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Craft Masonry.
a splendid testimony . The VV . M . announced that it was the usual custom upon taking the chair for the first time to present the lodge with a banner , which he had very great pleasure in doing . When hoisted it was much admired , and the motto , " Non mihi sed fratribus " ( not to myself , but my brethren ) was certainly characteristic of the W . M . who has done so much for others . Bro . B . Williams , P . M ., tendered the heartiest
thanks ot the lodge to the W . M . for his splendid gift , which was seconded by Bro . Hoare , S . W ., who remarked that he hoped they might look upon the same for many years . Three propositions were handed in for initiation , which augurs well . The lodge closed , the brethren adjourned to an excellent banquet , supplied by Bro . F . Tomlin , proprietor , who received hearty thanks .
The customary loyal and Masonic toasts were ably presented by the W . M ., as also that of " The Pro G . M ., Dep . G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers . " The two former were noblemen of whom they were justly proud , and the brethren o . ved a debt of gratitude to all the Grand Oflicers . Personally , " he was justly proud that Bro . Walter Martin , P . G . Purst ., was present to witness his installation . iHe had been a pjoil under him for many years , and so long as the W . M . could have his able guidance he felt the duties of the chair would be efficiently carried out . He wonld couple the name of Bro . Wal . Martin to respond for the Grand Officers .
In reply , Bro . Wal . Martin , P . G . P ., said that the Grand Officers thoroughly deserved the best thanks of the brethren , and he was proud to respond for so honourable a body . Of the W . M ., who was thoroughly deserving of his position , he would say their association had extended for nearly 20 years , and his modesty and general manner would commend him to the brethren of " the Claremont Lodge . There was no brother who could better preside over them , for the interest he took in his mother lodge ( the Selwyn ) and great activity shown by him , especially in the noble Charities , proved this , and he was confident the Claremont Lodge would find in him one of the best Masters , and he trusted the VV . M . would have a memorable and honourable year of office .
The toast of " The R . W . Prov . G . M ., Dep . G .. VL , and the rest of the Prov . Grand Officers , " was most loyally presented , and the W . M . said so long as the province was under such wo rthy brethren to regulate them they had nothing to fear . Bros . B . Williams and Frances ably responded . Bro . Bowler , I . P . M ., next proposed the toast of " The W . M . " in eulogistic terms , and wished him health , happiness , and prosperity . Bro . J . S . Pointon , W . M ., on rising received an ovation , and said he was indeed proud of the high position , and deeply sensible of the duties appertaining to the office .
He would do everything to endeavour to please the brethren and benefit the lodge , especially in benevolence to the noble Charities . He was delighted he was e nabled to take up in the nameof the lodge no guineas to the Boys' Centenary , and felt it was the duty of all to insist to their very utmost and leave the world better than it was at the present time . It was to him a very great pleasure , too , to see among the Past Masters Bros . Horsey and Bastone , who had done so much for the Iodge . He asked the brethren to give him their hearty assistance to still farther enhance the prestige of the lodge .
In proposing the toast of "Bro . T . Bowler , I . P . M . and Installing Master , " the W . M . said all knew what he had done for the Iodge , and how he had worked to bring the Iodge to its present efficiency . The best thanks of the brethren were due to him for his great service to the lodge , and it was their earnest wish that he would be spared for many years to rank among the worthy Past Masters of the lodge .
The inscription on the jewel was as follows : " Presented by the brethren of the Claiemont Lodge , 1 S 61 , to Bro . Thomas Bowler , P . M ., in recognition of valuable and efficient service rendered during his year of office as VV . M . 18 97-9 S . " Bro . T . Bowler , P . M ., most ably replied , and thanked the brethren for the great kindness they had shown him .
The toast of "The Visitors" received high eulogiums at the hands of the W . M ., who welcomed them to the lodge with great cordiality . Bros . W . Martin , P . G . P . ; F . Swinford , W . M . 2272 ; Pow , P . M . ; Sykes , P . M . ; Ellinger , P . M . ; and Bint responded , and highly commended the work and hospitality shown them .
The W . AL next presented the toast of " The Past Masters , Treasurer , and Secretary , " thanking them all for their past services and also for their able assistance whenever it was required ; they were a worthy array . Bro . Horsey , Treas ., congratulated the lodge upon its sound position , and complimented Bro . T . Bowler , I . P . M ., for taking so active a part in accomplishing the fact .
Bro . Bastone said some 14 or 15 years ago the lodge seemed to be sinking fast , but he and Bro . Fiances had stood by it , and now it gratified him indeed to see its present position . He was pleased to see the brethren did not forget " the old guard , " and wished the lodge would rank among one of the first in the province . Bros . Williams , Bowler , and Frances also ably responded , the latter remarking upon the honour so deservedly bestowed upon Bro . VVilliams so recently . He was glad to see the fresh and energetic members brought into the lodge , bringing it up to its former excellent standing in the province . He would continue to do his very best to assist the W . M . in attaining that object .
The toast of "The Officers" was duly honoured by the W . M ., and most suitably replied to by them , pledging their utmost to support the W . M . for the welfare of the lodge . The Tyler ' s toast closed an eventful meeting . A capital programme of music was arranged , and some excellent harmony rendered by Bros . Rogers , Wheeler , Frank Swinford , Arthur Bentley , and Fred Stephens , P . M . ( humorist ) . Bro . Frank Swinford , P . Prov . G . Org . Middx ., ably presided at the piano .
Grays Valley Lodge , 2147 . The installation meeting of this successful and nourishing lodge was held at the Institute , St . Mary ' s Cray , on Wednesday , the oth inst . Present : Bros . Frank Stanger , VV . M . ; Wm . Bailey , S . W ., W . M . elect ; A . E . Oxley , J . W . ; H . Tyrer , P . M ., Treas . ; R . J . Pugh , P . M ., Sec ; S . GaleS . D . ; L . PughJ . D . ; F . Lewis
, , , Org . ; G . II . Miles , l . G . ; A . M . Mitchell , Stwd . ; J . T . Cookson , P . M . ; Thos . Knight , P . M ., P . Prov . G . Org . Kent ; Wal . Bratt , and Wm . Tapsell , Tyler . The visitors were Bros . H . G . West , P . M . 1209 ; J . Lonsdale , 1910 ; T . E . Avery , 147 ; J . B . Guy , Org . 40 ; W . R . Ashley , 1531 ; R . Jackson , P . AL 1815 ; S . J . Cross , P . M . 2242 ; and C H . Stone , P . M . 507 .
1 he minutes of the election meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . Frank Stanger presented Bro . Wm . Bailey , W . M . elect , to Bro . R . J . Pugh , P . M ., tr > receive the benefit of the installation , which ceremony was performed in a perfect and very impressive manner . The new W . M . invested his officers as follows : Bros . Arthur Oxley . S . W . ; Saml . Gale , VV . M . 2262 , J . W . ; Hy . Tyrer , P . M ., Treas . ; Robt . J . Pugh , P . M ., Sec ; Llewellyn Pugh , S . D . ; Geo . Allies , J . U . ; Frank Stanger , I P . M ., D . C ; Fred . Lewis , l . G . ; A . AL Mitchell and Wal . Beer , Stwds . ; and Wm . Tapsell , Tyler ,
Ihe three addresses were delivered in a correct and highly intellectuil manner . The Auditors' report showed a balance in favour of the lodge . The W . M . rose and stated at the last meeting of the lodge the brethren voted the Past Alaster ' s jewel to Bro . I ' rank Stanger I . P . AL , to mark the great esteem he was held in b y them , and also for the able manner he had conducted the affairs of the lodge during the past year in perfect harmony and upholding the dignity of the chair and prestige of the lodge . He had the greatest possible pleasure in decorating him with the jewel as a mirk of their sincere affection . Bro . Frank Stanger , I . P . M ., was appointed the Charity
representative . The business ended , the brethren adjourned to the Library , St . Mary ' s Cray , and enjoyed an excellent banquet supplied by Mr . Groom , and by whom the tables were very prettily decorated . The library was decorated with a choice selection of chrysanthemums , very kindly lent by Bro . Frank Stanger , who excels in their cultivation , to whom the special thanks of the lodge were accorded for bis very great kindness . The banquet ended , the VV . AI . gave the toast of * ' Her Majesty the Queen and the * ~ raft .
The toast having been drunk with extra fervour , The W . M . gave " The M . W . G . M ., H . R . IL the Prince of Wales , " and said that he II 0 H , ^ deep interest in Masonry that the Craft were proud of having a member of the Royal Family at its head . The toast of "Thc Pro G . M . " was loyally received . ., } he VV . M . next presented the toast of "The R . W . Prov . G . M ., Earl Amherst , and the D . P . G . AL , Bro . Eastes , " who ruled over the province with sdeh dignity and success . He asked Bro . Knight to respond for the Prov . G . Officers . In replying , Bro . Knight said it was a great honour to respond for such distinguished
Craft Masonry.
brethren , and he felt he could not do it justice . However , he was pleased to be present to say a few words , and he hoped shortly another purple collar would be given to the lodge as the business was being carried out in such an efficient manner . The D . P . G . M . was always ready to confer the honour when | it was deserved . He most heartily thanked the brethren for the honour done him . The I . P . M . rose and gave the toast of the evening— " The W . M . " —which , he said , gave him the greatest possible pleasure in presenting . The W . M . was one of the oldest
members of the lodge , and had been most attentive to his duties . He had risen to the occasion , and all had been pleased with the manner he had performed the duties of the chair and the kindly advice he had given to the younger brethren . He was installed as W . AI . of a small , yet a very united , lodge ; there had not been one discordant jar during the past year , and perfect unanimity prevailed during that time , and many friendships had been cemented , which he trusted wouldbs life-long . Hecongratulated the W . M . upon his exalted position , and wished him every possible success .
Bro . VV . Bailey , W . M ., said he was much obliged for the very kind words of Bro . F . Stanger , the I . P . M ., and he would do all he possibly could for Freemasonry in general , and the Grays Valley Lodge in particular . The I . P . M next proposed the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . J . Pugh , P . M ., " to whom the lodge owed a debt of gratitude for the generous assistance he gave most
ungrudgingly to all connected with it . Personally he was grateful to the Installing Master for his able assistance during the past year , and for the past two or three' years he had done yeoman service in thelodge , but the installation ceremony had never been better nor more correctly performed than on the present occasion . The toast was drunk most cordially .
In reply , Bro . Pugh , P . M ., thanked the I . P . M . for his kind remarks , and as his rendering of the installation ceremony had ^ satisfied them he was amply repaid , for he loved it . From the time of his initiation he had aimed at performing the various duties as well as possible , and he had been well eulogised by Bro . Stanger , but he would assure the W . AL he should continue to render him whatever assistance he required . In proposing the toast of " The Visitors , " Bro . Cookson , P . M ., said they were most heartily welcomed to the Grays Valley Lodge , which always extended a cordial greeting to them . There were present several distinguished . brethren , and he would ask Bros . Cross and Jackson to kindly reply .
Bro . Cross . ' . P . Al ., said it gave him great pleasure to visit and see his dear old friend the VV . M . installed , and he thoroughly believed in interchange of views . He had never seen a banquet table decorated more prettily , and the hospitality was unbounded . Likewise he had never heard the installation ceremony more fluently nor correctly performed . He complimented the W . M . on his position and having so good a set of
officers . Bro . Jackson endorsed every word of Bro . Cross , P . M . The W . M . presented the toast of " The Past Masters , Treasurer , and Secretary , " in most cordial and appreciative terms , and it was duly responded to by Bros . Stanger , Tyrer , and Cookson .
The toast of " The Officers " was duly honoured , and ably responded to by the S . and J . Wardens . The Tyler ' s toast closed a very happy meeting . A capital programme ol music was arranged by Bro . J . B . Guy , ably assisted by Bros . Cross , Gale , Cookson , and Guy . Professor Lilwall ably presided at the piano , and gave some excellent solos .
Derby Allcroft Lodge , No . 2168 . The installation meeting of this Iodge was held on the ioth inst . at the Midland Grand Hotel , St . Pancras , when there were present Bros . R . J . Smerdon , VV . M . ; J . W . Nash , S .. W . ; Robert Gregory , J . VV . ; William Thomas , P . M ., Treas . ; I . W . Dixon , P . M ., Sec . j Nathan Robinson , S . D . ; T . Wholey , J . D . ; S . Garcia , P . M ., D . C . j — Alfred , I . G . ; James F . Harkins , Org . ; Alfred Ingram and G . H . Mitchell , Stwds . ; J . P . Fitzgerald , P . M . ; W . Harding , P . M . ; Wm . Lawrence , P . AL ; Robert D .
Cummings , P . M . ; F . A . Baldwin , C . Duvall , E . Wallis , T . Aloore , A . L . Garrod , J . C . Steiner , A . J . Shorter , G . W . Phillips , N . Hawkins , E . L . Saunders , W . T . Wetenhall , M . P . Martin , J . Aluir Smith , M . I . Garcia , J . R . Musto , Jefferson Dodd , J . H . Aleyer , T . W . W . Idris , J . C McLearn , J . H . Moggridge , Arthur J . Benjamin , B . G . Elliott , Oliver Hawkes , and William Mackie . The visitors were Bros . A . F . Caspers , P . M . i 653 ; W . H . Skinner , 2331 ; E . J . Harley , 195 ; W . H . Harris , W . M . 1728 ; G . R . Andrews , W . M . 2513 ; H . Massey , P . M . 610 and 102 S ; A . I . Perriam ,
P . M . 1531 ; James J . Dixon , LP . M . 1415 : J . Keggn , 1017 ; Archibald Evans , 1319 ; A . C . Webb , Sec . 2429 ; Welham Naplin , 11 S 1 , P . P . Assist . G . Sec , Devon ; Thomas Aloss . W . M . 2427 ; Rob . G . Robinson , S . W . 1531 ; G . Arnold , P . M . 2331 ; John Strachan , Q . C , G . Reg . ; W . E . Robbins , J . W . 2565 ; Walter Lewis , 1366 ; J . J . Thomas , P . G . Std . Br . ; James Kift , 1791 ; Aaron D . Barnett , P . M . 166 S ; George Lewin , LP . M . 166 S ; T . J . Mercer , I . P . M . 2427 ; C . Baker , 901 ; J . D . Hood , W . M . 166 S ; W . Bills , 170 S ; J . Stephens , P . D . G . D . C ; W . G . Weller , Org . 2550 ;
Andrew Snell , Chislehurst ; AL F . Corager , I . G . 30 ; W . J . H . Bloxon , 27 ; George F . Wheeler , P . AI . 1602 ; Fred . R . W . White , 30 ; Thomas J . Bolton , I . P . M . 16 S 7 ; G . Herbert Burns , S . W . 1 OS 7 ; Richard Eve , P . G . T . ; T . H . Jarvis , I . P . M . S 62 ; J . G . Wedgwood , M . D . ; J . Terry , P . G . S . B ., Sec . R . M . B . I . ; E . Branscombe , S . W . 1929 ; H . M . Songers , 177 ; John Clarke , 901 ; L . Gerard , 2430 ; C Dunt , 1360 5 Charles F . Quicke , 1531 ; E . E . Hawkins , S . W . 1507 : W . H . Garrett , S . D . 1397 ; G . Glover , P . M . 1677 ; A . H . Gee , St . George , N . S . W . ; T . F . Davis , 1143 i and W . N .
Caldwell Moore , P . M . 142 . Bro . R . D . Cummings , P . M ., acted as W . M ., and after the opening of the lodge , made feeling reference to the death of Bro . Robert Handel Booth , and concluded by moving a vote of " Smypathy with the deceased brother ' s family . " This motion , on being seconded , was carried unanimously , and the Secretary was directed to communicate the same . Bro . Cummings next installed Bro . John Nash , P . M ., as W . AL , who was presented by Bro . Sam Garcia , P . M ., D . C . Bro . B . J . Smerdon was invested as I . P . M . The other brethren invested with officers' collars were Bro . R . Gregory , S . W . j
Nathan Robinson , P . M ., J . W . ; William Thomas , P . M ., Treas . ; Robert D . Cummings , P . M ., Sec ; Dr . Wholey , P . M ., S . D . ; J . H . Mitchell , J . D . ; Sam Gircia , P . AL , D . C ; A . Ingram , I . G . ; F . A . Baldwin and William Short , Stwds . ; and R . H . Goddard , Tyler . The W . AL undertook the lodge Stewardship for the Royal Alasonic Benevolent Institution . After the closing of the lodge the brethren adjourned to a choice banquet , and in due course honoured the customary toasts . The music of the evening was rendered by Bros . Edward Branscombe , A . H , Gee , James Kift , and Mr . Harry Hudson .
Bro . Richard Eve , P . G . T ., in responding to the toast nf "The M . W . Pro G . M ,, the R . W . Deputy G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers Present and Past , " referred to the name of the lodge , and said they all remembered the late Bro . John Derby Allcroft was a man of philanthropic heart . He wai glad to see so many brethren who represented the feelings that brother represented in Freemasonry . As one of the Past Grand Treasurers , as Bro . Derby Allcroft wis also , he felt it a great honour to be present to respond on behalf of the Grand Officers of England . Bro . Allcroft was
a distinguished Grand Officer , and felt his responsibility . He trusted all might follow the example he set ; if they all did there would be a greater amount of good in the world . The Grand Officers of England were proud to have been toasted by the W . M , so well ; he could assure the brethren they were all doing the best they could to further the great interests of the Order to the advantage of the Craft within the fold , an d even of those without , and they were doing all they could to uphold its prestige . Masonry in the present day was very different to what it was 40 years ago . At that time it was
comparatively little known , but it had made itself known and . felt as one of the great institutions not only of this country but of the world . They knew of no institution resting on such a solid foundation as Alasonry , because Masonry excluded none from their assemblies who believed in T . G . A . O . T . U . ; they admitted all kinds , colours , and sections of men ; all were alike so long as they were good , truj , and decent men , whether they were yellow , black , red , or white , or whatever their creed , so long as they believed in the Great Architect ; when that was given they felt justified in grasping the hand of that brother and promoting with him the great interests of humility . lt wis a greit
institution ; it was becoming a greater ; there was more in it to-diy than in any others ; and the more it was known and understood the greater it would become , and the greater would be its capacity for usefulness . As far as thc Grand Lodge of England was concerned , English Freemasons considered , and rightly cjniide .-iJ , it w ^ sthe my . h-i Grand Lodge of the world . Those who went over to our cousins on the other side of ths Atlantic would find at once that their Masonry all sprang from England . He had the privilege of looking into a Bible on which George Washington had been received into Alasonry ; that Bible had been seized by rebels but they did not destroy it or the furniture of the
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Craft Masonry.
a splendid testimony . The VV . M . announced that it was the usual custom upon taking the chair for the first time to present the lodge with a banner , which he had very great pleasure in doing . When hoisted it was much admired , and the motto , " Non mihi sed fratribus " ( not to myself , but my brethren ) was certainly characteristic of the W . M . who has done so much for others . Bro . B . Williams , P . M ., tendered the heartiest
thanks ot the lodge to the W . M . for his splendid gift , which was seconded by Bro . Hoare , S . W ., who remarked that he hoped they might look upon the same for many years . Three propositions were handed in for initiation , which augurs well . The lodge closed , the brethren adjourned to an excellent banquet , supplied by Bro . F . Tomlin , proprietor , who received hearty thanks .
The customary loyal and Masonic toasts were ably presented by the W . M ., as also that of " The Pro G . M ., Dep . G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers . " The two former were noblemen of whom they were justly proud , and the brethren o . ved a debt of gratitude to all the Grand Oflicers . Personally , " he was justly proud that Bro . Walter Martin , P . G . Purst ., was present to witness his installation . iHe had been a pjoil under him for many years , and so long as the W . M . could have his able guidance he felt the duties of the chair would be efficiently carried out . He wonld couple the name of Bro . Wal . Martin to respond for the Grand Officers .
In reply , Bro . Wal . Martin , P . G . P ., said that the Grand Officers thoroughly deserved the best thanks of the brethren , and he was proud to respond for so honourable a body . Of the W . M ., who was thoroughly deserving of his position , he would say their association had extended for nearly 20 years , and his modesty and general manner would commend him to the brethren of " the Claremont Lodge . There was no brother who could better preside over them , for the interest he took in his mother lodge ( the Selwyn ) and great activity shown by him , especially in the noble Charities , proved this , and he was confident the Claremont Lodge would find in him one of the best Masters , and he trusted the VV . M . would have a memorable and honourable year of office .
The toast of " The R . W . Prov . G . M ., Dep . G .. VL , and the rest of the Prov . Grand Officers , " was most loyally presented , and the W . M . said so long as the province was under such wo rthy brethren to regulate them they had nothing to fear . Bros . B . Williams and Frances ably responded . Bro . Bowler , I . P . M ., next proposed the toast of " The W . M . " in eulogistic terms , and wished him health , happiness , and prosperity . Bro . J . S . Pointon , W . M ., on rising received an ovation , and said he was indeed proud of the high position , and deeply sensible of the duties appertaining to the office .
He would do everything to endeavour to please the brethren and benefit the lodge , especially in benevolence to the noble Charities . He was delighted he was e nabled to take up in the nameof the lodge no guineas to the Boys' Centenary , and felt it was the duty of all to insist to their very utmost and leave the world better than it was at the present time . It was to him a very great pleasure , too , to see among the Past Masters Bros . Horsey and Bastone , who had done so much for the Iodge . He asked the brethren to give him their hearty assistance to still farther enhance the prestige of the lodge .
In proposing the toast of "Bro . T . Bowler , I . P . M . and Installing Master , " the W . M . said all knew what he had done for the Iodge , and how he had worked to bring the Iodge to its present efficiency . The best thanks of the brethren were due to him for his great service to the lodge , and it was their earnest wish that he would be spared for many years to rank among the worthy Past Masters of the lodge .
The inscription on the jewel was as follows : " Presented by the brethren of the Claiemont Lodge , 1 S 61 , to Bro . Thomas Bowler , P . M ., in recognition of valuable and efficient service rendered during his year of office as VV . M . 18 97-9 S . " Bro . T . Bowler , P . M ., most ably replied , and thanked the brethren for the great kindness they had shown him .
The toast of "The Visitors" received high eulogiums at the hands of the W . M ., who welcomed them to the lodge with great cordiality . Bros . W . Martin , P . G . P . ; F . Swinford , W . M . 2272 ; Pow , P . M . ; Sykes , P . M . ; Ellinger , P . M . ; and Bint responded , and highly commended the work and hospitality shown them .
The W . AL next presented the toast of " The Past Masters , Treasurer , and Secretary , " thanking them all for their past services and also for their able assistance whenever it was required ; they were a worthy array . Bro . Horsey , Treas ., congratulated the lodge upon its sound position , and complimented Bro . T . Bowler , I . P . M ., for taking so active a part in accomplishing the fact .
Bro . Bastone said some 14 or 15 years ago the lodge seemed to be sinking fast , but he and Bro . Fiances had stood by it , and now it gratified him indeed to see its present position . He was pleased to see the brethren did not forget " the old guard , " and wished the lodge would rank among one of the first in the province . Bros . Williams , Bowler , and Frances also ably responded , the latter remarking upon the honour so deservedly bestowed upon Bro . VVilliams so recently . He was glad to see the fresh and energetic members brought into the lodge , bringing it up to its former excellent standing in the province . He would continue to do his very best to assist the W . M . in attaining that object .
The toast of "The Officers" was duly honoured by the W . M ., and most suitably replied to by them , pledging their utmost to support the W . M . for the welfare of the lodge . The Tyler ' s toast closed an eventful meeting . A capital programme of music was arranged , and some excellent harmony rendered by Bros . Rogers , Wheeler , Frank Swinford , Arthur Bentley , and Fred Stephens , P . M . ( humorist ) . Bro . Frank Swinford , P . Prov . G . Org . Middx ., ably presided at the piano .
Grays Valley Lodge , 2147 . The installation meeting of this successful and nourishing lodge was held at the Institute , St . Mary ' s Cray , on Wednesday , the oth inst . Present : Bros . Frank Stanger , VV . M . ; Wm . Bailey , S . W ., W . M . elect ; A . E . Oxley , J . W . ; H . Tyrer , P . M ., Treas . ; R . J . Pugh , P . M ., Sec ; S . GaleS . D . ; L . PughJ . D . ; F . Lewis
, , , Org . ; G . II . Miles , l . G . ; A . M . Mitchell , Stwd . ; J . T . Cookson , P . M . ; Thos . Knight , P . M ., P . Prov . G . Org . Kent ; Wal . Bratt , and Wm . Tapsell , Tyler . The visitors were Bros . H . G . West , P . M . 1209 ; J . Lonsdale , 1910 ; T . E . Avery , 147 ; J . B . Guy , Org . 40 ; W . R . Ashley , 1531 ; R . Jackson , P . AL 1815 ; S . J . Cross , P . M . 2242 ; and C H . Stone , P . M . 507 .
1 he minutes of the election meeting were read and confirmed . Bro . Frank Stanger presented Bro . Wm . Bailey , W . M . elect , to Bro . R . J . Pugh , P . M ., tr > receive the benefit of the installation , which ceremony was performed in a perfect and very impressive manner . The new W . M . invested his officers as follows : Bros . Arthur Oxley . S . W . ; Saml . Gale , VV . M . 2262 , J . W . ; Hy . Tyrer , P . M ., Treas . ; Robt . J . Pugh , P . M ., Sec ; Llewellyn Pugh , S . D . ; Geo . Allies , J . U . ; Frank Stanger , I P . M ., D . C ; Fred . Lewis , l . G . ; A . AL Mitchell and Wal . Beer , Stwds . ; and Wm . Tapsell , Tyler ,
Ihe three addresses were delivered in a correct and highly intellectuil manner . The Auditors' report showed a balance in favour of the lodge . The W . M . rose and stated at the last meeting of the lodge the brethren voted the Past Alaster ' s jewel to Bro . I ' rank Stanger I . P . AL , to mark the great esteem he was held in b y them , and also for the able manner he had conducted the affairs of the lodge during the past year in perfect harmony and upholding the dignity of the chair and prestige of the lodge . He had the greatest possible pleasure in decorating him with the jewel as a mirk of their sincere affection . Bro . Frank Stanger , I . P . M ., was appointed the Charity
representative . The business ended , the brethren adjourned to the Library , St . Mary ' s Cray , and enjoyed an excellent banquet supplied by Mr . Groom , and by whom the tables were very prettily decorated . The library was decorated with a choice selection of chrysanthemums , very kindly lent by Bro . Frank Stanger , who excels in their cultivation , to whom the special thanks of the lodge were accorded for bis very great kindness . The banquet ended , the VV . AI . gave the toast of * ' Her Majesty the Queen and the * ~ raft .
The toast having been drunk with extra fervour , The W . M . gave " The M . W . G . M ., H . R . IL the Prince of Wales , " and said that he II 0 H , ^ deep interest in Masonry that the Craft were proud of having a member of the Royal Family at its head . The toast of "Thc Pro G . M . " was loyally received . ., } he VV . M . next presented the toast of "The R . W . Prov . G . M ., Earl Amherst , and the D . P . G . AL , Bro . Eastes , " who ruled over the province with sdeh dignity and success . He asked Bro . Knight to respond for the Prov . G . Officers . In replying , Bro . Knight said it was a great honour to respond for such distinguished
Craft Masonry.
brethren , and he felt he could not do it justice . However , he was pleased to be present to say a few words , and he hoped shortly another purple collar would be given to the lodge as the business was being carried out in such an efficient manner . The D . P . G . M . was always ready to confer the honour when | it was deserved . He most heartily thanked the brethren for the honour done him . The I . P . M . rose and gave the toast of the evening— " The W . M . " —which , he said , gave him the greatest possible pleasure in presenting . The W . M . was one of the oldest
members of the lodge , and had been most attentive to his duties . He had risen to the occasion , and all had been pleased with the manner he had performed the duties of the chair and the kindly advice he had given to the younger brethren . He was installed as W . AI . of a small , yet a very united , lodge ; there had not been one discordant jar during the past year , and perfect unanimity prevailed during that time , and many friendships had been cemented , which he trusted wouldbs life-long . Hecongratulated the W . M . upon his exalted position , and wished him every possible success .
Bro . VV . Bailey , W . M ., said he was much obliged for the very kind words of Bro . F . Stanger , the I . P . M ., and he would do all he possibly could for Freemasonry in general , and the Grays Valley Lodge in particular . The I . P . M next proposed the toast of " The Installing Master , Bro . J . Pugh , P . M ., " to whom the lodge owed a debt of gratitude for the generous assistance he gave most
ungrudgingly to all connected with it . Personally he was grateful to the Installing Master for his able assistance during the past year , and for the past two or three' years he had done yeoman service in thelodge , but the installation ceremony had never been better nor more correctly performed than on the present occasion . The toast was drunk most cordially .
In reply , Bro . Pugh , P . M ., thanked the I . P . M . for his kind remarks , and as his rendering of the installation ceremony had ^ satisfied them he was amply repaid , for he loved it . From the time of his initiation he had aimed at performing the various duties as well as possible , and he had been well eulogised by Bro . Stanger , but he would assure the W . AL he should continue to render him whatever assistance he required . In proposing the toast of " The Visitors , " Bro . Cookson , P . M ., said they were most heartily welcomed to the Grays Valley Lodge , which always extended a cordial greeting to them . There were present several distinguished . brethren , and he would ask Bros . Cross and Jackson to kindly reply .
Bro . Cross . ' . P . Al ., said it gave him great pleasure to visit and see his dear old friend the VV . M . installed , and he thoroughly believed in interchange of views . He had never seen a banquet table decorated more prettily , and the hospitality was unbounded . Likewise he had never heard the installation ceremony more fluently nor correctly performed . He complimented the W . M . on his position and having so good a set of
officers . Bro . Jackson endorsed every word of Bro . Cross , P . M . The W . M . presented the toast of " The Past Masters , Treasurer , and Secretary , " in most cordial and appreciative terms , and it was duly responded to by Bros . Stanger , Tyrer , and Cookson .
The toast of " The Officers " was duly honoured , and ably responded to by the S . and J . Wardens . The Tyler ' s toast closed a very happy meeting . A capital programme ol music was arranged by Bro . J . B . Guy , ably assisted by Bros . Cross , Gale , Cookson , and Guy . Professor Lilwall ably presided at the piano , and gave some excellent solos .
Derby Allcroft Lodge , No . 2168 . The installation meeting of this Iodge was held on the ioth inst . at the Midland Grand Hotel , St . Pancras , when there were present Bros . R . J . Smerdon , VV . M . ; J . W . Nash , S .. W . ; Robert Gregory , J . VV . ; William Thomas , P . M ., Treas . ; I . W . Dixon , P . M ., Sec . j Nathan Robinson , S . D . ; T . Wholey , J . D . ; S . Garcia , P . M ., D . C . j — Alfred , I . G . ; James F . Harkins , Org . ; Alfred Ingram and G . H . Mitchell , Stwds . ; J . P . Fitzgerald , P . M . ; W . Harding , P . M . ; Wm . Lawrence , P . AL ; Robert D .
Cummings , P . M . ; F . A . Baldwin , C . Duvall , E . Wallis , T . Aloore , A . L . Garrod , J . C . Steiner , A . J . Shorter , G . W . Phillips , N . Hawkins , E . L . Saunders , W . T . Wetenhall , M . P . Martin , J . Aluir Smith , M . I . Garcia , J . R . Musto , Jefferson Dodd , J . H . Aleyer , T . W . W . Idris , J . C McLearn , J . H . Moggridge , Arthur J . Benjamin , B . G . Elliott , Oliver Hawkes , and William Mackie . The visitors were Bros . A . F . Caspers , P . M . i 653 ; W . H . Skinner , 2331 ; E . J . Harley , 195 ; W . H . Harris , W . M . 1728 ; G . R . Andrews , W . M . 2513 ; H . Massey , P . M . 610 and 102 S ; A . I . Perriam ,
P . M . 1531 ; James J . Dixon , LP . M . 1415 : J . Keggn , 1017 ; Archibald Evans , 1319 ; A . C . Webb , Sec . 2429 ; Welham Naplin , 11 S 1 , P . P . Assist . G . Sec , Devon ; Thomas Aloss . W . M . 2427 ; Rob . G . Robinson , S . W . 1531 ; G . Arnold , P . M . 2331 ; John Strachan , Q . C , G . Reg . ; W . E . Robbins , J . W . 2565 ; Walter Lewis , 1366 ; J . J . Thomas , P . G . Std . Br . ; James Kift , 1791 ; Aaron D . Barnett , P . M . 166 S ; George Lewin , LP . M . 166 S ; T . J . Mercer , I . P . M . 2427 ; C . Baker , 901 ; J . D . Hood , W . M . 166 S ; W . Bills , 170 S ; J . Stephens , P . D . G . D . C ; W . G . Weller , Org . 2550 ;
Andrew Snell , Chislehurst ; AL F . Corager , I . G . 30 ; W . J . H . Bloxon , 27 ; George F . Wheeler , P . AI . 1602 ; Fred . R . W . White , 30 ; Thomas J . Bolton , I . P . M . 16 S 7 ; G . Herbert Burns , S . W . 1 OS 7 ; Richard Eve , P . G . T . ; T . H . Jarvis , I . P . M . S 62 ; J . G . Wedgwood , M . D . ; J . Terry , P . G . S . B ., Sec . R . M . B . I . ; E . Branscombe , S . W . 1929 ; H . M . Songers , 177 ; John Clarke , 901 ; L . Gerard , 2430 ; C Dunt , 1360 5 Charles F . Quicke , 1531 ; E . E . Hawkins , S . W . 1507 : W . H . Garrett , S . D . 1397 ; G . Glover , P . M . 1677 ; A . H . Gee , St . George , N . S . W . ; T . F . Davis , 1143 i and W . N .
Caldwell Moore , P . M . 142 . Bro . R . D . Cummings , P . M ., acted as W . M ., and after the opening of the lodge , made feeling reference to the death of Bro . Robert Handel Booth , and concluded by moving a vote of " Smypathy with the deceased brother ' s family . " This motion , on being seconded , was carried unanimously , and the Secretary was directed to communicate the same . Bro . Cummings next installed Bro . John Nash , P . M ., as W . AL , who was presented by Bro . Sam Garcia , P . M ., D . C . Bro . B . J . Smerdon was invested as I . P . M . The other brethren invested with officers' collars were Bro . R . Gregory , S . W . j
Nathan Robinson , P . M ., J . W . ; William Thomas , P . M ., Treas . ; Robert D . Cummings , P . M ., Sec ; Dr . Wholey , P . M ., S . D . ; J . H . Mitchell , J . D . ; Sam Gircia , P . AL , D . C ; A . Ingram , I . G . ; F . A . Baldwin and William Short , Stwds . ; and R . H . Goddard , Tyler . The W . AL undertook the lodge Stewardship for the Royal Alasonic Benevolent Institution . After the closing of the lodge the brethren adjourned to a choice banquet , and in due course honoured the customary toasts . The music of the evening was rendered by Bros . Edward Branscombe , A . H , Gee , James Kift , and Mr . Harry Hudson .
Bro . Richard Eve , P . G . T ., in responding to the toast nf "The M . W . Pro G . M ,, the R . W . Deputy G . M ., and the rest of the Grand Officers Present and Past , " referred to the name of the lodge , and said they all remembered the late Bro . John Derby Allcroft was a man of philanthropic heart . He wai glad to see so many brethren who represented the feelings that brother represented in Freemasonry . As one of the Past Grand Treasurers , as Bro . Derby Allcroft wis also , he felt it a great honour to be present to respond on behalf of the Grand Officers of England . Bro . Allcroft was
a distinguished Grand Officer , and felt his responsibility . He trusted all might follow the example he set ; if they all did there would be a greater amount of good in the world . The Grand Officers of England were proud to have been toasted by the W . M , so well ; he could assure the brethren they were all doing the best they could to further the great interests of the Order to the advantage of the Craft within the fold , an d even of those without , and they were doing all they could to uphold its prestige . Masonry in the present day was very different to what it was 40 years ago . At that time it was
comparatively little known , but it had made itself known and . felt as one of the great institutions not only of this country but of the world . They knew of no institution resting on such a solid foundation as Alasonry , because Masonry excluded none from their assemblies who believed in T . G . A . O . T . U . ; they admitted all kinds , colours , and sections of men ; all were alike so long as they were good , truj , and decent men , whether they were yellow , black , red , or white , or whatever their creed , so long as they believed in the Great Architect ; when that was given they felt justified in grasping the hand of that brother and promoting with him the great interests of humility . lt wis a greit
institution ; it was becoming a greater ; there was more in it to-diy than in any others ; and the more it was known and understood the greater it would become , and the greater would be its capacity for usefulness . As far as thc Grand Lodge of England was concerned , English Freemasons considered , and rightly cjniide .-iJ , it w ^ sthe my . h-i Grand Lodge of the world . Those who went over to our cousins on the other side of ths Atlantic would find at once that their Masonry all sprang from England . He had the privilege of looking into a Bible on which George Washington had been received into Alasonry ; that Bible had been seized by rebels but they did not destroy it or the furniture of the