COUNCIL MONITOR

Page 1





THE

TEXT BOOI{ OF

CRYPTIC MASONRY. A },fANUAL OF INSTRUCTIONS IN THE DEGREES OF

ROY.AL 1tIASTER, SELECT ~r.A.STER AND SUPEREXCELLENT ]rrASTER. TOGETHER WITH THE CERE:M:ONIll:f3 OF

INSTALLING THE OFFICERS, CONSTITUTING DEDICATING A COUNCIIJ, .AND

AND

'••

INBTALLING THE OFFICERS O;F A GRAND COUNOIL. BY

J.A.CKSON H. OII.A.SE, 33°, GRaND LECTURER TO GRAND COUNCIL OF ROYAL .AND SELECT MASTERS OF TILE STATE OF NEW YOnK.

NE"\V YORK: 1fASONIC PUBLI.SHING COMPANY, 482 BROOME STREET.

1870.


Entered according to Act of Oongress, ill the year 1870, By THE MASONIC PUBLISHING

COMPANY,

In tIle Clerk's Office of the Di8triCt Court of the Uliited States for the Southern District of New York


PREF ACE. THE present work has been compiled as a " Text Book" for Officers and Companions of Councils of Royal and Select }Iasters. That such a Manual has long been needed, will be acknowledged by all conversallt with Cr:yptic Masom"J. The manuscript was submitted to our late l\tf. P. Rev. Charles H. Platt, G. M., for his examination, and received: his unqualified approval. It has been arranged in strict conformity to the work as approved by him, and adopted by the Grand, . Oouncil of Royal and Select Masters of the State of New York, and is re路 spectfully submitted to the fraternal consideration of Oryptic Companions, wheresoever dispersed. JA.CKSONH. CHASE, 33掳

.ALBANY,

N. Y., Dec., 1869.



CONTENTS. ROY.A..L 1I.-\sTER

'" • .. • . • • • .. ..

Opening 11:istory

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o ••••••

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••

SELECT MASTER, ••••••.•

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A

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•••••

'"

".

Reception

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~.:

15

..

19

!" ..

Prayer at Opening

History

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Charge to the Candidate.... . . •. . .

. • ..

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21

••

..

..

.. . • . • .. ..

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23 34 37

SUPER-ExCELLENT l\fASTE R. ••

Reception

0

Hymn

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9

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..

..

45

o

00

0.....

History

39

50

INSTALLATION OF THE OFFICERS OF A. SUBORDI.

I

N.A.TE COUNCIL

0

0

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lIN~:::~:~.~.~::~~.~~.~I.C~~~~~~~~~~~~ CONSTITUTING AND DEDICATING COUNCILS. '"

55 . .

71 77



r-I I

ROY l\.L ~lASTER. HIS degree is ,conferred on Royal Arch ~ ~I. 'l\fasons only, and is preparatory. to the ~

Select ~raster's degree. The ceremonies are impressi""e as vwl"el1 as replete with useful and valuable information. It is intimately connected with and explains many Inysteries of the Royal Arch.. ,.


8

CRYPTIC l\;IASONRY.

A Oouncil of Royal l\Iasters is cOlnposed of the following officers : 1.

TH1UCE ILLUS'J;RIOUS JHASTER,

representing I{ing

Solomon; 2.

l"tIGHT ILLUSTRIOUS DEPUTY

l\IAsTER, represent-

ing Hirnm, King. of TJo'Te; 3.

ILLUSTRIOUS 'YORKS,

PIUNCIPAL

CONDUCTOR

OF

THE

representing Hiram Abif;

4.

ThL4..STEU OF THE EXCHEQUER

5.

RECORDEll.;

6.

CAPTAIN OF THE GUAItDS;

7. 8.路 9.

STE\VA.RD;

or

TREASURER;

OONDUCTOR OF THE COUNCIL; SENTINEL;

The following diagram will show the stations of the officers:

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9

ROYAL MASTER.

OPENING. Now and ever may our Suprenle Benefactor preside ill all our Councils. lVIay He direct us to such measures as He 路hilnself shall approve and be pleased to bless. DIay we ever be favored of God. May our Sal1ctuary be the pride of the worthy, the resort and seat of the moral virtues, the asylum of the oppressed, a name and a praise in the whole earth until the last of time shall bury the empires of the world in undistinguished ruin. A.men. So mote it be. '.~ SECTION I.

*

*

*

*

*

*


10

CRYPTIC l\IASONRY.

And Sololllon made all the vessels that pertained unto the' house of the Lord: the altar of gold and the table of gold, '\vhereupon the shew-bread was; and the candlesticks of pure gold; five on the right side, and ÂŁ""e on the left, before the oracle; with the flo'\vers and the lamps, ~nd the tongs of gold.; and the bowls, and the snuffers, and the basins, and the spoons, and the censers of pure gold; and the hinges of gold, both for the (loo1"s of the inner house, the most holy ph1ce, and for the doors of the house, to ","it, of the Temple. So Hiram Illude an end of doing all the work that he had Inade I{ing Solomon for the house of the Lord.1 KING. vii. 4'8-50 & 40.

*

*

*

*

*

*


11

ROYAL J.\:IASTER.

"l:tell1ove far fronl rue vc"tuity and lies; give lne neither poverty nor riches; feedine \vith food convenient for me; lest I be full, and deny thee and say, Who is the Lora? or lest I be poor and steal, and take the name of my God in vain."

*

*

*

*

*

*

COlupanion Adoniram, death is a subject that admits of no levity when mentioned by mortal man. The young 1nay die, the old 'Jnugt die, the wisest knoweth not how soon. The :youngest E.路.. A.路. upon the checkered pavement below,dwells even in tHe shadow of death, while the invisible hand extends equally above K... S.路. on Ilis ivory throne.' 'Ve ,Ytilk upon the ashes of the gen~ratiollS who have gone this ,yay before us, audour bodies must soon crumble路 into dust. It is not for me, COlnpanion Adoniram, to hope that I shall escape from the common doom of man, but v?hen * * * * * Deathterminates the labor of a man. There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor ,visdom

*

*


12

CRYPTIC 1\I...-\.SONRY.

in the grave. The most gifted of mortal kings thus meditates: "Brief life is here our portion." Speedily do we hasten to tbe end of these cares and labors. 'Vhat an incentive is this to -an industrious use of our faculties, that we should labor diligently to complete that inner temple for God's eternal praise, and be ready to sleep in peace, as the night cometh when no man can work. My work, Companion Adoniram, is not finished, though I b,ave labol~ed faithfully and long, but when * * * * * * *" Companion .c\.c16niram, it is through the gate of death that we finel an entrance to the place of wages, refreshment and rest. The Supreme lVIaster of the Universe before whom' we bow in adoration, and路 whose All-seeing EJe has marked our labors in the Lodge below, promises to spread before us in the stnpendous Lodge above all the joys and glories of His Eternal Sabbath. After the strong hand of c1eath has leveled all in the humiliation of the grave, the Almighty hand of the Supreme Master shall prevail and exalt every


CRYPTIC

13

~IASONRY.

brother to the glorious companionship of that undissolving Lodge. There the designs upon the Trestle-board will be seen completed. There the adoration of the twelfth hour will be the everlasting joy. There the noon-tide of bliss ,viII eternally shine. There the scales of doubt and darkness shall fall from my eyes, and the wise purposes of the Divine Architect be displayed in all their splendor. With this light of faith beaming upon me "0 Death whel"e .is thy sting?" l\[y hope, Companion Adoniram, rests in the higher Lodge to which I am advancing, and when * * *'."* * *.

*

SECTION II.

*

*

*

*

*

*

And he set the cherubims within the inner house; and they stretched forth the wings of the cherubims,' so that the wing of the one touched the one wall; and the wing of


14

ROYAL MASTER.

the other cherub touched the other wall; and their wings touched one another in the midst of the h0l1Se.-1 KINGS vi. 27. And Solomon made all the vessels that pertained unto the house of the Lord: the altar of gold and the table of gold, whereupon the shew-bread was; and the candlepure gold; five on the right side, sticks and five on the left, before the oracle; with the flowers and the lamps, and the tongs of gold; and the bowls and the snuffers, and the basins, and the spoons, and the censers of pure gold; and the hinges of gold, both for the doors of the inner house, the most holy place, and for the doors of the house, to wit, of the Temple. So Hiram made an end of doing all the ,vork that he bad made King Solomon for the house of the Lord.I KINGS. vii. 48-50~& 40.

of

*

*

*

*

*

*

And behold I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give everJ man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha


15

ROYAL MASTER.

and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and. the last. Blessecl are they that do his commalldments, that they may have a right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.-REv. xxii. 12-14.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

* ' *

HISTORY.

This deg'ree originated路 in consequence of a conversation between our Grand Master, H.o. A..., and Adoniram, iust before the death of the forr.a e1'. Ac10niram was one of the * * *. He was also one of the * * *. After the S.路. S.路. was completed and a portion of the furniture deposited therein, .A..doniram * * *. At high twelve, when the


16

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

craft were called from labor to refreshment, * *. *. After the rest of the craftsmen had retired, Adoniram'* * *. This conversation having been related to K.·. S.·. by Adoniram * * * to which this is preparatory. The furniture or the S.·.. S.·. consisted of many holy vessels ma,de of pure gold, but the most important there, was the Ark of the Covenant, called the glory of Israel,' which was seated in the middle of the holy place, under the wings of the cherubim. It ,vas a small chest or coffer, three feet nine inches long,j'and two feet three inches ,vide and deep. It ,vas made of wood, excepting only the mel·cyseat, but overlaid with gold both inside and out. It had a ledge of gold surrounding it at the top, into ,vhi6h the cover, called the mercy-seat, was let in. The mercy-seat was of solic1 gold, the thickness of an hands breadth; at the two ends were two cherubim, looking inward toward each other,"'I'ith their wings expanded; which, embracing the whole circumference of the


CRYPTIC MASONRY.

17

mercy seat, they met on each side, in the middle; all of the Rabbins say it was made ont of t.he same mass, ,vithout any soldering of parts. Here the Shelcinah, or Divine Presence, rested, and was visible in the appearance of a cloud over it. From hence the Bathkoll issued, and gave answers when God was consulted. And hence it is, that God is said in the Scripture, to dwell between the cherubim; that is between the cherubim on the mercy-seat, becaus~~ there was the seat or throne of the visible appearance of his glory among them.



SELECT MA.STER. rr.fijiiiiii~HIS

degree is the summit and perfection of lVlasonry; and without which the history of the Royal Arch Degree can hardly be said to be complete. It rationally accounts for the concealment and preservation of those essentials of the craft, which were brought to light at the erection of the second temple; and which lay concealed from the lrlasonic eye for four hundred and seventy years. Many particuh1rsl'elative to those few who were selected, for their superior skill, to complete an important part of King Solo.. mon's temple, are explained. And here, too, is exemplified an. instance of justice and nt?路cyby our ~:ncient


20

CRYPTIC J\IASONRY.

ancient patron, toward one of the craft ,,-ho was led to disobey his commands by an over-zealous attachment for the Institution. It end~ with a description of a particular cirClllustance, which characterizes the degree. A Council of Select Masters is composed of the following officers:

1. THRICE ILLUSTRIOUS ~L4..STER, as K.·. S.". 2. RIGHT llLUSTRIOUS DEPUTY lVIASTER, as H.' R.·, ofT."" 3.

ILLUSTRIOUS

'VORKS,

4. 5. 6.

7. 8. 9.

PRINCIPAL

CONDUCTOR

OF

THE

as H. .. A.'.

TREASURER. RECORDER. CAPTAIN OF THE GUARDS,

as A. •• A. ·•

CONDUCTOR OF THE COUNCIL, as STEWARD. SENTINEL.

STATIONS.

s.

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0

00

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SELEOT l\IASTER.

21

PRAYER AT OPENING A COUNCIL.

1vIay the Supreme Grand l\faster graciously preside over all our counsels,. and c1irect us in all such things as he will be pleased to approve and bless. l\Iay our profession as l\Iasons be the rule of our conduct as men. ~fay our secret retreat ever continue to be the resort of the just and 1nercif~tl; the seat of the moral virtues, and the home of the select. So mote it be; The following Psalm is read:

His foundatio~路~is in the holy mountains. The Lord loveth the gates of Zion luore than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of thee, 0 city of God. Selah. I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that l~now me. Behold, Philistia, and T:rre, with Ethiopia: this lnan was born there: And of Zion it shall. be said, This alldthatman was born in her:ancl tIle Highest himself shall establish her. The Lord shall count, when he '\vriteth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah.


22

CRYPTIC l\:I:ASONRY.

As well the singers, as the pla)Ters on instruments, shall be there: all my springs are in thee.-PsALM lxxx-vii.

REOEPTION. The following passages of Script.ure are introduced and explained:

And it came to pass, when Moses had made an end of '\)Triting the words of this law in a book, until they were finished, that 1\108es cOlnmanded the Levites, which bOl"e the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord, saying, Take this Book of the Law, and put it in the siele of Ark of the Covenant of the Lord :your God, that it may be there for a ,vitness against thee.-DEuT. xxxi. 24-26.

*

*

*

*

*

*

.A.ud l\ioses said, This is the t,hing which the Lord comulandeth, Fill an orner of it to be kept lor your generations; that they may see the bread wherewith I have fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you forth from the land of Egypt. And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a Pot, and put an orner


23

SELECT MASTER.

full of l\fallna thereiu, and lay it up before the Lord, to be kept for your generations. As the Lord commanc1ed l\foses, so Aaron laid it up before the testimony to be kept.EXOD. 32-34,

*

*

*

*

*

*

And the Lord said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's Rod again before the testimony, to be kept for a token.-Nul\1?3. xvii. 10.

*

*

*":

*

*

HISTORY:

In giving the history路路of this degree we re"vert to the building of the temple. Our three Grand !Iasters, Solomon Iring of Israel, Hiram King of Tyre and Hiram Abif being in possession of the writings of 1\1oses and the prophets, well knew that if the children of Israel deviated fl~om the laws therein contained, their enemies would be let loose upon them, their cities and temples sacked, ruined and destroyed, and all the


24

CRYPTIC MA$O:NRY*

sacred treasures "in the S.路. S.路. ,vauld be forever lost. In order to prevent this evil * * *. This secret vault ~: * * place to deposit a true copy of. all the holy vessels and sacred treasures contained * * * Grand Council to confer * * *. There were employed to work on the other eight arches, twenty-two men :frolu Gebal, a city in Phcenicia, together with Ahishar and Adoniram, all of whom were well skilled in the arts and sciences generally, but particularly in sculpture. Their hours of labor ,vere * * *. During the erection of this vault a circumstance occurred which characterizes this degree and upon which the ceremony of initiation is founded. * * * and for a long time he grieved in silence. * *, meaning when the temple was completed and he should * * *. This sat,isfied him. * *. When the ninth arch was completed *** Ark of the Covenant and placed within * * * copy of the Book of the .Law,路and that it might be known by whom and for what purpose it

*

*


SELECT lVIASTER.

25

,vas deposited, * * * vVhen the deposit ,vas rnade * * *, yet all their return if found, by means of the other t,YO languages it Inight be restored, and that it nlight be known and distinguished * * *, by which l11eans ,vas preserved and brought * * *. It was then lost. * * *. It was again restored to the craft, in \vhose possession \ve trust it will forever remain. The Lecture may end here with the charge or be continued as follows:

There may be an iÂĽquiry in your mind what was the natul'e of the word that rendered the J e\ys so anxious to keep possession; how came it in their !)ossession, and of ,vhat importance was it to 'them-this part 8010rnon has allusion to \vhen the lVlaster's word was lost. Zeroaster (\Vl10 flourished about 800 :years before the building of the temple) in the Zendavista writes, "There are names given by God hirnselÂŁ to every nation, of unspeakable efficacy. in the mysteries." Therefore, this


26

CRYPTIC l\:IASONRY.

,vord in the minds of the J e,vs v\ras of unspeakable efficacy, preserving them as a nation and conferring upon' them a mighty powel~. We find the Trojans 200 years before the building of the temple having l)ossession of a Palladium which fell :from heaven, and only by its loss could their city be ~estroyed. .The Chaldeans wore triangular pieces of metal, sometimes stones, on which were engraven certain characters called talismans, the possession of which they imagined g"ave them power over the spirits and mortals. The principal was named Bel or Baal. In confirmation we find the Jews saying -&0 Christ, "You cast out devils' by the aid of Belzebub.. " The Hindoos have a word of s11ch tremendous efficacy that the simple utterance of the ,Yord by a holy Brahmin would shake the paradise ~ÂŁ Swerga to its center, convulse the earth to its foundation, restore the dead to life, destroy the living, transport himself where lle pleased, and :fill him '\vith the wisdom ,of the gods.. This word is Aun or


27

On, and belongs to the triad.

The word

On is Egyptian and ,\-vas esteemed the most ancient of the gods, ror Plato, ,vho derived 111uch information from the Egyptians, writes, "Tell I11e of the god On, which ,vas and is and never knew beginning." They a~cribe the same powers to "On" that the Jews did to Jehovah. But the affinity of certain words between Hindoos, Chaldeans and Egyptians is so close that we may presume they calne from the路salne source. The Je\vs believed by the p~wer of tIle name. . It cured them of evils,路 ,varned them of danger, restored the dead to life, brought fire from heaven, rent buildings asunder, maimed and clestro:yeq. their enemies, and filled them with great wisdom; the pronunciation shakes heavenancl earth, and inspires the very angels '\vith astonishment. The Rabbins call it "~hem Hamphorosh/' the unutterable name. That the word inspired the possessor with great wisdom, the sacred recorcls testify in many instances. The first place where we find it ill its proper name is in Samuel,


28

CRYPTIC ]\JIASONRY.

who was inspired ,vith so great ,Yisdom as to be judge of the Jews. vVe find, also, the word had the same power when comlllunicated. Samuel gave the "Tord to Saul, and the possession :fi.ll~d hinl with ,visdoll and understanding far above his compeers, and, in the allegorical language of the East, gave him another heart, and so surprised those "\vho knew him as to make them exclaim, "Is this Saul thE. oon of Kish?" But we find on the loss of the '~Nord he was greatly troubled and endeavored to .regain it in various ways; at last sUIDllloned the spirit of Sanluel to give it. Samuel gave the word to David, and the Lord was vvith pavid from that day for'"Y"ard, for he says expressly, "For thy word's sake has thy servant known these great things." And we :find David triumphing over all his enemies by the power vested ill him.. When God refused David to build a temple to his name, Solomon was appointed in his stead, and tradition states, that on commencing the foundation he struck on a cavern


SELECT MASTER.

29

in which ,vere immense treasures of gold, silver and precious stones. Believing it to be the remains of some telnple built before the flood, and fearing that it had been in the service of"' idolatry, he was informed b:y a dream that this place had been thricedevotec1 to God. It was the place whence EnQch ,vas translated, where Abraham was about to offer up his son Isaac, and it was the place of the threshin~-floorof Ornan the Jebusite, whe1 e David met and appeased the destroyingangel. The treasures were collected and. used in buildihg the temple. On exploring the lo,vest recesses of the cavern they came upon an arched vault, in which they found a white marble pillar, on which, encrusted witl1 precious stones, was a delta,and on which was engraYed the Gr.路. OIn.路. word, the possession of which filled him with such wisdom and understanding that his name resounded throughout the earth, and has so continued' to the present clay. It was this that enabled our three Granel J\.Iasters to erect such a magnificentstructul~e, the 4


30

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

like of which has not been before.or since. The A.rabians have .the tradition-that the word was engraved on a seal, and gave them power over the Dives, Afreets, Ghouls and other evil spirits, imprisoning them and confining them at the bottom of the sea, by impressing on them the signet. By,them it ,vas called a talisman or conferrer of power. By the Egyptians they were worn as amulets or averters of danger, and are still worn at the present day. 'Ve now see by the inspiration it gave its possessor what struck SOlOl'llOn witp. s~ch consternation and anxiety on the death of H.路. A.'. The key ,vas probably a triangular plate on which was engraved the Omnific name, this being worn constantly on the breast, would, by lying on it continually, give a fain"t impression of . the word; * * *. It was the possession of the ,vord * * *. Having mentioned that all nations possessed a word, we will inquire how it first came in possession of the Je路'ws. The Rabbinical tradition is, that it was given by God to Adam, who, foreseeing the deluge,


路1

SELECT MASTER.

31

enjoined on the sons of Seth to preserve it for future generations, when the flood ,vould

have slvept all but Noah's faluily a\vay. Enoch the son of Seth, while deliberating upon the best means of p~eservingfor future generations the ineffable nalne of Deity, ,vas favored by a mystical vision, he seemed to be transported to the top or a high mountain. . On IO,oking up,.he discovere,d i~ the heavens a triangular plate brilliantly illuminated, on which appeared certain mystic characters which he received a strict injunction never to pronounce; he then appeared to descend to the bowels of the earth; looking beneath him he .discovered the same triangle. Instructed by this vision he built two pillars, on which was eng-raven the knowledge of the antediluvian world, and beneath he formed a cavern, and in. it 4e deposited the triangle on which ,vas engraved the ineffable word. He left a key to the name, as our Grand l\fasters have done, so those \vho had this key could pronounce the name. The Eastern nations have the tradition that the


32

CRYPTIC J\IASONRY.

key left was composed of sInal1 squares joined together, called a Zuarga, which they consult at the present day, as to matters of health and business. It is possible that the key to the R.路. A.路. W.路. is the Zuarga of the East. The ineffable name was prononnced once a year by 'the High-Priest, amicl tlie' clang of cymbals and sound of trumpets, at the Feast of Expiation. It was not lawful to pronounce it any other time.

*

*

*

*

*

*

After the loss of the word, the Jews endeavored to find a substitute by an idol, called by the Rabbins a Teraphim.,According to tradition it was constructed in 'this wise, and occasioned the Jews much trouble in after periods. A head of a chilcl first born路and deac1 born was placed on a golden plate on whose rim was engraved mystic characters. Under the tongue they placed a, laminar of gold, on which was -engraved characters and inscriptions of certain


SELECT l'rIASTER.

33

planets. After performing invocations belore it, it was endo,ved with speech to foretell eYent.s. This is the idol th.at is so bitterly inveighed against by Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel. This is following after the abomi. nation of the heathen instead of seeking the word. The Babylonians practised divinations and sorcery, and the Jews copied largely from them, and' were in full force from their return from Babylon till the destruction of the temple by Titus, and thus has been trftllsmitted down to us the' various rites, nlystic路.'ce~emoniesand charms yet practi'sed aluong the ignorant and uneducated of the present da:r. Thus, Companion, have I enc1eavored to give a brief .epitome and slight explanation of such parts of our 'York as may stimulate your zeal and energies to fl1rtherenquiries ill penetrating the darkness and bringing to light the long lost vlorcl in all its effulgent splendor.

49:,1..


34

CRYPTIC :MASONRY.

CHARGE TO THE CANDIDATE. COMPANION: Having attained to this degree, you have passed the circle qf perfect-ion in ancient IVrasonry. In the capacity of Select Thruster you must be sensible that your obligations are increased in proportion to your privileges. Let it be your constant care to prove yourself worthy of路 the confidence reposed in you, and of the high honor conferred, in admitting you to this select degree. Let uprightness and integrity attend your steps; letJustice and ?nercy mark your conduct; let fervency and zeal stimulate you in the discharge of the various duties incumbent upon you; but suffer not an idle or impertinent curiosity to lead you astray, or betray :you into danger.. Be deaf to every insinuation which would have a tendency to weaken your resolution, or telnpt you to an act of ' disobedience. Be voluntarily durnb and bZ-ind, when the exercise of those faculties would en.danger the peace of your minc1, or the probity of your conduct; and let silence


SELECT MASTER.

35

anc1 seCl'"ecy, those cardinal virtues of a Select l\:faster, on all necessary occasions, be scrupulonslyobserved. By a steac1y adherence to the important instructions contained in this degree, you will merit the approbation or the select number with whom you are associated: and will enjoy the high satisfaction of having acted well your part in the important enterprise in which you are engaged, and, after having wrought you'r ~"eg'Ltlar hour.~, may be ad~ittea to participate in all the privileges of a Select Jfaster. OHARGE AT CLOSING. C01\1:PANIONS: Being about to quit this sacred retreat, to mix again ~ith the world, let us not forget, aluid the cares and vicissitudes of active life, the bright example of sincere friendship, so beautifully illustrated in the lives of the founders of this degree. LOet us take the lesson home with us; and may it strengthen the bands of fraternal love between us; incite our hearts to duty, and


36

CRYPTIC lfASONRY.

our desires to wisdom. Let us exercise Charity, cherish Hope, walk in Faith. And may that moral principle, which is the m:ystic cement of our fellowship, remain with and bless us. So mote it be.


SUPER-EXCELLENT ThIASrrER.

DIRIS

degree has no connection, either in symbolism or history, with the degrees of \ ~t Royal and Select J\.:Iaster. It refers to circumstances which occurred during the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuzaradan, Captain of the Guard o~ the King of Babylon. The ceremonies'al'e intended to represent the final destruction of the Ten1ple and the carrying a,\yay of the m1ptive Jews to Babylon, and exemplifies a part of the Royal Arch degree. The degree, no doubt, comes froIn the Ancient and Accepted Rite,' and 'wns originally conferred by the Inspectors General of that rite. 'It is now conferred in many of the jurisdictions in Councils of Royal and Select Mast.ers. The moral of the degree is intended to inculcate integrity and. fidelity to vows; and the treachery of Zedekiah is illustrated as a warning to remain faithful to our路 engagementR. The officers of a Council of Super.- Excellent ~Iasters are as follows: '.


38

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

King of Jll.dab, st:ylec11VL路. Ex.'. K.路.

1. 2. 3.

:FIRST }{EEPER OF THE TEMPLE;

4. 5.

TEIRD I(EEPER O:b' THE TEMPLE;

ZEDEKIAH,

COMPANION GEDELIAH; SECOND KEEPER OF THE TEMPIIE:

6. 7.

CAPTAIN OF THE GUARDS;

8.

SECOND. HERALD;

9.

THIltD HERALD:

10. II. 12. 13. 14. 15.

FIRST HEltA.LD;

GUARD, } GUARD,

Attendants to the K. 路.

GUARD, TREASURER; SECRETARY;

SE~TINEL.

The officers are stationed as follows:

s.

0\0 O~

<J

00-:>

o~

Gnards attend King (10, 11, 12.)

I

O~


39

SELECT }IASTER.

RECEPTION:

*

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*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*


40

CRYPTIO l\fASONRY..

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*


41

SUPER-EB:CELLENT lVIASTER.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

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42

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

*

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43

SUPER-EXCELLENT MASTER.

*

*

*

*

*

*

The King and all his men-of-vvar fled by night by the way of the gate between the ,yalls "\vhich is by the ICing's garden, alld the Iring went the ,,"ay toward the plain, and the ::trill)'" of the Chaldeans pursued after the King and overtook him on the plains of Jericho-and . a ll his army was scattered from him. So they took the I{ing and brought him up to the I{ing of Babylon, to Riblah, and. they gave judgmentl.1pOll him; and they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eJ'es, and they put out the. eyes of Zedekiaq, and bound him in chains of brass and carried him to Babylon. The s'\vord of the enemy prevails, OUl" young men are captives and our old men are slain.

*

*

*

*

*

*


44

CRYPTIC :I\IASONRY.

*

*

*

*

*

*

How doth the city sit solitary that was full of people; how is she become as a '\vidow ! she that \vas great among the nations and princess among the provinces, ho\v is she become tributary ! She weepeth sore ~n the night, and her tears are on her cheeks: arnong all her lovers she hath none to coulfort her: all her friends have dealt treacherously with 11e1", they aloe become her enemies.-LAl\!ENTATIONS, i. 1~2.


45

SUPER-EXCELLET MASTER.

HY1\:IN: ArR-St 1J.ÂŁattin, or Baler'ma..

By Babel's stream we sit and weep, Our tears for Zion flow; Our harps on drooping willows sleep, Our hearts are filled with woe. .

,

II II

==~=:

"

J~

T

':~ II II

==~:=

II II

':

II

~

II

~ '-~rl

.

II II

~

II' 11 M

II

~

II

II

..

II

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II II

,~ II

__ ~__ II

==i== ==.. == --=~-


46

CRYPTIC l\IASONRY.

*

*

*

*

*

*

"And on the east side toward the rising SUll shall theJ of the standard of the calup of Judah, pitch with Isaacher and Zebulon." "On the south side the standard of the camp of Reuben, with Simeon and Gad." "On the west side the standard of the camp of Ephraim, "Vvith l\fanassehand Benjamin." "On the llorth side the standard of the camp of Dan, with A.sher and Napthali." "Then the Tabernacle of the congregation shall set forward '\vith the canlp of the Levites in the midst of the camp." By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat dO'Vll, yea, we ,vept, when we remembered Zion. \Ve hanged our harps on the ,vil1o,,~s in the Inidst thercoÂŁ :B"or there they that carried us a,vay captive required of us a song; and' they that wasteth us required of us Inirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of , Zion.-PsALM cxxxvii. 1-3.


47

SUPER-EXCELLENrr l\JIASTER.

Our \valls no路 more resound with praise, Our Temple, foes destroy; Judea's courts 110 more upraise Triumphant songs of joy.

*

*

*

*

Judah is gone into ca,ptivity because of . affliction, and because of great servitude; she a"\velleth among the heathen, she findeth no rest; all her persecutors overtook her between the straits. The ways of Zion do mourn, because none come to the solemn


48

CRYPTIC

J)iIASONRY.

feasts; all her gates are desolate; her priests sigh, her virgins 路are afflicted, and she is in bitterness.-LAMEN'J.1ATIONS, i., 3-4. How shall we sing the Lord's song in a strange land? If I forget thee, 0 Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning.PSALM cxxxvii. 4-5. Here, mourning, toil the captive bands, Our feasts and Sabbaths cease; Our tribes, dispersed through distant lands, oI.t\.re hopeless of release.

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49

SUPER-EXCELLENT MASTER.

The word of Jeremiah, the prophet, to the captives in Babylon, saying, This captivity is long. Build ye houses and dwell 'in them: and pla~t gardens, and eat the fruit of them; And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it; for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.,JER. xxix. 5, 7. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cle~ve to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.-PSALM cxxxvii. 6.

.

'

*

*

*

*

But should the ever gracious Power To us propitious be, Chalc1eans shall our race restore, And kings proclaim us free.

*

*

*

*


50

CRYPTIC !!ASONRY..路

mSTORY.

The ceremonies through which you have passed have a moral and historic significance. The historic alludes to the t.aking of Jel"usalem, and the destruction of the Temple by Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. Zedekiah who reigned at this time in Jerusalem was the uncle ofJehoiachim, the' youthful king place~ at eighteen years路 of age upon the throne. The former llame of Zedekiah was ~fattaniah. The change of name was to indicate that the }ustice, and not the gift of the Lord, imparted to him a scepter at the pleasure of the Babylonish monarch. Nebuchadnezzar's finalalld fatal siege of Jerusalem began on Friday the 30th of December, in the 588tll year before the Christian Era, being the seventh year of . Pharaoh Hophra, King of Egypt. The King of Judah besought the aid of Egypt against the Chaldeans. Pharaoh attempted to interpose, but the result was


SUPER-EXCELLENT MASTER.

51

to no purpose,- as the prophet had foretold. PharaQh's demonstration only occasioned an intermission of the siege for a period路 of about one hundred days. The city yielded to the Chaldeanpower and to famine on Wednesday, the thirteenth of June. Deducting -from the 530 days since the forts were built about Jerusalem, the probable interval of 100 days, wherein Pharaoh diverted the attention of the Chaldeans, and we have the 430 days during which Ezekiel was called upon prophetically to bear the iniquities of Israel and Judah. Zedekiah, dreading the fury of the monarch to whom he o\ved his own elevation, had fled from the city, but was pursued by the Chaldeans and captured in the plains of Jericho, about eighteen miles from Jerusalem. Northw"ard from this, 100 miles distant, was Riblah, ill the region of Haluath, ,vhere Pha1 aoh Nechi had put in bonds the humiliated J ehoabas, son of Josiah. 1


52

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

At this l)lace Nebuchadnezzar now had his quarters, and to hiln the troops conducted the captive Zedekiah: "And they slew the SOIlS of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah and bound him with fetters of bl~ass and carried him to Babylon." Thus were velified \vhat had seemed to be .the contradictory prophecies of J erelniah and Ezekiel. The former predicting of Zedekiah: "Thil1eeyes shall behold the eyes of the liing of Babylon, and he shall speak with thee mouth to mouth, and thou shalt go to Bab:ylon." And the latter announcing, "I will bring him to Bab:ylon to the land of the Chaldeans, yet he shall not see it. though he shall die there." Nebuzarac1an, the commanding officer of the Chaldeal1 army presented hilnself at J erusalenl all \Vednesday, the 11th of the succeeding 111 onth, and 011 the following Sabbath, the 14th of July, he completed his cruel and profane ravage in plundering and burning the Temple and city.


SUPER-EXCELLENT MASTER.

53

The history prepares us for the thrilling and sacred theIne of the pious anclwonderful rebuilding of the Lord's house. The 'inoral purpose of this degree is to in.. culcate true devotion in spirit and in truth to the G rea t I .A..l\I, in contradistinction to idolatry; to teach traditionally life's vicissitudes; to encourage generous hospitality and friendship; to enlighten .the mind and itInend the heart, that we may become ,viser and purer, brighter and brighter unto the perfect day, and by precept and example to excite our Brethren to moral action and the ami~ble practice of sincere devotion toward God, and of all the social virtues. It also inculcates the faithful fuifillluent of our several VO'vs, and the fearless discharge of our respective duties; and teaches us, that the violation of our solemn vows, as ill the case of Zedekiah, the last king of J ndtth, will not only cause us to forfeit the respect and friendship of our Companions, but ,vilI also most surely destroy our own peace of mind.


54

CRYPTIC MASONRY.

Then let us, my OOlnpanions, labor diligently and fearlessly in the cause of Truth our allotted tiule, doing with our might '\vhatever our hands find to do, so that, ,,"hen at the time of the third watch our work is finished, we may be greeted as SuperExcellent J\:Iasters, and. be released from our captivity in the flesh, to return over the rough and rugged way of the yalley of the Shadow of Death to our abiding-place, eternal in the heavens, there to erect our last and perfect moral and l\lasonic Teluple and adore the Holy One of Israel throughout the endless cycles of eternity.


INSTALLATION OF THE OFFIOERS OF A

SUBORDIN.LtTE COUNCIL. '. FFICERS of Subordinate Councils may be instn.lled by any present or PaBt Grand Officer, or by any present or Past l\1:aster of a Council in good standing in any regularly constituted Councii of Royal and Select lVlasters. The' Council being duly assembled and路 in working order, the installing officer shall direct the Recorder to rea{{ so much of the records as refer to the election of the officers presenting themselves for installation. After which he shall say:

Companions of - - Council, No.-, do you remain satisfied witll the choice you have made in the selection of your officers for the ensuing l\Iasonic year? The answer being in the. affirmative, the officers elect shall be arranged by the l\larshal (an officer to be appointed for the occasion) ill due fornl in front of the installing officer, when they shall be required to make the following .


56

CRYPTIO MASONRY.

DECLARll.TION: I, - - , do solemnly promise that I will faithfully, and to the b~st of my ability discharge the duties of the office to which I have been elected in this Council, and that I will strictly conform to the requirements of the By-Laws of this Council, ancl the Constitutions and General R~gulations of the l\fost Puissant Grand Council of the State of - - - - so far as they may come to my knowledge. The officers elect shall then resume their seats among the Companions. 'l'he following, or some suitable prayer, shall then be delivered by the Chaplain: PRAYER.

Most Holy and Glorious Lord God, the Great and lVlighty Father of all men, we, Thy humble servants, desire to approach Thee ,vith all reverence, and to implore Thy blessing upon the Companions selected to preside over and, conduct the affairs of this Council, and now before Thee. Fill .their


INSTALLATION CEREl\:IONIES.

57

hearts, ~ve beseech Thee, \\iith Th~y fear, that .their tongues and actions may pron10te Thy glory. l\Iake them steadfast in Thy service. Grant them firmness of mind. Animate their hearts and strengthen their endeavors. l\fay they be enabled to teach Thy juc1g1nents and Th:)T laws. Bless them, 0 Lord, and bless the vlork of their hands. Accept us in mercy. Hear Thou from Heaven, Thy d~1"ellil1g-place, and forgive our transgressions. Glory be to God as it was in the beginning, is no\v, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. '" RESPONSE: SO mote it be. The l\1:arsl1~~1 'will then present the officers路 elect severR.lly, according to rank, for installation. Addressing the installing officer, by his proper 1\:Iasonic title, he shall say:

---, I present to you OOlllpanion - - , for installation as - - of this CounciL I :find hiln to be well skillec1 in the Royal M:rsteries, zealous in diffusing the sacred principles of our fathers, and in '\vhose integrity and fidelity his Companions of - -


58

CRYPTIC MA.SONRY.

Council, No. -, repose the highest confidence. The installing officer will then complete the ceremonies by delivering the following Acldress and Charges, severally, to the officers elect, as tbey are severally presented to him, according to rank, by the 1\farshal:

ADDRESS AND CHARGE TO THE IVfASTER. THRICE ILLUSTRIOUS COMPANION: Ifeel great pleasure in receiving you as the presiding officer ol this Council. It is a station highly honorable to him who diligently and faithlull)" peTforlTIS the duties it imposes upon him. Before investing you, ho,\yever, with the appropriate insignia of your office, I must require your unequivocal assent to the follo"\ving interrogatories: 1. Do you solemnly promise that you will use:Y0ul~ best endeavors to correct the vices and purify the morals of路 your COll1panions, and to promote the peace and prosperity of your Council? 2,. That you will not suffer your Council to路be opened when路 there are less than nine


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

59

or more than twenty-seven Select Thfasters present? 3. That you ,viII not suffer anyone to pass the circle of perfection in ~iour Council, in whose integrity, fervency and zeal you have not entire confidence? 4. That :you will not acknowledge or hold intercourse with any Council that does not work under some regular and constitutional authority? 5. That you will not admit a visitor into your Council who has notheen regularly ane} lawfully invested with the degrees oonfer~"ed therein, without his having previously been formally healed? 6. That you will faithfully obserye and support such By-Laws as may be made by your Council, in conformity with the Constitutions and General Regulations of the Oreler? 7. That you will pay dne respect and obedience to the Grand Officers, '\vhen路 duly installed, and sustain them in the clischarge of路 their la\vful duties?


-------------------60

CRYPTIC l\IASONRY.

8. Do yOll subnlit to these requirements, and promise to observe and practice them fai thfrill y ? RESPONSE: I do. 'VTith entire confidence in the rectitude of your il1tentions, and in the integrity of your character as a Select Master, I now invest :rou with the appropriate insignia of your office. Having been honored with the free suffrages of your Oompanions, and elevated to the highest office 1vithin their gift, it becomes your duty to set them an example of diligence, industry and fidelity; to see that the officers associated with you faithfully perform their respective duties, and that the interest and reputation of your Council are not endangered by imprudence or neglect. The important trusts committed to your charge will call forth your best exertions, and the exercise of your best fttculties. As the representativ~ of the wise King of Israel, it will be your duty to recite the secret


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

61

traditions, and illustrate the moral principles of the Order, to cherish the '\vorthy, and to hold in clue veneration the ancient landmarks. By a frequent recurrence to the By-laws of . your Council, and the General Regulations and Constitutions of the Grand Council, you will be enabled to fulfill the important obligations resting upon you 路with honor to yourself and with credit to the Craft. And may He, without whose approving smiles our labors are all in vain, give strength to your endeavors and support to your exertions. :CHARGE TO THE DEPUTY MASTER.

RT. ILLUSTRIOUS COMPANION: Having been elected to the second office in this Council, I, with great pleasure, invest you with the insignia of your office. The duties of the important office to which your Companions have elevated you will require your constant and earnest attention. You are to occupy the second seat in the


62

CRYPTIC路 MASONRY.

Council~ and it will be your duty to aid and SUppol~t your chief in all the requirements

.of his. office. In his absence you will be called upon to preside in the Council, and to discharge all the important 路duties annexed to his station. Although the representative of aking,and. elevated in rank above your Companions, yet may you never forget that in all the duties you owe to God, your neighbor and yourself, you and they stand upon the same level of equality. Let the bright example ofyaur predecessor in the Grand Council路at Jerusalem stimulate you to the faithful pel路formance of every duty, and when the King of kings shall summon you to His immediate presence, may you receive from His hand a crown of glory that shall never fade away. CHARGE TO THE PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR OF THE WORK. ILLUSTRIOUS COMPANION: As the third officer of this Council, I now invest you with the insignia of your office. It is your duty to


INST.ALLATION CEREMONIES.

63

sound the silver trumpet at early da,vn and eve of d~lY, when the sun's nrst and last beams gild the mountain-tops, to announce high noon, and proclaim the time of rest and labor. In the absence of either of your superior officers, you will be requirecl to perform the duties annexed to his station respectively; and as the interests of your Council ought never to suffer from the want of intelligence in its officers, yo:u will allo,v me to urge upon you the necessity bf .being always qualified and fully prepared to meet the emergency, shottld it ever arise. Having been admitte~ to the . felloloship of ]{ings, you will be frequently reminded that the office of ?nediator is both honorable and praiseworthy. Let it therefore be :your oonstant care to preserve harrnony and unanimity of sentiment among the members of your Council. Discountenance whatever may tend to .create divisions and dissensions among路 the Brethren in any of the del)artments of l\Iasonry. And as the glorious sun


64

SUBORDINATE OOUNCIL.

at its meridian dispels the mists and clouds that obscure the hori~on, so may your exertions tend to dissipate the mist of jealousy and discord, should any such ever unfortunately arise in your Council. CHARGE TO THE RECORDER. COMPANION: I now invest you '\vith the insignia of your office. The qualities which should c1istinguish yOll in discharging the various duties annexed to your station are, correctness in recording the proceedings or your Council; judgment in discriminating between what is proper and .what is improper to be "\-vritten; regularity in making the returns to the Grand Council; integrity in accollnting for all moneys that may pass through your hands, and fidelity in paying the same oyer to the Treasurer. The possession of these qualities has designated you as a' suitable Companion for the ilnportant office to '\vhich you have been elected, and I entertain no doubt. but that you will discharge all the duties incumbent on you with fidelity and


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

65

honor. And when youshall have completed the records of' )"o1.1r transactions here below, and finished the term of your probation, nlay you be admitted to the Grand Oouncil above, and find your name recorded in the book of life. CHARGE TO THE TREASURER. CO~rPANION: You hav,e been elected to a very ilnportant and responsible' office in this Coun'cil" and I now, with pleasure invest you. with .~he insignia of your office. It is your duty to number and weigh out the shekels of the sanctuary, and to provide for the helpless orphan. The qualities whic11 should distinguish you are accuracy and fidelity; accuracy in keeping a fair and true account of the receipts and disbursements; fidelity in carefully preserving the property. and funds of the Council, and in rendering a just account of the same when required.. Your interest in this Council, Jour attachment to the Craft, and your known integr:ity


66

SUBORDINATE COUNCIL.

of character, are a sure guaranty that :your duties \viII be faithfully performed. CHARGE TO THE CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD. COMPANION: Having been appointed Captain of the Guard in this Council, I present you with the insignia of your office. Guard well your post, and suffer none to pass it but the select, the faithful and the worthy. Be ever att~l1tive to the commands of your.chief, and be always near at hand to see them duly executed.

CHARGE TO THE CONDUCTOR..

The office to which you have been appointed is one of much importance in the proceedings of this Council. In the discharge of the duties appertaining to it, and vvith "Thich yOll are doubtless familiar, be fervent and zealous; you will thus secure the respect and esteem of your Companions, and the approbation of your own conscience. You will路now assume :your station. COMPANION:


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

67

CHARGE TO THE CHAPLAIN.

You have been appointed Ohaplain of this CounciL Your good inclinations will undoubtedly aid you' in the performance of those solemn services which created beings should constantly render to their Grea't Creator, and '\vhich, when offered by one whose holy profession it is to point to Heaven and lead the 1.oay, may, by refining our morals, strengthening our virtues, and purifying our minds, prepare us for admission into the presence of our Suprelne Grand JYIast'er, where happiness will be as perfect as it is endless. R.EV. COMPANION:

CHARGE TO THE 1vIARSHAL.

The duties of your office路 require but little elucidation. It is your duty, in connection with the Conductor, to attend to the examination of visitors, and to take special care that none are permitted to enter but such as have proved their title to our favor and friendship. I present you with the implement of :your office, in the confiCOMPANION:


68

SUBORDINATE COUNCIL.

dent belief that it is intrusted to competent and faithful hands. CHARGE TO THE STEWARD AND SENTINEL. OOMPANIONS: You have been appointed to the office of Steward and Sentinel, respectively, and 路I now, ,vith pleasure, invest you ,vith the appropriate insignia of your office. Let the sword placed in your hands serve as a constant admonition to you to set a guard at the entrance of your thOllghts,to place a '\vatch at the door of your lips, to post a sentinel at the avenues of your affections, thereby excluding every un,vorthy thought, ,vord and deed, and enabling you to preserve your consciences void of offense toward God and man.

CHA.RGE TO THE COUNCIL. ~

WORTHY AND BELOVED COMPANIONS: From the nature of our beloved institution, some must of necessity rule and others obey. And ,vhile justice and moderation are required of the officers in the discha~"ge of their


INSTA.LLA.TION CERElvrONIES.

69

official duties, subordination and respect for their rulers are equally demanded of the members. The relation is reo'iprocal. The interests of both are inseparable, and without mutual cooperation the labors of neither can succeed. Let the avenues to your passions be strictly guarded. Let no curious intruder :find his way into the secret recesses of your retirement, to disturb the harmony which should ever prevail among the select and chosen. In so doing, you will best secure the' prosperity of your Council, the respect of your Companions and the commendation of your own consciences. The Instnlling Officer shall then make the following declaration:

By virtue of the powers in me vested, I do now declare the officers of . . .. Council, No.... , regularly installed, in due and ancient form. The Chaplain shall then conclude the installation ceremonies by delivering the following, or some suitable form of


70

SUBORDINATE COUNCIL.

PRAYER.

Eternal and eyer blessed Jehovah, most humbly do ",ve beseech Thee to look down with an eye of favor upon this Council, now assembled before Thee. Bless, if it shall please Thee, the proceedings of this hour, and grant that every transaction of this body may tend to Thy glory and to our advancement in knowledge and virtue, and to Thy great name shallbe ascribed eternal praises, world without end. Amen. RESPONSE: So mote it be.


ORDER OF OERE1fONIES IN

CONSTITUTING AND DEDICATING COUNCILS OF

ROYAL AND SELECT r~~j;fiJHE

1Il\STERS~

new Council shall assemble in their hall and be called to oreler by their presiding officer. '. . The Grand Council will meet and open in adjoining room. A Oommittee from the new Council shall inform the Grand ~Iarshal that the new Council is prepared to receive the Grand Council..路 The Grand J)!arshal will announce the same to the Grand lvIaster. The Oommittee shall then conduct the Grand Oouncil to the Ht111 of the路 new Council, ,\vhel'e they shall be received with the usual honors. The officers of the new Council shall then resign their seats to the Grand officers, and cause their jewels to be laid upon the altar and covel'ed. An Ode shall then be sung, or an appropriate piece of music be performed, after 'which the Grand Chaplain shall repeat the following, or some other suitable form of .

an


72

ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS.

PRAYER.

Almighty and Supreme Architect of the Universe, Maker and Ruler of all things, who is there in Heaven but Thee, and who upon earth can stand in competition with Thee? Thine omniscient mind brings all things in review, past, present, and to come. Thine omnipotent arm directs the movements of the vast creation. Thine" om~i足 present eye pervades the secret recesses of every heart. Thy boundless beneficence supplies us with every comfort and enjoyment. Thy unspeakable perfections and glory snrpass the understanding of.the children of men. vVe do most humbly invoke Thy special blessings upon the purposes of our present assembly. Let this Council be established to thy honor and glory. ~Iay its officers be endowed with wisdom to discern and :fidelity to pursue its true interests. l\;Iay its members be ever mindful of the duty they owe to their God, the obedience they owe to their superiors,


CONSTITUTING AND DEDICATING.

73

the love they owe to their equals, and the good-will they owe to all mankind. l\Iay this -Council be erected to Thy glory, and may its melnbers ever exemplifJ their love to thee by their beneficence to their fellowman, and eventually enjoy the revvards of a w~ll-spent life in' the sacred sanctuary on high. Glory be to God, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, ,varld without end. Amen. RESPONSE: So mote it be. Should time permit, an oration or some suitable a9-dress may now be delivered. . The Grand ],iarshal shall then address the Grand 11aster in the words following, viz: J\:IOST PUISSANT GRAND }\;!ASTER: A constitutional number of CompfLnions, duly instructe<..l. in the sublime mysteries, having received from the Grand Council a Oharter, authorizing them to open and hold a regular Council of Royal and Select lVliLstel'S ill this place, .are now assembled for the purpose of IlftVing the same legally constituted and solemnly dedicated in a'mple form.

7


74

ROYAL AND SELECT )\'!ASTERS.

The Charter granted the new CouDcil shall then be read by the Grand Recorder. The Grand Master v;rill then acldress the Companions forming the new Council as follows: COMPANIONS: Do you accept the Oharter which has just been read in your hearing by the Grand Recorder, and do you promise to perform all. ~he requir~ments therein contained, conforming in all your lYlasonic workings to the Constitutions, By-Laws and General Regulations of the lVlost Puissant Grand Council of the State of - - - - ?

The answer being in the affirmative, the Grauel Master shall proceed as follows:

By virtue of the high power in n1e vested as Grand lVfaster of Royal and Select l\fasters of the State of - - - - , I cIo now form and constitute you, my ,Yortby Companions, into a regular Council of Royal ancl Select Masters, by the name of Council, No. . .. . ; and I hereby authorize and empo,\ver you and your successors to open and hold said Council, ancl to do and perform all such things as路may appertain thereunto, conform-


CONSTITUTING AND DEDICATING.

75

ing in all things to the Constitutions, ByLa'ws, and General Regulations of the l\iost Puissant Grand Council of the State of - - - . And may the God of our fathers be with you to guide and direct you in all your doings. Amen. RESPONSE: So mote it be. An Ode or Hymn shall then be sung, or a suitable piece of music performed, during which the Grand Mal'shal路shall uncover the jewels~ The following Dedicatory Declaration shall then be pronounced by the Grand Master:

'.- To our Ancient and Most Puissant Grand l\1as~er Solomon, King of Israel, we solemnly dedicate this Council. May the blessings of him who presides in the Grand Council above rest upon all the Inembers th$;eof, and may He so direct their labors that His name may. be magnified, now and ever. Alnen. RESPONSE: So mote it be. The following proclamation shall then be made by the Grand Marshal:


76

ROYAT.J AND SELECT MASTERS.

I'aln directed by the l\Iost Puissant Granel 1IasteT to proclaim, and I, do hereby proclaim this Council, by the name of Council, No , duly constituted and dedicated, this day of , A. D•••• , Should it be deemed desirable, another suitable piece of music may be now performed, when the cerell10nies shall close with the following benediction, to be pronounced by the Grand Chaplain:

BENEDICTION.

l\lay the blessing of the Goel of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob rest upon and be 'Yvith you always, now and forever. A.men. RESPONSE: So mote it be. Should any other officer than the Grand Ma~ter officiate at the dedicatory ceremonies, the word a1nple is to be omittecl wherever it occurs in the serv'ic8, and in place thereof shall be used the words "in due and ancient for·~n. "


INST.A.LLA.TION OF THE OFFIOERS OF THE

GR.L~ND

COUNCIL.

T the time appointed for the Inst.allation, \~rA~ml the Grand Council being regularly opened, the Chair must be taken by some路 Grand or Past Grand Master; or, if none be present, by the highest Grand or Past Grand Officer, 'who is, or has been, a presiding officer in a Subordinate Council. The R. P. Grand Marshal shall then introduce the Grand Master elect to the Installing Officer, saying:

':' lVIoST PUISSANT: I present to you Companion , \vho, having been duly elected Grand Master of the. Grand Council of the State of - - - - , for the ensuing Masonic year, no,\v declares hinlself ready for installation. The Installing Officer shall then address the memhers of the Grand Council, saying: COMPANIONS OF THE GRAND COUNCIL: Companion .... _.. _, having been duly elected to preside over you as your Grand l\Jlaster, now

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GRAND COUNCIL.

declares himself ready Ior installation. If any or you can show just cause ,vhy he should not be installed, :you will make your objections now known, or forever after hold your peace. If ()bjections are made, the Grand Council shall proceed at dnce to hear and determine the sa.me. If no objections aloe made, he shall continue to say,

No cause being shown to the contrary, I shall now proceed to install him. The Installing Officer shall then administer the following Obligation of Office, all the c0111panions standing:

I, ..... . .... , do solemnly promise and swear that I will serve as Grand Master of the Grand Council of the State of ....... _, for the term for which.1 have been elected, and will, to the best of my abilities, faithfully discharge the duties appertaining to that office. I do furthermore promise and swear that I will snpport and maintain the Constitutions of this Grand Council, and inviolably preserve路 the ancient landmarks of the Order. So help me God.


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

79

The Grand Chaplain shall then offer the following pra:yer:

o thou most holy and omnipotent Lord God of heaven and earth I we do most humbly beseech thee to smile upon and bless this Grand Council now assembled. Sanctify unto each one o拢 us now present the transactions of this hour. l\fake us humble and thankful recipients of all the bounties Thou art continually oestowing upon us, and move our hearts with impulses of tenderness and charity toward all men, and路 especially toward those who have wrought with l1stheirregular h~urs in the secret vault. J3.estowllpon us, ,ve beseech Thee, a portion of .Thine infinite "\Visdom, and. especially llpon him ,,,,ho has been selectecl to preside .OV6l" this Grand Council. Take from him all pl"ide of heart, stubbornness of will; and self-sufficiency of understanding, 路and all 'v'anity, ostentation and arrogance, if any such he haye; and give him in their stead a meekness and lowliness .0拢', heart, and a kindness and gentleness of disposition, that shall cause him to


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GRAND COUNCIL.

rule and govern his CompanionS' with love and affection, and in thy fear. And we pray Thee, 0 Lord God, that, when our labors here are ended, and the hour of everlasting rest has arrived, we may be received into the Grand Council above, and hear the thrilling welcome, "Come, ye blessed of my Father, into the mansions prepared for you from the beginning of the world." Amen. RESPONSE BY THE COMPANIONS: So mote it be. The Installing Officer then inYests the Grand Master elect with the insignia of his office, and proceeds with the following

CHARGE.

By the voice of your Companions, you have been elevated to the highest office Vtrithin their gift; -and as they rely with entire confidence upon the rectitude of your intentions and the integ-rity of your character, it becomes your duty to set them an ex'ample of diligence, industry -and fidelity; to see that the officers associated with you faithfully


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

81

perform their respectiYe duties; and that the reputation and interests of this Grand Council are not endangered by imprudence or neglect. The important trust cOlumitted to your charge will call fOl~ your best exertions, ane! the exercise of your best faculties.. As the representative of the wise King of Israel, it will be your duty to recite the secret traditions, to illustrate the moral principles of the Order, to cherish the worthy, and to hold in due veneration the ancient landmarks of our time-honored institution. The purple robe, the crown and the scepter are emblems of union and authority. They are to indicate to you that, "\vhile you govern your Companions with mildness, firmness and impartiality, you are to teach them lessons of union and harmony, Wllich are the chief supports in our great }Iasonic edifice. And as yOll are seated in the East, the place of light and heat, so you are to be the source of light and heat to those under your charge. Enlighten them with a


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GRAND COUNCIL.

knowledge of our traaitions~ our forms and ceremonies; the signification of our tools and emblems, and. the general arts and , mysteries of our Craft; and impart to them a portion of the warmth of zeal and devotion that burns in your own bosom. By a frequent recurrence to the Oonstitutions of this Grand C9uncil, and the general regulations of the.~raternity, together with a constant observance of the great principles inculcated in the various lectures and charges, you ,viII be. enabled to fulfill the important obligations resting upon you ,vith honor to yourself and credit to the Craft. And may He, without whose approving smiles our labors are all in va~n, give strength to your endeavors and support to your exertions. The Grauel 1Iaster elect shall then talre his seat in the Eal-3t, and assume the gavel. After which (all the Companions standing) the Grand Capt,ain of the Guard shall make proclamation thus: COM:PANIONS: In the l1ame or the l\!fost High God, I do proclaim l\:Iost Puissant


INSTALLATION CEREl\!ONIES.

83

Companion, , Grand Master of the Grand Oouncil of the State of , for the term prescribed by the Constitutions. The remaining Officers elect, standing in order before the officiating Officer, shall then make the following declaration:

I, , do solemnly promise that I ,vill faithfully, and to the best. of my abilit:y-, discharge the duties.of the office to which I have been elected, and that I will strictly conform .to the requirements of the Constitutions of the Grand Oouncil of the. State or , together with the General Regtulations of the Order, so far as they may come to my knowledge.. After which the officers elect shall kneel (the rest of the Companions present standing), while the R. P. Grand Chaplain repeats the following PRAYER.

l\:Iost Holy and Glorious Lord God, the Great Architect of Heaven and Earth, we approach Thee with reverence, and ilnplore Thy blessing on these Companions, selected to assist OU1~ presiding officer in conducting


84

GRAND COUNCIL.

the bus'iness of this Grand Oouncil, and now prostrate before Thee. Fill their hearts with Thy fear, that their tongues and actions may promote Thy glory. l\lake them steac1fast in Thy service. Granf them wisdom, that they may teach Thy judgments anc1 Thy laws. Animate their hearts and strengthen their endeavors. Bless them, 0 Lord,and bless the wOl'k of their hands. Accept us in mercy_ Hear Thou, from Heaven, Thy d welling-place, and forgive our transgressions. Amen. RESPONSE: So mote it be. The R. P. Grand'Marshal will now present each of the remaining Grand Officers elect in order, according to rank, when they shall be charged by the Installing Officer) respectively, as follows: (After each charge, the R. P. Grand 1Iarshal shall conduct the officer elect, so charged, to his proper position in the Grand Council Chamber.)

CHARGE TO THE DEPUTY GRAND

~IA.STER.

RIGHT PUISSANT COMPANION: Have you attended to.the important obligation taken by your superior, and do you promise to support


INSTALLATION CERElVIONIES.

85

-------------------all the ancient charges and regulations as freely and fully as he has done? ANS,\VER: I do. The duties of the ilnportant office to ,vhich your Companions have elected' you 'will require your constant and earnest attention. You are to occupy the second seat in this Grand Council, fLllCl it will be your clnty to aiel and support yonI' chief in all the requireluellts of his office. In his absence you will be called upon to preside in the Grand Council, and to discharge all those important duties vihich now devolve upon hiln. Let it, tnerefore, be :your unremitting study to acquire such a degree of knowlec1ge ancl infornlation as will enable you, ,Yhen called upon, to discharge ,vith prOluptncss and propriety all the ilnportant duties annexed to your stn, tion. ..

CHARGE TO TIlE GRAND ILLUSTRIOUS l\IASTER. RIGHT PUISSANT COl\IPANION: You have been eleva ted to the third office in th e Grand Coullcil. The duties of the important office

8


86

GRAND COUNCIL.

to which your Companions have elevated yOtl will require your constant and earnest attention. It will be your duty to aid and support your superior officers in all the requirements of their offices. In their absence, you ",viII be called upon to preside in the Grand Council, and to discharge all the' important duties annexed to that station. Although the representative of a King, YOlt should never forget that, in all the duties you owe to God, your neighbor, and yourself, you stand upon the same level of equality with the rest of your Companions. Let the bright example of your illustrious predecessor in the Granel Oouncil at J erusalem stimulate you to the faithful performance of every duty, and ,vhen the King of kings shall summon yOtl to his immediate pres.enee, fromlltHis llanc1 may you receive a crown of glory that shall never fade路 away.


INSTALLATION CEREl\:IONIES.

87

CHA.RGE TO THE GRAND PRINCIPAL OONDUOTOR OF THE WORK. RIGHT PUISSANT COMPANION: As the fourth officer of this Grand Oouncil, it will be your duty to sound the silver trumpet at early davvn and eve of day, when the sun's first and last beams gild the mountain-tops, to announce high noon, and proclaim the time of rest and labor. In the absence of your superiors you will be ~equired to perform their duties; and as the" interests of the Grand Oouncil should never be permitted to suffer through want of intelligence in its officers, you will allow me to urge upon you the necessity of being always qualified and prepared to meet the emergency, should any s11ch arise. Having been ac1mitted to the fellowship or ICings, :you will be frequently reminded that the offtee of i}nediator is both hOllorable and praise","'orthy. Let it, therefore, be your constant care to preserve harmony and unanimity of sentiment among the members of


88

GRAND COUNOIL.

the Grand Council. Discountenance \vhatever may tend to create division and dissensions among the Companions in any of the departluents of lVlasonr:y. And t1s the glorious sun at its meridian dispels the mists and clouds that obscure the horizon, so nlay your exertions tend to dissipate the mist of jealousy and discord, should any StIch ever unfortunately arise. CHARGE TO THE GRAND RECORDER.

Itiswithmnch pleasure that I install you into the office to ,rhich you have been elected by YOllr Companions. :rhe qualities which should 1"eC0111mend a Recorder are: cor-rectness in recording the proceedings; ju,dglnent in discriminating betw""een what is proper and what is improper fo be written; regular'ity in attendance UpOll the Grand Council; integrity in accounting for all mone:ys that may pass through his hands, and fidelity ill paying the same over to the Grand Treasurer, The possession of these qualities, I ha YO no doubt, has RIGHT PUISSANT CO:M:PANION:


INSTALLATION CERE~![ONIES.

89

designated you as a suitable Conlpanion for this important office. I have the utmost confidenee, therefore, that you will discharge all the duties incumbent on you with fidelity and honor. J\fay God grant that, when you shall have completed the record of your transactions here below, you may be admitted into the Grand Council above, and find your name recorded in the Book of Life. CHARGE TO THE GRAND TREASURER.

You have been to an important auclresponsible s路tation in this Grand Body. It will be your duty to number and weigh out the shekels of the sanctuary, and to provide for the helpless and the destitute. The qualities w hiell should distinguish Jon are accuraoy and fidelity-accuracy in keeping a true and fair accouut of the receipts and disbursements; fidelity in carefully preserving the property and funds of the Grand Council, and in rendering a just account of the same when required. Your interest in this Grand RIGHT PUISSA.NT CO:rvIPANION:

~~ected

8*


90

GRAND COUNCIL.

Council," your attachment to the Craft, and your known integrity of character, arc a sufficient guarantee that these duties 路will be faithfully performed. CHARGE TO THE GRAND CAPTA.IN OF THE GUARD. RIGHT PUISSANT OOl\![PANION: Having 路been appointed Captain of the Guard of this Granel 'Council, I present you \vith the insignia of your office. Guard well your post, and suffer none to pass it but the select, the faithful, and the true. Be ever attentive to the commands of your chief, and 路路be al~ays near at hand to see them duly executed.

CHARGE TO THE GRAND CHAPLAINS.

Yon have been appointed Chaplains of tbis Grand Council. Your good inclinations will Ulldoubtedly aid yOll in the performance of those 801eu111 services which created beings should. constantly render to their Great Creator, and which, ,vhen offel~ed bJ one RIGHT PUISSA.NT AND REV. CO]rIPANIONS:


INSTALLATION CEREJ\'IONIES.

91

whose holy profession it is to point to I-Ieaven and lead the ~f)ay, may, by refining our n10rals; strengthening 0111" virtues, and purifying' our minds, prepare us lor aclmissiol1 into the presence of our Supreme Grand l\Iaster, where happiness ,viII be as perfect as it is endless. CHA.RGE TO 路THE GRAND 1vIARSlfAL.

The office to you have been appointed is Ol1e of 111uch importance in the proceedings of this Grand Council. In the discharge or the cluties appertaining to it, and with which YOli are familiar, be fervent and zealous. Let uprightness ancl integrity attend your steps; let justice and ?nercy mark your conduct, and prec10minate ill all your actions through life. You \-viII now assume your station. RIGHT PUISSANrr COl\IPANION:

,,~hich

CHARGE TO THE GRAND STE'V.A.RD AND SENTINEL. PUISSANT COMPANIONS: You are appointed respectively to the office of Grand Steward


92

GRAND COUNCIL.

and Sentinel of this Grand Council, and I now invest you with the implements of Jour office. As the sword is placed in the hands of the Sentinel to enable him to guarc1 the sanctuary and entrance to the secret passage with sleepless vigilance against intruders, so should it morally serve as a constant admonition to us all to set a guard at the entrance of our thoughts, to place a watch at the door of our lips, to post a sentinel at the avenues of our actions, thereby excluding every unworthy thought, word and deed, and enabling us to preserve our consciences void of offense toward God and man. You will now assume your respective stations. CHARGE TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRAND COUNCIL. CO~rp.A.NloNS: From the nature of the constitution of every society, some must of necessity rule and others obey. And while justice and moderation are required of the officers in the discharge of their official duties, subordination and respect for their


INSTALLATION CEREMONIES.

93

rulers are equally den1andec1 of the rtnenlber路s. The relation is reciprocal; the interests of" both are inseparable, and withollt mutual cooperation the labors of neither can succeed. A house divided against itself cannot stand. Let, therefore, brotherly love prevail among you; let each be emulous of the others in all good ,vorks, and i}~ no other 1.uay. Let the avenues of your passions be strictly guarded; let no curious intruder find his way into the seCfl"et recesses of路 your retire~el1t, to disturb the harmony which should ever prevail among the select and chosen. In doing you ,viII secure the prosperity of this Grand Council, the respect of your Companions, the commendation of :your O\Vl1 consci~nces, and, llnallJ, the approval of your Supreme Granel l\Iaster and a Crown of Life.

so

The Grand ~:Iarshal shall then make the follo\vil'lg procla.mation:

I am directed by the l\Iost Puissal1 t Granel l\faster to proclaim, and I do hereby pro.. clainl, the officers of the l\fost Puissant


94

GR.A.ND COUNCIL.

Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of the State of duly and regularly installed in ample form. The Right Puissant Grand Chaplain shall then offer the following or some suitable prayer, which shall conclude the 'ceremonies of installation of the Grand Officers:

To Thee, 0 God, we now commend ourselves, and the varied interests comlnitted to our charge. Ever keep and preserv;e this Grand Council in purity and usefulness, and may its proceedings tend to Thy glory and the benefit of our race. A.men. RESPONSE: So mote it be.


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CATALOGUE. DIGEST OF ~lASONIC LA'v; being a complete Code of Rc~t11ations, Decisions, and Opinions upon Questions ot Masonic Jurisprudence. .By G. W. CIIASE. 12n10. Cloth.. . ... .. • . . .• • . . . . . . • . • . . •• • •. •• •. 1 50

aJ

l\IIHROlt FOR THE J OUANNITE ~fASON. In Series of Letters to the Right Honoral)le the Earl of Aboyne. By u'EV. GEORGE OLIVER, D. D. TilE STAR IN TIlE EAST. By I{EY. GEORGE OLIVER, D. D. ~"" 1'wo interesting and valuable 'llJo'r7cs brought together ~n one volwne. Cloth $150. Half Morocco............ 2 50 A CO:MPARISO:N OF EGYPTIAN S~~rBOLS 'VITII THOSE OF THE HEBREWS. By FREDERICK PORTAL. Translated from the French, by JOHN \V. SIMONS. ILlustrated with some fifty cuts, representing the Ancient Symhols, and accompanied with extended explanatioJ!.ls, which renclerit very entertaining and instructive. Oont~nts: Principles of Symbology; ...l \pplication to Egyptian Symbols, Symbol of Colors, Symbol of the Bible, etc. Cloth, $1 00. Hal~ Morocco. . . . . •. .. •. .... .. . .. •. .... .. .. . 2 0(

SPIRIT OF ]}IASONRY. By WrI.,LI.iUI I-IUTCHINSON, F. A. S. 'Vith COpiOllS Notes, critical and expla-

t!:{fMd~~c~~e~... ~~~~~~ ...~~~~: .~: •~'....~:~:~:~1. ~?: $2 50

BOOK OF 'rHE CO).!l\>IANDERY; a l\Ionitor for the Orders of l\fasonic KniO'hthood; containing its Bu... rial Service; .an improved fSystem of' Tactics and Drill; the Ceremonies of Installation for Grand and Suhordinate Commanderies; a List of the Orders of l{nighthood throughout the "'\Vorld; and the Forms of com:r>laint and Appeal. By JOHN \V. SIMONS, P. G. ])1:. li'lexible cover-full gilt, 75 cents. 'ruck-full gilt....... 1 00 MANUAL OF r:rHE CfI.A.PTER; a JYIonitor for Royal Arch :Masonry, contaming the Degrees of Mark Master, PastJ\Iaster, Most Excellent :Master, and Royal Arch; together with the Order of High-Priesthood; the Ceremonies for installing the Officers of a Oha~ter, ,yith Forms of Masonic Documents. By JOHN SHEVILLE, Past Grand High-Priest of New Jersey, and JAMES L. GOULD, Deputy Grand High-Priest of Connecticut. 82mo. Scarlet and gold........ .•.••..•.••• '7lJ SIGNET OF I{ING SOLOMON; or, the Freemason's Daughter. :By AUG. C.L. ARNOLD, LL.D. SlJlenrlicllH illustrated............ .•• •.••••••.••••••••• 1 2!S FREEMASON'S l'IONITOR; or, Illustrations of Masonry. By THOMAS SMITH WEBB, Masonic I ..ectu.. rer. V\"fith POl'trait, and Embellished. Cloth... '15


14

C.ATALOG UE.

REVELATIONS OF A SQUARE, e-xhibiting a graphic displny of the Sayings and Doings of Eminent Free and Accepted :Masons, t'ronl the Revival in 1'117, by Dr. De:::aguliers, to the Reunion in 1813. By GEO. Ot.-TVEIt,.D. D. Royal duodecimo. Oloth, $1 50. Half 1ttorocco............. .... •..•• ... •... ..•.•....••.•••.••.• 2 '00 I-:ATIONALE AND ETHICS OF FREE~IASONRY; or, the :MasolJc Institntion considered as a Uleans of Social and Individual Progress. By AUG. C. L. ARNOLD, LL.D. Cloth, $1 50. Half 1tlorocGo.. •... .•• ..•• 2 50 FREEMASON'S HANDBOOK.

By Wm. H. Drew.

Cloth, 75. Tuck ORIGIN AND EARLY IIISTORY OF l\:I.A.SONRY.

1 00

By

G. VV. Steinbrenner .......•....... , •....... 1 00 S'rATUTES OF TIIEANCIENT AND ACCEPT:b}D RITE.

By A. Pil\:e. . .. . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . • 3 00 DES FREIMAUItER'S HANDBUCH (Ge1"man)......... lIoRAL DESIGN OF FREE~!.ASONRY. By S. Law-

l·ence

BOOK OF THE CHAPTER. By A. G. Mackey'.....• :MASONIC VOCA.L ~iANUAL. By R. Macoy .. per doz. MANUAL DE LA JrI.A.SONERI.A. (Spani81~). By A..

75

1 00 1 7'5

3 00

Cassard•••................................ 10 00 HIS'fORY OF THE ANCIENT .AND ACCEPTED RITE.

By Robert B. Folger

LEXICON OF FHEEMASONRY. By A. G. ~lackey .. }!ASONIC .JURISPHUDENCE. By ...t\.. G. ].\;fackey ... POCKET LmRARY AND WORKING MONITOR. By

6 00 3 00 2 00

G. W. Cllase........•••.•................•. 1 50 1 75

lIA.:NUAL OF THE LODGE. By A.. G. 11ackey..... CRAFTS}IAN AND FREIDtfASO:N'S GUIDE. By C.

Moore

FREEMASON'S 1rIANuAL. By K .•J. Ste\vart ' .. ltfAsONIC TltES'I'l,E~BoARD. By C. 'V. l\1oorA •••• I{EYSTONE OF THE l\:'[ASONIC ARCH. By C. Scott. lfAsTER'VORI{M~~. By John K. Ilall. Tuck.. MASONIC HARP. By George W. Chase..... , .... JURY1t!AN MASON. By an English Rector. ...•. OUTIJINES OF SPECUIJATIYE FREEMASONny. By

Salenl Town... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . l\IAsoN IN HIGH PIJACES. . By an English Rector.

1 50 1 50 1 75

1 25

75 1 00 25

20 20


16

CATALOGUE.

PrintedBlal1k Books for Lodge, Chapter, or Commandery. LODGE OR CIJA.PTER REGISTER each 2 RECEIPT BooKS FOR LODGE OR CHAPTER ••• each 3 PRoposrrloN BOOKS " " each 4 DRAFT BOOKS FOR LODGE OR CHAPTERS •••• each 3 VISITORS' BOOK .•• 3 BLACK BOOI{ ••• , , • • • • • • • • • .. • • • • 3 ODE CARDS FOR '1'HE LODGE , • per dozen 1 ODE OARDS'~"OR TIlE CIIAPTER........ • " 1 PETITIONS FOR l\IEMllERSRIP ••.••••••••. pel' 100 1 LEDGERS .AND l\1lNUTE BOOKS. LARGE AND SMALL BIBLES, MASONIC LEDGERS-a new Cl1'ticle . ..••.. per quire 2 SECItETARY'S RECEIPTS, 3 BOOK OF lVIARKS FOR CUAP'l'ERS 4 QUESTION.BoOKS FOR COMMANDEBY 4 0

0

•••••

0

•••

0

•••••••••••••••••

50 50 00 50 50 50 50 50 25 50 50 00 00

Diplomas. TIle mo8t CompZete A88ort-?nent in tlLt8 Oountry. Tuck.each. 1 Salne, Bristol Board, for n'auling, " 1 Same, Bank Note Paper, nlap forln," 1 Same, Plate Paper, col'cl, for framing, " 1 ROYAL ARCH, Parchment, Tucks " 1 Saule, Bank Note Paper, Inap form ,. 1 Same, Plate Paper, for fh:uning u 1 ROYAL ARCH.AND SELECT }IA.STERS, Parchn1ent, Tucks , each. 1 KNIGHTTEMPLAR, Parchlnent, 'l.'. ucks " 1 Same, Plate Paper, for fJ auling " 1 lUSTER lVIA.SON AJ.'tD ROYA.L ARCH, in one Tuck, each 3 l!ASTERMAsON, Parchment, ~Iorocco

o

MASTER l\'L~SON, ROYAL, AND TEJ:\.!PLAR, 0110 TlICl{, .. • .. • • • • • • • • • .. • • •• • .. .. • .. • • each lIAsTER 1\IAsoN, R. A., R. .A.L.~D S. }{ASTERS, AND

K. T

H-oNOUARY

Board

l\f.EMBER'S

CERTIFICATE,

50 25 00 25 50 00 25 50 50 25 00

4 50

each 6 00 Bristol each 1 ~


Masonic Clothing and Furniture. FOR BLUE LODGE.

APRONS. Linen Aprons per doz., $6 00 LamblSkin Aprons, plain...•.•....•• each $100, or $10 00 per dozen. " "lined........... ..... 'I. 125, or 12 00 " trimmed with Blue Silk each $2 50 to $3 50 Stamped with Jewel of Office, in Blue and Gold, and trimmed with Blue Cloth each :3 ro Stamped with Jewel of Office, in BluG " and Gold, trimmed with Blue Silk, each 4 00 Dress Aprons, Lambskin, elegantly Ornamented with proper Masonic Devices, in Blue and Gold, trimmed with Moire Antique Silk each 5 00 Same-Lambskin, elegantly Ornamented with proper Masonic devices, in Blue and Gold, with Silver ::M:asonic Tassels; finished similar to the English Aprons each 6 00 Same-with Morocco Case "4o each 8 00


'CLOTHING AND FURNITURE.

21

COLLARS. Officers' Collars, Blue Belt Ribbon ..........•• ~ .•...•...•. each $1 25 '" H Masonic Ribbon each 1 50 Blue Merino, or Blue Cotton Velvet, trimmed with Lace ancl one Star each 2 50 Blue l!erino, Blue Cloth, or Blue Cotton V'elvet, trimmed with Lace and flve

Stars. . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . each 3 Blue Silk·faced Velvet., trimmed with Lace and five Stars ..•................. each 4 Blue Silk Velvet, trimmed with Lace and five Stars ...........•'•••... each $5 00 to 8 Velvet, embroidered .. each 9 elegantly embroidered ................•. each 15 Blue Silk Velvet Collars, embroidered, and Silver Bullion Fringe•.•••.••..................•...•....... each $12 00 to 20 0.

o •••••••••••••••••

00 00

00 00 00 00

SCARFS.

Blue or vVhite Satin or Silk, for Chaplain or Marshal, trimmed ...................•..••............. each $5 00 to 10 00 Dress Apron and Blue Silk Scarf.••••••••••••••••••• $12 00 to2(} 00


22

CLOTHING AND FURNITURE.

J:EJ 'T\T El Lr S_

BLUE LODCE. No. 1.-10 Pieces, solid silver, elegantly engraved .. $55 00 to $100 2.-10 Pieces, heavily Plated on fine German Silver, en· graved in same st.yle as pure silver..... .... ... . ...• 30 ~ Tltit is a ve1'ysupe'l'ior article of plated Lodge Jewel. They look as rich and pure a.~ the genuine metal, and are warranted to lastfor 20 years wit/wut replating. 3.-10 Pieces, heavily plated 011 :fine German Silver, surrounded with circle (new style), an elegant article.. 37 4.-10 Pieces, heavily plated on fine German Silver, engraved, of small size, with Ribbon hangers; can be used with or without collarl;;.. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 5.-10 Piece8~ solid silver, elegantly engraved, small size, with ribbon hangers; can be used with or without collars; in morocco case........ . . . • . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. 125

00 00

50

00

00

~PRESENTATION, PAST MASTERS" GRAND LODGE, and GRAND OFFICERS' JE\YELS MADE TO ORDER.


CLOTHING .A.ND "FURNITURE.

LODGE FURNITURE,

23

ETC.

Columns for Middle Chamber, with Celestial and Terrestrial Globes, Lily and Net-work Pomegranates, etc., complete ......................................•.••.... $75 to $130 00 Gavels, Rosewood per set, $6 00. " Ebony or Rosewood, solid. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . " 8 00 :Mahogany Columns, for S. W. and J. 'V ,......... 6 00 Rosewood. " H " • • • • • • • • • •• • • • • 10 00 extra finish " $15 00 to 20 00 Mahogany Working "rools (set of 4 pieces), 5 00 Rosewood H '" H inlaid. . . . . . . . . . . . 7 00 Mosaic vVork. . •. . 9 00 White Holly H fancy inlaid.. ..•. 9 00 Trowels, Silver Plated. .•.... .•......... 3 50 Solid SilYer...........................•..... $10 00 to 16 00 Setting Maul . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 3 00 Stone Hamu1er, or Common Gavel, Silver-Plated.... .•....•.... 3 50 Rods for Deacons and Masters of Ceremonies, and Stewards, emblematically Ornamented with Silver-plated Tops, per pair....... 8 00 Stands and Lights for .Altars .••...................... $25 00 to 60 00 Slippers ...........................................••..... eacll 1 00 Hood'\vinks ....•...•..........•........................... each 0 75 Canvas for Third Degree ................................•..... 12 00


24

CI"OTHI:NG AND FURNITURE.

Cable Tows ...•..•••... ~ .••.....••...•..•••••.•..•.•••.•.•.• 1 Of) Dl'awers . . . . . . . . . . •• . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .• . . . .. . . . . •. . . . . . . . . . . . 3 00 :Marshal's Baton............•.........••.•.•...•.•••.... S1 25 to 2 25 Paper Seals ................................•........... per 100 50 O'

Carpet for Middle Chamber, made to order, in the best style $40 to 60 00 l\{asters' Chart, in Three Parts, Framed and Boxed 15 00 Master's Carpet, 6 by 6t feet, mounted 20 00 Lodge Seal, engraved in brass, and Press $8 00 to' 20 00 Secret Ballot Box, ~fahogany, with Ballots, plain .•........... ~~5 00 " "Black Walnut........ 6 00 fancy inlaid 15 00 with emblems, inlaid with Pearl and Mosaic Work ........•.•............... , Extra Ballots

per doz.

25 00' 25

~

&en~.e

This box is so constructed t'hat voting"may be done by the of feeling-without the necessity of the voter seeing the ~~-::'" ~..:" . .~.. ballots. The front of .the box ~ ~~~~,

~~~~,~

in which the ba.llotfl. are placed

.is opened, as shown in the engraving; the ballots arc then ~ deposited in the rear through a _ convenient opening in the 'Partition. During the process of voting the hand of the yoter is completely screened from 01)serYation, thus rendering thl) balloting entirely secret. After the voting is completed the front of the box is closed and the rear 8pened~ which expo8es the result. By an ingenious contrivance in the partition tbe ballots are again removed to the front of the box,

and ready for

u~e

without handling them.


CLOTHING A.~'VD FURNITURE•

25

.ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER.

APRONS. Linen Aprons, trimmed per dozen, $'750 Lamb8kin Aprons, trimmed '\vith Red Silk, :plain each, 300 " trimmed with Red Clpth, and stamped Jewel of Office, in Gold: each 350 trimmecl with Red Sill\:, and stamped ,yUh with Je'\vel of Office, in Gqld..... each, 4 DC. trimmed with R. A. Rib bon. . . . . . .. . 4l. 600 :ROYAL ARCH DRESS APRoNs.-Lambskin, elegantly orna· mented 'with R. A. devices in go Icl, and appropriately colored and trimm ed, ·with Gold Maj:;onic Tassels each, 600 Same-With morocco case. . . . . . .. H 800 ROYAL ARCH DRESS APRONs.-Lamhskin, elegantly Ofnamentecl with R. A. clevices in gold, and appropriate colors, and trimmed with English R. A. Ribbon ......•.each, 800 Same-With moroc'Co case... •• . •. • •• • . ••... ..... .• . .. •... . •• " 1000


26

CLOTIIING AND FURNITURE,

COLLA.RS. Officers' Collars, Scarlet Belt Ribbon. ... .... .... .... .each, $1 ~ Scarlet R. A. Ribbon.................. H 1 50 Scarlet :Merino, or Cotton Velvet, trimmed with lace and one star each, 2 50 Scarlet :Merino, Cloth or CottOll Velvet, trimmed with lace and seven stars .. each, :3 50 Scarlet Silk-faced Velvet, trimmed with lace and seven stars each, 4 00 Scarlet Silk Velvet, trimmed 'with lace and stars ~ each, $5 00 to 8 00 Officers' Silk Velvet, splendidly embroidered each, $15 00 to 20 00 SCARFS. Best Silk Velvet, heavy embroidered gold lace $30 00 Best Silk Velvet, lace and bullion.... ...........• 15 00 Best Cotton Velvet ..................•.......... ~............. 10 00

JEvVELS. j2 Pieces, fine gilt..........•........................ $30 00 to 45 00 ~EYery style of R. A. Jewels made to oreler. Presentation

Jewels for HIGH PRIEST made to order. Marks on Silver, Gold, or ",rhite Cornelian, richly mounted, (In hand and made to order.


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