'^,^^'^^^'k^^z^z^'^-'^^ Rocftm Ks: 048309 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY THIS BOOK IS ONE OF A COLLECTION MADE BY BENNO LOEWY 1854-1919 AND BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY Cornell University Library HS680.A72 A2 Report of the proceedings of the most wo 3 1924 030 346 989 olln,anx Date bu<^ Cornell University Library The original of tliis bool< is in tlie Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030346989 I?y E] 1= O I?. T PEOCEEDINGS OF TKB or FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS Of New ISouth Wales FROM ITS ORGANIZATION IN DECEMBER, 1877, TO JUNE, 1880. WITH WHICH IS DfOOEPOEATBD THE ffrace^dings of the ,^ssani^ ^nion md ^onvmtiatf FORMED FOR THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING THE GRAND LODGE. FBEDEEICK WHITE, PBINTEE, 39, MARKET STREET. i88o. ft 7Z ^ ^ ./4.?3?/5-3 iisrTi?.oiD"cro T oi^ir. For some years past the formation of a Gratid Lodge of New South. Wales had occupied the attention of a large nimiber of brethren in this Province, hut no active steps were taken to bring the matter to so desirable an end untU several energetic and worthy brethren occupying distinguished positions in the Craft, formed themselves into a Masonic Union on the 5th July, 1877 ; foremost among whom may be mentioned Worshipful Brothers William Booth, P.M., SO.; A. W. Manning, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, S 0. and EC. ; E. H. Williams, Provincial Grand Secretary, I.O. ; N. Weekes, Past Provincial Grand Secretary, S.C. ; John Starkey, Grand Treasurer, I.C. ; Eev. C. P. Garnseyj Chaplain Provincial Grand Lodge, I.C. ; G. L. Wilson, W. Vial, E. V. Gale, P.M's. The Masonic Union having been formed, Worshipful Brother E. H. Williams was appointed Honorary Secretary. The first act of the Masonic Union was to forward a letter to the Grand Lodges of Quebec, Canada, Scotland and California requesting information as to the proper means necessary to establish a Grand Lodge, (see letters A. and B. in appendix) the following letters were received in reply (0 and D), together with printed proceedings of the establishment of some of the American Grand •Lodges. The next act was taken by Worshipful Brother Booth, who in his position as Proxy Master of the Lodge Abbotsford, Gulgong, tabled notices of motion in the Provincial Grand Lodge Scottish Constitution. 1. That in the opinion of this Provincial Gtrand Lodge it is im- peratively necessary for the best interests of Freemasonry in New South Wales that a Grand Lodge should be estab- lished. 2 That a petition be forwarded through this Provincial Grand Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, praying that we may be released from our alleg^iance in order to form a Grand Lodge. 3 That a Committee be appointed by this Provincial Grand Lodge to carry out these resolutions. 4 That all expenses incurred be defrayed from the funds of Provincial Grand Lodge. These notices of Motion were allowed to be placed on the business paper by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Worship- ful Brother H. Shiell, who presided in the absence of the Pro- vincial Grand Master, Dr. Sedgwick, that "Worshipful Brother however, refused to have the Motions discussed at the following meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge, giving as a reason for so doing that it was in his opinion contrary to the spirit of his com- mission, well knowing however, that at least three-fourths of the members were in favour of it. The Masonic Union next issued a manifesto to all Lodges in the territory, requesting them to nominate Delegates, and to as many members of the Craft as it was possible to reach. Masonic Hall Hotel York Street, Sydney, 9th July, 1877. The "Worshipful Master of Lodge "W. Dear Sir and Brother, — Herewith I send copy of Manifesto of a Masonic Union, which I think explains itself. The Committee are anxious to obtain the adherence of as many Lodges and Brethren as possible, and request you to bring the matter before your Lodge, and communicate the result to me at your earliest convenience. Yours fraternally, "W. Booth, P.M., Chairman. Will you get the Manifesto signed by as many Members as you can, and appoint a Delegate to represent your Lodge. [Manifesto.] MASONIC UNION TO PEOMOTE THE EOEMATION AND OEGANIZATION OF THE GEAND LODGE OF N.S.W. As it appears to be strictly in accordance with the views expressed by Masonic writers of acknowledged authority, that in Territories where no Grand Lodge exists, any Grand Lodge may issue Warrants to Subordinate Lodges until a Grand Lodge be formed in such Territory. And, as there are now existing in this Territory of New South Wales no less than 23 Lodges under the English, 16 Scotch, and 6 Irish, the working rituals whereof vary, and the laws of the several Constitutions are not identical. And, as uniformity of working in this Territory is desirable. As also that one and one only Constitution should here obtain. And as it is the express and well recognized law, that when under such circumstances as now exist in this Territory, Subordinate Lodges desire to organize a Grand Lodge, they may do so, it being essential that not less than three Lodges shall unite in forming a Grand Lodge. And, as many Lodges have in open Lodge considered the desirability of forming such Grand Lodge of New South Wales, and have intimated their opinions that it 5 is desirable that by Constitutional means a Grand Lodge of New South Wales be formed. And, as it has been stated by trust- worthy and discreet brethren, that the Provincial Grand Masters in this Colony have long desired that there should be a Gfrand Lodge of New South Wales. Now, we the undersigned Master Masons do hereby form ourselves into a Masonic Union, for the purpose by Constitutional means of promoting the formation and organization of a Gfrand Lodge of New South Wales, and of procuring the same to be recognized by existing Grand Lodges. And we promise and agree to endeavour to procure the union and concurrence of our various Lodges for that purpose. We agree and declare that this Masonic Union shall consist of all Master Masons who shall sign this manifesto. That a meeting of this Union shaU. be held in the first week of each month, and at such other times as the working Committee shall think necessary. That a working Committee of 1 5 shall be formed, with power to add to their number, to meet when and as they shall think fit, 5 of such Committee to be a quorum. The Committee shall be appointed at each quarterly meeting of the Union, and when appointed shall hold office until appointment of successors. The first Committee is now appointed. The Committee shall or may appoint a Secretary, who may or may not be a member of the Committee. When and so soon as three or more Lodges shall have expressed in writing under seal, their agreement, readiness, and willingness to form the Grand Lodge, a general meeting of this Union shall be called by circular, posted at least two days prior to such meeting ; at such meeting Lodges may be represented by their Masters or Proxies, and Delegates from any Lodge may be received, when a Committee shall be formed to wait on the proposed Grand Officers, and to prepare draft of the new Constitutions, and a general programme for after proceedings. Neither the Committee nor the Union shall take any steps whatsoever not perfectly warranted by recognized Masonic authorities. 5th July, 1877. In reply to the manifesto thirteen Lodges appointed delegates and assurances of support to the movement from seve-al other Lodges and a large number of brethren of the three Constitutions were received. The Union then appointed a Committee to wait on the Hon. James Squire Farnell, Premier of New South Wales, and Minister of Lands, and Provincial Grand Master of the Irish Constitution, to obtain his sanction to be placed in nomination as the first Grand Master ; that Worshipful Brother consented, stating that it was solely with the intention of obtaining a Grand Lodge of New South "Wales that he had ten years previously consented to accept the position of Provincial Grand Master of the Irish Constitution in this colony. The Masonic Union before proceeding to call a meeting of convention decided to wait some months as an act of courtesy to the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland, for replies to communications forwarded to these Most Wor. Grand Bodies ; no satisfactory answers ariving, the meeting of convention was called on the 3rd December, 1877, due and ample notice of which was forwarded to all delegates, the members of the Masonic Union, and the various Lodges ; at this convention the Committee on Credentials reported delegates from the following lodges present, viz. : Australian Social Lodge, I.O., No. 260 ; Leinster Marine Lodge, I.O., No. 266 ; Lodge FideHty, I.O., No. 267 ; Sydney Tarbolton Lodge, S.C., No. 377 ; Newtown Kilwinning Lodge, S.C, No. 378 ; Woolloomooloo Lodge, S.C, No. 386 ; Excelsior Lodge, 8.O., No. 500 ; Peabody Lodge, S.C, No. 513 ; Abbotsford Lodge, S.C, No. 517 ; Widows' Son Lodge, I.C, No. 278; Lodge Edinburgh, S.C, Mudgee. The Convention proceeded to the election of the first officers, who were duly installed ; the Grand Marshall then declared the Grand Lodge of New South Wales duly constituted. The Grand Lodge of New South Wales having been thus duly and constitutionally formed according to established usage, the M.W. Grand Master caused letters andamanifesto to be forwarded to the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and to all Grand Lodges in the World, together with a copy of the pro- ceedings of the Convention, fraternally requesting recognition of the new Grand Lodge. The manifesto and proceedings were also sent to all Lodges. To these, replies of a most encouraging nature were received from many Grand bodies of the United States of America, and up to the present time four Grand Lodges have sent full and fraternal recognition, and exchanged repre- sentatives, viz. : the Grand Lodges of Washington, British Columbia, District of Columbia and New Brunswick. The Lodges working under the Gfrand Lodge of New South Wales up to the Annual Meeting of Grand Lodge, 30th Jime, 1880, number 23, several others being about to open or join, the number of Initiations since the first Lodge was chartered in June, 1878 have been 217, and 92 affiliations, 29 of the latter were E.C, 17 I.e., 43 S.C, 3 U.S., A. ; the aggregate number of mem- bers is between 900 to 1,000, the Lodges are all working har- moniously, a new Eitual has been adopted, combining the more excellent portions of the workings of the English, Scotch, and Irish, this has met with unqualified approval not only from the brethren under the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, but also from those of other Constitutions. A Book of Constitutions imilar in general to that of the English Constitution has heen sadopted. The folio-wing Punds have heen formed and are rapidly increas- ing, viz. : the Benevolent Fund for the relief of Inigent Masons of all Constitutions and countries ; and a Widow and Orphans* Futtd. Steps will shortly be taken for the purpose of founding homes for decayed Freemasons and their wives ; a Masonic Library is being formed by the Q-rand Secretary ; a Masonic Journal published monthly in the interests of the Grand Lodge has nearly reached the end of its second year, and is spoken of as being second to no other publication of its kind in the "World. Taken altogether the signs of vitality and prosperity of the new Grand Lodge have been such as to fully warrant its inauguration and fairly astonish, not only its founders, but also those who have hitherto been opposed to it. In thus introducing the report of the proceedings of Convention and GJrand Lodge, the Grand Secretary is aware of its many defects, and regrets the compilation has not fallen into the hands of a brother more able to do justice to the cause, the time at his disposal has been so limited that it was quite impossible to review the proceedings of the various Grand Lodges of the United States of Ainerica and the British Colonies, the reports of these Grand bodies have in most cases been received and are now most fraternally acknowledged, the review of the reports of these Grand bodies will hereafter obtain the most careful consideration by the Grand Committee. In future the reports of Grand Lodge will be published annually. NICHOLAS WEEKE8, Grand Secretary. PEOCEEDINaS OF THE MASONIC UNION, Formed for the Purpose of JEstablisTiing a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. The first meeting of the TJnion in response to circular was held on the 5th July, 1877. [CrRCtTLAS,.] Dear Sir and Brother, — ^We have the honour to request your attendance at a Meeting of many of the Worshipful Masters and Past Masters of the various Constitutions, to he held at the Masonic Hall, York Street, Sydney, on Thursday evening next, at 7 o'clock, p.m., to take into consideration the advisability and proper course to he pursued towards organizing a Gtrand Lodge of New South Wales. (Signed) Wm. Booth, P.M., S.O. Wm. Vial, P.M., S.O. J. Starkey, P.M., I.O. The following members were present : — E. V. Gale, W.M., S.C, 386. P. Lyons, 266, I.O. Wm. Vial, P.M., S.O. Henry Hardy, 266, I.O. John Aird, P.M., S.C. John Ferguson, 266, I.O. James Hurley, P.M., 260, I.C. John Morrison, 266, I.O. E. H. Williams, P.M., 266, William Edmund, 266, I.O. I.e., P.G. Secy. E. Qjedsted, W.M., 266, I.C. E. E. Parker, S.W., 567, S.C. I. Lee, P.M., Secy., 266, I.C. Joseph McNeiUy, P.M., 386, A. S. Appleton, P.M., 266, I.C. 8.0. J. G. Carter, J.W., 386, S.C. Eichard Chandler, P.M., 377, W. White, S.D., 386, S.C. S.O. Henry James McOulloch, 497, T. H. Brown. P.M., 513, S.C. St. John's Catime, Ayr- D. J. Monk, P.M., 378, S.C. shire, Scotland. W. Booth, P.M., 377. Henry James Phillip, 266, LC. H. Oobcroft, P.M., 377, S.C. E. Smith, P.M., 260, LC. N. Weekes, P.M., 377 & 358, Eobt. McLintock, 868, E.C. S.C, P.P.G. Secy. E. Sheed, 556, S.C. Geo. Lea Wilson, P.M., I.C. J. Slade, 267, I.C, & 1569, E.C. D. Buchanan, 266, I.C. H. Hargrave, P.M., Adelaide, James Enms, 266, I.O. 341, S.C James E. Peters, Eobt. Burns, S.C, N.Z. W. Beer, P.M., 378, S.C. A. Burne, P.M., 377, S.C. J. A. Kean, S.W., 358, S.C. John Eankin, 266, I.C. Peter J. Shoppie, W.M. Eott. Burns, 817, E.C. TuweUeslerBeetham, 817, E.C. J.Meilhan, M.M., L.M.L.T.C, 266. J. H. Smith, 454, I.C. P. G. Lee, 266, I.C. Thos. Huntley, 266, I.C. John Longford, P.M., 266, S.C. J. Eochester, S.W., 386, S.C. H. Tubman „ Jno. Hampton ,, Geo. "Walker „ Samuel Stead ,, G. Donohue ,, Thos. A. Harricks ,, James Keene 386, S.C James Baird ,, Wm. Thompson ,, Eobt. Howston „ WiUiam T. Hollister C. J. Muston „ W. H. Carrick „ E. Watson ,, J. H. Smith, W.M. 378, S.C. P. P. Gilberd, 378, S.C. Oscar Matson, 266, I.C. John Wm. Clark, J.W., 378, S.C. James Bennett, P.M., 378, S.C. A. Tornaghi, 556, E.C. AUred H. Sharpe, 266, I.C. Berthold Stehr, 378, S.C. John Hurst, 817, E C. AKred Eead, P.M., 260, I.C. EobertP. Negus, P.M., 377, S.C, P.M., 595, S.C W. Bro. Booth, P.M., E.C. and S.C, in the chair. The following resolutions were agreed to : — 1. That in the opinion of this meeting it is expedient that a Grand Lodge of New South Wales be formed. 2. That we present, having heard read extracts from books of acknowledged authority, form ourselves into a Masonic Union with the object of promoting the formation and organization of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. 3. That the Masons present pledge themselves to use their best endeavours in their various Lodges to further such end. 4. That a working committee of fifteen be formed, five to form a quorum, and that the following brethren be the first committee : — Bros. Gale, Vial, Parker, McNeilly, E. H. Williams, D. J. Monk, T. H. Brown, J. Starkey, W. Booth, E. Chandler, J. Hurley, E. Gjedsted, H. Cobcroft, J. Aird, and N. Weekes, with power to add to their number. 5. That W. Bro Past Master D. J. Monk be and is hereby appointed Treasurer. 6. That the manifesto now read be adopted and signed by aU. 10 The following letters were read = — Star of tlie West Lodge, Parkes, 26tli May, 19,11. Bro. W. Booth, P.M., 160, Palmer Street, Sydney. Dear Sir and Brother, — At our meeting held last night a resolution was passed to the effect " That this Lodge is in favor of a Grand Lodge for the colony of New South "Wales, if obtained by constitutional means, and that the three Provincial Grand Lodges do also unite in obtaining the same." I was desired to communicate the same to you, and trust that your motion will be carried, as I believe great good would accrue therefrom. With kind and fraternal regards, I remain faithfully yours, James M. Macadam, Secretary. Lachlan Lodge, Forbes, 2nd June, 1 877. Bro. Booth, P.M., Sydney. Dear Sir and Brother, — I am requested by this Lodge to inform you that at our last regular meeting held May 28th a motion was carried to the effect " That this Lodge agrees with the notice of motion given by you that it is highly desirable to establiah a Grand Lodge, by constitutional means, in New South "Wales. I remain. Dear Sir and Brother, Faithfully and fraternally yours, EoBEET EoPEBS, Secretary. St. John's Lodge, Demliquin, 2nd July, 1877. "W. Booth, Esq., Sydney. Dear Sir and Brother, — I am instructed by our "W.M. to inform you that the members of the Lodge here are divided in their opinions of the advisability of forming an Independent Grand Lodge in the colonies. Tours fratemaUy, H. J. "WooLDEiDGE, Secretary. Lodge of Harmony, Newcastle, 4th, July, 1877. W. Booth, Esq., Sydney. Dear Sir and Brother, — Toiu-s of the 24th April came duly to hand, the consideration of which was brought forward in the above Lodge of Harmony on I7th May, and postponed till next monthly meeting, which was held on Thursday, June 28th, when a resolution was passed to the effect " That this Lodge is favourable to an Independent Grand Lodge for New South Wales being established." I trust that this will reach you before the quarterly communication of the Provincial Grand Lodge. I am, Dear Sir and Brother, Tours fraternally, Zowx T. HoLimsHEAB, Secretary. 11 Eesolved — " That in order that the necessary expenses shall not fall upon the committee, each member of the Union be called upon to pay 2s. 6d. monthly. The Union adjourned till 16th of October, 1877. The members of the Union again met on the 16th o£ October, at the MaBonie HaU, York Street ; "W. Bro. "William Booth in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed. Letter read from Lodge Edinburgh, S.C., appointing "W. Bro. Vial, P.M., as Delegate. And from Widow's Son Lodge, Parra- matta, appointing Bro. Manser, P.M., as Delegate. Letter from Lodge Newtown Kilwinning, 8.C., appointing W. Bro N. "Weekes, P.M.. 358 and 377, S.C, as Delegate. Letter from Grand Secretary, CaUfomia, acknowledging receipt of a communication from this Union and stating that it would be considered by the Grand Lodge at the next meeting on the 9th of October. A pamphlet containing the report of the formation of the Grand Lodge of Quebec was laid on the table. Bead and received. The Honorary Secretary read a report of the Proceedings of the Committee of the Union from its formation, which was adopted. Eesolved on the proposition of W. Bro. Gale, P.M., " That the members of the late working committee (who were willing to act) be re-elected with power to add to their number. The following brethren were appointed a deputation to wait on the proposed Grand Officers, viz. : — W. Bros. Starkey, Booth, Vial, Hurley, Monk, Chandler, and Slade. Some conversation ensued relative to who would be the most eligible candidate for Grand Master. The names of His Excellency the Governor, "W. Bros. J. S. EameU, P.G. Master, I.e., J. "WiUiams, and Dr. Belisario were mentioned. It was finally resolved that the deputation wait on the Honorable J. S. Pamell asking him to accept office. The following brethren were recommended as eligible candi- dates to select for the offices of D.G. Master, Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, viz. :— W. Bros. A. W. Manning, P.D.G.M., S.C. Kennedy, Sedgwick, Weekes, Shephard, Butchart, and Higstrun. On the proposition of W. Bro. Gale, seconded by W. Bro. Biime, the Delegates were appointed a Committee to prepare a new Constitution and programme for further proceedings in connection with the proposed Grand Lodge. The Hon. Secretary reported that the manifesto had been forwarded to every Lodge in the colony with letter inviting their adherence and co-operation in forming a Grand Lodge, and requesting Lodges to nominate a Delegate, and that an extract 12 from the London Freemason had also been printed and forwarded. [See Appendix.] Letters had also been sent to the following Grand Lodges : — England, Scotland, Ireland, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Canada, New York, California, and Grant Orient of Italy, informing them of the formation of the Union and its object, and requesting them to furnish information and assistance to enable us to be recog- nized as a Grand Lodge when formed by all Grand Lodges. Honorary Secretary also reported that 13 Lodges had expressed themselves prepared to join in the formation of a Grand Lodge, 11 of which had appointed delegates, and that the Union had the sympathy of other lodges who wish it success, but decline at present to take any action ; he also reported that the Committee had held eight meetings. The following letters were read, viz. : from "Worshipful Brother H. Kennedy, Register of the University : — (1) University, 17th July, 1877. W. Booth, Esq., Dear Sir and Brother — I regret my inability to attend the meeting to-night, but desire to express my entire concurrence with your views. I think, however, that the approval of our G. M. elect should be obtained. In 1868 when master of the " Samaritan" E.G., I initiated the subject of union of the three constitutions under one grand one. I had circulars printed and circulated throughout the colony, and was promised the co-oper- ation of several of the country lodges. The then D.G.M., E. 0. Smith, strongly opposed my scheme, consequently it fell through The arbitrary and unconstitutional conduct of that brother which has kept the craft for so long a time in a disturbed state is of itself a sufficient proof that we require inherent local powers to prevent a repetition of such a state of things. Believe me dear Sir and Brother, truly and fraternally yours, Hnan Keitn-edt, W.M., 1653, E.C. (2) Lodge Excelsior, Gimdagai, No. 500, S.O., 26th July, 1877. R.W. Sir and Brother — At the regular meeting of this Lodge held last evening, the subject matter of your circular re Masonic Union, was brought before it, and upon which the opinion of every brother present was unanimous. I enclose an agreement signed by as many members of this Lodge as I am likely to obtain as many of them live at long distances, and seldom visit Lodge. Wishing you every prosperity in the success of this movement I am yours fraternally, J. B. Elwortht, Secretary. 13 (3). Peabody Lodge, 513, S.C, Major's Creek, 26th July, 1877. Regular monthly meeting, it was resolved that this Lodge is willing and ready to meet in convention with a sufficient number of other duly warranted Lodges in order to form a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Henry A. Cobb, E.W.M. Henry Wilson, S.D. Henry H. Eoyal, W.D.M. W. W. Leads, I.G. W.S.M. H. Bishop. Wm. Matthews, W.S.W. AUan McPherson. John 8. AUan, Secretary. „ ~^ Samaritan Lodge, 294, 1.O., Kiama, July 27th 1877. Dear Sir and Brother — The following resolution was proposed and carried unanimously at the monthly meeting held oh the above date, and signed as under. Proposed by brother Bice, and seconded by brother Thompson, that this Lodge is in favour of having a Grand Lodge for New South Wales instead of three Provincial Ghrand Lodges as are at present. James CoUey, W.M. John Stewart, M.M. Z. G. Bice, M.M. E. H. Tarrant, M,D., P.M. W. S. Thompson, M. M. Hugh McArdle, M.M. William John Huggart, M.M. John BoxseU. Moses King, M.M. Eichard Holden. Thos. Healey, M.M. There are several other members who reside at a distance too far to attend, but who are favorable to the above resolution. Jno. Healet, Secretary E. H. Williams, Esq., D.G.S., George-st., Sydney. (5) Worshipful Brother A. BUis, Secretary to the Victoria Masonic Union, with manifesto. [Appendix A. 10, 11, and 12.] (6) Lodge of Fidelity, No. 269, 1.C., August, 1877. Sir and Brother, — On the last monthly meeting the desirability of Masonic Union for the purpose of establishing a Grand Lodge for N.S.W. was duly laid before the members of the Lodge, and nnanimously assented to. Tours fraternally, H. Ternotjth, Secy. 267. E. H. Williams, P.G.8. 14, (7) Olmrcli Street, Faxramatta, August 3rd, 1877. E. H. Williams, Esq. Dear Sir, — ^At a Special Meeting' of the Widow's Son Lodge, P.M. Bro. L. Menser was appointed our Delegate to the Masonic Union. Will you kindly let me know when the first Meeting takes place, and where. Will you also kindly send me the Manifesto for the brethren to sign. Awaiting jour reply — I am, dear Sir, fraternally yours, Thos. M. Shephebi), Secy. Widow's Son Lodge. (8) Lodge St. James, Wallsend, U.D. August 24th, 1877. E. H. Williams, Esq., Sir, — ^In compliance with your request to lay copy of Manifesto of Masonic Union before our Lodge, to obtain Grand Lodge of N.S.W., I now forward signatures of those present favourable to the same, hoping you are progressing favoiirably with the same, and that you will be successful. I remain, Sir and Brother, Yours fraternally, EoBT. Bolt, Secy. Lodge St. James, Wallsend. The following are the signatures signed at our regular Lodge night, Aiigust 21st, 1877:— Masonic Union to establish Grand Lodge of New South Wales. E. F. Craig James Fletcher Thomas Birrell Alexander Freu Jas. Tratten Robert Forrester Francis W. Eeay James Ghriersen John E. James Alexr. Sneddon, P.M. 458 G. W. Allen Andrew Nash James Birrell Joseph Wagdon John Thom J. S. Bolt George Cowell (9) Golden Star Lodge, 296, 1.C, Hill End. Sept. 1st, 1877. The Secretary of Masonic Union, Sydney. Sir and Brother, — ^I am directed to inform you that at the last Regular Meeting of this Lodge the following resolution was carried : — " That this Lodge will take no steps in the matter at present, though glad to see a Grand Lodge of N.S.W. formed." I am, yours fraternally, A. Le Messueieb, Secy. IS (10) Lodge Edinburgh, S.C., Mudgee, 5tli September, 1877. E. H. Williams, Esq., Hon. Sec. Masonic Union, Sydney. Dear Sir and Brother, — I now enclose you the Manifesto signed by as many Master Masons as I could drop across to ask. I did not meet with a single refusal, and I sincerely hope your efforts may be crowned with success. I had the Manifesto copied on to a sheet of foolscap, for the convenience of obtaining signatures. With fraternal regards, I am dear Sir and Brother, Yours truly and fraternally, MoRBis Moses. , "(n) Edinburgh Lodge, Mudgee, October 2nd, 1877. To W. Vial, Esq., Sydney. Sir and Brother, — At the last Monthly Meeting of this Lodge, you were elected as Delegate for this Lodge to represent us at ihe Masonic Union. Eratemally yours, H. Passmoee, Hon. Sec. (12)" Sydney, October 4th, 1877. Dear Sir and Brother — Owing to absence from town I have only just received your favor of the 12th instant, informing me that you had been directed by the Committee of the Masonic Union for the promotion of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales to ask if I woTild accept an office in the proposed new Ghrand Lodge. Be good enough to present my sincere thanks to the proposed new Grand Lodge for the very high compliment they have paid me, and say that were it not that all my time is now fuUy taken up in attending to my own business and the business of others who have entrusted me with very onerous duties, I should willingly assent to their wishes. But imder the circum- stances stated I feel it to be my duty, most respectfully to decline the intended honor. I am dear Sir and Brother, yours fraternally, James H. Neale, P.M., 358, S.C. E. H. Williams, Esq., Hon. Sec, Masonic Union. (13) Masonic HaU, October 18th, 1877. Sir and Brother, — ^At our last Meeting Bro. Slade was appointed Delegate from Lodge 267, I.C, to the Masonic Union. Henky Tebnotjth, Secy. 267, I.C. E. H. Williams, Secretary of the Masonic Union. 16 The Union adjourned to 31st October, 1877, WorsHpful Bro. Booth, in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed. The deputation appointed to wait on Worshipful Brother FarneU, iaf ormed the meeting that, that Worshipf iil Brother had agreed to accept the office of Grand Master if elected, also that Worshipful Brothers Booth, Butchart, and Weekes would accept any position in the proposed Grand Lodge. The Union adjourned to 26th November. The Masonic Union met on 26th November, 1877 ; Worshipful Brother Booth in the chair. The minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed, the Committee brought up report which was adopted. Letter read from Secretary of Lodge 267, I.C., appointing Delegate. Minutes of Committee Meeting, Masonic Union for Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Prssent — Brothers Booth, Gale, Monk, Vial, Slade, and Williams, Hon. Secretary. Chairman reported that Brother D.G.M., J. Williams had refused the Union the use of Masonic HaU for the,InstaUation of the officers New South Wales Grand Lodge. Brother Guise attended and explained why he refused to join in the object the Union have in view. Proposed and carried that the Installation take place in the Scotch and Irish Lodge-room, on the 3rd December, 1877, and that the Secretary be requested to write to Secretary of 260, 1.G. asking them to kindly make way for the Union upon that night. Eesolved that there be 250 Programmes of Ceremonial printed. P.M. Brother U. W. Carpenter, of Lodge Manoah, was then chosen to fill the office of Jun. G. Warden ; P.M. Brother J. Starkey was then chosen to fill the office of Grand Lodge Treasurer Eesolved that a meeting of Delegates to form a Convention be called for 3rd December, 1877, to inaugurate a Grand Lodge of New South Wales, and elect and iostaU office bearers. The Union now finally closed their labours. OF THE MEETING OF CONVENTION OF Held at the Tempp.rance Eall, Pitt Street, Sydney, on Monday, 3rd day of December, 1877 ; also, the " Report of the Organization" of the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. It was moved by Brother Brown, P.M., Delegate for Lodge Peaborty, S.C., 573, seconded by Bro. Slade, P.M., Delegate for Lodge 267, I.C, " That Brother Booth, P.M., act as Chairman of this Convention." Carried. Moved by Brother Slade, Delegate, seconded by Bro. Monk, Delegate, "That Bro. Williams, P M., Pro. &. Secretary, 10., act as Secretary to this Convention." Carried. Moved by Brother Booth, P.M., P.G.J W., S.C, Delegate, seconded by Brother Slade, P.M., "That Brothers P.M.'s Monk and Brown be appointed a Committee on Credentials, and' said Committee do proceed to examine the credentials of the brethren present " The Committee on Credentials reported the following Lodges as duly represented, viz : — Australian Social, Lodge, I.C, No. 260 Leinster Marine Lodge, I.C, No. 2(36 Fidelity Lodge, I.C, No. 267 Sydney Tarbolton Lodge, S.C, No. 377 Newtown Kilwinning Lodge, S.C, No. 378 Woolloomooloo Lodge, S.C, No. 386 Excelsior Lodge, S.C, No. 500 Peabody Lodge, S.C, No. 513 Abbotslord Lodge, S.C, No. 517 Widow's Son Lodge I.C, No. 278 Edinburgh Lodge, A.G., Mudgee. Moved by Brother Chandler, P.iM , Delegate, Lodge 377, S.C, seconded by Brother Beattie, P.M., " i hat said report be received and adopted by this Convention." Carried. 18 Lodges and visiting brethren were then admitted, when it was innved by Brother Gale, Delegate, E W.M., 386, S.G , seconded by Broiher Slade P.M., "That the rules and regulations for conduct- ing business, contained in the Book of Constitutions of the Q-rand Lodge of England, be the rules and regulations governing this Convention " Carried. The Chairman opened the Convention, with prayer by the Eev. 0. F. Garnsey, P.M., I.C. Moved by Brother Appleton, P.M., Delegate, Lodge 266, I.C, seconded by Brother Morris, P.M., "That each Lodge repre- sented at this Convention be entitled to one vote.'' Carried. Moved by Brother Brown, P.M., Delegate, Lodge Peabody, S.C, seconded by Bro. Williams. P.M., Delegate, " That Brothers P.M.'s Monk, Weekes, and Gale be a committee to prepare resolutions for the adoption of this Convention." Carried. The Convention adjourned for ten minutes, and on re-assembling Delegate Brother P.M. Weekes, P.P.a. Secretary, SA\, on behalf of Committee, submitted the following preamble and resolutions : Fbeamble. " This Convention, representing a number of Lodges hailing from different Constitutions, now exercising jurisdiction in the colony of New South Wales, having taken into mature and careful consideration the present state of Freemasonry in the colony of New South Wales, hereby recommend to an adjourned meeting of the Eepresentatives of the said Lodges, to be held in the city of Sydney, this evening, at once to proceed to the establishment of a Grand Lodge in and for the colony of New South Wales, on the following conditions : — That the Constitution of the IJnited Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons of England be adopted, with the following amendments : — 1st. That all oflSce-bearers of Grand Lodge and daughter Lodges be elected, Deputy Grand Masters only excepted. 2nd. That the Annual Meeting of Grand Lodge shall be held on the 24!th day of June in each year. 3rd. That the fees paid by Grand Lodge OflScers be one-half the fees paid by the Officers of the Grsnd Lodge of England. EESOLITTIOlfS. 1st. Eesolved, that a Grand Lodge be, and is hereby declared established on the Constitution recommended in the minutes of the Convention of the Eepresentatives of the lodges as enumerated in the minutes now read. 2nd. Eesolved, that the title of the Grand Lodge shall be — " The Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South Wales of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons." 19 3rd. T?esolved, that the G-rand Lodge do now proceed to the election of Grand OflBcers, to hold office until their successors ai'e elected, invested and installed. It was moved by Brother Weekes, P.M., seconded by Brother Vial, P.M , S.C, — that the report of the Committee on Resolu- tions just read be received and adopted by this Convention. Carried. Moved by Brother Gale, P M., seconded by Brother Monk, P. M., Delegate Lodge E.tcelsior, S C. — That we, the representatives of more than three warranted lodges here in Convention assembled resolve, that the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South Wales of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons be and is hereby formed upon the Ancient Charges and Constitutions of Masonry. The chair having been vacated, and Worshipful Brother P.M., A. W. Manning, P.P.DG.M, S.C, P.D.D.G.M, E.C., called thereto as installing master, it was moved by Brother Butchart, P M., P.P.G-.S W., S.C, seconded by Brother Slade, P.M.— That a vote of thanks be accorded to the Chairman of this Convention Carried. Moved by Brother P.M. Weekes, seconded by Brother P.M. Chandler — That the minutes of Convention be read and confirmed. Carried. The minutes were then read and confirmed. It was moved by Brother dale, P.M , seconded by Brother Vial, P.M. — That the Eules and Eegulations of the Grand Lodge of England having been adopted, the Convention proceed at once to the election of Grand Lodge officers, to hold office until their successors in office be regularly elected, invested and installed, and that the Grand Master Elect be presented to the presiding officer for installation. The installing oiBcer, Worshipful Brother P.M. Manning. Deputy P.G. Master S.C , then appointed brethren to fill the chairs of office, pro tempore. The Worshipful Brother, before opening the lodge, gave the following address : — Brother Ereemasons — Before we form our- selves into an Entered Apprentice Lodge, as a necessary pre- liminary to labour in the higher degrees, I desire to say a few words. It is not necessary, nor is it my intention, to delay the work we have in hand by asking your attention to any tediously formal or comprehensive address, touching the object of our present meeting ; for I feel assured you will, in the course of the proceedings, obtain a clearer exposition from brethren of larger experience, and therefore, more competent than myself. But I think I should fail in the most ordinary duty of a chairman were I to assume the honorable position accorded to me without mak- ing some introductory remarks. Of this duty I will acquit myself very concisely. 20 As you are aware, we are assembled under a general call from the Masonic Convention, for the purpose of doing what remains necessary for the establishment and thorough inauguration of an Independent Grand Lodge of Ancient, Fre-", and Accepted Masons in New South Wales ; and the installation of our first Grand Master, with supreme and unfettered jurisdiction — all in strict accordance with Masonic law. Masonic rule, and Masonic custom. It has long been felt by brethren of the several now-existing Constitutions — brethren of every grade in the craft — that Free- masonry, in this port'on of the British realm, labors under very great disadvantage by reason of remoteness from the high governing bodies — ^the consequent delay and uncertainty in communication — and the unnecessary and, to us, unprofitable withdrawal of funds that would be far better utilised by local expenditure in the true spirit of our Order ; and the question has from time to time been mooted whether it was not desirable on such grounds, to establish the necessary Supreme Authontj in oar midst. The very na ural disinclination to take the initiative in a step that, possibly, by some might be regarded as disloyal, and by others premature, has hitherto prevailed to check action ; and had not the matter become seriously urgent, it is probable all decisive action in the direction indicated would have been indefinitely deferred. I hope it will not be thought I desire to cast reflection upon our Masonic superiors I am too old a Mason, and, I think, too conscientious an adherent to my obligations, not to admit that our rulers, supreme and subordinate, are at all times to be ap- proached with respect, and, so long as they act constitutionally, should be held exempt from comment. I do no more than express the opinion of a large proportion of the fraternity in this colony — an opinion in which I unhesitatingly avow my concurrence — ■ that the time has arrived when it is incumbent upon all who really have the interests of Freemasonry at heart to bestir themselves to frocure by constitutional means, and such, only, an acknowledg- ment of their right to self-government and independent action. To such we, by no means an unimportant section of the Masonic community, consider ourselves fully entitled ; and by the pro- ceedings so initiated it is our intention quietly, but irrevocably to sssert it. By all now present I trust those proceedings will be acknowledged to be constitutional, regular, and expedient. Should doubts exist in the minds of any, I may confidently assure them those doubts are groundless, and easy of removal by reference to any worK on Masonic jurisprudence — of which there are many of unquestioned and unquestionable authority, I would further assure them it is in accordance with precedents, which, as facts, cannot be repudiated, we take our stiind, and are now met to in- augurate our own Grand Lodge. We do this respectfully — resolutely ; but, certainly, not without expectation of some opposition and every possible delay ; nevertheless, with the fullest 21 confidence of ultimately securing the recognition of all Grand Lodges, Conclaves, and Councils throughout the world. Time will do Us work if we fail not in ours, and conduct it in all pro- priety. We are constrained to action in order to place Masonry on a better footing, and make it what it should be — a moral and beneficent institution — thus exalting it in the estimation of the Professor and Cowan alike. Let it, however, be loudly proclaimed — and I call upon you all, brethren, to lose no opportunity of making it widely known — that we resolve to relieve ourselves of a dependence that has become inconvenient and prejudicial, we are equally resolved to pay tribute of affection and respect to those parents whose leading strings we no longer require. From the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland, we derive our Masonic birth and infant nurture ; we will cherish for them that attachment and consideration to which they are entitled ; and we trust ever to harmonize with them as becomes our profession. Acting from motives that are unimpeachable, we will not seek discussion or contest ; but most assuredly, will not shrink from it if forced upon us. Firm in the rectitude of our purpose, we are prepared to brave the hastily-formed judgment of every dis- sentient ; and, if permitted, will pursue the even tenor of our way — in the fervent hope that the Great Architect of the Universe will vouchsafe to us the fulfilment of our reasonable desires. It may be thought I have exceeded the duties of the chair in thus expressing myself, and exhibiting too much of the spirit of a partisan. I would ask you to bear in mind that we are not here to deliberate, but to carry into effect the approved result of the deliberations of a Masonic Convention regularly constituted. My advocacy cannot be out of place ; it can do no harm even if it does no good. At any rate, it will serve to show that I am heartily with you in that movement whose culminating act I am called on to perform. I have delayed proceedings long enough ; but before entering upon the special duty assigned to me as Installing Master, I cannot refrain from tendering to the chairman and members of Convention my individual acknowledgment of the zeal and per- severance by whith, in the face of much opposition, they have brought their labour to so auspicious and successful a termination. The thanks of all are due to them, and I trust a resolution to that effect will find record in the minutes of this meeting. The Worshipful Installing Brother then opened the Lodge in the First Degree. Prayer was ofi'ered up by the Acting Chaplain brother the Eev. C. F. Garnsey ; the Lodge was then passed to Second and raised to the Third Degree, when, after prayer by the Chaplain, an anthem was sung by the choir. The Grand Marshall, Brother P M. Slade, then announced the arrival of the Grand Master elect, the Hon. James Squire Farnell M.P., E. W. Provincial Grand Master for New South Wales, under the Irish Constitution of Freemasonry. The E.W. Brother was received with the usual honours, the brethren all standing. The Installing Master then performed the ceremony of install- ation, previous to which he read the authority for doing so : — Sydney, in the Colony of New South Wales. To all whom it may .concern. We, the undersigned, duly qualified Free and A ccepted Masons representing the various legally constituted Lodges mentioned in connection with our several names, being met in Convention, according to rule, law, and custom, laid down by the recognized Masonic authorities of Great Britain and other parts of the world and having decided that, for the good of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Hasonry, it is necessary to form a Grand Lodge for New South Wales, to be known as, and designated by the title of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, have unanimously chosen you. Brother James Squire Farnell (now Provincial Grand Master of Freemasons, under the Constitution of Ireland), to be the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Souih Wales now created, and, in the names of various Lodges we represent, do hereby bind them and ourselves to recognise and obey you as such : and we authorise Brother Arthur Wilcox Manning, P.D. D.G.M., E.G., and P.D.P.G M., S.C, to install you as such Gr.nd Master, according to the rules and rites of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masonry. Given under our hands at Sydney, New South Wales, this third day of December, A.D. 1877, A.L. 5877. (Delegates) W. Booth, 517, S.C. E. T. Gale, 386, S.C. A. S. Appleton, 266. 1.C. T. H. Brown, 513, S G. Eichard Chandler, 377, S.C. Nicholas Weekes, 378, S.C. D. J. Monk, 509, S.C. Wm. Vial, Lodge Edinburgh, S.C. John Slade, 267, I.C. Benjamin Morris, 260, I.C. W. Booth, Chairman of Convention. E. H. Williams, Secretary of Convention. The Grand Master was then obligated, invested, and placed on the throne, and proclaimed in the East, *Vest, and South, according to ancient usage ; the Grand Honours were then given, the cl:oir singing a Masonic anthem. The M.W.G. Master then invested his officers, who, with the exception of the Wor. Deputy G. Master, had been previously ballotted for, and elected, viz. :— 23 W. Bro. A W. Manning, P.PG.D.M, P.D.D.G.M., S.C, E.G., as Deputy Grand Master. „ „ J. H. Butchart, P.P.U.J.W.P.M , S.C, Senior Grand Warden. „ „ TJ "W. Carpenter, P.M., S.C, Junior Grand Warden. „ „ Rev, C F. Garnsey, P.M., I C, Grand Chaplain „ „ John Starkey, P.M , P.G T., I.C, Grand Treasurer. „ „ E Chandler, P.M., P.G. Director of Music, S.C, Grand Eegistrar. „ „ E. V. Gale, R.W.M., 386, S.C. ; P.G.J. W., S C, Presi- dent Board of General Purposes. „ „ N.. Weekes, P.M., 358 and 377, S C. ; P.P.T.W., P.PG. Sec, S.C, Grand Secretary. „ „ W. Vial, P.M., 858, S.C, Senior Grand Deacon. „ „ J. Slade, I.e., Junior Grand Deacon. „ „ E. Gjedsted, G. Inspector of Works. „ „ J. McNeilly, P.M., 8.0. , Grand Director of Ceremonies. „ „ A. Tornaghi, P.M., I.C, Assist. Director of Ceremonies. „ „ William Beer, P.M., S.C, Grand Sword Bearer. „ „ A. Head, P.M., I C , Grand Organist. Brother R. Young, S.C, Grand Pursuivant. W. H. Carrick, S.C, Grand Tyler. After the ceremony of installation, it was proposed hy Wor. Bro. Grand Secretary, seconded by Wor. Bro. Grand Eegistrar, and carried unanimously, with cheers, — " That, in consideration of the many valuable services rendered to the Craft by Wor. Bro. William Booth, Past Master of several Lodges, P.G.I, of Works, S.C. ; also as some recognition of the services rendered in bringing to an issue the inauguration of this Grand Lodge, the rank of Past Deputy Grand Master be conferred on that brother." Tte Grand Master then declared that in the name, and by the authority of the Ancient Constitution of Masonry, he proclaimed the Grand Lodge, by the name of " The Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons," duly constituted. The Most Worshipful the Grand Master then delivered the following address : — Brethren, — Having been installed into the office of Grand Master of New South Wales, I should fail in my duty if I did not say a few words on this auspicious occasion ; especially as it will be an important epoch in the history of Freemasonry in this colony. Before I consented to occupy the office that I have now entered upon, I satisfied myself that the establishment of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales had been achieved in a con- stitutional and legitimate manner, every step tsik^n feeing perfectly 24 refiular, and in accordance with the ancient usages of our Order. To consummate what has already been done we now only require recognition by the various Grand Lodges. The idea of establishing a Grand Lodge of New South Wales is not new ; it has been discussed and under consideration for many years, but until recently no active action had been taken to bring about BO desirable a result. About six months since, some thirteen Lodges under the Constitutions now existing here selected Delegates and formed themselves into a Masonic Union, and the result of the labours of that Union has been the establishment and the inauguratioH this day of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Exception has been taken by some of our brethren in certain quarters in reference to the establishing of this Grand Lodge. When asked what are their objections, they answer by admitting the correctness of the principle of establishing a Grand Lodge, but they say the present is premature, or that it should be deferred to some indefinite future. Well, if the time has not yet arrived, when will it arrive ? In our opinion it has arrived, and the present is the most proper and suitable period for the establishment of a Grand Lodge. Is there any valid reason why we should not have an independent Grand Lodge ? The reasons are overwhelming why we should, especially when we consider that other British provinces or colonies have established such Lodges, and have been recognized who were not so inconvenienced, or at such disadvantages as we are in regard to distance from the seat of the governing Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland. And why not have a Grand Lodge, Masonically national, as it were, to this colony ? The establishment of a Grand Lodge here, by which we shall obtain self-government, cannot, and will not, affect our loyalty to our Queen and country. Political connections and attachments is one thing, and Masonic another thing. The former has its geographical bounds or limits, and is confined to nations or countries ; the latter has no bounds or limits, it embraces all nations, and is so universal that it admits of no exclusion amidst the worthy portion of God's creatures. Climate, country, colour, education, or religion, make no difference. Let this universal bond of union be broken by political geographical limits, by the difference of nationalities and peoples, and we become a rope of sand, and lose that strength, weight, and influence which concord and unanimity will secure to us. I therefore maintain that there is no disloyalty in the establishment of our Grand Lodge. We shall be placed in a better position to uphold and further the interests of Masonry. What do some of our brethren mean by asserting that we are cutting the painter (whatever that may mean), and by advertising in the newspapers, warning brethren not to take part in or be ■present at our inauguration and installation ? Is this Masonry ? 25 If it is I have a great deal to unlearii. Are these the brethren who profess to be members of a universal institution founded on eternal reason and truth, whose deep basis is the civilization of mankind, and whose everlasting glory is to have the immovable support of those two mighty pillars — science and morality ? If they are, they take a most peculiar, absurd, and stolid way of evincing it. Cutting the painter, forsooth? Has Ireland, Scotland, or Canada, by the establishment of its Grand Lodges, cut the painter ? Are the Masons of those places any the less subjects of our Queen ? How can there be any severance in Free- masonry ? If there can, the universal link will be broken, and the whole fabric will crumble to dust. Are not the Masonic brethren of America, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and other nations as much our brethren in Masonry as British subjects ? If they are not, then you and I, and all of us, are grossly ignorant of the meaning of Masonry. The severance from the parent Q-rand Lodges is only in name ; our mutual sympathies remain un- diminished ; our friendship and fellowship as strong and well- grounded as ever. Who are they who shall say that we shall not institute our Grand Lodge ? To whom are we to look for guidance but our Great Grand Master the Great Geometrician of the Universe, under whose direction we now desire to establish this Grand Lodge for the advancement of mankind in those great truths that are inculcated by Masonry. And in the accomplish- ment of this great and grand design why should we not have the right of self-government ? We are styled Masonic Eevolutionists by some of our unenlightened brothers Let us see how far this epithet is justifiable, and let us see whether there are any prece- dents for the course we have taken. First, Canada, a British colony, is an analogous case to our own colony, and we have pre- cisely followed their example in letter and spirit. They formed themselves into a Masonic Union, established their Grand Lodges, were duly recognized, and the right hand of fellowship offered to them by other Grand Lodges. I do not think that we could have done better than to follow that precedent in establishing the present Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Now, let us see how the present Grand Lodge of England was established. It was not established in the same regular and constitutional manner that the Grand Lodge of Canada was, nor is there any analogy in our proceedings and theirs. We have chosen to follow the good example of our Canadian brethren and we have not seceded as the four London Lodges did from the Grand Lodge of York. At the time of this secession we find that there was the Grand Lodge of England, established in the year 926 at York, and having at that time jurisdiction over thirty-two daughter Lodges. Notwithstanding that there was a Grand Lodge of England, we find that the Masonic body in the south of England or London, then numbering four Lodges 26 formed themselves into a Grand Lodge in the year 1717. Thus was instituted the Grand Lodge of England, which has now attained Buch prosperity and splendour. [See Brother Paten's Freemasonry and its iurisprndence, page 243.] Now, on refer- ring to our ancient usages and customs, and to Masonic juris- prudence, we will find that the proceedings in 1717 were not legal and constitutional, because no Grand Lodge can be estab- lished in any territory where a Grand Lodge already exists. We have not folio vved the example of our London brethren who seceded, but we have followed the legal and constitu ional example of our Canadian brethren : Lower Canada, Grand Lodge of Quebec ; Nova Scotia, Grand Lodge of Halifax ; and Prince Edward's Island, It may be asked by those brethren who have issued a mandate to our Masonic brethren not to attend or take part in our ceremony to-day, under what authority we constitute ourselves a Grand Lodge. It will be charitable to suppose that they have a sufficient acquaintance with the principle of Free- masonry to admit that we are Free and Accepted Masons in every sense of the term ; and if they have the knowledge, they will also admit that the legal number of Lodges (and more than the legal number) have consented to the formation of a Grand Lodge. Well, the fact being that we are regularly constituted Freemasons, and that the legal number of Lodges have consented, formed themselves into a Union, and have met in Convention by their Eepresentatives, we have an inherent right to establish our Grand Lodge. And as the brethren referred to, appear to be somewhat in the dark on the subject of the Constitution of Grand Lodges, I will endeavour to enlighten them on this important matter, in reference to the authority under which we have proceeded, and by which we have been guided. Bro. Paton says, in his Freemasonry and its Jurisprudence, — " It only remains to consider the proper mode of organising a Grand Lodge in a territory where no such body has previously existed. Perfectly to understand this subject, it wiU be necessary to commence with the first development of Masonry in any country. Let us suppose, then, that there is a country within whose political bounds Freemasonry has never yet been intro- duced in an organized form. There may be, ' and, indeed, for the execution of the law which is about to be explained,' there must be an adequate number of Master Masons ; but there is no Lodge. Now, the first principle of Masonic law, to which attention is to be directed in this condition of things, is that every territory into which Masonry has not been introduced in the organized form of Lodges, is ground common to all the Masonic authorities of the world, and therefore it is competent for any Grand Lodge to grant a Charter of Constitution, and establish a Lodge in such unoccupied territory, on the petition, of course, of » requisite number of Masons ; and this right of 27 granting charters belongs to every Grand Lodge in the "World, and may be exercised by any that chooses to do so, as long as no Grand Lodge is organized in the territory. So that there may be ten or a dozen Lodges working at the same time in the same territory, and each of them deriving its existence from a different Grand Lodge." Bro. Ohaae, in his " Masonic Digest," remarks, " The usual mode of organizing a new Grand Lodge is as follows : — A certain number of Lodges, not less than three, holding Charters from some legal Grand Lodge, or from different Grand Lodges, meet in Convention by their representatives, formally resolve to organize a Grand Lodge and adopt a constitution, and proceed to elect and install their officers. It is necessary that it be a separate state or territory ; that there be no Grand Lodge at that time existing within it ; that at least three chartered Lodges be at the time in active existence within the territorial limits, and consent to the formation of such Grand Lodge; that they meet in Convention as Lodges, and not as independent individuals ; that they adopt a constitution, and that the newly elected Grand Master be installed by some Past Grand Master, or by the Senior Past Master present. It is not essential that it should be an independent and sovereign state or territory, but simply necessary that it be a separate and distinct state or territory. " This is now well settled, and legal Grand Lodges have been formed in Oregon, Minnesota, Kansas, Nebraska, and other territories, and in the Province of Canada, &o." The Lodges must surrender t' eir old warrants, and cake out new ones from the Grand Lodge thus constituted. Now, in tracing the history of Masonry in this colony or territory of New South "Wales, we find that about the year 1821, the Grand Lodge of Ireland granted a Charter to the Masons of this Colony to hold a Masonic Lodge, and its number was 260, and it was the first Lodge established in Australia ; subsequently, other Charters were granted by the same Grand Lodge. Then we find the Grand Lodge of England granting Charters or "Warrants to several Lodges, and we also find the Grand Lodge of Scotland granting Charters for the establishment of individual Lodges. And up to the present time, any body of Masons who may desire to establish a Lodge under either one or the other of the Constitutions referred to must obtain a Charter or Warrant from them respectively. Well, some years since. Provincial Grand Lodges were established here under the respective Grand Lodges of England, Ireland and Scotland, who have power or authority only to grant Dispensations for a period of two years ; but the charters or warrants have still to issue from the Grand Lodges named. We find that no Grand Lodge is organized in this territory ; then if we desire to organize and establish one that not less than it is required here, three 28 Lodges having legal existence should so organize, and I take it that the power of establishing a Grand Lodge here rests with the Masonic body with the territory of New South Wales, and with them alone. I again quote from the same authority, who fays : " In such a case neither of the Grand Lodges that have granted charters acquires by any such act exclusive jurisdiction over the territory, which is still open for the admission of any other Grand Lodge, with a similar power of granting charters. The jurisdiction exercised in this condition of Masonry by the different Grand Lodges is not over the territory, but over the Lodge or Lodges which each of them has established. But afterwards these subordinate Lodges may desire to organize a Grand Lodge, and thev are competent to do so under certain restrictions. In the first place, it is essential that not leas than three Lodges shall unite in forming a Grand Lodge " Well, we now see that the three Constitutions, from whom we derive legal existence, have no jurisdiction over this territory; that the territory is masonically unoccupied for the purposes of a Grand Lodge. Therefore, we have, with more than the essential number of Lodges, organized a Grand Lodge, by which we have obtained territorial jurisdiction over the territory of New South Wales. The same authority says : " As soon as the new Grand Lodge is organized it will grant charters to the Lodges which formed it, to take effect upon their surrendering the charters under which they originally acted to the Grand Lodges from which they had derived them. There is no regulation prescribing the precise time at which these charters are to be surrendered ; but it seems reasonable to suppose that they could not be surrendered before the new Grand Lodge is organized and recognized by other Grand Lodges, because the surrender of a charter is the extinction of a Lodge, and the Lodges must preserve their vitality to give them power to organize the new authority. The Grand Lodge thus formed, by the union of not less than three Lodges in Convention at once assumes all the prerogatives of a Grand Lodge, and acquires exclusive Masonic jurisdiction over the territory within whose geographical limits it has been constituted. No Lodge can continue to exist or be subsequently established in the territory, except under its authority ; and all other Grand Lodges are precluded from exercising any Masonic authority within the said territory. These are all principles of Masonic law which seem to be admitted, by universal consent, and sanctioned by constant usage, in such organizations. Thus, it will be seen, that we have strictly adhered to Masonic usages and customs in establishing our Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Having thus far proceeded regularly and constitutionally, and having duly installed the officers of the Grand Lodge, our next 29 proceeding will be to communicate with the other Grand Lodges and inform them of our proceedings, and seek recognition at their hands, which 1 have no doubt will be gladly conceded. The date of organization of the principal Grand Lodges in Europe and America is as follows : — England, 1717 ; Ireland, 1730 ; Scotland, 1736 ; Erance, 1756 ; Germany, 1741 ; Prussia, 1740; Saxony, 1812 ; Holland 1757 ; Denmark, 1743 ; Sweden, 1745 ; Poland, 1784 ; Switzerland, 1764 ; Alabama, 1821 ; Arkan- sas, 1832 ; California, 1850 ; Connecticut, 1789 ; Canada, 1855 ; United Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, 1869 ; Quebec, ; Delaware 1806 ; District of Columbia, 1800 ; Florida, 1830 ; Georgia, 1786 Illinois, 1840 ; Indiana, 1818 ; Iowa, 1844 ; Kansas, 1856 ; Ken- tucky, 1800; Louisiana, 1812 ; Maine, 1820 ; Massachusetts, 1733; Maryland, 1787; Michigan, 1826; Minnesota, 1853; Mississippi, 1818 ; Missouri, 1821 ; Nebraska, 1857 ; New Hamp- shire, 1789; New Jersey, 1786; New York, 1781; North Carolina, 1771 ; Ohio, 1808 ; Oregon, 1851; Pennsylvania, 1764 ; Bhode Island, 1791 ; South Carolina, 1787 ; Tennessee, 1794 ; Texas, 1837; Vermont, 1794; Virginia, 1777; Wisconsin, 1843. Upper and Lower Canada had each its own assembly ; but there is now but one for both Provinces. Canada, Nova Scotia, and new Brunswick are now united under the name of Canada, with the Governor- General and a Parliament (Senate and House of Assembly) common to them all. The Provincial Legislatures for the management of local matters still exist. In the reign of Queen Elizabeth, on the 27th December, 1561, we have an account of a Grand Lodge, which was held at York, Sir Thomas Sackville being Grand Master. The next Grand Lodge, whose communications yvere of such importance as to entitle it to a place in the records of the institution, was that which was held on the 27th December, 1663, when the Earl of St. Albans was Grand Master, and when several judicious regulations were enacted. But now we arrive at an important era in the history of Freemasonry In 1716 there were only four Lodges in existence in London, and no others in the whole south of England. These four Lodges determined, if possible, to revive the institution from its depressed state ; and, accordingly, they met in February, 1817 at the Appletree Tavern (whose name has thus been rendered famous for all time), and after placing the oldest Master Mason, who was the Master of a Lodge, in the chair, they constituted themselves a Grand Lodge, and resolved, says Preston, to revive the quarterly communications of the Fraternity. On the follow- ing St. John the Baptist's Day, the Grand Lodge was duly organized, and Anthony Sager was elected Grand Master, who appointed his wardens, and commanded the brethren of the four old Lodges to meet him and wardens quarterly in communication. From that time Grand Lodges have been uninterruptedly held, 30 receiving, however, at different periods various modiGcations, which are hereafter to be noticed. On an occasion such as this, I do not deem, it necessary to discuss the principles of our Order — that will be a fitting subject at some future time. We have this day entered upon a large and extensive work, and its success will materially depend upon ourselves ; but while we adhere to our Masonic principles I do not think we need fear the result. We cannot hope to succeed unless we place our reliance on the Great Architect of the Uni- verse, the Beneficent Founder of our Institution. We have the heart to feel, the hand to labour, the eye to behold, the ear to hear, the tongue to proclaim, and all the faculties which make us susceptible of every moral and natural good. May the Great Architect teach us to delight in them, to improve them, and through the healthy order and excellence of created things, to view, contemplate, and adore His uncreated excellence and beauty. Formed as His Temple, and enriched with the orna- ments of His creative Wisdom, we look up to him to inspire us wilh virtue, with all which can dignify, refine and exalt our nature, and render the Temple at least not wholly unworthy of its sacred inhabitant. To this end, let us make the volume of the sacred law — that Book of instruc- tive wisdom — the never erring Square to regulate our conduct ; the Compass within whose hallowed circle we shall ever walk with safety and with peace — the infallible Plumb-line and criterion of rectitude and truth. May we be enabled to fill each sphere of duty with exactness and honour, and by our attention to our oflBces and to the endearing charities of social life in particular, to win the love of those who unite with us; and as fathers, husbands, friends — as worthy men and worthy Masons — to distinguish and exalt the profession in which we glory. May this undertaking, contrived in wisdom, be executed in strength and adorned with beauty, so that it may be an institution where peace, harmony, and brotherly-love shall perpetually reign. It was then moved by Brother Butchart, P.M., S.C., seconded by Brother Chandler, P.M., S.C., " That, inasmuch as the mem- bers of this Grand Lodge hail from different jurisdictions, it is resolved that they retain such rank and title as they severally held at the formation of this Grand Lodge." Carried. Moved by Brother Weekes, P.M., Grand Secretary, seconded by Brother Beer, P.M., " That, inasmuch as this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge has been formed by Lodges hailing from different jurisdictions, and wearing different coloured regalia, for the present, such subordinate Lodges be permitted to wear such regalia as they may have in use at the formation of this Grand Lodge." 31 Moved by Brother Williams, P.M., P.G.S., I.O., seconded by Brother Booth, P.M., " That the Q-rand Lodge be authorised to apply to each of the daughter Lodges for such funds as they may deem it expedient to advance." Carried Moved by Brother Weekes, P.M., Grand Secretary, seconded by Brother R. Chandler, P.M., " That the Most Worshipful the Grand Master be requested to nominate a Committee of three to assist him and the G-rand Secretary in preparing an address to the Sister Grand Lodges." Carried. W. Brothers A. W. Manning, J. H. Butchart, and J. Slade, •were then appointed a Committee in accordance with the above resolution. ' An anthem was sung by the choir, prayer oifered up by Grand Chaplain, and the Grand Lodge closed by the Grand Master in ample form. The foregoing Report is a correct account of the Proceedings of the Convention and the Inauguration of Grand Lodge of New South Wales. NICHOLAS WEEKES, Grand Secretary. -11 .a.i=:pe!3^dix:. i~ Freemasons' Hall Hotel, York Street, Sydney, N.S.W. July, 1877. To the Most "Worshipful the Grrand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland. I have the honour, as Chairman of the Masonic Union of New South Wales, to address you, laying our case before you and asking your advice towards obtaining the recognition of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales when the same is organised. Freemasonry was introduced into this colony about sixty years ago by means of a warrant attached to the regiment then stationed here. This was followed by Lodge 260, still working, whose warrant from the G-rand Lodge of Ireland is dated 1824. Since then many Lodges have been established, and there are now working here no less than twenty-three Lodges under the English, sixteen under the Scotch, and six under the Irish Constitutions. There is, of course, a dissimilarity in the several Eituals. The Constitutions differ in several material points. The recognition of the Mark Degree and the position and working of the Eoyal Arch Degree are so various as to cause some (and that no little) inconvenience. I am unable to state the number of Masons at this time actually members of Lodges in New South Wales, but as several of the Lodges number over 100 members the number of Masons must be very large. Very large sums of money are remitted annually from here. Tour own Provincial G-rand Lodge remits annually about £100. The total remitted is more than enough to maintain with due dignity the proposed G-rand Lodge of New South Wales. Many of our brethren are of high social rank, and no difiiculty need exist in the appointment of a G-rand Master of suitable rank and position to sit as equal with other G-rand Masters throughout the world. In the opinion of the members of this Masonic Union great necessity exists for the present formation of such G-rand Lodge. There are a number of Spurious Lodges of so called Masons under the well sounding title of the New South Wales Constitu- tion, utterly irregular, but who are drawing large numbers and amassing large funds, doing much injury to genuine Masonry, but they would fall at once were the Constitutional Q-rand Lodge of New South Wales formed. 33 In my place in Provincial Grand Lodge held 24tli April, 1877, I gave notice of the following motions : — 1. In the opinion of this Grand Lodge it is imperatively necessary for the best interests of Freemasonry in New South "Wales that a Grrand Lodge should be established. 2. That a Petition be forwarded through the Provincial Grrand Lodge, to the Grrand Lodge of Scotland, praying that we may be released from our allegiance in order to form a Q-rand Lodge. 3. That a Committee be appointed by this Provincial Grand Lodge to carry these resolutions into effect. 4. That all expenses incurred in the said workiug be defrayed from the funds of the Provincial Grand Lodge. After some discussion the Depute P.G. Master in the chair directed these resolutions to be received, subject to the opinion of the next Provincial Grand Lodge, but at that meeting the E.W.P.G. Master decided that he could not allow these motions to be put, being in his opinion contrary to the spirit of his commission. The Scotch Lodges throughout the whole colony took these matters into their consideration, and in open Lodge every Lodge except one or tmo have passed resolutions affirming the desirability of forming such Grand Lodge, and, under seal, have transmitted such resolutions to the Provincial Grand Lodge. In consequence of these resolutions and of the E.W. Prov. Grand Master having decided that such could not be discussed in Provincial Grand Lodge, a large number of Masons met and formed themselves into the Union for the purposes shown in the enclosed manifesto, to which I request your fraternal attention. Since the formation of this Union the English and Irish Lodges have been communicated with. The matter will be brought before the Irish Lodges at their next meeting. A very large number of the brethren of the Irish Constitution have expressed their intention cordially to support the Union, and many of the English Masons, as individuals, have expressed their approval. The several Provincial Grand Masters have expressed them- selves favourable to the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Will you fraternally and kindly take this with the enclosed manifesto into consideration, and if you will favour us with any hints or recommendations as to the course we should pursue towards organizing and obtaining your recognition of such Grand 34 Lodge, you will confer a lasting benefit on tlie brethren of New South Wales. I have the honor to be Yours fraternally, WiLLiAK Booth, Past Master, 452, S.C, Provincial Grand Inspector of Workings, S.C, Past M.E.Z., lie Chapter, S.C, Past Prior of the Temple, S.C. (b) IVeemasons' HaU, York Street, Sydney, New South Wales. 17th July, 1877. The Most Worshipful Grand Master and Officers of the Grand Lodge of Quebec. Most W. Grand Sir, Officers and Brethren, — It being the general opinion of the members of the Craft in this territory that a Grand Masonic Lodge of New South Wales is needed, the Committee elected by the Masonic Union formed on the 5th July instant for the purpose of effecting the above object have now the honor of requesting that you wiU be good enough to furnish them with such legal or constitutional information as is necessary to establish the same, together with such other assist- ance as wiU enable them hereafter to obtain recognition by all Grand Lodges. Signed on behalf of the Committee, WrLLiAM Booth, P.M., 452, S.C, Chairman. E. H. Williams, P.M., I.C, Hon. Secretary. Similar letters were forwarded to the Grand Lodges of Canada, New Brunswick, and California. [C.J Grand Lodge P. and A. M. of Californai, Office of the Grand Secretary, Masonic Temple, San Francisco, 23rd August, 1877. E. H. Williams, Esq., Hon. Sec. Masonic Union, Sydney, New South Wales. Dear Sir and Brother, — Tours of the I7th instant, with two printed circulars, relative to the proposed establishment of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales, is just at hand. The Grand Lodge of this State will hold its Annual Communi- cation in October next, commencing on the ninth day of that 35 month, and, as your letter ia addressed to that body, it shall be laid before it at that time. With aU best wishes for yourself and for the success of your proposed organization, I am Tours truly and fraternally, ALEX. G. ABELL, Grand Secretary. [D.J The Grand Lodge of Quebec, A. F. and A. M., Grand Secretary's Office, Montreal, 1st September, 1877. E. H. "Williams, Esq., Hon. Sec. Dear Sir and Brother, — I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of I7th July last, addressed to the M.W., the Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, and I am directed by that M.W. Bro. to state that it will have his early attention. Pursuant with the instructions of the M.W. the G.M., I send by this day's mail to your address and for the information of whom it may concern a printed copy of the proceedings adopted in the formation of this Grand Lodge. I have the honour to be yours fraternally, JOHN H. ISAACSON, Grand Secretary. (10) 9, Collins Street, "West, Melbourne, 20th August, 1877. Dear Sir and Brother, — Tours of 14th instant duly to hand, and I send by book post a copy of circular sent to our Lodges. The great obstacle we have to contena against is the opposition of the District Grand Master, E.C., and his Secretary, who have prohibited the Lodges under their jurisdiction from considering the subject, notwithstanding which, however, we secured the co- operation of members of upwards of twenty Lodges, and should have had a Grand Lodge of Victoria ere this but for another difficulty, which I think was occasioned through the influence of the same officials, I mean obtaining the consent of a thorough good man as the Grand Master, Sir George Verdon, whom we first hoped to secure, declined ; and another Mason, who would have been acceptable throughout the colony, Mr. "W. J. Clarke, also declined after having taken a day or two to think over it. I may say that we have been very fairly successful in our appeal to the brethren, who are nearly all ripe for it, but it 36 Beems so necessary to have a first-class man at the head, that in the mean time efforts have been allowed to slumber which may at any moment be revived successfully. I trust you may prosper in ycmr attempt, and I am sure if you do that a great incentive will be given to us ; indeed one of the principal objections taken by those opposed to the project here, was, that they thought exertions should be used to obtain a Grand Lodge of Australia, but this of course, in my opinion, would not be very possible, as the difficulty would be to fix head quarters. If, however, &rand Lodges were formed in New South Wales, Yictoria, and South Austraha, there might hereafter be a federation for constitutional requirements. I don't know that I can really give you any further information than is contained in our circular, but if I can aid you in any way only mention it, and I shall be glad to da what I can. I think your Manifesto well arranged, and, being brief, is perhaps better adapted than our long one for the pur- pose intended. Trusting you will kindly keep me advised of your progress, I am, Dear Sir and Brother, Tours fraternally, A. ELLIS. E. H. "Williams, Esq., P.G. Secretary, Sydney. (11) Proposed Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Yictoria, Masonic HaU, Lonsdale Street, East, Melbourne, 4th September, 1876. Sir and Brother, — I have the honour, by direction of the Committee appointed to take steps for the creation of a Grand Lodge of Yictoria, to forward herewith for your perusal and consideration a circular detailing the progress already made and containing information relative to the formation of existing Grand Lodges, and I am instructed to request your favourable support to the project now submitted to the Craft throughout the colony. The Committee deem it advisable in the first instance to secure the co-operation of as many T7,M.'s and P.M.'s as may be willing to aid and assist in successfully establishing a Grand Lodge of Victoria, the creation of which must be the spontaneous act of the brethren, no existing iody having power to grant such privilege. I am, therefore, to solicit permission to place your name on the General Committee, a complete list of which will be disseminated as soon as replies have been received to this communication. I annex a list to which I have to request you will obtain signatures of those favourable to the formation of the Grand 37 Lodge, and kindly forward to me with as little delay as possible, for publishing with the other lists, which will be duly distributed when complete. Tours fraternally, A. ELLIS, Hon. Secretary. (12) Proposed Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Yictoria. The following advertisement appeared in the Melbourne Daily Newspapers of 4th July :— MASONIC. — To the "Worshipful Masters and Past Masters of all Lodges throughout the colony. — In accordance with a resolution adopted at a preliminary meeting of Past Masters, we hereby convene a Meeting of the above, to be held at the Masonic Hall, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, on Monday, the 31st day of July, at half -past 7 o'clock, p.m., to consider matters of import- ance to the Craft in Victoria. H. "W. LOWBT ") p, A. Ellis j Conveners. In response to which, an influential meeting took place, when the following resolution was passed upon a division of ayes 40, noes 3, several brothers not voting : — " That in the opinion of this meeting of Worshipful and Past Masters, the time has arrived for the creation of a G-rand Lodge of Victoria ; " and for the purpose of carrying out the resolution the following Masters and Past Masters enrolled themselves as a Committee : — Bro. The Hon. E. S. Anderson, M.L.C., P.M., E.C. Bro. J. F. Arnold, W.M., S.C. „ Thomas Astley,P.M, E.C. „ A. T. Best, P.M., I.C. „ W. Bowen, P.M., E.C. „ Jas. Blackburn, P.M., E.C. „ J. S. Butters, P.M., S.C. „ J. A. Cantor, P.M., E.C. „ "Wm. Chambers, P.M.,E C. „ J. Chapman, P.M., E.C. & I.C. George Coppin, M.L.A., P.M., S.C. „ C.J.Charlwood,P.M.,I.C. „ William Davis, P.M., I.C. „ H. G. DeGruchy, P.M. ,1. C. „ John Duross, P.M., E.C. & I.C. „ Theo. Dwight, P.M., I.C. Bro. H. Kelson, P.M., E.C. „ H. W. Langlands, P.M., EC. „ J. W. Leonard, P.M., I.C. „ James Louden, W.M., I.C. „ H.W.Lowry,P.M.,E.C.& S.C. „ J. C. Lowrie, P.M., E.G., & s o „ G. p. Martin, P.M., S.C. „ J. McLean, P.M., E.C. „ E.W.Nicholl8,W.M.,I.C. „ William Pie, P.M., I.C. „ T.E.Eawlinson,P.M.,E.C. „ J. O. Eose, P.M., I.C. „ The Hon. W. C. Smith, M.L.A., P.M.,E.C. „ WiUiamSmall, P.M., E.C. &I.C. H. Thompson, P.M., E.C. 38 Bro. A. Ellis, P.M., I.C. „ William Elms, P.M., S.C. „ C. E. Erichsen, P.M., S.C. „ John Eorbes, P.M., I.C. „ M. Goldstein, P.M. , E. C. & „ A. Hart,P.M.,E.C.&I.C. „ L. H. Hart, P.M., E.C. „ G. E. JohnBon, P.M., E.G., I.C. & S.C. „ The Hon. G. B. Kerferd, M.L.A., P.M., I.C. Bro. A. K. Smith, P.M., S.C. & I.C. W. H. Smith, P.M., E.C. B. N. Sandilands, P.M., E.C. E. H. Shakespear, P.M., S.C. John Whiteman, M.L.A., P.M., E.C. A. H. "WUkinson, P.M., E.C. J. Zevenboom, P.M., E.C. (With power to add to their number.) At a subsequent meeting of the Committee the following officers were duly eleeted : — Brothers George Coppin, Chairman ; H. G. DeGruchy, Treasurer ; A. Ellis, Secretary. The Committee in soliciting the co-operation of Lodges, Masters, and Past Masters in Yietoria, think it unnecessary to enumerate the many advantages to be derived by the establish- ment of one governing power for the Craft in this colony. Although it is not expected that all the Lodges will at once throw up their warrants to amalgamate for this most desirable object, it is believed that when a Grand Lodge of Victoria is established many Lodges will take out warrants under its Constitution, and that the progress of Masonry will extend in this colony in the same ratio which followed the establishment of the Grand Lodge of Canada. The many disadvantages, irregularities, and expenses at present imposed upon the Craft, under three distinct Consti- tutions, will soon disappear, whilst imiformity of working and combined interests will bring the various Lodges into closer harmony and greatly promote fraternal intercourse. The Committee, taking into consideration that the number oi Lodges in Victoria greatly exceed those working in Canada, Nova Scotia, and Quebec, when Grand Lodges were established in those colonies, are of opinion that the time has arrived for the consummation by the brethren, as tlieir inherent right, of that practical self-government which is believed will conduce to the unity, strength, and prosperity of our noble institution. [Here follow voluminous Extraces from Masonic Authorities, which it is not necessary here to publish. — Geaitd Sec. X.S.W.] The Committee deem it unnecessary to add anv further reasons to secure the attention of the brethren than those already adduced, nor is it desirable to occupy additional space in entering into those details which will naturally follow on united action in this important project, but they earnestly solicit the co-operation 39 of all Masons desirous of perpetuating the best interests of the Craft and zealously anxious to extend its usefulness and its benefits. The Committee will be glad to receive the names of any "Worshipful Master or Past Master who desires to aid in the work, and as some expenses must necessarily be incurred, con- tributions will be receiyed towards the necessary funds by the Treasurer, H. Gr. DeGrruchy, Esq., 21, Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. Signed on behalf of the Committee. G-EOEOE GopprN", Chairman. A. Ellis, Hon. Secretary. Note. — AU communications to be addressed to Bro. A. Ellis, Hon. Secretary, Masonic Hall, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Masonic Union. The following Extracts from the Proceedings of various Q-rand Lodges will be read with interest by the brethren at the present time : — " United G-rand Lodge of Nova Scotia. — It gives us great pleasure to be able to announce the complete and entirely suc- cessful carrying out of the terms of union agreed to bf the Grand Lodges of Nova Scotia. Everything seemed to favour the auspicious event, and not a ripple of ill feeling or discontent marred the proceedings, which took place in the city of Halifax on St. John's Day last. " On "Wednesday evening the three P.G-. Lodges met in the Masonic Hall and elected officers for the ensuing year. The list comprises members from all the G-rand Lodges, the highest position being filled by the Hon. Alex. Keith, who has for so long a time acted as Provincial Grand Master under the G-rand Lodge of Scotland." " G-rand Lodge. — The regular Quarterly Communication of G-rand Lodge was held on "Wednesday evening, September 1st, 1869, in Freemasons' Hall. ******* " The Acting G-rand Master said he saw he had to make a communication with reference to the formation of a Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, and he would therefore move a resolution to acknowledge it ; but he would first call on the Grand Eegistrar to explain the circumstances. " Brother A. E. J. Mclntyre was sure the brethren knew that in most of our colonies Masons were living under three jurisdictions at least. The Grand Lodge of England held supreme sway over those Lodges that held warrants from it. The Grand Lodge of 40 Scotland was the recognised power in a number of the colonies. In many of oux colonies also the Grrand Lodge of Ireland had granted warrants to subordinate Lodges which acted with the Grand Lodges of England and Scotland, although owing allegi- ance to the Supreme Grand Lodge of Ireland. This was the case in Nova Scotia, where England had the largest number of Lodges, supported by the most eligible Masons It happened some time ago that Grand Lodge of Scotland felt dissatisfied with the way in which their Lodges were conducted, and those Lodges determined to assert their independence ; and unknown to the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, the Grand Lodge holding sway imder the Grand Lodge of England, proving their loyalty to the mother country, and determined to uphold the interests of Masonry in that colony ; but they found themselves in a very awkward position, because by the late international law a notion was abroad that a certain number of Lodges might form theia- selves into a Grand Lodge, and that they then got possession of the country. This caused a great deal of perturbation. They frankly and openly communicated their difficulty to the Grand Lodge of England. They themselves felt that the time had come that by the number and importance of Masons in that colony the three jurisdictions named might form a Grand Lodge which would do honour to the three parents who had sent them forth. They joined together and held their various assemblies and communicuted to the Grand Master that they thought the time had now come when they might assert their independence, and, as the daughter ot Grand Lodge, might walk alone and maintain the interest of Masonry elsewhere. The Grand Master, with that loyalty which always distinguished him, gave them no countenance to throw off the yoke of England, if it was a yoke at all ; but he said, ' If you find you are strong enough to stand alone, and approach the Grand Lodge of England as it should be approached, the Masons of England are too loyal and too sound to reject the prayer of any petition.' Now, they had acted on that recommendation, and the substance of it was this — they felt themselves in a position now to uphold Masonry in the colony ; they had brought themselves to that strong position they now held, and they asked the Grand Lodge of England to recognize them as a Grand Lodge, owing to the Grand Lodge the allegiance they had always held. There certainly appeared to (Grand Registrar) to be nothing more honourable to them or this Grand Lodge, so deeply did they feel their obligations that they humbly solicited that they might retain the warrants they now held as a perpetual memorial, to be handed down from generation to generation, to show that they sprang from the old tree of Masons in England. (Cheers.) Therefore, he had much pleasure, in the absence of the Grand Master of England, in asking the Grand Lodge to recognise the prayer of this petition, 41 and to allow ttat the G-rand Lodge o£ Nova Scotia should exist as an independent G-rand Lodge, but allowing the Lodges there to retain their warrants. Brother J. L. Evans, President of the Board of General Purposes, seconded the motion on the ground that inconvenience must result in after ages from three independent G-rand Lodges holding jurisdiction over the Lodges in the colonies. When they felt themselves strong enough to establish themselves as an independent Grand Lodge, it was the duty of the G-rand Lodge of England to recognise them as such. "Brother M'Intyre replied and the motion was carried." " G-rand Lodge of Scotland. — The Quarterly Communication of this body was held in Freemasons' Hall, Edinburgh, on 8th November, 1869. ******** The resignation as P.G-. Master of the Hon. Alexander Keith, M.W. Grand Master of Nova Scotia, tendered in consequence of the formation of an independent Grand Lodge for that colony, was accepted, and it was unanimously agreed to hold out the right hand of fellowship and recognition to the new Grand Lodge." E. H. "WiiLiAMS, Hon. Sec. PROCEEDINGS §ranir JoJrge nf Jt^itr cSnutlj ®a.U$, SPECIAL COMMUJSriCATIOX OP GEAND LODGE. Held at the Temperance Hall, Pitt Street on 12tli December, 1877. The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, with prayer, by the M."W. the Grand Master. Letters of apology for non-attendance were read from "W. Bros. Eev. C. P. Garnsey, Booth and Starkey. Correspondence read and received from the Grand Lodges of California, and New Brunswick. B«solved that 500 copies of report of proceedings of the Masonic Convention be printed and that a copy be forwarded " together with an explanatory letter " to each Grand Lodge in the World, and to each Provincial or District Grand Lodge in Victoria, South Australia, New Zealand, and Queensland ; also that a copy be forwarded to each Lodge in New South Wales. Brother Kingsbury was elected Assistant Grand Pursuivant. Grand Treasurer having stated that the balance in hand of subscriptions towards the formation of Grand Lodge was reduced to £1 5, Grand Secretary was instructed to write to all Daughter Lodges for such funds as they may deem it expedient to advance. Upon a discussion ensuing as to the advisability of calling up the fees to be paid by Grand OiEcers, the Grand Master deemed the matter premature. It was decided that the Grand Tyler's gratuity for services rendered at the meeting of the 3rd December, be £1 10s., together with 10s. for present meeting. The Grand Lodge was closed in ample form at 10 p.m. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION. Held at the Temperance Hall, Pitt Street, on 16th January, 1878. W. Bro. A. "W. Manning, Deputy Grand Master, took the chair in the absence of the Grand Master. 43 The G-rand Lodge was opened with prayer at 8 p.m. The minutes of previous communications were read and con- firmed. Grand Secretary read communications from the G-rand Secre- tary of England and Lodge of Truth, Braidwood, E.G., also copy of circular he had forwarded to all Lodges in New South Wales and other Colonies, also copy of letter forwarded to all Grand Lodges. Grand Secretary reported that copies of the proceedings of Convention with explanatory letter from the Grand Master had been fqrwarded to each Grand Lodge in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, Nova Scotia, New Bruns- wick, Prince Edward's Island and Prance, also to each Provincial Grand Lodgein New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Adelaide, and New Zealand, and to all Lodges in New South Wales. The Deputy Grand Master stated that the principal object of the meeting was the election of brethren to sit on the Board of General Purposes. Grand Secretary proposed that six members bo elected in addition to those legally empowered to sit, seconded by W. Bro. Carpenter, Junior Grand Warden and carried. The following brethren were then proposed, seconded and duly elected in accordance with the foregoing resolution, viz. : — Wor. Bros. Booth, Williams, J. H. Smith, A. Burne, J. Hunt, and A. Smith. W. Bro. Tornaghi offered to translate and forward copy of meeting of Convention to the Grand Lodge of Italy. The Grand Lodge was closed in due form with prayer, by the D. G. Master. QUAETEELT COMMUNICATION, Held at the Temperance Hall, Pitt Street, on Monday, the 17th June, 1878. The chair was taken by the M. W. Grand Master at 8 p.m. Grand Lodge was opened with prayer in ample form. Grand Secretary called roll of Officers and members entitled to a seat in Grand Lodge. The minutes of previous communications were read and eon- firmed. Geand Secbetaet's Eepoet. The Grand Secretary reports to the M.W. the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, that since the last communication of Grand Lodge^ the various committeei haye B?.t as fojlow^, — Bpftj-d of 4A General Purposes, Monthly, Committee on Eevision of Constitu- tion-four meetings ; and tte Committees on E«galia, Charters, and Diplomas — five or six meetings. The Committees have discharged their duties zealously and efficiently, a form of charter, diploma and seal for Grand Lodge adopted, of very handsome and appropriate designs, and the same will be laid before the Grand Lodge this evening. A very large amount of correspondence has taken place between this Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodges of other Countries, and the Daughter Lodges of New South "Wales, and nothing has been left undone by the M. "W. the Grand Master, the W. Deputy and Past Deputy Grand Master, the Board of General Purposes, and Grand Secretary to place the Grand Lodge on a solid basis. A most determined and un-masonic opposition to this Grand Lodge is being made by the District Grand Lodge of England, and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Scotland and it will be the duty of every member of Grand Lodge to fight firmly for the principles they assert. There has not been sufiicient time for the committee "appointed to find a suitable room for the Grand Lodge meetings," to bring up their report. The Masonic Hall Company having refused the use of their hall, it was compulsory for this communication to be held in the present room. The Grand Lodge will be called upon to night to arrange the matter of finance, considerable expense having been incurred in Diplomas, Charters, &c., and it will be necessary for the Printing Committee to order at least 250 copies of the Book of Constitu- tions and 600 forms for Daughter Lodges, for Intrants &c., a considerable saving however will be made by the sale of the Book of Constitutions, the price of which will not exceed 2s. Od. each. Although it was decided that no charge was to be made to Lodges who are now taking part in the Grand Lodge, for ex- changing charters, I have no doubt that they will not object to paying the cost of printing &c , which can be fixed by this Grand Lodge. The Grand Secretary has received great assistance from the various Committees, and especially from the E. W. Deputy and Past Deputy Grand Masters, whose exertions have been most untiring. Praternally submitted. NICHOLAS WEEKES, Grand Secretary. Temperance HaU, Pitt Street, 4th June, 1878, 45 The report of tlie Board of General Purposes was read and adopted. Report of Board of General Pv/rposes laid lefore Grand Lodge on tie Vlth June, 1878. The M. "W. the Grand Master, Officers and Members of Grand Lodge, M. "W. Grand Master and Brethren — Tour Board respectfully submit the following report of its proceedings. Since the last meeting of Grand Lodge your Board have held four meetings, of which the following is a synopsis : — 13th March, 1878. Resolved— Th&t W. Bro. Booth, Past D. G. Master, be the Vice-President of the Board. Resolved — That all Delegates at the Convention be members of the Board until the next General election. Resolved — That "W". Bros. Chandler, Slade, Hunt, Burne, and Grand Secretary, be appointed a sub-committee to revise the Laws of Constitution for Grand Lodge. Resolved — That "W. Bros. Deputy Grand Master, Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, be appointed a sub-committee to prepare forms of Charter, Diploma, and Seal for Grand Lodge. Resolved — That a sub-committee consisting of W. Bros. Booth, Burne, Starkey, and Williams, arrange designs for regalia and jewels for Grand Officers and Daughter Lodges. 16th April, 1878. Grand Secretary reported that W. Bro. Manning, had forwarded £5 as his contribution to the funds of Grand Lodge. Correspondence was read from Lodge of Truth, Braidwood and proceedings of the Grand Lodges of Colorado and San IVancisco. Resolved — That the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, recog- nize the degrees of Eoyal Arch Masonry as so recognized by the Grand Lodge of England. Resolved— Th&t the present Grand Officers retain their respec- tive offices until June 1880, in recognition of their services in perfecting the Inauguration of Grand Lodge. The Committee on Constitutions brought up report which was adopted. Report of Sub-Gommittee appointed ly Board of General Purposes, " under the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South Wales," for the purpose of revising the Booh of Constitution. Tour Committee met on the 19th day of March, 1878. Present— W. Bros. Brown, Hunt, J. Slade, Weekes. The Committee carefully revised Book of Constitutions to page 33, and adjourned at 9 p.m., until Tuesday, 26th March, 46 An Adjourned Meeting of Committee took place on Tuesday evening, at half-past 7 p.m. Present — W. Bros. J. Slade, Hunt Brown, Weekes. The Committee resumed their labours, and revised Book of Constitutions from page 33 to 45, and from page 118 to 126. It was resolved on the motion of W. Bro. Hunt, seconded by W. Bro. Slade, " That all matters relating to District Grand Lodges and Officers, and Provincial Grand Lodges and Officers, be struck out." The Committee then revised Book of Constitutions from page 61, '' Private Lodges," to page 76 inclusive. The Committee adjourned at 9 p.m., until Tuesday, 2nd day of April. The Adjourned Meeting of Committee took place on Tuesday, 2nd day of April, at half-past 7 o'clock p.m. Present — TV. Bros. Hunt, Weekes, Chandler, Brown, Slade. W. Bro. Booth was present as a member of the Kegalia Committee. The Committee resumed their revision of Book of Constitutions from page 76 to page 136. The Committee unanimously resolved that the Eules Nos. 2 and 3, relating to the Fund of Benevolence, stand as follows : — i Every Lodge shall pay for each member on its roll, towards the Fund of Benevolence, the sum of sixpence monthly or sis shillings per annum. 3 The Lodge of Benevolence shall consist of the M.W. the Grand Master, the W. Grand Secretary, the W. Grand Registrar, with the W. Masters of all Sydney Lodges, and the W". Masters or Proxy Masters of all Country Lodges. The Lodge of Benevolence shall elect its own President, Yice-President, and Secretary, at its first meeting in March annually. Tour Committee respectfully suggest that the present Grand Lodge Officers hold their respective offices for the space of two years from the date of the Inauguration of Grand Lodge, in recognition of their services in perfecting the Inauguration and working of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Your Committee have had under their consideration the expediency of recognizing the Degree of the Royal Arch, as part of the Degrees of Masonry to be acknowledged by the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Upon this point the members were divided in opinion, and have left the fame to be decided by the Board of General Purposes. The Committee unanimously passed a vote of thanks to W. Bro. Hunt, who kindly placed a room at the disposal of the Committee. In conclusion, your Committee report that they have paid careful attention in their revision of tlie Laws for regulating the Cmft under the MW. the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, 47 and fully believe that Laws as amended and revised, if approved of by the Board of General Purposes, will conduce to the well- working of all Lodges under its jurisdiction. (Signed) — Htint, Chairman T. H. Beown John Slabe NicHS. Weekes, G.S. Temperance Hall, Pitt Street, 16th April, 1878. The Committee on Eegalia brought up their Eeport, which was adopted. The Report of the Committee on Charters and Diplomas was also laid on the table, and approved. Heport of the Committee on Charters, Seal, Sfc. To the Worshipful the Board of General Purposes — The Committee on Charters, Seal, &c., beg to report that in accordance with authority received, they have made enquiry as to the cost of producing a Seal, after the approved design, in vulcanite, and they have ascertained that the price would be Five Guineas. This, together with the fact that such a Seal would not last long, could not be used in a press, and would at best give an imperfect impression, has induced the Committee to decline the tender, and have recourse, for the present, to a lithograph impression on each Charter and Diploma. Messrs. S. T. Leigh & Co. have tendered to supply fifty Charters, with arms, seal, and full letter press, for the sum of Ten Guineas. As this offer appeared to the Committee very reasonable, and as it has been deemed expedient to be prepared for early issue of Charters, the Committee have arranged with Messrs. Leigh & Co. accordingly. With regard to the Diplomas, the Committee have made no definite arrangement, as there is not the same urgency as in the matter of Charters ; but the Committee are of opinion that Messrs. Leigh & Co.'s offer to supply fifty, with arms, seal, and warrants, and letter press, for the sum of Ten Guineas, is reasonable, and might be accepted. Submitted on behalf of Committee. A. W. Manning, D.G.M. J. Hawkins Butchaet, S.G.W". Correspondence from the Grand Secretaries of Iowa, Colorado, and Tennessee was read. Grand Secretary reported the receipt of £10 from Lodge Woolloomooloo towards the funds ot Grand Lodge. 48 Grand Secretary was instructed to write to all Lodges wbich had intimated their intention of joining the Grand Lodge, for the date of their Charters Irom the parent Grand Lodges, in order that the new Charters be issued according to seniority. The Lodge of Truth, E.G., having applied for a Charter, it was resolved that the Lodge be requested to make a formal application for such in the usual and authorized manner. 21st May, 1880. Grand Secretary read Correspondence from the Grand Lodge of New Brunswick, Florida, Kansas, and Massachusetts, and replies thereto. The following brethren were appointed a Sub-Committee, for the purpose of selecting suitable premises for the meetings of Grand Lodge, viz. : Wor Bros. Slade, Monk, Chandler, and Williams. Resolved — That the Lodges by their Masters and Wardens (or their Proxies), who have given in their adherence to this Grand Lodge, be summoned for the next Quarterly Communication, and produce their Warrants, for the purpose of exchange. Resolved — That W. Bros. Butchart, Manning, Booth, Slade, Chandler, and Grand Secretary, be a Sub-Committee on printing. Grand Secretary was instructed to write to the Secretary of the Masonic Hall Company, requesting that brother to state upon what terms the Hall would be granted to hold the meetings of Grand Lodge. The above is fraternally submitted for adoption by Grand Lodge. (Signed) E. V. Gaie, President. Resolved — That tHe fee payable for charters, for lodges now holding charters from a Grand Lodge be £1 Is., and to all new lodges £5 5s. Resolved — That each country lodge be empowered to elect a Proxy Master and Wardens to represent their interests in Grand Lodge. Resolved — That the dues exigible to Grand Lodge be fixed /cr the present at Is. per member per annum. A petition for a charter for Lodge Woolloomooloo, No. 367, S.C., was read, the petition being properly signed, the charter ivas ordered to issue. Resolved — That a Committee on Correspondence be and is hereby appointed to draw up a manifesto, the same to be for- warded to all Grand and Daughter Lodges, showing the Consti- tutional character of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, such Committee to consist of W. Bros. Deputy Grand Master Manning S. G. "Warden Butchart, E. H. Williams, and Grand Eegistrar R. Chandler. An invitation was received from tte Lodge "WooUoomooloo for an official visit of Grand Lodge, at the Installation of Officers, at its next meeting. The Grand Lodge was closed vrith prayer in ample form at 10 p.m. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION OF GEAND LODGE. Held at the Temperance Hall, Pitt Street, on "Wednesday, 7th iugnst, 1878. The Grand Lodge was opened in form by W. Bro. "W". Booth, P.D.G. Master, in the absence of the M.VY.G. Master, at eight o'clock p.m. The roll call of members entitled to sit was read. The minutes of previous Communication were read and confirmed. Communication read from Bro. P.M. James Blair, in reference to the petition for a Charter for a Lodge to be styled " Lodge St. Andrew." W. Bro. Senior Grand Warden explained the reason of the protest given by him at the Board of General Purposes, against granting a Charter to the brethren signing the petition for a Charter for Lodge St. Andrew, ancl intimated his intention of withdrawing his protest, if the brethren signing such petition would acknowledge they had acted irregularly in having joined an unconstitutional body, styling itself " The New South Wales Constitution." He therefore proposed, " That the prayer of the petition of the brethren of Lodge St. Andrew be granted, provided they sign the letter forwarded by "Wor. Bro. Blair, acknowledging the irregularity of their former proceedings." Seconded by W. Bro. Carpenter, J.G. "Warden, and carried. A letter of apology for non-ati endance was read from W. Bro. the Bev. C. F. Garnsey, on account of pressing clerical duties. Correspondence read from Lodges Star of the Macleay, 8.C., Abercorn, and Edinburgh, Mudgee ; also from W. Bro. Hobbs, P.M., in reference to opening a new Lodge at Milton, TJlladulla. A Proxy Commission in favour of W Bro. R. V. Gale, from the Lodge Excelsior, was handed to that brother. A Finance Committee was appointed, consisting of "W. Bros. Hunt, McNeilly, Monk, Grand Treasurer, and Senior and Junior Grand "Wardens. Eesolved— That all printing for Grand Lodge be given to members of the Craft. m A recommendation was received from the Board of Greneral Purposes, " That steps be taken to establish a Masonic paper in the interests of this Grand Lodge." The Grand Lodge closed in form at 10 p.m., by the P. D. Grand Master. BEGULAR QUAETERLT COMMUNICATION OF GRAND LODGE Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, Sydney, on the 9th December, 1878. The M.W. Grand Master opened the Grand Lodge, with prayer by Grand Chaplain, at 7.30 p.m. The minutes of previous Communication were read and confirmed. Grand Treasurer brought up the following Report : — Geaitd Teeasueee's Repoei. The Grand Treasurer reports for the information of the M.W. the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, the following statement of accounts to date : — £ 8. d. To cash received from Grand Secretary 148 10 7 By paid accounts 155 16 8 Leaving a balance due Grand Treasurer of 7 1 6 The amount owing by various Lodges to 30th November, not including dues for last quarter, is £72 8s. lid. The dues for last quarter are estimated at £50. Assets and Liabilities. £ s. d. By cash received 148 10 7 Byduesowing 72 8 11 £ a. d. 220 19 6 To accounts paid 155 16 8 „ Due Benevolent Fund account 24 5 „ Accounts unpaid 29 10 „ Rent of Hall 2 211 11 8 Leaving a probable balance of £9 7 10 The Grand Treasurer has placed to the account of Grand Lodge a Loan of £50, which, however, he thinks will not be required. (Signed) JoHif Staeket, Masonic Temple, Grand Treasurer. Sydney, 9th December, 1878. 51 The Report of the Board of General Purposes was read and adopted. Report of the Board of General Purposes, 9th December, 1878. The Board met on 20th August last, W. Bro. W. Booth, Vice- President, in the chair. The minutes of previous Board Meeting having been read and confirmed. The Eoom Committee reported that they had made arrange- ments with Bro. P.M. Blair, for the use of the Masonic Temple, at the following scale of charges, viz. : — Grand Lodge and Regular Monthly Meetings of Daughter Lodges, 15s. per meeting ; Emergency and Committee Meetings, 5s. each. This arrangement was confirmed. Bro. P.M. Blair informed the Board that he would fit up an office for Grand Secretary, at his own expense. The Grand Secretary was instructed to confer with the Committee on Poreign Correspondence, to reply to the letter of the Grand Secretary of Ireland. It was proposed, seconded, and carried, " That a Masonic newspaper be published in the interest of Grand Lodge." Wor. Bros. Williams, Manning, Butchart, and Chandler were appointed a Committee to carry out the above resolution. A Charter in favour of the Australian Social Mother Lodge was granted. The Board again met on 12th September, W. Bro. J. Booth, Vice-President, in the Chair. The minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed. A Proxy Commission in favour of Wor. Bro. Booth was handed to that brother from the Lodge Abbotsford, Gulgong. An application was received for a Charter for a new Lodge at Ulladulla, to be named the Milton Lodge. The application was granted, and referred to the M.W. the Grand Master for confirmation. The Finance Committee reported that they had arranged with Grand Treasurer to advance the sum of £50 to Grand Lodge, for twelve months, without interest, the loan having been guaranteed by W. Bros. Carpenter, Monk, Hunt, Booth, Chandler, and Weetes. Correspondence was read from various Lodges, and a letter from the Grand Secretary of Iowa, informing Grand Secretary that he had forwarded a valuable collection of Masomic books in connection with the Grand Lodge of Iowa, for the use of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. A letter in reply to the Grand Secretary of Iowa, was read by Grand Secretary, thanking W. Bro. T. S. Parvin for his valuable present. It was decided that the price of the Books of Constitution be fixed at 2s. 6d. each. 52 Wor. Bro. Booth reported that the Diplomas were ready for issue by the printer. A Standing Committee on Foreign Correspondence was formed, consisting of Wor. Bros. Neitenstein, Chandler, E. H. WUliams, and Grand Secretary. After transacting general business, the Board adjourned at 9.45 p.m. The Board again met on 9th day of October. W. Bro. R. V. Gale, President, in the Chair. The minutes of last Board Meeting were read and confirmed. The Grand Secretary read an application for a new Charter, for a Lodge to be named the Farnell Lodge. The application was recommended by the Master, Wardens, and brethren of the Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia, No. 1. The application was granted, and referred to the M.W. the Grand Master for confirmation. Correspondence was laid upon the table from various Lodges, and Grand Secretary read replies. The Board adjourned at 9.15 p.m. The Board again met on the 6th November at the usual place of meeting, at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street. W. Bro. E. V. Gale, President, took the Chair at 7-30 p.m. The minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed. Correspondence was read from Lodges Abercorn, Abbotsford, Milton, and Edinburgh. A letter was read from W. Bro. G. !P. Garnsey, tendering his resignation of the office of Grand Chaplain, the resignation was accepted. A communication was read from W. Bro. H. G. Moreton, Wor. Master of Lodge Abercorn, informing Grand Secretary, that in compliance with the Commission from the M. W. the Grand Master, he had, in conjunction with his Officers, and the "Wor. Master of the Peabody Lodge, opened and consecrated the new Lodge at Milton, UlladuUa, and installed the first Office-bearers thereof. A Proxy Commission, in favour of Wor. Bro. P.M. Aird, as Proxy Master for the Lodge Edinburgh, Mudgee, was laid on the table. An application for a Charter for a New Lodge, to be named the " Cosmopolitan," was read. The petition was recommended by the W. Master and Wardens of the Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia, No. 1. The application was granted, and referred to the M.W. the Grand Master for confirmation. An application for another Charter in favour of a new Lodge, to be named " Pythagorus,'' was presented to the Board, recommended and supported by the Wor. Master, Wardens, and brethren of the Australian Social Mother Lodge, No. 0. 68 This application was also granted, and referred to the M.W. the Grand Master, for confirmation. It was proposed by "Wor. Bro. Hunt, seconded by Wor. Bro. Carpenter, " That a Ritual Committee be appointed to revise the Rituals now used by the various Lodges. Such Committee to consist of Wor. Bros. Booth, Manning, Hunt, Neitenstein, Chandler, and Grand Secretary." — Carried. Accounts for printing and general expenses, amounting to £60 4s. 8d., were passed for payment. After the general business had been disposed of, the Board adjourned at 9.45 p.m. Fraternally submitted, R. V. GALE, P. B. General Purposes. The following reply to the letter from the Grand Secretary of Ireland, was read, and gave general satisfaction : — Grand Secretary's Office, Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, Sydney, N.S.W., 30th October, 1878. James B. Oldham, Esq., Deputy Grand Secretary for Ireland. "W. Dear Sir and Brother, — Tour communication of the 15th March last I duly received, and. the same would have been replied to at an earlier date, but the subject matter has received prolonged and careful consideration by the Board of General Purposes. I am directed by the Board of General Purposes, to thank you for your prompt and fraternal reply to my previous letter, also for the spirit of justice expressed in the same. The interests of our once parent, but now sister Grand Lodges, have never been lost sight of by us. At our preUminary meeting it was decided, that all the just dues of our parent Grand Lodges should be faithfully discharged. WUle acknowledging the justice of your demands upon your late Lodges, we cannot but urge upon you the just claim of the majority of those Lodges forming the Grand Lodge of New South "VVales, who having paid all the just dues of their parent Grand Lodges, are entitled to full consideration at the hands of your Grand Lodge, they being in themselves sufficiently numerous to meet all the requirements of Law, Custom, or Precedent in the establishment of a Grand Lodge in a Neutral Territory. For your information I will briefly relate the nature of the discussions on the subject of your letter in the several Lodges. 54 1st. That the majority of brethren holding of the several Lodges, are comparatively speaking young Masons of not more than four to six years' standing, and consequently could not have contracted the greater part of the debt owing to the Grand Lodge of Ireland. 2nd. That they are •willing to pay what is fair, just, and reasonable ; but do not consider it to be fair, just, or reasonable to be called upon to pay debts contracted years before they became members of the Craft. 3rd. That the great amount of debt has been brought about by the negligence of the Grand Lodge of Ireland iu not having, like those of England and Scotland, insisted upon the regular payment of their dues. 4th. That the Grand Lodge having so long slept upon its rights, it cannot possibly claim these, from those, who until the present time knew nothing about them. 5th. That when our M."W. Grand Master, the Hon. James Squire Pamell, accepted the distinguished position of Provincial Grand Master, under the Irish Constitution, in this Colony, he did so conditionally, that he would not be responsible for arrears of dues, prior to kis acceptance of the of&ce ; such is the nature of the discussions that have taken place on the matter of the arrears of dues owing to your Grand Lodge, and we have been requested, on behalf of those Lodges holding under the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, to tender an amount in payment equal to eight years' dues, as payment in full of all arrears due to your Grand Lodge. Should your Board see fit to accept this offer, and forward an account to me of the amount at your earliest convenience, or should your Board see fit to name a reasonable sum as payment in fuU, the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales will enforce prompt payment of same. "We can assure your Board, that the honour and dignity of aU Grand Lodges will be strictly upheld by us. Since the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, there has been great Masonic excitement in the Colony. New Lodges are springing up in all parts, and judging from present appearances, the time is not far distant when it will be no difficulty to number the brethren holding of other Constitutions in our Territory, stiU many good men and true are holding aloof, waiting until we are recognized. It is this recognition that we require, and it is only to be obtained by your extending to us the right hand of fellowship. The good of Freemasonry being our chief aim, we ask you as brethren of one common universal family, to strengthen our hands, and promote our sphere of usefulness. United we stand worthily, but divided, as in the past, we present but a feeble front unworthy of our high and noble profession. 55 It may here not be out of place to correct a misunderstanding tliat has been very industriously circulated in England, Ireland, and Scotland, that the origin of our G-rand Lodge was by certain disaffected brethren. Such is not the case. Certain influential brethren of the Scottish Constitution met, and addressed circulars to all Lodges in the Colony, requesting them to send Delegates to consider the advisability of forming a Grand Lodge. Upwards of thirteen Lodges responded, and sent Delegates, and many other Lodges aflBrmed the desirability of establishing a Grand Lodge. After many months of deliberation, they formed a Convention, and established a Grand Lodga. This consummation was arrived at by certain Lodges, not individual brethren. The number of Lodges now holding Charters are 16. Three more applications are to be considered this week, and many others are to follow. Thus the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales is an established fact, and we desire the recognition of our Sister Grand Lodges, more particularly that of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, which we have always understood was the first Grand Lodge of the United Kingdom to recognize the Grand Lodges of America and the British Proviaces. I remain, W. Dear Sir and Brother, Tours fraternally, Nicholas Weekes, Grand Secretary. A draft copy of letter to the M.W. Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, was read by E.W. Bro. A. W. Manning, Deputy G-rand Master, and approved of. Correspondence was laid on the table from several Daughter Lodges, also a letter from Bro. J. E. Ardill, Molong, requesting information as to mode of applying for a Charter for a new Lodge. A Proxy Commission from Lodge Edinburgh, Mudgee, was handed to W. Bro. Jno. Aird. "W". Bro. the Rev. 0. F. Garnsey, sent resignation of ofSce as Grand Chaplain, his clerical duties not enabling him to attend Grand Lodge. W. Bro. James Hunt was elected Senior Grand Deacon, vice Bro. Vial, deceased. W. Bro. James Hurley was elected Assistant Pursuivant, vice W. Bro. Kingsbury, deceased. W. Bro. P.D.G. Master moved the following resolution, " That the words ' sixpence per month,' in clause 2, page 66 of the book of Constitutions be altered to ' threepence per month,' and that each Lodge shall pay to Grand Lodge, for general purposes, 56 the sum of fourponce per month, for eact member on the roll." Seconded by W. Bro. Slade, and carried. The Grand Lodge was closed with prayer ia ample form at 9.45 p.m. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION OP GTEAND LODQE. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on 29th January, 1879. Grand Lodge was opened by the Deputy Grand Master, in the absence of the Grand Master, iu due form at 7.30 p.m. The Deputy Grand Master informed the members that the meeting had been called principally for the purpose of rehearsing ajid adopting the proposed new Ritual. The M.W. Grand Master was now announced, and received with the usual honours ; that M.W. brother explained that he had been prevented from attending earlier, in consequence of being detained at Parramatta upon important Masonic business. An occasional Lodge was then formed as follows : — 'W. Bro. Manning, W.M. ; "W. Bro. Hunt, S. Warden ; W. Bro. Weekes, J. Warden ; W. Bro. Aird, S. Deacon ; W. Bro. Slade, J. Deacon ; W. Bro. Burne, Inner Guard ; Bro. Carrict, Tyler. The Lodge was opened in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degrees, and the Rituals of the three Degrees rehearsed. Grand Lodge resumed, when W. Bro. Booth proposed the adoption of the Rituals, the same to be worked by all Lodges of this Constitution ; seconded by W. Bro. Hunt, and carried. Resolved — That the Rituals be referred back to the Board of General Purposes, to be printed for the use of the Lodges. Correspondence was read from Bros. Broad and Hyland, in reference to the formation of Masonic Lodges at Bega and Moruya. A communication was read from W. Bro. Taylor, W. Master of the Lodge Star of the South, Wollongong, desiring Grand Lodge to grant a Dispensation to enable the Lodge to elect the W. Master at an earKer date than May next, giving as a reason the great distance (16 miles) he resided from the Lodge ; and that a W. Master residing in the town was absolutely necessary, it being impossible for him at times to attend. The Grand Lodge refused to interfere in the matter, considering the same was fully met by the Book of Constitutions. The Grand Lodge closed in ample form at 10.20 p.m. A SPECIAL MEETING OF GRAND LODGE OFFICERS Was called on the 26th February, 1879, for the purpose of paying an official visit to the Lodge Pythagorus, in response to an invitation from the W. Master of that Lodge. 57 The Grand Director of Ceremonies entered the Lodge, and announced the arrival of the G-rand Master and his Officers. The "W. G-. Master and Officers were then admitted, and received with the usual Masonic Honours, the G-rand Master taking the Chair, and the Grand Officers the subordinate positions. Grand Secretary reported that he had examined the books and accounts of the Lodge, and found they were properly kept, and that the Lodge was in fuU communication with G-rand Lodge. The W. Grand Master delivered an address, expressive of his gratification at the prosperity of the Lodge Pythagorus, and the able manner it was worked by the W. Master and Officers. The "W. Grand Master and Officers then vacated their Chairs, and after witnessing an Initiation, retired, receiving the customary honours. EEGTJLAE QUAETEELY COMMTINICATIOlSr OP GEAND LODGE. "Was held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on 5th March, 1879. Grand Lodge was opened in due form by the E."W. Deputy Grand Master, A. W. Manning, at 7.30 p.m. The roll call of Officers and members entitled to sit, was read. The minutes of Quarterly Communication of 9th December, 1878, and Special Communication of 29th January, were read and confirmed. Bro. Cochrane was received as a Grand Steward, nominated by the Australian Social Lodge, No. 0. Bro. T. A. Jenks was received as a Grand Steward, nominated by the Lodge Woolloomooloo, No. 4. The Committee on Eituals laid the following Eeport on the table : — 'Report of Ritual Oommittee, 23rd December, 1878. Sydney, 23rd December, 1878. To N. Wbekes, Esq., G.S. Grand Lodge N.S W. Dear Sir and Brother, — I have the pleasure to report that according to instructions from the Board of General Purposes, we held the first meeting of the Ritual Commission on Monday, the 25th November, 1878, at which the following brethren were present : — Messrs. Manning, Booth, Hunt, Neitenstein, and Williams, who agreed to Ritual for opening, closing, and working of the First or Entered Apprentice Degree. 58 At a second meeting held on Monday, the 2nd December, 1878, the following brethren were present : — Messrs, Manning, Hunt, Chandler, and Booth. Agreed to Ritual opening, closing, and working of the Second or P.O. Degree ; also opening and closing of the Third Degree, and a portion of the working thereof. At a third meeting held Tuesday, I7th instant, the following brethren being present: — Messrs. Manning, Booth, Williams, Chandler, Neitenstein, and Hunt. Agreed to the remaining part of the Third Degree. In forwarding this Eeport, we beg to state that we had a long discussion on the workings of the English, Scottish, and Irish Constitutions, and after mature consideration, and with the interests of all three at heart, decided on adopting the best parts of each. We trust that our labour will meet with the approval of the Board of G-eneral Purposes, and of the G-rand Lodge. Kitual for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degrees enclosed. We remain, dear Sir and Brother, Tours fraternally, James Httnt. N.B. — Proposed by Bro. Neitenstein, seconded by Bro. Williams, and carried, " That only one candidate at a time be admitted to the 3rd Degree, up to the first portion of the charge, as marked in Eitual." W. Bro. A. Burne was also receiyed as a Grand Steward, on the nomination of Lodge Sydney Tarbolton, ISTo. 3. An invitation was read from the Lodge Leinster Marine of Australia, No. 1, inviting Grand Lodge to pay an official visit to that Lodge on the 10th inst. Communication was read from the Lodge Peabody, requesting permission for the old members of that Lodge to wear the former colours of the Lodge. Communication from the Grrand Secretary of CaUfomia was read, of date 7th February, acknowledging receipt of copy o£ Proceedings of Convention. The Eeport of Board of G-eneral Purposes was read and adopted. Beport of Board of General Purposes, laid hefore Grand Lodge on 5th March, 1879. A meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday, the 8th January, 1879. The By-Laws of the following Lodges were read and passed, viz. : — Pythagorus, Excelsior, Cosmopolitan, WooUoomooloo, Abercorn, Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia, St. Andrew, Australian Social Mother Lodge, Milton, Star of the South. 59 The Eitual Committee brought up the Eitual of the first Degree, which was read by the "W". Deputy Grand Master, and the same adopted. Bro. Hunt gave notice of motion for the next monthly meeting, " That the Grand Secretary receive a salary of £100 per annum from 1st January." The Board adjourned until Wednesday, the 15th, to meet at Bro. Hunt's. The adjourned meeting of the Board of General Purposes was held at Bro. Hunt's, on Wednesday, the 15th January. The Ritual Committee brought up further report of their labours. W. Bro. Manning read the Ritual of the Second Degree, and the opening and closing of a Lodge in the Third Degree. The Ritual and Working was passed. The Board further adjourned until Wednesday, 22nd January, to meet at the same time and place. The further adjourned meeting of the Board was held at Bro. Hunt's, on Wednesday, the 22nd January. W. Bro. A. W. Manning read the Ritual of the Third Degree. The Ritual as read was adopted. It was decided that a Special Communication of Grand Lodge be called on the 29th January, for the purpose of rehearsing the Rituals, and having the same adopted. The regular monthly meeting of the Board was held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on Wednesday, 12th February, 1879. Correspondence was read from J. T. Jones & Son, with reference to Grand Lodge Regalia; and from Bro. Stanley, applying for the printing of the Rituals. Accounts to the amount of £10 19s. 6d. were passed for payment. Leigh & Co.'s account for printing Diplomas, &c., was left to Grand Secretary to arrange. A proposition was made by Bro. Hunt, seconded by Bro. Burne, and carried, " That 500 copies of the Rituals be printed by a member of the Craft, and 150 bound, the best tender to be accepted by Grand Secretary." It was proposed by Bro. Hunt, and seconded by Bro. Burne, "That the salary of Grand Secretary be fixed at £100 per annum, commencing from the 1st January last." Some discussion ensued, when upon Grand Secretary being asked if he was willing to undertake portion of the work attached to the issue of the Freemason, and replying in the aifirmative, the motion was carried, subject to approval of Grand Lodge. 60 Grrand Secretary read the draft copies of By-Laws of Lodges Newtown Kilwinning, and Edinburgli, Mudgee ; the same were confirmed, subject to a few slight amendments in the By-lawa of Lodge Edinburgh. Geaitd Stbwabds. It was proposed by W. Bro. Booth, seconded by "W. Bro. A. Manning, " That each of the six senior Lodges in Sydney be empowered to elect a Grand Steward, to be apprOTed of by Grand Lodge. The Board then adjourned to the second "Wednesday in March next. EratemalLy submitted, E. V. Gale, President of Board. Grand Secretary read his report on the business transacted during the past three months, — received. Geaitd Secbetaet's Eepoet. Since the last Eeport of Grand Secretary, read at the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge on 9th December last, there have been four meetings of the Board of General Purposes, one meeting of Grand Committee, and one special communication of Grand Lodge. The business conducted at the several meetings of the Board of General Purposes, will be best known by the report of that "Worshipful Boara, now placed before your Grand Lodge. At the meeting of Grand Committee, after the routine of business was decided upon to be brought before the present Communication, the nomination of a Grand Organist was taken into consideration. It was decided by the Grand Committee to defer the nomination of a Grand Chaplain, until next Quarterly Communication. The Grand Secretary is happy to report that the various Daughter Lodges are in good working order, making steady progress, and in full communication with Grand Lodge. During the past quarter a Charter has been granted to the Lodge of Truth, Braidwood, formerly under the English Constitution. Letters have been received from Bega and Moruya, requesting information as to opening of Lodges at each of those places. Some of the Lodges have not yet forwarded their returns of members and intrants, &c,, to end of November last. The attention of these Lodges has been directed to the omission, during the quarter there were 40 Initiation*, three Affiliations from the E.C., and two from the S.C. There are stiU eight returns yet to comet to hand. The Initiations and Affiliations up to date, as far as can be ascertained, are as follows : — Initiations, 61 80; Affiliations, 20— seven E.G., ten 8.C., three I.C. The members on the roll of the various Lodges number upwards of 700. !Prom these rough statistics it will be seen that the Grand Lodge is making sure and rapid progress. The Grand Secretary thinks it necessary to contradict statements that have been so freely circulated by the editor of the Australian Freemason, and brethren who do not appear to confine themselves to the truth, " that the Grand Lodge of Ifew South Wales does not number more than 200 members, and further, that some of the Lodges" are returning, and have returned to the allegiance under their old Constitutions. The first statement is shewn to be untrue by my report, the second I most emphatically deny, no Lodge having expressed a desire to leave the Constitution, on the contrary the Lodges are proud of belonging to the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, and letters from the various Lodges are being constantly received to this effect. The Grand Secretary does not deem it necessary to refute all the slanders uttered against the Grand Lodge, sufficient to remark that the persons from whom these slanders originate are well known to the brethren. Copies of proceedings of the Grand Lodges of "Washington and "Utah, were received by last mail. In the report of proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Utah, there is reference to the Grand Lodge of "Wincpnsin, with whom the Grand Lodge of Utah is in friendly communication. This Grand Lodge numbered only four Lodges at its inauguration, and less than 400 members, and has been in existence over three years. The Grand Lodge of Iowa had only five Lodges at its formation, the Grand Lodge of Colorado four only, and so with many other American Grand Lodges. It will be seen from the above that the Grand Lodge of "New South Wales has great cause for congratulation, the first Charter was issued in May last year, not more than ten months since, and the progress made, far exceeds the majority of the American Grand Lodges during the same period. In January last, special communications of a lengthy nature were forwarded to the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, Scotland, and the United States, again pointing out the legal and constitutional formation of this Grand Lodge, and the rapid progress already made, and courteously desiring that recognition which is our just due. Eecognition or non-recognition does not alter the legal position we maintain, and it behoves every member of the Constitution to aid the efforts made by Grand Lodge, in endeavouring to erect new Lodges by every Constitutional means. 62 It has been suggested by our very energetic and worthy Senior Grand Warden, that a Masonic Ball be giyen at our Annual Feast, in June next. The subject will be brought before the Board of General Purposes at next meeting. The following brethren have been nominated by their several Lodges to act as Grand Lodge Stewards, it will be necessary that Grand Lodge approve of the same, viz. : — Bro. N. Cochrane, Australian Social Lodge ; Bro. A. Burne, P.M. Lodge Tarbolton ; Bro. Thos. Archibold, Lodge "WooU-jomooloo. Lodges Newtown Kilwinning, Leinster Marine, and St. Ajadrew, have not yet nominated Grand Stewards. IVatemally submitted, Nicholas "Weekes, Grand Secretary. W. Bro. Machen was elected Grand Organist. The invitation of the Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia was accepted. The complaint of Bro. "Woods against Bro. Cantor, for un-masonic conduct, was referred back to the Board of General Purposes. The Salary of Grand Secretary was fixed at £100 per annum. Besolved — That Bro. H. E. Evans be appointed Grand Clerk, to assist Grand Secretary in taking the minutes of proceedings. Grand Secretary read copy of letter forwarded by the M.W.G. Master to all Grand Lodges in the World. [See Appendix B.] Grand Lodge was closed with prayer in due form at 9.10 p.m. EEGULAE QUAETEELT COMMUNICATION. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on 18th June, 1879. Grand Lodge was opened in form with prayer by the W. Past Deputy Grand Master, W. Bro. Booth, at 7.30 p.m. The roll call of members was read. The minutes of last quarterly communication were read and confirmed. Eeport of Grand Secretary read and received. Eepoet as Geaii'd Seceetaet. Laid before the Grand Lodge at the Quarterly Communication, held at the Masonic Temple, on Wednesday, the 18th June, 1879. Grand Secretary reports that siace the last Communication of Grand Lodge, there have been four meetings of the Board of General Purposes, and one meeting of the Grand Committee. The business transacted will be placed before Grand Lodge in the Eeport of the Board of General Purposes. Communications have been received from tlie following G-rand Lodges and brethren in the U.S. of America : — Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, G-rand Eecorder of Lousiania, Grand Lodge of Colorado, Grand Master of Connecticut, Wor. Bro. J, H. Drummond, of Maine. The same are now laid on the table. At the meeting of the Board of General Purposes held in March, it was decided that a Grand Masonic Ball and Conversazione be held at the Exhibition Building on the 25th June inst., to celebrate the first anniversary of this Grand Lodge. A Committee was formed to carry out the object, and are working most energetically to bring the same to a successful issue. Cards of invitation have been sent to His Excellency the Lieut. Governor, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Sydney, who have been pleased to accept them. "With the active assistance of Grand Lodge, the Ball will be a great success, and tend to promote the best interests of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. The whole of the first issue of the new B,itual, 150 copies, have been distributed, and a further supply of 150 more ordered to be bound. The majority of the Lodges have not yet sent in their last quarterly returns of members and intrants, together with the fees and dues payable to Grand Lodge, indeed, two or three of the Lodges are nine months in arrears. It is necessary that all dues be promptly paid, as the expenditure of Grand Lodge is still very heavy. During the recent Installations of the Officers of the various Lodges, the M,"W. the Deputy Grand Master has particularly impressed upon the Treasurers the necessity of promptly forwarding all moneys due to Grand Lodge. During the past quarter, the returns shew an increase of 28 new Intrants. This does not represent the actual number, as many returns are not to hand, it has been found impossible to give a full statement of the position of Grand Lodge, in consequence of the remissness of the Secretaries of many of the Lodges. The total mmber of Intrants and affiliations (as far as can be ascertained) now recorded in the books of Grand Lodge are 135. The E.W. Deputy Grand Master, accompanied by Grand Secretary, and W. Bro. Lee, W.M. of Cosmopolitan Lodge, paid a visit to the Lodges on the South Coast, for the purpose of Installing the Officers elect of the Lodges in WoUongong, Kiama, and Shoalhaven, on the lOth, 11th, and 12th insts. These Lodges are in a very prosperous condition, and are working strictly in accordance with the Constitution ; they, like most of the country Lodges, are punctual in forwarding their returns and replies to all communications from this Grand Lodge. The reception given to the representatives of Grand Lodge during their recent visit was most gratifying, the brethren 64 receiving the greatest kindnesB and fraternal welcome wherever they went. The G-rand Secretary, in conclusion, reports the amount of dues, Ac, received during the past quarter as follows : — Eeceipts, £58 15s. 6d ; Expenditure, £37 10s. 6d. Fraternally suhmitted, Nicholas "Weekes, Grand Secretary. Eeport of Board of G-eneral Purposes was read and adopted. Report of Board of General Purposes. Tour Board beg to report, that since the last Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge, four meetings have been held, viz., on the 12th Majch, 8th April, 14th May, and 4th June. At the meeting of the Board on the 12th March, a letter was read from Lodge Peabody, requesting authority for the old members of the Lodge to wear their former regalia, viz., Victorian tartan. It was decided that the Board could not interfere, and that the G-rand Secretary inform the Lodge that the question of regalia had been decided upon by Grand Lodge, as per book of Constitutions, pages 83, 84, and 85 respectively. The complaint against Bro. Cantor by Bro. Woods, was ordered to stand over on the request of Bro. Woods, that brother stating that Bro. Cantor was dangerously iU. The By-Laws of Lodges Truth and Tarbolton were confirmed. The consideration of Bro. Butchart's letter, re EegaUa, was ordered to stand over until next meeting. It was proposed by Bro. Slade, seconded by Bro. Hunt, " That the Grand Lodge hold a Masonic Ball and Conversazione on the 25th June next, to celebrate the first Annual Festival, and that Grand Secretary write to each Lodge, requesting the members to appoint a Delegate, for the purpose of forming a Committee to carry out the same, and to act in conjunction with the Committee to be appointed by your Board. Tour Board again met on the 8t'a April. Correspondence was read from Messrs. Jones & Son, re jewels, and Lodges on general business. A letter was read from W. Bro. J. H. Drummond, Chairman of Committee on correspondence, of the Grand Lodge of Maine, U.S. America. An invitation was received from the W.M. of Lodge Newtown Kilwinning, inviting Grand Lodge Officers to the next monthly meeting of the Lodge. It was proposed by W. Bro. A. W. Manning, seconded by Bro. Slade, and carried — " That the complaint of Bro. Woods against Bro. Cantor, not being brought before the Board in proper form, no further action betaken by your Board." 65 It was decided that fresli tenders be invited from several brethren in the Craft for jewels for Grand Lodge. A Commission in favour of Bro. P.M. Burne, as Proxy Master, Lodge Milton, was laid on the table. Tour Board again met on the 14th May. Communications were read from the W. Master of Lodge Star of the South, WoUongong, requesting some members of Grand Lodge to visit and perform the ceremony of Installation of Officers. From the "W". Master of Lodge Edinburgh on the same subject. Pro in the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Colorado. Reports of Proceedings of the Grand Lodges of California and South Carolina were laid on the table. The following brethren were elected a Committee on foreign correspondence, viz., Bros. Butchart, Chandler, Weekes, Williams, and Manning. It was decided that the present Master of Lodge Edinburgh continue to act as Master, until the Master elect be installed. It was proposed and carried, "That the price of the new Eituals be fixed at 5s. each." It was proposed and carried, " That Bro. Butchart undertake the editorship of the Freemason, and that Bro. Weekes undertake the issue and financial department of the paper." Tour Board again met on the 4th June. Grand Secretary explained the cause of the Board being summoned a week earlier than usual, the reason of such was, that the E.W. Deputy Grand Master, Grand Secretary, and other members of the Board, had to leave Sydney on the foUowiQg Monday, for the purpose of Installing the newly elected Officers of the Lodges at Wollongong, Kiama, and Shoalhaven, on the 10th, 11th, and 12th insts. Letters were read from the Grand Eecorder of Louisiana, and the Grand Master of Connecticut. A letter was read from the Grand Secretary of Ireland, in reference to the arrears of dues owing by the Irish Lodges, the same was referred to the Committee of Foreign Correspondence for reply. It was proposed by W. Bro. A. W. Manning, " That Grand Secretary be requested to write to the several Lodges lately holding of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, and now holding under the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, requesting them to forward the arrears of dues owing to the Grand Lodge of Ireland." Seconded by Bro. Hunt and carried. 66 Proposed by Bro. Hunt, seconded by Bro. Hurley, " That Bro. Kerr's tender for Grrand Lodge jewels, at 27s. 6d. each, be accepted, and that he be authorized to make same as early as possible. Fraternally submitted, E. V. G-U.E, President B. Gr. Purposes. The M."W. Grrand Master was then announced, and received with the usual honours. The Grrand Treasurer brought up his Report, which was read and received. Q-EAND TeEASTTEEE's EePOET. 18th June, 1879. The Grrand Treasurer reports to Grrand Lodge as follows : — During the past quarter the sum of £58 15s. 6d. has been received, and £37 10s. 6d. expended. The total balance in Grand Treasurer and Secretary's hands is as follows : — £ s. d. Total amount received 293 12 3 Total amount expended 243 12 4 Balance £49 19 11 Of which amount there is in the hands of Grrand Treasurer an unexpended balance of £43 17s. 4d., (independent of the sum of £50 loan from Grrand Treasurer,) and £3 8s. 3d. in hands of Grand Secretary ; this amount includes the sum due to Board of Benevolence. There are the following amounts due, viz. : — Beard, for Eituals £32 12 Grand Secretary's Salary £85 The Grand Secretary informs me that there are upwards of £160 due by Lodges for G. Lodge dues, Eituals, Diplomas, &c. (Signed) John Staeket, Grand Treasurer. Correspondence from Foreign Grand Lodges and replies thereto by the Committee on Foreign Correspondence was read. Bro. J. H. Smith, Lodge No. 3, and Bro. Thos. "Woods, No. 0, were approved of as Grand Lodge Stewards. The following altemtion in Book of Constitutions, No. 1, Clause 2, second line page 38, was carried, viz. : That the following words, " under the head of Private Lodges," be added after the word ballot, " Except when there shall be but one candidate nominated, theii the Presiding Officer shall declare such Candidate dxily elected." 67 A letter was read from the W. Master of the Lodge of Truth, requesting permission for the present Officers of that Lodge to remain in office during the ensuing twelve months. Resolved — That Grand Lodge could not interfere, and the Lodge was referred to the Book of Constitutions, as decided in a similar case of the Lodge Star of the South. It was suggested that the present Officers of Lodge of Truth be re-nominated and re-invested. The M.W. G-rand Master spoke at some length upon the progress made by Grand Lodge, and the efforts made by himself and Officers, in endeavouring to obtain recognition from the Grand Lodges of the World. , An able and eloquent speech on the same subject was made by Senior Grand Warden Butchart, who informed Grand Lodge he had received a letter from a high dignitary of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, from which it appeared that gross mis- representation must have been forwarded to the Grand Lodge of Scotland by officials here, as to the position and legality of this Grand Lodge. Grand Secretary informed Grand Lodge that the E.W.D.G. Master A. W. Manning, W. Bro. Lee, and himself, had officially visited the Lodges at WoUongong, Bliama, and Shoalhaven, for the purpose of Installing the Officers, and that the Eepresentatives of Grand Lodge had been most gratified by the kind and fraternal welcome they received. Grand Lodge was closed in ample form at 9.45 p.m. THE EEGULAE QUAETEELT COMMUNICATION OE GEAND LODGE. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, Sydney, on 3rd September, 1879. The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form with prayer by the M.W. the Grand Master at 7.30 p.m. EoU. caU of Officers and members having been responded to. The minutes of last communication were read and confirmed. Eeport of Grand Secretary read and received. Eepoet op Geaitd Seoeetaet. Laid before the Quarterly Commuaication of Grand Lodge of New South Wales, held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, Sydney, on Wednesday, the 3rd September, 1979. The Grand Secretary regrets that he cannot report to Grand Lodge such a favourable account of its proceedings during the past quarter as on previous occasions. Beyond the fact of the opening of a new Lodge in Sydney, viz., the " Thomas Mort," nothing of importance had occurred. 68 Since the last Communication of Grand Lodge, tte Board of Greneral Purposes have held three meetings. The business transacted will he hesc seen bj the Eeport of the President, to be laid before your Grand Lodge this evening. The Grand Secretary has to report favourably of the progress of the Daughter Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, most of them are increasiug greatly in strength ; owing, however, to returns not being sent in promptly, only an approximate estimate of the number of Initiations and Affiliations can be given. As far as can be ascertained, the Intrants shew an increase of 38 during the past quarter, and eight Affiliations ; total number of Intrants and Affiliations, 1?7. The amount of dues and fees from all sources up to date, is £368 lis. id. ; and expenditure, £374 8s. 8d ; leaving a balance due to Grand Treasurer of £5 I7s. 4d. There is, however, stiU a large amount of dues owing to Grand Lodge, viz., £108 18s., — ^this is exclusive of the dues owing for quarter just expired. In the Keystone of July (a Masonic paper published in America), a paragraph appeared, stating that the Grand Lodge of Columbia had extended recognition to this Grand Lodge ; no official communication has, however, been received by your Grand Secretary. Since the last meeting of the Board of General Purposes, a communication has been received from the W.M. of the Lodge Abbotsford, Gulgong. As the subject matter is of great importance, the Grand Secretary brings the same before Grand Lodge to be dealt with, in order to obviate the delay in laying the same before the next meeting of the Board. The Board of General Purposes having decided that the Freemason newspaper is the property of Grand Lodge, the Grand Secretary deems the matter to be so important, as to draw the attention of this Worshipful Body to the present status of the paper. It has been decided by the Publishing Committee to enlarge the paper, and render it more attractive to the general body of the Craft. The first number of Vol. -2 will be issued in the new form. A large increase of advertisements has been received, and many new subscribers obtained, and it is intended to circulate the paper throughout the Australian Colonies. Owing, however, to the fact that subscriptions, &c., cannot be readily obtained when required, the funds at the disposal of the Committee are completely exhausted. The amounts owing up to date are : — £30 to printer, £10 to Treasurer, and £65 as loans received from various brethren. It is necessary, therefore, that at least £50 or £60 be raised to enable the Committee to carry on the work. It will be for members of Grand Lodge to adopt some mode of meeting the deficit. There is an amount of £130 69 due to the paper for subseriptions and adTOrtisements, exdusive of the subscriptions, &c., due for the current year ; the greater portion of the arrears will probably be received in a month or BO, but it is necessary to find funds to meet the present emergency. The great success attending the late Masonic Ball has given great satisfaction to our members, and drawn the attention of brethren hailing under other Constitutions, more forcibly to the existence of this Grrand Lodge. The G-rand Secretary regrets to report that W. Bro. M. S. Machen, has been compelled from private causes to resign his ofBce of Grand Organist. By the last Mail, copies of proceedings of the G-rand Lodge, Grand Chapter, and Grand Commandery of Louisiana have been received, and are now laid on the table ; also a circular from the Grand Lodge of Manitoba. IVaternally submitted, Nicholas Weekes, Grand Secretary. Eeport of Board of General Purposes read and adopted. Meport of Board of General Purposes. Placed before the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge, on Wednesday, the 3rd day of September, 1879. Tour Board met on the 9th July, W. Bro. Gale, President, in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed. A petition for a Charter for a new Lodge to be styled the " Thomas Mort Lodge," and to be held in Syney, was read by Grand Secretary, the said petition was recommended by the W.M. and "Wardens of Australian Social Mother Lodge, No. 0. The prayer of the petition was granted, and recommended to the M.W. the Grand Master for approval. A letter from Senior Grand "Warden of Scotland, was read by "W. Bro. Butchart, and gave great satisfaction. Grand Secretary having reported that certain Lodges were in arrear of dues, it was resolved that the immediate attention of these Lodges be called to the delay in forwarding same. W. Bro. Booth gave notice of question, " Are all Past and Proxy Masters holding seats in Grand Lodge, subscribing members of Daughter Lodges." W. Bro. Manning proposed, " That a special vote of thanks be accorded to Bros. Hunt and "Weekes, for their exertions in making the Masonic Ball such a great success." Seconded by W. Bro. J. Starkey and carried. A Special Meeting of the Board was convened at Bro. Hunt's on Friday, the 18th July. 70 The meeting was called for the purpose of considering what steps should be taken to carry on the publishing of the Freemason. It was resolved on the proposition of Bro. Hunt, seconded by Bro. Hurley, " That it is the opinion of this Board, that the paper called the Mreemason, and published in Sydney, is the property of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales." Sesolved — That the temporary debt due by the paper be disbursed by a loan from the brethren. The following brethren promised to forward cheques, viz. : — Bros. Booth, £10 ; Monk, £10 ; Starkey, £10 ; Manning, £10 ; Hunt, £10; Hurley, £5 ; Slade, £5. Proposed by Bro. "Weekes, seconded by Bro. Hurley, and carried, " That Bro. Monk be elected Treasurer of the paper." Proposed by Bro. Booth, seconded bj Bro. Hunt, " That the enlargement of the paper be left to the Publishing Committee to decide upon, and that they call for tenders for that purpose. Tour Board again met on the 13th August, 1879. Grand Secretary, in reply to question from Bro. Booth, informed the Board that aJl Past and Proxy Masters who received a summons to attend Grand Lodge were subscribing members of Daughter Lodges. Proposed by Bro. Hunt, seconded by Bro. Butchart, " That Bro. Slade be appointed Auditor." — Carried. Proposed by Bro. Himt, seconded by Bro. Bume, and carried, " That the W. Masters of Lodges be written to, calling their attention to the matter of clothing and regalia, vide pages 80, 83, 84, and 85, Book of Constitntions. Sesolved — That Bro. Slade's name be added to the Publishing Committee of the Freemason. It was decided that the Trustees of the Masonic Temple be written to by Grand Secretary, requesting to be informed what amount of rental they would require for the exclusive use of the Masonic Temple. PratemaUy submitted, E. V. Gaie, President. A communication from Lodge Abbotsf ord, Gulgong, was read, requesting permission to change place of meeting. "W". Bro. P. Deputy Grand Master Booth informed Grand Lodge, that the proposed place of meeting was in every way suitable for Masonic purposes. Sesolved — That the request of Lodge Abbotsford be granted. Grand Secretary stated that the Publishing Committee of the Freemason were in want of funds. Several brethren gave loans to Comioittee. 71 Great regret was expressed at the absence of the E.W. Deputy Grand Master A. "W. Manning, in consequence of severe illness. Resolved — That Grand Secretary forward a letter of sympathy to our distinguished brother. Grand Lodge closed in ample form, with prayer, at 9.45 p.m. EEGULAE QUAETEELT COMMUNICATION OP GEAND LODGE. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on the 4th December, 1879. In the absence of the M."W. Grand Master, the Grand Lodge was opened in due form by the E.W. Deputy Grand Master, with prayer, at 8 p.m. Eoll caU of members entitled to sit was responded to. The minutes of last Communication were read and confirmed. Grand Secretary brought up the following Eeport, which was received. Geaitd Seceetaet's Eepoet. Laid before the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, at the Quarterly Communication, held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on Thursday, the 4th day of December, 1879. Since my last Eeport, of the 3rd September last, I have great pleasure in stating that a communication has been received by me from the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, held in the City of Washington, U.S. America. The letter conveys the recognition of this Grand Lodge, and hearty congratulations of the M.W. the Grand Master. The Grand Lodge of Columbia have conferred upon us great honour, by appointing as our representative Bro. Dr. Mackey. This W. brother is well and favourably known as the greatest living authority on Masonic jurisprudence. It will be for this W. Grand Lodge to appoint a representative near the Grand Lodge of Columbia. Eeports of proceedings of the Grand Lodges of District of Columbia, U.S.A., British Columbia, Colorado, Florida, and Oregon, for 1879, have been received by me ; also a communication from the Grand Lodge of British Columbia, delaying recognition of this Grand Lodge for reasons stated therein. The letter, however, is very favourable to our cause. The recognition of this Grand Lodge by the Grand Lodge of Illinois, has been referred back to the Committee on Foreign Correspondence for further consideration. I notice in the Eeport of Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New Brunswick, that the letter of our M.W. Grand Master was 72 published, but no action thereon relative to the recognition of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales was taken. B«cognition has also been withheld, for the present, by the Grand Lodges oE Bhode Island, and Winconsin. No returns for the past quarter have yet been received from Daughter Lodges. The Initiations to 30th September have been 26, Affiliations 11 ; but this does not represent the actual number, as returns are not to hand. The total number of Initiations and Affiliations to. date, as far as can be ascertained, are 213, Diplomas issued, 118. I have much pleasure in laying the balance Sheet on the table. The auditing of Grand Lodge accounts has been delayed by the Board of General Purposes, for various reasons. In future the balance sheet will be issued yearly. The Board of General Purposes recommend the nomination of W. Bro. Neitensteia, as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Washington, near this Grand Lodge. As the accommodation at present existing in the Masonic Temple is too limited for the Sydney Lodges, the Board of General Purposes recommend the renting of the whole of the building by Grand Lodge ; if the ofEer of the Trustees be accepted, it wiU be necessary to raise the rent of Lodges to £12 per annum. The Board fully believe that more than the rental required by the Trustees can be raised. It is absolutely necessary, that some steps be taken to provide increased accommodation for the Lodges, as at present it is almost impossible to obtain the use of the Lodge room for Emergent Meetings. I have to report that Bro. Philip Newland has been recommended by the Lodge St. Andrew as one of the Grand Lodge Stewards. I have much pleasure in informing the members of Grand Lodge, that an application has been received from several brethren of the Widow's Son Lodge, Parramatta, requesting a Charter from this Grand Lodge, to enable them to work as a regular Warranted Lodge. I desire to bring before Grand Lodge a letter received by me from Lodge Milton, with reference to the election of a W.M. for that Lodge. I have again written to the British American Grand Lodges, at the same time forwarding duplicate copies of all our proceedings, and again requesting replies from them. Fraternally submitted, Nicholas Weekbs, Grand Secretary. 73 Eeport of Board of General Purposes read and adopted. Report of Board of General Purposes. Laid before Grand Lodge of New Soutli "Wales, at the Eegular Quarterly Communication, held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on Thursday, the ith day of December, 1879. Tour Board met on the 10th September, for the usual despatch of business. In consequence of complaints from Lodges that they could not obtain sufficient accommodation for Lodge Meetings, Grand Secretary was requested to write to the Trustees of the Masonic Temple, as to what rent they would take for the exclusive use of the building. A letter was read from the Trustees, stating that they would be willing to rent the same for the annual sum of £220. This amount to include all rates and taxes, gas, and care-taker's salary. A letter was read from the Secretary of Lodge Milton, requesting permission to change their night of meeting ; the same was granted. Also a letter from the same Lodge, requesting advice how to act in filling the chair of the Lodge, as the present "W. Master was leaving the District, and had nominated a brother, who was a Past Senior Warden, to fill his position. Grand Secretary was directed to inform the Lodge, that the W.M. could not appoint any brother to temporarily fill the office, and to refer the Lodge to the Book of Constitutions, which contained explicit directions in the matter. An adjourned meeting of the Board was held on the 18th September. The By-Laws of Lodge Edinburgh, Mudgee, were read and approved of. Itesolved—Th&t the offer of the Trustees of the Masonic Temple be accepted, and directed G. Secretary to apply for a lamp to be placed outside the buUding, the acceptance of such offer be subject to approval of Grand Lodge. The Meeting of the Board in October lapsed for want of a quorum, in consequence of the very inclement state of the weather. The Board again met on "Wednesday, the 12th November. Grand Secretary laid the balance sheet of Grand Lodge on the table, also a statement of Assets and Liabilities. The balance sheet having been certified by the Auditor as correct, was adopted, and the Board recommended the same for approval by Grand Lodge. A circular was read from the Secretary of Lodge St. Andrew, with reference to increasing the funds of the Widows and Orphans' Charities. The same will be laid before your Worshipful Body this evening. 74 An important notice of motion, re Masonic Conference, by the "W.M. of Lodge Leinster Marine of Australia, was received. The Board recommend the same for the careful consideration of Grand Lodge. Resolved, — That the thanks of the Board be conveyed to Bro. John Slade, for his gratuitous services in auditing the books and accounts of Grand Lodge. Proposed by Bro. Hunt, seconded by Bro. Slade, and carried, " That the Board recommend to Grand Lodge the nomination of W. Bro. P.M. Captain Neitenstein, as the Eepresentative near this Grand Lodge, of the M.W. the Grand Lodge of Washington. A letter was read from the widow of the late Bro. Herbert, formerly a member of Lodge Newtown Kilwinning, No. 378, Scotch Constitution, thanking the brethren of the New South "Wales Constitution for the sum of £19 2s. 9d., collected for her relief by W. Bro. P.D.G. Master Wm. Booth. PraternaUy submitted, E. V. Gale, President of the Board of General Purposes. Correspondence laid on the table from the Grand Lodges of Ohio and British Columbia. Of5.ce of Grand Secretary of Grand Lodge P.A.A.M. of the District of Columbia. "Washington, D.C., July, 12th, 1879. Nicholas "Weekes, Esq., G. Secretary G.L. of New South "Wales. Dear Sir and Brother, — At the Semi- Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, P. A.A. Masons, held May 14!th, 1879, the following was adopted unanimously, viz. : — 'Resolved — That the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia recognizes the Grand Lodge of New South Wales as a legally formed independent Grand Lodge, entitled to all the prerogatives of such a body. I have the satisfaction of communicating this information to you, and present the regards of our M.W. Grand Master, Bro. H. A. Whitney, Esq., who is desirous of entering into a closer correspondence, by the interchange of Grand Representatives, and for that purpose would suggest the name of our distinguished Masonic savan, Dr. Albert G. Mackey, as the G. Representative of your G. Lodge. I enclose herewith a Commission from our M.W. Grand Master, to be filled up with the name of some member of your Grand Lodge, who may be suggested by your M.W. Grand 75 Master, and would ttank you to have his name and rank inserted in the proper places — and inform me of the party selected — at your earliest convenience. With sentiments of esteem and fraternal affection, I am very courteously yours, W. R. Singleton, Qt. Secy. [COPT.J The Committee of Jurisprudence, to whom had been referred the subject of the recognition of the Q-rand Lodge of Nevr South Wales, respectfully report as follows : — Up to the time of the organization of the Grand Ijodge of New South Wales, that Colony had been Masonically occupied by Lodges working under the English, Scotch, and the Irish Constitutions. On the 3rd December, 1877, a Convention was held in the City of Sydney, for the purpose of organizing an independent Grand Lodge. At this Convention eleven Chartered Lodges were represented by Delegates duly appointed. Of these Lodges, eight had derived their Warrants from the G.L. of Scotland, and three from the G.L. of Ireland. The Convention was duly organized, and a resolution adopted that the M.W.G.L. of New South Wales, of A.F. and A. Masons, be, and is hereby formed, upon the Ancient Charges and Constitutions of Masonry, A Constitution was adopted similar to that of the G.L. of England, with a single modification, and G. Officers were elected and installed ; the G.M. being the Prov. G.M. under the Irish Constitution, and the Installing Officer the Dep. Prov. G.M. under the Scottish Constitution. Every act appears to have been done in proper form, as the law has long been settled on this Continent, and recognized in the cases of the G.L. of Canada by the G. Lodges of Europe, that it is competent for any number of Lodges, not less than three, holding Charters from the same, or from different G. Lodges, and being in a territory where there is no G. Lodge, to organize an independent G. Lodge. Tour Committee do not think it necessary to discuss this already adjudicated question, but simply recommend the adoption of the following resolution : — [See resolution in letter above.] (Signed) A. G. Macket 7 Committee on Chas, E. STArsBrEG ) Jurisprudence. Eesolved—Tha,t W. Bro. A. W. Manning, E. W. Deputy Grand Master be, and is hereby nominated as the Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, near thia Grand Lodge. 76 An application for a Charter for a Lodge at Parramatta was received and referred to the Board of General Purposes. A communication from the Lodge Milton was read, requesting a Dispensation to elect a W.M. in the place of Bro. Gruer, who had left the district. A proposition was made that a Dispensation be granted. The E.W.D.G. Master refused to submit the proposition, giving as his reason the absence of the Grand Master, and also that the case of th^ Milton Lodge was fully met by the Book of Constitutions, and referred the Lodge to the Grand Master. N.B. — The M. "W. Grand Master subsequently granted a Dispensation. The Balance Sheet was laid before Grand Lodge and received. Copies were distributed to each member. Resolved — That a vote of thanks be accorded to Bro. Samuel Lazar, for the free use of the Theatre Eoyal, on the occasion of the late performance in aid of the Masonic Charities ; and the thanks of Grand Lodge be accorded to "W. Bros. Burne, Neitenstein, Machen, and Newton, for their valuable services rendered on the same occasion. Bro. Philip Newland was received as Grand Steward, nominated by Lodge St. Andrew. The recommendation of the Board of General Purposes, " That "W. Bro. Captain Neitenstein, Past Master of Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia, be nominated as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of "Washington, near this Grand Lodge," was unanimously confirmed. The notice of motion standing in the name of "W. Bro. Hunt, re Masonic Conference, was withdrawn for the present, that W. Brother giving satisfactory reasons for so doing. The Grand Lodge was closed in due form, with prayer, by the E.W.D. Grand Master, at 10.15 p.m. EEGTJLAE QIJAETEELT COMMUNICATION OF GEAND LODGE. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on Thursday, the 11th March, 1880. In the absence of the M. "W. Grand Master, and E. "W. Deputy Grand Master, the Grand Lodge was opened in form by the Past Deputy Grand Master, "W. Bro. Booth, at 7.45 p.m. The roll call of Officers and members was responded to. The minutes of last Communication were read and confirmed. Grand Secretary read the Eegulations of Grand Lodge, during the time of public business, as appointed to be read at March Meeting. 11 Eeport of Grand Secretary was read and receiyed. Geand Seceetaet's Ebpoet. Laid before Grand Lodge of New South Wales, at the Quarterly Communication, held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, Sydney, on Thursday, the 11th day of March, A.D. 1880, A.L. 5880. M.W. Grand Master, Officers, and Members of Grand Lodge, — It is with great pleasure that I submit my Quarterly Eeport of the Proceedings for the quarter now ending. The new Lodge at Parramatta, and named " The Parramatta," the Charter for which had been in abeyance, was duly consecrated and opened by the E.W. Deputy Grand Master, on the 19 th December last, in the presence of a large number of distinguished brethren. The first "W .M. is W. Bro. E. A. Eitchie, a Mason of great experience. Since my last Eeport, the M.W. the Grand Master has granted Charters to three new Lodges, yiz., " The Eedf ern," at Eedfern ; "St. John," Manly; and the "Oxford," at Surry Hills. The petitions for these Charters were mainly signed by English and Scotch brethren. The ceremony of Dedication of the above new Lodges, and Installing of the first Office-bearers, was performed by the E.W. Deputy Grand Master, W. Bro. A, "W. Manning, in his usual solemn and impressive manner. It is noteworthy that during the past three months, several of the city Lodges have received accessions to their ranks, from brethren hailing from the Sister Constitutions. By the January M ail, a Commission was forwarded by me to the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, appointing "W. Bro. Dr. A. G. Mackay as the Eepresentative of this Grand Lodge, also a blank Commission to the Grand Lodge of Washington, the name of the brother recommended, to be fiUed in by the Grand Secretary of that Grand Lodge. A copy of blank Commission is herewith laid before Grand Lodge for examination and approval. The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia having appointed our distinguished brother, Dr. A. G. Mackey, to represent the interests of this Grand Lodge, the Board of General Purposes, in order to mark their sense of the honour conferred upon us, resolved that a gold jewel be obtained, and forwarded to W. Bro. Dr. Mackey. This will be forwarded by the next Pacific Mail Steamer. The jewel is now placed before Grand Lodge for inspection. I have to report, that in conjunction with W. Bros. A. Burne, McNeiUy, and Chandler, I visited the Milton Lodge for the purpose of Installing Bro. Jas. Warden as W. Master, in the room of W. Bro. Gruer, who had left the District. A Dispensation to elect a W. Master had first been granted by the Grand Master. 78 I desire to place on the records of Grand Lodge, that we were received by the brethren at Milton with most unbounded kindness and fraternal feeling. The ceremony of Installation was performed in a most impressive manner by W. Bro. Chandler. A communication having been received from the Grand Lodge of Utah, that John P. Sorensen, who is now supposed to be in New South Wales, and who had been sent by the Mormon priesthood as a Missionary to gain converts to Mormonism, was expelled the Order. I was directed by the M.W. the Grand Master, to caution all our Daughter Lodges not to admit the said person,such notice has been sent to all Lodges under this jurisdiction. Not having received any official replies from the Grand Lodges of Canada, Nova Scotia, Quebec, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward's Island, and Utah, to my com- munication re recognition of this Grand Lodge, I have again written to these Grand Lodges, and forwarded duplicate copies of all correspondence. It is with f eeUngs of great regret that I have to report the death of "W. Bro. P.M. James Blair, which melancholy event took place on Saturday, 28th Pebmary. The funeral was largely attended by the brethren under the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales. The Masonic funeral ceremony was most impressively rendered by "W. Bro. E. Chandler. During the quarter ending 28th February, there were 34 Initiations and eight Affi liations. There are stiU returns to be received from 15 Lodges, which will considerably swell the above numbers. Diplomas issued, 31. The following Lodges are in arrears of dues, ending 20th Novr. last : — Newtown Kilwinning, "Woolloomooloo, Abercom, St. Andrew, Australian Social, No. 0, ParneU, Cosmopolitan, Thomas Mort. As I am forming a Masonic Library, I shall feel grateful for any donations of Masonic works. The following amounts have been received during the past quarter from Daughter Lodges : — Excelsior, £1 8s. ; Truth, £2 15s. 9d. ; Abbotsford, £2 3s. lOd. ; Peabody, £1 8s. ; Milton, £8 2s. Id. ; Ejama Samaritan, £2 3s. 9d. ; Edinburgh, £3 Os. 9d. ; Eedfern, £8 10s. ; Tarbolton, £4 6s. 8d. ; Leinster Marine, £20 ; Total, £53 18s. lOd. Amounts ttue by Dr. Lodges to end of Eebruary, 1880, about £150. The great accession of new Lodges and members during the past quarter, must be a source of congratulation to your "Worshipful Body. EratemaUy submitted, NicHOiLts "Weeees, Grand Secretaoy. 79 The Eeport of Board of General Purposes was received, subject to an amendment, " That the name of "W. Bro. P.M. Chandler be expunged," as that W. Bro. stated he had not given his sanction to be appointed as Inspector of "Workings. Meport of the Soard of General Purposes. Laid before the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales at the Quarterly Communication, 11th March, 1880. Tour Committee report that they have held four meetings since last Communication. The following is a synopsis of the business transacted : — The Board met on the 10th December last. Grand Secretary read a petition from brethren at Parramatta, requesting a Charter to open a new Lodge to be named " The Parramatta." The prayer of the Petition was granted, subject to approval of Grand Master. A communication was laid on the table from the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. Grand Secretary was authorized to have 50 Eepresentative Commissions printed. Resolved — That Grand Lodge in future pay for 60 copies of Freemason, and postage of same, to be sent to all Grand Lodges in the "World. Besolved — That a copy of the December number of Freemason be posted to all Lodges in the Colony. Tour Board again met on the 4th January last. Grand Secretary read application from certain brethren hailing from the E., S., and I. Constitutions, praying for a Charter to enable them to open a Lodge at Eedfern, to be named " The B.edfern Lodge." The application, which was recommended by the "W.M. and "Wardens or the Australian Social Mother Lodge, was granted. Another application was presented from brethren at Manly Beach, praying for a Charter to open a new Lodge, to be named the " St. John," Manly. This application was, after discussion, ordered to stand over for one week. Grand Secretary reported that Bros. Bume, Chandler, McNeiUy, and himself, had paid an official visit to the Lodge Milton, and were received with the greatest kindness and hospitality. Bro. Hill's tender for binding Books of Constitutions was accepted. Grand Secretary reported that the new Lodge at Parramatta had been duly dedicated by the E.TV". Deputy Grand Master. Besolved — That a Grand Lodge Officer be recommended for election by Grand Lodge, to be styled the Grand Inspector of "Workings, and whose duty it would be to visit the various 80 Lodges, and examine and report as to their working tte Degrees, &c., and that W. Bro. Chandler be recommended as the first Officer. Grand Secretary reported that he had been unsuccessful in making any satisfactory arrangements for the leasing of the whole of the Masonic Temple. Resolved— ThaA Bro. A. Geldon be appointed Collector to the JE^eemason vice Bro. Negus. Bro. Hunt laid on the table a design by Bro. Kerr of a Eepresentative Jewel, which was adopted, with a slight amendment. Resolved — That Bro. Kerr's design for a Eepresentative Jewel be accepted, that said jewel be of solid gold, and forwarded to W. Bro. A. Gr. Mackey, the Eepresentative of this Grand Lodge near the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. An adjourned meeting of the Board was held on "Wednesday, the 21st May, when a Charter was granted to the Lodge St. John, Manly, subject to approval of Grand Master. Tour Board again met on the 13th February. A petition from brethren hailing under the E., S., and I. Constitutions was read, praying for a Charter of Constitution, enabling them to open a new Lodge at Surry HiUs, to be named the " Oxford." The petition was recommended by the "W.M. and "Wardens of Lodge Sydney Tarbolton, Jfo. 2. Resolved — That the Charter be granted, if approved of by Grand Master. Grand Secretary reported that the Eedfern Lodge, No. 20, and St. John Lodge, ISTo. 21, had been duly dedicated and opened, the E.'W. Deputy Grand Master, A. "W. Manning, performing the ceremony. "W. Bro. Booth presented Grand Lodge Library with the two last years' numbers of the London Freemason. Instructions were given to Grand Secretary to have the same suitably bound. Eeport of Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of New York for 1879, was laid on the table. Resolved — That "W. Bro. Butchart be requested to wait upon "W. Bro. Parnell, and ascertain i£ he was willing to retire from the office of Grand Master for the ensuing year, and at the Bame time to ask that "W. brother if he woidd nominate "W. Bro. Manning as Grand Master. Fraternally submitted, E. V. Gale, President. The Eeport of the Charity Fund Committee was read, shewing the amount of funds in hand. The "W. Deputy Grand Master declined to put the adoption of Eeport before Grand Lodge, ruling that the same was improperly laid before it, not having been previously brought before Grand Committee. 81 W. Bro. Hunt's propoBition (withdrawn from last Communi- cation) was then proceeded with, viz., " That a Committee consisting of W. Bros. Manning, Booth, Butchart, Chandler, Neitenstein, A. Burne, Eowell, J. H. Smith, Starkej, Dr. Tarrant, Slade, Monk, G-rand Secretary, and the morer, be appointed to arrange an amicable Conference or Meeting of the brethren of the English, Scotch, and Irish Constitutions, in the Colony, and at such Conference or Meeting, to hold out the rig;ht hand of fellowship from the Q-rand Lodge of New South Wales, and endeavour to form an amalgamation of all Lodges in New South Wales, fuU power to be given to the said Committee to make all arrangements." In introducing the proposition, W. Bro. Hunt made an eloquent speech, which was greatly cheered. Several brethren having spoken of the advisability of forming such Conference, the proposition was carried unanimously. A communication from the Grand Secretary of Iowa was read, stating, that at the last Communication of that G-rand Lodge, the Committee on Foreign Correspondence had failed to put in an appearance, or report upon the question of recognition of the G-rand Lodge of New South "Wales, consequently the subject of recognition could not be entered into at that meeting. A letter was read from the Grand Secretary of Utah, informing this G-rand Lodge of the expulsion from Freemasonry of John P. Sorensen. Copies of letters addressed to the G-rand Lodges of the Districts of Columbia, Utah, and Washington, were read by G-rand Secretary. W. Bro. Hunt then moved the adoption of the following resolution, " That the Inspector of Workings, recommended by the Board of G-eneral Purposes, rank next to the G-rand Wardens, have the same rights and privileges as a member of the several Boards and Committees, pay the same fees on first appointment, and that a suitable jewel be obtained for the office." The resolution was seconded by W. Bro. Moir, and carried. The nomination of Officers for the year ending June, 1881, was proceeded with, the following brethren were nominated for the respective offices : — Q-rand Master— R.W. Bro. A. W. Manning, M.W. Bro. J. S. Farnell. Senior Grand Warden — W. Bro. Hunt, Junior G-rand Warden— W. Bros. Slade and Carpenter. Inspector of Workings — W. Bro. Larsen. Grand Chaplain — W. Bro. Gale. Grand Treasurer— W. Bro. Starkey. Grand Eegistrar^-W. Bros. Howell a:id Kean President of Board of General Purposes — W. Bros. Burne and A. Smith. S2 Senior Grand Deacon — "W. Bros. Hurley and Slade. Junior Grand Deacon — "W. Bros. Lee, J. H. Smitli, McNeilly, Kean, and Woods. Superintendent of "Works — W. Bros. Backhouse, Noble, Nelson, and Peattie. Director of Ceremonies — W. Bros. Condell, Lee, and McNeilly. Assistant Director of Ceremonies — Bros. Jones and J. P. Smith. Sword-Bearer — Bros. Hutchings, Horn, Peattie, and Moir. Grand Organist —W. Bro. Machen. Grand Pursuivant —Bros. Mason, Howe, and W. Bro. Condell. Assistant Grand Pursuivant — Bros. Searle and Buchanan. Board of General Purposes — W. Bros. Hurley, Larsen, Dr. Tarrant, Starkey, Condell, A. Smith, J. P Burns, Colley, McNeilly, I. Lee, Slade, Moir, Kean, Searle, "Woods, Morton, "Williams, Eowell, J. H. Smith, "W. Beer, Butchart, Machen, Monk, and Hunt. Grand Secretary was instructed to write a letter of condolence to the widow of our late lamented W. Bro Past Master James Blair. Grand Secretary read copy of letter sent to all Lodges under this jurisdiction, cautioning them not to admit John P. Sorensen, who had been expelled by the Grand Lodge of TJtah, and who was supposed to be in the Colony. The representative jewel, to be forwarded to W. Bro. Dr. A. G. Mackey, of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, was exhibited, and gave general satisfaction. Grand Secretary stated that the jewel would be forwarded to that "W. Brother per next Pacific Mail steamer. Grand Lodge was closed in form at 10.45 p.m. EEGULAB QUAETEELT COMMUNICATION OP GEAND LODGE. Held at the Masonic Temple, Clarence Street, on "Wednesday, 2nd June, 1880. The M."W. Grand Master opened the Grand Lodge, with prayer by the Chaplain, in ample form, at 7.30 p.m. The roll call of members entitled to sit having been responded to, the minutes of last Communication were read and confirmed. The Eeport of Grand Secretary was read and adopted. Eepoet op Geand Seceetaet. Laid before Grand Lodge at the Quarterly Communication, held at the Masonic Temple, 2nd June, 18S0. The M."W. Grand Master and "W. Brethren of Grand Lodge, — Since my last Eeport, I have nothing of very great importance to communicate. Contrary to my expectations no new Lodges have been inaugurated, but one will shortly be opened in the suburbs. I have received a very satisfactory letter from the Grand Secretary of "Washington, enclosing a Commission for W. Bro. Neitenstein. The Grand Secretary, W. Bro. Eeed, has also forwarded complete Reports of the Proceedings of his Grand Lodge, for the years 1876-7-8-9. It having been again decided by the Board of General Purposes to recommend the leasing of the whole of the Masonic Temple by Grand Lodge, I fully concur in the proposal, in consequence of the present inadequate accommodation, many of the Lodges are prevented from having the necessary Emergency Meetings. In the event of Grand Lodge adopting the recommendation of the Board, it wiU be necessary to charge an increased rental to Daughter Lodges. I respectfully recommend that a Committee of not less than three brethren be appointed to draw up the necessary rules and regulations for renting the Temple. By last Mail I forwarded the Grand Lodge Eepresentative Jewel to W. Bro. Dr. Mackay. The following Grand Lodge Reports have been received since last Communication: — Louisiana, Kentucky, Cuba, Idaho, Ohio, Minnesota, Utah, Texas, and Washington. I append extracts from the above Reports, relative to the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Illinois. — Recognition referred to the Committee on Carres- pondence. Wisconsin'. — Request for recognition deferred until next year. Maetland. — Committee on Correspondence made a special report, that they regard the G.L. of New South Wales as irregular, because organized by less than half the Lodges in the Colony, and recommend that fraternal intercourse and recognition be deferred. Idaho. — Referred to Committee on Jurisprudence, New Toee. — Recognition deferred. Oeegow. — Does not think the Masons of New South Wales should be excluded, because they have formed a Grand Lodge in Territory where none existed. Action, however, not taken. MnoTESOTA says, — A majority of Lodges in Australia, holding Charters granted by the G.L.'s of B., L, and S., respectively, have formed a G.L called the G.L. of New South Wales, and ask of us recognition. It has not yet received, so far as we are advised, such recognition of its Parent Grand Lodges, and we deem it advisable to wait further developments before we comply with their desire. Rhode Islaitd deems that the Grand Lodge not having a majority of Lodges ought not to be recognized. 84 Cuba. — " A Grand Lodge of New South "Wales was established on the 3rd December, 1877. The idea was not new, as the necessity had been felt for a long time, in consequence of the inconvenient administration caused by the distance of the three Grrand Lodges of the United Kingdom — England, Scotland, and Ireland ; by the absorbtion of the funds, which the brethren considered ought justly to be employed in their own locality, and by the development to which Freemasonry had attained in the Colony. But the brethren were not unanimous, as some of them would not change their allegiance, whilst others believed the step to be premature. The GJrand Lodge of Scotland issued a circular to the other Lodges, requesting them not to recognize this new Grand Lodge, but we, for our part, fail to see the reason of such protest, as the proceedings of the Australian brethren are in fuU accordance with the laws of Freemasonry. Out of courtesy to the Orand Lodge of Scotland, and for no otlier reason, we shall postpone the recognition of the new Grand Lodge, which counts among its members brethren who are equally distinguished as Masons, and as functionaries of the Government, the Hon. J. S. Farnell, M.L.A., being the Grand Master ; and the Grand Lodges of the United Kingdom have no other reason for declining recognition than that a majority of the Lodges were not in favour of the movement, although they always themselves sustained that three Lodges combined had a right to establish a Grand Lodge in a territory where none previously existed." It has been decided that the Annual Festival be celebrated by a Banquet, the tickets for which wiU be lOs. 6d. The letters written by our M.W. Grand Master to the E."W. District Grand Masters of the E. and Scotch Constitutions, with the replies thereto, are now laid before Grand Lodge. The amounts received during the past quarter, for Grand Lodge and Benevolent Fund dues, are as follows : — Grand Lodge, £32 Os. 4d. ; Benevolent Fund, £10 2s. 3d. The total amount to credit of Benevolent Fund is £122 10s. 3d. The number of Intrants and Affiliations during the quarter are as foUows : — 57 Initiations, 16 Affiliations, — total number to 31st May, 330. 15 Diplomas issued. Eeturns from aU the Lodges have, however, not been received. Invitations have been received from the Lodges Milton and Samaritan Kiama, for as many of the Grand Officers who can conveniently pay them a visit on the 16th and 23rd June respectively, on the occasion of a Conversazione and Ball. Fraternally submitted, Nicholas Weekes, Grand Secretary. 85 The Eeport o£ Board of General Purposes was read and adopted. Seport of Board of General Purposes. Laid before Grand Lodge at the Eegular Quarterly Communi- cation, held on the 2nd June, 1880. M.W. Grand Master and "Worshipful Brethren, — Your Board met on the 10th March last, but as the Eeport of that Meeting was verbally made known to Grand Lodge on the following day, viz., the 11th, it is unnecessary to recapitulate the proceedings. The Board again met for business on the 31st March. This was a Special Meeting, called for the purpose of considering the advisability of transferring the Freemason newspaper from Grand Lodge to certain brethren, who proposed to form a Company for carrying on the publication. It was resolved, " That this Board transfer all the right, title, and interest of Grand Lodge in the Freemason newspaper, to the following named brethren, viz., Bros. Starkey, Hunt, "Weekes, Monk, Machen, Nelson, and Larsen, who are to form a Company for carrying on the paper, on consideration of these brethren paying aU liabilities. The said Company to be entitled to receive aU moneys due to this paper." The Board again met on the 14th April. Grand Secretary reported that in accordance with the Book of Constitutions, the mode of voting for Election of Grand Officers was by show of hands. Some discussion arose upon the inconvenience that would arise from this mode of voting. It was thereupon resolved, " That this Board recommend for adoption by Grand Lodge, that the voting for Officers at the forthcoming Flection of Grand Officers he ly ballot, and not by show of hands. Grand Secretary reported that the Trustees of the Masonic Temple had intimated their intention of disposing of the building, if the remaining unsold shares were not taken up by the brethren, or the buQding leased by Grand Lodge at an annual rental of £220. Resolved — That the matter be left in the hands of a Committee of the following brethren, viz., Bros. Slade, Starkey, Monk, Hurley, and Hunt. The Board held its last meeting on the 6th May. Correspondence was laid on the table from several Daughter Lodges. The Board confirmed the resolution passed at previous meeting, " That the Grand Lodge be respectfully requested to sanction that the mode of voting for Grand Officers be by ballot, and not by show of hands." It was resolved, "That a caucus or private meeting of aU brethren entitled to a seat in Grand Lodge be called for Monday, 86 the I7tli May, to decide on the G-rand Master for the ensuing year. Brethren unable to attend to send their vote by proxy, under cover to Grand Secretary, and marked private. "W. Bro. A. Burne, on behalf of the G-rand Stewards' Lodge, reported that it had been decided that the forthcoming Annual Festival take the form of a Banquet, tickets for which to be 10s. 6d. The Eeport was adopted, and it was resolved, " That W. Bros. Hunt, Starkey, and A. Smith, be empowered to act with, and assist the Grand Stewards in carrying out all arrangements for the Festival." It was resolved, ' That the Board recommend to Grand Lodge the advisability of carrying out the resolution previously arrived at, with regard to leasing the whole of the Masonic Temple at an annual rental of £220. The amended By-law of Lodge Excelsior, altering scale of dues, was carried. The amended By-Law of Lodge Abbotsford, Gulgong, " That the Lodge in futirre hold its meetings fortnightly, instead of monthly," was agreed to. A letter from Samaritan Lodge, Eiama, was read, requesting information as to the legality of electing an old and worthy member as an honorary member. Grand Secretary informed the Board that he had replied, that the action of the Samaritan Lodge was perfectly constitutional, the Board endorsed the correctness of the reply by Grand Secretary. Letters were read from the M.W. the Grand Master, to the District Grand Masters of the E. and S. Constitutions in this Colony, having reference to the formation of a Conference to endeavour to come to some amicable arrangement as to the differences now existing in Ereemasonry in this Colony. Eeplies to the above letters were read, from W. Bros. J. Wmiams, D.G. Master, E. C, and W. G. Sedgwick, S.C, declining to give their sanction to the object sought to be obtained. In conclusion, your Board recommend the following resolutions for adoption by Grand Lodge. 1st. That the Grand Lodge confirm the resolution of the Board with reference to the transfer of the Freetnason newspaper. 2nd. That Grand Lodge confirm the rec jmmendation of the Board, that the mode of voting for Grand Officers he iy ballot. 3rd. That Grand Lodge confirm the resolution of the Board, with reference to leasing the whole of the Masonic Temple. B«spectfully submitted on behalf of the Board of General Purposes. E. V. Gate, President of Boaxd. 8f The letters written by the M."W. the Grand Master to the District G-rand Masters of the English and Scotch Constitutions, requesting their support and concurrence to a Masonic Conference " as per resolution of last Communication," for the purpose of endeavouring to heal the differences now existing ili the Craft, were read by Graed Secretary, also replies thereto, in which these E.W. brethren refused giving their sanction and support to such Conference. [Copy of Letter from Bro. J. S. Parnell, M.W.G.M., to the District G.M.'s English and Scotch Constitutions.] " Sydney, April 26th, 1880. " Eight "Worshipful and Dear Sir and Brother, — " In craving the favour of your careful perusal of the report of a speech advocating a Masonic Conference, published in the accompanying (April) number of jf%e Freemason, I wish to assure you of my cordial agreement with its tenor, and of my most earnest desire that some arrangements should be made for more clearly determining the points at issue between the body of Ereemasons I have the honour to preside over, and the brethren of other Constitutions. " The question of the advisability or otherwise of establishing a Grand Lodge of New South Wales, and of the steps its promoters have taken, is not one I intend to touch upon in this communication, which has for its object to invite your co-operation towards arranging a Conference, at which the views of all parties may be expressed, and the issues thoroughly and fairly discussed. "As the meeting would not be held under a warrant, official sanction is not absolutely necessary, still, in order that the brethren under your jurisdiction may be fully represented, I trust you vnll afford the proposal your countenance and support, feeling confident that, in common with myself, your constant desire and earnest wish is to promote the interests of the Order. "I need scarcely point out to you that attendance at a meeting such as is proposed, would not in the slightest degree compromise or affect the position or standing which any brother may have taken up upon the questions to be discussed, nor would any of us, in my opinion, suffer the faintest loss of dignity by sitting in conclave for the purpose of endeavouring, by Masonic and fraternal means, to put an end to the strife which unfortunately prevails. " It would be supererogatory, and, indeed, almost impertinent on my part to remind so eminent a Mason as yourself, of the bounden duty of the rulers of the Craft to promote peace and goodwill by every legitimate means in their power ; and I feel confident, from my personal knowledge of the great zeal you have always exhibited in Freemasonry, that you are as anxious 88 as I am to bring matters to a definite issue, and to put an end, if possible, to the existing unsatisfactory state of things. " How these objects can be best forwarded is not for me to suggest in this letter, but I am of opinion that, at a represen- tative conference, some lines could probably be laid down upon which a basis might be founded which would eventually result in an amicable settlement. In any case I feel that I should be wanting in my duty, were I not to invite your fraternal co-operation, and I am certain that in cordially holding out the banner of brotherly love, I am but fulfilling the teachings of our Institution. " A free exchange of opinions cannot but result in good, and I therefore sincerely trust you will join with me in affording our brethren an opportunity of meeting for discussion. " Begging the favour of an early reply, "lam, " Eight "Worshipful and Dear Sir and Brother, " Tours faithfully and fraternally, James Sqtjiee Paenell." "District Grand Lodge, E.G., " Freemasons' HaU, York Stteet, " Sydney, 28th April, 1880. " J. S. FABOTiLL, Esq., M.P., " Past Provincial Grand Master, I.C., " Eight Worshipful Sir and Brother, — "I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 26th inst., and in reply to that, however great my esteem for you as a private gentleman, I cannot meet you and others in Masonic conference until you are recognized by the Grand Master of Grand Lodge of England as a lawfully constituted Masonic authority. " I remain, " Eight Worshipful Sir and Brother, "Tours fraternally, " John Wilmams, D.G.M., E.G." " Newtown, 28th April, 1880. " Eight Worshipful Dear Sir and Brother, — " I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 26th inst., which I have attentively read, and also the article in the Freemason. " I abstain from making any comment upon the tone of either the letter or the article, and as I do not agree with you in that any advantage will accrue from a free discussion of the ' views of aU parties,' I must decline to afford my ' countenance and 89 support towards arranging a conference for the expression of feelings on both sides.' " I remain, " Eight "Worshipful Dear Sir and Brother, " Tours fraternally, "W. G. SBBawicK, D.G-.M., 8.C. " To the Hon. James S. Pabnell, " P.P. Grand Master, T.C." Correspondence was read from the Grand Secretary of Washington, U.S.A., enclosing a commission in favour of W. Bro. Capt. Neitenstein, as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Washington, near this Grand Lodge ; the Commission was duly handed to the W. Brother. Also from W. Bro. Guichard, 32°, accepting the office of our Representative, near the Grand Lodge of Washington. W. Bro. Chandler's motion relative to the non-collection of fees payable by Grand Officers was withdrawn. The proposition of W. Bro. Slade, relative to the formation of a Lodge of Instruction, (the expense of which is to be borne by the Sydney Lodges,) to be under the superintendence of the Inspector of Workings, was carried. The M.W. the Grand Master remarked, that he thought the proposition, although carried, would have little efEect, as the means necessary for forming Lodges of Instruction were already provided for in the Book of Constitutions. W. Bro. Gale proposed the following resolution, " That each Lodge be required to provide a book wherein all offences against Masonry by brethren under this jurisdiction be regularly entered, and the same reported to Grand Lodge." Was not put to the vote, the Grand Master deciding that the Book of Constitutions provided for the same. The Grand Secretary announced the next business was the Election of Grand Officers for the ensuing year. The M.W. Grand Master stated that in his opinion there should be no contested election for the office of Grand Master, and that the Grand Master should be elected by the unanimous vote of the brethren. That M.W. brother, and the E.W. Deputy Grand Master then retired. The following brethren were elected : — • M.W. Grand Master— W. Bro. J. S. Parnell. Senior Grand Warden — W. Bro. J. Hunt. Junior Grand Warden — W. Bro. Dr. Tarrant. Inspector of Workings — W. Bro. Larsen. Grand Chaplain — W. Bro. Gale. Grand Treasurer — W. Bro. Starkey. Grand Registrar — W. Bro. Eowell. 90 President Board of General Purposes— W. Bro. A. Burne. Senior G-rand Deacon — W. Bro. Slade. Junior Grand Deacon — W. Bro. McNeilly. Superintendent of Works — "W. Bro. Backhouse. Director of Ceremonies — W. Bro. Lee. Assistant Director of Ceremonies — "W. Bro. J. P. Smith. Grand Sword Bearer — "W. Bro. J. Peattie. Grand Organist — W. Bro. Machen. Grand Pursuivant — "W". Bro. Condell. Assistant Grand Pursuivant — Bro. Buchanan. Board of General Purposes — W. Bros. Hurley, Condell, McNeilly, Slade, EoweU, W. Beer, Starkey, A. Smith, Lee, Morton, J. H. Smith, J. P. Burns. The Grand Lodge was closed in form at 11.30 p.m. 91 JLI=I=EIsrDIX B. To the Most "WorBiipful the Grand Lodge of Sydney, N.S.W., 23rd December, 1878. Most Worshipful G-rand Master, Officers and Brethren, — Permit me to recall your attention my letter under date January last, wherein I notified the establishment of the G-rand Lodge of New South "Wales, and my own installation as &rand Master and further requested the recognition of that Grand Lodge by the G-rand Lodge of It wiU I think be conceded that the G-rand Lodge of New South Wales has evinced no desire to press too urgently for a reply to that communication, it has on the contrary, been desirous that ample time should be allowed for the fuU consideration of a matter involving so many questions of importance and placing so many interests at stake. It is now thought that in the year which has elapsed between the receipt of that communica- tion and the delivery of the present one, such an opportunity will have been afforded, and consequently, I beg to renew the application for the recognition of the G-rand Lodge of New South Wales, the formation of which has in every respect been consti- tutional and regular, and in strict accordance with usage of time immemorial. It is thus entitled to the recognition it seeks, and to the supreme and undivided jurisdiction held to be the inherent right of every G-rand Lodge so established. Its claims to such I have again submitted to all Eegular G-rand Lodges throughout the World ; and I hold to the hope that the matter will be speedily brought to a satisfactory issue, for we cannot close our eyes to the faet that by the present uncertainty of its position the true interests of Masonry are materially prejudiced, and a feeling of antagonism engendered greatly to its discredit. We desire that every G-rand Lodge should be in possession of facts, by which it may be guided in its decision upon the appeal made. Therefore as representing the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, I beg to submit the following statement: We admit that the movement resulting in the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales met with much opposition but we confidently assert that the opposition would have been of little moment but for the course pursued by certain brethren who, from motives not difficult to detect caused instructions to be forwarded to every Lodge, even the most remote, not to entertain any of our C( mmunications, or those of the Convention, the purpose of which was misrepresented, coupled with a threat of Masonic pains and penalties u they individually/ or as Lodges 92 held Masonic intercourse -with us. Thus were we debarred from placing, ourselves and matters in true light before the Craft, and as the majority of the brethren were young and inexperienced Masons, ignorant in fact, of the existence of any recognized system of jurisprudence, it is by no means surprising that under the circumstances they kept aloof from us, some for a short time only. We have no hesitation in asserting that had it been practicable to canvass the Craft individualh/, and they had been in a position to adopt, without fear of consequences, such course as their judgment or inclination prompted, the result would have shewn that the proposition to establish a Grand Lodge within the colony was in very general favor. But severe, and in some instances illegal action was taten to prevent the spread of the too evident disposition to support the movement. Tet in the face of aU opposition, the originators of that move- ment persevered in their efforts, and met with great success, as was proved by the presence in Convention of a far greater number of Segula/rly Warranted Lodges than was absolutely necessary to give legality to such a course. The result was communicated to Grand Lodge by my letter first referred to. Since that period, the Grand Lodge of New So»th Wales has duly, yet moderately, exercised its functions, not attempting to interfere with those who preferred to remain under the pre- existing relations. It has not only fully maintained its position, but has made sitre and rapid progress. Although it has only recently entered upon its second year of existence, there are already nineteen Lodges holding charters therefrom, and sufficient indications to warrant the anticipation that within a very short period that number will be largely increased. During the past week an application has been forwarded by a Lodge under an Unglish Warrant, for one under the seal of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. This is the first English Lodge that has been bold enough to transfer its allegiance, and the example now given will, almost to a certainty, be followed by many others. Independently of those Lodges that assisted in the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, there have been new ones inaugurated, and all are working most successfully. More than Six Sundred regularly made Masons have given in their adhesion to the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. Consider- ing the very small masonic popidation of the Colony the pro- portion may be regarded as quite equal to if not beyond, the average on such occasions. We hold it to be evidence of a tone of feeling — encouraging in the highest degree. A form of con- stitution has been adopted and printed. Rituals have been framed with a scrupulous regard to landmarks, and the prejudices or predilections of brethren who may long have been accustomed to work the ceremonies after some timehonoured form not TiniverBaUy observed. AU necessary Boards, Committees and 93 Sub-committees have been establisbed, and have already done good service. A monthly journal designated " The Freemason," has been brought into existence and is in very wide circulation as the exponent of the new order of things. And lastly an interchange of friendly communications is maintained with some of the Grand Lodges of the United States and in British America. I mention these facts solely to shew that the entire organiza- tion of the G-rand Lodge of New South Wales is complete and regular, and that all that remains to be desired is Recognition by Sister G-rand Lodges. I win not impute unworthy motives to our opponents ; but I should fail in my duty to the Grand Lodge I represent were I not plainly to assert that great misrepresentations have been resorted to in certain quarters to influence the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, in their decision upon the question of recognition. "We have good reason for the belief that from such misrepresentations, those Grand Lodges, our Masonic Parents, retain the impression that the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales owes its origin to the individual and conse- quently irregiilar action of a, few Brethren, and not to the com- hined action of certain Warrcmted Lodges assembled in convention. But if due weight be allowed to the " Eeport of Proceedings in Convention " and to the " Manifesto of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales" subsequently issued, both of which documents were forwarded to every Grand Lodge, there will be found therein a sufficient refutation of aU such misstatements. "Under the conviction that Truth must in the end prevail, we are not only content to wait for our due, but have patiently submitted to personal revUements, that should never have disgraced the utter- ances of any member of an institution, which requires him to be " in charity with all men, more especially with his brethren in Masonry." "With a reckless disregard of truth, the most appro- bious terms have been applied to the Grand Lodge of New South Wales — the " so-called Grand Lodge." All its adherents have been held up to public contempt and ridicule ; many of its more active supporters have been placed under the ban of " Suspension from all Masonic Eights " and this without even the pretence of any of those formalities universally prescribed for oiservanceheiore condemnation or punishment can be held just or regular. The older masonic journal The Australian Freemason, a paper edited by a Beverend brother, has been refused to us, as a means of justification, and has been entirely monopolized as a channel for the grossest invective, and the wildest misrepresentation. Law and propriety have been utterly disregarded in the one absorbing desire to crush a Body whose existence is most unpala- table to a few Brethren of position and influence in the Craft. Though we are quite wiUing to believe that some have taken their stand against us from an honest conviction of the impropriety of our conduct, we are well aware that many more have done so, simply because they regard our action as 'premature only. This is a matter of opinion, one in which every one is at Hberty to entertain and temperately to express his views. But it is a somewhat significant fact that the most energetic of our opponents are brethren holding offices of honour or emolument under con- stitutions hitherto legally exercising jurisdiction within the, Colony. Their interests are at stake, for they well know that, on the' unconditional recognition of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, their offices wiU by constitutional usage, be abolished and the emoluments &c. disappear with them ; unhappily these few brethren have had sufficient influence with two of the Local Representative Eulers to induce them to countenance proceedings which we cannot regard as other than unjust and subversive of every principle of Masonic courtesy. "We have not descended to retaliation, though we avail ourselves of every opportunity to deny that there has been anything " disloyal " in our conduct, or that we have justly laid ourselves open to the daily repeated charge of having violated our obligation. "What we have done, we have deemed necessary to the interests of Masonry in our midst and as a justifiable exercise of a Sight accorded hy Masonic Jv/risprudence. I may be permitted to remark that one grand result has been achieved by the active intervention of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales. Por some years there had existed in Sydney a body sty Ung itself " The Grand Lodge of New South "Wales," and formed from the great majority of a Regular Lodge — " St. Andrew's." It afEected to make, pass, and raise Masons, grant charters, and issue certificates. Though most irregular in its constitution, so much so as to bring it under merited general condemnation by the Craft, it had drawn many to its fold, and had successfully resisted all attempts at its suppression. This Body has now made full submission. It has admitted its error, surrendered the authority under which it acted, has closed its lodges, and its original members have in regular couiee petitioned for and obtained, a warrant from the present regular Grand Lodge of New South "Wales. The Lodge thus formed, No. 11 on our roll, is now working most energetically in the right direction. "We point with pride, to the indisputable fact that solely to the existence of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales is to be attributed the extinction of this irregular combination, and the consequent removal of a grave scandal that the local representatives of the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland found it impossible even to mitigate. And now Most "Worshipful Grand Master, Officers and Brethren — satisfied that no valid argument can Ije adduced for any longer ignoring us, and firm in our determination to adhere to the course on which we have entered from no feeling of hostility 95 or disrespect to our parent Qrand Lodges, — "We desire most earnestly to be received iato friendly relations with you, and pray you to extend to us that unconditional recognition to which we consider ourselves entitled, and which we shall most value as enabling us to unite with you in honorable efforts for the advance- ment of that cause to which we, as well as yourselves are solemnly dedicated. I have the honour to subscribe myself Most "Worshipful Grand Master, Officers and Brethren, faithfully and fraternally yours, JAMES S. PAENELL, Grand Master, New South "Wales. [Copy of first letter of the M."W. Grand Master to the G.L. of England is printed at end of Manifesto.] 17th July, 1879. The Eight Hon. Loed Invbetjeie, Senior Grand "Warden, Grand Lodge of Scotland. My Lord and E."W. Brother, — Tour esteemed Communication of the 28th March last, directed to E.W. Bro. Butchart, S.G.W., was transmitted to M."W. Grand Master, The Hon. J. S. EarneU, and by him presented to the Board of General Purposes, from which it was transferred to the Board of Foreign Correspondence. It now becomes my duty, as President of the Board of Foreign Correspondence, to submit to the Grand Lodge of Scotland — through your Lordship — statements of fact, and to express the deep regret of Grand Lodge, that an opportunity is only now offered to refute unfounded statements affecting that body, and upon which your Grand Lodge has taken action. It is my province to bring under the notice of the M.W. the Grand Master, M.W. Grand Lodge of Scotland, the history of the proceedings in Convention, by which the Grand Lodge of N.S. "Wales was erected, and to remind that august body that printed copiei of their proceedings were forwarded to the E."W. the Grand Secretary in the end of 1877, together with a letter from Grand Master EameU, intimating the inauguration of this Grand Lodge. I am also to remind your Grand Lodge that a special copy of the Manifesto of this Grand Lodge was forwarded to your Grand Secretary in the month of August last year, as also a representation of the position generally, under the hand of Grand Master FarneU, and seal of Grand Lodge, of date 23rd December last, and directed to the M."W. the Grand Master Mason of Scotland. No notice of any of these documents has as yet been taken. "We are therefore in ignorance as to whether they have been presented to Grand Lodge or any of its Boards, or in fact whether they have in any way been considered. 96 The brettren tailing under tte G-rand Lodge of New Sonth "Wales, approach your Lordship with the greatest respect, and gladly avail themselves of this opportunily of enlisting your fraternal assistance, in the f uU confidence that their cause wiU now be heard in the Grand Lodge of Scotland. I will therefore — for the present — only solicit your Lordship's intervention respecting our several representations, that we may be afforded an opportunity of answering — if necessary — any statements which have been made, and which are detrimental to our position ; and of proving — i£ called upon to do so — -the correctness of the assertions contaiued in the documents I have enumerated. Eespecting the Masonic statistics of this Colony, and of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales in particular, I beg to refer your Lordship to the leading articles in the Freemason, which is published under authority of Grand Lodge. Prom these it will be seen that our number of subscribing members exceed eight hundred (800), which we affirm is amajoritj of attached Masons throughout the entire Colony, a fact which we consider entitles our cause to be legitimately considered by your Grand Lodge. J am desired to assure the Grand Lodge of Scotland, of the undiminished attachment of the brethren in this Colony — who formerly hailed under her Constitution — and to add that the Grand Lodge of New South Wales is erected principally to enable the IVaternity here to husband their resources for the wants of their territory. I have the honour to be, My Lord and E.W. Brother, Yours fraternally, J. Hawkins JBriCHAET. President of the Board of Foreign Correspondence. MANIFESTO To all MASTUR MASOIfS throughout the Globe, especially to our Brethren, in the TEBRITOBY of NEW SOUTH WALES. The recent establishment of " The Grand Lodge of New South Wales " has been the subject of so much unfavourable criticism — has, we regret to say, stirred up so much bitterness of feeling amongst members of that noble Institution which prohibits contention — and some of the more prominent supporters of the movement have been so unworthily and unconstitutionally handled by those temporarily possessed of the power to perse- cute — that we deem it our duty, in common justice, to make 97 greater efEorfcs than hitherto to remove the erroneous impressions entertained by many of our Brethren in respect of the action taken for the accomplishment of an object so long cherished and of so great moment, as the constitution of a Supreme Masonic Authority, independent of those G-rand Lodges hitherto (and now formally) exercising jurisdiction within this territory. By the determined opposition of those of the Worshipful Masters who have arrayed themselves against us, we are deprived of the power of making any appeal to the Brethren in their several Lodges, — a mode of procedure that would be not only more correct, but, likewise more satisfactory to all concerned. We are therefore compelled to have recourse to the Printers' Press as a channel of explanation,— indeed, as the only available means of placing a truthful version of facts before the Fraternity. The- only professedly Masonic publication, the Australian Free- mason (though accepted by none as a Masonic organ, or as a reliable source of Masonic instruction), has been freely made use of by our opponents for every species of misrepresentation and revilement. Its advocacy has been unscrupulously reserved for the old state of things. Its columns are closed against ourselves. Hence the present form of our address. We adopt this course most unwillingly — knowing it to be at variance, with usual practice based upon the principle that Masonic matters should at all times be kept in the safe and sacred repository of the heart. In the interests of Freemasonry, and in the hope of being able to clear our associated brethren (whose cause we adopt as our own), from the odious charges brought against them, we, on behalf of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, and with its sanction, now offer a plain and ungarbled statement of the case ; so that any Brother in possession of both versions may be able to exercise his judgment, and arrive at a decision as to the merits of either. It must have been known to Brethren — even to those who did not participate in the feelings — that an impression had long existed in the minds of a considerable section of the Fraternity that Freemasonry in this Colony did not come up to the standard by which so excellent an Institution ever has been, and properly should be, gauged. This was deemed to be mainly attributable to the many disaavantages and difficulties attendant upon a due discharge of its Legislative and Executive functions, in a territory so remote from the seat of Masonic government. The delays and uncertainty in communication with the Grand Lodges, — the too frequent instances of neglect, and the detriment accruing therefrom to individual Brethren, — the compulsory annual contributions to funds offering no tangible benefit, and the consequent diminution of means for purposes of local charity (one of the primary objects of the Institution) ; — all these, com- 98 bined, operated to give strength to the steadily increasing desire to take matters into our own hands, assert the right to self- government, and thus put an end to a state of dependency that has become prejudical to the interests of Freemasonry in New South Wales. Certain Brethren, of high Masonic standing and acknowledged merit and ability, at last resolved on taking the initiative in this momentous matter. Circulars were sent to a large number of Lodges, asking them to test the feeling of Brethren as to the advisability of establishing a Grand Lodge in and for the Colony of New South Wales. Replies were received from no less then twenty-two Lodges, all affirming the desirability of so doing. Thus impressed with the necessity for prompt action, these Brethren met in conclave, formed themselves into a Masonic Union, and immediately issued a Manifesto detailing the Masonic position and inviting Lodges of every Constitution to depute Delegates to meet them in Convention, and there discuss the subject. Twelve Lodges responded to the invitation, and were duly represented by delegates appointed in open Lodge. The Manifesto was also forwarded to a large number of Grand Lodges in various parts of the world — ^including those of Eng- land, Scotland, and Ireland — together with a letter requesting information as to the proper mode of forming a Grand Lodge worthy of fraternal recognition from existing Constitutions. Several Grand Lodges of the United States, as well as those established in British America, at once complied with the request, and, wishing us success in our undertaking, sent fraternal letters of advice, and printed copies of proceedings of Conventions that had met for similar purposes in their several territories. Those latter documents were highly prized by the Members of the Union, inasmuch as they exhibited the proceedings of Lodges fiimilarly situated with ourselves — i.e., under the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland — but without the disadvantages arising from remoteness from the governing bodies. Encouraged by the assurance that the course they had so far pursued was such as was prescribed by many eminent writers on Masonic Jurisprudence, our Brethren advanced another step. The urgency of the position having been admitted, and the further course of procedure determined by these zealous Masons at their several preliminary Meetings in Convention, the 3rd day of December, 1877, was fixed for the final Meeting of Convention. A general call of the Eraternity was made ; and, on the day named, the full proceedings of the Convention were laid before as large and influential an assemblage of Masons as was ever witnessed in the Colony. The Report of the Delegates in Convention was submitted and approved, — the necessity and propriety of establishing a Grand Lodge was affirmed, — the Grand Lodge of New South Wales was inaugurated, — and the Grand Master 09 and Grrand Officers were duly elected. Thereupon, the G-rand Master (The Hon. J. S. Paruell, First Minister of the Crown in this portion of the dominions of Her Majesty, our beloved Queen), was Installed according to ancient usage, and homage rendered. The G-rand Master having then installed the several G-rand Officers, Proclamation was made that " The Most "Worshipful the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales of Free and Accepted Masons " was duly constituted. Every step taken was in strict accordance with precedents that had never been impugned, — precedents that have gained for many now existing G-rand Lodges full recognition and co-operation. A Eeport of the " Proceedings in Convention," and of the Inauguration of the Grand Lodge and Installation of Grand Master and G-rand Officers, was printed ; and copies were forwarded to all Lodges in the colony, and also to thirty-six Grand Lodges in various parts of the world, accompanied in the latter case by an explanatory letter in which the fraternal recognition and co-operation of each Grand Lodge was sought. The letters to the G-rand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland contained the further request that the Lodges hitherto working under their chatters might be permitted to retain possession of those charters as valued mementos of a " happy connection now discontinued solely from considerations of expediency that should not — and as far as we are concerned, shaU not — weaken the cordial sentiments by which such connection has ever been characterized." "While we regret to state that in several Lodges within the colony these documents were suppressed, we rejoice to say that from many Grand Lodges in the United States and British America the most courteous and satisfactory replies have been received, and testimony has been borne to the unexceptionally constitutional course pursued in the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales. But the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, whose recognition was so especially sought, no answer has, as yet, been vouchsafed, — for we cannot recognise any stamp of authority in the communication of a Grand Secretary who curtly gives his dictum that the " so-caUed Grand Lodge cannot be recognized." It is well known that the District Grand Lodge, E.G., and the remnant of Provincial Grand Lodge, S.C, in this Colony, have done all in their power to prevent recognition being extended to us by the suppression of Manifesto, Keports of Proceedings in Convention, and all information calculated to enlighten inquirers ; while we, content with our first action, and relying on the justice of our appeal, have taken no steps to remove the false impressions conveyed by letters and printed ioo articles emanating from, or countenanced by, the said District and Provincial Grand Lodges. AJl conceivable means have been adopted to prevent brethren from giving in their adhesion to the Grand Lodge of Xew South "Wales, and every possible obstruction has been placed in its way. Our Scottish Brethren have been especially energetic in their opposition ; or, more correctly speaking, a very small number have succeeded in procuring sanction from the highest quarter to tlieir violent and unconstitutional measures. Xot satisfied with heaping ridicule upon the " so-called " Grand Lodge, — which they knew, or ought to have known, to be as regularly constituted as the Grand Lodge of Scotland itself,— they have branded the promoters as " Spurious Masons " (!) and " Seceders from tlie original plan of Masonry " ! Moreover, the Provincial Grand Master has issued, in a most summary manner, a sentence of " Suspension from all Masonic rights and privileges " against many of the more prominent "so-called" (we adopt a phrase of their own introduction) " Spurious Masons and Seceders," — and this under the semblance of instructions from the Grand Lodge of Scotland, which ought to have been far differently interpreted ! The veriest tyro in Masonic lore might easily relieve us of the imputations cast upon us. Place in his hands any one of the many works on Masonic Jurisprudence (aU of which are accepted as Text-books by Grand Lodges and all Lodges throughout the universe), and he will have little difficulty in arriving at the conclusion that the Grand Lodge of Xew South "Wales is as regularly constituted as the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland ; nay, more so than the Grand Lodge of England as it existed from the year 1717 to the year 1813, when its irregularity was removed, by its absorption in the present " United Grand Lodge of England." All Masonic authorities concur in according to so small a number as three Chartered Lodges the right to form themselves into a Grand Lodge, in any territory within which no Grand Lodge is already in existence. The exercise of divided juris- diction by District or Provincial Grand Lodges, deriving their status from Grand Lodges in other territories, and subject thereto, is no bar to tlic estabKshment of a Grand Lodge within that territory, with exclusive ■ jurisdiction therover. In our case, constitutional requirements have not only been fully met, but largely exceeded. Instead of the three Chartered Lodges essential to the validity of the movement, there we no less than twelve that maintained their right, and joined in the formation of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. "We admit it is not in the power of any number of individual Masons to constitute themselves into a Grand Lodge That is a prerogative to be exercised onlj by the prescribed number of Lodges holding lol charters from some legal Grand Lodge, or from different G-rand Lodges. Having, as before stated, complied with and so greatly exceeded all requirements in sucli case, it is very diffcult to conceive upon what grounds the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales can be regarded as otherwise than properly constituted, and, as such, entitled to the prompt and cordial recognition it has, in courtesy, sought. Our opponents must have been sorely puzzled for a reason, when they advanced the puerile assertion that we " ought to ]xsiV6 oht&in&A. the permission oi our Parent Grand Lodges," before we took a single step towards the formation of our own Grand Lodge ] Intending to constitute ourselves their equal by the exercise of an inherent right, dependent upon the will of none, can it for a single moment be supposed, that we are bound to ask leave to assert that right ? They who hold to such a notion, can have but small conception of the meaning of an " inherent right ;" and they display a pitiable ignorance of law and usage ; — an ignorance by no means in keeping with the position some of our opponents have acquired in the Craft. Most unhesitatingly we reiterate the assertion, and we challenge proof to the contrary, that (permission or no permission) the Grand Lodge of New South Wales is a legally constituted Grand Lodge, and is capable of exercising exclusive Masonic jurisdiction within the limits of the territory within which it has been formed. "We would warn brethren against crediting assertions to the contrary, however speciously advanced. "We know there are some who are ever on the watch for an opportunity to imbue the minds of inexperienced brethren, with a horror of the conduct of those "Spurious Masons," and "Seceders." The arguments they adopt are as hollow as their allegations are at variance with fact. We fear them not, but we are unwilling to see a single brother in danger of being misled, without offering a beacon, that, by exposing the danger and indicating the proper course, shall enable him to escape. Most assuredly the time is not far distant when Eight will be in the ascendant, and the prompters of Wrong will be compelled to acknowledge their error, and offer atonement for the injury they have inflicted upon a body of Masons as regularly made as themselves, and upon Lodges as legally constituted as their own. "We trust the term " Spurious " will never again be applied to us. The stigma will not lie where hurled, but will recoil with sevenfold force upon the evil speaker. With respect to the assertion too recklessly made that we are " Seceders," we care not to trouble ourselves with much effort to refute the charge, for, evidently, the originators of that charge are of too incomprehensive intellect, to be equal to any deep disquisition upon the term used. We will use the plainest language, and say that we have not seceded, in the proper 102 acceptation of the term ; for we claim still to belong to the great Masonic Family from lohich we take our origin. We have done no more than relieve Parent G-rand Lodges of the duties, and responsibilities of Gruardianship. The position we have assumed, may not inaptly be exemplified by usage in the outer world. Our ofispring, on arriving at maturity and years of discretion, and possessing the means and disposition to fight, unaided, the great battle of life, do not hesitate to quit the paternal roof, and assume an independence alike justifiable and honorable. The teachings of infancy, and the counsellings of riper years, have all tended to foster the desire for independence, and to fit them for it. The parent knows it is inevitable and right, and not only never dreams of checking the impulse, but, wishing him " God speed," bids the son go forth, and attain a place and a reputation for himself in the common battle-field and labour ground of the aged and the young. As with the outer world, so is it with Preemasonry. When Masonic infancy is passed, and the vigour of knowledge and strength have supervened, there arises an equally potent and justifiable yearning for independence, and the offspring claims its right to lay aside the leading strings by which it has hitherto been restrained. In neither case need there be any severance of natural ties : each may pursue its course in the appointed path, still cherishing a grateful remembrance of past dependence and protection, and nourishing the deepest respect for the stock whence it sprang. We have thus gone forth ; and thus also would we accord to Parent Grand Lodges our gratitude for past nurture. All we ask is that they will bid us " God speed," to encourage us on our way. "We do not deserve to be stigmatised as " Seceders," or be branded as " Spurious." Then, why all this opposition — all this abuse — all this persecu- tion ? Listen, brethren, to what that learned jurist, Bro. Paton, says in his work on " Freemasonry and its Jurisprudence ;" — and the enigma will approach very nearly to a solution : — " A G-rand Lodge thus formed, by the union of not less than three Lodges in Convention, at once assumes all the prerogatives of a Grand Lodge, and acquires exclusive Masonic jurisdiction in the territory. N^o Lodge can continue to exist, or he suhseq^uently estallished, in the territory, except under its authority ; and all other Grand Lodges are precluded from exercising any Masonic authority within the said territory." Now, the moment the Grand Lodge of Kew South "Wales was established, it became entitled to exclusive Masonic jurisdiction, within the Colony (or territory), and the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, ceased to have any jurisdiction therein ; — the District and Provincial Grand Lodges lost their legal existence ; the District and Provincial G-rand Masters, consequently, had no further use for their Patents : and all 103 salaried officials well knew that the loss of their emoluments must ensue! Even these salaried officials, though Masons, are but human, and partake of the frailties of poor human nature ; and it is not difficult to conceive their anxiety to avert such a calamity, by the most strenuous efforts to prolong the existing state of tbings, and, by representations, — that they hoped would cause recognition to be withheld from the " so-called " hut very real G-rand Lodge of New South "Wales, — prevent the spread of a heresy that threatened them with such dire results. We shall regret the occurrence of such a misfortune to any of our brethren, but cannot, on that account, be induced to waver in our determination to go through with the matter we have taken in hand, and to which we are, one and all, solemnly pledged. To the last we will maintain the justice and reasonableness of our demands ; and certainly shall not yield the position, even though recognition (it itself unnecessary and of secondary importance) be denied us by the Grrand Lodges of the United Kingdom. We have been compelled to take our stand upon our rights, and we will maintain it unflinchingly through good and evil report. We thought to work harmoniously with the Universal Brotherhood — we still hope to do so ; but it must be with the unfettered exercise of all our legal functions. Upon the matter of " Suspension," under which some of our number have been placed, we can hardly trust ourselves to say much. We are simply shocked by the blundering injustice committed ; and are inexpressibly surprised that a brother, holding the highest position attainable amongst us, should have allowed his better judgment to be so warped by the representa- tions of a very few brethren, whose anxiety to conserve individual interests, and to protect from invasion what they had come to regard as vested rights, has occasioned a forgetfulness of their paramount duty. Having been instructed by the Grand Lodge of Scotland to "proceed" (implying certain well recognised formulae) to the " Expulsion " (!) or " Suspension " of all " officers or members of the Provincial Grand Lodge " who had joined the " illegal Body," or had been actively concerned in " furthering the interests of the so-called G-rand Lodge of New South Wales," the Eight Worshipful Brother, incautiously, committed himself to the error of taking no preliminary proceedings, but in a reckless and peremptory manner at once fulminated his sentence of Excommunication against all alike (officers, members, and those who were in no way connected with the Provincial Orand Lodge) who had placed in jeopardy his own position, and that of a few who remained staunch to — their own interests ! Protest against such unconstitutional treatment had no other effect than that of eliciting the very unnecessary announcement, that if the brethren in question felt aggrieved, they could appeal to the 104 Grand Lodge of Scotland for redress. Tet do we heartily thank the Provincial Grand Master for his reply, as he has most unwittingly adduced a very strong argument in favor of establishing a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. An appeal, forsooth, to the Grand Lodge of Scotland ! To what purpose ? Can we personally lay our grievances before that Body ? Is is likely that such an appeal, if delegated to a deputy unacquainted with the appellants, and ignorant of the real merits of the case, — with his mind probably prejudiced with previous misrepre- sentations, —would be prosecuted with the slightest chance of success ? The Provincial Grand Master could only have been playing with the brethren when he suggested the appeal, for he must have been well aware he was recommending a course, it was not in his power to adopt, and we assert that such a suggestion would never have been made, had an appeal been practicable, for the occasion would not have arisen. "With a Grand Lodge more approachable, the Provincial Grand Master would have been kept in the right path, and the brethren would have been spared the indignity of exclusion from their Masonic privileges. We are too far removed from the Head authority indicated, to demand justice, even if we so desired, or were moved thereto by the brethren. Those brethren are content to carry the burthen placed on their shoulders, and are in no fear of succumbing under its pressure. We deny the power of any Grand Lodge, — and certainly, of any Provincial Grand Master, — to deprive a Mason of his rights, except after " Process " by Citation and Inquiry, with the opportunify of Befutation. This is clearly laid down in the Regulations of Grand Lodge for its own guidance, as well as in those applicable to all Subordinate Lodges. Our brethren do not consider it necessary to take any action in the matter, for they decline to consider themselves under "legal suspension," as they have not been "cited" to answer any charge, and no inquiry has been made to substantiate any allegation to their detriment. We are none of us in the least terrified by the off-hand and offensive manner in which the pronouncement of suspension is supposed to have been com- municated ; for the gross irregularity of the means adopted deprives the sentence of its desired effect, and serves only to indicate its real author. To that brother we take the liberty of recommending some slight delay at tlie feet of Gamaliel ere he again ventures to usurp Gamaliel's seat, there to perpetrate the farce of affecting to impart to others that which he himself has not yet acquired. The right of a Mason to exclude any of our brethren from his Lodge will most certainly be challenged, at the time admission may be sought and denied. Our brethren will pursue their course in utter disregard of the illegal sentence recorded against them ; a sentence in which they, and all of us on their account, 105 are disposed rather to take pride in, as a testimony to their zeal in the cause of Eight. To the Grrand Lodge of New South "Wales alone is our submission now due ; and to the " furtherance of its interests" (despite the penalty) shall our best efEorts be directed. "We feel sure all worthy brethren will unhesitatingly condemn the course pursued by those officials, whose conduct in their exalted positions, instead of being arbitrary, unjust, and oppressive, ought to be the embodiment and refles of the sublime maxims of Freemasonry, If it be right, if it be in the power of the Rulers, thus to tyrannize over us, where, we would ask, are those cherished principles, which through all time, have been our boast? Let any disinterested brother apply that question as touching himself alone, and then judge our cause by his standard ; — we do not fear the verdict. The most superficial study of our position will reveal the fact, that we are not fighting for individuals. It is not so. A spontaneous vote of Lodges has placed us for a time in our several positions. Sacred charges have been confided to our keeping. "We hold in our hands the liberties of the brethren of this territory ; — their and our cause are one ; and as our Constitution provides that at the commence- ment of each year all officers are elective, the humblest brother — being an honored Master — may, by the votes of his brethren, be called to the exalted position of Grand Master : so we are resolved that the trust bow ours, shall be transmitted to him, pure as it fell from the hands of our first G-rand Master. Therefore we stand to defend the rights alike of all, against the abuse of brief authority. We deem it our bounden duty to maintain that the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, and Ireland, have no legal authority in New South "Wales, and that the Patents of the District and Provincial Grand Masters, should long since have been recalled, and their Lodges closed. We do not censure the Eight "Worshipful Brethren just mentioned for continuing to discharge their functions, until the Grand Lodge whence they derive their authority, adopt the constitutional course of can- celling that authority ; but we do blame them for not having represented matters in their true character, and for having given countenance to, and, we fear, greatly instigating, the violent measures adopted, in the hope of suppressing the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, Misrepresentation is at the bottom of all the mischief that has been done; and until honesty is permitted to prevail, we see small prospect of a better state of things. The finger of scorn, and the tongue of reproof wiU be directed against an Institution, which, professing to be founded on hrotherly love, relief, and truth, is rent into factions by rancorous disputants. A discredit hard to be effaced, has been brought upon Freemasonry, and it behoves every brother to 106 assist in reKeving it of that discredit. If it be possible to prove that we are mistaken in our views, or have taken a single step in the wrong direction, we shall be found open to conviction, and willing to admit our error, and to make full submission therefor. We fearlessly place ourselves upon our trial, asking solely ioT justice in the investigation. In conclusion, we appeal-to our brethren of every Constitution to weigh well the statements herein made — to the truth of which we pledge our masonic word — and to contrast our action with that of our traducers. We are confident the resiJt will be a verdict in our favour. Thus we hope to acquire daily increasing vigour, which, in the end, shall crown our efforts with unparalleled success. As the dispassionate exercise of an indisputable right, is no violation of our Masonic Obligation, in any one of its many solemn tendencies, the unhappy schism now existing, must not be regarded as of our creating. We deeply deplore it as unworthy of Freemasonry. We shall hail with delight the moment of reconciliation, and will most gladly extend the right hand of fellowship, to those misguided brethren who now T\-ithhold it from us. On behalf of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales. A. W. MANXING, Deputy Grand Master. J. HAWKIXS BUTCHAET, Senior Grand Warden. r. W. CAHPEXTEE, Junior Grand Warden. Sydney, If. S. Wales, 1st July, 1878. The documents reprinted in the following pages, and numbered 1 to 13, are reproduced, that the brethren may see the exact nature of the treatment to which the Grand Lodge of Xew South "Wales has been subjected, by the representative function- aries of the English and Scotch Constitutions, at head quarters and in the Colony. The letter by the Grand Master, N.S.W., to the Grand Master and Grand Lodge, E.G., is also reproduced, that aU interested may see whether or not its tone is courteous or otherwise ; and as we conceive it is composed of language so plain as to be clearly understood, we deem explanation of any portion of it unnecessary. " COPT OP LETTER TO GEAXD LODGE OF ENGLAND NOTIETIXG INAITGUEATIOX OE GEAND LODGE or NEW SOUTH WALES. " To THE Most Woeshipful the Geand Masieh, Oeficees, xsj) Beetheen Assembled in Geand Lodge op England. Sydney, New South Wales, January, 1878. " Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren, — " I have the honour to transmit, for the information of your Grand Lodge, a printed copy of the Proceedings of a Masonic 107 Convention duly organized, and held in Sydney, for the purpose of inaugurating a Grand Lodge of New South Wales, — together with the Eeport of the Installation of myself, as first Grand Master thereof. " Permit me to draw your especial attention to the thoroughly constitutional character of every proceeding by which this result has been achieved ; for thereupon we base our hope of a prompt and fraternal recognition of the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, now exercising, in all propriety and moderation, the functions of Supreme Governing Body within territorial limits. " I would remark that the action taken by Brethren in this distant portion of our loved and Gracious Sovereign's dominions had its origin in no feeling of disrespect, or diminution of affection, towards the Grand Lodges of their Parent Constitu- tions ; but solely in a conviction, the result of protracted and earnest deliberation, that circumstances, which it is now unnecessary more fully to detail, warranted that action. I would, however, state that the desire for self-government has long existed, as well as the regret that our means of benevolence should be so greatly impaired by enforced contributions to Funds, in themselves most deserving of local support, but from which we can derive no benefit. " Under the fostering care of the Parent Grand Lodges, we have attained a status which justifies the belief that we are sufficiently strong, and quite competent, to exercise a privilege that cannot in the most remote degree detract from the honour of the Grand Lodge of England, but will enable us largely to promote the spread and increase of the noble Order of which we are equally Members. " It will be observed that, numerically, constitutional require- ments have been fully met — nay, greatly exceeded — while in matters of action no landmark has been infringed. We have sought to follow precedents that have never been impugned — precedents that gained for other now existing Grand Lodges fuU recognition and hearty co-operation. Such recognition and co-operation we ask now from the Grand Lodge of England for the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, ia the fullest assurance that it will at once be accorded, and that all necessary steps will be promptly taken to ensure myself and the Grand Lodge over which I now preside sole jurisdiction within the limits of this colony. " We desire to cherish the remembrance of our connection with the Grand Lodges, under whose rule our Mother Lodges so long and so happily flourished. The severance of that connection is no more than a matter of expediency that should not — and, so far as we are concerned, shall not — weaken the cordial sentiments by which it has been ever characterized. 108 We would wish to be able to hand to posterity the only evidence of that connection in our hands by retaining, under sanction, the Charters by which our several Lodges were called into existence. We shall ever attach especial value and importance to those Charters ; and we wiU adhere to the hope that the Grand Lodge of England, when applied to, will fraternally permit their retention by such Lodges, now under its jurisdiction, as may hereafter desire to sustain their vitality by coming under that of the Grand Lodges of New South Wales. " Urging the subject of this communication to your early and favourable attention, " I have the honour to subscribe myself, " Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren, " Tours very IVatemally, " (Signed) JAMES S. EAENELL, " Gbaot) Mastee Mason op New SoriH Wales." [Sivlilar letters were forwarded, at the same time to the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland."] (1) " Ereemason's HaU, London, W. C, " 13th March, 1878. " Dear Sir and E.W. Brother, " I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 2nd January, relative to the formation of a Grand Lodge of New South Wales. I have now to inform you that the Grand Lodge of Unffland has declined to acknowledge this new Grand Lodge, the members of which are totally unknown here, belonging to Lodges under a difEerent Constitution. " It would appear that you have taken every step that you could do, under the circumstances, and so long as you desire it, you will receive all the support which this Grand Lodge can afEord. " I am, dear Sir and E.W. Brother, " Tours truly and fraternally, " JOHN HERYET, G.S. " JOBDT WrLLIAMS, EsQ., " E.W.D Grand Master, New South Wales." Mte. We consider that very little exception can be taken to the language of G. S. Hervey's letter, because no lodge under the English Constitution in this colony, had then joined the movement to establish Grand Lodge ; and therefore it is a point to be decided, whether or not Grand Lodge English Constitution, could under such circumstances act otherwise, at least at the date of Grand Secretary's letter. 109 , (2) " ^Freemason's Hall, London, W.C., " lath March, 1878. " Dear Sir and Brother, " I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 15th December, stating that Brother Williams had been duly installed as District Grand Master, and that a movement had taken place amongst the Irish Lodges for the formation of a Grand Lodge, and that a joint circular had been issued, cautioning the English and Scotch brethren from attending the meeting. " You ask for advice and assistance under the circumstances, but it appears to me that the District Grand Master has exhibited a most independent spirit, and has taken every step he could do. I have to-day written to him, stating, that in answer to an application for recognition this Grand Lodge has declined its consent, and that every support will be extended to the District Grand Lodge in carrying out its views. Indeed, beyond saying this, I feel it would almost be an impertinence to offer any advice to those who are so well able to act for themselves, as the D.G.M. and his colleagues. " I am. Dear Sir and Brother, your fraternally, " JOHN HERVET, G.S. "E. Lettoetht, Esq., D.G.S. " Freemasons' Hall, York Street, Sydney. Note. Bro. Lewortky is in error in saying that " a movement had taken place amongst the Irish Lodges," &c. The movement emanated from the Scotch Lodges, and was joined by the Irish Lodges, as will be seen on reference to doeument (3) in the next paragraph. As regards the statement by the "Worshipful Grand Secretary that Grand Lodge, English Constitution, had " declined its consent " to recognise the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, special reference will be made to it when the note by that distinguished brother to the Most "Worshipful Grand Master Mason of New South Wales is reviewed. The reprints of documents numbered 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9 were distributed to all Lodges in the Colony by P.G. Secretary, by whom they were said to have been received from Grand Secretary, S.C. (3) " Ereemasons' Hall, 98 George Street, " Edinburgh, September 19, 1877. " Grand Lodge of Scotland, Grand Secretary's Office. " I send by registered book post a communication addressed to the Grand Lodge by William Booth, on the subject of an 110 independent G-rand Lodge for New Soutt "Wales. JVb siich proposal can he entertained hy Grand Lodge, and should the brethren in jovi jurisdiction desire to communieate with Grand Lodge upon any point of importance, they must do so through the Prorincial Grand Lodge. And there is no doubt that our Lodges will preserve their identity as Scotch Masons rather than amalgamating with those of other Cjnstitutions. The G-rand Committee have every confidence in the loyalty of the Lodges in New South Wales, and believe that in yourself and the Pro. G-. Master they have warm promoters of that loyalty." Note. The brethren will perceive that the G-rand Secretary of the Scotch Constitution states, in acknowledging receipt to Pro- vincial Grrand Secretary of Bro. Booth's letter to the G-rand Lodge, " on the subject of a &rand Lodge for New South Wales, no such proposal can he entertained hy Grand Lodge." This we consider a direct admission that the course we have pursued in establishing the Grand Lodge of New South Wales is correct, consequently, the assertion of a section of the brethren, " that we should first have obtained permission from the Parent Constitution " faUs to the ground. The reflection attempted to be cast upon Bro. Booth for having communicated direct with Grrand Lodge, should not be allowed to continue unexplained, therefore, we give the facts, which are these. In the month of July, 1877, Bro. Booth wrote to the Provincial G-rand Secretary, Scotch Constitution, in Sydney, New South "Wales, requesting him to transmit to Grand Secretary the letter, a copy and explanation of which is reprinted in Appendix A, page 32. Note. Knowing as many of the brethren did, that Bro Higstrim, W.P.G-.S., was opposed to any means by which the G-rand Lodge of New South Wales could be established, unless hy a course he had frequently indicated, in which he desired to play the most prominent part, it was suggested that a copy of Bro. Booth's letter should be forwarded to Grand Lodge direct. This course was adopted, and as the sequel has shown, the suspicion was well grounded, inasmuch as the duplicate reached its destination, and was achnowledged, hefore the original (if it ever was forwarded), was permitted to see the light. The "whole tenor of the G-rand Secretary's letter is such as to raise a doubt as to its authenticity ; certainly it is the first instance, within our knowledge, in which so exalted a functionary has descended to language so devoid of Masonic courtesy, when speaking of a brother. Ill (4) Uader date February 7th, 1878. " While Grand Committee have thorough confidence in the Provincial G-rand Master and yourself, they are of opinion you should exert all the influence in your power to prevent the spread of disaffection, it raay be necessary that you expel certain brethren, but in the ineantime the matter is left entirely to the Pro G.M. and yourself." UTote. The dictum of the Grand Secretary in this letter reveals an amount of ignorance so glaring, as to render it almost incon- ceivable that his pen ever traced these words. "It may be necessary that you expel certain brethren." Surely it is impossible he could commit so grave an error, as so eminent a brother must have well known that expulsion is beyond the power of any Grand Master. [See Book of Constitutions, page 20, sec. 5.] (5) Under date February 14th, 1878. " I am instructed to thank you for your report and the information it contains, and at the same time to express their gratificatipn on finding that the great majority of the Lodges under your jurisdiction remain firm in their attachment to thqir mother Grand Lodge. The measures you have adopted to check the spread of the schism meet the approval of the Sub-Committee. Tou have already cashiered those commissioned Officers of Pro. Gr. Lodge who have joined the seceders, the elected officials should also be removed not only from office, but also cut off from mem.bership, and this should be done at once at a Special Meeting of the Fro. Qr. Lodge called for the furpose. Further, demand should be made for the Charters held by the Lodges that have withdrawn. Failing your getting possession of these Charters, and wherever loyally affected brethren belonging to the seceding Lodges can be got, let them be recognized as the Constitutional members of their respective Lodges, and authorized to work under Speical Warrant granted by the Prov. Grand Master, until duplicates of the original Charters can be sent out ; this will encourage the leal-hearted members to efforts to restore the meshes that have been made in their ranks. The Grand Committee meets on the 2Qth, and the matter will come up then. Note. The suggestions (instructions ?) contained in this letter, viz., that whatever is done, " Should be done at once at a special meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge called for the purpose " certainly have more the stamp of authority about them, but what are the facts ? No meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge has been held for any purpose since October last year to the 112 present date ; nevertheless, indefinite suspension has been launched against the brethren, whose names will be found in the letter of Provincial G-rand Master. As regards the assertion, by Provincial Grand Secretary, that the great majority of the Lodges under Scotch Jurisdiction remain firm in their attachment to their Mother Grrand Lodge, we desire only to say that results wiU prove how far that is in accordance with fact. It certainly is opposed to documentary evidence to the contrary, in possession of Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, as weU. as the resolutions of Daughter Lodges conveyed to P.G.S, — [See Bro. Booth's letter to Grand Lodge, page 32.] (6) , Under date 12th March, 1878. ■' I enclose copy of Circular which has been addressed to several G-rand Lodges. The Grand Oommittee approved of my last letter to you, on the subject of the schism, and desired me to thank Dr. Sedgwick and yourself, for the manner in which you are supporting G-rand Lodge at the present emergency." Note. If G-rand Secretary has been properly advised of the course pursued by the Provincial Grand Master, and Provincial G-rand Secretary, a most strange state of affairs is revealed in the fact that when subordinates act in opposition to the written instructions of their Superiors, they receive public thanks, either proving ^that the instructions issued were erroneous, or that it mattered little how they were interrupted, so that damage resulted to the cause of those who chose to think and act for themselves. (7) [copy 01 CIECTTLAB, ALLUDED TO IN PABAGEAJH 6.] " G-EAND LODGE OE SCOTLAJSTD. " Freemasons' HaU Edinburgh, 7th March, L878. " To the Most Worshipful the Grand Master of the G-rand Lodge of " Most Worshipful Sir and Brother, — " I am instructed by the G-rand Master Mason of Scotland (Bro. Sir Michael B. Shaw-Stewart, Bart.), and the G-rand Committee, to inform you that certain brethren helonging to Lodges in Nrio South Wales, holding of the G-rand Lodge of Scotland, have, in conjunction with others of the Irish Con- stitution, formed themselves into ' The G-rand Lodge of New South Wales,' and now seek recognition as a lawfully constituted body. " In asking you to withhold from this irregular and uncon- stitutional body recognition in any form, I beg to state that of 113 the Twenty-Seven. Scotch Lodges in New South "Wales, ^i^^^ only were represented at the meeting at which the schismatics threw ofE their allegiance to their respective G-rand Lodge. "Bro. Dr. Sedgwick, Eight "Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, and Bro. "William Higstrim, "Worshipful Provincial Grand Secretary, and the Provincial Grand Lodge of New South Wales, are doing all in ther power to counteract the disloyal movement above referred to — and in this they have the cordial and fraternal co-operation of the District Grand Master and Lodges under the English Constitution. " From information received from the Province, it appears that a great majority of the Scottish Brethren are not only determined to remain staunch in their allegiance, hut repudiate the idea of severing a connection which they are so desirous to maintain with their Mother Grand Lodges. " I have therefore respectfully to request that you wiU have the goodness to caution the Lodges under your jurisdiction against admitting either as a Member or Visitor any brother seeking to gain admission as a member of the so-called Grand Lodge of New South "Wales. " I am, " Most "Worshipful Sir and Dear Brother, " Tours faithfully and fraternally, " D. MUEEAT LYON, Grand Secretary." Note. The Most "Worshipful Grand Master Mason of Scotland is in error in stating that certain brethren belonging to Lodges in New South "Wales have in conjunction with others, &c., formed themselves into " The Grand Lodge of New South Wales " — and therefore desires that recognition, &c., should be withheld. The fact is, certain Lodges have constituted the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, in conformity with established usage and general precedent. It is a pity the name of the Grand Master should be affixed to a statement devoid of fact, particularly when such statement must be controverted by facts to be brought under the notice of every Grand Lodge known to exist in the universe. The laudation systematically heaped upon Bro. Dr. Sedgwick, E."W.P.G.M., and Bro. W. Higstrim, "W.P.G.S., in the letters and extracts here re-printed, will have gained for them a world- wide notoriety, but whether it will be prejudical to the Grand Lodge of New South "Wales, or the character of Masonry generally, or have the contrary or any effect, those who carefully peruse these pages will have to judge for themselves. 114 (8) Under date, Marcli 19th, 1878. " The Lodges to which you refer as being inclined to tender allegiance to the so-called G-rand Lodge are, indeed, ' wise in their generation ,' you must in self defence, Tceep them and their representatioes outside the Provincial Grand Lodge, othertoise they will use their position in Provincial Grand Lodge to the prejudice of same. If you could get the minority, you should re-Organize them as the Constitutional representatives, and in the absence of the Charters constitute them so ly Special Warrant ; Duplicates of the Charters will be sent out on your request. We have no fears of your success, assure the brethren that no efEorts shall be wanting on my part to aid the Cause by promptitude of action in everything pertaining to Scottish Masonry under your Provincial Grand Lodge." Note. These instructions of Grand Secretary have certainly been put into effect, so far as keeping those " wise in their generation" outside Provincial Grand Lodge is concerned — -in case they might use their position there to its prejudice. This admonition, however, contrasts strangely with that portion of the Grand Master's letter of 7th March, which says " that a great majority of the Scottish Brethren are not only determined to remain staunch to their allegiance," &c., &c. If that were so, why fear the presence of these few in Provincial Grand Lodge ? ! ! (9) Under date, March 20th, 1878. I enclose copy of letter addressed to me by the Grand Secretary for England — " Freemasons' Hall, London, 19th March, 1878. " My Dear Sir and Brother, " I beg to acknowledge receipt of your Circular of the 7th instant, respecting the formation of a ' Grand Lodge of New South Wales.' The District Grand Master, English Constitution, has already taken every needful step, by warning his Lodges, not to take any part in the movement. And in answer to an application for recognition, I hate written to the parties, declining on behalf of mt GsAifD Lodge, to entertain it." " I am. Dear Sir and Brother, " Tours truly, and fraternally,. "D. MuEEAT Lyon, Esq., "JOHN HERVEY G.S. " Grand Secretary, Grand Lodge of Scotland." Note. " / have written to the parties, declining on behaif of mt Ghand Lodge to entertain it." This course may be correct by precedent, as regards Grand Lodge E.G. It is not considered here even common courtesy. 115 (10) The subjoined two chapters were printed and distributed by Provincial G-rand Secretary as a warning to Lodges in New South Wales. Tour attention is also directed to the Laws and Constitution of the G-rand Lodge of Scotland in which is enacted as under- noted — Cap. 12, ^ 20, § 6. — Provincial Q-rand Masters are strictly enjoined not to recognize any Lodge in Scotlcmd acting inde- pendently of the G-rand Lodge, nor to allow any member of such to attend any Masonic meeting or ceremony of which they have the management and control. Cap. 20, ^ 53, § 25. — All Lodges holding charters under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and all members of such Lodges, acting in a disrespectful mammer to the Gramd Lodge, particularly in disobeying the pointed instructions or laws of that body, shall be deemed guilty of a high misdemeanour and be liable, in the case of Lodges, to forfeiture of their Charters, and in that of individuals, to suspension from Masonic privileges, as the Grand Lodge shall adjudge. I am E.W. Sir, "W. Wardens and Brethren, Tours faithfully and fraternally, WILLIAM HIGOTEIM,. P.G. Sec, S.C, for N.S.W. Wote. Eespecting these extracts, it would be insulting to the judgment of the brethren, to say more than that they will at once discover the Chapters do not in the remotest degree apply, either to the G-rand Lodge of New South Wales, or the means by which it has been established. (11) " Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons, New South Wales, " Under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, " Provincial Grand Secretary's OfSce, " Sydney, 28th November, 1877. " A. W. Manning, Esq. " Worshipful Dear Sir and Brother, — " I am directed by the Eight Worshipful Provincial Grand Master Bro. Dr. W. G. Sedgwick, to inform you that he has recalled the commission in your favor as Deputy Provincial Grand Master. Tou therefore, from date hereof, will cease to have a seat in the Scotch Provincial Grand Lodge of New South Wales. " I have the honor to remain, " Tours fraternally, WM. HIGSTEIM, Provincial Grand Secretary." 116 Mte. This is a specmen of tlie " cashiering of commissioned officers" referred to in Grand Secretary's letter of 14th February (6), and so far as evidence is concerned, is the work of the E.W.P.G-.M. Dr. Sedgwick, and without the authority of G-rand Lodge. It will be seen that the " cashiering " notice contains no reason for the action of the P.G.M. ; perhaps that was unnecessary — at any rate it would have been polite and Masonic, if no more, to have given one. (12) " Provincial G-rand Lodge, Scotch Constitution, " Freemasons' HaU, York Street, Sydney. " June 13th, 1878. "To " Eight "Worshipful Sir and Brother, — " By direct command, and under the Seal of the Grand Lodge of Scotland of Free and accepted Masons, it is ordered : ' That the Frovincial Grand Master proceed to the Suspension or Expulsion of all Officers or Members of the Provincial Grand Lodge who have joined the illegal body, or may have, or are at present by active steps furthering the interests of the so-called Grand Lodge of New South Wales. " I, "William GiEet Sedgwick, Provincial Grand Master, in accordance with such command, do hereby indefinitely suspend from aU the rights and privileges of Freemasonry the under- mentioned brethren, who are guilty of furthering the interests of the so-called Grand Lodge of New South Wales : — A. "W. Mauwhtg, P.m., No. 377, Lodge Sydney Tarbolton. E. V. Gaie, P.m., No. 386, Lodge "WooUoomooloo, Sydney. "W. Booth, P.M., No. 377, Lodge Sydney Tarbolton. "Cr. "W. Caepentee, P.m., No. 567, Lodge Manoah, Sydney. J. McNeillt, P.m., No. 386, Lodge "WooUoomooloo, Sydney. E. Chajtolee, P.m., No. 377, Lodge Sydney, Tarbolton. N. "Weekes, P.m., No. 513, Lodge Newtown Kilwinning. J. H. Beown, P.m., No. 513, Lodge Peabody, Major's Creek. D. J. Monk, P.M., 878, Lodge Newtown KU winning. " I have therefore to request that you will bring the foregoing under the notice of your honorable Lodge at its nest meeting ; and that, should any of the foregoing Members seek admission to your Lodge, you will refuse them. " I remain your fraternally, " W. G. SEDGWICK, P. Grand Master." Note. This is the edict of suspension against a number of the brethren who have occupied prominent positions in Provincial Grand Lodge, Scotch Constitution — have taken leading action 117 in the formation of Q-rand Lodge, New South "Wales — or who were delegates, appointed by the several Lodges to the Con- vention. It is here reprinted, that the brethren may judge whether or not such tyranny should be tolerated, and also that Grand Lodges of the three parent Constitutions may see the manner in which the laws of the order have been set at naught by one of their representatives. Abuse of power such as this reveals, must surely merit the, execration of every honest Mason ; but before we credit that the Q-rand Lodge, Scotch Constitution, will uphold, or, in the remotest degree, countenance it, we must receive proof direct from the fountain head. At present we cannot believe it. It should be known that this suspension was declared without process of any description, as it has already been stated that no Provincial &rand Lodge had sat since October of last year. (13) The original letter from Grand Secretary, E.C., has unfortu- nately been mislaid. It was, however, as nearly as possible in the following words : — " !Preemasons' Hall, London, March, 1878. " J. S. Farnell, Esq., " SiE, — I have to inform you that your application for the recognition of the so-caUed Grand Lodge of New South "Wales cannot (or will not) be entertained by the Grand Lodge of England. " I am, &c., " JOHN HBEVET, G.S." Such is the reply vouchsafed by the Grand Lodge, English Constitution, in reply to the letter of the Grand Master, New South Wales, printed on page 106. "We are of opinion that the "Worshipful the Grand Secretary should (in courtesy) have transmitted a copy of the resolution of the Grand Lodge refusing recognition, and authorising him to intimate it to the Grand Master, New South "Wales. "We do not desire to doubt the fact of such refusal, although no mention of the matter in the report of proceedings of Grand Lodge, English Constitution, is made by the London Freemason ; but as the short note bears no stamp of authority, we refused to accept it as an official document, therefore the Grand Master of New South "Wales has written direct to the Grand Master of England. 118 00 o ^ o *^ S i> :^ § (D .2 +^ s ^^ .r< HH »iT! P 08 -I) m g -p ii ft OS «» M- ^ CO « s «A o o I-l to o o o -* o «o t» >o t- CO OS (0 00 CO lato p-l N IH« OS 00 i-( CO-* cq cq CO OS M o 00 — rt I-l t- O t- OS I I I I 00 CO ia a coos os o ca r-t pH US'* eO WS 10 00 -* »-- N "* 01 -^ ^ i-l(M (M«> ■* CO Or-1 us 10 CO ■'^ CO 10 .5^ m OS-. o o g e a o :l r T a « §■0 » qi P O O S ID ^ u n ;§Hl^ lis; a o la's 13^ tJ rt (D ^ Jh O §,Ofq (U) :^1 ^0 a <0 ■^j S a g.G!fP ^ ens F «> a 2 •*< gg -8^ 4 a n - 0.3 s> o a :2 a S 1) g a o«D oo O OJNO O >0 CC{M «o moo OJ OOrHN iH rH ■* N>0 «0 Q ITr«T3.f^HHj3.*30_2floS EH -a e o a I "5 " m I — I DO ID 3^ ™ '^ ^ » /v< R QD H "^ tiD «S £; to .2(3 2^ §^-§3^ 73 a (H cTO o> ^i'^ U5 1 i Lodge }ucher abore i H y Grand sand y with the 03 . •Q^M -u ■go" S 1 1 signed Auditor, app kare examined th and find the same jl HMO I the unde declare that Grand Lodg Sheet. 1^ rH iH kO CO X 05 «D 1> t- ■* to kO 00 1 ooo oo> o to 00 OJ w* ■>}> o •H p-l iHlH -^r-l ■* CO ooooocoooo«oo ■^iHlO»OOWOI>ONO O CO CO C4 CO CO U3 feWRK^ 120 ffi H H < ^ w El ^ m M 1 H ^ t— ( H M ^ S fi ^ 9S W s OQ R ■ g - • • ^ n§ o . g 2 fl d i -3 CJ © © p