M. P. Sov. — The Mysteries concealed in this ineffable

degree of Masonry are founded on the recognition of our
S. J. C. as the True Word. ; 'In the Degree of a Master
Mason you were informed that a Great Architect gave
tip his life freely rather than betray the trust reposed in
him, and at a certain part of that sublime ceremony you
represented the person of our Master, and figuratively
descended into the tomb from which you were afterwards
raised upon the five points of fellowship. You were then
directed to raise your eyes to that bright morning star,
whose rising brings Peace and Salvation to the human
race. Thus deriving the conviction that there was yet an
inner veil to be passed, a Holy of Holies to be attained,
you sought admission into this Christian Order, you were
received and welcomed, and avowing that you sought
Emmanuel, were instructed to take the preliminary steps
that lead to perfection; in due time a higher dignity ,
rewarded your Zeal, and the solemn vow of a Priest MastMi
confirmed you in the noble principles of the Order. You
then advanced 24 stei3s figuratively on the road to perfec-
tion, approaching nearer and nearer the goal, for it is
only by a gradual progress in knowledge and virtue that
we can hope to arrive at the Temple of the Living God.
You have now reached the summit of the Celestial Moun-
tain, where alone the true Word'Jf Masonryjis revealed,
but you must first take 33 steps in solemn meditation from
the East to the South, from the South to the West, from
the West to the North, returning again to the East, where

THE RED CROSS OF ROME AND CONSTANTINE DEGREE. 149

the Sun of righteousness has risen with heahng in his
wings.

(Candidate is conducted in silence round the Conclave.
H. P. swinging the Censor the while, halts in front of the
Most Puissant Sovereign, having taken 33 steps.)