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Article CONSECRATION OF THE ELFFIN MARK LODGE AT CARNARVON. Page 1 of 1 Article Australia. Page 1 of 1 Article Australia. Page 1 of 1 Article Australia. Page 1 of 1
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Consecration Of The Elffin Mark Lodge At Carnarvon.
CONSECRATION OF THE ELFFIN MARK LODGE AT CARNARVON .
Tliis lodge , No . 321 on the roll of the Grand Mark Lodge of England , and named after " Elffin , " or " Elphin ap Gwyddno " ! " which is the bardic title of Bro . T . L . D . Love-Jones Parry , M . P . for Carnarvon Boroughs , the first W . M ., received the warrant for its formation from the M . W . the Grand Mark Master , Lord Henniker ,
through thc recommendation of the Prov . Grand Mark Mason of North Wales , was consecrated by that distinguished ' brother , the R . VV . Capt . Hunter , 32 Scotland , Sic , ofPlas Coch , assisted by his D . P . G . M . M ., V . W . Bro . T . C . Roden , M . D ., Past Grand Deacon of England , many other of his Provincial Grand Officers being also present , viz .: W . Bros . Dr . Roberts , P . M ., Prov . G . S . W . ; Robert Owen , P . M ., Prov . G . J . W . ; G . L . Woodley ,
P . M ., P . P . G . S . W ., P . G . D . England ; R . S . Chamberlain , P . M ., Prov . Grand Treas . ; VV . I .. Banks , P . M ., P . P . G . W . Cheshire , Prov . GrandScc . ; J . L . Hazeldine , Prov . G . S . ; R . H . Pritchard , Prov . G . S . B . ; Dr . Davies , Prov . G . S . ; Rev . J . S . Boucher , P . P . G . Chap . ; Rev . T . Edwards , Prov . Grand Chap . ; G . F . Felton , Prov . Grand Org . ; Wm . Matthews , P . P . G . W . Cheshire and North Wales ; also Bros . VV . H . Foulks , P . M . 1674 ( Craft ) ,
3 S ; R . LI . Griffith , P . M . St . Cybi ( Craft ) , 38 ; Charles II . Rees , 38 ; D . Wynn VVilliams , P . M . 384 , S . D . 38 ; and all the newly advanced brethren . Letters of apology were read from V . W . Bro . Robert William Shekleton , Q . C , Deputy Grand Master ( Craft ) of Ireland , 33 , & c . ; R . VV . Bro . Major Tudor , P . G . M . ( Craft ) Staffordshire , D . P . G . M . M . of Staffordshire ; andV . VV . Bro . C . F . Matier , Past Grand Warden of England , Grand Representative
from Illinois , & c . ; Bros . Robert ab Hugh Williams , of Plas Llywnon , & c . ; Rev . Watkin VVilliams , Bodclwyddan ; Kirby Groshojly , all of whom expressed their deep regret to the Provincial Grand Master at being prevented supporting him on the occasion . The lodge and brethren generally regretted much the absence of the greatly respected Assistant Grand Secretary of England , V . W . Bro . Donald M . Dewar , who would have been present had not another
Mark Masonic engagement prevented his coming to Wales as was intended . The brethren assembled in the ante-room and walked in procession to the lodge room , which is one of the towers of the fine old castle of Carnarvon and one of the most unique in the kingdom . The presiding officer , W . Bro . Deputy Chief Constable Davies , P . M ., P . P . G . W . North Wales , Grand Steward England , took the chair , appointed
officers ( pro tem . ) and opened the lodge . A ballot for the following brethren was then taken , and they were advanced by him to the honourable degree of Mark Masons . Bros . Charles A . Jones , Richard J . Davids , John VV . Poole , Nathaniel Bunnel , H . Hardman , C . Rowalands , W . Morgan , John Williams , Thomas D . Lloyd , Owen Evans , W . Watkins , Rev . J . I . Davies , Edward Roberts , A . W . Crofft , George Thomas , J . VV . Tanquery , all of Scgontium
Craft Lodge . The R . W . Prov . Grand Master , Capt . Hunter , was received and saluted , after which he assumed thc chair , opened the Provincial Grand Lodge and addressed the brethren on the principles of the Mark Degree . The ceremony of consecration was then performed by the Prov . Grand Master in a most impressive manner , the musical arrangements being conducted by Bro . John Williams . An oration was next delivered by the Rev . Thomas
Edwards , one of the Prov . Grand Chaplains , who was assisted in other portions of the ceremony by the Rev . Sydney Boucher , P . G . Chap . After several anthems had been sung , the R . VV . Bro . Captain Hunter dedicated and constituted the lodge , and Bro . Dr . Roden , Deputy Provincial Grand Master , installed W . Bro . Captain Love-Jones Parry , M . P ., of MadryeP . P . G . D . of C , in the chair of W . M . of the new
, lodge , and after an address from the VV . M . he appointed and invested the officers as follows : Bros . Dr . Roden , I . P . M . ; Charles Herbert , 38 , S . W . ; Charles A . Jones , J . W . ; R . I . Davids , M . O . ; J . W . Poole , S . O . ; N . Bunnell , J . O . ; J . S . Boucher , Chap . ; O . Evans , Treas . Cornelius Davies , P . M ., Sec ; John Williams , Org . ; H , Hardman , S . D . ; C . Rowlands , J . D . ; Williams , D . of C . j W . Morgan , I . G . ; G . Williams , S . S . ; T . D . Lloyd , J . S .-
and VV . Watkins , lyler . A banquet was afterwards held at the Sportsman Hotel , the R . VV . Bro . Capt . Hunter , presiding , having on his right , VV . Bro . Capt . Jones-Parry , M . P ., the W . M ., and on his left , V . W . Bro . Dr . T . C . Roden , Deputy Prov . Grand Master . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were gone through , and a most successful evening was brought to a close at an early hour .
Australia.
Australia .
THE VICTORIAN GRAND LODGE QUESTION . ( Correspondence from the "Melbourne Argus" re the above question , continued from last week . ) Sir , —Your correspondent" Constitutional , " in answer to the question " why the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria is irregular" states that " the explanation can be
, given in a very few words , " but I am inclined to think that something more than the unsupported assertions contained in his letter will be required tu satisfy those brothers who are seeking information upon thc subject . He says that the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria " was effected upon the American basis , viz ., that any three lod ges can form a separate Grand Lodge . " So they can
if there is no other Grand Lodge in the country . Surely this does not make our proceedings irregular . The Grand Lod ges in the United States were formed upon "the American basis , " and are all acknowledged by , and communicate with the Grand Lodges of England , Ireland , and Scotland . Presuming then that we have no other claims , our position is cciually the same as those Grand Lodges
that are recognised by the constitutions of Great Britain , and we are justly entitled to equal consideration . " Constitutional" asserts that " under the English , Scottish , and Irish constitutions , there must be a majority of lodges * n favour of forming themselves into a separate and independent jurisdiction , when recognition from the parent authorities follows as a matter of course . " This cannot include Canada , as the first Grand Lodge in that province
Australia.
was in existence three years before it received recognition . I would therefore ask by what authority this statement is made , and where it has been carried out . In the mean time I must doubt its correctness . Your correspondent states that there are 96 lodges in Victoria under the three British constitutions . Will he oblige by deducting those lodges that are not working , and let us know how the figures stand then . " Constitutional , " as an excuse for
the four subordinate lodges in London forming a second Grand Lodge of England in opposition to the Grand Lodge of York , under which they were working , makes the unjustifiable assertion that " though de jure there may have been a Grand Lodge at that time , de facto there was none ; it existed only on paper . " If he will look at Preston , j . G . Findel ' s History of Freemasonry , and other standard works , he will soon discover his error . Although fully convinced
that the four London lodges acted illegally , I think that they established an important landmark in Masonic history , which had the effect of placing the Craft upon a more solid foundation , and extending its benign influences all over the world . Whilst acting in accordance with American laws , wc also claim Canadian precedent , of which your correspondent does not find it convenient to say one word . That history
repeats itself will be seen by the following extracts taken from thc " Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Canada , 1 S 5 S : " " It has been asserted that the assent of the Grand Lodges of England , Ireland , and Scotland should have been obtained before the formation of the Grand Lodge of Canada : but yourcommitteearenot aware of the existence of any Masonic law or usage giving to the grand lodges
aforesaid the power to establish or prevent the formation of a Grand Lodge of Canada . . . . VVe are perfectly satisfied that the recent movement has greatly benefitted the Canadian Craft . VVe have also reason to believe that the cause of Masonry itself has been advanced throughout the world , not only by the research that has been induced , but also by the discussions upon the subject to which that movement has led . . . . It is a matter of deep regret that
any brother of the Provincial Grand Lodge , while personally professing the approval of the motives by which we were actuated , admitting the necessity for the establishment of a Grand Lodge of Canada , and expressing the best wishes for success , and hesitating only as to the decisiveness with which we have acted , should have so far forgotten the principles of Masonry as to asperse and malign our motives and misrepresent our conduct . This is the
more reprehensible as it is well known that we have the sympathy of a great majority of the lodges and brethren still adhering to them who only await the decision of the Grand Lodge of England . The Grand Master in his address said , ' I regret that up to this time no communication has been received from the Grand Lodge of England . VVe must therefore confidently hope that the true spirit of Masonry , which has ever prominently distinguished the
Grand Lodge of England , will so direct their councils that they will approve of the action we have taken for the security and Benefit of the Craft in this province , reciprocate the sincerel y fraternal feelings we entertain towards them , and recognise with cheerful satisfaction their sister Grand Lodge of Canada . ' " It was three years before the Grand Lodge of England extended the right hand of fellowship . From the small number that established the Independent Grand Lodge of
Canada they have now five recognised Grand Lodges , representing 347 subordinate lodges and 17 , 967 members . In 1 SS 1 they distributed £ 2482 in charity ; in 1 SS 2 £ 20 _ 2 os . id ., leaving a large balance in the treasury . Is not this example worthy of imitation ? I think so , but it cannot be accomplished without the assistance of local self-government . We are therefore reconciled to the " blame " if we can obtain the same happy results . — Yours , & c , July 12 . MASONIC PROGRESS .
Sir , —Permit me once more to point out the errors and absurdities committed , and the lack of knowledge displayed by your three correspondents in The Argus of Saturday , re , the majority of the Craft here consider it , the irregular and illegal formation of the so-callef & Grand Lodge of Victoria . 1 am rather pleased than otherwise to find that I committed an error as to the age of the spurious Grand Lodge
of New South Wales . When I said about three years , I calculated by the date of application for recognition by the Grand Lodge of England ( December 7 th , 1 SS 1 ) , the first official intimation , to all appearances , that such a body had come into life . According to "Truth's" own showing , the New South Wales bantling had been hidden from gaze for at least four years .
" Truth " says I am wrong about the Victorian Grand Lodge having been formed on an American basis . I maintain , however , I am right , and that on the authority of the Grand Registrar of England , whose op ' nion , at any rate , is as valuable as that of any of the shining lights of the Victorian Grand Lodge . These are the the words of the grand registrar on the refusal of the Grand Lodge of England to recognise the Grand Lodge of New South Wales -.
" A similar memorial had been unanimously rejected by the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland , both of which , as well as the Grand Lodgeof England , had District Grand Lodges and District Grand Masters in New South Wales . There were 47 lodges under the English Constitution there , 30 under the Scotch , and nine uijder the Irish , or , in all , 86 lodges . The lodges wanting to be a grand lodge were 13 , and they based their application on the principle in
America that any three lodges might form a separate grand lodge . He had made himself thoroughly acquainted with the facts , and , to his mind , it was not at all consonant to the constitutions of English Masonry to say , as the brethren of the memorial did , that the country was unoccupied . " Now the foregoing happens to be on all fours with the Victorian situation , and , therefore , if your correspondents still argue the point , they are past praying for .
"Truth ' s" innuendo that the information contained in the Book of Constitutions , 1763 , is doubtful or unworthy of credence is very amusing , and is quite on a par with a circumstance that occurred in a leading metropolitan English lodge a few evenings ago , when one of the new body , on being admonished by his Worshi p ful Master , had the cool effrontery to question the authenticity of the Book of Constitutions of the present day . The " standard authorities and works" "Truth" and " Masonic Progress" speak
Australia.
about have , many of them , long ago been discarded by Masonic students in favour of authorities whose recent researches have proved the statements and tales of the older writers to have been founded on inference or imagination . " Truth ' s " relation as to what " actually took place " between the year 926 and 1 S 13 is wrong in many particulars , especially the incidents and dates of last century . There were three Grand Lodges in England at thc time .
Truth " states there wcre two . In order , however , to set him right , and supply move authentic information than he at present sec-ins to possess , let me quote an extract from that magnificent work , published three years ago , entitled "A Numerical and Numismatical Register of the United Grand Lodge of England . " The compiler is no other than Bro . VV . J . Hughan , who , of late years , has done more than any other author tp explode many of the
inaccuracies and myths of the earlier writers . He speaks of the " Character of thc fraternity anterior to grand lodges ; of the revival of Freemasonry in London , 1716-17 ; prosperity of the old lodge at York , and subsequent formation of the Grand Lodge of all England , 1725 ; the rise of the seceders , 1750-3 , their extraordinary growth , and , finally , the extinction of all rival claims by the establishment of the United Grand Lodge in I SM . . . . Before the last
century the brethren met in their annual assemblies at York , or under the friendly wings of such lodges as Mother Kilwinning , Scotland , or as independent lodges , all , however , being virtually knit together as one body by the rules and regulations contained in the Old Charges , of which there are many versions extant from the fourteenth century , from which we obtain reliable intelligence as to the traditions and laws of the Craft in those days . It must ,
however , have become evident to the members who joined in the society early last century , that all attempts to continue it on the old basis must prove a failure , and so it is not to be wondered at that brethren of the ability of Dr . John Theophilus Desaguliers , F . R . S . ( the Natural Philosopher ) , and the Rev . James Anderson , D . D ., determined to strike
out a fresh path for themselves . Accordingly , in 1716-7 , 3 grand lodge was formed in London , and rapidly became popular at home and abroad . Many old lodges either joined the new organisation , or , as at York in 1725 , Ireland 1728-g , and Scotland 1736 , started others on their own account . "
Truth will see by the above authority , if he will acknowledge it , that many of his statements are incorrect and misleading . 1 might add that the York Grand Lodge became extinct in the year 1792 . I maintain , therefore , that 1 have produced additional evidence that there is really no analogy between the formation or " revival" of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717 and the New South Wales and Victorian movements .
The " condition of Masonry" and the "decay of Masonry" in these colonies , touched upon by "Truth , " unfortunately recoils on himself and his coadjutors . It is a well-known fact that a considerable proportion of the Scotch and Irish lodges that have really identified themselves with the new organisation were , and had been for some years previously , in a state of inanition ; and again , it is a striking commentary on the ill-timed folly of the
leaders that some of the stronger lodges that joined are commencing to re-organize under the banners of their mother Grand Lodges . This ought to answer the query of "Masonic Progress . " The questions of "V . C . " and "Masonic Progress" as to legal formation and recognition of colonial Grand Lodges I must refer to the Grand Registrar ' s teamed opinion given above . —Yours , & c , July 14 . CONSTITUTIONAL .
Sir , —In reply to the dramatic challenge , the various corrections , and thc plentiful abuse of your correspondents , " Truth " and " Masonic Progress " ( what singularly inappropriate " noms de plume " some writers assume !) , I must refer them to a letter signed Henry VV . Holloway , hon . sec . Masonic Union of Victoria , dated May 2 nd , and published in the Argus , in which he writes : " The executive committee considers the columns of the public press an improper
place to discuss the matter ( referring to the formation of a Grand Lodge of Victoria ) , and declines to enter into a newspaper controversy on the subject , more especially with anonymous writers . " On this point , at least , we agree ( although some of the Union appear to have shifted their ground with a vengeance ) , and I beg to state that my future communications will be reserved for the Masonic papers alone .
As regards "Truth ' s" suggestion that I should start afresh as an Entered Apprentice , let me state I would rather wear the plain white of an Entered Apprentice legitimately than , by turning my apron , convert it into the resplendent finery of any illegitimate grand lodge in the world . —I am , & c , July 15 th . J ULIUS J . E . WILLMOTT .
Bro . Robert Nicholas Fowler , M . P ., the Lord Mayor Elect , is the son of the late Mr . Thomas Fowler , banker , of Bruce-green , Tottenham , by Lucy , daughter of Mr . Nicholas Waterhouse , of Liverpool . He was born in 1 S 28 , and educated at University College , London . He graduated at the London University in 1 S 48 , when he took his degree of B . A . with high mathematical and classical honours , and in 1 S 50 he proceeded to the degree
of M . A . He is a member of the firm of Messrs . Dimsdale , Fowler , Barnard , and Co ., bankers , of Lombard-street . He is a magistrate for London , Middlesex , and Wilts , and a member of thc Senate of thc London University . He was unanimously elected Alderman of Cornhill Ward in June , 1 S 7 S , on the death of Mr . Alderman Carter , and in 18 S 0 he served thc office of Sheriff with Mr . Alderman Waterlow , in the mayoralty of Sir Wm . McArthurM . P .
, He unsuccessfully contested the City of London in the Conservative interest at the general election in 1 SG 5 . He sat for Penryn and Falmouth in the House of Commons from tSGS to 1 S 74 , and since April , 1 S 80 , when he received 10 , 274 votes , he has been one of the three Conservative members for thc City of London . He is the author of " A Tour in Japan , China , and India , " and he has recently returned from a visit to Cape Colony . He married in
1 S 52 Charlotte , second daughter of Mr . Alfred Fox , of Falmouth , but was left a widower in 1 S 76 . He has a large family . His country residence is at Gastard Manor , Chippenham , and he is a member of the Carlton , National , and City Carlton Clubs . He is a brother-in-law of Sir Joseph Pease , M . P ., and belongs to an old Quaker family . Bro . Fowler is a member of Grand Masters Lodge , No . 1 .
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Consecration Of The Elffin Mark Lodge At Carnarvon.
CONSECRATION OF THE ELFFIN MARK LODGE AT CARNARVON .
Tliis lodge , No . 321 on the roll of the Grand Mark Lodge of England , and named after " Elffin , " or " Elphin ap Gwyddno " ! " which is the bardic title of Bro . T . L . D . Love-Jones Parry , M . P . for Carnarvon Boroughs , the first W . M ., received the warrant for its formation from the M . W . the Grand Mark Master , Lord Henniker ,
through thc recommendation of the Prov . Grand Mark Mason of North Wales , was consecrated by that distinguished ' brother , the R . VV . Capt . Hunter , 32 Scotland , Sic , ofPlas Coch , assisted by his D . P . G . M . M ., V . W . Bro . T . C . Roden , M . D ., Past Grand Deacon of England , many other of his Provincial Grand Officers being also present , viz .: W . Bros . Dr . Roberts , P . M ., Prov . G . S . W . ; Robert Owen , P . M ., Prov . G . J . W . ; G . L . Woodley ,
P . M ., P . P . G . S . W ., P . G . D . England ; R . S . Chamberlain , P . M ., Prov . Grand Treas . ; VV . I .. Banks , P . M ., P . P . G . W . Cheshire , Prov . GrandScc . ; J . L . Hazeldine , Prov . G . S . ; R . H . Pritchard , Prov . G . S . B . ; Dr . Davies , Prov . G . S . ; Rev . J . S . Boucher , P . P . G . Chap . ; Rev . T . Edwards , Prov . Grand Chap . ; G . F . Felton , Prov . Grand Org . ; Wm . Matthews , P . P . G . W . Cheshire and North Wales ; also Bros . VV . H . Foulks , P . M . 1674 ( Craft ) ,
3 S ; R . LI . Griffith , P . M . St . Cybi ( Craft ) , 38 ; Charles II . Rees , 38 ; D . Wynn VVilliams , P . M . 384 , S . D . 38 ; and all the newly advanced brethren . Letters of apology were read from V . W . Bro . Robert William Shekleton , Q . C , Deputy Grand Master ( Craft ) of Ireland , 33 , & c . ; R . VV . Bro . Major Tudor , P . G . M . ( Craft ) Staffordshire , D . P . G . M . M . of Staffordshire ; andV . VV . Bro . C . F . Matier , Past Grand Warden of England , Grand Representative
from Illinois , & c . ; Bros . Robert ab Hugh Williams , of Plas Llywnon , & c . ; Rev . Watkin VVilliams , Bodclwyddan ; Kirby Groshojly , all of whom expressed their deep regret to the Provincial Grand Master at being prevented supporting him on the occasion . The lodge and brethren generally regretted much the absence of the greatly respected Assistant Grand Secretary of England , V . W . Bro . Donald M . Dewar , who would have been present had not another
Mark Masonic engagement prevented his coming to Wales as was intended . The brethren assembled in the ante-room and walked in procession to the lodge room , which is one of the towers of the fine old castle of Carnarvon and one of the most unique in the kingdom . The presiding officer , W . Bro . Deputy Chief Constable Davies , P . M ., P . P . G . W . North Wales , Grand Steward England , took the chair , appointed
officers ( pro tem . ) and opened the lodge . A ballot for the following brethren was then taken , and they were advanced by him to the honourable degree of Mark Masons . Bros . Charles A . Jones , Richard J . Davids , John VV . Poole , Nathaniel Bunnel , H . Hardman , C . Rowalands , W . Morgan , John Williams , Thomas D . Lloyd , Owen Evans , W . Watkins , Rev . J . I . Davies , Edward Roberts , A . W . Crofft , George Thomas , J . VV . Tanquery , all of Scgontium
Craft Lodge . The R . W . Prov . Grand Master , Capt . Hunter , was received and saluted , after which he assumed thc chair , opened the Provincial Grand Lodge and addressed the brethren on the principles of the Mark Degree . The ceremony of consecration was then performed by the Prov . Grand Master in a most impressive manner , the musical arrangements being conducted by Bro . John Williams . An oration was next delivered by the Rev . Thomas
Edwards , one of the Prov . Grand Chaplains , who was assisted in other portions of the ceremony by the Rev . Sydney Boucher , P . G . Chap . After several anthems had been sung , the R . VV . Bro . Captain Hunter dedicated and constituted the lodge , and Bro . Dr . Roden , Deputy Provincial Grand Master , installed W . Bro . Captain Love-Jones Parry , M . P ., of MadryeP . P . G . D . of C , in the chair of W . M . of the new
, lodge , and after an address from the VV . M . he appointed and invested the officers as follows : Bros . Dr . Roden , I . P . M . ; Charles Herbert , 38 , S . W . ; Charles A . Jones , J . W . ; R . I . Davids , M . O . ; J . W . Poole , S . O . ; N . Bunnell , J . O . ; J . S . Boucher , Chap . ; O . Evans , Treas . Cornelius Davies , P . M ., Sec ; John Williams , Org . ; H , Hardman , S . D . ; C . Rowlands , J . D . ; Williams , D . of C . j W . Morgan , I . G . ; G . Williams , S . S . ; T . D . Lloyd , J . S .-
and VV . Watkins , lyler . A banquet was afterwards held at the Sportsman Hotel , the R . VV . Bro . Capt . Hunter , presiding , having on his right , VV . Bro . Capt . Jones-Parry , M . P ., the W . M ., and on his left , V . W . Bro . Dr . T . C . Roden , Deputy Prov . Grand Master . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were gone through , and a most successful evening was brought to a close at an early hour .
Australia.
Australia .
THE VICTORIAN GRAND LODGE QUESTION . ( Correspondence from the "Melbourne Argus" re the above question , continued from last week . ) Sir , —Your correspondent" Constitutional , " in answer to the question " why the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria is irregular" states that " the explanation can be
, given in a very few words , " but I am inclined to think that something more than the unsupported assertions contained in his letter will be required tu satisfy those brothers who are seeking information upon thc subject . He says that the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria " was effected upon the American basis , viz ., that any three lod ges can form a separate Grand Lodge . " So they can
if there is no other Grand Lodge in the country . Surely this does not make our proceedings irregular . The Grand Lod ges in the United States were formed upon "the American basis , " and are all acknowledged by , and communicate with the Grand Lodges of England , Ireland , and Scotland . Presuming then that we have no other claims , our position is cciually the same as those Grand Lodges
that are recognised by the constitutions of Great Britain , and we are justly entitled to equal consideration . " Constitutional" asserts that " under the English , Scottish , and Irish constitutions , there must be a majority of lodges * n favour of forming themselves into a separate and independent jurisdiction , when recognition from the parent authorities follows as a matter of course . " This cannot include Canada , as the first Grand Lodge in that province
Australia.
was in existence three years before it received recognition . I would therefore ask by what authority this statement is made , and where it has been carried out . In the mean time I must doubt its correctness . Your correspondent states that there are 96 lodges in Victoria under the three British constitutions . Will he oblige by deducting those lodges that are not working , and let us know how the figures stand then . " Constitutional , " as an excuse for
the four subordinate lodges in London forming a second Grand Lodge of England in opposition to the Grand Lodge of York , under which they were working , makes the unjustifiable assertion that " though de jure there may have been a Grand Lodge at that time , de facto there was none ; it existed only on paper . " If he will look at Preston , j . G . Findel ' s History of Freemasonry , and other standard works , he will soon discover his error . Although fully convinced
that the four London lodges acted illegally , I think that they established an important landmark in Masonic history , which had the effect of placing the Craft upon a more solid foundation , and extending its benign influences all over the world . Whilst acting in accordance with American laws , wc also claim Canadian precedent , of which your correspondent does not find it convenient to say one word . That history
repeats itself will be seen by the following extracts taken from thc " Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Canada , 1 S 5 S : " " It has been asserted that the assent of the Grand Lodges of England , Ireland , and Scotland should have been obtained before the formation of the Grand Lodge of Canada : but yourcommitteearenot aware of the existence of any Masonic law or usage giving to the grand lodges
aforesaid the power to establish or prevent the formation of a Grand Lodge of Canada . . . . VVe are perfectly satisfied that the recent movement has greatly benefitted the Canadian Craft . VVe have also reason to believe that the cause of Masonry itself has been advanced throughout the world , not only by the research that has been induced , but also by the discussions upon the subject to which that movement has led . . . . It is a matter of deep regret that
any brother of the Provincial Grand Lodge , while personally professing the approval of the motives by which we were actuated , admitting the necessity for the establishment of a Grand Lodge of Canada , and expressing the best wishes for success , and hesitating only as to the decisiveness with which we have acted , should have so far forgotten the principles of Masonry as to asperse and malign our motives and misrepresent our conduct . This is the
more reprehensible as it is well known that we have the sympathy of a great majority of the lodges and brethren still adhering to them who only await the decision of the Grand Lodge of England . The Grand Master in his address said , ' I regret that up to this time no communication has been received from the Grand Lodge of England . VVe must therefore confidently hope that the true spirit of Masonry , which has ever prominently distinguished the
Grand Lodge of England , will so direct their councils that they will approve of the action we have taken for the security and Benefit of the Craft in this province , reciprocate the sincerel y fraternal feelings we entertain towards them , and recognise with cheerful satisfaction their sister Grand Lodge of Canada . ' " It was three years before the Grand Lodge of England extended the right hand of fellowship . From the small number that established the Independent Grand Lodge of
Canada they have now five recognised Grand Lodges , representing 347 subordinate lodges and 17 , 967 members . In 1 SS 1 they distributed £ 2482 in charity ; in 1 SS 2 £ 20 _ 2 os . id ., leaving a large balance in the treasury . Is not this example worthy of imitation ? I think so , but it cannot be accomplished without the assistance of local self-government . We are therefore reconciled to the " blame " if we can obtain the same happy results . — Yours , & c , July 12 . MASONIC PROGRESS .
Sir , —Permit me once more to point out the errors and absurdities committed , and the lack of knowledge displayed by your three correspondents in The Argus of Saturday , re , the majority of the Craft here consider it , the irregular and illegal formation of the so-callef & Grand Lodge of Victoria . 1 am rather pleased than otherwise to find that I committed an error as to the age of the spurious Grand Lodge
of New South Wales . When I said about three years , I calculated by the date of application for recognition by the Grand Lodge of England ( December 7 th , 1 SS 1 ) , the first official intimation , to all appearances , that such a body had come into life . According to "Truth's" own showing , the New South Wales bantling had been hidden from gaze for at least four years .
" Truth " says I am wrong about the Victorian Grand Lodge having been formed on an American basis . I maintain , however , I am right , and that on the authority of the Grand Registrar of England , whose op ' nion , at any rate , is as valuable as that of any of the shining lights of the Victorian Grand Lodge . These are the the words of the grand registrar on the refusal of the Grand Lodge of England to recognise the Grand Lodge of New South Wales -.
" A similar memorial had been unanimously rejected by the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland , both of which , as well as the Grand Lodgeof England , had District Grand Lodges and District Grand Masters in New South Wales . There were 47 lodges under the English Constitution there , 30 under the Scotch , and nine uijder the Irish , or , in all , 86 lodges . The lodges wanting to be a grand lodge were 13 , and they based their application on the principle in
America that any three lodges might form a separate grand lodge . He had made himself thoroughly acquainted with the facts , and , to his mind , it was not at all consonant to the constitutions of English Masonry to say , as the brethren of the memorial did , that the country was unoccupied . " Now the foregoing happens to be on all fours with the Victorian situation , and , therefore , if your correspondents still argue the point , they are past praying for .
"Truth ' s" innuendo that the information contained in the Book of Constitutions , 1763 , is doubtful or unworthy of credence is very amusing , and is quite on a par with a circumstance that occurred in a leading metropolitan English lodge a few evenings ago , when one of the new body , on being admonished by his Worshi p ful Master , had the cool effrontery to question the authenticity of the Book of Constitutions of the present day . The " standard authorities and works" "Truth" and " Masonic Progress" speak
Australia.
about have , many of them , long ago been discarded by Masonic students in favour of authorities whose recent researches have proved the statements and tales of the older writers to have been founded on inference or imagination . " Truth ' s " relation as to what " actually took place " between the year 926 and 1 S 13 is wrong in many particulars , especially the incidents and dates of last century . There were three Grand Lodges in England at thc time .
Truth " states there wcre two . In order , however , to set him right , and supply move authentic information than he at present sec-ins to possess , let me quote an extract from that magnificent work , published three years ago , entitled "A Numerical and Numismatical Register of the United Grand Lodge of England . " The compiler is no other than Bro . VV . J . Hughan , who , of late years , has done more than any other author tp explode many of the
inaccuracies and myths of the earlier writers . He speaks of the " Character of thc fraternity anterior to grand lodges ; of the revival of Freemasonry in London , 1716-17 ; prosperity of the old lodge at York , and subsequent formation of the Grand Lodge of all England , 1725 ; the rise of the seceders , 1750-3 , their extraordinary growth , and , finally , the extinction of all rival claims by the establishment of the United Grand Lodge in I SM . . . . Before the last
century the brethren met in their annual assemblies at York , or under the friendly wings of such lodges as Mother Kilwinning , Scotland , or as independent lodges , all , however , being virtually knit together as one body by the rules and regulations contained in the Old Charges , of which there are many versions extant from the fourteenth century , from which we obtain reliable intelligence as to the traditions and laws of the Craft in those days . It must ,
however , have become evident to the members who joined in the society early last century , that all attempts to continue it on the old basis must prove a failure , and so it is not to be wondered at that brethren of the ability of Dr . John Theophilus Desaguliers , F . R . S . ( the Natural Philosopher ) , and the Rev . James Anderson , D . D ., determined to strike
out a fresh path for themselves . Accordingly , in 1716-7 , 3 grand lodge was formed in London , and rapidly became popular at home and abroad . Many old lodges either joined the new organisation , or , as at York in 1725 , Ireland 1728-g , and Scotland 1736 , started others on their own account . "
Truth will see by the above authority , if he will acknowledge it , that many of his statements are incorrect and misleading . 1 might add that the York Grand Lodge became extinct in the year 1792 . I maintain , therefore , that 1 have produced additional evidence that there is really no analogy between the formation or " revival" of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717 and the New South Wales and Victorian movements .
The " condition of Masonry" and the "decay of Masonry" in these colonies , touched upon by "Truth , " unfortunately recoils on himself and his coadjutors . It is a well-known fact that a considerable proportion of the Scotch and Irish lodges that have really identified themselves with the new organisation were , and had been for some years previously , in a state of inanition ; and again , it is a striking commentary on the ill-timed folly of the
leaders that some of the stronger lodges that joined are commencing to re-organize under the banners of their mother Grand Lodges . This ought to answer the query of "Masonic Progress . " The questions of "V . C . " and "Masonic Progress" as to legal formation and recognition of colonial Grand Lodges I must refer to the Grand Registrar ' s teamed opinion given above . —Yours , & c , July 14 . CONSTITUTIONAL .
Sir , —In reply to the dramatic challenge , the various corrections , and thc plentiful abuse of your correspondents , " Truth " and " Masonic Progress " ( what singularly inappropriate " noms de plume " some writers assume !) , I must refer them to a letter signed Henry VV . Holloway , hon . sec . Masonic Union of Victoria , dated May 2 nd , and published in the Argus , in which he writes : " The executive committee considers the columns of the public press an improper
place to discuss the matter ( referring to the formation of a Grand Lodge of Victoria ) , and declines to enter into a newspaper controversy on the subject , more especially with anonymous writers . " On this point , at least , we agree ( although some of the Union appear to have shifted their ground with a vengeance ) , and I beg to state that my future communications will be reserved for the Masonic papers alone .
As regards "Truth ' s" suggestion that I should start afresh as an Entered Apprentice , let me state I would rather wear the plain white of an Entered Apprentice legitimately than , by turning my apron , convert it into the resplendent finery of any illegitimate grand lodge in the world . —I am , & c , July 15 th . J ULIUS J . E . WILLMOTT .
Bro . Robert Nicholas Fowler , M . P ., the Lord Mayor Elect , is the son of the late Mr . Thomas Fowler , banker , of Bruce-green , Tottenham , by Lucy , daughter of Mr . Nicholas Waterhouse , of Liverpool . He was born in 1 S 28 , and educated at University College , London . He graduated at the London University in 1 S 48 , when he took his degree of B . A . with high mathematical and classical honours , and in 1 S 50 he proceeded to the degree
of M . A . He is a member of the firm of Messrs . Dimsdale , Fowler , Barnard , and Co ., bankers , of Lombard-street . He is a magistrate for London , Middlesex , and Wilts , and a member of thc Senate of thc London University . He was unanimously elected Alderman of Cornhill Ward in June , 1 S 7 S , on the death of Mr . Alderman Carter , and in 18 S 0 he served thc office of Sheriff with Mr . Alderman Waterlow , in the mayoralty of Sir Wm . McArthurM . P .
, He unsuccessfully contested the City of London in the Conservative interest at the general election in 1 SG 5 . He sat for Penryn and Falmouth in the House of Commons from tSGS to 1 S 74 , and since April , 1 S 80 , when he received 10 , 274 votes , he has been one of the three Conservative members for thc City of London . He is the author of " A Tour in Japan , China , and India , " and he has recently returned from a visit to Cape Colony . He married in
1 S 52 Charlotte , second daughter of Mr . Alfred Fox , of Falmouth , but was left a widower in 1 S 76 . He has a large family . His country residence is at Gastard Manor , Chippenham , and he is a member of the Carlton , National , and City Carlton Clubs . He is a brother-in-law of Sir Joseph Pease , M . P ., and belongs to an old Quaker family . Bro . Fowler is a member of Grand Masters Lodge , No . 1 .