Masonry; and that it was not admitted into their system till after the building of Freemasons' Hall in the year 1776. "In proof that the members of the constitutional Grand Lodge were, at this period, ignorant of its existence, and disclaimed its authority as a Masonic innovation, the Grand Secretary of the moderns stated, in answer to the petition of an ancient Mason for pecuniary relief, about the year 1758-Being an ancient Mason, you are not entitled to any of our charity. The ancient Masons have a Lodge at the 'Five Bells,' in the Strand, and their secretary's name is Dermott. OUR SOCIETY IS NEITHER ARCH, Royal Arch, nor ancient, so that you have no right to partake of our charity.' It is clear, therefore, that the moderns had no Royal Arch in 1758; and equally clear that it had been long practised by the ancients, who were entirely ignorant of it at the first breaking out of the schism; for they were then members of Lodges under the constitutions of England; and if they were acquainted with the degree, they were bound on their allegiance to communicate it to their superiors, if, as they afterwards asserted, it formed a constituent part of ancient Masonry, which they did not do. And if they were not acquainted with it, as it is reasonable to presume, how did they know it after the schism, if it was not a new invention, or a new communication? And it could not be the latter for the reasons already stated. The conclusion is, therefore, inevitable, that the ancients fabricated the degree. "In confirmation of this fact, the same Book of Constitutions declares, that it is impossible to exalt a modern Mason to the Royal Arch, without previously conferring upon him the Master's degree according to their own ceremonies.' This assertion was doubtless made on the ground that he was already in possession of the Master's word, which they knew was communicated in the third degree, according to the terms of the 'Master's part,' as then practised by the modern Grand Lodge: for the first lectures which were drawn up by Bros. Payne, Anderson, Desaguliers, Martin Folkes, Madden, and other eminent Masons, expressly declare in the degree of Master, that that which was lost,' meaning the Master Mason's word, is now found;' i. e. in the latter ceremonies of the third degree, when it was delivered to the newly-raised Master in form; and, therefore, the Royal Arch degree would have thrown no new light on the subject to a constitutional Master Mason. "This is a convincing proof that the difference between the ancient and modern systems consisted solely in the mutilation of the third degree; and it is actually referred to in the proceedings of the modern Grand Lodge, in 1755, where they express their disapprobation at the conduct of the ancients in introducing novelties and conceits of opinionative persons, to create belief that there have been other societies of Masons more ancient than this society;' evidently alluding to the establishment of the Royal Arch; which they publicly repudiated three years afterwards, as I have already shown, by declaring that they knew nothing of 'either Arch or Royal Arch." Many interesting particulars respecting the schism are added; and the Doctor appears to think that, in its effects, it was rather beneficial to the Craft than otherwise. Thus he says "It will be unnecessary to enquire whether all this is consistent with the requirements of Masonic duty. It is clear that disobedience is a breach of Masonic law. The very essence of the institution is founded on obedience to authority; and this once forfeited, led to division, anarchy, and dispute. But good frequently springs out of evil. The bee has a sting, but it produces honey. These movements excited the attention of the Fraternity, and also of the public. Ancient feelings, which had long been dormant in some of the initiated, began to revive, and they renewed their connection with the Lodges they had abandoned. Lukewarm Brethren became partizans on either side, and Freemasonry reaped the benefit of these misunderstandings by an increase both in numbers and influence. A more active study of its principles led to a greater perfection in the science, and many initiations took place amongst persons who had not previously given the institution a serious thought. Thus the ranks of both ancient and modern were increased, and the funds of benevolence for the widow and orphan augmented from new and unexpected sources; a result that cemented the popularity of the Order. Its beauties and excellencies were placed in a clearer and more prominent point of view, and the public became convinced that, though the two hostile parties might differ on some unimportant points of discipline, both were pursuing the same laudable course,-the investigation of science, and the benefit of mankind." We would recommend our Brethren carefully to read this interesting pamphlet, and judge for themselves-it will amply repay them for the trouble. Every Mason ought to have it in his library, as it is a book of reference, valuable on many accounts, and gives an insight into the state of Masonry during the last century, which is not to be met with elsewhere. The schism is treated throughout with great impartiality. "The jealousies which it excited, and the divisions and heart-burnings which it produced, have now subsided. Thirty years of peaceful union have extinguished all that unappeasable hostility which marked its progress; and the historian may now venture on the details without incurring the hazard of exciting an angry feeling either in one party or the other, by faithfully unfolding the circumstances that gave rise to the secession, and attended its course till it was ultimately absorbed in the great body of English Freemasonry, at the re-union in 1813." The pages on the origin of the Royal Arch are peculiarly valuable, as it is important for every Brother to know the true foundation on which the Order is based. The reverend Doctor considerately expresses his apprehension "That those Brethren and Companions who have been in the habit of valuing the Royal Arch on account of its antiquity, will be sadly disappointed to find it thus shorn of one of its brightest attributes. But there is rather cause for congratulation than regret; for what can be fairer or more desirable than truth? The degree loses none of its excellencies by being shown to be of modern origin. If its claims to antiquity were not well founded, its advocates were maintaining a fallacy; and often found themselves in a dilemma when proofs were demanded, which it was impossible to produce. The above arguments will remove many doubts, by at least placing the matter in a clearer point of view, even if they be not allowed the merit of absolute demonstration. And as the case has been candidly stated, without any offensive reflections on the parties concerned in the transaction, who, it is believed, were conscientiously persuaded that the design would confer dignity on the Order, no exceptions can be taken, on the score of partiality, to the end I have had in view, which is the discovery of truth.” Upon the whole, the arguments are simple but profound. The evidences have not been distorted to serve this particular purpose; but they appear to fit into each other, like the detached pieces of a dissected map, and produce so complete a whole, that no sophistry can avoid the conclusion to which the author has been led, or refuse to admit the force of the reasoning, or the obvious correctness of the demonstration. Latomia. Weber. Leipsic. Our talented contemporary continues to illuminate the Masonic horizon. We have extracted much intelligence, which appears elsewhere. American Register. Hoffman. Albany, N. Y. The September number has reached us. It centains a well-written paper on Masonic responsibility.-Report of the Grand Lodge of Indiana, in which the practice of conferring more than one degree at a sitting is justly reprobated.-The expulsion of the Rev. Dr. Muller, Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Columbia, for grossly immoral and unmasonic conduct, with other miscellaneous matter, and copious extracts from Masonic works. Stray Leaves from a Freemason's Note Book. By a Suffolk Rector. Spencer. London. This goodly work of promise is now fairly before the popular as well as the Masonic world, and to both it will be equally acceptable and interesting. As we have already observed, when commenting on detached sheets as they passed through the press, several of the articles have appeared as fugitive in Blackwood and other periodicals; their re-collection, with many other original articles, into a volume, will give the whole a permanent utility. To the popular reader the perusal will afford a pleasing reality of Masonic fact and circumstance not hitherto developed ; while the Masonic reader will find in its pages a new direction of thought, not the less delightful that he may share it with his wife and daughters, as the most pleasing way to draw their attention to the precepts and principles of the Order. To the ministers of religion we are greatly indebted for our Masonic literature, and our reverend author has added thereto a volume of thrilling interest, beautiful simplicity, and pure sentiment. The "Anti-masonic Vicar" will, if he read the book, find reasons for conversion in every paper, but more especially in that wherein Bishop Griswold's character appears in its true "light." All jury-men should learn by heart the Jury-man Mason; and every Mason should thank the author for having given publicity to his Stray Leaves." For ourselves we gratefully thank him, not more for many pleasant hours most delightfully passed, but for the important Masonic gleanings we have made in our own note-book, to be hereafter, with his permission, transplanted to other pages now in embryo. 6. Golden Remains of the Early Masonic Writers. Edited by the Rev. Geo. Oliver, D. D. Spencer, London. The fourth number of this serial has appeared, and contains-The Masonic Jewels illustrated by Moral Geometry-Anonymous; and on the Government of the Lodge, by John Whitmash, Esq. The notes, as usual, are copious and explanatory. Charity, the Freemasons' bond. A Sermon by the Rev. Joseph Taylor, A. M. Spencer, London; Law and Pinckney, Birkenhead. Our Reverend Brother is the incumbent of Stockport, and Provincial Grand Chaplain for Cheshire. The sermon was preached before Gen. the Viscount Combermere, P. G. M., and the Grand Lodge, at St. Mary's, Birkenhead, on the 7th of October; the text, 1st John, from 3rd chapter, v. 11, 17-18. St. John is styled the Apostle of Love; and on such character the sermon is constructed; nor has our author failed in his object; there is a truthful simplicity pervading the discourse, and the general illustration is condensed with due effect. It is somewhat brief; but perhaps we felt desirous to know still more of the author. Freemasons' Calendar and Pocket Book for 1847. Spencer, London. This annual effort of the "United Talent" is out, and is remarkable only for the omission of the Library and Museum, and of the Grand Lodge of Prussia; in all else it maintains its well-established character for-- We verily believe if it had not fallen into the present publisher's care, it must have been consigned to the tomb of the Capulets. Behold how good. A Masonic Anthem for four voices. By Bro. F. Oliver. Cocks and Co.; and Spencer, London. The author of this elegant musical composition appears to have in mind his illustrious namesake, Dr. Oliver, to whom, however, we understand he is not related otherwise than by the kin-Masonic. He is reported to be a most zealous observer of, and consequently deeply interested in, our mysteries. This effort of his professional talent would on that account find a ready passport to attention; but it may be tested by its merits as a specimen of musical talent of a high order. It was first sung at the celebration of the Masonic festival in June last, at the Minden Lodge (Irish registry), of which Bro. O. is Junior Warden. The Lodge is held in H. M. 20th Regiment, of which the author is Band-master. Herald of Peace. Ward & Co., London. This organ of purity maintains its character; and offers a refuge for those whose thoughts and aspirations breathe peace on earth and goodwill to man, in their truest sense. There is no flinching from principle, no coquetting with expediency. As consistency regulates the movement, may Almighty wisdom direct it! Ignez de Castro: a Tragedy. Hurst, King William-street. This well written work, by the author of "Rural Sonnets," is dedicated to Miss Vandenhoff, who was, we presumed, destined to represent the heroine. Managers, it appears, can accept very indifferent efforts, and it would seem they may reject what to others appear to be well written and adapted. There are some scenes in this tragedy that are powerfully written. The portrait of Ignez is a gem. The following are but just received, and acknowledged :- Unlawfulness of War. Rules of the Masonic Provident Annuity and Benevolent Association for the province of Warwickshire. Salt Monopoly Question (from Asiatic Journal.) Salt Monopoly, by D. C. Alwyn. VOL. IV. 3 U Dec. 29, 1846. ANNUS LATOMIÆ, 5846. WHAT can be said for forty-six, And both alike notorious, One, chiefest, comprehensive, They'll praise our Zetland's name, While synagogue and steeple Our oneness loud proclaim. The other, grand progressing, Would all, like thee, would dare M. * See the dedication to this volume of the Freemasons' Quarterly Review. |