Appendix.
[Sept.
,The address of R. ,W. Bro. Jacobs covers thirty-four pages. and' evidences executive ability, and a proper appreciation of the true object and aims of Masonry. H~ says: \,ye f'lhould evel' bear in mind that :Masonry is no association of mere mystic dreamers, no aggregation of selfish individuals, banded together for social amusements, but a great society which, under God's, providence, bas a duty to perform in the regeneration of the human race, and these Annual Communications should be an insl1iration to "higher thoughts, nobler actions and grander aChievements," the m'ol'al elevation of ourselves, and .the betterment of the world, UNPARALLELED PROSPERITY.
During his term Dispensations wel~e issued for the organization. of twenty-seven new Lodges, while at the same time there was an increase in the membership of approximately 2,000, and in this connection he says: . Kumerical strength is of ver;r little iinportance; it is the best reputation of its membership that constitutes the successful Lodge, SAX FRANCISCO CONTRIBUTIONS.
The sum of $3,883.88 was' promptly contributed by Alabama Masons to the relief of sufferers by the earthquake, of which $3,300.00 was remitted when a communication was received fI"om the Grand Master of California to withhold further remitt~nces, "because, in his judgment, ample funds were on hand to meet all relief required." The balance of $583.88 was turned into the Widows' and Orphans' Fund of the Grand Lodge. I
NECROLOGY.
In announcing the death of Grand Master Henry H. Mathews, Brother Jacobs says: He has left his brethren and family an untarnished name and a record without路 a .stain. In the quiet seclusion of home 'life. surrounded by the members of his famil~', the spirit of our Most Worshipful Grand Master took its flight. When the messenger came he was found ready, and together they cl'ossed the rivet'. . Thus star by star declines, Till all are passed away. . As morning higher and higher shines, To pure and perfect day; ~or sink these stars In empt;r night: They hide themselves in heaven's light. DECISIONS.
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The Acting Grand Master rendered fifteer: decisions, of which except No.5, were approved by the Committee on Jurisprudence. This was with reference to the objection made by a Brother to the installation of a Master, ThB committee asks that ruling be postponed to the next Grand Communication in or,der that they may prepare the necessary procedur~ controlling such cases,