,3fi*'^' ? UBRARY 048659 t ; / CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY THIS BOOK IS ONE OF A COLLECTION MADE BY BENNO LOEWY 1854-1919 AND BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY CONSTITUTION Grand Chapter ROYAL ARCH MASONS STATE OF NEW YORK, WITH THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS THERETO, GENERAL REGULATIONS AND THE CLASSIFIED APPROVED DECISIONS. BUFFALO : ADAMS & WHITE, PRINTERS AND BINDERS. 1893- in -^ ''^ 51 u /^ \- CONSTITUTION OF The Grand Chapter OF THK STATE OF NEW YORK. REVISED AND ORDAINED, FEBRUARY S, 1880. AETICLB I. THE GEAND CHAPTER. Name. Section 1. The name of this Grand Chapter is "The Geand Ohaptee of the State of ISTew York." Power and Authority. Sec. 3. This Grand Chapter is a body of Eoyal Arch Masons in which is inalienably vested the government and superintendence of Capitular Masonry within the State of New York, subject only to its obligations to the General Grand Chapter of Eoyal Arch Masons for the United States of America. Of Whom Composed. Sec. 3. This Grand Chapter shall be composed of its Offi- cers both elected and appointed, as enumerated in sections fifth and sixth of this Constitution, together with all Past Grand High Priests, Past Deputy Grand High Priests, Past Grand Kings and Past Grand Scribes of this Grand Chapter (so long as they shall continue members of subordinate Chapters within 4 CONSTITUTION" OF THE GRAND OHAPTBE its jurisdiction), and the first three officers of each warranted Chapter, working under the authority of this Grand Chapter, or the proxies of such officers duly appointed. Annual Convocations and Quorum. Sec. 4. The Annual Convocations of this Grand Chapter shall be held at the City of Albany, on the first Tuesday in February. The representatiyee of five Chapters, together with at least one of the first four elective Grand Officers, shall con- stitute a quorum. Elective Officers. Sec. 5. The Elective Officers of this Grand Chapter shall be The Grand High Priest, The Deputy Grand High Priest, The Grand King, The Grand Scribe, The Grand Treasurer, The Grand Secretary, and The Grand Chaplain. PEO POSED AMENDMENT: Add to Section 5, the following: "The title of these officers shall be as follows : Grand High Priest, Most Excellent, Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand King, Grand Scribe, Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, Eight Excellent." Appointed Officers. Sec. 6. The Appointed Officers of this Grand Chapter shall be The Grand Captain of the Host, The Grand Principal Sojourner, The Grand Royal Arch Captain, Three Grand Masters of the Vails, The Grand Lecturer, and The Grand Tiler. OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Add to Section 6, the following: "Whose title shall be "Excellent." Eligibility to Office. Sec. 7. None but High Priests or Past High Priests shall be eligible to any office in this Grand Chapter, except that of Grand Tiler. Officers — Sow Chosen. Sec. 8. The Elective Officers of this Grand Chapter shall be chosen at each Annual Convocation, by ballot, and by a majority of all the votes cast. The Appointed Officers sh9,ll be selected by the Grand High Priest, and hold office during his pleasure. And all officers of this Grand Chapter shall be con- tributing members of a subordinate Chapter within this juris- diction. Installation of Officers. Sec. 9. The installation of the officers of this Grand Chap- ter shall take place during the Annual Convocation at which they are elected, unless the Grand Chapter shall otherwise order. Votes and Voters. Sec. 10. Each officer and permanent member of this Grand Chapter shall be entitled to one vote, and a Chapter of fifty members or less shall be entitled to three votes, and an addi- tional vote for each additional fifty members. Each represen- tative of a Chapter present shall be entitled to cast one vote, and the other votes, if any, to which such Chapter shall be entitled, shall be cast by the senior officer present. A Grand Officer may act in the Grand Chapter as a represent- ative of the Chapter to which he belongs. 6 COH^STITUTIOK OF THE GRAND CHAPTEE Pay of Officers and Perinanent Members. Sec. 11. Each officer and permanent member attending the Annual Convocation of this Grand Chapter shall be entitled to receive from its funds the regular fare charged by the most direct public conveyance to and from his residence, and four dollars per day for travel and attendance, allowing not more than one day each way for going and. returning. Pay of Representatives. Sec. 12. One representative from each Chapter within this jurisdiction shall be entitled to the same pay as specified in the foregoing section, unless he shall be also a Grand Officer or permanent member of this Grand Chapter ; but no representa- tive shall be entitled to receive pay until the dues of his Chap- ter are fully paid. PROPOSED amendment: Amend Section 12 by substituting the following: "The senior elective representative present from each Chap- ter within the jurisdiction shall be entitled to the same pay as specified in the foregoing section, unless he shall be also a Grand Officer or permanent member of the Grand Chapter, but no member shall be entitled to receive pay until the dues of his Chapter are fully paid." Grand High Priest. Sec. 13. The Grand High Priest shall exercise all the exec- utive and judicial functions of this Grand Chapter during its recess ; and shall, at each Annual Convocation, communicate in writing a statement of his official acts during such recess, and recommend such measures as he may deem expedient. He shall also have power to appoint representatives of this Grand Chapter near other recognized Grand Chapters, and to receive and accredit representatives of other recognized Grand Chapters near this, Grand Chapter. Deputy Grand High Priest. Sec. 14. The Deputy Grand High Priest shall have power To grant dispensations for new Chapters ; OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 7 To order elections when such have-not been held, or were illegal ; To authorize the installation of officers after the constitu- tional time has expired ; To order elections to fill vacancies ; and to exercise such other executive or judicial functions as may be delegated to him by the Grand High Priest. PROPOSED AMElfDMENT: Amend Section 14 by substituting the following: "The Deputy Grand High Priest shall discharge such ex- ecutive functions of the Grand Chapter as may be delegated to him by the Grand High Priest." Succession in Office. Sec. 15. In case of the death, absence, or inability of the Grand High Priest, or a vacancy in his office, the Deputy Grand High Priest, the Grand King and the Grand Scribe shall in order of rank succeed to his prerogatives and duties for all purposes. Grand Treasurer. Sec. 16. It shall be the duty of the Grand Treasurer to take charge of all the funds, property, securities and vouchers of this Grand Chapter, under the direction of the trustees ; to pay all orders duly drawn by direction of the Grand Chapter ; to report annually to the Grand Chapter his receipts and dis- bursements by items, and the amount of moneys and securities in his hands. Grand Secretary. Sec. 17. It shall be the duty of the Grand Secretary to record the transactions of the Grand Chapter ; to keep a regis- try of members of subordinate Chapters ; to receive, duly file and safely keep all papers and documents of the Grand Chap- ter ; to sign and certify all instruments issued by the Grand Chapter ; to receive and keep a proper account of all moneys of the Grand Chapter, and pay the same without delay to the 8 CONSTITFTIOJ^r OF THE GRAND CHAPTER Grand Treasurer, and report the same by items to the Grand Chapter annually ; to report the Chapters that have neglected to render proper returns of their elections, members and dues ; and to conduct the correspondence of the Grand Chapter under the direction of the Grand High Priest. PROPOSED AMENDMEKT: Amend Section 17 by adding thereto: "And such other duties as may be imposed upon liim by the Constitution of the General Grand Chapter." Foreign Correspondence. Sec. 18. A Committee on Foreign Correspondence shall be appointed by the Grand High Priest at each Annual Convoca- tion, and shall serve during the recess of the Grand Chapter. They shall cause their report to be printed prior to the opening of the Grand Chapter. Other Official Duties. Sec. 19. It shall be the duty of the several officers of the Gi'and Chapter, in addition to the duties herein specifically mentioned, to perform such other duties appertaining to their oflBces as shall from time to time be directed by the Grand Chapter. ARTICLE II. SUBORDHiTATE CHAPTERS. Organization. Sec 20. A Chapter can only be organized by the dispensa- tion of the Grand High Priest or Deputy Grand High Priest. or the vrarrant of the Grand Chapter, and in each case only upon the application of not less than nine regular Royal Arch Masons. Dispensation and Petitioners — Hoiv Qualified. Sec. 21. No dispensation to form a new Chapter shall issue without the recommendation of the Chapter nearest to the OF THE STATE OF IfEW YORK. 9 pliice where the new Chapter is to be held, nor unless the peti- tioners therefor shall show that they are Royal Arch Masons and in good standing as such ; and no warrant shall be issued until the Chapter shall have given proof of its skill by labor under dispensation, and furnished a certificate from the nearest Chapter, or from the Grand Lecturer, of its ability to confer the degrees ; nor shall a dispensation issue to form a new Chapter within two months next preceding the Annual Convo- cation of this Grand Chapter. The petition to form a new Chapter must show the present or last Chapter membership of each petitioner, who must pay all his indebtedness for annual dues to the Chapter to which he belonged to the date of forwarding such petition to the Grand High Priest or Deputy Grand High Priest, and vouchers for such payment must accompany the petition. The dimits of such petitioners as are unaffiliated, or are mem- bers of Chapters without the jurisdiction of this Grand Chap- ter, must also accompany the petition for a dispensation to form a new Chapter. The membership of the petitioners for a dispensation to form a new Chapter shall be suspended in the Chapters to which they have belonged, as soon as such dispensation shall issue. But the membership of such of the petitioners as, at the time of the presentation of the petition, were members of Chapters within this jurisdiction, shall revive in such Chapters in case a warrant for a new Chapter shall not be granted ; or, if they so elect, at the expiration of the dispensation, provided they shall give notice of such election to the Chapter under dispensation. Such notice shall be in writing and delivered to the High Priest or Secretary of the Chapter under dispensation, or in open Chapter, on or before the last Convocation held under the dis- pensation, and a correct return shall be made to the Grand Secretary of the actual membership of the proposed new Chap- ter. And when the warrant shall issue, the Grand Secretary shall notify all Chapters concerned of the revival of any mem- bership therein. Chapters under dispensation shall be allowed to affiliate regu- lar Royal Arch Masons under the same conditions as warranted Chapters. 10 CONSTITUTIOK 01' THE GRAND CHAPTEB The dues to the Grand Chapter for the members of a Chap- ter under dispensation to the close of the current Masonic year, must be paid by the Chapter under dispensation. The power of a Chapter under dispensation to confer degrees shall cease at its regular Convocation next preceding St. John the Eyangelist's Day ; and all dispensations issued to form new Chapters shall terminate on that day. No warrant shall- be granted to any Chapter by a name already borne by one of the warranted Chapters within the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter. Fee for Dispensation. Sec. as. The fee for a dispensation to form a new Chapter shall be ninety dollars, which shall accompany the petition for the same. It shall also be accounted as payment in full for a warrant if afterwards granted. Warranted Chapters. Sec. 23. A warranted Chapter within this jurisdiction shall consist of 1. The High Priest, 3. The King, 3. The Scribe, 4. The Treasurer, 5. The Secretary, 6. The Captain of the Host, 7. The Principal Sojourner, 8. The Royal Arch Captain, 9. The Master of the Third Vail, 10. The Master of the Second Vail, 11. The Master of the First Vail, 12. The Tiler, and as many members as may be convenient, congregating and working by virtue of a warrant from this Grand Chapter, and at the place designated in the warrant or by the Grand Chapter. PEOPOSED amendment: Add to Section 23, the following: " The title of the High Priest shall be Excellent. That of all other officers Companions." OF THE STATE OB NEW YORK. 11 Officers — When and How Chosen. Sec. 24. The first five ofScers named in the preceding sec- tion shall be elected annually, by ballot and by a majority of all the votes cast, at the regular Convocation of the Chapter next preceding St. John the Evangelist's Day. The remt^ining offi- cers shall be appointed by the High Priest, immediately after his installation, and shall serve during his pleasure. PROPOSED AMEKDMBNT: Add to Section 34, the following: "It shall be the duty of every High Priest, or other presiding officer of a Chapter, to cause a summons to be issued to each companion of his Chapter requiring his attendance at the con- vocation appointed for the annual election of officers." Who are Voters. Sec. 25 Every member in good standing shall be entitled to one vote, and shall be eligilDle to any office in the Chapter. Installation. Sec. 26. The installation of officers of a Chapter shall take place at the time of election, or within thirty-five days there- after. Vacancies in Office. Sec. 27. Vacancies in elective offices can only occur by death, by resignation, by removal after election beyond the jurisdiction of this Grand Chapter, by promotion at an election to fill vacancies, and by suspension or expulsion, but the first three elective offices cannot be vacated by resignation. Vacancies — ffow Filled. Sec. 28. A Chapter may fill a vacancy in any elective office (except that of High Priest), by ballot, at any regular Convoca- tion ; but in case of a vacancy in the office of High Priest, an election can only be held at a regular Convocation (the mem- bers having been duly summoned for that purpose), and by 12 CONSTITUTION OF THE GRAND CHAPTER virtue of a dispensation from the Grand High Priest, or the Deputy Grand High Priest, which must be applied for by the King and Scribe and a vote of a majority of all the members present at a regular Convocation, to be so certified by the Sec- retary under the seal of the Chapter. Removal of Chapter. Sec. 29. A Chapter shall not remove its place of meeting from the city, town or village named in its warrant, nor from one place to another in the same city, town or village, except by vote of two-thirds of the members present at a summoned Convocation, the object of the Convocation being stated in the summons, which must be served at least ten days previous to such Convocation ; and such removal from the city, town or village must receive the consent of all the Chapters whose jurisdiction would be affected by such removal, and the ap- proval of this Grand Chapter previous thereto. By-Laws. Sec. 30. A Chapter has fuU power and authority to enact by-laws for its own government, not in coniiict with this Con- stitution ; and any by-law inconsistent therewith is absolutely void. And all by-laws governing the dimission of members shall embrace the principle, that a companion clear of the books of his Chapter, and against whom no charges are pend- ing, shall, on his written application, by order of the High Priest, receive a dimit without further action by the Chapter : but, the High Priest granting such dimit shall immediately report the fact to the Grand Secretary, and also to his Chapter at its next convocation. Dues, and How Collected. Sec. 31. A Chapter may make by-laws regulating the pay- ment of dues and assessments for necessary Masonic purposes from its members, and provide penalties for the enforcement thereof ; but no greater penalty shall be inflicted than the sus- pension of the companion in arrears, which shall cease upon the OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 13 payment of such dues and assessments to such time as the by- laws shall direct. No suspension of a companion for the non- payment of dues or assessments shall be ordered, except upon notice to him of at least four weeks to pay the same, or to show cause at a regular Convocation of the Chapter why he should not be suspended. PROPOSED AMENDMENJ: Add to Section 31, the following : " A companion shall not be unaffiliated for non-payment of dues." Annual Returns and Dues to Grand Chapter. Sec. 32. Every Chapter within this jurisdiction shall make annual returns to this Grand Chapter of all its work to St. John the Evangelist's Day in each year, in the form prescribed by the Grand Chapter, and pay into the treasury of this Grand Chap- ter the sum of three dollars for the advancement of every brother, and the sum of fifty cents as annual dues for every member, reckoning from St. John the Evangelist's Day next succeeding exaltation or affiliation : said sums to be due and payable at the Annual Convocation of this Grand Chapter ; and such returns shall be transmitted to the Grand Secretary on or before the tenth day of January in each year. Chapters — How Dissolved. Sec. 33. A Chapter can only be dissolved by the act of the Grand Chapter, or by a voluntary surrender of its warrant pur- suant to a vote of its members, when duly summoned for that purpose ; but no warrant shall be surrendered provided nine members of the Chapter vote against such surrender. Warrant — How Forfeited or Suspended. Sec. 34. The warrant of a Chapter can be forfeited only upon charges regularly made in Gi'and Chapter at its Annual Convocation, of which due notice shall be given to the Chapter and an opportunity of being heard in defence ; but it may be 14 COIfSTITUTIOlJ^ OF THE GRAND CHAPTER suspended by the Grand High Priest, for any cause which he shall deem sufficient : but such suspension shall not extend be- yond the next Annual Convocation. Acts by which Warrant may be Forfeited. Sec. 35. The acts for either of which a warrant may be forfeited are contumacy to the authority of the Grand Chapter or the Grand High Priest ; yiolation of the fundamental prin- ciples of Eoyal Arch Masonry, or of the provisions of this Con- stitution ; neglecting to meet for one year or more ; the non- payment of dues to the Grand Chapter for two years succes- sively ; and a neglect or refusal to practice the Standard "Work of the General Grand Chapter, as promulgated by this Grand Chapter. Chapter Deprived of Warrant or Dispensation. Sec. 36. The surrender or forfeiture of a warrant or dispen- sation, when adjudged by the Grand Chapter, shall be conclu- sive upon the Chapter and, its members, and shall carry with it all the property of the Chapter, which shall become the prop- erty of the Grand Chapter, and, on demand, shall be surren- dered to the Grand Cha^Dter or its authorized agent ; excepting therefrom the property and funds of such Chapters as may have availed themselves of the provisions of and powers con- ferred by Chapter 3,17 of the Laws of the State of New York, passed April 2, 1866, entitled "An Act to enable Lodges and Chapters of Free and Accepted Masons to take, hold and con- vey real and personal estate." PROPOSED AilENDMElirT: Add to Section 36, the following: "The warrant of a Chapter which shall have been forfeited or surrendered, when restored, shall be restored to all the members of the Chapter who, at the time of such restoration, shall be in good standing." "The petition for the restoration of a forfeited or surren- dered warrant shall be signed by at least nine companions of such Chapter, in good standing at the date of such petition. Such petition, however, may be signed by other companions of OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 15 such Chapter. But the companions petitioning for the restora- tion of a forfeited or surrendered warrant, who shall not be in good standing at the date of such petition, shall not, in case such warrant be restored, participate in the afEairs of the Chap- ter until their disabilities shall be removed." Charges and Trials. Sec. 37. If any member of a Chapter," or unaflBliated Royal Arch Mason within this jurisdiction, shall be guilty of a Ma- sonic misdemeanor which would subject him to discipline, charges, with distinct specifications of the ofEense, shall be pre- ferred in open Chapter ; and it shall be the duty of the acting High Priest to appoint three disinterested companions as com- missioners to try the accused upon said charges and specifica- tions, and to repprt their proceedings to the Chapter with all convenient speed, with their conclusions thereon, for the action of the Chapter. The decision of the Chapter upon the report of the commission shall be final, unless an appeal be taken therefrom to the Grand Chapter, or to the Grand High Priest, within six months thereafter. In case charges shall be preferred against a Chapter or a High Priest, or by one Chapter against another, or by a mem- ber of one Chapter against a member of another, such charges shall be submitted to the Grand Chapter when in session, and, when not in session, to the Grand High Priest. When sub- mitted to the Grand High Priest, he shall appoint three com- missioners (who shall be High Priests or Past High Priests) from Chapters not interested in the case, and they shall hear, try and determine the matter, reporting their proceedings, conclusions and decision thereon to the Grand High Priest ; and their decision, if approved by him, shall be final, unless an appeal shall be taken to the Grand Chapter within six months thereafter. The accused shall in all cases have the right to be heard in his own defence, personally or by Masonic counsel, or both, before the Chapter or the commissioners. Every member of a Chapter present, when a vote for the suspension or expul- sion of a companion shall be taken, shall vote thereon ; and a majority of the votes of all the companions present shall be necessary for such suspension or expulsion. 16 CONSTITUTION OF THE GRAND CHAPTER PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Amend Section 37, so that it will read as follows: "If any member of a Chapter, or an unaffiliated Eoyal Arch Mason within this jurisdiction, shall be accused of a Masonic offense which would subject him to discipline, etc." Appeals. Sec. 38. Appeals may be taken from the decision of a Chap- ter to the Grand High Priest, who shall have power to hear and determine the same upon the matters presented to him upon the appeal papers, and not upon new or additional state- ments or evidence : subject to a further appeal to the Grand Chapter. Suspension hy Lodge. Sec. 39. The membership of any companion in a Chapter within this jurisdiction shall be suspended whenever, for any cause, he shall be suspended in the Lodge to which he belongs. PROPOSED amendment: Amend Section 39, by adding thereto the following: "If any companion of this jurisdiction shall become unaffil- iated by his Lodge for the non-payment of dues, or upon the expiration of one year after the date of the involuntary unaf- filiation of a companion in his Lodge, upon proof of the fact, by the certificate of his Lodge, authenticated by its seal and the signature of its Secretary, and filed with the Secretary of his Chapter, his membership in his Chapter shall be suspended until such unaflBliation shall cease, or his dues to his Lodge be paid." Restoration hy Subordinate Chapter. Sec. 40. No Chapter within this jurisdiction shall restore a companion, who has been suspended or expelled after trial upon charges, except upon a written application of such companion for restoration. Such application shall not be acted upon until one month shall have elapsed after its presentation. Restoration ly Grand Chapter. Sec. 41. A restoration to the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonry by the Grand Chapter shall not restore to mem- bership in a subordinate Chapter. But a reversal of the deci- OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 17 sion by which a companion shall have been suspended or ex- pelled, shall restore him to all his foi-mer rights and privileges as a Royal Arch Mason in such Chapter. Witnesses, and Expenses of Trial. Sec. 42. The High Priest of any Chapter shall summon witnesses in any case provided for in Section 37 ; and the ex- penses which may be incurred by commissioners appointed under the provisions of such section shall be borne by one or both of the parties, as the commission may determine ; and the amount of such expenses, and their decision as to who shall be chargeable with the same, shall be set forth in their report, and payment may be enforced in the same manner as Chapter or Grand Chapter dues. Charges Against High Priest. ^ Sec. 43. Charges against a High Priest of a Chapter, for ofi&cial misconduct while holding the office of High Priest, must be presented to the Grand Chapter, or to the Grand High Priest, during his term of oflQce or within one year thereafter. Other Rules for Trial. Sec. 44. The Grand Chapter may establish such further regulations as to the mode and form of trials and appeals as it may deem expedient. ARTICLE III. miscellaneous. Who Present at Election in Grand Chapter. Sec. 45. None but members of the Grand Chapter ( past or present officers and representatives of other Grand Chapters ex- cepted ) shall be present during the election of officers. 18 CONSTITUTION OF THE GKAND CHAPTER Who may Visit Grand Chapter. Sec. 46. No companion shall be permitted to sit as a visitor in the Grand Chapter without unanimous consent of the mem- bers present. The Order of High Priesthood. Sec. 47. The control of the Order of High Priesthood is vested in the Grand Chapter, and it is the imperative duty of every High Priest elect to receive the Order, which shall be con- ferred, under the direction of the Grand Chapter, on the eve- ning of the first day of the Annual Convocation and without fee, none being present but regularly anointed High Priests; and no High Priest shall be permitted to exercise any of the duties of his office after the Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter next succeeding his election, until he shall have re- ceived the Order of High Priesthood. The Grand High Priest, or Deputy Grand High Priest, shall have power to grant a dispensation for the assembling of a Con- vention of not less than three duly anointed High Priests, to confer said Order on the newly elected High Priest of a Chap- ter, under such restrictions and upon such conditions as said officei'S may deem proper to impose, but in all cases without fee. Standard Worlc. Sec. 48. Every Chapter shall adopt and practice the Stan- dard Work and Lectures of the Grand Chapter of the United States as promulgated by this Grand Chapter. Grand Lecturer. Sec. 49. It shall be the duty of the Grand Lecturer, when required by a Chapter, to visit and instruct its members in the work and lectures of the several degrees, and such Chapter shall pay a reasonable compensation therefor. It shall also be his duty to attend the Annual Convocations of this Grand Chapter, and to exemplify before it, or a committee thereof, some portion or all of the standard work and lectures of the General Grand OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 19 Chapter — of which he shall be the custodian, subject to the di- rection of the Grand Council. Compensation ( not exceeding five hundred dollars annually ) may, in the discretion of the Grand Chapter, be paid the Grand Lecturer. He may also authorize, by a commission in writing, any discreet and well- informed companion to instruct any Chapter or Chapters, ap- plying for such services, in the standard work and lectures of the General Grand Chapter, the expense thereof to be borne by such Chapters. PJSOPOSED AMENDMENT: Amend Section 49, by adding the following: "The Grand Council shall, from time to time, divide the State into convenient districts for the purpose of disseminating the ritual, and the Grand Lecturer appoint an Assistant in each of said districts, subject to the approval of the Grand High Priest; the boundaries of the districts and the names and ad- dresses of such Assistant Lecturers shall be communicated by circular letter to the Subordinate Chapters, and published with the Proceedings of the Grand Chapter." New Chapters — How Constituted. Sec. 50. Whenever a dispensation or warrant shall issue to authorize the holding of a new Chapter, the same shall be duly constituted and its officers installed by the Grand High Priest, the Deputy Grand High Priest, dr the duly authorized proxy of one of them, previous to which ceremony no Convocation of the Chapter can be legally held. Who Presides in Chapter. Sec. 51. The High Priest shall preside at the several Con- vocations of the Chapter, but in case of his absence the King or Scribe only shall, in order of rank, succeed him, provided such King or Scribe shall have lawful custody of the warrant; and no appeal to the Chapter can be taken from the decision of the High Priest, King, or Scribe, while presiding. Chapter Seal and Books. Sec. 52. Every Chapter shall have a seal, and shall also keep the following books: 1. A Book of By-laws with the signatures of the members. 20 CONSTITUTION OF THE GRAND CHAPTER 2. A Eecord Book of the Proceedings of the Chapter. 3. A Eegister of the names of members, with the date of receiving the different degrees, etc. 4. A Book of Marks. 5. An Alphabetical List of expulsions, suspensions and re- jections, and such other books as the Chapter shall direct. Petitions and Fees for Degrees. Sec. 53. The degrees of the Chapter shall not be conferred for a less sum than twenty dollars (all of which must be paid before receiving the Mark Degree), and then only upon Master Masons in good standing, whose petitions shall have been duly presented in writing at a regular Convocation, reported upon by a committee of investigation, and unanimously accepted by the Chapter. And a petition for the degrees or for membership shall not be balloted on before the next regular Convocation succeeding its reception. The ballot must be inviolably secret, and it shall be the duty of every member of the Chapter present to vote ; and a petition for the degrees having been referred to a committee cannot be withdrawn, but must be acted on bv ballot. Rejected Candidates. Sec. 54. A petition for the degrees having been rejected, cannot again be received within the period of three months, nor by any other than the rejecting Chapter, without first ob- taining its consent. Waiver of Jurisdiction. Sec. 55. A majority vote in a Chapter shall be sufficient to give jurisdiction to another Chapter to act upon the petition of a candidate who is under the jurisdiction of the Chapter so voting. And jurisdiction thus acquired shall be vested in such other Chapter, and shall be as complete as original jurisdiction. Effect of Objection to Further Advancement. Sec. 56. If, after a candidate has been elected to receive the degrees in a Chapter, and before he shall have received the degi'ee of Mark Master, a demand shall be made by a member in good standing for a new ballot, the ballot must be had, and if it OF THE STATE OF NEW YOEK. 31 result in a rejection it shall have the same effect as if he had been rejected on the first ballot. If, after a candidate shall have received the degree of Mark Master, a demand shall be made for a ballot on his advance- ment, such demand must be seconded by a majority of the members present at the Convocation of the Chapter at which such demand is made, in order to secure a ballot. But the High Priest has the right, in his discretion, to delay the ad- vancement of a candidate without a ballot. Jurisdiction over Candidates. Sec. 57. A Chapter shall not confer the degrees upon a can- didate who resides nearer some other Chapter, without the consent of such Chapter ; nor upon a candidate who resides in another State, without the consent of the Chapter within whose jurisdiction he resides ; but two or more Chapters located in the same city or village shall be accounted as equally near, and shall have concurrent jurisdiction within such city or village ; and the Chapters in the cities of New York and Brooklyn shall have one and the same jurisdiction. Proxies. Sec. 58. Each warranted Chapter within this jurisdiction shall be entitled to be represented in this Grand Chapter by its first three officers, in person or by proxy. In case of the in- ability of either of said officers to attend a Convocation of the Grand Chapter, the Chapter (or, in case of its failure to do so, its High Priest, or acting High Priest), may appoint any mem- ber of the Chapter to act as his proxy. Such proxy shall be furnished with a certificate of appoint- ment over the signature of the High Priest, or acting High Priest, attested by the Secretary, and under the seal of the Chapter. Amendments. Sec. 59. No amendment to this Constitution shall be made, unless it shall have been approved by the vote of a majority of the members present and voting at one Annual Convocation, a,nd adopted by a vote of two-thirds of all the members present and voting at the next Annual Convocation. GENERAL REGULATIONS. Renumbered February 8th, 1893. Adopted Febkuaet 7th, 1882. Section I. No member of this Grand Chapter shall be the Eepresentative therein of more than one Grand Chapter. Adopted Febeuabt 7th, 1883. Section II. A petition for affiliation may be receiyed and acted upon by a Subordinate Chapter, while the petitioner is still a member of another Chapter, but the change of member- ship shall not be completed until the petitioner's dimit shall be presented to the Chapter so petitioned, and the petitioner shall have signed the By-laws. Section III. A Subordinate Chapter may employ as acting Tiler any affiliated Royal Arch Mason in good standing. Adopted Febkuary 6th, 1884. Section IV. Each Officer and Permanent member of this Grand Chapter and the Representatives of Subordinate Chap- ters, who shall be entitled to pay or traveling expenses from the funds of the Grand Chapter, shall, on or before the opening of the second session on the first day of the Annual Convocation, furnish the Standing Committee on Pay of Officers and Mem- bers a certificate, in which shall be stated the place of his resi- dence, the regular fare actually paid ly him, charged by the most direct public conveyance from his place of residence to the place in which the annual convocation is held, and the time occupied in his journey. The Grand Secretary shall provide printed blanks for such certificates. Adopted Febkuaet 3d, 1886. Section V. The acts of a companion under suspension in his Lodge shall nevertheless be valid, unless his disability by reason of such suspension shall be known to his Chapter at the time of their commission. gen^bral regulations. 33 Adopted February 2d, 1887. Section' VI. No companion shall be a member of two Chapters at the same time; proyided, however, that a Chapter at a stated convocation, and by unanimous ballot, upon a propo- sition received at the previous stated convocation, may confer honorary membership upon any companion who at that time shall be a member in good standing of some other warranted Chapter; but an honorary member of a Chapter shall not vote therein. Section VII. Members in good standing of a Chapter whose warrant has been or may hereafter be surrendered or for- feited, on application to the Grand Secretary shall be furnished with dimits or such other evidence of good standing as will enable them to affiliate with other Chapters; provided their dues have been paid to the Chapter or to the Grand Secretary, to the date of such surrender or forfeiture. Adopted February 8th, 1893. Section VIII. It is the duty of each member of a Chapter to choose a Mark, and to furnish the Secretary with a copy, or description, thereof. This duty is incumbent on all who have not previously selected and had recorded their marks in the Lodge Book of Marks. It is the duty of the Secretary to make a record of all marks in the Lodge Book of Marks. A pictorial description is not obligatory. A written description on the page set apart for the member is sufficient. The Mark of a Mark Master Mason must be selected and recorded before the Eoyal Arch degree is conferred upon him. Section IX. A companion, suspended for non-payment of dues, has no right to object to, or demand, a ballot on the ad- vancement of a candidate, or to be present in a Chapter while suspended. Section X. A Mark Master, a Past Master, or a Most Excel- lent Master, whose application for advancement has been denied upon a demand for a new ballot, may again apply for advance- ment at the next, or at any subsequent regular convocation of the Chapter, but the candidate can not be lawfully advanced after a rejection by ballot without a subsequent clear ballot. ~1 GENEEAL KEGULATIONS. SECTioif XI. A Chapter may, by a majority vote, reconsider a favorable ballot upon the petition of a candidate for affilia- ton, at any time before the companion has completed his affilia- tion by signing the by-laws of the Chapter. Section XII. It is lawful for a companion to demand a bal- lot at a special convocation called for the purpose of conferring degrees. If the effect of the ballot be to stop the advancement of the candidate, or the business for which the special con- vocation was called, nothing remains to be done except to read the minutes and close the convocation. Section XIII. It is the duty of the High Priest to show the ballot to the King and Scribe, and it is their duty to scrutinize the same before the result is declared. If, however, the High Priest should neglect to exhibit the ballot to the proper officers, his action would be irregular, yet, in the absence of an objec- tion, the result of the ballot would not be affected. Section XIV. The degree of Past Master must be conferred upon all candidates, under the forms and authority of the Chap- ter, whether such candidates are or are not Masters or Past Masters of Lodges. A Chapter has no right to confer the degree of Past Master on a Master Mason as Master elect of a Lodge. One who has not received the Past Master's degree under the auspices of a Eoyal Arch Chapter, can not be permitted to be present in a Past Master's Lodge, opened under a Royal Arch warrant. One or two substitutes, as necessity may require, may be used in conferring the Royal Arch degree, and the name of each sub- stitute shall be entered on the records of the Chapter. Section XV. A dimitted companion can affiliate with any Chapter that is willing to receive him, without regard to his place of residence. Section XVI. A companion whose petition has been ac- cepted and who has received the degrees must personally sign the by-laws of the. Chapter which accepted his petition. Section XVII. When a companion, who has been sus- pended for non-payment of dues, tenders the amount due and GENERAL REGULATIONS. 25 asks for a dimit, h6 is by such tender restored to membership and is entitled to a dimit unless charges are preferred. A companion suspended in his Chapter, on notice of his un- affiliation by his Lodge for non-payment of dues, having paid the amount of his indebtedness to the Lodge and made applica- tion for restoration, is by such payment restored to good stand- ing in the Chapter, notwithstanding the Lodge may have refused to re-instate him. Section XVIII. No officer of a Chapter can be installed by proxy. An installed officer of a Chapter can not of right dimit du- ring his term of office. An appointed officer, although duly installed, may resign his office, and upon the acceptance of his resignation by the High Priest is entitled to a dimit, provided there are no charges pend- ing against him, and his account with the Chapter shows no in- debtedness. An appointed officer may be removed by the High Priest. Section XIX. When a High Priest leaves his Chapter juris- diction for a period of time extending beyond the time ap- pointed for the next convocation, it is his duty to leave the Chapter warrant with the King or Scribe. Section XX. The High Priest, the King, or the Scribe, and members and visiting companions may open a Chapter and confer degrees, provided nine be present; but nine members of the Chapter must be present to transact any other business. Section XXI. A Chapter can not be called from labor to refreshment, from one convocation to another, but must be regu- larly opened and closed at each convocation. A Chapter can not be reorganized and reopened after it has been duly closed. The minutes of every regular or special convocation of a Chapter must be read and approved before closing. Section XXII. A companion having been restored to his rights and privileges as a Koyal Arch Mason and membership in his Chapter by the reversal by the Grand High Priest of the proceedings by which he was expelled from his Chapter has the 36 GENEKAL KEGULATIOITS. right to dimit; such right can not be defeated by an appeal of his Chapter to the Grand Chapter from the action of the Grand High Priest. Sectiost XXIII. A Master Mason expelled by his Lodge is, by such action, completely deprived of all his rights and privi- leges as a Royal Arch Mason without action by the Chapter. Whenever a Chapter receives official information of such ex- pulsion, it is the duty of the High Priest to direct the Secretary to make a record in the minutes of the Chapter that the com- panion was expelled, the time when, and by what Lodge. Sectioij^ XXIV. If a Chapter has expelled an unaffiliated companion from all the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonry, it has the power by a regular course of procedure to restore such companion to his former status. A companion expelled for any cause can not be restored to good standing by petitioning for and receiving the degrees of the Chapter. Sectioit XXV. A summons, signed by the High Priest, is valid without the attestation of the seal of the Chapter. A summons, signed by the Secretary only, must state by what authority it is issued, and be attested by the Chapter seal. A notice, issued through the public press, is not a summons. Sectios" XXTI. a companion holding a dimit may, within one year from the date of such dimit, visit any Chapter willing to extend such courtesy to him. Sectioit XXYII. The title of the Grand High Priest shall be Most Excellent; that of the Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand King, Grand Scribe, Grand Treasurer and Grand Sec- retary, Right Excellent ; and that of the remaining Grand Offi- cers, Excellent. The title of the High Priest of a Chapter shall be Excellent, and that of the Master of a Lodge subordinate to the Chapter, Right Worshipful. Each of the remaining officers of the Chapter or Lodge shall bear the title of Companion or Brother. Note. — Regulations published with the Proceedings of 1892, as Sections I, III, VI, VII and X, and proposed as amendments to Sections 24, 36, 39 and 49 of the Constitution (see pp. 335 and 336, Pro. 1802), are General Regulations of force. Grand Secretary. DKCIS IONS. Classification Approved February 8th. 1893. MEMBERSHIP. In the absence of a provision in the by-laws of a Chapter regulating the time within which a brother who has been duly elected to receive the degrees may apply for advancement, the Chapter need not again ballot on his application, but may pro- ceed to advance the brother whenever he may present himself. Pro. 1881, pp. 32, 66. A simple objection without a demand for a ballot will not arrest the progress of the candidate who has been duly elected, unless the presiding High Priest shall so direct ; and the High Priest may, in his discretion, delay the advancement of a can- didate without either an objection or a demand for a ballot. Pro. 1881, pp. 33, 66. A dispensation can not lawfully be granted to authorize a Chapter to ballot on the petition of a candidate, before the expiration of the time fixed by the Constitution. Pro. 1883, pp. 31, 56. After a brother has been duly elected to receive the degrees in a Chapter, and a companion demands a new ballot, such de- mand may be made in open Chapter, and it will be the duty of the High Priest to order a new ballot on such demand. If such demand be made privately to the High Priest, he may, in his discretion, order a new ballot without stating his reasons there- for, or the name of the companion demanding the new ballot. Pro. 1882, pp. 35, 56. DEGREES. In the case of a candidate who has forfeited his right to re- ceive the degrees by neglecting to present himself within the 28 DECISIOXS APPROTED. time prescribed by the by-laws: Held, That the petition of the candidate must again be referred to a committee and a ballot taken, but a new petition is not requisite. Pro. 1890, pp. 33, 69. A Chapter may lawfully confer, without charge, the degrees of Mark Master, Past Master, and ilost Excellent Master, or any of them, on worthy companions from without the United States, who have regularly received the Royal Arch degree, but such companions can not be admitted to any Chapter, or witness the conferring of any degrees, until they shall have received such of the degrees as had not previously been conferred upon them. Pro. 1884, pp. 18, 47. JURISDICTION. A Chapter, having conferred the Mark Master's degree on a candidate, its jurisdiction over him is personal and complete ; and neither lapse of time nor change of residence can modify it, unless the Chapter cede its jurisdiction to some other Chap- ter. Pro. 1881, pp. 34, 56. A Chapter may, by vote, request another Chapter to con- fer degrees upon a candidate who has been duly accepted; but the High Priest can not lawfully request another Chapter to confer the degrees upon a candidate accepted by his Chapter, without first obtaining its authority to do so. Pro. 1882, pp. 35, 56. To determine the question of jurisdiction between any two Chapters whose jurisdiction is not concurrent : Draw an im- aginary straight line ( regardless of mountains, rivers, or other natural obstructions,) between their respective places of meeting, bisect that line at a point half way between the two, and all can- didates residing between the place of bisection and one of the Chapters are a part of the material of that Chapter, and all can- didates residing between the place of bisection, and the other Chfipter are a part of the material of that Chapter. A candi- date residing at the place of bisection between the two Chapters may lawfully be received bv either. Pro. 1882, pp. 30, 56. In the case of a Master Mason whose petition was rejected by a Chapter in whose jurisdiction he resided, and who subse- quently obtained the degrees in another Chapter by misrepre- DECISIONS APPROVED. 39 senting the fact of his rejection and place of residence and Bub- sequently dimitted. Held, That it is competent for either Chap- ter to try him on charges of unmasonic conduct, and in such a case a Chapter rejecting the petition of a candidate has a lawful claim on any other Chapter which shall have conferred the de- grees upon sucli candidate, to the extent of the fee it would have received if the candidate had been advanced, instead of rejected. Pro. 1881, pp. 35, 65, 66. Neither the Grand High Priest, nor the Grand Chapter, has any control over the funds of a subordinate Chapter, in good standing, except to require the payment to the Grand Chapter of fees and dues. Pro. 1881, pp. 39, 66. The Mark of a dimitted companion, -when properly recorded, as a matter of record should remain the property of the Chapter in which the companion was exalted. No objection, however, should be made to the statement of that nature being recorded in the Book of Marks belonging to the Chapter with which he subsequently affiliates, giving a description of his Mark and his Capitular pedigree. Pro. 1891, pp. 34, 74. BY-LAWS. A by-law providing that an appointed officer can not with- draw from the Chapter during the term for which he was appointed is void. Pro. 1888, pp. 34, 61. PETITIONS. A petition for the degrees of the Chapter can only be re- ceived, a committee appointed, or any other action taken there- on, at a stated convocation, at which there shall be present nine members of the Chapter at labor in the Eoyal Arch degree. Pro. 1881, pp. 33, 66. A proper construction of the provisions of Sections 55 and 57 of the Constitution, establishes the following conclusions: First. That a Chapter may receive petitions for the Capitu- lar degrees from persons residing within the jurisdiction of another Chapter. 30 DECISIONS APPROVED. Second. That a Chapter may lawfully receive the report of a Committee and ballot upon the application of a petitioner for the degrees, without first having obtained the consent of the Chapter within whose jurisdiction the petitioner resides. Third. Such a ballot having been taken, and the request of the Chapter for jurisdiction afterward refused, the ballot will be of no effect, and the petitioner will still remain under the jurisdiction of the Chapter refusing to consent. In case of the death of a petitioner prior to the time speci- fied for taking the ballot, the petition is a nullity; the High Priest should cause to be entered upon the records of the Chapter the reason why no further action was taken on the petition, and the fee which accompanied the petition should be refunded to the representatives of the deceased petitioner. Pro. 1887, pp. 24, 69. A Chapter can not act upon the petition of a Master Mason, a member of a Lodge which is not in good standing, unless the act which placed the Lodge under disability exempted the brother from the necessary consequences of such disability. Pro. 1887, pp. 36, 70, 71. A member of an Investigating Committee, who has signed a report, can not be required to disclose his reasons therefor. Pro. 1889, pp. 33, 59. UNAFEILIATION AND SUSPENSION. An unaffiliated Royal Arch Mason is not entitled to prefer charges of unmasonic conduct against any Royal Arch Mason. Pro. 1881, pp. 35, 66. Whenever a Chapter shall have ofl&cial knowledge that the time for which a companion was suspended by his Lodge has terminated, it shall become the duty of the High Priest to declare the companion entitled to resume his rights and privi- leges in the Chapter, and to direct the Secretary to make a record in the minutes accordingly. Pro. 1883, pp. 33, 56. When a companion, who has been suspended for non-pay- ment of dues, wishes to be restored, if there is no provision on DECISIONS APPfiOVED. 31 the subject in the by-laws of the Chapter, dues can properly be demanded only to the date of such suspension. Pro. 1883, pp. 35, 58. The right of a companion to restore himself to good standing by paying his indebtedness to the Chapter, is not affected by lapse of time. Pro. 1884, pp. 18, 47. A Chapter may lawfully enact a by-law requiring a companion to pay dues up to the time of his restoration to membership. Pro. 1888, pp. 26, 61. It is proper for a Chapter to furnish the Recorder of a Com- mandery of Knights Templar a certificate of the suspension of companions ( who are also members of said Commandery ) for non-payment of dues. Pro. 1883, pp. 36, 58. OFFICERS. The power of appointing Committees on Investigation rests exclusively with the High Priest, and he may discharge a Com- mittee and appoint a new one in his discretion. Pro. 1889, pp. 23, 59. In an emergency requiring immediate action in the choice of a new place of meeting. Held, That a summons may be issued by the High Priest without the action of the Chapter, provid- ing he gives ten days notice, stating the reason for the summons, and the business to be brought before the Chapter. Pro. 1889, pp. 34, 59. The High Priest has no right to leave the Chapter warrant with a Past High Priest (except for transmission to the King or Scribe), and the possession of the warrant will not give a Past High Priest a lawful right to open the Chapter, unless re- quested so to do by the King, and in the King's absence, by the Scribe present at the convocation. Pro. 1890, pp. 36, 65. The opening of a Chapter in the absence and upon the re- quest of a High Priest by a Past High Priest, is irregular, but such irregularity is condoned in case the King or Scribe enter the Chapter, and taking ofiBoial positions and in lawful custody of the warrant, assume that the Chapter is open instead of opening it. Pro. 1890, pp. 33, 69. 32 DECISIONS APPROVED. If the High Priest of a Chapter advances money, upon a warrant drawn upon the Treasurer, to enable the Chapter to pay annual dues to the Grand Chapter, it is the right of the High Priest to order the payment of that warrant from the first money received by the Chapter. The Secretary can not be required to pay a warrant drawn upon the Treasurer from funds of the Chapter in his hands, but it is the duty of the Secretary to pay all moneys received by him as such to the Treasurer, and take his receipt therefor. All warrants drawn on the Treasurer should be paid by him. Pro. 1883, pp. 32, 56. The use of any monitor or book, purporting to contain the esoteric work of the Capitular degrees is neither authorized, recognized, nor tolerated by the Grand Chapter. Pro. 1886, pp. 29, 73. CONVOCATIONS. A dispensation can not lawfully be granted to make a con- vocation of a Chapter regular which is to be held at any other time than that named in the by-laws, or to authorize petitions of candidates to be received or acted on at a special convocation. Pro. 1883, pp. 31, 56. No degree under the jurisdiction and control of this Grand Chapter can legally be conferred except as part of the proceed- ings of a Chapter convocation. It will, therefore, be necessary to open the Chapter before changing to an inferior degree. Pro. 1885, pp. 41, 66. A convocation of a Chapter is legal, notwithstanding the absence of the warrant, providing that the High Priest knows that the warrant is in existence and in his lawful custody. Pro. 1888, pp. 25, 61. Any qualified companion may open and preside in a Chapter in the absence of the High Priest at the request of the Council Officer entitled to discharge those duties, provided the warrant of the Chapter is in the possession of such Council Officer. Pro. 1888, pp. 37, 61. DECISIONS APPROVED. 33 If it be impossible for a OhaiDter to hold a convocation at its regular place of meeting, by reason of its destruction or inse- curity, on the statement of that fact to the Grand High Priest a dispensation may be issued by him permitting the Chapter to meet temporarily at such other places within its jurisdiction as it may select, until its permanent place of meeting shall be duly determined. Pro. 1889, pp. 34, 59. ELECTIOITS. The election of the first five officers of a Chapter for a Ma- sonic year, to be legal, must be held at the convocation ap- pointed by the by-laws as a regular convocation of the Chapter next preceding St. John the Evangelist's Day, or at a convoca- tion held for that purpose pursuant to a dispensation issued by the Grand or Deputy Grand High Priest, but no dispensation can be lawfully issued to authorize an election prior to the con- vocation appointed by law to be held for such election. The in- stallation of officers elected for the year, prior to the time of election as fixed by law, is invalid. Pro. 1886, pp. 31, 73. A notice issued to the members of a Chapter apprizing them of an election of officers is not a lawful summons, but the failure to issue a summons for such an election will not invali- date an election of officers held at the time fixed by the Consti- tution of the Grand Chapter and the by-laws of the Chapter. Pro. 1886, pp. 33, 73. DUES. A Chapter can lawfully require a companion to pay dues from the date of his exaltation only. Pro. 1886, pp. 33, 73. DIMISSION". The High Priest and Secretary of a Chapter may issue a certificate of dimission for one not issued when granted or for one that had been lost, but in the latter case they should en- dorse upon the same that it is issued by them as a substitute. Pro. 1890, pp. 31, 68. 34 DECISIONS APPROVED. EXPULSION. A Chapter having adopted a resolution expelling a com- panion from all the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Mason- ry, has exhausted its judicial function. Xo vote to reconsider the sentence will be valid. Thereafter, if the proceedings in the trial body are not reversed or set aside on appeal, the com- panion's expulsion is complete, until such time as the Chapter, under the statute, agrees to restore him to the rights and privi- leges of Royal Arch Masonry. If his application, which must be laid over for one month, is for restoration to the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonry, and to membership in the Chapter, a vote on restoration should be first taken, which re- quires the afiBrmative vote of a majority of those who are present and voting. After restoration to the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonry, the application for membership must be laid over until the next regular convocation, and then be sub- jected to the scrutiny of a ballot, as in the case of any petitioner for membership by afiiliation. Pro. 1885, pp. 40, 66. The case of a companion expelled from the rights and privi- leges of Royal Arch Masonry for deceit and misrepresenta- tion in his application for the degrees, presents no exception to the general provisions of the Constitution, which permits a Chapter to restore an expelled companion to the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Masonry. Pro. 1885, pp. 43, 66. VISITISTG. No Eoyal Arch Mason, except an ofi&cer of the Grand Chap- ter, in the performance of his oflBcial duty, can of right claim admittance to any Chapter of which he is not a member. The right to visit is one of courtesy, and may be granted or de- nied at the pleasure of the members present. This courtesy may be extended to a dimitted companion without regard to date of dimit or place of residence, providing the dimit emanates from a Chapter under the jurisdiction of, or holding fraternal rela- tions with, the Grand Chapter of this State. Pro. 1888, pp. 25, 61. DECISIONS APPROVED. 35 SUMMOlirSES. The Chapter seal should not be us^d for any other than nec- essary official purposes, such as the authentication of a sum- mons when signed by the Secretary alone, or to certify the official action of the Chapter, or upon such documents as are required by the Grand Chapter to be officially certified. Pro. 1883, pp. 38, 58. CODE OF PEOCEDUBE. Section 48 of the Code of Procedure was amended February 2d, 1881, to the effect that an attorney or counsel employed in a trial of charges preferred in a Chapter must be a Royal Arch Mason. RESOLUTION RELATING TO LECTURES, ADOPTED FEBRUARY 5tH, 1890. Resolved, That the High Priests of the several Chapters in this jurisdiction shall hereafter exact a knowledge of the short lectures, as formulated by the Grand Lecturer in the degrees of Mark Master, Past Master, and Most Excellent Master, before a candidate shall be exalted to the Most Sublime degree of Royal Arch Mason, and that at least two weeks shall elapse between the conferring of the degree of Most Excellent Master and that of the Royal Arch. GAYLAMOUNT PAMPHLET BINDEr Manufactured by GAYLORD BROS. Inc Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif, cornen university Library HS717.N56 A3 1893 K of the Grand Chanter of Roy Constttution P.t..A™,..Miirai;iillllllM olin,anx