048717 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY V4^ 048717 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 1 Cornell University Library HS717.P41 A3 Report of committee to revise the const) 3 1924 030 372 548 olln.anx J The original of tliis book is in tlie Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030372548 REPORT OF COMMITTEE TO REVISE THE Conslitution, |^iite anir ^egiilatiaits, GRAND CHAPTER PENNSYLVANIA. PHILADELPHIA : KING & BAIRD, PRINTEES, No. 607 SANSOM STREET. 1863. in TO THE MOST EXCELLENT GRAND H. R. A. CHAPTER, PENNSYLVANIA. The Com'"- i.iwu appointed Timler Kcsolution of the Grand Chapter, August 30, I ''0, "to Ervisp the C iiiUion, Rules and Regulations of the Grant! Cli.'jp I," Hi •■ loave to Krii'iit to the i , and Chapter, for its consideration, the following Ci ' i ution, Forms, &c.. viz. . CONSTITUTION GRAND CHAPTER OF PENNSYLYAMA. GRAND CHAPTER. ARTICLE I. ORGANIZATION OF GRAND CHAPT1;H. The Most Excellent Grand Holy Eoyul Arch Chap- ter, shall be constituted : — Of all the Members of the Grand Lodge, for the time being, who are E.. A. Masons, and have received the Honorary degree of Mark Master, and been received and accepted most Excellent Masters, and who have passed the chair of a Lodge by election, and who are contributing mcmbovs of some subordinate chapter : All Past Grand High Priests : All Past High Priests, members of subordinate chap- ters : And all High Priests, Kings and Scribes, for the time being, of subordinate chapters under this jurisdiction. ARTICLE II. OFFICERS AND COMMITTEES. Section 1. The elective officers of the Grand Chap- ter shall be : — A Grand High Priest, a Grand King, a Grand Scribe, a Grand Treasurer and a Grand Secretary. Sec. 2. The officers of the Grand Chapter, appointed by the Grand High Priest shall be : — District Deputy G. H. Priests, (at the discretion of G. H. P. as to number,) a Grand Captain of the Host, a Grand Principal Sojourner, a Grand R. A. Captain, Grand Chaplains, (at the discretion of the G. H. P. as to number,) three Grand INIasters of the Vails, a Grand ]Marshal, two Grand Masters of Ceremonies, a Grand Pursuivant, and a Grand Tyler. Sec. 3. The Standing Committees of the G. Chapter shall be: — I. Committee on Land ]Marks. II. " Finance. III. " Correspondence. IV. " By-Laws. V. " Appeals. VI. " Charity. Sec. 4. The officers and committees of the Grand Chapter shall take precedence in the above order. ARTICLE III. elections. Section 1. The Elective Grand officers shall be chosen by ballot at the Quarterly Communication in November in each and every year, and continue in office until their successors respectively be duly elected and installed. Sec. 2. A majority of the whole number of votes given shall be necessary for a choice. But if, on the second ballot, no election be made, a third ballot shall be had, confined to the two highest, or when such instances occur, to the one who has a plurality, and the two or more the next highest on the return who shall have an equal number of votes. If on the third ballot no choice be made, the balloting on these principles shall be continued until one of the candidates shall receive a majority of all the votes given, or until they shall be equally divided between the candidates, in which event the contest shall be determined between them by lot. Sec. 3. The officers so elected shall be installed in their respective stations, on or before St. John the Evan- gelist's day next succeeding their election. Sec. 4. The Grand High Priest shall be installed by the next preceding Grand High Priest who may be present, assisted by a sufficient number of qualified B. A. Masons. Sec. 5. No one shall be eligible to the office of Grand High Priest, Grand King or Grand Scribe, who has not served a regular term of office as High Priest in some chapter under this jurisdiction. Sec. 6. In case of the death, or removal from this jurisdiction of either of the elective Grand Officers, it shall be the duty of the Grand High Priest or elective Grand Officer next in rank to summon the Grand Chap- ter for the purpose of supplying the vacancy by an election. Sec. 7. No R. A. Mason shall hold more than one office in the Grand Chapter, at one and the same time. 6-. AETICLE IV. MEETINGS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER. Section 1. The Grand Chapter shall hold Quarterly Communications on the third Monday in February, ^lay, August and November, and a Grand Communi- cation on St. John the Evangelist's Day, in every yeai. Sec. 2. It shall also meet on its own adjournments, and on the order of the G. H. Priest. Sec. 3. The Communications of the Grand Chapter shall be held at 6 o'clock in the evening, on and from the 2-5th of September to the 25th of ]March, and at 1 o'clock in the evening, on and from the 2oth of March to the 25 th of September. ARTICLE V. PROCEEDINGS IN GRAND CHAPTER. Section 1. The Grand Chapter shall not be opened, unless three Subordinate Chapters be represented bv members of the Grand Chapter, severally belonging to such Chapters. Sec. 2. In the absence of the G. H. Priest, the . Grand King and Grand Scribe, according to rank, shall preside in the Grand Chapter. In the absence of the G. H. Priest, Grand King and Grand Scribe, the Past G. H. Priests, in order of precedence^ shall take the chair ; and in their absence, the High Priest of the senior Chapter present shall preside. Sec. 3. The Grand Chapter being opened, the order of business, at the Quarterly Communications, shall be as follows : 1. The minutes of the preceding Quarterly, and all intervening Communications read. 2. Petitions, communications and appeals read. 3. Reports of committees read. 4. Returns of Chapters, Most Excellent and Mark INIaster's Lodges read. 5. Unfinished business, 6. New business.' But the presiding officer may, at any time, dispense with this order of business. Sec. 4. No business shall be entered upon, at a special meeting, but that for which the Grand Chapter shall have been specially summoned, and which shall have been set forth in the notices of said meeting. Sec. 5. Every memorial, petition, appeal, or other document, intended to be laid before the Grand Chapter shall be deposited with the Grand Secretary, at least twenty-four hours previous to any meeting. Sec. 6. No vote shall be taken at any but a Quarterly Communication of the Grand Chapter, touching a charge by or against any Chapter, ^lost Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge, or by or against any R. A. Mason, Most Excellent Master, or Mark Master, nor unless previous reasonable notice shall have been given to such Chapter or Lodge, or to such companion or brother, of the intended proceeding. Sec. 7. Every question shall be decided vica voce, by a majority of votes present; provided that Avhen any three members request a ballot it shall be allowed. Sec. 8. Every one who speaks shall rise and remain standing, addressing himself to the presiding officer, nor shall he be interrupted, unless he shall be digressing when the presiding officer shall call him to order. A'V'hen called to order he must sit down, but being corrected may again proceed. Sec. 9. No member shall speak more than twice to the same motion, without special permission from the (xrand Chapter. Sec. 10. Xo motion on a new subject shall be made, nor any new matter entered upon, after ten o'clock in the evening of any communication. AETICLE VI. KEPRESENTATIOK. Section 1. Any Chapter held at a greater distance than three miles from the place of meeting of the (jrand Chapter, may be represented in the Grand C'hapter by any member thereof, appointed by a reso- lution of buch Chapter, under the seal thereof, signed by the High Priest, and attested by the Secretary. Sec. "2. A member of the Grand Chapter shall not represent more than one Chapter at one and the same time. Sec. 3. Each representative of a Chapter shall be en- titled as such to one vote in addition to his own, and no more. Sec. 4. ISo Chapter shall be represented in the Grand Chapter until it shall have been duly consti- tuted, nor while its warrant is in sequestration. Sec. 5. A Most Excellent or Mark INIaster's Lodw. after it shall have been duly constituted, may be repre- sented in the Grand Chapter by any member of that body who is a R. A. INIason, but such repersentative sliall not be entitled to any vote in addition to his own bv virtue thereof Sec. 6. Whenever it shall be required bj' the con- stitution, rules or regulations of the Grand Chapter, or otherwise deemed necessary or proper to give any notice, information or other matter to a Chapter or Lodge having a representative in the Grand Chapter, such notice, information, or other matter may be given to said Chapter or Lodge through its representative, and shall be given in ample time to allow him to communicate the same to, and receive instructions from said Chapter or Lodge. AUTICLE VII. GENERAL POWERS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER, Section 1 . The Grand Chapter shall have and exercise supreme power and authority over Royal Arch, Most Excellent and Mark Masonry, and over all Masons of these degrees within the State of Pennsylvania. Sec. 2. It shall have power to regulate, superintend, and control the By-Laws of Chapters, Most Excellent and Mark ^Master's Lodges under its jurisdiction. Sec. 3. It shall have power to grant warrants for holding Royal Arch Chapters, Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges, and to suspend, revoke, restore, and exercise jurisdiction over the same as may be deemed expedient. ARTICLE VIII. POWERS AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER. GRAND HIGH PRIEST. Section 1. The Grand High Priest shall preside over the Grand Chapter at its sessions, superintend and govern its proceedings, and decide all points of order. 10 Sec. 2. In addition to every vote he may be entitled to in his own right, or as special representative of a subordinate Chapter, he shall have a casting vote when the votes of the members are equally 'divided, except in the election of officers. Sec. 3. The Grand High Priest shall have power : — • To appoint District Deputy Grand High Priests : To appoint a representative in a sister Grand Chapter : To appoint the subordinate officers of the Grand Chapter : To appoint all standing and special committees, unless a ballot be reqiiested by three members and ordered by the Grand Chapter : To confer, or cause to be conferred, in his presence, the degrees of Royal Arch, Most Excellent, and ]Mark blaster on Past Masters, at any time and in any place, H Chapter or Lodge being opened by him for that purpose : To grant dispensations for conferring the degrees of Royal .Vrch, INIost Excellent and INlark Master on Past Masters : To grant dispensations authorizing Chapters or ^lost Excellent or Mark Master's Lodges to hold elections to fill vacancies which may occur among their officers : To constitute in person or by deputy duly authorized, Royal Arch Chapters, and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges, and install the officers thereof: To command at any time the presence of the Grand Treasurer and Secretary, or any officer or committee of the Grand Chapter, with their books, papers and accounts : To summon any of the officers of a Chapter or of a jNIost Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge to attend 11 liim, and produce their warrant, books, documents and accounts : To summon any special or extra meeting of the Grand Chapter he -may deem necessary: To sequestrate the warrant and suspend the labors of any Chapter, or of any Most Excellent or Mark Mas- ter's Lodge, subject to the decision of the Grand Chap- ter, at its next subsequent quarterly communication, to which he shall report his action, with a detailed state- ment of the facts and of his reasons therefor : He shall be ex-ofhcio the chairman of every com- mittee, the High Priest of every Chapter, and Master of every Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge whose meeting he may attend. It shall be his duty to visit annually every Chapter aud Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge within the City of Philadelphia, and all other such Lodges and Chapters under his jurisdiction, if practicable. GRAND KING AND GRAND SCRIBE. 8ec. 4. The Grand King and Grand Scribe shall assist the Grand High Priest in the performance of his duties, and in the event of his death, absence, or removal from this jurisdiction shall in the order of rank succeed to all his powers and duties until otherwise provided for by the Grand Chapter. In the event of the death, absence, or removal from this jurisdiction of the Grand King, the Grand Scribe shall succeed to all his powers and duties, until otherwise provided for by the Grand Chapter. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND HIGH PRIESTS. Sec. 5. The District Deputy G. H. Priests shall severally have power within their respective districts 12 to congregate the officers and members of any Chapter or Most Excellent or ^Lxrk Master's Lodge therein, at their respective accustomed places of meeting, at such times as they shall think proper; to inspect it* labors, inquire into its condition and proceediug-s, give it ^Masonic advice and instruction, and report annually to the Grand Chapter the state and prospects of Royal Arch, ^lost Excellent, and Mark ^lasonry, and of every Chapter and Most Excellent and ]Mark ^Master's Lodge Avithin his jurisdiction. GRAJfD TREASURER. Sec. 6. To the Grand Treasurer shall be committed the receipt and payment of all moneys collected for the use of the Grand C^hapter, of which he shall keep a fair and regidar accomit, to be submifted to the inspection of the Grand Chapter, at every quarterly communi- cation thereof He shall not disburse any money, but on a copy of a resolution of the Grand Chapter, signed by the Grand High Priest and countersigned by the Grand Sccretar}-, and shall annually at the quarterly communication in Xo^ember, submit to the Grand Chapter a detailed account of his receipts and payments, supported by proper vouchers for examination and sanction. He shall open an account as Grand Trea- surer in one of tlie cit} banks through which all mone^ - received and paid by him on account of the Grand Chapter shall pass. He shall give security in such sum as the Grand Chapter may direct, for the faithful per- formance of his duty. GRAND SECRETARY. Sec. 7. To the custodv of the Grand Secretarv shall 13 be committed the books, papers and archives of the Grand Chapter, which he shall carefully file and pre- serve. He shall issue notices, printed or vv^ritten, for every meeting of the Grand Chapter, to every member residing within three miles of the Hall, and hand the same to the Grand Tyler sufficiently early, to be deli^-ered by him at least twenty-four hours before the time of meeting. He shall record all the proceedings of the Grand Chapter, conduct the domestic corres- pondence thereof, under the supervision of the Grand High Priest ; register the returns of every Chapter and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge when received and sanctioned by the Grand Chapter ; assist the Grand Treasurer in the collection of outstanding debts, and keep fair and regular accounts of the sums due to and by the Grand Chapter, submitting the same to the inspection of the Grand Chapter, the Grand High Priest or the Committee on Finance, as often as they may require ; and generally shall perform the accustomed duties of the station. He shall receive a salary of two hundred and fifty dollars per annum. GRAND TYLER. Sec. 8. The Grand Tyler shall attend every meeting of the Grand Chapter, assist in the arrangement thereof ; keep the regalia and furniture thereof in good con- dition ; deliver the notices for all meetings of the Grand Chapter, its officers and committees at least twenty- four hours before the hour of meeting, and generally do all such other services as may be required of him by the Grand Chapter or Grand High Priest. He shall receive a salary of one hundred dollars per annum. Sec. 9. The Grand Chaplains and Grand Tyler need not be members of the Grand Chapter. 14 ARTICLE IX. POWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMITTEES OF THE GRAND CHAPTER. Section 1. The standing committees shall consist of five members, and all special committees whose number is not specially provided for in the resolution calling for such committee, shall consist of three members. COMMITTEE ON LAND MARKS. Sec. 2. To the Committee oft Land jMarks shall be referred all questions touching the ancient land marks, customs and usages of the order, and the Constitution, Rules and Regulations of the Grand Chapter. COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. Sec. 3. To the Committee on Finance shall be re- ferred the annual accounts of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, and such other accounts as from time to time the Grand Chapter or elective Grand Officers may specially direct. This committee may at all times have access to the books and papers of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, and other officers or committees intrusted with the moneys of the Grand Chapter. It shall be the -duty of this committee to compare the charges made in the accounts referred to them, with the vouchers in support thereof, and gene- rally to examine into the correctness of such accounts, and report thereon to the Grand Chapter at the Quarterly Communication in February in each year. committee on correspondence. Sec. 4. To the Committee on Correspondence shall 15 be referred all communications addressed to this Grand Chapter from other Grand Chapters and Masonic bodies, and such other matters requiring special consideration as the Grand Chapter may deem proper to submit to them. They are to examine the transactions of the preceding year, and select therefrom such matter as may be material for publication. This committee shall re- port all its proceedings for the approbation of the Grand Chapter. COMMITTEE ON BY-LAWS. Sec. 5. To the Committee on By-Laws shall be referred as received, all by-laws, and standing resolu- tions of Chapters and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges submitted for th^ approbation of the Grand Chapter. It shall be the duty of this committee carefully to examine and revise such by-laws, expung- ing from them all provisions contravening the established usages and customs of the Order or the constitution^ rules and regidations of the Grand Chapter, to supply such deficiencies as may appear requisite, and to report their proceedings to the Grand Chapter for confir- mation. COMMITTEE ON APPEALS. Sec. 6. To the Committee on Appeals shall be referred all appeals from Chapters, and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges, and from any Companion or individual feeling himself Masonically aggrieved by the action of any Chapter, or Most Excellent or Marlv Master's Lodge. COMMITTEE ON CHARITY, Sec. 7. The Committee on Charity shall dispense the 16 charity of the Grand Chapter. It shall be governed by snch special regulations as may be enacted by the Grand Chapter from time to time. ARTICLE X. EEYEXUE OF GRAND CHAPTER. Section 1. The revenue of the Grand Chapter shall be derived from : — 1st. The fees for warrants to constitute Royal Arch Chapters and Most Excellent and Mark blaster's Lodges iii the State of Pennsylvania, which, beyond the City of Philadelphia, shall be as follows, all charges being therein included ; For a warrant to constitute a Royal Arch Chapter, $31 " " M. E. Masters Lodge, 12 Mark Master's " 14 The fees for warrants to constitute Royal Arch Chap- ters and Most Excellent and Mark Masters's Lodges within the City of Philadelphia shall be fifty per cent, liigher than the above rates. 2d. The dues to be annually paid on St. John the Evangelist's day, by every Royal Arch Chapter, and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge in the State of Pennsylvania, which is beyond the City of Phila- delphia, shall be as follows, viz. : Eor each one made a Royal Arch Mason therein, 70 cts. '' ^- " '■ Most Excellent Master " 20 '^ •'■ '" " " Mark :Master " 20 " ■• " '' " " Royal Arch Mason a member therof, 15 " " " " " Most Excellent and Mark Master, members there- of, . . . .20 " 17 The dues to be paid by every Eoyal Arch Chapter and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge within the City of Philadelphia, shall be fifty per cent, higher than the above rates : Provided always. That no Chap- ter or Lodge shall be required to pay dues upon any one of its members for more than one degree, and that one the highest which he shall be in possession of in such Chapter or Lodge respectively. No proposition to increase the fees and dues above established shall be received at any but a stated meet- ing, when it shall be forthwith comniunicated to every Chapter and Most Excellent ,and Mark Master's Lodge under this jurisdiction, and decided at the next stated meeting. ARTICLE XI. GRANT OF "WARRANTS. Section 1. No warrant for the constitution of a Eoyal Arch Chapter shall be granted except upon the petition of at least six R. A. Masons who have received the Most Excellent and Mark Master's degrees, and the recommendation of at least three known and approved R. A. Masons. Nor shall a warrant be granted to con- stitute a Royal Arch Chapter beyond the county of Philadelphia, within nine miles of the place of meeting of a Chapter already established, without the consent of such Chapter duly signified. Sec. 2. Every petitioner for a warrant shall produce a certificate of his resignation in good standing from the Chapter to which he last belonged, or where that is im- practicable, . satisfactory testimony that he is in good 18 standing with the Craft, and that he is not then a mem- ber of any Chapter. Sec. 3. Every warrant issued shall be accompanied by a copy of the Constitution, Rules and Regulations of the Grand Chapter, and a list of the Chapters and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges under this juris- diction. Sec. -i. No warrant for the constitution of a new Lodge of Most Excellent Masters shall be granted, except upon the petition of at least seven Most Excel- lent Masters, and the recommendation of at least three kno-\vn and approved Most Excellent ]Masters, and subject to rules and regulations similar to those re- quired upon the constitution of a Chapter. Sec. 5. Xo warrant for the constitution of a new Lodge of Mark Masters shall be granted, except upon the petition of at least seven Mark ^Masters, and the recom- mendation of .at least three known and approved Mark Masters, and subject to rules and regulations similar to those required upon the constitution of a Chapter. Sec. 6. Every warrant for constituting a Chapter of R. A. Masons shall contain a power therein to open and hold a Lodge of Most Excellent and INIark Master ^lasons ; the High Priest, King, and Scribe for the time being of such Chapter, shall be the blaster and "Wardens in said Lodges, according to rank. ARTICLE XII. VISITORS. Section 1. A Royal Arch Mason shall not be pemiitted to visit the Grand Chapter until he shall have received the degrees of a Most Excellent and Mark Master. 19 Sec. 2. Visitors unknown to the Grand High Priest are admitted into the Grand Chapter, on motion regularly made, seconded and adopted, upon the voucher of some companion present, either a member or visitor, or after examination. Visitors known to the Grand High Priest, may, at all times, be admitted by him without motion. ARTICLE Xni. Certificates. Section 1. Certificates in the name of the Grand Chapter shall be issued by the Grand Secretary on the deposit of a Chapter certificate, or on the recommenda- tion of a subordinate Chapter or its presiding officers. Sec. 2. Every certificate or recommendation from a Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge, shall state whether the Companion or Brother recom- mended is or is not a member thereof, and when and how he became a member. Sec. 3. A member of an extinct Chapter may re- ceive from the Grand Chapter, a certificate, on the recommendation of the Chapter nearest his place of residence. Sec. 4. All certificates in the name of the Grand Chapter shall be signed by the elective officers thereof, and sealed with the Grand Chapter seal, and shall con- tain in the margin, the signature of the person for whom it shall be issued. ARTICLE XIV. THE REGALIA OP THE GRAND AND SUBORDINATE CHAP- TERS AND MOST EXCELLENT AND MARK MASTER'S LODGES. Section L The Insignia of the Jewels of the 20 various officers of the Grand Chapter shall be re- spectively as follows, viz.: Of the G. H. Priest, a Mitre surmoimted by the Triple Tau. " Grand King, a Crown. " Grand Scribe, a Turban. " Grand Treasurer, Crossed Keys. " Grand Secretary, Crossed Pens. P. G. H. Priests, the Seven-Pointed Star. D. D. G. H. Priests, the Equilateral Triangle. " Grand Captain of the Host, Soldier with drawn Sword. " Grand Principal Sojourner, Pilgrim with Staff. " G. R. A. Captain, Cross-Hilted Swords, crossed. " Grand Masters of the Vails, Cross-Hilted Swords. " Grand Chaplains, the Bible. " Grand Marshal, Crossed Batons. " Grand Masters of Ceremonies, Crossed Wands. " Grand Pursuivant, Sabre crossed with Trumpet. " Grand Tyler, Crossed Sabres. ' Each of the before-named Insignia, (except that for the D. D. G. H. Priests,) shall be attached to an Equilateral Triangle, and the Triangle placed on a Circle. The Triangles and Circles of the Jewels of the Grand High Priest, Grand King and Grand Scribe shall each have a raised border on its inner and on its 21 outer edge. The Triangle of the G. H. Priest's Jewel shall have a Seven-Pointed Star in each of its angles ; that of the Grand King in each of its lower angles, and that of the Grand Scribe in its upper angle. The Triangles and Circles of the Jewels of the Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, and P. G. H. Priests shall each have a raised border on its outer edge. Those of all other officers shall be plain. The Jewels of office of the Grand Chapter, and the Medal of the Order shall be of gold or gilt, and shall be of the sizes and designs in the drawings hereunto annexed ; the Jewels of the offices of Subordinate Chapters shall be without the Circles, but in all other respects shall be similar to those of Grand Chapter. Sec. 2. The Apron of the Order shall be of white lambskin, from fourteen to sixteen inches wide, and from twelve to fourteen inches deep, with an indented scarlet and purple border, two inches wide ; the scarlet part pointing inward — the border of the flap, or lappet, to be only an inch wide. In the centre of the flap shall be a Triangle of satin, surrounded with a gold border, and within the Triangle the triple tau in gold spangled embroidery, and two gold tassels shall be suspended by ribbons two inches wide, coming from under the flap. The ground of the Triangle, the lining and strings of the Aprons, and the ribbons suspending the tassels, shall be purple for the officers of the Grand Chapter, scarlet for the officers of Subordinate Chapters, and for all other companions white. Sec. 3. The Jewels of office worn by of officers of the Grand Chapter shall be suspended by a collar of ribbed silk, four inches in width, of three colors, viz. blue, scarlet, and purple, in the order named, the blue on the 22 inner edge. The Jewels of office worn by the officers of Subordinate Chapters shall be suspended by a scarlet collar of ribbed silk, four inches in width ; the Medal of the Order be worn on the left breast, appended, according to the rank of the companion by a ribbon of ribbed silk, three-fourths of an inch wide, as follows, viz.: Present and Past Elective Officers of the Grand Chapter, tri-colored, corresponding with the collar; Present and Past Elective Officers of Subordinate Chapters, scarlet, corresponding with collar ; all other companions white. Sec. 4. The Jewels of Most Excellent Mark Mas- ter's and Lodges shall be the same as those of a Master Mason's Lodge; the collars and trimmings of the Aprons shall be blue and scarlet, — the blue of one-half the width of the collar or trimming, occupying the middle, and the scarlet placed on either side. AETICLE XV- SUBOEDINATE CHAPTERS, MOST EXCELLENT AXD MARK MASTER'S LODGES. A. OF THEIR ORGANIZATION AND POWERS. Section 1. All lawfully constituted assemblies of E.. A. Masons are called Eoyal Arch Chapters, and every legitimate Chapter within this State shall work under a warrant granted by this Grand Chapter, under the seal thereof, and signed by all the elective Grand officers. Sec. 2. Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges, may be opened under the warrant of any Chapter; and such Lodges may also be constituted under distinct 23 warrants to be duly granted by the Grand Chapter, under the seal thereof, and signed by all the elective Grand Officers. Sec. 3. Every Chapter and Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodge must be solemnly constituted by the G. H. Priest with his officers ; or in the absence of the G. H. Priest, by the Grand King or Grand Scribe in the order of their rank, or by a past High Priest, duly authorized, and assisted by a sufficient number of competent E. A. Masons, under the Grand High Priest's dispensation. Sec. 4. Every Chapter and Lodge shall have power to frame By-laws for its own government ; but no By-law or resolution in the nature of a permanent regulation, shall be valid until submitted to and approved by the Grand Chapter ; and as the ancient land-marks of the Order, and the rules and regulations of the Grand Chapter, are the supreme law of every Chapter and Lodge, no By-law or resolution which may prove to be inconsis- tent therewith, shall be held as valid. Sec. 5. No Chapter or Lodge shall pass any By-law, on any subject-matter treated of in Article XV of the Constitution of the Grand Chapter ; and every Chapter and Lodge, shall have said Article XV, printed and bound with its By-laws. Sec. 6. A Chapter or Lodge not distinguished by a name or title, shaU procure the approbation of the Grand Chapter to obtain one, which shall be registered with the Grand Secretary. Sec. 7. No Chapter or Lodge shall alter its name or title without the like approbation and registry. Sec. 8, The precedence of Chapters or Lodges recog- nized as being in existence, real or inchoate, on the 5th 24 of January, 1824, shall be determined by the date of their organization. Sec. 9. The precedence of Chapters or Lodges organ- ized since the 5th of January, 1824, shall be deter- mined by the order of the grant of their warrants of constitution. Sec. 10. Xo Chapter or Lodge shall publish any part of its proceedings, or any matter regarding Royal Arch, Most Excellent or INIark Masonry, without the consent of the Grand Chapter or Grand High Priest. Sec. 11. Xo Chapter or Lodge shall confer any degree on an appUcant, residing iu the vicinity of another Chapter or Lodge respectively without the previous permission of such Chapter or Lodge, or of the three principal officers thereof; but a Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge may confer these degrees respec- tively on an appUcant notwithstanding he resides in the vicinity of a Chapter, without the permission of such Chapter or the officers thereof. Sec. 12. The warrant of a Chapter or Lodge may be suspended or vacated by the Grand Chapter : By its refusal or neglect to make returns as required : By its refusal or neglect to pay the necessary fees and dues: By the death, dismission, or removal of the members : By not assembling during twelve months : By unmasonic conduct. But the warrant of a Chapter or Lodge having a suffi- cient number of members, shall in no case be suspended or vacated until such Chapter or Lodge shall have been duly warned of its offence, and notified to appear and answer the same. 25 Sec. 13. When the warrant of a Chapter or Lodge is vacated by the Grand Chapter, the last Secretary or Treasurer, shall, within three months thereafter surren- der to the Grand Secretary, the warrant, books and papers, jewels, furniture and funds of such Chapter or Lodge ; and the last presiding officer shall transmit to the Grand Secretary an inventory thereof, and be responsible for the execution of this section. No com- panion or brother of such Chapter or Lodge shall be admitted into any other Chapter or Lodge, nor entitled to the benefits of Royal Arch, Most Excellent, or Mark Masonry, untU he shall have paid all arrears due from him to such Chapter or Lodge, to the Grand Treasurer, or shall have had the same remitted by the Grand Chapter. Sec. 14. The majority of the members of a Chapter or Lodge may at any stated meeting, or special meeting called for that purpose, instruct their officers or repre- sentatives on any subject to be considered in the Grand Chapter and such instructions recorded on the minutes of the Chapter or Lodge, shall be binding on such officers or representatives. Sec. 15. Every Chapter and Lodge shall have a Masonic seal, to be affixed to its certificates and other documents required to be authenticated. An impres- sion from such seal shall be sent to the Grand Secre- tary, and notice of any change in such seal shall be given to him forthwith, with an impression from the substitute. 26 B. OFFICERS. Section 1. The elective officers of a subordinate Chapter shall be a High Priest, a King, a Scribe, a Treasurer, and Secretary; and the officers appointed by the High Priest shall be a Captain of the Host, a Principal Sojourner, a Royal Arch Captain, Three Mas- ters of the Vails, Two Masters of Ceremonies, a Pur- suivant, a Tyler and at the discretion of the High Priest, a Chaplain ; which officers shall take precedence in the order above named; the Chaplain, if one be appointed, lo take precedence next after the Royal Arch Captain. Sec. 2. The elective officers of a Most Excellent Master's Lodge, shall be, a ]Most Excellent Master, (who must be a Royal Arch Mason), Senior and Junior Wardens, Treasurer and Secretary ; and the officers to be appointed by the !Most Excellent Master shall be a Senior and Junior Deacon, two Masters of Ceremonies, a Pursuivant and a Tyler, and at the discretion of the M. E. M., a Chaplain. Sec. 3. The elective officers of a Mark Master's Lodg-e shall be a Master (who must be a R. A. Mason), Senior and Junior A^'ardens, Treasurer and Secretarv ; and the officers to be appointed by the W. M., shall be a Master, a Senior and Junior Overseer, two Masters of Ceremonies, a Pursuivant and a Tyler, and at the dis- cretion of the AV. M., a Chaplain. Sec. 4. The officers of a Chapter, in the order of their rank, shall be, ex-offido, officers of the Most Excellent and Mark Master's Lodges, which may be opened under the warrant of such Chapter 27 C. ELECTIONS. Section 1. The elective officers of a Chapter and Lodge shall be chosen annually by ballot at the stated meeting next preceding the feast of St. John the Evan- gelist. The election shall be conducted agreeably to the rules for the election of Grand Officers. (Consti- tution, Art. III., Sec. 2.) Sec. 2. The officers so elected shall, if practicable, be installed in their respective offices on or before St. John the Evangelist's day next succeeding their election, and shall continue in office one year, or until their successors respectively be duly elected and installed. Sec. 3. No Mason shall be elected or appointed to any office, except that of Tyler or Chaplain, in a Chapter or Lodge of which he is not a member. Sec. 4. In case of the death or removal from the jurisdiction of either of the elective officers of a Chapter or Lodge, the G. H. P. may upon request of the said Chapter or Lodge grant a dispensation to hold a special election to fill the vacancy so created and any vacancies which may arise by reason of such election. Sec. 5. No member of a Chapter or Lodge shall hold more than one office therein, at one and the same time. D. MEETINGS. Section 1. Every Chapter or Lodge having a separate constitution shall meet at least once in every three months. 28 Sec. 2. The hour of meeting shall be six o'clock in the evening on and from the 25th of September to the 25th of March, and seven o'clock in the evening on and from the 25th of March to the 25th of September. Sec. 3. Special meetings of a Chapter or Lodge may be convened at the pleasure of the High Priest or Master respectively; but no business vphich by the ancient usage of the Order, by the Constitution of the Grand Chapter, or by the By-Laws of the Chapter or Lodge, is required to be done at a stated meeting, shall be done at a special meeting ; nor any business except that for which such special meeting shall have been convened. Sec. 4. No motion on a new subject shall be made, nor any new matter entered upon after ten o'clock in thd evening of any meeting. Sec. 5. No Chapter or Lodge shall be removed from its accustomed place of meeting, but on motion to that effect in writing, made and seconded at one stated meeting and adopted at the next subsequent stated meeting, nor until such motion shall have been sub- mitted to and approved by the Grand Chapter; but should circumstances at any one time render the usual place of meeting improper, the High Priest or Master, may convene the Chapter or Lodge respectively at some other place. E. POWEKS AND DUTIES OP OPFIOERS. HIGH PRIESTS. Section 1. It is the especial duty of the High Priest to preside at the meetings of the Chapter, to enforce an 29 observance of its by-laws and of the constitution, rules and regulations of the Grand Chapter, to see that the officers and members discharge their duties faithfully, and that the property and funds of the Chapter be justly managed and disbursed. Sec. 2. He shaU decide all points of order ; and from such decision there shall be no appeal to his Chapter, but an appeal therefrom, by any member of the Chapter shall lie to the Grand Chapter. Sec. 3. The High Priest shall have povrer : — To appoint the subordinate officers of a Chapter : To appoint all standing and special committees unless otherwise provided by the By-Laws, or by the Reso- lutions for the appointment of such committees : To command at any time the presence of the Treas- urer and Secretary or any officer or committee of the Chapter, with their books, papers and accounts : To summon any special or extra meeting of the Chapter he may deem necessary : To preside in every Committee whose meetings he may see proper to attend. Sec. 4. He shall have a casting vote when the votes of the members are equally divided, except in the elec- tion for officers. Sec. 5. He shall have special charge of the warrant of constitution, which shall always be in his custody, and in the Chapter when opened and during the contin- uance of its labors. KING AND SCRIBE. Sec. 6. The King and Scribe shall assist the High Priest in the performance of his duties ; and in the event of his death, absence or removal from this juris- 30 diction shall, in the order of rank, succeed to all his powers and duties, till his successor is duly elected and installed. In the event of the death, absence or removal from the jurisdiction of the King, the Scribe succeeds to all his powers and duties until his successor is duly elected and installed. TKEASUREE. Sec. 7. The Treasurer shall keep an exact account of all moneys received and expended, and shall pay no moneys except on orders drawn upon him by the autho- rity of the Chapter, which shall be signed by the High Priest and countersigned by the Secretary. He shall have his books and vouchers always ready for examin- ation, at such periods as the by-laws may require, or whenever called upon by order of the High Priest, or Chapter. He shall perform such other duties as are incident to his office, or may be required by the by-laws. SECRETARY. Sec. 8. The Secretary shall keep correct minutes of all the transactions of the Chapter, proper to be com- mitted to writing. He shall preserve a copy of the By-Laws of the Chapter and of the Constitution, rules, regulations and edicts of the Grand Chapter, a list of the members and sojourners of the Chapter, and the dates of their admission and receiving the several degrees. He shall keep a record of all the deaths, expulsions, suspensions, rejections and resignations in the Chapter, and those communicated by the Grand Chapter; and shall transmit the names and dates of the former forthwith to the Grand Secretary. 31 OTHER OFFICERS, Sec. 9. The duties of other officers of a Chapter are those prescribed by the customs and usages of the order, and analogous to those of . corresponding officers in the Grand Chapter. OFFICERS OF MOST EXCELLENT AND MARK MASTER'S LODGES. Sec. 10. The duties and powers of these officers shall, in their respective Lodges, be similar to the duties and powers of the officers corresponding in rank of a Chap- ter as above provided. ADMISSION OF MEMBEES AND CONPEERING DEGREES. Section 1. An applicant for the Mark Master's Degree shall have some visible means of an honest livelihood and be a Master Mason in good standing with the Fraternity and the Master Mason's Lodge from which he hails, and competent to perform all the work in the degree he applies for. Sec. 2. An applicant for the Most Excellent Master's Degree, shall, in addition to the foregoing, be a Mark Master in good standing with the Mark Master's Lodge from which he hails, and shall have duly passed the chair in some regular Lodge, Sec. 3. An applicant for the Royal Arch Degree, shall, in addition to all the foregoing, be a Most Ex- cellent Master in good standing with the M, E, M, Lodge from which he hails. Sec. 4. An applicant for the degrees and member- ship or for membership only in a Chapter or Lodge, 32 shall petition for that puipose in writing at a stated meeting, at least one month prior to his reception, stating his age, occupation and residence, and the degree to which he has arrived in Masonry, and be recommended by at least two members of the Chapter or Lodge to which he applies, when a Committee of Inquiry of three members (excluding the recommending members) shall be appointed, who shall report at the next or some subsequent stated meeting, and if the report be favorable, the applicant may be baUotted for at a stated meeting, and receiving a unanimous vote shall be declared to be approved or elected. Sec. 5. An applicant for the degees and membership or for membership only, may withdraw his petition before report thereon, or after report and before ballot, if the report be favorable. Sec. 6. An applicant being once rejected, a second ballot may be had on motion to that effect duly made and seconded at one stated meeting and adopted at the next or a subsequent meeting ; but the ballot so allowed shall be taken at the meeting at which such motion is adopted. Sec. 7. An applicant being twice rejected, no further proceedings shall be had in his case, but by appeal to the Grand Chapter ; and no Chapter or Lodge shall act upon the petition of an appHcant who has been rejected in another Chapter or Lodge respectively, without the consent of the Grand Chapter, after notice to the Chap- ter or Lodge in which he has been rejected. Sec. 8. If the application is for membership only, the companion or brother must produce a certificate from the Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge, to which he last belonged, or other satisfactory proof 33 that he is not at the time of his application a member of any Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge respectively. Sec. 9. Should an applicant for the degrees and membership, or for membership only, neglect to come forward for the space of six months from the time he is approved or elected, all proceedings in such case shall be null and void, and a new application must be made as in the first instance. Sec. 10. No Chapter shall exalt any one to the degree of a Royal Arch Mason for a less sum than ten dollars, nor shall any Chapter or Lodge make an M. E. M. for a less sum than three dollars, nor a Mark Master for a less sum than three dollars; but these fees may be remitted by a vote of two-thirds of the members present at any stated meeting: Provided, That no partial remission of the fees shall be allowed. Sec. 11. The fees for conferring degrees shall, in all cases, be paid in advance, and in cash. Sec. 12. a Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's .Lodge may confer the respective degrees upon applicants as sojourners, without electing them members of the Chapter or Lodge. But the petitions must be presented, referred, and lie over one month, as in the case of applicants for membership ; unless by virtue of a dispensation from the Grand High Priest. Sec. 13. The Royal Arch degree shall not be con- ferred on a greater or less number than three at one and the same time. Sec. li. The Most Excellent degree shall not be con- ferred on a greater number than six at the same time. Sec. 15. The Mark degree shall not be conferred on a greater number than eighteen at the same time. 3 34 G. MEilBEES. Section 1. No Mason shall be a member of two Chapters or Lodges at one and the same time ; but a member of a warranted Most Excellent or ;Mark Master's Lodge may be a member of a Chapter ; and a member of a warranted Mark Master's Lodge may be a member of a warranted ]Most Excellent Master's Lodge. Sec. 2. The suspension or expulsion of a Royal Arch Mason ficom a Blue Lodge for nonpayment of dues shaU not affect his standing as a member or sojourner of a Chapter. or Most Excellent or [Mark Master's Lodge. Sec. 3. The suspension or expulsion of a Eoyal Arch ]Mason from a Blue Lodge for immoral or unmasonic conduct, shaU not of itself affect his standing as a Royal Arch or ^lost Excellent or ^Nlark blaster Mason ; but in such case it shall be the duty of his Chapter or Lodge to obtain, if possible, a record of thfe proceed- ings. of the Blue Lodge by which he shall have been expelled or suspended, together with a copy of the evidence taken ; and take action thereon at a stated meeting of the Chapter or Lodge respectively, having first given him due notice of the intended proceed- ing ; or if such record and evidence cannot be obtain- ed, it shall be the duty of the Chapter or Lodge to have a charge preferred against him founded on such suspension or expulsion, and proceed as hereinafter set forth. Sec. 4. The suspension or expulsion of a Royal Arch Mason from his Most Excellent or !Mark ^Master's Lodge 35 , shall, ipso facto, work his suspension or expulsion from his Chapter. Sec. 5. A member of a Chapter or Lodge ceases to be such by resignation, suspension or expulsion. Sec. 6. No member shall withdraw pending any inquiry into his conduct, nor until his dues shall have been paid or remitted. Sec. 7, A Chapter or Lodge shall have power to rep- rimand, suspend or expel its members for the following causes only, viz : — A Chapter or Lodge may reprimand a member for neglect of duty, or improper or disorderly conduct : It may suspend or expel a member for nonpayment of dues, or for immoral or unmasonic conduct, in the manner hereinafter set forth. Sec. 8. But no Chapter or Lodge shall suspend or expel a Mason who is not a member thereof at the time, nor exercise jurisdiction over any but its own members. Sec. 9. No expulsion or suspension, except suspension for nonpayment of dues, shall be valid, until submitted to and confirmed by the Grand Chapter. Sec. 10. a suspension may be removed and the member restored to good standing : Ist, by the payment of all arrears, where the suspension has been for non- payment of dues. 2d, by a vote of the Chapter or Lodge. Sec. 11. A member who shall have been expelled, whether for nonpayment of dues or otherwise, cannot be restored to good standing except by a vote of the Grand Chapter. Sec. 12. One who has ceased to be a member of a Chapter or Lodge cannot again become a member of the same or any other Chapter or Lodge except by petition, as hereinbefore provided for. 36 H. PROCEEDINGS AS TO SrSPEXSIOXS AND EXPULSIOXS. AS TO NOTICE. Section 1. EA'ery member of a Chapter or Lodge shall leave Avith the Secretaiy thereof, his address, to Avhich all his notices shall be sent ; and shall also promptly notify the Secretary of any change in his address. Sec. 2. A notice shall be deemed lawfully served if delivered personally, or left at the address recorded A\ith the Secretary, except in the case of a charge against a member for immoral or immasonic conduct whilehe is absent from the State, in which case it shall be neces- sary for the Chapter or Lodge to ascertain if possible, his actual address, and mail the notice to such address ; but, when after continued and diligent search it is found impossible to ascertain his address, the Chapter or Lodge shall appoint a competent member thereof as his attorney, upon whom all notices shall be served, and whose duty it shall be to conduct the defence of the accused to the best of his abilit)'. SUSPEXSIOX A^'D EXPULSION FOR Iv'OXPAT.MENT OF DUES. Sec. 3. The Secretary of each Chapter or Lodge shall annually in his notice of the stated meeting second preceding St. John the Evangelist's clay, furnish to each member a statement of the amount due by him to the Chapter or Lodge respectively, up to said St. John's day inclusive, with notice that if the same be not paid on or before the stated meeting next preceding St. .John the Evangelist's day, he will be suspended or expelled. 37 Sec. 4. Should the member so notified neglect or refuse to pay his dues on or before the said stated meeting next preceding St. John the Evangelist's day, he may at that meeting be suspended or expelled, proof having first -been made of the indebtedness, and of the service of the notice previoiis to the meeting, and the Secretary shall immediately transmit a copy of the pro- ceedings to the Grand Chapter for its sanction. Sec. 5. No member of a Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge shall be suspended or ex- pelled for the nonpayment of dues, in any other ' manner, nor at any other meetings, than as above specifically set forth. SUSPENSION" OE EXPULSION FOR IMMORAL OR UNMASONIC CONDUCT. Sec. 6. A charge against a member for immoral or immasonic conduct must be in writing; it must set forth the offence or offences as particularly and specifi- cally as its or their nature will permit; and it must be presented at a stated meeting of the Chapter or Lodge. Sec. T. If upon its face such charge shall appear to the Chapter or Lodge worthy of consideration, it shall be referred to a special committee, from which the accuser shall be excluded. Sec. 8. The Secretary shall make two copies of the charge, and of the resolution of reference to a com- mittee, together with the names of said committee, under the seal of the Chapter or Lodge signed by the High Priest or Master and attested by the Secretary ; one copy whereof shall be served on the accused, and the other given to the chairman of the committee. Sec. 9. The chairman of the committee shall notify 38 the accuser and the accused of the time and place when and where the committee will meet to take testimony, giving ample time to the parties to procure the attend- ance of their witnesses. Sec. 10. If at the meeting of the committee neither the accused nor any one in his behalf shall appear, proof must be taken of the service both of the copy of the charge and of the notice of the meeting. Proof of notice having been made, or the accused having ap- peared in person or by attorney, the committee shall proceed to examine the witnesses, whose testimony they shall reduce to writing. Sec. 11. The committee may adjourn from time to time as they may deem necessary or expedient. No special notice of the adjourned meetings shall be necessary, but it shall be announced openly by the chairman before the adjournment, of which all parties shall take notice. Sec. 12. The testimony having been all taken, and both parties folly heard, the committee shall proceed to make up their report in writing, with a copy of which they shall furnish the accused at least twentj'-four hours before the stated meeting of the Chapter or Lodge at which it is to be read, together with a statement when said report will be presented. Sec. 13. The report shall be presented and read at a stated meeting of the Chapter or Lodge. If the report be unfavorable to the accused, he shall, before any action be taken thereon, if present in person or by attorney, be heard in his own defence, after which, or in case of his absence, immediately on its beino- read the Chapter or Lodge may proceed to the consideration of the report, and after due discussion to the final vote. Sec. 14. If the vote shall result in an expulsion or 39 suspension, the Secretary shall transmit to the Grand Chapter, for its information and sanction, the record of the proceedings ; which record shall consist of the origi- nal charge, the resolution of reference, the copy thereof furnished the chairman of the committee, the minutes of the meetings of the committee, the testimony taken before the committee, the report of the committee, and a copy of the proceedings taken thereon by the Chapter or Lodge; which record shall remain on file in the office of the Grand Secretary. Sec. 15. No Royal Arch, Most Excellent or Mark Master Mason shall be suspended or expelled (except for non-payment of dues) otherwise than as above set forth. APPEALS AND COMPLAINTS. Section 1. Any Chapter or Lodge or member of the Craft, under this jurisdiction, aggrieved by the conduct or proceedings of any Chapter or Lodge or member of the Craft, may appeal or complain to the Grand Chapter. Sec. 2. All appeals shall be in writing, and at least ten days previous notice of the intended proceeding shall be given in writing to the appellee or party com- plained of. K. certificates. Section 1. No Chapter or Lodge shall grant a cer- tificate or recommendation to enable any Royal Arch Most Excellent or Mark Master Mason to travel as a pauper or in an itinerant manner to apply for relief. 40 L. KETURNS AND DUES. Section 1. Every Chapter or Lodge shall annually on or near St. John the Evangelist's day of every year, return to the Grand Chapter a complete list of all the degrees conferred therein, of members admitted, of the ~ applicants rejected, and of the deaths, resignations, ex- pulsions and suspensions in such Chapter or Lodge with the reason for each suspension or expulsion ; also a list of restorations to good standing, and of sus- pended or expelled members restored or reinstated by the Grand Chapter, since the preceding return. Sec. 2. Any Chapter or Lodge failing to make the required Annual Return 'on or before the third Monday of February, (or .if the Chapter or Lodge be beyond the limits of the State, then on or before the third Monday of June), after such return shall be due, shall be notified thereof by the Grand Secretary, and if such return be not received by him within three months (or if the Chapter or Lodge be beyond the limits of the State, then within six months) following the date of the notice, the Avarrant of the defaulting Chapter or Lodge is ipso facto suspended, and unless cause be shown to the con- trary may be vacated at the next or any subsequent quarterly communication of the Grand Chapter. Sec. 3. With every return shall be transmittted the fees and dues to the Grand Chapter which have accrued thereon, and any Chapter or Lodge in arrears for the dues of two years, shall be notified thereof by the Grand Secretary, and if such arrears be not discharged within six months from the date of the notice, the war- 41 rant of the defaulting Chapter or Lodge is ijyso facto suspended, and unless cause be shown to the contrary may be vacated at the next or any subsequent quarterly communication of the Grand Charter. Sec. 4. The warrant of any Chapter or Lodge sus- pended for default in making the Annual Return, or in transmitting the fees and dues to the Grand Chapter, is revived upon the receipt of such Return, or fees and dues, respectively. M. VISITORS. Section 1. Visitors unknown to the High Priest or Master may be admitted into a Chapter or Lodge on the voucher of some companion or brother present, or after examination. Visitors known to the High Priest or INIaster may be admitted by him without motion. Sec. 2. A companion or brother who is not a member of a Chapter or Lodge shall not be permitted to visit any Chapter or Lodge under this jurisdiction more than once. ARTICLE XVI. AMENDMENTS. No amendment or alteration of this Constitution shall be made, unless proposed at one Quarterly Com- munication of the Grand Chapter and acted upon at the next, or some subsequent Quarterly Communication, nor then, unless previous notice has been given to the subordinate Chapters and Lodges of such proposed amendments or alterations, and same shall be approved of by a majority of the members present. A.I>r»ENDIX. CEREMONIAL lapl Jlrrji, Mui iinlhnt, ul Mnxk BliiMnrg. CHAPTER I. PRAYERS. Prayer to be used at Opening. Most Holy and Glorious Lord God, Thou great Architect of heaven and earth, who art the giver of all good gifts and grace, and hast promised that when two or three are gathered together in Thy name, Thou wilt be in the midst of them : in Thy name we assemble and meet together, most humbly beseeching Thee to bless us in all our undertakings, that we may know and serve Thee aright, that all our doings may tend to Thy glory and the salvation of our souls. Prayers to be used at Closing. May the blessing of Heaven reston us and on all regular Free Masons ; may we practice out of the Chapter [or Lodge] those principles of religion and morality we are taught within it ; may every moral and social virtue cement us in the bond of peace and fraternal love, and procure Thy gracious favor, blessed Lord God, who livest and reignest in indescribable glory and happiness for ever and ever. Amen. 44 Or, the following. G-reat and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty ; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of kings and Lord of lords ! TVho shall not fear Thee, Lord, and glorify Thy name ? for Thou only art holy : for all nations shall come and worship before Thee, for Thy judgments are made manifest. By Thy wisdom may we be directed, by Thy strength may we be enabled, and by the beauty of virtue may we be incited to perform the obligations herein enjoined upon us ; to keep inviolably the mysteries here unfolded to us ; and invariably to practice all those duties out of the Chapter [or Lodge,] which are inculcated in it. Besponse. Amen. So mote it be. Or the following to he used at Closing a JIark Master's Lodge. Glorious Architect of the Universe — who alone art infinite and eternal, omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent ! We desire gratefully to acknowledge Thy protecting mercy through all the past and perilous scenes of life ; and we beseech Thee still to continue to be gracious ; and to increase in us all those heavenly dispositions, which are calculated to dignify our our character as men, and as Masons ; that we may thereby be enabled to let our " light shine before men,'''' and aid in promo- ting the strength and beauty of Thy spiritual temple. And whether we be stationed by Thee, our gracious and uner- ring Grand Master, in the plains of Zeredathah, or on the moun- tains of Libanus ; whether in using the chisel and the mallet on the rough ashler, or in putting on the top-stone of our mystic building ; do Thou, in mercy, preserve from all evil Thy faithful workmen, until they be called off from their earthly labors, to receive the wages Thou hast promised, and be sealed in their foreheads, and receive that ichite stone, in which there is a new name, that none knoweth, save him who receiveth it. And to Thee, our great Creator, and gracious Redeemer and Benefactor, we will ascribe all possible " blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, now and for evermore. Amen. 45 Prayer used at the exaltation of a Royal Arch Mason. Thou eternal and omnipotent Jehovah, the glorious and everlastijng I Am, permit us, Thy frail, and dependent creatures, in the name of our Most Excellent and Supreme High Priest, to approach Thy divine majesty. And, do Tljou, who sittest be- tween the Cherubim, incline Thine ear to the voice of our supplication ; and vouchsafe to commune with us from Thy mercy- seat. We humbly adore Thy unspeakable perfections, and Thy unbounded gopdness and benevolence. We bless Thee, that when man had sinned, and thereby fallen from his innocence and happiness. Thou didst still leave unto him the powers of reasoning and the capacity of improvement and pleasure. We adore Thee, that amidst the pains and calamities of our present state so many means of refreshment and satisfaction are afforded us, while trav- elling the rugged path of life. And Thou who didst aforetime appear unto Thy servant Moses in a flame of fire, out of the midst of a bush, enkindle, we beseech Thee, in each of our hearts a fl[ame of devotion to Thee, of love to each other, and of benevo- lence and charity to all mankind. May the veils of ignorance and blindness be removed from the eyes of our,understandiugs, that we may behold and adore Thy mighty and wondrous works. May the rod and staff of Thy grace and power continually support us, and defend and guard us from every temptation and evil. May the leprosy of sin be eradicated from our bosoms ; and may holiness to the Lord be engraven upon all our thoughts, words and actions. May the incense of devotion ascend contin- ually unto Thee, from the altar of our hearts, and burn day and night, as a sweet-smelling savor unto Thee. May we daily search the records of divine truth, that we maybe more and more instructed in our duty ; and may we share the blessedness of those who hear the sacred word and keep it. And finally, merciful Father, when we shall have passed through the outward veils of these earthly courts, when the earthly house of this tab- ernacle shall be dissolved, may we be admitted into the Holy of Holies above, into the presence of the Grand Council of Heaven, where the Supreme High Priest forever presides — forever reigus. Response. Amen ! So mote it be ! 46 Or the following : Thou hast loved us, O Lord our God, with eternal lore ; Thou hast spared us with great and exceeding patience, our Father and our King, for Thy great name's sake, and for our fathers' sake, who trusted in Thee, to whom Thou didst teach the statutes of life, that they might do after the statutes of Thy good pleasure with a perfect heart So we beseech Thee be Thou merciful unto us, our Father. Merciful Father, that showeth mercy, have mercy upon us, we beseech Thee, and put understanding into our hearts, that we may understand, hear, learn, teach, keep, do, and perform all the words of the doctrine of Thy law in love. Do Thou enlighten our eyes in Thy commandments, and cause our hearts to cleave to Thy law, and unite them in the love and fear of Thy name, and we shall not be ashamed, nor confounded, nor stumble, for ever and ever. Because we have trusted in Jehovah, mighty and terrible name, we will rejoice and be glad in Thy salvation, and in Thy mercies Lord our God; and the multitude of Thy mercies shall not shall forsake us for ever, Selah : And now make haste and bring upon us a blessing, and peace from the four corners of the earth ; for Thou art a God that workest salvation, and hast chosen us out of every people and language ; and Thou, our King, hast caused us cleave to Thy great name, in love and praise to Thee, and to be united to Thee, and to love Thy name. Blessed art Thou, O Lord God, who hast chosen Thy people Israel in love. Amen. CHARGES. At opening a Mark Master's Lodge. Wherefore, Brethren, lay aside all malice, and guile, and hypocrisy, and envies, and all evil speakings. If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious, to whom coming as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious; ye, also, as living stones, be ye built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up sacri- fices acceptable tb God. Wherefore, also, it is contained in the Scriptures : Behold, I lay in Zion, for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious corner 47 stone, a sure foundation ; he that believeth shall not make haste to pass it over. Unto you, therefore, which believe, it is an honor ; and even to them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner. Brethren, this is the will of God, that with well-doing ye put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of Grod. Honor all men, love the brotherhood, fear God. Charge to a Mark Master Mason. Brother : I congratulate you on having been thought worthy of being advanced to this honorable degree of Masonry. Let me im- press it upon your mind, that your assiduity should ever be commensurate with your duty, which becomes more and more extensive as you advance in Masonry. In the honorable character of Mark Master Mason, it is more par- ticularly your duty to endeavor to let your conduct in the Lodge, and among your brethren, be such as may stand the test of the Grand Overseer's square, that you may not, like the unfinished and imperfect work of the negligent and unfaithful of former times, be rejected and thrown aside, as unfit for that spiritual building, that house not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens. While such is your conduct, should misfortunes assail you, should friends forsake you, should envy traduce your good name, and malice persecute you; yet may you have confidence, that among Mark Master Masons, you will find friends who will administer relief to your distresses, and comfort in your aflfliic- tions ; ever bearing in mind, as a consolation under all the frowns of fortune, and as an encouragement to hope for better pros- pects, that the stone which the builders rejected — possessing merits to them unknown — became the chief stone of the corner. Charge to a Most Excellent Master Mason. Brother : Your admittance to this degree of Masonry is a proof of the good opinion the brethren of this Lodge entertain of your 48 Masonic abilities. Let this consideration induce you to be care- ful of forfeiting by misconduct and inattention to our rules, that esteem which has raised you to the rant you now possess. It is one of your great duties as a Most Excellent Master, to dispense light and truth to the uninformed Mason : and I need not remind you of the impossibility of complying with this obli- gation without possessing an accurate acquaintance with the lectures of each degree. If you are not already completely con- versant in all the degrees heretofore conferred on you, remember, that an indulgence, prompted by a belief that you will apply yourself with double diligence to make yourself so, has induced the brethren to accept you. Let it, therefore, be your unre- mitting study, to acquire such a degree of knowledge and infor- mation as shall enable you to discharge with propriety, the various duties incumbent on you, and to preserve unsullied, the title now conferred upon you of a Most Excellent Master. Charge to a Royal Arch Mason. Companion : By the consent and assistance of the members of this Chapter, you are now exalted to the supreme degree of a Royal Arch Mason. The rites and mysteries developed in this degree have been handed down through a chosen few, unchanged by time and uncontrolled by prejudice ; and we expect and trust they will be regarded by you with the same veneration, and transmitted with the same scrupulous purity to your successors. Xo one can reflect on the ceremonies of gaininn; admission into this place, without being forcibly struck with the important lessons which they teach. Here we are necessarily led to contemplate witli gratitude and admiration, the sacred source whence all earthly comforts flow • here we find additional inducements to continue steadfast and immovealjle in the discharge of our respective duties ; and here we are bound, by the most solemn ties, to promote each other's welfare and correct each other's failings, by advice, admonition and reproof. As it is our most earnest desire, and a duty we owe to our 49 companions of this Order, that the admission of every candidate into this Chapter, should be attended by the approbation of the most scrutinizing eye, we "hope always to possess the satisfaction of finding none among us, but such as will promote, to the utmost of their power, the great end of our Institntion. By paying due attention to this determination, we expect you will never recommend any candidate to this Chapter, whose abilities and knowledge of the preceding degrees you cannot fully vouch for, and whom you do not firmly and confidently beli«ve will conform to the principles of our Order, and fulfil the obliga- tions of a Royal Arch Mason. While such are our members, we may expect to be united in our object, without lukewarmness, inattention, or neglect; but zeal, fidelity, and affection, will be the distinguishing character- istics of our Society, and that satisfaction, harmony, and peace, may be enjoyed at our meetings, which no other Society can afford. CHAPTER III. Ceremonies and Charges upon Constituting a Royal Arch Chapter and Installing its Officers. The companions of the new Chapter will assemble in the Chapter room. The Grand Officers (or the Companion duly authorized hj the Grand High Priest for the purpose, with such other Companions as he shall have called to his assistance, J will meet at a convenient place on the day and hour ap- pointed. The officers of the new Chapter are then to wait upon the Grand High Priest, who will request the Deputy Grand High Priest to make the necessary examination, on which duty he will immediately enter, and on its completion, the proposed officers of the new Chapter will return to the Chapter room. The members of the new Chapter are then to send a messenger to the Grand High Priest, who will address him as follows ! "Most Excellent Gband High Priest : " The ofiicers and companions of Chapter, No. have instructed me to inform you, that the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania, having granted them a warrant to open and hold a Chapter in the they are desirous that the Chapter should be constituted, and the officers installed, agreeably to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity, for 60 whicli purpose they are now met in the Chapter room, by order of the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, and await his pleasure." The Grand High Priest will answer : " Companion : " Be pleased to inform the oiEcers and companions of Chapter, Xo. that the Grand High Priest and his officers will forth- with attend them to comply with their desires." The messenger returns to the Chapter room and makes his report, and the brethren prepare for the reception of the Grand OiEcers. The room will he opened and untyled, all the companions present quietly seated, the chairs of the officers remaining vacant ; each officer nominated for the new Chapter occupying a seat next to or near his intended chair; and the private members of the new Chapter seated in the northeast part of the room. Instrumental 3Juuc. March. — 'While the officers of the Grand Chapter enter the Chapter room. M"hen the Grand Officers enter, the companions will rise, with as much silence as possible, and remain standing until the Grand Officers take the respective chairs. A Eoyal Arch Chapter will then he opened by the Grand Officers in ancient form, and the Grand Chaplain will offer the following Prayer. "Almighty and Supreme High Priest of Heaven and Earth! Who is there in Heaven but Thee ! and who upon earth can stand in competition with Thee ! Thine Omniscient Mind brings all things in review, past, present, and to come ; Thine Omnipo- tent Arm directs the movements of the vast creation ; Thine Om- nipresent Eye pervades the secret recesses of everv heart : Tliv boundless beneficence supplies us with every comfort and eujnv- ment ; and Thine unspeakable perfections and glory surpass the understanding of the children of men ! Our Father who art in Heaven, we invoke Thy benediction upon the purposes of our present assembly. Let this Chapter be established to Thine honor ; let its officers be endowed with wisdom to discern, and fidelity to pursue its true interests ; let its members be ever mind- ful of the duty they owe to their God, the obedience they owe to their superiors, the love they owe to their equals, and the good will they owe to all mankind. Let this Chapter be consecrated 51 to Thy glory, and its members ever exemplify their love to God by their beneficence to man." " Grlory be to God on high. Response. " As it was in the beginning, is iiow, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. So mote it be." The Grand Marshal will then direct the officers and members of the new Chapter to form in front of the Grand High Priest, when the Deputy Grand High Priest will address the Grand High Priest as follows : " Most Excellent, "A number of companions, duly instructed in the sublime mysteries, being desirous of promoting the lionor, and propa- gating the principles of the Art, have applied to the Grand Chapter for a warrant to constitute a new Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, which having been obtained, they are now assembled for the purpose of being constituted, and having their officers in- stalled in due and ancient form." The Most Excellent Grand High Priest will answer : " Most Excellent Companion : " The Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania having been pleased to grant a warrant to the Companions of this new Chapter, con- ferring on them the rights and privileges of a regularly constituted Chapter, I shall proceed with pleasure, to comply with their re- quest :" And then addressing the Grand Secretary: " Companion Grand Secretary : " Be pleased to read the warrant granted by the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, for the constitution of Chapter No. ." The Grand Secretary will then read the warrant. When the warrant shall have been read — The Grand High Priest then rises and says : " By virtue of the high powers in me vested, I do form you, my respected companions, into a regular Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. From henceforth you are authorized and empowered to open and hold a Lodge of Mark Masters, a Lodge of Most Ex- cellent Masters, and a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons ; and to d,o and perform all such things as thereunto may appertain ; con- 62 forming in all your doings, to the Constitution, Rules, Regula- tions and Edicts of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania And may the God of your fathers be with you, guide and direct you in all your doings." The Grand Marshal then says : " I am directed to proclaim, and I do hereby proclaim , this Chapter, by the name of Chapter duly constituted." The officers of the new Chapter being in possession of their respective jewels and badges, though not yet invested or clothed with them, wiU pre- sent them to their High Priest, who will present them together with his own, to the Deputy Grand High Priest, who will present them to the Grand High Priest. The Deputy Grand High Priest will then present the High Priest elect of the new Chapter to the Grand High Priest, saying — Most Excellent Gra>jd High Priest: " I present you companion whom the mem- bers of the new Chapter, now to be constituted, have chosen for their High Priest." The Grand High Priest will ask them if they remain satisfied with their choice. The companions of the new Chapter will bow in token of assent. The Grand High Priest will then inquire of the Deputy, "Whether he has examined the High Priest chosen by the members and nominated in the warrant, and has found, him well skilled in the noble science and the royal art.'' The Deputy Grand High Priest answering in the affirmative, wUl advance with the High Priest elect, and present him in front of the pedestal of the Grand High Priest, saying — " Most Excellent Grand High Priest : " I present you my worthy companion to be installed High Priest of this new Chapter, I find him to be skil- ful in the Royal Art, and attentive to the moral precepts of our forefathers, and hare therefore no doubt but be will discharge the duties of his office with fidelity towards his Chapter, and in strict conformity to the requirements of the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter." The Grand High Priest will then address the High Priest elect, sayint' 53 " Companion : " Previous to your installation and investiture, it is necessary that you should give your unequivocal assent to certain questions which will now be proposed to you relative to the duties of your ofSce. " 1. Do you solemnly promise that you will redouble your en- deavors to correct the Vices, purify the morals, and promote the happiness of your Companions, who have attained this Supreme degree ? " 2. That you will never suffer your Chapter to be opened, unless there be present three regular Royal Arch Masons ? Nor the degree conferred unless there be present Six Royal Arch Masons ? " 3. That you will never suffer either more or less than three brethren to be exalted in your Chapter at one and the same time ? "4. Thatyou will not exalt any one to this degree, who has not shown a charitable and humane disposition, and who has not made considerable proficiency in preceding degrees ? " 5. That you will promote the general good of our order, and on all proper occasions, be ready to give and receive instructions, and particularly from the Grand officers ? " 6. That to the utmost of your power you will preserve the solemnities of our ceremonies, and behave, in open Chapter, with the most profound respect, and reverence, as an example to your companions ? " 7. That you will not acknowledge or have intercourse with any Chapter that does not work under a constitutional warrant or dispensation ? " 8. That you will not admit any visitor into your Chapter, who has not been exalted in a Chapter legally constituted, with- out his first being healed ? " 9. That you will observe and support such by-laws as may be made by your Chapter, they being in conformity to the Con- stitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania ? " 10. That you will pay respect and due obedience to the in- structions of the Grand Officers, particularly relating to the several Lectures and Charges, and will resign the chair to them, severally, when they may visit you Chapter ? 54 " 11. That you will support and observe the Constitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter under whose authority you act ? "Do you submit to all these things, and do you promise to observe and practice them faithfully ? These questions being answered in the affirmative, the Grand Chaplain will offer the following prayer : " Most holy and glorious Lord God, Thou Great High Priest of Heaven and Earth, " We approach Thee with reverence, and implore Thy blessing on the Companion appointed to preside over this new Chapter. Fill his heart with Thy fear that his tongue and actions may pro- nounce Thy glory. Make Iiim steadfast in Thy service ; grant him firmness of mind; animate his heart, and strengthen his endeavors ; may he teach Thy judgments and Thy laws ; and may the incense he shall put before Thee, upon Thine altar, prove an acceptable sac- rifice unto Thee. Bless him, Lord, and bless the work of his hands. Accept us in mercy ; hear Thou from Heaven Thy dwelling-place, and forgive our transgressions. " Glory be to God on high. Response. " As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen ! So mote it be." The Grand High Priest will then cause the High Priest elect to be invested with his clothing, badges, &c., after which he will address him as follows, viz ; " COMPANTON : " In consequence of your cheerful acquiescence in, and promise of conformity to, the ancient charges and regulations of our Order, you are now to be installed High Priest of this new Chapter, in full confidence of your care, skill and capacity to govern the same." All the Companions present who are not Past High Priests will then with" draw for a few minutes ; and during their absence the High Priest will lie installed by the Deputy Grand High Priest in ancient form. The Companions who have withdrawn wiU then return and take their seats. The Grand High Priest will then say : 55 " Most Excellent : " It is incumbent upon me, on this occasion to point out some of the particulars appertaining to your office, duty and dignity. " All legally constituted bodies of Royal Arch Masons, are called Chapters; as regular bodies of Masons of the preceding degrees are called Lodges. Every Chapter ought to assemble for work at least once in three months ; and must consist of a High Priest, King, Scribe, Captain of the Host, Principal So- journer, three Masters of the Veils, Treasurer, Secretary, and such other officers, and as many members as may be found con- venient for working to advantage. " The Officers of the Chapter officiate in the Lodges, holden for conferring the preparatory degrees., according to rank, as fol- lows, viz : " The High Priest, as Master. " The King, as Senior Warden. " The Scribe, as Junior Warden. " The Captain of the Host, as Senior Deacon. " Principal Sojourner, as Junior Deacon. " The Master of the first veil, Junior Overseer. " The Master of the second veil, as Senior Overseer. " The Master of the third veil, as Master Overseer. " The Treasurer, Secretary, and other officers, as officers of corresponding rank. " The High Priest of every Chapter has it in special charge to see that the by-laws of his Chapter, as well as the Constitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of the Grand Chapter of Pennsyl- vania are duly observed ; that all the officers of his Chapter per- form the duties of their respective offices faithfully, and are ex- amples of diligence and industry to their companions ; that true and accurate records of all the proceedings of the Chapter are kept by the Secretary ; that the Treasurer keeps and renders exact and just accounts of all the monies and other property belonging to the Chapter ; that the regular returns be made annually to the Grand Chapter ; and that the annual dues of the Grand Chapter be regularly and punctually paid. He has the right and authority of calling his Chapter together at pleasure, upon any emergency or occurence which, in his judgment, may require their meeting. 56 It is his privilege and duty, together with the King and Scribe, to attend the meetings of the Grand Chapter, either in person or by proxy ; and the well-being of the institution requires that this duty should on no occasion be omitted. "The office of High Priest is a station highly honorable to those who diligently perform the important duties annexed to it. By a frequent recurrence to the constitution and general regula- tions, and a constant practice of the several sublime lectures and charges, you will be best enabled to fulfil those duties ; and I am confident that the companions, who are chosen to preside with you, will add strength to your endeavors, and support to your exertions. " Let the Mitre, with which you are invested, remind you of the dignity of the office which you sustain, and its inscription im- press upon your mind a sense of your dependence upon God; that perfection is not given unto man upon earth, and that perfect holiness belongeth alone unto the Lord. " The Breastplate, with which you are decorated, in imitation of that upon which were engraven the names of the twelve tribes, and worn by the High Priest of Israel, is to teach you that you are always to bear in mind your responsibility to the laws and ordinances of the institution and that the honor and interests of vour Chapftr and its members, should always be near your heart. " The various colors of the Robes you wear, are emblematical of every grace and virtue which can adorn and beautify the human mind, each of which will be briefly illustrated in the course of the charges to be delivered to your subordinate officers. " You will now take charge of your officers, standing upon their right, and present them severally, in succession, to the Deputy Grand High Priest, by whom they will be presented to me for installation." The HiglL Priest of tte Chapter will then present the King to the Deputy Grand High Priest, who will present him to the Grand High Priest in the words used in presenting the High Priest, making the necessary variations for the office. The Grand High Priest will then ask him whether he has attended to the ancient charges and regulations before recited to his su- perior officer. If he answers in the affirmative, he is asked whether he fully and freely assents to the same. If he answers in the affirmative the Grand High Priest directs his Deputy to invest him with his olothiucr and instal him, and then addresses him as follows, viz.; 57 Charge to the King. " Excellent Companion : " The important station to which you have been appointed in this Chapter, requires from you exemplary conduct ; its duties demand your most assiduous attention ; you are to second and support the High Priest in all the requirements of his office ; and should circumstances at any time prevent his attendance, you are to succeed him in the performance of his duties. " Tour office teaches a striking lesson of humility. The insti- tutions of our sublime degree, by placing the King in a station subordinate to the High Priest, teach us that our duty to God is paramount to all other duties and should ever claim priority of our obedience to man. The Scarlet Rohe, an emblem of imperial dignity, should remind you of the paternal concern you should ever feel for the welfare of your Chapter, and the fervency and zeal with which you should endeavor to promote its prosperity. " In presenting to you the Gi-own, which is an emblem of roy- alty, I would remind you that to reign sovereign in the hearts and affections of men must be far more grateful to a generous and benevolent mind, than to rule over their lives and fortunes ; and that to enable you to enjoy this pre-eminence with honor and sat- isfaction, you must subject your own passions and prejudices to the dominion of reason and charity. " You are entitled to the second seat in the Council of your Companions. Let the bright example of your illustrious prede- cessor in the Grand Council at Jerusalem stimulate you to the faithful discharge of your duties ; and when the King of Kings shall summon you into his immediate presence, from his hand may ' you receive a crown of glory which shall never fade away. The King will then retire to the line of officers, and the Scribe will be presented in the manner before mentioned, and installed. After his in- vestiture, the Grand High Priest will address him as follows, viz.: Charge to the Scribe. " Excellent Companion : " The office of Scribe, to which you have been appointed, is very important. In the absence of your superior officers, you are bound to succeed them, and to perform their duties. The 58 purposes of the institution ought never to suffer for want of intelligence in its proper officers ; you will therefore perceive the necessity of your possessing such qualifications as will enable you to accomplish those duties which are incumbent upon you, in your appropriate station, as well as those which may occasionally devolve upon you by the absence of your superiors. "The Purple Rohe, with which you are invested, is an emblem of union, and is calculated to remind you that the harmony and unanimity of the Chapter should be your constant aim ; and to this end you are studiously to avoid all occasions of giving offence, or countenancing anything that may create divisions or dissen- sions. You are, by all means in your power, to endeavor to establish a permanent union and good understanding among all orders and degrees of Masonry ; and as the glorious sun, at its meridian height, dispels the mists and clouds which obscure the horizon, so may your exertions tend to dissipate the gloom of jealousy and discord whenever they may appear." The Scribe then retires to the line of officers, and the Treasurer is pre- sented. Charge to the Treasurer. " Companion : " I have the pleasure of investing you with the badge of your office as Treasurer of this new Chapter. The qualities which should recommend a Treasurer are accuracy and fidelity ; accu- racy in keeping a fair and minute account of all receipts and dis- bursements ; fidelity in carefully preserving all the property and funds of the Chapter that may be placed in his hands, and render- ing a just account of the same, whenever he is called upon for that purpose, I presume that your respect for the institution, your attachment to the interests of your Chapter, and your regard for a good name, which is better than precious ointment, will prompt you to the faithful discharge of the duties of your office." He then retires and the Secretary is presented. Charge to the Secretary. " Companion : " With pleasure I invest you with your badge as Secretary of 69 this Chapter. The qualities which should recommend a Secre- tary are, prompitude in issuing the notifications and orders of his superior ofiBcers ; punctuality in attending the meetings of the Chapter; correctness in recording their pvoceeA'mgs ; judgment in discriminating between what is proper and what is improper to be committed to writing ; regularity in making his annual returns to the Grand Chapter; integrity in accounting for all monej's that may pass through his hands ; a,iid fidelity' in paying the same ovev to the Treasurer. The possession of these good qualities, I presume, has influenced the Companions to select you for this important office, and I cannot entertain a doubt that you will discharge its duties beneficially to the Chapter and honorably to yourself. And when you shall have completed the record of your transactions here below, and finished the term of your pro- bation, may you be admitted into the celestial Grand Chapter of saints and angels, and find your name recorded in the book of life eternal.", He then retires. If the time will admit, and the presiding officer desires, such charges as he may think suitable and proper may then be delivered to the Captain of Host, Royal Arch Captain, Masters of the Veils and other officers, or such of them as he may choose, who shall in such case be separately presented to him in the order of their rank. The Grand High Priest then delivers the following ADDRESSES. Address to the High Priest. " Most ExcELiiENT Companion : " You have been duly installed most excellent High Priest of this Chapter. The station you are called to fill is important, not only as it respects the correct practice of our rites and ceremonies, and the internal economy of the Chapter over which you preside, but the public reputation of the institution will be generally found to rise or fall according to the skill, fidelity, and discretion, with which its concerns are managed, aud in proportion as the charac- ter and conduct of its principal officers are estimable or censurable. " You have accepted a trust to which is attached a weight of responsibility that will require all your effort to discharge 60 honorably to yourself, and satisfactorily to the Chapter. You are to see that your officers are capable and faithful in the exercise of their offices. Should they lack ability, you are expected to supply their defects ; you are to watch carefully the progress of their performances, and to see that the long-established customs of the institution suffer no derangement in their hands. You are to have a careful eye over the general conduct of the Chapter ; to see that due order and subordination are observed on all occasions ; that the members are properly instructed ; that due solemnity be observed in the practice of our rites ; that no improper levity be permitted at any time, but more especially, at the introduction of strangers among the workmen. " In fine, you are to be an example to your officers and mem- bers, which they need not hesitate to follow ; thus securing to yourself the favor of Heaven, and the applause of your brethren and companions." Address to the Officers generally. " Companions in Office : " Precept and example should ever advance with equal pace. Those moral duties which you are required to teach others, you should never neglect to practice yourselves. " Do you desire that the demeanor of your equals and inferiors towards you should be marked with deference and respect ? Be sure that you omit no opportunity of furnishing them with ex- amples in your own conduct towards your superiors. Do you desire to obtain instruction from those who are more wise or better informed than yourselves ? Be sure that you are always ready to impart of your knowledge to those within your sphere, who stand in need of, and are entitled to receive it Do you desire distinction among your companions ? Be sure that your claims to preferment are founded upon superior attainments ; let no ambitious passion be suffered to induce you to envy or sup- plant a companion who may be considered as better qualified for promotion than yourselves ; but, rather let a laudable emulation induce you to strive to excel each other in improvement and dis- cipline, ever remembering, that he who faithfully performs his duty, even in a subordinate or private station, is as justly entitled 61 fo esteem and respect, as he who is invested with supreme autho- rity." Address to the Chapter at large. " Companions : " You have now been duly constituted into a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. " May your Chapter become beautiful as the temple, peaceful as the ark, and sacred as the most holy place May your obla- tions of piety and praise be grateful as the incense ; your love warm as its flame, and your charity diffusive as its fragrance. May your hearts be pure as the altar, and your conduct acceptable as the offering. May the exercises of your charity be as constant as the returning wants of the distressed widow and helpless orphan. May the approbation of Heaven be your encouragement, and the testimony of a good conscience your support. May you be endowed with every good and perfect gift while travelling 'the rugged path of life, and finally admitted within the veil of Heaven to the full enjoyment of life eternal." Amen. Response, " So mote it be." The officers and members of the chapter will then pasa in review in front of the grand officers, with their hands crossed on their breasts, bowing as they pass. The Grand Marshal will then make the following proclamation ; "In the name of the Most Excellent Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania, I hereby proclaim this new Chapter by the name of No. , to be regularly consti- tuted and its ofiBcers duly installed. " The ceremony will be closed with the following : Pbayer. Supreme Architect of the Universe, Almighty Jehovah, Thou great I Am, we render Thee thanksgiving and praise for the Masonic institution, as members of which we have at this time been assembled, and for Thy protection and aid afforded us in the important work we have just completed. 62 We thank Thee that the occasion of solemnly consecrating and installing this new branch of the Masonic family, has afforded us fresh inducements, and laid us under stronger obligations to the practice of virtue and morality, and to the observation of all Thy precepts and commandments of thy holy law. May these obligations, ! Thou Infinite Jehovah, have their full influence and effect upon our minds. Teach us, we pray Thee, true reverence for Thy great and mighty name ; inspire us with firm and unshaken resolution in every virtuous pursuit. May the solemnities of this day increase our love of Masonry, and have a beneficial tendency to the improvement of our con- versation and conduct in the Chapter, and in our walk through life. And as Thou didst aforetime appear unto Thy servant Moses in a flame of fire, out of the midst of a bush, enkindle, we beseech Thee, .in our hearts a flame of devotion to Thee, of brotherly kindness to each other, and of charity to all mankind. And now to Thee, King immortal and invisible, the only wise God, be everlasting glory and honor for ever and ever. Response. Amen. So mote it be ! When the grand officers retire, the Chapter will form an avenue for them to pass through, and salute them with grand honors. Such instrumental or vocal music as the presiding officer shall deem ap- propriate, may at his discretion be introduced during the progress of the ceremonies. The ceremonies and Charges upon the Constitution of a Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge and the Installation of their officers shall be similar to the above, with such variations as the circumstances require. CHAPTER IT. Ceremonies at Grand Visitations. Whenever the Grand High Priest intends to visit a Chapter officially, for the purpose of inspecting its condition, the Grand Secretary shall notify the High Priest of the Chapter of the in- tended visitation. The Chapter is opened in the Royal Arch Degree, and when 63 the Grand High Priest is announced, the Companions shall arrange themselves in two lines facing each other from the door to the chair. The Grand Officers then enter in the following order : Grand Pursuivant and Grand Marshal. Grand Masters of Ceremonies. Grand Chaplains. Grand Masters of the first and second Veils. Grand Master of the third Veil and Grand R. A. Captain. Grand Principal Sojourner and Grand Captain of the Host. Past Grand Officers. Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary. Grand King and Grand Scribe. Grand High Priest. The Grand Tyler remains at the door. They proceed toward the East. On the entrance of the Grand High Priest the procession halts, the Grand Officers open to the right and left, and the Grand High Priest followed by the Grand King and Grand Scribe passes through. The Council receives them according to ancient usage, and resign to them the chairs and sceptres. The Grand honors are tbpn given ; and the officers of the Chapter resign their seats to the corresponding Grand Officers. The High Priest then delivers to the G. H. P. the Warrant of Constitution, the Treasurer's and Secretary's books,* and a state- ment of the funds of the Chapter for his inspection. Having examined them the G. H. P. makes such observations as the cir- cumstances and situation of the Chapter require, and he may also deliver an address. The Grand Council then resign the chairs and sceptres to the High Priest, King and Scribe, and the Grand Officers resign their seats to the officers of the Chapter. Should the Grand Officers return before the Chapter is closed, the same ceremony must be observed as at their entrance. Similar ceremonies shall be observed at Grand Visitations to any Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge. * Prior to the Grand Visitation, the Minute Book of the Cliapter must be delivered to the Grand Secretary when demanded, to enable him to examine the same, and make report to the Grand Master. 64 CHAPTER Y. Forms. No. 1. Petition for Warrant of a Chapter. To the M. E. Grand H. R. Arch Chapter of Masons in and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging : We, the undersigned, being regular Royal Arch Masons, for- merly members of the Chapters mentioned against our names, and having received the degrees of Most Excellent and Mark Master Masons, and at this time not being members of any Chapter, pray for a warrant of constitution empowering us to meet as a regular Chapter at to be called and there to discharge the duties of Royal Arch Masonry in a Constitutional manner, according to the forms of the Order, and the Rules and Regulations of the Grand Chapter. And we have nominated and do recommend Companion to be the first High Priest, Companion to be the first King, and Companion to be the first Scribe of the said Chapter. The prayer of this petition being granted, we promise strict conformity to the ancient Land Marks of the Order, and the Constitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of the Grand Chapter. Witness our hands this day of A. D. A. L. Recommendalion of three or more loell-known and approved Royal Arch Masons. We recommend that the prayer of the above petition be granted. Recommendation of the nearest Chapter. At a meeting of Chapter No. held at on the day of A. D. A. L. On motion made and seconded, it was 65 Resolved, That the above petition be recommended to the favorable consideration of the M. E. Grand Chapter. [seal. J Attest. H. P. Sec'y. No. II. Petitioii for Warrant of a Mark Master'^ Lodge. To the M. E. Grand H. R. Arch Chapter of Masons in and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging. We, the undersigned, being regular Mark Master Masons, for- merly members of the Mark Lodges, and present members of the Chapters mentioned against our respective names, and having received the sublime degree of Master Mason, and at this time not being members of any Mark Lodge, pray for a warrant of constitution empowering us to meet as a regular Mark Lodge at to be called and there to dis- charge the duties of Mark Masonry in a constitutional manner, according to the forms of the Order and the Rules and Regula- tions of the Grand Chapter. And we have nominated and do recommend Brother to be the first Master, Brother to be the first Senior Warden and Brother to be the first Junior Warden of the said Mark Lodge. The prayer of this petition being granted, we promise strict conformity to the ancient landmarks of the Order, and the Constitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of the Grand Chapter. Witness our hands this day of A. D. A. L. Eecommendation by three or more well-known and approved Mark Master Masons. We recommend that the prayer of the above petition be granted. 5 66 Recommendation of the nearest Marie Lodge, or if there he no Mark Lodge within fifteen miles, then of the nearest Chapter. At a meeting of iMark Lodge (or Chapter) Xo. held at on the day of A. D. A. L. On motion made and seconded it was Sesoh-ed, That the above petition be recommended to the favorable consideration of the M. E Gran(J Chapter. [SEAL.] Attest. W. M. (or H. P.) Sec'y. Xo. III. A petition for a warrant of a Most Excellent Master's Lodge shall be in similar form to that for a Mark Master's Lodge. Xo. IT. Warrant for a New Chapter Most E. G. High Priest. M. E. G. King. M. E. G. Scribe. The Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania, in solemn form assembled at Philadelphia, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, to all who it may concern. Greeting : Know ye, That we, the said Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, by virtue of the powers and authorities vested in us, do herebv constitutc and appoint our trusty and well beloved Companions M. E. High Priest, King, and Scribe, of a Chapter, to be held at or within three miles of the same. And we do further, authorize and empower the said to admit, make, receive, accept, and exalt Mark Master Masons, Most Excellent Master Masons, and Holy Royal Arch Ma?ons, according to the usages and cus- toms of the Order, and the Constitution, Rules, Regulations and Edicts of this Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, and not contra- riwise. And we do further empower and appoint the said and their successors, to hear and determine all and singular 67 the matters and things relating to the Order within the jurisdiction of the said Chapter, with the assistance of the members thereof. And lastly, we do hereby authorize and empower the said to instal their successors, being first duly elected and chosen, to whom they shall deliver this warrant, and to invest them with all the powers and dignity to their ofBces respectively belonging, and such successors shall in like manner from time to time instal their successors, &c., &c., &c. Such installation to be upon or near St. John the Evangelist's day, during the continuance of this Chapter forever. Provided ahoaijs, That the above named Companions and their successors pay due respect to this Grand Royal Holy 'Arch Chapter, and the Ordinances thereof, otherwise this warrant to be of no force or effect. Given in open Grand Chapter, under the hands of our Grand Officers, and seal of our Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, at Philadelphia, this day A. D. 18 and of Masonry 58 [seal.] Attest, G. Treasurer. G. Secretary, Warrant for a New Mark Lodge. Most E. G. High Priest. M. E. G. King, M. E. G. Scribe. The Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania, in solemn form assembled at Philadelphia, in the Commonwealth of Penn- sylvania, to all whom it may concern. Greeting : Know ye, that we, the said Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, by virtue of the powers and authority vested in us, do herebv constitute and appoint our trusty and well beloved Brethren Master, Senior Warden, and Junior Warden of a Mark Master Mn- son's Lodge, called to be held at or within three miles of the same. And we do further authorize and empower the said to admit and make Mark Master Masons according' to the usages and customs of the 68 Order, and the Constitution, Rules and Kegulationsof this Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, and not contrariwise ; and we do fiir- ther empower and appoint the said ^°" their successors to hear and determine all and singular, the matters and things relating to the Order within the jurisdiction of said Lodge, with the assistance of the members thereof. And lastly, we do hereby authorize and empower the said to instal their successors being first duly elected and chosen, to whom they shall deliver this warrant, and to invest them with all the powers and dig-nities to their offices respectively belonging ; and such successors shall in like manner fi-om time to time instal their successors, &c., \-c., Occupation } Residence Xo. YIII. Petition to a Chapter for the 21. E. and R. A. Degrees, and for JlembersJnp ; or for the degrees only. To the M. E. High Priest, Officers and Companions, of Chapter Xo. The Petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth, that he i? a Geometric Master Mason, ]°j°e } a member of Lodge Xo. held at . That he has had the honorary degree of Mark Master conferred on him, that he has passed the Chair, and that he is desirous of being further advanced in the mysteries of the Order by being received and accepted a Most Excellent Master Mason, and by being exalted to the >upreme degree of Holy Royal Arch Mason ; [and of becoming a member of your honorable Chapter,]* if upon inquiry, he shall Via found vrorthy. Witness mv hand this day of A. D. IS A. L. 5S . A. B. Recommended by "I C. D " ; \ E. F. Age Occupation Residence * If the petition is for the degrees only, omit the words in brackets, and insert as a "sojourner'" 71 No. IX. Form of Petition to a Chapter frovi a Companion for Member- ship. To the M. E. High Priest, Officers and Companions, of Chapter No. The undersigned, a Royal Arch Mason, late a member of Chap- ter No. , held at ' as may be seen by reference to the inclosed certificate, respectfully prays that he may be admitted a member of your honorable Chapter. Witness my hand this day of A. D. 18 . A. L. 58 . A. B. Recommended by 1 C. D. " / E. P. \ Age Occupation., Residence. ., No. X. Petition to a Mark Master's Lodge for the Degree and Member- ship; or for the Degree only. To the Worshipful Master, Officers and Brethren, of Mark Lodge No. The Petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth, that he is a Geometric Master Mason, .jf^™} a member of Lodge No. , held at , and is desirous of being further ad- vanced in the mysteries of. the Order, by having the honorary degree of Mark Master Mason conferred on him, [and of be- coming a member of your honorable Lodge,]* if, upon inquiry, he shall be found worthy. Witness my hand this day of A. D. 18. A. L. 58 . A. B. Recommended by 1 C. D "/ I E. F. Age Occupation Residence * If the petition is for the degrees only, omit tlie words in brackets and insert "as a sojourner." 72 Xo. XI. The Petitions to a Most Excellent Master's Lodge are similar in form to those to a Mark Lodge. Xo. XIL Beports of Committees on Petitions. To the The Committee to whom was referred the above Petition beg leave to report !'°a^IS"'l the prayer thereof being granted. Witness our hands this day of A. D. IS . A. L. 58 . V Committee. Xo. XIII. Petition for Dispensation to confer the Degrees of Jlark Master, Most Ejcellent Master and Eoyal Arch Mason. To Esq., M. E. Grand High Priest of the G. H. R. A. Chapter of Pennsylvania : The petition of respectfully showeth. that your petitioner is a Geometric Master Mason, {°°7} a member of Lodge Xo. , held at . That he has passed the Chair, that he is desirous of receiving the degrees of Mark Master, Most Excellent Master and Royal Arch Mason ; but being about to leave the State, he is unable to wait the usual ' delays required by the Constitution of the Grand Chapter. He declares that he has not heretofore been rejected by any regularly constituted Chapter or Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge, and if the petition be granted, will cheerfully conform to the ancient customs and usages of the Order, and therefore prays that you will be pleased to grant a dispensation authorizintr Chapter to confer upon him the degrees of Mark Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason. Witness my hand this day of A. D 1^ ^- ^- ^^- . , ' ' a."b. Age Occupation Residence We the oflScers of Chapter Xo. I 73 beg leave to recommend the above Petitioner to the M. E. G. High Priest, as a person who in our opinion is worthy of having the prayer of his petition granted. II. P. K. Granted. Scribe. No. XIV. Form of Dispensation, to confer the degrees of Mark Master, Most Excellent Master and Royal Arch Mason. We M. B. G. High Priest of the G. H. R. Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania : To the High Priest of Chapter No. , Greeting : By virtue of the powers and authority in us vested, we do here- by authorize and empower you to confer the degrees of Mark Master, Most Excellent Master and Royal Arch Mason, upon in your Chapter, and for so doing this be your sufficient warrant. Given under our Hand and seal at this day of A. D. 18. , and of Masonry 58 . . [SEAL.] Attest, G. H. P. G. SecTitary. No. XV. Chapter Certificate for Members Travelling. Whereas companion • a Royal Arch Mason and member of Chapter No. , held 5 at under a warrant from the M. E. "g Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, i^ about to leave the State ^ for a limited time ; we the officers of the said Chapter, grant '^ to him this testimonial of his good standing with the fra- ternity ; to be and continue in force until his return among us, unless sooner revoked. Witness our hands and the seal of the Chapter this day of , , A. D. 18 , ^ A. L. 58 . ° [seal.] Attest, H- P- 3 A'. 2 S. a to m 74 Xo. XVI. Chapter Certificate "Whereas, companion a lloyal Arch Mason and late a member of Chapter No. c held at under a warrant from the I M. E. Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, has regularly with- g drawn from the said Chapter, and conformed to its By- ^ Laws ; we, the officers thereof, grant to him this testi- monial of his conduct as a worthy companion during his continuance among us, and recommend him to the favorable consideration of the Masonic fraternity. Witness our hands and the seal of the Chapter, this day of A. D. 18. A. L. 58 . [seal] Attest, S. P- K. s, Sec'i/. Xo. XTII. Certificates for members of separately constituted Most Ex- cellent and Mark Master's Lodges shall be similar in form to the above Chapter certificates. Xo. XYin. Recommendation for a Grand Chapter Certificate. To Esq., Most Excellent Grand High Priest of the G. H. R. A. Chapter of Pennsylvania. We do hereby certify that companion is a Royal Arch Mason |°°;;} a member in good standing of Chapter Xo. , at . TVe therefore recommend him as worthy of obtaining a Grand Chapter Cer- tificate. Witness our hands and the seal of the said Chapter this day of A. D. IS. , A. L. 58. . [SEAL.] Attest, JJ^ p Sect/. 75 No. XIX. Grand Chapter Certificate. The Grand Holy Royal Aroli Chapter of Pennsylvania. To all ancient regular Holy Eoyal Arch Masons throughout the Globe. Union, Health, Happiness. We do hereby certify the bearer hereof companion Magnum, Veneratum, Eegium, Su- premumque Capitulum, Pennsyl- vaniiB, omnibus antiquis, regulari- bus, veneratis, regiis, supremisqiie Latomis, in Orbem Terrarum libique sparsis. Unitatem, Sanitatem, Felioita- TEMaCE PEKPETUAM. Nos hisce prjEsentibus notum faoi- mus, et Testamur sodalem nostrum, - G. H. E. A. Chapter of Pennsylvania, send Greeting, '^ Health, Stability and Happiness : Whereas, it is the intention of our worthy and well-beloved Companion, , a Member of Chapter No. , under our jurisdiction, and of our M. E. Grand Chapter, to travel into jdistaoi counci.e!., ^yg iigye thercforc, in order to promote, as far as in us 1 other Stales, ( ' -I ' lies a brotherly communication with the different Chapters in the { un"e°d si'aies, 1 ^o lioreby request and require our said Companion, , to visit the Grand and Subordinate Chapters of Royal Arch Masons in the different l"^*!?' } through which he niav travel, and producing the-^c, our credentials, to assure them of our most fraternal regards, and of our dispositions to cultivate a mutual correspondence, and to give to said Grand Chapters, Chapters, or Companions, such information as may be recjuisite concerning the state of the Craft with us, conceiving that it will manifestly tend to promote order, harmony, and reciprocal affec- tion over the globe. Not doubting but that this our companion will meet with all due attention whenever he shall make himself known, and prom- ising all due respect and attention to foreign Companions in like manner recommended to us, we have caused him to sign his name in his usual signature in the margin thereof, Xe varietur ; and herewith we commend him to the protection of the Grand Architect of the Universe. Given under our hand and the seal of our Grand Chapter, at Philadel- phia, this day of , A. D., 18 , A. L., 58 . M E. G. H. P. [sE.iiL.] Attest, Q_ Sec'y. All of which is Respectfully submitted by JEREMIAH L. HUTCHINSON, -| JOSEPH S. RILEY, I CHARLES GILPIN, [ Committee. J. Al4ESANi)KK SIMPSON, t c * > I TT t:' la. /I TiTSTi trijiTjn. .. .. I OF THE GRAND H.R. A. CHAPTER OF PENNSYLVANIA. FEBRUARY 15, 1864, A. I. 2394. ^xmxA §0% f 0pt ^xkU €\x^Ux d §mm. ANNUAL GRAND COMMUNICATION. St. John the Evangelist's Day, Philadelphia, December 28th, A. D. 1863, A. 1. 2393. Present : Com p. Jeremiah L. Hutchinson . . M. E. G. H. Priest. " George W. Wood King. " Samuel C. Perkins . . Scribe. " Peter Williamson " Treasurer. " Wm. H. Adams " Secretary. " John R. Manderfield, Jr. . . Assistant " J. Atlee White .... Grand Pursuivant. " Jos. H. Hedges .... " P. Sojourner. " Harm AN Baugh . . . " Marshal. " John Wilson, Se. . " Capt of the Host " Price J. Patton. . . " R. Arch Capt. John Wortiiington .... " Capt. 3d Veil. " Alfred R. Potter . " " 2d " " Francis Funk " 1st " Thos. Anderson. . . . " Sr. M. of C. John Gillfillen " Jr. James McGowan . " Chaplain. " Jos. S. Rilet Past G. H. Priest. " Hakman Baugh . (( U ii " John C. Smith . . . ii J( It Seventeen Chapters represented. Nine by Members, and eight by Proxy. The Grand Chapter was opened in ample foi'ui at half past 6 o'clock P. M. 1 So much of the Minutes of the Qnarterlj Grand Commnnication, held November, 1S63, A. I. 2393, as related to the Election of Officers, was read ai)d adopted. All but P. H. Priests retired, when the M. E. G. H. Priest in- stalled Corap. George W. TTood il. E. G. H. Priest. The Companions who retired were readmitted, when the follow- ing officers were separately installed in their several stations, and received the congratulations of the Companions, to wit: — Cbmp. Samttel 0. Perkixs . 31. E. G. King. " George Grisco:\i ... " Scribe. " Peter Williamson . " Treasurer. " Wm. H. Adams ... " Secretary. After a short address lay the M. appointments were announced : — Cump. Peter A. Keyser . . . Joseph H. Hedges . . " Henry J. White . . " Alfred R. Potter . . " Edw'd Masson . . " William M. Ireland . . " Harmax Balgu . . " John L. Young . . Charles Fkishmuth . James Palmer . . . Wm. B. Schnider . . . E. G. H. Priest, the following . Grand Captain of the Host. " Principal S^ijourner. " R. A. Captain. ■' Captain Third Teil. " Captain Second Yeil. " Captain Eirst Yeil. " Marshal. " Pursuivant. S. G. M. of Ceremonies. J. G. M. of Ceremonies. Grand Tyler. Grand Chaplains. Rev. Companions John Chambers, H. W. Ducachet, Wm. H. Odexheimer, Joseph J. Elsegood, Daniel Washbl'rn, Joseph Castle, Robert W. Oliver, John E. Wilber, Thomas K. Con- rad, James McGowan. Committee of Cori-espondence. Companions Wm. H. Allen, Charles Gili'in, J. Alexander Simpson. Committee on Bij-Law.-i. Companions Wm. H. Adams, Geo. H. Ashton, John Ruther- EORD, Jr. Committee on Accounts. Companions Joseph S. Riley, James Simpson, Thomas D. Wattson. Committee on Work. Companions Joseph S. Riley, David C. Skeerett, Daxiel Thompson, Robert Frazer, John Thomson, Harman Baugh. District Deputy G. High Priests. Companion Charles M. Howell, of Lancaster, for the Counties of Lancaster, York, and Adams. Companion Robert A. Lamberton, of Harrisbur;?, for the Counties of Dauphin, Cnmberland, Franklin, and Lebanon. Companion George H. McCabe, of Tamaqua, for the Counties of Schuylkill and Berks. Companion Q. Sweeney, of Easton, for the Counties of Carbon and Northampton. Companion E. P. Kingsbury, of Scranton, for the Counties of Lnzerne, Wyoming, and Susquehanna, Companion Robert C. Simpson, of Wellsboro', for the Counties of Tioga and Bradford. Companion John K. Robbins, of Catawissa, for the Counties of Columbia, Montour, and Northumberland. Companion H. T. Beardsley, of Lockhaven, for the Counties of Clinton, Lycoming, and Centre. Companion A. M. Lloyd, of Hollidaysburg, for the Counties of Blair, Cambria, Huntingdon, and Mifflin. Companion Alfred Creigh, of Washington, for the Counties of Washington, Fayette, and Greene. Companion Thomas Davidge, of Pittsburg, for the Counties of Allegheny, Westmoreland, Beaver, and Armstrong. Companion Wm. F. Owen, of Conneautville, for the Counties of Crawford and Erie. The Grand Chapter closed in harmony half past 8 o'clock P. M. WILL J AM IT. APAMS, Oraiiil I'ivcvftary. .vattd €;itJtiJtn' tfi ^t\\\x^^\vmm. QUARTERLY GRAXD COMMUNICATION. Held PMladelphia February ISth, A. L. 5864, A. I. 2394. Present, all of the elected and appointed Grand Officers, in their respective stations and places. Fifteen Chapters represented. Alona: with other business, the Committee of Correspondence presented the following report, which was adopted, and, on motion, was ordered to be printed, and a copy furnished to each of our sis- ter Grand Chapters, and also to the subordinate Chapters under this jurisdiction. To the .V. E. The Grand Chapter JI. R. Arch Masons of Pennsylvania. The Committee oa Correspondence respectfully report — That since their report of February of last year, there have been received by their Chairman, through our M. E. Grand Secretary, seven printed pam- phlets, comprisin;; the proceeditifis only of that number of our Sister Grand Chapters of the United States, namely: — California . . . .for 1802-3. Connecticut . . . .for 18fi2-3, with By-Laws. Maine . . . .for 1802-3. New Jersey .... for 1862-3. Kew York . . for 18(12-3. Rhode Island, from September, 1858, to Jlarch, 1862. Wisconsin . . . for 18G2-3. CALIFORNIA. A summary of the returns for the year ending March 31, 1863, shows that in California there were 32 Chapters in full work, and 1147 E. A. Masons in membership. It is shown that there exists a gratifying state of prosperity and hnrmony tbroughout the jurisdiction. The Report of the Committee on Correspondence by Comp. Lawrence E. Given reviews the proceedings of seventeen Grand Chapters. In noticing those of New .Jersey, exception is taken to the remarks of Comp. Jeffreys, Chairman for New Jersey, relating to Califoi-nia's report of the preceding year, as neither courteous nor masonic ; the whole correspondence shows that the old controversy about the expedi- ency of a "General Grand Chapter" is yet alive, with some remains of its former acerbity. CONNECTICUT. This pamphlet contains no summary of the statistics of the jurisdiction, but from the proceedings as published it is seen that there are twenty-one •working Chapters, with an aggregate of 1763 members. The Committee on Correspondence, through Comp. Storer, Chairman, report on the proceedings of sixteen Grand Chapters received by them, in a judicious and fraternni spirit. An extract from the concluding portions of our brief report of last year, is made with approval. MAINE. The statistics given in this pamphlet do not extend beyond the names of the officers of the Grand Chapter, the number of subordinate Chapters in the jurisdiction, and the names of their ofBcei-s. The number of Chapters is 13. The proceedings as published show a prevalence of fraternal harmony and prosperity. The following extract from the able and interesting annual address by M. E. G. H. P. Comp. John J. Bell, as illustr.itive of the spirit in which our great national calamity is considered and treated by our R. Arch Com- panions, may be read with interest by our members : — "During the past year the war in which our country is engaged, so far from coming to that end which is the desire of every patriot, has been ex- tending to more gigantic proportions. Not far from a million of men, who ought to be brothers, are now in arms for the overthrow or the support of our national existence. It is no more than natural that the mind of the mason, reverting to the influence which it has been our aim to exert through the lessons of our mysteries, should inquire if this great fraternity may not do something to restore peace to the land. Gre.at is the influence which as masons we can exert; but truly masonic as the desire certainly is, I cannot believe that any action we as masons can take, can at this time do good. In softening to some extent thehard.ships of war, in promoting the remembrance even among the ferocities of conflict of the universal brotherhood of man, and of the duties of mercj' and charity, a noble field exists, truly consonant to the spirit and genius of Masonry, while she can hardly approach the. field of controvpr.sy without receiving some stain upon her mantle — without losing some portion of her universality. The great mission of Masonry in this 6 conflict is, to- remove the harshness of human passion, by forming a neutral place, where men of all parties may meet to practise the highest duties which man owes to his fellow, where the distinctions of North and South, of abolitionist and seccessionist are unknown, but all are brethren. Not that Masonry would hold the least countenance to rebellion ; for the contrary has been the uniform teaching of the fraternity, and no true mason can be disloyal. Yet in the Lodge no distinction is to be made, but all are to be taught that beneath all differences of party or sect there is a universal brotherhood of man. Even now may this beneficial influence be exerted ; and when, as we hope may soon happen, peace shall once more return to our beloved country, and her flag fly out before the breeze unchallenged through the whole of her rightful domain, then will the influence of our Institution in its silent might, remove much of the bitterness and enmity which the war will leave ; then will Masonry prove by its fraternal bonds the truth of its claim to an origin almost divine. Far more good can we thus do, than, by throwing our Order Into the arena of strife, endeavor to bind the passions of men." NEW JERSEY. From a statistical table furnished in this pamphlet, we learn that there are in New Jersey twelve subordinate H. B. Arch Chapters, and that the whole number of their members was 4-15. The proceedings as published give an interesting and encouraging view of prosperity in this ancient abode of the Royal Craft. The report of the Committee of Correspondence is ably compiled, and very elaborate and interesting in its notices of and extracts from those of other jurisdictions. A rather sharp controversy between Xew Jersey and Maine on the one side, and California on the other, appears to have arisen, super- induced by the introduction by the M. E. G. H. Priest of California into his annual address of what Comp. Caswell, of Maine, denominates "a lengthy political flourish." Of Pennsylvania the report of the Committee on Correspondence of Xew Jersey speaks as follows : — " We regret that our time-honored neighbor has again relapsed into utter silence concerning her proceedings in Annual Convocation. We would be exceedingly obliged to our Companions if they would give us an annual report of their sayings and doings ; but in this, as in many other things, that Grand Body is peculiar. But there is no law in Masonry to meet their case ; they have the right to maintain a dignified silence concerning their own affairs just as long as they please. We must submit to what, perhaps, is better judgment than our own, and will at least admit the fact that the document from Pennsylvania can do no harm in the Masonic world, or among the rest of mankind." NEW YORK. In this extensive jurisdiction tliere are reported 175 working subordinate Chapters, ivith an aggregate of 4428 members. A strong as vfell as intelligent zeal for the harmony and prosperity of the Order is' manifested in their "Proceedings,"' and the Annual Address of M. E. G. H. Priest G. H. Thacher, and the Report of the Committee on Corres- pondence, Corop. Perry, Chairman, are fraught with interesting information and instructive remarks. The G. H. Priest notices the fact of the failure of the General Grand Chap- ter of the United States to hold its Triennial Meeting at Memphis according to appointment, and deprecates and deplores what he seema to consider an imminent danger of the breaking up of that organization. The Committee on Correspondence join with that of Connecticut of the previous year, in regret at the neglect of other Grand Chapters to correspond with them, expressed in the following terms : " We can readily account for the non-appearance of correspondence from Grand Chapters in the rebellious States, but why we should fail to receive anything from Illinois, New Hamp- shire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, is more than even our Yankee shrewdness can guess." RHODE ISLAND. There are reported 5 Chapters, subordinate to the Grand Chapter, in this true and warm-hearted old Masonic district, with an aggregate membership of 380. It is the custom of the Grand Chapter of Rhode Island to print their proceedings only once in three years. The Committee on Correspond- ence say they find the accumulation of documents for the last three years is unusually formidable. On these they make a comparatively brief report, in which they deprecate the undue license and great extent of controversial remark and criticism into which the system of Grand Chapter Correspondence for years past has run. WISCONSIN. This young giant of the West is evidently in a condition of gratifying Masonic prosperity. There are reported 22 subordinate Chapters with an aggregate of membership exceeding 700. The M. E. G. H. Priest's address, and the Report of the Committee on Correspondence, are able and interesting documents, touching on the general principles of our craft, and on the pre- sent trouble of our beloved country, in Masonic, patriotic, and carefully considered language. In conclusion, we take leave to report that harmony, charity, and fraternal love are our principles, and at once the materials of the foundation and the sublimity of our Temple. These principles are as essential to the moral being of our order as are light and air to the physical existence of man, and they are as universal and as unchanging in their influence on the Masonic Brotherhood around the globe. While as men and citizens we take our part and perform our duty in the various requirements of the body politic in which our lot may be cast, still, as Masons, we can take no part or lot in the prejudices, the enmities, and the strifes which from time to time convulse the outer world, and sometimes deluge and overwhelm the fairest and happiest nations in blood and desolation. The dire calamity which now convulses our beloved country forms a pro- minent topic in the Addresses and the Reports in these proceedings, and it is a most striking and touching feature of all these documents, that while throughout they breathe the most unqualified loyalty to our National Union, and fidelity to the Government in its support and defence; they, at the same time, with equal distinctness, enunciate and lay down as unchangeable the Masonic principles above expressed, and deprecate as repugnant to its genius and to its very life, the admission of prejudice, enmity, or strife within the sacred precincts of our order. The following extract (as quoted in the Michigan Report, and thence copied into that of New York) from the Annual Address of M. E. G. H. Priest of Illinois, will not be inappropriate here as illustrating the general spirit of the remarks of our companions of other jurisdictions on this subject: — " I have my own views and opinions, and am ready to defend and maintain them, upon the call of my country, as I have no doubt you all are, at the risk of life. But, my companions, the matter, in my judgment, has become too foi'midable for us to meddle with as a society, and I am confident that a dis- cussion of the subject would embarrass us, tend to embarrass the administra- tion, and be liable to misapprehension and misconstruction. I would calmly enjoin upon mj' companions to fulfil all their duties as citizens, and, as occasion may arise, to render Masonic assistance and aid as they may have it in their power ; and after a time we may be able to interpose our friendly offices with- out giving offence, and in such a manner as to be of great service to the country, and to humanity in general." At the same time a feature equally striking of the proceedings is, that they evidence a most gratifying improvement in the prevalence, generally, of har- monious feeling and fraternal spirit among the Royal Craft throughout the jurisdictions of the several Grand Chapters. The apparent harshness and asperity which had crept into many of the Annual Addresses and Reports a few years since, have in a great degree dis- appeared, and that indulgence in controversial discussion which formerly prevailed has to a great extent been avoided. 4 We will not now reiterate the deprecation so often expressed in former reports of this Committee, of introducing into Masonic proceedings for publi- cation discussions of abstract subjects of controversy. It is pleasing, how- ever, to observe that the seed thus sown many years ago by our reports, 9 seems to have taken root and brought forth good fruit. In illustration of this the following passage from the Report of the Committee on Correspondence of Rhode Island, by Comp. Lymau Klapp, will be read with interest by the Companions of this Grand Chapter, and may stand for an answer to our sharp and apparently irate Companion of New Jersey. " It is claimed that ihe fraternity have a right to be informed of the doings of their own and sister Grand Chapters. This we have already admitted. But the great majority of these documents are filled with a few important transactions, many things of little or no benefit to any one, and much that is often positively injurious. The Reports of Foreign Correspondence too often belong to what may be called the ' mutual admiration school' of Masonic literature. The reputation of making up a report filled with ' witty sayings,' 'sharp retorts,' 'caustic sarcasms,' and 'keen hits,' or of 'wielding a ready and facile pen,' and presenting a 'well written document,' is evidently more the object of some Committees than the dissemination of genuine Masonic light among the Craft. These and kindred other causes have produced a sickly style of literature — introduced countless innovations upon our Ancient Landmarks — promoted excessive legislation, that modern bane of Masonry — and encouraged ofiioe-seeking among the Craft, by the publicity given to the world of their position in the Order. Probably no greater evil rrow exists among us, than, with few exceptions, the Masonic publications of the country. We believe that the principles of Masonry are immutable. Our Order is founded upon a few unchangeable Divine Truths. No 'men or body of men' have the power to legislate upon or about them. We accept these principles, and require the executive only to enforce obedience to them. The less we write and speculate about them the better. AH that is necessary or profitable for us to know, will be published whenever required. Let there be full and carefully kept records in every Grand and Subordinate body, and we may rest assured the Masonic historian of the future will do us all ample justice — selecting only the perfect blocks for the Temple, leaving the rough ashlers in their native quarry, to be stumbling-blocks only at home.'' Of all these "Proceedings" those of but one Grand Chapter (Connecticut) acknowledge the receipt of any communication from our Grand Chapter. It will be noted by our Companions as remarkable, that of the 32 Grand Chapters existing on this Continent, with whom we have formerly been in habitual correspondence, only seven have sent us their " Proceedings" during the year last past. As to some ten or twelve of these thirty-two the omission may be attributed to our National troubles. As to the remainder in this cate- gory, we respectfully suggest that for the future especial attention be directed to the securing the receipt by all of our sister Grand Chapters within reach of our correspondence, of such a summary of our proceedings of each year as this Grand Chapter shall see proper to publish, to serve as well for the infor- mation of the Craft, as to manifest the sincerely fraternal and courteous regard which we ever entertain towards our sister Grand Chapters. GEORGE ORISCOM, Chairman Com, Cor. Philadelphia, February 15, 1864. 10 The Gi-aud Secietury furnished the following list of Chapters, numbers, and place of meeting, the numbers of members, and amount of work done up to December 2Ttb, 1862, which was approved, to wit : — Ifo. of Wheee Held, Marked M E. Exalted Total Chapter. in 1S62. in 1362. in 1S82. Members. 3 Philadelphia .... ... 7 6 122 21 Harrisburg . . . 2 1 1 56 43 Lancaster . . 7 7 7 116 52 Philadelphia . . ... 7 6 132 91 Philadelphia . ... 9 9 193 150 Washington, Pa. 4 3 3 57 152 Reading . . ... ... 119 159 Minersville . . 2 1 i 33 161 Towanda . . 7 9 9 69 162 Pittsburg . . 17 15 17 154 163 Lockhaven No returns 164 ErownsTiUe 2 1 ... 20 166 HoUidaysburg No returns 167 Rochester . . ... ... ... 17 169 Philadelphia . 8 8 54 171 Carlisle . . "5 5 5 42 172 Tunkhannock No returns 173 Easton . . 5 5 5 79 174 Sunbury . No returns 175 Philadelphia • ; 2 106 176 Chambersburg ""No returns 177 Tain aqua . 2 2 2 24 178 Catawissa . 9 10 10 58 179 Carbondale ... ... 17 180 Montrose . 2 1 "i 33 181 Mauch Chunk ... ... 92 182 ■Wilkesbarre No returns 183 Philadelphia 11 8 86 185 Scranton . "5 5 5 43 186 LewistoTTO . 5 6 5 26 187 ConneautriUe 2 2 2 23 189 Altoona 5 5 5 68 190 Norristown 8 2 2 44 191 Meadville . 2 2 23 192 Greensburg 37 193 Pittsburg . 16 i'i 12 78 194 Wellsboro' - 1 1 1 16 195 Johnstown . ... 15 196 Pottsville . "3 "2 43 197 Lebanon . ... 24 198 Phoenixville 7 3 "3 23 Total . . . 112 145 139 2132 The Grand Chapter then closed in harmony at a quarter to 9 o'clock P. M. WILLIAM H. ADAMS, Grand Secretary. (^vm\& ftoty ioyjrt '^vtk €knifiUv oi ^tm\^0mnu. ABSTRACT OF THK PROCEEDIKGS OF THE 05t JNi^dlent Iprand |joI» j[opl Ircl] ^haptei] OF PENNSYLVANIA, AND MASONIC JURISDICTION THEREUNTO BELONGING: BEING EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTES OP ITS OUARJEF^LY AND AnNUAL Gf\AND COMMUNICATIONS, AND THE jMOit of Ihe |[ommitfe£ on ^^irespondcna FOR THE TEAKS A. D. 1868, 1869— A. I. 2398, 2399. PHILADELPHIA: CO-OPBRATIVB PRINTING CO., 30 AND .32 SOUTH SEVENTH ST. ISYO. CONTENTS. QuARTBKLY COMMUNICATION, February 6, 1868, 1 Annual Report of the Finance Committee, 1 Report of Grand Officers on torm of Petitiona to a Mark Lodge, 3 Decision of M. E. G. H, P. Griscom relative to sojourners of Mark Lodges, . 3 QuAETEBLY COMMUNICATION, May 7, 1868, 3 Amendment to Constitution adopted, ;-! Quarterly Communication, August 6, 1868. 4 Amendment to Constitution adopted, 4 Quarterly Communication, November 5, 1868, 5 Annual Election of Officers, 5 Amendment to Constitution adopted, 5 Annual Communication, December 28, 1868, 6 Installation of M. E. G. H. P. George Griscom, 6 Address of M. E. G. H. P. George Griscom, 6 Appointment of Officers and Committees, 23 Quarterly Communication, February 4, 1869, 25 Annual Report of Finance Committee, 35 QUAETBELY COMMUNICATION, AUgUSt 5, 1869, 28 Decision of the M. E. G. H. P. George Griscom, as to opening and closing of Chapters, 38 QuABTBELY COMMUNICATION, November 4, 1869, . 29 Address of M. E. G. H. P. George Griscom, declining re-election 29 Annual Election of Officers, . l-Sl IV CONTENTS. Annual Communication, December 27, 1869, 83 Parting Address of M. E. 6. H. P. George Griscom, 33 Installation of Officers, 47 Address of M. E. G. H. P. Michael Nisbet, 48 Appointment of Officers and Committees, 54 Names and residence of District Deputy Grand High Priests and the location, etc., of Chapters in their Districts 57 APPENDIX. Report op the Committee on Cokkespondbncb. 1-08 Amendments to the Constitution of Grand Chapter, 1804 TO 1870, . . . i)<) Decisions and Directions op M. E. 6. H. Priest, 1866 to 1870, . . 103 |)ran(l IjoId |osaI %'t\\ l^ltapter of ; jfiiinsgluania. Q_UARTEI\LY G F^ N D COMMUNICATION. Held at Philadelphia, February 6, A. D. 1868, A. I. 2398. The following report was read and accepted: To tlie Most Excellent Grand High Frii'^l and Gompaniona of the Grand Holy Boyal Arch Chapter o/' I'ennxyt iw,nia : Tlie I'ommittee on Finance resi^ectfuUy report that thej^ have examined the accounts of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secre- tary for the past year, and find them correct, showing a balance in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, on the 2'Ith December last, of eighteen huudred and eighty -two dollars and ninety-four cents, ($1S82.'.I4. ) as sliown liy the folloAving exhibit, viz.: Received by the (Jraud Treasurer from January 1 to December 27. ISCT: Interest on lo;ins and sale of gold, .... $180 29 r)iics from (''iiaptcrs. Mark Lodges and warrants, . 8,649 40 $3,829 69 I'aid for salaries, regalbi, printing, &c., . $'.)4() '7.''i And invested 1,000 00 1,946 75 Bnlancc in ));;iids of Grand Treasiu-er, Dec. 27, 1867, . $1,882 94 Kespectfnlly submitted. E. D. LKSGUKE, V JAMKS SIMPSOX, Philadelphia, Feb. 6, 186s. fJomviitt.ee. 1 The following repcirt was maile \>y the- (iricul (Jltieer.-?, and, iiii motion, approved: Tli;it the only amendment iieees^an- to the fnim of " Petition to a Mark Lodge" is to add after the -blank," (see Form 10, page "I'l, Constitution Grand Chapter,) l'iillo\\"ing the words " lield at," in the body i if the petition, the woi.is ••that he has passed the Chair." The Mo>t Exeelleut (iraud High I'l-iest deeiiled that no sojourner of a .Alark Lodge can. under the recent amend- ment (if the ("i institution, lie admitted to membership Avith- out having piiss^d tlie Chair. |)rantl |oln |opl |^i'ti| |lmplciiot ;]i?nnf5Hluaniii qUAR^TEF^Y GI\AND COMMUNICATION, Held at Philadelphia, May 7, A. D. 1868, A. I. 2393. The followinu; anieudiiieiit to tlic ( '(institntiou -was adopted : Ameud Article XA', Section F, Subsection 1. of tlie ( 'on- stitution of the Grand Chapter, by inserting after the word "degree," in the second line, the words "or for membership in a Mark Ijodgc." |rand lolg |opl Jrch |/tapleii of ; )«nn8gltiania. (QUARTERLY GRAND COMMUNICATION. Held at Philadelphia, August 6. A. D. 1868. A. I. 2398. Thf fullo\\-iui;- aiiicniliiient to flu- Constitution was adopted, viz.: Amoud Seition 2. Lktter i), Akticlj-: XV, by adding the following, viz.: "That Chapters located outside tlie city of Philadelphia be permitted to meet at .such horn- as maj' be deternuiied l>v their bv-laws." |)rand |ob |[opI M |kptci| of ; jiunssluanta. qUARTERLY GRAND COMMUNICATION. Held at Philadelphia, November 5, A. D. 186S. A. I. 2398. Thirt being the tiiue prescribed by the C-uustitutioii for tlie election of Grand UtHcers for the ensuing Masonic year, the Most Excellent Grand. High Priest appointed Coni}ianious Past Grand High Priests AVood, Riley and Hntchiiison tellers, who repiorted that the following-named Com])aniniv-; had been duly elected to the resjiectivc ofHces, \]z.: r. , '• Michael Xisbet, Charles Eugene Meyek, Peter Williamson. .Idiix Thomsox, . M. E. Grand High I'riesf. Grand King. Grand Scribr. Grand Trca^vTer. Grand Sccrrfnry. After the ceremony of installation, the Most Excellent Grand High Priest George Griscom delivered the following address, which was received with marked attention hy the Companions : <.'ompanions of the GuANii Chapter : On thi> auspicious day. which marks the cutUuii- of the last and the Ijeginniug of a noiv Masouic year, we are favored again with tlie privik'iic to assemlilo, au annual conclave of fraternal (.'ompanious. with ample cause for thankfulness to Providence, and joy Ijotli in a retrospect of the past and the prospect of ' tlie future. Durijio- the last year the working and the spirit of the Order, witliiii our jurisdiction, liavo been characterized by zeal and fidelity and uniform harmony. The intercourse of the Grand High Priest and his officers, with the several Chapters, and ■with the Craft in general, has been of unalloyed pleasantness and cordial reciprocity of kindness and mutual sym[)athy and support. In accordance with the views and intentions expressed in my address on assuming the responsibilities of the office of Grand High Priest, one year ago, the Grand Officers have been assid- uous in endeavors both for tlic establishment and the preser- vation of uniformity of work and for the encouragement and the promotion of Eoyal Arch Masonry throughout our juris- diction. In this labor of beneficence and fraternal love, they have been met by the most cordial and gratifying co-operation on the part of the Companions, both of the Chapters in Phila- delphia and throughout the State. L)uring the j'ear just ended, all tlic Chapters and Mark Masters' Lodges within the city- of Pliiladelphia ha^e been visited by mo as Grand High I'riest. and those meeting in this hall, as frequently as was in my powei', in compliance with my duty under the Con- stitution, and ill conformity with my desire, b^^ personal inter- change of views and fraternal feeling, to promote the prosperity, tiie harmony, and the happiness of Q\ery Chapter and Mark Lodge, and of all the Companions. In addition to this, 1 have, on several occasions, called upon mj- Grand Officers to accompanj' me in the making of Grand A^^isitatious, in ample form, to as many of the Chapters in the interior of the State as the pressure of many other duties, within the short space of a j'ear, has allowed. To this call (it is my great pleasure to state) the Grand Officers have always responded with i^rompt and generous alacrity. The sacrifice of time and personal convenience and interests involved in these journeys of most arduous labor have never deterred them. They have always entered cordially into all my views and wishes, and not only bj' their wisdom and skill have assisted, but have upheld and su^jported me with their kindness, their sympathy, and their C'ounsel, in every emergency of difficulty or trial. I feel it incumbent on me to express empliaticall.v tlii« ac- knowledgment and tribute to the uniform skill, ability and dignified and fraternal bearing of the distinguished Companions elected and appointed, who have formed my board of Grand Officers, and to express my appreciation of the obligation the Order is under to them for tiieir assiduous and faithful exer- tions. It would be wrong not also to say here, and 1 believe e^•ery Grand Officer will concur with me in saying, that to the recip- rocal zeal, cordial support, and prompt and cheerful acquiescence in our views and instructions, of the officers and Companions of all the Chapters we have visited, and of the District Deputy Grand High Priests, has been due, in a large measure, the render- ing pleasant an arduous labor, and the assured and encouraging success which has been its result. On tlie -iUth of January, 18(J!S. accompanied by my Grand Officers, I left this city for a Grand Visitation to Easton Chapter, Xo. 173, and the constituting of a new Chapter at Bethlehem. ^W- were cordially received 1 ly the officers and ( 'ompanions of the Elaston Chapter, which, although of early formation, had never before received a Grand Tisitation. After an inspection of their records, their hall, and its equipments and surroundings. tile Chapter was opened, at T o'clock in the evening, when a (irand Tisitation in ample form was made. The occasion was signalized by a large attendance of members and visiting Companions. An address by me as Grand High Priest was received with attention, and an interesting report on their minutes was made by Companion J. Alexander Simpson, Grand Secretarj' pro tern. Instruction on various points was given and cordially accepted. The Grand Officers then proceeded to exemplif}- the work; and the evening was profitably passed in answering inquiries for information in all the degrees, the appoint- ments for the hall, and other points of interest to the ("hapter and tlie Order, until a late hour, and the official duties of the visitation ended with evident satisfaction to all tlie Companions present. On the next day, January 21, the Grand Officers were compli- mented with a tender bj- our Easton Companions of a convevance to Bethlehem in a sleigh ; and the comjiany of several of the warm- hearted Companions of Eastou and vicinity was added to tiie pleasantness of that portion of onr journey. I had fixed on the afternoon of tliis day at 3 o'cloclv to constitute tlie now Ciiapter, under the name of Zinzendorf Chapter, Xo. ^l(i, at Bethlehem; and, on our arrival there, we found that tlie interest of tlie occa- sion had indnced the assembling of a very large number of Com- panions, some of whom had followed us from Easton in sleighs, and others from the surrounding country and from Mauch Chunk, Reading, and other distant localities. At the honr appointed, Zinzendorf Chapter, Xo. 216, was duly constituted, in solemn and ample form, by the ^Most Excellent Grand High Priest, assisted by his Grand Officers ; and its oBicers duly installed in their respective stations. After this, the evening was devoted to an exemplification of the work for the benefit of the officers of the new Chapter. At the late hour of concluding these labors, the Grand Oflicers were invited by the Companions of the new Chapter to a social rennion, where we met one of the largest assemblages of the Craft ever convened on a similar occasion, which was addressed by the Grand High Priest and the Grand King, and several distinguished citizens of the Craft of that portion of the State, and a spirit of Masonic zeal marked all the proceedings ; which concluded evidently witli profit as well as fraternal pleasure to all. On Friday, January .81, tlie Grand Officers left ISethlehem and. arrived safely at home. On the Tth of Februarj-, 1 issued a dispensation to Companion' Thomas Davage, District Deputy Grand High Priest for District X'^o. 12, to constitute a new Chapter, called Alleghany Chapter,. No. 217, at Alleghany City, which, Companion Davage's report shows, was done in due and solemn form. On the .3d of March, with a full complement of Grand Oflicers, I made a Grand "N'isitation to Phojnix Chapter, X^o. 198, at Phcenixville. After an address by me to the Chapter, the Grand Officers exemplified the work by conferring the three degrees. The attendance was good, both of members of Pha?nix Chapter and of Companions of neighboring Chapters — Reading, Lancaster, West Chester and Norristown being represented. The labors of the evening ended to the satisfaction of the Compan- 10 ioii^. and, it is hoped, benefit of the Chapter, and were followed at an earlj- hour of the morning b}- a pleasant social reunion with the members and visiting Companions of Phoenix Chapter. The Grand Officers returned home on the morning of the 4th, gratified with tiie results of their visit. District Deputy Grand High Priest C. 31. Howell, of Lancaster, diil the Grand High Priest and his officers the pleasure of his attendance on this occasion. This Chapter had never before received a Grand Visitation. An interesting report on their minutes was made by Companion J. Alexander Simpson, Grand Secretar3- pro tern., and ordered to be spread on their records. liv requot of the Comjianions cif Anthony Wayne Chapter, No. 204, at Honesdale, Mith my permission and concurrence, Companion Past High Priest Jolm Beenken paid a visit of in- struction to that Chapter, arriving- there on March 7. Companion Beenken reports that, on the 9th. he opened a Chapter of instruc- tion, diilled the officers in all the degrees, and installed the King, Scribe, Treasurer and Secretary of that Chapter. On the 10th, (their stated meeting,) he installed the High Priest, Com- panion !Menner ; again drilled the officers in the work, and con- ferred the Mark degree. On the 11th, he conferred the Most Excellent and Royal Arch degrees. He found the Chapter in a promising condition, numbering fortj- members, and anxious to preserve and practice the work in its purity. On the Ibt of April, a Grand Visitation was made by me and my Grand Officers to Xorristown Chapter, No. 190. We were welcomed by the officers and Companions of that Chapter with cordial greeting, and joined in the evening by delegations from Germantown, Heading, Phoenixville, and other places. An address by me to the Chapter was well received ; an interesting report on their minutes was read by Companion J. A. Simpson, Grand Secretary pro fern., (this being the first Grand Yisita- tiou ever made to this Chapter,) and the Grand Officers then proceeded to exemplif\- the work. A social reunion of the (irand Officers, the Companions of this Chapter, and the visit- ing Companions, for refreshment after their labors, was most 11 cordial, pleasant and fraternal. On the 2d of April, the (Jrand Officers returned home. In the month of April, Companion John Beeuken, at request of the Companions at New Castle, Lawrence countj', and with my approval, paid a visit of instruction to the Chapter there, and gave valuable assistance to the Companions in the organi- zation of this Cliapter for work. On the sth -of May, pursuant to general notice which I had ordered, a Grand Cliapter of instruction was held in this hall, at which were present the Grand Officers, many of the District Deputy Grand High Priests, several Past Grand High Priests, High Priests and officers of Chapters, and a considerable number of Companions from various parts of the State. All three degrees were exemplified b^' the Grand Officers, and all the Companions present participated in the exercises, which ended at 2.30 P. M., to general satisfaction, and it is hoped profit to the Order. At 3.10 P. M., the Grand Chapter was again ojjened, a council of High Priests formed, and the order of High Priesthood was conferred liy me on Companions J. King McLanahan, High Priest of Chapter 169, and "\>'illiam C. Haj', High Priest of Chapter 191, respectivelj'. On the 20tli of July, I with the Grand King and Grand Scribe, and my corps of Grand Officers, left Philadelphia, on a tour of instruction, in a series of Grand Yisitations to the several Chapters in the counties of Schuylkill, Northumberland, Colum- bia, Luzerne, Carbon and Lehigh, which had never yet received a Grand Tisitation. Made a Grand A'isitation to Mountain City Chapter, No. 196, at Pottsville, that evening, itly address to the Chapter was well received, and a report on the minutes was made by Companion J. Alexander Simpson, Grand Secretary j3?-o tein. The work was exemplified in the several degrees by the Grand Officei's. The attendance was large, and much interest was shown by the Companions. This Chapter is in excellent condition, and working in har- mony and prosperitj". On the 22d of July, left Pottsville, and paid a Grand Visitation VI to Schuylkill t'haplt-r, No. 159, at Minersville, iit T o'clock in the evcniug. I delivered an address to the Chapter, the minutes were inspected and reported on by the Grand Secretary pro tern.. and the work was exemplified by the Grand Officers in the several degrees. The attendance was large, and much interest shown by the Companions in the exercises. After partaking of the generous hospitalities of the Companions of Schuylkill Chapter, where among the Companions the most cordial satisfaction was ex- pressed at the results of the Grand Visitation, the Grand Officers returned by private conveyance, the same night, to Pottsville, to be read}' next day to proceed to Tamaqua. AVe arrived at Tamaqua on the 23d, and had a cordial recep- tion from the High Priest, officers and Companions there. At 7 P. M., paid a Grand Visitation to Tamaqua Chapter, No. 117. I delivered an address to the Chapter; the minutes were inspected, and a report thereon made by the Grand Secretary pro tent., and the work was exemplified and instruction generally imparted. to the evident satisfaction of the Companions. ()n the 2od of Julv. this being the dav assigned for the con- stituting of a new Chapter at Ashland, the Grand Officers left Tamaqua in the morning, and, arriving at Ashland at 3 P. M., jiroceeded at once to the constituting of Griscom Chapter, Xo. 219. at that place, which was done in due and solemn form, and the officers installed bj- the Grand High Priest and his officers. On the conclusion of these ceremonies, the Grand Chapter closed ; and, the new Chapter having been opened, a Grand Visitation in ample form was made to (iriscom Chapter, Xo. 219, and the three degrees were conferred and the work exemplified by the Grand Officers until late at night. The Chapter then closed; and by the bounteous hospitalitv of Companion "Washington Reifsnyder, District Deputy Grand High Priest, the Grand Offi- cers and Companions were entertained at a mo^t pleasant reimion at the Repplier House. On July 24, the Grand Officers proceeded liy way of Mount Carmel to Sunbury; where, at 7 P. M.. a (irand Visitation was paid to Xorthuniberland Chapter, Xo. 174. In m}' address to this Chapter, their evident zeal and desire for advancement were noticed with pleasure ; and at the same time some urgent advice was given on points developed by their minutes, an excellent report on which was made by Companion i;5 J. Alexander Simpson, Grand Secretary pro tern.; one par- ticularlji- of which has since been rectified by action of the Grand Chapter. Companion J. Kay Clement, now acting High Priest, (the High Priest elected for this year having resigned to join the new Chapter at Ashland,) is most assiduous in de- voting his excellent talents to the prosperity of this old and honored Chapter, which, like many of tlie oldest Chapters we have visited, has heretofore somewhat languished from want of active supervision from the Grand Officers. Since this visi- tation I am informed that they have procured the necessary paraphernalia, in which the Chapter was deficient, and attended to the better security of their hall. The work in all three degrees was then exemplified, by the Grand Officers. Anxiety to learn and the strongest interest in and gratification at the instruction and information given was manifested by the officers and Companions generally ; as indeed was the case with everj' one of the Chapters in these interesting districts of our jurisdiction. On the 2.5tli of Julj', we left Sunbury, and arrived at Catawissa, and were cordiallj' welcomed l)_y Companion Dr. J. K. Robins, District Deputy Grand High Priest, and other officers and Com- panions of the Chapter here. At 7 P. M., a Grand Visitation was made to Catawissa Chapter, Xo. HS. In my address to this Chapter, I adverted to some deficiencies in their furniture and room, and also some preliminarj'' points in their work ; all of which was most kindly received, and steps at once talcen for rectification in all particulars. The report on the minutes of this old Chapter was, as usual, very interesting; and the Chapter evidently will hereafter exhibit strongly the benefit of this Grand Visitation. The three degrees were then fully exemplified by the Grand Officers. Sunda}', July 26, was pleasantl^y passed as a day of rest among tlie Companions, and in attendance at cliurch in Catawissa. Mondaj-, July 27, left Catawissa for Bloomsburg, to constitute the new Chapter there. We were most fraternally met at Blooms- burg by tlie Companions to form the new Chapter, Companion Clejnent and others, from Sunbury, and joined by District Deputy Grand High Priest Robins, and otliers, from Catawissa, and those of other Chapters more distant of tiie surrounding 14 country. At 3 o'clock P. M., the Grand Chapter was opened, and the Grand High Priest, assisted ]>y his Grand Officers, proceeded to constitute the new Chapter, under the name of Bloomsburg Chapter, No. 220, in ample and solemn form. The High Priest was then installed by the Grand High Priest, and then the other officers of the new Chapter liy the Grand Officers, in their respective stations. After an aildress, liy me, of con- gratulation and advice, which was received with evidentlj^ much interest and attention, the Grand Chapter closed at fi P. M. At T P. M., the new Chapter was opened in presence of the Grand Officers, and the three degrees were exemplified and conferred on three candidates by the Grand Officers. I then conferred the degree of High Priesthood on Companions Clement and Robinson, who were Past High Priests by election and service, hut had not received the High Priest's degree. During all my official tours I have made it a rule to confer the High Priesthood on any Companion whom I find similarly circum- stanced. .Inly 28. left Bloomsburg for a Grand Msitation to Valley Chapter, Xo. 214, at Plj'mouth, Luzerne countj-. We were m.et with cordial greeting at Plj-mouth by Companion E. C.^Vadhams, High Priest of the tUiapter, and others, and at T P. M. a Grand Visitation was made to Valley Chapter, No. 214. My address to this Chapter was attentively listened to, the minutes were carefully inspected, and an excellent report thereon made by the Grand Secretary jjro tern. The new hall of this ('hapter is spacious and handsome, and well adapted ti> its purpose. All the appointments are complete ; and under the active vigilance and zeal of Companion Wadhams and his coadjutors, the other officers and Companions, this Chapter makes bright promise of doing great credit to. our jurisdiction. The work was exempli- fied by the Grand Officers. I then conferred the degree of High Priesthood on Companion Wadhams, High Priest of this Cliapter, and also on Companion D. M. Hoyt. present High Priest of Shekinah Chapter. No. 132, at Wilkesbarre. At the close of these labors, the Grand Officers participated in hospitalities offered by the Companions of Plymouth ; and after midnight proceeded by private conveyance to M'ilkesbarre, where we arrived and took lodgings at 1 A. ^L of the 29th. 15 July 29, left Wilkesbarre for Maiich (Iluink, to {la;,- a (Jraiul Visitation to Lillj- Chapter, No. 181. We were liere welcomed \iy Cornpaiiiou Past High Priest liilly and the High Priest and officers of the Chapter, and at 1 P. M. paid a Grand Visitation to Lilly Chapter, Xo. 181. This is a Chapter of long and excellent standing, and owes doubtless much of its strength to the zealons care and active liberality of the distinguished Companion whose name it Ijcars, in connection with the other eminent meu of th- Craft for which this region is distinguished. M}- address was received with favor and attention, and its suggestions acquiesced in liy the Chapter. The (Irand t^ecre- tary's report on the minutes was interesting; this being one of the olil Chapters which had never before received a (irand Visitation. The work was then exemplified I.13- the Grand Officers. The bearing and hospitalities of the Companions here, as everywhere, were most kind and courteous ; and this being the last Chapter in this series of my Grand Visitations, we parted with the numerous assemblage of Companions who had congre- gated at Mauch Chunk to meet us, with pleasant retrospections of the uniform kindness, fraternal sympathy, and respectful attention which has characterized our reception by and inter- coiu'se with our Companions of each and every Chapter throuoh- out this most interesting excursion. Of the decided and great benefit of these Grand Visitations there can be no doubt. In every way they tend to the promo- tion and strengthening of tlie Order. The individual Chapters are by them animated with new life as it were ; while the ties of confraternity between the officers of the Grand Chapter and the Companions residing near the official centre and those of the remote districts of our jurisdiction, are drawn closer and made stronger by the meeting face to face, and the pergonal social greetings and near actpiaintance. July 30, we left Mauch Chunk, and arri"\'ed home by \\ay of AUentown and Betldehem. District Deputy Grand High Priest Companion Dr. E. G. Martin, of AUentown, had joined the Grand Officers at Mauch Chunk; and, with his native warmth of heart and fraternal regard and interest, extended to the Grand Officers every assistance, as well as proffers of hospitality in the town of his ii-sulenco, which honor we could not then tarry to accept. On the 10th of September, pursuant to a warrant granted I13' the Grand Chapter, a new Chapter, called Worthington Chapter, Xo. 2-20. and located at Fort "Washington, ^Montgomery county, ■was constituted in solemn and ample form in this hall by me, assisted liy my Grand Officers and a large assemblage of Past Grand High Priests and other Companions, a special meeting of the Grand Chapter being called for that purpose. At the con- clusion of these ceremonials, I installed the High Priest of the new Chapter. Companion Joseph Eex. in his station, with the degree of Hiirh Priesthood ; after which the King, Companion Newberry, and the .^^^eribe, Companion Flick, were installed by the Grand King and Grand Scribe respectively, and the Treasurer by Companion Past Grand High Priest Lescure as Grand Treasurer [u-n /<)».. and the Secretary by Companion John Thomson, (rrand Secretary. The Mark degree was then ex- emplified. Companion Xisbet. Grand King, acting as Worshipful Master. On the Isi of October, liy invitation of Companion David B. Taylor, (irand Principal Sojourner. I. together with the Grand King and the (nand Marshal, accompanied him by his private conveyance to Fort Washington, and paid an informal visit to Worthington Chapter that evening. We found the new Chapter anxious to proceed with the work they had undertaken, and zealous in their efforts, which promise assured and entire success. I as Grand High Priest brieflj- addressed the Chapter in some remarks of practical instruction, and we returned to the city the same night. On the itith of October, 1 with ray Grand Officers paid a semi-formal Grand Visitation to Germantowu Chapter, No. ■208. for the purpose of exempliflcatiou of the work, as well as interchange of fraternal salutations and regard. Our re- ception was fraternal, and the visit every way satisfactory. The work was exemplified, and the Mark and :Most Excellent degrees were conferred. 17 On the l26th of Xoveniber, a similar informal Grand Visitation was made to Pliiladelplaia Chapter, No. llfy, in this hall; being- one of a series intended to include all the Chapters in this city, which it is my purpose to make at earliest opportunities. The work in the Mark and Most Excellent deorees was ex- emplified by the Grand Offloevs. On the 30th of November, pursuant to notice, I with my ofli- cers left this city on a Grand A'isitation to Howell Chapter, No. 202, at West Chester. This was the first meeting of this Chapter in their new hall, which is well arranged and appropriately furnished with all the requisite appointments. AVe were cordially received by Com- panion Dr. W. D. Hartmann, ]Most Excellent High Priest, and his officers and Companions ; and were joined at West Chester by Companion C. !M. Howell, District Deputy Grand High Priest from Lancaster. The Grand Visitation was made in ample form, at t P. M. A numerous attendance of members and Companions, from neighboring Chapters was present, ^ly address to the- Chapter was received with gratifj-ing attention. A report bj' Companion J. A. Simpson, Grand Secretary pro Irm., on the minutes, was read and ordered to be entered on record. The work was then exemplified, nnd tlie Mark Master and Most Excellent degrees conferred. The Chapter was again opened, and again addressed by the Grand High Priest on tlie subject of their minutes, &c., and witk deserved congratulations on their excellent Masonic spii-it and strong and prosperous condition. The Grand Officers returned home next day, highly gratified with the kind, fraternal and hospitable bearing toward them of the Companions of Howell Chapter, No. 202. 1 am not without hope that during the ensuing year I may be enabled to extend the benefits of these Grand Visitations to such others of the Chapters of the interior as liave nevex received a Grand A'isitatiou ; especially those on the borders of tlie south- western and northwestern portions of the State, which, 1 am informed, are greati3' in need of more attention from the Grand Chapter. 2 18 On the 2d of December, instant, after the meeting of the Grand Lodge tliat da}-, on the written application of Com- panions Pearson Church and J. M. Dick, Past High Priests of Solomon's Chapter, 191, at Meadville, to have the degree of High Priesthood conferred on tliem, I convened a council of Past High Priests in this hall, at half-past T o'clock in the evening, for that purpose. This meeting was attended by the Most Ex- cellent Grand King, Grand Scribe, Companion J. A. Simpson as Grand Secreta.ry, pro tern., and a number of Past High Priests from various Chapters. After the opening of the Grand Chapter, a council of Past High Priests was formed, and the degree of High Priesthood was conferred hy me on those Companions, and also upon Companion Robert Martin, Past High Priest of Chapter Xo. ls(i. I have attended, whenever practicable, consistently with my health, this fall, at the annual elections of the several Chapters meeting in this hall, for the purpose of installing the High Priests elect, and in most cases the other officers. In the course of these visits I have installed and conferred the High Priest's degree on the chiefs elect of Chapters Xo. 3, 52, 91, 169, and 183; and whenever convenient, the other officers elect were also installed by the Grand High Priest and his officers. I have, on frequent occasions during the year, visited the several Mark Master Masons' Lodges which meet in this hall, and have always been truly gratified with their excellent order and the evidences of their high prosperity. Some check has been given to this work by a late addition to the Constitution ; but I have no doubt of their usefulness, and trust that the result will be a continuance of their healthful organization. I have thus endeavored to give in a concise form a view of mj' labors and those of the Grand Officers and other Companions accomplished as teachers and exemplars of the work, which has been performed under mj- direction and sanction during the past Masonic year. It would not be proper to close this rapid sketch of these labors without mentioning further that, especially to the zealous devotion of my fellow elective Grand Officers, and 19 those actiro- by my appointment, one and all, and the Past Grand High Priests, who have always kindly responded to my call for assistance, is due much of the good that has been done in the wa}' of instruction in the work of Companions from distant parts of my jurisdiction, who have, during the past j'ear, either resorted to this city or sent for assistance for that purpose. At all times have these calls been cheerfully responded to ; and, night or day. never have these Companions shrunk from the applications thus made to them. It has always seemed as a labor of love to them to impart their valuable knowledge to their Com- panions and brethren, and very many among those who are most zealous in _the advancement of the Royal Art in the various distant districts of the State, as well as in Philadelphia, will testify to the large amount of good they Jiave thus accom- plished. The system of meetings for instruction, rehearsal and practice of the work, recommended in my inaugural address, has been carried out to a profitable extent by the Grand Officers, as well as by the High Priests and officers of the subordinate ChaiDters, and bids fair to accomplish speedily, to a gratifying degree, that uniformity of work in our jurisdiction so much desired, and so essential to our true prosperitj'. From the districts along tlie borders of the State, in the north, tlie west, the south and the east, much complaint has reached me of embarrassment caused by a disposition among Master Masons of this jurisdiction to go to the Chapters of the adjoin- ing States for exaltation to the Royal Arch degree. I have uniformly discouraged the practice, and in all cases declined to give my assent when it has been asked for the purpose ; as has in several instances been the case. I have courteously replied to written applications from the Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Maryland and the District of Columbia, and also to the Secretary of Siloam Chapter, No. 19, in Camden, N. J., to the effect that, unless in case of urgent necessity, which should be clearly stated, no formal assent or permission could be given by the Grand High Priest of this jurisdiction to such pro- ceeding. id Companion (ieoige I'aitoii, Distikt Deputy (iraud High Priest for the Fifth District, having resigned that position on account of his private business, I appointed T'ompanion D. 'M. Hoyt, of Wilkesliarre, in his place. Reports liave lieen made to me liy several of my Dibtrict Depul,^- (rrand High Priests, setting forth the condition of the Chapters and the progiess of the Craft within their respective districts; all. with the exception of one district, exhibiting an encouraging and gratifying view of the steady advancement ot the Order. I have to state, liowever, with regret, that in a large majority of instances this important duty on the part of the Distj-ict Deputy (iraud High Priests has been omitted. I must therefore again strongly urge on the Companions holding that responsible and important position, the propriety and importance of their com- plying in future with that branch of their duties. To Companions Davage. of Pitt-buru-. Martin, of AUentowu. Hoyt, of Wilkc-s- barre, and Duseubury, of tireat Bend, are due the thanks of the Grand High Priest, for their attention in this regard, and for their very interesting re[)orts. Should any of the I>istrict Deputies have sent reprats not here mentioned, the omission will be gladly supplied. The practice which prevails in many of the districts of the interior of the State of installing the High Priest elect without the conferring of the High Priest's degree, has given rise to much inconvenience, and should be remedied as far as possible. The ditBculty of getting together a sufScient number of those of that degree is constantly increased by it : and in man}' instances confusion and embarrassment have arisen from the uncertaintj- among the Past High Priests themselves, after a long lapse of time, as to whether in particular instances the degree has been conferred or not. I have, on such case coming under my per- sonal observation, in the exercise of the Grand High Priest's prerogative, dispelled the embarrassment by convening a council and conferring the degree forthwith on the Companion in donbt. It might be well that the Grand Chapter consider this subject with a view to any remedy of the practice which may be found practicable. ■21 As already recited, under my administration during the past jear tliere have been constituted, under warrants duly granted by the Grand Chapter, four new (Uiapters, throe of which were constituted by me as Grand High Priest in person, assisted by my Grand Officers, and one at Alleghany City, by Companion Davage, District Deputy (Jrand High Priest, witli the assistance of the Comiianions there, under a dispensation issued b_y me to him for tliat purpose, as before mentioned. There are now within our jurisdiction in the State of Pennsyl- vania sixty-three Chapters, all in working condition, and fulfilling their important functions in peace, harmony and prosperity. The number of members in these Chapters by last report to the Grand Secretary for 1861 was 5,020. There are three Mark Lodges, witli a total membership then of 2,80'7. Tlie Most Excellent Grand Secretary's report will exhibit in proper detail the number of exaltations and general condition of each fiiapter up to their last returns. The report of the Most Excellent Grand Treasurer shows a jjrosperous condition of the finances of tlie Grand Chapter. I would suggest that, if practicable, an arrangement shovild be made, bv contract with the Grand Lodge, to give the Grand Chapter some control regarding the occupancy of its room in this building. 'While it is thus seen that prosperity', peace and harmony reign throughout our borders, and that in our jurisdiction the advance- ment of our beloved Order is steadily onward in healthy and satisfactory progress, I have the great pleasure to state that, beyond our borders, the relations of our Grand Chapter with those of other jurisdictions have ))een of iniinterrupted concord and the most fraternal and cordial friendship. The repo)-t of our Committee of Correspondence will set forth in detail more particularly the character and incidents of those relations, in a narrative which will be received with great interest by the Companions. I cannot but repeat an expression ol" my grateful feeling toward tiie Companions of this Grand Chapter, one and all, for the kind forbearance with which they have looked over mj- deflciencies, the fraternal support they have alwaj's extended to me, and the high honor they have conferred in re-electing me to the supreme station of Grand High Priest of this great and illustrious jurisdiction. In conclusion, 1 have to repeat that ■we have abundant cnu*e for gratitude to the Supreme Divine Ruler over the destinies of men, for the good He has thus far permitted to be accomplished through our noble institution, and of cheerfulness and joy at the prospect of the future advancement of its benign influences. A spirit of charity and brotherly love, of mutual forbearance and kindness, has marked all our intercourse ; and we enter on the labors and the i^leasures of fraternal intercourse of another Masonic j'ear, with strengthened hope and faith in the fulfilment of our mission of universal cliaritv. After which the Most Excellent Grand llio-li Tricst was pleased to amiounce the following a}>pointnients for the 3'ea.v l.ieginning Saint John's Day, Deeemlier 27, 1860 : Comp Jon.x "\ViL80X, Jii.. . (Ii David B. Taylor, . (h George J. Becker, . (h William J. Kelly. Gi Andrew Robeno, Jr., Gi John S. Stevens, Gi Edward Massi.in, (h R. L. Lee, S. Horace Fuitz, J. A. C. Ireland. Gi Charles Sciimder. . Gi ■and Captain aj' (he Host, •a.rid Prinripal Sojuurner. •and Hoy al A)-rh t'aptaiiK and Jla^li'i- Third Vail, •and Masti'i- ^ri;,nd VaiL •and J/a.ftcr First ]'ail. •and Jlar^hal. (r. JI. (if Ccri'iit'ini-:.^. G. 31. 1)/ Cervnionit'a. ■and PurHuirant. •and Tnlrr. 23 GRAND CHAPLAINS. Reverend Companion John Chambers, " " Joseph J. Elsegood, " " Daniel Washbukne, " " Joseph Castle, " '' James McGowan, " " Robert II. Pattison, " " W. C. Robinson. COMMITTEE ON WORK. Comp. Joseph S. Riley, Comj). Daniel Thojipso\, " David C. 8kerrett, " Robert Erazer, Comp. GEORfiE V\'. Wood. COMMITTEE ON EINANCE. Comp. Edward P. Lescure, Comp. Thomas D. Wattsun, " James Simpson, " Conrad B. Day, Comp. John R. Manderfield, Jr. COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE. Comp. Samuel C. Perkins, Comp. J. Alexander Simpson, " Charles Gilpin, " James B. TA>i <~)stex, Comp. Lemuel Stevens. COMMITTEE ON Al'PEALS. Comp. George W. AVood, Comp. Henry J. White, " John Beenken, " Alfred T. Jones, Comp. Alfred R. Potter. COMMITTEE ON CHARIT-^'. Comp. Jer. L. Hutchinson, Comji. William T. Taylor, " Alex. Kirkpatrick, " James W. Tan Osten^ Comp. Thomas Stillman. 24 DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND HIGH PRIESTS. 1 — Companion Chaeles M. Howell, of L.anciistei-, for the Counties of Lancaster, York, Dauphin and Leliamin, 2 — Companion Robert H. Thomas, of Mechanicsburg, for the Counties of Cumberland, Franlclin, A. lams and Purry. 3 — Companion Washington Reipsnydek, of Aflilana, for the Counties of Schuylliill and Berlis. 4 — Companion Edwin G. Martin, M. D., of Allentown, for the C'ounties of Carbon, Northampton and fjeliii^li. 5 — Companion Henhv M. Hoyt, of AVillcesbarre. for tlie l^ounties of Luzerne, Pike, Monroe and Wayne. tj — Companion John II. Dusenbury, of Great Bend, for the Counties of Susquehanna, Sullivan and Wyoming. 7 — Companion W. A. Peck, of Tow.mda, for the Counties of Bradford, Tio^a and Potter. 8 — t'onipanion John K. Robins, of Oatawissa. for the Counties of Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Union a.nd Snyder. — Companion Michael 13. Hering, nf Lock Haven, for the Counties of Lyeoming, Clinton and Centre. 10 — Companion J. King McLanahan, of HolUdaysburg, for the Counties of Blair, Cambria, Huntingdou, Mifflin, Juniata, Bedford and Fulton. 11 — Companion James C. Acheson, ■ >f Washington, for the Counties of Washington, Fayette. ( rrcene and Somerset. 12 — Companion Joseph H. Hopkins, of Pittsburg, for the Counties of Alleghany, Westmoreland, Beaver, Arm- ."trong, Butler and Indiana. 13 — Companion William C. Hay, "f Meadville, for the Counties of Crawford, Lawrence, Mcicer and Erie. 14 — Companion M. W. Sage, of Franklin, for the Counties of Warren, McKean, Forrest. .Teft'crson Elk Clarion and "N'enango. ' ' |)raiul loin logal lrrl| |haplci[ of ; jeniiBgluaniH. QUAI\TEF\LY GF^ND COMMUNICATION. Held at Philadelphia, February 4, A. D. 186^, A. I. 2399. The Finance Committee presented their Annual Report, as follo^v^ : the rejtort l)eing approved and the accompanying resohitioii adopted: To the Mo.-t £.n-iUrnl Grand High Friet! Prom .Tolm Tliomsoii. for ('oustitntious sold. . . 41) 02 Total ri.'Ccipts, Balance on liand, January 1. 1S(;m. . . . 1,SS2 94 Total. . *t;,427 S2 26 Broiiiilit fwrwar.l. . $(-;,42T 82 /'(■/• Conira. Investeil in Masonic Loan, . Expenses of Grand High Priest, . District Deputies, Salary of Grand Secretary. . Assistant Grand Secretary. . iJill of (J rand Tyler, Wm. B. Scbnider. Clias. Schniiler. Paid for stationery. .... " W. A. Maas, for printing, " for blank warrants fur Chapti^rs. . " Horstman Bros. A; Go., for regalia, " King i*i: Baird, for printing. . John Bolt, sundry- l.iills. '• J. ('. Hunter, for gas-tittiiig. ■• F. H. Watt, for trunk, . '• W. F. Shelile. for stencil plate. " excliange cm draft, " Margart't L. Schnider. gratuit}-, . Total, .... Balance in 'treasurer's hands. Januni-y 1. ls(;',t. . s 1.5 00 Oi) . 1,052 50 1^2 l-i 250 OO 200 00 50 00 71 00 34 95 !) 25 .30 10 . 1.021 ().> i;.;5 :V:> 21 G2 IT 25 ■)0 Oi.> 3 13 20 20i.i 00 ■ S5.3U 11 (I'.i. >!1.113 71 The Finance Committee also examined the acci.>imt> of the Grand Secretary, and found them "■orrect. showiu'^ that he had received during the past year. For certificates and Gonstitutions. the ^um of >;44 00 Paid for postage, etc.. . . s-_» ^s Leaving a lialancc in liis hands, Dec. 31. of . -tl 72 S44 00 The (irand Treasurer, Companion Williamson, has iu charge the following securities belonging to the (Jrand Chapter, to wit : 27 No. 20,491, Certificate old City Loan, .... !};l,00a No. 62,819, U. S. Coupon Bond, 1,000 No. '?,9.54, U. S. Coupon Bond, 50O $2,500 -ft'liieh sliould Le sold and the proceeds invested in tlie Grand Lodge Masonic Loan. liesolved, That tlie Finance Committee be authorized to sell the- above-described securities and invest the proceeds in the ^lasonic Loan of the Grand Lodge. The Grand Secretary holds the following securities, placed in his hands for safe-keeping : No. IV, Certificate Grand Lodge Loan dateiiarterl_v Commmiication tlicMost Excel- lent Grand High Priest, in answer to Past Grand Iligli Priest Companion T\'ood, decided " That, in all cases, Chajv ters must open in the Ro}-al Arch degree before proceeding to work; and after conferring the ^lark or [Most Excellent degree, the Chapter niust l)e re-opened in the Arch, Letore olosino- for the evcnino-.'" rand |oIu j[opI irch |ltapteii of lamsglnama. qUARTERLY GRAND COMMUNICATION, Held at Philadelphia, November 4, A. D. 1869, A. I. 2399. This being the period fixed by the Ooustitution for the election of Grand Officers, the Most Excellent Grand High Priest appointed Companions Wood, Hutchinson and Lescnre, Past Grand High Priests, tellei-s. The Most Excellent Grand High Priest Companion George Griscom, declining a re-election, addressed the Grand Chap- ter, as follows : Companions : Honored for two successive terms, bj^ the uiiaiiiinous suffrcigcs of my Companions of the Grand Cliapter of Pennsylvania, witli the station of supreme command in this great jurisdiction, it is with profound emotion that I now announce my desire and purpose to relinquish the office, and that I decline being a candidate for re-election in the balloting that is now about to take place. This emotion arises from several causes, not the least of which is the sense of obligation and gratitude for the generosity •with which I have ever been supported and cheered amidst the severest of the difficulties and res|OTnsibilities of so exalted position. 30 My Companions must take mj- good-will and my gratitude for their kindness, as all the compensation I can offer for my past deficiencies, and with tl\e tender of mj- best efforts for the future, to promote the interests of Roj-al Arch Masonry in our jurisdiction, be assured of my most sincere regard and fraternal affection for every member of this Grand Chapter, and of the Order. With my Compauion> who were elected witli me to the other chief stations, and those who have held the various places under m}' appointment. I ha^ e ever held the mo^t fraternal, the most harmonious, and the most pleasant relations. I now. on the approach of the hour of our official separation, give them, one and all, my most hearty acknowledgments fur the able support, the kind forbearance, and the uniform rmirtosy ami kindness I have over experienceil from them. I expect to have the pleasure, at the next (fraud Communica- tio)i, to jiiesent to the Grand Chapter a brief liut clear account of my labors as Grand High Priest during the i>ast Masonic year ; and. for the iPi\->cnt, I therefore have only to repeat the assurance cif grateful emotions that cannot be expressed in words on tiiis c'Cca~ion of announcing my approaching retirement. 15efore the end of my official term, it is still my purpose, as iiunounced by mc to the Grand Chapter and to my District Iteputy Grand High Priests at the beginning of the present year, to pay formal Grand Tisitations to the several Chapters which have never a- yet been visited by the Grand High Priest, along the southern section of the State: commencing on the first day with Lancaster and Columbia, and proceeding by the way of Harrisburg through tlie Cumberland Talley, and west- v>-ard as far as Altoona, and such other points as may be deemed advisable. This so long-promised duty has been delayed thus far 1 )y circumstauces beyond my control, but I now have every Jiope of Ixiug able to issue my programme for the jouniey to the different Chapters in the course of the present month. 31 The Grand Chapter then proceeded to the election ; and the tellers reported that the following-named Companions had been duly elected to the respective offices, viz. : Comp. MiCHAEI. XlSBET, " Charles Eugene Meyee, " John Wilson, Je., Peter Williamson, . " John Tno:\[soN, . 2f. E. Grand High Priest. •' Grand King. " Grand Scribe. " Grand Treasurer. " Grand Secretary. |raiTd iolg lopl l^rclt ||hapter[Of |enns3lcanm. ANNUAL GRAND COMMUNICATION. Philadelphia, December 27, A. D. 1869, A. I. 2399. The Most Excellent Grand High I'riest. Companion ("Jeorge (_Triseom, made the following oxoi'lleut narting ail- ili-ess to the (' 01' I'llK (iUANli CHAPTER: One of the mo^t hniiortaut as well as inteiv^tiiig duties of the Aumial Couvocatiou of the Grand Holy Roj'al Arch i.'hapter of I'ennsylvanLa, on Saint John's day, is that -which devolves upon its presiding Chief, the (jiand High Priest, to give to the Com- panions a report of liis administration, and some account of the i-ondition of the Order within his jurisrlietinn during the past ^fasonic j-ear. In the performance of this duty on the present occa-ion. I am impressed with very pleasant emotions, and at the same time witli feelings almost approaching to em'iarrassment. The reminiscence of delightful association with my Compan- ions and brethren in every branch of the Fraternity fills me with gratitude and satisfaction : while a conseiousiu'-s of my in- abilitj' to make this performance of my duty come up to the standard of my wishes, oppresses me with a feeling; of hesitation to approach it. One cause of this latter feeling is the brief time permitted for the preparation of this annual statement, owing to the neeessitv of waiting for the reports of the Committee on Correspondence 83 and of my District Deputies, many of which latter have come in within the last few days, and some few of which have not even yet been received, althongh they are doubtless on the way. The duties and responsibilities of the Grand High Priest of Pennsylvania are all impoi'tant, diversified and extensive. They include a supervision of the whole of this great jurisdiction, reaching througli every quarter of the broad domain of our Com- monwealth. Throughont this great field he has sole and abso- lute swaj-, unlimited except by the expressed provisions of the Constitution. Over tliis vast brotherhood of Companions of the Royal Art, and this great sisterhood of subordinate Chapters, it is his duty to keep a constant aud a vigilant care. He must counsel, direct and guide, as well as correct, command and con- trol them in every phase of their multifarious interests and pro- ceedings. He must attend to their requests, rectify their errors, decide doubtful questions, give them aid and instruction in the work on all practicable occasions, and during his term person- ally visit every Chapter, as far as is in his power. A thorough and earnest discharge of this office involves great personal sacrifice, and absolutely requires the power of consid- erable physical endurance. During the two years of my administration, the evidences of prosperity and strength in our institution have continued steadilj- to increase. Sound Masonic principles have everywhere pre- vailed, and the exalted standard established and required by the sacred character of our holy Order has been well and nobly sustained. The zeal and activitj' of the Companions have been tempered by a wholesome regard to those elevated and sacred principles ; and, as a general rule, with a view to the preservation of harmonj- aud fraternal love, rather than to a show merely of numerical strength. From this standpoint, as well as in regard to its benign influ- ence on the general community, a view of the onward progress of our Order, and its steadily increasing strength in this juris- diction, is as interesting as it is truly gratifying. In the course of a resume of my labors of the year 1869, I 3 34 shall endeavor to la3' before the Grand Chapter a view of the present condition of Royal Arch Masonry within its jurisdiction, so far as my own experience and observation, and the reports of my Deputies and Committees, wiU enable me to give. During the early part of the present year, I attended in my official capacity all the Chapters meeting in this hall, and also the Chapter at Germantown. On the 2-2d and 2Tth of January, I called my Grand Officers together, preparatory to semi-formal Grand Visitations in succession to all the Chapters and !Mark Lodges of Philadelphia, to commence in February, for instruc- tion and inspection of their condition and work, as well as for fi-aternal greeting and communion with the Companions. February 5, I paid Grand Tisitatiou to Harmon}- Chapter, Xo. 52, when the Mark degree was exemplified and conferred in full bj^ the Grand Officers. February IT, visited Columbia Chapter, No. 91, when Most Excellent degree and Roj^al Arch were exemplified and con- ferred in full on six; and the Order of High Priesthood on Companion James P. Salmon, High Priest of Lilly Chapter, Xo. ISl. by Grand High Priest. February 18, Grand Yisitation to Oriental Chapter, X'o. 183. Most Excellent and Eoyal Arch degrees exemplified and con- ferred in full on six. February 16, Grand Yisitation to Philadelphia Chapter, X"o. 160. Royal Arch degree exemplified and conferred in full on •three. Februarj- 22, Grand Yisitation to Jerusalem Chapter, Xo. 3. Exemplification and conferred Most Excellent on six, and Royal Arch degree on three. February 25, Grand Yisitation to Keystone Chapter, Xo. 175. Most Excellent degree on four, and Royal Arch degree on three. March s, Grand Yisitation to Columbia ^Mark Lodge, Xo. 91. Mark degree exemplified. March 9, Grand Yisitation to Girard Mark Lodge, Xo. 214. Mark degree exemplified. March 16, Grand Yisitation to Excelsior Mark Lodge, No. 216. Mark degree conferred on four. A visit to Germantown Chapter, Xo. 208, was productive of much gratificatioii to myself and the Grand Officers who accom- 35 panied me ; and the condition of that excellent and promising Chapter was found to be quite satisfactorj-, and the exemplifi- cation of the work and instructions by Grand Officers were re- ceived with much attention. These visits were all in every way satisfactory, harmonious and gratifying. The exemplification of the work by the Grand Officers was received with much attention, and the Grand Officers were welcomed with that cordial courtesy and fraternal spirit which belongs to the true Royal Arch Mason and to the truly regulated Chapter. March 22, on a visit to Chapter Xo. 3, 1 decided that, to enable a Chapter outside of Philadelphia to receive application for and confer the Chapter degrees on an applicant residing in Philadel- phia, the consent of all the Chapters in the city must first be had. Of this I notified Worthington Chapter, No. 220, at Fort Washington, where, as I was informed, a number of applicants from the city had been elected. June 24. 3 P. M., I opened a Grand Chapter at this hall, and constituted Oxford Chapter, No. 223, located at Oxford, Chester count\', and Corinthian Chapter, Xo. 224, at Columbia, Lancaster county ; and the officers thereof were duly installed by the Grand High Priest, assisted by the Grand Officers. July 26, 1 went with my Grand Officers to Tremont, Schuylkill county, and at 3 P. M., opened the Grand Chapter, and consti- tuted Tremont Chapter, No. 221, and installed its officers. At 7 P. M., opened the Chapter, and the Grand Officers exemplified the work, conferring ^lark degree on eight, jNIost Excellent on six, and Royal Arch on three. I delivered an address to the new Chapter, and then conferred the High Priest degree on the High Priest of Chapter at 3[inersville. .July 27, returned home. August 5, at the Quarterly Grand Communication, I decided that a Chapter must first be opened in ancient form, and that after closing of the Chapter, to open a Mark or Most Excellent Lodge, the Chapter must be reopened before final closing for the eve- 86 ning, and both in short way ; and that the final closing must be in ancient and ample form. Ordered this decision to be printed, and sent to all the Chapters in the jurisdiction. August 19. I sent a dispensation to m}- District Ueput} , Most Excellent Companion Eobert H. Thomas, to reorganize (ieorge Washington Chapter, No. 176. at Chambersburg, the work of which had been suspended ever since 1863, their warrant never having been surrendered or withdrawn, and the Grand Chapter having remitted their dues. This duty was duly per- formed, and Companion Thomas report thereof filed. November .5, a Grand Chapter of Instruction was held at this hall by my order. I greatly regret having been compelled to be absent during most of the proceedings on this occasion. I am under deep obligation to Companion Michael Xisbet, Most Excellent Grand King, who took my place as Grand High Priest for the time, and to Companion C. E. Meyer, Most Excellent Grand Scribe, who acted as Grand King, and to Com- panion Edward Massou, who acted as Grand Scribe, as well as to the other Grand OtHcers and Companions, who assisted at this (irand Chapter of Instruction. A clear and excellent report, made to me by Companion Nisbet, shows that this was an inter- esting occasion, and productive of much satisfaction to the Grand Officers, as well as benefit to the Companions who attended for the reception of instructions in the Chapter degrees, which were all three, in an excellent and satisfactory manner, exemplified. Companion Nisbefs report is a model for the proceedings on such an occasion, and I recommend that it be filed, that the Grand Chapter mav have the benefit of it for reference as snch. In accordance with my announcement to the Grand Chapter at the beginning of the present year, and with the system which met. its approval last year of Grand Visitations in ample form to the subordinate Chapters in the interior, I proceeded, with the Most Excellent Grand King and Grand Scribe, and a corps of appointed Grand Officers, on the 6th of the present month, on a tonr of Grand Visitations to such of the subordinate Chap- ters in the southern and middle Districts of the State as had never before received a Grand Visitation. 37 The Chapters which were included in this series of Grand Visitations are — Persoverance Chapter No. 31 Harrisburg. Weidlc Chapter No. 197 Lebanon. Samuel 0. Perkins Chapter No. 239 Mechanicsburg. Chapter No. 156 Carlisle. George Washington Chapter. . .No. 176 Chambersburg. Standing Stone Chapter No. 301 Huntingdon. Lewistown Chapter No. 186 Lewistown. Mountain Chapter No. 189 Altoona. Mount Moriah Chapter No. 166 Hollidaysburg. Portage Chapter No. 195 Johnstown. Urania Chapter No. 193 Greensburg. Lycoming Chapter No. 333 WilUamsport. La Fayette Chapter No. 163 Lock Haven. Chapter No. 218 Bloomsburg. Chapter No. 43 Lancaster. Corinthian Chapter No. 334 Columbia. Howell Chapter No. 199 York. Bj' my circular issued on Xovember 19, to all the High Priests •and Secretaries of the Chapters above named, and to all mj^ Dis- trict Deputies, these Grand Yisitations were arranged and held, respectively', as follows : Monday-, December 6 — Leave PhiladeliDhia, 11.40 A. M., arrive at Harrisburg at 4.15. Grand Visitation at 6 P. M., to Chaptei'S of Harrisburg, Lebanon, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle and Chambers- burg, and exemplify the work. Tuesday, December 1 — 9 A. M., exemplify work at Harrisburg. 12.45 P. M., leave Harrisburg and arrive at Huntingdon at 5.40 P. M. 6.30 P. M., Grand Visitation to Chapters of Huntingdon and Lewistown, and exemplify the work. Wednesday, December 8 — 9 A.M., exemplify work at Hunting- don. 12.32 P. M., leave Huntingdon and arrive at Altoona at 2.20 P. M. 4 P. M., exemplify work. 6.30 P. M., Grand Visitation to Chapters of Altoona, Hollidaysburg, Johnstown and Greens- burg, and exemplify work. Thursday, December 9 — T.30 A. M., leave Altoona; arrive at Williamsport at 2 P. M. 4 P. M., exemplify work. 6.30 P. M., Grand Visitation to Chapters of Williamsport, Lock Haven and Bloomsburg, and exemplify work. Friday, December 10 — 1.50 A. M., leave Williamsport; arrive 38 at Lancaster, 1.45 P. M. 3 P. M., exemplify work. 6 P. M., Grand Visitation to Chapters of Lancaster, Columbia and York^ and exemplify work. Saturday, December 11 — 9 A. M., exemplify work at Lan- caster. 1.35 P. M., leave Lancaster and arrive at Philadelphia, 4.15. This programme was carried out to its fullest extent. On each of these occasions I addressed tlie Chapter with such remarks as were deemed apposite to its condition, and the ex- emplification of the work in all the degrees proceeded and was performed in the most thorough manner by the Grand OflBcers. Instruction on every point required was given, and every defect in the state of preparation of their halls, paraphernalia or their records pointed out and ordered to be rectified. The attendance on every occasion was good, and the instruc- tion given was received with gladness and clieerfnl acquiescence in all cases. Their books of minutes, none of which ever before had been inspected by the Grand Chapter, were carefully examined; and the excellent reports thereon made by acting Grand Secretary Companion J. Alexander Simpson are of exceeding value, and will be read with interest by the members of the Grand Chapter^ In all cases where there were candidates, the Chapter degrees were conferred on them in full by the Grand Officers ; and where newly elected officers were read}-, they were duly installed by the Grand High Priest, assisted by the Grand Officers. The Grand Officers were everywhere received with enthusi- astic welcome, and the liveh' interest which was excited by their presence throughout the tour was most gratifying. Everj'where the expression was universal of joj' at the oppor- tunity for instruction, and satisfaction at the information and instruction received. It was constantly evident that new life and vigor «ere infused into the Order wherever we went ; and the incalculable benefit of this system of intercommunication between the Grand Chap- ter and its subordinate Chapters was most strikingly evident throughout. The Grand Officers returned home in the regular order of the programme from Lancaster, on Saturday, December 11, havino- gone through my plan in the most thorough and satisfaetorv 39 manner, and without any accident or impediment to mar tlie regularity of tlie proceedings. In carrying out so large an amount of work in so short a period as six days, I am under most important obligations to the President and Directors of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, through the cordially kind attention of Companion H. J. Lombaert, Vice-President, and to Superintendents Williams, Franciscus and Black, and the other officers of that Company who acted by their instructions, for the excellent arrangements made by them for our accommodation by a separate car, and iu one case a special engine for our use, and connecting arrange- ments which obviated all material delay. Our thanks are also emphatically due to the officers of the several Chapters, and my* District Deputy (Jrand High Priests, and many other distinguished Companions who came long dis- tances to meet us, and to the Companions generallj' of the Chapters named, for the warm-hearted reception we everywhere received, and the fraternal co-operation and assistance they uni- formly extended to the Grand High Priest and his officers. As I have before remarked to the Grand Chajiter, to the exten- sion of the system, inaugurated a few years ago, of Grand Visita- tions by the Grand High Priest and his officers, to the subordi- nate Chapters throughout the State, instead of its restriction as formerly almost entirely to the Chapters in and around the com- mercial metropolis, we are indebted for the most gratifying results. These Grand Visitations tend to the drawing together more closelj', and keeping in healthy warmth and activity, those social and fraternal relations between the Grand Chapter and its sub- ordinate members so essential to the well-being and the useful- ness of both. They give the benefits of more intimate association and closer interchange of those feelings and principles of fraternitj^ which form at once the delight and the strength of our organization. The personal intercourse, the social cordiality, the fraternal hand so freely and unreservedly extended, draw more closely and more effectively the Masonic tie which binds us together by its solemn behests; and the relations between the Grand Officers and their Companions throughout the State aie thus made more 4i) satisfactoi-y aud mutually helpful and beneficial. Beside these moral, intellectual and social influences, there is another object of this system with respect to which its effects have been and are of the very highest importance regarding the governmental politj- and more especiallj- what, in strictness of Alasonic phrase, is called the "Work of the Order. VxiFORMiTY i.\ THE WoKK lias ever been esteemed bj- the (irand Chapter a point of the highest importance, aud its estab- lishment among the Craft of this jurisdiction has been one of the objects to which our constant aud most earnest efforts have been aimed. In this effort I have been most zealously and efiec- tively seconded and sustained by my two associate cliiefs of the Grand Chapter, and by my Grand Officers, one aud all, as well as by the Past (irand High Priests and Companions generally. For this we have labored unceasingly- aud untiringly, at all seasons and in all places. Let it be understood that these labors have not been for the introduction of " change" or the estab- lishment of any thing new in the work. T\'e have applied our- selves, first, to ascertain with eertaintj- and accuracj' what the ancient Pennsylvania "Work was aud is ; and, second, having found and established that as a standard, to apply it to all our practice and to see to it that it is adopted aud strictly adhered to in all the Chapters. There are collateral forms, also, essential to the effective work- ing of our ritual, and the beautiful simplicity of our ceremonies, which the Grand Chapter has deemed it proper to supervise; and, wherever departed from, to re-establish on the true and ancient basis. These forms and ceremonies it has been our purjiose to keep as they were of old established, and free from innovation or change, as far as is in our jiower. The proximity to other jurisdictions of the Chapters and Companions who dwell along our borders especially- subjects them to the diflicultv arising from easy introduction of innovations. "While always entertaining and cherishing the highest fraternal regard for our Companions in the Royal Art of our sister juris- dictions, and the utmost respect for their systems, and the formula and ceremonies which accompany their rituals and their Chapter work, it is equally incumbent upon us to sustain, by 41 every means in our powe'i', tlie integritj' of the good old system which has been adhered to from the beginning of Royal Arch Masonry in Pennsylvania, and which has given to onr juris- diction a character for solidity as well as beauty of work which is recognized with respect throughout the Masonic world. The result of these labors is, that throughout our borders are seen evidences of increasing zeal, assiduity and devotion to the interests of "Royal Arch Masonry ; and from every quarter come up constantly evidences of a determination to acquire and to maintain our work in its purity and original strength. We now see throughout our jurisdiction, not onlj' numerical and financial prosjDerity among the numerous Chapters, but moral strength, social power and beneficent influence in the general community : the results of the advancement of the Royal Art throughout the wide domain of our Commonwealth. Royal Arch Masonry in Pennsylvania has, within the ten years last past, advanced by rapid strides to a condition which assures for it the position of a leading power in the Common- wealth of Free ^Nfasonry around the globe. The practice which had long prevailed along our borders of Master Masons of this State going to other jurisdictions to receive the Chapter degrees has been checked, and I believe effectually abolished, by ray exertions, aided by mjr District Dep- uties, especially in the northern and western districts. In this work I am indebted to the cordial co-operation of Right Wor- shipful Grand Master Richard Yaux, who instructed liis Deputies to .aid me in every way. .Vnother impediment to the progress of our Order was occasioned b}' a regulation of the Grand Lodge, by which a personal examination by the District Deputy was made a pre- requisite to the passing of the Chair. This, ia many cases, necessitated a long journey, and constantly' made inconvenience and delay. At my request, the Right AVorshipfnl (Jrand Master has most kindly and promptly modified that order, and instructed his Deputies that a recommendation from the Master of the Lodge where the applicant belongs shall bo sutticient to warrant the passing of an applicant to the Ciiair. 42 The increased amount of fee for passing the Chair is also assigned as a serious cause 6t impediment to tlie progress of Royal Arch Masonry; and has been generally spoken of with regret on that account, by the Companions of the interior especially. I suggest these matters for the consideration of the Grand Chapter, that such action may be taken thereon as in its wisdom may be deemed expedient. I have, through the whole of m3- administration as Uraud High Priest, made it a rule, as mentioned in my last annual address, during m\' Grand Visitations, to confer the degree of Higb Priesthood on all such Past High Priests as I found had been installed without it ; and my instructions have uniformly been that, in future, the installation of a High Priest must always be accompanied hy a conferring on him of the High Priest''^ degree. The difficulty, in a few districts complained of, of getting to- gether the necessary number of Companions of that degree to form a council of Past High Priests, is not sufficient to excuse its omission. The great looseness of practice that has prevailed is productive of far more barm to the welfare of the whole Order than the slight trouble or delay could possibly be to the partic- ular Chapter. During my Grand A'isitatious in the interior, I iiave found that the receiving of applications and conferring of the Chapter degrees on candidates as •■ sojourners " has prevailed to such an extent as in some Chapters to have become the general rule, instead of, as it ought to be. the exception to their general prac- tice. This undue prevalence of that practice I have constantly made ever3' effort to restrain; and I have ever\- reason to believe that my instructions have been always attended to and obeyed. What is to be deemed an -emergency," within the meaning of the Constitution, is left by that instrument entirely to the judg- ment of the Chapter, where the application is made, to decide. This is a delicate and important duty for tbe Chapter, and should, in all cases, be most carefully and cautiously exercised. 43 In the performance of my duty on this occasion, I am again under the disadvantage of having had no report from the Com- mittee on Correspondence during either the present or the last two preceding Masonic years. This duty has generally heretofore been so irregnlarlj' attended to, that the Grand Chapter has become accustomed to the omis- sion ; but the detriment to its interests and the duty we owe to other Grand Chapters is none the less, and what would be a very interesting part of our annual proceedings is thus left a void. This void, however, I feel assured, will not long con- tinue. This omission, on the present occasion, must be ascribed to the employment of the accomplished and distinguished Chair- man of that Committee, during a portion of the year, in foreign travel ; and we are consoled by the reflection that his report^ when it shall be made, will be all the more instructive and inter- esting from the very cause which has produced its delay. I cannot but express the hope that the Companion who has undertaken to perform that duty will long continue in the posi- tion he is so eminently qualified to adorn ; and that the Grand Chapter will have the benefit of the preparation he has been already enabled to make, for a report on our Foreign Corre- spondence. The resolution of the Grand Chapter to have the proceedings of last year printed has not as yet been complied with ; the Grand Officers having concluded to await the report of the Committee on Correspondence, and then have the proceedings of this year as well as those of last year go into one pamphlet. A brief statistical statement will amply confirm the encourag- ing views I have expressed of the progress and condition of Royal Arch Masonry in Pennsylvania; and will doubtless be received with interest by the Companions throughout the juris- diction. There are now within the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, and in full communion with this Grand Chapter, sixty-nine subordinate Chapters in full working condition. The number of Companions in actual membership, as shown by the returns up to Saint John's day, 1868, was 5,5.53. 44 The iiiimbei- of members comparatively sliown by the last two annual reports is as follows : 1867. Total number of members, . . • 5,073 ISr.S. ^i i- u . 5,553 Increase, ..... 480 The report for lS6'J. which has to await the returns from the < hapters. will doubtless exhibit a still larger ratio of increase. The total numbers of Chapters and of Mark Lodges, and the total of membership, -will be given in full, up to the end of 1809, in time for the next printing of our proceedings, now in course of )ireparation. The number and locations of new Cliapteis euUbtituted during tlie two years last past, being the whole period of m^- adminis- tration, is ten. Of these, five were constituted in 1808. and five ■-ince last ."^aint Jolm's day. With their numbers, dates and location'^, tliej- are as follow: Xo. 210, con^tiimcd Jaimaiy 30. ISiis. Bethlehem, Northampton coimty. Alleghany City, Alleghany county. Bloomsburg, Columbia county. Ashland, Scliuylkill county. Fort Washington, Montgomery co. isii'.l. Tremont, Schuylkill county. Williamsiiort, Lycoming county. Columbia, Lancaster county. Oxford, Chester county. Brookeville. .Tefferson coimty. In addition to tliesu a Man-ant was granted, November 29, 1^69. for ^^iloam Chapter. ^^). 220. at Frankford. which will be constituted by my successor. Of these new Chapters, seven were constituted by me as Grand High Priest in person, assisted on each occasion by the Grand King and Grand Scribe and a requisite number of the appointed iir-i jiM"'!, i'\ .'i\i|ililU>il li\ ilio .iiliiHM'N of ihi.s (irniul (Mdiplor. 'I'IimI. " oiU im 'lln' (Ull\ WiM'k ll\Ml (Mil or \\\\\ llO Vl'vMmil.M'il Mm I Iu' WiVl'K ill Pouunn 1\ MuiM ; .•uiil, MS ini pi'iiv iwioii I|!H I'xor lioiMi iiiihli' I'or iMi\illiin>' :uiv iHirl ion i>r il, il niUwl Ik' conlori'inl in Hill muiI in its i-nl ii'i'l \ , juhl mII Iho jiowiM' lU n\\ oonmnunl vvill I'o osimIimI lo niMiulMin lis pni'ilv iiml i;inu'il il MU.'iinsl Ininiwil ion, iVoni w li;iii-\ or t|iii\ili'i' il, niM,\ ron\o. K\oi'\ |iiirl I'l' onr ooronioniMl lias ilN liiililon inc.Mninji ; innl how run M riimliilnlo lool ilr< I'ori'n :inil >rc' ils lioinlv w In-n lir r.'rri\i'~. tlu' lunii'lll >'[' onl\ :\ poilnni <^[- II? ' I'l'mnNAinn is nixon to oonl'in' llu' ili-o;r,H>'( roillnulli njion Hli|ilir!inlM, in omson oI' i'nh'rmMir\ , of wliirli Iho ('linpli'r or l.oiii.vi\ ri-s|ii'cli\ rl\ , Ninill ln> lln> |nil!',i'. TlnN |'i'rnii>Nion is in li'uclcii lo .'i|i|il\ onl\ lo n-al Mml nol, nnM>;iniir\ t'li^os of onu'r ,L',i'ni'\. I'li(> nu'ro ilrsiii- ol' i\ ,'Mnilnl:ili' lo in'orooil willnnil iIi'1m\ IIic ili'Miri" ol' M ( 'oni|iMnion, who, lo roiwiin'o |,ln' ii|>|ill I'Mnl ol' liis inlhiiMn'o In I lu- ( 'hup I or or lioij.^o, nllow t hi-i w imIio-i lo onlrnn Iiih iuilo.nionl li\ omloin orin.'. lo Iimvo I ho oriliniu\ ili'l.MN ilr-ponnod willi or I h<' ih'siic' ol' | lio ( 'hM|i|iM' or l.oiloo lo I'orwiird ami looi'ivo his iloi.i,ri'OH ; I hinol'ino an inloiiilial iilinonoo I'roin I ho |oonlll\ ol' a ( 'ha|ili'i' or 1 Hiiloo, r,ir II lo.iM poriocl Ihiin ;.ommi inoni hn, iIoon nol, oon,slilnlo ii I'aao ol' oiiior;ioiiov. 'Tho niotil aorioni olijoolimi, ,llo\\o\ or, lo oaai';! ol' i'iH<'ro,i'no\ la, Ullll, ;i(Miio inoinhoi' iua\ ho lliKn(iiihi|il\' ahaoni, I'lanii a nioi'l iiio, \\ hon a |iolilion inl),',lil ho |iro.oiiioil I'roiu (Mio lo w ho,Mo I'nillior auj.>;Ii1, ; luid t.lliii lie vvlio (IcHircH l iipplii'iiiit liy liiilliit. 'IMic (iiiiiid Cliiipliu' I'xpi'i'lH ('()nipliM.iir(' with ilH riih'j4 and rrj;iiliil ioiiH hnth \>y oHicci's and ('iiiiipii.iiii)iiH. We arr all under (>hli;' to all that is ohl, and Ktamlinn' aloof IVoin all that miuhl he lernied new. Olir miixlm Im, that MMMimry Im as iinehaiif^eaUlo as (he hiwM of the Medes and Persians. To aseer- lain what is enrieel, we must look baelovard, not rorwaril ; and I would I'raleriially eaiirmn all lli^li Triesls an-ainst those well- iiieaiiin^' CoinpaiiioiiM, who visit other (Miapters than their own, lor the purpose of instriU'tiii^',- them in the work. However ^ood the inolive promptinu' these self-eoiisl iliiled insi rnetors, they, in inaiiN' instanees, stand as mueli in need ol' iiistrnel ion as the ("oinpanioiis IIu'n \isil,aml are as likely to lireeil error as to enre il. 'The oiil\' aillhorily I'or eorreet work is the (iraiid Chapter; ami, should any Chapter desire iiistriiel ion in the work, and its ollleers lie iiiialile to visit the Cnuul Chapter to ohtaiu it, upon applieation to the (iiaiid llieh I'riest a eoni- peteiil Companion will he duly eominissinned (o imparl it to them. Should any Companion attempt the part ol' iiislriielor. b-J. withont exhibitiug the proper authority, \'ou will consider iiim "as souiifling brass, or a tinkling cymbal." The Constitution of the Grand Chapter, page 40, provides as follows : Any Chapter or Lodge failing to make the required annual return, on or before the third ^louday of February, after such return shall be due, shall be notified thereof by the Grand Secretary ; and, if such return be not received by him within three months following the date of the notice, the war- rant of the defaulting Cliapter or Lodge is i/itf Uie Host. Grand Principal Sojourner. Grand lioijal Arch Captain. Grand Ma.[cGowan, " " Robert H. Pattison, W. C. Robinson. " ■■ Thomas A. Fernley. " " Alexander M. Wigoins. COMMITTEE OX WORK. Comp. Joseph S. Riley. Comp. David C. Skerrett. M, D.. " Daniel Thompson, " George W. Wood, Com|). Jeremiah L. Hitchinson. COMMITTEE OX FINAXCE. Comp. Edward 1'. Lescure, Coinp. Thomas J). AVattson, •• Conrad B. Day, '• Charles K. Shantz, Comp. John E. Manderfield, Jr. COMMITTEE OX CORRESPOXDEXCE. Comp. (iEOROE Griscom, Comi). Lkmuel Stevens, James Blei.och, " Dexnis F. Deai.y, Comp. Thomas H. Jainibs. COMMITTEE OX JJY-LAW8. Comp. J. Alexander Simpson, Ck)mp. (I>:(jrge II. Ashton, JosEru II. irEDGEs, •• John C. Snowden, Comp. James M. Beatty. COMMITTEE OX"^ APPEALS. Comp. (Jeorue AV. "Wood, Comp. Henry J. White, " John Beenken, " Alfred T. Jones, Comp. Alfred R. Potter. COMMITTEE OX CHARITY. Comp. James Simpson, Comp. Alex. Kirkpatriok, Wm. T. Taylor, M. D., " Thomas Stillman, Comp. Henry L. Sinexon. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND HIGH PRIESTS. 1 — Companion Joseph S. Evans, of West Chester, for the Counties of Chester and Montgomery. ■2 — (Companion Charles M. Howell, of L.anca3ter, for the Counties of Lancaster, York, Dauphin and Lebanon, 56 3 — Companion Robert H. Thomas, of Mechanicsburg, for the Couiitie.« of Cumberland, Franklin. Adjms and Perry. 4 — Companion Thomas B. B.v.ncroft, of Ashland, for the Counties of Schuylkill and Berks. 5 — Companion EmviN G. Martin. ^I. D., of Allentown, for the Counties of Carbon, Northampton, Lehigh and Bucks. C — Companion Henry M. Hoyt, of Wilkesbarre, for the Counties of Luzerne, Pike and Monroe. T — Companion John II. Dusenbury, of Great Bend, for the Counties of Susquehanna, Sullivan and Wj jne. 1^ — Companion W. A. Peck, of Towanda, for the Counties of Bradford and Wyoming. 9 — Companion Robert C. Simpson, of Wellsboro, for the Counties of Tioij:a. Potter and INIcKean. 10 — Companion Christian F. Knapp, ol Bloomsburg. for theCountiesof Columbia. JMontour. Xorthnmberhtnd, I'nion and Snyder. 11 — Companion Michael B. Herini_:. of Lock Haven, for the Counties of Lyeominir. Clinton, Centre. Cl'Tirfteld and (^ameron. 12 — Companion J. King ^McLanahan, of HoUidaysbursf. for the Counties of Blair. Cambria. Huntinir.ljn. Jlifllin, Juniata. Bedford and Fulton. 13 — Companion William Chatland, of Brownsville, for the Counties of Wivshington, Fayette, Greene and Somerset. 14 — Companion James H. Hopkins, of Pittsburg, for the Counties of Alleghany. AVestmoselaud. Beaver. Arm- strong, Butler and Indiana. 15 — Companion James R. Barber, of TitusviUe, for the Counties of Lawrence, Crawford, Mercer and Erie. 16 — Companion Christian F. Hoover, of Franklin, for the Counties of Warren, Forrest, Jefferson, Klk. Clirion and Venango. O |Z5 «• • .3 ^ d o 9. « CIS S - 2 c S * "» P* £ a o ja ,of 'S o ^ 1-5 K O PL, M O O Ph S d H i^ :d n-: -^ '3 o • s llliil cs i> CO cs th (^^ ir: t> C5 th G^ i« tH 1-H r^ (M (M tH O li. O |2i O O o !5 o I" Eh O i" Eh p O o OPm! i.o !5 to a 3 . 3 S -2 :^ s » g s g J .2 a m 3 a o o s ■s 3 » ja : or^-g a ho \ 5"? S o S H a +^ F^ Qj c3 - o3 O " >" OJ 3EhPh-»1HPh O) ^ :! ;; • • • a - ^ c - - 3 bo- S; i a ,a ° auphin ebanon umberl a li - ^ o S 1— f«0i40 fC(<1pHtC W .a o o C3 a ■73 a C3 g o a 'A Hi o o a Eh O PS o < P5 B S H p; ^ Ph K H S S -< n o H-3 R o K O P5 H 1-1 « CO ■* >> C3 „• a* 3 n ■3 ^ 1 Ml ib 'T 2 ^2 g 1 kini kaw ley. eka ce o 1 I z_:. 5^ a-5 g ^.2 OH ^ ' — ^r ^ o 07 1- -* C. (= o -*^ (MlOTtl 00 XI '^ « OOOO-H £- ^ 00 O :o t-O C5 i>— 1 « ^ y~ i-t Clot T-H T-H C:i T-H C7 7-i - -* » g I "B J b-5 2 5 5 5 S - "a " 9 o5 C£ be oI5k2 Shj a q ~ o 3 K O ■i <^ H S . 2« ■£ S nt M ntain age. dings istow S 3 -C rt fe °o g =e £ ^ -O C-. <- ,-1 o 6 cc; O 00 Ci O X' ;zi — ^ .-H « ^ o I" i o X o -2 Sd -i .» id a s 5. ?* a o S .2 rid ^m 53 p _ ;^ r- ^ 1:-: O T-H 1-H (M JO O -7"* t' O O OS i-H Ci :D O T-H T-H Ol ■<-i i-H CQ a o c S cj ^« a Tf. jfj ^. Tna ii^-* cs O cs a g ;^ O O OJ o «J o o p P o ■3,0 c a S S-3. S SE- /O; -: ..i LS a - a ■ a Qj ^P5 -. I—" -^ u ^ K /5 ;^ CO s H 2 I ra S a i 9 MoiHisia ;il t- « rr i-T O LT T-- O 1- — — O O' -^ CQ C>J OJ C7 DJ 0> O^ ' ^_^ I— I -w- = • i f. '^^'^ ?-Bhh^; k2 i^ •XDlHASId *^ REPORT I 0rre^f0iiiettte |ramt |ol8 |{ognl ^rd^ |luiptcr of |cnn3aluania, FOR THE YEARS 1868, 1869. EEPOET OF THK COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE, The subject of the printing of the proceedings for the year next preceding St. John's Day, 1868, having been referred to the Committee on Correspondence, in connection with the Grand Officers, and it having been concluded to defer the printing so as to include also the proceedings of the year 1869, and a report from the then Committee on Correspondence, M^hich Companion S. C. Perkins, its Chair- man, then expected to make ; and Companion Perkins, by absence in Europe and other causes, having been prevented from making such report, and a large number of printed documents received by him during the two years next preceding St. John's Day last having been, on February 9, 1870, sent by him to the office of Companion Griscom, that Companion submitted the same to the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, with request that as this mass of documents did not belong to the present Committee on Correspondence, he would be pleased to appoint some one to examine and make report thereon to the Grand Chapter, in time for the pi'inting of the proceedings for those two years. The Most Excellent Grand High Priest was thereupon pleased to designate and a^ipoint the Alost Excellent Grand King, Companion Charles E. Meyer, for that purpose, and the following is his rejctort thereon : TO THE ^.■. |/. |taint |tgh |]tksf of the inranct |lolg jyosal 'irch «,ha|jtcr of ijeimsgliiimia: The Committee ox Corresponhence for the years 1868 and 1869 fraternally report that thej- have received from Most Ex- cellent Past Grand High Priest Companion Samuel C. Perkins the proceedings of thirtj-four sister Grand Chapters for the years 1867, ISCiS, 1869; that in the very short time allowed them for review they have collected such matters of information as may be interesting to the Eoj'al Arch Craft in this jurisdiction; that they liave made as few comments thereon as was possible, deeming it necessary to note only such proceedings as arc different from the hiw in this jurisdiction or from the general ideas of ^iasonic law entertained by your Committee. The proceedings received and reviewed are as follows ; Alabama, i.sr)7-s ^IlCHKlAN, 1869 Arkansas, 18(i7-s Mississippi, 1X46 to 1S66-8-9 Canada, . 1867-8-9 ^llSSOURI, 1867-8 California, . 1867-8 Minnesota, 1868 Connecticut, 1868-0 Nebraska, 1867-8 District op Colvmbia, 1867-8 New York, , 1868-9 Florida, 18(i8-'.l New Jersey 1867-8 (iEORGIA, 1869 New Hampshire, 1866-7 Illinius, 1867-8 North Carolina, 1868 Indiana, ISfiS-'J Ohio, 1867-8 ll'lWA, 1867-8 Rhode Island, 1867-8 Kansas, 1867-8 South Carolina, 1867-9 Kentucky, 18(;7-8 Tennessee, 1867-8-9 Louisiana, 1868-9 Texas, . 1868-9 Maine, . 1S6S-;) Vermont, 1867-8-9 Maryland and D ISTRICT Virginia, 1867-8 of Columbia, . ls6 7-8-9 Wisconsin, 18(i8-9 Massachusetts, ]S(;7->! ALABAMA. !8e7. The rorty-first Annual Grand Convocation of this Grand Chapter was held in Montgomery, December 3, Companion George D. N^orris, Grand High Priest, presiding. Forty-six subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest — a very interesting document — begins as follows : "Qui debit nobis prineipiiim, idem dabit prosperoa auccessus." Who can doubt the truth of the above sentence ? From whence came our beginning but from the Great SJiem Hamplwraali, and will he not give us prosperous success? Is he not now? Our gates are thronged with applicants, and tlie Hiram sounds in many Halls. Wbat is this imperious institution, which spreads her wings over the continents of Europe and America, the Isles of the Sea, and every habitable part of the earth, and wliicb, without the slightest dependence on any form of government, has preserved its purity amidst every species of political convulsion, the disasters of war, the demolition of empires, kingdoms and States ? "What is this immense and silent influential association whose origin is lost amid the darkness of antiquity, and whose ramifications branch out amidst the conflicting inter- ests of commercial speculations, diplomatic alliances, religious creeds, and all the social establishments of mankind, in every country of tlie world, in spite of differences in climate, color, language and manners? What is the signification of its rites and ceremonies, its usages and its symbols ? What services is it able to render to the sacred cause of human- ity ? It is Free Masonry, and the universe is the temple of the living God, whom Masons serve. Wisdom, Strength and Beauty are about His throne, as the pillars of His work ; for His Wisdom is infinite. His Strength is Om- nipotent, and Beauty shines forth througliout all creation in symmetrical order. He hath stretched forth the heavens as a canop}^, and the earth He planted as His footstool. The canopy of His temple is crowned with stars as with a diadem. Tlie sun and moon are messengers of His will, and all His law is concord. He reports the deat-i;, by the hands of an assassin, of Past Grand High Priest James B. Harrison, and directed that all Royal Ai'ch Masons should wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days. The Grand High Priest decided that the High Priest of a Chapter in a disorganized condition, which, although represented in the last Grand Convocation, liad failed to elect officers and was practically dead, although not so declared by the Grand Chapter, conld not grant himself a demit and affiliate with another Chapter. Pennission was asked to confer the degrees upon one who had lost his arm in defence of his country, wliich was very properly and justly refused. Xo one should be permitted to advance in Masonry but those who are ph3'sically perfect. As no master can take an apprentice who is not without blemish, how much less can the High Priest of a Chapter permit any one to assist at the rebuilding of the temple who cannot use, in a proper manner, the implements of the craft ? The earnest attention of the Grand Chapter was called to the passage of an edict forbidding Royal Arch Masons wearing Royal Arch clothing in a procession exclusively of Master ^Masons, and to the evil effect of intem- perani-e awA prof anil y. In Pennsj'lvania, a Roj-al Arch Mason is not permitted to appear as such in an}' procession or j^ublic display. ^Ve are glad to report that the Grand Chapter of Alabama issued an edict covering it. He also recommends that an edict should require that each candidate is proficient in the preceding degrees before he can be advanced. A Past Grand High Priest's jewel was presented to all the Past Grand High Priests. The following resolution was adopted : ITa>-EI!A>:T LECTUKEItS. Resoleed. That no Companion Royal Arch ilason shall be allowed to travel and lecture in the subordinate Chapters, unless first procuring a cer- tificate from the Committee on Work : Provided, That the Committee on Work shall not give such certificate to any Companion who is not a member of some subordinate Chapter under the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter. The great trouble of the want of uniformity of the work is caused bj- unauthorized Companions doing that which the Grand Chapter does not pronounce good and true work. The report on Foreign Correspondence is by Companion P. J. Pillans, reviewing the proceedings of thirty-one Grand Chapters. A list of the delinquent Chapters is published. Companion Peleg Brown, Grand High Priest, and Companion Daniel Saj're, Grand Secretary. /SGS. The Fortjf-second Annual Grand Convocation was held at Montgomery, December 8, Companion Peleg Brown, Grand High Priest, presiding. Fift.y-three Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest is full of the true Masonic spirit. !■ niformity of worl?, proficiency before advance- ment, the establishing of a Council of the Order of High Priest- hood, and the Triennial Convocation of the General (irand Chapter of the United States, are all noted and discussed. Many decisions were made, with all of which we agree, except that, allowing an appeal to the Chapter from the decision of its High Priest, if the presiding officer sees tit to waive liis right and submit to the decision of the Chapter. This we do not think is good Masonic law. There can be but one appeal in Royal Arch Masonrj-, and that is to the Grand Chapter, and then only in a constitutional manner. In closing his luhlrcss, he says: The principles of our Order lia\e come down lo us Iioary witli age, behig the oldest on record, and coeval with the world, and, as remodelled by our ancient patrons, rank the earliest, and in their teachings the most pure. Having stood the test of ages, though at times under the ban of ignorance and persecution, yet the teachings and principles still survive, overcoming all obstacles, and again breaking fortli to shine with redoubled brilliancy. Early history teaches us that all that is now taught in Capitular and Cryptic Masonry was originally taught in the first three degrees, including the Holy Royal Arch ; but we have now, by the incisions which have been made, three distinct bodies of Ancient Craft ^lasonry, which, vs'ith the addition of the Templar Order, makes four in all, moving in harmony. Of the propriety of these incisions, it is not my purpose now to speak ; but among the immense mass of Masonic literature now being published, and the strong desire for the accumulation of side degrees, now named as " Rites," I fear there is much that is calculated to injure and interfere with the teachings of our ancient Order and bring it into disrepute; and many who profess great proficiency in theee side f)i- wliat are sometimes called higher degrees, can scarcely make themselves known as Ancient Craft Masons. Then. Companions, let us adhere to our own Ancient work, prac- tice and teach the principles as handed down to us from time immemorial. Let us in all our thoughts, words and actions strive to avoid doing any thing calculated to tarnish the fair fame bequeathed to us by our ancient patrons, that all may move on in harmony. The report on Foreign Correspondence is by Companion P. J. Pillan, in which the last published proceedings of Penn- sylvania are reviewed. He pays Companion William H. Allen a compliment by saying that his report "thronghont is the calm- est and justest tliat has passed in our review, and we only regret it was not longer." The proceedings of twenty-four Grand Chapters are ably reviewed. Companion Peleg Browx, of Mobile, Grand High Prieat. Companion Daniel Sayre, of Montgomerj-, Grand Secretary. AEKAXSAS. /se?. The Eighteenth Annual Convocation of this Grand Chapter was held in the city of Little Rock, October 31, 1867, Com- panion Luke E. Barber, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, in the East. In his annual address, he presents his doings as (irand High Priest for the inspection and approval of the Grand Chapter. He regrets that so little attention is paid to the study of the rulings and the Constitution of the Grand Chapter, and says that — A knowledge of them would enable the Chapters to avoid some errors and save tlieir members from unpleasant diiferences in opinion. The edict passed some years ago, declaring that tlie Cliapter degrees should not be conferred upon one who bad not been raised for .the full period of twelve months, was repealed at our Convocation in 1S05 ; and yet several com- munications liave been received In relation to tbis subject, and dispensations asked for. The By-Laws of several Chapters prescribe that ministers of the gospel may take the Cliapter degrees without fee ; and yet the Consti- tution of the General Grand Chapter provides that the fees for the Chapter degrees shall not be less than twenty dollars ; and this might be known by reference to that Constitution as prhited more than once with our pro- ceedings. Of cases of emergencj', he very truly remarks : Some of the Chapters, with very great facility, declare petitions to be cases of emergency, when the petitioner is anxious to proceed, or the members are desirous to do the special work ; and yet the Grand Chapter has declared that, to warrant such baste, the case must be one of real emer- gency. There occur but few such cases. The desire of the candidate to proceed without delay, however strongly that desire may be expressed— the desire of the Chapter to do tlie work, from whatever cause that desire may arise — cannot, generally, constitute a case of emergency. It may be assumed that there is less danger of exalting than initiating an unworthy person ; and, therefore, it may seem that the same necessity for strict inquiry into character does not exist in the former as in the latter case. It mav be and doubtless is true that, our intercourse with each other as IMasons bein" 9 more intimate, we better underslantl eacii other's cliaractci-, and there may not be tlie same necessity for time and a searcliing investigation on a petition for the Cliapter degrees, where all are members of the same Lodge, as on the petition for initiation ; but it must be borne in mind that it is not every master that should be admitted to the higher mysteries. The most serious ol)jection, however, to the practice of declaring cases emergent is : that it not unfrequently happens that some Companions, for good and suf- ficient reasons, from unavoidable necessity, are unable to attend at some stated meetings ; and a petition may be declared a case of emergency and the party admitted, without such absent Companions having the slightest knowledge of the intended application, though most serious objections to his admission may be known to them. I think the time-honored custom, well known to the fraternity, is the safest and should be adhered to ; and I warn you against this loose and easy practice, into which I find some of our Chapters are so prone to fall, and which, as was well declared by a committee at our last Convocation, whose report you adopted, "is altogether wrong." " Emergency " never made a good Mason. If a Master Mason, after living for years in the immediate jurisdiction of a Chapter, never sees the advantages or feels enough interest in Royal Arch Masonry to apply for the degrees, he should not be permitted to apply to receive them as a case of eraergencj', simply because lie is going to Europe, or some other place where Roj'al Arch Masonry is not known. There should be no cases of emergency ! "We think the Grand Chapter acted inconsistently, and did not give proper heed to the advice of tlie Grand High Priest; for,, on the same day, and after the reading of tlie above address, a, petition for tlie degrees was received and balloted for, without, being referred to any Committee for report as to the applicant's qualifications. Grand Chapters and Grand High Priests have no. inherent right to make Ro3-al Arch Masons at sight. Masonic law, as applicable to Royal Arch Masonry, requires that all petitions shall be presented in a subordinate Chapter, recommended by two Royal Arch Companions, members, be referred to a Com- mittee of three members, who shall report as to the moral and phj'sical qualifications of the applicant. The reason assigned in this case was, that it appeared to the Grand Chapter desirable that the work should be exemplified, &c. Who was there to avouch that the candidate would have received a clear ballot in the Chapter nearest his place of residence? 10 Subsequently' a resolution was carried, directing the above Companion to pay to liis Chapter the fee prescribed by the b3-- laws. What Chapter did he belong to? Was he a member of the Grand Chapter? To whom does this fee belong? Report on Foreign Correspondence from the pen of Companion C. B. Moore. Proceedings of twenty Urand Chapters reviewed. Most Excellent Companion Lulvc E. Barber, Grand Higli Priest, and Companion William I>. Blocher, Grand Secretary. /SOS. I'ho Nineteenth Annual Convocation was held in Little Bock, November 12, ]Most Excellent Companion Luke E. Barber, Grand High Priest, presiding. His address is short, and mostly refers to local jurisdiction. The Grand Chapter, as in ISIIT, received and acted upon a petition for the degrees. In this case, however, it was recom- mended by two Boyal Arch Masons, and the avouchment of the High Priest of the nearest Chapter that the petitioner would be acceptable to his Chapter. The surplus funds of the (Jrand Chapter were appropriated to St. John's College. The Committee on Masonic Law and L^sago reported on the following question, which was approved and adopted by the Grand Chapter : " Must a Comijauion Royal Arch iIaM>n be affiliated with a blue or sym- bolic Lodge, in order to retain full fellowship in his Chapter ''." We have considered the question, and report as follows : Under an edict of this Grand Cliai^ter, a Master Mason must be a mcm- lier in good standing of some Lodge when he is elected to take the Chapter degrees. After he is exalted, his Chapter should not inquire into his rela- tion to blue JIasonry, further than to ascertain that he is not suspended or expelled, leaving the blue Craft to deal with the question of his affiliation or non-affiliation. If he happens to die in good standing in his Chapter, but unafflUated with any symbolic Lodge, the Chapter would liury him according to its own ritual. A\'ith us in Pennsylvania, the Boyal Arch Mason loses his membership in the Chapter after six months non-affiliation with a blue Lodge. A Past Grand High Priest's jewel was presented to Grand High Priest Barber. 11 Compaiuou Samuel W. ^^'illiams, iis Chairman of Committee on Foreign Correspondence, reviews the proceedings of twenty- eight Grand Chapters, Pennsjdvaiiia included. Most Excellent Ltike E. Barber, of Little Ilock, Grand High Priesl. Companion W. I). Bloohkr, of Little Rock, amnd Secretary. CANADA. /SG7. The Tenth ^Wmual Convocation of the (jrand Chapter of Canada was lield at Ottawa, Ontario, Aug-nst 13, Most Excel- lent Companion T. Douglas Harington, Grand Zerubbabel, on the Tlirone. Twenty -five subordinate Chapters represented. The titles of officers are different from those in the United States, being the same as in the Grand Chapter of England. There is no doubt but that the Royal Arch dctjree proper came to this country from England, and who made the cliange and why it was made we cannot understand. Tlie officers of the Grand Chapter of Canada are (omitting the title Grand) : Zerubbabel, Haggai, Joshua, Scribe Ezra, Scrilie Xehemiah, Principal Sojourner, Treasurer, Registrar, First Assistant Sojourner, Second Assist- ant Sojourner, Sword Bearer, Standard Bearer, Director of Cere- monies, Organist, Pursuivant, Janitor, and two Grand Stewards. There are also Grand Superintendents, (answering to our Dis- trict Deputies.) The ^lost Excellent Zerubbabel, in his address, announced with sincere pleasure that peace and harmony pre- vailed within his jurisdiction. Application had been made for a dispensation to exalt military and naval brethren for a less fee than the one established by law, which was very justly denied. A Committee was appointed to arrange the necessary installa- tion, consecration, and dedication ceremonies. Companion James Seymour furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of twentj^-two Grand Chapters. Most Excellent Companion T. Douglas Harington, Grand Zerubbabel, and T. B. Harris, Grand Scribe Xehemiah. 12 J868. The Eleventh Annual Convocation was held at Montreal, August 11, Companion T. Douglas Harington, Grand Zerub- babel, on the Throne. Twenty-five subordinate Chapters repre- sented. The Grand Zerubbabel, in his address, pa3'S a fitting tribute to the memory of Companion the Hon. Robert Spence, who was ever read^' to give his time, his talents, and his means, towards promoting the prosperity' of Freemasonry-. He reports during the past year his work had been easy and his labor light. Dispensations were granted to three new Chapters. He suggests the constituting, if possible, of a General Grand Chapter for the Dominion. An amendment to the Constitution, changing the time of meeting, was lost. The report on Foreign Correspondence is by Companion Henry Robertson, "a maiden effort," very creditable, indeed. He reviews the proceedings of tweut3--uine Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania among the number. Most Excellent Companion T. Douglas Harington was re- elected Grand Zerubbabel, and Thomas Bird Harris, Grand Scribe Ezra. 1S69. At the Twelfth Annual Convocation, held at Kingston, August 10, Most Excellent Companion T. Wilson, Past Grand Zerub- babel, acting as Grand Zerubbabel, (in the absence of Companion Harington, Grand Zerubbabel,) opened the Grand Chapter in due form. Twenty-nine subordinates represented. The address of the Grand Zerubbabel was read by the Grand Scribe Ezra. Peace and harmonj' and prosperity prevail in all the subordi- nates. Dispensations were gi'anted to five new Chapters. He expresses great anxiety to have a uniformity of work. He reports that the Supreme Grand Council of the Ancient and Accepted Rite of England, &c., thirty-third degree, bad appointed him its Representative, kc. AVe cannot see what the Ancient and Accepted Rite has to do with Royal Arch Masonry, and we are glad to record that the Grand Chapter refused to recog- nize said Rite, inasmuch as that Grand Chapter, or the degrees conferred under its authority, are not recognized by the Ancient and Accepted Rite. 13 Tlie Constitution was amended so as to make the time of meet- ing the second Wednesda}^ of August, annually. Most Excellent Companion T. Douglas Harinoton, of Ottawa, Grand Zerubbabel. Thomas Bird Harris, of Ontario, Grand Scribe Ezra. The report on Foreign Correspondence is by Right Excellent Companion Henry Robertson, who reviews in a brief manner the proceedings of twenty-eight Grand Chapters. We find the article on Scotland so interesting as a history of Royal Arch Masonry that we must transfer it to our report. SCOTLAND. The annual reporter contains an abstract of tlie proceedings of the Supreme Grand Chapter and Committee, from March, 1868, to March, 1869. The register shows one hundred Chapters, and eleven Mark Lodges. The re- ceipts for the year were £392 3s. lid., and the balance on hand £1,215 8s. Sd. The number of registrations was four hundred and seventy-six. Seven new Chapters received charters during the year, and one Mark Lodge a warrant. An important question of Masonic law came up on a communication from S}'dney, New South Wales, relative to the right of a Companion, who had been suspended in a Lodge, to demand admittance to a Chapter. The sus- pended brother, who was a member of St. Andrew's Chapter, No. 110, maintained his right to be admitted to the Chapter, contending that under the Scotch Constitution there is no connection between tlie two orders of St. John's and Royal Arch Masonry. The Supreme Committee, in their report, say : "There can be no doubt that the Grand Lodge of Scotland, diflfering, it is believed, from every other Grand Lodge, recognizes no degree in Masonry above that of Master Mason ; and such being the case, it may view with indifference the effect which may be given to its sentence by the higher orders ; but, on the other hand, no brother can be admitted to the higher orders unless he proves himself to be a St. Jolin's Mason, and as, by the obligation taken by every Master Mason, he cannot speak upon the subject of St. John's Masonry with a brother suspended or ex- pelled, while under either of these sentences, it seems to follow that, were a suspended St. John's Mason, who happened to be a Royal Arch Com- panion, present at an exaltation, no candidate could give the necessary proofs that he was a Master Mason. After communicating with the Scribe Ezra of England, and the Registrar of Ireland, as to t]ie practice there pre- vailing, resolutions were adopted declaring against the right of a suspended brother to admittance into a Chapter. At the quarterly meeting in September, 1868, the Grand Scribe Ezra read a most interesting communication on the dignity of tlie Royal Arch degree, from a learned and eminent Companion, W. J. Ilughan, Truro, 14 Cornwall, Past Zerubbabcl, Nd. 79. Its importance must be our excuse for copying it in extenso. "In the interesting introduction to the Laws of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland, 1861, it is stated that 'the earliest printed notice of the Royal Arch is in an address by Lawrence Dermott, to the gentlemen of the fraternity, published about the middle of the last century.' In allusion to the differences between the ancient and modem Grand Lodges of England, he asks, ' whether it is possible to initiate or introduce a modem ilason into a Eoyal Arch Lodge (the very essence of Masonry) without making him go through ancient ceremonies?" (page v.) The answer to which was ' Xo.' " It is also stated that the minute book belonging to the Stirling Ancient Lodge, of 1743, referring to the Royal Arch degree, 'is the oldest written record now extant ; and no other Chapter in Scotland has been able to show documentary evidence in its favor of an earlier date than 176.5, although in these years the Cliapters were already accounted old, and in full operation.' (Page xii.) '• It is my peculiar privilege to be able to afford evidence of the notice of Royal Arch Masonry in print twenty years earlier than the 'introduction' allows of, through being in possession of two works, respectively dated A. D. 17.50, and A. D. 1744. The edition of Ahiman Rezon, by Lawrence Dermott, containing 'the address to the gentlemen of the fraternity,' was not published until A. D. 1764, being the second edition. " The first edition of Ahiman Rezon (which we have) was issued A. D. 1756, and although it did not contain the address in question, the editor (then Grand Secretar}- of the Ancients) inserted ' a prayer repeated in the Royal Arch Lodge at .Tcrusalem,' (page 47,) concluding as follows : ■ Because we have trusted in tliy Koly, Great, Mighty and Terrible nnme. We will rejoice and be glad in thy salvation, and in tliy mercies, O Lord our God ; And the multitude of thy mercies. O Lord our God ; and the multitude of thy mercies, Shall not forsake us forever. Selah : And now make haste and bring upon us a blessing, and peace from the Four corners of the earth; for thou art a God that workest salvation, And hast chosen us out of every people and language ; and thou, our Kinir. Hast caused us to cleave to thy great name, in love to praise thee, And to be united to thee, and to love thy name ; blessed art thou, O Lord God, who hast chosen thy people Israel in love.' " Brother Dermott • having inserted this prayer, and mentioned that part of Masonry commonly called the Royal Arch,' (page 47,) proceeds to eulogize it thus : I firmly believe the Royal Arch to be the root, heart, and marrow of Freemasonry. "Brother Dermott then mentions that the candidate for Royal Arch Masonry 'must first have passed the Chair in regular form, according to the ancient custom of the Craft,' and to further enforce this law, he adds the opinion of the Worshipful Brother, Dr. FifieUl D'Assigny. printed in the year 1744. 15 " Now, it is tliis -worlj; by Dr. D'Assigny that we have the pleasure of possessing, and wliich we beg to bring before the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland, as its evidence on the Royal Arch degree is most important and unique. "It has been thought by some never to have been in existence, as no authority but Dermott, from 1756 down to the last year, ever speaks of having seen it, but like the late brother, the Rev. Di-. George Oliver, refer to the quotation by Dermott only. "The learned Mason, Brother J. G. Findel, of Leipzig, when in England on a Masonic visit, says, ' I have sought in vahi for the book in llie Britisli Museum.' " Dr. George Kloss, in his accurate and valuable ' Bibliographic der Frei maurerei,' of 1S44, is unable to do more than give the reference to Ahiman Rezon, of A. D. 17r,C,. " We are, thanks be, able to set the matter at rest, by having the work itself in our Masonic library, having purchased it in London, during the latter part of 18G7, from a second-hand bookseller, who had no idea of its worth, and was in ignorance of its character. "It was bound up witli another work, and hence its being overlooked by the bookseller. Brother Findel, editor of 'Die Banhutte,' has already acknowledged (in the pages of that Masonic magazine) the importance of the discovery, and considers it to be the earliest printed work in the world that alludes to tlie Royal Arch degree. " The work is entitled 'A Serious and Impartial Inquiry into the Present Decay of Freemasonry in the Kingdom of Ireland, ' dedicated ' To the Most Noble and Puissant Prince Truth.' Dublin. Pj-inted by Edward Bate. MDCCLIV. (8 YO., pages 80.) " The work is mainly taken up with ' instructive remai'ks, which may be found useful to revive the honor of that ancient Craft,' and the ' old and new regulations of the London constitutions,' by the consent and approba- tion of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, dedicated to the Right Woi'shipful and Right Honorable the Lord Viscount Allen, Grand Master of this Kingdom, are inserted. It will be seen that, owing to this work being issued in 1T44, all doubts of the degree being known at that date are disposed of at once. Some have tried to prove that the Royal Arch was unknown before tlie eighth decade of tlie last century ; but such attempts are weak indeed, and wholly absurd. "Brotlier Dr. John Pearson Bell, Deputy Past Grand Master of N. and E. Yorkshire, has lately issued an admirable illustrative chart, depicting the purposes of >Iasonry, from an early period, in whicli he dates the origin of the degree in England at A. D. 1740. "Dr. Robert Morris, Dr. Albert G. Mackay, and other well-known writers on the history of the fraternity, concur as to (liis date; and Brother William A. Laurie, Grand Secretary of Scotland, observes, 'that beyond a mere assertion, there is no evidence of any kind of its e.\ist.enrc in tliis country (j. e., Scotland) previous to 1743.' Whether the degree was de- rived from Scotland originally, or from England, it is impossible to say. 16 Certainly it ^vas unknown in Ireland before A. D. 1740, and was planted there by the English Ancient Masons. " Scotland possesses the earliest records of Arch JLisonry in the world, and, so far as we linow, is entitled to be considered as the chief authority in ancient min vtes relating to Masonry, whether as to their operative or specu- lative character. " The probability is, that the degree originated with the noted Chevalier Ramsay, of Ayr, and the 'Ancients.' But to retum to D'Assigny's work. There are only two references to the Koyal Arch, both of which we give in their entire. The first is at page 16 ; in a note the author says : '•'I am informed in that city is held an assembly of Master Masons, under the title of Eoyal Arch Jlasons, who as their qualitications and excel- lencies are superior to others, they receive a larger pay than working Masons. ' ■' The second reference to the Eoyal Arch is appended at page 32. and is t7ie one quoted generally by ^Masonic writers, irjiere it ;'•-■• printed in italici ; the other part, and the former quotation, have never been inserted in any other known Masonic work of any date whatever. " 'As the landmarks of the constitution of Freemasonry are uni'/ersally the same throughout all kin;.'doms, and are to well fixed that they will not admit of removal, how conies it to pass that some have been led away with ridiculous innovations ? — an example of which I shall prove by a certain propagator of a false system some few years ago in this city, who imposed upon se\eral very worthy men, under pretence of being Master of the Royal Arch, which he asserted he had brought with him from the city of York, and that the beauties of the Craft did principally consist in the knowledge of this valuable piece of JIasonry. However, he carried on his scheme for several months, and many of the learned and wise were his followers, till at length his fallacious art was discovered by a brother of probity and wisdom, who had some small space before attained that excellent part of ilasonry in London, and plainly proved that his doctrine was false, whereupon the brethren justly despised him, and ordered him to be expelled from all bene- fits of the Craft; and although some of the frnternih/ Ixn-e expreuecl an uneasiness at this matterbeing kept a srcret from them, (since they had already passed through the ustwl degrees of probation.) I cannot he!p being of opinion that they have no right to any such benefit until thiy made a proper applica- tion, and are receieed with due formality ; and as it is an organized body of men who passed the Chair, and gicen undeniable proofs of their skill in a)rhiteeture, it cannot be treated with too much reverence, and more especially since the character of the present members of that particular Lodrje are iin- tainted. and their beharior judicious and un-erceptionable ; so that there cannot be the Icist hinje to hanj a d-ni'it on, but that they are most ercellent Masons.' 17 CALIFORNIA. f867. The Fourteenth Annual Convocation of this Grand Chapter was held in San Francisco, Monday, October 14, Most Excellent Companion Charles Marsh, Grand High Priest. Twenty-nine subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand Chapter was opened in ample form, when the Grand High Priest delivered his annual address, which is exceedingly short. He says that a careful legislation and the Constitution of the Grand Chapter render all questions of Masonic law and usage easy of solution. He certifies that the work as exemplified by the Grand Lecturer is the same in all essentials as practised in the " United States." The report on Foreign Correspondence is from the pen of Companion Lawrence C. Owen, who reviews in an able manner the proceedings of twenty-five Grand Chapters. A resolution was adopted making the office of Grand Lecturer, created at the Convocation of 1866, a General Regulation. The portrait of Past Grand High Priest Marsh was ordered for the Grand Chapter. The Grand Secretary reports that eight special dispensations; were issued, by direction of the Grand High Priest, to ballot upon applications for the degrees, without reference of the- petitions to Committees of investigation. The Grand High, Priest is authorized by the Constitution to grant these dispensa- tions, and it is to our minds a very dangerous prerogative.. If we mistake not, custom and long-established usage require that all petitions be referred to a proper Committee for investiga- tion into the character and fitness of the applicant. Companion Isaac S. Titus, Grand High Priest, and Lawrence C. Owen, Grand Secretar}'. /SOS. The Fifteenth Annual Convocation was held in San Fran- cisco, Monday, October 19, Most Excellent Companion Isaac Sutvene Titus, Grand High Priest, presiding. Thirty-one sub- ordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest, in his annual address, is very complimentary to his predecessors in office, under whose administrations the Grand Chapter has been E IS ^o prosperous, its business affairs conducted with so mucli s\-stem and order, and its laws so well defined and so easilj'' understood that lie had but little to do. He paj's a fitting tribute to the memory of Past Grand High Priest Henry Hare Hartley. A mourning page of the proceedings was, bj' order of the Grand Chapter, dedicated to his niemor}'. He also suggested that the Constitution be amended so as to change tlie time of meeting from following so close upon the meeting of the Grand Lodge. The Constitution was accordinglr amended, making the time of convocation the first Tuesday in April. Bound volumes of the proceedings have been prepared, and are for sale at two dollars jjer volume. The Grand Lecturer, in speaking of the work of one of the Chai^ters, saj-s : " The choral rendering of the lessons, and the appropriate anthems introduced In- their choir, invest our ritual with a beautj- and grandeur truly sublime, and which the mere reading of those noble passages can never equal." Companion Lawrence C. Owen, Grand Secretary, again fur- nishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of thirt}- Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania among the number. Tlie Committee on Jurisprudence made the following report: UBJKCTIOKS TO ADYAXCEMEXT. Your Committee, to whom was referred tlie question propounded as to the course to be pursued where a brother has been elected to receive the Chapter degrees, and has received the degree of Mark Master, is objected to when he presents himself for the succeeding degree, have had the same under consideration, and respectfully report that no rule has been established by this Grand Chapter for the government of subordinates in such cases ; and, in the absence of any such provision, the brother would occupy the position of one who had been rejected upon a ballot for the degree. But the Grand Lodge of CaUfornia having by its Constitution laid do-mi a rule for its subordinates in similar cases, and it being desirable that there should be uniformity of practice, so far as it is possible, in the Lodges and Chapters in this jurisdiction, your Committee deem it advisable that the same rule should be estabhshed by this Grand Chapter. They therefore recommend the adoption of the following resolution as a general regulation : Resohed, That when, after an election of an apphcant to receive the Chapter degrees, and he has received the Mark degree, an objection to his advancement is made' at any time by a member, such objection shall be referred to a committee, with power to inquire into the cause thereof, who sliall at the next stated meeting (unless further time be given) report 19 tliereon; aad upon the reception of such report, if no cause for the objec- tion has been assigned, or if the cause assigned be, in the opinion of two- thirds of the members present, not a valid and Masonic one, the Cliapter may confer the degree in tlie same manner as if no objection had been made. The report was concurred in, and tlie resolution adopted as a general regulation. REFUSAL TO BECORD HIS MAHK. Your Committee, to whom was referred the questions as to the right of a member of a Chapter to withdraw, who refused to record his mark, have had the same under consideration, and respectfully report that the Grand Chapter, having provided that every Mark Master must, within six months after his admission, select his mark, and record the same in a Book of Marks kept by the Chapter for that purpose, a member who refuses to record his mark is acting in disobedience of one of the regulations of the Grand Chapter, all of which it is his bounden duty to obey, and whilst so refusing is liable to Masonic censure. He is consequently not entitled to withdraw until he has purged himself of his disobedience by complying with the established regulation. "Why not prefer charges against him, try him and expel him ? It were better sitch a person were out of the Order. Most Excellent Isaac S. Titus was installed as General Grand Captain of the Host of the General Grand Chapter of the United States. His portrait was also ordered for the Grand Chapter. Most Excellent Companion John W. Harville, of San Fran- cisco, Grand High Priest. Most Excellent Companion Lawrence C. Owen, of San Fran- cisco, Grand Secretary. CONNECTICUT. A Semi-annual Convocation for the exemplification of the work was held November 6, 186T, at which the Most Excellent and Royal Arch degrees were conferred by one of the subordinate Chapters. fSGS. The Annual Convocation was held in the city of Hartford, May 12, Most Excellent Companion James li. Gould, Grand High Priest, presiding. Twenty-seven subordinate Chapters rcpre- 20 sentecl. The address of the Grand High Priest is one of the most practicable we have met with. It congratulates the Grand Chapter on the general good quality of the material introduced into the temple, but cautions them not to neglect to exercise the strictest scrutinj' in the selection of candidates. He says : "We must guard well the outer courts of our tabernacle, and never admit candidates to our Chapters who have failed to make suitable proficiency in the symbolic degrees. And this proficiency is not to be in the ritual alone, however important that may be regarded, but it should be as well in the principles, tenets and essential doctrines of the Order. Those who cannot appreciate the first lessons taught them in Masonry, "to be good men and true," it is idle to suppose will ever become other than drones in the higher degrees, or, perhaps still worse, be plague spots on the fair fame of the institution. Let us, my Companions, be careful to select only the loery best material, and then it matters not how rapidly our numbers may increase, we shall always in very truth "possess the satisfaction of finding none among us but such as will promote, to the utmost of their power, the great end of our institution." He suggests that Chapters be forbidden to confer the capitular degrees upon non-affiliated Masons. On the thoughtlessness that is so often displayed in the work, he says : In some instances I feel there is still too much tendency to levity in the performance of our solemn ceremonies. I am glad to know that this great evil has been to a very considerable extent removed from our Chapters, and that, with occasional exceptions, all the ceremonies in all the degrees are conducted with entire propriety and decorum. I trust that this will soon become the universal rule, for the result is one that all who love the Order should labor to secure. "We should never, under any pretence, nor actuated by any motive, however plausible, allow the performance of apparently the most trivial of our rites to be made the occasion of any conduct on our part that can debase the dignity of the institution, or cause us to forget for a moment that our can- didates are gentlemen, and we ourselves members of an ancient and honor- able "Society of Friends and Brothers." The Grand King, who also reports his doings, speaks on the same subject: "We are told that Masonry is a "progressive science;" if so, then should the progress which we make in this direction be abundantly apparent to the most casual observer. I have sometimes witnessed occurrences which might be proper in some other Order, but which should never be allowed 21 or countenanced in a Masonic Lodge— more especially by tliose wlio have been admitted within the veils, and beheld the sublimer mysteries of the Royal Arch. We always look upon any one who would introduce levity or frivolity in our august ceremonies as a very poor Mason ; he should be served like the defective stones at the building of the temple — that is, thrown among the rubbish, and lost. A few such worthless stones will in time destroy the beauty, harmony and stability of the building. A Past High Priest's jewel was presented to Companion Past Grand High Priest Luke A. Lockwood. Resolutions were adopted that the petition of a rejected can- didate could not be again presented until after the period of six months had elapsed ; and that said rejected candidate could not petition any other Chapter without first obtaining unanimous consent of the Chapter first rejecting him. ON THE BALLOT. Resolved, That whenever a ballot shall be spread upon the application of any candidate in any subordinate Chapter in this jurisdiction, every member present must vote. If all the ballots are white, the High Priest must declare the candidate duly elected. If but one black ball appear, or if, for any cause, the High Priest be of the opinion a mistake has been made, he may order a new ballot to be immediately spread ; and if all the ballots shall not then be white, the High Priest shall declare the candidate rejected, and the action of any Chapter upon the application of candidates must be recorded upon its minutes. Besolved, That the subordinate Chapters of this j urisdiction are herebj' forbidden to confer the degrees of Capitular Masonry, or either of them, upon any candidate, unless he be a member in good standing in a just and lawfully constituted Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. Resolved, That hereafter no officer elect, either in this Most Excellent Grand Chapter or in any of the subordinate Cliapters under its jurisdiction, shall be installed by proxy. Resolved, That should any oflBcer elect of this Most Excellent Grand Chapter be absent at the time of the regular installation of officers, the Most Excellent Grand High Priest shall issue his dispensation to some proper Companion, authorizing and instructing him to install such absent ofl3cer elect, at such time and place as shall be therein designated. Resolved, That in case any officer elect of any subordinate Chapter shall be absent at the time of the regular installation of officers of such Chapter, it shall be the duty of the Most Excellent High Priest of such Chapter to install said officers elect at the first subsequent Convocation at which he presides. 22 Excellent Companion William Stoier furnishes tlie report on Foreign Correspondence. Most Excellent James L. Gould, Grand High Priest, and Companion John K. Wheeler, Grand Secretary. A Semi-annual Convocation was held October 13, 1868, at which, besides the exemplification of the work, some business of a private nature was transacted, and a Grand Treasurer appointed ■[I7-0 tein. /869. At the Annual Convocation, held May 11, in New Haven, Most Excellent Companion James L. Gould, Grand High Priest, presided, assisted by his Grand Officers. Twenty-seven sub- ordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest's address refers principally to local affairs, to the Convocation of the General Grand Chapter of the United States, at St. Louis, 1868, (which he attended person- ally,) to uniformitj- of work and lectures, and the defalcation of the Grand Treasurer. He reports peace and harmony among all the Eoyal Craft in the jurisdiction. Reports are also furnished by the Deputy Grand High Priest, (irand King and Grand Scribe. The late Grand Treasurer Benjamin Beecher was unanimously expelled from all the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonrj^, for embezzling the funds of the Grand Chapter. Subordinate Cliapters are required to insert, in their usual forms of application for the Cliapter degrees, the sentence, " and that I have never been rejected bj- anj' Cliapter of Royal Arch Masons." The following resolution was adopted : Besohed, Tliat the introduction of spirituous liquors into the Chapter or ante-rooms of any Chapter, within the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter, be and the same is hereby strictly prohibited. Wliich we heartily approve. We have ne\er, howe\'er, in this jurisdiction seen any necessity for a resolution of this kind. Excellent Companion William Storer again furnislies us with an able and very readable report on Foreign Correspondence, in which he reviews the last published proceedings of Pennsylvania, making brief extracts from the "interesting" address of Past Grand High Priest Companion George Griscom. Most Excellent Companion John H. Barlow, of Birniino-ham Grand High Priexf. Companion Joseph K. Wheeler, of Hartford, Grand Secretary, 23 DISTRICT OF COLU.MBIA. }807. We have received " The Proceedings of the Grand Eoyal Arch Chapter of the District of Cohimbia, for the year 1867, together with the Proceedings of the Preliminary Convention for the Forma- tion of the Grand Cliapter of the District of Columbia;"' o/.so, "A statement from the record of Potomac Cliapter, No. S, Georgetown, D. C, with deductions tlierefrom in relation to the so-called (jrand Chapter of tlio District of Columbia ;'' also, the proceedings of the Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of District of Columbia, held November 9, 18G8. Eeiterating what was said in the last Report on Correspondence of the Grand Cliapter of Pennsylvania, " we shall not step aside to meddle with strife that belongs not to us," we shall not review the two first proceedings above mentioned. Much in anger was said and written on both sides, and we know the Companions principally interested are sorry for the past. The General Grand Chapter, at its Triennial Convocation in St. Louis, in 1868, by a majority vote, passed the following resolution: Resolved, That the Grand Cliapter of tlie District of Columbia is lierebj- recognized as a regular Grand Chapter, and its officers entitled to seats in this General Grand Chapter. Thus is settled the question of the legality of this Grand Chapter. /SGS. The Annual Convocation was held in Washington, ^Monday, November 9, Most Excellent Companion J. E. F. Hohnead, Grand High Priest, presiding. All the subordinates represented. The Grand High Priest, in his address, refers at length to the late troubles, which he has not quite forgotten, and to our mind ex- hibits a little too much feeling. At a resumed Communication, held November 30, the Committee on Foreign Correspondence reported through the Chairman, Com- panion B. B. French, reviewing the proceedings of twenty-eight Grand Chapters, Pennsyhania included. The Committee on Jurisprudence, in the rase of Brother J. P. L., an applicant for the Royal Arch degrees, who had already been rejected on account of physical disqnalilication, (having lost the 24 second and third fingers of the right hand, leaving the thumb and index finger complete, and most of the fourth finger,) after a verj' lengthy argument reported, that as to Brother J. P. L's phj-sical defects, there is no objection to his receiving the degrees, " and that the question of physical disqualification is one in the deter- mination of which each Chapter must judge for itself, being guided only by a sound discretion and an enlightened judgment as to the requirements of our Craft." ■\Ve agree with the latter part, that the Chapter should be the judge, but Tve cannot see how any Roj-al Arch ^Mason having in view the ancient landmarks of ^Masonry could report, and the Grand Chapter adopt, a resolution declaring such an applicant physically qualified. We make a few extracts from the report of the Committee "with which we cannot agree, believing that the candidate must be with- out blemish. It looks ;is if the report was made to cover this particular case. Masonry of to-day is as uuicli liigber than Slasonrj' of antiquity as men- tal development is higher than physical. Masonrj^, as originally divided into three divisions, Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master !Masou. indicated by the very titles which distinguished the classes that qualifica- tions ditfering entirely from those now required were made the requisites to advancement : service of jears was required in the first degree before an Entered Apprentice could be admitted a Fellow Craft. The most careless observer of Masonry amongst us must see how great!}- we differ in theory and practice from our ancient brethren. There was reason in tbe rule of ancient Masonry, but that reason has failed so far as we are concerned, and the rule goes with it. Our obligations, our monitors, our ritual and tradi- tions, and the lights thrown upon our science, from whatever source, all serve to point out the distinguishing features of speculative or symboUc Masonry from Masonry in the rough ashlar, as it was when only operative. Your Committee would not enter largely into a discussion of the ques- tion, yet they must be indulged in a few illustrations of their meaning. "When the Master Mason is clothed and instructed as to tlie imijlements pertaining to his rank, he is informed that all the implements known to the three degrees are his, but more especially the troicel. He is informed that it is an instrument made use of by operative Masons to spread the cement which unites a building into one common mass ; but the charge continues : We, as Free and Accepted Masons, (not as operative ^Masons,) are taught to make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose of spreading the cement of brotherly/ love and affection — that cement which unites us into one sacred band or society of friends and brothers. He is not instructed in tlie genius and spirit of Freemasonry who cannot see how different from and 25 more exalted is our profession, as shown in this charge, than the Masonry from which we arc distinguished. Our trowel is a symbol, nothing more ; and as such can be used with or without a perfect hand, leg or body, pro- vided the heart is sound. In the Mark jNIaster's degree we are given the chuel and mallet, and are instructed as to their moral teachings, not how to use them physically ; and we are further told that it is more particularly our duty to conduct ourselves so as to stand the test of the Grand Overseer's square, that we, not our work, may be found fit for the spiritual temple. The Past Master is solemnly reminded that the time is coming when all distinctions shall cease but those of goodness ; and in the charge a beautiful code of morals is condensed, and its observance enjoined, l)ut of which a most skilful operative Mason might be utterly ignorant. Tlie admonitions to rectitude of conduct, and the like teachings, are in- tensified as we learn the duties of the two succeeding degrees ; and, finally, the exalted Royal Arch Mason is reminded that no one could gain admission into so distinguishing a position without being forcibly struck with the important lessons taught in preceding degrees, and again is he reminded that the great duty before us is to promote each other's welfare, correct each other's failings by advice, admonition and reproof; and, apparently, having in view this very question as to whom we should recommend for these high degrees, the newly made Companion is admonished to recom- mend none for whom he cannot freely vouch, and whom he does not firmly believe will conform to the princiiiles of our Order, and fulfil the obliga- tions of a Royal ArcJi Mason. The principles of our Order, we have seen, do not consist in actually tracing designs on the trestle-board, polishing the ashlar, spreading the cement, or laying the stones of a veritable building. The practice of our principles does not depend on a sound body, the avoirdupois of the Com- panion, or strength of his muscle. And it is believed that in no one of the degrees are physical qualifications made the slightest test of a Companion's ability to fulfil the obligations. At no stage of the ceremony is the examining C'ommittee called upon to subject the candidate to any such test. Furthermore, if it is our duty to reject upon this ground, it is our duty to make this examination, and if made, by what rule are we to be guided? Is the candidate who has lost a finger to be rejected, and the candidate who is dying with consumption admitted ? Will a defective eye, a stiff' joint, a club-foot, disqualify ; while other and greater, though less perceivable, disabilities qualify ? Are we a society of Apollos, and made up of form and figure ? If so, an important and necessary appendage to the Order is au examining board of surgeons. The Chapter.s were authorized to nrraiific snitiible music to he used in conferring the several degrees. The following was adopted, which sliows signs of a lirigltt future for this Grand Chapter ; and we hope ere tlie time arrives for us to 2H make aiiotlier lepoit. that peace and imitj- -nill be found within the veils of the (frand Chapter of the District of Columbia. ResolviiL That the Graml Eoyal Arch Chapter of the District of Columhia does hereby rescind all resolutions, orders or edicts, heretofore adopted, made or issued by said Grand Chapter, or any of its officers, suspending or expel- ling any Companion or Companions, on account of the difficulties growing out of the formation of said Grand Chapter, and also the edict declaring Potomac Chapter clandestine ; and hereby declares all such Companions restored to their standing in this Grand Chapter as Royal Arch Masons. Companion B. B. French, of "Washington, Grand High Pries'. Companion Noble D. L.a.rnet>. of Washington. Grand Sccre- iar" in the Royal Arch degree ; and that the rules governing trials in Sym- 28 bolic Lodges should be observed in charges preferred by any member of a Chapter. The death of Most Excellent Deputy Grand High Priest Com- panion George L. Barry was announced in fitting terms. In the rej)ort on Foreign Correspondence we read, " Pennsyl- vania never honors us with her proceedings." In justification of ourselves, we would say that the "Abstract of the Proceedings of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania " is mailed regularly as pub- lished to all our sister Grand Chapters; if thej' have not been received, it is not our fault. TVe would also state that the present Address of the Grand High Priest and Report on Foreign Cor- respondence is the first we have heard from the Grand Chapter of (feorgia for many years. We shall do our duty in the future; were granted for several new Chapters. He recommended that the charters oi several subordinate Chapters be arrested for failing, for several yeai-s. to make returns, and for non-payment of dues. He thinks that at least one-half of the entire membership of the symbolic or blue Lodges woidd become Roy;d Arch Masons, were the proper opportunities presented. The discharge of the District Deputies was recommended, and the appointment suggested of some well-qualified Companion, to be appointed by the t>rand Chapter, whose duty it should be to instruct the subordinate Chapters in the uork — not very complimentary to the District Deputies. The following opinion, reported by a select Committee, was con- curred in: Your Committee are of opinion that the power to grant dispensations, vested in the Grand High Priest, may be used willi profit to the Craft, when used judiciously; nevertheless, the abuse of that power is fraught with great evil, and that continually. Two aged Companions, who had assisted at the formation of the Grand Lodge of Indiana, one of whom had been a Royal Arch Mason for fifty-one years, were, on motion, by a rising vote unani- 81 moiisly declared honorary members of the Grand Cluipter, entitled to all the rights and privileges of an}- of its members, and to re- ceive paj' per diem and mileage wlien present and ))articipating in the labors of the Grand Chapter. The following resolutions, having particular reference to the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, were, after due consideration, adopted, and the resolution referred to rescinded : Whereiu, At the Annual Communication of this Grand Chapter, lieUl in the city of Indianapohs, May 24, 1866, upon the report of the Commit- tee on Masonic Jurisprudence, the following resolutions, as found on pages 24 and 25 of the printed proceedings of that year, were adopted : Resolved, That the Most Excellent Grand High Priest of this Grand Royal Arch Chapter be requested to correspond with the Most Excellent Grand High Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania, and urnc upon him the justice and propriety of repealing the said Article XV, Letter F, Section 12, referred to herein. Resolved, That this Grand Royal Arch Chapter declares that Royal Arch Masons, made in the manner and in conformity with said Article XV, Let- ter F, Section 12, are clandestine in this Grand Jurisdiction, and are not entitled to, and are hereby prohibited from, visiting or affiliating with our subordinate Chapters ; and, Wliereas, The Grand Chapter in concurring in the report of the Com- mittee, and adopting the resolutions offered, assumed to sit in judgment upon the constitution and laws of a sister Grand Chapter, and condemn, with- out a hearing, as clandestine, the work of one of her subordinates, done in strict accordance with the laws under which she was acting, and upon mere ex parte statements forbidding recognition in this jurisdiction of the work legally performed in another jurisdiction, and thus deprive innocent parties of their just rights : therefore, in order that the parties interested may have a proper hearing in the case, be it Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions, and the report upon which tliey were founded, be and the same are hereby rescinded. The proceedings of the Council of High Priests, and the Code of Rules of the same, are published in the proceedings before us, and we extract the following from the Code of Rules : Sec. 10. No Companion shall be ehgible to the order of High Priest- hood until he shall have been duly elected High Priest of a sitbordinate Cliapter duly organized under charter. Sec 11. All apphcations for the order of High Priesthood must be made in writing, at an annual or stated Communication of the Council, accom- panied by a certificate, under seal of the Grand or subordinate Chapter, certifying that the applicant has been duly elected High Priest of a subor- • dinate Chapter, duly organized under charter. Such application must then be referred to a Committee for investigation. Upon tlie report of the Com- mittee, a ballot shall he had, when, should one negative vote appear, the applicant will be rejected. Sec. 12. For the purposes of defraying the expenses of the Council, each applicant, previous to his admission, must pay to the Recorder the sum of one dollar. Sec. 13. Each Companion, on receiving the order of High Priesthood, upon the payment of the further sum of fifty cents, shall be entitled to receive a diploma, signed by the President, Vice-President and Recorder, with the seal of the Council affixed thereto. Sec. 14. Any Companion High Priest, residing within this jurisdiction, who may have received the order of High Priesthood in another j urisdiction, may become a member of this Council, by making application therefor, and being elected by a unanimous vote of the members present. Sec. 16. The appUcation of a Companion for the order of High Priest- hood, merely because he holds the office of High Priest in a subordinate Chapter, is in strong terms disapproved ; and we desire to impress upon the minds of those aspiring to the honor of this order, that proficiency in the Chapter work, and a devoted attachment to and proficiency in the duties of the office, combined with an unexceptionable moral character, can alone entitle them to the honors of this order. A Past Grand High Priest's jewel was voted to Most Excellent Past Grand High Priest William Hacker. The report on Foreign Correspondence is liy Companion Thomas Xewljy. Under the head of " Pennsjivania,'' wo note that the proceedings of Pennsjivania had not been received, but that a Companion favored the chairman with a sight of our proceedings, and the report on Correspondence of our Companion William H. Allen on the complaint of the Grand Chapter of Indiana, on the question of jurisdiction. Speaking of the resolutions adopted in 1 867, (see page 53 of last published proceedings of Grand Chapter of Pennsjdvania.) he says: This resolution was adopted. Xot having received any official notice of the above action, save through the printed copy, we must be satisfied with this explanation. " Our thanks are due the sister Grand Chapter for the willingness shown to soothe our umbrage, ' and avoid all further unpleasant- ness.'" Most Excellent Companion Harvey G. Hazelrigg, Grand High Priest, and Companion John M. Bramwell, Grand Secretary; (Jompanion William Hacker, the late Grand Secretary, askino- to be relieved from the farther duties of the office of Grand Secretary. 33 tseo. Twenty-fourth Annual Communication was held in Franklin, Wednesday, October 20, 1869, Most Excellent Harvey G. Hazel- rigg. Grand High Priest. The address of the Grand High Priest is quite lengthy, covering twenty-four pages, in which he reviews not only the transactions in his own but in sister jurisdictions. Spealvino- of the great care that should be exercised in the ex- amination of applicants for the Ro^^al Arch degrees, he says : Let the overseers carefully examine all the materials brought up for the building— see that they are properly squared, numbered and marked, and accept none, however singular the form or beautiful the proportions, unless it is calculated to sustain the strength and preserve the beauty of the whole structure. No matter how comely or inviting it may have appeared while lying in the quarry, yet if it cannot be improved by the application of the chisel and mallet — has been defaced or cracked in its transportation, or will yield to the action of the frost or atmosphere, better consign it to its appropriate place — among the rubbish. We agree with our Most Excellent Companion Hazelrigg in what he says on THE USE OF SUBSTITUTES In tlie Royal Arch degree is rejected by some of our sister Grand Chapters ; by so many that courtesy to them and respect for ourselves would seem to require that we should examine the matter mOre closely and ascertain whether we are correct in our practice of using them. In the installation ceremonies of a High Priest he is required to promise that he "will never suffer more nor less than three brethren to be exalted in his Chapter at one and the same time." At the Convocation of our Grand Chapter in 1866, we struck out the words, "be exalted," and inserted, "pass through the ceremonies" — a change that was, perhaps, unnecessary and amounted to nothing, as it was only a change of words, without a change of practice. The solution of this whole matter depends upon the fact whether a man can be exalted more than once. From analogy, and from every view I am able to take of it, I am forced to the conclusion that he can, and indeed I think it probable that repeated exaltations would not put some men higher nor better than they ought to be. At the first outset in the search of light in the Masonic vineyard, we teacli candidates that it is individual merit that is the safe and only passport to promotion ; or, in other words, that every tub stands upon its own bottom. But if our system of practice is not correct, he may find to his lasting sorrow and disappointment that, just as he has arrived in sight of the promised land, his permission to enter depends upon the merits or tardy movements, or both, of some person less meritorious than himself, and that he must either level himself down to a lower standard, or level somebody 34 else up even with his merits, or die as did Moses on Pisgah's top, without being permitted to enter and enjoy. If the use of substitutes is a violation of a landmark, that at once ends the question, and it must be abandoned. Not viewing it in that light, but only as a question of expediency, and the existence of Chapters in the rural districts depending upon the practice, I see no good reason for abandoning it ; but on the contrary many for its continuance in our j urisdiction. The reference to ''Ancient Landmarks," as they regard American Royal Arch Masonry, do not evince a very reliable knowledge of what '• Ancient Landmarks " are. Tlie use of siibstitute.-< or pro.ries in the Ro3'al Arch degree is (jne that has caused and will cause a vast amount of discussion and opinions, pro and eon. In Pennsylvania, we are taught to jjractiee Masomy as we received it ; and that which has received the sanction, approval, and practice of main- years, has, in one sense of the word, become an ancient regulation or landmark. The Grand Chapter of Penns3-lvania has not yet seen the evils (if there are any) in the use of substitutes. A brother who has aijplied for the Royal Arch degrees, been approved, received the Mark and ^Most Excellent ^Master's degrees, if still under the tongue of good Masonic report, liy right and justice is entitled forthwith to receive what he lias petitioned and paid for and what lie was elected t(j. j\.inong the decisions made, we find : The High Priest of a Chapter is suspended for the non-payment of duti. to the Lodge, by the Lodge of which he is a member ; afterwards pays the dues, thereby, as the law then stood, restoring himself to membership in his Lodge : is he by that act restored to membership in the Chapter and to liis office of High Priest ? Ansicer. — He is neither restored to membership nor office in the Chapter. Rule 198, for the government of subordinate Chapters, says, "that a i-us- pension or expulsion, for any came, by a Lodge of :Master Masons, is effectually a suspension or expulsion from a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and must be so regarded by every Chapter in this jurisdiction." A suspension or expulsion, while in force, precludes all Masonic intercourse whatever. The Companion being suspended by the Lodge, was instanter so situated that no Masonic intercourse could be indulged in with him by any Companion. Ceasing to be a member of the Chapter, he ceased to be an officer, and no act of his towards the Lodge, or of the Lodge itself, could have any effect in regard to his restoration in the Chapter, there being no law in our jurisdiction to that effect. By the action of the Lodge, he was by the laws of the Grand Chapter affected in his membership in the subordinate Chapter ; but we have no law of the Grand Chapter providing for his restoration to a Chapter by any action of or in a Lodo-e. 35 The Grand High Priest reviews the proceedings of sister Grand Chapters, and reports on them in his address. Most Excellent Companion Harvey G. Hazet.rigg, of Lebanon, Grand High Priest. Tliglit Excellent Companion John M. Bramwei>t,, of Indian- apolis, Grand Seer el a ry. IOWA. fSOT. Thirteenth Grand Aininal Convocation lield in Davenport, October 17. Most Excellent Companion H. H. Hemenwaj-, Grand High Priest, presiding. In his annual address he states that he had granted a large nvimber of dispensations to subor- dinate Chapters to ballot for and confer degrees upon candidates " at such regular and special convocation as tliej^ might deem proper." Decisions were made on several subjects of local interest. One was : That a Chapter having received the brother's petition in good faith and acted on same, were ready to confer the degrees at any suitable time, and the brother moving away, could not legally demand liis fees returned. The Chapter could do so, if they wished, as an act of courtesy. The Grand Chapter, after due consideration and discussion, decided not to rescind the resolution adopted in 1860, severing their connection witli the General Grand Chapter. Report on Foreign Correspondence b^' Companion E. A. Guilbert. Most Excellent Companion H. H. Hemcnway, Grand High Priest, and Excellent Companion W. B. Langridgc, Grand Secretary. f868. Fourteenth Grand Annual Conclave was held in l)esmoines, Friday, October 16. Right Excellent Companion J. W. Satter- thwaite, Grand King, as Gi-and High Priest, opened tlie Grand Chapter. The Grand Secretary read the address of the Grand High Priest, whicli refers principallj^ to tlie dispensations he had issued during the past }'ear. It was resolved that the using of substitutes in tlie subordinate Chapters in conferring the Ro3'al Arch degree be expressly pro- hibited. 36 A resolution adopted in 1867 ordering a public installation was rescinded. Very just. It surprises us to learn that an3' Com- panion was thoughtless enough to offer a resolution of the kind. With as much propriety it might be ordered to have a public exaltation. The question, who is the proper grand officer to preside over the deliberations of the Grand Chapter in the absence of the Grand High Priest, was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, with directions that the}' define the powers of the Deputy Grand High Priest. That Committee reported : In relation to the power, duties and prerogatives of the Deputj- Grand High Priest, in the absence of the Grand High Priest, your Committee are tirmly of the opinion that all the powers possessed by the Grand High Priest must of necessity, in case of his absence, fall upon the deputy, for tliis, among other reasons : The Priesthood was alone confined to the tribe of Levi, and no one not of that tribe was permitted to aspire to or assume the duties and responsibilities of the High Priesthood under any pretence whatever. Not even the King, under the Mosaic law, although clothed with absolute power over his subjects, was allowed to meddle with the duties of the Priesthood, or even to touch the vestments thereof, without incurring the displeasure of the Almighty. Even the ark of the covenant was not allowed to be borne or touched by any except by those of the tribe of Levi ; and L^zzah, for his temerity in putting forth his hand to steady the ark, was struck dead, and Korah, Dathan and Abiram, for their pre- sumption in assuming tlie prerogatives of the priestly office, met with a similar fate. With these views, your Committee believe that the Deputy Grand High Priest, being an appointment from the Grand Council for a specific object, and not the King, should preside in the absence of the Grand High Priest. The following report from the same Committee we cannot agree with : "Is a Mark Master Mason made in England eligible to the balance of the Chapter degrees in a Chapter under the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter?" We reply, yes; but as independent Mark Lodges are not recognized in this jiuisdiction, it is first necessary that he be formally healed. In Pennsylvania, separate Mark Lodges are warranted, and all work done by them under that warrant is regular and lawful. Do we understand our Companions in Iowa to say that a Mark Master -Alason, member of a lawfully warranted ^Nlark Lodge in this juris- 37 diction, must first be formally healed before he is eligible to the balance of the Chapter degrees in Iowa ? A Committee was appointed with full power to receive commu- nications from the Grand Council of Iowa tending to restore to the Grand Chapter the control of the Cryirtic degrees. There is no report on Foreign Correspondence. Most Excellent Companion Pitkin C. Wright, of Dewitt, Grand High Priest. Right Excellent Companion Wii.liam B. Langridge, of Mus- catine, Grand Secretary. KANSAS. /SG7. Second Annual Convocation held in Lea^•enworth, Wednesda}-, October 16, Most Excellent Companion R. R. Rees, Grand High Priest, 23residing. In the annual address the death of Companions Jacob Sayre and Theodore G. Harris is announced in a feeling manner. He reports that harmony prevails and " that scarcely any questions are propounded." Comjmnion E. T. Carr furnishes the report on Foreign Corre- sjjondence. A decision by the Committee on Jurisprudence was adopted, as follows : "Can a brother who has been elected to receive the capitular degrees, and who has been advanced to the degree of Mark Master Mason, be pre- vented from advancing upon objections made by a Companion without giving his reasons for so doing, or preferring charges?" We answer that, in our opinion, he can be so prevented from advancing. The subject of mitre received the following resolution : Mesolved, That it is recommended that all subordinate Chapters in this jurisdiction shall adopt and use the form of mitre worn by the High Priests of the Jews. A very pleasant episode was tlie partaking of the hospitalities of a supper given by the ladies of the Masonic families of Leaven- worth. The Grand Secretary notes "the occasion as a happy reunion long to be remembered by all present.'' Most Excellent Companion R. R. Rees, Gi-and High Priest, and Companion E. T. Carr, Grand Secretary. 3S J8GS. Foiutli Annual Convocation \vas held in Lawrence, Monday, October 19, Right Excellent E. A. Smith, as Grand High Priest, presiding, Grand High Priest Pees not being present until the evening session. He states in his annual address that " he has received no letters of complaint— not even of inquiry — except on , non-essential points," that the year just closed had been void of interesting incidents at home, and that but one dispensation had been granted. The Grand Chapters of District of Columbia and Nebraska were recognized. The report on Foreign Correspondence is once more from the pen of Companion Carr. Tlie proceedings of a large number of sister Grand Chapters are reviewed ; Pennsylvania not among tlie number. A full set of Grand Chapter jewels and aprons was ordered. The following resolution was adopted : Bi'sohvd, That the subordinate Chapters under this Grand jurisdiction be and tliey are liereby directed to discontinue the practice of conferring the degrees of Capitular Jtasonry on non-affiliating Masons. Most Excellent Companion C. A. Bassett, of Lawrence, Grand High Priett. Right Excellent Companion E. T. Carr, of Leavenworth, Grand Serretari/. •> KENTUCKY. /SGT. Grand Annual Convocation held in Ijouisville, October 21, Most Excellent J. H. Branham, Grand High Priest, presiding. Seventy-one subordinate Cliapters represented. From the annual address of the Grand High Priest wo extract : EMEKGE^CY CASES. I have received numerous applications for dispensations to confer degrees out of tune. Where they have been clearly cases of emergency, and have been represented to me as such by enlightened Koyal Arch Masons, I have granted permission, as has been customary. I have refused permission, however, to a nvmiber of such applications from the fact that I could see no emergency in the cases presented ; and as the law requiring an interval of •one month to elapse between the reception of the petition and the con- 39 ference of the degrees was made for wise purposes and by more enlightened Masons than myself, I saw no reason why I should practically nullify the law by granting dispeiudtioiu which had that effect without good and suffi- cient reasons. THE WOEK IN THE CHAPTER DEGREES. Their labors have been confined to small portions of the State ; much yet remains to be done : many errors to be corrected, some excrescences to be pruned off, and some omissions to be supplied. The Chapter degrees are long and laborious, and require some study to properly understand, and much time to confer them. For want of time, the officers frequently hurry through the workj and so abridge it, until they have only presented a mere skeleton, which cannot satisfy an intelligent, thinking and educated mind — one which goes into the Order to gain possession of its great truths, the meaning of its sublime symbols and allegories. The Royal Arcli degree, as conferred by some Chapters, resembles more a well -performed farce than what it is. VESTMENTS OP HIGH PRIESTS. I find that, in a large number of our Chapters, the High Priests wear a mitre, sometimes surmounted by a cross, and made in imitation of that worn by Roman Catholic prelates, bearing no resemblance whatever to the mitre of a .Jewish High Priest, after which they should be modelled. All will admit that there should be, as far as practicable, a harmonious correspondence between the vestments of our principal officers and that of the persons they represent. If our High Priests are expected to wear robes of various colors, and a breastjilate resembling that worn by the Jewish High Priest, then our mitres should also resemble that worn by the same officer of the ancient Jewish polity. I entertain as profound a veneration for the cross, and all it is intended to signify and symbolize, as any man ; but the mitre of a Roman Catholic prelate, surmounted by a cross, is entirely out of place on the head of a Jewish High Priest, or any officer representing him in any Chapter or Council of Ancient Free Masonry — as much so as the breastplate would be on a Christian Bishop, or a sacrificial altar within his sanctuary — as much so as a cross would be suspended around the neck of a Jewish Rabbi, or a Moslem crescent gleaming from tlie tower of his synagogue. A resolution was adopted that Lodges of Mark Masters, Fast Masters and Most Excellent Masters cannot be called from labor to refreshment, but must in all cases be closed so soon as the work is finished for which they were called. Companion A. G. Hodges gives us the report on Foreign Com- munications. Most Excellent Companion Isaac T. Martin, Grand High Priest, and Companion P. Swigert, Grand Secretary. 40 /868. Grand Annual Convocation held in Louisville, October 19, Most Excellent Isaac T. :\Iartin, Grand Higli Priest, presiding. Seventy-nine subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest, in his address, communicated the tidings of the death of Past Grand High Priest Rev. AV. H. Forsythe. whose name had almost become a household word in Royal Arch Masonry in Kentucky. Perfect peace and harmony throughout tlie jurisdic- tion was reported. The following was presented, to which the Grand Chapter re- sponded '" Xo," unanimously : The present ffigli Priest of Frankfort Chapter, Xo. 3, having recently decided in said Chapter he had the power, as such, to surrender the charter thereof at his pleasure, in opposition to the expressed opinion (to the con- trary) of a majority of its members, and from which opinion an appeal was taken to the Grand Chapter— Question. Has a presiding High Priest such power? Xo report on Foreign Correspondence. Most Excellent Companion Richard G. Hawkins, of Louis- ville, Grand High. Priest. Companion P. Swigert, of Frankfort, Grand ,sVcrf/a?-y. LOUISIAXA. /ses. Twentj'-iirst Annual Convocation held in Xew Orleans. Feb- ruary 11, Most Excellent Companion H. P. Buckley, Most Excel- lent Grand High Priest, presiding. Eleven subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest stated that he had installed the officers of a Chapter in public; also, that he had issued a dis- pensation to a Chapter under dispensation, to cover the action of the Grand Lecturer in dispensing with the time in case of twelve brethren, candidates for membership, not considering that he had the authority. He decided, if an objection be communicated to tlie High Priest of a Chapter, and bj- him considered of sufficient weight, it would be his duty to order a new Ijallot. and at once ; but an vmfavorable ballot could not be reconsidered. AVe differ with the first part of this decision. ^Masonic law requires, if we iniderstand it correctly, that an objection made before the con- 41 ferring of Entered Apprentice or Mark Master degree is a bar to furtlier advancement, and the objection remains until removed bj- the objector. We have always been taught to look iipon an oli- jection as worse than a black ball. Keport on Foreign Correspondence b_y Companion W. W. Leake. The Committee on Masonic Law and Jurisprudence reported a resolution, which was adopted by the Grand Chapter, permitting- balloting for candidates at a called meeting of the Chapter, pro- viding that the members have been notified. Companion Samuel M. Todd, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion James C. Batchelor, M. D., Grand Secretary. 1869. Twenty-second Annual Convocation, held in New Orleans,. February 9, Most Excellent Companion Samuel M. Todd, Grand High Priest, presiding. Seventeen subordinate Chapters repre- sented. The deaths of Past Grand High Priest Henr}^ Regen- burg and Past High Priest Willis Coleman were announced. The address of the Grand High Priest is a recapitulation of his official actions daring the year past. The Grand and subordinate Chapters attended en masse at tlie laying of the corner-stone of the new tomb of Louisiana Relief Lodge, Xo. 1. The report on Foreign Correspondence is from the pen of Most Excellent Com- panion Joseph P. Horner, reviewing the proceedings of thirt3r-one Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania among the number. Resolutions were adopted, declaring it as the opinion of the (irand Chapter that the General Grand Chapter had become ti>ieless, might become dangerous, and ought to cease to exist. The proceedings state that the Grand Chapter was so well satis'- fled with the elective Grand Officers that they were re-elected and the appointed officers reappointed. All the Masonic books belonging to the Grand Chapter were donated to the Grand Lodge library. Masonic correspondence and fraternal relations with the Grand Orient of France were discontinued. Most Excellent Companion SamueIj M. Tom, of New Orleans,. Grand High Priest. Companion James C. Ratciielob, M. D., of New Orleans,. Grand Serreiary. MAIXK. r868. Aimual Coiivocatiou held in Portland. Monday, ^lay -t. Most Excellent Josiah H. Drnmmond, Grand High Priest, presid- ing. T-wentT-flve subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest calls attention to the use of ^nh-ititutes. as Ijeing at variance ■with the rales of the Grand Chapter. He had constituted and installed the otHcei-s of several Cha]>ters, two of which were in pnblic. saying that the occasions were ren- dered more pleasant and useful than they generally are. Decisions were made as follows : Chapters are not authorized to confer the degrees on clergymen withont fee. A bv-law to that effect would be in contravention of the Constitution of the General Grand Chapter, and void- Objections bv a member of the Chapter to a candidate after he is accepted and before uny degree i.t conferred "ft Ttim are etiuivalent to a rejection, and it should be sct recorded. "When a candidate is rejected by one Chapter, and afterward removes into the jurisdictiou of another, either Chapter may receive his petition with the consent of the other expressed in the manner prescribed in the Constitution. "Wlien a candidate is rejected by objections made.after a favorable ballot, his petition cannot be withdrawn. "U'hen the objection is made, he is as fully and completely rejected as if the ballot had not been clear. In such a case the objector need not give his reasons : nor has any one the right to disclose his name. I should hold it to be a grave offence, to be visited with summary and severe punishment, if any Royal Arch Mason (without the express consent of the objector) should do any act with a view of pointing him out so that he could be recognized, whether by de- claring his own action or inquiring concerning the action of another. When a member of a Chapter notifies the officer who is to preside at a stated meeting' that he must be absent from such meeting, but if present should vote against accepting a candidate who is to be balloted for. it is the duty of such presiding officer either to postpone the ballot to another meet- ing, or to declare that objections having been made by a member of the Chapter to the acceptance of the candidate, he is declared rejected. Reports are made by the elected Grand Officers. ilost Excellent Companion Oliver Gerrish. Grand Treasurer for thirty-seven years, (except during three years, when he ser\'cd as ■Grand High Priest.) declined a re-election. The rejiort on Foreign Correspondence is In- ;^[ost Excellent 43 Grand High Priest Josiali H. Drummond, reviewing the proceed- ings of thirty-five Grand Chapters. Under the head of " Penn- sylvania," we find: We have no Proceedings of this Grand Cliaptcr since 18G4, nor can we ascertain who the officers are ; yet we beUeve she "still lives;" for we find by the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge that the Grand Master had granted during the year, to the Chapters, 436 dispensations "to pass the Chair." This is a feature peculiar to Pennsylvania. We wonder if by virtue of this dispensation Chapter Past Masters are regarded as actual Past Masters. We lieg leave to correct some portions of the above and set our Companion Drummond right. The Grand Master issues dispen- sations to subordinate Lodges of Master Masons to pass to the Chai)-. The Chapters liave nothing at all to do with " passing to the Chair." We make the qualification of the candidate to be that he is a Past Master, either by service or dispensation. We have no Chapter Past Masters. The Grand High Priest made the following decision, which was sustained 1 ly the Grand Cliapter : A petition is presented, and, no question being raised as to its being in proper form, is referred to the Committee of Inquiry. They find that it does not make any allegation whether the petitioner lias ever before peti- tioned for the degrees. If he had done so, and was rejected, the Chapter had no jurisdiction without the consent of the rejecting Chapter. The Chapter directed that the petition be returned to him for amendment in that particular. It was returned for that purpose, and the petitioner was so infonned. But as some matters affecting his standing in the community had then come to light, he was conscious that he would be rejected. C'on- sequently he refused to amend his petition or to return it. I directed the High Priest to cause a demand to be made upon him for the return of his petition, and if he refused to return it to have the record made of the facts, and that he be declared rejected and so returned to the Grand Secretary. Authorit\- was given to a suliordinate Cliapter to hcnl a Com- panion made in an arm\' Chapter. Companion James M. Larabee, Grand High Priest, and Coip- panion Ira Beiiy, Grand Secrctaiy. /869. Annual Convocation hehl, Tuesday, Miiy 4, in Portland, Most Excellent James M. Ijarraltee, Grand High Priest, pre- 44 siding. Tliii-ty subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reports that he had issued dispensations for conferring tlie degrees, in less time than one month after reception of peti- tion ; also, to a subordinate Chapter, to appear in public proces- sion. A Chapter was constituted and its officers installed in iniblic, before an audience of Royal Arch Masons and ladies. We find but one decision with which we differ, and that is : When the High Priest, King and Scribe of any subordinate Chapter are absent, no Companion is competent to open said Chapter, imless com- missioned so to do by one of the three officers of the Chapter, or by one of the firet four officers of tlie Grand Chapter. The warrant is issued to the High Priest, King and Scrilje, and their successors, and only these officers can open the Chapter ; in their absence it cannot be opened, and thej' cannot commission any one to open in their absence. The Deputy Grand High Priest decided that a Chapter cannot be constituted and its officers installed by prox}-. An amendment to the Constitution, appointing District Deputy Grand High Priests, was adopted. Resolutions were adopted, as follows : Eesolced, That the candidates who are actual Past Masters must, never- theless, take the Past Master's degree in the Chapter. Is there any difference in the ritual of actual and virtual Past Masters ? Ecsolci'd, That the use of '■^substitutes'''' in conferring the Royal Arch degree is strictly prohibited ; and if any violation of this regulation shall come to the knowledge of the Grand High Priest, it shall be liis dnty to discipline the offending Chapter. The decease of Past Grand High Priests John AVillianis and Samuel Fesseuden is announced. Companion Drummoud furnishes tlie report on Foreign Corre- spondence, reviewing thirty-four Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. Of Pennsylvania he speaks in a very kind manner. He seems to have studied Pennsylvania Royal Arch ^Masonry, and gives quite an interesting history of the working of our Grand Chapter. He says : Pennsylvania Royal Arch Masonry is quite an anomaly. It differs largely, if not essentially, from tbat of the rest of the United States. The 45 members are large-hearted, whole-souled men, fully imbued with the spirit of Masonry. But yet, as a body, they are exclusive, seeming to think that Pennsylvania Masonry is perfect and every thing differing from them is -svrong ; but they keep it to themselves in its perfection, and allow every- body else to do the same. They publish but httle, and we may defy any one to find out much of tlieir condition from what they do publish. Most Excellent Companion Jos. Pearso.v Gill, of Lewiston, Grand High Priest. Companion Ira Berky, of Portland, Grand Secretary. MARYLAND AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. /867. Special Convocation held March 26 and 27, Most Excellent Companion James G. Smith, Grand High Priest, presiding. Seven subordinate Chapters represented. At this Convocation, action was taken npon the formation of the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia. After a variety of motions, arresting of charters, suspension of officers, &c., the following was offered, and adopted by a vote of 27 ayes to 3 nays : Whereas, The time having now arrived when the interests of Capitular Masonry require a division of this Grand Chapter, and that the District of Columbia should constitute a separate jurisdiction : therefore, Besolced, That this Grand Chapter gives its full and cordial consent to a separation of the jurisdiction, and to the establishment of a Grand Chapter for the District of Columbia ; and when said Grand Chapter is legally formed and constituted, the separation shall be complete, and the jurisdic- tion of this Grand Chapter over the District of Columbia shall cease. At a Special Convocation, lield May 16, the Grand High Priest stated that, deeming a final separation of jurisdiction essential, he had called the Grand Chapter together for that purpose. He also submitted a copy of the correspondence between Most Ex- cellent Companion George C. Whiting, Grand Master Mason of Washington, and Most Excellent Companion John L. Lewis, General Grand High Priest of the General Grand Chapter of the United States, in which consent was granted for the formation of the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia. After due deliberation, and amendments, a resolution was adopted, by 26 ayes to 6 nays, that the division of the jurisdiction is herebj- declared to be complete. The Grand High Priest, being a mem- 46 ber of a Chapter in the District of Columbia, stated thai; lie would no longer be able to preside over them, and resigned hi& station to the Deputy Grand High Priest, Companion William A. Wentz. At a Special Convocation, held June 4, the name and style of the Grand Chapter was changed to that of the Grand Chapter of Maryland. The Annual Convocation was held Monday, November 11, Most Excellent Companion William .V. Wentz, Deputy- Grand High Priest, presiding. Nine subordinate Chapters represented. Resolutions were adopted, declaring the proceedings of the Special Convocation in !March and May, so far as they apply to a division of jurisdiction, to bo irregular and illegal — the vote being 18 aj'cs to 4 naj-s. This is as near as we can arrive at the historj' of the division of the Grand Chapter of ^Nlarjland and District of Columbia. We- have no comments to make on the abo\'c, not desiring to interfere in the affairs of a sister jurisdiction. Many unkind words were- said ; no doubt, cause of offence was given on both sides ; but we fear that the ^Masonic trowel was not used to "spread the- cement of brotherlj' love and affection, that cement which unites lis into one sacred band of friends and brothers, among whom no contention should arise but that noble contention or emulation of who best can work and best agree." (Jompanion John L. Yeates, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion William A. Wentz, Grand Secretary. Companion E. h. Stevens furnished the report on Foreign Correspondence. /SO'S. Annual Convocation held November 9, Most Excellent Com- panion John L. Yeates, Grand High Priest, presiding. Ten subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest refers principally to the domestic troubles of the (jfrand Chapter, and reviews in a bitter manner the action of the General Grand Chapter in recognizing the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia. On this subject, the following resolutions were adopted : Resolved, That the action of the General Grand Chapter of the United States in regard to the District of Columbia is in direct violation of its Constitution, and tlierefoi-e null and of no effect, and has no binding force. 47 Besoloed, That a Stale Grand Chapter has no right to violate its Consti- tution and adhere to such action ; and that the General Grand Chapter is- more restricted in this respect. Besohed, That we request the several State Grand Cliapters to review their action, and take into consideration all the facts in the case, and adopt measures in accordance therewith. Resolved, That this Grand Chapter believes that she has now placed lier- self in her proper position, and will maintain her rightful authority over every foot of the original territory of the State of Maryland. Resolved, That the sentence heretofore pronounced by this Grand Chapter against her recusant subordinates and their members is hereby reaffirmed,, and all those true to their allegiance are reqiiired to take due notice thereof and act accordingly. Companion Charles 11. Ohr, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion William A. Wentz, Grand Secretary. Companion E. L. Stevens reviews the proceedings of twentj- (jrand Chapters, Pennsylvania among the nvimber. Speaking of our jurisdiction, lie says: This Sylvan Grand Chapter does not often open her shell to "outsiders," and when she does it is with great caution. The view now offered is full of beauty and hannony, affording a bountiful supply of useful and profit- able subjects for reflection and study. Her caution and prudence might, to a certain degree, be usefully imitated by others. The report on Correspondence (and just here is a point : why s-a.y "Foreign?" are we foreigners and strangers to each other, or are we one common brotherhood ?) is from the pen of Companion^ William II. Allen. It is full of good sense and Masonic spirit. /se9. Annual Convocation held November 8, Companion Charles H. Ohr, Grand High Priest, presiding. Nine subordinate Chapters represented. We are pleased to notice an improvement in the proceedings now before us. The past has in a great measure been forgotten. The address of the Grand High Priest breathes a purer Masonrj'. He reports peace and harmony in the jurisdic- tion; calls attention to uniformity of work and ritual; states that his Grand Chapter is just as deficient in the truth and uniformity of the work as any other. The Grand Chapter is asked to remove the questionable practice of conferring the Council or Cryptic degrees in the Chapters. It gives us pleasure to report the following resolution as having been adopted : 4H Wliereas, Difficulties have heretofore existed between the Grand Chapter of Maryland and District of Columbia and the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia, arising from the fact that in the view of this Grand Chapter the amendment to its Constitution necessary to give validity to the release of a portion of its territory was not lawfully adopted ; and WJtereas, In view of the fact of the recognition of the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia by the General Grand Chapter of the United States, and by a majority of, if not all, the State Grand Chapters, and of the desire of this Grand Chapter to pay due respect to the judgments of the General Grand Chapter, and the wishes of the several State Grand Chapters, and to cultivate amicable and fraternal relations with all its peers, as well as to promote the harmony and unity of Royal Arch Masonry, notwith- standing the belief of its membership that its just rights in the premises iiave been overlooked : does hereby JResolve, 1. That the Grand Constitution be amended by striking there- from so much as relates to the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter over the territory of the District of Columbia. Besohed, 2. That this Grand Chapter does hereby waive and relinquish its jurisdictional rights over the District of Columbia, so long as it remains the seat of the National Government ; and also does hereby recognize the Grand Cliapter of the District of Columbia as a regular Grand Chapter, and entitled to all the rights and privileges of its peers throughout the jurisdiction of the General Grand Chapter of the United States. Eesolced, 3. That henceforth the title of this Grand Chapter shall be the '• Grand Chapter of Royal Arch >Iasons of the State of Maryland." Resolved, 4. That all resolutions heretofore passed by this Grand Chapter inconsistent with these resolutions be and the same are hereby repealed. Companion E. L. Stevens again furnishes the report oa Cor- respondence, reviewing the proceedings of tliirty-foiir Grand Chapters. Lender the head of " Peunsj-lvania," he reprints Com- panion Drummond's report to the Grand Chapter of Maine. Companion Ch.^rles II. Ohr, M. I)., of Cumberland, Grand High Priest. Companion Willi.oi A. Wentz, of Baltimore, Grand Secrefari/. MASSACHUSETTS. /867. Stated Convocations were held March 12, June 11, and Decem- ber 10 ; and the Annual Convocation September 10, Most Excel- lent Companion Richard Briggs, Grand High Priest, presidino-. Eighteen subordinate Chapters represented. A resolution was adopted, requesting the Grand Hio-h Priest to 49 cause each Chapter to lie visited at least once in each 3-ear, l.iy appointing suitable persons, under the seal of the Grand Chapter, whose duty it shall be to visit such Chapters as the Grand High Priest may order, with authority to inspect their records, by-laws and mode of work, and report thereon to the Grand High Priest. Companion Henry Chickering reports on Foreign Correspond- ence, reviewing the proceedings of twenty-three Grand Chapters. Companion Richard Briggs, Grand High Priest, Companion Thomas Waterman, Grand Secretary. /8G8. Stated Convocations were held March 10, June 9, December 8 ; and the Annual Convocation on October 13. At the Convocation held March 10, the following rejiort was accepted : The Committee appointed to consider the ritnal of the Degrees of Past Master and Eoyal Arcli have carefully considered the subject, and respect- fully beg leave to report that the ritual of the Degree of Past Master shall be confined to the ceremonies of introduction, election, obligation, installa- tion, and lecture, to be conferred without any intermission or interruption in the order of progression ; and in the Royal Arch degree, the living arch shall not be less than three and one-half feet in height, and remain station- ary while being used ; and in the remaining ceremonies, the candidates for exaltation shall be under the exclusive control of the proper officers, and without interference by any other person. The Committee further recommend that the High Priest of each Chapter shall be held responsible for the enforcement of the above regulations. Three copies of the printed proceedings were ordered to be sent to each Grand Chapter in the United States. At the Convocation on June 9, it was nnanimousl}- voted — That the delegates from this Grand Chapter to the next triennial meeting of the General Grand Chapter of the United States be requested to use their most earnest efforts to obtain » dissolution of said General Grand Chapter ; and, failing to obtain such dissolution, to seek a peaceable with- drawal therefrom, agreeably to the obligations of Royal Arch Masons. At the Annual Convocation held October 13, a report was received from the delegates to the General Grand Chapter, from which we quote the following, which will explain the reason the wishes of the Grand Chapter were not carried out: Previously to oar leaving Massachusetts, our attention was directed to the vote passed by this Grand Chapter, instructing its i-epresentatives at this meeting of the General Grand Chapter of the United States to use their D 50 most earnest efforts to obtain a dissolution of tlie General Grand Chapter ; and, failing to obtain such a dissolution, to seek a peaceable withdrawal therefrom agreeably to the obligations of Royal Arch Masons. In obe- dience to this vote, we had a full and free conversation with the other members of the General Grand Chapter upon the question of its dissolution, and were soon satisfied that such a proposition would meet with no support whatever in the Convocation. Under these circumstances, and after much consideration, we were unanimously of opinion that it would be indiscreet to take any further and more public steps in this direction. The other alternative presented by your vote, that we seek a peaceable withdrawal from the Convocation, could not, in our judgment, have been attempted at that time, and before an opportunity had been offered of once more pre- senting the subject for your consideration, without lessening to a very great degree the influence of Massachusetts in other Masonic bodies then meeting in Si. Louis, and producing a very disagreeable feeling in the hearts of all the Masons then so happily assembled in ^Missouri. The pro- duction of such a result did not seem to us consistent with our obligations as Royal Arch Mason*, which, in this same vote, j'ou had so particularly and so properl}- directed us not to violate. Two hundred and twcuty-tive dollars were granted as charity. Companion Henry Chickering again furnishes an able report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of nine- teen Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. Companion Henry Chickering, of Pittstield. Grand High Frir.-if. Companion Tiiomas Waterman, of Boston, (h-aiid Sfcrctary MICHIGAN. /S69. The Twentieth Grand Convocation was held in Detroit, January 11, .Most Excellent Companion George C. Munro, Grand High Priest, presiding. Fifty-eight suliordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest i^resented his annual address, from which we learn that lie has been an active worker in the ^Masonic vine- yard, doing a large amount of work. He had found everywhere peace, harmony and unity, and the most remarkable uniformity in all the subordinate Chapters. Seven dispensations for new Chapters had been granted. Companion J. Eastman Johnson, Grand Secretary, presents the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the transactions of 51 thirty Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. Companion John- son still merits the praise bestowed npon him hy our Companion Allen, for preparing one of the best reports it has been our privi- lege to read. He says of Pejmsylvania : This Grand Jurisdiction has ever stood firmly on lier dignity. This has appeared from lier immovable adherence to ancient forms, and to her peculiar system of work ; from her long retention of the dependence of Koyal Arcli Chapters on the Grand Lodge, (as yet remains the system in England ;) from her standing somewhat aloof from other Masonic Grand Bodies; and from her reticence touching the things done within her precincts. She yields gracefully, however, to the force of events, and has sent us an "Alistract." He quott-s at length from Companion Past Grand High Priest George Griscom'.s address of 1861; and leaves us with the fol- lowing : We take respectful leave of the Most Excellent Grand Holy Koyal Arcli Chapter of Pennsylvania, until she shall again have accomplished her grand cycle among the constellations, and again shall have become visible to mortal eyes. Resolutions were adopted to aid and sustain the Grand Chapter of Maryland and District of Columbia in her trouble with the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia. Several amend- ments t<.i the Constitution were proposed. Resolutions were also adopted, as follows : Resoleeil, That the subordinate Chapters report to the Grand Secretary all rejections, suspensions and expulsions. Besolved, That the Grand Secretary notify all subordinate Chapters once in every three months of all such rejections, suspensions and expulsions. Besoloed, That the Secretaries of the subordinate Chapters shall enter the same in a black book, to be kept as a record of the same. The givatest care should be exercised in the admission of can- didates : nothing should be left undone that can in any way keep out the unworthy. Past (irand High Priests' jewels were presented to several of the Past (Trand High Priests. Companion William L. Webber, of p]ast Saginaw, Grand High Priest. Companion J. Eastman Johnson, of CentreviUe, Grand Sec- retary. 52 MINNESOTA. J8e7. Sevfntli Annual Convocation held in St. Paul. October 21, Most Excellent Companion B. F. Smith, Grand High Priest, iiresiding. Ten subordinate Chapters represented. Tlie address of the Grand High Priest refers principall}- to affairs of local interest. Of the use of SUBSTITUTES in the Roj-al Arch degree, he sa^s: A Chapter under dispensation asks for information as to the ' ' authority of substituting one or more in conferring the seventh degree." ^ly answer was, "I know of no decisions in this State on the question involved; but the practice, as I am advised, is in favor of substitution ; therefore, custom and usage has estabUshed that practice as law. I shall therefore authorize llie Chapters to continue to do so until the Grand Chapter shall sec fit to change the practice." Tlie Committee on Address t)f tlie Grand Higli Priest reported :is follows, whicli was adopted : The suggestions of the Most E.\cellcut Grand High Priest, on ^lasonic morals, are timely and worthy of the most grave consideration. Perfection is not attainable in any thing this side of heaven ; but no Mason should ever be oblivious to the fact that the reputation of ^lasonry. and hence its power for good, depends largely on the practical morality of its members. As long as prolanity and other grave vices are known to be indulged in the Order, the moral sense of Christendom will be against it. There can be no question that in some Lodges and Chapters many vigorous applications of the well-recognized moral laws of Masonry would lead to goosl roulis. A resolution was received, but not adopted, declaring memliers of subordinate Chapters, but wlio were not members of the Grand Cliapter. eligible to the offices of Grand Treasurer. Grand Sec- retary, or Grand Captain of the Host. Most Excellent Companion Lutlier Dearborn. Grand High Priest. and Right Excellent AVilliam S. Combs. (Jrand Secretary. rso8. Eighth Annual Convocation held in St. Paid, Oetolier 2(;. Mo^t Excellent Luther Dearborn, Grand High Priest, presidinsf. ^Ve notice a peculiarity in the opening of this Chapter: we read that " a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons was opened in due form. The roll of Chapters being called, the (Jrand Seeretarv announced 58 that there was a quorum of Chapters present. The Most Excel- lent Grand High Priest then opened the Most Excellent Grand Chapter in ample form." Ten subordinate Chapters represented. In the annual address, the Grand High Priest refers at length to the Triennial Convocation of the General Grand Chapter of the United States, at St. Louis, 1868. Two dispensations were issued for new Chapters. The destruction by fire of the Masonic records, and almost the entire property of the Grand Chapter, was announced. We grieAC witli our sister in this great loss. Some years ago the Masonic temple in Philadelphia was destroyed l>y fire, and many of the Lodges and Chapters lost their jewels, and records which could not be replaced — records linking the past with the present. Speaking of a higher standard of qualification for admission to Royal Arch Masonry, he very eloquently says : We have too long known, from sad experience, that it is not the numter of stones that makes tlie beautiful temple ; neither is it the numbsr of Companions that makes the strong Brotherhood. If we would closely join the one, the stones must all be ^^liewed, sqaared and nitmbered." If we would hold the other by an indissoluble chain, they must be linked together by honor, worth and intelligence. The breeze of popular applause has brought before the world and swelled the numbers of a thousand Societies; but without the " tenets and cardinal virtues" of a true Fraternity, they have subserved their brief purpose and passed away, and have left this lesson for our instruction : that we, as a Fraternity, are in greater danger from unprincipled members in our Lodges than from all other opposing influences without. Masonry is now fashion- able, and countless numbers are now knocking at our doors for admission ; and it would be strange indeed if, among the number admitted, there should not be found many to whom the privilege should have been denied. But this, my Companions, is a question within the control of those who hold the power of admission. If this power is judiciously exercised, the number will be small ; but if we are careless of that moral obligation and fitness which should be the true test for admission, a wound will be inflicted on the institution grievous to be borne, and not easily healed. Be careful in guarding against intemperance and excess : no wisdom, no reputation, no public honors, can save you from the desolating influence of intemperance. This fearful vice is found in the cottage and in the palace, in the church and in the halls of legislation ; and, I feaj-, too often in our Lodges. It has robbed age of its support, youth of its protection, and the domestic fireside of its peace and happiness. There is another vicious haltif among us, often referred to as in conflict 64 with the principles and teachings of Koyal Arch Masonry, and against the moral sense of Christendom ; and still these discordant sounds are heard among the workmen. I refer to the practice of profaning the name of Deity. How is it possible that a Companion who has passed the veils of our Tabernacle by the "Signet of Truth," that has engraven upon his heart "Holiness to the Lord," and been invested with the "InetFable Word," can so far forget these solemn teachings as to profane that Sacred Xame 1 The correction of these vicious habits is imperatively demanded by the teachings of our Order. TVe owe it to the institution of which we are members ; we owe it to society ; we owe it to our own characters as just and upright Masons. These, my Companions, are some of the objects, duties and aims of Freemasonry ; and, in order to perpetuate it, each member shoitld feel that there was an individual responsibility resting upon him, not only to preserve unsullied the reputation of the Fraternity, but tliat he has a share of responsibility in its preservation. A code of liy-laws for the use of subordinate Chapters was adopted. We notice another peculiarity- in the election of officers, which is, that, '' On motion, the Grand Chapter was resolved into a Con- ^'ention for the election of officers. The election was held, and tlie Chapter resumed labor," when the Grand Secretary reported the result of the elections, which elections were unanimously con- firmed by tlie Grand Cliapter. Companions A. T. C. Pierson and S. B. Foote furnish the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the transactions of twenty-nine Grand Chapters. Of Pennsylvania, they say • The Grand Bodies in Pennsylvania are very careful to exercise all their rights, and among them that of reticence respecting their transactions. No data is furnished as to the number of Chapters represented at their Convo- cations, number on the roll, or number of members. "Wo notice that Titus Chapter, No. 207, is casually mentioned. AVe have no Titus Chapter in Pennsylvania, but Aaron Chapter at Titusville. Most Excellent Companion Moses AV. (tETCHell, of St. Anthony. Grand JIi(/7i Priest. Right Excellent Companion "William S. Combs, of St. Paul. Grand Htcretarq. MISSISSIPPI. We have received from this jurisdiction a copy of tlie reprint of Proceedings of Formation of Grand Chapter in 1846 to 1855, ■which we find \c'ry interesting indeed. /ses. Twentietli Annual Convocation liekl in Natchez, Januaiy 2.3, Most Excellent Companion William 1). Ferris, Grand High Priest, presiding. Sixty-seven subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest touches upon a subject which we deem of sufficient importance to quote from : Companion 0. S. ilcCloud, a Christian minister, while visiting Vicks- burg Royal Arch Chapter, No. 3, was invited by the Jlost Excellent High Priest to pray at the close of the Chapter, and prayed "through the merits of our great High Priest, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, our Saviour." Immediately after the Chapter -was closed, Companion M. Bodenheim, the Excellent Scribe, with whom he was not personally acquainted, approached him in the Chapter room, in a manner said to be rude and angry, and said, "Jesus Christ don't have any business here;" and, when remonstrated with, said, "By God, Jesus Christ don't have any business here, and I won't stand it." Companion D. S. Snodgrass, the Secretary, charged the Scribe "with grossly unmasonic conduct ;" and assigned, as specifications, first, that he unnecessarily and grossly insulted a visiting Companion, and through him insulted the Most Excellent High Priest, who had invited him to pray ; secondly, that he used the name of Deity in an "irreverent man- ner." On the trial. Companion Bodenheim confessed the facts stated in the specifications, waived the examination of witnesses, and declined making any defence. When the ballot was taken, there was a tie on the first specification ; and the Excellent King, presiding as the Most Excellent High Priest, decided that the specification was not sustained. The second specification was sustained, and then the charge was sustained. The ques- tions arising on these facts are as follows : 1. Has a Companion the riglit to use the name of Jesus. Christ in Cliapter prayer ? 2. Has a Chapter the right to try charges preferred against its Most Excellent High Priest, Excellent King, or Excellent Scribe ? And are the proceedings on such charges different from tlie proceedings against any other member of tlie Chapter ? 3. Did not the Chapter, in the ballot on the first specification, \'irtually decide that it is not unmasonic to grossly insult a \isiting Companion, and lay itself liable to censure by such decision ? My opinion on the first question was given sulistantially as follows ; The Christian cannot approach the Throne ol' Grace otherwise than through the merits of Jesus Christ, since it is an article of his faith that it is only through Jesus Christ that we have access, by the Spirit, to the Father. Hence to prohibit him from thus praying in the Chapter vrould be to preclude him from praying there at all. But every Companion has the right to pray there according to the dictates of his conscience. "While deciding thus, I Avould advise every Companion to " take heed, lest by any means this liberty become a stumbling-block to them that are weak." Jesus can be alluded to in the language of the Jewish Scriptures so that every Christian will understand the allusion, while every Israelite may make a different application of the words. I think it more consistent with Masonic charity to use such modes of expression so that neither the Jewish nor the Cliristian conscience may be wounded. Upon the second question my decision was, that a Cliapter has the right to try charges preferred against its Excellent King and Excellent Scribe, and the proceedings on such charges do not differ from the proceedings on charges against any other member of the Cliapter. But when charges are preferred agaii;st the Most Excellent High Priest, they should be sent to the Grand Hi^'h Priest, who should appoint a Committee of Past High Priests to investigate the ease and report to him. If lie should deem the case sufficiently important, it is his duty to report it to the Grand Chapter, by wlioni the accu^eil shoiild be tried. This course is necessary because the Chapter cannot deprive the High Priest of his right to preside over it, and he cannot with propriety preside when his own trial is pending. Upon the lliir.l question, the papers in my hands are not sufficiently explicit to enable me to give a positive opinion. If the confession of the accused was intended as a plea of " guilty," the only question to be con- sidered by the Chajiter was, AVhat punishment should be inflicted ? If, how- ever, while confessing the facts, he denied their rej^rehensible character, the question before the Chapter was, Whether it is unmasonic to insult a visiting Companion? and the vote of the Chapter decided this question in the negative, which was certainly a glaring and culpable error. Ill Pennsylvania, the (Jrand Chapter prescribes the form of praj-er to be iiseil liy lier siibordiuates ; these forms, beautiful and appropriate, were prepared so as not to interfere with or offend any Companion in liis religious belief. The death- ijf Companion P. R. Covlev. Grand Tyler, was announced. The Grand Secretarj- was instructed to publish in the proceed- ings the name-i of all Companions suspended for non-paj-ment of dues. The following resolution was adopted : 1-tcsolccd. That hereafter the Chapters under the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter shall not call off from day to day, but close the meetings each day, and call >ucli meetings as may be necessary for conferring degrees. 57 Fifty dollars were appropriated for the relief of the widow and children of a Past High Priest. The use of substitutes was declared a violation of the principles of Eoyal Arch Masonry; and a resolution was adopted tliat any Chapter violating the law (by using substitutes) shall forfeit its charter. Most Excellent Companion James 0. Lusher, (Jrand High Priest, and Right Excellent Companion Oscar T. Keeler, Cfrand iSecretai'v. !860. Twenty -first Grand Convocation held in Jackson, January 14, Most Excellent Companion Joseph 0. Lusher, Grand High Priest, l)residing. Fifty-three subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand Pligh Priest says he has no flattering report of tiie increased or increasing prosperity of Royal Arch Masonry in his jurisdiction." 2s' o dispensations for new Chapters had been granted, nor had tlie accession of numbers been as great as in j-ears past ; and that the Chapters had not recovered from the effects of the late strife in our land. Dui'ing tlie late war, nearly all had sus- pended; but most of them had since reorganized, although suffer- ing heavily from the financial distress and general embarrassment •which still prevail. Dispensations had been issued to confer the Ro3-al Arcli degree out of the regular order, although the Grand High Priest stated he believed in so doing he was radically wrong, and had done so unwillingly. He expresses the hope tliat ere long the power of granting dispensations in such cases would be taken from the (Jrand High Priests by the various Grand Chap- ters. Attention was also called to the hasty manner in which the degrees wei-e conferred ; and the Grand Chapter was asked to legislate so as to prevent it. The Grand High Priest brought the following to tlie attention of tlie Grand Chapter: In October last I received the following telegram, signed by , High Priest of Xatchez Chapter, No. 1: "Emergency reqiures mc to confer Cliapter degrees with substitutes : will explain by letter." Without waiting for promised letter, (which I never received,) I responded: "No emergency can justify the use of substitutes in conferring the Royal Arch degree." Last December I received information that Natchez Chapter, No. 1, had exahed a candidate \iy using substitutes. As tliis is a violation of the law, and in direct opposition to an especial edict of tlie Grand Chap- ter, passed at its last Annual Communiciition, I deem it my duty to lay the matter before you for your action. Since the General Graud High ^l■ie^^t of the General < irand Chapter used the telegraph in the District .f Columbia trouble, we are not so much surprised at the action cif the High Priest of Xatchez Chapter, Xo. 1. Perhaps in the hasty manner in which the work is done in Mississippi, the telegi-aphic answer was re- ceived from the Grand High Priest too late to stop the work. The following decision was maile. the (Jiand Chapter, however, refusing to sustain it : Objections by a member of a Chapter to a candidate after he is accepted, and before any degree is conferred upon him, are equivalent to a rejection, and when the objection is made, he is as fully and completely rejected as if the ballot had not been clear. In such a case the objector need not aive his reasons, nor has any one the right to disclose his name. On the subject of electioneering for office, he >ay- : I exceedingly regret that I feel myself compelled to call the attention of the Grand Chapter to the system of electioneering, wire -working, and log- roUing that has been jiractijed by members of the Grand Chapter to elect their particular friends to office. The principal officers I see no impro- priety in changing, as the honors should not be held by cne ; but the offices of Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer should be changed as seldom as possible, as long as the incumbents faithfully perform their duties. It takes several years for a Companion to become fully conversant with the duties of his office ; and I deem it fatal to the interest (if the Grand Chapter to make changes except for good and sufficient cause. This has been and is still the practice of all other Grand Chapter*, and our own intere>t demands a similar course of action. Witli 11^ in Pennsylvania, we have made imt one chanLre iu the office of Graud .-^eeretarv of the Grand Chapter dnrir.u the past twenty-se\eu years, and that change was made necessary by the death of Companion AVilliam H. Adams. We hope that many } ear^ will elapse before we -n-ill be required to chanse aeain. A Special Committee on the Xatcliez Cliapter. No. 1, matter before referred to. reported : Whilst your Committee are aware that it is a palpable violation of the ancient landmarks and the positive rules and regulations of this Grand Chapter, and from the age of said Chapter and the long Masonic expe- rience of many of its worthy members, we Ixlieve a severe reprimand should be inflicted. But from the facts before your Cotmnittee. we believe that it was an unintentional error of the presiding officer, in direct oppo- sition to the wish of many of the members, a majority disapproving the act. Such being the fact*, your Conunittee would rt irret to see the inno- 59 cent members made to suffer for an act tliey could not avoid. We would tlierefore respectfully offer the following : Resolved, That, under all the circumstances, Natchez Chapter, No. 1, be relieved from the penalty. Wiiich was adoptod. The Committee on Masonic Law, to whom was referred that portion of the Grand High Priest's address of 1868 having refer- ence to the jirayer used in Vicksbiirg f'liapter. No. 3, reported as follows : The Committee on Masonic Law, continued from last Convocation to prepare a report in regard to religious tolerance discussed in the address of Most Excellent Grand High Priest "W. D. Fei-ris, ask leave to submit the following preamble and resolutions : WJiereas, Universal religious tolerance is a fundamental principle of our Order : Therefore, Resolved, That the right of e\n-y Companion to worship God according to the dictates of his conscience must remain unimpaired. Resolved, That the insult offered to Companion , a Christian minister, who, at the request of the High Priest of Vicksburg Chapter, No. 3, closed the Chapter with prayer and preferred his requests to the Deity in the name of "Jesus Christ, our Saviour," is deserving of severe censure; and the Companion offering this indignity should have been suspended from the Chapter on the charge of gross unmasonic conduct, which was preferred against him by its Secretary. > The same Committee also reported : Upon that portion of the address which treats of conferring degrees out of order, they report that dispensations for this purpose should be granted with extreme caution ; but Ihej' deem it inexpedient to recommend to this Grand Body any action looking to the repeal of the power now vested in the Most Excellent Grand High Priest to grant them. Emergencies may arise which render the exercise of this prerogative essentially necessary ; and we repose sufficient confidence in our chief officer to believe that it will not be used except when positively required. Comjjanion William S. Fatten famishes the report on ForeigJi Correspondence, reviewJTig the proceedings of twenty-five (Ji-and Chapters. Companion George D. Fee, of Oxford, Grand High Priest. Companion Osc.\R T. Keeler, of Columlms, (Irand Hevretary. tiO MISSOURI. !8G7. Niiieteeutli Annual Convocation held in St. Louis, October 9, Rigrlit Excellent Companion Martin Collins. Deputy Grand High Priest, as (irand High Priest. Eighteen subordinate Chapters represented. Deputy Grand High Priest Collins presented and read his annual address, the Grand High Priest buing absc-nt from the jurisdiction during the greater part cif the year. Capitular Masonry is reported in a prosperous condition. The death of Right Excellent Companion Anthony O'Sullivan. (xrand Lec- turer. Grand Secretary. \c., was announced in language fitting and worthy of the deceaseil Companion. The deaths of Right Excellent Companion Joseiih H. Tallmann. Grand Scribe. Past (xrand Higli Priest J. W. Ciane. and Companion James McDaniel were also announced. Death has indeed been busy, carrying away many of the shining lights in Royal Arch ^Masonry in Missouri. Seven dispensations for new Chapters were issued. Tlic Grand Cliapter. in conjunction with the Grand Lodge, erected a monument over the remains of the lamented 0"Sullivan. Tlie charter of a subordinate Chapter was directed to be re- stored when the three principal otHcers give satisftictory evidence to the (Jrand Higli Priest i>f their ability to confer the Chapter degree. Companion George Frank Gouley furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of twenty- eight Grand Chapterj.. <-'ompanion ^lartin Collins, (irand High Priest. anvitli Chapter jurisdiction; and if an affiliated Master Mason has resided one year within the jurisdiction of any subordinate Chapter in this juris- diction, said Chapter thereby acquires jurisdiction over liini, and has the right to entertain his petition, and act upon the same. 62 Companion George Frank Gouley furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of thirtj--six (Jrand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. Companion Oren Root, Jr., of Colum])ia, Orand High Priest. Companion (Ieorge Frank Gouley, Freemasons" Hall, St. Louis, (irnnd Sprretary. XOKTH CAROLINA. /SG8. Twcntietli Annual Convocation held in AVilmington, June 2, Most Excellent ('ompanion Alfred Martin, Grand High Priest, jjresiding. Nineteen suliordinate Chapters represented. The Grand Higli Priest, in his address, speaks very despond- ingly of Capitular Masonry in his jurisdiction. Rut one dispen- ■^ation had liccn granted. The qnestion of removal of the hall forfeit her charter, or the Grand High Priest may suspend the same nntil satisftictory reas(_in is given for the neglect. The Custodians were authorized to charge for their services in teaching the work of the Grand Chapter such sums as maj- be agreed upon by the parties. Companion W. G. Hill, of Raleigh, Grand High Priext. Comjiaiiion Ti[o>l\s B. Carr, of "Wilmington. Gmml Si'rre/arrj. NEBRASKA. /c9G7. The pn.pceedings before us are thosr of a Convention held at Plattsmouth, on ^March 19. for the purpose of organizing tliis 63 Grand Chapter, at which three Chapters were represented. Com- panion H. P. Deuel, of Omaha, was elected Grand High Priest, and Companion E. T. Duke, of Plattsmontli, was elected Grand Secretary. The First Grand Annual Convocation was held at Omalin, June J", 1867, Companion H. P. Deuel, Grand High Priest, presiding. Three subordinate Chapters represented. In the ammal address, the Grand Higli Priest says : Capitular Masoury in Nebraska is in a most flourishhig condition. Altliougli our Chapters are few in number, yet the zeal whicli is manifested in the good work, and the rapidly increasing number of their members, speaks for itself of its prosperity. But a few years have elapsed since its introdiictiou in Nebraska, some of which are fi'aught with tlie saddest recollections to every true Masonic heart ; for war, stern and unrelenting, has desolated a portion of our fair land ; the ties of kindred and brother- hood have been sundered ; and hands which should have been extended to meet the clasp of fraternal love and friendship have been raised against a, brother's life. But peace has again returned to us, and tlie links of fellow- ship are again becoming united, I trust never again to be severed. I would earnestly recommend to the Grand Chapter that their delibera- tions on the adoption of the Constitution and By-La"«s be attended with the most careful consideration. It is far better that laws should originate rightly, than that they should be subject to the almost endless changes wliich would necessarily follow if they were adopted without due care. I would also recommend that the Grand Chapter should be cautious in the matter of unnecessary legislation. The custom prevails, and I think it is an evil one, of lumbering up our proceedings and reports with a vast amount of resolutions which I think are unnecessary. A few well-digested laws are much better adapted for the government of subordinate Chapters than the mass of resolutions and amendments with which too many Grand Chapter proceedings are filled. I would also suggest that you require the subordinate Chapters to be veiy particular in regard to the qualification of candidates seeking admission. When so many are desirous of enlisting under our banners, as is the case at the present time, you should require them to use the utmost circumspection, that the honor and glory of our ancient institution may thereby be sustained. A\'ith sentiments such as these, expressed by the highest presid- ing officer, and endorsed Ijy the Grand Chapter, there is no reason todoubt that the Grand Chapter of Nebraska will take its position among the Grand Chapters of the United States. A resolution was adopted declaring those Companions, who assisted at the form;ition of tlie Grand Chapter, life-members thereoi'. (34 Companion J. W. Moore, GraSid High Prioyt. and Companion J. N. Wise, Grand Secretary. /868. Second Annual Convocation held in Belleveii, June 2o. Most Excellent Companion Daniel H. Wheeler, Deputy Grand High Priest, as Grand High Priest. Three subordinate Chapters repre- sented. The Grand High Priest, being unavoidably detained, submitted his annual address. It was decided that the suspension of a Companion in a blue Lodge for non-payment of dues suspends him also in the Chapter. Companion Danikl H. Whekler, of Plattsmonth, (iraiul High Frief:t. Companion J. X. Wise, of Plattsmoiitli. (Irand Scvretanj. The (rrand Chapter of Pennsylvania fraternally greets the Grand Chapter of Nebraska. XKW JERSEY. Eleventh Annual Convocation held in Trenton, September 11, ^[ost Excellent Companion Israel Baldwin, (irand High Priest, presiding. Sixteen subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reports in his annual address that he had granted three dispensations for new Chapters. He made the following decisions : In halloting for election of candidates, if a black ball appears, the ballot should be again spread ; if it agains appears, and there be anj' reason- able ground for supposing it was thrown by accident or mistake, it may be spread a third time, and so continued, at the discretion of the High Priest, until the Companions are satisfied the black ball was thrown by design. The Grand Chapter, however, decided that after a second un- favorable ballot the candidate shall be declared rejected. Also, that— Every member of a Chapter has a right to vote. It therefore becomes the duty of the High Priest, when the ballot is spread for the election of applicants to membership, to inform members of Committees who may be in adjoining apartments, and the Tyler of the Chapter, and invite them in. to cast his or their vdte. In case of the neglect of the High Priest to da 65 so, the pai'lies thus aggrieved have just ciiuso of complaint ; under such complaint the High Priest may declare the elfotion void, and order the ballot to be again spread. The Grand Chapter decided that the neglect of the High Priest to notify Companions outside of tlic Chapter would not invalidat(; such election. Each applicant should be balloted for separately, and not two or more at the same time. Which was approved. Suspension from a blue Lodge suspends from the Chapter, without re- gard to the cause of suspension. It was decided that suspension from a blue Lodge, except upon charges preferred and proved, should not suspend a member from his rights and privileges as a member of a Chapter. When a constitutional number of Companions desire to make appli- cation for dispensation to open and hold a new Chapter, it is unnecessary for them to dimit from their Chapter for that purpose. Which was ajriproved. That the High Priest of a Chapter may refuse to entertain a motion at his discretion. Companion Thomas J. Corson furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing in an able manner the proceedings of twenty-nine Grand Chapters. Companion J. Y. Mattison, Grand High Priest, and Most Excellent Companion John Woolverton, M. D., Grand Secretary. /868. Twelfth Annual Convocation held in Trenton, September 9, Most Excellent Companion J. V. Mattison, Deputy Grand High Priest. Seventeen subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest made the following decision, which was sustained by the Grand Chapter : Can the High Priest of a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in this juris- diction admit a Companion from Canada, who can prove himself a Royal Arch Mason, but who has never taken the Mark and Past Master's degrees In a regularly warranted Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Canada, to a seat in his Chapter, under this jurisdiction ? My answer was, that he could E 06 be admitted as a Royal Arch Mason during the working of that degree, but must be necessarily excluded while working tlie ^lark, Past or ilost Excellent ilaster's degree. We cannot see how such a person could be admitted. Was he examined ? He was surely not in possession of all the preceding degrees ? AVe notice, also, that dispensations were issued to subordinate Chapters to make, at sight, Eoyal Arch Masons. Companion Thomas J. Corson again furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of thirty Grand Chapters. Companion Jesse P. Case, of Jersey Citj-, Grand High Priest. Companion JfiiiN P. Woolvertox. of Trenton, Grand Secre- Uinj. >'EW HAMPSHIRE. /866. Annual Convocation held at Concord, Jiuie 1:>. Companion Thomas E. Hatch. Grand High Priest, opened the Grand Chapter in ample form. Ten subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reports favorably on Royal ^^rch Masonry in this jurisdiction. He refers to the decease of Com- panion John H. Steel. High Priest, and Past Grand High Priest Companion Philemon JoUes. The following resolution was indefinitely postponed: Resolved, That the granting of dispensations to confer the several Chapter degrees is not in accordance with Article XVII, of the Grand Regirlations, and should not be countenanced or allowed by this Grand Chapter. Companion Horace Chase. Chairman of Committee on For- eign Correspondence, reviews the proceedings of several Grand Chapters. Companion Thomas E. Hatch, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion Horace Cliase, Grand Secretary. /867. Annual Convocation held in Concord, June 11, Companion Thomas E. Hatch, Grand High Priest, presiding. Ten subordi- nate Chapters represented. 67 The Gi-and High Priest reports that the work lias been done in conformity with that adopted bj- the Graiid Chapter; that there have been xlight variations in some phrases, but so slight that it needed a critic's ear to recognize thein. The following resolution wjis adopted : Besohed, Tliat iu all cases of dispensation granted by tlie Most Excellent Grand High Priest or Excellent Deputy Grand High Priest for conferring the Chapter degrees out of the ordinary constitutional time, the candidates for whose benefit said dispensations are granted shall pay each the sum of five dollars for the benefit of the Chapter conferring said degrees ; and that no Chapter under this jurisdiction shall confer any degrees by virtue of any dispensation without exacting of the candidate the sum of five dollars in addition to the ordinary and usual fees. A good movement. Companion Horace Chase furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence. Companion Nathaniel W. Cumner, of Manchester, (Jravd High Pfii'xt. Companion Horace Chase, of Hopkinton, Grand Hccre/ari/. NEW YORK. /8GS. Seventy-first Annual Convocation held in Albany, February 4, Most Excellent Companion Seymour H. Stone, Grand High Priest, presiding. One hundred and twenty-fonr subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest announced the decease of Companion William Seymour, Grand Treasurer. Dispensations had been issued for five new Chapters. A Past Grand High Priest's jewel was presented to one of the Past Grand High Priests; and, as it is totally different from the form adopted in Pennsylvania, we give the descrijition from the report of the Committee : It is of fine gold, and weighs sixty -seven pennyweights. It consists of a High Priest's mitre suspended within an equilateral triangle — the triangle being surrounded by a broad circle of gold — the whole of which is enclosed by a wreath of oak leaves, with acorns interspersed among the foliage. The jewel is suspended by a scarlet ribbon two inches long, and one and a half inches wide, witli lieavy gold clasps across the centre and each end (i8 thereof, with a pin attached to the upper clasp for the purpose of fixing the jewel to the lapel of the coat. It may not be out of place to call attention to the symbolism of the dif- ferent parts of this jewel. The mitre represents the priesthood ; the equi- lateral triangle, within which the mitre is suspended, is considered as sA-mbolical of the principal attributes of Deity — the three equal sides of which represent His Omnipotence, Omniscience and Omnipresence ; the circle surrounding the triangle is symbolical of Eternity — time without be- ginning or end. The oak wreath or garland surrounding the whole has also its significance ; the oak was held in peculiar veneration bj' the ancient Gauls and Britons. The Druids worshipped the Supreme Being under the name of "Esus" or "Hesus," and the symbol of the oak ; and had no other temple than a wood or gro^e, where all their religious rites were performed. Xor was any person permitted to enter that sacred recess, unless he carried with him a chain, in token of his absolute dependence on the Deity. In- deed, their whole religion originally consisted in acknowledging that the Supreme Being, who made his abode in these sacred groves, governed the universe ; and that ever}' creature ought to obey his laws and pay him di'sine homage. They considered the oak us the emblem, or rather the pecuhar residence of the Almighty, and chaplets of it were worn by their priests and the people in their religious ceremonies ; the altars were strewed with its leaves and encircled with its branches ; the fruit of it was thought to contain a divine virtue, and to be the peculiar gift of heaven. It will thus be observed that there is a pecuhar fitness in selecting the :inion Christopher (t. Fox. Grand Secretary. /SGO. Seventy-second Annual (Convocation held in Alhan}-, February 2. Most Excellent Companion Seymour H. Stone, Grand High Priest, presiding. One hundred and thirty-five subordinate Cha})- ters represented. The Grand High Priest, in his annual address, states that six- teen new Cliapters had been organized by dispensation during the past year. He submits the following decisions for the approval of the Grand Chapter: Honorary membership can only be provided for l)y the By-Laws of a Chapter ; but the right to vote or hold office cannot be conferred by virtue of honorary membership alone. A High Priest may remove from office hi- own appointees, therefore the obligation laid down in the installation service for elective officers should not be required for appointed officers. A dimit can only be properly granted upon tlie written apphcation of the Companion desiring to withdraw, or upon his pei<(;m, Companion George Rex, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, presiding. He read his official communication, notifying the Grand Chapter that he had issued six dispensations for new Chapters. Companion Howard Matthews furnished the report of Committee of Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceed- ings of twenty-seven Grand Chapters. The following decisions on Masonic Law were approved : Auy Royal Arch Mason is eligible to the oflice of Higli Priest iii the Chapter of which he is a member. It is not necessary tliat he should have served in any other office in the Chapter before his election to the office of High Priest. An applicant for membership in a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons must be a Master Mason in good standing ; but it is not necessary that such appli- cant should, at the time he makes tlie application, be a member of a Lodge of Master Masons. Petitions for the degrees or membersliiiJ must be presented and acted upon in open Chapter, at stated meetings. If the action of a Chapter at such stated meeting, on an application for tlie degrees, results in a clear ballot, such ballot entitles the applicant to tlie degree of Mark Master, which mav be conferred at tliat time, or at any subsequent stated or special meeting. After an applicant has received the degree of Mark Master, the ballot for tlie remaining degrees may be taken either at a special or stated meeting, in open Lodge or Chapter, of the degree to be conferred, and all the degrees may be conferred on the applicant on the same day. The mode of proceeding is as follows : Tlie applicant having received the degree of Mark blaster, a Lodge of Past Mastei's is opened, the ballot passed ; if clear, the degree conferred, and the Lodge closed; and the same proceeding is had in the remaininj)- degrees. A separate ballot is required for each degree. 76 After a clear ballot, the fee deposited belongs to the Chapter, and should not be given up unless objection is made by a member to conferring the degrees on the applicant, in which case that fact and the name of the ob- jector should be noted on the journal, and the fee returned to the applicant. If the objection is withdrawn, the applicant is entitled to the degree, upon again depositing the fee. The objection does not reconsider the ballot : it simply prevents it from operating. An applicant who, after a clear ballot in his favor, declines to receive the degrees, should not afterwards be permitted to receive them, unless liis former action was based upon good and valid reasons. A Chapter has the right to entertain and act upon charges preferred against a Royal Arch Mason residing within its jurisdiction, who is not a member of such Chapter. (Jompaniou Geuroe Rex, of Woostov, (h-and High PrieM. Companion John D. Caldweli., of Ciin-iimati. Grand St'cre- tarij. RHODE ISLAM) AND PROVIDEXCK PLANTATION. /8GG. Annual Convocation held in Provideiiri', March 13, Most Excellent Companion Thomas A. Do_yle, Grand High Priest, pre- siding-. Six subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reports the following among his offi- cial actions : Having learned from the Worshipful Charles D. Greene, Grand Secre- tary of the Most "Worshipful Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, now in his fortieth year of Masonic life, that it was his intention to apply to Provi- dence Royal Arch Chapter for the degrees of Royal Arch Masonry, I deemed it a fitting opportunity for the exercise of the high power, vested in tlie Grand High Priest by the Constitution of this Grand Chapter, of making a Royal Arch ^lason at sight. Having laid the matter before my associates in the Grand Council, it met their hearty approval, as also that of many Companions in this city whom I consulted in regard to it ; and on the first day of the present month, at a Convocation of Providence Chapter, in the presence of upwards of fifty Companions, I confen-ed the four degrees of lioyal Arch >Iasonry upon the Worshipful brother. The Constitution was amended by striking out the word " holy " from the tith' thereof. Companion Thomas A. Doyle, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion Samuel B. Swan, Grand Seerotar_v. 77 /867. Annual Con^'oc•ation held in Providence, Mairli 12, Most Ex- cellent Thomas A. Doyle, Grand High Priest, presiding. Six subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest, in his address, expressed the hope that, before the next Annual Convocation, a sot of jewels would be procured for the Grand Officers, so that in public processions and installations, if at no other time, they maj^ be distinguished by the badge of their office, and not be compelled as at present to appear without any mark of their rank. Companion Thomas A. Doyle, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion Samuel P. Swan, Grand Secretary. 7868. Annual Convocation held in Providence, March 10, Most Ex- cellent Thomas A. Doyle, Grand High Priest, presiding. Nine subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reports more than usual prosperity during the past 3'ear. The work of a subordinate Chapter having been stopped for a long time, by the malicious use of the black ball whenever a petition was presented, the Grand High Priest decided that the best method of remedying the trouble was the organization of a new Chapter in the same city. He exj^ected tliat, before the next Annual Convocation, harmony would be restored, and the two Chapters unite. He reports that a -Chapter working under the jurisdiction of the Grand Chapter of Connecticut having been burnt out, and " as the onh' suitable place for the Chapter to assemble in was situated within the jurisdiction of Rhode Island, in "Westerlj^, it aftbrded him much j)leasure to assist the Companions in their trouble, by issuing his dispensation, authorizing them to meet in tlie place referred to, for the transaction of business or for work, and conferring upon the Most Excellent Grand High Priest and the officers of the Most Excellent Grand Chapter of Connecticut full authority over the' body and its members while assembled as a Chapter within his jurisdiction." He hoped if charters were granted for new Chapters that jewels for the Grand Officers would be furnished, in order that they may appear properly clothed on such important occasions. Subse- 78 qucntly the Grand Chapter ordered the purchase of a set of jewels, collars, sashes, and aprons, the cost not to exceed eight hundred dollars. An amendment to the Constitution was offered, in effect pro- hibiting the Grand High Priest from making Ro\al Arch Masons at sight. Companion Thomas A. Doyle, of Providence. Grond High Frici'l. Companion Georce H. Bur.miam. of Providence, (/rand Secretary. SOUTH CAKOLINA. /S(jS. Annual Convocation held in Charleston, February 11, Most Excellent Companion A. G. !Maekey, M. D.. Grand High Priest, presiding. Ten subordinate Chapters represented. > Very little business of interest was transacted. In I'^iiS. the Annual Convocation was postponed by the Grand High Priest on account of the '•unsettled state of the countrj-.'" /S66\ The Annual Convocation was held in Charleston, February 13, Most Excellent Companion A. G. ^lackey, M. D., Grand High Priest, presiding. Ten subordinate Chapters represented. Four charters were granted to new Chapters, and duplicate charters were directed to be issued for those destroyed during the war. An assessment was made on the subordinate ( 'hapters to meet the liabilities of the Grand Chapter. The Grand High Priest was by resolution requested to appoint a representative of the Grand Chapter of .South Carolina to the several Grand Chapters in Europe and America. Companion A. G. Mackey. M. D., Grand High Priest, and Companion Ebenezer Thayer, Grand Secretarj-. /867. Annual Convocation held in Charleston, February 1-2, Most Excellent Companion A. G. Mackey, M. P.. (;rand High Priest. Fourteen Chapters represented. 79 The Grand High I'riest in his address says lio has no flatter- ing report to make of Royal Arcli Masonry in his jurisdiction, as, owing to the long-continued strife in the land, almost all the Chapters had suspended worlt. But a few only had been resus- citated. A dispensation had been issued for a new Chapter. Owing to troubles in one of the subordinate Chapters, the Grand High Priest having been unable to restore liarmony therein, the labors of the Chapter ivere suspended until the night of the annual election of officers, when they were permitted to resume work. A beautiful memorial to Companion David Eamsey, Past Grand Scribe, was presented. He was very highly spoken of as a man, and a Mason, and at the time of his death was Grand Master Mason of South Carolina. Companion E. S. Bruns furnishes the report en Foreign Cor- respondence, reviewing the proceedings of fourteen Grand Chap- ters, Pennsylvania not included. A resolution was adopted requiring every Mark Master Mason, within three months after his admission, to Select and record his mark, and making it the special duty of the Secretary of every (Jhapter to see the regulation complied with. Companion R. S. Bruns, Grand High Priest, and Companion Ebenezer Tiiayer, Grand Secretary. !8e9. Annual Convocation held in Charleston, Pebruary 9, !Most Ex- cellent Companion Robert Stewart Bruns, Grand High Priest, presiding. Twenty-three subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest breathes the pure Ma- sonic spirit. The ijroceedings of the past year are reviewed. The issuing of two dispensations for new Chapters was reported. On Masonic Education in the Ritual, he sa_ys : We are to make ourselves as perfect iu the knowledge of our rites, sym- bols and duties, as it is iiossible for mere mortals to become ; we are to remember that our Order contemplates the highest civilization — an idea which involves in it a full sense of religion as the profoundest wisdom. We are not to be like impatient school-boys, imappreciative of the object of education, hurrying througli a task without study, making a mere show of the performance of duties, the meaning, motives and laws of wliich we have not been at the pains to acquire. Having once conceived Capitular Masonry as an object of veneration, as desirable of acquisition, as an agent of society, civilization, and the crowning virtue, Heligion, we are to pursue >!0 its study with heart, niiud oncl soul; and having put our hands to the plough, we are not to turn away our heads in disgust or indifference. Nothing is ever made perfect without toil. Nothing is ever pennanently desirable, or useful, which does not involve the necessity of study and labor. To observe well and closely ; study the laws earnestly ; and think honestly upon what we observe and study ; then energetically work out our thinking — these are the simple and the whole secrets of success in any study, any pursuit, occupation or profession. Spiritual ilasonry, or, as we call it, Speculative, Masonry, must evermore shadow forth Its humble original in operative ^lasonry, which, pursued through its several degrees, branches and orders, gradually develops, from the mud hovel, or the pole habita- tion of the Nomade, into the Esyptian pyramid and tower; temples such as made Babylon, Baalbec and Perseopolis. so famous ; siich as crowned tlie temple of Solomon with its oriental glory ; and such as grew to its liighest perfection in the Cathedral Towers of the Norman ; their grand heights, their exquisite proportions, their delicate traceries, their belfries, domes and spires, that hang, as it were, in air ; their mighty buttresses, and the perfect wholeness of all in the blending over the pillars of strength and beauty of the Royal Arch of the Temple. Ill an eloquent appeal for mercy to a smspcuded Compauioii, (whom many of the past and present ofBcers of his Chapter asked to have restored to good Mar^oiiic standing.) the (irand High Priest Uses the following words: It is not, Companions, the policy or principle of Masonry to destroy, but to save ; not to hurt, but to Ileal ; not to rust out the prodigal, but to recover him; and this policy is the sublime of Charity — our paramount law — and implies the most beautiful attribute of Deity ; that mercy by which He • tempers Justice for the easier endurance of humanity. To win this mercy of heaven, we are required to bestow it upon the creatures of earth. We all have need of it. Justice may be the Monarch. but Mercy is his Queen, sitting beside him, like Esther beside Ahasuerus, and pleading for the Jew Mordecai sitting in the king's gate. Were we simply to insist upon mere justice for all men, who would escape punish- ment under the law, as the Great Poet teaches: '-Consider this, that, in the course oi justice, none of us should see salvation : we do pray for mercy ; and that same prayer doth teach us all to render the deeds of mercy." Mercy is the heart of conscience, where Justice is the He-ad ! Of its love- liness, of its benefits, to those even who bestow it, it is among the inesti- mable virtues. We notice a peculiarity in the proceedings of the Grand Chapter of South Carolina : at the end of nearly every report we find the motion made, •^Resolved, That it be received as information." 81 The Grand Seeretaiy, in his repoit, writes as follows: Brothers of the Mystic Tie, Companions of the Holy Royal Arch, awake, arouse yourselves, and exert the mighty energies of your noble Order for the recuperation of our dearly beloved country, and its I'estoration to pros- perity throughout its length and breadth ! He draws the following picture of the distress and desolation prevailing the South : Behold the desolate fields and deserted homesteads, the weeping widows and mourning orphans ! Where plenty and happiness once reigned, now poverty and misery hold sway. Tlie halls in which the young and viva- cious formerly assembled and enjoyed innocent hilarity are now occupied by the hooting owl and the disgustful bat ; fields once waving with the affluence of useful textiles and magnificent cereals, beautiful to the eye and valuable to the owner, now present to the beholder the briar, the thorn, and the thistle. Residences formerly lighted up to welcome the weary traveller, or to entertain the happy visitor, are now shrouded in darkness. In rooms, that once resounded with tlie innocent laugh of merry childhood, and the silvery voice of the beautiful maiden, are now only to be heard the croaking of the raven. Companion James Birnie furnishes the report on Foreign Cor- respondence, reviewing the proceedings of eighteen sister Grand Chapters. Three pages are devoted to Pennsylvania. Companion E. S. Bruns, of Charleston, Grand High Friesl. Companion Ebenezer Thayer, of Charleston, Grand Hecreiary. TENXESSEE. /SG7. A Stated ^^nnual Meeting was held in Xashville, October 11, Most Excellent Companion Jonathan L. Dawson, Grand High Priest, presiding. Fifty-three subordinate Chapters represented. From the address of the Grand High Priest we learn that he had issued a dispensation to confer the degrees without the usual time of one month intervening between filing the petition and conferring the degrees. He states that " questionable as maj* be the authority, and dangerous the precedent," the dispensation was " granted with reluctance." No Chapters had been visited, because of a want of some uniform system of lectures and work. A resolution was adopted, requiring candidates to be thoroughly conversant with the preceding degree and the first three degrees before advancement, p 82 Also, that there be added to the officers of the Grand Chapter a Grand Principal Sojourner and three Grand Masters of the Tails. We thought the officers of Grand and subordinate Chap- ters were the same throughout the United States. Companion Charles A. Fuller furnishes the report on Corre- spondence, reviewing the proceedings of twentj'-four Grand Chapters. Pemisylvania not included. Companion Townsend A. Thomas, Grand High Priest, and Companion Charles A. Fuller, Grand Secretary. Stated Annual fleeting was held iu Nashville, September 30, Most Excellent Companion Townsend A. Thomas, Grand High Priest, prei-iding. Fifty-one subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the Grand High Priest calls attention to uni- formity of work ; the meeting of the General Grand Chapter ; the granting of dispensations for eight new Chapters ; and the death of Companion Charles A. Fuller, Grand Secretary, who, as a Mason, deserves all the beautiful tributes of respect that were paid to his memorj'. The Grand Chajiter in a body visited and paid their respects to Mrs. Sarah Polk, widow of Companion Ex-President James K. Polk. The Grand High Priest was respectfull}" requested not to exer- cise his power iu future in granting dispensations to new Chap- ters during the interval between the meetings of the Grand Chapter. Companion George S. Blackie furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of twenty-six Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. As we desire to have our Companions know what we are thought of outside of our own jurisdiction, we append Companion Blackie's remarks : There are no statistics at all in the docmuent. Indeed, the report, though a most exquisite spechneii of typography, is the most unsatisfactory one we have examined. As a conservatory of elegant remarks and polished rhetoric, it may prove of value, but as a review of the Order's progress in Pennsylvania, it is positively worthless. Companion William Maxwell, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion John Frizzell, Grand Secretary-. 83 /seo. Stated Annual Convocation held iu Nashville, September 29, Most Excellent Comparton William Maxwell, Grand High Priest, presiding. Sixty-nine subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest made his annual address, in which he announced the appointment of Representatives to sister Grand Chapters, among which we find the name of Companion Alfred Creigh, to the Grand Chapter of Pennsj'hania. A large number of official visits were made. Attention is called to the fact that subordinate Chapters are doing but little work, owing to the Grand Chapter prohibiting the use of suljstitutes. Dispensations had been granted for three new Chapters. A Chapter was pro- hibited from meeting alternately at two different points. Repre- sentatives from Grand Chapters of Scotland,' Canada, South Carolina, Georgia, Indiana and Connecticut were received with appropriate honors. The following decisions from the Committee on Masonic Juris- prudence were adopted : The High. Priest of a Chapter states that an applicant for the degrees had been elected, and before the degrees were conferred, objections were filed with the Secretary to his receiving them, no charges having been preferred. That it has been standing in this condition for several years, and he asks this Grand Chapter to instruct him how to proceed. Anmer.—K Companion is not required to prefer charges, because he files objections. An objection has the same effect as a black ball, and the can- didate can have his petition called up at the end of six months, and at the next stated meeting thereafter again balloted upon. The Committee has had under consideration the question as to what officer of a subordinate Chapter should preside in the absence of the High Priest, King and Scribe, and is unable to find any authority upon the question, except the action of this Grand Chapter, which has been in the habit of approving By-Laws similar to tliose presented by Chapter, which autliorizes the next highest oflicer to preside in the absence of the first three officers. , ., . • , j j The Committee is of opinion that, when a charter is granted, it is intended to be perpetual, and not required to remain dormant one year at a time, because of the absence, from any cause, of the first three officers. The charter being granted to the first three officers and the Companions of the Chapter, their rights should not be abrogated by the absence or failure to_ act of the officers. The Committee is, therefore, of opinion that the repeated action of this Grand Chapter in the approval of By-Laws before mentioned is correct, and that, in the absence of the first three officers of a subordmate Cliapter, s-t upon the next liigliest officer present devolves the right and duty to preside ; but he may invite any Past High Priest or competent Companion to act in his stead. In our opinion, this is a decision which will in time lead to much trouble. Companion George S. Blackie. ;M. D.. furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of thirty-one Grand Chapters. Companion John AV. Hlgiiks. of Clifton. Grand High Priest. Companion John Frizzf-LL. of Nashville, Grand Serretary. TEXAS. /86S. Nineteenth Ainuial Convocation held in Houston, June :<. Companion F. B. Sexton, Grand High Priest, presiding. Forty- two subordinate Chapters represented. The address of the (Jrand High Priest refers in a feeling manner to the ravages of the yellow fever during the year past, and to the death of Past (irand High Priest Companion H. P. Cartwell. He speaks very despondingly of the future, and says: 3Iv Companions, all, never was there such a field for the exercise of all the Masonic virtues as is to be found in the times and circumstances which now surround us. Xever within the recollection of any of us were the signs of the times so unpromising. We are in the midst of public disorder and private embarrassment. Old foundations seem to be broken up. All that is venerable, and all that is practical and useful, not merely in govem- ment, but in religion, in society, in morals, seems about to be swept away in the confusion of radicalism, metaphysical abstraction and foolish ideal- ism. Masonry is threatened from the same sources. Material prosperity, too, seems to have well nigh forsaken the country, and everj" exertion made to better our condition seems to make it worse. The vista of the future opens up no cheering prospect. All is nirjld iritluiut. Our people, our bretkren and Companions especially, are depressed and stricken down by disappointment, misfortune, poverty and sorrow. Masonry can do nothing against the outside storm which is furiously howling and raging around us. Such is not the mission of ilasonry. The storm must rage on till its force is spent. AVe must labor and wait. But we can help one another. Let us do this. If we find a brother in the midst of this storm without food or shelter, let us help him. If we find one whose head is bowed and cheeks furrowed with the agony of heart -heaviness — ohi my Companions, we fre- quently know not how high private sorrow and care pile up their load on the hearts of our Companions — let us help him. Let us smooth his path. We shall smooth our own thereby. Above all, my Companions, let us live 85 prepared for the summons of death, which no nmn CiUi escape. We know not wlien the inexorable messenger may call foi~us, but we do know that our future happiness or misery is to be determined by the work we do in the body. It is our work by which we will be tried. Let us present such work as M-ill pass the test of the Grand Overseer's Square ; as will secure for us admission into the realms of celestial light and glory, where the " Supreme Grand, High Priest of the Universe forever presides, forever reigns !" We find printed in the proceedings, the bonds of the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer for the faithful performance of their duties. The following resolution was adopted : Besolved, That a Royal Arch Mason, who is suspended by a blue Lodge, for any offence, is not entitled to any privileges in the Chapter, or to hold Masonic communication with Royal Arch Masons, until reinstated by the Lodge suspending him. The Committee on Grand Officers' Reports reported that — The rule laid down in regard to annual reinstallation of re-elected officers of Subordinate Chapters we believe to be erroneous, and not sus- tained by the Royal Craft. The installation or reinduction of a re-elected otBcer is not required by law or usage. It may be done, but if the officer was regularly installed when first elected, his re-election is but a continu- ation of service ; his installation obligations remain in force, and his induction into office in such a case is perfect, without repeating it. We think the officers are elected only for the Masonic year, and they can remain in office until their successors are elected and installed. When the time comes for the election, if he is re-elected lie should be reinstalled. If he were re-elected ten, twentj- or more times, he should be installed each time. We do not think his installation obligations remain in force after his successor is elected ; and when the Masonic year is closed, the newly-elected officer should be installed, even if it is himself. Companion A. J. Richardson furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, re^aewing the proceedings of twenty-five Grand Chapters. Companion J. I). Giddings, Grand High Priest, and Companion Robert Brewster, Grand Secretary. /sed. Twentieth Annual Convocation held in Houston, June 14, Most Excellent Companion J. D. Giddings, Grand Higli Priest, presiding. Thirty-one subordinate Chapters represented. 86 The Grand High Priest, in his address, states that he had issued dispensations for four new Chapters. He reports a novel case presented to his attention : That of a Companion who hsis become insane, and in arrears for dues, which had accrued during that condition, submitting the question. Should the imfortunate Companion be suspended in conformity with the strict letter of the By-Laws, or what course should be pursued ? Suspension for non-payment of dues is a punishment for the neglect of a kno^vTi obligation. Xo judgment or sentence in a court of law, or in the forum of conscience, could be binding against a lunatic. He could be guihy of no wrong after the light of reason had been withdrawn, and does it not follow that the status of such should not be changed during such condition ? He may be a husband and father. Again, reason may be restored, and as bis mind emerges from this abyss of darkness and death, and the sweet and sacred memories of the past return, may he not long to greet his former Compan- ions ? Should any action be taken that would bar the exercise of charity against him, or his kindred ? There are two very simple ways to get over a difficulty of this kind: one is, for the Chapter to remit the dues; the other, in case the Chapter will not remit, for one of the Companions to jiay the dues for him. This would be the ^lasonic manner of settling a case of this kind. We do not believe, however, that any Chapter of Royal Arch ^Masons would knowingly suspend an insane Com- panion for nou-pajment of dues. TVe are glad to report that the Grand Chapter decided that tlie annual remission of accruing dues bj' the Chapter in such cases is not onlj- its right but its duty ; and to suspeud an insane Companion during his misfortune would not only be cruel but disgraceful, and an outrage on Masonic de- cency. On the use of suhati/iite--:. the following preamble and resolutions were adopted : Whereas, It is reported to this Grand Chapter that its edict, enacted at the Annual Convocation in A. D. 1866, prohibiting the use of substitutes, has not been obeyed by some of the subordinates : bo it Eesoh-ed. That any subordinate Chapter hereafter using substitutes during the ceremonies of the Royal Arch degree shall thereby forfeit its charter > and it shall be the duty of any Grand Officer coming to the knowledge thereof to report the same without delay to the 3Iii. Hollenbeck. Grand Secretary. j869. Annual Convocation held in Burlington, June 11, Companion Charles A. Miles. Grand High Priest, presiding. Twenty-three subordinate Chapters represented. The ailiU'e^s of the Grand High Priest recites his otHcial actions dui'ing the pa>t seven months. Death has been busy during that time, and summoned to the Grand Chapter above. Past Grand High Priest Companion Gamaliel Washburn, Past Deputy Grand High Priest Companion Samuel S. Butler. High Priest Companion Seth R. Day. High Priest Companion Ralph Stebbins, Past King- Companion William K. Taft. Seeretarv Companion Guy B. Da-\-is, High Priest Companion David Warren. Past High Priest Com- panion Henry J. Buggies, and Companion George Lowrj- — all of whom receive a fitting memorial from the Grand High Priest. Companion Britton reviews the proceedings of twenty-seven Grand Chapters. Companion Charles A. Miles, of Brattleboro, Grand High Piif.-I. Companion Joiix B. Hollenbeck, of Burlington, Grand Sec- retory. 89 VIRGINIA. Annual Convocation held in Richmond, Dcccmljcr 12, Com- panion George ^^'. Dame, Grand High Priest, presiding. Twenty- three subordinate Cliapters represented. The Grand High Priest delivered a lengthy and very appropri- ate address. Three Chapters, which had not made the proper returns for a number of years, received his earnest attention. To secure good, true and legal work in the Chapters, the Grand High Priest submitted a number of suggestions, giving the control of the work of the Cliapter degrees to a Cotincil of Order of High Priesthood, which, to our minds, will not secure the desired result of uniformity of work. The Grand Chapter is just as capable to exemplify and promulgate the true woi-k as anj^ Council of anointed •High Priests. Wc have seen some High Priests anointed and consecrated and had presided for a year in a Chapter, who never were able to confer a degree intelligently or creditably to them- selves or their Chapter. Would such an officer be capable of giving advice and instruction in the true work? The organization of Council of the Order of High Priesthood is to us entirely use- less. It is a subject that is causing trouble and dissension in several of our sister Grand Chapters, and will do so until State Grand Chapters resume control of the Order of High Priesthood. S))eaking of the standard of qualification of candidates, he says : Companions, we ouglit to raise a liiglier standard for the Royal Arch than Is found in many Chapters ; a higher qualification, and a closer scru- tiny of applicants must he had. Every member's friend will not make a Eoyal Arch Mason, anymore than the stone on every man's land will make good building material. If the applicant has not exhibited proper speci- mens of skill and proper Industry in his calUng ; if he has not clearly laid a good foundation and erected thereon a superstructure which will hear the Plumb, Square and Level, you have no right to believe, or allow your charity to permit you even to suppose, that he will be skilful or even useful in ornamenting those projections which give character to the building and produce the strongest Impressions on the eye of the Intelligent beholder. If each craftsman as he approaches the Sacred Symbol, to pronounce upon the character of the materials brought up for inspection, would bear in mind that no permanent structure can be erected with materials not fit for use, or truly cemented by the daub of untenipered mortar ; that It Is not the number of stones in the building that makes it the beautiful temple, but their quality, the accuracy of their shape, their complete finish, their 90 perfect unison in unity, and presenting one clear, decided character, viz. : tliat of honor, worth and intelligence, they would, with more caution, guard the avenues, and more closely inspect the materials presented, and more accurately apply the Square to the work which is intended for use. Charters were granted to three new Chapters. A resolution was adopted, requiring the High Priest of each Chapter to cause to l»e read before his Chapter the printed pro- ceedings of the (irand Chapter on the first stated meeting after their receipt. Companion Edward P. Lane. Grand High Priest, and Companion John Dove. Grand Secretary. /868. Grand Annual Convocation held in Richmond, December 17, Companion Edward H. Lane, Grand High Priest, presidLug. Representatives present from twentj--six subordinate Chapter*. The Grand High Priest reports the granting of two dispensa- tions for new Chapters ; and suggests that in future no charter be granted with the same name given to anj- Chapter now in exist- ence in the jurisdiction. The Committee on Foreign Correspondence submitted a ^-erbal report. A magnificent golden chaia and mark was presented to Most Excellent Companion John Dove, Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter for fift}- jears. The proceedings read that such of the Grand Officers as were present were introduced and inducted into oflSee in due form, and such as were absent by proxy. Does the Grand Chapter of Tir- ginia recognize proxy installations ? If so, why not as well recognize and authorize j)roj"y initiations and exaltations '? The following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That a Chapter under dispensation has no territorial jurisdiction which would conflict with a Chapter under a charter. That a dispensation simply authorizes the Companions named to do such work as may be legally brought before them. Companion Edward H. Lane, of Louisa Court House, Grand High Priest. Companion Joun Dove, of Richmond, Grand Secretary. 91 WISCONSIN. /8e8. Annual Convocation held in Milwaukee, February 5, Companion David H. Wright, Grand High Priest, presiding. Thirty-three subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest reported his official action during the past year. He had granted dispensations for three new Cliapters. Decisions wei'e given— that a Master Mason who has lost a limb cannot receive the Chapter degrees ; tliat an elective oflicer of a Cliapter cannot resign ; and that the Treasurer of a Cliaptcr cannot refuse to p;i y an order of the Chapter signed by the High Priest. Comjianion A. B. Alden furnishes the report on Foreign Cor- respondence, reviewing tlie proceedings of twenty-four Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania not included. The following resolutions were adopted : Resolved, That the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of Wisconsin acknowledges and recognizes no degrees of Masonry or order of Knighthood to be regular or legitimate, except those conferred by or under the authority of the following constituted authorities in the United States of America, and those of corresponding rank in foreign countries, to wit : The Grand Encampment of the United States ; the Supreme Grand Council of the Ancient and Accepted Scotch Rite ; the General Grand Cliapter of the United States ; Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters, and the Grand Lodges of the several States and Territories. And any Royal Arch Mason, who may ha\e received, or who shall hereafter receive, any irregular degrees under the assumed name of Masonry or Knighthood, particularly those known as the "Egyptian Masonic Rite of Memphis," or the "Ancient Primitive Rite of Memphis of '6',i degrees," is hereby required to witlidraw therefrom, and to signify the same in open Chapter wherein he is or may be affiliated. And all Royal Arch Masons arc hereby prohibited from holding Masonic intercourse with any Companion who shall refuse to comply with this edict. Resolved, That no Chapter within this jurisdiction shall receive or take any action on the petition of any Master Mason who holds to such clandes- tine degrees, or who refuses to renounce the same in writing. We do not thinli tlie (irand Cliapter of Wisconsin or ;niy other Grand Cliapter should recognize or interdict any particular rite or system. The Grand Chapter maj' have had cause to adopt such a resolution. \\q hold that every Grand Chapter is supreme in its own jurisdiction. If any other organization claims to confer the degrees of Koy III Arch Masonry, there is a summary 92 maniiei' to deal with tliem. Supposing tliose wlio had taken the " clandestine " degrees were in the majority on the above resolu- tions, and the alwve " clandestine " degrees had been acknowledged as legitimate; would this have made matters any better or worse? There is alw;iys danger in treading on dangerous ground. Companion A. Y. H. Carpenter, Grand High Priest, and Com- panion W. T. Palmer, Grand Secretary. Annual Convocation held in ^Milwaukee, February 3, Com- panion A. Y. H. Carpenter, Grand Higli Priest, presiding. Thirty-one subordinate Chapters represented. The Grand High Priest, in liis annual address, stated that he had issued one dispensation for a new Chaptei'; and that one application had been refused, for tlie following reasons, to use his own words : ^ But, after a full conskU'ration of the nialter, upon the facts, I became convinced that the welfare of the Companions and the honor of Capitular Masonry did nut require it ; and that, if granted, it would weaken Chapters in the vicinity, whose sources of support were already very scanty ; and accordingly I returned them their papers, denying their request. My decision was not very welcome to the proposed officers, as I learned from a visit I received from them, in quest of an explanation, which was given ; and as I have not heard from them again, I presume they recovered their equanimity. I have since learned that the Companion who was willing to sacrifice himself by serving as High Priest had only then been exalted to the degree of Royal Arch Mason some four moons. Under tlie circum- stances, therefoic, I am satisfied tliat the Order has received no detriment from his being remanded to tlie quarries. Some degree of experience, or very extraordinary natural abilit}-, should distinguish him who would seek the place, or be selected to preside over, organize and conduct the affairs of a new Chapter. And the Companions who would seek to set themsches up in the world as a Chapter, and mtrust the management of the affairs thereof to a mere novitiate, must be wanting in reflection, or that degree of good sense which should characterize men who have passed through the degrees to the august one of Royal Arch Mason, and would form a constituency no capable Companion would select to preside over. He decided that a verbal protest against a brother wishing to take the Chapter degrees should be respected until withdrawn, provided the Companion making the same remains a member of the Chapter; but in case he dimits, the protest should be treated as in the case of a rejection by ballot. 93 The following suggestion to materially increase tlie efficiency of the Chapters we cordially endorse : 1. Provide that, whenever any constitutional number ol' IJoyal Arch Masons shall have signed a petition for a new Chapter, the first three officers named in such petition shall be examined openly before the Chapter to which they may apply for a recommendation. Such examination shall be conducted either hy the Grand High Priest, or the Deputy Grand High Priest, or by some one appointed bj- the Grand High Priest ; and unless such Companions shall be found sutficiently proficient in the work and lectures approved by this Grand Body, to confer all the degrees, and instruct the candidates therein, in accordance with the requirements of the Grand Chapter, no recommendation shall be granted them. The examining oflflcer shall he the judge of such proficiencv ; and unless he certify that the three, and each of them, are so qualified, they shall have lea^'e, in parliamentary language, to withdraw their petition, and wait until they are qualified. 2, Provide that no Chapter shall hold more than one regular convocation in each month ; that all petitions for the degrees shall be laid o^er from one regular convocation until the next ; that the Secretary of each Chapter shall give notice to all the Companions of his Chapter of the names of all persons to be balloted for at such convocation ; such notice to bo cither written or printed, and delivered in person, or sent through the post, at least six days previous to such convocation. And, as a further safeguard, provide that the petition of a candidate, rejected by any Chapter in this jurisdiction, »haU not he received by any other Chapter in this jurisdiction, unless upon the unanimous consent of the rejecting Chapter, by the secret ballot. A notice of such ballot to be taken shall be given in the same manner as provided for in the case of the petition of candidates for the Chapter degrees. The entire address is worthy of a careful study. Companion William H. Norris, Jr., furnishes the report on Foreign Correspondence, reviewing the proceedings of twenty- three Grand Chapters, Pennsylvania included. The Grand High Priest was instructed to procure suitable regalia, clothing and jewels for the Grand Chapter officers. Companion A. V. H. Carpentee, of Milwaukee, Grand High Priest. Companion W. T. Palmer, of Milwaukee, Grand Secrelary. The statistics of Royal Arch Masonrij in the United States is as follows : 94 STATISTICS OF ROYAL AECH MASONRY IX THE UxN'ITED STATES. "■S Alabama 7ii Arkansas 4.j Canada 3.") • "aliforxia 3.1 Connecticut 27 District OF CoLUMBtA. . "j Florida Hi (tEORGIA .~i' Illinois isi' Indiana 73 Iova -Ki Kansas lo Kenttcky 87 Louisiana 24 Maise 31 Maryland, etc 10 Massachusetts 41 Michigan i;5 Mississippi 72 Missouri 42 Minnesota 17 Nebraska 4 New Jersey 19 Xew Hampshire 12 XORTH C^VKOLINA i 20 Xeav York i 156 Ohio ! 106 Pennsylvania ' 69 Rhode Island ■ 9 •South Carolina 24 Tennessee ,s3 Texas ii.t; Vermont | 23 Virginia 27 "Wisconsin i 38 2,523 1,480 1,433 ],.'>4(; .3. 413 (i37 4112 2,lli!l li,'JSl 3,01S l.tJSS 351 :i,7(il 1,400 940 5.005 4,487 2,.")76 2,014 177 117 236 21)6 2S7 127 45 151 1,208 407 330 ' 59 457 09 .345 121 619 735 105 370 91 82 > 24 9: 12 45 70 49 18 16 60 IS ii) 137 144 SI 1.S3 17 1 l.lls 215 1,146 184 1,048 40 14 13.127 2,149 137 5,330 9,50 6,318 849 6.3 913 157 776 127 8 3,912 424 45 3,218 232 92 1,384, 1,467, 2,267 j 303 44 194 4 94 1 63 ... 125 ... 17 2 19 1 i^l' 232 10 s7 s HO 1, 12 ...j 161 o| 45 ... 19 3 124 15 147 3; 97 16 !!!j 43 1 '21 "-ii 199 1 1541 5 153 8; 221 92 28 28 ' I 13; 42! 1' 1' 15: 56 30 9 11 36 •7 111 13 60 ' 34 9 4 40 33 24 11' 20, 28 410 54 4: 13: 12 119 77 13. I2I 25 6 46 46 231 67 83 20 3 22 14 11 12 107 31 2s 4 124 15 2,84 148: 38 24 1,673 90,556:11,909 1,244 2,6.52 73 1,730 841, 471 95 From the returns in the office of the Most Excellent Grand Secretary, we have prepared and arranged a table of the Statistics of Royal Arch Masonry in Pennsylmnia. This table will be appended to the report of your Committee. The name and loca- tion of "dead" Chapters, and those which have been warranted but never constituted, are here given : CHAPTERS, Etc., NOT AT WORK. 75 104 106 113 133 147 148 149 151 153 154 155 156 167 168 160 165 168 172 184 188 70 51 167 166 Naste. Where Held. Date op Warrant, etc. Oharlestown . . . Eenewed November 28, 1825. New Holland... " November 28, 1825. Williamsport... " November 28, 1825. No re- turns ever made. Pittsburg March 11, 1825. Chambersburg . '■ Kccember 27, 1825. Bethany Montrose Huntingdon London Grove.. Vacated. Somerset "Vacated. Lewistown Bellefonte Carlisle Abandoned. Easton Spring Grove.. . Viindalia, 111... Abandoned. AVarrant April 4, 1840. Abandoned. No returns. Uniontown Waynesburg . . . Tunkhannock. . Kittanning AVarrant April 5, 1855. Sequestrated. Kittanery Never constituted. Athens Warrant renewed May 21, 1827. Philadelphia . . . " " November 15, 1825; ceased 1824. Briilgewater. . . Gaysport No. ! M. E. MASTERS' LODGE. 213 216 138 139 Where Held. Date op Wakkakt, etc. April 7, 1828. Never constituted. MARK LODGES. Xamp;. Whkke Held Date of Waekakt, etc. Pliiladelphia... February 12, 1827. Concordia Zerubbaijel Philadelphia.. Philadelphia.. Kittanning — Orwigsburg. . . Gettysburg.... Germantown.. Lebanon Norristown Mooreatown.. . Downinf^town. Landisburg . . . Kensington ... Manayunk May 16, 1823. May 20, 1839 ; vacated in 1841. May 19, 1851. May 16, 1825. June 20, 1826. May 21, 1827. June 19, 1827. October 19, 1827. October 19, 1827. April 7, 1828. April 7, 1828. April 7, 1828. Warrant returned. April 7, 1828. September 8, 1837. 96 Our work is completeil. In tlosing, we would call the atten- tion of the Grand Chapter to the principal points which have en- gaged the attention of several of our sister Grand Chapter-. The most important question of discussion is the use of -i B»Tr- TUTES or PROXIES. We See no reason wliy the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania should turn from the old patlis trodden l.y our forefathers. The order of the Himi rRiKSTUooii is under consideration in several of our sister Grand ( 'hapters. In many of them the order is conferred in a Council of High Priests, presided over liy a I'n/siderif. Why he should be styled President we have not lieen able to discover : the title is not in any way Masonic. The (irand Chapter of Xew York is, however, one of the exception-, having within a year or two assumed authority over it. The next subjoft of interest is the work. We must coufe>-. that in I'enns} Ivania we liave not had that entire nniformity of work which was desirable. Within a few years past, very active efforts liave been made by Past Grand High Priests Companions Samuel C. Perkins and Geciige Griscom, and the present (irand High Priest Companion Michael Xisbet, and with such success that now the sole desire of the Royal Arch ;Masons in this jurisdiction i- to liave the work coiTect and uniform. Tlie Past Master is another question causing much di-(.u->ion and legislation. In several Grand Chapters a Past Master by service, or an actual Past Master, is required to " pass the Chair " a second time in the Chapter. Receiving our Masonic education in this jurisdiction, we believe that the method here is the correct one. and that all " passing to the Chair" /.? and of right belong^s to the (rrand Lodge. The candidate is a Past ^Master of a Blue or Symbolic Lodge, and we cannot understand how any Grand Cliap- ter can authorize a Royal Arch Chapter to open and do the work of a Lodge of Master Masons. In conclusion, it is fitting to apologize for this imperfect leport. and the hasty manner in which it has been prepared. To lie pre- pared properly it is the labor of montlis. embracing, as it does, the 97 period of two and in many cases tlii-ee years, the proceedings to be reviewed containing over seven thousand pages. We have done tlie liest we could under tlic circumstances. It has been a pleasure to us to prepare it. Maj- it proxe satisfactory to the members of the Grand Chajrter of Pennsylvania. CHAKLES K. MP]YEK, Fill- the Com:\itttf,e on C'orbkspondence, For the. ]i<'.ar>i 1 RCK, ISfiO. As per Returns in the Grand Secretary's dffie^^^canqim^in^f^SPI^^^^ wmmmim, m^ SUBORDINATE CHAPTERS. No. No, 3 21 j 43 52 ! 91 I 150 , 162 159 1 161 j 162 163 164 166 167 169 170 171 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 161 18-i 183 185 186 187 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 20 V 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 1^14 215 216 217 21 8 219 220 221 222 2213 224 225 Jerusalem Perseverance. . Hiirmony., . . . Columbia Washington. Reading Schuylkill... , Union Wherk Hkld. Zerubbabel La Fayette Brownsville Mount Moriah . Eureka Pliiladelphia Delta St. John's Easton Northumberland Keystone G-eorge Washington.. Tamaqua Catawissa Eureka Warren Lilly Shekinah Oriental Lackawanna Lewistown Oriental Mountain Norristown SolDmon I raniiii Du'iucene Tioga Portage Mountain City Weidle Phoenix Howell Columbus Standing Stone Howell Allen Anthony Wayne Factoryville Harmony Aaron Germantown Samuel (_'. Perkins... Great Bend Venango Mound Girard Valley Temple Zinzendorf Alleghany Bloorasburg Griscom Worthington Tremont Lycoming Oxford Corinthian Jefferson Time oh" Meeting. Philadelphia Harrisburg Dauphin co Lancaster Lancaster co Philadelphia Philadelphia Washington Washington co. . Keading Berks co Minersville Schuylkill co Towanda Bradford co Pittsburg Alleghany co.. Lock HaVen Clinton co Brownsville Fayette co Hollidaysburg Blair co Rochester Beaver co Philadelphia New Castle Lawrence co (Carlisle Cumberland co Easton Northampton co Sunbury Northumherland co. Philadelphia Chambersburg Franklin co Tamaqua Schuylkill co Catawissa Columbia co Carbondalc LuKcrne co Montrose Susquehanna co Mauch Chunk Carbon co Wilkesbarre Luzerne co Philadelphia Scranton Luzerne co Lewistown Mifflin co Coneautville Crawford co Altoona Blair co , Norristown Montgomery co i Meadville Crawford co Greensburg Westmoreland eo . . . i Plttsbui-g Alleghany co i Wellsboro Tioga co j .Tohnstown Cambria eo Pottsville Schuylkill co I Lebanon Lebanon co j Phoenixville Chester co ! York York CO j Columbus Warren eo j Huntingdon Huntingdon co ■ West Chester Chester co I Ailentown Lehigh co Honesdale Wayne eo Factoryville Wyoming co New Brighton Beaver co Titusville Crawford co Germantown Philadelphia City.. . Blechanicsburg Cumberland co Great Bond Susquehaniia co Franklin Venango co (rreenville Mercer co Girard Erie co Plymouth Luzerne co Erie Erie co Bethlehem Northampton co Alleghany City Alleghany co Blooinsburg Columbiacp Ashland Schuylkill co Fort Washington.. Montgomery co Tremont Schuylkill co Willi amsport Lycoiuing co Oxford Chc.<*ter co Coluinbin Lancaster co Brookville Jefferson co , Fourth Monday First Monday Fourth Wednesday First Friday Third Wednesday Second Tuesday Second Monday Thursday on or before Full Moon. . . Wednesday after Full Moon, and two weeks after First Tuesday Thursday after Full Moon Second Tuesday Third Tuesday. Tuesday after Friday before Full Moon Third Friday Monday on or before Full Moon First Thursday Fourth M onday Wednesday before Full Moon Fourth Thursday Second Tuesday Friday after Full Moon Wednesday on or before Full Moon. Wednesday after Full Moon Thursday on or before Full Moon... Fourth Tuesday Third Tuesday Third Thursday Second Tuesday Third Tuesday First and Third Friday First Thursday Wednesday before Full Moon First Tuesday Fourth Tuesday Fourth Thursday Thursday on or before Full Moon. . . Monday after Full Moon Second Thursday Saturday First Wednesday Thursday on or before Full Moon. . . First Tuefday First Monday after Full Moon Monday on or before Full Moon Tuesday after Full Moon Wednesday on or before Full Moon. Second Tuesday Fourth Monday Second Monday Thursday on or before Full ]M()on.. Second Thursday Second and Fourth Mondays Friday on or before Full Moon First and Third Monday Second Monday First Friday Wednesday on or before Full Moon. Thursday befoi'e Full Moon Thursday before Full Moon. Second Tuesday Fourth Wednesday, Second Tuesday. . "'. . MARK MASTER ^fA Name. Whekb Hbld. TintE OP Meeting. ■s 'a 15 : 16 63 j 71 .. I 31 7 I 4 'r3 o 'p:; V^ ' -3 a - 3^ - ,<] ;;r '■'■ .'! ? •ill 3 j 9 .. I 2 . 4 1 ' 2 6 11 26 6 35 4 K 10 5 io ! 18 52 i 7 , 1 ■ 1 28 29 21 ; 21 2 I 2 17 ' 18 20 I 21 4 1 4 1 ■ 1 12 : 12 23 ' 22 21 ' 21 9 9 10 13 11 I 14 14 '»W 50NS' LODGPJS. (U 1 a a 5 M a 2 284 107 243 2 360 2 362 35 186 42 2 98 5 271 137 35 66 31 1 178 15 78 2 183 123 3 262 31 69 4 206 52 68 123 77 4 317 2 111 62 42 78 107 73 78 176 48 40 78 63 60 105 46 46 61 123 1 46 32 43 113 33 37 26 15 u 14 14 2 4 , '•^7 16 15 16 1 31 16 16 16 26 12 11 11 ■ ■ ! •• 20 740 866 849 63 199| 77 38 6,318 High Priest. Horace Fritz William H. Egle George K. Reed Franklin B. Colton... Edward Matthews . . . . James M. House John O. A. Hbffeditz.. SethW.Geer Patrick Phelon William F. Lang William H. Brown William Chatland H. S. Van Tries S. B.Wilson Charles R. Shantz Thomas Marshall William Vance Francis Vogel Barnet. Simon Seid William H. West John Montgomery John Ralston George Webb A. Dayies Daniel Brewster Robert A. Packer T. S. Hillard William T. Sears A. B. Stevens John B. Selheimer S. J. Thomas Henry AV. Snyder John Slingluff F. H. Foster Edward .T. Keenan .Tames Finlay Henry W. Williams... John P. Linton Jacob F. Einhart Grant Weidman Joseph Morgan, Jr William H. Jordan — B. E.Phelps .Joseph Watson D. Todd Jones Charles W. Cooper Henry J, Tarble Andrew J. Gilmore R. L. McGowan James R. Barber Elias M. Firth George K. Mooney C. P. Bigelow Christian M. Hoover.. Guy D. Kughler A. R. Smith J. G. Eekman George V. Maus A. N. Leinbach Caleb CuUen James B. Robinson..., Guy H. Helfrich Joseph Morrison , John F. Logan , J. Frank Bowman Franklin Hinkle Madison H. Meredith. Secretary. Dennis F. Dealy. Levi Wolfinger. Hugh S. Gara. .Joseph S. Rilej]. J. Alexander Simpson. Hugh Keys, Henry A. Jj. Crecelius. John F, G. Kumsius. William A. Peck. Thomas W. Wright. William H. Smith. J. R. Beazell. Thomas McFarlane. John Conway. John O. Snowden, John P. Leslie. Ephraim Cornman. Daniel H. Neiman. Henry Clement. Alfred T, Jones. Henry S. Stoner. William Barton, Clinton Ellis. A. Ruthven. William L. Cox. .Tames Houston, G. W, Kirkendall. Joseph H, Hedges, J, E. Brown. David E. Robeson. H. C. Litchfield. Timothy Davis. Franklin T. Beerer. J. B. Brawley. John H. Highberger. Stephen T. Northam. Hugh Young. B. F. Speedy. Emanuel Oppenheimer. William G. AVard. Isaac D. Rhoads. Martin J. Skinner, Hollis liing, .T. Simpson Africa, Emmor B. Laraborn, Edmund D. La wall. William Sumer. Giles S. Wilson, .Toseph Bentley, "acting. Theodore J. Young. John R. Fansliawe. George A. Zacharias. James N. Hatys. William M. Epley. Joseph E. Millriouse. G. O. Gallowhur. George W. Search. M. H. Taylor. B. E. Lehman. James Brown. Christian F. Knapp. Henry S. Boner. Josei:)h Rex. Hepburn McClure. J. C. Worth. Charles H. McCuUough. Robert K. Mears. ^ !f2 C < ._ WoKSHiPFUL Master. Secretary. 99 AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION irand |joIg ][opl J^rclt | jtaptq of ; jamagluanm May 16, 18(14. — Artici.e XV, Lettkk, F, Section C, (page 32,) amended bj' adding to the end of.the section the following words : •' And that said second ballot shall he taken within six months from the date of the first rejection." Ma3- 15, 1865. — Section B, (page 26,) amended by adding a new sub-section, to be numbered 5. " No Companion can be elected Higli I'riest of a Chapter, who has not been elected and served a regular term as King or Scribe of a Chapter in this jurisdiction, except at the formation of a new (Jhapter; and no brother can be elected Master of a Most Excel- lent or Mark Lodge, who lias not been elected and served as a AVarden of a Most Excellent or Mark Master's Lodge respectivelj-. in this jurisdiction, except at the formation of a new Lodge." February 18, 1861. — Add to Article 1, (page 3,) after the words " And all Past Grand High Priests," the words : '' Also all High Priests, Kings and Scribes for the time being of subordinate Chapters under this jurisdiction." For Article X, (pages 15, 16, and 17.) substitute the follow- ing, to wit : ARTICLE X. REVENUE or THE GRAND CHAPTER. Tlie revenue of the Grand Chapter shall be derived from — 1. Fees for Warrants to constitute Royal Arch Chapters, lao Most Excellent and Mark Masters' Lodges as follows, all charges being therein included : J^or Warrant to constitute a Koyal Arch Chapter, . . $75 00 " " M. E. Masters' Lodge, . . 50 00 " " Mark " " • ■ 50 00 2. Dues to he annually paid on Saint John the Evangelist's day, Ijy every Koyal Arch CMiapter and Most Excellent or Mark Masters' Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Chapter, as follows : For each one made a lloyal Arch Mason therein, . . . |1 00 ■• '• >' •' :Most Excellent ^tlaster therein, . . 50 '•■ '•• " '• :Mark Master therein, . . . . 50 ■• Iloyal Arch ^Nlason a member thereof, .... 40 " '• M. E. and Mark Masters members thereof, . 40 Provided. That all Chapters and Most Excellent and Mark Masters' Lodges meeting more than ten miles distant from the city of Philadelpliia shall have an allowance of Uceiihj-Jlve per- re)itinn upon tile annual dues and fees for conferring degrees ; and jjrovided, also, Tliat no Chapter or Lodge sliall be required to pay annual dues upon any one of its members for more than one degree. 3. For Grand Chapter Certificates, each, $:i 00 Xo proposition to increase or diminish the fees and dues above established shall be received at any but a stated meeting, when it shall be forthwith communicated to every Chapter and Most Excellent and Mark Masters' Lodge inidcr tins jurisdiction, and shall be decided at the next stated meeting. On motion, it was resolved. That tlie foregoing Article go into ett'ect from the time of its adoption. Adopted, February 18, 1807. May 20, 1867. — Amend Article IX ., Section 1, of the Consti- tution by striking out '-third Monday," and inserting "first Thursdaj-," so that the section will read as follows : " The Grand Cliapter shall liold Quarter!_y Communications on the first 'I'hursday in February, May, .Vugust and Xovember, and 101 a Grand Communication on Saint John the Evangelist's day, in everj' year." KULES AND REGULATIONS. Besoloed, That tlie jewels of a Mark, Master and Most Excel- lent Master Masons' Lodge shall be of the same form as these of a Master Masons' Lodge, but shall be gold or gilt. August 1, ISeT. — Strike out Section 10, Letter G, page 35 : " No suspension or expulsion shall be valid until submitted to and confirmed by the Grand Chapter." December 21, 186T Resolved, That whenever a subordinate Chapter in this jurisdiction shall receive a petition for the Chap- ter degrees from a Master Mason (brother duly qualified) hail- ing from another jurisdiction and sojourning in Pennsylvania, it shall be the duty of the High Priest of such Chapter, before referring such petition to a Committee, to correspond with the High Priest of the Chapter nearest to the applicant's former place of residence, in order to ascertain )iis moral character and his standing as a Mason, and whether said Chapter claims juris- diction over him ; and in case of jurisdiction being claimed, the applicant shall not be balloted for, until he shall have resided six months in this State. February 6, 1«68. — The following report was made by the Grand Officers, and, on motion, approved : That the only amendment necessary to the form of '• Petition to a Mark Lodge" is to add after. the "blank," (see Form 10, page tS, Constitution Grand Chapter,) following the words "held at," in the body of the petition, the words '-that he has jsassed the Chair." May 1, l8i;s. Amend Article XY, Section F, Subsection 1, of the Con- stitution of the Grand Chapter, by inserting after the word "degree," in the second line, the words "or for membership in a Mark Lodge." August 6, 186.x. Amend Section 2, Letter D, Article XV, by adding the 102 following, viz.: "That Chapters located outside the city of Philadelphia be permitted to meet at sucli hour as may be determined by their by-laws." November 5, 1868. Amend Article 8, Section 5, of the Constitution of the Grand Chapter, by inserting after the word "meeting," in the fifth line, the words "at least once in each year," and after the word "such " insert the word " other." 103 DECISIONS AND DIRECTIONS OV THK must Ixtjellent Uvmid ^i^h triest. May 21, 1866 — The Most Excellent Grand High Priest de- cided that the jewels of a Mark or Most Excellent Lodge are to be of silver or white, not gilt or yellow. November 19, 1866 — The Most Excellent Grand High Priest decided as to what constitutes "neglect," as embodied in Section 9, Division F, Article XV, " That if the applicant was in the city, his not coming forward was neglect." Masonic Hall, Philadelphia, May 20, A. D. 186'7, A. I. 2.39t. To the Most Excellent High Priest of Chapter No. ■ — ■. Dear Sir and Companion : The Most Excellent Grand High Priest directs that attention be called to Article XV, E, Section 8, (page 30,) of the Constitution of the Grand Chapter, which re- quires the Secretarj"^ of a subordinate Chapter to transmit forth- with to the Grand Secretary the names and dates of all the deaths, expulsions, suspensions, rejections and resignations in the Chapter. The Most Excellent Grand High Priest further directs that the Secretary of each Chapter shall transmit to the Grand Secretary a statement of each application for any of the degrees or membership, with the name, age, residence and occupation of the applicant. Such statement to be transmitted immediately on the receipt of the application. This communication is to be read in open Chaj)ter, and spread upon its minutes at the next meeting after its receipt. The Most Excellent High Priest is expected to see that the above Regu- lation is duly enforced. JOHN THOMSON, Grand Secretary. 104 February 6, ISes.—Tbe Most Excellent Grand High Priest decided that no sojourner of a Mark Lodge can, under the recent amendment of the Constitution, be admitted to membership, with- out having passed the Chair. August 5, 186!l. — The Most Excellent Grand High Priest de- cided " That, in all cases, Chapters must open in the Royal Arch degree before proceeding to work; and after conferring the Mark or Most Excellent degree, the Chapter must be re-opened in the Arch, before closing for the evening."