Address To Our Readers.

As regards the Craft , it continues to prosper ; and new lodges are being daily added to the amended list , though there are evident signs that a large number of the Australian lodges will shortly secede from the English rule .

The Committee appointed to arrange the Grand Lodge property , have entered into arrangements for the building of the first section , or that portion which is to be devoted to the exclusive use of the Craft , and we hope that within twelve months it will be ready for occupation .

In the meantime , the Masonic Union Company have opened their Hall , in Eedford Eow ; and the Knights Templars and English Mark Degree have taken up their quarters

there , to the evident deti'iment of the Ereemasons' Tavern , which cannot fail to be seriously injured if the promoters are enabled fully to carry out their plans . The Charities continue to flourish , and the foundation-stone of a new School-house for the Boys has been laid at "Wood Green , if not with that eclat which COLLM be wished ,,

at least with every prospect of its conducing to the prosperity of the Institution . The Girls' School has been enlarged so as to admit of the reception of 100 pupils , when the state of the funds will allow , which , looking at their rapid increase within the last few years , we feel cannot be long deferred .

The Eoyal Benevolent Institution for Aged Masons and their "Widows does notreceive that amount of support which it deserves ; but , as the approaching Eestival will take place on the anniversary of the birthday of its first patron , His late Eoyal Highness the Duke of Sussex , we trust the brethren will exert themselves to render it the best

festival—so far as pecuniary results are concerned—ever held . "We have now only again to thank our friends for past favours , and to wish theni

the usual Compliments of the Season—A Merry Christmas and a Happy . New Tear .