bounded kindness. What can I say, Right Worshipful Brother, in reply to your glowing and eloquent address? Alas, my Brother, I cannot repay you in kind, more especially when I balance an estimate formed by the too great partiality of friendship, with the humiliating consciousness of my own great deficiencies. The embarrassment of such a magnificent reception as this disqualifies me for the proper expression of feelings that oppress by their very intensity, denying the power of utterance. You yourself have, I doubt not, experienced, Right Worshipful Brother, that to an ingenuous mind, it is even easier to confer a favour than for the recipient to express his sense of it. It is no affectation of me to state, that I now experience this difficulty in no common degree. If I might have formed a supposition that, from my official position in the Craft, some little mark of recognition might possibly be extended to it by yourself, Right Worshipful Brother, and a few of the Brethren here; I am free to confess that the magnificent reality immeasurably transcends all expectation, and that by its extensive character, its prompt cordiality of kindness, no less than by its spontaneous unity of generous and hospitable co-operation, it quite overpowers me.

To call this a mere compliment were a misuse of terms. It is something much more impressive; a noble effusion of sentiment for the Craft, and a public testimonial to the claims of Freemasonry as a conservator of good feeling, and efficient instrument of social and moral amelioration. Disclaiming, therefore, the vanity of considering such a reception as due to any supposed personal merits of an individual, but referring it rather to a manifestation on your part, my Brethren, of a determination to continue steadfast in upholding the sacred interests of our venerable institution; I cannot withhold my warmest admiration at the energy and perseverance with which those interests have been promoted with such successful results in Western India, more especially under the masterly management of Right Worshipful Brother Burnes.

66. Among the anomalies of the physical world, accounts have been given by some who have gone down to the deep in ships, and seen the wonders therein displayed, of founts of living fresh water in the midst of the sea; and in arid deserts the weary traveller has been comforted by spots of loveliness and verdure. It is even so in the moral world. In these cold utilitarian days, whatever clings to the past or cherishes the tender and the ideal, is apt to be looked upon with leer malign, by material philosophy and worldly wisdom. Springing up from the dim depths of remote antiquity, like freshets of the ocean, preserving their sweetness amid the waste bitterness around, the institutions of Masonry, from primeval eras even through the darkness of the middle ages, athwart which they gleamed star-like, have ever evinced a salient power, and living freshness of their own, not to be overborne by barbarism and tyranny, or to be annihilated by political changes and revolutions.

"You have heard of a dry mathematician, who dead to the imperishable glories of the noblest epic poem of modern times, objected to the Para-dise Lost that it proved nothing. There are those also who cavil at Freemasonry as trivial or useless. Let such rail on. As true charity vaunteth not itself, so must the Mason, in general (save defensively on occasion), be silent regarding the active benevolence which operates as the living principle of his Order. Sufficient for him, that through his veiled agency, good is contrived and done; that the indigent aged Brother is supported; the bereaved widow relieved and comforted; and the orphan ready to perish succoured and nurtured. Aye! but yours is

selfish benevolence, continues the objector. The Mason might reply, Oh! my brother of humanity, but yet sitting in the darkness of thy own self-sufficiency, does not all benevolence centre in a self? The noblest affections might be sneered at on the same ground, for where were general philanthropy, if we had no individual benevolence; or where national were there no domestic morality? We endeavour as Masons to walk in the light of the apostolic injunction, to do good unto all men, but first unto them of the household of faith. The household of Masonry has the first claim upon Masonic funds. Masons are, as it were, more nearly related to us, and we know them and their necessities better. I trust, however, that in India, at least, Masons may never again be reproached on that score, seeing that Bombay not long ago, and Calcutta very recently, have sufficiently testified that Masons do not always confine that benevolence within the circle of the Craft! but are ready, on proper occasions, to succour the distressed wherever they may be found, whether it be the shipwrecked mariner of Old England, or the famished peasant of Green Erin.

"It was the saying of a poet more fashionable in my boyhood than he is now, that some of the happiest hours of life might be deemed those spent in an inn. Apply this sentiment of Shenstone's to a Masons': Lodge, and I concur in it; and why is it so? Because whatever is contentious or invidious does not enter there. It is strictly guarded from the intrusion of the base, and open only to kindly feelings and honest desert; while its proceedings are regulated by old and venerable precedents founded in love, and grounded on eternal truth. Within the walls of this large and spacious room, we behold a striking illustration of the working of the Masonic principle. A fortnight ago, I arrived here an entire stranger in Bombay, and known only to two or three, and now, as if by the stroke of an enchanter's wand, I find myself surrounded by devoted friends and Brothers! I may indeed well exult for myself and Masonry on beholding here such a brilliant and imposing array of the brave and the good, the learned and the honourable. I thank you all, my Brethren, collectively and individually, with all my heart. I am especially grateful, and I may say proud, at the attendance here to-night of one I have had the honour of knowing in other days, and who is not more distinguished for his exalted position in society, than he is for the true nobility of his nature and the mild lustre of his large innate worth. Of simple, unexacting dignity, he unites soldierly frankness with the most courteous urbanity, flowing from a heart not to be warped by paltry prejudices or petty motives, or to be chilled by cold conventionalities and aristocratic formalities. I would also just glance at a lady who adorns her high rank and station by the virtues that constitute the glory of the English matron. Dignified without hauteur, generous and benevolent without display, and graceful without affectation, she is respected and beloved wherever she goes. His Excellency Sir Thomas Mc Mahon I hope will pardon this allusion. I meant to have kept these sentiments to myself, but they have been involuntarily forced from me by strong recollections of old kindness to me and mine; and you know that out of the fulness of the heart the tongue will speak.

66

Again, my Brethren, begging to thank you, as I do from the bottom of my heart, for your extreme kindness, as the only return for it at present in my power, I have to propose the performance of a duty which will be a delight to us all. I beg, therefore, to call upon you to pledge a bumber toast to one whom I will not trust myself to dilate upon his

brilliant talents and genial dispositions here. I give you the health of my honoured colleague and very dear friend, the far-shining beacon of our Order here. Set on high in the West, like a city on a hill that cheers the pilgrim with auspicious promise of civilization and its amenities, he is the pattern of what a good and gifted Mason should be; nor let us forget while we pledge the toast, to breathe an aspiration for her now far away, our dear sister, and may every blessing attend her and her children. 'Right Worshipful Brother Burnes, and success to Masonry." (Enthusiastic applause.)

Dr. BURNES returned thanks, and proceeded to propose the health of His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, in nearly the following terms: Having offered our tribute of respect and Brotherly love to the Provincial Grand Master of Bengal, we shall, I am sure, with equal cordiality, tender the same to our Right Worshipful Brother the Past Provincial Grand Master of Western India.* These two distinguished Brethren are disciples of the same school in our Craft, brought up at the feet, as it were, of the most distinguished Mason, I believe, that has existed in our times, the late Marquis of Hastings; a nobleman who, in relinquishing the Government of India, declared that his pride and exultation were complete at its having been seen that Masonic principles had influenced him in the exercise of his authority, and whose eloquent expositions of those principles (as witness his address to King George the Third) are altogether unparalleled. Our gallant Brother was the friend and fellow-labourer of that illustrious Statesman and General; and that he has closely followed in his footsteps, and exhibited true Masonic principles in his conduct and practice, all here will be proud and happy to acknowledge. But gratifying as it would be to me, as a Mason, to do full honour to our distinguished Brother, it yet becomes me not, an officer serving under His Excellency's command, to expatiate, even on this social occasion, on his public character and services. They are known in the glorious history of our country, and are sufficiently indicated by the honours he bears, the appreciation he every where enjoys, and the high command he has been called upon to exercise, and to retain, but this I may be permitted to say, that in all countries the state of an army reflects either honour or the reverse on the general who commands it, and that the unbroken discipline, unshaken fidelity, and devoted courage, exhibited in so transcendant a manner by the Bombay army, under circumstances of unexampled embarrassment, during the last six years, have shown it to be second to none in those high qualities. Many of us have personally experienced the charm which Sir Thomas Mc Mahon and his most estimable lady have thrown over the private society in Bombay during their stay amongst us. Their genuine kindness and elegant hospitality are alike unequalled. A kinder friend to those closely associated with him, a more courteous gentleman to the many whom his high station draws towards him, or a more warm-hearted Mason to all ranks, exists not than Sir Thomas Mc Mahon; and I am sure I express not only your sentiment, but that which pervades every Lodge and every mess-table throughout Western India, when I pray that 'All success, happiness, and prosperity, may attend him and those connected with him.' (Drunk with enthusiastic cheers.)

Sir THOMAS Mc MAHON then rose and addressed his Brother Masons as follows:

*It should be mentioned that Sir T. Mc Mahon had been elected to this honorary office, and invested with the jewel of the same.

Right Worshipful Sir and Brethren,-To say that I feel highly complimented by the honour you have done me personally and by the manner in which, the expression of the company has been so kindly given to the toast, and to the tribute offered to the exemplary conduct of the army in all respects, can but inadequately convey the extent of obligation, under which you have placed me. I have but one voice in proclaiming the praise due to the troops, but it is most gratifying to me to know, that government entertains the most favourable opinion of them; and this can be supported by a distinguished member of it, who is present, and who I am proud to say always with his colleagues, exults in the fame of the army. I mean Bro. Reid. There are many other gentlemen of the civil service here to-night, and in other civil occupations, who have cordially joined in the acclamation, and in whose friendship, hospitality and kindness, my brother officers and myself have largely participated. 1 arrived here six years ago, known to my own cloth, but an entire stranger to the gentlemen composing the civil service; since then I have frequently been their guest, and I have occasionally been their host. I can therefore speak from experience and say, that in all the relations of life, public and private, I think it impossible to find any class of men surpassing them, in zeal and efficiency on points of duty, or possessing a higher sense of honour and integrity. After the eloquent, and I may add brilliant, addresses from the two speakers who have preceded me, I cannot think of prolonging your attention to myself another moment; as I freely confess that I do not possess the power or ability to give utterance to half what I feel."

[The cheering stopped the gallant General for some time; after which he continued in the following words.]

Right Worshipful Sir, I have the greatest satisfaction in proposing the health of Mrs. Grant, Masons' Wives and Children,' and I claim for myself the best right of any man in this room to that privilege, for I have known and esteemed this lady from her earliest days, and I had the honour of being present at her wedding, which took place at Calcutta, where her great amiability of disposition, kind manners, and charms of temper, secured for her in the extensive circle of the best society in which she moved, the regard of all who knew her. I beg leave to propose that this toast should be a flowing bumper." (Immense applause.)

The PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER OF BENGAL then replied:

"I thank your Excellency most sincerely for the honour you have done to one so inexpressibly dear to me, and your kindly allusion to the happiest day of my life. That honour, to say nothing of the quarter from which it emanates, is enhanced by her name being associated with Masons' wives and children. I will venture to say that there is not a Mason present, whose heart was not as full as the bumper-toast in his hand, when his Excellency proposed that toast. But with what a remorseful feeling must our bachelor Brothers have listened to it! Let me entreat of them to hasten and rid themselves of what that revered and illustrious nobleman, to whom our R. W. Brother has so beautifully alluded, happily called-their 'lamentable distinction. Let them lose no further time: but contract that golden link which gives man his true dignity in the social scale and sweetens all his cares.

Conceiving Masonry, under proper regulation, to be eminently calculated to benefit the natives of this country, I need not say how rejoiced I am to hail the presence here to-night of several native Brethren. I hope, in process of time, to see the number greatly

increased here and elsewhere. Whatever tends to strengthen our hold of the affection and loyalty of our fellow subjects, to elevate their views and refine their ideas, ought surely to be encouraged. The R. W. Master of Western India I know concurs in this. He has been most ably assisted in carrying out this object by his second in command. In the ranks of Masonry, as well as in those of Christianity itself, there are undoubtedly lukewarm professors, or nominal and unworthy Craftsmen. No human association can be perfect. If the unworthy are permitted to remain in the columns of our Order, it is because either they keep on the windy side of legality, or one charitably looks for their reformation, unwilling to evince a rigour that might drive to despair. How bright the contrast of one who is a Mason indeed, and who unites in the character the truly estimable man and the gentleman! Without further preface, I have the honour to propose the health of R. W. Bro. Le Geyt, Deputy-Provincial Grand Master, and prosperity to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Western India.' (Great cheering.)

His Excellency the COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF here craved permission to give a toast, which being accorded, he spoke as follows:

"Right Worshipful Sir and Brethren,—I beg leave to propose that we should pay due homage to the memory of a great statesman, a great general, and a great Mason; I allude to the late Marquis of Hastings, whose virtues and talents gained for him the exalted reputation which he bore throughout India and over all Europe. I may say of this distinguished nobleman that he was the scholar of the camp, the patriot, the benefactor of the poor, and one of the brightest ornaments of his country." (Drunk in solemn silence.)

R. W. Bro. LE GEVT returned thanks and concluded with, as a toast, "Prosperity to the Most Excellent Bro. Mullaly and the Royal Arch Chapter of Perseverance. The W. Bro. Blowers and the Lodge Perseverance. The W. Bro. Larkworthy and the Lodge Rising Star and the other private Lodges of Western India.” (Drunk with loud applause and all the honours.)

Bro. Dr. LARK WORTHY returned thanks for the honour that had been done him in a luminous address, which he concluded by observing he gave credit to Bro. Le Geyt and Bro. Burnes that they had been the originators and founders of the Lodge Rising Star, and took credit to himself that he had joined with them most heartily on the occasion, and had done all in his power, and would continue so to do to ensure its perfect success, he continued, "and who shall blame us for our exertions? do we not all breathe the same air, inhabit the same soil, and enjoy the like faculties? and have we not all souls to be saved, and must we not all appear before the same throne of Justice in the Grand Lodge above to be there judged for deeds done below? I look upon Masonry as containing a more holy and more sacred principle than that of mere active benevolence and charity-good though they be. I consider it to develop that great principle we all hope to see adopted and believed by the masses around us. I thank you again for the honour that you have done me as an individual, and propose Health and success to the Native Brethren."" (Loud applause.)

Bro. M. CURSETJEE acknowledged the toast in nearly the following words: "I have, R. W. Sir, and Brethren, a grateful, and a gratifying duty to perform-grateful, to have to return thanks on behalf of the Native Brethren for the last toast, and gratifying, to have to propose another with the permission of the Master, The establishment of the