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Article INSTRUCTION. ← Page 2 of 2 Article Royal Arch. Page 1 of 1 Article Royal Arch. Page 1 of 1 Article Knights Templar. Page 1 of 1 Article Obituary. Page 1 of 1 Article THE VALUE OF FREEMASONRY. Page 1 of 1 Article THE THEATRES. Page 1 of 1 Article Births, Marriages, and Deaths. Page 1 of 1
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Instruction.
Marsdcn , W . M ., for the able and kind manner in which he had occupied the chair for the first time in this lodge of instruction ; seconded bv Bro . C . Ralph , S . W ., carried unanimously . Lhe W . M . made a suitable reply . Bro . C . Ralph proposed that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes of this lodge of instruction to Bro I W Ford for his kindness in acting as Preceptor in the unavoidable . absence of Bro . W . C . Smith . Bro . G . Reynolds , Sec , in
seconding ( his proposition , said , that it was cjuitc impossible for their worthv Preceptor , Bro . W . C . Smith , to be with them always on Thursday evenings , as he sometimes had other Masonic duties to attend to , ' but he felt sure that it would be a great satisfaction to Bro . Smith to know that in his absence , his boys on an emergency , could run alone . The W . M . having received the hearty good wishes of the brethren , the lodge was closed in peace and harmony .
UBIOUE LODGE ( No . 1789 ) . —A meeting was held on Friday , the 12 th inst ., at the Crown and Anchor , 79 , Ebnry-strcet , S . W . Present : Bros . George Mason , W . M . j Green , senr ., S . W . ; Wade , P . M ., J . W . ; Bonlton , P . M ., Preceptor ; P . Coughlan , Sec . ; Hayes , S . D . ; ' Grist , J . D . ; Glover , l . G . ; C . White , P . M . ; Green , jun ., and F . Purnell . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last meeting were read and conlirmed . The ceremony of initiation was rehearsed , Bro . Conghlan as candidate . Bto . Green , jun ., a
candidate to be passed to the Second Degree , answered the usual ( juestions and was entrusted . The lodge was opened in the Second Degree , the ceremony of passing was rehearsed , Bro . Green , jun ., as candidate . The lodge was closed in the Second Degree . Bro . Hayes gave notice of motion " that the lodge be adjourned until the ' first Friday in September . " The W . M . having risen for the second time , it was proposed , seconded , and unanimously carried that Bro , Green , senr ., be elected W . M . for the ensuing week . All Masonic business being ended , the lodge was closed in perfect harmony .
Royal Arch.
Royal Arch .
JOPPA CHAPTER ( No . iSS ) . —A convocation of this chapter was held on the Sth inst . at Albion Tavern . Comps . A . J . Henoclisberg , M . E . Z . ; VV . Littaur , P . Z ., H . ; J . DaSilva , J . ; J . Lazarus , P . Z ., Treas . ; M . J . Emanuel , P . Z ., S . E . ; H . Phillips , S . N . ; J . VV . Dewsnap , P . S ., P . Z .: S . Lazarus , H . M . Levy , and H . P . Isaac were present . Bros . L . Kool , iSS ; Rev . M . Haines , 205 ; I .
Lichtenfeld , 205 ; and I . Myers , iSS , were exalted . Comps . W . Littaur , P . Z ., was elected Z . ; J . Da Silva , H . ; J . VV . Dewsnap , J . ; J . Lazarus , P . Z ., Treas . ; and M . J . Emanuel , P . Z ., S . E . A P . Z . ' s jewel was voted to the retiring M . E . Z ., Comp . A . J . Henochsberg . A subscription was also opened to present him with a testimonial , which was liberally subscribed to . A banquet followed , superintended by Comp . M . Silver .
BLACKBURN . —Perseverance Chapter ( No . 345 ) . —The regular meeting of this chapter was held at the Old Bull Hotel , on Monday , the 15 th inst . The companions assembled and partook of a substantial tea , after which the chapter was opened in due form ; the three chairs been severally occupied by Comps . S . L . Buckley , M . E . Z ., J . Aspinall , H ., and J . Troop , P . Z ., as J . After the companions had been admitted , and the chapter declared open
for the transaction of business , the minutes of the previous meeting were read and conlirmed . The announcement upon the circular that it was intended to present Comp . F . Thomas , the respected Treasurer of the chapter , with a Past Provincial jewel , drew together a large attendance of companions , who manifested the greatest interest in the proceedings . The First Principal introduced the subject of the presentation in a few appropriate and well chosen
remarks . He said that as Comp . Thomas had completed his twenty-first year as Treasurer of the chapter , it was thought that the occasion presented a suitable opportunity for marking in some tangible manner their appreciation of Comp . Thomas ' s long and faithful services . He alluded in graceful terms to the untiring zeal and energy of Comp . Thomas in all that concerned Freemasonry , and the unflagging interest he had for a long period manifested in the
Chapter of Perseverance . As the exponent of its members , he begged to hand Comp . Thomas that jewel , which he trusted he would accept as the expression of the true fraternal regard of the members of the chapter towards him and in recognition of his unwearied exertions for its well being . He trusted he would long be spared to wear that jewel , and to be what he had been so long , the life and soul of the chapter .
Short addresses were then delivered by Comps . Towers , P . Z ., and Halliwell , P . Z ., two of the oldest members of the chapter , who alluded to the time when Comp . Thomas first joined the chapter , now 23 or 24 years ago . At that time there was no member of the chapter who could work any of the ceremonies , assistance having to be obtained as occasion required from a neighbouring town . Immediately after joining , Comp . Thomas set about the difficult
task of establishing the chapter on a more satisfactory basis , and for some time , in default of other assistance , worked the whole of the ceremonies himself . Under his careful and assiduous instruction the chapter gradually acquired a character for efficiency , which has been maintained , the officers for the most part performing all the duties incidental to their several positions , and the general working being excelled by none in the province . A debt
of gratitude was due to Comp . Thomas for his arduous labours , and they were glad of that opportunity of marking their appreciation of his self-denying exertions . Comp . Thomas , in responding , begged most cordially and sincerely to thank the Ex . First Principal , and the Ex . companions who had just spoken , for their kind expressions , although he must say he felt he was not deserving of one-half the kind things they had been good enough to say of him .
In the exuberance of their feelings it was almost natural that they should be led away a little into magnifying his services to the chapter . He , however , believed them to be thoroughly sincere in what they ssid , and would cherish the remembrance of their kind utterances as some of his pleasantest recollections . The services he had rendered to the chapter had been to him a labour of love , undertaken , in the first instance , in its time
of utmost need , and prosecuted since with whatever ability he possessed , and under favour of the companions ; and his proudest reward had always been the approbation of those among whom he laboured . He was comparativel y well advanced in years when he first undertook the duties of Treasurer of the chapter , and he humbly thanked the
Giver of all Good for the large measure of health and strength he enjoyed after serving in that capacity for upwards of 21 years . He might add that so long as health and strength were vouchsafed to him they would be devoted to those Masonic pursuits which had constituted the greatest pleasure of his leisure hours for perhaps a full average life-
Royal Arch.
time . He begged to assure the companions that if the jewel just now presented to him were set with diamonds , it would not enhance its value to him , and he should always look upon it as the most valuable souvenir of his Masonic career . It was in itself a work of art , and as such was intrinsically valuable ; but its chief value to him would be the associations which the sight of it would awaken in his mind .
The jewel is an exquisite specimen of the goldsmiths ' art , manufactured by Comp . Georse Kenning , and contains the following inscription , beautifully engraved : " Presented to Comp . Franklin Thomas , P . Z ., Past Provincial Third Grand Principal E . L ., by the members of the Chapter of Perseverance , No . 345 , on the completion of the
twentyfirst year of his Treasurership of the chapter , as a token of esteem and respect , and in recognition of his long and valued services .- Blackburn , 16 th March , 1 S 85 . " The labours of the day being concluded , the chapter was closed in form , and the companions adjourned to refreshment .
Knights Templar.
Knights Templar .
YORK . —Ancient Ebor Preceptory ( No . 101 ) . — The quarterly meeting of this preceptory was held on the loth inst ., when there were present Fras . J . Marshall , P ., asE . P . ; G . Simpson , P . ; M . Millington , P . ; T . B . Whytehead , P ., Reg . ; C Palliser , Constable ; VV . Brown , Marshal ; VV . H . Cowper , Sub-Marshal ; J . ; T . Seller , Herald ; Major McGachen , Capt . of Guards ; M . F . VV . Williamson , Swd . Br . ; and others .
A letter was read from Fra . Rob Morris , the American Masonic Poet Laureate , thanking the preceptory for his election as an honorary member . A resolution was passed , moved by Fra . G . Simpson , P ., that the place of meeting of the preceptory be removed to the Eboracum Masonic Hall , St . Saviourgate , where the accommodation would be better for the purposes of working the Degree . There was no other business , and the preceptory was closed , early in the evening .
Obituary.
Obituary .
BRO . CHARLES ALLEN . We regret to announce the unexpected death of Bro . Charles Allen , a highly respected member of the Yarborough Lodge , No . 554 , and one of the firm of Messrs . F . Allen and Sons , of Bishopgate-street . The funeral took place at the City of London Cemetery , Ilford , on Tuesday , and was numerously attended by the family
and friends of the deceased , as well as by many of his brother Masons , among whom were Bros . John Taylor , VV . M . 554 ; G . VV . Verry , P . M . 554 , W . M . 1421 ; Hugh Cotter , P . M . 554 , Ay ton ; Bate , 1396 ; Baxter , 150 G j Blagney , 130 C ; Bacon , 155 S ; Cook , 946 ; Carrociero , 1306 ; Hirst , 130 G ; Dickenson , Victoria in Burmah Lodge , No . S 32 ; Godart , 12 SS ; and Reynolds . We offer to the family our sincere sympathy in the loss they have sustained .
The Value Of Freemasonry.
THE VALUE OF FREEMASONRY .
[ BY A CORRESPONDENT . ] We often hear to-day questionsas regards the useandgood of Freemasonry . The ardent ultramontane and the intelligent agnostic equally pose as sceptics either as to its real utility or actual benefits to the world in which we life . Yet those of us who have belonged to the Craft the longest care for it the most , and despite the sneers of the sciolist or the
carpingsof the pedant , the vulgar antagonism of some , and the hidden animus of others , Freemasonry still retains happily , as it has succeeded in gaining the approbation and devotion of some of the kindest , most intellectual , and best of our kind . VVhy is this ? What is that peculiar force , either of beauty , wisdom , strength , or good , which so dominates the minds , so wins the affection of its members ? We think we shall not be answering wrongfully in saying
it is its intense and permeating spirit of brotherly kindness , of human good will , and sympathy with humanity , qua humanity . We hear constant stories of its civilizing and subduing influences ; we read countless anecdotes of its controlling and restraining powers , even in the heat of a battle ' s rage . Some of these episodes have been current over 100 years , some are told us in our own generation , but the facts we arc about to narrate , constitute a touching proof if
needed , of the unchanging sympathy of Freemasonry , and offer another witness , if a witness be required , that Freemasonry in England has not degenerated , but still practises what it professes , is what it says it is , in reality , effect , and beneficial and beneficent outcome . A poor brother wandering homewards from a long and weary sojourn in foreign parts , who had filled no unimportant part Masonically in a distant land , finds himself the dying inmate of one of those
really blessed Institutions of our country , the Consumption Hospital at Ventnor , Isle of Wight . His friends and relatives are now few and far between , and all far away . He mentions casually to the good Hospital Chaplain that he is a Freemason . This casual remark is repeated to a worthy brother of ours , who , as an old and attached Freemason for a long spell of years , had truly learned as a "Master" the living and kindly lessons of our Order .
He at once visits the patient , associates with him in his benevolent intent some few good brethren and true , and by their sympathetic visits and attentions , and aid , material and personal , the last hours of our poor brothe r are lightened , cheered , and alleviated , a complete stranger to them until the mystic link and the genial grace of Freemasonry had educed from these true representatives ' of our loyal and beneficent Craft ,
Masonic reality in its best illustration , and in its most graceful and gracious form . After a spell of wasting and suffering , the poor brother passes away , cheered to the last lingering hours of earth by a kindness that never failed , and a sympathy which never grew weary . " Brothers all . " Nor did the kindness of this little confraternity end there ! Our brother was buried in a peaceful resting place , the Chaplain consigning him to his last home in God ' s Acre ,
and a monumental stone still uprears its modest head , with the mystic emblem on it of the five-pointed star , to show that a brother lies buried there , and to witness the enduring sympathy and realistic meaning of us poor Freemasons , wherever we be scattered on earth ' s surface—north , south , east and west , —as linked by a lasting bond of fraternal goodwill as brethren , not in name only , or in word only ; but in very deed , and in very truth . So mote it ever be 1
The Theatres.
THE THEATRES .
On Monday , Bro . Thomas Thorne announces he will take his benefit , when he will put " Loose Tiles " in the evening bill for a week . We expect that the Vaudeville , like some other houses , will close for a summer season . #
* * To-night ( Saturday ) is the last night at the Adel p hi for the present of "The Last Chance , " the Bros . Gatti having decided to close their theatre for a few weeks . # # # To-night Miss Violet Melnotteopens the Comedy ,
which she has leased from Bro . A . Henderson for a term . " The Silver Shield " is to be the piece , with most of the cast who played in it on its production at a matinee lately . Bro . D'Albertson is , we are glad to observe , continuing as acting manager . Miss Melnotte could not find a better . Bro . D'Albertson has announced that his annual benefit will be held on Saturday , 4 th July . #
* * Mr . Wilson Barrett is giving a few more performances of Bro . Sims' " Lights 0 ' London , " which is one of the best and most popular pieces of its kind . It contains the author ' s most happy and characteristic work for the stage principally—this strikes one in its studies of human life . The showman Jarvis and his family all
have about them a touch of nature , readily recognised by those for whose delectation the drama is chiefly intended . Miss Eastlake again invests with the usual charm the part of the devoted Bess . Mr . Wilson Barrett resumes the character of Harold Armytage , and plays it with all his old force and tenderness . The drama is in every respect as well acted as before , and seems to draw goodly houses .
* * * The performances of "The Candidate" will soon be in numbers 200 . Mr . Chas . Wyndam has hit upon an extremely funny farcical comedy , and the principal part , which is his , and suits him admirably , or he suits it . Viscount Oldacre has a mother-in-law who makes his life unpleasant . He is in the habit of making any excuse to get up to London for a few days . On one occasion he was
to go to a meeting at Exeter Hall respecting the annexation of Java , but meeting with some old friends , he dined and amused himself with them till the early hours of the morning , and then , as he puts it , " of course it was too late to annex Java . " To a bachelor friend who confides in him that he is thinking of entering domestic happiness , he replies , " My boy , you are in it , stay as you are ; if you can contemplate between a mother-in-law and blowing out
your brains , don't hesitate a moment—blow . " Oldacre's friend is asked to stand for a constituency , but does not wish to . Lord Oldacre seizes the opportunity . He will stand . Instead of going himself to the place he takes himself to London to enjoy himself for a fortnight , and sends his private secretary , an old college friend , to appear in the constituency as Lord Oldacre . This secretary is a strong Radical , and in the excitement of an election , forgets he is impersonating another person , and airs his own
political views , and is returned at the head of the poll for the borough of Easthampton , as a Radical . The reader will at once see the fun which Mr . VVyndham gets out of this . In it he is ably assisted by Mr . George Giddens , the private secretary , and Mr . Blakeley , a missionary , whom all the ladies worship , and after being a guest for a long time in Lord Oldacre ' s house , turns out a great fraud . Mrs . Rose Saker and the other ladies render invaluable assistance in this laughable comedy , the name of whose author has not yet been declared . #
* * To-night ( Saturday ) Bro . and Mrs . Bancroft give the first of twelve farewell performances of " Diplomacy , " on which occasions we are sure their old friends and admirers will rall y round them to bid them an affectionate farewell , mingled with the deepest regret at th e termination of their management andiretirement from the stage . * * *
At the Royalty a very prelty , if not altogether original comic opera is being played . " Dr . D . " is written by Mr . Colnaghi , and composed by Mr . Cotsford Dick . Mr . Dick has written some charming lyrics , and furnished the new opera with a number of sparkling and gracefully sentimental melodies . It has a smack of the Gilbert and Sullivan in it , both in dialogue and music . Bro . Ashley plays the title rule but we think some of his political
allusions might well be omitted . One hardly goes to a theatre to hear one party jeered at and the other political side extolled . Now that he must know his text better , possibly Bro . Ashley has dropped so much " gag . " Miss Ethel Pierson , a youug lady whom we have mentioned before as one possessed of fine musical ability , wins the chief vocal success in her solo , " He is not here . " And
through the whole opera Miss Pierson is always a great attraction . Miss Florence and Miss Judge are much to be commended , the former especially , for a beautiful trill or " shake" in her song , "The Legend of the Spring . " A unison chorus of Bath Chairman received a double encore . " Dr . D . " is quite harmless and full of humour , though , as we said , not original throughout .
Rumour has it that Miss Farren purposes embarking in theatrical management . It is a rash step , and if Bro . Terry is also to have a house of his own we do not see how burlesque can flourish . Why not amalgamate and not compete .
Births, Marriages, And Deaths.
Births , Marriages , and Deaths .
BIRTHS . BELL . —On the 5 th inst ., at Ramleh , Egypt , the wife of II . L . Bell , of a daughter . MARRIAGES . SMITH—ROGERS . —On the 10 th inst ., at the parish church , Eltham , Edwin J . C Smith , son of E . Smith , of Eltiiam , to Ellen , daughter of the late J . R . Rogers .
DEATHS . ALLEN . —On the 10 th inst ., at 47 , Tredegar-square , Mile End , E ., Bro . Charles Allen , Yarborough Lodge , No . 554 .
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Instruction.
Marsdcn , W . M ., for the able and kind manner in which he had occupied the chair for the first time in this lodge of instruction ; seconded bv Bro . C . Ralph , S . W ., carried unanimously . Lhe W . M . made a suitable reply . Bro . C . Ralph proposed that a vote of thanks be recorded on the minutes of this lodge of instruction to Bro I W Ford for his kindness in acting as Preceptor in the unavoidable . absence of Bro . W . C . Smith . Bro . G . Reynolds , Sec , in
seconding ( his proposition , said , that it was cjuitc impossible for their worthv Preceptor , Bro . W . C . Smith , to be with them always on Thursday evenings , as he sometimes had other Masonic duties to attend to , ' but he felt sure that it would be a great satisfaction to Bro . Smith to know that in his absence , his boys on an emergency , could run alone . The W . M . having received the hearty good wishes of the brethren , the lodge was closed in peace and harmony .
UBIOUE LODGE ( No . 1789 ) . —A meeting was held on Friday , the 12 th inst ., at the Crown and Anchor , 79 , Ebnry-strcet , S . W . Present : Bros . George Mason , W . M . j Green , senr ., S . W . ; Wade , P . M ., J . W . ; Bonlton , P . M ., Preceptor ; P . Coughlan , Sec . ; Hayes , S . D . ; ' Grist , J . D . ; Glover , l . G . ; C . White , P . M . ; Green , jun ., and F . Purnell . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the last meeting were read and conlirmed . The ceremony of initiation was rehearsed , Bro . Conghlan as candidate . Bto . Green , jun ., a
candidate to be passed to the Second Degree , answered the usual ( juestions and was entrusted . The lodge was opened in the Second Degree , the ceremony of passing was rehearsed , Bro . Green , jun ., as candidate . The lodge was closed in the Second Degree . Bro . Hayes gave notice of motion " that the lodge be adjourned until the ' first Friday in September . " The W . M . having risen for the second time , it was proposed , seconded , and unanimously carried that Bro , Green , senr ., be elected W . M . for the ensuing week . All Masonic business being ended , the lodge was closed in perfect harmony .
Royal Arch.
Royal Arch .
JOPPA CHAPTER ( No . iSS ) . —A convocation of this chapter was held on the Sth inst . at Albion Tavern . Comps . A . J . Henoclisberg , M . E . Z . ; VV . Littaur , P . Z ., H . ; J . DaSilva , J . ; J . Lazarus , P . Z ., Treas . ; M . J . Emanuel , P . Z ., S . E . ; H . Phillips , S . N . ; J . VV . Dewsnap , P . S ., P . Z .: S . Lazarus , H . M . Levy , and H . P . Isaac were present . Bros . L . Kool , iSS ; Rev . M . Haines , 205 ; I .
Lichtenfeld , 205 ; and I . Myers , iSS , were exalted . Comps . W . Littaur , P . Z ., was elected Z . ; J . Da Silva , H . ; J . VV . Dewsnap , J . ; J . Lazarus , P . Z ., Treas . ; and M . J . Emanuel , P . Z ., S . E . A P . Z . ' s jewel was voted to the retiring M . E . Z ., Comp . A . J . Henochsberg . A subscription was also opened to present him with a testimonial , which was liberally subscribed to . A banquet followed , superintended by Comp . M . Silver .
BLACKBURN . —Perseverance Chapter ( No . 345 ) . —The regular meeting of this chapter was held at the Old Bull Hotel , on Monday , the 15 th inst . The companions assembled and partook of a substantial tea , after which the chapter was opened in due form ; the three chairs been severally occupied by Comps . S . L . Buckley , M . E . Z ., J . Aspinall , H ., and J . Troop , P . Z ., as J . After the companions had been admitted , and the chapter declared open
for the transaction of business , the minutes of the previous meeting were read and conlirmed . The announcement upon the circular that it was intended to present Comp . F . Thomas , the respected Treasurer of the chapter , with a Past Provincial jewel , drew together a large attendance of companions , who manifested the greatest interest in the proceedings . The First Principal introduced the subject of the presentation in a few appropriate and well chosen
remarks . He said that as Comp . Thomas had completed his twenty-first year as Treasurer of the chapter , it was thought that the occasion presented a suitable opportunity for marking in some tangible manner their appreciation of Comp . Thomas ' s long and faithful services . He alluded in graceful terms to the untiring zeal and energy of Comp . Thomas in all that concerned Freemasonry , and the unflagging interest he had for a long period manifested in the
Chapter of Perseverance . As the exponent of its members , he begged to hand Comp . Thomas that jewel , which he trusted he would accept as the expression of the true fraternal regard of the members of the chapter towards him and in recognition of his unwearied exertions for its well being . He trusted he would long be spared to wear that jewel , and to be what he had been so long , the life and soul of the chapter .
Short addresses were then delivered by Comps . Towers , P . Z ., and Halliwell , P . Z ., two of the oldest members of the chapter , who alluded to the time when Comp . Thomas first joined the chapter , now 23 or 24 years ago . At that time there was no member of the chapter who could work any of the ceremonies , assistance having to be obtained as occasion required from a neighbouring town . Immediately after joining , Comp . Thomas set about the difficult
task of establishing the chapter on a more satisfactory basis , and for some time , in default of other assistance , worked the whole of the ceremonies himself . Under his careful and assiduous instruction the chapter gradually acquired a character for efficiency , which has been maintained , the officers for the most part performing all the duties incidental to their several positions , and the general working being excelled by none in the province . A debt
of gratitude was due to Comp . Thomas for his arduous labours , and they were glad of that opportunity of marking their appreciation of his self-denying exertions . Comp . Thomas , in responding , begged most cordially and sincerely to thank the Ex . First Principal , and the Ex . companions who had just spoken , for their kind expressions , although he must say he felt he was not deserving of one-half the kind things they had been good enough to say of him .
In the exuberance of their feelings it was almost natural that they should be led away a little into magnifying his services to the chapter . He , however , believed them to be thoroughly sincere in what they ssid , and would cherish the remembrance of their kind utterances as some of his pleasantest recollections . The services he had rendered to the chapter had been to him a labour of love , undertaken , in the first instance , in its time
of utmost need , and prosecuted since with whatever ability he possessed , and under favour of the companions ; and his proudest reward had always been the approbation of those among whom he laboured . He was comparativel y well advanced in years when he first undertook the duties of Treasurer of the chapter , and he humbly thanked the
Giver of all Good for the large measure of health and strength he enjoyed after serving in that capacity for upwards of 21 years . He might add that so long as health and strength were vouchsafed to him they would be devoted to those Masonic pursuits which had constituted the greatest pleasure of his leisure hours for perhaps a full average life-
Royal Arch.
time . He begged to assure the companions that if the jewel just now presented to him were set with diamonds , it would not enhance its value to him , and he should always look upon it as the most valuable souvenir of his Masonic career . It was in itself a work of art , and as such was intrinsically valuable ; but its chief value to him would be the associations which the sight of it would awaken in his mind .
The jewel is an exquisite specimen of the goldsmiths ' art , manufactured by Comp . Georse Kenning , and contains the following inscription , beautifully engraved : " Presented to Comp . Franklin Thomas , P . Z ., Past Provincial Third Grand Principal E . L ., by the members of the Chapter of Perseverance , No . 345 , on the completion of the
twentyfirst year of his Treasurership of the chapter , as a token of esteem and respect , and in recognition of his long and valued services .- Blackburn , 16 th March , 1 S 85 . " The labours of the day being concluded , the chapter was closed in form , and the companions adjourned to refreshment .
Knights Templar.
Knights Templar .
YORK . —Ancient Ebor Preceptory ( No . 101 ) . — The quarterly meeting of this preceptory was held on the loth inst ., when there were present Fras . J . Marshall , P ., asE . P . ; G . Simpson , P . ; M . Millington , P . ; T . B . Whytehead , P ., Reg . ; C Palliser , Constable ; VV . Brown , Marshal ; VV . H . Cowper , Sub-Marshal ; J . ; T . Seller , Herald ; Major McGachen , Capt . of Guards ; M . F . VV . Williamson , Swd . Br . ; and others .
A letter was read from Fra . Rob Morris , the American Masonic Poet Laureate , thanking the preceptory for his election as an honorary member . A resolution was passed , moved by Fra . G . Simpson , P ., that the place of meeting of the preceptory be removed to the Eboracum Masonic Hall , St . Saviourgate , where the accommodation would be better for the purposes of working the Degree . There was no other business , and the preceptory was closed , early in the evening .
Obituary.
Obituary .
BRO . CHARLES ALLEN . We regret to announce the unexpected death of Bro . Charles Allen , a highly respected member of the Yarborough Lodge , No . 554 , and one of the firm of Messrs . F . Allen and Sons , of Bishopgate-street . The funeral took place at the City of London Cemetery , Ilford , on Tuesday , and was numerously attended by the family
and friends of the deceased , as well as by many of his brother Masons , among whom were Bros . John Taylor , VV . M . 554 ; G . VV . Verry , P . M . 554 , W . M . 1421 ; Hugh Cotter , P . M . 554 , Ay ton ; Bate , 1396 ; Baxter , 150 G j Blagney , 130 C ; Bacon , 155 S ; Cook , 946 ; Carrociero , 1306 ; Hirst , 130 G ; Dickenson , Victoria in Burmah Lodge , No . S 32 ; Godart , 12 SS ; and Reynolds . We offer to the family our sincere sympathy in the loss they have sustained .
The Value Of Freemasonry.
THE VALUE OF FREEMASONRY .
[ BY A CORRESPONDENT . ] We often hear to-day questionsas regards the useandgood of Freemasonry . The ardent ultramontane and the intelligent agnostic equally pose as sceptics either as to its real utility or actual benefits to the world in which we life . Yet those of us who have belonged to the Craft the longest care for it the most , and despite the sneers of the sciolist or the
carpingsof the pedant , the vulgar antagonism of some , and the hidden animus of others , Freemasonry still retains happily , as it has succeeded in gaining the approbation and devotion of some of the kindest , most intellectual , and best of our kind . VVhy is this ? What is that peculiar force , either of beauty , wisdom , strength , or good , which so dominates the minds , so wins the affection of its members ? We think we shall not be answering wrongfully in saying
it is its intense and permeating spirit of brotherly kindness , of human good will , and sympathy with humanity , qua humanity . We hear constant stories of its civilizing and subduing influences ; we read countless anecdotes of its controlling and restraining powers , even in the heat of a battle ' s rage . Some of these episodes have been current over 100 years , some are told us in our own generation , but the facts we arc about to narrate , constitute a touching proof if
needed , of the unchanging sympathy of Freemasonry , and offer another witness , if a witness be required , that Freemasonry in England has not degenerated , but still practises what it professes , is what it says it is , in reality , effect , and beneficial and beneficent outcome . A poor brother wandering homewards from a long and weary sojourn in foreign parts , who had filled no unimportant part Masonically in a distant land , finds himself the dying inmate of one of those
really blessed Institutions of our country , the Consumption Hospital at Ventnor , Isle of Wight . His friends and relatives are now few and far between , and all far away . He mentions casually to the good Hospital Chaplain that he is a Freemason . This casual remark is repeated to a worthy brother of ours , who , as an old and attached Freemason for a long spell of years , had truly learned as a "Master" the living and kindly lessons of our Order .
He at once visits the patient , associates with him in his benevolent intent some few good brethren and true , and by their sympathetic visits and attentions , and aid , material and personal , the last hours of our poor brothe r are lightened , cheered , and alleviated , a complete stranger to them until the mystic link and the genial grace of Freemasonry had educed from these true representatives ' of our loyal and beneficent Craft ,
Masonic reality in its best illustration , and in its most graceful and gracious form . After a spell of wasting and suffering , the poor brother passes away , cheered to the last lingering hours of earth by a kindness that never failed , and a sympathy which never grew weary . " Brothers all . " Nor did the kindness of this little confraternity end there ! Our brother was buried in a peaceful resting place , the Chaplain consigning him to his last home in God ' s Acre ,
and a monumental stone still uprears its modest head , with the mystic emblem on it of the five-pointed star , to show that a brother lies buried there , and to witness the enduring sympathy and realistic meaning of us poor Freemasons , wherever we be scattered on earth ' s surface—north , south , east and west , —as linked by a lasting bond of fraternal goodwill as brethren , not in name only , or in word only ; but in very deed , and in very truth . So mote it ever be 1
The Theatres.
THE THEATRES .
On Monday , Bro . Thomas Thorne announces he will take his benefit , when he will put " Loose Tiles " in the evening bill for a week . We expect that the Vaudeville , like some other houses , will close for a summer season . #
* * To-night ( Saturday ) is the last night at the Adel p hi for the present of "The Last Chance , " the Bros . Gatti having decided to close their theatre for a few weeks . # # # To-night Miss Violet Melnotteopens the Comedy ,
which she has leased from Bro . A . Henderson for a term . " The Silver Shield " is to be the piece , with most of the cast who played in it on its production at a matinee lately . Bro . D'Albertson is , we are glad to observe , continuing as acting manager . Miss Melnotte could not find a better . Bro . D'Albertson has announced that his annual benefit will be held on Saturday , 4 th July . #
* * Mr . Wilson Barrett is giving a few more performances of Bro . Sims' " Lights 0 ' London , " which is one of the best and most popular pieces of its kind . It contains the author ' s most happy and characteristic work for the stage principally—this strikes one in its studies of human life . The showman Jarvis and his family all
have about them a touch of nature , readily recognised by those for whose delectation the drama is chiefly intended . Miss Eastlake again invests with the usual charm the part of the devoted Bess . Mr . Wilson Barrett resumes the character of Harold Armytage , and plays it with all his old force and tenderness . The drama is in every respect as well acted as before , and seems to draw goodly houses .
* * * The performances of "The Candidate" will soon be in numbers 200 . Mr . Chas . Wyndam has hit upon an extremely funny farcical comedy , and the principal part , which is his , and suits him admirably , or he suits it . Viscount Oldacre has a mother-in-law who makes his life unpleasant . He is in the habit of making any excuse to get up to London for a few days . On one occasion he was
to go to a meeting at Exeter Hall respecting the annexation of Java , but meeting with some old friends , he dined and amused himself with them till the early hours of the morning , and then , as he puts it , " of course it was too late to annex Java . " To a bachelor friend who confides in him that he is thinking of entering domestic happiness , he replies , " My boy , you are in it , stay as you are ; if you can contemplate between a mother-in-law and blowing out
your brains , don't hesitate a moment—blow . " Oldacre's friend is asked to stand for a constituency , but does not wish to . Lord Oldacre seizes the opportunity . He will stand . Instead of going himself to the place he takes himself to London to enjoy himself for a fortnight , and sends his private secretary , an old college friend , to appear in the constituency as Lord Oldacre . This secretary is a strong Radical , and in the excitement of an election , forgets he is impersonating another person , and airs his own
political views , and is returned at the head of the poll for the borough of Easthampton , as a Radical . The reader will at once see the fun which Mr . VVyndham gets out of this . In it he is ably assisted by Mr . George Giddens , the private secretary , and Mr . Blakeley , a missionary , whom all the ladies worship , and after being a guest for a long time in Lord Oldacre ' s house , turns out a great fraud . Mrs . Rose Saker and the other ladies render invaluable assistance in this laughable comedy , the name of whose author has not yet been declared . #
* * To-night ( Saturday ) Bro . and Mrs . Bancroft give the first of twelve farewell performances of " Diplomacy , " on which occasions we are sure their old friends and admirers will rall y round them to bid them an affectionate farewell , mingled with the deepest regret at th e termination of their management andiretirement from the stage . * * *
At the Royalty a very prelty , if not altogether original comic opera is being played . " Dr . D . " is written by Mr . Colnaghi , and composed by Mr . Cotsford Dick . Mr . Dick has written some charming lyrics , and furnished the new opera with a number of sparkling and gracefully sentimental melodies . It has a smack of the Gilbert and Sullivan in it , both in dialogue and music . Bro . Ashley plays the title rule but we think some of his political
allusions might well be omitted . One hardly goes to a theatre to hear one party jeered at and the other political side extolled . Now that he must know his text better , possibly Bro . Ashley has dropped so much " gag . " Miss Ethel Pierson , a youug lady whom we have mentioned before as one possessed of fine musical ability , wins the chief vocal success in her solo , " He is not here . " And
through the whole opera Miss Pierson is always a great attraction . Miss Florence and Miss Judge are much to be commended , the former especially , for a beautiful trill or " shake" in her song , "The Legend of the Spring . " A unison chorus of Bath Chairman received a double encore . " Dr . D . " is quite harmless and full of humour , though , as we said , not original throughout .
Rumour has it that Miss Farren purposes embarking in theatrical management . It is a rash step , and if Bro . Terry is also to have a house of his own we do not see how burlesque can flourish . Why not amalgamate and not compete .
Births, Marriages, And Deaths.
Births , Marriages , and Deaths .
BIRTHS . BELL . —On the 5 th inst ., at Ramleh , Egypt , the wife of II . L . Bell , of a daughter . MARRIAGES . SMITH—ROGERS . —On the 10 th inst ., at the parish church , Eltham , Edwin J . C Smith , son of E . Smith , of Eltiiam , to Ellen , daughter of the late J . R . Rogers .
DEATHS . ALLEN . —On the 10 th inst ., at 47 , Tredegar-square , Mile End , E ., Bro . Charles Allen , Yarborough Lodge , No . 554 .