The Perfect Ceremonies of Craft Freemasonry

Booklet No. 1

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Contents

1. Introduction by the Right Worshipful District Grand Master
2. Entry of Worshipful Master and Officers
3. Ceremony of Opening the Lodge in the First Degree
4. Ceremony of Initiation
5. Ceremony of Closing the Lodge Generally
6. Ceremony of Calling Off
7. Ceremony of Calling On
8. Order of Retiring
9. Questions which must be answered by Candidates before being Passed to the Second Degree
10. Appendix

Introduction

The need for a Ritual of Freemasonry which might commend itself to the Members of Craft Lodges under the English Constitution in Japan is perhaps not so much felt in Lodges and the Provinces in England as it is in this Country.

We are here working side by side with Lodges chartered under other Constitutions, whose methods of conducting their ceremonies differ materially from our own. This is accentuated by the fact that visiting between our own and the Sister Constitutions is not only frequent, but very desirable. There are many of us who are Members of both English and Scottish Lodges, and some, indeed, who have served either as Masters or in some other important offices in both.

The frequent use of both forms of work is naturally confusing, and it has been said that certain Rulers in the Craft have from time to time mixed them up both in ruling and working.

To prevent this and especially to enable the Yokohama and Tokyo Lodge of Instruction to fill the position it should occupy as the school for young Freemasons in that part of the District, a Committee was appointed by me to compile, from the best authorities obtainable, a ritual to be used by that Body in accordance with the terms of the license granted by me as District Grand Master.

Great pains have been taken to make this work acceptable, not only to the Lodges of Instruction, but to the Craft Lodges in the District. Some latitude and choice has been given where differences have arisen on some unimportant points, and we have tried to rule out as far as possible alterations in wording which have not appeared to us necessary, so as not to confuse those older Freemasons who have already learnt their work and to whom further memorising would be inconvenient.

In theory the work of Freemasonry should of course be learned by oral teaching, but this is very difficult in practice in Japan. The keen student in England has a much better opportunity of attending Lodges of Instruction in which not only the Ceremonies but the Lectures are continually rehearsed. We are therefore obliged to take much which is contained in the latter into our regular Craft Lodge work.

The Foreign population of our ports is again of a very changing nature; men are moved about from time to time, and it frequently happens that one, after working up through several offices, is removed and a junior has to fill the next position which would otherwise have been his. All this has had our consideration, and we trust that the work achieved will be welcomed by all and will supply a real want.

The Committee appointed by me to which the thanks of the Craft in Japan are due for much time and patience freely given consisted of: —

KOBE —

• Wor. Bro. G. C. Pakenham, P.D.G.W., Preceptor, Rising Sun Lodge of Instruction.
• Wor. Bro. C. W. Davidge, P.D.G.D., Deputy Preceptor, Rising Sun Lodge of Instruction.
• Bro. Geo. H. Crane-Williams, D.Asst.G.Sec., Secretary, with myself as Chairman.

YOKOHAMA —

• Wor. Bro. Stanley E. Unite, D.D.G.M., Chairman.
• Wor. Bro. Eugène Fox, P.D.G.W., District Grand Secretary.
• Wor. Bro. George S. Nelson, P.D.G.W.

Wor. Bro. Geo. Hodges, P.D.G.W., Preceptor of the Yokohama and Tokyo Lodge of Instruction, has been given an opportunity of reading over the Manuscript, but has had no suggestions to offer.

I have personally to express my sincere sense of gratitude to my worthy Deputy and to one and all of the Members of the Kobe Committee for their loyalty and devotion in pushing on the work; to the Yokohama Committee for many valuable suggestions and to that zealous and indefatigable worker, Bro. Geo. H. Crane-Williams, on whom much of the drudgery of preparing the notes and copy has fallen.

GEO. H. WHYMARK,
District Grand Master.

Kobe, Japan,
Jan. 31st, 1914.

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Entry of The Worshipful Master and Officers

The Brethren being assembled by the Director of Ceremonies with the Organist at his post at the Organ, the Worshipful Master and Officers enter in the following order: —

• The Tyler with drawn sword,
• Two Stewards,
• The Inner Guard with Poignard,
• The Asst. Dir. of Ceremonies and The Assistant Secretary,
• The Almoner and the Director of Ceremonies,
• The Treasurer and the Secretary,
• The Senior and Junior Wardens,
• The Chaplain with the V.S.L.,
• The Immediate Past Master with the S. &. C.,
• The Banner of the Lodge, borne by an E. A. or whomever the W.M. may appoint,
• The Worshipful Master,
• The Senior and Junior Deacons with Wands.

Note. — The Officers should form up on each side of the Lodge Room (N. & S.), and the W.M., preceded by the Tyler with drawn sword, the Banner of the Lodge, the Chaplain who places the V.S.L. in position, the I.P.M. who places the S. & C. thereon, proceeds up the centre to the Chair, attended by the Deacons. When the W.M. has taken the Chair, the Officers proceed to their stations in the orthodox manner.

Ceremony of Opening the Lodge in the First Degree

The Brethren being assembled, the W.M. gives one K. and is answered by the S. & J. Ws. (The same is done at the opening and closing in the three Degrees.)

W.M. — (To J.W. calling him by name.) Bro. A.B., what is the first care of every Freemason?

J.W. — To see that the Lodge is properly Tyled.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Direct that duty to be done.

J.W. — (To I.G. by name.) Bro. A.B., see that the Lodge is properly Tyled. (See Note 1.)

I.G. gives one K., which is answered by the Tyler; the I.G. opens the door and sees that the Tyler is at his post, shuts the door, and, turning towards the J.W., addressing him by name, says: — Bro. A.B., the Lodge is properly Tyled.

J.W. gives one K. and says to the W.M.: — The Lodge is properly Tyled.

W.M. — (To S.W. by name.) Bro. A.B., the next care?

S.W. — To see that none but Freemasons are present.

W.M. — To order Brethren in the First Degree.

(The Brethren take the s...p and stand to order with the s...n of an E.A.)

W.M. — Bro. J.W., how many principal Officers are there in the Lodge?

J.W. — Three, the W.M., S. & J. Ws.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., how many assistant Officers are there?

S.W. — Three, besides the Tyler or Outer Guard; namely, the S. and J. Deacons and the I.G.

(See Note 2.)

W.M. — (To J.W.) The situation of the Tyler?

J.W. — Outside the door of the Lodge.

W.M. — (To J.W.) His duty?

J.W. — Being armed with a drawn sword, to keep off all intruders and cowans to Freemasonry, and to see that the Candidates are properly prepared.

W.M. — (To S.W.) The situation of the I.G.?

S.W. — Within the entrance of the Lodge.

W.M. — (To S.W.) His duty?

S.W. — To admit Freemasons on proof, receive the Candidates in due form, and obey the commands of the J.W.

W.M. — (To J.W.) The situation of the J.D.?

J.W. — At the right of the S.W.

W.M. — (To J.W.) His duty?

J.W. — To carry all messages and communications of the W.M. from the S. to the J.W. and to see that the same are punctually obeyed.

W.M. — (To S.W.) The situation of the S.D.?

S.W. — At or near to the right of the W.M.

W.M. — (To S.W.) His duty?

S.W. — To bear all messages and commands of the W.M. to the S.W. and await the return of the J.D. (See Note 3.)

W.M. — Bro. J.W., your place in the Lodge?

J.W. — In the South.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Why are you placed there?

J.W. — To mark the Sun at its meridian, to call the Brethren from labour to refreshment, and from refreshment to labour, that profit and pleasure may be the result.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., your place in the Lodge?

S.W. — In the West.

W.M. — (To S.W.) Why are you placed there?

S.W. — To mark the setting Sun, to close the Lodge by command of the W.M. after having seen that every Brother has had his due.

W.M. — (To I.P.M.) The Master’s place in the Lodge?

I.P.M. — In the East.

W.M. — (To I.P.M.) Why is he placed there?

I.P.M. — To mark the rising Sun, for as the Sun rises in the East to open and enliven the day, so the W.M. is placed in the East to open the Lodge and employ and instruct the Brethren in Freemasonry. (See Note 4.)

W.M. — Brethren, our Lodge being duly formed, before I declare it open, let us invoke the assistance of the G.A.O.T.U. on all our undertakings; may our labours thus begun in order be conducted in peace, and closed in harmony. (See Note 5.)

Omnes — So mote it be. (See Note 6.)

W.M. — Brethren, in the Name of the G.A.O.T.U., I declare the Lodge duly opened for the purposes of Freemasonry in the First Degree. The W.M. gives three Ks., which are repeated by the S. and J. Ws., I.G. and Tyler. The I.P.M. opens the V.S.L., and places both p...s of the c...s under the s...e.

The I.P.M. or Chaplain, if there be one present, may now read Psalm CXXXIII.

The S.W. raises his C...n, and the J.W. lays his down. The Candles should now be lighted, and the T.B. exhibited.

The opening Ode, if any, may now be sung.

W.M. — Be seated Brethren.

The Summons for the Meeting, and the Minutes of the last Regular Meeting, and (if any) Emergency Meetings, should now be read, also any letters or communications.

Candidates for Initiation should now be balloted for.

End of the Ceremony of Opening the Lodge in the First Degree.

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The Ceremony of Initiation

The Brethren being assembled, the W.M. opens the Lodge in the First Degree, and the Minutes of the previous meeting are read and put for confirmation (which must at all times be done in the First Degree and no other). When the W.M. is informed that the Candidate is prepared, the Tyler gives one K., the I.G. advances to the J.W. and says,

Bro. J.W., there is an alarm.

The J.W. rises, gives one K. and the s...n, and says,

W.M. there is an alarm.

W.M. — Bro. J.W., inquire who seeks admission.

J.W. — (Resuming his seat.) Bro. I.G., see who seeks admission.

The I.G. opens the door and says:

I.G. — (To T.) Whom have you there?

T. — (To I.G.) Mr. A.B., a poor Candidate in a state of d...s, who has been well and worthily recommended, regularly proposed and approved in open Lodge, and now comes of his own free will and accord, properly prepared, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Freemasonry.

I.G. — (To T.) How does he hope to obtain those privileges?

T. — By the help of God, being free and of good report.

I.G. — (To T.) Wait while I report to the W.M.

The I.G. closes the door, advances with the s...p and s...n and says:

I.G. — (To W.M.) W.M., there is at the door of the Lodge Mr. A.B., &c. (same report as the Tyler).

W.M. — (To I.G.) How does he hope to obtain those privileges?

I.G. — By the help of God, being free and of good report.

W.M. — The tongue of good report has already been heard in his favour, do you, Bro. I.G., vouch that he is properly prepared?

I.G. — I do W.M. (He has before seen that he was).

W.M. — Then let him be admitted in due form, Bro. Deacons.

The Candidate is met at the door by the I.G., who applies the P. to his l...t b...t; the I.G. asks him if he feels anything, and after a reply in the affirmative, says: —

As this is a p...to your f... so may your c... p... you in all time to come, should you unlawfully divulge any of the Masonic s...s which may now or at any future time be communicated to you.

The I.G. then raises his hand above his head, to show the W.M. that he has so applied it. The J.D. then takes the right hand of the Candidate with his left, and leads him before the k...g s...l near the left of the S.W.

W.M. — (To Can.) Mr. A.B., as no person can be made a Freemason unless he is free and of mature age, I demand of you, are you free and of the full age of twenty-one years?

Can. — I am.

W.M. — (To Can.) Thus assured, I will thank you to k...l while the blessing of Heaven is invoked on our proceedings.

(W.M. Ks., followed by S. & J. Ws.)

During the Prayer the Deacons join their wands over the head of the Candidate.

Prayer.

(By W.M. or Chaplain if there be one.)

Vouchsafe Thine aid, Almighty Father and Supreme Governor of the Universe, to this, our present Convention, and grant that this Candidate for Freemasonry may so dedicate and devote his life to Thy service, as to become a true and faithful Brother among us. Endue him with a competency of Thy Divine Wisdom, that, assisted by the secrets of our Masonic art, he may the better be enabled to unfold the beauties of true godliness, to the honour and glory of Thy Holy Name.

Omnes — So mote it be.

W.M. — (To Can.) Mr. A.B., in all cases of difficulty and danger, in whom do you put your trust?

Can. — In God.

W.M. — Right glad am I to find your faith so well founded; relying on such sure support, you may safely arise and accompany your leader with a firm but humble confidence, for where the Name of God is invoked we trust no danger can ensue. (W.M. Ks., followed by S. & J.Ws.)

W.M. — The Brethren in the N., E., S., and W. will take notice that Mr. A.B. is about to pass in view before them to show he is a Candidate properly prepared, and a fit and proper person to be made a Freemason.

The S.D. resumes his seat. The J.D. takes the Candidate by the hand., and leads him up to the N., past the W.M. (the W.M. then gives one K.*) and round to the J.W., and with the Candidate’s r...t h...d strikes the J.W. three times on the r...t s...r.

J.W. — (To J.D.) Whom have you there?

(Same report as at the door.)

J.D. — Mr. A.B., a poor, &c.

J.W. — How does he hope to obtain those privileges?

J.D. — By the help of God, being free and of good report.

J.W. rises, takes the r...t h...d of the Can., and says: — Enter* free and of good report. (J.W. then gives one K.)

Then J.D. takes him to the r...t of the S.W., who passes him through the same examination, on the completion of which the S.W. gives one K.; he is then delivered to the other side of the S.W. and his r...t h...d placed in the S.W’s l...t.

S.W. rises with the s...n and says: — W.M., I present to you Mr. A.B., a Candidate properly prepared, to be made a Freemason.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., your presentation shall be attended to, for which purpose I will address a few questions to the Candidate, which I trust he will answer with candour.

W.M. — (To Can.) Mr. A.B., do you seriously declare, on your honour, that, unbiassed by the improper solicitation of friends against your own inclination, and uninfluenced by mercenary or other unworthy motives, you freely and voluntarily offer yourself a Candidate for the mysteries and privileges of Freemasonry?

Can. — I do.

W.M. — Do you likewise pledge yourself that you are prompted to solicit those privileges by a favourable opinion preconceived of the Institution, a general desire for knowledge, and a sincere wish to render yourself more extensively serviceable to your fellow-creatures?

Can. — I do.

W.M. — Do you further seriously declare, on your honour, that, avoiding fear on the one hand, and rashness on the other, you will steadily persevere through the ceremony of your Initiation, and, if admitted will afterwards act and abide by the ancient usages and established customs of the Order?

Can. — I do.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., you will direct the J.D. to instruct the Candidate to advance to the P. in due form.

The S.W. should rise when addressed by the W.M.; but remain seated when himself addressing the Deacon.

S.W. — Bro. J.D., it is the W.M.’s command that you instruct the Candidate to advance to the P. in due form.

The J.D., after leading the Candidate to within about a yard of the W.M., directs him as follows: —

J.D. — (To Can.) The method of advancing to the P. in this Degree is by three irregular s...s. Take a sliding step of about nine inches with the left foot, dragging the right after it, heel to heel in the form of a s...e; another, a little longer, bringing the heels together as before, and another still longer, finishing with the feet as before. (The J.D. should take care that the Candidate is within such a convenient distance of the P. as to be able to k...l before it without any further moving of the feet.)

W.M. — (To Can.) Mr. A.B., it is my duty to inform you that Freemasonry, as the name implies, is essentially free, and requires a perfect freedom of inclination in every candidate for its mysteries. It is founded on the purest principles of piety and virtue; it possesses many great and invaluable privileges; and in order to secure those privileges to worthy men, and we trust worthy men alone, vows of fidelity are required; but let me assure you that in those vows there is nothing incompatible with your civil, moral or religious duties. Are you therefore willing to take a solemn obligation, founded on the principles I have stated, to keep inviolate the secrets and mysteries of the Order?

Can. — I am.

W.M. — Then you will k...l on your l...t k...e, place your r...t f...t in the form of a s...e, give me your r...t h...d, which I place on this book, which is the V. of the S.L., while your l...t will be employed in supporting a pair of c...s one point extended to your n.l.b.

The W.M. and Ws. give one K., the Brethren rise with the s...n of an E.A.

W.M. — (To Candidate). You will now repeat your several names at length where I repeat mine, and say after me: —

Obligation

I, A.B., in the presence of the Great Architect of the Universe, and of this Worthy, Worshipful, and Warranted Lodge of Antient, Free, and Accepted Masons, regularly assembled and properly dedicated, of my own free will and accord, do hereby and hereon sincerely and solemnly promise and swear that I will always hele,* conceal, and never reveal any part or parts, point or points, of the secrets or mysteries of or belonging to Free and Accepted Masons in Masonry, which may heretofore have been known by me, shall now, or may at any future period, be communicated to me, unless it be to a true and lawful Brother or Brothers, and not even to him or them until after due trial, strict examination, or sure information from some well-known Brother that he or they are worthy of that confidence, or in the body of a just, perfect, and regular Lodge of Antient Freemasons. I further solemnly promise that I will not write those secrets, indite, carve, mark, engrave, or otherwise them delineate, or cause or suffer it to be so clone by others, if in my power to prevent it, on anything movable or immovable under the canopy of Heaven, whereby or whereon any letter, character, or figure, or the least trace of a letter, character, or figure, may become legible, or intelligible to myself or any one in the world, so that our secret arts and hidden mysteries may improperly become known through my unworthiness. These several points I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation, or mental reservation of any kind, under no less a penalty on the violation of either of them than that of having, &c., or the less horrible but more effective punishment of being branded as a wilfully perjured individual, void of all moral worth, and totally unfit to be received into this Worshipful Lodge, or any other Warranted Lodge, or Society of men who prize honour and virtue above the external advantages of rank and fortune. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in this my great and Solemn Obligation of an E.A. Freemason.

W.M. — As a pledge of your fidelity, and to render this Solemn Obligation complete, you will seal it with your lips on the V. of the S.L.

(This is done.)

W.M. — Having been kept a considerable time in a state of d...s, what in your present situation is the predominant wish of your heart?

Can. — (Prompted by J.D.) L...t.

W.M. — Bro. J.D., let that blessing be restored. (Genesis, I., i-iii.) The Brethren simultaneously clap their hands; the J.D. at this moment restores the l...t. (The J.D. should gently lay his hand on the head of the Candidate to prevent him from seeing any other object than the V. of the S.L., and the S. and C.)

W.M. — Having been restored to the blessing of material l...t, let me direct your attention to what we consider the three Great, though Emblematical Lights in Freemasonry: the V. of the S.L., the S...e and C...s. The Sacred Writings are to rule and govern our faith, the S...e to regulate our actions, and the C...s to keep us in due bounds with all mankind, particularly our Brethren in Freemasonry.

W.M. takes the Candidate by the right hand, and says: — Rise, newly-obligated Brother, among Freemasons.

W.M. — Be seated Brethren. (The J.D. now removes the C...e T...w.)

W.M. — You are now enabled to discover the three Lesser Lights in Freemasonry; they are situated E., S., and W., and are meant to represent the Sun, Moon, and Master of the Lodge; the Sun to rule the day, the Moon to govern the night, and the Master to rule and direct his Lodge.

(Care should be taken that the attention of the Candidate is actually directed to the positions of the three Lesser Lights.)

W.M. — (Continues.) Bro. A.B., by your meek and candid behaviour this evening, you have escaped two great dangers; but there is a third which will await you till the latest period of your existence. The dangers you have escaped are those of s...g and s...g, for on your entrance into the Lodge, this p...d was presented to your n.l.b., so that had you rashly attempted to rush forward, you would have been accessory to your own d...h by s...g; whilst the Brother who held it would have remained firm, and done his duty. There was likewise this c...e t...w with a r...g n...e about your neck, which would have rendered any attempt at retreat equally fatal; but the danger which will await you until the latest hour of your existence is the penalty of your Obligation, of having, &c., should you improperly disclose the s...s of Freemasonry.

(The Can. is removed to the left side of the W.M.’s P.)

W.M. — Having taken the Great and Solemn Obligation of an E.A. Freemason, I am now permitted to inform you that there are several Degrees in Freemasonry, with peculiar s...s restricted to each; these, however, are not communicated indiscriminately, but are conferred on Candidates according to merit and abilities. I shall therefore proceed to entrust you with the s...s of this degree, or those marks by which we are known to each other, and distinguished from the rest of the world; but must premise for your general information that all s...s, l...s and p...s are true and proper s...s to know a Freemason by; you are therefore expected to stand perfectly erect, your feet formed in a s...e; your body being thus considered an emblem of your mind, and your feet of the rectitude of your actions. (Done by W.M., J.D. and Can.)

W.M. — You will now take a short pace towards me with your l...t f...t, bringing the r...t h...l into its h...w; that is the first regular s...p in Freemasonry, and it is in this position the s...s of the Degree are communicated: they consist of a s...n, t...n, and w...d. Place your hand in this position, &c. The s...n is given by, &c.; this you will readily observe is in allusion to the P. of your O., implying that as a man of honour and a Freemason, you would rather have, &c.; the g...p or t...n is given by a distinct p...e of the ... on the ...; this when properly given and received serves to distinguish a Brother by night as well as by day. This g...p or t...n demands a w...d, a w...d highly prized among Freemasons, as a guard to their privileges; too much caution cannot therefore be observed in communicating it; it should never be given at length, except under direction from the W.M. or his Ws. in open Lodge, but always by l...r or s...e; to enable you to do this I must tell you what that w...d is; it is (spells it). As during the course of the ceremony you will be called upon for this w...d, the J.D. will now dictate the answers you are to give.

W.M. — (Gives the g...p, and says.) What is this?

J.D. — (Instructing Can.) The g...p or t...n of an E.A.F. (Candidate repeats.)

W.M. — What does it demand?

J.D. — A w...d. (Candidate repeats.)

W.M. — Give me that w...d.

J.D. — At my initiation I was taught to be cautious; I will letter or halve it with you. (Candidate repeats.)

W.M. — Halve it (or letter it), and begin.

(The examination is gone through.)

W.M. — This w...d is derived from the l...t h...d p...r at the p...y or e...e to K.S.T., so named after ......., the G. G. of D., a P. and R. in I.; the import of the w...d is in ........

W.M. — (Takes the Candidate by the hand and says.) Enter ........

J.D. — (Takes the Candidate by the right hand to the J.W, and says with the s...n.) Bro. J.W., I present to you Bro. A.B. on his Initiation.

J.W. — I will thank Bro. A.B. to advance to me as a Freemason.

(The J.D. instructs him how to advance with the S. and S.)

J.W. — Have you anything to communicate?

Can. — I have.

(The J.W. rises, and Candidate gives g...p.)

J.W. — What is this?

Can. — The g...p or t...n of an E.A.F.

J.W. — What does it demand?

Can. — A w...d.

J.W. — Give me that w...d.

Can. — At my Initiation I was taught to be cautious; I will letter or halve it with you.

J.W. — Letter it (or halve it), and begin.

(The examination is gone through.)

J.W. — Enter ........

(The Can. is then conducted to the S.W., who examines him as follows.)

J.D. — (Takes Candidate by the right hand to the S.W., and says, with the s...n.) Bro. S.W., I present to you Bro. A.B. on his Initiation.

S.W. — I will thank Bro. A.B. to advance to me as a Freemason.

Candidate takes s...p (also Deacon).

S.W. — (To Can.) What is that?

Can. — The first r...r s...p in Freemasonry.

S.W. — Do you bring anything with you?

Can. — I do. (Gives the s...n.)

S.W. — What is that?

Can. — The s...n of E.A.F.

S.W. — To what does it allude?

Can. — The P. of my O., implying that, as a man of honour and a Freemason, I would rather, &c.

S.W. — Have you anything to communicate?

Can. — I have.

The S.W. rises, and Candidate gives the g...p.

S.W. — What is this?

Can. — The g...p or t...n of an E.A.F.

S.W. — What does it demand?

Can. — A w...d.

S.W. — Give me that w...d.

Can. — At my Initiation I was taught to be cautious; I will letter or halve it with you.

S.W. — Letter (or halve) it, and begin. (Done.)

S.W. — Whence is this w...d derived?

Can. — From the l...t h...d p...r at the p...y or e...e to K.S.T., so named after ........, the G.G. of D., a P. and R. in I.

S.W. — The import of the w...d?

Can. — In s...h.

S.W. — Enter ........

The J.D. conducts the Candidate to the l...t of S.W., and places his r...t h...d in S.W’s l...t.

S.W. — (Gives the s...n and says.) W.M., I present to you Bro. A.B. on his Initiation for some mark of your favour.

W.M. k...s, followed by the Ws. (The Brethren stand to order.)

W.M. — Bro. S.W., I delegate you to invest him with the distinguishing badge of a Freemason..

S.W. — Bro. A.B., by the W.M’s. command, I invest you with the distinguishing badge of a Freemason. It is more antient than the Golden Fleece, or Roman Eagle, more honourable than the Garter or any other Order in existence, being the badge of innocence and the bond of friendship; and I strongly exhort you ever to wear and consider it as such;

[The following is optional and may be inserted at this point: — You will observe that this Apron is made from the skin of a Lamb, and as the Lamb has been from time immemorial the universally acknowledged emblem of purity and innocence, you will be thereby reminded of that purity of life and actions which should at all times distinguish a F. M., and which is most essential to your gaining admission to that Grand Lodge above, where the blessed ever rest in eternal peace. I trust you may live many years to wear that badge with pleasure to yourself, usefulness to the Craft, and honour to the Lodge in which you have been initiated, and let me further exhort you never to disgrace it, for you may be assured it will never disgrace you.]

and I further inform you that if you never disgrace that badge (the S.W. loudly strikes it, and all the Brethren strike their badges) it will never disgrace you.

The J.D. now turns the face of the Candidate towards the W.M., who delivers to him the following: —

Address.

W.M. — Let me add to the observations of the S.W., that you are never to put on that badge, should you be about to visit a Lodge in which there is a Brother with whom you are at variance, or against whom you entertain animosity; in such a case, it is expected you will invite him to withdraw, in order amicably to settle your differences, which if happily effected, you may then clothe, enter the Lodge, and work with that love and harmony which should at all times characterise Freemasons. But if, unfortunately, your differences are of such a nature as not to be so easily adjusted, it were better that one or both of you retire, than that the harmony of the Lodge should be disturbed by your presence.

W.M. — Bro. J.D., you will place our newly made Bro. at the N.E. part of the Lodge.

(The J.D. does so, and while the Can. is there the W.M. gives the following address.)

Address.

W.M. — Bro. A.B., at the erection of all stately and superb edifices it is customary to lay the first or foundation stone at the N.E. corner of the building; you, being newly admitted into Freemasonry, are placed at the N.E. part of the Lodge, figuratively to represent that stone; and from the foundation laid this evening may you raise a superstructure perfect in its parts and honourable to the builder. You now stand to all external appearance a just and upright Freemason, and I give it you in strong terms of recommendation ever to continue and act as such; indeed, I shall immediately proceed to put your principles in some measure to the test, by calling upon you to exercise that virtue, which may justly be denominated the distinguishing characteristic of a Freemason’s heart — I mean Charity. I need not here dilate upon its excellences; no doubt it has often been felt and practised by you; suffice it to say, that it has the approbation of Heaven and earth, and, like its sister Mercy, blesses him who gives as well as him who receives. In a Society so widely extended as Freemasonry, the Branches of which are spread over the four quarters of the Globe, it cannot be denied that we have many members of rank and opulence neither can it be concealed that among the thousands who range under its banners, there are some who, perhaps from circumstances of unavoidable calamity and misfortune, are reduced to the lowest ebb of poverty and distress. On their behalf it is our usual custom to awaken the feelings of every new-made brother by making such a claim on his charity as his circumstances in life may fairly warrant; whatever, therefore, you feel disposed to give you may deposit with the J.D., and I can assure you it will be thankfully received and faithfully applied.

J.D. — (To Can.) Have you anything to give?

Can. — No.

J.D. — Had you not been deprived of all valuables and m...c s...s, previous to entering the Lodge, would you give and that freely?

Can. — I would.

J.D. — (To W.M., with s...n.) W.M., our new-made Brother affirms that he was deprived of all valuables and m...c s...s previous to entering the Lodge, or he would give freely.

W.M. — (To Can.) I congratulate you, my Bro., on the honourable sentiments by which you are actuated, likewise on the inability which in the present instance precludes you from gratifying them; believe me, this trial was not made with a view to sport with your feelings; far from us be any such intention; it was done for three special reasons, first, as I have premised, to put your principles in some measure to the test; secondly, to evince to the Brethren that you had neither m...s nor m...c s...s about you, for if you had, the Ceremony of your Initiation thus far must have been repeated; and thirdly, as a warning to your heart, that should you at any future period meet a friend or Brother in distressed circumstances who might solicit your assistance, you will remember the peculiar moment in which you were admitted into Freemasonry, poor and p...s, and cheerfully embrace the opportunity of practising that virtue which you now profess to admire.

(The J.D. places the Candidate in front of the W.M.)

W.M. — I now present to you the working tools of an E.A.F.*: they are the 24-in. G...e, the common G...l, and the C...l. The 24-in. G...e is to measure the work, the common G...l to knock off all superfluous knobs and excrescences, and the C...l to further smooth and prepare the stone, and render it fit for the hands of the more expert workman. But as we are not operative masons, but rather free and accepted, or speculative, we apply these tools in a moral sense. Thus, the 24-in. G...e represents the 24 hours of the day, part to be spent in prayer to Almighty God, part in labour and refreshment, and part in serving a friend or Brother in time of need, without detriment to ourselves or our connections. The common G...l represents the force of conscience, which should keep down all vain and unbecoming thoughts which might obtrude during any of the afore-mentioned periods, so that our words and actions may ascend unpolluted to the throne of grace. The C...l points out to us the advantages of education, by which means we are rendered fit members for well-organised society.

As in the course of time you will be called upon for certain fees for your Initiation, it is proper you should know by what authority we act. This is our Charter or Warrant, from the Grand Lodge of England, which is open to your inspection on this or any future Lodge evening; this is our Book of Constitutions, and these are our By-laws (gives a copy of each), both of which I recommend to your serious perusal, as by the one you will be instructed in the duties you owe to the Craft in general, and by the other in those you owe to this Lodge in particular. You are now at liberty to retire, in order to restore yourself to your personal comforts, and on your return to the Lodge I shall direct your attention to a Charge, founded on the excellences of our Institution and the qualifications of its members.

The J.D. takes the Candidate to the left of the S.W., and directs him to salute the I.P.M. on retiring.

Explanation of the First Tracing Board

In Emulation Working the Tracing Board is recited only in the Lectures. In Japan the Lectures are seldom, if ever, heard. This Tracing Board should therefore always be delivered either before the Charge at Initiation or at some convenient time before Passing.

The usages and customs among Freemasons have ever borne a near affinity to those of the ancient Egyptians. Their philosophers, unwilling to expose their mysteries to vulgar eyes, veiled their systems of learning and polity under signs and hieroglyphical figures, which were communicated to their chief priests or Magi alone, who were bound by solemn oath to conceal them. The system of Pythagoras was founded on a similar principle, as well as many others of more recent date. Freemasonry, however, is not only the most antient, but the most honourable Society that ever existed, as there is not a character ©r emblem here depicted, but serves to inculcate the principles of piety and virtue among all its genuine professors. Let me first call your attention to the form of the Lodge, which is a regular parallelopipedon, in length from E. to W., in breadth between N. and S., in depth from the surface of the earth to its centre, and even as high as the heavens. The reason a Freemason’s Lodge is represented of that vast extent is to show the universality of the science, and also that a Freemason’s charity should know no bounds save those of prudence.

Our Lodges stand on holy ground, because the first Lodge was consecrated on account of three grand offerings thereon made, which met with Divine approbation. First, the ready compliance of Abraham with the will of God in not refusing to offer up his only son Isaac as a burnt sacrifice, when it pleased the Almighty to substitute a more suitable victim in his stead. Secondly, the many pious prayers and ejaculations of King David, which actually appeased the wrath of God, and stayed a pestilence which then raged among his people, owing to his having had them numbered. Thirdly, the many thanksgivings, oblations, burnt sacrifices, and costly offerings which Solomon, King of Israel, made at the completion, dedication and consecration of the Temple at Jerusalem to God’s service. Those three did then, have since, and I trust ever will, render the groundwork of Freemasonry Holy.

Our Lodges are situated due E. and W., because all places of Divine worship, as well as Freemasons’ regular, well-formed, constituted Lodges are, or ought to be, so situated; for which we assign three Masonic reasons; 1st, the Sun, the Glory of the Lord, rises in the E. and sets in the W.; 2nd, Learning originated in the E. and thence spread its benign influence to the W; 3rd, for the better solemnisation of Divine worship as well as a receptacle for the Books and Tables of the Law, Moses caused a Tent or Tabernacle to be erected in the wilderness, which by God’s special command was situated due E. and W., for Moses did everything according to a pattern shown to him by the Lord on Mount Sinai. This Tent or Tabernacle proved afterwards to be the ground-plan with respect to situation of that most magnificent Temple built at Jerusalem, by that wise and mighty Prince, King Solomon, whose regal splendour, and unparalleled lustre, far transcend our ideas. This is the third, last, and grand reason we as Freemasons give why all places of Divine worship, as well as Freemasons’ regular, well formed, constituted Lodges are or ought to be so situated. Our Lodge is supported by three great pillars. They are called Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty: Wisdom to contrive, Strength to support, and Beauty to adorn; Wisdom to conduct us in all our undertakings, Strength to support us under all our difficulties, and Beauty to adorn the inward man. The Universe is the Temple of the Deity whom we serve; Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty are about His throne as pillars of His works, for His Wisdom is infinite, His Strength omnipotent, and Beauty shines through the whole of the creation in symmetry and order. The Heavens He has stretched forth as a canopy; the earth He has planted as His footstool; He crowns His Temple with Stars as with a diadem, and His hands extend their power and glory. The Sun and Moon are messengers of His will, and all His law is concord. The three great pillars supporting a Freemasons’ L...e are emblematical of these Divine attributes; they further represent S. K. I., H. K. T. and H. A.: S. K. of I., for his Wisdom in building, completing, and dedicating the Temple at Jerusalem to God’s service; H. K. T., for his Strength in supporting him with men and materials; and H. A., for his curious and masterly workmanship in beautifying and adorning the structure. But as we have no noble orders in Architecture known by the names of Wisdom, Strength and Beauty, we refer them to the three most celebrated, in antient times, the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

The covering of a Freemasons’ Lodge is a celestial canopy of divers colours, even the Heavens. The way by which we hope to arrive there is by the assistance of a ladder, in Scripture called Jacob’s ladder. It is composed of many staves or rounds, which point out as many moral virtues; but the three principal ones are Faith, Hope, and Charity: Faith in the Great Architect of the Universe, Hope in salvation, and to be in Charity with all men. This ladder reaches to the Heavens, and rests on the V. of the S.L., because, by the doctrines contained in that Holy Book, we are taught to believe in the dispensation of Divine Providence, which belief strengthens our faith, and enables us to ascend the first step; this faith naturally creates in us a hope of becoming partakers of the blessed promises therein recorded, which Hope enables us to ascend the second step; but the third and last being Charity, comprehends the whole, and the Freemason who is possessed of this virtue in its most ample sense, may justly be deemed to have attained the summit of his profession; figuratively speaking, an ethereal mansion, veiled from mortal eyes by the starry firmament, emblematically depicted here by seven stars, which have an allusion to as many regularly made Freemasons, without which number no Lodge is perfect, neither can any Candidate be legally initiated therein.

The interior of a Freemasons’ Lodge is composed of Ornaments, Furniture, and Jewels. The Ornaments of the Lodge are the Mosaic Pavement, the Blazing Star, and the Indented or Tesselated Border; the Mosaic Pavement is the beautiful flooring of the Lodge, the Blazing Star the Glory in the centre, and the Indented or Tesselated Border, the skirtwork round the same. The Mosaic Pavement may justly be deemed the beautiful flooring of a Freemasons’ L. by reason of its being variegated and chequered. This points out the diversity of objects which decorate and adorn the creation, the animate as well as the inanimate parts thereof. The Blazing Star, or Glory in the centre, refers us to the Sun, which enlightens the earth, and by its benign influence dispenses blessings to mankind in general. The Indented or Tesselated Border refers us to the planets, which in their various revolutions form a beautiful border or skirtwork round that grand luminary, the Sun, as the other does round a Freemasons’ L. The Furniture of the L. consists of the V. of the S.L., the C. and S.; the Sacred Writings are to rule and govern our faith. On them we O. our Candidates for Freemasonry; so are the C. and S., when united, to regulate our lives and actions. The Sacred Volume is derived from God to man in general, the C. belong to the Grand Master in particular, and the S. to the whole Craft.

The Jewels of the L. are three movable and three immovable. The movable Jewels are the S.» L., and P. They are called movable Jewels, because they are worn by the Master and his Wardens, and are transferable to their successors on nights of Installation. The Master is distinguished by the S., the Senior Warden by the L., and the Junior Warden by the B. The immovable Jewels are the Tracing Board, the Rough and Perfect Ashlars. The Tracing Board is for the Master to lay lines and draw designs on; the Rough Ashlar for the E. A. to work, mark, and indent on; and the Perfect Ashlar for the experienced Craftsman to try and to adjust his Jewels on. They are called immovable Jewels, because they lie open and immovable in the Lodge for the Brethren to moralise upon.

As the Tracing Board is for the Master to lay lines and draw designs on, the better to enable the Brethren to carry on the work of the intended structure with regularity and propriety, so the V. of the S.L. may justly be deemed to be the spiritual Tracing Board of the Great Architect of the Universe, in which are laid down such Divine laws and moral plans that were we conversant therewith, and obedient thereto, they would bring us to an ethereal mansion not built by hands, but eternal in the Heavens. The Rough Ashlar is a stone, rough and unhewn as taken from the quarry, until, by the industry and ingenuity of the workman, it is modelled, wrought into due form, and rendered fit for the intended structure. This represents the mind of man in its infant or primitive state, rough and unpolished as that stone, until by the kind care and instruction of his parents or guardians, in giving him a liberal and virtuous education, his mind becomes cultivated, and he is thereby rendered a fit member of civilised society. The Perfect Ashlar is a stone of a true die or square, fit only to be tried by the S. and C.; this represents man in the decline of years, after a regular life spent in acts of piety and virtue, which cannot otherwise be tried and approved than by the S. of God’s Word and the C. of his own self-convincing conscience.

In all regular, well-formed, constituted Lodges, there is a point within a c...e round which a Freemason cannot err; this c...e is bounded between North and South by two grand parallel lines, the one representing Moses, the other King Solomon; on the upper part of this c...e rests the V. of the S.L., supporting Jacob’s ladder, the top of which reaches to the Heavens; and were we as conversant with that Holy Book, and as adherent to the doctrines therein contained, as those parallels were, it would lead us to Him who will not deceive us, neither will He suffer deception. In going round this c...e, we must of necessity touch on both those parallel lines, likewise on the V. of the S.L.; and while a Freemason keeps himself thus circumscribed, he cannot err.

The word Lewis denotes strength, and is here depicted by certain pieces of metal dovetailed into a stone, which form a cramp, and enables the operative Mason to raise great weights to certain heights with little exertion, and to fix them on their proper bases. Lewis likewise denotes the son of a Freemason; his duty is to bear the heat and burden of the day, from which his parents, by reasons of their age, ought to be exempt; to assist them in time of need, and thereby render the close of their days happy and comfortable; his privilege for so doing is that of being made a Freemason before any other person, however dignified.

Pendant to the corners of the Lodge are four tassels, meant to remind us of the four cardinal virtues, namely: Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice, the whole of which, tradition informs us, were constantly practised by a great majority of our antient Brethren. The distinguishing characteristics of a good Freemason are Virtue, Honour, and Mercy, and should these be banished from all other Societies, may they ever be found in a Freemason’s breast.

End of the Explanation of the First Tracing Board.

Charge After the Initiation

W.M. (To Can.)

As you have passed through the Ceremony of your Initiation, allow me to congratulate you on being admitted a member of our Antient and Honourable Institution; Antient no doubt it is, as having subsisted from time immemorial; and Honourable it must be acknowledged to be, as by a natural tendency it conduces to make those so who are obedient to its precepts; indeed, no Institution can boast a more solid foundation than that on which Freemasonry rests, the practice of every moral and social virtue; and to so high an eminence has its credit been advanced, that in every age monarchs themselves have been promoters of the art, have not thought it derogatory from their dignity to exchange the Sceptre for the Gavel (See Note 7), have patronised our mysteries, and joined in our assemblies. As a Freemason, I would recommend to your most serious contemplation the V. of the S.L., charging you to consider it as the unerring standard of truth and justice, and to regulate your actions by the Divine precepts it contains; therein you will be taught the important duties you owe to God, your neighbour, and yourself. To God, by never mentioning His name but with that awe and reverence which are due from the creature to his Creator, by imploring His aid in all your lawful undertakings, and by looking up to Him in every emergency for comfort and support. To your neighbour, by acting with him on the square, by rendering him every kind office which justice or mercy may require, by relieving his necessities, soothing his afflictions, and doing to him as in similar cases you would wish he should do to you. And to yourself, by such a prudent and well-regulated course of discipline as may best conduce to the preservation of your physical and mental faculties in their fullest energy, thereby enabling you to employ those talents wherewith God has blessed you, as well to His Glory as the welfare of your fellow-creatures.

As a citizen of the world, I am to enjoin you to be exemplary in the discharge of your civil duties; by never proposing, or at all countenancing, any act which may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of Society, by paying due obedience to the laws of any State which may for a time become the place of your residence, or afford you its protection; and above all, by never losing sight of the allegiance due to the sovereign, or ruler,(See Note 8) of your native land, ever remembering that nature has implanted in your breast a sacred and an indissoluble attachment towards that country whence you derived your birth and infant nurture.

As an individual, I would recommend the practice of every domestic as well as public virtue. Let Temperance chasten you, Fortitude support you, Prudence direct you, and Justice be the guide of all your actions. Be especially careful to maintain, in their fullest splendour, those truly Masonic Jewels which have already been amply illustrated, Benevolence and Charity.

Still, as a Freemason, there are other excellences of character to which your attention may be peculiarly and forcibly directed: amongst the foremost of these are Secrecy, Fidelity, and Obedience. Secrecy consists in inviolable adherence to the O. you have entered into, never improperly to disclose any of those Miasonic secrets which have now been, or may at any future time be, entrusted to your keeping, and cautiously to avoid every occasion which might inadvertently lead you to betray them. Your Fidelity must be exemplified by a strict observance of the Constitutions of the Fraternity, by adhering to the Antient Landmarks of the Order, by never attempting to extort, or otherwise unduly obtain, the secrets of a superior degree, and by carefully refraining from recommending anyone for a participation of our secrets, unless you have strong grounds to believe that by a similar fidelity he will ultimately reflect honour on our choice. Your Obedience must be proved by a close conformity to our Laws and Regulations, by prompt attention to all S...s and Summonses, by modest and correct demeanour in the Lodge, by abstaining while there from every topic of political or religious discussion, by a ready acquiescence in all Votes and Resolutions duly passed by a majority of the Brethren, and by a perfect submission to the Master and his Wardens, whilst acting in the discharge of the duties of their respective offices.

And as a last and general recommendation, let me exhort you to dedicate yourself to such pursuits as may render you respectable in life, useful to mankind, and an ornament to the Society of which you have this day become a member. I further recommend you more especially to study such of the Liberal Arts and Sciences as may lie within the compass of your attainment, and without neglecting the ordinary duties of your station, to feel yourself called upon to make a daily advancement in Masonic Knowledge.

From the very commendable attention you appear to have given to this Charge, I am led to hope that you will duly appreciate the value of Freemasonry, and imprint indelibly upon your heart the sacred dictates of Truth, of Honour, and of Virtue.

End of the Charge after Initiation.

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Ceremony of Closing the Lodge Generally

The W.M. gives one K., followed by the S. and J.W.

W.M. — Brethren, assist me to close the Lodge.

W.M. — Bro. J.W., what is the constant care of every Freemason?

J.W. — To prove the Lodge close Tyled.

WM. — (To J.W.) Direct that duty to be done.

J.W. — Bro. I.G., prove the Lodge close Tyled.

I.G. gives three Ks., which are answered by the T.; he takes the s...p and gives the s...n of the First Degree, and says:

Bro. J.W., the Lodge is close Tyled.

J.W. — (Gives the Ks. and s...n.) Wor. Master, the Lodge is close Tyled.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., the next care?

S.W. — To see that the Brethren appear to order as Freemasons.

W.M — To order Brethren in the First Degree.

The Brethren take the s...p and stand to order with the s...n of an E.A.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., your constant place in the Lodge?

S.W. — In the West.

W.M. — (To S.W.) Why are you placed there?

S.W. — As the Sun sets in the West to close the day, so is the S.W. placed in the West to close the Lodge by command of the W.M., after having seen that every Brother has had his due.

W.M. — Brethren, before we close the Lodge, let us with all reverence and humility express our gratitude to the G.A.O.T.U. for favours already received, and may He continue to preserve our Order, by cementing and adorning it with every moral and social virtue. (See Note 9.)

Omnes — So mote it be.

W.M. — Bro. S.W., the labours of the evening being ended, you have my command to close the Lodge. (Gives the Ks. with the left hand.)

S.W. — Brethren, in the Name of T.G.A.O.T.U., and by command of the W.M., I close the Lodge. (Gives the Ks.)

J.W. — And it is closed accordingly, until the — day of — , emergencies excepted, of which due notice will be given. (Gives the Ks., followed by the I.G. and T.)

The S.W.’s C...n is laid down, and the J.W.’s raised.

The closing Ode, if any, may now be sung.

The I.P.M. closes the V.O.T.S.L., then takes one pace forward and says: — Brethren! the labours of the evening being ended and the Lodge closed, nothing now remains but, according to antient custom, to lock up our s...s and all that has transpired within these Tyled Walls in a safe and sacred repository, our hearts, uniting in the act Fidelity, Fidelity, Fidelity (he strikes his l...t b...t with his r...t h...d each time as he says these three words), and may God bless and prosper the Craft.

The Candles are now extinguished and the T.B. removed.

End of Closing the Lodge in the First Degree. (Generally.)

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The Ceremony of Calling Off and Calling On

To Call the Lodge from Labour to Refreshment.

The W.M. gives one K., which is followed by the Ws., and then says:

W.M. — Principal Officers upstanding.

The three rise.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Bro. J.W., what is the constant care of every Freemason?

J.W. — To see that the Lodge is properly t...d.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Direct that duty to be done.

J.W. — Bro. I.G., see that the Lodge is properly t...d.

The I.G. gives one K., and after being answered by the T., reports: —

I.G. — Bro. J.W., the Lodge is properly t...d.

J.W. — (Gives one K. and says.) The Lodge is properly t...d.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Bro. J.W., what time is it?

J.W. — High noon, W.M.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Your duty?

J.W. — To call the Brethren from labour to refreshment.

W.M. — (To J.W.) I will thank you to declare it.

The J.W. gives K., and the Brethren stand.

J.W. — Brn., it is the W.M.’s command that you cease labour and go to refreshment; keep within hail, so as to come on in due time, that profit and pleasure may be the result.

He gives one K., which is answered by the S.W. and W.M. The I.P.M. closes the V. of the S.L. without moving the S. and C.; the J.W. raises his column, and that of the S.W. is laid down.

To Call the Lodge from Refreshment to Labour.

The W.M. and Ws. give one K. as before.

W.M. — Principal Officers upstanding.

The three rise.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Bro. J.W., what is the first care of every Freemason?

J.W. — To see that the Lodge is properly t...d.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Direct that duty to be done.

J.W. — Bro. I.G., see that Lodge is the properly t...d.

The I.G. gives one K., and, after receiving answering K. from the T., opens the door to see if the T. is at his post, closes the door and then reports.

I.G. — Bro. J.W., the Lodge is properly t...d.

J.W. — (Gives one k...k and says.) The Lodge is properly t...d.

W.M. — (To J.W.) Bro. J.W., what time is it?

J.W. — (To W.M.) Past high noon, W.M.

W.M — (To J.W.) Your duty?

J.W. — To call the Brn. from refreshment to labour.

W.M. — (To J.W.) I will thank you to declare it.

The J.W. gives one K. and the Brethren stand.

J.W. — Brn., it is the W.M.’s command that you cease refreshment and return to labour for the further despatch of Masonic business.

He gives one K., which is answered as before. He lays down his column, and the S.W raises his. They then take their seats, and the I.P.M. opens the V. of the S.L.

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Order of Retiring from the Lodge

• The Banner of the Lodge borne by an E.A., or whomever the W.M. may appoint.
• The Chaplain with the V.S.L.
• The I.P.M. with the S. & C.
• The Worshipful Master.
• The Senior and Junior Deacons with wands.
• The Senior and Junior Wardens.
• The Treasurer and Secretary.
• The Almoner and Director of Ceremonies.
• The Asst. Dir. of Ceremonies and the Assistant Secretary.
• The Inner Guard with Poignard.
• Two Stewards.

The Organist remains at his post at the Organ. The Brethren remain standing until the W.M. and Officers have retired, then disperse.

Questions

which must be answered by Candidate before passing.

The Lodge being open in the First Degree, and all E.As., except Candidates, having been retired, the W.M. thus proceeds:

Brethren, Bro. A.B. is this evening a Candidate to be passed to the Second Degree, but it is first requisite that he should give proofs of his proficiency in the former; I shall therefore proceed to put the necessary questions.

(The J.D. places the Can. at the left of the p...l of the S.W. facing the W.M.)

W.M. — (To Can.) Where were you first prepared to be made a Freemason?

Can. — In my heart.

W.M — Where next?

Can. — In a convenient room adjoining the Lodge.

W.M. — Describe the mode of your preparation.

Can. — I was divested of m...s and h...d w...d, my r...t a...m, l...t b...t and k...e, were made b...e, my r...t h...l was s...p s...d, and a c...e t...w placed about my neck.

W.M. — Where were you made a Freemason?

Can. — In the body of a Lodge, just, perfect, and regular.

W.M. — And when?

Can. — When the Sun was at its Meridian.

W.M. — In this country Freemasons’ Lodges are usually held in the evening. How do you account for that, which at the first view appears a paradox?

Can. — The earth constantly revolving on its axis in its orbit round the Sun, and Freemasonry being universally spread over its surface, it necessarily follows that the Sun must always be at its meridian with respect to Freemasonry.

W.M. — What is Freemasonry?

Can. — A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by Symbols.

W.M. — Name the Grand Principles on which the Order is founded.

Can. — Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

W.M. — Who are fit and proper persons to be made Freemasons?

Can. — Just, upright, and free men, of mature age, sound judgement, and strict morals.

W.M. — How do you know yourself to be a Freemason?

Can. — By the regularity of my Initiation, repeated trials and approbation, and a willingness at all times to undergo an examination when properly called upon.

W.M. — How do you demonstrate the proof of being a Freemason to others?

Can. — By s...s, t...s, and the perfect points of my entrance.

W.M. — What are those p...p?

Can. — O. A. and O.

W.M. — A. and O. what?

Can. — Of my own free will and accord, at the door of the L., on the P. of a s... i. presented to my n... l... b....

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Appendix