-
Articles/Ads
Article Royal Arch. ← Page 2 of 2 Article Royal Arch. Page 2 of 2 Article INSTRUCTION. Page 1 of 1 Article ANNUAL LADIES' MEETING OF THE RANELAGH LODGE, No. 834. Page 1 of 1 Article ANNUAL LADIES' MEETING OF THE RANELAGH LODGE, No. 834. Page 1 of 1 Article INAUGURATION OF NEW MASONIC ROOMS AT BELVEDERE. Page 1 of 2 →
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Royal Arch.
Craft Masonry with some little credit , but certainly was afraid the exalted position he now occupied would almost be too great a task for him . They might depend upon him doing his best for the chapter , but he hoped , whether or not , the same good feeling which now existed would ever exist between himself and the companions of the chapter . " The Exaltee " was then toasted , and Comp . Strong , in response , said lie had travelled 400 miles to be present ,
and highly appreciated the genial reception afforded him , while thc beautiful ceremony had impressed him more than anything he had yet heard or seen . He trusted to liecome a working member , and worthy of the continued confidence of the companions . Comps . Laurance , Tyler , and Jolly responded for" The Visitors , " and expressed their pleasure at the Masonic treat given by the grand working of the installation and
exaltation ceremonies . The M . E . Z . then presented Comp . Coleman , the I . P . Z ., with a handsome and valuable P . Z . ' s jewel , and , in so doing , said he felt sure Comp . Coleman would not prize it so much for its intrinsic value , as for its being a token of merit , and of the esteem of the companions of the Royal Albert Chapter . ¦ He trusted Comp . Coleman would long be spared to wear it , and thew when the time came for him
to leave this world , it might be a passport for his children wherever they might go . Comp . Coleman , in returning thanks , said he should carefully preserve the jewel as one of the most valuable possessions he had , because it represented the universal kindness he had always received from every companion of the chapter . He spoke in eulogistic terms of their worthy S . E ., Comp . Burne , and also of the valuable assistance
rendered him at all times by P . Z . ' s Griffiths , White , and Miller , and concluded by assuring them that any thing he could do for the benefit of the chapter should be done willingly and from his heart . Thc toast of "The P . Z . ' s" followed "The Installing Officer , Comp . Griffiths , " and then came that of "The First and Second Principals . " "The Treasurer and S . E . " were duly honoured , and after "The Officers " had been complimented , thejanitor ' stoast concluded the proceedings .
BATH . —Royal Cumberland Chapter ( No . 41 ) . —The regular annual convocation was held atthe Masonic Hall , on Tuesday , the iGth inst ., at 7 . 30 , soon after which hour a Board of Installed Principals was opened , the following officers occupying the chief chairs : Ex . Comps . F . Wilkinson , M . E . Z . ; C VV . Radway , H . ; E . J . B . Mercer , J . The P . Zs . present were Col . Adair , Prov . G . Supt . ; T . Hearne , T . Wilton , Lawson Howes , E . L ,
Hill , J . Ruble , T . S . Keene , T . B . Moutrie , Dr . H . Hopkins , and , as a visitor , Col . J . R . Ford , P . P . G . J . and P . Z . 53 . Thc companions were then admitted , the following officers taking their respective chairs : Comps . F . Glover , E . ; VV . Peach , N . j R . B . Carter . P . Soj . ; T . E . Wilton , Asst . Soj . ; Macfarlane , Orgt . ; and Bigwood , Janitor . There was a good muster of companions not in oflice . 1 he chapter having been duly opened , the summons of convocation was read , and also the minutes of the previous
chapter , which were confirmed . A ballot was taken for Ihree candidates for exaltation , Bros . S . Collis , VV . L . Baldwin , and J . G . Wilton , which was favourable in each case . The Treasurer , Ex . Comp . Moutrie , read his statement of accounts , which had been duly audited , and remarked that owing to the recent increase in the amount of subscription the result was unusually favourable , showing a balance of upwards of i ? 'S in hand , and arrears of
about £ 7 still to be paid . On the proposition of Ex . Comp . Howes , seconded by H ., the accounts were passed and ordered lo be entered on the minutes . Apologies for absence were read from Ex . Comp . E . T . Payne , Prov . G . Treas . and P . P . G . J ., on account of indisposition , and from Comps . Bccket , Knight , and Sparrow . The companions who had not passed the principal chairs were then requested to retire , and during their absence the Bo ? . rd of
Principals having been constituted , Ex . Comp . C VV . Radway was duly installed in the chair of Z . by Ex . Comp . Dr . II . Hopkins . Ex . Comp . Mercer was afterwards admitted and installed as H . by his predecessor . This done , Comp . Glover was summoned and installed as J . by the companion who had just vacated the third chair . The Board was closed , and the companions having been readmitted , Ex . Comp . Dr . Hopkins completed the ceremony
by proclaiming the new Principals and directing the customary salutations . The following were the officers , besides the before-named Principals , appointed for the ensuing year , and invested by the M . E . Z . : Comps . Lawson Howes , Master of Cers . ; VV . Peach , E . ; R . B . Cater N . ; Knight , P . Soj . ; T . E . Wilton , S . Soj . ; Banks , J . Soj . ; Macfarlane , Org . ; and Bigwood , Janitor . On the proposition of the M . E . Z ., a cordial vote of thanks was
carried to Ex . Comp . Dr . Hopkins by acclamation , for his attendance and assistance , which he remarked were the more entitled to appreciation by the companions , because the state of his health and his advancing age—he being now in his 77 th year—might have been a reasonable cause for absence , and still more so for declining to take an active part in the work . Dr . Hopkins replied with considerable emotion , stating that having been for some weeks confined
to the * , house by serious illness , though not refused permission to be present by his medical attendant , he had been informed by him that it might be at some risk . He was anxious not to break a promise made long ago to the M . E . Z ., to place him in the first chair , having in the course of the last few years installed him at the head of the Craft and Mark lodges , and in the second and third chairs of the chapter . To do this would not have been possible during
the last week or two . Moreover , he felt that his physical condition was so precarious , that he was desirous on thc present occasion to express his gratitude for the many acts of kindness hc had received , as this evening would probably terminate his career in the performance of any ceremonies , nor could it do so more suitably than in putting the finishing stroke to so apt a pupil as Ex . Comp . Radway . In response to a vote of thanks for the trouble he had taken in coming so far to attend lhe meeting of the
chapter , Col . Adair , Prov . Grand Supt ., remarked that the word trouble was inappropriate , as it was his great desire to witness thc work as carried out in this distinguished chapter under his rule , though himself not taking part in it , or occupying a prominent position on this occasion . It was otherwise years ago , when hc attended officially within these walls , consequently pleasant recollections were now revived , and he was delighted to hear thc name of the son of one of his old fellow workers proposed for exaltation .
Royal Arch.
Having a long distance fo go by train , he regretted his inability to join in the banquet . The customary honours were paid as he left the hall . The M . E . Z . addressed the companions , expressing his thanks for the confidence reposed in him by placing him in so exalted a position , and
his hope that he should be able successfully to carry out the ritual and administer the ceremonies . The chapter was closed soon after half-past seven , and an adjournment was made to the Castle Hotel for the annual banquet .
MANCHESTER . —Affability Chapter ( No . 317 ) . —The bi-monthly meeting was held on Thursday , the iSth inst ., at the Freemasons' Hall , Cooper-street . Present : Comps . J . E . Steward , Z . ; Jas . Wilson , H . j Charles Oldham , J . ; R . R . Lisenden , S . E . ; W . J . Cunliffe , S . N . ; John Garside , acting P . S . ; J . G . Elderton , 1 st Asst . P . S ., J . W . Edwards , Treas . ; W . B . Akerman , Steward ; J . Sly , Janitor ; James Dawson , P . Z ., P . G . ist Asst . Soj . ; John Bladon , P . Z . ; VV . P . Norris , P . Z . ;
VV . Nicholl , P . Z ., P . S . E ., H . 13 S 7 ; G . C . Fruhling , H . L . Rocca , P . Z . S 15 ; H . Walmsley , P . S . N . ; W . Hardcastle , VV . R . Sowter , P . P . S . ; John Sherwin , Abraham Wild , Joseph Kirby , J . W . G . Coombs , and Harry Smith . The chapter was opened in the usual manner at six o ' clock , and at 6 . 30 was " called off , " the companions
adjourning for tea . At 7 . 40 the companions re-assembled in the lodge room , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . Thomas Black , who was balloted for and elected at the last meeting , being in attendance , was , after the usual preliminaries , exalted to the Holy Royal Arch Degree by the Excellent First Principal , assisted by his officers . This being the night for electing the officers for the ensuing twelve months , the
choice of the companions fell upon the following , who were declared duly elected : Comps . James Wilson , Z . ; Chas . Oldham , H . ; VV . J . Cunliffe , "j . ; VV . Hardcastle , S . E . ; J . W . Edwards , S . N . ; J . Garside , P . S . ; H . Walmsley , Treas . ; and J . Sly , Janitor . Each companion returned thanks for the honour conferred upon him , and after some further business of a private nature in connection with the chapter , it was closed in peace and harmony .
Instruction.
INSTRUCTION .
NORTH LONDON CHAPTER OF IMPROVEMENT ( No . 1171 ) . —A convocation was held at the Alwyne Castle Tavern , St . Paul ' s-road , Canonbury , on Thursday , the iSth inst ., when there were present Comps . F . Brasted , P . Z . 1524 , Z . ; W . Radcliffe , H . ; VV . Foster Shaw , J . ; J . E . Sheffield , S . E . ; T . E . Edmunds , S . N ., Preceptor ; J . H . Wood , P . S . ; W . H . Dean . Z . 77 , P . G . R . Dorset ; J . Strugnell , Z . elect
1044 ; G . Gregory , P . Z . 153 S ; H . E . Dehane , D . P . Holness , and R . Bird . The minutes of the last convocation were confirmed . The ceremony of exaltation was rehearsed , Comp . Holness being the candidate . The Preceptor rehearsed the history of Moses' rod . The 147 companions of the chapter represent 57 chapters . The chapter was closed in peace and harmony until the second Thursday in January next year .
Annual Ladies' Meeting Of The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
ANNUAL LADIES' MEETING OF THE RANELAGH LODGE , No . 834 .
A meeting of this flourishing and highly popular lodge took place ' at the Criterion Restaurant , Regent-street , VV ., on Tuesday , thegth inst ., when , after the ordinary business of the lodge was disposed of , the brethren were permitted , by special dispensation of H . R . H . the M . W . G . Master , the Prince of Wales , to invite lady and gentlemen visitors
to dine wilh them , and to wear their Alasonic Craft regalia . The W . M ., Bro . H . Purdue , with his usual promptitude , opened the lodge , there being present Bros . Sims , S . VV . ; J . Dopson , J . VV . ; J . Tuck , Sec . ; II . Blake , S . D . ; P . Burton , J . D . ; J . Doncaster , I . G . ; VV . Coplestone , Stwd . ; F . J . Oliver , I . P . M . ; H . Shaw , P . M . ; J . Slack , P . M . ; J . Barker , P . M . ; Walkley , Tyler ; Holland , Bird , Broadbridge , Iredale , Chapman , Bowles , Southwood
Banks , Hewitt , Cliburn , Graham , A . Williams , A . P . Lake , VV . Purdue , May , W . VV . Williams , Ward , Newland , Crumpton , A . Smith , Lucas , and several others . Among the visitors we noticed Bros . Austin , S . D . 1791 ; Roberts , P . M . 742 and 200 ; Moran , 749 ; Waller , 9 ; Paul , J . D . 1 S 2 S ; Noel , S . W . 6 ; Tilbury , 975 ; and Brooks , S . W . 766 . The minutes of the previous meeting were read and
confirmed , and Bros . Broadbridge , Bird , and Banks were then passed to the degree of F . C . Messrs . Morgan , Cooner , and Spooner were afterwards initiated into Freemasonry by the W . M . in a most efficient manner , its solemnity and beauty being much enhanced by the admirable musical accompaniment of Bro . F . J . Oliver , I . P . M . Bro . H . Shaw , P . M ., proposed , and Bro . Barker , P . M ., seconded , that thc sum of 10 guineas should be voted from
the lodge funds , and placed on the W . M . ' s list , who kindly consented to act as Steward to represent the lodge at the ensuing Festival for the Benevolent Institution . The special dispensation of H . R . H . the M . W . G . M ., the Prince cf Wales , and ordered by the Grand Secretary , Bro . Shadwell H . Clerke , to be read in open lodge , and be recorded on the minutes , was read by Bro . John Tuck , Sec . The formal business of the lodge being concluded , it was closed in
perfect peace and harmony . The brethren then adjourned to the Carnarvon Room to receive the ladies , where a large number had already assembled , among whom were Miss Purdue , Mrs . Purdue , Mrs . Shaw , Mrs . John Tuck , Mrs . A . Smith , Mrs . Blake , Mrs . and Miss Dopson , Mrs . Burton , Mrs . Williams , Mrs . May , Mrs . Bird , Mrs . Coplestone , Mrs . Lucas , and others . After a brief interval the banquet was announced to be served , and the ladies were escorted into the Victoria
Hal ) , where tables had been laid for 112 , presenting a most exquisite appearance . The W . M . presided , and , with the assistance of the appointed Stewards , succeeded in making the evening most enjoyable . Too much praise cannot be given to those excellent managers of the Criterion Restaurant , Bros . Madcll and Bertini , for the admirable manner in which they personally surpervised the whole of the evening , adding so much to the pleasure of all present . Thc repast being over , the WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed in appropriate terms the toasts of " The Queen and
Annual Ladies' Meeting Of The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
the Craft , " "The M . W . G . M ., H . R . H . the Prince of Wales ; " "The M . W . Pro Grand Master , the Earl of Carnarvon ; " "The Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master , the Earl of Lathom ; " and "The rest of the Grand Officers ; " which was .. enthusiastically drunk by the brethren and visitors . Bro . OLIVER , I . P . M ., next proposed " The Health of the VV . M ., Bro . H . Purdue , " and spoke of him in the
highest terms for the efficient manner he had presided over the lodge and as a Mason . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER , in rising to respond to the toast , was greeted with acclamation . He sincerely thanked the brethren and visitors for the enthusiastic manner they had drank the toast . He was ** proud to respond to it in so vast an assemblage of ladies and brethren who were so intimately connected with the Ranelagh Lodge . He hoped
to pass through his year of office to the satisfaction of the brethren , and if he did so it would be a great gratification to himself . He was proud to say that he had initiated more into Freemasonry in the Ranelagh Lodge than any previous W . M . He was afraid Bro . Oliver had flattered him by the eulogistic manner he had spoken of him . He also felt proud and flattered by the presence of so many ladies and visitors .
The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The Health of the Initiates , " expressing the gratification he had in initiating three gentlemen who had paid such marked attention to the beautiful and impressive ceremony . Each of the Initiates replied in most appropriate terms , Bro . COONEY , in particular , who , in expressing his delight and surprise in all that had transpired during the evening , remarked that he was not desirous of monopolising the
whole of the reply , but would leave it to his brother initiate to complete . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed " The Ladies , " which was responded to in a most humorous manner by Bro . CLIBURN . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The P . M . ' s , " which was responded to by Bro . SLACK , P . M ., who expressed his delight as father of the lodge in watching its
progress and at seeing so many happy faces around him , and his deep regret that severe family affliction prevented him from having any of his own present . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "TheTreasurer and Secretary , " remarking how proud he was to possess such a Treasurer as Bro . Butt , P . M ., also of Bro . John Tuck , as Secretary ; bow efficient and with what promptitude all the duties connected with that office were carried
out . Bro . J TUCK , in rising to respond in the absence of the Treasurer , thanked the VV . M . for proposing , and the . brethren and visitors for the hearty manner in which they had responded to the toast of " The Treasurer and Secretary . " On behalf of Bro . Butt , P . M ., hc could tell them that in him they had the perfection of a Treasurer ; it would be impossible to have a brother in that position who would
watch over the funds with greater care , and dispense them with greater caution , than Bro . Butt . For himself , he thanked them for the cordial and hearty manner in which they had received the toast , and how proud be was to act as Secretary te such a distinguished lodge at the Ranelagh Lodge . It had now been his distinguished honour to act as Secretary under five successive VV . Ms ., during which time he had met with nothing but harmony and brotherly
love , each member working with that unanimity which makes the arduous duties of a Secretary s « light , and tends so to promote peace , harmony , and prosperity in a lodge . As a proof that peace , harmony , and prosperity did exist in the Ranelagh Lodge he referred them to the number of good men and true that continue to range under its banner . VVhen he undertook the duties of
Secretary the lodge , numbered under 50 , and now he was pleased to inform them that it was over 80 . He thanked those brethren who had rallied round the VV . M . and himself to make tbe meeting a success , the pleasures of which was so considerably enhanced by the presence of the ladies who then graced the table . He took the liberty of quoting a few words hc had dotted down while at the table :
" The ladies claim right to come into our light , Since the apron they say is their bearing ; Can they subject their will , can they keep their tongues still , And let talking be changed into hearing . *"'
He sincerely hoped that these meetings would become an institution in thc Ranelagh Lodge , and that thc ladies would look forward for its approach with gratification and pleasure , and that when they quitted the realms of peace and harmony , and mingled with the busy world , they would tell their fair sisters how much they had enjoyed themselves , and thereby be the means of increasing the number next year . The W . M . then gave the toast of "The Officers , "
which was responded to by Bro . Sims , S . W ., and Bro . Dopson , J . W . The Tyler ' s toast brought one of the most enjoyable evenings spent in the Ranelagh Lodge to a conclusion , which was much enlivened by some excellent songs by Miss Dopson , Bros . Tilbury , Cliburn , Doncaster , Boyes , Williams , and Messrs . Coram and Hansford . Miss Amy Purdue rendered a solo on the pianoforte , and Bro . Shaw , P . M ., gave a recitation .
Inauguration Of New Masonic Rooms At Belvedere.
INAUGURATION OF NEW MASONIC ROOMS AT BELVEDERE .
The new Masonic Rooms at the Royal AlfredTnstitution , Belvedere , of the Saye and Sele Lodge , 1973 , with which is allied the Mark Lodge , 309 , and Che Red Cross Conclave , 122 , were inaugurated on Monday , the 15 th inst ., by a large muster of the brethren and many visitors at a lodge
of emergency , when there were present , " inter alia " Bros . Bateman , W . M . ; Wood , I . P . M . ; Chillingworth , P . M . j Dr . Spurrell , P . M ., Sec ; Elliot , S . W . ; Bright , J . W . ; De Pinna , S . D . ; Robinson , J . D . ; Lemon , acting D . C ; Colman , I . G . j Park and Russell , Stwds . ; F . E . and F . G . Houghton , Crump , Keyes , F . C . Blyth , Heaps ; and among the visitors Bros . Blount , 1593 ; Moulder ,
824 ; A . Smith , S 29 ; H . Martin , 829 ; Dr . Weddell , 1837 ; the Rev . H . Jamblin , 1837 ; Carvosso , 1837 j the Rev . H . Cummings , 1 S 37 ; Loftus , 1193 ; Rowland , 1193 ; Ronaldson , 1 G 2 ; Thomas , 16 G 9 ; ledder , 1107 ; Soppett , 155 S , and others . The lodge having been opened , and several letters of apology presented , the W . M . stated that he had received
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
Royal Arch.
Craft Masonry with some little credit , but certainly was afraid the exalted position he now occupied would almost be too great a task for him . They might depend upon him doing his best for the chapter , but he hoped , whether or not , the same good feeling which now existed would ever exist between himself and the companions of the chapter . " The Exaltee " was then toasted , and Comp . Strong , in response , said lie had travelled 400 miles to be present ,
and highly appreciated the genial reception afforded him , while thc beautiful ceremony had impressed him more than anything he had yet heard or seen . He trusted to liecome a working member , and worthy of the continued confidence of the companions . Comps . Laurance , Tyler , and Jolly responded for" The Visitors , " and expressed their pleasure at the Masonic treat given by the grand working of the installation and
exaltation ceremonies . The M . E . Z . then presented Comp . Coleman , the I . P . Z ., with a handsome and valuable P . Z . ' s jewel , and , in so doing , said he felt sure Comp . Coleman would not prize it so much for its intrinsic value , as for its being a token of merit , and of the esteem of the companions of the Royal Albert Chapter . ¦ He trusted Comp . Coleman would long be spared to wear it , and thew when the time came for him
to leave this world , it might be a passport for his children wherever they might go . Comp . Coleman , in returning thanks , said he should carefully preserve the jewel as one of the most valuable possessions he had , because it represented the universal kindness he had always received from every companion of the chapter . He spoke in eulogistic terms of their worthy S . E ., Comp . Burne , and also of the valuable assistance
rendered him at all times by P . Z . ' s Griffiths , White , and Miller , and concluded by assuring them that any thing he could do for the benefit of the chapter should be done willingly and from his heart . Thc toast of "The P . Z . ' s" followed "The Installing Officer , Comp . Griffiths , " and then came that of "The First and Second Principals . " "The Treasurer and S . E . " were duly honoured , and after "The Officers " had been complimented , thejanitor ' stoast concluded the proceedings .
BATH . —Royal Cumberland Chapter ( No . 41 ) . —The regular annual convocation was held atthe Masonic Hall , on Tuesday , the iGth inst ., at 7 . 30 , soon after which hour a Board of Installed Principals was opened , the following officers occupying the chief chairs : Ex . Comps . F . Wilkinson , M . E . Z . ; C VV . Radway , H . ; E . J . B . Mercer , J . The P . Zs . present were Col . Adair , Prov . G . Supt . ; T . Hearne , T . Wilton , Lawson Howes , E . L ,
Hill , J . Ruble , T . S . Keene , T . B . Moutrie , Dr . H . Hopkins , and , as a visitor , Col . J . R . Ford , P . P . G . J . and P . Z . 53 . Thc companions were then admitted , the following officers taking their respective chairs : Comps . F . Glover , E . ; VV . Peach , N . j R . B . Carter . P . Soj . ; T . E . Wilton , Asst . Soj . ; Macfarlane , Orgt . ; and Bigwood , Janitor . There was a good muster of companions not in oflice . 1 he chapter having been duly opened , the summons of convocation was read , and also the minutes of the previous
chapter , which were confirmed . A ballot was taken for Ihree candidates for exaltation , Bros . S . Collis , VV . L . Baldwin , and J . G . Wilton , which was favourable in each case . The Treasurer , Ex . Comp . Moutrie , read his statement of accounts , which had been duly audited , and remarked that owing to the recent increase in the amount of subscription the result was unusually favourable , showing a balance of upwards of i ? 'S in hand , and arrears of
about £ 7 still to be paid . On the proposition of Ex . Comp . Howes , seconded by H ., the accounts were passed and ordered lo be entered on the minutes . Apologies for absence were read from Ex . Comp . E . T . Payne , Prov . G . Treas . and P . P . G . J ., on account of indisposition , and from Comps . Bccket , Knight , and Sparrow . The companions who had not passed the principal chairs were then requested to retire , and during their absence the Bo ? . rd of
Principals having been constituted , Ex . Comp . C VV . Radway was duly installed in the chair of Z . by Ex . Comp . Dr . II . Hopkins . Ex . Comp . Mercer was afterwards admitted and installed as H . by his predecessor . This done , Comp . Glover was summoned and installed as J . by the companion who had just vacated the third chair . The Board was closed , and the companions having been readmitted , Ex . Comp . Dr . Hopkins completed the ceremony
by proclaiming the new Principals and directing the customary salutations . The following were the officers , besides the before-named Principals , appointed for the ensuing year , and invested by the M . E . Z . : Comps . Lawson Howes , Master of Cers . ; VV . Peach , E . ; R . B . Cater N . ; Knight , P . Soj . ; T . E . Wilton , S . Soj . ; Banks , J . Soj . ; Macfarlane , Org . ; and Bigwood , Janitor . On the proposition of the M . E . Z ., a cordial vote of thanks was
carried to Ex . Comp . Dr . Hopkins by acclamation , for his attendance and assistance , which he remarked were the more entitled to appreciation by the companions , because the state of his health and his advancing age—he being now in his 77 th year—might have been a reasonable cause for absence , and still more so for declining to take an active part in the work . Dr . Hopkins replied with considerable emotion , stating that having been for some weeks confined
to the * , house by serious illness , though not refused permission to be present by his medical attendant , he had been informed by him that it might be at some risk . He was anxious not to break a promise made long ago to the M . E . Z ., to place him in the first chair , having in the course of the last few years installed him at the head of the Craft and Mark lodges , and in the second and third chairs of the chapter . To do this would not have been possible during
the last week or two . Moreover , he felt that his physical condition was so precarious , that he was desirous on thc present occasion to express his gratitude for the many acts of kindness hc had received , as this evening would probably terminate his career in the performance of any ceremonies , nor could it do so more suitably than in putting the finishing stroke to so apt a pupil as Ex . Comp . Radway . In response to a vote of thanks for the trouble he had taken in coming so far to attend lhe meeting of the
chapter , Col . Adair , Prov . Grand Supt ., remarked that the word trouble was inappropriate , as it was his great desire to witness thc work as carried out in this distinguished chapter under his rule , though himself not taking part in it , or occupying a prominent position on this occasion . It was otherwise years ago , when hc attended officially within these walls , consequently pleasant recollections were now revived , and he was delighted to hear thc name of the son of one of his old fellow workers proposed for exaltation .
Royal Arch.
Having a long distance fo go by train , he regretted his inability to join in the banquet . The customary honours were paid as he left the hall . The M . E . Z . addressed the companions , expressing his thanks for the confidence reposed in him by placing him in so exalted a position , and
his hope that he should be able successfully to carry out the ritual and administer the ceremonies . The chapter was closed soon after half-past seven , and an adjournment was made to the Castle Hotel for the annual banquet .
MANCHESTER . —Affability Chapter ( No . 317 ) . —The bi-monthly meeting was held on Thursday , the iSth inst ., at the Freemasons' Hall , Cooper-street . Present : Comps . J . E . Steward , Z . ; Jas . Wilson , H . j Charles Oldham , J . ; R . R . Lisenden , S . E . ; W . J . Cunliffe , S . N . ; John Garside , acting P . S . ; J . G . Elderton , 1 st Asst . P . S ., J . W . Edwards , Treas . ; W . B . Akerman , Steward ; J . Sly , Janitor ; James Dawson , P . Z ., P . G . ist Asst . Soj . ; John Bladon , P . Z . ; VV . P . Norris , P . Z . ;
VV . Nicholl , P . Z ., P . S . E ., H . 13 S 7 ; G . C . Fruhling , H . L . Rocca , P . Z . S 15 ; H . Walmsley , P . S . N . ; W . Hardcastle , VV . R . Sowter , P . P . S . ; John Sherwin , Abraham Wild , Joseph Kirby , J . W . G . Coombs , and Harry Smith . The chapter was opened in the usual manner at six o ' clock , and at 6 . 30 was " called off , " the companions
adjourning for tea . At 7 . 40 the companions re-assembled in the lodge room , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . Thomas Black , who was balloted for and elected at the last meeting , being in attendance , was , after the usual preliminaries , exalted to the Holy Royal Arch Degree by the Excellent First Principal , assisted by his officers . This being the night for electing the officers for the ensuing twelve months , the
choice of the companions fell upon the following , who were declared duly elected : Comps . James Wilson , Z . ; Chas . Oldham , H . ; VV . J . Cunliffe , "j . ; VV . Hardcastle , S . E . ; J . W . Edwards , S . N . ; J . Garside , P . S . ; H . Walmsley , Treas . ; and J . Sly , Janitor . Each companion returned thanks for the honour conferred upon him , and after some further business of a private nature in connection with the chapter , it was closed in peace and harmony .
Instruction.
INSTRUCTION .
NORTH LONDON CHAPTER OF IMPROVEMENT ( No . 1171 ) . —A convocation was held at the Alwyne Castle Tavern , St . Paul ' s-road , Canonbury , on Thursday , the iSth inst ., when there were present Comps . F . Brasted , P . Z . 1524 , Z . ; W . Radcliffe , H . ; VV . Foster Shaw , J . ; J . E . Sheffield , S . E . ; T . E . Edmunds , S . N ., Preceptor ; J . H . Wood , P . S . ; W . H . Dean . Z . 77 , P . G . R . Dorset ; J . Strugnell , Z . elect
1044 ; G . Gregory , P . Z . 153 S ; H . E . Dehane , D . P . Holness , and R . Bird . The minutes of the last convocation were confirmed . The ceremony of exaltation was rehearsed , Comp . Holness being the candidate . The Preceptor rehearsed the history of Moses' rod . The 147 companions of the chapter represent 57 chapters . The chapter was closed in peace and harmony until the second Thursday in January next year .
Annual Ladies' Meeting Of The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
ANNUAL LADIES' MEETING OF THE RANELAGH LODGE , No . 834 .
A meeting of this flourishing and highly popular lodge took place ' at the Criterion Restaurant , Regent-street , VV ., on Tuesday , thegth inst ., when , after the ordinary business of the lodge was disposed of , the brethren were permitted , by special dispensation of H . R . H . the M . W . G . Master , the Prince of Wales , to invite lady and gentlemen visitors
to dine wilh them , and to wear their Alasonic Craft regalia . The W . M ., Bro . H . Purdue , with his usual promptitude , opened the lodge , there being present Bros . Sims , S . VV . ; J . Dopson , J . VV . ; J . Tuck , Sec . ; II . Blake , S . D . ; P . Burton , J . D . ; J . Doncaster , I . G . ; VV . Coplestone , Stwd . ; F . J . Oliver , I . P . M . ; H . Shaw , P . M . ; J . Slack , P . M . ; J . Barker , P . M . ; Walkley , Tyler ; Holland , Bird , Broadbridge , Iredale , Chapman , Bowles , Southwood
Banks , Hewitt , Cliburn , Graham , A . Williams , A . P . Lake , VV . Purdue , May , W . VV . Williams , Ward , Newland , Crumpton , A . Smith , Lucas , and several others . Among the visitors we noticed Bros . Austin , S . D . 1791 ; Roberts , P . M . 742 and 200 ; Moran , 749 ; Waller , 9 ; Paul , J . D . 1 S 2 S ; Noel , S . W . 6 ; Tilbury , 975 ; and Brooks , S . W . 766 . The minutes of the previous meeting were read and
confirmed , and Bros . Broadbridge , Bird , and Banks were then passed to the degree of F . C . Messrs . Morgan , Cooner , and Spooner were afterwards initiated into Freemasonry by the W . M . in a most efficient manner , its solemnity and beauty being much enhanced by the admirable musical accompaniment of Bro . F . J . Oliver , I . P . M . Bro . H . Shaw , P . M ., proposed , and Bro . Barker , P . M ., seconded , that thc sum of 10 guineas should be voted from
the lodge funds , and placed on the W . M . ' s list , who kindly consented to act as Steward to represent the lodge at the ensuing Festival for the Benevolent Institution . The special dispensation of H . R . H . the M . W . G . M ., the Prince cf Wales , and ordered by the Grand Secretary , Bro . Shadwell H . Clerke , to be read in open lodge , and be recorded on the minutes , was read by Bro . John Tuck , Sec . The formal business of the lodge being concluded , it was closed in
perfect peace and harmony . The brethren then adjourned to the Carnarvon Room to receive the ladies , where a large number had already assembled , among whom were Miss Purdue , Mrs . Purdue , Mrs . Shaw , Mrs . John Tuck , Mrs . A . Smith , Mrs . Blake , Mrs . and Miss Dopson , Mrs . Burton , Mrs . Williams , Mrs . May , Mrs . Bird , Mrs . Coplestone , Mrs . Lucas , and others . After a brief interval the banquet was announced to be served , and the ladies were escorted into the Victoria
Hal ) , where tables had been laid for 112 , presenting a most exquisite appearance . The W . M . presided , and , with the assistance of the appointed Stewards , succeeded in making the evening most enjoyable . Too much praise cannot be given to those excellent managers of the Criterion Restaurant , Bros . Madcll and Bertini , for the admirable manner in which they personally surpervised the whole of the evening , adding so much to the pleasure of all present . Thc repast being over , the WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed in appropriate terms the toasts of " The Queen and
Annual Ladies' Meeting Of The Ranelagh Lodge, No. 834.
the Craft , " "The M . W . G . M ., H . R . H . the Prince of Wales ; " "The M . W . Pro Grand Master , the Earl of Carnarvon ; " "The Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master , the Earl of Lathom ; " and "The rest of the Grand Officers ; " which was .. enthusiastically drunk by the brethren and visitors . Bro . OLIVER , I . P . M ., next proposed " The Health of the VV . M ., Bro . H . Purdue , " and spoke of him in the
highest terms for the efficient manner he had presided over the lodge and as a Mason . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER , in rising to respond to the toast , was greeted with acclamation . He sincerely thanked the brethren and visitors for the enthusiastic manner they had drank the toast . He was ** proud to respond to it in so vast an assemblage of ladies and brethren who were so intimately connected with the Ranelagh Lodge . He hoped
to pass through his year of office to the satisfaction of the brethren , and if he did so it would be a great gratification to himself . He was proud to say that he had initiated more into Freemasonry in the Ranelagh Lodge than any previous W . M . He was afraid Bro . Oliver had flattered him by the eulogistic manner he had spoken of him . He also felt proud and flattered by the presence of so many ladies and visitors .
The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The Health of the Initiates , " expressing the gratification he had in initiating three gentlemen who had paid such marked attention to the beautiful and impressive ceremony . Each of the Initiates replied in most appropriate terms , Bro . COONEY , in particular , who , in expressing his delight and surprise in all that had transpired during the evening , remarked that he was not desirous of monopolising the
whole of the reply , but would leave it to his brother initiate to complete . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed " The Ladies , " which was responded to in a most humorous manner by Bro . CLIBURN . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "The P . M . ' s , " which was responded to by Bro . SLACK , P . M ., who expressed his delight as father of the lodge in watching its
progress and at seeing so many happy faces around him , and his deep regret that severe family affliction prevented him from having any of his own present . The WORSHIPFUL MASTER proposed "TheTreasurer and Secretary , " remarking how proud he was to possess such a Treasurer as Bro . Butt , P . M ., also of Bro . John Tuck , as Secretary ; bow efficient and with what promptitude all the duties connected with that office were carried
out . Bro . J TUCK , in rising to respond in the absence of the Treasurer , thanked the VV . M . for proposing , and the . brethren and visitors for the hearty manner in which they had responded to the toast of " The Treasurer and Secretary . " On behalf of Bro . Butt , P . M ., hc could tell them that in him they had the perfection of a Treasurer ; it would be impossible to have a brother in that position who would
watch over the funds with greater care , and dispense them with greater caution , than Bro . Butt . For himself , he thanked them for the cordial and hearty manner in which they had received the toast , and how proud be was to act as Secretary te such a distinguished lodge at the Ranelagh Lodge . It had now been his distinguished honour to act as Secretary under five successive VV . Ms ., during which time he had met with nothing but harmony and brotherly
love , each member working with that unanimity which makes the arduous duties of a Secretary s « light , and tends so to promote peace , harmony , and prosperity in a lodge . As a proof that peace , harmony , and prosperity did exist in the Ranelagh Lodge he referred them to the number of good men and true that continue to range under its banner . VVhen he undertook the duties of
Secretary the lodge , numbered under 50 , and now he was pleased to inform them that it was over 80 . He thanked those brethren who had rallied round the VV . M . and himself to make tbe meeting a success , the pleasures of which was so considerably enhanced by the presence of the ladies who then graced the table . He took the liberty of quoting a few words hc had dotted down while at the table :
" The ladies claim right to come into our light , Since the apron they say is their bearing ; Can they subject their will , can they keep their tongues still , And let talking be changed into hearing . *"'
He sincerely hoped that these meetings would become an institution in thc Ranelagh Lodge , and that thc ladies would look forward for its approach with gratification and pleasure , and that when they quitted the realms of peace and harmony , and mingled with the busy world , they would tell their fair sisters how much they had enjoyed themselves , and thereby be the means of increasing the number next year . The W . M . then gave the toast of "The Officers , "
which was responded to by Bro . Sims , S . W ., and Bro . Dopson , J . W . The Tyler ' s toast brought one of the most enjoyable evenings spent in the Ranelagh Lodge to a conclusion , which was much enlivened by some excellent songs by Miss Dopson , Bros . Tilbury , Cliburn , Doncaster , Boyes , Williams , and Messrs . Coram and Hansford . Miss Amy Purdue rendered a solo on the pianoforte , and Bro . Shaw , P . M ., gave a recitation .
Inauguration Of New Masonic Rooms At Belvedere.
INAUGURATION OF NEW MASONIC ROOMS AT BELVEDERE .
The new Masonic Rooms at the Royal AlfredTnstitution , Belvedere , of the Saye and Sele Lodge , 1973 , with which is allied the Mark Lodge , 309 , and Che Red Cross Conclave , 122 , were inaugurated on Monday , the 15 th inst ., by a large muster of the brethren and many visitors at a lodge
of emergency , when there were present , " inter alia " Bros . Bateman , W . M . ; Wood , I . P . M . ; Chillingworth , P . M . j Dr . Spurrell , P . M ., Sec ; Elliot , S . W . ; Bright , J . W . ; De Pinna , S . D . ; Robinson , J . D . ; Lemon , acting D . C ; Colman , I . G . j Park and Russell , Stwds . ; F . E . and F . G . Houghton , Crump , Keyes , F . C . Blyth , Heaps ; and among the visitors Bros . Blount , 1593 ; Moulder ,
824 ; A . Smith , S 29 ; H . Martin , 829 ; Dr . Weddell , 1837 ; the Rev . H . Jamblin , 1837 ; Carvosso , 1837 j the Rev . H . Cummings , 1 S 37 ; Loftus , 1193 ; Rowland , 1193 ; Ronaldson , 1 G 2 ; Thomas , 16 G 9 ; ledder , 1107 ; Soppett , 155 S , and others . The lodge having been opened , and several letters of apology presented , the W . M . stated that he had received