XVII. A revision shall be made of the rules and regulations now

established and in force in the two Fraternities ; and a Code of Laws for the holding of the Grand Lodge, and of private Lodges, and, generally, for the whole conduct of the Craft, shall be forthwith pre- pared, and a new book of Constitutions be composed and printed, under the superintendence of the Grand Officers, and with the sanc- tion of the Grand Lodge.
Done at the Palace of Kensington, this 25th day of November, in the Year of our Lord 1813, and of Masonry 5813. EDWARD, G. M. THOMAS HARPER, D. G. M. JAMES PERRY, P. D. G. M. JAMES AGAR, P. D. G. M.
In Grand Lodge, this first day of December, A.D. 1813. Ratified and Confirmed, and the Seal of the Grand Lodge affixed.
EDWARD, G. M.
ROBERT LESLIE, G. S. AUGUSTUS FREDERICK, G. M. WALLER RODWELL WRIGHT, P. G. M. Ionian Isles. ARTHUR TEGART, P. G. W. JAMES DEANS, P. G. W.
In Grand Lodge, this first day of December, A.D. 1813. Ratified and Confirmed, and the Seal of the Grand Lodge affixed.
AUGUSTUS FREDERICK, G. M.
WILLIAM H. WHITE, G. S. A meeting of the two Grand Lodges, in pursuance of Article V., - Tavern, in the Strand. The articles of Union were laid before these Lodges, and received with masonic acclamation ; the Articles were unanimously ratified and confirmed. " THE LODGE OF RECONCILIA- TION " was then constituted; the Royal Grand Masters, respectively, having nominated the following Brethren to form the same :
Old Institutions.
R. F. Mestayer, of the Lodge No. 1.
Thomas Harper, Jun. - - 1.
J. H. Golds worthy . - 2.
W. Fox .... 4.
J.Ronalds ... - 16.
William Oliver 77.
302 ILLUSTRATIONS
Michael Corcoran - - - 194. R. Bayley .... 240. James M'Cann - - - 244. And Brother Edwards Harper, Secretary thereof.
Constitution of England.
Rev. Samuel Hemming, D.D., of the Lodge No. 384, R. W. M.
-William Meyrick, P. M. - - 1, S. W.
William Shadbolt, G. Stewards' Lodge - J. W.
Stephen Jones, P. M. 1.
Laurence Thomson 54.
Joseph Jones - . - - - 66.
Jacob Henry Sarratt - - - 118.
Thomas Bell 180.
J. Joyce - 453.
And Brother William Henry White, Secretary thereof. Their Royal Highnesses the Grand Masters then signed the Arti- cles of Union, and each affixed the Great Seal thereto in Grand Lodge ; and the same was countersigned by the Grand Secretary of each of the two Grand Lodges respectively.
GRAND ASSEMBLY OF FREEMASONS, FOR T^E UNION OF THE Two GRAND LODGES OF ENGLAND.
On St. John's Day, 27th December. 1813.
The important event of the Re-union of Ancient Freemasons of England, after a long separation, took place, with great solemnity, this day.
The following order of proceedings, which had been previously settled, was strictly observed :
Freemasons' Hall having been fitted up agreeably to a plan and drawing for the occasion, and the whole house tiled from the outer porch ; the platform on the East was reserved for the Grand Masters, Grand Officers, and Visitors.
The Masters, Wardens, and Past Masters of the several Lodges, who had been previously re-obligated and certified by the LODGE or RECONCILIATION, and provided with tickets, signed and counter- signed by the two Secretaries thereof, were arranged on the two sides in the following manner ; that is to say : The Masters were placed in the front. The Wardens on benches behind. The Past Masters on rising benches behind them. And the Lodges were ranked so that the two Fraternities were completely intermixed.
The Masters. Wardens, and Past Masters, all dressed in black, (regimentals excepted.) with their respective insignia, and in white aprons and gloves, took their places by eleven o'clock in the forenoon.
The Grand Masters. Past Grand Masters, Deputy Grand Masters, Grand Officers, and distinguished Visitors of the two Fraternities, assembled in two adjoining rooms, in which they opened two Grand Lodges, each according to its peculiar solemnities, and the Grand Procession moved towards the Hall of Assembly, in the following order:
Grand Usher w?rh his Staff. Grand Usher with his Staff.
The Duke of Kent'n Band of Music, 15 in number, nil Masons, three and three.
OF MASONRY. 303
Two Grand Stewards. Two Grand Stewards.
A cornucopia, borne by a Master Mason A Cornucopia borne by a Master Mason
Two Grand Stewards. Two Grand Stewards.
Two Golden Ewers, by two Master Two Golden Ewers, by two Master
Masons. Musons.
The nine worthy and expert Masons, The nine worthy and expert Masons,
forming forming
The Lodge of Reconciliation, The Lodge of Reconciliation,
In single file, rank opposite to rank, with In single file, rank opposite to rank, with
The Emblems of Masonry. The Emblems of Masonry.
The Grand Secretary bearing the Book The Grand Secretary, bearing the Book
of Constitutions, and Great Seal. of Constitutions, and Great Seal.
The Grand Treasurer, with the Golden The Grand Treasurer with tue Golden
Key. Key.
The Corinthian Light. The Corinthian Light.
The Pillar of the Junior Grand Warden The Pillar of the Junior Grand Warden
on a Pedestal. on a Pedestal.
The Junior Grand Warden, with his The Junior Grand Warden, with his
Gavel. Gavel.
The Deputy Grand Chaplain, with the
Holy Bible.
The Grand Chaplain. The Grand Chaplain with the Holy Bible
Past Grand Wardens. Past Grand Wardens.
Provincial Grand Masters with their
Gavels.
The Doric Light. The Doric Light.
The Pillar of the Senior Grand Warden The Pillar of the Senior Grand Warden
on a Pedestal. on a Pedestal.
The Senior Grand Warden with his The Senior Grand Warden, with his
Gavel. Gavel.
Two Past Deputy Grand Masters.
The Deputy Grand Master. The Acting Deputy Grand Master.
His Excellency the Count de Lagardje, the Swedish Ambassador, Grand Master of the first Lodge of the North, Visitor.
The Royal Banner.
The Ionic Light. The Ionic Light.
The Grand Sword Bearer. The Grand Sword Bearer.
THE THE
GRAND MASTER OF ENGLAND, GRAND MASTER OF ENGLAND,
His R. H. the DUKE of KENT, His R. H. the DUKE of. SUSSEX,
with the Act of Union, in duplicate. with the Act of Union, in duplicate.
Two Grand Stewards. Two Grand Stewards.
Grand Tyler. Grand Tyler.
On entering the Hall, the Procession advanced to the Throne, and opened and faced each other, the music playing a march composed for the occasion.
The two Grand Masters then proceeded up the centre, followed by the Grand Master Visitor, the Deputy Grand Master, &c.. all in the order reversed ; those the most advanced returning in single file, to turn, re-advance, and take their places. The musicians ranging them- selves in the gallery over the Throne. The Brothers bearing the Cor- nucopias. Vases. &c., placing themselves in the seats assigned them.
The two Grand Masters seated themselves, in tw,o equal chairs, on each side of the Throne.
The Visiting Grand Master, and other Visitors of Distinction, were seated on each side.
The other Grand Officers and Visitors all according to degree.
The Director of the Ceremonies, Sir George Nayler. having pro- claimed silence, the Rev. Dr. Barry, Grand Chaplain to the Fraternity under the Duke of Kent, commenced the important business of the Assembly with holy prayer, in a most solemn manner.
304 ILLUSTRATIONS
The Act of Union was then read by the Director of the Ceremonies
The Rev. Dr. Coghlan, Grand Chaplain to the Fraternity under the Duke of Sussex, proclaimed aloud, after sound of trumpet — ;; Hear ye : This is the Act of Union, engrossed, in confirmation of Articles solemnly concluded between the two Grand Lodges of Free ami Accepted Masons of England, signed, sealed, and ratified, by the t\vo Grand Lodges respectively ; by which they are to be hereafter, and for ever known and acknowledged by the style and title of Sbe fcluUetj (Sranti UoUjjc of £Kncfcnt freemasons of Hnglantt. How say you. Brothers, Representatives of the two Fraternities? Do you accept of, ratify, and confirm the same ? To which the Assembly answered, " We do accept, ratify, and confirm the same." The Grand Chaplain then said, ''And may the Great Architect of the Universe make the Union perpetual !" To which all the Assembly replied, " So mote it be." The two Grand Masters and six Commis- sioners signed the Instruments, and the two Grand Masters then affixed the Great Seals of their respective Grand Lodges to the same.
The Rev. Dr. Barry, after sound of trumpet, then proclaimed — "Be it known to all men, That the Act of Union between the two Grand Lodges of Free and Accepted Masons of England is solemnly signed, sealed, ratified, and confirmed, and' the two Fraternities are one, to bo from henceforth known and acknowledged by the style and title of &|)e Shift ctt ffiranti ILofcge of Slnn'nU freemasons of EnfllanO; and may the Great Architect of the Universe make their Union perpetual !" And the Assembly said, " Amen." Brother Wesley, who was at the organ, performed a symphony.
The two Grand Masters, with their respective Deputies and Wardens, then advanced to the Ark of the Masonic Covenant, prepared under the direction of the W. Brother John Soane, R. A. Grand Superin- tendent of the Works, for the Edifice of the Union, and in all time to come to be placed before the Throne.
The Grand Masters standing in the East, with their Deputies on the right and left; the Grand Wardens in the West and South; the square, the plumb, the level, and the mallet, were successively deliv- ered to the Deputy Grand Masters, and by them presented to the two Grand Masters, who severally applied the square to that part of the said Ark which is square, the plumb to the sides of the same, and the level above it in three positions ; and, lastly, they gave it three knocks with the mallet; saying, '; May the Great Architect of the Universe enable us to uphold the Grand Edifice of Union, of which this Ark of the Covenant is the symbol, which shall contain within it the instruments of our brotherly love, and bear upon it the Holy Bible, square, and compass, as the light of our faith, and the rule of our works. May He dispose our hear tsto make it perpetual !" And the brethren said, t; So mote it be."
The two Grand Masters placed the said Act of .Union in the inte- rior of the said Ark.
The cornucopia, the wine, and oil, were in like manner presented to the Grand Masters, who, according to ancient rite, poured forth corn, wine, and oil, on the said Ark, saying — '%Aswe pour- forth corn, wine, and oil, on this Ark of the Masonic Covenant, may the bountiful hand of 'Heaven ever supply this United Kingdom with abundance of corn, wine, and oil, with all the necessaries and comforts of life ; and may He dispose our hearts to be grateful for all his gifts !" And the
OP MASONRY. 305
Assembly said, "AMEN." The Grand Officers then resunc.ed their places.
A letter was read from the R. W. Brother Lawrie, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, transmitting Resolutions of that Grand Lodge, in answer to the letter of the M. W. the Grand Masters of the two Grand Lodges, announcing to them the happy event of the Union, and requesting them to appoint a deputation, agreeably to Art. IV. of the Act of Union. And it was ordered that these Resolu- tions be inserted on the minutes of this day.
A letter was also read from the W. Brother W. F. Graham, Deputy Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, transmitting Reso- lutions of that Grand Lodge, in answer to a similar communication from their Royal Highnesses the two Grand Masters of the respective Fraternities in England. It was ordered that these resolutions be entered on the minutes of this day.
In consequence of its having been found impracticable, from the shortness of the notice, for the Sister Grand Lodges to send deputa- tions to this Assembly, according to the urgent request of the two Fraternities, conferences had been held with all the most distinguished Grand Officers and enlightened Masons resident in and near London, in order to establish perfect agreement upon all the essential points of Masonry, according to the ancient traditions and general practice of the Craft. The Members of the Lodge of Reconciliation, accompanied by the Most Worshipful his Excellency Count de Lagardje, Grand Master of the First Lodge of Freemasons in the North, the Most Wor- shipful Dr. Van Hess, of the Grand Lodge of Hamburgh, and other distinguished Masons, withdrew to an adjoining apartment, where, being congregated and tiled, the result of all the previous conferences was made known.
The Members of the Lodge of Reconciliation, and the distinguished Visitors, on their return, proceeded slowly up the centre in double file; and as they approached the two Grand Masters they opened, and the Grand Visitors advanced ; when his Excellency the Grand Master of the First Lodge of the North audibly pronounced that the forms settled -and agreed on by the Lodge of Reconciliation were pure and correct. This being declared, the same was recognized as the forms to be alone observed and practised in the United Grand Lodge, and all the Lodges dependant thereon, until time shall be no more.
The Jfyol£ iJfble, spread open, with the square and compasses there- on,, was laid on the Ark of the Covenant, and the two Grand Chap- lains approached the same. The recognized obligation was then pro- nounced aloud by the Rev. Dr. Hemming, one of the Masters of the Lodge of Reconciliation ; the whole Fraternity repeating the same, with joined hands, and declaring, " By this solemn obligation we vow to abide, and the Regulations of Ancient Freemasonry now recognized strictly to observe." •
The Assembly then proceeded to constitute one Grand Lodge ; in order to which, the Grand Masters, Deputy Grand Masters, Grand Wardens, and other acting Grand Officers of both Fraternities, divested themselves of their insignia, and Past Grand Officers took the chairs ; viz., the R. W. Past Deputy Grand Master Perry in the chair, as Deputy Grand Master ; the R. W. Robert Gill, as Senior Grand Warden; and the R. W. James Deans, as Junior Grand Warden.
306 ILLUSTRATIONS
His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent then, iii an eloquent address, stated that the great view with which he had taken upon himself the important office of Grand Master of the Ancient Fraternity, as de- clared at the time, was to facilitate the important object of the Union which had been that day so happily concluded. And now it was his intention to propose his illustrious and dear relative to be the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge; for which high office he was in every respect so eminently qualified. He therefore proposed his Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex to be Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of England for the year ensuing. This was seconded by the R. W. the Hon. Washington Shirley ; and being put to the vote, was unanimously carried in the affirmative, with masonic honours.
His Royal Highness was placed on the Throne by the Duke of Kent and the Count Lagardje, and solemnly obligated. The Gryid Installation was fixed for St. George's Day.
Proclamation was then made, that the most Worshipful Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, Earl of Inverness, Baron Arklow, Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, was elected and enthroned Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons of England. And his Royal Highness received the homage of the Fraternity.
H. R. H. the Grand Master then nominated the Grand Officers for the year ensuing ; and, as it will be interesting to all our masonic readers to know who were the first officers under the Union, we shall here insert their names :
Brother the Rev. Samuel Hemming, D.D., Senior Grand Warden. Isaac Lindo, Esq ...... Junior Grand Warden.
John Dent, Esq ....... Grand Treasurer.
William Meyrick, Esq. . . . Grand Registrar.
William Heury White . . . £ Grand Secretaries. Edwards Harper ...... $
Rev. Edward Barry? D.D. . ) ^ j r«v. i •
T • n ui i T\ T-k f Grand Chaplains.
Rev. Lucias Coghlan, D.D. . . £
Rev. Henry Isaac Knapp . . Deputy Grand Chaplain.
John Soane, Esq. . ....
Sir George N.yler ..... j G^±T r °f «"
Captain Jonathan Parker . . . Grand Sword Bearer.
Samuel Wesley, Esq ..... Grand Organist.
Benjamin Aldhouse ..... Grand Usher.
William V. Salmon ..... Grand Tyler.
It was then solemnly proclaimed, that the two Grand Lodges were incorporated and consolidated into one, and the Grand Master de- clared it to be open in due form according to ancient usage.
The Grand Lodge was then called to refreshment ; and the cup of Brotherly Love was delivered by the Junior Grand Warden to the Past Deputy Grand Master, who presented the same to the Grand Master; he drank to the Brethren — "PeaTce, good will, and brotherly love, all over the world;" — and he passed it. During its going round the vocal band performed a song and glee.
OF MASONRY. 307
The Grand Lodge was re- called to labour; when, as the first act of the United Fraternity, his Royal Highness the Duke of Kent, after an elegant introduction, moved — "That an humble Address be pre- sented to his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, respectfully to ac- quaint him with the happy event of the Re- union of the two Grand Lodges of Ancient Freemasons of England — an event which cannot fail to afford lively satisfaction to their illustrious Patron, who presided for so many years over one of the Fraternities, and under whose auspices Freemasonry has risen to its present flourishing con- dition. That the unchangeable principles of the Institution are well known to his Royal Highness, and the great benefits and end of this Re-union are to promote the influence and operation of these princi- ples, by more extensively inculcating loyalty and affection to their Sovereign — obedience to the laws and magistrates of their country — and the practice of all the religious and moral duties of life — objects which must ever be dear to his Royal Highness in the Government of his Majesty's United Kingdom. That they humbly hope and pray for the continuance of the sanction of his Royal Highness's fraternal patronage ; and that they beg leave to express their fervent gratitude for the many blessings which, in common with all their fellow-sub- jects, they derive from his benignant sway. That the Great Archi- tect of the Universe may long secure these blessings to them and to their country, by the preservation of his Royal Highness, their illus- trious Patron!" This motion was seconded by the Honourable Washington Shirley, and passed unanimously, and with masonic honours.
This was followed by a motion, — " That the grateful thanks of this United Lodge be given to the Most Worshipful their Royal High- nesses the Duke of Kent and Duke of Sussex, for the gracious con- descension with which they yielded to the prayer of the united Fra- ternities to take upon themselves the personal conduct of the negotia- tion for a Re-union, which is this day, through their zeal, concilia- tion, and fraternal example, so happily completed. To state to them that the removal of all the slight differences which have so long kept the brotherhood asunder, will be the means of establishing in the Metropolis of the British Empire one splendid edifice of Ancient Freemasonry, to which the whole masonic World may confidently look for the maintenance and preservation of the pure principles of the Craft, as handed down to them from time immemorial under the protection of the illustrious branches of the Royal House of Bruns- wick ; and may their Royal Highnesses have the heartfelt satisfaction of long beholding the beneficent effects of their work, in the extension and practice of the virtues of loyalty, morality, brotherly love, and benevolence, which it has been ever the great object of Masonry to inculcate, and of its laws to enforce." This was also unanimously approved ; and was followed by a motion of thanks to the six Com- missioners appointed by the two Fraternities to assist the illustrious Princes in the said negotiation — for the zeal, conciliation, and ability, with which they discharged their important trust therein.
The following Resolutions were also severally put, and carried in the affirmative unanimously.
That Books be opened by the Grand Secretaries for the regular entry and record of the proceedings of this United Grand Lodge ;
808 ILLUSTRATIONS
•
and that there be inserted therein, in the first instance, an account of all the Resolutions and Proceedings of both Grand Lodges with re- spect to the negotiation for the Union, and of the conferences of the Commissioners thereon ; together with a copy of the Articles of Union, and the confirmation thereof ; also copies of the letters written by their Royal Highnesses the two Grand Masters, and Grand Secre- taries, addressed to the Most Worshipful the Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries of Scotland and Ireland, announcing the same, together with the Resolutions of the Grand Lodges in reply.
That the proceedings of this day be communicated to the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland, and to express to them that this United Grand Lodge feels, with the most sensible satisfaction, the fraternal interest which they take in the important event of this day. To assure them that it is the anxious desire of this Grand Lodge to maintain the most constant, cordial, and intimate communion with the sister Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom ; to which end they are persuaded that nothing is so essential as the preservation of one pure and unsullied system, founded on the simple and ancient traditions of the Craft.
Several other Resolutions were also passed relative to the internal management of the Fraternity ; after which the United Grand Lodge was closed in ample form, and with solemn prayer.
OF MASONRY.
309
o/" Freemasons' Hall, on the occasion of the Grand Assembly of Masons, for the Union of the Two Grand Lodges of England, Dec. 27, 1813.
Vocal Band. Vocal Band.
"So
"JQ H3
Past Gr. Officers. Past Gr. Officers. &
Iff
x Mcmbei nd Stewai
Past Gr. Officers
§§§
5 § ^ £
Past Gr. Officers.
*>?
II
Oj a
^o
Past Gr. Officers. 1 § ^ § 1 Past Gr. Officers.
K- o
— i. *-+S

Grand Officers. § § Grand Officers. § §
Gr. Officers and
Gr. Officers and
Illustrious Visitors. Illustrious Visitors.
i S
sn
00
M
s
-
be
hD
'•£ &*
S
P
.
r^
r^
S *
1
g-
^
^
g
g
fl
3
^
2
S
?
R
'g
^
t«H
*n
M
o Nk
s.
cL
^
k
f?
2
OQ
^
p
JH
§
03
§
0)
J
^
*i
I1
cL
3
^
1
s, r
Jc?
05
1
t
^ s-
—
HH
IB
•
Masters
l
^ £ « M i- S?
88% ^Q| *|« 111
1
3
1
P*
1
B
S
n1
1
"
n1
2 £n3 - p eu|
HH§ - g
!
1
9
;
^
s
?c
^D
E
M
02
8
eS
Wardens.
•f
1
^
3 **
pUTUf)
joiuag
1
O3
0 >-+5
F
O
3 2,
Wardens.
Wardens.
9
s
cr^
cr?
-"
s
.
00
310 ILLUSTRATIONS
SECT. XVII.
History of Masonry from 1813 to 1820.
MASONRY is, in itself, of so retiring and unobtrusive a nature, that, except in the case of processions, &c., it rarely comes in contact with the public. We have, however, to record, that in January, 18J5, it came under the cognizance of the law, in an action tried in the Palace Court, Westminster, wherein Thomas Smith was plaintiff, and William Finch defendant.
The plaintiff was a copper-plate printer ; and the action was brought to recover 4/. 2s., being the amount of work done for the defendant. A plea was set up by Finch, stating, that the plaintiff was indebted to him 161. 19s. 6d. for making him a Mason, and giving him instructions in the various degrees in his Independent Lodge, at his own house near Westminster-bridge. It was proved by the evidence of the Rev. Dr. Hemming, Past Senior Grand Warden, as well as of Mr. White and Mr. Harper, Joint Secretaries to the Grand Lodge, that the defendant was not authorized to make Masons ; on the contrary, that his whole system was an imposition on the parties who were so deceived by him ; and that no man had a right to make Masons for private emolu- ment. The trial occupied a considerable portion of time ; and, after an excellent charge from the judge, stating, that from the whole evidence it appeared that Finch's conduct was altogether unjustifiable ; that he could neither make Masons nor procure them admission to any Lodge, and that he was totally disavowed by the Fraternity, the jury, without hesitation, gave a verdict against Finch, to the full amount of the printer's demand.
In the year 1816, Freemasonry was revived in Russia, under the protection of his Imperial Majesty the Emperor; and the Grand Lodge of Astrea, at St.- Petersburg!!, for- warded a communication to the Grand Lodge of England, inviting that august body to hold a regular correspondence with it ; and also a reciprocal admission of Brethren of the two countries who should bear proper certificates or diplomas. The letter was ordered to be recorded in the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, and his Royal Highness
OF MASONRY. 311
the M. W. Grand Master was solicited to reply to the communication, and to express the great satisfaction the Grand Lodge felt at the revival*bf Freemasonry in Russia, and the cheerfulness with which it embraced the proposals of the Grand Lodge of Astrea.
On the 24th of September, 1819, a Grand Masonic Festival took place at Bath ; being the DEDICATION of the BATH MASONIC HALL, with all the splendid ceremonials which characterize the public processions of our ancient and honourable Fraternity.
His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, Grand Master of the Order, having graciously signified his intention of honouring the ceremony with his august presence, the meeting assumed the higher title of an Assembly of the SUPREME GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND, instead of that of a Provincial Grand Lodge.
Theprocession moved from the Guildhall, to the number of between 800 and 900 Brethren, decorated with their different orders, emblems, ensigns, and ornaments, many of them of the most elegant and costly description. The Royal Grand Master joined the procession at York House, and walked uncovered to the Masonic Hall, returning most graciously the salutations of the immense throngs, consisting of nearly the whole population of the city and surrounding country ; who, delighted with the interesting appearance of the sacred Craft, gave way for them to pass unobstructed, and otherwise conducted themselves in the most orderly and admirable manner. In the procession, the appearance of a venerable Brother, with four of his sons, formed a principal feature in one of the Lodges, and was pointed out as a truly interesting sight.
The Ceremony was honoured with the presence of
His Royal Highness AUGUSTUS FREDERICK
DUKE OF SUSSEX, K.G. and M.W.G.M. of ENGLAND.
His Grace the DUKE of LEINSTER, K.P. and M.W.G.M. of IRELAND.
The Hon. WASHINGTON SHIRLEY, R.W.P.G.M. for WARWICKSHIRE.
Sir CHARLES WARWICK BAMPFYLDE, Bart,, R.W.P.G.M. for
DEVONSHIRE.
Sir WM. C. DE CRESPIGNY, Bart., M.P. and R.W.P.G.M. for HAMPSHIRE.
•
312 ILLUSTRATIONS
WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Esq., M.P. and R.W.P.G.M. for DORSETSHIRE.
W. H. GOLDWYER, Esq., R.W.P.G.M. for BRISTOL.
And many of the M.W. Officers of the GRAND LODGE of ENGLAND, with the OFFICERS of the several PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGES of GLOUCESTERSHIRE, DEVONSHIRE, BRISTOL, SOMERSET, DORSET, HANTS, and WARWICKSHIRE.
Tht following were the Lodges that attended : — Grand Lodge of England. Somerset Provincial Grand Lodge. Devon ditto
Gloucester ditto Bristol ditto
Dorset ditto
Hants ditto
Warwick ditto BATH Royal Cumberland Lodge.
Royal York Lodge of Perfect Friendship.
Lodge of Virtue.
Royal Sussex Lodge.
BRISTOL Moira.
Beaufort.
Jerusalem.
Royal Lodge of York Union.
Royal Sussex Lodge of Hospitality.
Mariners.
Also the respective Lodges of
NEWBURY.
POOLE.
WEYMOUTH.
SHAFTESBURY.
BLANDFORD.
SHEPTON.
BRIDGEWATER.
ClRENCESTER.
SALISBURY. BRADFORD. HINDON.
SWINDON.
The Officers and Brethren of the several Lodges assem- bled in the Great Banqueting Room of the Guildhall, at an early hour in the morning, and, at eleven o'clock, the Grand Lodge was opened in ample form. The procession moved up High-Street, through Broad-Street, York- Buildings, Milsom-Street, Burton-Street, Union-Street, Stall-Street, and York -Street, to the Hall, in the following order :
The Grand Tyler. A BAND OF MUSIC.
Brethren, not members of any Lodge, two and two.
The above enumerated Lodges, according to their numbers, the
Juniors walking first.
A BAND OF MUSIC.
OF MASONRY. 313
Members of the Provincial Grand Lodge of the County of Somerset,
viz.
Provincial Grand Tyler.
Provincial Grand Organist.
Provincial Grand Sword-Bearer.
Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works.
Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies.
Provincial Grand Deacons.
Provincial Grand Secretary.
Provincial Grand Registrar, bearing the Seal of the
Provincial Grand Lodge.
Provincial Grand Treasurer.
Provincial Grand Chaplain.
Provincial Junior Grand Warden.
Provincial Senior Grand Warden.
A BAND OF MUSIC.
A Steward. 5 Baimer °f ^ jj[^dGrimd ^^ \ A Steward-
Officers of the Grand Lodge of England.
The Grand Usher with his staff.
Two Grand Stewards.
Grand Organist.
Grand Superintendent of Works. Grand Director of Ceremonies.
Grand Deacons.
The Grand Secretary bearing the Book of Constitutions.
The Grand Registrar, bearing the Great Seal.
The Grand Treasurer.
The Grand Chaplain.
Provincial Grand Masters, each preceded by his Banner.
Deputy Provincial114 Grand Master for Somerset.
The pillar of the Junior Grand Warden.
The Junior Grand Warden. The pillar of the Senior Grand Warden.116
The Senior Grand Warden.
The Right Worshipful the Deputy Grand Master. Visitor. His Grace the Duke of } LEINSTER, Grand Master of V A Steward.
A Steward.
Ireland, preceded by his Banner. The Banner of H. R. H. the Duke
A Steward. Q£ Sugsex> Grand Master.
Grand Sword- Bearer.
[I14 Vice the P. G. M., absent, through indisposition.] 115 In consequence of an irregularity on the part of one of the Lodges attending this meeting, it may be useful for the masonic world to know, that the M. W. Grand Master has given directions, that in all future processions, whether of the United Grand Lodge, or of a Provincial one, the Wardens of the subordinate Lodges cannot bo permitted to carry their columns.
15
314 ILLUSTRATIONS
Two Stewards
C The Most Worshipful Grand }
.
( The DUKE OF SUSSEX. > Two Grand Stewards.
Two Stewards. 5 The ^^^"prt^" **' ^ I Two Stewards'
Grand Stewards.
Grand Tyler.
When the head of the procession arrived at the Hall, the Brethren divided to the right and left, for the Most Worshipful Grand Master, his Officers, the Provincial Grand Masters, &c., to pass up the centre, preceded by their banners. None but Masters, Past Masters, Wardens, and the several Provincial Grand Lodges, were present at the DELEGATION, which ceremony was performed by the Royal Grand Master with most impressive effect ; in the course of which were introduced occasional strains of instrumental music, and the duet of "Here shall Soft Charity" by Brothers Harrington and Rolle. The members then returned in due order to the Guildhall, where they met their other Brethren, and immediately afterwards the Royal Grand Master entered the large room, where the Lodge had been opened.
His Royal Highness then addressed the Brethren in an oration replete with the most affectionate sentiments, and, in the true spirit of Masonry, identifying himself with those by whom he was surrounded. He expressed the very great satisfaction he enjoyed at the kind manner in which he had been received, and said he had journeyed from town actuated by the same fraternal feelings. His Royal Highness proceeded to enlarge upon several points connected with the Sacred Order, which it would be improper to publish. He felt the highest •ratification in observing that the spirit and principles of Masonry were daily extending themselves. It was an Institution, the rules of which, if duly followed, could not fail to make its Brethren valuable members of society. Some years ago, when all other secret societies were looked upon by the legislature of the country with a jealous eye, the government had expressed itself satisfied of the honest intentions of the members of this Institution : a protection and approbation for which the Craft were in a great measure indebted to the exertions of their patron,
OF MASONRY. 315
his Royal Highness the Prince Regent, and their most Noble Brother the Marquis of Hastings, now Governor- General of India. His Royal Highness concluded his address amidst the most enthusiastic marks of approbation from the assembled Brethren ; indeed, the fraternal spirit which breathed throughout the whole of his Royal Highnesses speech excited feelings in the auditors which it would be impossible for us adequately to describe.
The officers of the several Provincial Grand Lodges were then individually presented to his Royal Highness, and were delighted with the condescending and fraternal manner in which they were received ; after which the Lodge was closed in due form, and the Brethren adjourned.
About six o'clock the Brethren, amounting to between four and five hundred in number, sat down to a most elegant dinner, at the Kingston Rooms. His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex presided, supported on his left by his Grace the Duke of Leinster, the table at which he sat being elevated above the others. The several Provincial Grand Officers had the privilege of being admitted to the table of the M. W. G. Master. At inter- vals, during dinner, his Royal Highness, in the most condescending manner, invited the Brothers at each table separately, to take a cup of good fellowship with him. On the removal of the cloth, his Royal Highness gave a variety of masonic and other toasts, introducing each in the happiest way ; the first being : — " The King, God bless him;" after which the national anthem, God save the King, was sung, the whole of the company standing and joining in chorus with heart and voice. Between each toast the party were much delighted with some most beautiful glees sung by the professional Brethren present with infinite taste and science.
About ten o'clock the Duke of Sussex took his leave of the company, amid peals of applause, the heart of each Brother present overflowing with zeal, gratitude, and affection, elicited by the remarkable amenity of his manners and the attention he had shown to every Mason present. The Duke of Leinster then took the chair for a short time, when the health of his Royal Highness was ugain drunk with the utmost enthusiasm.
The fraternal band did not break up till a late hour.
316 ILLUSTRATIONS
The next day (his Royal Highness having first received the Sheriffs of Bristol, deputed, we believe, to invite his Royal Highness to that city) the Royal Duke arrived at the Guildhall, where he was received by the Mayor, and the greater part of the Body Corporate, in their ,civic robes. Being ushered into the Banqueting Room, G. H. Tugwell, Esq., (the Mayor) addressed the Royal Visitor in nearly the following words : —
" I have the honour to present to your Royal Highness the FREE- DOM OF THE ANC'iisNT AND LOYAL CITY OF BATH, which has been unanimously voted to your Royal Highness, by the Mayor, Aldermen, mid Common Council, in Common Hall assembled ; and which we humbly beg your Royal Highness will be graciously pleased to accept, as a proof of our most profound respect for your Royal person, and of our firm attachment to your illustrious house."
The Freedom was delivered to his Royal Highness in a gold box, of exquisite workmanship, on the inside of which the Bath Arms were admirably engraved — the outside was beautifully chased in coloured gold; the border displaying the rose, thistle, and shamrock.
His Royal Highness then addressed the Corporation in a manner at once eloquent, affable, and dignified ; the substance of which is embodied in the following brief sketch : —
"Mr. MAYOR, ALDERMEN, and GENTLEMEN of the COMMON COUNCIL:—
"Believe me, that I truly appreciate the honour you confer on me in thus enrolling my name among the Freemen of this ancient and loyal city. I feel it peculiarly so, as the names of several of my family appear on the same list ; and as I have always heard of the distinguished attention paid in this City to Members of the Royal Family who have occasionally visited it. I regard this mark of esteem as an additional link in that chain of affection which I am proud tc see exists between his Majesty's subjects and our afflicted Monarch; as every tribute of regard to any individual Branch of the Royal Family must be considered as a loyal testimony of veneration to the best of men, now labouring under afflictions which we all poignantly deplore. I have lately visited several parts of this kingdom, and am highly gratified in observing increasing attachment to the existing government. It will be recollected that our gracious Monarch, in his first speech after he ascended the throne, said : — 4 Bora and educated in this country, I glory in the name of Briton ;' — and with the like proud feelings, I boast of belonging to a people so firmly devoted to the enviable Constitution of this United Kingdom."
The Mayor then presented the Members of the Corpo- ration individually to his Royal Highness; to each of
OF MASONRY. 317
whom he spoke with the utmost politeness, attention, and affability.
His Royal Highness accepted the invitation of the Corporation to dinner at the Hall on the following day.
The next masonic ceremony, of any particular distinc- tion, took place in Scotlan 1. It was the laying of the foundation-stone of a monument to the memory of Burns, the Ayrshire poet, at Alloway Kirk, in Ayrshire, on the 25th of January, 1820 ; being the anniversary of his natal day.
The several neighbouring Lodges assembled, agreeably to intimation, on the Race-ground, about 11 o'clock, in separate detachments, bearing their various insignia, and accompanied with bands of music. After having been arranged in due order, viz. : —
Mother Kilwinning116 .... No.—
Maybole - 10
Kilmarnock St. John's - 24
Newmills - - - - - Glasgow Patrick Kilwinning Monkton Navigation - Ayr Kilwinning Newton Ayr St. James's - Kilmarnock St. Andrew's - Stewarton Thistle - Tarbolton St. David's Tarbolton St. James's Irvine St. Andrew's - Ayr Royal Arch
46 64 41 123 124 125 126 131 133 147 163
Stevenston Thistle and Rose - - - - 167
Maybole Royal Arch - - - - - 197
Muirkirk St. Thomas's ... - - 200
Riccarton St. Clement's 201
Ayr arid Renfrew St. Paul's - - - - 203
Ayr Newton St. Andrew's ----- 209
Fen wick Moira - - - - - - 221
Old Cumnock St. Barnabas' - - - - 230
Mauchline St. Mungo's 240
Kilmarnock St. James's - - - - - 270
116 A communication from my friend James Dobie, Esq., of Beith, in Scotland, contains the following remarks on the origin and progress of Freemasonry in that part of the island. " It is generally admitted that Masonry was first established at Kilwinning, where a stately monastery was founded A. D. 1140. I find in the notes to a poem published at Paris in 1820, entitled, « La Maconnerie,' that 'Jacques,
318 ILLUSTRAl ION'S
they walked in procession to the site of the Monument; mid there, having formed themselves into an extensive circle, the most Worshipful Depute Grand Master, Alex- ander Boswell, of Aucliinleck, Esq., proceeded to lay the foundation-stone, and also deposited a plate, bearing the following inscription : —
BY THE FAVOR OP ALMIGHTY GOD,
On the Twenty-fifth day of January, A.D. M.DCCCXX.
Of the JEra of Masonry 5820, And in the Sixtieth Year of the Reign of our beloved
Sovereign George the Third, His Royal Highness George Prince of Wales being
Regent of the United Kingdom, And a munificent Subscriber to the Edifice,
The Foundation Stone of this Monument,
Erected by public Subscription in honour of the Genius of
ROBERT BURNS,
THE AYRSHIRE POET,
was laid
By Alexander Boswell, Esq., of Auchinleck, M.P. Worshipful Depute Grand Master of the Most Ancient
Mother Lodge Kilwinning, (Attended by all the Mason Lodges in Ayrshire)
According to the ancient usages of Masonry,
THOMAS HAMILTON, junior. Edinburgh, Architect,
JOHN CONNEL, junior, Builder and Contractor.
Lord Stewart, rec.ut dans sa loge k Kilwin en Ecosse, en 1286, les comtes de Glocester et Ulster, 1'un Anglois, 1'autre Irlandois.' This was the year in which Alexander III. died ; and, if the authority be correct, it shows that the Stewart family were distinguished in Scot- land before they came to the Crown. James I. patronized Kilwin- ning Lodge, and presided as Grand Master until he got one chosen by the brethren, and approved of by him. To this officer an annual salary was paid by all the Lodges in the kingdom, and he had depu- ties in the different counties.^ In the reign of James II. the office was made hereditary in the noble family of St. Clair of Rosslyn, where it continued until 1736, when William St. Clair of Rosslyn, Esq., resigned in favour of the Brethren, and with the view of instituting the Grand Lodge of Scotland. The Mother Lodge of Kilwinniug, long after the institution of the Grand Lodge, continued to act inde- pendently, and to grunt charters to other Lodges as formerly. This gave rise to disputes, which it was desirable for the credit of the Fraternity to avoid ; and at length, in 1807, Mother Kilwinning agreed to hold of the Grand Lodge, thereby renouncing all right to grant chatters in future. Kilwinning was placed at the head of the Roll of the Grand Lodge under the denomination of ' Mother Kihviuning,' and its Master for the time being was declared the Provincial Grand Master over the Ayrshire district. Other minor regulations were adopted, and these put an end to all disputes about masonic prece- dency."— EDITOR.
OF MASONRY. 319
After which, the most Worshipful Depute Grand Mas- ter exhibited the corn and the wine, &c., in true masonic style, and delivered the following address : —
BRETHREN : — May corn, wine, and oil abound ; may all that is useful and ornamental be cultivated amongst us ; and may all that can invigorate the body or elevate the soul shed their blest influence on our native land.
We have at length assembled to pay a grateful, although a tardy, tribute to the genius of Robert Burns, our Ayrshire Poet, and the Bard of Coila. There surely lives not the man so dull, so flinty, or phlegmatic, who could witness this event without emotion. But to those whose heart-strings have thrilled responsive to the chords of the Poet's lyre — whose bosoms have swelled, like his, with love and friendship, with tenderness and sympathy, have glowed with patriot- ism, or panted for glory — this" hour must be an hour of exultation. Whether we consider the time, the place, or the circumstances, there is enough to interest in each ; but these combined, and at once in operation on our feelings and our fancies — his muse, alas ! is mute, who could alone have dared to paint the proud breathings of such an assembly at such a moment.
When we consider the time, we cannot forget that this day is the anniversary of that which gave our Poet to the light of Heaven. Bleak is the prospect around us ; the wood, the hawthorn, and " the birken-shaw," are leafless ; not a thrush has yet essayed to clear the furrowed brow of winter ; but this we know shall pass away, give place, and be succeeded by the buds of spring and the blossoms of summer. Chill and cheerless was «_nr Poet's natal day ; but soon the wild flow- ers of poesy sprung as it were beneath his boyish tread ; they opened as he advanced, expanded as he matured, until he revelled in all the richness of luxuriance. Poverty and disappointment hung frowning around him, and haunted his path ; but, soothed and charmed by the fitful visits of his native muse, arid crowned, as in a vision, with tLo holy wreath, he wantoned in a fairy land, the bright creation of his own vivid and enwrapt imagination. His musings have been our delight. Men of the loftiest talents, and of taste the most refined, have praised them ; — men of strong and sterling, but untutored intellect, have admired them : — the poet of the heart is the poet of mankind.
When we consider the place, let us remember that these very scenes which we now look upon awakened in his youthful breast that anima- ting spark which burst upon the world in a blaze of inspiration. In yonder cottage he first drew breath : in that depository of the lowly dead sleeps the once humble, now immortal, model of the cottage life — there rests his pious father — and there it was his fond and anxious wish that his dust should have been mingled with the beloved and kindred ashes. Below us flows the Doon, the classic Doon, but made classic by his harmony ; there, gliding through the woods, and laving his banks and braes, he rolls his clear and " far-fetch'd waters " to the ocean. Before us stand the ruins of Kirk Alloway, shrouded in all the mystic imagery with which it is enveloped by his magic spells — Kirk Alloway ! to name it is enough.
If then-, the time and place are so congenial with our fond impres-
320 ILLUSTRATIONS
sions. the circumstances which have enabled us to carry into effect thi astic mind. In every region where our language is heard, the song of Burns gives rapture — and from every region, and from climes the most remote, the votive offerings, if poured in to aid our undertaking, and the edifice Avhich we have now begun, shall stand a proud and liisting testimony of the world's admiration. Not on the banks of Doon alone, or hermit Ayr, or the romantic Lugar, echo repeats the songs of Burns; but amid the wild forests of Columbia, and scorch- ing plains of Iridostan — on the banks of the Mississippi, the St. Law- rence, and the Ganges, his heart-touching melody floats upon the breeze.
This monument rises like the piled cairn over our warriors of old — each man casts a stone ; and in honour of him, the son of a cotter, and himself a ploughman, our Prince, with the true feelings of true greatness, and more illustrious by this act of generosity, pays here his tribute at the sliriur of genius. May the work prosper ; and when happily completed, then may it toll to future generations that the ago which could produce u Burns, was rich also in those who could appre- ciate his talents, and who, while they felt and owned the power of his muse, have honoured his name.
This speech, which was delivered with much energy and feeling, was received with enthusiastic applause. The Rev. H. Paul, of Broughton, then concluded the ceremony with a suitable Prayer; when the whole masonic body, joined by an immense crowrd of spectators, gave three hearty cheers, and the procession returned in order to the town of Ayr.
After lodging the Most Worshipful Grand Master in due form, the several Lodges proceeded to their respect- ive Lodge Rooms, where they spent the evening in the greatest harmony. The decorations of some of the Lodges were very splendid; and the bands of music which accompanied them had a very imposing effect, and, notwithstanding the unfavourableness of the day, brought forth an immense crowd of spectators.
About seven o'clock, deputations arrived at the Grand Lodge ; when many patriotic toasts were given, together with many songs and speeches, highly appropriate to the occasion.
Mr. Boswell, in drinking as a toast, " The Admirers of Burns," took occasion to notice some particulars relative to the subscriptions which had been obtained for the monument ; and, among those gentlemen who had par ticularly interested themselves in the business, he men- tioned in terms of high respect, Sir James Shaw, Bart.,
OF MASONRY.
and William Fairlie, Esq., of London. He said, that through the exertions of these gentlemen large sums had been remitted, in furtherance of the undertaking, from the East Indies, from America, and from the Metropolis, where a higher enthusiasm in favour of Burns and his writings seemed to prevail than in his native country. This, however, was not to be wondered at ; because the glowing descriptions which he gives of scenes and feel- ings so congenial to Scotchmen, must have an effect proportionate to the distance to which they are removed from their native land.
SECT. XVIII. History of Masonry from 1820 to 1823.
A new era of Masonry now opens to our view. By the accession of his Most Gracious Majesty King George