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Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. ← Page 3 of 3 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 3 of 3 Article REPORTS OF MASONIC MEETINGS. Page 3 of 3
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
P . M ., Secretary ; Richman , J . D . ; M . Graham , I . G . ; Williams , D . C ; Brown , W . S . ; Hodgkinson , Asst . W . S . ; and Gilbert , Tyler . The newly-installed W . M . at once commenced the duties of his office by initiating Messrs . Gush , distance , and Rothschild into Freemasonry , and the work was done in a manner which proved to the brethren that Bro . Noble was thoroughly qualified for his position , and that the reputation of the lodge for good work would
be upheld by him . Several candidates were proposed , and the lodge was closed in due form . The brethren , numbering eighty-five in all , then adjourned to banquet in the iarge hall of the Greyhound , the ordinary dining-room being inadequate to the occasion . The customary loyal and Masonic toasts were given in appropriate terms by the W . M ., that of "The Grand Officers" being responded to by Bro . Buss , Asst . Grand
Secretary , who said that he was very proud to see the Rose of Denmark Lodge in such a prosperous condition , particularly as he was one of the founders , and took a very active part in its formation . He congratulated the W . M . and the lodge on the highly successful gathering , and wished the lodge a long continuance of its prosperity . Bro- Garnar , I ^ P . M ., proposed " The Health of the W . M ., " and said that he felt proud to have the privilege
of proposing " The Health of Bro . Noble as the W . M . of the Rose of Denmark Lodge . " He had so thoroughly done his duty in the minor offices , and had attended with such commendable punctuality , that he was sure the lodge had exercised a wise discretion in electing Bro . Noble to the chair . His work in the lodge that evening was all that could be desired , and augured well for the future The W . M ., in responding , thanked Bro . Garnar
for the complimentary manner in which he proposed his health , and the great pleasure he felt in being placed in that proud position . He would endeavour to emulate those who had preceded him , and hoped the lodge would not have occasion to regret the choice it had made . He then proposed "The Health of the Installing Master , Bro . Garnar , I . P . M ., " and said that it was impossible for a brother to do more than Bro . Garnar had done to promote the prosperity
of the lodge and the comfort and enjoyment of the brethren . His year of office would long be remembered as a year of success and prosperity ; his ability in the lodge and liis genial manner and kindly bearing having endeared him to the hearts of the brethren ; he had , therefore , much pleasure in presenting him with the Past Master's jewel which had been voted by the lodge as a small token of fraternal regard and affection , and hoped that he would be
spared for many years to continue his association with the lodge . Bro . Garnar briefly responded , and thanked the W . M . for the kindly wishes he had expressed , and the officers and brethren for the cordial support which he had received from them all during the past year . Bro . Geo . Wrigglesworth , P . M ., at the request of the W . M ., proposed the toast of "The Visitors , " and said : Worshipful Sir , Wardens , and brethren , having been deputed to propose
the toast , which on this occasion is one of the most pleasant duties that could devolve on me , namely , "The Health of the Visitors , " I feel it incumbent to explain the reason why this evening we are honoured by the company of so many highly respected and influential brethren . The Rose of Denmark has , and always will , I hope , be known for its sincere cordiality to all who visit it ; but on this occasion I take it as an intended honour to this lodge on the event of
Bro . Garnar s presidency in the lodge for the last tune during his Mastership . The members of the lodge generally are always glad to welcome visitors , if only for the moral effect their presence has upon all brethren taking office in it ; it stimulates their exertions to leave nothing undone to secure as near as possible perfection in tbe work , and it may not be out of place nor be deemed egotistical if I state that all the Past Masters of this lodge were initiated in it , and
each in his turn has installed his successor . I trust , therefore , this hint may not be lost upon the young Masons present , but they will in their various lodges do as we of the Rose of Denmark always endeavour—to make a visit to a lodge an intellectual treat as well as a social enjoyment , which may be spoken of afterwards with unmingled satisfaction . In consequence of the great number of visitors , it is a difficult matter to select a brother who can speak on
their behalf . I am confident , therefore , that no slight will be felt by any Provincial Grand Officers or Past Masters present if 1 call upon Bro . Dighy , P . M ., to reply for them and the rest of the visitors . Bro . Digby , P . M ., in reply , said he felt great pleasure in being present , and upon being able to testify to the sincere Masonic feeling and true fellowship which seemed to animate every member of the Rose of Denmark . To him it was highly gratifying to find on visiting a lodge that his utmost expectations were more
than realised , and he hoped he might be enabled at a future period to visit a lodge in which he had spent one of the most agreeable evenings in bis Masonic experience . " The Past Masters , " also " The Wardens and Officers , " were then given , and suitably responded to , after which the Tyler ' s toast was given , and the brethren separated . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Stedman , Org . 172 , who was ably assisted by the vocal abilities of Miss Jessie Royd and Miss Ilorton .
MIRFIELD . —Mirfield Lodge ( No . 1102 ) . —The regular meeting of the above lodge was held on Friday , the 19 th inst . The lodge was opened in due form in the presence of Bros . T . B . Fairclough , I . P . M ., as W . M . ; John Crowlher , S . W . ; James Walmsley , J . W . ; J . Kenworthy , S . D . ; A . A . Stott , P . M ., as J . D . ; Thomas Lang , P . M ., as I . G . ; John Barker , P . M ., as Tyler ; lames Barker , Sec ; John Walmsley , P . M ., Treas . ; R . L . Rayncr , Org . ; G .
Armitagc , P . M . ; James Simpson , Arthur Simpson , James Wright , and John Henry Simpson , E . A . The minutes of y last regular meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . . [• 1 . Barras , W . M ., now entered the lodge along with Bra . John Barker , P . M ., and Bro . P .. W . H . Anderson , I . G . Ihe ballot was then taken for W . M . and Treasurer for the ensuing year , when Bro . John Crowthcr , S . W ., was elected to the former , and Bib . Thomas Lang , P . M ., to the latter office . The W . M . then vacated the chair in favour
of Bro . John Barker , P . M . Bro . John Henry Simpson , haying answered the usual questions , was entrusted , and retired . The lodge was then opened in the Second Degree , When Bro , J . H . Simpson was duly passed to the Degree of a I ' . U this being all the business of the evening , the lodge was duly closed , and the brethren sat down to refreshment , under the rule of ( owing to the absence of the W . M . ) Bro . l !? , . 1 ° wthcr ' S . W ., W . M . elect , who was congratulated oy the brethren , and to whom all wished a happy and prosperous year .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
MANCHESTER . —Ashbury Lodge ( No . 1459 ) . —The annual installation meeting- and St . John's Festival took place on Thursday , the iSth of November last , the former at the Justice Birch Hotel , where the lodge is held , and the " latter at Bro . Jennison's renowned Belle Vuc Gardens , at which the festival was Jield last year . We have nothing but praise for the manner in which Bro . Jennison catered for the brethren . The banquet room ,
which is in the hotel portion of the grounds , was ' a most spacious apartment , and was elegantly appointed , and the arrangements were highly satisfactory . The following brethren were present : Bros . E . J . Cummings , W . M . ; J . N . Newton , S . W .: James Wright , J . W . ; James W . Abbott , Treas . ; Edwin J . Reynolds , Sec . ; John Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C ; Edward Roberts , I . G . ; J . Meadows , Tyler ; Thomas Hughes , I . P . M . ; C . F . Brownridge ,
P . M . ; John Ingham , P . M . ; Thomas Aspinall , P . M . ; John Stanley , John Nicholas , G . W . Storey , and Louis Saussons . Visitors : Thomas Hall , S . W . 935 ; William Dumville , P . M . 1011 ; William Hayland , P . M . 10 S 0 ; Matthew Downs ; John Thomas Owens , W . M . 993 ; J . Hancock , P . M . 992 ; Edwin Sleigh , P . M . 210 ; H . J . " Owen , J . W . nGi ; T . J . Hooper , P . M . 1633 , P . P . G . T . ; John Chadwick , P . G . S . ; Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B . ; Henry
Arnold . W . M . 1161 ; Daniel Donbavand , P . M . 317 ; J . Ii . Illiff , W . M . 143 S ; R . Dottic , S . W . it 6 t ; R . Winfield , Sec . 1077 ; Charles Rye , S . W . 467 ; R . W . Walsh , P . M . 1077 ; and R . R . Lisenden , 317 { Freemason ) . The lodge was opened at a quarter-past three , and the minutes of Jast meeting were read and confirmed . Bros . Brownridge and New-ton gave in their report as Auditors of the lodge accounts , and the balance sheet , which showed
the lodge funds in a very healthy condition , was adopted . The W . M . elect , Bro . J . N . Newton , was presented to the Installing Master , Bro . E . J . Cummings , and after the usual formalities was inducted into the chair of K . S . before a Board of Installed Masters which numbered nineteen . At the proper time the M . M . 's were admitted , and duly saluted the new W . M . the usual number of times , after which the W . M . named his officers in succession for the
ensuing year , who were invested with the collar and jewel of their office by Bro . J . Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C , assisted by Bros . Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B ., and T . J . Hooper , P . P . G . T ., as follows : Bros . James Wright , S . W . ; E . J . Reynolds , J . W . ; James W . Abbott , Treas . ( re-invested ) ; W . IF . Beaston , Sec . ; Harvey , S . D . ( by deputy ); lidward Roberts , J . D . ; John Nicholas , I . G . ; J . Meadows , Tyler ( re-invested ); and John Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C . (
reinvested ) . The address to the W . M . was given by the Installing Master , Bro . E . J . Cummings , P . M ., and to the Wardens and brethren by Bro . James W . Abbott , the worthy 'Treasurer . On the conclusion of the ceremony of installation , " Hearty good wishes " were expressed by the visitors , and the lodge was closed in peace and harmony at 5 . 20 . An omnibus being in waiting to take the brethren to Belle Vue Gardens to celebrate the St . John's Festival , they
duly arrived there after a few minutes' ride , and the lofty and well-lighted banquet-room , in which the tables had been laid out with choice plants and llowers , formed a most gratifying coup il ' ivil to the spectators , and a choice miniature bouquet for . the button-hole having been presented to each brother , put ever } 'one on good terms with himself and those around him . Certainly there was no lack of anything to please the palate and delight the eye , and wc congratulate the
Ashbury Lodge in fixing upon such satisfactory quarters for their festival as Bro . fennissn's famed hostelry and gardens undoubtedl y are . After grace had been sang , and the appetites of the brethren satisfied , the toast list was proceeded with . In response to the toast of "The Deputy Prov . Grard Master , and the rest of the Present and Past Prov . Grand Officers , " Bro . John Chadwick , the Prov . Grand Secretary , remarked that the ability of Bro . George
Mellor to perform his Masonic duties were well known to them all , and likewise ; his willingness to do all and everything he could for the furtherance of Masonry . With regard to their Prov . Grand Master , Bro . Col . Le Gendre N . Starkie , Bro . Chadwick said he thought he had been very happy in his selection of officers that year , as it was no slight difficulty to select them from ninety-one lodges , which were in East Lancashire , and in which there were between
4000 and 5000 members . Bro . Chadwick said he had experienced great pleasure in visiting the Ashbury Lodge that day , and that he had never spent a more pleasant evening in any other lodge . Bro . T . J . Hooper , P . P . G . Treas ., and Bro . Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B ., also responded to the toast , the latter brother in the course of his remarks informing the brethren that he was present at the consecration of the lodge , and assisted Bro .
Romaine Callender in performing the ceremony . Bro . Ingham , P . M ., in proposing " The Health of the W . M . " said he could scarcely refuse to propose such at a toast as this , being as he was the first W . M . in the lodge , and at the time of the consecration it was described , and very truly described , as a great honour to have amongst them Bro . Remaine Callender and Bro . John Tunnali . Bro . Ingham further stated that he thought such men as those before
mentioned could never be replaced , but to a great extent one had been in the person of Bro . John Chadwick , the Prov . Grand Secretary , who was present there that evening , and whose ability to fill the post of his predecessor had been often made apparent . Bro . Ingham concluded by remarking that they had had in the Ashbury Lodge Masters who hail been a credit to their lodge and who had studied the interest of Masonry in general and of their lodge in
particular , and he thought Bro . Newton , the present W . M ., was a worthy successor to those who had gone before him , and that he would perform the ceremonies in a manner to reflect credit upon himself . He asked the brethren to drink Bro . Newton ' s health in a bumper . It is needless to say that this appeal was heartily responded to , and the W . M ., in a few well chosen sentences , thanked Bro . Ingham for proposing and tbe brethren for so cordially responding to the
toast . Bro . J . W . Abbott , in proposing "The Health of the Installing Master , Bro . Ii . J . Cummings , " dwelt upon that brother's ability in most eulogistic terms , remarking that it was something for a lodge to be proud of in having a member who had shown his proficiency in working the Three Degrees in a thoroughly satisfactory manner during his year of office , and concluding his duties that day by
installing his successor in a masterly and finished manner . Bro . Abbott , in concluding his remarks , said he was sure Bro . Cummings would not feel jealous when he said that with the exception of Bro . James Edward Hall , and that exception only , no one had so ably presided or fulfilled the duties of W . M . as Bro . Cummings had done , and in assuring the Installing Master that they all felt proud
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
of him , he asked the brethren to drink his health in a bumper . The toast having been duly honoured , the W . M . rose and said it was his pleasing duty to present Bro . Cummings , in the name of the lodge , with a gold P . M . ' s jewel as a token of the esteem in which he was held by them all . Bro . Cummings , who spoke with some emotion , , said he could scarcely find words sufficient to thank Bro . Abbott for his kind remarks and the brethren for the mark of the
esteem in which they held him . He said that whatever he had done for the lodge it had been a source of great pleasure at all times , and if the members of the lodge were satisfied with the manner in which he had performed his duties , it was as much to him as the jewel , and he should feel well rewarded . Bro . Cummings in conclusion said he would tell the young members that if they had a desire to fill the position he had recently occupied , there was ample
scope for them , and he should at all times be willing to assist them with his advice to further that object . Several other toasts were proposed and responded to , and a most enjoyable evening was brought to a close about eleven o'clock , an omnibus being in waiting to take the brethren who lived Manchester way to their destination . The musical portion of the programme was happily entrusted to Bros . Fielding , Ellis , Stafford , and William Dunville , who performed a well selected number of glees , quartets , & c .
HAMPTON—Hemming * Lodge ( No . 1512 ) . — This exceedingly prosperous lodge met on Thursday , the 17 th ult ., at the Lion Hotel . Among those in attendance were Bros . T . W . Ockenden , W . M . ; T . C . Walls , P . P . G . S . B . Mddx ., S . W . ; F . iW . Kent , J . W . ; J . C . Jessett , I . P . M . ; W . Hammond , P . P . G . D . Mddx ., ' Sec ; J . W . Hiscox , S . D . ; T . Moody , J . D . ; W . C . Davey , acting I . G . ; A . D . Tozer , W . S . ; and Gilbert , P . G . T . Mddx ., Tyler .
The visitors were Bros . F . Honeywell , P . P . G . O . Mddx ., P . M . SS 9 ; J . W . Smith , A . D . C 1 744 ; Sillis , and Marvin , J . D . 176 S . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , the ballot was taken upon behalf of Messrs . W . Spearing and M . Burr , and it proved to be unanimous . The W . M . then , with the able assistance of his officers , initiated Messrs . S . J . Croft and A . Jackson into the Craft mysteries in a manner that left but little
to be desired . He also gave , in a very impressive way , the lecture on the First Tracing Board . Previously to the lodge being closed , it was proposed that the sum of ten guineas should be voted from the lodge funds to head the iist of Bro . Jessett as Steward to the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution . Upon the removal of the cloth , the customary royal and Craft toasts were briefly but pertinently proposed by the W . M . and duly honoured .
"The Health of the Prov . Grand Officers " was coupled with the name of W . Bro . Hammond , P . P . G . D ., who replied in appropriate terms . "The Health of the W . M . " was given warmly by the I . P . M ., and enthusiastically drank . The W . M . having responded , "The Initiates " followed , and drew from Bros . Croft and Jackson exhaustive replies . In proposing "The Health of the Visitors , " the W . M . alluded particularly to the attendance that evening of W . Bro . F . Honeywell , whose musical services in and
out of lodge could not be over estimated . In concluding his remarks , he said that the members of the Hemming Lodge were always glad to see plenty of visitors , and , as their representative , he offered their visiting brethren that evening a hearty welcome . Bros . Honeywell , Smith , Marvin , and Sillis having responded , " The Past Masters , " coupled with the name of the I . P . M ., followed . Bro . Jessett having replied , "The Officers" brought the proceedings to a conclusion . This toast was acknowledged by Bro . Kent , J . W ., and others .
LIVERPOOL . —Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . — The ordinary " statutory" meeting of the "Dramatic " was held on Tuesday , the 23 rd ult ., at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , where there was a good gathering of members and visitors . Bro . W . W . Sandbrook , W . M ., opened the lodge at half-past two o ' clouk , and amongst those who gave him support were Bros . MacKenzie , F . P . M . ; Lindo Courtenay , P . M ., M . C . ; W . Constantine , P . M . ; Joseph
Bell , P . M . ; J . Atkinson , S . W . ; W . Savage , J . W . ; A . Woolrich , Treas , I . P . M . 135 C ; J . M . Boyd , Sec ; J . Pyer , S . D . ; II . P . Squire , J . D . ; J . L , Shrapnell , I . G . ; R . Burgess , Org . ; J . Skeaf , P . G . O ., Assistant Org . ; Dr . Whittle , H . Round , W . O . Sanderson , and R . Eyres , Stewards ; W . II . Ball , Tyler ; W . Hildyard , Brown , Ballard , Campion , Marples , Jackson , Runmer , Brammall , Buchanan , Striem , Kcet , P . Lowndes , S . Mattison , and
others . The visitors included Bros . Fisher , S . W . 1299 , "Jolly " Nash , Tcssiman , and others . Bro . Captain Jackson was passed to the Degree of F . C ., and Bro . J . Orr Marples to the Sublime Degree of M . M . The sum of five guineas , on the motion of Bro . MacKenzie , was voted towards the relief of the widow and eleven children of a deceased musical brother belonging to another lodge , and the further sum of two guineas was also voted for the
benefit of the wife and family of another brother , who is at present in a lunatic asylum . It was resolved to organise a concert in aid of the Masonic Charities—the West Lancashire Educational Institution and the Benevolent Fund of the Dramatic Lodge—towards the end of January , and a Committee was appointed to carry out the arrangements . On the motion of Bro . Atkinson , S . W ., seconded by Bro . Boyd , Sec , the balance sheet for the past year was taken as read and unanimously adopted . From this it appears
that the past year ' s subscriptions were jfiSS , and the initiation and joining fees £ 203 ; while £ 24 15 s . had been voted to distressed brethren ; about £ 100 sent to the Boys' School in London ; £ 37 10 s . paid to the P . G . Lodge Fund of Benevolence ; and about £ 45 carried to the Lodge Fund of Benevolence , which now stands at £ 95 14 s . Sd . After the banquet songs and recitations were given b y Bros . Nash , Tcssiman , Carter , Brammall , Jackson , and MacKenzie , the pianoforte accompaniments being well played by Bro . Burgess , Org .
Bro . Sir Francis 13 tirdctt , Bart ., Hig h Sheriff of Surrey , R . W . Grand Master of Middlesex , has been presented with a valuable piece of plate , subscribed for by the inhabitants of Richmond , in recognition of his succession to the family title and as a token of regard and respect . 'The presentation took place at a banquet recently held at the Star and Garter Hotel , Richmon 4 , under the presidency of the vicar of Richmond , who was supported on the occasion by the county members , Sir H . W . Peek , Bart ., and Sir T . Lawrence , Bart .
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
P . M ., Secretary ; Richman , J . D . ; M . Graham , I . G . ; Williams , D . C ; Brown , W . S . ; Hodgkinson , Asst . W . S . ; and Gilbert , Tyler . The newly-installed W . M . at once commenced the duties of his office by initiating Messrs . Gush , distance , and Rothschild into Freemasonry , and the work was done in a manner which proved to the brethren that Bro . Noble was thoroughly qualified for his position , and that the reputation of the lodge for good work would
be upheld by him . Several candidates were proposed , and the lodge was closed in due form . The brethren , numbering eighty-five in all , then adjourned to banquet in the iarge hall of the Greyhound , the ordinary dining-room being inadequate to the occasion . The customary loyal and Masonic toasts were given in appropriate terms by the W . M ., that of "The Grand Officers" being responded to by Bro . Buss , Asst . Grand
Secretary , who said that he was very proud to see the Rose of Denmark Lodge in such a prosperous condition , particularly as he was one of the founders , and took a very active part in its formation . He congratulated the W . M . and the lodge on the highly successful gathering , and wished the lodge a long continuance of its prosperity . Bro- Garnar , I ^ P . M ., proposed " The Health of the W . M ., " and said that he felt proud to have the privilege
of proposing " The Health of Bro . Noble as the W . M . of the Rose of Denmark Lodge . " He had so thoroughly done his duty in the minor offices , and had attended with such commendable punctuality , that he was sure the lodge had exercised a wise discretion in electing Bro . Noble to the chair . His work in the lodge that evening was all that could be desired , and augured well for the future The W . M ., in responding , thanked Bro . Garnar
for the complimentary manner in which he proposed his health , and the great pleasure he felt in being placed in that proud position . He would endeavour to emulate those who had preceded him , and hoped the lodge would not have occasion to regret the choice it had made . He then proposed "The Health of the Installing Master , Bro . Garnar , I . P . M ., " and said that it was impossible for a brother to do more than Bro . Garnar had done to promote the prosperity
of the lodge and the comfort and enjoyment of the brethren . His year of office would long be remembered as a year of success and prosperity ; his ability in the lodge and liis genial manner and kindly bearing having endeared him to the hearts of the brethren ; he had , therefore , much pleasure in presenting him with the Past Master's jewel which had been voted by the lodge as a small token of fraternal regard and affection , and hoped that he would be
spared for many years to continue his association with the lodge . Bro . Garnar briefly responded , and thanked the W . M . for the kindly wishes he had expressed , and the officers and brethren for the cordial support which he had received from them all during the past year . Bro . Geo . Wrigglesworth , P . M ., at the request of the W . M ., proposed the toast of "The Visitors , " and said : Worshipful Sir , Wardens , and brethren , having been deputed to propose
the toast , which on this occasion is one of the most pleasant duties that could devolve on me , namely , "The Health of the Visitors , " I feel it incumbent to explain the reason why this evening we are honoured by the company of so many highly respected and influential brethren . The Rose of Denmark has , and always will , I hope , be known for its sincere cordiality to all who visit it ; but on this occasion I take it as an intended honour to this lodge on the event of
Bro . Garnar s presidency in the lodge for the last tune during his Mastership . The members of the lodge generally are always glad to welcome visitors , if only for the moral effect their presence has upon all brethren taking office in it ; it stimulates their exertions to leave nothing undone to secure as near as possible perfection in tbe work , and it may not be out of place nor be deemed egotistical if I state that all the Past Masters of this lodge were initiated in it , and
each in his turn has installed his successor . I trust , therefore , this hint may not be lost upon the young Masons present , but they will in their various lodges do as we of the Rose of Denmark always endeavour—to make a visit to a lodge an intellectual treat as well as a social enjoyment , which may be spoken of afterwards with unmingled satisfaction . In consequence of the great number of visitors , it is a difficult matter to select a brother who can speak on
their behalf . I am confident , therefore , that no slight will be felt by any Provincial Grand Officers or Past Masters present if 1 call upon Bro . Dighy , P . M ., to reply for them and the rest of the visitors . Bro . Digby , P . M ., in reply , said he felt great pleasure in being present , and upon being able to testify to the sincere Masonic feeling and true fellowship which seemed to animate every member of the Rose of Denmark . To him it was highly gratifying to find on visiting a lodge that his utmost expectations were more
than realised , and he hoped he might be enabled at a future period to visit a lodge in which he had spent one of the most agreeable evenings in bis Masonic experience . " The Past Masters , " also " The Wardens and Officers , " were then given , and suitably responded to , after which the Tyler ' s toast was given , and the brethren separated . The musical arrangements were under the direction of Bro . Stedman , Org . 172 , who was ably assisted by the vocal abilities of Miss Jessie Royd and Miss Ilorton .
MIRFIELD . —Mirfield Lodge ( No . 1102 ) . —The regular meeting of the above lodge was held on Friday , the 19 th inst . The lodge was opened in due form in the presence of Bros . T . B . Fairclough , I . P . M ., as W . M . ; John Crowlher , S . W . ; James Walmsley , J . W . ; J . Kenworthy , S . D . ; A . A . Stott , P . M ., as J . D . ; Thomas Lang , P . M ., as I . G . ; John Barker , P . M ., as Tyler ; lames Barker , Sec ; John Walmsley , P . M ., Treas . ; R . L . Rayncr , Org . ; G .
Armitagc , P . M . ; James Simpson , Arthur Simpson , James Wright , and John Henry Simpson , E . A . The minutes of y last regular meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . . [• 1 . Barras , W . M ., now entered the lodge along with Bra . John Barker , P . M ., and Bro . P .. W . H . Anderson , I . G . Ihe ballot was then taken for W . M . and Treasurer for the ensuing year , when Bro . John Crowthcr , S . W ., was elected to the former , and Bib . Thomas Lang , P . M ., to the latter office . The W . M . then vacated the chair in favour
of Bro . John Barker , P . M . Bro . John Henry Simpson , haying answered the usual questions , was entrusted , and retired . The lodge was then opened in the Second Degree , When Bro , J . H . Simpson was duly passed to the Degree of a I ' . U this being all the business of the evening , the lodge was duly closed , and the brethren sat down to refreshment , under the rule of ( owing to the absence of the W . M . ) Bro . l !? , . 1 ° wthcr ' S . W ., W . M . elect , who was congratulated oy the brethren , and to whom all wished a happy and prosperous year .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
MANCHESTER . —Ashbury Lodge ( No . 1459 ) . —The annual installation meeting- and St . John's Festival took place on Thursday , the iSth of November last , the former at the Justice Birch Hotel , where the lodge is held , and the " latter at Bro . Jennison's renowned Belle Vuc Gardens , at which the festival was Jield last year . We have nothing but praise for the manner in which Bro . Jennison catered for the brethren . The banquet room ,
which is in the hotel portion of the grounds , was ' a most spacious apartment , and was elegantly appointed , and the arrangements were highly satisfactory . The following brethren were present : Bros . E . J . Cummings , W . M . ; J . N . Newton , S . W .: James Wright , J . W . ; James W . Abbott , Treas . ; Edwin J . Reynolds , Sec . ; John Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C ; Edward Roberts , I . G . ; J . Meadows , Tyler ; Thomas Hughes , I . P . M . ; C . F . Brownridge ,
P . M . ; John Ingham , P . M . ; Thomas Aspinall , P . M . ; John Stanley , John Nicholas , G . W . Storey , and Louis Saussons . Visitors : Thomas Hall , S . W . 935 ; William Dumville , P . M . 1011 ; William Hayland , P . M . 10 S 0 ; Matthew Downs ; John Thomas Owens , W . M . 993 ; J . Hancock , P . M . 992 ; Edwin Sleigh , P . M . 210 ; H . J . " Owen , J . W . nGi ; T . J . Hooper , P . M . 1633 , P . P . G . T . ; John Chadwick , P . G . S . ; Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B . ; Henry
Arnold . W . M . 1161 ; Daniel Donbavand , P . M . 317 ; J . Ii . Illiff , W . M . 143 S ; R . Dottic , S . W . it 6 t ; R . Winfield , Sec . 1077 ; Charles Rye , S . W . 467 ; R . W . Walsh , P . M . 1077 ; and R . R . Lisenden , 317 { Freemason ) . The lodge was opened at a quarter-past three , and the minutes of Jast meeting were read and confirmed . Bros . Brownridge and New-ton gave in their report as Auditors of the lodge accounts , and the balance sheet , which showed
the lodge funds in a very healthy condition , was adopted . The W . M . elect , Bro . J . N . Newton , was presented to the Installing Master , Bro . E . J . Cummings , and after the usual formalities was inducted into the chair of K . S . before a Board of Installed Masters which numbered nineteen . At the proper time the M . M . 's were admitted , and duly saluted the new W . M . the usual number of times , after which the W . M . named his officers in succession for the
ensuing year , who were invested with the collar and jewel of their office by Bro . J . Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C , assisted by Bros . Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B ., and T . J . Hooper , P . P . G . T ., as follows : Bros . James Wright , S . W . ; E . J . Reynolds , J . W . ; James W . Abbott , Treas . ( re-invested ) ; W . IF . Beaston , Sec . ; Harvey , S . D . ( by deputy ); lidward Roberts , J . D . ; John Nicholas , I . G . ; J . Meadows , Tyler ( re-invested ); and John Gallagher , P . M ., D . of C . (
reinvested ) . The address to the W . M . was given by the Installing Master , Bro . E . J . Cummings , P . M ., and to the Wardens and brethren by Bro . James W . Abbott , the worthy 'Treasurer . On the conclusion of the ceremony of installation , " Hearty good wishes " were expressed by the visitors , and the lodge was closed in peace and harmony at 5 . 20 . An omnibus being in waiting to take the brethren to Belle Vue Gardens to celebrate the St . John's Festival , they
duly arrived there after a few minutes' ride , and the lofty and well-lighted banquet-room , in which the tables had been laid out with choice plants and llowers , formed a most gratifying coup il ' ivil to the spectators , and a choice miniature bouquet for . the button-hole having been presented to each brother , put ever } 'one on good terms with himself and those around him . Certainly there was no lack of anything to please the palate and delight the eye , and wc congratulate the
Ashbury Lodge in fixing upon such satisfactory quarters for their festival as Bro . fennissn's famed hostelry and gardens undoubtedl y are . After grace had been sang , and the appetites of the brethren satisfied , the toast list was proceeded with . In response to the toast of "The Deputy Prov . Grard Master , and the rest of the Present and Past Prov . Grand Officers , " Bro . John Chadwick , the Prov . Grand Secretary , remarked that the ability of Bro . George
Mellor to perform his Masonic duties were well known to them all , and likewise ; his willingness to do all and everything he could for the furtherance of Masonry . With regard to their Prov . Grand Master , Bro . Col . Le Gendre N . Starkie , Bro . Chadwick said he thought he had been very happy in his selection of officers that year , as it was no slight difficulty to select them from ninety-one lodges , which were in East Lancashire , and in which there were between
4000 and 5000 members . Bro . Chadwick said he had experienced great pleasure in visiting the Ashbury Lodge that day , and that he had never spent a more pleasant evening in any other lodge . Bro . T . J . Hooper , P . P . G . Treas ., and Bro . Robert Caldwell , P . P . G . S . B ., also responded to the toast , the latter brother in the course of his remarks informing the brethren that he was present at the consecration of the lodge , and assisted Bro .
Romaine Callender in performing the ceremony . Bro . Ingham , P . M ., in proposing " The Health of the W . M . " said he could scarcely refuse to propose such at a toast as this , being as he was the first W . M . in the lodge , and at the time of the consecration it was described , and very truly described , as a great honour to have amongst them Bro . Remaine Callender and Bro . John Tunnali . Bro . Ingham further stated that he thought such men as those before
mentioned could never be replaced , but to a great extent one had been in the person of Bro . John Chadwick , the Prov . Grand Secretary , who was present there that evening , and whose ability to fill the post of his predecessor had been often made apparent . Bro . Ingham concluded by remarking that they had had in the Ashbury Lodge Masters who hail been a credit to their lodge and who had studied the interest of Masonry in general and of their lodge in
particular , and he thought Bro . Newton , the present W . M ., was a worthy successor to those who had gone before him , and that he would perform the ceremonies in a manner to reflect credit upon himself . He asked the brethren to drink Bro . Newton ' s health in a bumper . It is needless to say that this appeal was heartily responded to , and the W . M ., in a few well chosen sentences , thanked Bro . Ingham for proposing and tbe brethren for so cordially responding to the
toast . Bro . J . W . Abbott , in proposing "The Health of the Installing Master , Bro . Ii . J . Cummings , " dwelt upon that brother's ability in most eulogistic terms , remarking that it was something for a lodge to be proud of in having a member who had shown his proficiency in working the Three Degrees in a thoroughly satisfactory manner during his year of office , and concluding his duties that day by
installing his successor in a masterly and finished manner . Bro . Abbott , in concluding his remarks , said he was sure Bro . Cummings would not feel jealous when he said that with the exception of Bro . James Edward Hall , and that exception only , no one had so ably presided or fulfilled the duties of W . M . as Bro . Cummings had done , and in assuring the Installing Master that they all felt proud
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
of him , he asked the brethren to drink his health in a bumper . The toast having been duly honoured , the W . M . rose and said it was his pleasing duty to present Bro . Cummings , in the name of the lodge , with a gold P . M . ' s jewel as a token of the esteem in which he was held by them all . Bro . Cummings , who spoke with some emotion , , said he could scarcely find words sufficient to thank Bro . Abbott for his kind remarks and the brethren for the mark of the
esteem in which they held him . He said that whatever he had done for the lodge it had been a source of great pleasure at all times , and if the members of the lodge were satisfied with the manner in which he had performed his duties , it was as much to him as the jewel , and he should feel well rewarded . Bro . Cummings in conclusion said he would tell the young members that if they had a desire to fill the position he had recently occupied , there was ample
scope for them , and he should at all times be willing to assist them with his advice to further that object . Several other toasts were proposed and responded to , and a most enjoyable evening was brought to a close about eleven o'clock , an omnibus being in waiting to take the brethren who lived Manchester way to their destination . The musical portion of the programme was happily entrusted to Bros . Fielding , Ellis , Stafford , and William Dunville , who performed a well selected number of glees , quartets , & c .
HAMPTON—Hemming * Lodge ( No . 1512 ) . — This exceedingly prosperous lodge met on Thursday , the 17 th ult ., at the Lion Hotel . Among those in attendance were Bros . T . W . Ockenden , W . M . ; T . C . Walls , P . P . G . S . B . Mddx ., S . W . ; F . iW . Kent , J . W . ; J . C . Jessett , I . P . M . ; W . Hammond , P . P . G . D . Mddx ., ' Sec ; J . W . Hiscox , S . D . ; T . Moody , J . D . ; W . C . Davey , acting I . G . ; A . D . Tozer , W . S . ; and Gilbert , P . G . T . Mddx ., Tyler .
The visitors were Bros . F . Honeywell , P . P . G . O . Mddx ., P . M . SS 9 ; J . W . Smith , A . D . C 1 744 ; Sillis , and Marvin , J . D . 176 S . The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and confirmed , the ballot was taken upon behalf of Messrs . W . Spearing and M . Burr , and it proved to be unanimous . The W . M . then , with the able assistance of his officers , initiated Messrs . S . J . Croft and A . Jackson into the Craft mysteries in a manner that left but little
to be desired . He also gave , in a very impressive way , the lecture on the First Tracing Board . Previously to the lodge being closed , it was proposed that the sum of ten guineas should be voted from the lodge funds to head the iist of Bro . Jessett as Steward to the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution . Upon the removal of the cloth , the customary royal and Craft toasts were briefly but pertinently proposed by the W . M . and duly honoured .
"The Health of the Prov . Grand Officers " was coupled with the name of W . Bro . Hammond , P . P . G . D ., who replied in appropriate terms . "The Health of the W . M . " was given warmly by the I . P . M ., and enthusiastically drank . The W . M . having responded , "The Initiates " followed , and drew from Bros . Croft and Jackson exhaustive replies . In proposing "The Health of the Visitors , " the W . M . alluded particularly to the attendance that evening of W . Bro . F . Honeywell , whose musical services in and
out of lodge could not be over estimated . In concluding his remarks , he said that the members of the Hemming Lodge were always glad to see plenty of visitors , and , as their representative , he offered their visiting brethren that evening a hearty welcome . Bros . Honeywell , Smith , Marvin , and Sillis having responded , " The Past Masters , " coupled with the name of the I . P . M ., followed . Bro . Jessett having replied , "The Officers" brought the proceedings to a conclusion . This toast was acknowledged by Bro . Kent , J . W ., and others .
LIVERPOOL . —Dramatic Lodge ( No . 1609 ) . — The ordinary " statutory" meeting of the "Dramatic " was held on Tuesday , the 23 rd ult ., at the Masonic Hall , Hope-street , where there was a good gathering of members and visitors . Bro . W . W . Sandbrook , W . M ., opened the lodge at half-past two o ' clouk , and amongst those who gave him support were Bros . MacKenzie , F . P . M . ; Lindo Courtenay , P . M ., M . C . ; W . Constantine , P . M . ; Joseph
Bell , P . M . ; J . Atkinson , S . W . ; W . Savage , J . W . ; A . Woolrich , Treas , I . P . M . 135 C ; J . M . Boyd , Sec ; J . Pyer , S . D . ; II . P . Squire , J . D . ; J . L , Shrapnell , I . G . ; R . Burgess , Org . ; J . Skeaf , P . G . O ., Assistant Org . ; Dr . Whittle , H . Round , W . O . Sanderson , and R . Eyres , Stewards ; W . II . Ball , Tyler ; W . Hildyard , Brown , Ballard , Campion , Marples , Jackson , Runmer , Brammall , Buchanan , Striem , Kcet , P . Lowndes , S . Mattison , and
others . The visitors included Bros . Fisher , S . W . 1299 , "Jolly " Nash , Tcssiman , and others . Bro . Captain Jackson was passed to the Degree of F . C ., and Bro . J . Orr Marples to the Sublime Degree of M . M . The sum of five guineas , on the motion of Bro . MacKenzie , was voted towards the relief of the widow and eleven children of a deceased musical brother belonging to another lodge , and the further sum of two guineas was also voted for the
benefit of the wife and family of another brother , who is at present in a lunatic asylum . It was resolved to organise a concert in aid of the Masonic Charities—the West Lancashire Educational Institution and the Benevolent Fund of the Dramatic Lodge—towards the end of January , and a Committee was appointed to carry out the arrangements . On the motion of Bro . Atkinson , S . W ., seconded by Bro . Boyd , Sec , the balance sheet for the past year was taken as read and unanimously adopted . From this it appears
that the past year ' s subscriptions were jfiSS , and the initiation and joining fees £ 203 ; while £ 24 15 s . had been voted to distressed brethren ; about £ 100 sent to the Boys' School in London ; £ 37 10 s . paid to the P . G . Lodge Fund of Benevolence ; and about £ 45 carried to the Lodge Fund of Benevolence , which now stands at £ 95 14 s . Sd . After the banquet songs and recitations were given b y Bros . Nash , Tcssiman , Carter , Brammall , Jackson , and MacKenzie , the pianoforte accompaniments being well played by Bro . Burgess , Org .
Bro . Sir Francis 13 tirdctt , Bart ., Hig h Sheriff of Surrey , R . W . Grand Master of Middlesex , has been presented with a valuable piece of plate , subscribed for by the inhabitants of Richmond , in recognition of his succession to the family title and as a token of regard and respect . 'The presentation took place at a banquet recently held at the Star and Garter Hotel , Richmon 4 , under the presidency of the vicar of Richmond , who was supported on the occasion by the county members , Sir H . W . Peek , Bart ., and Sir T . Lawrence , Bart .