand Lodge, should be previously examined by the Committee, and thence referred to the next Communi- cation.
The history of the Society at this period affords few remarkable instances to record. Some considerable do- nations were collected, and distributed among distressed Masons, to encourage the settlement of a new colony, which had been just established at Georgia, in America. Lord Strathmore showed every attention to the duties of his office, and regularly attended the meetings of the Grand Lodge : under his auspices the Society flourished, at home and abroad, and many handsome presents were received from the East Indies. Eleven German Masons applied for authority to open a new Lodge at Hamburgh, under the patronage of the Grand Lodge of England, for which purpose his lordship was pleased to grant a
period. Upon the application of a number of Brethren, residing in Boston, a warrant was granted by Lord Viscount Montagu, Grand Master of Masons in England, dated the 30th of April, 1733, appoint- ing the R. W. Henry Price Grand Master in North America, with full power and authority to appoint his Deputy, and other Masonic officers necessary for forming a Grand Lodge ; and also to constitute lodges of Free and Accepted Masons,- as often as occasion should require. In consequence of this commission, the Grand Master opened a Grand Lodge at Boston, on the 30th of July. 1733, in due form, and appointed Andrew Belcher, D. G. M.. and Thomas Kenelly and John Quann, Grand Wardens. The Grand Lodge being thus organized under the designation of St. John's Grand Lodge, proceeded to grant warrants for instituting regular lodges in various parts of America, &c." (Webb's Monitor, p. 288.)— EDITOR.
168 ILLUSTRATIONS
deputation ; and soon after, several other Lodges were constituted in Holland under the English banner.
The Earl of Strathmore was succeeded by the Earl of Crawford, who was installed at Mercers'-hall on the 30th of March, 1734. Public affairs attracting his lordship's attention, the Communications during his administration were neglected. After eleven months' vacation, however, a Grand Lodge was convened, at which his lordship attended, and apologised for his long absence. To atone for past omission, he commanded two Communications to be held in little more than six weeks. The Dukes of Richmond and Buccleugh, the Earl of Balcarras, Lord Wey month, and other eminent persons, honoured the Grand Lodge with their presence during the Earl of Crawford's presidency.
The most remarkable proceedings of the Society, at this period, related to a new edition of the Book of Con- stitutions, which Brother James Anderson was ordered to prepare for the press : and which made its appearance in January, 1738, considerably enlarged and improved.
Among the new regulations which took place under the administration of Lord Crawford, was the following: That if any Lodge within the bills of mortality shall cease to meet during twelve calendar months, the said Lodge shall be erased from the list ; and, if reinstated, shall lose its' former rank. Some additional privileges were granted to the Stewards, in consequence of an application for that purpose ; and, to encourage gentle- men to serve the office, it was agreed that, in future, all Grand Officers, the Grand Master excepted, shall be elected out of that body. A few resolutions also passed, respecting illegal conventions of Masons, at which it was reported many persons had been initiated into Masonry on small and unworthy considerations.
The Earl of Crawford seems to have made another encroachment on the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge in the city of York, by constituting two Lodges within their district; and by granting, without their consent, three deputations, one for Lancashire, a second for Durham, and a third for Northumberland. This circumstance the Grand Lodge in York highly resented, and ever after seems to have viewed the proceedings of the Brethren in the South with a jealous eye, as all friendly intercourse
OF MASONRY. 169
ceased, and the 'York Masons, from that moment, con- sidered their interest distinct from the Masons under the Grand Lodge in London.61
Lord Weymouth succeeded the Earl of Crawford in the office of Grand Master, and was installed at Mercers'- liall on the 17th of April, 1735, in presence of the Dukes of Richmond and Athol; the Earls of Crawford, Win- chelsea, Balcarras, Wemys, and Loudon ; the Marquis of Beaumont; Lords Cathcart and Vere Bertie; Sir Cecil Wray and Sir Edward Hansel, Barts., and a splendid company of other Brethren. Several Lodges were con- stituted during Lord Weymouth's presidency : and, among the rest, the Stewards' Lodge. His lordship granted a deputation to hold a Lodge at the seat of the Duke of Richmond, at Aubigny, in France; and, under his patronage, Masonry extended considerably in foreign countries. He also issued warrants to open a new Lodge at Lisbon, and another at Savannah, in Georgia ; and, by his special appointment, provincial patents were made out for South America and Gambay in West Africa.
Lord Weymouth never honoured any of the Commu- nications with his presence during his presidency ; but his omission was the less noticed, on account of the vigi- lance and attention of his Deputy, John Ward, Esq., afterwards Lord Viscount Dudley and Ward, who applied with the utmost diligence to promote the interest and prosperity of the Society.
One circumstance occurred while Lord Weymouth was Grand Master, of which it may be necessary to take notice. The twelve Stewards, with Sir Robert Lawley, Master of the Stewards' Lodge, at their head, appeared, for the first time, in their new badges at a Grand Lodge held at the Devil Tavern on the llth of December, 1735.
61 In confirmation of the above fact, I shall here insert a paragraph, copied from the Book of Constitutions, published in 1738. After inserting a list of Provincial Grand Masters appointed for different places abroad, it is thus expressed : " All these foreign Lodges are under the patronage of our Grand Master of England ; but the old Lodge at York city, and the Lodges of Scotland, 'Ireland, France, and Italy, affecting independency, are under their own Grand .Masters ; though they have the same constitutions, charges, regulations, &c., for substance, with their Brethren of England, and are equally zealous for the Augustan style, and the secrets of the ancient and honourable Fraternity." Book of Constitutions, 1738. p. 196. 9
170 ILLUSTRATIONS
On this occasion they were not permitted to vote as individuals : but, it being afterwards proposed that they should enjoy this privilege, and that the Stewards' L should in future be represented in Grand Lodge by tw«-l\ members, many Lodges objected to the measure as an encroachment on the privilege of every other Lodge which had been previously constituted. When the mo- tion was put for confirmation, such a disturbance ensued that the Grand Lodge was obliged to be closed before the sentiments of the Brethren could be collected on the subject. Of late years the punctilio has been waved, and the twelve Stewards are now permitted to vote in every Communication as individuals.62
The Earl of Loudon succeeded Lord Weymouth, and was installed Grand Master at Fislunongers'-hall on the 15th of April, 1736. The Duke of .Richmond; the Earls of Albemarle and Crawford ; Lords Marcourt, Erskine, and Southwell; Mr. Antis, garter king-at-urms, Mr. Brady, lion king-at-arms, and a numerous company of other Brethren, were present on this occasion. His lordship constituted several Lodges, and granted three provincial deputations during its presidency, viz., one for New Eng- land, another for South Carolina, and a third for Cape Coast Castle, in Africa.
The Earl of Darnley was elected Grand Master, and duly installed at Fishmongers'-hall on the 28th of April, 1757, in presence of the Duke of Richmond, the Earls
68 It was not till the year 1770 that this privilege was strictly war- ranted ; when, at a Grand Lodge, on the 7th of February, at the Crown and Anchor Tavern, in the Strand, the following resolution passed : " As the right of the Members of the Stewards' Lodge in general t» attend the Committee of Ch'tmty appears doubtful, no mention of such right being made in the laws of the Society, the Grand Lodge are of opinion, That they have no general right to attend ; but it is hereby resolved. That the Stewards' Lodge be allowed the privilege of sending a number of Brethren, equal to any other four Lodges, to every future Committee of Charity ; and that, as the Master of each private Lodge only has the right to attend, to make a proper distinction between the Stewards' Lodge and the other Lodges, that the Master and three- other Members of that Lodge be permitted to attend at every suc- ceeding Committee on behalf of the said Lodge." This resolution, however, was declared not to be intended to deprive any Lodge, which had previously been constituted, of its regular rank and precedence. Notwithstanding this express provision, a privilege has been lately granted to the Stewards' Lodge, of taking precedence of all the other Lodges, the two oldest not exceptcd.
OF MASONRY. 171
of Crawford and Wemys, Lord Gray, and many other respectable Brethren. The most remarkable event of his lordship's administration was, the initiation of the late Frederic Prince of Wales, his late Majesty's father, at an occasional Lodge, convened for the purpose, at the palace of Kew, over which Dr. Desaguliers presided as Master. Lord Baltimore, Col. Lumley, the Hon. Major Madden, and several other Brethren, were present. His Royal Highness was advanced to the Second Degree at the same Lodge ; and, at another Lodge, convened at the same place soon after, was raised to the Degree of a Master Mason.
There cannot be a better proof of the flourishing state of the Society at this time, than by adverting to the respectable appearance of the Brethren in Grand Lodge, at which the Grand Master never failed to attend. Upwards of sixty Lodges were represented at every Communication during Lord Darnley's administration ; and more provincial patents were issued by Him than by any of his predecessors. Deputations were granted for Montserrat, Geneva, the Circle of Upper Saxony, the Coast of Africa, New York, and the Islands of America.63
The Marquis of Carnarvon, afterwards Duke of Chandos, succeeded Lord Darnley in the office of Grand Master, and was duly invested and installed at an assembly and feast held at Fishmongers'-hall on the 27th of April, 1738.64 At this assembly, the Duke of Richmond, the
6:5 At this time the authority granted by patent to a Provincial Grand Master was limited to one year from his first public appearance in that character within his province ; and if, at the expiration of that period, a new election by the Lodges under his jurisdiction did not take place, subject to the approbation of the Grand Master, the patent, was no longer valid. Hence we find, within the course of a few years, different appointments to the same station ; but the office is now per- manent, and the sole appointment of the Grand Master.
64 uln the year 1738, a formidable bull was thundered from the Conclave, not only against Freemasons themselves, but against all those who promoted or favoured their cause — who gave them the smallest countenance or advice — or who were, in any respect, connected with a set of men, who, in the opinion of his Holiness, were enemies to the tranquillity of the state, and hostile to the spiritual interest, of souls. Notwithstanding the severity of this bull, which threatens excommunication to every offender, no particular charge, either of a moral or political nature, is brought against a single individual of the order. It was merely stated, that the Fraternity had spread far ami wide, .and were daily increasing; that they admitted men of every
172 ILLUSTRATIONS
Earls of Inchiquin, Loudon and Kintore; Lords Cole- rane, and Gray, and a numerous company of other Brethren, were present. The Marquis showed "every attention to the Society during his presidency, and, in testimony of his esteem, presented to the Grand Lodge a gold jewel for the use of the Secretary ; the device, two cross pens in a knot; the knot and points of the pens being curiously enamelled. Two deputations for the office of Provincial Grand Master were granted by his lordship, one for the Caribbee Islands, and the other for the West Riding of Yorkshire. This latter appointment was considered as a third encroachment on the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge at York, and so widened the origin. -il breach between the Brethren in the North and the South of England, that from henceforward all correspondence between the Grand Lodges totally ceased.
On the 15th of August, 1738, Frederic the Great, after- wards King of Prussia, was initiated in'to Masonry in a Lodge at Brunswick, under the Scots constitution, being at that time Prince Royal. So highly did he approve of the institution, that, on his accession to the throne, he commanded a Grand Lodge to be formed at Berlin,65 and for that purpose obtained a patent from Edinburgh. In
religion into their society, and that they bound their members by an oath, to preserve, with inviolable secresy, the mysteries of their order. These circumstances, indeed, were sufficient grounds for exciting the church of Rome to oppose a system so contrary to their superstitious and contracted views in religion and government. This bull was foU lowed by an edict, dated 14th January, 1739. containing sentiments equally bigoted, and enactments equally severe. The servitude of the galleys, the tortures of the rack, and a fine of 1,000 crowns in gold, were threatened to persons of every description, who were daring enough to breathe the infectious air of a masonic assembly." (Lawrie. p. 122.)— EDITOR.
65 His Majesty's attachment to the Society soon induced him to establish several new regulations for the advantage of the Fraternity ; and, among others, he ordained, 1. That no person should be made a Mason, unless his character was unimpeachable, and his manner of living and profession respectable. 2. That every member should pay 25 rix-dollars (or 41. 3s.) for the First Degree ; 50 rix-dollars (or 81. 6s.) on his being passed into the Second Degree; and 100 rix- dollars on his being raised a Master Mason. 3. That he should remain at least three months in each Degree ; and that every sum received should be divided by the Grand Treasurer into three parts; one to defray the expenses of the Lodge ; another to be applied to the relief of distressed Brethren ; and the third to be allotted to the poor in general
OF MASONRY. 173
this Lodge many of the German princes were initiated, who afterwards filled the office of G-rand Master, with much honour to themselves, and advantage to the Craft. Thus was Masonry regularly established in Prussia, and under that sanction it has nourished ever since.
No other remarkable occurrence is recorded to have happened during the administration of the Marquis of Carnarvon, except a proposition for establishing a plan to appropriate a portion of 'the charity to place out the sons of Masons apprentices; which, after a long debate in Grand Lodge, was rejected.66
Some disagreeable altercations arose in the Society about this period. A number of dissatisfied Brethren, having separated .themselves from the regular Lodges, held meetings in different places, for the purpose of initia- ting persons into Masonry, contrary to the laws of the Grand Lodge. These seceding Brethren, taking advan- tage of the breach which had been made in the friendly intercourse between the Grand Lodges of London and York, on being censured for their conduct, immediately assumed at their irregular meetings, without authority, the character of t York Masons. Measures were adopted to check them, which stopped their progress for some time ; but, taking advantage of the general murmur spread abroad on account of some innovations that had been introduced, and which seemed to authorize an omission of, and a variation in, the ancient ceremonies, they rose again into notice. This imprudent measure of the regu- lar Lodges offended many old Masons; but, through the mediation of John Ward, Esq., afterwards Lord Viscount Dudley and Ward, matters were accommodated, and the Brethren seemingly reconciled. This, however, proved only a temporary suspension of hostilities ; for the flame soon broke out anew, and gave rise to commotions, which afterwards materially interrupted the peace of the So- ciety.
Lord Raymond succeeded the Marquis of Carnarvon in May, 1739 ; and, under his lordship's auspices, the Lodges were numerous and respectable. Notwithstanding the flourishing state of the Society, however,* irregularities
66 Of late years, however, an institution has been established for educating and clothing the sons of Freemasons in London.
174 ILLUSTRATION?
continued to prevail; and several worthy Brethren, still adverse to the encroachments on the established system of the institution, seemed to be highly disgusted at the proceedings of the regular Lodges. Complain is \\riv preferred at every succeeding Committee, and tin- Com- munications were fully employed in adjusting differences and reconciling animosities. More secessions taking place, it became necessary to pass votes of censure on the u refractory, and enact laws to discourage irregular associa- tions of the Fraternity. This brought the power -of the Grand Lodge in question; and, in opposition to the la\vs which had been established in that assembly, Lodges were formed without any legal warrant, and persons initiated into Masonry for1 small and unworthy considera- tions. To disappoint the views of these deluded Breth- ren, and to distinguish the persons initiated by them, the Grand Lodge readily acquiesced in the imprudent measures which the regular Masons had adopted, measures which even the urgency of the case could not warrant. Though this had the intended effect, it gave rise to a new subter- fuge. The Brethren who had seceded from the regular Lodges immediately announced independency, and as- sumed the appellation ofa/iciwt Masons. "They propagated an opinion, that the ancient tenets and practices of .Mason- ry were preserved by them : and that the regular Lo being composed of modern Masons, had adopted ncu- pi ihs. and were not to be considered as acting under the M- establishment. To counteract the regulations of the Grand Lodge, they instituted a new Grand Lodge in London, professedly on the ancient system; and, contrary to their duty as Masons, under that assumed banner con- stituted several new Lodges, in opposition to the regular established authority. These irregular proceedings they pretend to justify under the feigned sanction of the Ancient York Constitution; and many gentlemen of reputation, being deceived by this artifice, were introduced among them, so that. their Lodges daily increased. Without authority from the Grand Lodge in York, or from any other established power in Masonry, these refractory Brethren persevered in the measures they had adopted, formed committees, held Communications, and even appointed annual feasts. Under the false appellation of the York banner, they gained the countenance of the
OF MASONRY. 175
Scotch and Irish Masons ; who, placing implicit confi- dence in the representations made to them, heartily joined in condemning the measures of the regular Lodges in London, as tending, in their opinion, to introduce novel- ties into the Society, and to subvert the original plan of the institution. The irregular Masons in London having thus acquired a nominal establishment, noblemen of both kingdoms, unacquainted with the origin of the separation, honoured them with their patronage, and some respecta- ble names arid Lodges were added to their list.
During the presidency of Lord Raymond, no considera- ble addition was made to the list of Lodges, nor were the Communications often honoured with the company of the nobility. His lordship granted only one deputation for a Provincial Grand Master during his presidency ; viz., for Savoy and Piedmont.
The Earl of Kintore succeeded Lord Raymond in April, 1740 ; and, in imitation of his predecessor, continued to discourage irregularities. His lordship appointed several provincials, particularly one for Russia; one for Ham- burgh and the Circle of Lower Saxony ; one for the West Riding of York, in the room of William Horton, Esq., deceased; -and one for the island of Barbadoes.
The Earl of Morton was elected on the 19th of March following, and installed with great solemnity the same day at Haberdashers'-hall, in presence of a respectable company of the nobility, foreign ambassadors, and others. Several seasonable laws were passed during his lordship's mastership, and some regulations made concerning pro- cessions and other ceremonies. His lordship presented a staff of office to the Treasurer, of neat workmanship, blue and tipt with gold ; and the Grand Lodge resolved, that this officer should be annually elected, and, with the Secretary and Sword-bearer, be permitted to rank in future as a member of the Grand Lodge. A large corne- lian seal, with the arms of Masonry, set in gold, was presented to the Society, at this time, by brother William Vaughan, the Senior Grand Warden, who was appointed by his lordship Provincial Grand Master for North Wales.
Lord Ward succeeded the Earl of Morton in April, 1742. His lordship being well acquainted with the nature and government of the Society, having served every office,
176 ILLUSTRATIONS
from the Secretary in a private Lodge to that of Grand Master, lost no time in applying effectual remedies to reconcile the animosities which prevailed ; he recommend- ed to his officers vigilance and care in their different depart- ments; and, by his own conduct, set a noble example how the dignity of the Society ought to be supported. Many Lodges, which were in a declining state, by his advice coalesced with others in better circumstances; some, which had been negligent in their attendance on the Communications, after proper admonitions, were restored to favour; and others, which persevered in the contumacy, were erased from the list. Thus his lord- ship manifested a sincere regard for the interest of the Society, while his lenity and forbearance were universally admired.
The unanimity and harmony of the Lodges seemed to be perfectly restored under his lordship's administration. The Freemasons at Antigua built a large hall in that island for their meetings, and applied to the Grand Lodge for liberty to be styled' the Great Lodge of St. John's, in Antigua, which favour was granted to them in April, 1744.
Lord Ward continued two years at the head of the Fraternity; during which time he constituted many Lodges, arid appointed several Provincial Grand Masters, viz. : one for Lancaster, one for North America, and three for the island of Jamaica. He was succeeded by the Earl of Strathmore ; during whose administration, he being absent the whole time, the care and management of the Society devolved on the other Grand Officers, who care- fully studied the general good of the Fraternity. His lordship appointed a Provincial Grand Master for the island of Bermuda.
Lord Oanstoun was elected Grand Master in April, 1745, and presided over the Fraternity with grea.t repu- tation two years. Under his auspices Masonry flourished, several new Lodges were constituted, and one Provincial Grand Master was appointed for Cape Breton and Louis- bourg. By a resolution of the Grand Lodge at this time it was ordered, that public processions on feast-days should be discontinued"; occasioned by some mock processions, which a few disgusted Brethren had formed, in order to burlesque those public appearances.
OF MASONRY. 177
Lord Byron succeeded Lord Cranstoun, and was install- ed at Drapers'-hall on the 30th of April, 1747. The laws of the Committee of Charity were, by his lordship's order, revised, printed, and distributed among the Lodges ; and a handsome contribution to the general charity was received from the Lodge at Gibraltar. During five years that his lordship presided over the Fraternity, no diligence was spared to preserve the privileges of the Order invio- late, to redress grievances, and to relieve distress. When business required his lordship's attendance in the country, Fotherly Baker, Esq., his Deputy, and Secretary Revis, were particularly attentive to the business of the Society. The former was distinguished by his knowledge of the laws and regulations : the latter, by his long and faithful services. Under the auspices of Lord Byron, provincial patents were issued for Denmark and Norway, Pennsyl- vania, Minorca, and New York.
On the 20th of March. 1752, Lord Carysfort accepted the office of Grand Master. The good effects of his lord- ship's application to the real interests of the Fraternity soon became visible, by the great increase of the public fund. No Grand Officer ever took more pains to pre- serve, or was more attentive to recommend, order and decorum. He -was ready, on every occasion, to visit the Lodges in person, and to promote harmony among the members. Dr, Manningham, his Deputy, was no less vigilant in the execution of his duty: he constantly visited the Lodges in his lordship's absence, and used every endeavour to cement union among the Brethren. The whole proceedings of this active officer were con- ducted with prudence; and his candour and affability gained him universal esteem. The Grand Master's attach- ment to the Society was so obvious, that the Brethren, in testimony of their gratitude for his lordship's great services, re-elected him on the 3rd of April, 1753; and during his presidency, provincial patents were issued for Gibraltar, the Bahama Islands, New York, Grfernsey, Jersey, Alderney, Sark, and Mann; also for Cornwall and the counties of Worcester, Gloucester, Salop, MOL- mouth, and Hereford.
At this time the Society in Scotland appears to have been in a very flourishing state. Under the auspices 9*
178 ILLUSTRATIONS
of George Drummond, Esq., the Grand Master of the Masons in that kingdom, the Lodges had considerably increased in numbers. This gentleman had thrice served the office of Lord Provost of Edinburgh; and, being at the head of the senate in that city, he \vn.s anxious to promote every scheme which could add to the consequence and splendour of the metropolis of his native country. With this view he planned, and after- wards completed, that elegant range of buildings called THE NEW EXCHANGE OF EDINBURGH, the foundation- stone of which he laid on the 13th of September, 1753, as Grand Master. An event so remarkable in the annals of Masonry justly merits attention, and cannot fail to render an account of a ceremony so splendid, and con- ducted with so much regularity, interesting to every Brother who has the honour of the Society at heart.
Early in the morning of the day appointed for the celebration of this ceremony, a magnificent triumphal arch, in the true Augustan style, was opened to public view: it was erected at the entrance leading towards the place where the foundation-stone of the intended building was to be laid. In the niches between the columns on each side of the entrance were two figures, representing GEOMETRY and ARCHITECTURE, each as large as life. On the frieze of the entablature, which was of the Corinthian order, were the following words: QUOD FELIX FAUSTUMQUE SIT j that it may be happy and "prosper- ous. On the middle panel of the attic base, placed over the entablature, wa» represented the GENIUS OF EDIN- BURGH, in a curule chair, under a canopy; on her right hand stood a group of figures representing the lord provost, magistrates, and council, in their robes; on her left was another group, representing the noblemen and gentlemen employed in the direction of the intended structure. In front was placed the Grand Master, otter- ing a plan of the Exchange, attended by several of his Brethreli properly clothed. The whole was decorated with laurels, bays, and other ever-greens, interspersed with festoons of flowers.
At three o'clock in the afternoon, the several Lodges, with their Masters at their head, met at Mary's chapel, in Niddry's Wind; and at half-past three, the procession
OF MASONRY. 179
began to move from the chapel in the following order, the city guard covering the rear:
1. Operative Masons not belonging to any Lodge present.
2. A band of French horns.
3. The Lodges present, arranged as follows :
The Military Lodge belonging to General Johnson's regiment. The Thistle Lodge. The Scots' Lodge in Canongate. Holyrood-house Lodge. Vernon Kil winning Lodge. Canongate from Leith Lodge. Dalkeith Lodge. Lodge of Journeymen Masons, Canongate and Leith, Leith and Canongate Lodge. Leith Kilwinning Lodge. Canongate Kilwinning Lodge. Mary's Chapel Lodge.
All the Brethren properly clothed, and the Masters and Wardens in the jewels of their respective Lodges, with their badges of dignity, formed the last rank of each Lodge.
4. Gentlemen Masons belonging to foreign Lodges.
5. A band of Hautboys.
6. The Golden Compasses, carried by an Operative Mason.
7. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
8. The Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and Grand Clerk.
9. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
10. The Golden Square, Level, and Plumb, carried by three Operative
Masons.
11. A band of French horns.
12. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
13. The Grand Wardens.
14. The Cornucopia, and Golden Mallet, carried by an officer of the
Grand Lodge, and an Operative Mason.
15. The GRAND MASTER, supported by a Past Grand Master, and the
present Substitute.
The procession was closed with a body of Operative Masons;- and the whole Brethren, amounting exactly to 672, walked uncovered.
At the. head of Niddry's Wind the cavalcade was received by 150 of the military, and a company of grena- diers, drawn up in two lines, under arms, who escorted the procession; one half of the grenadiers marching in front, and the other half in the rear, with bayonets fixed. As the procession passed the city guard, a company was drawn out, with the proper officers at their head, who saluted the Grand Master with military honours, drums beating, and music playing. When the procession
180 ILLUSTRATIONS
reached the Parliament Close, the troops formed a line, as did also the Masons within that line. The Grand Master and the officers of the Grand Lodge then made a stop at the north-west corner of the Close, and dis- patched a message to the Council-house, to acquaint the magistrates that the Brethren were ready, to receive them; on which the lord provost, magistrates, and council, in their robes, preceded by the city officers, with the sword and mace, accompanied by several of the gentlemen in the direction of the intended buildings, proceeded through the lines formed by the soldiers and the Masons ; when the Grand Master, properly supported as before, preceded by his officers, and having his jewels borne before him, marched to the place where the cere- mony was. to be performed, and passed through the triumphal arch erected for the occasion, the Lodges following according to seniority. On the west side of the place where the stone was to be laid, was erected a theatre, covered with tapestry and decked with flowers, for the lord provost, magistrates, council, and attendants ; on the east was erected another theatre for the Grand Master and his officers, on which was set a chair for the Grand Master. Before the chair was a table covered with tapestry, on which were placed two silver vessels, filled with wine and oil; the golden jewels; and the cornucopia, which had been carried in the procession. The Masters, Wardens, and Brethren of the several Lodges were then arranged in galleries properly fitted up for the occasion.
The ceremony of laying the stone now commenced. By order of the Substitute Grand Master, the stone was slung into a tackle, and, after three regular stops, let down gradually to the ground ; during which the Masonic anthem was sung, accompanied by the music, all the Brethren joining in the chorus. The Grand Master, supported as before, preceded by his officers, and the operative Masons carrying the jewels, then descended from the theatre to the spot where the stone lay, and passed through a line formed by the officers of the Grand Lodge. The Substitute Grand Master deposited in the stone, in cavities made for the purpose, three medals with the following devices : On one side were the effigies
OF MASONRY.
181
of the Grand Master, in profile, vested with the ribbon officially worn by him ; and in front, a view of the Royal Infirmary, with the following inscription:
G. DRUMMOND, ARCHITECT. SCOT. SVMMVS MAGIS EDIN. TER Cos.
GEORGE DRUMMOND, of the Society of Free-Masons in Scotland Grand Master,. thrice Provost of Edinburgh. On the reverse was a perspective view of the Exchange, on which was inscribed in the circle, VERBI EXORNAND^E CIVJVMQVE COMMODITATI, For adorning the City, and the conveniency of its inhabitants ; and underneath,
FORI NOVI EDINBVRGENSIS POSITO LAPIDE PRLMO
ORDO PER SCOTIAM ARCHITECTONICUS EXCUDI JUSSIT,
xiii. SEPTEMBRIS 1753.
The first stone of the New Exchange of Edinburgh being laid, the brotherhood of Masons through Scotland ordered this to be struck, 13th September, 1753.
The other medals contained the effigies as above; and on the reverse the Masons' Arms, inclosed within the collar of St. Andrew, with the following inscription:
IN THE LORD is ALL OUR TRUST.
The former Grand Master and the Substitute retiring, two Operative Masons came in their place, and assisted the Grand Master to turn over the stone, and lay it in its proper bed, with the inscription67 undermost.
67 The following is the inscription on the stone : GEORGIUS DRUMMONDUS
IN ARCHITECTONICA ScOTI^E B,EPUB.
CURIO MAXIMUS
URBIS EDINBURGI TER CONSUL
ApSTANTIBUS FRATRIBUS ARCHITECTONICIS CCC.
PRJESENTIBUS MULTIS REGNI MAGNATIBUS
SENATU ETIAM POPULOQUE EDINENSI
ET HOMINUM ORDINIS CUJUSQUE
MAGNA STIPANTE FREQUENTLY
CUNCTISQ.UE PLAUDENTIBUS AD EDINENSIUM COMMODITATEM
ET DECUS PUBLICUM
^EDIFICIORUM NOVORUM PRINCIPIUM
LAPIDEM HUNC POSUIT
GULIELMO ALEXANDRO Cos.
IDIBUS SEPTEMBR. A.D. MDCCLIIL
182 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Grand Master then taking his station at the east of the stone, with the Substitute on the left, and his Wardens in the west, the Operative who carried the square delivered it to the Substitute, who presented it to the Grand Master; and he, having applied it to that part of the stone which was square, returned it back to the Operative. The Operative who carried the plumb, then delivered it to the Substitute, who presented it also to the Grand Master; and he, having applied it to the edges of the stone, holding it upright, delivered it back to the Operative. In like manner, the Operative who carried the level delivered it to the Substitute, and he presented it to the Grand Master, who applied it above the stone in several positions, and returned it back to the Operative. The mallet was then presented to the Grand Master, who gave three knocks upon the stone, which was followed by three huzzas from the Brethren. An anthem was then sung, accompanied by the music ; during which the cornucopia, and the two silver vessels containing the wine and oil, were brought down to the stone. The cornucopia was delivered to the Substitute, and the vessels to the Wardens. The anthem being concluded, the Substitute presented the cornucopia to the Grand Master, who turned out the ears of corn upon the stone. The silver vessels were then delivered by the Wardens to the Substitute, arid by him presented to the Grand Master, who poured the contents upon the stone, saying, " May the bountiful hand of Heaven supply this city with abundance of corn, wine, oil, and all the
ARCHITECTONICS VMDCCLIII. IMPERIIQUE GEORGII II. BRITANNIARUM REGIS ANNO xxvu.
Translated:
GEORGE DRUMMOND, of the Society of Free-Masons in Scotland, Grand Master, thrice Provost of Edinburgh, three hundred brother Masons attending, in presence of many persons of distinction, the Magistrates and Citizens of Edinburgh, and of people of every rank an innumerable Multitude, and all applauding, for the conveniency of the inhabitants of Edinburgh, and the public ornament, as the be- ginning of the new Buildings, laid (his Stone, WILLIAM ALEXANDER, being Provost, on the 13th September, 175.'}, of the ^ra of Masonry, 5753, and of the reign of GEORGE II., King of Great Britain, the 27th year.
OF MASONRY 188
other conveniences of life!" This was succeeded by three huzzas, after which ah anthem was sung. The Grand Master then repeated these words : "As we have now laid this foundation-stone, may the Grand Architect of the universe, of his kind providence, enable us to carry on and finish the work which we have now begun ; may he be a guard to this place, and the city in general ; and may he preserve it from decay and ruin to the latest posterity." The ceremony was concluded with a short prayer for the sovereign, the senate of the city, the Fra- ternity of Masons, and all the people; the music was resumed, and the Grand Master returned to his chair, amid the plaudits of the Brethren.
The Grand Master then addressed the lord provost, magistrates, and council, in an appropriate speech ; in which he thanked them for the honour which they had done him in witnessing the act of laying the foundation- stone of the intended structure, and expressed his earnest wish that they and their successors might be happy instruments to forward the great and good work which was now begun, and offered so fair a prospect of success ; and he sincerely hoped, that it might add, not only to the ornament and advantage of the city of Edinburgh, but be the means of insuring to them lasting honour, and transmitting their memories to the latest posterity. He next addressed the undertakers of the work on the importance of the trust reposed in them, and recom- mended diligence and industry to all the workmen who might be employed under them.
The magistrates then took their leave, and the Breth- ren resumed the procession to the palace of Holyrood- house, escorted by the military as before, amidst an immense crowd of spectators. On arriving at the palace, the Grand Master, in the name of himself and his Breth- ren, returned his most grateful acknowledgments to the commanding officer of the troops for the assistance which he had given. The Brethren then entered the inner court of the palace, and formed a square, to receive the Grand Master and his officers with all due honour; who, followed by the Lodges according to seniority, proceeded to the great gallery, where an elegant entertainment was provided, and the greatest harmony prevailed. At nine o'clock in the evening the company broke up.^^j g f
184 ILLUSTRATIONS
Such was the regularity observed throughout the ceremony of the day, that, notwithstanding the crowds of people who were collected on the occasion, the whole was concluded without a single accident.68
The Marquis of Carnarvon (afterwards Duke of Chan- dos) succeeded Lord Carysfort in the office of Grand Master of England, in March, 1754. He began his administration by ordering the Book of Constitutions to be reprinted, under the inspection of a committee, con- sisting of the Grand Officers, and some other respectable Brethren. The Grand Master's zeal and attention to the true interests of the Society were .shown on every occa- sion. He presented to the Grand Lodge a large silver jewel, gilt, for the use of the Treasurer, being cross keys in a knot, enamelled with blue; and gave several other proofs of his attachment.
Soon after the election of the Marquis of Carnarvon, the Grand Lodge took into consideration a complaint against certain Brethren, for assembling, without any legal authority, under the denomination of ancient masons; and who, as such, considered themselves independent of the Society, and not subject to the laws of the Grand Lodge, or to' the control of the Grand Master. Dr. Man ningham, the Deputy Grand Master, pointed out the necessity of discouraging such meetings, as being con- trary to the laws of the Society, and openly subversive of the allegiance due to the Grand Master. On this rep- resentation the Grand Lodge resolved, that the meeting of any Brethren under the denomination of Masons, other than as Brethren of the ancient and honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, established upon the uni- versal system, is inconsistent with the honour and interest of the Craft, and a high insult on the Grand Master and the whole body of Masons. In consequence of this reso- lution fourteen Brethren, who were members of a Lodge held at the Ben Jonson's head, in Pelham-street, Spital- h'elds, were expelled the Society, and that Lodge was ordered to be erased from the list.
No preceding Grand Master granted so many provincial
cs I have been thus minute in the above detail, not only that an event of such importance to the Society might be recorded, but that it might serve as an example worthy of imitation in ceremonies of a similar kind on a future occasion.
OF MASONRY. 185
deputations as the Marquis of Carnarvon. On the 7th of October, 1755, his lordship appointed a Provincial Grand Master for Durham, and soon after a very respect- able Lodge was constituted at Sunderland under his lordship's auspices. In less than two years the following patents were issued by his lordship; 1. for South Caro- lina; 2. for South Wales; 3. for Antigua; 4. for all North America, where no former provincial was appointed ; 5. for Barbadoes, and all other his Majesty's islands to the windward of Guadaloupe; 6. for St. Eustatius, Cuba, and St. Martin's, Dutch Caribbee islands in America; 7. for Sicily, and the adjacent islands; 8. for all his Majes- ty's dominions in Germany, with the power to choose their successors ; and 9. for the County Palatine of Ches- ter, and the City and County of .Chester. The greater part of these appointments appear to have been mere honorary grants in favour of individuals, few of them having been attended with any real advantage to the Society.
The Marquis of Carnarvon continued to preside over the Fraternity till the 18th of May, 1757, when he was succeeded by Lord Aberdour ; during whose mastership the Grand Lodge voted, among other charities, the sum of fifty pounds to be sent to Germany, to be distributed among such of the soldiers as were Masons in Prince Ferdinand's army, whether English, Hanoverians, or Hessians ; and this sum was soon after remitted to Gene- ral Kingsley for the intended purpose.
These were the principal proceedings of the Fraternity during the reigri of George II., who, on the 25th of Octo- W/, 1760, expired at his palace at Kensington, in the 77th year of his age, and the 34th of his reign.
This period seems to have been the golden sera of Masonry in England; the sciences were cultivated and improved, the royal art was diligently propagated, and true architecture clearly understood; the Fraternity were honoured and esteemed ; the Lodges patronized by exalted characters; and charity, humanity, and benevo- lence, appeared to be the distinguishing characteristics of Masons.
186 ILLUSTRATIONS
SECT. X.
History of Masonry in the South of England from t/ie Accession of George III. to the End of the Year 1779.
ON the 26th of October, 1760, his late Majesty, George III., was proclaimed. No prince ever ascended the throne, whose private virtues and amiable character had so justly endeared him to his people. To see a native of England the sovereign of these realms, afforded the most glorious prospect of fixing our happy constitution in church and state on the firmest base. Under such a patron, the polite arts could not fail of meeting with every encouragement ; and to the honour of his Majesty it is to be observed, that, after his accession to the throne, by his royal munificence no pains were spared to explore distant regions in pursuit of useful knowledge, and to diffuse science throughout every part of his dominions.
Masonry now flourished at home and abroad under the English Constitution ; and Lord Aberdour continued at the head of the Fraternity five years, during which time the public festivals and quarterly communications were regularly held. His lordship equalled any of his prede- cessors in the number of appointments to the office of Provincial Grand Master, having granted the following deputations: 1. for Antigua and the Leeward Caribbee islands ; £. for the town of Norwich and county of Nor- folk; 3. for the Bahama islands, in the room of the gov- ernor deceased; 4. for Hamburgh and Lower Saxony; o. for Guadaloupe ; 6. for Lancaster ; 7. for the province of Georgia; 8. for Catfada; 9. for Andalusia, and places adjacent; 10. for Bermuda; 11. for Carolina; 12. for Musquito shore ; and 13. for East India. The second of these appointments, viz., for Norwich, is one by which the Society has been materially benefited. By the dili- gence and attention of the late Edward Bacon, Esq., to whom the patent was first granted, the Lodges in Nor- wich and Norfolk considerably increased, and Masonry was regularly conducted in that province, under, bis inspection, for many years.
OF MASONRY. 187
Lord Aberdour held the office of Grand Master till the 3rd of May, 1762, when he was succeeded by Earl Fer- rers, during whose presidency nothing remarkable oc- curred. The Society seems at this time to have lost much of its consequence ; the general assemblies and communi- cations not- having been honoured with the presence of the nobility as formerly, and many Lodges being erased from the list for non-attendance on the duties of the Grand Lodge69. By the diligence and attention, however, of the late General John Salter, then Deputy Grand Master, the business of the Society was carried on with regularity, and the fund of charity considerably increased. Provin- cial patents were made out during Earl Ferrers' presi- dency ; 1. for Jamaica ; 2. for East India, where no par- ticular provincial was before appointed ; 3. for Cornwall ; 4. for Armenia ; 5. for Westphalia ; 6. for Bombay ; 7. for the Dukedom of Brunswick ; 8. for the Grenadas, St. Vincent, Dominica, Tobago, &c. ; and- 9. for Canada. From these appointments no considerable emoluments have resulted to the Society, excepting from the third and sixth; George Bell for Cornwall; and James Todd for Bombay. Both these gentlemen were particularly atten- tive to the duties of their respective offices ; especially the former, to whom the Society is in a great measure in- debted for the flourishing state of Masonry in Cornwall.
On the 8th of May, 1 764, at an assembly and feast at Vintners'-hall, Lord Blaney was elected Grand Master. Lord Ferrers invested John Revis, Esq., late Deputy Grand Master, as proxy for his lordship, who continued in office two years; during which time, he being chiefly in Ireland, the business of the Society was faithfully exe- cuted by his Deputy, General Salter, an active and vigi- lant officer. The scheme of opening a subscription for the purchase of furniture for the Grand Lodge was agi- tated about this time, and some money collected for the purpose ; but the design dropped for want of encour- agement. A new edition of the Book of Constitutions was ordered to be printed, under the inspection of a com-
19 After this period, new Constitutions had been too easily granted, and Lodges multiplied beyond proportion. A proper check, however is now put to this practice ; the legislature having prohibited, by a la'e Act of Parliament, the constituting of any new Lodges.
188 ILLUSTRATIONS
mittee, with a continuation of the proceedings of the Society since the publication of the last edition.
During Lord Blaney's presidency, the Dukes of Glou- cester and Cumberland, his Majesty's brothers, were ini- tiated into the Order ; the former at an occasional Lodge assembled at the Horn Tavern, Westminster, on the 16th of February, 1766, at which his lordship presided in person ; the latter at an occasional Lodge assembled at the Thatched House Tavern, in St. James' s-street, under the direction of General Salter.
The following deputations for the office of Provincial Grand Master were granted by Lord Blaney : 1. for Bar- badoes ; 2. for Upper Saxony ; 3. fo Stockholm ; 4. for Virginia ; 5. for Bengal ; 6. for Italy ; 7. for the Upper and Lower Rhine, and the circle of Franconia ; 8. for Antigua ; 9. for the Electorate of Saxony ; 10. for Madras, and its dependencies; 11. for Hampshire; and 12. for Montserrat. The fifth, tenth, and eleventh of these ap- pointments have been faithfully executed. By the inde- fatigable assiduity of that truly masonsic luminary, the late Thomas Dunckerley, Esq., in whose favour the appointment for Hampshire was first made out, Masonry made considerable progress in that province, as well as in many other counties Tn England. Soon after his ap- pointment to this office, he accepted the superintendence of the Lodges in Dorsetshire, Essex, Gloucestershire, Somersetshire, and Herefordshire70. The revival of the Bengal and Madras appointments has been also attended with considerable advantage to the Society, as is evident by the late liberal remittances from the East Indies.
Among several regulations respecting the fees of Con- stitutions, and other matters, which passed during Lord Blaney's administration, was the following : That as the Grand Lodge entertained the highest sense of the honour conferred on the Society by the initiation of the Dukes of Gloucester and Cumberland, it was resolved, that each of their royal highnesses should be presented with an apron,
70 In grateful testimony of the zealous and indefatigable exertions of this gentlemen, for many years, to promote the honour and interest of the Spciety, the Grand Lodge resolved, that he should rank as a Past Senior .Grand Warden, and in all processions take place next the present Senior Grand Warden for the time being. In November, 1795, he died at Portsmouth.
OF MASONRY. 189
hned with blue silk ; and that, in all future processions, they should rank as Past Grand Masters, next to the Grand Officers for the time being. The same compliment was also paid to their royal brother, the late Duke of York, who was initiated into Masonry abroad, while on his travels.
The Duke of Beaufort succeeded Lord Blaney in the office of Grand Master, and was installed by proxy at Merchant Tailors'-hall on the 27th of April, 1767 ; and under his patronage the Society flourished.
^•In the beginning of 1768, two letters were received from the Grand Lodge of France, expressing a desire of opening a regular correspondence with the Grand Lodge of England. This was cheerfully agreed to ; and a Book of Constitutions, with a list of the Lodges under the Constitution of England, and the form of a deputation, elegantly bound, were ordered to be sent as a present to the Grand Lodge of France.
Several regulations for the future government of the Society were also made out about this time ; particularly one respecting the office of Provincial Grand Master. At a Grand Lodge, held at the Crown and Anchor Tavern in the Strand, on the 29th of April, 1768, it was resolved, that ten guineas should be paid to the fund of charity, on the appointment of every Provincial Grand Master who had not served the office of Grand Steward.
The most remarkable occurrence during the adminis- tration of the Duke of Beaufort was, the plan of an in- corporation of the Society by royal charter. At a Grand Lodge, held at the Crown and Anchor Tavern on the2Sth of October, 1768, a report was made from the Committee of Charity, held on the 21st of that month, at the Horn Tavern in Fleet-street, of the Grand Master's. intentions to have the Society incorporated if it met with the ap- probation of the Brethren ; the advantages of the meas- ure were fully explained, and a plan for carrying it .into immediate effect was submitted to the consideration of the Committee. This plan being approved in the Grand Lodge, thanks were voted to the Grand Master for his attention to the interests and prosperity of the Society. The Hon. Charles Dillon, the Deputy Grand Master, in- formed, the Brethren, that he had submitted to the Com- mittee a plan for raising a fund to build a hall, and pur-
190 ILLUSTRATIONS
chase jewels, furniture, &c., for the Grand Lodge, inde- pendent of the general fund of Charity ; a measure which, he apprehended, would be a proper prelude to the incor- poration, should it be the wish of the Society to obtain a charter. This plan being also maturely investigated, several amendments were made, and the whole referred to the next Grand Lodge for confirmation. In the mean time it was resolved, that the plan should be printed, and transmitted to every Lodge on record71. The Duke of Beaufort, finding that the Society approved of the Incor- poration, contributed his best endeavours to carry the design into execution ; at first he was opposed by a few Brethren, who misconceived his good intentions ; but the majority of the Society persevering in the measure, a copy of the intended charter was printed, and ordered to be dispersed among the Lodges72. From the return of the different Lodges, it appeared that one hundred and sixty-eight had voted for the* incorporation, and only forty-three against it ; upon which a motion was made in Grand Lodge, on theSSth of April, 1769, that the Society should be incorporated, and it was carried in the affirma- tive by a great majority.
At a Grand Lodge, held at the Crown and Anchoi Tavern, on the 27th of October, 1769, it was resolved, That the sum of 1300/., then standing in the names of Rowland Berkeley, Esq., the Grand Treasurer, and Mr. Arthur Beardmore and Mr. Richard Nevison, his sureties,
71 This plan consisted chiefly of certain fees to be paid by the Grand Officers annually, by new Lodges at their Constitution and by Brethren at initiation into Masonry, or admission in Lodges as mem- bers, &c.
72 Before the Society had come to any determinate resolution on the business, the members of a respectable Lodge, then held at the Half- Moon Tavern, Cheapside, entered a caveat in the Attorney-General's office against the incorporation ; and, this circumstance being reported to the Grand Lodge, an impeachment was laid against the officers of that Lodge, for unwarrantably, exposing the private resolutions of the Grand Lodge. On the business being brought before the Grand Lodge, it was determined, that the members of the said Lodge had been guilty of a great offence, in presuming to oppose the resolutions of the Grand Lodge, and frustrate the intentions of the Society. A motion was therefore made, that the Lodge should be erased from the list ; but, on the Master acknowledging the mult, and, in the name of himself and his Brethren, making a proper apology, the motion was withdrawn, and the offence forgiven.
OF MASONRY. 191
in the three per cent, bank consolidated annuities, in trust for the Society, be transferred into the names of the present Grand Officers ; and, at an extraordinary Grand Lodge, on the 29th of November following, the Society was informed, that Mr. Beardmore had refused to join in the transfer ; upon which it was resolved, that letters should be sent, in the name of the Society, signed by the acting Grand Officers, to Lord Blaney, the Past Grand Master, and to his Deputy and Wardens, to whom the Grand Treasurer and sureties had given bond, requesting their concurrence in the resolutions of the Grand Lodge on the 29th of October last. Mr. Beardmore, however, dying soon after, the desire of the Grand Lodge was com- plied with by Mr. Nevison, his executor, and the transfer regularly made.
The Duke of Beaufort constituted several new Lodges, and granted the following provincial deputations during his presidency: 1. for South Carolina; 2. Jamaica; 3. Barbadoes ; 4. Naples and Sicily ; 5. the Empire of Rus- sia; and 6. the Austrian Netherlands. The increase of foreign Lodges occasioned the institution of a new officer, a Provincial Grand Master for foreign Lodges in general ; and his grace accordingly nominated a gentleman for that office. He also appointed Provincial Grand Masters for Kent, Suffolk, Lancashire, and Cumberland. Another new appointment likewise took place during his-grace's administration, viz., the office of General Inspector or Provincial Grand Master for Lodges within the bills of mortality ; but, the majority of the Lodges in London disapproving the appointment, the authority was soon after withdrawn.
At a Grand Lodge, held at the Crown and Anchor Tavern, on the 25th of April, 1770, the Provincial Grand Master for foreign Lodges acquainted the Society, that he had lately received a letter from Charles Baron de Boetzelaer, Grand Master of the National Grand Lodge of the United Provinces of Holland and their dependen- cies, requesting to be acknowledged as such by the Grand Lodge of England, whose superiority he confessed; and promising, that, if the Grand Lodge of England would agree in future not to constitute any new Lodge within his jurisdiction, the Grand Lodge of Holland would
192 ILLUSTRATIONS
observe the same restriction with respect to all parts of the world where Lodges were already established under the patronage of England. Upon these terms, he re- quested that a firm and friendly alliance might be estab- lished between the Officers of both Grand Lodges, an annual correspondence kept up, and each Grand Lodge regularly made acquainted once in every year with tin- most material transactions of the other. On this report being made, the Grand Lodge agreed that such an alli- ance or compact should be entered into, and executed, agreeably to Baron de Boetzelaer's request.
In 1771, a bill was brought into parliament by the Hon. Charles Dillon, the Deputy Grand Master, for in- corporating the Society by act of Parliament ; but, on the second reading of the bill, it having been opposed by Mr. Onslow, at the desire of several Brethren who had petitioned the House against it, Mr. Dillon moved to postpone the consideration of it, sine die; and thus the design of an Incorporation fell to the ground.
Lord Petre succeeded the Duke of Beaufort on the 4th of May, 1772; when several regulations were made for better securing the property belonging to the Socie- ty. A considerable sum having been subscribed for the purpose of building a hall, a committee was appointed to superintend the management of that business. Every measure was adopted to enforce the laws for raising a new fund to carry the designs of the Society into execu- tion, and no pains were spared by the committee to complete the purpose of their appointment. By their report to the Grand Lodge on the 27th of April, 1774, it appeared, that they had contracted for the purchase of a plot of ground and premises, consisting of two large commodious dwelling-houses and a large garden, situated in Great Queen-street, Lincoln's-Inn-Fields, late in the possession of Philip Carteret Webb, Esq., deceased, the particulars of which were specified in a plan then delivered ; that the real value appeared to be 3205/. at the least, but that 31SOZ. was the sum contracted to be paid for the premises ; that the front-house might pro- duce 90/. per annum, and the back-house would furnish commodious committee-rooms, offices, kitchens, &c. ; and that the garden was sufficiently large to contain a com-
OF MASONRY. 193
plete hall for the use of the Society, the expense of which was calculated not to exceed 3000/.73 This report having met with general approbation, Lord Petre, the Dukes of Beaufort and Chandos, Earl Ferrers, and Lord Viscount Dudley and Ward, were appointed Trustees for the Society ; and the conveyance of the premises which had been purchased was made out in their names. On the 22nd of February, 1775,74 the hall-committee reported to the Grand Lodge, that a plan had been pro- posed and approved for raising 5000/. to complete the designs of the Society, by granting annuities for lives, with benefit of survivorship ; a plan now known under the name of Tontine. It was accordingly resolved, That there should be one hundred lives at 50/. each ; that the whole premises belonging to the Society in
73 Notwithstanding this estimate, it appears by the Grand Trea- surer's accounts, that in 1792 above 20,OOOZ. had been expended on this building; and that, exclusive of an annuity of 250£., on account of a tontine, there then remained due from the hall-fund to sundry tradesmen, a considerable debt, the greatest part of which has since been paid off. The tavern has been rebuilt, and enlarged, within these few years, which has increased the expense to 30,000£.
74 " At the battle of Bunker's Hill, on the 17th of June, this year, Masonry in America met with a heavy loss in the death of Grand Master Warren, who was slain contending for the liberties of his country. Soon after the evacuation of Boston by the British army, and previous to any regular communication, the Brethren, influenced by a pious regard to the memory of the late Grand Master, were in- duced to search for his body, which had been rudely and indiscrimi- nately buried in the field of slaughter. They accordingly repaired to the place, and, by direction of a person who was on the ground at the time of his burial, a spot was found where the earth had been recently turned up. Upon removing the turf, and opening the grave, which was on the brow of a hill, and adjacent to a small cluster of sprigs, the remains were discovered in a mangled condition, but were easily identified by means of an artificial tooth ; and, being decently raised, were conveyed to the State-house in Boston ; from whence, by a large and respectable number of Brethren, with the late grand oflicers. attending in procession, they were carried to the stone chapel, where an animated eulogium was delivered by Brother Perez Morton. The body was then deposited in the silent vault, without a sculptured stone to mark the spot ; but as the whole earth is the sepulchre of illustrious men, his fame, his glorious actions, are en- graven on the tablet of universal remembrance, and will survive marble monuments, or local inscriptions." (Webb's Monitor.) I have been induced to insert an account of this transaction, as it redounds so much to the honour and fraternal piety of our American Brethren, — EDITOR.
10
194 ILLUSTRATIONS
Great Queen-street, with the hall to be built thereon, should be vested in trustees, as a security to the subscri- bers, who should be paid 5/. per cent, for their money advanced, the whole interest amounting to 250/. per annum; that this interest should be divided among the subscribers, and the survivors or survivor of them ; and, upon the death of the last survivor, the whole to deter- mine for the benefit of the Society. The Grand Lodge approving the plan, the subscription immediately com- menced, and in less than three months it was complete ; upon which the trustees of the Society conveyed the estate to the trustees of the Tontine, in pursuance of a resolution of the Grand Lodge entered into for that purpose.
On the 1st of May, 1775, the foundation-stone75 of the new hall was laid in solemn form,76 in the presence
*5 Within the foundation-stone was deposited a plate, with the following inscription :
ANNO REGNI GEORGH TERTII QUINDECIMO, SALUTIS HUMAN2E MDCCLXXV. MENSIS MAII
DIE PRIMO, HUNC PRIMUM LAPIDEM,
AUL.SJ LATOMORUM, (ANGLICE, FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS)
POSUERIT HONORATISSIMUS ROB. EDV. DOM. PETRE, BABO
PETRE, DE WRITTLE, SUMMITS LATOMORUM ANGLLE MAGISTER ;
ASSIDENTIBUS
VIRO ORNATISSIMO ROWLANDO HOLT, ARMI- GERO, SUMMI MAGISTRI DEPUTATO ;
VIRIS ORNATISSIMIS JOH. HATCH ET HEN. DAGGE,
SUMMIS GUBERNATORIBUS ;
PLENOQUE CORAM FRATRUM CONCUBSU ;
QUO ETIAM TEMPORE REGUM, PRINCIPUMQUE
VIRORUM FAVORE, STUDIOQUE SUSTENTATUM — MAXIMOS PEB
EUROPAM HONORES OCCUPAVERAT
NOMEN LATOMORUM, GUI INSUPER NOMINI SUMMUM ANGLIJE, CON-
VENTUM, PR^IESSE FECERAT
UNIVERSA FRATRUM PER ORBEM MULTITUDO, E COELO DESCENDIT.
TNa©I 2EATTON. * For the ceremony observed on this occasion, see p. 67, Ao.
OF MASONRY. 196
of a numerous company of the Brethren. After the ceremony, the company proceeded in carriages to Lea- therseller's-hall, where an elegant entertainment was provided on the occasion ; and at this meeting the office of Grand Chaplain was first instituted.
The building of the hall went on so rapidly, that it was finished in little more than twelve months. On the 23d of May, 1776, it was opened, and dedicated,77 in solemn form, to MASONRY, VIRTUE, and UNIVERSAL CHARITY and BENEVOLENCE, in the presence of a bril- liant assembly of the Brethren. A new Ode,78 written and set to music on the occasion, wras performed, before a number of ladies, who honoured the Society with their company on that day. An Exordium on Masonry, not less elegant than instructive, was given by the Grand Secretary, and an excellent oration delivered by the Grand Chaplain. In commemoration of an event so pleasing to the Society, it was agreed that the anni- versary of this ceremony should be ever after regularly kept.
Thus was completed, under the auspices of a noble- man, whose amiable character as a man, and zeal as a Mason, may be equalled, but cannot be surpassed, that elegant and highly finished room in Great Queen-street, in which the annual assembly arid quarterly Communica- tions of the Fraternity are held; and to the accomplish- ment of which many Lodges, as well as private individu- als, have liberally subscribed. It is to tre regretted, that the finances of the Society will not admit of its being solely reserved for masonic purposes.
The hall is as elegant and highly finished a room as the metropolis can show. The entrance into it is from the Committee-room, through a small gallery, on the right of which is a commodious flight of steps leading to the under-croft, or ground apartments, and on the left a small room appropriated for the reception of wines on grand festivals: above this is a large music gallery, capa- ble of containing three hundred spectators, exclusive of the band of music, supported by pillars and pilasters of the Composite order. The length of this building within
77 For the ceremony of dedication, see p. 69.
78 See Ode II., toward the end of the volume.
196 ILLUSTRATIONS
the walls is 92 feet ; it is 43 feet broad, and upwards of 60 feet high. At the upper end of the hall there is a place allotted for the Grand Officers and their attendants, when the Grand Lodge meets, which takes up about one-fourth of the whole length, and which is higher than the rest by two steps; at the extremity of which is a very beautiful alcove of a semicircular form, in which is fixed a fine organ. On the right and left of this elevated place are two galleries, supported by beautiful fluted pillars of the Corinthian order, either for music, or to admit ladies to the sight of such ceremonies as the laws of the Society will permit. The remaining, part of the hall is for the use of the Grand Stewards, and Brethren in general, when the Grand Lodge assembles. The pilasters on each side of the hall are fluted, and otherwise most beautifully decorated. Between these pilasters there are places appropriated for the reception of full-length paintings of the Grand Masters, &c.79 Above them are places for such historical paintings as have some affinity to the royal art, or are expressive of the virtues of Freemasonry. A 1 the other intermediate spaces are elegantly decorated with the most beautiful emblematical, symbolical, and hieroglyphical figures and representations of the mysteries of the royal art.
Round the top of the side-walls runs a small balustrade, or rather a kind of ornamented iron palisades, capable of holding a vast number of spectators; above which a number of semicircular windows are placed, so contrived as to open and shut with the greatest ease and facility, to let in fresh air as often as may be required. The reason why the windows are placed so high is, that no spectators from the adjacent houses may view the masonic ceremonies.
The roof of this magnificent hall is, in all probability, the highest finished piece of workmanship in Europe; having gained universal applause from all beholders, and has raised the character of the architect (Richard Cox) beyond expression. In the centre of this roof a most splendid sun is represented in burnished gold, surrounded
79 Those at present fixed, are the Prince of Wales, the Earl of Moira, the late Dukes of Cumberland and Manchester, the late Lord Petre, the late Duke of Kent, the Duke of Sussex, and the Duke of Athol.
OF MASONRY. 197
by the twelve signs of the Zodiac, with their respective characters; viz., Aries, T; Taurus, b; Gemini, IL; Cancer, S; Leo, «SL; Virgo, n#; Libra, =*=;• Scorpio, rn, ; Sagittarius, / ; Capricorn, V3 ; Aquarius, ^r ; and Pis- ces, X.80
Whenever the Grand Lodge assembles, this hall is further ornamented with five brilliant and rich cut-glass chandeliers, the most magnificent of which hangs above that part of the hall allotted to the Grand Officers ; the other four are distributed in pairs, at equal distances. These lustres, with a sufficient number of sconces, in which only wax lights burn, illuminate the hall with a great brilliancy.81
The Brethren of St. John's Lodge in Newcastle, ani- mated by the example set them in the metropolis, opened a subscription among themselves for the purpose of building, in the Low Friar Chair, in that town, a new hall for their meetings ; and, on the 23rd of September, 1776, the foundation-stone82 of that building was laid by
80 The Mithratic cavern in Persia, where the Initiations were per- formed, was adorned in a similar manner, to represent the Mundane system'; save that the three objects of their idolatrous worship, the Sun, the Bull, and the Lion, were larger and more conspicuous than the rest. (Vide Hist. Init., Lect. vi.) The emblematic meaning of the sun is well known to the enlightened and inquisitive Freemason ; and as the real sun is situated in the centre of the universe, so is this emblematic sun fixed in the centre of real Masonry. We all know that the sun is the fountain of light, the source of the seasons, the cause of the vicissitudes of day and night, the parent of vegetation, and the friend of man ; but the scientific Freemason only knows the reason why the sun is thus placed in the centre of this beautiful hall.
81 The tavern is a most commodious suite of rooms; and, under its present conductor, possesses that large portion of the public favour tc which his civility, liberality, diligence, and attention, most justly entitle him.
88 Underneath this stone was placed a copper plate, with the fol- fowing inscription :
^JDIFICn HVIVS IV MVTVAM AMICITIAM STABILIENDAM
PRO SVMMI NATVR^E NVMINIS ABCHITECTI REGNATORIS VENERATIONE
PRO VERI INVESTIGATIONS MORVM SCIENTI^ ARTIVMQ. BONARVM
INGENVO CVLTV
HVMANI GENERIS BENEFICIO
SOLATIVM TEMPESTIVVM PR^EBENDO
CONVENTVI FRATKRNO SACRI
198 ILLUSTRATIONS
Mr. Francis Peacock, then Master of the Lodge. This edifice was speedily completed, furnished, and dedicated ; but we learn that it has been since sold, and appropriated to other purposes.
The flourishing state of the Society in England at- tracting the attention of the Masons in Germany, they solicited our friendship and alliance. The Grand Lodge at Berlin, under the patronage of the Prince of Hesse Darmstadt, requested a friendly union and correspondence with their Brethren of England ; which was agreed to, on the Grand Lodge of Germany engaging to remit an annual donation to the fund of charity.
The business of the Society having now considerably increased, it was resolved, that the Grand Secretary should be permitted in future to employ a deputy, or assistant, at an annual salary proportioned to his labour.
On the 14th of February, 1776, the Grand Lodge resolved, that in future all Past Grand Officers should be permitted to wear a particular gold jewel, the ground enamelled blue; and each officer be distinguished by the jewel which he wore while in office ; with this difference, that such honorary jewel should be fixed within a circle, or oval ; on the borders of which were to be inscribed his name, and the year in which he served the office. This jewel was intended to be worn in Grand Lodge, pendant to a broad blue riband; and, on other occasions, to be fixed to the breast by a narrow blue riband.83
Many regulations respecting the government of the Fraternity were established during Lord Petre's adminis- tration. The meetings of irregular Masons again attract- ing notice, on the 10th of April, 1777, the following law was enacted : " That the persons who assemble in London, and elsewhere, in the character of Masons, calling themselves Ancient Masons, and at present said to
FRANCISCVS PEACOCK PREFECT. HONORAND.
FVNDAMENTA POSVIT
IN CALEND. OCTOB.
AN. SAL. HVM. MDCCLXXVI.
AN. CONSORT. MMMMMDCCLXXVI.
83 How far the introduction of new ornaments is reconcileable to the original practices of the Society, I will not presume to determine ; but it is the opinion of many old Masons, that multiplying honorary distinctions among Masons lessens the value and importance of the real jewels by which the acting officers of the Lodge are distinguished.
v OF MASONRY. 199
be under the patronage of the Duke of Athol, are not to be countenanced or acknowledged by any regular Lodge or Mason under the constitution of England : nor shall any regular Mason be present at any of their conventions, to give a sanction to their proceedings, under the penalty of forfeiting the privileges of the Society ; nor shall any person initiated at any of their irregular meetings be admitted into any lodge without being re-made.84 That this censure shall not be extended to any Lodge, or Mason made, in Scotland or Ireland, under the constitution oi either of these kingdoms ; or to any Lodge or Mason made abroad, under the patronage of any foreign Grand Lodge in alliance with the Grand Lodge of England ; but that such Lodge and Masons shall be deemed regular and constitutional."
An Appendix to the Book of Constitutions, containing all the principal proceedings of the Society since the publication of the last edition, was ordered to be printed; also a new annual publication, entitled THE FREEMASON'S CALENDAR; and the profits arising from the sale of both were to be regularly brought to account in the charity fund. To preserve the consequence of the Society, the following law was also enacted at this time : That the fees for constitutions, initiations, &c., be advanced ; that no person be initiated into Masonry in any Lodge under the constitution of England for a less sum than two guineas;85 and that the name, age, addition or profession, and place of residence, of every person so initiated, and of every admitted member of a regular Lodge, since the 29th of October, 1768, be registered ; under the penalty of such Mason made, or member admitted, being deprived of the privileges of the Society.
The Masons in Sunderland having considerably in-
84 This censure only extends to those irregular Lodges in London, which seceded from the rest of the Fraternity in 1738, and set up an independent government, in open defiance of the established authority of the kingdom, and the general rules of the institution. See pp. 173-175. It cannot apply to the Grand Lodge of York city, or any Lodges under that truly ancient and respectable banner; as the independence and regular proceedings of that assembly have been fully admitted and authenticated by the Grand Lodge in London, in the Book of Constitutions printed under their sanction in 1738.
85 The usual charitable donation at initiation in many Lodges is now seldom under five guineas, and more frequently double that sum.
200 ILLUSTRATIONS
creased during his lordship's administration, an elegant hall was built in that town for their meetings.86 On the 16th of July, 1778, this hall was dedicated in solemn form before a numerous company of Brethren ; on which occasion a very animated oration on Masonry was deliv- ered in the presence of above 120 ladies. On the 19th of November, 1782, this hall, was destroyed by fire, arid many valuable books and papers were burnt. The zeal of the brethren, however, induced them the following year to build another hall, named Phoenix-hall, of which the foundation-stone was laid in great pomp on the 5th of April, 1784; and in the following year it was finished, and dedicated in solemn form.
Lord Petre granted provincial deputations for Madras and Virginia ; also for Hants, Sussex, and Surrey. During his lordship's presidency, some Lodges were erased from the list for nonconformity to the laws, but many new ones were added ; so that, under his banner, the Society became truly respectable.
On the 1st of May, 1777, Lord Petre was succeeded by the Duke of Manchester ; during whose administration the tranquillity of the Society was interrupted by some private dissensions. An unfortunate dispute having arisen among the members of the Lodge of Antiquity, on account of some proceedings of the Brethren of that Lodge on the festival of St. John the Evangelist, after his grace's
86 The following directions, respecting the building of Lodges, are contained in the book of Helvetian Ceremonies, already often cited, and, I believe, are strictly attended to in Germany and France :
"The proper time for beginning to build a Lodge, is from the 15th of April to the 15th of May. Some think the 18th of April is the most masonic day. Masons should build their Lodge within a court of high walls; but that not being easily acquired, its windows should be high from the ground ; the bottoms of the windows should not be less than five cubits high* measuring from the superficies of the floor within. The foundation-stone is in the corner of the Ammonites. The proper height of a Lodge is eighteen cubits; the lengtn and breadth are not determined. The hall is for ti e great congregations. The names of Lodges are sometimes ill chosen. The Apollo, the Minerva, the Vesta, &c., are heathen names, inspiring ideas of idolatry and superstition, and can have nothing to do with Masonry. The names of great Masons of old may be chosen; and the builders would do well to find out what great man or bishop built the nearest cathe- dral, and name the Lodge after him ; for this is certain, that every cathedral was built by the ancient Society of Free and Accepted Masons." — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 201
election, the complaint was introduced into the Grand Lodge, where it occupied the attention of every committee and communication for twelve months. It originated from the Master, Wardens, and some of the members, in consequence of a resolution of the Lodge, having attended divine service at. St. Dunstan's church in Fleet street, in the clothing of the Order, and walked back to the Mitre Tavern in their regalia, not having obtained a dis- pensation for the purpose. The Grand Lodge determined the measure to be a violation of the general regulations respecting public processions ;87 and various opinions being formed, several Brethren were highly dissatisfied.
Another circumstance tended still further to -widen this breach. The Lodge of Antiquity having expelled three of its members for misbehaviour, the Grand Lodge interfered, and, as was thought, without proper investi- gation, ordered them to be reinstated. With this order the Lodge refused to comply, the members conceiving themselves competent and sole judges in the choice of their own private members. The privileges of the Lodge of Antiquity,88 acting by immemorial constitution, began to be set up, in opposition to the supposed uncontrol- lable authority of the Grand Lodge established by them- selves in 1717; and in the investigation of this point, the original cause of the dispute was totally forgotten. Matters were now carried to the extreme on both sides, resolutions precipitately entered into, and edicts inad- vertently issued; memorials and remonstrances were presented in vain, and at last a rupture ensued. The Lodge of Antiquity, on one hand, supported its imme- morial privileges; appointed committees to examine records ; applied to the old Lodge in York city, and to the Lodges in Scotland and Ireland, for advice ; entered a protest against, and peremptorily refused to comply with, the resolutions of the Grand Lodge; discontinued the attendance of the Master and Wardens at the com- mittees of charity and quarterly .communications as its representatives; published a manifesto in its vindication ; notified its separation from the Grand Lodge; and avowed
87 For an explanation of the nature of public processions at funerals, , see pp. 72-74.
88 For an account of this Lodge and its privileges, see pp. 157 to 164.
10*
202 ILLUSTRATIONS
an alliance with the Grand Lodge of all England held in the city of York, and every Lodge and Mason who wished to act in conformity to the original constitutions. The Grand Lodge, on the other hand, enforced its edicts, and extended protection to the few Brethren whose cause it had espoused, by permitting them to assemble as a regu- lar Lodge without any warrant, under the denomination of the Lodge of Antiquity itself, and suffering them to appear by their representatives at the Grand Lodge as the real Lodge of Antiquity, from which they had been excluded, and which still continued to act by its own immemorial constitution; anathemas were issued, and several worthy Brethren expelled the Society, for refus- ing to surrender the property of the Lodge to persons who had been regularly expelled from it; while printed letters were circulated, with the Grand Treasurer's accounts, derogatory to the dignity of the Society. This produced a schism, which subsisted for the space of ten years.
To justify the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, the following resolution of the Committee of Charity, held in February, 1779, was printed and dispersed among the Lodges : —
"Resolved, That every private Lodge derives its authori- ty from the Grand Lodge, and that no authority but the Grand Lodge can withdraw or take away that power. That though the majority of a Lodge may determine to quit the Society, the constitution, or power of assembling, remains with, and is vested in, the rest of the members who may be desirous of continuing their allegiance; and that if all the members withdraw themselves, the con- stitution is extinct, and the authority reverts to the Grand Lodge."
This resolution, it was argued, might operate with respect to any Lodge which derived its constitution from the Grand Lodge, but could not apply to one which derived its authority from another channel, long before the establishment of the Grand Lodge, and which authority had never been superseded, but repeatedly admitted arid acknowledged. Had it appeared upon record, that, after the establishment of the Grand Lodge, this original authority had been surrendered, forfeited, or exchanged for a warrant from the Grand Lodge, the
OF MASONRXe> &/ / 203
Lodge of Antiquity must have admitted the resolution of the Grand Lodge in its full force ; but as no such circumstance appeared on record, the members of the Lodge of Antiquity were justified in considering their immemorial constitution sacred, while they chose to exist as a Lodge, and act in obedience to the ancient consti- tutions.
Considering the subject in this point of view, it evi- dently appears, that the resolutions of the Grand Lodge could have no effect on the Lodge of Antiquity, after the publication of the manifesto which avowed its separation ; nor while the members of that Lodge continued to meet regularly as heretofore, and to promote the laudable purposes of Masonry on their old independent foundation. The Lodge of Antiquity, it was asserted, could not be dissolved while the majority of its members kept together, and acted in conformity to the original constitutions; and no edict of the Grand Lodge, or its committees, could deprive the members of that Lodge of a right which had been admitted to be vested in themselves, collectively, from time immemorial, a right which had not been derived from, or ever ceded to, any Grand Lodge what- ever.
To understand more clearly the nature of that consti- tution by which the Lodge of Antiquity is upheld, we must have recourse to the usages and customs which prevailed among Masons at the end of the 17th and beginning of the 18th century. The Fraternity then had a discretionary power to meet as Masons, in certain numbers, according to their degrees, with the approba- tion of the master of the work where any public build- ing was carrying on, as often as they found it necessary so to do ; and when so met, to receive into the Order brothers and fellows, and practice the rights of Masonry The idea of investing Masters and Wardens of Lodges in Grand Lodge assembled, or the Grand Master himself, with a power to grant warrants of constitution to certain Brethren to meet as Masons at certain houses, on the observance of certain conditions, had then no existence. The Fraternity were under no such restrictions. The Ancient Charges were the only standard for the regula- tion of conduct, and no law was known in the Society which those charges did not inculcate. To the award
204 ILLUSTRATIONS
of the Fraternity at large, in general meeting assembled, once or twice in a year, all Brethren were subject, and the authority of the Grand Master never extended beyond the bounds of that general meeting. Every private assembly, or Lodge, was under the direction of its parti- cular Master, chosen for the occasion, whose authority terminated with the meeting. When a Lodge was fixed at any particular place for a certain time, an attestation from the Brethren present, entered on record, was a suffi- cient proof of its regular constitution ; and this practice prevailed for many years after the revival of Masonry in the south of England. By this authority, which never proceeded from the Grand Lodge, unfettered by any other restrictions than the constitutions of Masonry, the Lodge of Antiquity has always acted, and still continues to act.
Whilst I have endeavoured to explain the subject of this unfortunate dispute, I rejoice in the opportunity which the proceedings of the grand feast in 1790 afforded of promoting harmony, by restoring to the privileges of the Society all the Brethren of the Lodge of Antiquity who had been falsely accused and expelled in 1779. By the operation of our professed principles, and through the mediation of a true friend to genuine Masonry, the late William Birch, Esq., Past Master of the Lodge of Antiquity, unanimity was happily restored ; the manifesto published by that Lodge in 1779 revoked ; and the Master and Wardens of that truly ancient association resumed their seats in Grand Lodge as heretofore; while the Brethren, who had received the sanction of the Society as nominal members of the Lodge of Antiquity during the separation, were re-united with the original members of the real Lodge, and the privileges of that venerable body limited to their original channel.
Although I have considerably abridged my observa- tions on this unfortunate dispute in the latter editions of this treatise, I still think it proper to record my senti- ments on the subject, in justice to the gentlemen with whom I have long associated ; and to convince my Breth- ren, that our re-union wUh the Society has not induced me to vary a well-grounded opinion, or deviate from the strict line of consistency which I have hitherto pursued.
OF MASONRY. 206
SECT. XL
History of the most remarkable Events in the Society from 1779 to 1791 inclusive.
AMID these disagreeable altercations, intelligence ar- 'rived of the rapid progress of the Society in India, and that many new Lodges had been constituted, which were amply supported by the first characters in the East. Omdit-ul-Omrah Bahauder, eldest son of the nabob of the Carnatic, had been initiated into Masonry in the Lodge at Trichinopoly, near Madras ; and had expressed the highest veneration for the institution. This news having been transmitted to England officially, the Grand Lodge determined to sent a congratulatory letter to his highness on the occasion, accompanied with a blue apron, elegantly decorated, and a copy of the Book of Consti- tutions, superbly bound. To Sir John Day, Advocate- general of Bengal, the execution of this commission was entrusted.89 In the beginning of 1780, an answer was received from his highness, acknowledging the receipt of the present, and expressing the warmest attachment and benevolence to his Brethren in England. This letter, which is written in the Persian language, was inclosed in an elegant cover of cloth of gold, and addressed To the Grand Master and Grand Lodge oj England.
This flattering mark of attention, from so distinguished a personage abroad, was peculiarly grateful to the Grand Lodge : who immediately resolved, that an answer should be prepared and transmitted to his highness, expressing the high opinion which the Brethren in England enter- tained of his merits, and requesting the continuance of his friendship and protection to the masonic institutions in the East. The thanks of the Grand Lodge were voted to Sir John Day; and a translation of his highness's
89 At the grand feast in 1792, Sir John was honoured with a blue apron and the rank of a Grand officer, as a compliment for his meri- torious services on this occasion.
206 ILLUSTRATIONS
letter90 was ordered to be copied on vellum, and, with the original, elegantly framed and glazed, hung up in the hall at every public meeting of the Society. The first testimony which Omdit-ul-Omrah gave of his regard to the institution, was by the initiation of his brother Omur-ul-Omrah, who seems to be equally active with himself in promoting the welfare of the Society.
90 As this letter is replete with genuine good sense and warm benevolence, we shall here insert the translation for the gratification of our Brethren:
u To the right worshipful his Grace the Duke of Manchester, Grand Master of the illustrious and benevolent Society of Free and Accepted Masons under the constitution of England, and the Grand Lodge thereof.
"Much honoured SIR and BRETHREN,
"An early knowledge and participation of the benefits arising to our house, from its intimate union of councils and interests with the British nation, and a deep veneration for the laws, constitution, and manners of the latter, have, for many years of my life, led me to seize every opportunity of drawing the ties between us still closer and closer.
''By the accounts which have reached me, of the principles and practices of your Fraternity, nothing can be more pleasing to the sovereign Ruler of the Universe, whom we all, though in different ways, adore, or more honourable to his creatures ; for they stand upon the broad basis of indiscriminate and universal benevolence.
" Under this conviction, I had long wished to be admitted of your Fraternity ; and now that I am initiated, I consider the title of an English Mason as one of the most honourable that I possess ; for it is at once a cement of the friendship between your nation and me, the friend of mankind.
"I have received from the advocate-general of Bengal, Sir John Day. the very acceptable mark of attention and esteem with which you have favoured me ; it has been presented with every circumstance of deference and respect that the situation of things here, and the temper of the times, would admit of; and I do assure your grace, and the brethren at large, that he has done ample justice to the commission you have confided to him, and has executed it in such manner as to do honour to himself and me.
"I shall avail myself of a proper opportunity, to convince your grace, and the rest of the Brethren, that Omdit-ul-Omrah is not an unfeeling Brother, or heedless of the precepts he has imbibed ; and that, while he testifies his love and esteem for his Brethren, by strengthening the bonds of humanity, he means to minister to the wants of the distressed.
" May the common Father of All, the one Omnipotent and merciful God. take you into his holy keeping, and give you health, peace, and tength of years, prays your higly honoured and affectionate brother.
" OMDIT-UL-OMRAH BAHAUDER."
OF MASONRY. 207
Another event has also taken place at Madras, which must be very satisfactory to the Brethren of England. The divisions and secessions which originated in London in 1738, having unfortunately reached India, by the inter- vention of Brigadier-General Home, who had been appointed by patent from the Duke of Cumberland, Provincial Grand Master on the coast of Coromandel, an union of the Brethren in that part of the world has been effected ; and the Lodge, No. 152, styling themselves Ancient York Masons, has joined a regular Lodge under his auspices, and voluntarily surrendered the irregular warrant under which they had formerly acted. This desirable object being accomplished, and the wishes of the Brethren fulfilled, the General requested their assist- ance to form a Grand Lodge ; when the following officers were appointed and installed in due form :
Brigadier-Gen. HORNE, Prov. Grand Master. Ter. Gahagan, Esq., Deputy Grand Master. Jos. Du Pre Porcher, Esq., Acting Grand Master. Lieut.-Col. Ross, Grand Architect. Lieut.-Col. J. Campbell, Sen., Grand Warden.
Hamilton, Esq., Junior Grand Warden.
James Grierson, -Esq., Grand Secretary. James Amos, Esq., Grand Treasurer. Lieutenant-Colonel Moorhouse and Colonel L. Lucas,
Esqrs., Grand Stewards. Major Maule, Grand Orator. Charles Bromley, Esq., Grand Sword-Bearer.
The Grand Lodge having been regularly established, a proposal was made that a new Lodge should be formed at Madras, under the name of Perfect Unanimity, No. 1. This was unanimously agreed to; and the Provincial Grand Master, giving notice that he should perform the ceremony of consecration on Saturday, the 7th of Octo- ber, 1787, in commemoration of the union which had been so amicably formed that day, requested the proper officers to attend on the occasion. Accordingly, on the morning of the day appointed, upwards of fifty Brethren assembled at the house on Choultry Plain, in which the public rooms were held, and at half-past eleven o'clock the ceremony commenced. After the preparatory busi- ness had been gone through in Grand Lodge, a proces-
208 ILLUSTRATIONS
sion91 was formed, and marched three times round the Lodge ; after which the business of consecration com- menced, and was completed in a manner suitable to the solemnity of the occasion. Several old Masons, who were present, declared that they never saw a ceremony conducted with more dignity and propriety.
The following Brethren were then installed officers of this new Lodge, viz. : Colly Lyons Lucas, Esq., Master ; Pullier Spencer, Esq., Senior Warden ; George Robert Latham, Esq., Junior Warden ; John Robins, Esq., Trea- surer ; George Maule, Esq., Secretary.
At two o'clock the Brethren sat down to an excellent
91 Here follows the ORDER of the PROCESSION : Two Tylers, with drawn swords.
Music. Brothers Elphinstone and Moorhousc, Grand Stewards, with white
wands.
Brother Gillespie, as youngest apprentice, carrying the rough stone.
Apprentices, two and two.
Fellow-crafts, two and two.
Master-masons, two and two.
Brothers Latham and llobson, as Secretary and Treasurer of the
new Lodge. PAST-MASTER.
Brother Taner, carrying a silver pifcher with corn. Brothers Gomond and Goree, carrying pitchers containing wine and
oil. Brothers Home and Horsimau, carrying two great lights.
CHORISTERS.
Brother Ross, Grand Architect, carrying the polished stone. Brother Donaldson (36th regiment), as Grand Sword-bearer,
carrying the sword of state.
Brother Grierson. Grand Secretary, with his bag. Brother Amos, Grand Treasurer, with his staff. The LODGE covered with white satin, carried by four Tylers. The worshipful Brother LUCAS, as master of the new Lodge, carry- ing the Bible, compasses, and square, on a crimson velvet cushion, supported by Brothers Dalrymple and Chase,
Assistant Stewards. Brother Sir George Keith, carrying the silver censer.
Brother Maule, Grand Orator.
Third great light, carried by Brother Gregory.
Brothers Campbell and Hamilton, Senior and Junior Grand.
Wardens, with their columns and truncheons.
Brother Porcher, Acting Grand Master.
Brother Sadlier. as Chief Magistrate.
Brother Sir Henry Cosby, carrying the Book of Constitutions.
Brigadier- General HORNE, Provincial Gjand Master, supported by
Brothers Howley and Harris, Assistant Stewards.
OF MASONRY. 209
dinner, which had been provided by the Grand Lodge ; and many masonic and loyal toasts being drunk, the day was concluded with that pleasing festivity, harmony, and good fellowship, which has always distinguished the Society of Free and Accepted Masons.
We shall now return to the history of Masonry in England ; and recite the particulars which are most deserving attention.
During the presidency of the Duke of Manchester, new Lodges were constituted in different parts of Eng- land, and considerable additions made to the general funds of the Society. The sums voted to distressed Brethren far exceeded those of any former period ; arid among other instances of liberality, may be specified a generous contribution of one hundred pounds, which was voted by the Grand Lodge towards the relief of our Brethren in America, who had suffered great losses in consequence of the rebellion there, and whose situation was very feelingly described in a letter from the Lodge No. 1, at Halifax, in Nova Scotia.
A singular proposition was made in Grand Lodge on the 8th of April, 1778, that the Grand Master and his officers should be distinguished in future at all public meetings by robes, to be provided at their own expense ; and that Past Grand Officers should have the same privi- lege. This measure at first was favorably received ; but, on further investigation in the Hall Committee, to which it was referred, it was found to be so diametrically op- posite to the original plan of the Institution, that it was very properly laid aside.
The finances of the Society occupied great part of the proceedings of the Committees and Communications during his grace's administration. The debts due on account of the hall appearing to be very considerable, it was determined to make an application to the "Lodges to raise 2000Z. to pay them off. For this purpose, in con- sequence of a plan offered to the consideration of the Grand Lodge in June, 1779, it was resolved, that a sub- scription .should be opened, to raise the money by loan, without interest, at the discretion of the subscribers ; that 251. should be the sum limited for each subscriber, and the number of subscribers to be one hundred : and that the monies so subscribed should be repaid, in equal
210 ILLUSTRATIONS
proportions, among the subscribers, at such times as the hall-fund would admit.' It was' also determined, that an honorary medal should be presented to every subscriber, as a mark of respect, on account of the service which he had rendered the Society ; and that the bearer of Buch medal, if a Master Mason, should have the privilege of being present at, and voting in, all the future meet- ings of the Grand Lodge. This -mark of attention prompted some Lodges, as well as individuals, to con- tribute ; and the greater part of the money was speedily raised, and applied to the purpose intended.
The Stewards' Lodge, finding their finances much re- duced by several members having withdrawn their annual subscriptions, applied to the Grand Lodge for relief; upon which it was resolved, that in future no Grand Officer should be appointed, who was not at the time a subscribing member of the Stewards' Lodge.
A measure, however, of more importance, attracted the attention of the Society at this period. It had been observed with regret, that a number of worthy Brethren in distress had been subjected to much inconvenience and disappointment from want of relief during the long summer recess ; as there was seldom any Committee of Charity held from the beginning of April to the end of October. To remedy this complaint, the Grand Lodge unanimously resolved, that an Extraordinary Committee should meet annually in the last week of July, or first week of August, to administer temporary relief to such distressed objects as might regularly apply, not exceeding five pounds tor one person.
The business of the Society having of late very con- siderably increased, the Grand Lodge was induced to ap- point, pro tempore, an assistant to the Grand Secretary, to hold equal rank and power with himself in the Grand Lodge. Among many regulations which were now estab- lished, it was determined, that in future no person should hold two offices at the same time in the Grand Lodge.
The Grand Lodge of Germany having applied for leave to send a representative to the Grand Lodge of England, in order more effectually to cement the union and friendship of the Brethren of both countries, Brother John Leonahrdi was appointed to that office. The re- quest being complied with, a resolution passed, that, in
OF MASONRY. 211
compliment to the Grand Lodge of Germany, Brother Leonahrdi should wear the clothing of a Grand Officer, and rank next to Past Grand Officers in all the public meetings of the Society.
This additional cement was highly pleasing ; and led the Brethren to regret, that no intercourse or correspond- ence should have subsisted nearer home, between the Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodges of Scot- land and Ireland, though all the members were now subjects of the same sovereign, and happily united in the encouragement of the Art. At the Communication in April, 1782, this important business coming under con- sideration, after a variety of opinions had been delivered, it was unanimously resolved, that the Grand Master should be requested to adopt such means as his wisdom might suggest, to promote a good understanding among the Brethren of the three united kingdoms. Notwith- standing this resolution, the wished-for union was not then fully accomplished.
At this meeting also, the pleasing intelligence was communicated, that the Duke of Cumberland intended to accept the government of the Society. This having been regularly stated to the Grand Lodge, his Royal Highness was proposed as Grand Master elect ; and, in compliment to him, it was resolved, that he should have the privilege of nominating a peer of the realm as Acting Grand Master, who should be empowered to superintend the Society in his absence ; and that at any future period, when the Fraternity might be honoured with a Prince of the blood at their head, the same privilege should be granted.
At the annual grand feast on the 1st of May, 1782, the Duke of Cumberland was unanimously elected Grand Master; and it being signified to the Society, that his Royal Highness meant to appoint the Earl of Effingham Acting Grand Master, the appointment was confirmed, and his Lordship presided as proxy for his Royal High- ness during the feast.
On the 8th of January, 3 783, a motion was made in Grand Lodge, arid afterwards confirmed, that the interest of five per cent, on 1000/., which had been advanced for the purposes of the hall from the charity fund, should cease to be paid ; and further, that the principal should
212 ILLUSTRATIONS
be annihilated, and sunk into the hall-fund. In conse- quence of this resolution, the money was regularly brought to account in the hall expenditures. Many other regulations were confirmed at this meeting, to render the hall-fund more productive, and to enforce obedience to the laws respecting it.92 How far some of these regulations are consistent with the original plan of the institution, must be left to abler judges to determine: but it is certain that, in earlier periods of our history, such compulsory regulations were unnecessary.
* The regulations established at this meeting were as follows:
1. That no Brother, initiated since October 29, 1768, shall be appointed to the honour of wearing a blue or red apron, unless the Grand Secretary certifies that his name has been registered, and the fees paid.
2. That no Brother, initiated since that time, shall be appointed Master or Warden of a Lodge, or be permitted to attend any Com- mittee of Charity, or Grand Lodge, unless his name has been regis- tered, and the fees paid.
3. That every petitioner for charity, initiated since that time, shall set forth in his petition the Lodge in which, and the time when, he was made a Mason: in order that the Grand Secretary may certify by indorsement on the back of the petition, whether his name has been registered, and the fees paid.
4. That every Lodge shall transmit to the Grand Secretary, on or before the grand feast in every year, a list of all persons initiated, or members admitted, together with the registering fees ; or notice that they have not initiated or admitted any, that their silence may not be imputed to contempt.
5. That, to prevent the plea of ignorance or forgetfulness. a blank form shall be printed, and sent to each Lodge, to be filled up, and returned to the Grand Secretary.
6. That the Grand Secretary shall lay before the first quarterly Communication after each grand feast, an account of such Lodges as have not registered their members within the preceding year, that they may be erased from the list of Lodges, or be otherwise dealt with as the Grand Lodge may think expedient.
7. That, to prevent any injury to individuals, by being excluded from the privileges of the Society through the neglect of their Lodges, in their names not having been duly registered, any Brethren, on producing sufficient proofs that they have paid the due registering fees to their Lodges, shall be capable of enjoying all the privileges of the Society ; but the offending Lodges shall be rigorously proceeded against, for detaining fees that are the property of the Society.
On the 20th of March, 1788, an additional regulation was made, ;'That ten shillings and sixpence be paid to the Grand Lodge for registering the name of every Mason initiated in any Lodge under the constitution after the 5th of May, 1788/' And at this meeting another resolution passed, " That no Lodge should be permitted to attend or vote in Grand Lodge, which had not complied with this regulation."
OF MASONRY. 218
At the Grand Lodge held on the 23d of November, 1783, an addition was made to the Grand Officers, by the appointment of a Grand Portrait Painter; and, at the request of the Duke of Manchester, that honour was conferred on the Rev. William Peters, in testimony of the services which he had rendered to the Society, by his elegant present of the portrait of Lord Petre.
During the remainder of this year, there was scarcely any further business of importance transacted. On the 19th of November, information was given to the Grand Lodge, that two Brethren, under sanction of the Royal Military Lodge at Woolwich, which claimed the privi- lege of an itinerant Lodge, had lately held an irregular meeting in the King's Bench prison, and had there unwarrantably initiated sundry persons into Masonry. The Grand Lodge, conceiving this to be an infringement on the privileges of every regular constituted Lodge, ordered the said Lodge to be erased from the list ; and determined, that it was inconsistent with the principles of Masonry to hold any Lodge, for the purposes of mak- ing, passing, or raising Masons, in any prison, or place of confinement.
At this Grand Lodge also, it was resolved, to enact certain regulations, subjecting the Deputy Grand Master and Grand Wardens to fines, in case of non-attendance on the public meetings of the Society : and these regu- lations were confirmed in Grand Lodge, on the llth of February following.
While these proceedings were carrying on in England, the Brethren in Scotland were prosecuting their labours with equal zeal for the good of the Craft. The great improvements made in the city of Edinburgh afforded ample room for ingenious architects to display their masonic talents and abilities; and in that city the ope- rative part of the Fraternity were fully occupied, in rearing stately mansions, and planning elegant squares.
On the 1st of August, 1785, a very pleasing sight was exhibited to every well-wisher to the embellishment of Edinburgh, in the ceremony of laying the foundation- stone of the South Bridge, being the first step to further improvement. In the morning of that day, the Right Hon. the Lord Provost and Magistrates, attended by the Grand Master Mason of Scotland, and a number of nobility arid gentry, with the Masters, Office-bearers,
214 ILLUSTRATIONS
and Brethren of the Several Lodges, walked from the Par- liament-house to the bridge in procession.93 The streets were lined by the 58th regiment, and the city guard.
Lord Haddo, Grand Master, having arrived at the place, laid the foundation-stone with the usual solemni- ties. His lordship standing on the east, with the Sub- stitute on his right hand, and the Grand Wardens on the west, the square, the plumb, the level, and the mallet, were successfully delivered by an Operative Mason to the Substitute, and by him to the Grand Master, who applied the square to that part of the stone which was square, the plumb to the several edges, the level above the stone in several positions, and then with the mallet gave three knocks, saying, " May the Grand Architect of the Universe grant a blessing on this foundation-stone, which we have now laid ; and by his providence enable us to finish this, and every other work which may be undertaken for the embellishment and advantage of this city!" On this the Brethren gave the honours.
The cornucopia and two silver vessels were then brought from the table, and delivered, the cornucopia to the Substitute, and two vessels to the Wardens, which were successively presented to the Grand Master, who, according to ancient form, scattered the corn, and poured the wine and oil which they contained, on the stone, saying, "May the All-bounteous Author of Nature bless this city with an abundance of corn, wine, and oil ; and with all the necessaries, conveniences, and comforts of life! and may the same Almighty Power preserve this city from ruin and decay to the latest posterity !"
93 The following Order of Procession was observed :
The proper Officers, bearing the city insignia.
The Right Hon. Lord Provost and Magistrates.
Band of instrumental music.
A band of singers. The Lodges according to seniority, Brethren walking three
and three.
Lodge of Grand Stewards.
Nobility and Gentry, three and three.
Office-bearers of the Grand Lodge, in their badges of Office.
Officers of the Grand Lodge with insignia.
Grand Wardens.
Deputy I ttRANn MA«*T™ $ Substitute
G. Master. \ G. Master.
OF MASONRY. 215
The Grand Master, being supported on the right hand by the Duke of Buccleugh, and on the left by the Earl of Balcarras, addressed himself to the Lord Provost and Magistrates in a suitable speech for the occasion ; and the coins of the present reign, and a silver-plate with the following inscription, were deposited in the stone:
ANNUENTE DEO OPTIMO MAXIMO, REGNANTE GEORGIO III., PATRE PATRLE3,
HUJUS PONTIS,
QUO VICI EXTRA MCENIA EDINBURGI, URBI COMMODE ADJUNGERENTUR, ADITUMQUE NON INDIGNUM TANTA
URBS HABERET,
PRIMUM LAPIDEM POSUIT
NOBILIS VIR GEORGIUS DOMINUS HADDO,
ANTIQUISSIMI SODALITII ARCHITECTONIC!
APUD SCOTOS CURIO MAXIMUS,
PLAUDENTE AMPLISSIMA FRATRUM CORONA,
IMMENSAQUE POPULI FREQUENTIA.
OPUS,
UTELE CIVIBUS, GRATUM ADVENIS,
URBI DECORUM, PATRUE HONESTUM,
DIU MULTUMQUE DESIDERATUM,
CONSULE JACOBO HUNTER BLAIR,
INCEPTI AUCTORE INDEFESSO,
8ANCIENTE REGE SENATUQUE BRITANNIA,
APPROBANTIBUS OMNIBUS,
TANDEM INCHOATUM EST
IPSIS KALENDIS AUGUSTI
A. D. MDCCLXXXV.
JEEUE ARCHITECTONICS 5785.
Q. F. F. Q. S.
TRANSLATION.
By the blessing of Almighty God. in the reign of George the Third, the Father of his country, the Right Hon. GEORGE LORD HADDO, Grand Master of the Most Ancient Fraternity of Freemasons in Scot- land, amidst the acclamations of a Grand Assembly of the Brethren, and a vast concourse of people, laid the first stone of this bridge, intended to form a convenient communication between the city of Edinburgh and its suburbs, and an access not unworthy of such city.
This work, so useful to the inhabitants, so pleasing and convenient to strangers, so ornamental to the city, so creditable to the country, so long and much wanted and wished for, was at last begun, with the sanction of the king and parliament of Great Britain, and with univer- sal approbation, in the provostship of James Hunter Blair, the author and indefatigable promoter of the undertaking, August the 1st, in the year o£ our Lord 1785, and of the £er~ God prosper.
216 ILLUSTRATIONS
An anthem was then sung ; and the procession, being reversed, returned to the Parliament-house. After which the Lord Provost arid Magistrates gave an elegant enter- tainment at Dunn's rooms to the Grand Lodge, and the nobility and gentry who had assisted at the ceremony.
The next public ceremony in which the Society bore a principal share was the laying the foundation-stone of that valuable seminary of learning, the new College of Edinburgh. This University has for many years been esteemed one of the most celebrated in Europe, and has attracted a great number of students in physic, and other branches of science, from all parts of the world. The eminence of its professors in every branch of learning is universally admitted ; and it is most fervently to be wished, for the honor of the kingdom, that the whole plan may be completely executed Hgreebly to the intention of the original promoters. As this is an event worthy of record in the annals of Masonry, I shall describe minutely the ceremony observed on the occasion.
On the 13th of October, 1789, Mr. Robert Adam, architect, presented the plans of the intended building, at a public breakfast given by the Lord Provost to the Magistrates and the Principal and Professors of the Uni- versity of Edinburgh ; and explained their uses, for the various schools, halls, and houses. The whole company having expressed the highest satisfaction at the design, it was immediately resolved, that a subscription should be opened to carry the plan into execution ; and Monday, the 16th of November, was fixed for laying the foundation- stone of the new structure.
On the morning of the day appointed for performing the ceremony, the Brethren assembled at eleven o'clock in the Parliament-house, to meet Lord Napier, who was at the time G rand Master of Scotland. When the Lodges were arranged, the Grand Master sent notice to the Lord Provost and Magistrates, who had assembled in the Coun- cil-chamber; and to the Principal, Professors, and Stu- dents cf the University, who had met in the High Church. At half-past twelve the procession began to move in the following order :
1st. The Principal. Professors, and Students of the Universit}', with their mace carried before them ; Principal Robertson being supported on the right hand by the Reverend Dr. Hunter, professor of divinity and on the left by the Rev. Dr. Hardy, professor of Church History
OF MASONRY. 217
The Professors were all robed, and each of the Students had a sprig of laurel in his hat.
2nd. The Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Council in their robes, preceded by the sword, mace, &c. ; the Lord Provost being supported on the right and left by the two eldest Bailies.
3rd. A complete choir of Singers, under the direction of Signer Schetky, singing anthems as the procession moved.
4th. The Lodges, according to seniority, juniors preceding, with their different insignia.
5th. A complete band of instrumental music.
6th. The Grand Stewards, properly clothed, with white rods.
7th. The Noblemen and Gentlemen attending the Grand Master.
8th. A large drawing of the East Front of the New College, carried by two Operative Masons.
9th. The grand jewels, borne by the Past Masters of Lodges. 10th. Officers of the Grand Lodge, properly clothed, llth. Past Grand Masters.
12th. Lord NAPIER, present Grand Master, supported on the right hand by Sir William Forbes, Bart., Past Grand Master, and on the left by the Duke of Buccleugh.
A detachment of the 35th regiment from the castle* together with the city guard, lined the streets.
At one o'clock the Grand Master reached the site of the college ; when the foundation-stone was laid with the usual ceremonies.94 After which the Grand Master addressed himself to the Lord Provost and Magistrates as follows :
MY LORD PROVOST, and MAGISTRATES, of the City of Edinburgh,
In compliance with your request, I have now had the honour, in the capacity of Grand Master Mason of Scotland, to lend my aid to- wards laying that stone, on which it is your intention to erect a new College. 1 must ever consider it as one of the fortunate events in my life, that the Craft of Free and Accepted Masons should be called forth, to assist at an undertaking so laudable, and so glorious, during the time that, from their affection, I have the honour of sitting in the chair of the Grand Lodge.
The attention to the improvement of this city, manife^led by the Magistrates, your predecessors in office, has for many years excited the admiration of their fellow-citizens. The particular exertions of your Lordship and your Colleagues have merited, and it gives me infinite satisfaction to say, have obtained, the universal approbation of all' ranks of men.
The business of this day, equally to be remembered in the annals of this city and of Masonry, will transmit your names with lustre to posterity. Thousands yet unborn, learning to admire your virtuos, will thereby be stimulated to follow the great example you have r*t them, of steady patriotism, love of your country, and anxious
94 The particulars of this part of the ceremony were exactly similar to those observed at laying the foundation-stone of the South Bridge see p. 214.
11
218 ILLUSTRATIONS
desire to advance the welfare, and increase the fame, of the city of Edinburgh.
In the name of the Craft of Free and Accepted Masons, and in my own, I sincerely implore the protection of the Supreme Architect of the Universe on your lordship and your brethren in the magistracy ! May you long continue here the ornaments of civil society ; and may you hereafter be received into those mansions, those lodges, prepared in heaven for the blessed !
To this address the Lord Provost, in the name of the Magistrates and Town Council of the City of Edinburgh, made a suitable reply.
The Grand Master then addressed the Principal, as representing the University of Edinburgh, in the follow- ing words : —
REVEREND SIR,
Permit me to congratulate you as Principal, and your brethren as Pro- fessors, of thjj University of Edinburgh, on the work in which we have this day been engaged ; — a work worthy of your Patrons, who (ever considering the public good) will not permit the seat of learning, established in this ancient metropolis, to bear the appearance of decay, at a time when so much attention is bestowed on the elegance and convenience both of public and private edifices.
Permit me, likewise, to congratulate my country on the probability of seeing the different chairs of the magnificent structure now to be erected filled by men so distinguished for their piety, so eminent for their learning, and so celebrated for their abilities, as. those to whom I now have the honour to address myself.
Any panegyric that I can pronounce must fall so far short of what is due to you, Sir, and your honourable and learned brethren, that it would be presumption in me to attempt to express my sense of your deserts. Suffice it to say, that the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and the Lodges depending on it, are most happy in having this opportunity of assisting at. and witnessing, the laying the foundation, whence it is their earnest wish a building may arise, which in future ages may be us renowned for the excellence of its teachers, and as much respected for the J^opriety of conduct in its students, as the University now is, over which you have the peculiar satisfaction of presiding.
May the Almighty Architect, the Sovereign Disposer of all Events, grant, that the Principal and Professors of this College may continue to deliver their instructions, and the students receive theiradmonitions, in su^h a mannsr as may redound to the glory of God, the promoting of science, and the extension of all useful learning.
To which the Rev. Principal made the following reply:— MY LORD,
From very humble beginnings, the University of Edinburgh has attained to such eminence, as entitles it to be ranked among the most celebrated seminaries of learning. Indebted to the bounty of several of our Sovereigns — distinguished particularly by the gracious Prince
OF MASONRY. 219
now seated on the Brtish throne, whom, with gratitude, we reckon among the most munificent of our royal benefactors — and cherished by the continued attention and good offices of our honourable Patrons, this University can now boast of the number and variety of its insti- tutions for the instruction of youth in all the branches of literature and science.
With what integrity and discernment persons have been chosen to preside in each of these departments, the character of my learned col- leagues affords the most satisfying evidence. From confidence in the abilities and assiduity in discharging the duties of their respective offices, the University of Edinburgh has become a seat of education, not only to youth in every part of the British dominions, but, to the honour of our country, students have been attracted to it from almost every nation in Europe, and every State in America.
One thing still was wanting. The apartments appropriated -for the accommodation of Professors and Students were so extremely unsuitable to the flourishing state of the University, that it had long been the general wish to have buildings more decent and convenient erected. What your lordship has now done gives a prospect of having this wish accomplished ; and we consider it as a most auspicious circumstance, that the foundation-stone of this new mansion of science is laid by your lordship, who, among your ancestors, reckoned a mar whose original and universal genius places him high among the illus- trious persons who have contributed most eminently to enlarge the boundaries of human knowledge.
Permit me to add, what I regard as my own peculiar felicity, thai by having remained in my- present station much longer than any of my predecessors. I have lived to witness an event so beneficial to this University, the prosperity of which is near to my heart, and has ever been the object of my warmest wishes.
May Almighty God, without invocation of whom no action of im- portance should be begun, bless this undertaking, and enable us to carry it on with success ! May he continue to protect our University ; the object of whose institution is, to instil into the minds of youth principles of sound knowledge ; to inspire them with the love of reli- gion and virtue ; and to prepare them for filling the various situations in society, with honour to themselves, and with benefit to their country !
All this we ask in the name of Christ ; and unto the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we ascribe the kingdom, power, and glory ! Amen.
After the Principal had finished his speech, the Brethren concluded the ceremony with .the honours.
Two crystal bottles, cast on purpose at the glass-house of Leith, were deposited in the foundation-stone. In one of these were put different coins of the present reign, each of which was previously enveloped in crystal in such an ingenious manner that the legend on the coins could be distinctly read without breaking the crystal. In the other bottle were deposited seven rolls of vellum, con-
220 ILLUSTRATIONS
taining a short account of the original foundation and present state of the University, together with several other papers ; in particular, the different newspapers, containing advertisements relative to the college, &c., and a list of the names of the present Principal and Pro- fessors, also of the present Lord Provost and Magistrates, and officers of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. The bot- tles, being carefully sealed up, were covered with a plate of copper wrapt in block tin ; and, upon the under-side of the copper, were engraven the arms of the city of Edinburgh, and of the University ; likewise the arms of the Right Hon. Lord Napier, Grand Master Mason of Scotland. Upon the upper-side, a Latin inscription, of which the following is a copy:
ANNUENTE DEO OPT. MAX.
REGNANTE GEORGIO III. PRINCIPE MUNIFICENTISSIMO, ACADEMIC EDINBURGENSIS
^EDIBIJS,
INITIO QUIDEM HUMLLLIMI8, ET JAM, POST DUO SECULA, PENE RUINI8,
NOVI HUJU8 ^EDIFICII,
UBI COMMODITATI SIMUL ET ELEGANTLfi, TANTO DOCTRINARUM DOMIC1L1O DIGN^E,
CONSULERETUR, PRIMUM LAPIDEM POSUIT,
PLAUDENTE INGENTI OMNIUM ORDINUM FREQUENTIA,
VIR NOBILI8SIMUS FRANCISCUS DOMINUS NAPIER,
REIPUB. ARCHITECTONICS APUD SCOTOS
CURIO
MAXIMUS.
XVI KAL DECEMB.
ANNO SALUTIS HUMANE MDCCLXXXIX. JER2E ARCHITECTONICS IOOIDCCLXXX1X.
CONSULE THOMA ELDER;
ACADEMIC PRSFECTO GULIELMO ROBERTSON
ARCHITECTO ROBERTO ADAM.
Q. F. F. Q. S.
TRANSLATION.
By the blessing of ALMIGHTY GOD,
In the reign of the most munificent Prince GEORGE IH.
The buildings of the University of Edinburgh,
Being originally very mean, And now, after two centuries, almost a ruin,
The Right Hon. FRANCIS LORD NAPIER, Grand Master of the Fraternity of Free Masons in Scotland,
Amidst the acclamations
Of a prodigious concourse of people,
Laid the foundation-stone
OF MASONRY. 221
Of this new fabric,
In which an union of elegance with convenience, Suitable to the dignity of such a celebrated seat of learning,
Has been studied,
On the 16th day of November,
In the year of our Lord 1789,
And of the aera of Masonry 5789 ; '
THOMAS ELDER being the Lord Provost of the City ;
WILLIAM KOBERTSON, the Principal of the University ;*
And ROBERT ADAM, the Architect. May the undertaking prosper, and be crowned with success !
An anthem having been sung, the brethren returned; the whole procession being reversed; and when the junior Lodge arrived at the door of the Parliament-house, it fell back to the right and left, within the line of sol- diers; when the Principal, Professors, and Students, the Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council, and the Grand Lodge, passed through with their hats off.
The procession, on this occasion, was one of the most brilliant and numerous that ever was exhibited in the city of Edinburgh. The Provost and Magistrates had very properly invited many of the nobility and gentry from all parts of the country, to witness the solemnity of laying the foundation-stone of a College, the architec- ture of which, it is agreed by all who have seen the plan, will do honour to the city, to the nation, and to Europe. But the number of persons invited was far exceeded by the immense multitude of all ranks, who, desirous of viewing so magnificent a spectacle, filled the streets, windows, and even roofs of the houses, all the way from the Parliament-close, down the High-street and Bridge- street, near the south end of which the foundation-stone was laid. Above 20,000 were supposed to be witnesses of this ceremony; and, notwithstanding this immense crowd, the greatest order and decency were observed ; nor did the smallest accident happen.
On the 7th of January, 1765, the Brethren in Scotland had another opportunity of exemplifying their skill in the practical rules of the Art, at opening the new bridge for carriages at Montrose. This undertaking had been
long deemed impracticable, on account of the extent
•
96 The kte elegant Historian of Scotland, of Charles V. America,
WNIVER8JTY
222 ILLUSTRATIONS
being near half a mile, across a rapid influx and reflux of the sea; but was at last happily accomplished under the superintendence of the Fraternity, and the great post road from the south to the north of Scotland is now united. A public procession was formed on this occa- sion ; and the Grand Master, amidst an immense con- course of people, having critically examined the work, declared it well built, and ably executed.
Having described the principal works in which the Brethren in Scotland were employed, we shall now resume the history of Masonry in England, and trace the occurrences that took place there, under the auspices of the late Duke of Cumberland, and his successor, the Prince of Wales, afterwards his Most Gracious Majesty King George IV.
On Tuesday, the 9th of March, 1786, his Royal High- ness Prince William Henry, now Duke of Clarence, was initiated into Masonry, at the Lodge No. 86, held at the Prince George inn, at Plymouth.
On the 4th of January, 1787, was opened, in London, the Grand Chapter of Harodim. Though this Order is of ancient date, and had been patronised in different parts of Europe, there appears not on record, previous to this period, the regular establishment of such an association in England. For some years it was faintly encouraged ; but after its merit had been further investigated, it received the patronage of several exalted masonic characters.96
96 The Mysteries of this order are peculiar to the institution itself j while the lectures of the Chapter include every branch of the masonic system, and represent the art of Masonry in a finished and complete form.
Different classes are established, and particular lectures restricted to each class. The lectures are divided into sections, and the sections into clauses. The sections are annually assigned, by the Chief Harod, to a certain number of skilful companions in each class, who are denominated Sectionists ; and they are empowered to distribute the clauses of their respective sections, with the approbation of the Chief Harod and General Director, among the private companions of the Chapter, who are denominated Clauseholders. Such companions as by assiduity become possessed of all the sections in the lecture, are called Lecturers; and out of these the General Director is always chosen.
Every Clauseholder, on his appointment, is presented with a ticket, signed by the Chief Harod, specifying the clause allotted to him. This ticket entitles him to enjoy the rank and privileges of a Clauseholder in the Chapter ; and no Clauseholder can transfer his ticket to another
OF MASONRY. 223
The Grand Chapter is governed by a Grand Patron, two Vice-Patrons, a Chief Ruler, and two Assistants, with a Council of twelve respectable Companions, who are chosen annually at the Chapter nearest to the festival of St. John the Evangelist.
On Thursday, the 6th of February, 1787, his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was made a Mason at an occasional Lodge, convened for the purpose, at the Star and Garter Tavern, Pall Mall, over which the late Duke of Cumberland presided in person. And on Friday, the 21st of November following, his Royal Highness the Duke of York was initiated into. Masonry, at a special Lodge, convened for the purpose, at the same place, over which the Grand Master also presided in person. His Royal Highness was introduced by his royal brother, the Prince of Wales, who assisted at the ceremony of his initiation.
On the 25th of March, 1718, another event worthy of notice in the annals of Masonry took place — the institu- tion of "The Royal Freemasons' Charity for Female Children," for maintaining, clothing, and educating the female children and orphans of indigent brethren. To the benevolent exertions of the late Chevalier Bartholo- mew Ruspini, the Fraternity are, in the first place, indebted for this establishment. Under the patronage of her Royal Highness the late Duchess of Cumberland, the school was originally formed; and to her fostering hand is owing its present flourishing state, by her recom- mending it to the Royal Family, as well as to many of the nobility and gentry of both sexes. On the 1st of January, ] 789, fifteen children were taken into a house provided for them at Somers Town, St. Pancras; but since that time, by the liberal encouragement which • the charity has received from the Fraternity in India as well as in England, the Governors have been enabled to aug- ment the number of children, at different periods, to sixty-five.
Companion, unless the consent of the Council has been obtained for that purpose, and the General Director has approved the Companion to whom it is to be transferred, as qualified to hold it. In case of the death, sickness, or non-residence in London, of any Lecturer, Section- ist, or Clauseholder, another Companion is appointed to fill up the vacancy for the time being, that the lectures may be always complete ; and during the session, a public lecture is usually delivered at stated times.
224 ILLUSTRATIONS
The object of this charity is, to train up children in the knowledge of virtue and religion ; in an early detesta- tion of vice and its unhappy consequences ; in industry, as necessary to their condition; and to impress strongly in their minds, a due sense of subordination, true humi- lity, and obedience to their superiors.
In 1793, the Governors, anxious still further to extend the benefits of this Institution, hired, on lease, a piece of ground in St. George's Fields, belonging to the City of London, on which they have erected a commodious and spacious school-house, at the expense of upwards of 2500/., in which the children are now placed. This building is sufficiently extensive to accommodate one hundred children ; and from the exertions of the Frater- nity, at home and abroad, there is every reason to hope that the Governors will soon have it in their power to provide for that number.97
97 The following is an Abstract of the Rules and Regulations estab- lished for the government of this Institution : —
QUALIFICATIONS FOR GOVERNORS.
1. Every subscriber of one guinea, annually, is deemed a Governor during the continuance of such subscription, and is entitled to one vote at all elections for children.
2. The Master, for the time being, of every Lodge, which subscribes one guinea per annum, has the same privileges.
3. Every Benefactor of ten guineas or upwards, at once, or within a year, is thereby constituted a Governor for life, and a member of the general committee, and is entitled to one vote ; every additional ten guineas given will entitle him to another vote.
4. The Master, for the time being, of every Lodge, subscribing ten guineas within a year, becomes a Governor, and a member of the gene- ral committee for fifteen years, with the privilege of one vote.
5. The Master, for the time being, of every Lodge, subscribing twenty guineas at once, or in two donations within ten years, becomes a Governor, and a member of the general committee, so long as that Lodge exists, with the privilege of one vote.
6. Every Lodge, which has already subscribed twenty guineas, will be entitled to one vote, in addition, for every further s-um of twenty guineas subscribed. N.B. The sum of ten guineas, at any time given by any such Lodge, will entitle it to an additional vote for fifteen years.
7. The physicians, surgeons, and other medical gentlemen who attend this charity, and administer their advice and assistance gratis, are thereby constituted Governors for life.
8. Every clergyman who benevolently advocates the cause of this charity from the pulpit, is, in consideration of such service, entitled to the same privilege.
OF MASONRY. 225
To the benevolent and indefatigable exertions of Wil- liam Forssteen, the late Antony Ten Broeke, Adam Gordon, Esqrs., and a few other respectable Brethren, the Society are principally indebted for the complete estab-
9. The executor of any person who pays one hundred pounds tc this charity, thereby becomes a Life-governor ; and the payment of a legacy of two hundred pounds, or upwards, constitutes all the execu- tors, who have proved the will. Governors for life.
10. Every Governor has a right to vote at all qua/terly and special general courts.
11. Every new subscriber will be entitled to vote, immediately on payment of his subscription.
12. No annual subscriber can vote at any election, till his subscrip- tion for the current year (which always commences at Lady-day) and all arrears are paid.
13. Lodges, having votes, are required to give notice to the Secre- tary of the election of their respective Masters, before they can be entitled to vote.
14. All Governors, (except annual subscribers residing within the bills of mortality,) and all ladies, noblemen, members of parliament, Masters of Lodges having the privileges of Life-governors, and Masters of foreign or country Lodges, (being subscribers.) have a right to vote by proxy, at all elections for children.
15. The Governor giving the proxy must insert therein the names of all the children for whom he intends to vote, as only one proxy can be admitted. He must also sign it with his name, and insert his place of residence and the date of the proxy, together with the name of the Governor to whom it is given, as such proxy can only be given to a Governor, and be used at the next ensuing election.
16. All foreign Lodges may vote by general proxy, to be renewed every Jive years j and country Lodges may have the same privilege, to be renewed annually ; — such general proxies being given to Governors only, and being signed by the Master, Wardens, and Secretary of each Lodge respectively.
QUALIFICATIONS, ADMISSION, EDUCATION, AND DISPOSAL OF THE CHILDREN. .
Children, from any part of the kingdom, are admitted into the school, from the age of seven to ten years, and they remain in the school till they have attained the age of fifteen years ; during which time, they are carefully instructed in reading, writing, and arithmetic, needle-work, and all kinds of domestic employment. When they quit the school, they are either returned to their friends, or are apprenticed for four 3^ears. to trades or as domestic servants, as may be most suit- able to their respective capacities ; at which time each of them is presented with a Bible, a Prayer-Book, and Dr. Wilson's Treatise on the Sacrament ; and further supplied with two complete suits of cloth- ing. Besides these, as an encouragement and reward to each girl for serving her apprenticeship well and faithfully, a premium of five gui- 11*
226 ILLUSTRATIONS
lishment of this truly laudable institution ; and such have been the care and pains bestowed on the education of the children, that the sums arising from their work, for several years past, have exceeded 200/. annually. On the 10th of February, 1790, the Grand Lodge
neas is given at the expiration of her term, on her producing due testimonials of her good behaviour during that period.
Children applying to be admitted into the school, must be the daughters or orphans of indigent Freemasons ; thy must be full six years of age, and not more than nine, when their petitions* are pre- sented— must have had the small-pox, or cow-pox — be in perfectly good health — and free from all infirmity and deformity.
No child can be admitted who is under seven, or above ten years of age.
The petitioner must have the following certificates, viz. :
1. A certificate from the Master and Wardens of the Lodge in which her father was made a Mason, or from some Lodge of which ho has been a member, to prove that he has been three years a Mason. N.B. This proof will be dispensed with if the child be an orphan.
2. A certificate from the Grand Secretary , of the father's having been duly registered as a Mason in the books of the United Grand Lodge of England.
3. A certificate of the marriage of her parents.
4. An attested copy of the register of her birth, extracted from the books of the parish wherein she was born ; or some other satisfactory proof of her age.
5. A certificate, signed by two respectable housekeepers, or other proof, of the parish to which she belongs.
6. A certificate of the state of her health, under the hand of one of the Medical Governors of the charity.
The petitions and testimonials of the candidates for admission are to be examined by the General Committee, who are to make report thereof to the Quarterly General Court, which court alone can order the admission of children into the school. When there are more approved candidates than there are vacancies in the school, their admission is to be determined by ballot.
All the children who are candidates for admission, are to be sum- moned to attend the General Committee next but one preceding every election, in order to be examined as to the state of their health, and other circumstances, at that time ; and each child, when elected, is to be examined by two of the medical Governors of the charity, and their certificate of the state of her health is to be laid before the next House Committee, who, if nt>t satisfied, may suspend her admission all further inquiry be made.
Every child is to be brought to the school for admission, at the next House Committee, or at some other time to be appointed, within one month after her election, and she is not afterwards to depart from the school without leave, on pain of exclusion.
No parent or friend of any child will be permitted to visit her, at the school, except on a Thursday, between the hours of ten and two,
» Blank fonna of petition may be had 'at the school
OF MASONRY. 227
voted an annual subscription of 251. to this charity, and particularly recommended it to the Lodges as deserving of encouragement ; in consequence of which, considera- ble sums have been raised for its support; and among the very liberal subscriptions from the Lodges, the Shak- speare Lodge is particularly distinguished ; having, as a
and then only by means of an order, obtained for that purpose, from one of the House Committee: and they are forbidden to speak to or join them in their procession to and from church.
No child can be taken out of the school by her friends, before the expiration of the time limited by the regulations of the charity, except in case of illness, unless her board, clothing, &c., be paid for from the time of her having been admitted.
OFFICERS OF THE INSTITUTION.
PATRON. His MOST GRACIOUS MAJESTY KING GEORGE THE IVth, G. P.
VICE PATRONS.
His Royal Highness the Duke of York. His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, M. W. G. M. His Grace the Duke of Athol, P. G. M. The Most Noble the Marquis of Hastings, P. A. G. M.
VICE PATRONESS. The Most Noble the Marchioness of Hastings.
PRESIDENT. His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, M. W. G. M
VICE PRESIDENTS.
His Grace the Duke of Hamilton, G. M. for Scotland. His Grace the Duke of Leinster, G. M. for Ireland. His Grace the Duke of Devonshire. The Right Hon. the Earl of Pomfret. The Right Hon. the Earl of Kingston, The Right Hon. the Earl of Mountnorris. The Right Hon. Lord Viscount Dudley and Ward. The Right Hon. Lord Viscount Sidmouth. The Right Hon. Lord Hawke. The Right Hon. Lord Eardley.
TREASURER.
William Williams, Esq., M. P., Belmont House, South Lambeth.
TRUSTEES.
His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, The Most Noble the Marquis of Hastings. William Forssteen, Esq. David Gordon, Esq. John Dent, Esq., M. P.
228 ILLUSTRATIONS
Lodge, and from individuals belonging to it, paid above a thousand pounds to the fund. From these donations, and the increase of annual contributions, an Institution which reflects great honour on the Fraternity, promises fair to have a permanent establishment.98
The late Duke of Cumberland continued in the office of Grand Master till his death, in September, 1790. It may be truly said, that such a valuable acquisition was made to the Society during his royal highnesses adminis- tration, as is almost unparalleled in the annals of Masonry.
On the 10th of February, 1790, regular notice was given in Grand Lodge, that his Royal Highness Prince Edward, late Duke of Kent, while on his travels, had been regu- larly initiated into Masonry in the Union Lodge at Geneva ; and we were afterwards informed, that his Royal Highness Prince Augustus Frederick, now Duke of Sussex, had been likewise initiated into the Order at a Lodge in Berlin.
The Grand Lodge, highly sensible of the great honour conferred on the Society by the initiation of so many royal personages, unanimously resolved, that each of them should be presented with an apron, lined with blue silk, the clothing of a Grand Officer; and that they should be placed, in all public meetings of the Society, on the right hand of the Grand Master, and rank in all processions as Past Grand Masters.
On the 2nd of May, 1790, the grand feast was honoured with the presence of the Duke of Cumberland, the Grand Master, in the chair ; attended by his royal nephews, the Prince of Wales, and the Dukes of York and Clarence, with above five hundred other Brethren. At this Grand Assembly was confirmed the re-instatement of the mem- bers of the Lodge of Antiquity in all their masonic privi- leges, after an unfortunate separation of ten years ; and among those who were re-instated, the Author of thi« treatise had the honour to be included. On the 24th of November, 1790, his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was elected to the high and important office of Grand
98 William Preston, Esq.. the author of this book, bequeathed to this charity, by his will, 500Z. three per cents, consols ; and a like sum to the General Charity Fund of the Grand Lodge. — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 229
Master ; and he was pleased to appoint Lord Rawdon (now Marquis of Hastings) Acting Grand Master ; who had previously filled that office under his late royal uncle, on the resignation of the Earl of Effingharn, who went abroad on his accepting the governorship of Jamaica.
On the 9th of February, 1791, the Grand Lodge resolved, on the motion of Lord Pet-re, that, in testimony of the high sense the Fraternity entertained of the honour done to the Society by his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's acceptance of the office of Grand Master, three elegant chairs and candlesticks should be provided for the use of the Grand Lodge ; and at the grand feast in May following, these were accordingly finished, and presented to. public view ; but, unfortunately, the Grand Master's indisposition at that time prevented him from honouring the Society with his presence. Lord Rawdon, however, officiated as proxy for His Royal Highness, who was re-elected with the most joyful acclamations.
SECT. XII.
History of Masonry from the Installation of the Prince of WALES as GRAND MASTER, to the Grand Feast of 1795 inclusive.
AT the Grand Feast held at Freemasons' -Hall, on the 2nd of May, 1792, His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was installed Grand Master, to the inexpressible joy of the Fraternity, in the presence of his royal brother the Duke of York, the Right Hon. Lord Rawdon, now Marquis of Hastings, and above 500 other respectable Brethren. The repeated applauses bestowed by the company upon the royal brothers were highly grateful to their feelings ; while the affability and heartfelt satisfaction of the Grand Master at the head of his Brethren were particularly noticed. His Royal Highness performed the duties of his uffice in a style superior to most of his predecessors. His observations were clear, acute, and pertinent ; his expres- sion was fluent, manly, and distinct ; and his eulogium on his deceased uncle, the last Grand Master, pathetic, graceful and elegant. The compliment that he conferred on Lord Rawdon, as Acting Grand Master, was truly Masonic ; and to all his Officers, on their appointments, he paid the proper tribute to their respective merits. In
230 ILLUSTRATIONS
short, during the whole ceremony, his demeanour was courteous, pleasing and dignified.
An era so important in the annals of Masonry must be recorded with peculiar satisfaction. Testimonies of loyalty and attachment to the family on the throne, and to the happy constitution of the country, were transmitted to his Royal Highness from the Brethren in every quarter. The Lodges in town and country vied with each other in expressions of duty and affection to the Grand Master ; and in various addresses to his Royal Highness testified submission and obedience to the laws, and an ardent wish to support that well-regulated form of government, from which they and their ancestors had derived the invaluable blessings of liberty, so truly essential to the happiness of his Majesty's subjects in general, and to the propagation of those principles which distinguish the Craft of Masons in particular — universal charity, brotherly love, and peace.
On the 21st of June, the Brethren in the county of Lincoln transmitted their grateful acknowledgments to his Royal Highness in a column of heart of oak, which was presented by the Rev. William Peters, their Provin- cial Grand Master. Stimulated by the same motive, several other Lodges copied the example ; and on the 7th of January, 1793, the Freemasons of Cornwall unani- mously voted an Address to his Royal Highness, which was presented by Sir John St. Aubyn, their Provincial Grand Master, and most graciously received. In short, one spirit seemed to animate the whole Fraternity, who joyfully hailed the rising splendour and prosperity of the Craft.
The French revolution, which, in extent and import- ance of effect, is unquestionably the most momentous event that has happened since the religious revolutions in Europe at the beginning of the sixteenth century, having unfortunately given rise, at this time, to many unhappy dissensions, which spread their contagion among some of the inhabitants of this island, it became neces- sary co counteract the measures of those mistaken indi- viduals who were endeavouring to sow the seeds of anarchy, and poison the minds of the people against his Majesty's government, and the excellent constitution under which they enjoyed the invaluable blessings of liberty and property. This induced most of the corporate bodies
OF MASONRY. 231
in the kingdom, and all the true friends to the constitution, to stem the torrent of opposition, and promote, in their different departments, a just sense of the advantages enjoyed under the present government. Hence, addresses to the throne were daily presented, with assurances of a determination to support the measures of administration ; and among the rest, it was deemed proper that the Society of Masons, by adding their mite to the number, should show that attachment to the King and Constitution which the laws of the Order enjoined. Accordingly, on the 6th of February, 1793, the Grand Lodge unanimously resolved that the following Address should be presented to his Majesty, by his Royal Highness ; who, in compliance with the request of his Brethren, condescended to present it in person to his Royal Parent^ by whom it was most graciously received :
To the KING'S Most Excellent MAJESTY.
The humble Address of the Grand Lodge of the Ancient Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons under the Constitution of
England. Most Gracious Sovereign,
At a time when nearly the whole mass of the people anxiously press forward, and offer, with one heart and one voice, the most anima- ted testimonies of their attachment to your Majesty's Person and Government, and of their unabated zeal, at this period of innovation and anarchy in other countries, for the unequalled Constitution of their own, permit a body of men, Sire, which, though not known to the laws, has been ever obedient to them — men who do not yield to any description of your Majesty's subjects in the love of their coun- try, in true allegiance to their Sovereign, or in any other of the duties of a good Citizen — to approach you with this public declaration of their political principles. The times, they think, demand it of them ; and they wish not to be among the last, in such times, to throw their weight, whatever that may be, into the scale of Order, Subordination, and good Government.
It is written, Sire, in the Institute of our Order, that we shall not, at our meetings, go into religious or political discussion ; because, composed (as our Fraternity is) of men of various nations, profess- ing different rules of faith, and attached to opposite systems of gov- ernment, such discussions, sharpening the mind of man against his brother, might offend and disunite. A crisis, however, so unlooked for as the present, justifies to our judgment a relaxation of that rule; and, our first duty as Britons superseding all other considerations, we add, without further pause, our voice to that of our fellow-sub- jects, in declaring one common and fervent attachment to a govern- ment by King, Lords, and Commons, as established by the glorious Revolution of 1688.
The excellence of all human institutions is comparative and fleet-
ILLUSTRATIONS
ing: positive perfection, or unchanging aptitude to its object, we know, belongs not to the work of man ; but, when we view the prin- ciples of government which have recently obtained in OTHER NA- TIONS, and then look upon OUR OWN, we exult in possessing, at this time, the wisest and best poised system the world has ever known : — a system which affords EQUAL protection (the only EQUALITY we look for, or that, indeed, is practicable) and impartial justice to all.
It may be thought, perhaps, being what we are, a private society of men — connected by invisible ties — professing secrecy — mysterious in our meetings, — stamped by no Act of Prerogative, — and acknow- ledged by no law, we assume a port and hold a language upon this occasion, to which we can urge no legal or admitted right. We are the free citizens, Sire, of &free state, and number many thousands of our body. — The Heir Apparent of the empire is our Chief. We fraternize for the purposes of social intercourse, of mutual assistance, of charity to the distressed, and good-will to ail : and fidelity to a trust, reverence to the magistrate, and obedience to the laws, are sculp- tured in capitals upon the pediment of our Institution. And let us add that, pervading as we do every class of the community, and every walk of life, and disseminating our principles wherever we strike root, this Address may be considered as speaking, in epitome, the sentiments of a people.
Having thus attested our principles, we have only to implore th« Supreme Architect of the Universe, whose Almighty hand hajh laid in the deep the Jirm foundation of this country's greatness, and whose protecting shield hath covered her amidst the crash of nations, that He will continue to shelter and sustain her. May her sons be contented, and her daughters happy ! and may your Majesty, the immediate in- strument of her present prosperity and power, — to whom unbiassed posterity shall thus inscribe the column :
To GEORGE, the Friend of the People, and Patron of the Arts which brighten and embellish life,
With your amiable Queen, and your royal Progeny,
long, long continue to be the blessing and the boast of a grateful,
happy, and united people!
Given unanimously, in Grand Lodge, at Freemasons'-Hall, this 6th of February, 1793.
(Countersigned) (Signed) RAWDON, A.G.M.
WILLIAM WHITE, G. S. PETER PARKER, D.G.M
For the Grand Master's attention to the interests of the Society, in presenting the above loyal and affectionate Address, the Grand Lodge unanimously voted the follow - ing Address to his Royal Highness :
To his Royal Highness the PRINCE of WALES, Grand Master of the Most Ancient and Honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons.
Most Worshipful and Royal Sir,
Accustomed as we have been, from the hour when your name first
adorned the roll of our Order, to the manly vigour of your mind, and
OF MASONRY. 233
the winning benignity of your manners, we did not look for any event which could raise you in our estimation, or draw you nearer to our affections. With you at our head, we have seen our reputation ad- vanced in the opinion of our fellow-subjects, our system expand itself, and added honour and increasing prosperity lie in unclouded prospect before us. These things we ascribe to you, Sir, as to their proper source ; and yet the silent -homage of the heart has been hitherto the only return we have made you. Such, however, has been the gene- rous alacrity with which your Royal Highness has offered to present to His Majesty the accompanying tribute of our fervent loyalty to him, and of our unshaken attachment to that Constitution, which (happily for these nations) at once confirms his possession and your inheritance, and all the rights of all the people ; and such the sense we entertain of the proud distinction you have thus conferred upon our Body, that it were inconsistent with our honour, we think, as well as irksome to our feelings, to continue longer silent.
Accept then, Royal Sir, our warmest and most dutiful acknowledg- ments for your gracious condescension upon this (to us) most mo- mentous occasion. May He, by whom kings govern and empires prosper, shower upon your Royal Parent, yourself, and the whole of your illustrious line, his choicest blessings ! May you all long exist in the hearts of a brave and generous people ; and Britain triumphant, her enemies be debased ! May her acknowledged superiority, re- turning peace, and the grateful reverence of rescued nations, per- petuate the fame of her virtues, the influence of her example, and the weight and authority of her dominion !
By the unanimous order of the Grand Lodge,
(Countersigned) (Signed) RAWDON, A.G.M.
WILLIAM WHITE, G.S. PETER PARKER, D.G.M.
While these proofs of the prosperity of the Society in England were universally spread throughout the kingdom, accounts were daily transmitted of the rapid progress of the Institution in different parts of the world. Many respectable and dignified characters had enrolled their names among the Fraternity : and it is with some degree of satisfaction, that among them we have to record the name of the King of Sweden, who was initiated into the Order at the Grand Lodge of Stockholm, on the 22nd of March, 1793, under the auspices of Charles Duke of Su- derrnania, regent of the kingdom, who presided as Grand Master on the occasion.
The Brethren in America at this period also seem to ha,ve been no less zealous in expressing' a dutiful attach- ment to their patrons and protectors; for the Grand Lodge of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in North America, having nearly arranged their Constitutions, transmitted a copy of them to General Washington, with the following Address :
234 ILLUSTRATIONS
Address of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts in North America, to their Brother
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
Whilst the liistorian is describing the career of your glory, and tho inhabitants of an extensive empire are made happy in your unexam- pled exertions ; whilst some celebrate the Hero, so distinguished in liberating United America, and others the Patriot who presides over her councils ; a band of brothers, having always joined the acclama- tions of their countrymen, now testify their respect for those mildei virtues which have ever graced the man.
Taught by the precepts of our Society, that all its members stand upon a LEVEL, we venture to assume this station, and to approach you with that freedom which diminishes our diffidence, without lessen- ing our respect. Desirous to enlarge the boundaries of social happi- ness, and to vindicate the ceremonies of their Institution, this Grand Lodge has published a "Book of Constitutions," (and a copy for your acceptance accompanies this,) which, by discovering the principles that actuate, will speak the eulogy of the Society, though they fer- vently wish the conduct of its members may prove its higher com- mendation.
Convinced of his attachment to its cause, and readiness to en- courage its benevolent designs, they have taken the liberty to dedi- cate this work to one, the qualities of whose heart, and the actions of whose life, have contributed to improve personal virtue, and extend throughout the world the most endearing cordialities ; and they humbly hope he will pardon this freedom, and accept the tribute of their esteem and homage.
May the Supreme Architect of the Universe protect and bless you, give you length of days and increase of felicity in this world, and then receive you to the harmonious and exalted Society in Heaven !
JOHN CUTLER, G.M.
Boston, JOSIAH BARTLET, S.G.W.
Dec. 27, A.L. 5792. MUNGO MACKAY, J.G.W.
To this Address, General Washington returned the following Answer :
Answer to the GRAND LODGE of Free and Accepted Masons of Massachusetts.
Flattering as it may be to the human mind, and truly honourable as it is, to receive from our fellow-citizens testimonies of approbation for exertions to promote the public welfare ; it is not less pleasing to know, that the milder virtues of the heart are highly respected by a Society whose liberal principles are founded in the immutable laws of truth and justice.
To enlarge the sphere of social happiness is worthy the benevolent design of a Masonic Institution ; and it is most fervently to be wish- ed, that the conduct of every member of the Fraternity, as well as those publications that discover the principles which actuate them, may tend to convince mankind, that the grand object of Masonry is, to promote the happiness of the human race.
While I beg your acceptance of my thanks for the *' Book of Con- stitutions," which you have sent me, and for the honour you have
OF MASONRY. 230
done me in the Dedication, permit me to assure you, that I feel all those emotions of gratitude which your affectionate Address and cordial wishes are calculated to inspire ; and I sincerely pray, that the Great Architect of the Universe may bless you here, and receive you hereafter into his immortal temple !
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
From this we perceive that the Society of Freemasons in America continued to flourish under the auspices of General Washington, who continued his patronage to the Lodges till his death. This great man, who displayed in his own person the rare combination of military and pa- cific talents, of general and statesman, and evinced in private life the most endearing manners and unblemished probity, died at his seat at Mount Vernon, in Virginia, of an inflammation in his throat, on the 14th of Decent ber, 1799. On the 18th, his remains were consigned to the tomb with the most solemn funeral pomp. The procession from Mount Vernon was formed about three o'clock in the afternoon, and moved to the place of his interment in the following order :
Minute guns from a vessel in the river announced the commence- ment of the ceremony. Cavalry, Infantry, and Guards, marohed with arms reversed.
Music — Clergy.
The General's horse, with his saddle, holsters, and pistols. The Corpse, supported by Colonels Little, Marstelle, Gilpin, Payne,
Ramsay, and Simms, as pall-bearers. At the head of the coffin was inscribed, Surge ad judicium ;
About the middle, Gloria Deo; And on the silver plate, " General GEORGE WASHINGTON departed
this life on the Ikth of December, 1799, ^Etatis 68."
The Mourners, Masonic Brethren, and Citizens, closed the
procession.
Having arrived at- the bottom of the elevated lawn on the banks of the Potomac, where the family vault is placed, the cavalry halted, and the infantry marched toward the Mount and formed their lines. The clergy, Masonic Brethren, and citizens, then descended into the vault; when the funeral service was performed. After which three general discharges were given by the infantry, while the cavalry and eleven pieces of artillery, which lined the banks of the Potomac at the back of the vault, paid the last tribute of respect to their venerable de- parted hero, and the firing was repeated from the vessel in the river.
236 ILLUSTRATIONS
At a meeting of the house of representatives in Phila- delphia, on the day following this ceremony, it was voted that a committee should be appointed, in conjunc- tion with one from the senate, to consider the most suitable means of paying honour to the memory of this great man, who ranked first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen ; it was also re- solved, that the house should wait on the President of the United States, to express their condolence on the mournful event ; that the speaker's chair should be covered with black, and that all the members and offi- cers of the house should appear in deep mourning during the session. Thus were demonstrated the warmest testi- monies of affection of a grateful people, to the memory of their truly benevolent chief, who justly merited the esteem of his country, his brethren, and his friends.
Under the auspices of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, and the indefatigable exertions of the Earl of Moira, the progress of the Society in England far exceed- ed at this time that of any former period. The Lodges not only considerably increased in numbers and conse- quence, but were in general better regulated; and, the principles of the Institution being more clearly under- stood, the Brethren, both in town and country, vied with each other in promoting the useful purposes of the Society.
On the 24th of September, 1793, the Lodges in the county of Durham made a grand procession through the town of Sunderland, on laying the foundation-stone of the bridge over the river Wear, which was afterwards opened on the 9th of August, 1796, in the presence of his Royal Highness Prince William of Gloucester, the magistrates, a numerous assemblage of Masons, and a vast concourse of spectators. On this occasion, a grand triumphal arch decorated with flowers, was raised, through which the procession passed, and proceeded along the bridge, to the north side of the river, up to the limekilns, and returned by the low road through the dry arch of the bridge to the Pan Ferry, thence to the centre of the bridge, where the Lodge was formed, and an oration delivered by the Rev. Mr. Nesfield. The whole ceremony was conducted under the patronage of Rowland Burdon, Esq., M. P., Provincial Grand Master for the county.
OF MASONRY. 237
The Lincoln militia attended, and fired three volleys on the occasion.
The Brethren then proceeded to church, where an appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr. Brews- ter. From church the procession was resumed to the Assembly-room, where the evening was concluded with the greatest harmony.
On Monday, the 25th of November, 1793, the Prince of Wales laid" the first stone of the New Chapel at Bright- helmstone. His Royal Highness was accompanied from the Pavilion to the appropriated place by the Rev. Mr. Hudson, the vicar, Mr. Saunders, &c. On coming to the ground, Mr. Saunders addressed his Royal Highness, and said, that, as constructor of the building, the high honour was allotted to him of pointing out to the Prince the situation where the stone was intended to be placed ; and he respectfully requested that, as Grand Master of the Masons, he would be pleased to signify whether or not it met with his approbation. On receiving assurance that it did, the stone, with the following inscription, was laid in due form : —
" This stone was laid by his Royal Highness GEORGE PRINCE of WALES, November 25, 1793."
On Mr. Saunders covering it with a plate of metal, he desired leave to say, That however late the period might be before it wTas again exposed to the face of day, arid he sincerely wished that it might be a very distant one, he hoped that the descendants of his Royal Highness's august family would be found, as now, happily governing a happy people.
Mr. Hudson then respectfully addressed the Prince, and desired permission to return his most sincere and grateful thanks to his Royal Highness for the honour he had that day done, not only to him in particular as pro- prietor, but to the town at large ; and he hoped that God would give his blessing to the undertaking thus begun, and long preserve his Royal Highness, their Majesties, and every branch of the royal family, to superintend our invaluable, unequalled, and long-envied Constitution in church and state.
The day proved fine, and the acclamations of the sur- rounding crowd showed how much they were gratified
238 ILLUSTRATIONS
with such an instance of goodness in the Prince, who, at the same time, was both a resident in, and a protector of, their town and liberties.
The Prince ordered a handsome distribution to the workmen, &c. The promenade gardens were laid open, and the company was entertained with refreshments. A party of gentlemen dined at the Castle, and some lines were composed and sung on the occasion.
Among the masonic occurrences of this year, it may be proper to mention the publication of a periodical Mis- cellany, entitled, The Freemasons' Magazine ; or General and Complete Library : the first number of which appear- ed in June, 1793, and a number was continued to be published monthly till the end of December, 1798, when its title was changed. Independent of this Magazine being a general repository for every thing curious and important in Masonry, it contained a choice selection of miscellaneous and literary articles, well calculated for the purpose of general instruction and improvement, and was for some time honoured with the sanction of the Grand Lodge.
On the 4th of June, 1793, the Shakspeare 'Lodge at Stratford on Avon was opened, and dedicated in solemn form, in the presence of a numerous assembly of Brethren from different Lodges. The ceremony was conducted with the greatest order and regularity, under the direction of Mr. James Timmins, D. P. G. M. for the County of Warwick.
On the 28th of July, 1794, the Royal Brunswick Lodge at Sheffield was constituted in due form. The Brethren made a very elegant procession to St. James's «hurch, where an excellent sermon was preached by the Rev. Brother Chadwick : after which the procession was resumed to the Lodge ; when the ceremony of dedication took place. Several anthems and psalms suited to the occasion were sung, and the whole was concluded with a liberal subscription to the poor girls' Charity School.
On the 31st of July, 1794, the Lodge of Apollo at Alcester was constituted in due form, in the presence of 121 Brethren. At ten in the morning, a procession was made to the church, where a sermon was preached before the Lodge by the Rev. Brother Green. After which the Brethren returned to the Hall ; when the ceremonies of
OF MASONRY. 239
consecration and dedication took place, according to
ancient usage.
The Prince of Wales's marriage with the Princess Caro- line of Brunswick having taken place on the 8th of April, 1795, the Grand Lodge on the 15th of that month unani- mously voted the following Address to his Royal Highness on the occasion : —
To his Royal Highness the PRINCE of WALES, Grand Master of th most Ancient and Honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons under the Constitution of England.
Most Worshipful and Royal Grand Master : —
Upon an event so important to your own happiness, and to the interests of the British empire, as the late nuptials of your Royal Highness, we feel ourselves peculiarly bound to testify our joy, and to offer our humble congratulations.
To affect a degree of gratification superior to that professed by others, when all his Majesty's subjects exhibit such heartfelt satisfac- tion at the union which you have formed, would, perhaps, be in us an undue pretension ; we cannot, however, but be proudly conscious, Sir, that we possess a title beyond what any other class of men can advance, to approach you upon an occasion like the present with a tender of our particular duty. Wftn your Royal Highness deigned so far to honour the Craft as to accept the trust of presiding over us, the condescension not only authorized but demanded from all and each of us a peculiar sensibility to whatever might concern your welfare ; and the ties of brotherhood, with which you invested your- self in becoming one of our number, entitle us to express, without fear of incurring any charge of presumption, the satisfaction we feel in contemplating such an accession to the prospects of the nation, and to those of your own felicity. That the interests of your Royal Highness and those of the British people may ever continue as strictly united as we feel them in this most auspicious occurrence, is the warmest wish, and, at the same time, the confident trust, of those who hold it the highest honour to have your name enrolled in the records of their Institution.
To the obligations which the Brethren already owe to you, Sir, it will be a material addition, if you will render acceptable to your royal Consort the humble homage of our veneration, and of our prayers for every possible blessing upon your union.
By the unanimous order of the Grand Lodge,
(Signed) MOIRA, A. G. M.
(Countersigned) (L. S.)
WILLIAM WHITE, G. S.
The Right Hon. the Earl of Moira having, at the request of the Grand Lodge, presented the above Address to the Prince of Wales, his Royal Highness was graciously pleased to return the following answer : —
The Grand Master has received with great satisfaction the Address of the Craft ; which he regards as not indicating solely their senti-
240 ILLUSTRATIONS
ments towards him, but as also repeating those declarations of devotion to their Sovereign and attachment to the House of Brunswick, here- tofore so becomingly expressed by them.
He has had peculiar pleasure in explaining to the Princess of Wales their loyal congratulations ; and he desires to convey to the Brethren the sincere thanks of the Princess for their generous wishes.
A grand feast was held at Freemasons'-Hall on the 13th of May, 1795, the Grand Master in the chair. His Royal Highness was accompanied by the Duke of Clarence, and Prince William of Gloucester, who had been initiated at an occasional Lodge convened for the purpose on the preceding evening. Five hundred Brethren were also present at this feast. Happiness was visible in every countenance, and the benevolent principles of Masonry cheered the heart. His Royal Highness thanked the Brethren for the many instances he had received of their attachment, and ibr the repeated honours they had con- ferred on him. After expressing his warmest wishes for the prosperity of the Soci^y, he concluded with a hand- some compliment to the Acting Grand Master, the Earl of Moira, whom he styled " The man of his heart, and the friend he admired ;" and sincerely hoped that he might long live to superintend the government of the Craft, and extend the principles of the Art.
SECT. XIII.
The History of Masonry from the Grand Feast in 1795 to the end of the Year 1800.
No remarkable event took place in the Society from the festival in 1795, till the year 1797. The greatest harmony prevailed among the Brethren during the whole period, and many valuable additions were made to the list of Lodges. The general contributions to the chari- table funds were likewise considerably extended ; and the annual reports from the Provincial Grand Masters, in their respective districts, announced the prosperity of the Craft.
The only circumstance which tended to damp the ardour of the Brethren for the propagation of the Art, either at home or abroad, was the publication of some
OF MASONRY. 241
tracts, which stated that a new sect of philosophers had arisen in Germany and France, who had affiliated them- selves to the Society of Masons, and had, under that sanction, established Lodges, for the more extended dis- semination of the principles of their new theory. To these philosophers was attributed the design of destroying Christianity," and subverting all the regular governments of Europe. The degrees of Masonry were understood to be preparatory steps to this new establishment, and from that Society were selected the principal members of which this sect was composed. In their occult Lodges, as they were termed, were inculcated the seeds of those dangerous principles which had brought about the French revolution, and produced all the evils which had resulted from it.
The circulation of these publications excited a general alarm, and for some time checked the progress of the Society in Europe ; till, the mystery being unveiled, it was found, that the constitutions of Masonry did not warrant the proceedings of this new system: and that, therefore, new degrees had been instituted under the same appellation, to carry into effect the purposes of these new associates. The Masons of this country, and all the Lodges under the English constitution, were fully exempted from any share in the general censure ; but, as the Society was much injured by these publications, a few remarks on their contents may not be unacceptable to the reader.
The first tract which excited alarm was an octavo volume, entitled "The Life of M. Zimmerman, first Physician to the King of England at Hanover. By Dr. Tissot." From this work it appears, that one of the most distinguished incidents of Zimmerman's life was a summons which he received from the great Frederick, King of Prussia, to attend him in his last illness in 1786. This opportunity the doctor improved, to enjoy a confi- dential intercourse with that illustrious character, from which he derived the materials of an interesting narra-
99 They began the system by expunging every vestige of Christi- anity from their lectures, and excluding the New Testament alto- gether from the Lodges. One of their fundamental rules was to the following effect : — kt The Bible is to be of the Hebrew Text, and the New Testament is not to be bound up with '/." — EDITOR. 12
242 ILLUSTRATIONS
tive, that he afterwards published. The partiality of this prince in favour of Zimmerman disposed him to a reciprocal good opinion of that monarch, and in 1788 he published "A Defence of Frederick the Great against the Count de Mirabeau;" which was followed, in 1790, by " Fragments on Frederick the Great," in 3 vols. 12mo. The publications of Zimmerman relative to this king gave offence to some individuals and subjected him to many severe criticisms, which he felt with more sensi- bility than accorded with his peace of mind. The reli- gious and political opinions which he had imbibed in his latter years, were in wide contradiction to the principles which had so generally spread over Europe, and which operated as perpetual fuel to the irritability of his nerv- ous system. About this time the rise of the Society of the illuminati in Germany, who were said to have coa- lesced with the Freemasons, excited a violent commotion among men of letters and reflection. The Society was supposed to have in view nothing less than the abolition of Christianity, and the subversion of all constituted authorities. Its partizans expected from it the most beneficial reforms of every kind; and its opponents dreaded from it every mischief that could happen to mankind. Zimmerman, who is represented to have beei* a hunter of sects, was among the first who took alarm at this formidable association, and stepped forth to oppose its progress. His regard for religion, and social order, led him to see in the most obnoxious light the pernicious principles of these new philosophers. Determined, therefore, to suppress the influence of their system, he painted in the strongest colouring all the maxims of this new sect, and addressed a memorial to the Emperor Leopold on the subject, with a view to check their further progress. The emperor very graciously received this memorial, and returned him an answer in his own 1 land-writing, accompanied with a splendid present.100 Leopold seemed to be well-inclined to use the decisive interference of civil authority on this occasion, and would probably have had recourse to violent measures against the Illuminati, had not the death of Zimmerman pre- vented it.
*** This was a locket, adorned with diamonds and the emperor's cypher.
OF MASONRY. 243
The number of the affiliated members of this Society, Zimmerman says, increased daily, chiefly by the assiduity of Baron de Knigge, who, in 1782, first suggested the idea of illuminating the Society of Freemasons, and who succeeded in that object, from Hanover to Copenhagen on one hand, and to Naples on the other. In 1788, the Brotherhood, he observes, were unmasked, and driven out of Bavaria ; and in 1791 their papers were seized at Munich and printed, but no discovery of importance was made.101
Previous to the death of Zimmerman, in conjunction with M. Hoffmann of Vienna, he began a periodical work on the old principles. In this work all his former zeal was displayed, and the new philosophers were attacked
01 Of this Society we have the following account in this tract : — "Whether this sect be the same with that of the Freemasons, or the Jesuits, both of which suppositions are improbable, is uncertain ; but in 1774 or 1775, a Society was undoubtedly established in Bavaria, of which a celebrated Professor at Ingoldstadt has been regarded as the founder. This Society, under pretext of consulting the happiness of the people, and supposing that happiness to be incompatible with every species of religious and civil establishment, at present existing, said with one voice, Let us destroy them all, and raze their very foundations. The secret order of the Illuminati in- . eluded among its mysterious principles, at present exposed to the whole world, the whole of the doctrines which the Jacobins of Paris have since put in practice ; and it has been proved, by the most irre- fragable documents, that they maintained an intimate correspondence together before the French revolution. The destruction of the Chris- tian religion, and the subversion of every throne and of all govern- ments have been their aim ever since the year 1776. It was well understood, by the new associates of this Order, that the magic words, the happiness of the people, were the surest means to recruit their number with ease, and by which, in fact, the recruits became so numerous and well disciplined. Young men were chiefly pitched upon, who, not having yet formed a strong attachment to any par- ticular opinion, were the more easily led away to embrace whatever was offered to them ; and men of literary talents, whom it is important to secure when the propagation of any new opinion is in agitation. When once a person was enlisted, and fully penetrated with the enticing words, ** The happiness of the people — let us labour to pro- cure the happiness of the people," he became impatient to know the obstacles which were in the way of this purpose, and the means to be made use of to remove them ; these were therefore offered to his view in succession.
'• The Order has five degrees : in the lower, the mysteries are not unveiled; they are only preparatory, on which the minds of the noviciates are founded and prepared ; then, by degrees, those who are found worthy are initiated into the higher ranks."
244 ILLUSTRATIONS
with vehemence. This occasioned a violent repulse on their part ; and the writers of the Bibliotheque Universelle, or Universal Library, as well as some of the best journal- ists, bore a considerable share in the contest in opposition to Zimmerman and Hoffmann ; till the former got him- self embroiled in a court of law, by a publication in the journal, entitled "The Baron de Knigge unmasked, as an Illuminati, Democrat, and Seducer of the People." This charge was founded on a work which was not openly avowed by the baron, who commenced a suit against Zimmerman on this account as libeller; in which the doctor, being unable to exculpate himself, was cast. This state of warfare proved very unfriendly to the doctor's nerves, and sensibly affected his mind, which had been much agitated from a personal fear of the approach of the French towards Hanover in 1794. The idea of his becoming a poor emigrant perpetually haunted him; nor could the negotiations which afterwards took place, and secured that country, restore him to tranquil- lity. He used various remedies to overcome his appre- hensions, and even took a journey for that purpose ; but it was fruitless. On his return home, he entered his labitation with the same idea with which he had left it, persuaded that he saw it pillaged, and fancied that he was entirely ruined. This notion so strongly impressed his mind, that, together with his abstinence from food, for fear of poverty, he wore away to a skeleton, became decrepit, and at last died on the 7th of October, 1795, at the age of 67.
The next tract which deserves notice is a translation102 of " The Memoirs of Jacobinism in France," in 4 vols. 8vo., by the Abbe Barruel. In this work the Abbe endeavours to show, that there existed on tie continent, long before the French revolution, a threefold conspiracy to effect the ruin of the altar, the throne, and all social order. The first conspiracy was formed by a sect of philosophers, who aimed to destroy the altars of Jesus Christ and .his Gospel: the second were the sophists of rebellion, who conspired against the thrones of kings, and who had affiliated themselves to the Society of Free- masons, engrafting on that institution the secrets of their
1W By the Hon. Robert Clifford.
OF MASONRY. 245
occult lodges ; and the third passed under the denomina- tion of llluminati or enlightened, who formed an union with the two former, and aimed at the subversion of all social order, property, and science. This coalition, the Abbe observes, gave rise to the club of Jacobins in France, which was so denominated from holding their meetings in a convent of the order of Jacobins that they had seized in Paris.
Of these three conspiracies, anti-christian, anti-monar- chical, and anti-social, very unfortunately for the Abbe, each successive one has been brought forward in his sub- sequent volumes with diminished evidence and decreasing plausibility. To expose to view the unknown chieftains and agents of his conspiracies, he has been obliged to describe the symbols and reveal the secrets of an invisible Society wholly unconnected with them, and to represent the Lodges of Freemasons as schools of infidelity and insurrection, whence all these conspiracies have origina- ted.103 Although he makes France the theatre for their
103 Notwithstanding this serious attack on the Freemasons, the Abbe is candid enough to admit, that the occult lodges of the lllu- minati are unknown in England, and that the English Freemasons are not implicated in the charge which he has made. With his re- marks, therefore, on this subject, we shall conclude our observations on the Memoirs of Jacobinism : —
"England, in particular," he says, "is full of those upright men, who, excellent citizens, and of all stations, are proud of being Masons; and who may be distinguished from the others by ties which only appear to unite them more closely in the bonds of charity and fraternal affection. It is not the fear of offending a nation in which I have found an asylum, that has suggested this exception. Gratitude, on the contrary, would silence every vain terror, and I should be seen exclaiming, in the very streets of London, that England was lost, that it could not escape the French ^Revolution, if its Freemason Lodges were similar to those of which I am about to treat. I would say more, that Christianity and all government would have long been at an end in England, if it could be even supposed that her Masons were initiated into the last mysteries of the sect. Long since have their Lodges been sufficiently numerous to execute such a design, had the English Masons adopted either the means, or the plans and plots, of the occult lodges.
"This argument alone might suffice to except the English Masons in general from what I have to say of the sect. But there exist many passages in the history of Masonry which necessitate this ex- ception. The following appears convincing : At the time when the Illuminees of Germany, the most detestable of the Jacobin crew, were seeking to strengthen their party by that of Masonry, they affected a sovereign contempt for the English Lodges."
246 ILLUSTRATIONS
exhibition, he is obliged to have recourse to a strange language and to a Bavarian cloister for their origin ; and from a want of facts, to supply, from his own imagina- tion, by ingenious interpretations, the lessons which he can nowhere else discover.
The Abbe's information with respect to the Illuminati may, perhaps, be just, in so far as respects the establish- ment of that sect, and their deviation from the English Lodges, but between the genuine Masons of Germany and their Brethren in England there has long subsisted the most friendly intercourse; and it cannot otherwise be, in any country where Masonry is conducted according to the pure principles of the institution.
The next publication which claims our attention is, a work entitled, •* Proofs of a Conspiracy against all the Religions and Governments of Europe, carried on in the Secret Meetings of Freemasons, Illuminati, arid Reading Societies. By John Robison, M. A., Professor of Natural Philosophy, and Secretary to the Royal Society of Edin- burgh." This work, like the former, aims at proving that a secret association had been formed, and for many years carried on, for rooting out all the religious estab- lishments, and overturning all the existing governments of Europe: and that this association had employed, as its chief instruments, the Lodges of Freemasons, who were under the direction of unknown superiors, and whose emissaries were everywhere busy to complete the scheme. Of the rise and progress of this society in France he affects to give an account, which agrees in the main with that of the Abbe Barruel, by alledging that several of its most ingenious and indefatigable members were active Freemasons, who spread their infectious principles in most of the Freemasons' Lodges in Europe. He then enters into an. historical detail of the origin of the Scotch degrees, and gives them a consequence to which I hope they are not entitled, as belonging to an institution formed by craft, founded in the deepest motives, and capable of effecting the most important events.
It is well known, I believe, to the Masons of this country, that some men of warm and enthusiastic imaginations have been disposed, within these few years, to amplify parts of the Institution of Freemasonry ; and
OF MASONRY. 247
in their supposed improvements to have elevated their discoveries into new degrees ; to which they have added ceremonies, rituals, and dresses, ill-suited to the native simplicity of the Order of Masonry as it was originally practised in this country. But in all these degrees, though probably deserving reprehension as improper innovations on the original system of Masonry, I can never believe that they have either proceeded from bad motives, or could be viewed in any other light than as innocent and inoffensive amusements. Thus much I can aver, that all the degrees of Masonry practised in England under the English Constitution, are pure and genuine, and that no part of the system established among us is injurious either to Church or State.104
In order to refute, however, the flimsy proofs which are produced by the learned Professor, I cannot do better than use the language of an able writer,105 who has entered into a serious investigation of them in a monthly miscellany 106 If the principles adopted by foreign Masons be such (says he) as the Professor represents, whence is it that so many loyal and pious members of the Fraternity continue their patronage of the Society, and are still ignorant of the real quality of our princi- ples? Is it that Masonry is one thing on the Continent, and another in England ? This cannot be ; for Masonry is a universal establishment, and a mutual communication and agreement has long subsisted between the British and Foreign Lodges. Some of the wisest and most upright English Masons have visited their Brethren abroad, and have not been able to discover the wonderful disparity, or been shocked at the abominable practices said to be carried on among them. Even Mr. Kobison himself saw nothing of all this mischievous system, while he was in the closest habits of intimacy with the foreign Masons; and- this surely must be some proof that Mason- ry, as it was then practised, had not the tendency which he has since been pleased to attribute to it. All the conspiracy, therefore, which he pretends to have dis-
104 In the " Masonic Miscellanies," edit. 1811, will be found an Essay on this subject, by STEPHEN JONES, p. 195 j and another, (p. 221,) by Mr. PRESTON.
103 Dr.Watkins.
106 See Freemasons' Magazine, vol. x., p. 35.
248 ILLUSTRATIONS
covered, if it ever did exist, must be charged to other causes. It must strike the mind with astonishment, that an institution like Masonry, organized and reduced to a complete system, should suddenly be changed from a harmless and innocent appearance, to one the most fero- cious and wicked; and that, from being in the highest degree friendly to order and religion, it should all at once become the most powerful and inveterate enemy to both. Whoever considers this, and attends to the great numbers of eminent characters who continue to give the Art their countenance, and to patronize our assemblies, and who- ever contrasts with them the names of the persons brought forward as the agitators of this conspiracy, will be led, not only to question the truth of the assertions, but allow that both the Professor and the Abbe have gone too wide in their charges, and suffered a heated imagination to teem with prejudices that have no founda- tion in truth.
Some foreign Masons may probably have given in to the modern wretched philosophy ; and, more effectually to propagate their tenets with safety, may have erected a false banner under the appellation of Masonry, to entrap the unwary; but shall we, on that account, attribute to the institution of Freemasonry the dreadful acts of those individuals, or the baneful consequences of their con- spiracies? Certainly not; for, in opposition to all the Professor's assertions, it remains to be proved, that Masonry ever was, is, or can be, favourable to infidelity or insurrection.
That a regular confederacy ever has been formed upon this basis, or that the corruptions of the institution of Freemasonry have been so far systematized as to have produced that shock which religion and government have lately received by the French revolution, can never be admitted. Those who view the wonderful changes which have recently taken place in Europe, and which are still going on, will naturally be led to examine further into the causes of so stupendous an event. Whatever opinion the Abbe or the Professor may hold of their own saga- city, future historians will have little reason to compli- ment them. Possessed of greater lights, it will probably be found, that no conspiracy, or ingenious scheme of any body of men, has brought about the late great alters
OF MASONRY. 249
tions. They will, on the contrary, see much in the natural constitution of things — much in the very princi- ple of society itself — more in the corruptions of society — a great part in the general diffusion of letters — not a little in the various arts of life, and in the extension of commerce — and, above all the rest, in the increase and high pitch of luxury. Connecting all these with circum- stances and persons, they will come to a fairer conclusion than either the Abbe or the ingenious Professor. Upon the Illuminati, or the enlightened, I shall make no remarks. I know them not, nor their principles. They may, or may not, have arisen from Freemasonry. It is a matter of little moment to the man who is well acquainted with the principles of his Society, what ambitious or corrupt minds may have devised in imita tion of it. It is enough for him to know that the doc- trines of the institution to which he belongs are simply good, and have no natural tendency to evil. If bad men have perverted the external parts of the system to wicked purposes, he laments the depravity of human nature, and regards the genuine principles of his Order with greater affection. The best of doctrines has been corrupted, and the most sacred of all institutions prostituted to base and unworthy purposes. The genuine Mason, duly con- sidering this, finds a consolation in the midst of reproach and apostasy; and, while he despises the one, will endeavour, by his own example, to refute the other.
It is to be regretted, that a Lecturer in Natural Phi- losophy, of whom his country has the most favourable opinion, should have produced a work which can do so little credit to his character either for knowledge or judgment. Were his volume to be stripped of its decla- mation and conjecture, the remainder would be too insignificant to merit a minute investigation.
In a postscript to the second edition, the Professor, in imitation of the Abbe Barruel, has condescended to except the English Lodges from the charge of disloyalty, or want of attachment to government. He admits the innocence and inofFensiveness of their meetings, and acknowledges the benevolent principles of the institu- tion as practised by them. This, however, is but a flimsy evasion; it being evident from the whole tenor of his book, that he intended to sound the trumpet of alarm in 12*
260 ILLUSTRATIONS
the ears of his Majesty's ministers, by the thunder of his extraordinary denunciations. We are happy, however, to discover, that after all the proofs against the Masons which he has attempted to produce, none of our illustri- ous patrons have been induced on that account to desert the Society. On the contrary, at the Grand Lodge on the 3rd of June, 1800, we find the Earl of Moira thus addressing the Brethren : —
" Certain modern publications have been holding forth to the world the Society of Masons as a league against consti- tuted authorities ; an imputation the more secure, because the known constitutions of our fellowship make it certain that no answer can be published. It is not to be dis- puted, that in countries where impolitic prohibitions restrict the communication of sentiment, the activity of the human mind may, among other means of baffling tlw control, have resorted to the artifice of borrowing the denomination of Freemasons, to cover meetings' tor seditious purposes, just as any other description might be assumed lor the same object. But, in the first place, it is the invaluable distinction of this free country, that such a just intercourse of opinions exists without re- straint, as cannot leave to any number of men the desire of forming or frequenting those disguised societies where dangerous dispositions may be imbibed. And, 2ndly, the profligate doctrines, which may have been nurtured in any such self-established assemblies, could never have been tolerated for a moment in any Lodge meeting under regular authority. We aver, therefore, that not only such laxity of opinion has no sort of connexion writh the tenets of Masonry, but is diametrically opposite to the junction which we regard as the foundation-stone of the Lodge; namely, FEAR GOD, AND HONOUR THE KING. In confirmation of this solemn assertion, .what can we advance more irrefragably, than that so many of his Majesty's illustrious Family stand in the highest Order of Masonry, are fully instructed in all its tendencies, and have an intimate knowledge of every particular in its current administration under the Grand Lodge of Eng- land."
After so public a testimony of approbation of the Society, and of the purposes for which it is instituted, little more can be wanted to refute the ungenerous
OF MASONRY. 251
aspersions which have been wantonly thrown out against it.
.On the 12th of July, 1798, an act of parliament was passed for the more effectual suppression of societies established for seditious and treasonable purposes, and for preventing treasonable and seditious practices.107
107 In this act the following clauses in favour of the Society of Masons are inserted, exempting their Lodges from the penalties of the act: —
" And. whereas, certain societies have been long accustomed to be holden in this kingdom under the denomination of Lodges of Free- masons, the meetings whereof have been in great measure directed to charitable purposes : Be it therefore enacted, that nothing in this act shall extend to the meetings of any such Society or Lodge, which shall, before the passing of this act, have been usually holden under the said denomination, and in conformity to the rules prevailing among the said societies of Freemasons.
" Provided, always, that this exemption shall not extend to an}' such Society, unless two of the members composing the same shall certify upon oath, (which oath any justice of the peace or other magistrate is hereby empowered to administer,) that such Society or Lodge has, before the passing of this act, been usually held under the denomination of a Lodge of Freemasons, and in conformit}7" to the rules prevailing among the Societies or Lodges of Freemasons in this kingdom ; which certificate, duly attested by the magistrate before whom the same shall be sworn, and subscribed by the persons so certifying, shall, within the space of two calendar months after the passing of this act, be deposited with the clerk of the peace, for the county, stewartry, riding, division, shire, or place where such Society or Lodge hath been usually held ; Provided also, that this exemption shall not extend to any such Society or Lodge, unless the name or denomination thereof, and the usual place or places, and the time or times, of its meetings, and the names and descriptions of all and every the members thereof, be registered with such clerk of the peace as aforesaid, within two months after the passing of this act, and also on or before the twenty-fifth day of March in every succeeding year.
" And be it enacted, that the clerk of the peace, or the person acting in his behalf, in any such county, stewartry, riding, division, shire, or place, is hereby authorized and required to receive such certificate, and make such registry as aforesaid, and to enrol the same among the records of such county, stewartry, riding, division, shire, or place, and to lay the same once in every year before the general sessions of the justices for such county, stewartry, riding, division, shire, or place: and that it shall and may be lawful for the said justices, or for the major part of them, at any of their general sessions, if they shall so think fit, upon complaint made to them upon oath by any one ,or more creditable persons, that the continuance of the meetings of any such Lodge or Society is likely to be injurious to the public peace and good order, to direct that the meetings of any such Society or Lodge within such county, stewartry, riding, division, shire or place, shall, from thenceforth, be discontinued ; and any such meeting
252 ILLUSTRATIONS
On our conforming to which, as I am convinced every Mason in this country will most cheerfully do, we may, in defiance of all the false charges against the Society,
held, notwithstanding such order of discontinuance, and before the same shall, by the like authority, be revoked, the same shall be deemed an unlawful combination and confederacy under the provision* of this act."
FORM OF CERTIFICATE. ( Here insert ) } the name of > TO WIT, ( the county. )
We the underwritten A. B. of in the county of
and C. D. of &c. (Here insert the full names and description
of the two Brethren certifying) two of the members of the Lodge of Freemasons held at called the Lodge of
and being No. in the list of Lodges, do hereby, pursuant to an
act of the 39th year of his present Majesty, entitled, "An act for the more effectual suppression of societies established for seditious and treasonable purposes, and for better preventing treasonable and seditious practices," certify upon oath, that the said Lodge, of which we are respectively members as aforesaid, hath, before the passing of the said act, been usually held under the denomination of a Lodge of Freemasons, under the constitution of England, and in conformity to the rules prevailing among the Societies or Lodges of Freemasons in this kingdom.
A. B. 0. D. Sworn at the day of
in the year of our Lord 1800
before
FORM OF REGISTER.
SHere insert } the name of > TO WIT, the county. )
A register to be enrolled, pursuant to an att of the 39th year of his present Majesty, entitled, *' An act for the more effectual suppres- sion of societies established for seditious and treasonable purposes, and for better preventing treasonable and seditious practices," of a Lodge of Freemasons called the Lodge of
being No. and usually held at the house of in
in the county aforesaid, (Here state the time of meeting), and composed of the following members, viz.
Christian and Surnames.
Place of Abode.
Title. Profession, or k Business.
263
rest secure in our Lodges, and practise our rites, under the sanction of the best constitution and the mildest legislature on earth.
On the 4th of October, 1798, the General Infirmary at Sheffield was opened, and dedicated in solemn form, in the presence of a splendid company of Brethren from all the Lodges in the county of York. Lord Fitzwilliam, Lord Gal way, the trustees of the charity, and many of the most respectable gentlemen in the neighbourhood attended on the occasion.
The accounts from the Provincial Grand Lodges at this time afforded the most pleasing prospects of the future prosperity of the Society, and of the great in- crease of members in the Lodges under their separate jurisdictions. The anniversary festivals in the different counties were observed with the strictest regularity ; and all the Brethren seemed to vie in their exertions to add splendour to the Craft, and to rescue the institution from the unjust charges arid illiberal aspersions which had been thrown out against it. Several Lodges, ani- mated by a firm attachment to their king and country, liberally contributed to the support of government, and testified their loyalty, and adherence to the .principles of the constitution, by the most affectionate addresses to their Sovereign.
An event of real importance to the Society now par- ticularly claims our attention, and further proves its benevolence : it is the institution of a new Masonic Society, for the relief of sick, aged, and imprisoned Brethren, and for the protection of their widows, chil- dren, and orphans. The Society was established under the patronage of the Prince of Wales, the Earl of Moira, and all the other acting Officers of the Grand Lodge ; who, in order to render its advantages more generally known, particularly recommended it to all the Provincial Grand Masters in their several districts. The individuals who are enrolled members of this Society, and are in em- barrassed circumstances, have every reason to expect more ample aid than is usually given in other benefit societies ; as the greater part of the subscribers to the common stock are respectable characters, who have not the most distant idea of becoming burdensome to the fund. The mode of selecting the members is also highly judicious
264 ILLUSTRATIONS
and proper ; as no one can be admitted unless he be re- commended by the Master of a Lodge, who must vouch for him as being a man of irreproachable character and regular habits ; and so strictly is this rule observed, and so cautious have been the original institutors of the Charity, that no improper persons be enrolled, -we are informed, that several hundred names have been already rejected. This institution, therefore, may operate toward the improvement of morals and strict regularity of con- duct ; while the subscribers are gratified with the pleas- ing prospect of extending relief to the truly industrious and deserving. Above 3,000 names are enrolled, and the subscriptions already received .amount to several thousand pounds. The funds have also considerably in- creased, not only by many voluntary donations from a number of eminent Brethren who have patronised the Charity, but by the additvj/i of one guinea to the first annual subscription havivi/j been paid by every member admitted since the 25tl». of June, 1SOO. Thus has been established, under a vf;ry respectable banner, the Masonic Benefit Society, \cbich, under wise and prudent regulations, may be pro.luct'.ve of the most beneficial effects.
The following is an abstract of the Rules and Orders of this Society : —
Any Brother of fair character, being a subscribing member of a regular Lodge under the Constitution of England, and recom- mended by a member of this Society, who is Master of a Lodge, is capable of admission.
No person above 45 years of age is admitted a member of this Society, unless he give proper security that he will not become chargeable in his own person to the fund ; which, though under this restriction, shall always be liable to the provisions for his widow and children after his decease.
Th^ subscription is one guinea per annum ; and at the end of twenty- four months the subscriber beeomes a free member, and is entitled to all the benefits of the Society.
Members, when sick, lame, or blind, are to be entitled to lourteen shillings per week.
Members in reduced circumstances, and imprisoned for debt, are to be allowed a sum not exceeding four shillings per week, if found not unworthy of aid.
Members who, through old age, become incapable of earning their living, are to be allowed six shillings per week till the first general court ; and afterwards such a pension for life as their situation may require, and the funds of the Society will admit.
OF MASONRY. 266
The widows of members, if their circumstances require it, arc to be allowed the sum of four shillings per week, and two shillings per week for every lawful child under twelve years of age.
The orphans of members, not otherwise provided for, are to be en- titled to the sum of four shillings per week for their maintenance, and a further sum at a proper age as an apprentice fee.
A general court of all the subscribers is to be held once a year, to fill up any vacancy which may have happened among the trustees, choose committee-men, make by-laws, &c. The other affairs of the Society are to be managed by a quarterly and monthly Committee, a Committee of Auditors, and an Actuary.
Having stated in a preceding part of this history the initiation of the King of Sweden into Masonry, under the auspices of the Duke of Sudermania108, it may not be uninteresting to our readers to lay before them the result of a correspondence which was opened this year between the Grand Lodges of Sweden and England. Nothing can more truly show the high estimation in which the English Masons are held abroad, than the repeated applications that are constantly made to the Grand Lodge of England for the purpose of effecting a social union arid correspondence.
At the Grand Lodge held at Freemasons'-hall, on Wednesday, the 10th of April, 1799, present the Right Honourable the Earl of Moira, Acting Grand Master, as Grand Master; the Baron de Silverhjelm, minister from his Majesty the King of Sweden to the court of Great Britain, presented to the Grand Master in the chair the following Letter from the National Grand Lodge of Sweden, which was read : —
TO THE GLORY
OF THE GRAND ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE. We Charles, by the grace of God Hereditary Prince of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, Duke of Sudermania, Heir of Norway, Duke of Sleswick, Holstein, Stormarric, and Dittmarche, Count of Oldenburgh and Delmenhorst. Grand Admiral of Sweden, Vicar of Solomon of the 7th and 9th Province, and National Grand Master of all the Lodges reunited under the Grand Lodge of Sweden working in the Royal Art within the States and Dominions dependent on our august Sovereign, Master, and Protector, His Majesty the King of Sweden.
STRENGTH, HEALTH, AND PROSPERITY.
To the Most Illustrious, Most Enlightened, Most Sublime, Most Venerable and Venerable the National Grand Lodge of England, the
109 See page 233.
256 ILLUSTRATIONS
National Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Dignitaries, Grand Officers superior and inferior, and Wor- ehipful Members,
UNION, CONTENT AND WISDOM. Most Illustrious and Most Enlightened Brethren,
To contract an intimate, sincere, and permanent tie between the National Grand Lodge of Sweden and that of England, has long been ardently our object ; but if temporary circumstances have delayed the effect of our wishes, the present moment leaves us at liberty. Our Order, which enjoys in the two States the same privileges and the same protection of government, is not obliged to seek for security in darkness ; and our labours approved as known to promote the public good, are protected by the power of our Sovereigns ; enjoying the sacred rites of true liberty, (their essence,) in being able without danger to exercise those charitable deeds towards the unfortunate, which are the principal objects of our duty.
This uniformity of situation, a& well as the fundamental principles of the Craft, which we equally profess, authorize us to consolidate and to draw closer a confidence, friendship, and reciprocal union between two bodies, whose common object is the good of humanity, who mutually consider friendship as the nerve, and the love of our neigh- bour as the pivot of all our labours. Deeply penetrated by these principles, we send the Most Illustrious Brother George Baron de Silverhjelm, decorated with the highest Degrees of Masonry, as our Plenipotentiary, to present to the Most Enlightened. Most Sublime, and Most Venerable the National Grand Lodge of England, our affec- tionate greeting. He is charged on our part to express to you the sincere esteem we bear you, and how desirous we are to contract with you a fixed and permanent union. We pray, therefore, that you will receive him amongst you as the bearer of our fraternal sentiments, and that you will be pleased to give faith and credence to all that he may say on our part, conformable to these our cordial professions.
The union, which is the basis of our labours, being once established between two nations who reciprocally esteem each other, and who" are both known to possess the requisite qualities of all Free and Accepted Masons, it will consolidate for ever the foundation of the Masonic Temple, whose majestic edifice will endure to future ages.
May the Most High, the Grand Architect of the Universe, deign to be favourable to the wishes we ofler for the success of your endeavours; and we remain always. Most Illustrious and Most Enlightened Brothers, by the Sacred Numbers,
Your devoted Brother,
CHARLES, Duke of Sudermania.
Grand Lodge of Sweden. G. A. REUTERHOLM.
24th Jan., 5798. Grand Chancellor.
This letter being read, it was resolved unanimously, that the Grand Master be requested to return an answer on the part of the Society to the Duke de Sudermania, expressive of every sentiment correspondent to the warm and brotherly Address received ; and that the Baron de
OP MASONRY. 257
Silverhjelm be received as the representative of the Grand Lodge of Sweden, and have a seat with the Grand Officers at all meetings of the Grand Lodge.
At the next Grand Lodge, which was held at Free- masons'-hall, on Wednesday, the 8th May, 1799, present the Right Hon. the Earl of Moira, Acting Grand Master, as Grand Master, in the chair; the Earl of Moira reported, that his Royal Highness the Grand Master had been pleased, on the part of the Society, to return the follow- ing Answer to the Letter received from the Duke de Sudermania, Grand Master of Sweden : —
In the name of the Grand Architect of the Universe.
GEORGE, Prince of Wales, &c., &c., &c.
STRENGTH, HEALTH, AND PROSPERITY.
To our very dear, very Illustrious, and very Enlightened Brother, Charles, Duke of Sudermania, &c., &c., &c.
UNION, CONTENTMENT, AND WISDOM.
It was with the truest satisfaction, Most Illustrious. Most Wor- shipful, and Most Enlightened Brother, that I received the Letter in which you express your desire to see an intimate connection estab- lished between the worthy and regular Masons of Sweden and those of England. The high opinion that I have of your character, and the fraternal esteem which is the consequence of it. add greatly to the pleasure I feel on your being on this occasion the voice of your Breth- ren. A reciprocal sentiment has long disposed these two brave nations to admire each other; but this admiration, howsoever generous, is barren ; it is, therefore, to be wished that it should be improved by a close relation between the members of a Craft, the existence of . which, in each of the countries, is founded on beneficence to man- kind.
•I am earnestly entreated by my Brethren of the Grand Lodge of England to request that you, very illustrious and very enlightened Brother, will impart their most unanimous and most cordial concur- rence in these dispositions to the Grand Lodge of Sweden.
Wo are fully sensible how much, a course of communication must contribute to preserve that simplicity which has for so many centuries distinguished the Craft ; a simplicity at once dignified in itself, and satisfactory as a pledge towards every government that affords us protection. Let us unite to maintain it. Let us proscribe all those innovations which can enable either dangerous enthusiasts or profli- gate conspirators to work in darkness under the hallowed veil of our institution ; and let our labours, like those of our predecessors, be characterized by our adoration of the Almighty, by our submission to the government of our country, and by our love to our neighbour. These principles will justify the protection which you receive from your august Sovereign, and which we similarly enjoy under our inesti- mable Father and King.
268 ILLUSTRATIONS
May the great Architect of the Universe be propitious to the which we wtfl unceasingly offer to Heaven for the welfare of those two magnanimous Protectors of our Brotherhood: and may be shed upon you, most illustrious and most enlightened Brother, and upon your worshipful fellow-labourers in the Craft, the inexhaustible fruits oi his benevolence !
I salute you by the Sacred Numbers.
(Signed) GEORGE, P. London, 8th May, 1799. By command of the Grand Master, (L. S.) WM. WHITE, G. S.
From the above correspondence, and the happy open- ing of a regular communication between the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Sweden, there is the greatest reason to believe that the best effects will result ; and that, agreeably to the wish of every zealous Brother, a friendly and lasting intercourse will be pre- served with the Freemasons of all the kingdoms.
In detailing the further events of this period, the fol- lowing circumstance is too important to escape notice.
On the 15th of May, 1800, just as his late Majesty George III. entered his box at Drury-lane theatre, and was bowing to the audience with his usual condescen- sion, a person who sat in the second row from the orchestra, towards the middle of the pit, got up on the seat, and levelling a horse-pistol towards the King's box, fired it. Fortunately at the moment, a gentleman who sat next him raised the arm of the assassin, so as to direct the contents of the pistol towards the roof of the box, by which means the life of his Majesty was happily pre-, served. The man dropt the pistol, and was immediately seized. He was conveyed to the Green-room, where he underwent a private examination. Terror, dismay, and rage were marked in every countenance, except that of his Majesty, who sat with the utmost serenity, while the Queen, who was just near enough to hear the report of the pistol and see the flash, collected confidence from his magnanimity. The royal family sat out the play of She would and she would not, with the farce of the Humourist, and enjoyed the happiness of receiving from every indi- vidual the warmest testimonies of affection. At the conclusion of the play, God save the King was thrice sung, accompanied by the ecstatic plaudits of every part of the audience; and at the end of the farce, it was again
OF MASONRY. 259
repeated, with the following lines annexed, written by Mr. Sheridan on the spur of the moment :
From every latent foe, From the assassin's blow
God save King ; O'er him thine arms extend, For Britain's sake defend Our father, prince, and friend —
God save the King.
Nothing could equal the indignation which was univer- sally felt by the populace at this daring attempt on the life of a Sovereign who justly reigned in the hearts of his people, and who never by one act of his life provoked their resentment.
The name of the assassin was James Hatfield, who had served his apprenticeship to a working silversmith, and enlisted in the 15th regiment of light dragoons in which he had boldly fought for his king and country On his examination at the theatre before the Duke of York, he turned to his Royal Highness and said, "I know you — God bless you — you are a good fellow. I have served with your Highness, and (pointing to deep cut over his eye, and another long scar on his cheek,) I got these, and more than these, in fighting by your side. At Lin- celles I was left three hours among the dead in a ditch, and was taken prisoner by the French. I had my arm broke by a shot, and got eight sabre wounds in my head : but I recovered, and here I am." From this time he began to show manifest signs of mental derangement. He was committed to Cold Bath Fields prison for the evening, and in the morning brought before the Privy- Council for further examination. When ministers were pressing him to answer many questions, he sullenly replied, "I fired the pistol, loaded with two slugs, at ihe King; — what would you have more?" He refused to answer any other questions, and was fully committed to Newgate for trial. On the 26th of June, he was brought up to Westminster-hall, and tried in the court of King's Bench. After the examination of an immense number of witnesses, and a trial of eight hours, the jury found the prisoner "Not guilty, being under the influence of insanity at the time the act was done." He was then re- moved to Newgate, and ordered into confinement for life.
260 ILLUSTRATIONS
On this happy escape of his Majesty from so daring an attempt on his life, addresses poured in from every quarter of the kingdom; and in such general testimonies of loyalty and attachment, it could scarcely be expected that the Society of Freemasons, over which the Prince of Wales was the professed Patron, would be backward. At a special Grand Lodge, therefore, convened at Free- masons' hall on Thursday, the 3d of June, the following Address was unanimously voted, and afterwards pre- sented to his Majesty by the Prince of Wales in person at the first levee : —
Most Gracious Sovereign,
The danger to which your Majesty was exposed in the atrocious attempt lately made against your sacred person, whilst it filled the hearts of all this country with alarm and abhorrence, has authorized every class of your subjects to offer at your throne the expressions of their ardent attachment, without fear of incurring the charge of intru- sion.
Vouchsafe, Sire, under this construction, to admit the homage of a description of men who, in ordinary circumstances, could n5t as a body tender the profession of that devotion to your royal person, and to your government, which it is their boast to cherish, not in their individual capacities alone, but in their peculiar association.
The law. by permitting, under certain regulations, the meetings of Freemasons, has defined the existence of the Society ; binding, at the same time, the members of it, by a new obligation of gratitude for the confidence extended towards them, to labour, as far as their feeble powers may apply, in inculcating loyalty to the King, and reverence to the inestimable fabric of the British constitution.
Being so acknowledged, we should think ourselves wanting in the first duty towards your Majesty, and towards that constitution, did we not approach your Majesty with the testimony of our feelings on this awful occasion.
Your Majesty is therefore implored to receive the humble congratu- lations of the GRAND LODGE of FREEMASONS under the constitution of England, (the Representative Assembly of all the Lodges under tnat constitution.) in the name of themselves and of all their Brethren, on your having been shielded by the hand of Providence from the desper- ate "and execrable attempt of the assassin.
When principles were first promulgated in France, which, to our conception, tended to the overthrow of all peace and order in society, we felt ourselves called upon to depart from a rule which had been till then religiously observed in our association.
As a veil of secrecy conceals the transactions at our meetings, our fellow subjects have no assurance that there may not be in our asso- ciation a tendency injurious to their interests, other than the general tenor of our conduct, and a notoriety that the door of Freemasonry is not closed against any class, profession, or sect, provided the individual desiring admission be unstained in moral character. To remove, therefore, as far as possible, any ground for suspicion, it has been from
OF MASONRY. 261
time immemorial a fundamental rule, most rigidly maintained, that no political topic shall, on any pretence, he mentioned in the Lodge.
The singular juncture to which we have alluded seemed to call for some positive declaration, which might distinctly exhibit our opinions; we thence ventured to profess to your Majesty the loyalty with which the Freemasons of England glowed towards your royal Person, and their unalterable attachment to the present happy form of government in this country. But as no foresight could devise a motive of equal importance with that which then actuated us, the recent occurrence being of a nature too horrid to be in supposition as a possibility, it was strongly declared that no precedent should be drawn from that step ; and that on no future occasion should the Grand Lodge exercise an advertence to events which might entail upon Freemasons the charge of assuming the privilege to deliberate as a body upon public affairs. Hence, Sire, our present Address has not been so early as our individual anxiety would have dictated; for it was requisite that a general concurrence should sanction the Grand Lodge, in a second relaxation of its rules, before we could jointly express that which we severally felt in the most ardent manner on the solemn subject.
We have poured forth to the Grand Architect of the Universe our humble thanksgiving, that, to the other blessings showered on this country, he has added that of defeating a crime, the solo attempt at which produced universal dismay throughout these realms : and we earnestly confide in his Divine bounty to preserve to us and to our fellow subjects for many, very many }rears to come, a life so important in its example, and so inestimable in its superintendence over our happiness, as that of your Majesty.
WILLIAM WHITE, G. S. GEORGE, P.
Several salutary regulations were adopted this year to liquidate the debts of -the Society. On a strict examina- tion of the accounts, it appeared that those debts had considerably increased : that 7,0001. remained due from the Society on account of the hall and tavern, besides the tontine of 2501. per annum; and that the average income of the hall-fund, after paying the interest of the debt, the tontine, and incidental expenses, left but a very small sum towards the reduction of the principal; and that many years must elapse before the debt could be materially reduced. In order to discharge this debt, therefore, and to render the charity more extensively beneficial, it was resolved in Grand Lodge, that every Lodge in the list, until the debt be extinguished, should pay annually, in the month of February, to the hall-fund, two shillings for every subscribing member of each Lodge ; and that any Lodge neglecting to conform to this regulation, should be considered in contempt, and
262 ILLUSTRATIONS
be subject to erasure from the list. It was also resolved, that a declaration, signed by the master, wardens, trea- surer, and secretary, of each Lodge, or any two of them, certifying the number of subscribing members at Christmas, yearly, should be transmitted to the Grand Secretary, with a list of the members, containing their Christian and surnames, age, profession, and residence, when made masons, or admitted members, in order to be registered in the books of the Grand Lodge; and also the fees prescribed by the regulations to be paid for that purpose into the hall fund, viz., for every Mason made in London, or within ten miles thereof, ten shillings and sixpence, and in all other Lodges beyond that distance, five shillings ; and for every brother made in one Lodge and joining another, two shillings and sixpence; and that no Brother whose name had not been registered, and the fees paid as above, should be entitled to relief from the fund of charity, admission to the benefit society as a member, or have his daughter received into the Freemasons7 school. This measure had the intended effect; the Lodges readily concurred in the plan of liquidating the debts; the debts were paid, and the annual subscription ceased.
Among the numerous improvements in the city of London this year, the magnificent range of building at the East India House, in Leadenhall-street, deservedly claims our attention,. The elegance of the structure confers equal honour on the Company for whose use it was built, and on the persons who were employed in its erection.109 The architecture is the design of Richard
109 The following is a description of the pediment: COMMERCE, which is represented by Mercury, attended by NAVI- GATION, and followed by Tritons and Sea-horses, is introducing ASIA to BRITANNIA, at whose feet she pours out her treasures. The KING is holding the shield of protection over the head of BRITANNIA, and of LIBERTY, who is embraced by her. By the side of his Majesty sits ORDER, attended by RELIGION and JUSTICE. In the back ground is ths City-Barge, &c. ; near to which stand INDUSTRY and INTE- GRITY. The THAMES fills the angle to the right hand, and the GANGES the angle towards the East.
The sentiment of the composition is, " That a nation can only be truly prosperous when it has a King who makes Religion and Justice the basis of his Government, and a Constitution which, while it secures the Liberties of the people, maintains a due subordination in the several ranks of society ; and when the Integrity of the People secures to each individual the advantages which Industry creates and cultivates- "
OF MASONRY. 263
Japp, Esq., the Company's surveyor, and the work is finished in a very good style.
The extended progress of the Society of Masons at this period was sufficiently displayed by the erection of some new halls for the Lodges in the country, and the institution of a school in London, for the education and support of the sons of distressed Brethren.
On the 20th of August, a new hall, built at Hull by the members of the Rodney Lodge, was dedicated in solemn form, according to the rites of Masonry, in the presence of three hundred Brethren. The great zeal which was manifested by the Lodge on this occasion justly merited the marked distinction which was con- ferred on it by the Corporation of Hull, who, with a numerous assemblage of the most eminent characters in the neighbourhood, honoured the Masons with their company. An elegant dinner was provided at the town- hall, at which all the principal civil and military officers attended; and the entertainment concluded early in the evening with the greatest cordiality and friendship.
' SECT. XIV.
The History of Masonry from the year 1800, to the end of the year 1801.
THE Brethren of Scotland, ever emulous to excel in promoting the benefit and improvement of their country, had an opportunity of displaying their zeal in 1801, by giving their assistance in the erection of the Wet-docks at Leith; a measure well calculated for the convenience and accommodation of .the numerous trading vessels which daily arrive in that port from different parts of the world.
The Grand Lodge received a message from the Magistrates of Edinburgh, requesting their company and assistance in laying the foundation-stone of those Docks on the 14th of May, 1801. The Earl of Dalkeith, the Grand Master, being absent, the direction of the ceremony was vested in his Deputy, Robert Dundas, Esq., of Melville, who conducted it in a very able and masterly style.
264 ILLUSTRATIONS
On the day appointed, the Brethren, amounting to about 1200, met in the Assembly-rooms at Leith, where the Lodge was opened ; and from thence they marched in procession to the Docks a little before nine o'clock in the morning, preceded by the Lord Provost, Magistrates, and council of Edinburgh, with the Magistrates of Leith, in their robes; the Engineers and Architects of the proposed building; the Master, Wardens, and Brethren of the Trinity-house; and a number of respectable mer- chants arid inhabitants of the town of Leith.
The Grand Master was supported by Sir James Stirling, Bart., the Past Grand Master, and Sir Patrick Murray, Bart., who acted as Deputy Grand Master. Lord Downe, and several other respectable characters, were present. The Substitute Grand Master, the Provincial Grand Masters for Peebles, Selkirk, &c., and the Masters of the Edinburgh Lodges, according to seniority, with their officers and members, walked in procession, having a band of music attached to each separate Lodge.
When they arrived at the spot where the stone was intended to be laid, the Lord Provost and Magistrates retired to a theatre erected for them on the west-side ; and the Grand Master with his officers to another on the east-side, where a table was placed, on which were laid the jewels and other emblems of the Craft. The Sub- stitute Grand Master then ordered the stone to be slung, and let down gradually, making three regular stops before it came to the ground, during which ceremony an anthem was sung. He then placed a large phial in the centre of the under-stone, containing all the present current coins of the country, with a number of beautiful medals of the first characters of the age, all of which had been previously enclosed in crystal. Above the phial were also deposited two plates, on one of which the following inscription was engraved :
In the reign of the Most Gracious Sovereign GEORGE III., and
under the auspices of the Right Hon. WILLIAM FETTES,
Lord Provost of Edinburgh,
The Harbour of Leith,
Though formed at a remote period,
And, as Commerce in the course of ages increased,
often repaired and extended ;
Yet being still narrow and incommodious,
ROBERT DUNDAS, of Melville, Esquire,
OF MASONRY. 265
In the absence of the Right Hon. CHARLES, Earl of DALKBITH,
Grand Master-Mason of Scotland,
Laid the foundation-stone of these Docks ;
T>» which the numerous vessels arriving from every quarter of the
Globe
Might receive ample and secure accommodation;
On the 10th day of May, A. D. 1801, A. L. 5801.
JOHN RENNIB being Engineer.
May the undertaking prosper,
By the blessing of 'Almighty God!
On the other plate was engraved —
The names of the present Town Council of Edinburgh.
The Right Hon. HENRY DUNDAS, Member for the City.
The Magistrates of Leith.
The Wet-dock Committee.
The Engineers.
The Contractor for the Work.
The Grand Lodge of Scotland ; and
The Masters and Wardens of the Trinity-house, Leith.
The Grand Master, preceded by the officers of the Grand Lodge, having the jewels, &c., borne before them, was conducted by the Past Grand Master, Deputy, and Substitute, to the site of the stone, where, with the assistance of two Operative Masons, he turned the stone, and laid it in its proper bed. Then, placing himself on the east side, with the Past Grand Master on his right, and the Substitute on his left, his Wardens being in the west, the plumb, level, square, and mallet, were sepa- rately delivered to him by the Substitute, and applied to the stone in several positions ; after which he gave three knocks with the mallet, saying, " May the Great Archi- tect of the Universe enable us successfully to carry on, and finish the work, of which we have now laid the foundation-stone, and every other undertaking that may tend to the advantage of the City of Edinburgh and its harbour ! May He be a guard and protection to them, and may they long be preserved from peril and decay !" The cornucopia, with the vessels containing the wine and oil, were then delivered, in the usual form, to the Grand Master, who poured out the contents successively upon the stone, saying, " May the bountiful hand of Hea- ven ever supply this country with abundance of corn, wine, and oil, and all the necessaries and comforts of life !" The Brethren then gave three cheers; after which 13
266 ILLUSTRATIONS
the Grand Master addressed the Provost and Magistrates as follows: —
' My Lord Provost and Magistrates,
" It is with the highest satisfaction that I have now availed myself of the opportunity which the situation I have the honour to hold in the Grand Lodge of Scotland has afforded me, of assisting at the com- mencement of a work so essential to the welfare of this metropolis and which, I trust, will contribute, in an eminent degree, to the exten- sion of the commerce, and the general prosperity of this portion of the united kingdom.
;t The respect and esteem which you enjoy in the community over which you have the honour to preside, are the surest pledges that nothing will be wanting on your part to second the efforts and fulfil the wishes of those public-spirited individuals who have promoted this undertaking, and that the just expectations of the legislature, to whose liberality you are also indebted, will not be disappointed.
" It is impossible to contemplate the auspicious period at which this work is begun, without the strongest sensations of gratitude to that Providence which has inspired his Majesty's councils with temperate firmness, and his fleets with irresistible valour, to assert and .maintain the just rights of his subjects on that element which has ever been the scene of their triumphs, and the source of their envied prosperity and power. May the same bountiful Providence, in the blessings of an honourable and lasting peace, secure to the merchants of this, and of every other port in the British dominions, the free and uninterrupted enjoyment of their trade, and the well-earned fruits of industry and enterprising activity.
" In the name of the Craft of Free and Accepted Masons, I have to offer our humble supplications to the Supreme Architect of the Uni- verse, that He will afford his protection to your Lordship, and your Brethren in the Magistracy, and that you may continue to be the instruments, through Him, of promoting the happiness and welfare of the community entrusted to your charge."
To which the Lord Provost made the following re- ply :—
'• Most Worshipful Sir, •
" Leith has long had reason to be proud of the enterprise and success of its merchants and sailors. The rapid increase of its commerce has made it necessary to extend the harbour, and improve the conveniences for its trade. The plan of that able engineer, Mr. Rennie, has been adopted ; and I think it one of the happiest events of my life, that I have the honour to fill the chair of the city when the foundation-stone is laid of these extensive Wet-docks, which, I conceive, will not only be of great benefit to the City and its port, but to the country at large, as well as convenient for the admission of large ships of his Ma- jesty's Navy.
"I assure you, Sir, that it is highly gratifying to me. and to my fellow-citizens, that the first stone of this important work has been laid by you. Allow me to remark, that there appears a fortunate propriety in this ceremony being performed by the son of a man, to
OF MASONRY. 267
whom our City, the Navy of Britain, and the whole Empire, are under so many obligations.
"Permit me. in the name of the Magistrates and Council of the City of Edinburgh, to return our warmest thanks to you, to your Brethren, and to the gentlemen who have honoured us with their attendance OQ this occasion. And may that Almighty Being, whom winds and seas obey, accompany this undertaking with his blessing, and crown the work with success !"
The ceremony was then concluded ; and the Brethren having given three cheers, a salute of twenty-one guns was fired from the vessels in the roads, under the com- mand of Captain Clements, of the Royal .Navy; after which, the procession was renewed, arid returned to the Assembly-rooms at Leith, where the Grand Master received the thanks of the Brethren for the handsome manner in which he had conducted the ceremony of the day.
The Substitute Grand Master then addressed the Ope- rative Brethren to the following effect : —
" The foundation-stone of the Wet-docks at Leith, planned in much wisdom by the ingenious architect, being now laid, and those imple- ments in your hands having been applied to it by the Grand Master. and approved of, they are recommitted to you, with full confidence- that, as skilful and faithful workmen, you will use them in such a man- ner, that the building may rise in order, harmony, and beauty; and, being perfected in strength, will answer every purpose for which it is intended, to your credit as Craftsmen, and to the honour of our ancient Fraternity."
The Lodge was then closed in due form, and the Brethren departed in the greatest order and regularity, highly gratified with the proceedings of the day.
Notwithstanding the incredible number of spectators who were assembled on this occasion, no accident hap- pened. The day being fine, and the ships in the roads and harbour having their colours displayed, rendered the spectacle peculiarly grand and pleasing.
Another incident occurred in Scotland, in 1803, which justly deserves to be recorded. At a meeting of the Grand Lodge, in Edinburgh, on the 30th of November, the Earl of Moira, the acting Grand Master of England, attended; and, in an impressive speech, he related the conduct of the Grand Lodge of England to the irregular Masons of that kingdom, with whom he understood the Grand Lodge of Scotland had established an intercourse. He stated, that the hearts and arms of the Grand Lodge which he had the honour to represent, had ever been
ILLUSTRATIONS
open for the reception of their seceding Brethren ; but that they had obstinately refused to acknowledge their nTor, and return to the bosom of their Mother Lodge. He further observed, that though the Grand Lodge of England differed in a few trifling observances from that of Scotland, the former had ever entertained for Scottish Masons that affection and regard which it was the object of Freemasonry to cherish, and the duty of Freemasons to feel. His Lordship's speech was received with loud and repeated applause. From this circumstance, there- fore, we may probably anticipate the renewal of an alliance between the Grand Lodges of Scotland and England.110
The state of the Society in England, from the year 1800, was regular and progressive. Under the patron- age of the Earl of Moira, Masonry was cultivated and considerably extended. Many eminent and illustrious characters enrolled their names among the Fraternity; and, through various branches of the Royal Family application was made to the Grand Lodge, from the Ma- sons in foreign countries, for renewing reciprocal alliances of permanent friendship.
At the Grand Lodge in February, 1802, the Earl of
110 From Mr. Lawrie's valuable treatise on Freemasonry, lately published, the above particulars have been extracted. This gentleman has given a very satisfactory account of the misunderstanding between the regular and irregular Masons of London. After stating that the schism commenced with the secession of some Brethren from the Grand Lodge, in 1739, he observes, that the active promoters of it, calling themselves Ancient Masons, not only formed Lodges, in sub- version of the rules of the Order, but actually established in London a nominal Grand Lodge, in open defiance of the Ancient Grand Lodge, on whom they invidiously bestowed the appellation of Modern Ma- sons, on account of a few trifling innovations in the ceremonial observ- ances, which had been inconsiderately sanctioned. The irregular Masons encouraged the revolt; and having chosen as their Grand Master the Duke of Athol, then Grand Master elect for Scotland, a friendly intercourse was opened between them and the Grand Lodge in Edinburgh. From this circumstance more than from any predilec- tion in their favour, a correspondence has, since that time, been kept up, and the same prejudices imbibed by the Brethren of Scotland against the regular Masons of England. The business, however, being now more clearly understood, it is expected that a general union will soon terminate all differences, and that a regular communica- tion will be speedily effected among the regular Masons of both king- doms.*
* In a subsequent part of the work it will be found that this very desirable object ha* been happily effected.— EDITOR
OF MASONRY. 269
Moira stated to the Brethren, that the Lodges in Berlin, under the auspices of the King of Prussia, had solicited the influence of the Duke of Sussex to carry on a friendly communication with the Grand Lodge of England ; and had expressed a readiness, qn their part, as far as was consistent with the duty they owed to their own Masonic jurisdiction, to act in unison with their Brethren of England, in promoting all the general principles of the Institution, and in extending relief to distressed Masons ; on which it was immediately resolved, that a friendly communication should be kept up with our Brethren in Prussia, and every attention paid to their future recom- mendations.
At the Grand Lodge in May following, another appli- cation was made, through the same channel, from four Lodges in Portugal, which had empowered M. Hyppolito Joseph da Costa to act as their representative in the Grand Lodge of England, and in their name to solicit a regular authority to practise the rites of the Order under the English banner and protection. After mature deliberation, it was determined that every encouragement should be given to the Brethren in Portugal ; and a treaty was immediately entered into and signed by Brothers Da Costa and Heseltine, then Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge, and approved by the Grand Master, whereby it was agreed, that as long as the Portuguese Lodges should conform to the ancient constitutions of the Order, they should be empowered to have a repre- sentative in the Grand Lodge of England, and that the Grand Lodge of England should have a representative ir the Grand Lodge of Portugal ; and that the Brethrer belonging to each Grand Lodge should be equally enti- tled to the privileges of the other.
In the private proceedings of the Society, few material incidents occurred. In consequence of the death of Thomas Sandby, Esq., the office of Grand Architect remained vacant till 1799, when Robert Brettingham, Esq., was appointed his successor. William Tyler, Esq., the Architect of the Tavern, having been proposed as a candidate for the office at the Grand Feast in May, 1801, the Grand Master observed, that the office of Grand Architect had been conferred on Brother Sandby only as a mark of personal attachment, he having been the
270 ILLUSTRATIONS
Architect of the Hall, but that it was never intended to be a permanent office in the Society. The Grand Lodge, therefore, resolved, that the office of Grand Architect should be discontinued ; but that, in compliment to Brothers Brettingham and Tyler, both these gentlemen should be permitted to attend the Grand Lodge, and wear an honorary jewel as a mark of personal respect.
In November, 1801, a charge was presented to the Grand Lodge against some of its members, for patron- izing, and officially acting as principal officers in an irregular society, calling themselves Ancient Masons, in open violation of the laws of the Grand Lodge. The charge being fully supported, it was determined that the laws should be enforced against these offending Brethren, unless they immediately seceded from such irregular meetings. They solicited the indulgence of the Grand Lodge for three months ; in hopes that, during the inter- val, they might be enabled to effect a union of the two Societies. This measure was agreed to ; and that no impediment might prevent so desirable an object, the charge against the offending Brethren wras withdrawn ; and a committee, consisting of the Earl of Moira, and several other eminent characters, was appointed, to pave the way for the intended union ; and every means ordered to be used to bring back the erring Brethren to a sense of their duty and allegiance. Lord Moira declared, on accepting his appointment as a member of the committee, that he should consider the day on which a coalition should be formed, as one of the most fortunate in his life ; and that he was empowered by the Prince of Wales to say, his Royal Highness's arms would ever be open to all the Masons in the kingdom indiscriminately. On the 9th of February, 1803, it being represented to the Grand Lodge that the irregular Masons still continued refrac- tory,111 and that, so far from soliciting re-admission among the Craft, they had not taken any steps to «ffect an union,
111 It affords me the most heartfelt pleasure to observe, that all recollection of the bitterness which characterized this revolting con- troversy, is so entirely obliterated, that the distinction of ancient and modern are known only as matters of history, and remembered but with the sigh" of regret that such disputes should have ever occurred to cloud the amiable and decent spirit which ought always to distin- guish the science of Freemasonry. — EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 271
tlieir conduct was deemed highly censurable, and the laws of the Grand Lodge were ordered to be enforced against them. It was also unanimously resolved, That when- ever it shall appear that any Masons, under the English Constitution, shall in future attend, or countenance, any Lodge, or meeting of persons, calling themselves Ancient Masons, under the sanction of any person, claiming the title of Grand Master of England, who shall not have been duly elected in the Grand Lodge, the laws of the Society shall not only be strictly enforced against them, but their names shall be erased from the Lists and trans- mitted to all the regular Lodges under the Constitution of England.
In February, 1804, the Grand Lodge, desirous of ex- pressing in the most public manner the high sense en- tertained of the services of the Right Hon. the Earl of Moira, the acting Grand Master, unanimously resolved, that his Lordship's Portrait should be painted by an able artist, and put up in the Hall, with those of the Past Grand Masters, as a lasting testimony of the gratitude and esteem of the Society for his Lordship. The Noble Earl afterwards sent to the Society, as a present, his portrait, painted by Shee.
SECT. XV. History of Masonry from 1801 to 1 812.
THE Scottish Masons had another opportunity of ex- emplifying their zeal and attachment to the. Society on the 29th of June, 1801, being the birth-day of his Grace the Duke of Gordon ; when the foundation-stone of the bridge over the Spey was laid. The concourse of people was immense. All the Lodges round were assembled in their different insignia, and the whole order of procession was arranged and conducted by the Marquis of Huntly, Provincial Grand Master for Bamffshire, &c. The dif- ferent Lodges, Societies, and private gentlemen, were formed on the square of Fochabers. which was lined by the neighbouring volunteer companies ; and an excellent band of music, belonging to the Fochabers' company, added much to the solemnity of the procession. From
272 ILLUSTRATIONS
the square the whole marched, according to their estab- lished rules, to the river, which the Provincial Grand Master, with his office-bearers, &c., passed on a tempora- ry bridge of boats, as the stone was to be laid on the opposite side. The volunteers were drawn up on the south side, as the steepness of the rock, and the narrow- ness of the ground where the foundation-stone was laid, prevented more from crossing the river than were abso- lutely necessary. The Grand Master then laid the first stone with the usual solemnities. Two inscriptions were deposited in it. The first was engraved on plate, and is as follows :
In the reign of The most gracious Sovereign GEORGE III.
And under the auspices of
His Grace, ALEXANDER, Duke of GORDON,
And the other Patrons of the undertaking,
The Most noble GEORGE, Marquis of Huntly
Provincial Grand Muster for Bamffshire, &c.,
Laid the foundation- stone of the Bridge
over the Spey,
On the 29th of June,
Being the day on which the Duke of Gordon
entered his 59th year,
In the year of our Lord 1801,
And of the aera of Masonry 5801.
The other inscription was sealed up in glass, and is aa follows :
DEO ANNUENTE,
Pontis hujus In Spey, olim Tuessi, fluinine,
Ducis de GORDON, magnopere, Civiumque fmitimorum, munificcntia, .JSque ac sere publico,
Extruendi,
Lapidem huuc primarmra
Nobilissimus GEORGIUS Marchio de HUNTLT,
Filius praealti potentissimique Principis,
ALEXANDRI Ducis de GORDON,
Artium omnium bonuruin et utilissimarum,
Etiamque salutis publicae
Benigne, vindicis et amici,
Posuit ; GEORGIO III. Dei Gratia regnante,
Anno Christi MDCCCI uEraeque Architectonic* VMDCCCI.
Viator ! Perge et plaude.
OF MASONRY. 278
A number of coins were deposited at the same time. The Rev. Mr. Gillon, of Speymouth, as chaplain, pro- nounced a very appropriate prayer ; and the Provincial Grand Master, in a very elegant speech, expressed his felicity in seeing an undertaking, so magnificent and useful, at length happily begun. The whole was con- cluded with a feu-de-joie by the volunteers.
The procession returned in the same order to Focha- bers, where ample stores of every thing necessary were provided, and the day was concluded with the highest festivity and happiness.
The inhabitants of the islands of Jersey, Guernsey, and Alderney, being extremely satisfied with the conduct of Sir John Doyle, during his residence among them as governor, presented him with two handsome gold cups ; and the two Lodges of Freemasons in those islands pre- sented him with two elegant gold vases. The following is a description of them : —
AN ELEGANT GOLD CUP. — On the foot are represented Faith, Hope, and Charity; in one compartment of the body, the battle of Hobkirk Hill, April 25, 1801; in the second, sundry Masonic emblems ; in the third, an inscription. The handle is a chased crocodile ; the lip, the Prince of Wales's crest. On one side of the cover are the Earl of Moira's arms ; on the reverse, General Doyle's ; the top was blue enamelled, set round with very large brilliants.
INSCRIPTION. — To the Honourable Major-General Sir JOHN DOYLE, Bart., Colonel of the 47th (or Prince of Wales's Irish) Regiment, Lieutenant- Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Islands of Guernsey and Alderney.
We, the Free and Accepted Masons of Marinet Lodge, No. 222, penetrated with a lively and sincere sense of gratitude, esteem, and admiration, of your eminent talents, your public and private virtues, which have been most energetically displayed with the highest ad- vantage to His Majesty's service, the greatest benefit to this island, and to the general interest of humanity, which our Lodge has experi- enced in common with every individual under the sphere of your government, and with profound deference and respect, we beg leave to offer you a box, with emblems, in some small degree characteristic of your distinguished and amiable qualities ; but intended more as a lasting testimony of our gratitude. and regard: and may the God of Light and Truth watch over, protect, and prosper all your public and private undertakings, is the prayer of, Sir,
Your grateful and attached Friends and humble Servants,
The Members of Lodge No. 222.
The second Gold Cup is similar to the former, and presented by Lodge No. 116 13*
274 ILLUSTRATIONS
The third is a most superb Gold Vase, presented by the inhabitants of the island of Guernsey:
The foot is richly chased, with laurel leaves round it; on the bottom of the vase ore represented the r the body, General Doyle's arms, supporters, crest, &c., the reverse, an inscription, and emblems of victory; on the neck of the vase are two battles which the General fought in Kgypt, and a view of two forts which he captured ; on the lower are chased the arms of the island of Guernsey ; and on the top is Mars, holding in his right hand a wreath of laurel.
The inscription on the above vase is nearly the same .as on the first.
On the 10th of April, 1805, the Grand Master in the chair (Col. Sherborne Stewart) stated, that a communica- tion had been received by the Grand Secretary from the Earl of Moira, Acting Grand Master, relating to the Grand Lodge in Scotland; whereupon it was resolved, That, as the Grand Lodge of Scotland has expressed, through the Right Hon. the Earl of Moira, its earnest wish to be on terms of confidential communication with the Grand Lodge of England, under the authority of the Prince of Wales, this Grand Lodge, therefore, ever de- sirous to concur in a fraternal intercourse with regular Masons, doth meet that disposition with the utmost cor- diality of sentiment, and requests the honour of the Acting Grand Master to make such declarations in their name to the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
On the 27th of November, 1805, a letter had been re- ceived by the Acting Grand Master from the Grand Lodge of Prussia, stating their desire to correspond on terms of amity and brotherly communication with the Grand Lodge of England ; whereupon it was resolved, that the Acting Grand Master be requested to express the wishes of the Grand Lodge of England towards their Brethren in Prussia, and their desire to correspond with them on terms of fraternal amity.
On Tuesday, the 1st of September, 1807, another in- stance of the zeal of the Scottish Masons occurred ; when the foundation-stone of the North Pier of Fraserburgh New Harbour was laid, with great solemnity, by Thomas Burnett, Esq., Master of the Aberdeen Lodge, and Dr Alexander Dauney, Deputy Master, in presence of the Magistrates and Town Council of Fraserburgh ; the
OF MASONRY. 275
Masters, Office-bearers, and Brethren of several Lodges and at least 1000 spectators; among whom were the Earl of Kintore, Lord Inverary, Alexander Harvey, Esq., of Broadland,*«and many other persons of distinction.
The Brethren and Magistrates assembled in the parish church at one o'clock, when a sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr. Simpson, for the occasion. On leaving the church, the procession moved through the principal streets of Fraserburgh, which were lined by nearly 300 of the Fraserburgh volunteers, on permanent duty, under the command of Lieut.-Colonel Fraser, in the following order :
A Guard of Volunteers.
Music. Keith Lodge, of Peterhead.
Fraserburgh Lodge. Solomon's Lodge, Fraserburgh.
^lacduff Lodge. Operative Lodge, Bamff.
Music.
Forbes Lodge, Eosehearty.
St. Andrew's Lodge, Bamff.
Magistrates, Town Council, and Subscribers.
Superintendent of the Building, carrying the plan.
Clergymen.
Tyler of the Aberdeen Lodge.
Inscription plate, carried by an Operative Brother.
The Cornucopia, filled with corn.
Two silver Cups, filled with wine.
The Brethren of the Aberdeen Lodge.
The Secretary and Treasurer.
The Senior and Junior Wardens.
The Holy Bible, carried by a Brother.
The Master and Deputy Master.
Three Grand Stewards.
A Guard of Volunteers.
On arriving at the spot (within the old harbour) where the stone was to be laid, the Lodges filed off, facing in- wards; through which the Magistrates, Town Council, and Subscribers, moved to the west side of the stone, with the Clergymen, the Master, Deputy Master, and Office-bearers of the Aberdeen Lodge, moving to the ea^t.
The stone being slung, an appropriate address was de- livered by the Right Rev. Bishop Alexander Jolly; after which ho invoked the blessing of Grod upon the under- taking in a suitable prayer.
276 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Deputy Master then proceeded (after a suitable address to the Brethren and Assembly) to place in the base-stone the inscription-plate, several coins of the present reign, an Aberdeen newspaper of the preceding week, an almanack of the year, and a writing on parch- ment, containing a list of the subscribers, and other particulars relative to the undertaking; which writing was inclosed in a phial, and the whole deposited in niches made in the stone for the purpose.
The following inscription and writing were previously read by the Deputy Master:
" The present Harbour of Fraserburgh, which was built, about 200 years ago, by Sir Alexander Fraser, ancestor of the present Lord Saltoun, being originally small, and of bad access, and now much de- cayed, the foundation-stone of the North Pier'of the New Harbour of Fraserburgh, designed by John Rennie, of London, Esq., Civil Engineer, was laid 1st of September, 1807, of the aera of Masonry 5807, and of the reign of Geo. III. the 47th year, by the Right Worshipful Thomas Burnett, Esq., Mastet of the Aberdeen Lodge, and Alexander Dauney, Esq., Deputy Master, the Right Hon. Alex- ander George Lord Saltoun, being Superior and Provost of the Burgh; William Kelman, Esq., Baillie Alexander Dauney, LL.D.. his Lordship's Commissioner ; William Smith, Treasurer ; Sebastian Davidson, Dean of Guild; William Fraser, Esq., of Menzie, H. C.; John Dalrymple, sen., William Walker, John Wallace, William Milne, John Milne, James Gray, Alexander Buchan, William Cooper, William Greig, Charles Wemyss, and John Alexander, Merchant Counsellors: John Dalrymple, jun., Robert Matthew, and John Bar- nett, Traded Counsellors; Lewis Chalmers, Town Clerk; Mr. W. Stewart, from Mid Lothian,. Superintendant. Q.F.F.Q.S."
The Master now ordered the stone to be lowered, making three regular stops; when, with the assistance of two Operative Brethren, he conducted the stone to its bed. The Master, with the Deputy on his right, stand- ing towards the east, and the Wardens on the west, the square, the plumb, the level, and the mallet, being suc- cessively delivered by the Deputy to the Master, were by him applied to the sides, top, and square of the stone, in several positions: with the mallet he then gave three knocks, saying, "May the Grand Architect of the Uni- verse grant a blessing on this foundation-stone which we have now laid, and by his Providence enable us to finish this and every other work which may be undertaken for the good and advantage of this town and harbour!" On which the Brethren gave three huzzas.
OF MASONRY. 277
The cornucopia and the two silver cups were then brought and delivered, the cornucopia to the Deputy, and the two vessels to the Wardens, and were successive- ly presented to the Master, who, according to ancient custom, poured the corn, wine, and oil, which they con- tained, on the stone, saying, " May the all-bounteous Author of Nature bless this town with abundance of corn, wine, and oil, and with all the necessaries, conve- niences, and comforts of life !" On this the Brethren gave three huzzas.
After the ceremony, the Master, Lodges, and Magis- trates, returned in reversed order to the Saltoun-inn, where nearly one hundred persons sat down to a dinner given by the town in honour of the day ; and the remain- ing part of the evening was spent with that agreeable conviviality which so well characterizes the ancient Order of Masonry.
On the evening of next day, a ball and supper were given to the ladies of Fraserburgh, and neighbourhood also, in honour of the occasion, at which it may well be said no small share of the beauty of the North was pre- sent. Ninety-two sat down to supper. Dancing began after supper, and continued with much spirit till five o'clock in the morning.
On the 12th of February, 1806, the Earl of Moira, in the chair, informed the Grand Lodge, that during his residence in Edinburgh he had visited the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and taken the opportunity of explaining to it, the extent and importance of this Grand Lodge, and also the origin and situation of those Masons in England who met under the authority of the Duke of Athol ; that the Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Scotland had expressed themselves, till then, greatly misinformed of those circumstances; having been always led to think, that this Society was of a very recent date, and of no magnitude; but now, being thoroughly convinced of their error, they were desirous that the strictest union and most intimate communication should subsist between this Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge of Scotland ; and as the first step towards so important an object, and in testimony of the wishes of the Scots Masons, his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales had been unanimously elected Grand Master of Scotland. The Grand Master,
278 ILLUSTRATIONS
in the chair, further informed the Grand Lodge, that the Grand Lodge of Scotland had expressed its concern that any difference should subsist among the Masons of England, and that the lodges meeting under the sanction of the Duke of Athol should have withdrawn them selves from the protection of the ancient Grand Lodge of England; but hoped that measures might be adopted to produce a reconciliation and that the Lodges now holding irregular meetings would return to their duty, and again be received into the bosom of the Fraternity. That, in reply, his Lordship had stated his firm belief, that this Grand Lodge would readily concur in any measures that might be proposed for establishing union and harmony among the general body of Masons; yet, after the rejec- tion of the propositions made by. this Grand Lodge three years ago, it could not now, consistent with its honour, or the dignity of its illustrious Grand Master, make any further advances; but that, as it still retained its dispo- sition to promote the general interests of the Craft, it would always be open to accept of the mediation of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, if it should think proper to interfere on the subject. Whereupon it was resolved, that a letter be written to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, expressive of the desire of this Grand Lodge, that the strictest union may subsist between the Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodge of Scotland ; and for that purpose, that the actual Masters and Wardens of the Lodges under the authority of the Grand Lodge of Scotland who may be in London, on producing proper testimonials, shall have a seat in this Grand Lodge, and be permitted to vote on all occasions.
The thanks of the Grand Lodge were unanimously voted to the Earl of Moira, for the happy settlement of this important business,
On the 6th of April, 1808, a communication was made from the Grand Lodge of Scotland relative to Dr. Mitchell; when the thanks of the Grand Lodge were voted for the communication. At this meeting it was resolved, That it is absolutely necessary for the welfare of Masonry, and for the preservation of the ancient land- marks, that there be a superintending power, competent to control the proceedings of every acknowledged Lodge; and that the Grand Lodge, representing by regular dele-
OF MASONRY. 279
gation the will of the whole Craft, is the proper and unquestionable depository of such power.
That it is contrary to the principles of Masonry, for any Lodge to publish its sentiments on political subjects, inasmuch as the agitation of any political question, or the discussion of any public affair, is strictly forbidden among Masons; the Grand Lodge itself, though acting for the whole Craft, not being justifiable in departing from this rule, unless in some cases of obvious and extreme necessity.
That the Grand Lodge concurs entirely in the justice of the opinions which the Grand Lodge of Scotland thought itself bound to enforce ; and trusts that no Lodge under the Constitution of England will, in any shape, countenance resistance to an authority exerted upon principles universally recognized by all true- and faithful brethren.
On the 23rd November, 1808, the acting Grand Master informed the Brethren, that he had received a communi- cation from the Grand Lodge of Ireland, applauding the principles professed by this Grand Lodge in its declara- tion to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and desiring to co- operate with this Grand Lodge in every particular which might support the authority necessary to be maintained by the representative body of the whole Craft over any individual Lodge. That the Grand Lodge of Ireland pledged itself not to countenance or receive as a Brother any person standing under the interdict of the Grand Lodge of England for masonic transgression. Upon which it was resolved, that the Acting Grand Master be requested to express to the Grand Lodge of Ireland the due sense which this Grand Lodge entertains of so cor- dial a communication.
On the 31st of December, 1808, the foundation-stone of Covent-Garden Theatre was laid by his Royal High- ness the Prince of Wales, as Grand Master-mason of England and Scotland. The foundation-stone was situa- ted at the north-east angle of the ground, in weight nearly three tons, and containing sixty cubic feet. Pre- vious to the ceremony, it hung, suspended by cordage, over a basement stone. Near to it was placed a marquee for the Prince. Two extensive covered galleries were erected, one to receive the body of Freemasons who
280 ILLUSTRATIONS
assisted at the ceremony; the other was appropriated to the spectators. Surrounding scaffolds were covered with many hundreds of workmen, who were engaged in the building. A detachment of the first regiment of guards was posted as a guard of honour, at the Prince's entrance, with a band of musicians; and four other military bands were stationed on elevated platforms, near the company, to enliven the scene.
At twelve o'clock the Grand Lodge was opened at Freemasons'-hall, in Great Queen-street; Charles Marsh, Esq., in the chair, attended by the Masters and War- dens of the regular Lodges ; and at half-past twelve they walked in procession to Bow-street, the junior Lodges first. The representative of the Grand Master walked last; being preceded by the Chevalier Ruspini, bearing the Grand Sword, and by the Master of the Lodge of Antiquity, No. 1, bearing the Book of Constitutions.
On their arrival at the Theatre, they were welcomed to the places assigned them, by the band playing the old tune of " A Free and Accepted Mason." The Grand Offi- cers proceeded to the marquee, and were arranged in order. The Master, Wardens, and nine members of the Stewards' Lodge, and nearly four hundred Masters and Wardens of Lodges attended, habited in the insignia of the Order. The several bands played, alternately, airs till one o'clock, the hour fixed for the appearance of the Prince; when his Royal Highness in his coach, accom- panied by the Duke of Sussex, attended by General Hulse and Colonels M'Mahon and Bloomfield, arrived under an escort of horse-guards. His Royal Highness was received, on his entrance at the Bow-street door, by the Earl of Moira, acting Grand Master, the detachments of guards saluting, with grounded colours, and beating the " Grenadiers' March. Mr. Harris and Mr. Kemble, after paying their respects to his Royal Highness, ushered him to the marquee, where his arrival was announced bv loud plaudits, the royal standard hoisted, and the discharge of a royal salute of artillery. His Royal Highness, who was dressed in blue, with a scarlet collar, wearing the insignia of his office as Grand Master, a pair of gold com- passes set with brilliants and other jewelry, and a white apron bordered with purple, and fringed with gold, appeared in high health and spirits. Proceeding, uncover
OP MASONRY. 281
ed, with his suite, through a railed platform spread with superfine broad green cloth, bound with scarlet and yel- low, forty dismounted life-guardsmen, who were Masons, without arms, lining the sides of the railing, the company all rose as his Royal Highness passed the platform to the marquee, and gave him three cheers; when the united bands immediately struck up, " God save the King." His Royal Highness, as he passed, smilingly bowed to the ladies with the most fascinating affability.
The Grand Officers had previously placed the masonic instruments on a table in the marquee. A plan of the building, with its sections and elevations, was now pre- sented to his Royal Highness, by Robert Smirke, Esq., the architect ; and a gilt silver trowel by Mr. Copeland, the builder of the edifice. Having passed a short time in conversation with the proprietors, and with the Grand Masonic Officers in the marquee, his Royal Highness pro- ceeded to the ceremonial. On a signal given, the corner stone was raised about four feet ; the hodmen, in white aprons, instantly conveyed the necessary quantity of fine cementing mortar, which was neatly spread on the base- stone by the workmen of the building, similfarly dressed. His Royal Highness now advanced, uncovered, to the north-east corner of the stone ; when John Bayford, Esq., as Grand Treasurer, deposited, in a space cut for it in the basement stone, a brass box, containing the British gold, silver^ and copper coins of the present reign. On a part of the stone was, "Long live George, Prince of Wales," and, " To the King," with a medallion of the Prince. There were also deposited two large medals, one of bronze, bearing a head of his Royal Highness on one side, and on the other, the following inscription :
GEORGIUS PRINCEPS WALLIARUM
THEATRI
EEGIIS INSTAURANDI AUSPICII8 IN HORTIS BENEDICTINIS
LONDINI . FUNDAMENTA
Sua Maim LOCAVIT
MDCCCVIIII.
The other medal, engraved in copper, bore on one side this inscription :
Under the auspices of His Most Sacred Majesty George HI.
ILLUSTRATIONS
King of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland, The Foundation-stone of the Theatre of
Co vent Garden Was laid by his Royal Highness
GEORGE PRINCE OF WALES. MDCCCVIU.
On the reverse is engraven :
ROBERT SMIRKE, Architect.
His Royal Highness now, as Grand Master, finished the adjustment of the mortar with his trowel; when the upper stone was lowered in the sling to its destined position; all the bands playing "Rule Britannia," a dis charge of artillery being fired, and the people with the most animating cheers applauding the spectacle. The junior and senior Grand Wardens, and the acting Grand Master, the Earl of Moira, now severally presented his Royal Highness with the plumb, the level and the square ; and the Prince, having applied them to the stone, pro- nounced the work correct, and gave the stohe three strokes with his mallet.
Three elegant silver cups were then presented, suc- cessively, to his Royal Highness, containing corn, wine, and oil, which he scattered and poured over the stone, all the bands playing "God save the King." His Royal Highness then restored the plan of the building into the hands of the architect, approving that specimen of his genius, and desiring him to complete the structure con- formably thereto. Then, graciously turning to Mr. Harris and Mr. Kemble, he wished prosperity to the building, and the objects connected with it, and success and happiness to its proprietors and managers.
The ceremony being finished, the band played " Rule Britannia:" and the Prince, the Duke of Sussex, and the Earl of Moira, were escorted back to the Prince's car- riage by the managers and the Grand Officers, under a second royal salute of twenty-one guns.
Thus passed a ceremonial, which, by the excellent pre- arrangement of its managers, and the gracious yet digni- fied manner in which the illustrous chief actor performed his part, exhibited an interesting spectacle, that excited general admiration and applause. All who had the honour to approach the Prince speak in raptures of his polite and captivating manners oil the occasion. Al-
OF MASONRY.
though the neighbouring houses were covered to the roof-tops, and many thousands of people were assembled in the street, it is with great satisfaction we state, that not a single accident happened to interrupt the splendid termination of the ceremony.
The Masters and Wardens of the Masonic Lodges, then returned in procession to their hall in Great Queen-street ; when the Grand Lodge was closed, after making a formal minute of the proceedings, and receiving, through the medium of the Grand Treasurer, the thanks of the Prince for the favour of their attendance.
The Brethren, after the Lodge was closed, sat down to a splendid dinner at Freemasons' Tavern ; when mirth and conviviality closed the meeting.
The proprietors of Covent Garden Theatre soon after- wards received a letter from Colonel M'Mahon, dated from Carlton-house, in which he stated, that he had it in command from his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales., to express his high approbation of the very great order and regularity with which the whole arrangement of the ceremonial had been formed and conducted.
On the 12th April, 1809, it was resolved, That this Grand Lodge do agree in opinion with the committee of charity, that it is not necessary any longer to continue in force those measures which were resorted to in or about the year 1739, respecting irregular Masons; and do therefore enjoin the several Lodges to revert to the ancient landmarks of the Society. This measure was carried into effect by the appointment (with the sanction of the Grand Master) of an occasional Lodge named " The Lodge of Promulgation," which will appear to have been a step preparatory to the so-much-desired Union of Masons Ancient and Modern.
It appearing from the Grand Treasurer's account, that the liquidation fund for discharging the debts of the Society had effectually answered the purpose for which it was established, and that all the principal demands had been discharged, on the 7th of February, 1810, the Grand Lodge, being desirous of relieving the Fraternity from the payment of a contribution which a pressing emergenc}^ at the time rendered necessary, ordered, That the payment of two shillings per annum, from every member, to the liquidation fund for the discharge of the
284 ILLUSTRATIONS
dobts of the Society, imposed by the Grand Lodge on the 7th of February^ 1798, should, from and after the 21st day of December next, cease and determine. It was further resolved, that the thanks of the Grand Lodge be given to the Fraternity at large for their ready com- pliance in the measure of the liquidation fund, which had been the means of relieving the Society from its difficulties.
The Grand Lodge, however, recommended the London Lodges to continue the subscription till the expenses of fche Lodge of Promulgation were discharged.
SECT. XVI. History of Masonry, from 1812 to 1813.
ON the death of Sir Peter Parker, Baronet, Admiral of the Fleet, Dec. 21, JL811, his Royal Highness the Grand Master was pleased to confer the office of Deputy Grand Master upon his Royal Brother the Duke of Sussex, Master of the Lodge of Antiquity.
To no person had Masonry for many years been more indebted, than to the Earl of Moira (now Marquis of Hastings). Towards the end of the year 1812, his Lord- ship was appointed Governor General of India: and it was considered by the Fraternity as only a just mark of respect, to invite his Lordship to a farewell banquet, previous to his departure from England ; and to present him with a valuable Masonic Jewel, as a memorial of their gratitude for his eminent services.
The 27th of January, 1813, was the day appointed, when a most sumptuous dinner was served up in Free- masons' Hall, to above five hundred Brethren, including six Royal Dukes; viz., Sussex, D.G.M., York, Clarence, Kent, Cumberland, and Gloucester. The gallery was filled with ladies of the first fashion and respectability, including the Countess of Loudon and Moira. The Duke of Kent's band attended in the music gallery; and the following professional gentlemen occasionally de- lighted the company with their vocal exertions: viz., Messrs. Bellamy, Hawes, Neild, Leete, Goss, Terrail. Taylor, Evans, Elliott, Clarke, Doyle, and Master King.
OF MASONRY. 286
The Duke of Sussex, in proposing the health of the Prince Regent, said, "'I am commanded by his Royal Highness to express his regret that he is not here amongst you this day; but his hearty good wishes are with you; and I also beg leave to recall to your recol- lection the many obligations which are due to His Royal Highness for his having brought forward the Noble Lord whom we this day have amongst us."
In a most eloquent oration, the Duke of Sussex after- wards proposed the health of " The Earl of Moira, the friend of his Prince, the friend of his country, and the friend of mankind."
To which the Noble Earl replied in the following speech ; for the report of which, and of those that follow, we are indebted to Brother Alexander Frazer, of Thavies Inn : —
" BRETHREN, it has been said, that out of the fulness of the heart the tongue speaketh. I know not upon what grounds that statement was founded ; but, at present at least, I cannot vouch for its accuracy : never did I more wish for a command of words, and never was I less confident of my powers, than I am upon this occasion; yet, God knows, my heart is full enough. But the overwhelming marks of regard and attachment with which }rou have honoured me, and still more the exaggerated compliments which 1 have just received from the Illustrious Personage who presides here this day. leave me little of that spring of spirit, which is necessary towards answering adequately. I thank that Illustrious Personage for his high encomium, though he has left me a difficult line to draw between apparent acceptance of so overcharged an eulogy, and failure in due recognition of your kindness. I thank that Illustrious Personage, because I know the cordiality of his soul, and triumph in the impulse which it has given to his expres- sions, though it has raised him to a strain of eloquence, after which any language of mine must seem tame and feeble. You, Brethren, well know the medium through which our Illustrious Chairman has viewed me. and will thence not be at a loss to account for his fervour ; but they who cannot construe those expressions by that key, which all of you understand, ought to be apprised, that there exists in the Society of Masons a brotherly affection, nay, an affection far more than brotherly, which delights in slackening the crest of judgment, and even rioting in the field of fancy, when the object is either to exalt the merits or to extenuate the defects of a member of the Craft. (Applause.) Such has been the practice of the Illustrious Personage who has just addressed you. He has allowed fraternal partiality to seduce him into all the indulgence of luxuriant imagination. He has sketched a picture with fairy tints. He has exhibited the hand of a master in the portraiture; but he has also displayed a master's licence; trusting that elegance of outline and brilliancy of colours would atone for deficiency of resemblance. What the Royal Duke has been pleased to ascribe to me3 has been only the emanation of the
286 ILLUSTRATIONS
principles cultivated in this hallowed Institution. — the practical effect of those lessons which Masonry inculcates, not for purposes of mysti- cism, but in the hope of their influence on the interests of soc.ety. His Royal Highness has been pleased to dilate upon my humble services in the army. I am sufficiently conscious of the exiguity of the scale upon which it has been my lot to act. I have no preten- sions to aught beyond credit for zeal ; and with that I can be satisfied. If I know myself, I have ever held it of far higher value to possess the silent esteem which attends an useful member of the community, than to be followed by the clamorous, but unweighed and transient applause of the multitude. Only believe of me that I have honestly considered myself the servant of the country, always liable to be called upon to support its interests, and always ready to obey with fervour the summons. That merit is all that I can J claim. The Illustrious Chairman has praised me as the friend of the Prince. Can I assume merit for my attachment, when all the honour of such a connexion through a length of years must have been bestowed upon me? If I had the happiness of being distinguished by such partiality, adherence was but a slender return, though the only one I could make. But were it possible for me to forget every other cause for pride and gratitude in such favour, there is one obliga- tion which the circumstances of this day would present most em- phatically to my memory. It was the Prince Regent who placed me in the situation whence I have derived all the flattering testimonies of your good-will. To him I owe the opportunities of endearing myself to you, if I dare indulge myself in listening to your friendly assurances of my having done so ; to him 1 stand indebted for the means of manifesting what I thought ought to be the tenor of his representative in the Craft. You have approved my conception of that character. You have gone further ; you have rewarded it by making this the proudest day of my life; and see how much his influence contributes to that pride ! When I look round me and observe so many individuals of the Royal Family present on the occasion, I must feel what an indication it is of his generous wish that your kind enthusiasm should have his implied concurrence ; not that I can thence be less grateful to each of these Illustrious Personages, for allowing me the boast, that their countenance on this night bore testimony to their ratifying your approbation. This, as a man. I feel deeply, but with no inferior sensibility as a Mason. Dignifying, indeed, it is to the Craft, to see those elevated Personages exhibit their fellowship with us. But it is not merely a superficial honour to which your minds should be alive. No. you ought to feel the incal- culable* benefit which the serious objects of Masonry must derive from this public display of the sentiment of Royalty towards the Brother- hood; this avowal from so many of those immediately connected with the Throne, that they make common cause with your welfare and your affections. Let us carry this thought farther. * Let us exult in the advantage which may ensue to every class in Britain, from the cir- cumstance, that these elevated individuals could not have been present here had they not previously received all '.hose solemn inculcations with which Masonry endeavours to dispose the heart of each of the initiated to promote the comfort of his fellow. Every one of these Illustrious Persons has had the important lesson whispered into his ear, Be Simple, be Benignant, be Man !' And the genn planted ID
OF MASONRY. 287
minds like theirs cannot be unfruitful. They comprehend their rich reward. They share with us in the glowing confidence, that the beneficence of a superintending Father perpetually shields us. They participate with us in that sure hope of the future, which makes our present existence appear but a speck in the immensity of our immortal heritage. They are assimilated to us in all the generous affections of that charity, which tells us, that kindness to all must be the obla- tion most acceptable to Him, who, in creating all. could have no motive but their happiness. When Royalty cherishes such senti- ments, its commixture with social life is a blessing. Need I remark, how proud the distinction is for our own beloved country, that the presence of these Illustrious Persons, in meetings of convivial society, so far from being a check upon hilarity, is an encouragement which renders enjoyment more grateful. Yes, the influence of Royalty in Britain is never felt, but as the genial zephyr which cheers and invites to expansion every bud it breathes upon ; while in other realms, it is the wind from the desert, withering all over which it passes.
" One word upon a point more immediately referrible to myself. 1 have called this the proudest day of my life. I ought to feel it so. For above one-and-twenty years I have had the honour and satisfac- tion of presiding in this society ; a society formed to stimulate men to the practical application of doctrines, at which I have slightly glanced, but on which I should have been happy (had it been allow- able) to expatiate. The prodigious extent of this Society in England is little imagined by those who are not called upon to look to its numbers. Its perfect tranquillity attracts no attention. That so vast a body should exist in such silence, and move with such invariable regularity, while it would appear to the casual observer that no eye watches or hand directs its procodure, is the best proof of its rigid adherence to principles, in their nature unalterably advantageous to society. It is, then, a pride to hold a leading station among such men. But while I have enjoyed that distinction. I have, on the other hand, been subjected to their scrutiny. It has been not only the right, but the duty of Masons to keep a vigilant eye over my conduct in life, that, if censure were due, their remonstrance and rejection might prevent the credit of the Craft from being tainted by the ostensible superintendence of an unworthy individual. After that observation of me for one-and twenty years, my Brethren have this day pro- nounced their judgment. I therefore ought to know how to appreciate this testimony of your approbation. I do appreciate it justly. I should believe your verdict to fce partial ; perhaps I must be conscious it is so ; but in the eyes of the world it is the stamp of honour affixed upon me; and I thank you, Brethren, with a gratitude commensurate to the magnitude of the boon."
This speech was, as might naturally oe expected, fol- lowed by the most enthusiastic bursts of applause.
The Duke of Sussex then requested the attention of tllfc company to a song, written expressly for the occa- sion.
The following elegant and appropriate stanzas, written for the occasion by Waller Rodwell Wright,' Esq., (the
288 ILLUSTRATIONS
author of Hor Islands, where he formerly resided as his Majesty's Con- sul, and of which he has lately had the honour of being appointed Grand Master), were accordingly sung by Mr. Bellamy, with much and deserved applause; the last verse being encored by the company, and again encored ]^y the Royal Chairman : —
OCCASIONAL STANZAS,
ADAPTED TO THE GERMAN AIB,
"Erschall, O Gefuhl."
FREE-MASONS' HALL, JAN. 27, 1813.
THOU, soft-breathing Lyre, for a while be suspended
The social delight which thy numbers impart: While sighs of regret with our raptures are blended, And strains of affection flow warm from the heart. Hail ! hail ! hail ! to ev'ry bosom dear,
Thou, to whose honour' d name We consecrate the parting tear.
Ye realms, where the day-star first springs from the ocean, Now welcome the dawn of Philanthropy's ray ;
Ye nations that tremble in abject devotion, By Gangus or Indus — rejoice in her sway. Hail! hail! hail! &c., &c.
Go on, noble Spirit ! still guerdon'd with glory,
Pursue the bright track which thy fate has assigned ;
For thus shall thy name live ennobled in story, Of Britain the Pride, and the Friend of Mankind. Hail! hail! hail! &c.,
Oh, deem not our hearts can e'er cease to revere thee, Or still on thy virtues with rapture to dwell,
Recalling those scenes to our souls that endear thee, And the pain of that hour when we bade thee farewell ! Hail! hail! hail! &c., &c.
E'en then, while between us wide oceans are rolling, Whene'er we assemble these rites to renew.
With magic illusion our senses controlling, Shall Fancy restore thee again to our view. Hail! hail! hail! &c., &c.
And when on that breast, where bright honour, still beaming, Sheds lustre, excelling what Kings can bestow,
The pledge of Fraternal Affection is gleaming, With kindred emotions thy bosom shall glow. Hail! hail! hail! &c.f &c.
OF MASONRY. 289
Oh, think, while glad millions their gratitude breathing, For Freedom and Justice, thy name shall adore,
Fond Friendship and Joy rosy chaplets are wreathing, To greet thy return to thy lov'd native shore. Hail ! hail ! hail ! &c., &c.
On a signal being given, which had been previously mentioned, the ladies retired from the gallery ; and the Duke of Sussex opened the Special Grand Lodge.
After several of the accustomed toasts had been given and drunk, the Jewel which was to be presented to the Earl of Moira, as Acting Grand Master of the Fraternity, was paraded round the Hall .by the managers in proces- sion, carried on a velvet cushion by T. H. V arquhar, Esq., P. S. G.W., as Master of the Ceremonies, in order that all the Brethren might have an opportunity of be- holding it.112
The Duke of Sussex, after addressing the Brethren in the usual manner, spoke as follows : —
" I now rise with those sensations which are more easily conceived than expressed. To have been placed by you in this chair to com- municate, or to be the organ of your respectful, affectionate, and grateful feelings, toward your most worthy Acting Grand Master, when so many more able Masons than myself are here collected, and so many elder Brethren of .the Royal Family are here present, is an honour conferred upon me of greater magnitude than I can express ; I consider it as one of the highest compliments my Masonic zeal can ever aim at attaining. Most worthy Acting Grand Master, (the Royal Chairman turning towards and addressing the Earl of Moira,) much as I esteem, and much as I respect you as my friend, still you must, upon this occasion, be convinced that I am not speaking merely my own sentiments, but that I am endeavouring to utter the feelings and to express the sensations of the whole Craft, in now addressing you individually. We, having laboured for no less than twenty-one years under your vigilant care and superintendence, feel ourselves most closely attached by sentiments of gratitude and esteem towards you : impressed as we are with the conviction that we owe much to
112 This superb Jewel is suspended from a collar three feet long, composed of seven rows of fine gold Maltese chain, intersected by five gold parallelograms, with brilliant centres.
The Fraternity were indebted for the design and execution of this chasto and elegant production of art to Brother J. C. Burckhardt, of Northumberland street, Strand : who most liberally executed it in the very first style of workmanship, at the cost price of the material! and labour. The Collar and Jewel were examined by one of the most eminent jewellers in the metropolis, who estimated it at about fifteen hundred pounds: whereas Brother Burckhardt's charge was under six hundred and seventy pounds. 14
1590 ILLUSTRATIONS
you for your constant anxiety and unabating zeal for the welfare o1 the Brethren collectively and individually. Masonry, as you we] know, is one of the most sublime and perfect institutions that eve was formed for the advancement of happiness and general good t mankind, creating, in all its varieties, universal benevolence am brotherly love. It holds out allurements so captivating, as to inspir the Brotherhood with emulation to deeds of glory, such as mus command, throughout the world, veneration and applause, and sucl as must entitle those who perform them to dignity and respect. I teaches us those useful, wise, and instructive doctrines, upon whicl alone true happiness is founded; and, at the same time. alYords t\i<> easy paths, by which we attain the rewards of virtue ; it teaches u the duties which we owe to our neighbour, never to injure him in an; one situation, but to conduct ourselves with justice and impartiality it bids us not to divulge the mystery to the public, and it orders u to be true to our trust, to be above all meanness and dissimulation and in all our avocations to perform religiously that which we ough to do. As Masons and Brethren, wo always stand upon a level b; the principles which we are taught; we are all of the same family- high and low, rich mid poor, created 1>\ the same Almighty Powei and preserved in existence by a consolation and support originatinj from the same source. Stifl, however, Masonry teaches us t<> >h respect and honour to each man to whom respect and honour ar due, according to the respective characters of each individual ; and when individuals deserve well *f the whole Fraternity, it display that additional lustre, that Masons unite heart and hand, to evinc conjointly their high estimation of meritorious services. We, there fore, my Lord, behold in you that illustrious character who call forth the respect and approbation of the whole Fraternity ; who. for saking your own comforts in your native country, and, as it were even your high station in society, deigned to turn your philosophi mind, with all its energies, to promote the welfare and happiness o: this particular Association, as if sent by the bounty of Providence t guard the best interests of this people. You, who possess thfl character, commanding respect and confidence, have laboured wit! effect to impose and to enforce those duties which are necessary t the welfare and success of the Craft. When we behold such character, we cannot help feeling how much virtue has been hid ii the shade, and, at the same time, how much your high intellect ha been exerted for the advancement and prosperity of this Society These are the sentiments, most worshipful Acting Grand Master which I, on behalf of myself, and of the Society at large, communi cate as our feelings upon this important occasion ; impressed with conviction, that to you, above all others, we owe obligations whieh w never can forget. At a moment when this Society was pregnan with total destruction, your patriotic exertions excited and createi new energies, and, like the Phoenix which rises from the flame, w rose again. (Applauses.) Impressed, I say, with these ideas, am seeing the whole Craft inspired by similar sentiments. I have beei deputed by them to invest you, as the most worshipful Acting Gram Master of this Order, with this badge of honour, as a small testimo niai of our veneration and esteem. (Here the Royal Chairma invested the Noble Earl with the Jewel, purchased by the voluntar
OF MASONRY. 291
contributions of the Society at large. The applause and cheering were here so great, that some observations which fell from the Chair could not be distinctly heard.) We wish," continued his Royal High- ness, "that you should carry this Jewel as a signal of our marked attention and favour; and that that bright star which is in the centre of it, may conduct you to that shore to which you are destined, and also to that glory, which. we, as Masons, earnestly wish may be ever attendant upon one of our number who has rendered himself, by his meritorious services, so dear to us. Brethren, I shall now propose to drink the health of our most worshipful Acting Grand Master ; after which, I shall give up the hammer into his Lordship's hands, craving him to take that situation in which I am sure he will, as he has hitherto done, afford satisfaction and joy to the Fraternity." His Royal Highness then concluded with drinking " The Health of the Earl of Moira, our worthy Acting Grand Master."
This toast was drunk by all the Brethren with the utmost enthusiasm, and with the accustomed honours ; after which, his Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex resigned the chair to the Earl of Moira.
The Earl of Moira then rose, and addressed the Breth- ren from the Chair, to the following purport:
" Brethren, it would at any moment give me infinite pain and con- cern to remove from this Chair one who so ably fills it, and one who so firmly possesses the admiration and affection of this Fraternity ; and it particularly grieves me upon this occasion, when, in doing so, I may appear ungrateful, after the generosity of his effusion towards me. But I am not at liberty, now that the Lodge is resumed, to waive that which is not to be regarded as a right, but as the duty of my function. It is your authority which I represent, and I must not let my personal feelings compromise it. The station in which I ain placed, and the Jewel which I now wear, admit of no deviation, upon my part, from that principle in your regulations, which gives me here superintendence. I shall thereby be enabled to offer myself more conspicuously to your notice, and be heard more distinctly in the profession of that gratitude which is imprinted upon my heart to the utmost extent of human feelings. It will be everlastingly engraven there ; for so long as I exist, it is impossible there can ever be the slightest deduction from that extraordinary degree of obligation I must feel towards you, whose kindness has been so unprecedented and unmeasured. Believe me, if the most transient shade of repug- nance passed over my mind in regard to accepting a present of so much intrinsic value, the hesitation was instantly chastened by a cor- recter sentiment, I must have felt the uuworthiness of a doubt about meeting with confidence the wishes of my Brethren ; although I must regret that they have suffered their kindness so to tax their purses. I should be unworthy of your fraternal esteem, could I not answer it with as cordial a confidence. As long as 1 wear this badge of honour upon my breast, the recollection of your extraordinary kind- ness and regard shall be most lively, and shall animate my spirit tc any exertion which may give me the chance of justifying to the
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world your opinion of me. It shall be my constant Monitor in oil my future duties. In it I shall find a perpetual admonition to prac- tise, with still greater activity than ever, those philanthropic and benevolent principles of Masonry in the situation of Rule which 1 am about to hold over that vast territory whither I am destined. I will appeal to it with a consciousness of having, at least, endea- voured to fulfil my duties ; if ever my spirits flag, that they be roused anew by reflecting on the testimony of those sentiments you have been pleased to entertain of my exertions for the advancement of the interests and welfare of this Institution. I felt a diffidence in address- ing you upon the occasion of the first speech of our most Illustrious Deputy Grand Master ; and if so, what must be my feelings now ? I feel myself totally unable to enter into any minute discussion ; I can only say, that, when he is pleased to represent me in such a flattering light as he has done, I think he has slidden into some confusion as to the object of his applause. The lustre which he praises, and which his friendship misleads him to consider as essentially mine, is only the splendour of Masonry reflected from me. The prominent station wh'.ch I hold here, concentrates all the rays of the Croft upon my person, as it would upon the person of any other placed in the same elevation ; and the Illustrious Deputy Grand Master makes an effort to persuade himself that this lunar brilliancy is the genuine irradiation of the sun. My real relation to you may be best explained by an Asiatic apologue.113 In the baths of the east, perfumed clay is used instead of soap. A poet is introduced, who breaks out into an enthu- siastic flow of admiration at the odour of a lump of clay of this sort. "Alas!" answers the clay, "I am only a piece of ordinary earth, but I happened to come in contact with the rose, and I have borrowed ,'ome of its fragrance." I have borrowed the character of the virtues inherent in this Institution; and my best hope is, that howevei minute be the portion with which I have been thus imbued, at least, I am not likely to lose what has been so fortuitously acquired. Gratitude holds a -high rank among those virtues; and if I can be confident of any thing, it must be of this, that earnest gratitude towards you cannot depart from my breast but with the last pulse of life. With the sincerest attachment, and an affection truly fraternal — with a just return of soul to all that you have been pleased to express through our worthy Deputy Grand Master on my account — in regard to all the kindness you have exhibited towards me, I beg leave to drink Health and Happiness to every individual present." (The most unbounded applause ensued.)
After a variety of appropriate toasts and songs, Lord Moira, in his capacity of Chairman and Acting Grand Master, then proposed as a toast,
" The King of Sweden, Grand Master of the Masons oj the North."
The Swedish Ambassador then rose, and said—
** Brethren, for the King, my master, I beg leave to return you all my hearty thanks ;or the honour you have done him. I shall take
118 The prophecy of Sadi.
OP MASONRY. 293
care to embrace the first opportunity I may have, to acquaint my master, the King of Sweden, and all the Brethren of my country, with tiie hononr which this grand and noble Society has been pleased to confer upon him, and also upon them."
The health of Lord Kinnaird, D.G.M. of Scotland, was drunk, who returned thanks in a very handsome manner.
The officers of the Grand Lodge were afterwards drunk.
Lord Moira then said, —
" Brethren, I should be deemed deficient in that attachment and regard usual upon such occasions, if I did not drink the Health of the Provincial Grand Masters, Sir John Doyle and his colleagrfes, who attend us upon this occasion, and whose sentiments I know are those of reciprocal attachment and fraternal love, both upon their own part, and on behalf of the provincial lodges which they superin- tend."
This toast being drunk with great cordiality and joy, Sir John Doyle rose, and addressed the Brethren nearly to the following effect : —
': Most worshipful Acting Grand Master, and Brethren — Honoured as I have been by the personal notice of the Chair, and deputed by my colleagues, the Provincial Grand Masters. I rise to return our joint thanks for the honour which has been conferred upon us. The value of the compliment is considerably enhanced by the kindness with which the toa^t has been received by all the worthy Brethren present, and the gracious approbation given to it by our Illustrious Visitors ; it is doubly gratifying to us in coming from a body, the basis of whose Institution is, to fear God, to honour the King, and to love one's neighbour as one's self; an Institution whose prin- ciples, if universally diffused, would tend to calm those angry storms that agitate and convulse an affrighted world, and man would no longer be the bitterest enemy of his fellow man. Upon the interest- ing occasion which has brought us together this day, and which has excited the best feelings of the human breast, it is impossible to be wholly silent. I am, indeed, sensible of the difficulty, nay, the im- possibility of engaging your attention, unless you could do, what you never will do. forget the brilliant display of impressive eloquence which you have heard from the Chair, and from the distinguished person who has been the subject of its just and elegant eulogum. But, Brethren, difficult as the task may be, that heart must be cold and callous indeed that could remain unmoved at such a scene as this, and not catch some sparks of that enthusiastic fire which seems to animate the whole, — an enthusiasm which must be as honourable to those who feel it, as gratifying to him whose virtues have called it forth. (Much applause.) If this could be applicable- to a casual observer, how must it affect the feelings of one, who, from earliest youth, has been honoured with the unvaried friendship of this highly- gifted man. I know him well, and he who knows him best must love him most ; I know his virtues, but I also know the refined delicacy of his manly mind j and I am fearful, that, in endeavouring, however
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inadequately, to describe the one, I should insensibly inflict a wound upon the other. Were it not for fear of this offence, what countless instances could I state of modest merit brought forward and sus- tained ; of rising genius fostered and protected; of human misery relieved and comforted. The helpless orphan, the wretched widow, the aged parent, the houseless stranger, the prostrate foe. all shared the bounty of his generous hand — (here ensued loud and reiterated applauses and joyful approbation) : — thus embracing in the vast scope of his comprehensive and philanthropfc mind every gradation of human woe, from childish infancy to decrepit age. He was in heart a true Mason, 'and every child of sorrow was a brother; self was the only being that seemed by him forgot.' Happy Hindoo ! how will thy sable sons have cause to bless the power that sends them a fatht-r and protector to diffuse happiness among countless millions ! But I dare not trust my feelings further ; delicacy forbids me to say more, — truth and justice would not allow me to say less."
The Grand Lodge was soon afterwards closed in the usual form. Lord Moira, on retiring, said, " May God bless you all ;" and, agreeably to a previous hint, no person remained after his Lordship had quitted the Hall.
When, by the accession of the Prince of Wales to the Regency of the United Kingdom, etiquette seemed to require his resignation as Grand Master, the Duke of Sussex was, by the unanimous acclamation of the Grand Lodge, elected to fill that high and important situation ; and the Prince Regent soon after graciously conde- scended to accept the title of GRAND PATRON of the Order.
It was early discovered, that the Duke of Sussex's whole heart was bent on accomplishing that great de- sideratum of Masons, the Union of the two Fraternities who had been mis-termed Ancient and Modern ; and his high station in life certainly carried with it an influence which could not have been found in an humbler indi- vidual.
It has been already said, that his Grace the Duke of Athol was at the head of the Ancient Fraternity — for, to be explicit without circumlocution, we must at pre- sent make use of these terms relatively. The fact is, that the Ancients, after their secession, continued to hold their meetings without acknowledging a superior, till 1772 ; when they chose for their grand master the Duke of Athol, who was then Grand Master Elect for Scotland.
This venerable nobleman, we may presume, was con-
OF MASONRY. 295
vinced by the Royal Duke's arguments, strengthened by his own good sens-e and benevolent mind, how desirable must be an actual and cordial union of the two societies under one head ; because, to pave the way for the mea- sure, his Grace, in the handsomest manner, shortly after resigned his seat of Grand Master, recommending his Royal Higness the Duke of Kent (who had been made a Mason under that constitution) as his successor; who was accordingly elected and installed Grand Master of that body of Masons, at Willis's Rooms, St. James's Square, on the 1st of December, 1813: on which oc- casion his Royal Higness most liberally professed, that he had accepted the office with the sole view of co- operating, more effectually, perhaps, with his illustrious Brother of Sussex, in promoting and cementing the. so- much-desired Union.
Zealously did the two Royal Brethren devote them- selves to the arduous task ; and, taking to their council three dsitinguished Brethren belonging to each society, they at length arranged the following (among other)
ARTICLES of UNION between the Two GRAND LODGES of ENGLAND.
In the name of GOD, Amen. •
The Most Worshipful His Royal Highness Prince EDWARD, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, Earl of Dublin. Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, and of the Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick. Field Marshal of his Majesty's Forces, Governor of Gibraltar, Colonel of t\\e Fir%t or Royal Scots Regiment of Foot, and Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons of England, according to the Old Institutions ; the Right Worshipful THOMAS HARPER, Deputy Grand Master ; the Right Worshipful JAMES PERRY. Past Deputy Grand Master ; and the Right Worshipful JAMES AGAR, Past Deputy Grand Master ; of the same Fraternity : for themselves and on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons of England, according to the Old Institutions : being thereto duly constituted and empowered : — on the one part.
The Most Worshipful His Royal Highness Prince AUGUSTUS FREDERICK, Duke of Sussex, Earl of Inverness, Baron Arklow, Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, and Grand Master of the Society of Free and Accepted Masons under the Constitution of England ; the Right Worshipful WALLER ROD- WELL WRIGHT, Provincial Grand Master of Masons in the Ionian Isles ; the Right Worshipful ARTHUR TEGART, Past Grtnd War-den ; and' the Right Worshipful JAMES DEANS, Past Grand Warden ; of the same Fraternity ; for themselves and on behalf of the Grand Lodge of the Society of Freemasons under the Constitution of Eng-
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land: being thereunto duly constituted and empowered: — on the other part,
Have agreed as follows —