6*2)7 SFnauguration or the IPlniteb ©can& Xobge IDictorta. djarnell Intuetaitg ffiibrarg FROM THE BENNO LOEWY LIBRARY COLLECTED PY BENNO LOEWY )854-19»9 BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNiVERSITV Cornell University Library no39/.V64 U58 United Grand Lodge of Victoria. ed Grand Lodge of Victor 3 1924 030 291 375 olln,anx ]/^^ ic^^ HTb Cornell University WM Library The original of tliis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030291375 Sir W. J. CLARKE, Bhrt., First Most Worshipful Grand Master of Victoria. UNITED GRAND LODGE OF VICTORIA. A IRecotb of the ptoceebinos IN CONNECTION WITH ITS INAUGURATION, MARCH 20th and 21st, 1889, COMPILED BY W. F. LAMONBY, PAST SENIOR GRAND WARDEN. {Past District Senior Grand Warden Victoria, E.C.) (Past Promncial Senior Grand Warden Cumberland and Westmorland, E.C.} (Author of "Craft Masonry in Cumberland and Westmorland.") PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION. LONDON : Geokge Kenning, " The Pkeemason " Printing Works, 16 & 16a, Great Queen Street, W.C. 1894. / /\. ^-^01-^0 To THE bon. Sir MilUam 3obn Clarke, Bart., Member of Her Majesty's Legislative Council of Victokia, &c., &c., through whose large-hearted energy and sympathy, FIRST as 1R.M. District & provincial (Branb fiDaster of the English, Irish, and Scottish Co'nstitutions, AND finally as flD.M. (Branb fIDaster OF A Consolidated Craft, flDasonr^ has advanced with such wonderful strides IN the Colony of Victoria during the past ten years, this Book IS fraternally and respectfully dedicated by his DUTIFUL SERVANT, Zhc Compiler. London, 1894. mniteb (Btanb %obQC of IDictoria. HISTORY OF THE MOVEMENT FOR ITS FORMATION. The United Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria was constituted March 20th, 1889, in the Freemasons' Hall, Collins Street, Mel- bourne, in the presence of a large assemblage of the Craft from all parts of the colony. For many years past Masonry had been worked in Victoria under divided in- terests ; that is, to say, the lodges were under District or Provincial administration, emanating from their respective • Grand Lodges in England, Ireland, and Scotland. Different attempts had periodically been made to consolidate the lodges belonging to the three British bodies, by forming a Grand Lodge of Victoria ; but without success, owing to the essential unanimity being wanting. The Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland, and two or three of the largest Grand Lodges in the United States have always held that no Grand Lodge can be considered constitu- tionally formed, or entitled to recognition as a regular and lawful Masonic body, unless the whole, or, at least, a great majority of the constituent lodges formally working under sister constitutions agree to throw in their lot with a new Grand Lodge. Hence the failure up to then to form a Grand Lodge of Victoria. On the other hand, many of the Grand Lodges in the United States and Canada maintain that any three private lodges can form them- selves into a Grand Lodge where no such supreme body exists. It was on this latter basis that a Grand Lodge of Victoria was opened in Melbourne in 1883, and in New South Wales some years previously, neither of which was ever recognised by England, Ireland, or Scotland, for the reason that the bulk of the private lodges held aloof. Sir William Clarke, who held the unique position of R.W. District and Provincial Grand Master under the three British Constitutions, was, at the time of the opening of the Grand Lodge of Victoria, approached with a view of his joining in the movement ; but, as he stated at a Masonic meeting in Ballarat, he was averse to " cutting the painter" that bound Colonial Masonry to the mother country. He considered, in fact, that the time had not then arrived for so important a change. Bro. George Coppin, M.L.A.,. was thereupon selected as the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Victoria, and the successors to him were Bros. J. B. Patterson, M.L.A. , and David Munro. Such was the state of affairs during a period of six years. The members of the local Grand Lodge were cut off from all communication with the lodges holding under the English,. Irish, and Scottish Constitutions. Towards the end of 1887,. however, the visit of the Earl of Carnarvon, Pro Grand Master of England, to Australia, paved the way for a cess- ation of these peculiar and undesirable complications. His Lordship, it was no secret, took with him a commission from his illustrious chief, H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, to- bring about in a diplomatic manner the consolidation of the opposing bodies in both New South Wales and Victoria. The way for this desired consummation had been already paved, when nearly the whole of the Craft in South Australia had formed themselves into a Grand Lodge, under the ruler- ship of His Honor Chief Justice Way, the Prince of Wales, also, having accepted the honour of Grand Patron of the Order in South Australia. Lord Carnarvon when in New South Wales, first of all conferred with His Excellency Lord Carrington, with the eventual gratifying result that the English, Scottish, and hitherto unrecognised, New South Wales Masons joined themselves into one Grand Lodge, with the Governor of the Colony as the first Grand Master, and the Prince of Wales as Grand Patron. The proceedings brought to a climax in March, 1889, in Melbourne, were almost a reflex of the Masonic unity effected in New South Wales through the good, kindly and fraternal offices of the Earl of Carnarvon. A meeting of Masters and Past Masters of Lodges under the English, Irish, and Scottish Constitutions, numbering more than 120, was held on the 30th of May, 1888, when it was resolved to take steps to- form a United Grand Lodge of Victoria. At a subsequent meeting an Executive Committee was elected by ballot to carry out the details, with Bro. John James, P.M. 530, P.D.S.G.W., E.G., as Chairman ; and to that brother's un- tiring energy and ability, was greatly due the success of the proceedings so auspiciously begun. Nor ought the valuable services of Bro.«E. Edwards, P.M. 416, P.D.G.S.B., S.C., as honorary secretary, to be overlooked. In course of time, the brethren of the still unrecognised Grand Lodge of Victoria were approached, and an agreement for the union of the whole four bodies was resolved upon, the local Grand Lodge also contributing to the labours of the Executive Com- mittee. The new Grand Lodge entered on its existence with a total of 141 lodges, 94 of them belonging to the English, 16 to the Irish, i3to the Scottish, and 18 to the Vic- torian Constitution. Two English lodges held aloof from the movement, the Meridian, No. 729, and the Combermere, No. 752, though the recognition of their right to do so embraced one ofthe conditions under which the Grand Lodge of England grants acknowledgment to a new Grand Lodge formed out of a body of its constituent lodges. It was, however, gratifying to state that neither of the two lodges referred to entertained other than the friendliest feelings to the United Grand Lodge of Victoria ; indeed, there were brethren at one and the same time subscribing members to one or other of the two objecting lodges, and to lodges that had joined the new Grand Lodge. A few months later the Meridian Lodge threw in its lot with the new Grand Lodge ; but the Combermere Lodge still retains its connection with the Grand Lodge of England, and the M.W. Grand Master of Victoria is one of its members. A meeting of Masters and Past Masters of English, Irish, and Scottish Lodges in Victoria, to consider the desirability of forming a United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria, by the union of the Lodges under the said Constitutions, was held at the Freemasons' Hall, Melbourne, as just observed, on the 30th May, 1888, at which the following resolutions were adopted : — (i.) "That this Meeting is of opinion that it is desirable to form a United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria, and pledges itself to use every legitimate means to accomplish that object." [fJoTE. — This resolution was carried with only three dissentients.] 8 (2.) " It is the opinion of this Meeting that the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria, when formed, should adopt the Book of Constitutions and the mode of procedure of the Grand Lodge of England, as far as the same may be applicable, until otherwise decided." (3.) "That the following Brethren (witlupower to add to their number) be appointed a Committee to carry out the objtects of this Meeting : — English Constitution. Bro. J. James, P.D.S.G.W^ (Chairman). „ W. F. Lamonby, D.S.G.W. „ W. J. Runting, P.D.S.G.W. „ W. T. C. Kelly, D.G.R. ,, P. Blashki, P.D.J.G.W. „ C. H. Bayley, D.G.P.B. of G.P. „ P. Cohen, P.D.S.G.D. „ H. R. Hogg, P.M. „ W. Henry, P.M. ,i C. B. Finlayson, P.D.J.G.W. „ J. E. Dunn, W.M., 1153 „ J. S. Sauerby, P.D.J.G.W. „ H. Bannister, P.D.G.R. „ D. N. McLeod, P.D.S.G.D. „ T. Tanswell, P.D.S.G.D. „ J. H. Franklin, P.D.J.G.W. „ G. R. Rippon, P.D.G.R. „ G. Letts, P.D.S.G.D. „ T. H. Brain, D.J.G.D. „ T. W. Fowler, P.D.G.S.B. „ E. H. Warren, P.D.G.D.C. Irish Constitution. Bro. A. Ellis, P.G. Sec. ., S. Franklin. P.G. Tr. „ J. McKinery, P.P.S.G.W. „ T. Smith, P.P.S.G.W. „ R. O. Thompson, P.J.G.W. „ B. J. Bloomfield, P.P.G.S.B. Scottish Constitution. Bro. H. W. Lowry, D.G. Sec. „ G. F. Martin, D.S.G.W. „ P. Martin, P.D.S.G.W. „ J. Robertson, P.D.S.G.W. „ W. B. Lovering, P.D.J.G.D. „ E. Edwards, Jr., P.D.G.S.B." Bro. A. Ellis, P.G. Sec, I.C, was elected Treasurer, and Bro. E. Edwards, Jr., P.M. 416, S.C, was elected Hon. Secretary. A Subscription List towards defraying the preliminary expenses of the movement was opened, and upwards of ;^50 subscribed. It was also decided that in so important a matter, the opinion should be obtained of every subscribing number of the Lodges under the three Constitutions, and it was requested that the Worshipful Masters of all Lodges cause a circular to be transmitted to their members, together with a printed form, to enable each member to express his approval or disapproval of the movement. " District Grand Lodge of Victoria, under the Grand Lodge of England " District Grand Secretary's Office, " Freemasons' Hall, Collins Street East, " Melbourne, 7th June, 1888. " To Bro. John James, P.D.S.G.W., " Dear Sir and Brother, — I have been requested by the R.W. District Grand Master to aclsnowledge receipt of your letter of ist inst., relative to the action being taken for the establishment of a United Grand Lodge of Victoria, and in reply I am directed to inform you that, if the movement is conducted in a constitutional manner, and the majority of the Brethren are in favour of a local Grand Lodge, Sir William Clarke is prepared to make a favourable report to the Grand Masters of England, Ireland and Scotland on the subject. The R.W. District Grand Master would point out that no discussion can take place in the Lodges, but the matter can be considered at informal meetings of the Members. The District Grand Master specially desires that on no account should any pressure be brought to bear on any Member in this District. — Yours fraternally, " T. H. LEMPRIERE, P.G.S.B. England, " D.G. Secretary." THE INAUGURATION. The formal inauguration of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria was held in the Concert Hall of the Freemasons' Hall, Melbourne, on Wednesday evening, March 20, 1889. Shortly after six o'clock. Master Masons, who were present by invitation, assembled under the banners of their respec- tive lodges, ranged against the right and left walls of the spacious hall. The Masters, Past Masters, and Wardens of lodges forming the voting power on the important questions of the evening, were seated next to the rank and file, and inside a barrier, while in the east were District and Provincial Grand Officers, in the regalia of their rank, also entitled to vote. A choir M'as under the direction of Brother George Peake, acting Grand Organist. At half- past seven o'clock the Chairman ot the Executive Com- mittee, Bro. John James, Past District Senior Grand lO Warden, E.C., as acting Grand Master, entered the hall with a staff of officers, the brethren all standing. The Presiding Officer then opened a Grand Lodge, assisted by the following acting officers : — Brother H. Bannister, P.D.G.R., E.C., as Deputy Grand Master. „ Captain Fullarton, P.S.G.W., V.C, as Senior Grand Warden. „ T. H. Henderson, P.D.J.G.W., EC, as Junior Grand Warden. „ Rev. W. W. Mantell, D.G. Chaplain E.G., as Grand Chaplain, „ E. Edwards, jun., P.M. 416, S.C., as Grand Secretary. „ R. O. Thompson, P.J.G.W., I.C., as Senior Grand Deacon. ,, H. J. L. Batten, P.M. 727, as Junior Grand Deacon. ,, W. B. Edwards, P.M. in6, as Grand Director of Ceremonies. „ W. T. Simpson, W.M. 474, I.C., as Grand Pursuivant. „ J. A. Clark, D.G. Tyler, as Grand Tyler. Several distinguished brethren belonging to the Englishr Irish, Scottish, and Victorian Constitutions were announced, conducted to the dais, and saluted. The Acting Grand Master then rose and addressed the assemblage. He said they were assembled there for a special purpose, namely to unite those lodges which hitherto had been working under four separate Constitu- tions into one combined United Grand Lodge of Victoria. (Applause.) This was a very important occasion, and the most important meeting of the Craft that had ever been held in the territory of Victoria, and the first time that Masons had had an opportunity of assembling together as members of four separate Constitutions. (Applause.) It was very pleasing and satis- factory to find that brethren had assembled in such goodly numbers from all parts of the colony. He wished to impress upon those present that this step was not taken from any desire to separate themselves from their parent Constitutions, or from any falling ofi in love for their mother Constitutions,, because their love was as strong as ever. (Applause.) This step was taken because they believed it would be better for the good and welfzire of Masonry in this colony. (Applause.) As the phoenix rose from its ashes, so would the young Constitution they were forming that evening rise supreme as the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. (Applause.) They had just passed through the centennial year of the Australian colonies. In Victoria they had only passed through 50 years of existence as Masons, and what- ever good Masonry had accomplished during that period, they might con- fidently anticipate that it would be considerably enhanced during the next 50 years. (Applause.) In conclusion, as their proceedmgs had begun in order, might they continue in harmony and unanimity till time should be no more. (Loud cheers.) The Acting Grand Master (Brother James) then called upon Brother W. F. Lamonby, P.M. 752, 21 12, P.D.S.G.W., E.G., to give an historical sketch of Free- masonry in Victoria. Brother Lamonby said — Most Worshipful Grand Master in the chair, and brethren — Freemasonry contributes a most interesting chapter in the history, rise, aod marvellous progress of the colony of Victoria. Five years after those grand old pioneers, Francis Henty and Edward Henty, formed the first permanent settlement beyond Cape Otway, four years after John Batman sailed up the Yarra, and the very same year Charles Joseph 1 1 Latrobe received his patent as Superintendent of Port Phillip, Masonry was planted in Melbourne, the future capital of Victoria. (Applause.) Yom can well imagine, brethren, in your mind's eye, the primitive condition and surroundings of the infant city, destined, as time rolled on, to become the most important centre of population in Australasia. The contrast between the Melbourne of then and now is well and graphically told in a jubilee historical sketch, in which the writer says : — " The intelligent foreigner, auntering down the well-paved streets of Melbourne, will hardly be able to realise that half a century ago the present fashionable promenade of Collins Street was marked by a line of gum tree stumps, deep ruts, and reservoirs of mud ; that a piece of board nailed to a tree bore the inscription : — ' This is Bourke Street ; ' that a waggon and a train of horses were abso- lutely swallowed up in Elizabeth Street, and that at one time the settlers talked of using stilts ! The site of the present Treasury was then a cabbage garden, and Emerald Hill a sheep walk." (Laughter.) Well, brethren, it was under these primitive and disadvantageous sur- roundings that the banner of our good old Craft was raised in Melbourne. The first records of the Lodge of Australia Felix, under the English Con- stitution, now No. 474, but henceforth to rank as No, i of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, inform us that a meeting was convened of Freemasons who were desirous of forming a lodge in " this colony," 21 members of the- Craft being present, with Bro. W. Meek in the chair. Brother John Cropper, Secretary fro tern., whilst amongst the names of the signatories I notice- Brother ]. A. Clark, grandfather of our present respected District and Pro- vincial Grand Tyler. This meeting was held on the 23rd of December,, or, in round figures, half a century ago. The locality, unfortunately, is not given, but in perusing the early files of the first newspaper published in Melbourne, I find that a subsequent meeting, a week later, was held in the Lamb Inn, at that time, we may presume, the leading hostelry of Mel- bourne. But to proceed, a petition was prepared, signed by 25 brethren, and forwarded to " R.W. George Robert NichoUs, Esq., Provincial Grand Master of Australasia," in which Brothers George Brunswick Smythe, of St.. Mary's Lodge, No. 76, London, was designated the first W.M. ; Brother W. Meek, of Restoration Lodge, No. 128, Darlington, the first S.W. ; and Brother Isaac Hind, Tasmanian Lodge, No. 313, Hobart, the first J.W. A provisional lodge was established until the dispensation warrant should arrive and a full complement of officers was named. A lodge was then opened in the First Degree, and after confirming the minutes of the outside meeting, by-laws were ordered to be brought up for confirmation at an adjourned meeting on the 6th January, the following month. We next come, brethren, to the constitution and consecration of the Lodge of Australia Felix, which event took place on the 25th of March, 1840^ Brother John Stephen, P.M. Lodge of Australia, then No. 548, the mother lodge of the Australasian Colonies, and now No. i under the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales, performed the ceremonies appropriate to the occasion, and, as the records state, " according to the pristine usage of the Ordtr." At the same meeting 11 candidates were proposed (amongst them the late Brother John Thomas Smith) as also eight affiliating members. The first W.M. was presented with a silver snuff-box, at the close of his term of office. Four years later a Royal Arch Chapter was opened in connection with the Lodge of Australia Felix, which has ever since worked side by side with the lodge under the title of the Australasian Chapter. Such, brethren, was the commencement of Masonry in Victoria. The beginnings were humble, and consonant with the then sparsely populated Melbourne ; but I think there can be but one opinion, namely, that the Royal Art has kept pace with the rapid rise and prosperity of this fair section of Her Majesty's dominions. (Applause.) The Lodge of 12 Australia Felix, brethren, has entered upon the fiftieth year of its useful •existence, and it may please you all to know that the jubilee will, at the proper time, be fittingly and appropriately celebrated. Almost concurrently with the introduction of Masonry under the Grand Lodge of England, our Scottish and Irish brethren, though smaller in numbers, were not behindhand. In the year 1843, the Earl of Fitzclarence, then Grand Master Mason of Scotland, warranted the Australasian Kilwinning Lodge, No. 337, which was duly opened in May of the following year. On the 24th of June, 1843, however, the first lodge under the Irish Constitution was opened by dispensation, and named the Australia Felix Lodge of Hiram, No. 349, with Bro. John Thomas Smith as the first W.M. It was not warranted till four years later by the late Duke of Leinster, Grand Master. Having reviewed the introduction of English, Scottish, and Irish Masonry into Victoria, we may now take up a brief reference to that marked increase and progress which necessitated consolidation amongst the lodges of the three Constitutions for the purposes of local administration and government — I allude to Provincial and District Grand Lodges. The initiative was taken by the brethren of the Scotch lodges, and Bro. James Hunter Ross was installed R.W. Provincial Grand Master in the year 1847. No communications were, however, held for many years ; indeed, the Province, as a Province, was dormant until the 22nd of November, 1858, when a meeting was held under the banner of the Australasian Kilwinning Lodge, No. 337, and the Hon. William Clarke Haines, M.L.C., was installed R.W. Provincial Grand Master by Bro. F. T. Gell, Deputy Provincial Grand Master English Constitution. Bro. Haines died on the 3rd of February, 1866, and the following December Bro. Thomas Reid, who had acted as Deputy, was installed as chief of the province. Bro. Reid was succeeded by Bro. A. K. Smith, and after his death there was no Provincial Grand Master till Sir William Clarke assumed the reins of office. Irish Freemasonry, as a province, in Victoria, dates from the year 1854, when at a meeting of the Australia Felix Lodge of Hiram, steps were taken for the formation of a Provincial Gran'l Lodge of Victoria, and the first chief was the late Bro. John Thomas Smith, M.L.A., a good and worthy citizen of Melbourne, who ruled Irish Masonry up till the day of his death, January 31st, 1879, embracing the long period of 25 years. There are one or two facts in the historv of Irish Masonry that I ought not to omit, as they refer to the first appearance on the scene, in a responsible capacity, of two brethren who for long have been closely and actively connected with the Craft under the Irish Constitution, and who are present with us to-night. The first is Bro. Angell Ellis, elected Provincial Grand Secretary in the latter part of 1859, which onerous post he has held ever since, and the second is Bro. George Baker, who, it is recorded, was elected P.S.G.D. in 1863, P.S.G.W. the following year, and Deputy Provincial Grand Master 1 1 years ago, whilst to-morrow we shall have the pleasure of greeting him as the R.W. Deputy Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. (Applause.) On the loth of September, 1881, Sir William Clarke made his appearance amongst us £is an active Mason, and was then installed successor to Bro. John Thomas Smith, under patent from the Duke of Abercorn. And now, brethren, we consider the rise and progress of English Masonry as a Province or District in Victoria. It was on the 9th of March, 1857, that Bro. the Hon. Captain Clarke, R.E., M.L.A. (now Major- General Sir Andrew Clarke, K.C.M.G.), was installed as R.W. Provincial Grand Master of Victoria, by the late Bro. John Thomas Smith, at 13 Hockins's Hotel, under the banner o£ the Lodge of Australia Felix. The first Deputy was Bro. F. T. Gell, and the first Senior Warden our venerable and beloved coadjutor, Bro. H. W. Lowry. The lodges represented at that interesting assembly were the Australia Felix, Australasia, St. Kilda, Hobson's Bay, Collingwood, Unity and Prudence (Geelong), Victoria (Ballarat), and Golden and Corinthian (both Sandhurst). It is recorded that the Portland, Castlemaine, and Beechworth Lodges were not represented, so that, brethren, you will gather an idea of the strength of the province at that early period, and contrast it with the hundred or more lodges of the present day. Bro. Clarke having returned to England, the late Captain Standish was installed his successor by Bro. Gell, on the i6th of September, 1861, in the presence of over 300 brethren. A total of 34 lodges was represented, and amongst the appointments to office were Bros. H. St. John Clarke and T. H. Lempriere, as Deputy District Grand Master and Secretary respectively, which positions they have held ever since. Four years after this Bro. John James, who has so ably acted as Chairman of the Executive Committee for arranging the preliminary details of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, and who is our presiding officer on this auspicious occasion, was appointed District Senior Grand Warden. (Applause.) With the death of Captain Standish in 1882 commenced the present era of Masonry in Victoria — namely, the acceptance by Bro. Sir William Clarke of the combined offices of District and Provincial Grand Master under the English, Irish and Scottish Constitutions. (Applause.) This was an event of a unique and highly interesting character. I believe, without parallel in the history of British Masonry, and the installation ceremonies in the Melbourne Town Hall, on the 26th of March, five years ago, as an imposing gathering of the Craft in this colony, can only rank second to that we shall witness in the same building to-morrow, when Sir William Clarke will be placed upon the throne as the first Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, in this the jubilee year of Victorian Masonry. (Applause.) To continue, brethren. A Grand Lodge of Victoria was inaugurated in the year 1883, with Bro. G. S. Coppin as Grand Master, which Grand Lodge will this evening become an integral part of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. Before concluding, brethren, there is one interesting feature in the history of Victorian Masonry that ought to find a place in this sketch, and that is the number of stately and superb edifices, in the erection of which at different times the Craft has taken a part. In Melbourne alone, between the years 1842 and 1885, may be enumerated the old Supreme Court, the old Prince's Bridge, the Melbourne Hospital, the Temperance Hall, the Benevolent Asylum, the Gasworks, the Western Market, Collingwood Bridge, our own Almshouses, the Australian Church, and lastly the Freemasons' Hall. Most Worshipful Grand Master in the chair, and brethren, we are done with the past, and we are now concerned with the present ; but the future of Freemasonry in Victoria, under its altered and now happily consolidated constitution, is what we have to provide for. The prospect is bright ; let us look well to the front, faithfully observing the teachings and principles of our ancient landmarks, and though it will not be the lot of many of us now present to look upon Masonry in Victoria in its centennial year, and the jubilee year of the United Grand Lodge, yet we have confidence in the young Craftsmen who are to follow us, and we can safely leave the future to them, aided by the Guiding Hand of the Great Architect of the Universe. (Applause.) Brethren, I will now conclude with some appropriate lines, Icindly composed for this occasion by a distinguished hrother from India,* now on a visit to us : — " Brethren unite ! Uniting be ye strong To raise your fabric with a loyal heart j In peace and harmony advance the Art, To which as Masons proudly we belong. Our Craft's no idle myth that blinds the throng. Which lies without and fain would peep within, With empty themes drown'd in the mallet's din ; It sings our life's eternal solemn song, It moulds the man with natal rudeness fraught ; Chisels him, shapes him into perfect form, That we may live the nobler life we ought — Unmoved by Mammon's smiles or penury's storm. Such is our creed, our signet, and our seal ; Come, merge ye, then, the self in common weal." The United Executive Committee's report was read by the Acting Grand Secretary, after which the choir sang the anthem. " Behold, how good and how pleasant." The Articles of Union were next read by the Acting Grand Secretary. The Acting Grand Master at this stage declared the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria to be duly and constitutionally formed. Trumpet. — Proclaimed in the East. Grand Lodge Honors. HYMN (Melcombe)— Words by Bro. Spencer, N.S.W. Great Architect, to Thee we raise With joy our grateful songs of praise ; Crown Thou our labours with success. And with Thy grace our union bless. Trumpet. — Proclaimed in the West. Grand Lodge Honors. May peace be with us evermore. And love extend from shore to shore ; May we in harmony combine. And let, O Lord, the praise be Thine. Trumpet. — Proclaimed in the South. Grand Lodge Honors. May every Brother, while below, Bless Him from whom all mercies flow, Our noble science here improve, And make this Lodge a Lodge of Love. *Bro. Dr. Kirtikar, Bombay Cavalry, G.D.C. Grand Lodge of all Scottish Freematonry in India. 15 Bro. George Coppin, M.L.A., then rose, and proposed Sir William Clarke, Bart, as the first Grand Master of "the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. The motion was seconded by Bro. P. Joske, W.M., Lodge of Australia Felix, No. 1, and carried with great cheering. HYMN. (Words by Bro. Spencer, N.S.W.) God our Grand Master bless. With health and happiness, So mote it be ! May he our Craft defend : Long may his rule extend, Our Master, Guide, and Friend ; So mote it be ! May Wisdom from on high Bind fast our mystic tie ; So mote it be ! May our united band Greet Him throughout the land With Apron, Heart, and Hand ; So mote it be ! The Acting Grand Master next moved, Bro. George Coppin seconded, and it was carried with acclamation, that the M.W. Grand Master elect, Sir William Clarke, be desired to communicate with the Prince of Wales, and ask his Royal Highness to become Grand Patron of Free- masonry in Victoria. The Grand Lodge next proceeded to the election of a •Grand Treasurer, and the choice of the brethren fell upon Bro. Angell Ellis. The United Executive Committee next submitted several resolutions to the Grand Lodge for Confirmation and adoption. The first was relative to the fees of honour to Tae paid by Grand Officers ; and the second, the list of officers for the ensuing year, to be invested on the following -day. It was next recommended — That every Lodge that has declared its allegiance to this United Grand Lodge be instructed to send in forthwith to the Grand Secretary a list of its members for registration in the books of the United Grand Lodge, and also to forward at the same time a registration fee of 2s. 6d. for each member. The last two recommendations referred to the com- position of the Board of General Purposes and Board of Benevolence, the former to consist of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, President, and the present United Executive Committee; and the latter, of i6 the President, the Grand Officers, and Masters of Lodges r both Boards to hold office till the Quarterly Communication in June. The whole of the recommendations were adopted. The following notice of motion was then given : — That at the next regular meeting of the United Grand Lodge in June- the question of election by Grand Lodge, or appointment by the M.W. Grand Master of Giand Lodge Officers shall be submitted for consideration and decision ; also, the election or appointment of officers of private or subordinate Lodges. ANTHEM. When Earth's foundation first was laid By the Almighty Artist's hand, 'Twas then our perfect laws were made, Established by His strict command. Hail ! glorious Masonry, That makes us ever great and free. In vain mankind for shelter sought. In vain from place to place did roam. Until from Heaven they were taught To plan, to build, to fix a home. Hail ! glorious Masonry, That makes us ever great and free. The Grand Lodge was closed in solemn form at a quarter to ten o'clock. THE INSTALLATION. The proceedings in connection with the inauguration of the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria were continued on Thursday, March 2ist, 1889, in the Melbourne Town-Hall, when Sir William Clarke was installed as the first Grand Master by Lord Carrington, M.W. Grand Master of New South Wales, assisted by Chief Justice Way, M.W. Grand Master of South Australia. From an early hour the doors of the Town-Hall in Swanston- street and Collins-street were thronged, and by the time the hour approached for the commencement of the imposing ceremonies the vast building had become crowded to its utmost capacity, in fact, the space in front of the organ at last had to be utilised. It is computed that quite 3,000 Masons were present, when orders were given to " tyle " I? the entrance devoted to the admission of the distinguished brethren who were to take part in the proceedings of the ■day. Little had been done in the way of decoration ; in fact, the Melbourne Town-Hall requires no embellishment, except of a special character, and all that was required for the Masonic celebrations were the usual chairs for the principal officers, pedestals, columns, &c. A splendid Brussels carpet of large dimensions, representing the floor of a Masonic lodge, was spread in the centre of the room. On the dais, in front of the choir, was a collection of pot plants, with a portrait of Sir William Clarke, to be unveiled in the course of the proceedings. Shortly after 1 1 o'clock the Chairman of the United Executive Committee, Brother John James, Past Senior Grand Warden, who had presided on the previous evening at the inauguration of the new Grand Lodge, was announced, and entered the hall, pre- ceded by the acting officers. The Grand Lodge was then opened in form, after which the following hymn, written by Brother M. K. Beveridge, of Kilmore, was sung by the assemblage : — Gracious Architect Divine, Let Thy light around us shine Like a beacon starr'd with love, Luring to the Lodge above ; Where the circle of our days Closes in eternal praise. From Thy throne, we humbly pray, Look upon us, Lord, this day ; In Thy holy name enroll'd, Underneath one banner fold, And dispel, with reason's torch, Discord from our Temple's porch. May the past forgotten be, In the present unity ; May the future move us still To obey Thy holy will, So that when our sun goes down We may wear the Victor's crown. By the square's unerring guide, By the level well applied, By the plummet's rigid line. Help up, Architect Divine ! Lead us still to trust in Thee, Light of Lights ! so mote it be ! Representatives were announced and received from the District and Provincial Grand Lodges of New Zealand and Tasmania; and His Excellency Lord Carrington, M.W. Grand Master of New South Wales, Colonel Stokes, R.W. Deputy Grand Master, and other officers were heralded by sound of trumpets, his lordship being received with Craft honours and cheers on taking his seat in the east. A similarly hearty reception awaited His Honour Chief Justice Way, the M.W. Grand Master of South Australia, on entering with his officers. The applause having subsided, the Acting Grand Master invited Lord Carrington to take the chair, and preside as Installing Master, his lordship calling upon Brother E. Edwards, jun., Acting Grand Secretary, and Hon. Secretary of the United Executive Committee, to read Sir William Clarke's certificate of election. The Installing Grand Master now directed a deputation of eight Masters of Lodges to retire for the purpose of introducing the Grand Master elect, and they re-entered in the following order, preceded by two trumpeters, a march being played on the organ by Brother George Peake, Acting Grand Organist : — Two Stewards. Two Masters of Lodges. The gauntlets and apron of the Grand Master, on a cushion, borne by the Master of a Lodge. The collar and jewel of the Grand Master, on a cushion, borne by the Master of a Lodge. Deacon. Deacon. Two Masters of Lodges. THE GRAND MASTER ELECT. Two Masters of Lodges. The Acting Director of Ceremonies (Brother W. B. Edwards) having presented the Grand Master elect to the Installing Grand Master, the following hymn, to the tune of "Moscow," was sung: — • God, our Grand Master bless With health and happiness, So mote it be ! May he our Craft defend, Long may his rule extend. Our Master, Guide, and Friend, So mote it be ! May wisdom from on high Bind fast our Mystic Tie, So mote it be ! May our united band Greet him throughout the land. With Apron, Heart, and Hand, So mote it be ! 19 Then followed an appropriate prayer by Brother Rev. W. W. . Mantell, Acting Grand Chaplain. Lord Carrington next called upon Sir William Clarke to take the obligation of office, at the conclusion of which the Grand Master was invested with his insignia, and placed on the throne, amid great cheering. Lord Carrington then said : — I now hail you, Brother Sir William Clarke, Baronet, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. Brethren, behold your Grand Master. (Loud and prolonged cheering.) The Acting Grand Director of Ceremonies, preceded by sound of trumpet in the east, west and south, proclaimed the Hon. Sir William John Clarke, of Rupertswood, County of Bourke, in the Colony of Victoria, Baronet of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Member of Her Majesty's Legislative Council, Doctor of Laws, Cambridge, &c., &c., &c., to be that day duly installed first Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Victoria, after which he was saluted. HYMN. Let our theme of praise ascending, Blent in music's lofty ^rain, Soaring through the starry main, Peal in echoes never ending. Learning dawned, its light arose, Thus the Truth assailed its foes, Till the Earth, with one accord, Shall adore and praise the Lord. Truth and Hope began to banish Doubt and soul — appaling fear, Spreading, shining, still more clear ; Favor in their beams will vanish. Learning dawned, its light arose. Thus the Truth assailed its foes. Till the Earth, with one accord, Shall adore and praise the Lord. Mortals roamed without a guide, Darkness clouded every nation, Not a ray could be descried. All was gloom and desolation. Learning dawned, its light arose, Thus the Truth assailed its foes, Till the Earth, with one accord, Shall adore and praise the Lord. 20 His Excellency Chief Justice Way, M.W. Grand Master of South Australia, then addressed the newly-installed Grand Master. He said : — Most Worshipful Grand Master, — It is impossible to witness this great spectacle unmoved. This noble hall transformed into a Masonic lodge — floor and galleries occupied by serried ranks of Masons, in their distinctive dress, who have come from all parts of Victoria and of Australia, and from distant countries of the world — is in itself a striking sight. With all its imposing surround- ings this impressive ceremonial can never be forgotten by any one of us. (Cheers.) But it is only when we penetrate behind these externals, to the meaning which they embody, that we appreciate the real significance of this great gather- ing. At the moment. Most Worshipful Grand Master, when you were installed in that chair, the United Grand Lodge of Victoria became a complete and perfect organis- ation, bearing rule over the whole of the Masonic fraternity in Victoria. It became a fully constituted Grand Lodge, one of the supreme ruling Grand Lodges of the world, with co-equal rights and authority within its own jurisdiction to the most venerable of them all. And at the same instant the four Constitutions into which Masonry has long been divided in this colony were united into one common brotherhood. (Loud cheers.) If the hearts of all who participate in this ceremonial are stirred within us, how profound. Most Worshipful Grand Master, must your emotions be when you reflect upon the change that has now taken place in your relations with the Craft on both sides of the world. (Cheers.) You had the honour to be the depositary in this colony of the authority of three Grand Lodges. Your experience is, so far as I am aware, unique in Masonic annals — to have been the District or Provincial Grand Master of the English, Irish, and Scotch Constitutions at the same time and in the same territory. Those high offices were a sacred trust, a trust which you were incapable of betraying, a trust which you have worthily fulfilled. (Cheers.) It was a remarkable dis- tinction to enjoy the confidence and to be representative in this great colony of H.R.H. the Grand Master of England, and of the noble and distinguished Grand Masters of Ireland and of Scotland. But to-day you are not the subject, you are not the representative — you are the Masonic peer, the fellow ruler, of those royal and illustrious Grand Masters, their equal in Masonic power and Masonic 21 rank. (Loud cheers.) Hitherto yours has been a sub- ordinate authority, conferred upon you from afar by leaders of the Craft, acquainted with you by good repute, or as a passing visitor. To-day your Masonic authority in this land is supreme ; it proceeds from the ampler knowledge of those amongst whom you have lived ; and it is based (as the sovereign authority in Masonry all over the world is based) upon the suffrages of your brethren. It is an established custom amongst Masons that immediately upon his installation — at the moment when his possession of the highest dignity in Masonry is complete and -fully acknow- ledged — every Grand Master shall be reminded (as I remind you) that he is the servant of the Great Architect of the Universe, and the brother of the humblest member of the Craft. (Cheers.) Your experience relieves me from addressing you as to your duties, which will, I doubt not, be discharged in accordance with the solemn obligation into which you have entered. If, with characteristic diffi- dence, you hesitate to undertake, your brethren will not hesitate to urge you to accept, the responsibilities of your high office. They have seen the manner in which you have administered your District and Provincial Grand Masterships — how faithful, how conscientious, how con- siderate your rule has been. They remember your other great services to the Craft. They know also that the active philanthropy which is the practical outcome of the teachings of Masonry has been signally illustrated in your career, and that with you the liberal hand has ever been ready to give effect to the impulses of the generous heart. (Cheers.) Many of the brethren who have now come under your authority as Grand Master have been members of the local Constitution which has for years looked forward to that complete union amongst Masons in Victoria which has to-day been happily attained. (Cheers.) They are entitled to, and will receive from you, the same fraternal consideration as the brethren with whom you have been longer associated, and on their part they will as loyally support your government of the Craft. (Cheers.) It is a satisfaction to us all that the work in which we are engaged is not only in accordance with Masonic law, but has the sympathy and approval of the Grand Lodges in the mother country, from which Australian Masonry has sprung. They have rightly insisted that Masonic union and Masonic independence (which are the manifest destiny of the Craft 22 in all these great southern colonies) are not in the gift of any external authority, and must in each case be wrought out on the spot. When, however, the task has been completely achieved, they give ready recognition to its accomplishment, and cheerfully substitute the new bond of alliance for the old tie of protection. (Cheers.) Former associations must make it peculiarly gratifying to you, Most Worshipful Grand Master, to have had the honour of being installed by the noble and distinguished brother who, as Grand Master of New South Wales and Past Grand Warden of England, is (as we all hope he may long con- tinue to be) a living link between English and Australian Masonry. (Loud cheers.) We may also be assured that the most eminent Mason of our time, His Royal Highness the Grand Master of England, who has graciously granted his patronage to the Grand Lodges of Scotland, of Ireland, of New South Wales, and of South Australia, will not deny the same boon to his loyal brethren of the Craft in Victoria. (Cheers). Any natural regret at the changes which the inevitable law of development forces upon us should cease, when we remember that Masons all over the world, though arrayed under different Con- stitutions, are members of the same brotherhood. (Hear, hear.) As Australian Masons, we will never separate ourselves from the great traditions of English Masonry. (Cheers.) It will be our endeavour to reproduce in Australia the splendid Charities which are the glory of the Craft in the dear old country. (Cheers.) Here, as well as there, Masonry will continue to be a social, as distinguished from a political organisation ; but we, like our brothers across the sea, shall always be found on the side of law and order ; and we will not yield to them in loyalty to the Crown, or in devotion to the person of our Queen. (Pro- longed cheering.) The Craft Masons of the middle ages, whose secret mysteries we have inherited and transmuted into a system of speculative and practical morality, often worked for successive generations, century after century, in the erection of some cathedral pile, the finished plan of which only became apparent as the structure approached its full proportions From base to summit, from crypt to heavenward-pointing spire, their task was faithfully done. Every stone was perfectly wrought, whether it was to be buried in the earth or carved into the the tracery of an eastern window. The builders' names are forgotten, but 23 their work remains — beautiful, imperishable, compelling wonder and reverence for all time. (Cheers.) Does not the work of these old buildings prefigure the history, past and future, of the Craft in Victoria ? It is less than 50 years ago that the first Masonic lodge was opened in Melbourne. The early workers in the English, Scotch, and Irish Constitutions did not foresee the development which Masonry would attain from its small beginnings in this southern land, or its happy comprehension under one local United Grand Lodge, any more than they foresaw the the amazing growth of this great colony and of this magnificent city. They worked, nevertheless, with the same faithfulness, and with the same dependence on the Divine Architect as animated the old Craftsmen. (Cheers.) And if you, the Masons of Victoria, still standing by the ancient landmarks and true to your obligations, continue a united brotherhood, this land shall be inter-penetrated with the piety, the benevolence, and the loyalty, which are the lessons of Freemasonry to mankind — (cheers) — and your work, like that of the mediaeval builders, though it may have its foundations on earth, will rise to heaven. (Loud cheers.) And now. Most Worshipful Grand Master, I congratulate you and the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, and all the brethren of the Victorian Constitution, on your being completely installed in the Grand Master's chair, which I trust you will long occupy with distinction to your- self and for the lasting benefit of the Craft. (Prolonged cheering). Ode— "Hail to the Master "—Choir. The M.W. Grand Master, in reply, said : Most Wor- shipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of South Australia, and Most Worshipful Grand Master of New South Wales, and Brethren, — The brilliant address delivered by the Grand Master of South Australia has pointed out to me what my duties are, and I will do my very best to perform what lies in my power. I have no fear but that in the future, with such true and intelligent officers as I have had in the past, I shall make no mistakes. When the question of forming a United Grand Lodge of Victoria came up I sent a circular round amongst the Fraternity asking that brothers should not exert pressure ■on each other, or that the District;, Grand Lodges should 24 not bring pressure to bear on the lodges. The opinion om the subject was so unanimous that when I was asked whether I would accept the position of first Grand Master I was perfectly satisfied in acceding to their wishes. I feel it a great honour, and I have great pleasure in appointing one of my Provincial Grand Lodge Officers to be my deputy. (Cheers.) The United Grand Lodge of Victoria now numbers 140 lodges, containing about 7000 Masons^ whilst there are also 10,000 Masons in Victoria who are not affiliated. The immense progress the lodges have made in the past four years leads me to believe that it will be evea greater in the future. I am sorry to see that two lodges- have not come under our banner, but I hope that before very long they will see the wisdom of joining our ranks- (Applause.) We will be able to visit them ; so I trust if they do not join there will be brotherly love between us, (Cheers.) The Provincial and District Grand Lodges of this colony have from time to time expended some ;£20,ooo in Charity among distressed brethren from all over the- world, and have erected almshouses which, by the wisdom of the founders of the Craft in Victoria, were built on a piece of land liberally granted by the Government. I have again to thank you for the spontaneous manner in which you have attended from all parts of the colony to do me honour. (Loud Cheers.) The M.W. Grand Master then appointed Bro. George Baker as his R.W. Deputy Grand Master, and in doing so spoke in cordial acknowledgment of the valuable services contributed by that brother as Deputy Provincial Grand Master of the Irish Constitution. Bro. Baker was duly- obligated and invested with the insignia of his office by the Grand Master of South Australia, after which he was- placed in the chair to the right of the Grand Master, pro- claimed and saluted. HYMN. Great Architect, to Thee we raise With joy our grateful songs of praise ; Crown Thou our labours with success. And with Thy grace our Union bless. May peace be with us evermore, And love extend from shore to shore ; May we in harmony combine, And let, O Lord, the praise be Thine. 25 The Grand Master announced his intention to confer Past Grand rank on the following brethren in recognition of their Masonic services * : — PAST GRAND MASTERS. Bro. H. St. John Clark, P.D.D.G.M., E.G., P.G.W. of England. „ Geo. Baker „ Major C. R. Martin, PAST DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. Bro. John James „ Jos. Cahill ,, W. Scott „ H. W. Lowry „ Angell Ellis „ T. H. Lempriere. PAST SENIOR GRAND WARDENS. Bro. E. Edwards, Jun. „ C. B. Finlayson „ T. H. Henderson „ W. Elms „ J. A. Cantor. The following brethren, who, according to the basis of union, had been elected by the Executive Committee for confirmation by the Grand Lodge, and appointment by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, were then invested as- Grand Officers for the year: — R.W. Bro. Archibald Aitken, Senior Grand Warden. „ ,, Paul Joske, Junior Grand Warden. V.W. „ Rev. C. J. Godby, Grand Chaplain. „ „ Rev. Henry J. Wilkinson, Grand Chaplain. „ „ Angell Ellis, Grand Treasurer. „ ,, I. A, Isaacs, Grand Registrar. „ „ J. S. Butters, M.L.C., Grand President of the Board of General Purposes. ,, „ T. H. Lempriere, Grand Secretary. „ „ Rev. D. Meadowcroft, Grand Secretary for Foreign Correspondence and Librarian. „ „ P. Blashki, Grand President of the Board of Benevolence. W. „ Louis Horwitz, Senior Grand Deacon. „ W. D. Wright, Senior Grand Deacon. „ C. S. Mason, Junior Grand Deacon. „ „ W. H. Batten, Junior Grand Deacon. „ „ T. J. Tyler, Grand Superintendent of Works. ,, „ W. B. Edwards, Grand Director of Ceremonies. „ „ W. Ferguson, Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies. * It had also previously been resolved that all brethren holding District or Provincial rank under the three British Constitutions, or Grand rank under the late Grand Lodge of Victoria, should rank henceforth as- Past Grand Officers of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. 26 W. Bro. Alex. Miller, Assistant Grand Directorof Ceremonies. „ H. Rowley, Grand Sword Bearer. „ ,, John Hill, Grand Standard Bearer. „ „ A. G. S. Williams, Grand Standard Bearer. „ „ Geo. Peake, Grand Organist. „ „ P. Gosling, Assistant Grand Secretary. „ W. G. Pizzey, Grand Pursuivant. ", „ David Crawcour, Assistant Grand Pursuivant. „ J. A. Clark, Grand Tyler. „ „ Jas. Paul, Assistant Grand Tyler. GRAND STEWARDS. W. Bro. C. J. Davies „ A. Clack „ G. R. Reeves C. M'Dowall W. N. Hall „ W. T. Simpson „ R. Bissett M. Phillips ., C. C. Simpson P. J. Kitz ,, H. A. Derham „ M. Terry. An interesting feature of the ceremony was now inter- polated, namely the presentation of a life-sized portrait of the new Grand Master, in full regalia, by the artist, Brother James C. Waite, Lodge of Perseverance, No. 371, E.G., member of the Royal Society of British Artists, to the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. The unveiling of the canvas brought forth loud applause, at the conclusion of which R.W. Brother JoHN James, P.D.G.M., formally made the presentation on behalf of the donor, stating that many years hence it would be a historical memento of the open- ing of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. He moved the thanks of Grand Lodge to Bro. Waite for his graceful liberality, and the motion being seconded by Brother P. Blashki, was put and carried with acclamation. R.W. Brother W. F. Lamonby, P.S.G.W., moved, and V.W. Brother C. H. Bayley, P.P.B.G.P., seconded the following motion : — " That their Excellencies .Lord Carrington and Chief Justice Way, Most Worshipful Grand Masters of New South Wales and South Australia, be hereby elected honorary members of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, in recognition of their valuable services." The motion, on being put by the Grand Master, was carried with much cheering, after which the two Grand Masters acknowledged the compliment. 27 ANTHEBr. To Heaven's high Architect, all praise, All praise, all gratitude be,given, Who deign'd the human soul to raise By mystic secrets sprung from heaven, Sound aloud the great Jehovah's praise ; To Him the dome, the temple raise. The proceedings, which had necessarily been pro- longed, came to a close shortly after two o'clock, when the Grand Lodge was closed in ample form, the whole of the assemblage finally singing the National Anthem with great spirit and effect. The musical arrangements were under the direction of Brother George Peake, Grand Organist, the Clarke Lodge Choir giving their services. Brother W. B. Edwards, the Grand Director of Ceremonies, deserved every credit for the perfect and complete manner in which he went through the details of an exceedingly arduous and responsible ceremony. The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Melbourne courteously granted the use of his rooms and the Council Chamber during the proceedings. The scene in the grand hall was successfully photographed. THE BANQUET. The installation of Bro. Sir William Clarke, M.L.C., as Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria was celebrated by a banquet at the Town Hall in the evening. About 500 brethren were present. Previous to the banquet, the M.W. Grand Master, attended by His Excellency Lord Carrington, M.W. Grand Master of N.S.W., and His Excellency Chief Justice Way, M.W. Grand Master of South Australia, held a reception in the Council Chamber, and the ceremony was of a very pleasing and imposing character. The M.W. Grand Master, Sir W. J. Clarke, presided at the banquet, and was supported on his right by Lord Carrington ; Bro. G. S. Coppin, P.G.M. Victoria; Bro. G. Baker, D.G.M. Victoria ; and Major Martin, P.G.M. Victoria ; and on his left by Chief Justice Way; Bro. D. Munro, P.G.M. Victoria; the Rev. Bros. C. J. Godby and H. J. Wilkinson, ■Grand Chaplains. The choir was under the direction of Bro. George Peake, Grand Organist. The following was the 28 flDenu. Oysters. Soups. Tortue k I'Americaine. afigb. Boiled Schnapper, Lemon Sauce. Bntcees. Chicken k la Marengo. Clear aux Quenelles. Fried Flounders. Sweetbreads. Turkey ci la Perigord. IRcmoves. Galantine au Truffe. Duckling. Boiled Turkey en Bechamel. Galantine of Chicken. Raised Pie. Chicken and Ham Pie. Saddle of Lamb. York Ham. Mayonaise of Lobster. Roast Black Duck. Vegetables. Beans. Roast Chicken. Braised Chicken en Belle Vue. Game. Pie. Roast Sirloin of Beef. Ox Tongue. Mayonaise of Chicken. Roast Teal. Peas. Entremets. Pudding k la Regence. Trifle. Almond Pudding. Orange Jelly. Maraschino Jelly. Champagne Jelly. Charlotte Parisienne. Charlotte Russe. Fruit Meringue. Genoise Ornee. Parmesan Fingers. 3-ces. Nesselrode Pudding. Passion Fruit. Dessert. Lemon Water. Wafer a la Vanille. Coffee. inaines. Champagnes — Pommery. Heidseick's Dry Monopole> Latour. Krug. Chablis (Preller's). Journu Frere's Chablis. Sauterne. Deinhardt's Squat Hock (Gold Label). Preller's Chateau Margauz. Clarets — Deluge 1864. Vergniaud No. o. Amontillado Sherry. Old Tawny Port Hennessy's ,*# Brandy. Scotch and Irish Whisky. Curacoa. Maraschino. Lager Beer. Foster's and Bass's Ale. Burke's Stout. Aerated Waters. Bro. H. Skinner, Combermere Lodge, No. 752, E.C., Caterer. 2g The M.W. Grand Master, Sir William J. Clarke, proposed " The Queen and the Craft," and " His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales," both toasts being drunk with great cordiality. In speaking to the latter, the M.W. Grand Master said that Masonry had to thank the Prince of Wales far more than any other eminent man. Members of the Royal Family in the past had taken a deep interest in Masonry, and had occupied prominent positions in the Craft, but none of them had evinced such a great interest in it as His Royal Highness. (Applause.) The M.W. Grand Master of New South Wales, His Excellency Lord Carrington, in rising to propose the toast of " The M.W. Grand. Master," was received with much cheering. He said : During the three happy years that I have spent in Australia I have been fortunate enough to receive many cordial invitations to visit magnificent and hospitable Melbourne, and I have had many cordial invita- tions to banquets in this magnificent and hospitable hall, but I can truly say, brethren, that I never paid a visit to your fair city with greater pleasure than on this grand and memorable occasion. (Applause.) I have most especially to thank the brethren here assembled for the compliment that they have paid me in permitting me to introduce to the notice of this most distinguished company the toast of your new and popular Grand Master. (Applause). I know that there would be nothing more distasteful to our distinguished brother than if I were to attempt to praise him to his face. I shall only say the highest praise that one man can say to another man — that he is a true and thorough Mason. (Applause.) Of your Grand Master it may be said that he is one of those few men blest with great wealth who never lets " his right hand know what his left hand doeth." (Applause.) He is one of those few men whom I have had the privilege to meet in my life, of whom it can be said that he has seldom made an enemy, and he has never forgotten a friend. (Applause.) And now, sir, I congratulate the United Grand Lodge of Victoria, which by its suffrages has elected you to be its chief, and I congratulate the Grand Lodge on your having, in the eloquent language of His Excellency Chief Justice Way, "accepted a trust which you are incapable of betraying, and which you will most worthily fulfil." (Applause ) With all cordiality, with all the honours that it is possible to give, and with all fraternal affection I give you, brethren, the health of your Grand Master, Sir William Clarke. (Great applause.) 30 The M.W. Grand Master, Sir W. J. Clarke, in re- sponding, said — Most Worshipful Master of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of South Australia, Past Grand Masters, and Brethren, — I can say that this has been an extraordinarily delightful day for me. Honours have been showered upon me, brilliant speakers have said very nice things of me, and the only thing I could wish is that I could deserve all that has been said in my favour. (Applause.) As far as Masonry is concerned, I have tried my very best to deserve the position which I now occupy. In my own estimation I do not deserve the position : cleverer Masons than I having done the work I should have done. I do not know any day in my life that I have enjoyed so much as this, except my wedding-day. (Applause and laughter.) Married life is a thing that all Masons are taught to appre- ciate, and inasmuch as in Iheir lodges they learn morality and everything that is good, they make good husbands. (Hear, hear.) The present occasion shows the extra- ordinary progress which Masonry has made in Victoria, which, not liking to be left behind, has indulged in a friendly race with the neighbouring colonies. I sincerely hope that the ultimate result will be the formation of a United Grand Lodge of Australia. (Applause.) If I were in my present position when such an event took place, I should be very happy to act as a Deputy Grand Master. (Hear, hear.) In Great Britain the members of the Masonic body are divided into nationalities, but in Australia all races intermingle, and there is never a lodge meeting held at which the three nationalities of Britain are not repre- sented. (Applause.) There is, therefore, every reason and opportunity for a United Australian Grand Lodge. (Hear, hear.) Brethren, I have to thank you for the kind manner in which you have responded to the toast of my health. (Applause.) The toast of "The M.W. Installing Grand Masters" was then proposed by the M.W. Grand Master, Sir W. J. Clarke, who referred to the efforts made by Lord Carring^on and Chief Justice Way in securing a united Masonry in New South Wales and South Australia respectively. The Masons of these colonies had acted the part of pioneers, and shown the way, in which Victoria had followed. (Applause.) 31 His Excellency Lord CARRlNGTON,in responding, said, — Most Worshipful Sir and Brethren all, I feel some sort of hesitation in obeying the orders of my Most Worshipful Brother, His Excellency Chief Justice Way, in rising first to return thanks for this toast, for I remember that His Excel- lency is the pioneer and the founder of Masonic unity in the whole of Australia. (Applause.) If it had not been for him, brethren, we should not have been here to-night, and I look forward to the genuine and fraternal greeting which will be given to the father of Australian unity when he rises to address you. (Applause.) Now, sir, as far as concerns my unworthy self, I shall never forget that it was in this great city that I got my first fraternal greeting. (Applause.) The District Grand Lodge presented me with a fraternal address of welcome as soon as I landed. That great com- phment was paid to me again by the Grand Lodge of Victoria. It was repeated also by the United Grand Lodge of South Australia ; and I shall never forget the fraternal kindness that I have met with from this great colony before I landed in the great colony with which it is my privilege and my pride to be so intimately associated. (Applause.) As regards the state of New South Wales Masonry, I fear that I must correct the words that have fallen from our Chairman. He said that I was responsible for the union which has taken place in that colony. I only wish that I was. (Applause.) For that union I can claim no credit. It was entirely due to the spirit of Masonry which existed in New South Wales, and I am proud to be able to say, what I believe is the same in this great colony, that in all the difficult and delicate negotiations that had to be carried on there, there was not one unkind or unfraternal word uttered. There was no expression which caused any pain to anyone, or that anyone had to regret having used. (Applause.) On my first landing in New South Wales it was a matter of great pain and great grief to me that members of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, which kindly presented me, as the representative of Her Majesty the Queen, with an address of welcome, were unable to be received by the representative of the Queen as brother Masons. It was a matter of great grief to me to receive that only as a congratulation from loyal citizens ; but I am glad to say that those days — thank God ! — are over for ever — (applause) — and if, as I hope, the gentleman who succeeds me is a Mason, he will be received not only with 32 feelings of loyalty and respect, but with feelings of fraternal regard and affection. (Applause.) At such a distinguished meeting as the present, it would be wrong if I were not to pay a public tribute to the worth and the good works of one of the most distinguished brothers in English Masonry. I mean Bro. Lord Carnarvon. (Applause.) I was glad to find that at the reception that was held before this magnificent banquet, there was an Earl of Carnarvon Lodge in this colony, and I hope the brethren in this colony will never forget the benefits that Lord Carnarvon has given us, and will never forget to honour his name in the way it deserves. (Applause.) Sir, when the great honour was conferred on me by the suffrages of my brethren in New South Wales, and I was called upon to assume the position of Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge, I accepted it without the slightest hesitation, and without the slightest fear that my connection would not be applauded and recognised by our brethren in Great Britain. (Applause.) I had no fear op that score, because I knew that two years previously His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales — one of the best of Masons — had written to me to say that he hoped that the union amongst Australian Masons would soon be effected. (Applause.) I knew that in Scotland we were safe, because the Grand Master there — Sir Archibald Campbell, one of the best and most conscientious of Masons — is a brother- in-law of mine — (applause) — and he wrote to me confi- dentially, stating that no efforts on his part would be spared to bring about the consummation that we so earnestly desired. I was also led to believe that no effort on the part of the Duke of Abercorn would be spared to bring the great union into play. The toast list is a long one, and I have no right to impair the brilliancy of this great banquet by an attempt to make a speech at any length. (Cries of " Go on.") I must gratefully acknowledge the kind way in which the brethren here present have received the toast of my health, because I know that it is due to no merit of my own, but that it means the fraternal recognition which you all feel towards your brethren in New South Wales. (Applause.) And now, sir, before I sit down, let me say how we glory in the great principles of our Masonic creed, as we all know, are the consolation and the support of individual men — (hear, hear) — the wide diffusion of a charitable spirit, and the cultivation of those virtues which 33 make life happier by maintaining reverence and love for peace and order. (Applause.) Brethren, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you for the compliment that you have paid us this evening. (Prolonged applause). His Excellency Chief Justice WAY, who met with a most cordial reception, said : Most Worshipful Grand Master of Victoria, Most Worshipful Grand Master of New South Wales, and Brethren — We often hear that Masonry is a progressive science. I confess that I have learnt two things on the present occasion. The first is the delicate relations, into which I have been kindly initiated by the. Most Wor- ■ shipful the Grand Master, existing between matrimony and Freemasonry. (Laughter and applause.) The other great discovery which I have made is the full extent of Victorian cordiality and enthusiasm as manifested in this splendid reception. Most Worshipful Grand Master, I must dis- claim the honour — ^of which, if it were my due, I should be proud — of being the pioneer of Masonic unity in Australia. (Applause.) There were workers in the cause before my name was known in association with Freemasonry outside of the colony of South Australia. It is said that the men who make no mistakes rarely make anything, and I think that although we may not agree in all that was done by the pioneers of Masonic unity in Australia, we owe them a debt of gratitude which ought to be acknowledged to-night. (Applause.) The fortunate concurrence of circumstances in South Australia enabled us to anticipate the great boon of Masonic union which has since been acquired in the great colonies of Victoria and New South Wales, but in South Australia we recognise that in Victoria and New South Wales you had difficulties to encounter of which we knew nothing, and the victory therefore is the greater. (Applause.) And now, before sitting down, let me acknow- ledge the compliment that has been paid me, and the Con- stitution which I have the honour to represent, in permitting me to have the very great honour of taking part in the proceedings of your Grand Lodge to-day. It has given me very great pleasure to be associated with my noble and dis- tinguished friend the Grand Master of New South Wales, with whom it is also a pleasure and a privilege to be associ- ated — (applause) — it has given me the opportunity of manifesting a feeling that is exceedingly strong in my breast — my strong sympathy with my brethren in Victoria ; 34 and it has given me an opportunity of seeing the latest and the greatest triumph of the cause of Masonic unity in Australia. (Great applause.) M.W. Brother G. S. COPPIN, P.G.M., in proposing " Sister Grand Lodges," remarked that the toast was a novelty to the great" majority of brethren present, but they would become accustomed to it, and it would increase in interest as time went on. Established for the sole purpose of bringing about Masonic unity, disserted at the commencement by many friends who joined the federation movement, labouring under disadvantages, and suffering disappointments, those concerned in the formation of the Grand Lodge of Victoria had been cheered in their onward progress, by communications from several Sister Grand Lodges of the world. (Applause.) Brethren working under District and Provincial Grand Lodges had not the privilege of communicating direct with the Sister Grand Lodges of the world, but the Grand Lodge of Victoria had always received this toast with pride and gratitude. The Grand Lodge of Victoria had been in fraternal communication with 38 Grand Lodges, that ruled over 7,624 private Lodges, with a brotherhood of 403,397 members. (Applause.) It had 22 representatives from Sister Grand Lodges through- out the world, and now the work in connection with it was completed — (applause)- — for that day had seen the union which brethren had been striving after for six years. (Applause.) He did not say that the members of the Grand Lodge of Victoria had brought it about, but they had certainly been greatly instrumental in achieving this happy result, which was also attributable to the efforts of Lord Carnarvon and Lord Carrington. (Applause.) In bringing their work to a conclusion, the members of the Grand Lodge of Victoria had acted on true Masonic principles, and they would now enter the new Grand Lodge with a determination to do everything in their power to maintain the influence of the supreme authority of the Grand Master, and to extend the grand principles of Masonry throughout the colony. (Applause.) His Excellency Chief Justice Way, M.W.G.M. South Australia, replied to the toast. He said that during the last six months a Masonic revolution had been witnessed in Australia, and a greater triumph of Masonic principles in the union and foundation of the two Grand Lodo-es of 35 New South Wales and Victoria had never been seen in the whole Masonic world since the great events of 1813. (Applause.) Lord Carnarvon had said that in no part of the world had greater and more wholesome results been accomplished by Masonry than in Australia. (Applause.) He had spoken of a divided Masonry, and far greater results would be achieved by a united Masonry. (Applause.) Several other toasts followed. END.