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Article THE ABBEY LODGE, WESTMINSTER, No. 2030. Page 1 of 1 Article New Zealand. Page 1 of 1 Article New Zealand. Page 1 of 1 Article South Africa. Page 1 of 1 Article South Africa. Page 1 of 1
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
The Abbey Lodge, Westminster, No. 2030.
THE ABBEY LODGE , WESTMINSTER , No . 2030 .
lt is doubtless within the recollection of our readers that prior to the consecration of the above lodge the Baroness Burdett-Coutts presented the brethren with the lodge furniture . The most noticeable portion of th s was the magnificent embroidered covers to the pedestals and tables . So pleased was the Baroness with the wav in which the work
had been executed , that as a reward to those who had been engaged upon it she invited them to spend a day with her atTloIly Lodge , Highgate . Saturday , the 12 th instant , was the day appointed to pay their promised visit . Leaving about mid-day in omnibuses specially chartered for the occasion , the young people , to the number of nearly sixty , proceeded to Highgate . The weather was unfortunately very unfavourable , and quite prevented what would
otherwise been an enjoyable ride , but , thanks to the provision against the wet , the visitors were enabled to reach their destination without in any way suffering from the elements . It had been arranged that the party should beconveyed up Hishgate Hill by the Steep Grade Tramway , the Directors having most kindly offered to allow their cars to be used for the purpose , but in consequence of the inclement weather it was determined at the last moment to drive
direct to the ground . On their arrival , thc guests were received by the Baroness in the verandah , where luncheon was provided . At the conclusion of the luncheon the manager proposed " The Health of the Baroness Burdett-Coutts . He said that the whole of the people employed looked upon their reception that day as an act of the greatest kindness and consideration . He was pleased that her ladyship had expressed her satisfaction at the way in
which the work had been produced , and he considered that in asking them to Holly Lodge she had done them a very great honour . The Baroness , who was received with great acclamation , then addressed the gathering and said how pleased she was to receive them , and that she regretted that the day was so unfavourable ; she hoped though that it might yet clear up to enable them to see the grounds and that she should see them there again on a future
occasion . The manner in itfhich the young people had performed their work had given her the greatest satisfaction , and she remembered with pleasure seeing their nimble fingers at work during the progress of the embroidering . The design too was most bcautilul , and the manner in which her own arms had been incorporated with a representa'ion of "The Abbey , " caused the production to become really a work of art . Her ladyship said that she should
have much pleasure in shewing her visitors over the house , and letting Ihem see the various objects of interest therein , and she was sure that , from the artistic qualities they had proved themselves to be possessed of , they would appreciate the works of art they might see . The visitors then accompanied the Baroness over her house . At the conclusion of tea , which was also provided in the verandah , Bro . Burdett-Coutts , VV . AI . of the Abbey
Lodge , addressed his visitors in reply to a vote of thanks which had been unanimously accorded to him , and he said that he was exceedingly glad to see them all , and in the name of himself and the Baroness wished them a hearty welcome . The work they ha'd executed would ever be highly appreciated by the Abbey Lodge , and would in years to come maintain their reputation for good workmanship , and that of true benevolence and kindness on the
part of the Baroness . Towards the evening the weather fortunately cleared up and enabled the young people to roam about the grounds , which they evidently did with considerable pleasure . Soon after sunset the visitors , under the charge of Bro . Baker , S . W . of the Abbey Lodge , were all duly conveyed home in safety . Duiing the afternoon and evening , Bro .
James Hill conducted a capital selection of instrumental music , and as the weather became finer dancing was resorted to with considerable animation . The day will long be remembered with pleasurable feeling . There will he an emergency meeting of the lodge , held at the Town Hall , Westminster , Monday , iSth inst ., when Bro . Burdett-Coutts , the W . AI ., will work the three degrees , raising five , passing five , and initiating five .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
CHRISTCHURCH . —Robert Burns Lodge ( No . 604 , S . C)—Thc regular monthly meeting of this exceedingly popular lodge was held in the Canterbury Masonic Hall , Alanchester-street , on Tuesday , Alay 20 th , when there were present Bros . F . VV . Francis , R . W . M . ; A . Fraser , VV . D . M . ; R . Buchanan , W . S VV . ; J . T . Park , W . J . W . j R . VV . S . Eastwood , Sec . ; P . Duncan , Treas . ; A . C . SchmidtS . D . ; II . Tuck , J . D . ; W .
, Jackson , I . G . ; F . Williams and P . Hill , Stwds . ; VV . 'Joms , Tyler ; also Bros . Elerig and Gourlay , P . Al ' s . ; and about 50 other members . Visitors : Bros . Sawtell , P . M . C > og ( E . C ); Messenger , 1038 ( E . C ); Henriksen , 103 S ; Thiele , 1038 ; and a large number of other visitors numbering about Go . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read
and confirmed , the ballot was taken for Mr . Charles Dudley Stuart Loibl , who was declared duly elected . The W . M ., officers , and brethren of the Lincoln Lodge , 191 S ( E . C ) , were then duly admitted , and received and welcomed by the R . W . AI ., Bro . Francis ; the R . W . AI ., officers , and brethren of the Crown Lodge , 6 75 ( S . C . ) , were also admitted , received , and welcomed . The
ceremony of initiation was then proceeded with , and performed in a very masterly manner by the R . W . M ., assisted by Bro . P . M . Gourlay , D . G . D . C , the charge being delivered by Bro . P . AL Watson , D . G . J . W . The lodge was then passed , and Bro . John Pooley having shown satisfactory progress , was invested with the degree of F . C , the R . W . A 1 . also working this degree in a first class manner ,
the working tools being presented by Bro . Chas . Louisson , R . W . M . 6 75 ( S . C . ) This being all the business , the lodge was closed in due form by the R . W . AI ., after he had received the " Hearty good wishes " of the representatives of the various lodges present .
The brethren then repaired to-the refectory , where an excellent repast was prepared . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured , and the R . W . AI . proposed the toast of " The Initiates , " which was received with hearty applause . Bro . Loibl responded . Bro . Francis then rose to propose what may be termed
New Zealand.
the toast of the evening , "The Visitors . " He said that it gave him great pleasure to see so many visiting brethren present that evening , and he heartily thanked them for their presence . He would more especially thank lhe officers and members who had come from Lincoln to visit this lodge—indeed , he thought they showed a good example to Masons when they would come 12 miles by road to visit the Robert Burns Longe , rather than disappoint its
members . He might here mention that he , with his officers , intended returning the visit of the Lincoln Lodge at the earliest opportunity—indeed , he would ask his officers and members to accompany him to their ( the Lincoln Lodge ) next meeting , which he believed would take place on thc Oth Juno . He had always held that these fraternal visits had a great deal to do with cementing that brotherly love which is recognised as one of the great principles of
Freemasonry , even more than individual visits , as it tended to produce a good feeling , not only between individuals , but between lodges , and for this reason he had always advocated it . To Bro . Louisson , R . W . M . of the Crown Lodge " , he would beg to tender his hearty thanks for the fraternal visit , which also he hoped to take an early opportunity of returning , but at the same time he should like to ask Ihe co-operation of the Crown Lodge in uniting with him in the
return visit to Lincoln , and he was sure from what he knew of the Lincoln Lodge they would be heartily received . To all other visitors he tendered his thanks , and would ask the brethren of the Robert Burns Lodge to drink in bumpers " The Health of the Visitors , " coupled with the names of Alasters and Past Alasters . The toast having been received in true Alasonic fashion , was responded to by Bro . East , VV . AI . of the Lincoln
Lodge , who said that after the way in which Bro . Francis had praised the members of his lodge , he hardly knew how to respond to his toast . He could only say that , although they had come a considerable distance , yet they were amply repaid for their trouble by the lesson they had learned that evening . They had seen the ritual worked in an irreproachable manner , and upon that he could not only compliment Bro . Francis , but also all his officers . In conclusion , he
would say that if the Robert Burns Lodge visited them at their next or any future meeting , his officers and members would attempt to make them as welcome as he had been made that evening . He now thanked them for coupling his name with the toast of the visitors . Responses were also made by Bros . Chas . Louisson , on behalf of the Crown Lodge , 103 SJ Kirk , and Cuming ( . Vew Zealand Freemason ) .
Bro . A . Kirk said he rose to propose a toast which he hoped all visitors and brethren would drink heartily to—it was " Bro . Francis , R . W . AI . " He might state that he had known Bro . Francis as long as he had been a Alason ; in fact , he had seen him initiated , and he could say that nothing gave him greater pleasure than seeing him occupy the chair of K . S . in such a lodge as this . He believed this was one of the largest , if not the largest , lodges in the
district , and to occupy the chair of such a lodge was worthy the ambition of any brother . He would recommend the conduct of Bro . Francis to all the younger members of the lodge as an example which it would be well for them to try to imitate . _ Bro . Francis had been in harness almost ever since his initiation ; he had filled all the offices of the lodge , and had at last , b y his sterling ability , attained to the highest possible position in this lodge . He believed that
every brother had a greater or less degree of ambition to reach that chair . Such ambition was laudable ; but by all means let it be carried out in a straightforward manner , and let the brethren steadily work themselves up in their duties in the lower offices , and they might rest assured that their perseverance would be finally rewarded . He would now ask them to drink the health of Bro . Francis , R . W . M .
Bro . I ' rancis , in a few well-chosen words , responded to thq toast of his health . The other toasts were "The Working Officers of the Lodge . " responded toby Bros . Fulton , VV . S . M . ; Buchanan , W . S . W . ; R . VV . S . Eastwood , Sec . ; and Gourlay , P . AL , Al . of I . Songs were interspersed with the toasts during the evening . 'The Tyler's toast brought to a close what may be considered a red-letter day in the annals of this lodge .
South Africa.
South Africa .
DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF NATAL . The annual meeting Aas held on the 28 th of March last , at the Masonic Hall , Smith-street , Durban . The R . W . Dist . Grand Master , Bro . R . I . Finnemore , presided , and ' there was a very large attendance of brethien to support him . The District Grand Lodge was opened shortly after five o ' clock , and after ( he customary routine business had
been disposed of , The DISTRICT GRAND MASTER said : Brethren , I have , as your District Grand Alaster , convened you to-day for several reasons . In the first place , this is the anniversary of the formal opening of our District Grand Lodge , and it is necessary to appoint new officers . In the next place , it is desirable that no further time should be lost in passing
bye-laws . I drafted a code in 1 SS 2 , which was printed and circulated amongst tire lodges ; but owing to impending changes in our Constitutions it was thought advisable , and recommended by Col . Clerke , the Grand Secretary , that we should postpone the settlement of this matter until the final revision of the new Book of Constitutions in England had been completed . I have not yet received a copy of the
new Constitutions ; but , from a summary of alterations which was published in the Freemason , and which I have carefully studied , I have been enabled to ascertain in what respects the old Constitutions had been amended , and with this knowledge 1 have now carefully drafted a second code , which I shall lay before you to-day for your considera'ion and approval . In preparing the new code , which I have
made as brief and simple as I conveniently could , I have adhered as far as possible to the resolutions which were passed at the last regular communication of District Grand Lodge , which was held under my presidency in Pietermaritzburg in September last . Beyond the necessity for appointing new officers and finally passing the ' bve-laws , subject to
the approval ot the Alost Worshipful Grand Master , there is also another reason why I wished to meet you here to-day , namely , that beingabout to leave the colony for some months , after a residence of nearly 34 y ears . for the purpose of revisiting the mother country , I was desirous of bidding adieu to my Masonic brethren , and of arranging sundry Alasonic matters of importance preparatory to my departure . During my
South Africa.
absence from the colony the Masonic government of the district will devolve upon the Deputy D . Grand Alaster , assisted by the District Board of General Purposes ; and I feel sure that you will accord to my Deputy during my absence the same hearty support and ready co-operation which it has been my privilege to experience at your hands . ( Hear , hear . ) As to the amended Constitmi > ns , I find that I am now empowered to appoint the President of the District Board of
General Purposes , who will rank next to thc District Grand Registrar . 'The appointment of two District Grand Standard Bearers is also authorised , and the office of District Assistant Grand Secretary is now provided for and recognised by the new rules . 1 think it well also that 1 should exercise the power of appointing two District ( jrand Chaplains , as there are so many candidates desirous and deserving of holding office in District Grand Lodge
that it is difficult , if not impossible , for me to adequately recognise the claims of allof them . I would recommend that the District Board of General Purposes be constituted without further delay , as there will be many matters arising for their consideration . From the reports of lodges for the past year , it will lie seen that the state of Freemasonry generally in the district is eminently satisfactory and encouraging , lt is true that no new Craft lodges have been
opened in the district during the past year , as it was anticipated they would be . Unfortunately difficulties arose whicli prevented our Newcastle brethren realising their wish to obtain a charter ; and I understand that the brethren at Ixopo have abandoned for the present the expressed intention of establishing a lodge at their place , because it is considered that the Carnarvon Lodge at Richmond will suffice , for some time to come , for the wants of the
brethren in thc locality . 'The recent erection and dedication of two new Alasonic halls , one at Richmond , the other at Grey-town , and the position generally of the existing lodges , however , furnish satisfactory evidence of the vitality and progressive character of Freemasonry in the district , and is a subject of congratulation . Sundry matters of detail connected with the Craft have at different times during the year been submitted for my decision and action . Thus ,
there was one appeal to me from the decision of a private Iodge ; one application for permission to temporarily change the places of meetingof a lodge ; several applications for my ruling on points of order or practice ; sundry amendments of bye-laws of private lodges submitted for my approval ; and various other matters , including , I regret to say , a few applications for pecuniary relief or assistance . All these matters have been dealt with by me as they arose ,
and in such a manner as circumstances would enable me to deal with them . Business of this nature , as well as necessary communications with the Grand Secretary ih London , the Deputy D . G . AI ., and the Dist . G . Secretary from time to time , has entailed upon me an amount of correspondence which is not inconsiderable ; but notwithstanding my official and other duties 1 have endeavoured to settle all points as they arose and to ensure as far as possible that
there should be no delay in answering letters . The experience of the first year of our District Giand Lodge has thus shown that the home authorities rightly judged that the time had arrived when local government of the Order in the colony had become necessary . ( Hear . ) I may here mention that VV . Bro . George Russell , D . G . S . W ., is compiling for publication a history of Freemasonry in thc district , more particularly with reference to the
Port Natal Lodge , No . 73 S , with which he has been so long and honourably connected ; and I have no doubt but that this publication will be found to be of great interest to members of our Fraternity . ( Hear , hear . ) I have the pleasure also to announce to you . that VV . Bro . AI . TL Emanuel , of Lodges 73 S and 1192 , P . M . 10 G 9 , has kindly made a present to the District'Grand Lodge of a handsome silver square and compasses , which I now submit for your
acceptance . The District Grand Secretary will read to you the letter which accompanied the presentations . I am sure 1 am only expressing thc unanimous feeling of members of District Grand Lodge when I say that we sincerely appreciate the gift ; and lor my own part I value still more tlie kindly expressions towards myself as District Grand Alaster which accompanied it . ( Hear , hear . ) My sincere thanks are due to the outgoing officers for their attention to their
duties during their tenure of office ; and I thank you all , brethren , for your salutations and reception of me to-day . ( Hear , hear . ) I will not now detain you from the more important business of the meeting with any further preliminary remarks , but will conclude with the time-honoured wish lhat as the labours of our District' Grand Lodge have
been begun in order , and the blessing of the Great Architect of the Universe has been invoked on our proceedings , so may they be conducted in peace and with a true regard to the best interests of the Order , and be closed in love and harmony . ( Hear , hear . ) The following brethren were suhsebuenlly duly invested for the ensuing year : —
Bro . VV . Francis Dist . D . G . AI . „ G . Russell Dist . G . S . W . „ J . Smith Dist . G . J . W . „ Rev . J . Reynolds Dist . G . Chap . „ Rev . A . Ikin , LL . D ., AIus . Doc . Dist . G . Chap . „ A . C Dulcken Dist . G . Reg . . . . T Ti .,, ( Dist . G . Presdnt . » ' -J- "" 1 Bd . Gen . Purps .
„ E . H . Wiltshier Dist . G . Sec . „ A . J . Keeler Dist . G . A . S . „ S . Marriott Dist . G . Treas . „ J . Crowe Dist . G . S . D . „ G . O . Alatterson Dist . G . J . D . „ S . Starnack Dist . G . S . of VV .
„ VV . A . Voysey Dist . G . D . C . „ VV . Sink Dist . G . A . D . C . „ VV . A . Smith Dist . G . Swd . Br . „ D . Deeves ... Dist .-G . Std . Br . „ T . Cook Dist . G Std . Br . „ E . S . T . Stantial Dist . G . Org . .. VV . II . Kinsman Dist . G . Purst .
„ B . Ireland lMst . A . G . Purst . Bros . S . Ford , P . Flett , VV . F . Stanton , R . Willis , D . Crabbe , and J . Schulz Dist . G . Swds .
At the conclusion of business a banquet was held , and at tbe removal of the cloth the customary toast list was gone through .
The centenary of the Harmonic Lodge , No . 252 , was celebrated at Dudley on Wednesday , the 23 rd inst . , We hope to give a report in our next .
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
The Abbey Lodge, Westminster, No. 2030.
THE ABBEY LODGE , WESTMINSTER , No . 2030 .
lt is doubtless within the recollection of our readers that prior to the consecration of the above lodge the Baroness Burdett-Coutts presented the brethren with the lodge furniture . The most noticeable portion of th s was the magnificent embroidered covers to the pedestals and tables . So pleased was the Baroness with the wav in which the work
had been executed , that as a reward to those who had been engaged upon it she invited them to spend a day with her atTloIly Lodge , Highgate . Saturday , the 12 th instant , was the day appointed to pay their promised visit . Leaving about mid-day in omnibuses specially chartered for the occasion , the young people , to the number of nearly sixty , proceeded to Highgate . The weather was unfortunately very unfavourable , and quite prevented what would
otherwise been an enjoyable ride , but , thanks to the provision against the wet , the visitors were enabled to reach their destination without in any way suffering from the elements . It had been arranged that the party should beconveyed up Hishgate Hill by the Steep Grade Tramway , the Directors having most kindly offered to allow their cars to be used for the purpose , but in consequence of the inclement weather it was determined at the last moment to drive
direct to the ground . On their arrival , thc guests were received by the Baroness in the verandah , where luncheon was provided . At the conclusion of the luncheon the manager proposed " The Health of the Baroness Burdett-Coutts . He said that the whole of the people employed looked upon their reception that day as an act of the greatest kindness and consideration . He was pleased that her ladyship had expressed her satisfaction at the way in
which the work had been produced , and he considered that in asking them to Holly Lodge she had done them a very great honour . The Baroness , who was received with great acclamation , then addressed the gathering and said how pleased she was to receive them , and that she regretted that the day was so unfavourable ; she hoped though that it might yet clear up to enable them to see the grounds and that she should see them there again on a future
occasion . The manner in itfhich the young people had performed their work had given her the greatest satisfaction , and she remembered with pleasure seeing their nimble fingers at work during the progress of the embroidering . The design too was most bcautilul , and the manner in which her own arms had been incorporated with a representa'ion of "The Abbey , " caused the production to become really a work of art . Her ladyship said that she should
have much pleasure in shewing her visitors over the house , and letting Ihem see the various objects of interest therein , and she was sure that , from the artistic qualities they had proved themselves to be possessed of , they would appreciate the works of art they might see . The visitors then accompanied the Baroness over her house . At the conclusion of tea , which was also provided in the verandah , Bro . Burdett-Coutts , VV . AI . of the Abbey
Lodge , addressed his visitors in reply to a vote of thanks which had been unanimously accorded to him , and he said that he was exceedingly glad to see them all , and in the name of himself and the Baroness wished them a hearty welcome . The work they ha'd executed would ever be highly appreciated by the Abbey Lodge , and would in years to come maintain their reputation for good workmanship , and that of true benevolence and kindness on the
part of the Baroness . Towards the evening the weather fortunately cleared up and enabled the young people to roam about the grounds , which they evidently did with considerable pleasure . Soon after sunset the visitors , under the charge of Bro . Baker , S . W . of the Abbey Lodge , were all duly conveyed home in safety . Duiing the afternoon and evening , Bro .
James Hill conducted a capital selection of instrumental music , and as the weather became finer dancing was resorted to with considerable animation . The day will long be remembered with pleasurable feeling . There will he an emergency meeting of the lodge , held at the Town Hall , Westminster , Monday , iSth inst ., when Bro . Burdett-Coutts , the W . AI ., will work the three degrees , raising five , passing five , and initiating five .
New Zealand.
New Zealand .
CHRISTCHURCH . —Robert Burns Lodge ( No . 604 , S . C)—Thc regular monthly meeting of this exceedingly popular lodge was held in the Canterbury Masonic Hall , Alanchester-street , on Tuesday , Alay 20 th , when there were present Bros . F . VV . Francis , R . W . M . ; A . Fraser , VV . D . M . ; R . Buchanan , W . S VV . ; J . T . Park , W . J . W . j R . VV . S . Eastwood , Sec . ; P . Duncan , Treas . ; A . C . SchmidtS . D . ; II . Tuck , J . D . ; W .
, Jackson , I . G . ; F . Williams and P . Hill , Stwds . ; VV . 'Joms , Tyler ; also Bros . Elerig and Gourlay , P . Al ' s . ; and about 50 other members . Visitors : Bros . Sawtell , P . M . C > og ( E . C ); Messenger , 1038 ( E . C ); Henriksen , 103 S ; Thiele , 1038 ; and a large number of other visitors numbering about Go . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read
and confirmed , the ballot was taken for Mr . Charles Dudley Stuart Loibl , who was declared duly elected . The W . M ., officers , and brethren of the Lincoln Lodge , 191 S ( E . C ) , were then duly admitted , and received and welcomed by the R . W . AI ., Bro . Francis ; the R . W . AI ., officers , and brethren of the Crown Lodge , 6 75 ( S . C . ) , were also admitted , received , and welcomed . The
ceremony of initiation was then proceeded with , and performed in a very masterly manner by the R . W . M ., assisted by Bro . P . M . Gourlay , D . G . D . C , the charge being delivered by Bro . P . AL Watson , D . G . J . W . The lodge was then passed , and Bro . John Pooley having shown satisfactory progress , was invested with the degree of F . C , the R . W . A 1 . also working this degree in a first class manner ,
the working tools being presented by Bro . Chas . Louisson , R . W . M . 6 75 ( S . C . ) This being all the business , the lodge was closed in due form by the R . W . AI ., after he had received the " Hearty good wishes " of the representatives of the various lodges present .
The brethren then repaired to-the refectory , where an excellent repast was prepared . The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were duly honoured , and the R . W . AI . proposed the toast of " The Initiates , " which was received with hearty applause . Bro . Loibl responded . Bro . Francis then rose to propose what may be termed
New Zealand.
the toast of the evening , "The Visitors . " He said that it gave him great pleasure to see so many visiting brethren present that evening , and he heartily thanked them for their presence . He would more especially thank lhe officers and members who had come from Lincoln to visit this lodge—indeed , he thought they showed a good example to Masons when they would come 12 miles by road to visit the Robert Burns Longe , rather than disappoint its
members . He might here mention that he , with his officers , intended returning the visit of the Lincoln Lodge at the earliest opportunity—indeed , he would ask his officers and members to accompany him to their ( the Lincoln Lodge ) next meeting , which he believed would take place on thc Oth Juno . He had always held that these fraternal visits had a great deal to do with cementing that brotherly love which is recognised as one of the great principles of
Freemasonry , even more than individual visits , as it tended to produce a good feeling , not only between individuals , but between lodges , and for this reason he had always advocated it . To Bro . Louisson , R . W . M . of the Crown Lodge " , he would beg to tender his hearty thanks for the fraternal visit , which also he hoped to take an early opportunity of returning , but at the same time he should like to ask Ihe co-operation of the Crown Lodge in uniting with him in the
return visit to Lincoln , and he was sure from what he knew of the Lincoln Lodge they would be heartily received . To all other visitors he tendered his thanks , and would ask the brethren of the Robert Burns Lodge to drink in bumpers " The Health of the Visitors , " coupled with the names of Alasters and Past Alasters . The toast having been received in true Alasonic fashion , was responded to by Bro . East , VV . AI . of the Lincoln
Lodge , who said that after the way in which Bro . Francis had praised the members of his lodge , he hardly knew how to respond to his toast . He could only say that , although they had come a considerable distance , yet they were amply repaid for their trouble by the lesson they had learned that evening . They had seen the ritual worked in an irreproachable manner , and upon that he could not only compliment Bro . Francis , but also all his officers . In conclusion , he
would say that if the Robert Burns Lodge visited them at their next or any future meeting , his officers and members would attempt to make them as welcome as he had been made that evening . He now thanked them for coupling his name with the toast of the visitors . Responses were also made by Bros . Chas . Louisson , on behalf of the Crown Lodge , 103 SJ Kirk , and Cuming ( . Vew Zealand Freemason ) .
Bro . A . Kirk said he rose to propose a toast which he hoped all visitors and brethren would drink heartily to—it was " Bro . Francis , R . W . AI . " He might state that he had known Bro . Francis as long as he had been a Alason ; in fact , he had seen him initiated , and he could say that nothing gave him greater pleasure than seeing him occupy the chair of K . S . in such a lodge as this . He believed this was one of the largest , if not the largest , lodges in the
district , and to occupy the chair of such a lodge was worthy the ambition of any brother . He would recommend the conduct of Bro . Francis to all the younger members of the lodge as an example which it would be well for them to try to imitate . _ Bro . Francis had been in harness almost ever since his initiation ; he had filled all the offices of the lodge , and had at last , b y his sterling ability , attained to the highest possible position in this lodge . He believed that
every brother had a greater or less degree of ambition to reach that chair . Such ambition was laudable ; but by all means let it be carried out in a straightforward manner , and let the brethren steadily work themselves up in their duties in the lower offices , and they might rest assured that their perseverance would be finally rewarded . He would now ask them to drink the health of Bro . Francis , R . W . M .
Bro . I ' rancis , in a few well-chosen words , responded to thq toast of his health . The other toasts were "The Working Officers of the Lodge . " responded toby Bros . Fulton , VV . S . M . ; Buchanan , W . S . W . ; R . VV . S . Eastwood , Sec . ; and Gourlay , P . AL , Al . of I . Songs were interspersed with the toasts during the evening . 'The Tyler's toast brought to a close what may be considered a red-letter day in the annals of this lodge .
South Africa.
South Africa .
DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF NATAL . The annual meeting Aas held on the 28 th of March last , at the Masonic Hall , Smith-street , Durban . The R . W . Dist . Grand Master , Bro . R . I . Finnemore , presided , and ' there was a very large attendance of brethien to support him . The District Grand Lodge was opened shortly after five o ' clock , and after ( he customary routine business had
been disposed of , The DISTRICT GRAND MASTER said : Brethren , I have , as your District Grand Alaster , convened you to-day for several reasons . In the first place , this is the anniversary of the formal opening of our District Grand Lodge , and it is necessary to appoint new officers . In the next place , it is desirable that no further time should be lost in passing
bye-laws . I drafted a code in 1 SS 2 , which was printed and circulated amongst tire lodges ; but owing to impending changes in our Constitutions it was thought advisable , and recommended by Col . Clerke , the Grand Secretary , that we should postpone the settlement of this matter until the final revision of the new Book of Constitutions in England had been completed . I have not yet received a copy of the
new Constitutions ; but , from a summary of alterations which was published in the Freemason , and which I have carefully studied , I have been enabled to ascertain in what respects the old Constitutions had been amended , and with this knowledge 1 have now carefully drafted a second code , which I shall lay before you to-day for your considera'ion and approval . In preparing the new code , which I have
made as brief and simple as I conveniently could , I have adhered as far as possible to the resolutions which were passed at the last regular communication of District Grand Lodge , which was held under my presidency in Pietermaritzburg in September last . Beyond the necessity for appointing new officers and finally passing the ' bve-laws , subject to
the approval ot the Alost Worshipful Grand Master , there is also another reason why I wished to meet you here to-day , namely , that beingabout to leave the colony for some months , after a residence of nearly 34 y ears . for the purpose of revisiting the mother country , I was desirous of bidding adieu to my Masonic brethren , and of arranging sundry Alasonic matters of importance preparatory to my departure . During my
South Africa.
absence from the colony the Masonic government of the district will devolve upon the Deputy D . Grand Alaster , assisted by the District Board of General Purposes ; and I feel sure that you will accord to my Deputy during my absence the same hearty support and ready co-operation which it has been my privilege to experience at your hands . ( Hear , hear . ) As to the amended Constitmi > ns , I find that I am now empowered to appoint the President of the District Board of
General Purposes , who will rank next to thc District Grand Registrar . 'The appointment of two District Grand Standard Bearers is also authorised , and the office of District Assistant Grand Secretary is now provided for and recognised by the new rules . 1 think it well also that 1 should exercise the power of appointing two District ( jrand Chaplains , as there are so many candidates desirous and deserving of holding office in District Grand Lodge
that it is difficult , if not impossible , for me to adequately recognise the claims of allof them . I would recommend that the District Board of General Purposes be constituted without further delay , as there will be many matters arising for their consideration . From the reports of lodges for the past year , it will lie seen that the state of Freemasonry generally in the district is eminently satisfactory and encouraging , lt is true that no new Craft lodges have been
opened in the district during the past year , as it was anticipated they would be . Unfortunately difficulties arose whicli prevented our Newcastle brethren realising their wish to obtain a charter ; and I understand that the brethren at Ixopo have abandoned for the present the expressed intention of establishing a lodge at their place , because it is considered that the Carnarvon Lodge at Richmond will suffice , for some time to come , for the wants of the
brethren in thc locality . 'The recent erection and dedication of two new Alasonic halls , one at Richmond , the other at Grey-town , and the position generally of the existing lodges , however , furnish satisfactory evidence of the vitality and progressive character of Freemasonry in the district , and is a subject of congratulation . Sundry matters of detail connected with the Craft have at different times during the year been submitted for my decision and action . Thus ,
there was one appeal to me from the decision of a private Iodge ; one application for permission to temporarily change the places of meetingof a lodge ; several applications for my ruling on points of order or practice ; sundry amendments of bye-laws of private lodges submitted for my approval ; and various other matters , including , I regret to say , a few applications for pecuniary relief or assistance . All these matters have been dealt with by me as they arose ,
and in such a manner as circumstances would enable me to deal with them . Business of this nature , as well as necessary communications with the Grand Secretary ih London , the Deputy D . G . AI ., and the Dist . G . Secretary from time to time , has entailed upon me an amount of correspondence which is not inconsiderable ; but notwithstanding my official and other duties 1 have endeavoured to settle all points as they arose and to ensure as far as possible that
there should be no delay in answering letters . The experience of the first year of our District Giand Lodge has thus shown that the home authorities rightly judged that the time had arrived when local government of the Order in the colony had become necessary . ( Hear . ) I may here mention that VV . Bro . George Russell , D . G . S . W ., is compiling for publication a history of Freemasonry in thc district , more particularly with reference to the
Port Natal Lodge , No . 73 S , with which he has been so long and honourably connected ; and I have no doubt but that this publication will be found to be of great interest to members of our Fraternity . ( Hear , hear . ) I have the pleasure also to announce to you . that VV . Bro . AI . TL Emanuel , of Lodges 73 S and 1192 , P . M . 10 G 9 , has kindly made a present to the District'Grand Lodge of a handsome silver square and compasses , which I now submit for your
acceptance . The District Grand Secretary will read to you the letter which accompanied the presentations . I am sure 1 am only expressing thc unanimous feeling of members of District Grand Lodge when I say that we sincerely appreciate the gift ; and lor my own part I value still more tlie kindly expressions towards myself as District Grand Alaster which accompanied it . ( Hear , hear . ) My sincere thanks are due to the outgoing officers for their attention to their
duties during their tenure of office ; and I thank you all , brethren , for your salutations and reception of me to-day . ( Hear , hear . ) I will not now detain you from the more important business of the meeting with any further preliminary remarks , but will conclude with the time-honoured wish lhat as the labours of our District' Grand Lodge have
been begun in order , and the blessing of the Great Architect of the Universe has been invoked on our proceedings , so may they be conducted in peace and with a true regard to the best interests of the Order , and be closed in love and harmony . ( Hear , hear . ) The following brethren were suhsebuenlly duly invested for the ensuing year : —
Bro . VV . Francis Dist . D . G . AI . „ G . Russell Dist . G . S . W . „ J . Smith Dist . G . J . W . „ Rev . J . Reynolds Dist . G . Chap . „ Rev . A . Ikin , LL . D ., AIus . Doc . Dist . G . Chap . „ A . C Dulcken Dist . G . Reg . . . . T Ti .,, ( Dist . G . Presdnt . » ' -J- "" 1 Bd . Gen . Purps .
„ E . H . Wiltshier Dist . G . Sec . „ A . J . Keeler Dist . G . A . S . „ S . Marriott Dist . G . Treas . „ J . Crowe Dist . G . S . D . „ G . O . Alatterson Dist . G . J . D . „ S . Starnack Dist . G . S . of VV .
„ VV . A . Voysey Dist . G . D . C . „ VV . Sink Dist . G . A . D . C . „ VV . A . Smith Dist . G . Swd . Br . „ D . Deeves ... Dist .-G . Std . Br . „ T . Cook Dist . G Std . Br . „ E . S . T . Stantial Dist . G . Org . .. VV . II . Kinsman Dist . G . Purst .
„ B . Ireland lMst . A . G . Purst . Bros . S . Ford , P . Flett , VV . F . Stanton , R . Willis , D . Crabbe , and J . Schulz Dist . G . Swds .
At the conclusion of business a banquet was held , and at tbe removal of the cloth the customary toast list was gone through .
The centenary of the Harmonic Lodge , No . 252 , was celebrated at Dudley on Wednesday , the 23 rd inst . , We hope to give a report in our next .