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    Article CONSECRATION OF THE RADNOR LODGE, No. 2587. ← Page 2 of 2
    Article CONSECRATION OF THE ROYAL VICTORIAN CHAPTER, No. 2184. Page 1 of 2
    Article CONSECRATION OF THE ROYAL VICTORIAN CHAPTER, No. 2184. Page 1 of 2 →
Page 4

Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.

Consecration Of The Radnor Lodge, No. 2587.

after which thetoast of "Tbe M . W . the Grand Master , H . R . H . the Prince rf Wales , " was duly honoured . The next toast , which was proposed by Bro . Earl AMHERST , was " The M . W . Pro G . M ., the Earl of Lathom , G . C . B . ; the R . W . Deputy G . M ., the E ^ rl of Mount Edgcumbe ; and the rest of the Grand Oliicers , Present and Past . "

This was responded to . by Bro . E . LETCHWORTH , G . Sec , who , after thanking the company on behalf of those brethren whose names had been mentioned , but who were not present , assured them that it gave him great pleasure lo have helped to start a new lodge , which he feit had so great a future before it .

The toast of " The Worshipful Master" was proposed by Bro . E . LETCHWORTH , who alluded to the honour he had had that afternoon in installing Lord Radnor as W . M . He was sure that , under his lordship ' s able and genial . rule it would be one of the most successful and prosperous lodges in the province .

The WORSHIPFUL MASTER , in responding , assured them all of the p leasure it gave him lo accept the office of the first W . M . He was never more pleased than when he was asked to take that office . He thought Folkestone was quite large enough , and there was plenty of room in it , for two lodges . He was sorry that he could not spend more of his time in Folkestone , but the fact was that his ancestors had handed him down a

residence and large estates in Wilts , to which he was tied . He could not be in two places at once , and he could not be doing his duty in Wilts when he was with them in Folkestone , although he would much prefer his title to have been Earl of Folkestone instead of Earl of Radnor , a title which was conferred j ears ago on one of his ancestors , who was given a title which had lapsed . ' He could assure them that he had the best interests of Folkestone at hpart . and he would do all he could for the town .

Bro . Lieut .-Col . HAMILTON , J . W ., in a brief speech , proposed " the Visitors . " Bros . RUSSELL and C . J . SAUNDERS , W . M . 55 S , responded . "The Officers of the Lodge" was next proposed by the WORSHIPFUL MASTER .

Bro . Lieut .-Col . W . K . WESTROPP , S . W ., responded . He said if they looked around they would find that the church , the law , medicine , and the army had all their representatives in the officers of the Radnor Lodge . He trusted that they had gained some knowledge of lhat tact , courtesy , and good fellowship , which was so essential to the prosperity and well-being of every institution , and without which no lodge in Freemasonry could exist .

On his own behalf , and he was sure he was expressing the sentiments of every officer of the lodge , when he added , on their behalt likewise , they were animated with the one desire to carry out with zeal , and to the best of their ability , the duties connected with their respective offices , and were impressed with the idea to forward its interests by every means in their power , and by their individual and combined action to render it worthy of their name , and as they hoped , in time worthy by its merits to rank at least as one of the

foremost ol the many lodges in the distinguished Province of Kent . When the centenary of the lodge came , he hoped that it would be found vigorous , prosperous , and happy , and that there would be an Earl of Radnor again to grace the chair . The other officers who responded were Bros . E . T . WARD , S . D . ; Lieut .-Col . G . H . O'MALLEV , D . C ; F . HALL , Treas . ; and A . H . GARDNER , Secretary . The Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a close .

During the evening some excellent songs were given by Bros . Perry , Lafone , Clements , and W . Francis . The music at the banquet was arranged under the able direction of Bro . H . G . Clements , who also accompanied .

In the course of the proceedings a telegram was sent to the Deputy Prov . G . M ., Bro . J . S . Eastes , P . G . D . Eng ., conveyingthe " Hearty good wishes " of the brethren for his speedy recovery . The following is a complete list of the founders of the Radnor Lodge , viz .: Bros , the Right Hon . the Earl of Radnor , P . G . M . and G . S . Wilts . ;

Viscount Folkestone , MP ., 778 ; Lieut .-Col . W . Keily Westropp , P . M . 2195 ; Lieut .-Col . C J . Hamilton , W . M . 2195 ; Rev . J . E . Player , 558 , P . M . 2237 , P . G . Chap . Kent , P . P . G . C . Norfolk ; Capt . C . Miller Layton , P . M . 200 , P . P . S . G . W . Herts ; Frederic Hall , P . M . 709 , 558 , P . P . G . Reg . Kent ; W . Chubb . M . RC . S ., P . M . 1436 ; R . Ritchie , P . M . 171 ;

A . J . de Butts , L . S . A ., S . D . 2195 , 558 ; E . T . Ward , J . P ., 284 ; Lieut .-Gen . Sir J Bevan Edwards , K . C . M . G ., C . B ., M . P . ; Maj .-Gen . E . A , Wood , C . B ., 349 ; Lieut .-Col . G . H . O'Malley , 271 , P . D . G . S . B . Gibraltar ; A . H . Gardner , 55 8 ; Rev . Claude Bosanquet , M . A ., 558 ; Lieut .-Col . F . A . Hutchins , 205 ; Brig .-Surg . E . D . Tomlinson , M . D ., 705 ; A , Atkinson , 55 S ; Rev . Denman Dean , 558 ; Lieut .-Gen . Boldero , C . B ., 515 ; C A . P . Osburne , F . R . CS . Edin ., J . W . 125 ; C . E . Fitzgerald , M . D ., 558 ; and Capt . Lafone , J . D . 1 C 65 .

Consecration Of The Royal Victorian Chapter, No. 2184.

CONSECRATION OF THE ROYAL VICTORIAN CHAPTER , No . 2184 .

The consecration of the above chapter took place on Monday , the 9 th inst ., at the Phcenix Hotel , Rainham , Essex , Comp . F . A . Philbrick , Q . C , G . Reg ., Grand Superintendent of the Province , being the Consecrating Officer , assisted by the following Grand and Prov . Grand Officers : Comps . Dring , H . ; A . G . Hayman , J . ; Clowes , S . N . ; T . J . Railing , S . E . ; and A . Lucking , DC .

The chapter having been solemnly opened , the ceremony was proceeded with , and the whole of the impressive and beautiful ceremony was carried out in its entirety , the following oration being eloquently given by Comp . HAYMAN , the Provincial Grand J . It is not without much misgiving that I find myself called upon to deliver the customary oration at the formation of this Royal Arch chapter . The fact that 1 am dealing with a subject so rich in interest and material , and so pure and elevated

in tone as Freemasonry , would feign lead me to ask your most indulgent reception of the necessarily scant and brief remarks 1 shall venture to offer . The interesting and solemn occasion in which we participate to-day naturally leads us reverently to contemplate the sublime basis upon which our stupendous Order rests , to consider the influence and golden attributes which contribute to its stability , and demonstrate its usefulness and the obligations—the qualities of mind and heart , which are . incumbent upon all those who , being Master Masons , are

Consecration Of The Royal Victorian Chapter, No. 2184.

seeking to complete their Masonic edifice by proceeding to the higher Degree of Holy Royal Arch . However beautiful and graceful other Degrees may be , the Royal Arch must ever be the very climax and cap-stone of the Order , for it deals with a theme which is before all other themes—the contemplation of Him who was , and is , and shall be , the sarrie from everlasting to everlasting—all creation being dependent upon His Almighty Will . The reli gious principles on which the mighty Order rests are doubtless in

the first instance common with that universal craving for a knowledge of God which has affected devout men in every age and every sphere , and it is this humble recognition of the Most High in the working of His Divine purposes which constitute us members of the same mystic fold , by acknowledging the One Supreme Creator and God whose triune attributes are infinite , omnipotent , and omnipresent . Masonry has had many subtle enemies within and without , alike among the cultured and the ignorant : her ceremonies have been denounced as

trifling and profane , and her organisation as dangerous . Yet because of h . r sublime original , in the face of all opposition , the sun of Masonry shines with unabated vigour . The virtues which we profess and which so materially contribute to the stability of our Order—morality , benevolence , Charity , justice , truth and loyalty are the natural outcome of these religious principles , so closely allied the one to the other as to be beyond our power of divorce . I cannot here dwell on the cosmopolitan character of our principles and teaching , but we cannot forget

that it is deep enough to furnish fields of research for the studious and broad enough to admit of a membership of nearly two millions of our fellow creatures speaking every language known to the civilised world . Men in the first rank of intellect and ability have directed their researches to the history of our mysteries and to the various studies of astronomical , chemical , and moral science which are elucidated and enunciated in our ceremonies and teaching , whilst the humblest who may enter the sacred portals of this august Degree with fitting

reverence , and who ponder its meanings and mysteries cannot but find an incentive to cultivate his intellectual faculties as well as to model his life by the sacred dictates of morality and religion . To those who follow her teachings , and who seek for true knowledge , she offers ever new results and incentives r . o the praise and adoration of the Great Architect of the Universe . Not opposed to Christianity as some would think , but rather as the handmaid of religion , she pursues the even tenour of her way content with doing good , deriving

the lessons she expounds in morality , wisdom , and Charity from a source which can utter no uncertain sound , the Volume of the Sacred Law . Thus by a proper study of Masonry , we may learn our duty to God and man . And lastly , will you permit me to refer to our obligations as Masons and their special bearing upon us on such an auspicious occasion as the present . The occasion ot our convocation is a matter of congratulation to you , Most Excellent , as the Grand Superintendent of the province as well as for the founders of the chapter . Let us make the Victorian

Chapter worthy of our ancient Institution , worthy of the province and of each other . It is feared by some ( speaking of Masonry generally ) that there is a tendency to endanger the dignity—and thereby the stability and usefulness—of our Order by opening her sacred portals too widely or without a due discrimination and searching enquiry . Alas ! that this should ever be so . As to those whose object is to seek their own selfish advantage , by whom our sacred mysteries are but lightly esteemed , their solemn obligations but faintly

realised , or those who , by any excess or want of self-restraint in word or act , are apt to encourage a flippant criticism of ouc sacted mysteries , or to bring discredit on our social recreations , of such Masonry can well afford to be without . Our strength does not consist in numbers , and our responsibilities to our solemn obligations and to each other are alike individual and collective . As has been truly said— "The strength of a noble edifice is estimated not by the size of its buttresses , or the number of its towers and arches , but by the strength of its

foundations , the quality of its material , and the workmanship bestowed upon it . " Let us not forget that in assisting in the inauguration of this chapter we are adding another to our obligations to exemplify the tenets of our sublime teaching . It enjoins us , by diligence and fidelity in the duties of our respective stations , by constancy and sincerity in our friendships , by a liberal and diffusive Charity , and by a blameless life , to show what happy and beneficial effects flow from our ancient and honourable institution . I cannot find m > re fitting words to close this address

than in the charge so familiar to you— " When you quit this sacred retreat of friendship and mix again with the world , amid its cares and employments , forget not the duties which have been so frequently inculcated and strongly recommended in this supreme convocation . Be ye , therefore , discreet , prudent , and tempeiate . Remember that around this altar ye have voluntarily and solemnly vowed to befriend and relieve with unhesitating cordiality every brother who shall need your assistance , sympathy , or advice ; that you have promised to

remind him in the most gentle manner of his failings , and to aid in his reformation ; to defend and vindicate his character when wrongfully traduced , and to suggest the most palliating and favourable circumstances even when he is justly liable to blame . Thus shall the world see how Masons love one another . But , my companions , you are to extend this noble sentiment yet farther . Let me impress upon your hearts that every human being has an undoubted claim on

your kind ollices , and while we more particularly recommend to your care the household of the faithful , we strictly enjoin you to carry comfort and consolation to all your fellow creatures in the hour of their need . Let it not be said that you have laboured in vain or wasted your strength for nought ; for your work is betore the Lord , your recompense is with your God . Finally , companions , be all of one mind , and live in peace with each other , and may the Most High God delight to dwell among you and bless you for evermore . "

At the conclusion of the ceremony , Comp . Eedle , P . Z . 141 , inducted the M . E . Z . designate , Comp . C . Jolly , P . Z . 915 and 1472 , into his chair ol M . E . Z ., and Comp . Jolly then installed his Second and Third Principals , Comps . T . Ringrose , 898 , and J . S . Hammond , jun ., 65 , into their respective chairs of H . anu J . The following officers were then elected and invested : Comps . C J . Gardand , S . N . ; W . Harvey , S . E . ; F . J . Eedle , l . P . Z . and Treas . ; E . C . Talbot , P . S . ; Joseph Cohen , 1 st A . S . ; J . Block , 2 nd A . S . ; H . Dow-White , D . C ; V . W . Robinson , Org . ; G . Brown , Stwd . ; and J

Ives , Janitor . Votes of thanks were passed to the Installing Officers , the same to be inscribed on the minutes of the chapter , and they were elected , with acclamation , hon . members of the chapter and presented with founders ' jewels , for all and several of which thanks were returned . A list of some 30 candidates for exaltation and joining was then proposed , and the chapter was closed .

The banquet was elegantly served , and was well worthy of the esteemed caterer , Bro . Joyce . The usual loyal , Grand , and Provincial Grand Chapter toasts were proposed and diunk with enthusiasm , Comp . PHILIIRICK receiving an ovation when he rose to return thanks for the toast of his health , both as Grand Superintendent of the Province and Consecrating Officer .

Several other toasts followed , and that there is a grand future before the chapter may be inferred from the number and rank of the founders , who are as follows : Comps . Sir W . Abdy , Bart ., J . 1024 ; W . C Pritchard , 141 ; M . A . Blest , 913 ; F . W . Robinson , 1423 ; S . H . Holt , 1423 ; A . B . Remington , 720 ; and I . VV . Stevens , 72 a .

“The Freemason: 1895-12-21, Page 4” Masonic Periodicals Online, Library and Museum of Freemasonry, 8 April 2026, django:8000/periodicals/fvl/issues/fvl_21121895/page/4/.
  • List
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Title Category Page
CONTENTS. Article 1
THE NEW BOARD OF GENERAL PURPOSES. Article 1
NEW ZEALAND. Article 2
CONSECRATION OF THE QUEEN VICTORIA LODGE No. 2584, AT MANCHESTER. Article 2
CONSECRATION OF THE RADNOR LODGE, No. 2587. Article 3
CONSECRATION OF THE ROYAL VICTORIAN CHAPTER, No. 2184. Article 4
INSTALLATION OF THE EARL OF ONSLOW, G.C.M.G., AS PROVINCIAL GRAND MARK MASTER OF SURREY. Article 5
INSTALLATION OF THE PROV. PRIOR OF DEVONSHIRE. Article 5
ANNUAL SUPPER OF THE LANGTON LODGE OF INSTRUCTION, No. 1673. Article 6
THE PRINCE OF WALES AND THE IMPERIAL INSTITUTE. Article 6
MASONIC PRESENTATION TO BRO. DR. AND MRS. WILLIAMS COCK. Article 6
LADIES' NIGHT OF THE ALBION LODGE, No. 9. Article 6
The Craft Abroad. Article 7
Secret Monitor. Article 7
Cryptic Masonry. Article 7
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Masonic Notes. Article 9
Correspondence. Article 10
Reviews. Article 10
Masonic Notes and Queries. Article 11
BOARD OF BENEVOLENCE. Article 11
INTERESTING PRESENTATION TO BRO. JONES. Article 11
Craft Masonry. Article 11
Lodges and Chapters of Instruction. Article 13
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY RAILWAY FACILITIES. Article 13
DEATH. Article 13
Masonic and General Tidings. Article 14
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Consecration Of The Radnor Lodge, No. 2587.

after which thetoast of "Tbe M . W . the Grand Master , H . R . H . the Prince rf Wales , " was duly honoured . The next toast , which was proposed by Bro . Earl AMHERST , was " The M . W . Pro G . M ., the Earl of Lathom , G . C . B . ; the R . W . Deputy G . M ., the E ^ rl of Mount Edgcumbe ; and the rest of the Grand Oliicers , Present and Past . "

This was responded to . by Bro . E . LETCHWORTH , G . Sec , who , after thanking the company on behalf of those brethren whose names had been mentioned , but who were not present , assured them that it gave him great pleasure lo have helped to start a new lodge , which he feit had so great a future before it .

The toast of " The Worshipful Master" was proposed by Bro . E . LETCHWORTH , who alluded to the honour he had had that afternoon in installing Lord Radnor as W . M . He was sure that , under his lordship ' s able and genial . rule it would be one of the most successful and prosperous lodges in the province .

The WORSHIPFUL MASTER , in responding , assured them all of the p leasure it gave him lo accept the office of the first W . M . He was never more pleased than when he was asked to take that office . He thought Folkestone was quite large enough , and there was plenty of room in it , for two lodges . He was sorry that he could not spend more of his time in Folkestone , but the fact was that his ancestors had handed him down a

residence and large estates in Wilts , to which he was tied . He could not be in two places at once , and he could not be doing his duty in Wilts when he was with them in Folkestone , although he would much prefer his title to have been Earl of Folkestone instead of Earl of Radnor , a title which was conferred j ears ago on one of his ancestors , who was given a title which had lapsed . ' He could assure them that he had the best interests of Folkestone at hpart . and he would do all he could for the town .

Bro . Lieut .-Col . HAMILTON , J . W ., in a brief speech , proposed " the Visitors . " Bros . RUSSELL and C . J . SAUNDERS , W . M . 55 S , responded . "The Officers of the Lodge" was next proposed by the WORSHIPFUL MASTER .

Bro . Lieut .-Col . W . K . WESTROPP , S . W ., responded . He said if they looked around they would find that the church , the law , medicine , and the army had all their representatives in the officers of the Radnor Lodge . He trusted that they had gained some knowledge of lhat tact , courtesy , and good fellowship , which was so essential to the prosperity and well-being of every institution , and without which no lodge in Freemasonry could exist .

On his own behalf , and he was sure he was expressing the sentiments of every officer of the lodge , when he added , on their behalt likewise , they were animated with the one desire to carry out with zeal , and to the best of their ability , the duties connected with their respective offices , and were impressed with the idea to forward its interests by every means in their power , and by their individual and combined action to render it worthy of their name , and as they hoped , in time worthy by its merits to rank at least as one of the

foremost ol the many lodges in the distinguished Province of Kent . When the centenary of the lodge came , he hoped that it would be found vigorous , prosperous , and happy , and that there would be an Earl of Radnor again to grace the chair . The other officers who responded were Bros . E . T . WARD , S . D . ; Lieut .-Col . G . H . O'MALLEV , D . C ; F . HALL , Treas . ; and A . H . GARDNER , Secretary . The Tyler ' s toast brought the proceedings to a close .

During the evening some excellent songs were given by Bros . Perry , Lafone , Clements , and W . Francis . The music at the banquet was arranged under the able direction of Bro . H . G . Clements , who also accompanied .

In the course of the proceedings a telegram was sent to the Deputy Prov . G . M ., Bro . J . S . Eastes , P . G . D . Eng ., conveyingthe " Hearty good wishes " of the brethren for his speedy recovery . The following is a complete list of the founders of the Radnor Lodge , viz .: Bros , the Right Hon . the Earl of Radnor , P . G . M . and G . S . Wilts . ;

Viscount Folkestone , MP ., 778 ; Lieut .-Col . W . Keily Westropp , P . M . 2195 ; Lieut .-Col . C J . Hamilton , W . M . 2195 ; Rev . J . E . Player , 558 , P . M . 2237 , P . G . Chap . Kent , P . P . G . C . Norfolk ; Capt . C . Miller Layton , P . M . 200 , P . P . S . G . W . Herts ; Frederic Hall , P . M . 709 , 558 , P . P . G . Reg . Kent ; W . Chubb . M . RC . S ., P . M . 1436 ; R . Ritchie , P . M . 171 ;

A . J . de Butts , L . S . A ., S . D . 2195 , 558 ; E . T . Ward , J . P ., 284 ; Lieut .-Gen . Sir J Bevan Edwards , K . C . M . G ., C . B ., M . P . ; Maj .-Gen . E . A , Wood , C . B ., 349 ; Lieut .-Col . G . H . O'Malley , 271 , P . D . G . S . B . Gibraltar ; A . H . Gardner , 55 8 ; Rev . Claude Bosanquet , M . A ., 558 ; Lieut .-Col . F . A . Hutchins , 205 ; Brig .-Surg . E . D . Tomlinson , M . D ., 705 ; A , Atkinson , 55 S ; Rev . Denman Dean , 558 ; Lieut .-Gen . Boldero , C . B ., 515 ; C A . P . Osburne , F . R . CS . Edin ., J . W . 125 ; C . E . Fitzgerald , M . D ., 558 ; and Capt . Lafone , J . D . 1 C 65 .

Consecration Of The Royal Victorian Chapter, No. 2184.

CONSECRATION OF THE ROYAL VICTORIAN CHAPTER , No . 2184 .

The consecration of the above chapter took place on Monday , the 9 th inst ., at the Phcenix Hotel , Rainham , Essex , Comp . F . A . Philbrick , Q . C , G . Reg ., Grand Superintendent of the Province , being the Consecrating Officer , assisted by the following Grand and Prov . Grand Officers : Comps . Dring , H . ; A . G . Hayman , J . ; Clowes , S . N . ; T . J . Railing , S . E . ; and A . Lucking , DC .

The chapter having been solemnly opened , the ceremony was proceeded with , and the whole of the impressive and beautiful ceremony was carried out in its entirety , the following oration being eloquently given by Comp . HAYMAN , the Provincial Grand J . It is not without much misgiving that I find myself called upon to deliver the customary oration at the formation of this Royal Arch chapter . The fact that 1 am dealing with a subject so rich in interest and material , and so pure and elevated

in tone as Freemasonry , would feign lead me to ask your most indulgent reception of the necessarily scant and brief remarks 1 shall venture to offer . The interesting and solemn occasion in which we participate to-day naturally leads us reverently to contemplate the sublime basis upon which our stupendous Order rests , to consider the influence and golden attributes which contribute to its stability , and demonstrate its usefulness and the obligations—the qualities of mind and heart , which are . incumbent upon all those who , being Master Masons , are

Consecration Of The Royal Victorian Chapter, No. 2184.

seeking to complete their Masonic edifice by proceeding to the higher Degree of Holy Royal Arch . However beautiful and graceful other Degrees may be , the Royal Arch must ever be the very climax and cap-stone of the Order , for it deals with a theme which is before all other themes—the contemplation of Him who was , and is , and shall be , the sarrie from everlasting to everlasting—all creation being dependent upon His Almighty Will . The reli gious principles on which the mighty Order rests are doubtless in

the first instance common with that universal craving for a knowledge of God which has affected devout men in every age and every sphere , and it is this humble recognition of the Most High in the working of His Divine purposes which constitute us members of the same mystic fold , by acknowledging the One Supreme Creator and God whose triune attributes are infinite , omnipotent , and omnipresent . Masonry has had many subtle enemies within and without , alike among the cultured and the ignorant : her ceremonies have been denounced as

trifling and profane , and her organisation as dangerous . Yet because of h . r sublime original , in the face of all opposition , the sun of Masonry shines with unabated vigour . The virtues which we profess and which so materially contribute to the stability of our Order—morality , benevolence , Charity , justice , truth and loyalty are the natural outcome of these religious principles , so closely allied the one to the other as to be beyond our power of divorce . I cannot here dwell on the cosmopolitan character of our principles and teaching , but we cannot forget

that it is deep enough to furnish fields of research for the studious and broad enough to admit of a membership of nearly two millions of our fellow creatures speaking every language known to the civilised world . Men in the first rank of intellect and ability have directed their researches to the history of our mysteries and to the various studies of astronomical , chemical , and moral science which are elucidated and enunciated in our ceremonies and teaching , whilst the humblest who may enter the sacred portals of this august Degree with fitting

reverence , and who ponder its meanings and mysteries cannot but find an incentive to cultivate his intellectual faculties as well as to model his life by the sacred dictates of morality and religion . To those who follow her teachings , and who seek for true knowledge , she offers ever new results and incentives r . o the praise and adoration of the Great Architect of the Universe . Not opposed to Christianity as some would think , but rather as the handmaid of religion , she pursues the even tenour of her way content with doing good , deriving

the lessons she expounds in morality , wisdom , and Charity from a source which can utter no uncertain sound , the Volume of the Sacred Law . Thus by a proper study of Masonry , we may learn our duty to God and man . And lastly , will you permit me to refer to our obligations as Masons and their special bearing upon us on such an auspicious occasion as the present . The occasion ot our convocation is a matter of congratulation to you , Most Excellent , as the Grand Superintendent of the province as well as for the founders of the chapter . Let us make the Victorian

Chapter worthy of our ancient Institution , worthy of the province and of each other . It is feared by some ( speaking of Masonry generally ) that there is a tendency to endanger the dignity—and thereby the stability and usefulness—of our Order by opening her sacred portals too widely or without a due discrimination and searching enquiry . Alas ! that this should ever be so . As to those whose object is to seek their own selfish advantage , by whom our sacred mysteries are but lightly esteemed , their solemn obligations but faintly

realised , or those who , by any excess or want of self-restraint in word or act , are apt to encourage a flippant criticism of ouc sacted mysteries , or to bring discredit on our social recreations , of such Masonry can well afford to be without . Our strength does not consist in numbers , and our responsibilities to our solemn obligations and to each other are alike individual and collective . As has been truly said— "The strength of a noble edifice is estimated not by the size of its buttresses , or the number of its towers and arches , but by the strength of its

foundations , the quality of its material , and the workmanship bestowed upon it . " Let us not forget that in assisting in the inauguration of this chapter we are adding another to our obligations to exemplify the tenets of our sublime teaching . It enjoins us , by diligence and fidelity in the duties of our respective stations , by constancy and sincerity in our friendships , by a liberal and diffusive Charity , and by a blameless life , to show what happy and beneficial effects flow from our ancient and honourable institution . I cannot find m > re fitting words to close this address

than in the charge so familiar to you— " When you quit this sacred retreat of friendship and mix again with the world , amid its cares and employments , forget not the duties which have been so frequently inculcated and strongly recommended in this supreme convocation . Be ye , therefore , discreet , prudent , and tempeiate . Remember that around this altar ye have voluntarily and solemnly vowed to befriend and relieve with unhesitating cordiality every brother who shall need your assistance , sympathy , or advice ; that you have promised to

remind him in the most gentle manner of his failings , and to aid in his reformation ; to defend and vindicate his character when wrongfully traduced , and to suggest the most palliating and favourable circumstances even when he is justly liable to blame . Thus shall the world see how Masons love one another . But , my companions , you are to extend this noble sentiment yet farther . Let me impress upon your hearts that every human being has an undoubted claim on

your kind ollices , and while we more particularly recommend to your care the household of the faithful , we strictly enjoin you to carry comfort and consolation to all your fellow creatures in the hour of their need . Let it not be said that you have laboured in vain or wasted your strength for nought ; for your work is betore the Lord , your recompense is with your God . Finally , companions , be all of one mind , and live in peace with each other , and may the Most High God delight to dwell among you and bless you for evermore . "

At the conclusion of the ceremony , Comp . Eedle , P . Z . 141 , inducted the M . E . Z . designate , Comp . C . Jolly , P . Z . 915 and 1472 , into his chair ol M . E . Z ., and Comp . Jolly then installed his Second and Third Principals , Comps . T . Ringrose , 898 , and J . S . Hammond , jun ., 65 , into their respective chairs of H . anu J . The following officers were then elected and invested : Comps . C J . Gardand , S . N . ; W . Harvey , S . E . ; F . J . Eedle , l . P . Z . and Treas . ; E . C . Talbot , P . S . ; Joseph Cohen , 1 st A . S . ; J . Block , 2 nd A . S . ; H . Dow-White , D . C ; V . W . Robinson , Org . ; G . Brown , Stwd . ; and J

Ives , Janitor . Votes of thanks were passed to the Installing Officers , the same to be inscribed on the minutes of the chapter , and they were elected , with acclamation , hon . members of the chapter and presented with founders ' jewels , for all and several of which thanks were returned . A list of some 30 candidates for exaltation and joining was then proposed , and the chapter was closed .

The banquet was elegantly served , and was well worthy of the esteemed caterer , Bro . Joyce . The usual loyal , Grand , and Provincial Grand Chapter toasts were proposed and diunk with enthusiasm , Comp . PHILIIRICK receiving an ovation when he rose to return thanks for the toast of his health , both as Grand Superintendent of the Province and Consecrating Officer .

Several other toasts followed , and that there is a grand future before the chapter may be inferred from the number and rank of the founders , who are as follows : Comps . Sir W . Abdy , Bart ., J . 1024 ; W . C Pritchard , 141 ; M . A . Blest , 913 ; F . W . Robinson , 1423 ; S . H . Holt , 1423 ; A . B . Remington , 720 ; and I . VV . Stevens , 72 a .

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