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Craft Masonry.
the grand muster of Grand Lodge , and not only every member of that august body but even' Mason regretted Lord Lathom ' s loss . A more genuine man never existed and when in Grand Lodge he had always carried enthusiasm with him . The maxim , " The King is dead j long live the King , " however , held good in their case as in others , and Lord Amherst was now their Pro Grand Master . He felt sure a more proper selection could not have been made . With regard to Earl Warwick and the other officers , they were all " good men and true " and did their work well . ( Applause . )
The toast of "The W . M . " was enthusiastically received , and in presenting it Bro . Newton said he felt sure it would be received with acclamation in the good old lodge . He regretted their W . M . had not occupied his present position 12 months earlier , because he would have made them a splendid Past Master to help them over their difficulties . Bro . Griffiths had now been installed in the chair of that old lodge , and he ( the speaker ) felt sure their W . M . considered it a great honour to , occupy that position . He trusted the brethren would give him a year of office that no predecessor had
experienced , for they had got a good man , who was also a faithful one . In addition to those excellent qualities , he was a good-looking man —( laughter)—and , Masonically speaking , a young one , who had made his mark in the Iodge . He called on the officers who had been elected to serve him well and give him plenty to do . He also trusted the lay members would always keep in view the welfare of the old Iodge , and support their W . Master in such a manner as to make his year of office both a successful and record one . The toast having been heartily honoured ,
The W . M ., in reply , expressed his obligations to the I . P . M . for the many nice things he had been pleased to remark of him . While feeling somewhat disconcerted at the novelty of his position , he was bound to say how proud he felt in attaining the ambition of every aspiring Mason . What with the sage counsel and advice from the brethren on his left and the assistance of a goodbody of officers , he was assured of having a good year . ( Cheers . ) The next toast was equally well received . It was that of " The I . P . M ., " and the W . M . in submitting it , said Bro . Newton was a very old and valued member . He had
, done the Iodge yeoman service years ago , both as Master and Secretary , and when a little difficulty occurred last year , he solved it by accepting the office of Master a second time . Unfortunately , soon after that Bro . Newton was taken ill and unable to attend their meetings , although they all knew he was with them in spirit . As a little acknowledgment of his splendid services to the lodge , as well as testifying to thehigh esteem they all had for him , he ( the W . M . ) was entrusted to hand him a diamond ring , suitably en ? raved . In presenting Bro . Newton with that little memento he hoped his health
would be speedily restored , and that he would live for many years to come . ( Applause . ) Bro . Newton , in reply , expressed his thanks for the honour done him , as well as for the handsome present . The gift would be greatly appreciated , not so much on account of its intrinsic value , but as illustrating the feeling of esteem in the minds of the brethren towards himself . As he might not have many more opportunities of addressing them , he would like to say a few words to the younger members . He was made a Mason 58 years ago , and , notwithstanding that length of time , well remembered the feeling
which came over him with regard to Freemasonry . After being initiated he found something beyond the mere ritual , for he experienced a feeling which was positively a delight . They were able to make friendships which could only be obtained in such societies , and these often proved of a lasting character . He regretted not being able to do all he could have wished during the second time he served the office of Master , but the sole cause was ill-health . Prior to that he had always done his best to promote the interests of the lodge , and what had just taken place was a proof his services had been appreciated . It
had always been his pleasure to take an active part in the Institutions belonging to Freemasonry , more particularly to that branch whose members could not help themselves . He commended all the brethren to assist those Institutions as much as possible , and concluded by hoping the good old Sincerity Lodge would go on and prosper . So long as they had a W . M . and officers as were then in the Iodge it would never go under . ( Applause . ) "The Past Masters" were next toasted , and the W . M ., in calling on the brethren to duly honour the same , remarked he was sure he would be expressing the views of
these present when he thanked Bro . Bayley , P . M ., for the able manner he had performed the installation ceremony that evening . It had been most excellently done , and had been greatly appreciated . Their lodge was fortunate in possessing a goodly number of Past Masters , and while such was the case , they need not fear it would decrease in popularity . The toast having been cordially received , Bros . Magee , P . M . j Harvey , P . M . j and Bayley , P . M ., briefly replied , each taking the opportunity of congratulating the Master on being at the head of the lodge . In reply to the toast of "The Masonic institutions , " Bro . J . P . Rogers , P . M .,
P . G . S . B . Devon , who most generously gave £ 10 10 s . to Bro . Derby ' s list , contended it was a most important one , for it dealt with the three cardinal points of the Craft to which they were identified . It was not by his wish that mention had been made of what he had done with regard to Bro . Derby's list . He had been identified with other Charities besides Masonic ones , and it was perhaps to that fact the Worshipful Master had considered him fit to respond to the toast . One great thing about their Craft was its democracy , for it enabled prince and peasant to sit down together . They could all
congratulate themselves on the position of the Masonic Charities , which were in a high state of efficiency and prosperity , Some 15 or 20 years ago neither the Boys' nor Girls ' were doing the duty expected of them , but everything was now changed . On every hand they heard of the efficiency and good work done . With regard to the old people , their Institution was , to his mind , the best of the three , and he was pleased to think they had that year got a good representative in the Sincerity Lodge to forward its interests . "The Visitors '" toast was replied to by Bro . Cunnington , who expressed the
pleasure all the guests experienced at being privileged to witness the beautiful ceremony of installation as enacted that evening . The popular and energetic Secretary , Bro . C . H . Webb , P . M ., acknowledged in cordial terms the manner in which the toast of '' The Treasurer and Secretary " had been proposed and received . Bro . C . Lacey , their Treasurer , like himself , was always anxious to further the interests of the Sincerity Lodge , and so long as hc ( the speaker )
was spared he was quite willing to serve the brethren in the same way as he had now done for so many years past . ( Applause , ) Bro . J . W . Derby , S . W ., in responding for " The Officers , Present and Past , " announced , amid considerable applause , that his list for the forthcoming festival amounted to upwards of £ 129 , and , from an intimation he had just received , that sum would shortly be considerably augmented .
The Tyler ' s toast brought to a termination a most ] instructive ) and enjoyable evening . The musical programme , prepared by the VV . M ., was of a highly delightful character , all the artistes being of exceptional quality j and , without appearing invidious by specially mentioning names as being superior to others , no one would grudge the hearty reception accorded that clever boy , Master Crook , solo soprano singer at the Italian church . The other singers included Bros . J . W . Derby , Graham , F . Cheesewright , Mr . T . Crook , and Mr . W . Keast .
Blagdon Lodge , No . 659 . On the iyth instant , the first regular meeting under the presidency of the recentlyinstalled VV . M ., Bro . A . A . Askwith , was held in the new Masonic Hall , Beaconsfieldstreet , Blyth . There was a large attendance of members and visitors , including the following Provincial and other officers : Bros . Wm . Robson , P . M ., P . G . S . B . j Edward Forster , P . M ., P . P . G . Std . Br . j John Tweedy , P . M ., P . P . G . S . of W . j R . T . Guthrie , ' . M ., D . C ; and others .
After the confirmation of the minutes and other preliminary business had been transacted , Mr . John VV . Tinning—the courageous coxswain of the Blyth lifeboat , which recentl y upset during the prevalence of a north-east gale , along the north-cast coast , whilst going to the rescue of a vessel in distress off the port , and then swam ashore in ? ' mpestuous sea with one of the crew , who lost his life by the disaster—was initiated ,, v tne VV . M ., after which ceremony Bros . W . Wood and E . Arkle were duly passed to the Degree of a F . C . by Bro . lohn Tweedy , P . M ., P . P . G . S . of W . The W . M . then noved
that a letter of sympathy be forwarded to the Duke of Northumberland , expressing the deep regret of the members of the Blagdon Lodge on the death of his father"j ** l-race the late Duke—at Alnwick Castle . The W . M ., in moving the resolution , made special reference to the great interest the Duke—then Earl Percy—took in Freeasonry in the Province of Northumberland , he having for many years occupied the position of Provincial Grand Master , and installed his successor—the Right Hon . Sir watthew White-Ridley , Bart ., M . P . —who still holds that position . The resolution was r "' } . unanirnously , the Secretary , Bro . Geo . Graham , being instructed to forward such « "ution to the Duke at once . The meeting shortly afterwards terminated .
Craft Masonry.
Wiltshire Lodge of Fidelity , No . 663 . The annual meeting of the above Iodge was held at the Masonic Hall , Devizes , on the 17 th inst . Bro . F . Rendell , J . W ., was installed as W . M . for the ensuing year by Bro . VV . J . Baldwin , the outgoing VV . M ., assisted by Bro . T . C . Hopkins , P . M . The new W . M . appointed and invested his officers as follows : Bros . W . J . Baldwin , I . P . M . j D . Owen , S . W . ; H . Ash , I . W .: F . S . Hancock , P . M ., Treas . ; T . C . Hopkins .
P . M ., Sec ; VV . R . C Sudweeks , S . D . j G . T . Smith , J . D . j H . J . Johnson , P . M ., D . C . j H . B . Coles , Org . j M . K . Sloper , I . G . j H . Courteen and A . J . Randell , Stwds . ; and W . G . Pike , Tyler . After the lodge was closed , the brethren adjourned to the annual banquet at the Bear Hotel , and spent a very pleasant evening .
De Grey and Ripon Lodge , No . 1161 . The regular meeting was held in Freemasons' Hall , Manchester , on Wednesday the iSth inst ., when there were present Bros . H . M . Massingham , W . M . ; J . Schofield , S . W . j O . M . Jones , I . P . M . ; J . Irlam , P . M ., Treas . ; S . Richards , Sec ; J . T . C Blackie , S . D . j J . Broumhill , J . D . j J . M . Moss , P . M ., Org . ; A . E . Bentley , I . G . j S . L . Lewis , P . M . j E . Loobell , P . M . j C . G . Balls , R . G . Thomas , G . I .
Critchley , W . Clewlow , S . Dixon , J . A . R . Ashwoode , P M . j R . Dotlin , P . M . j B . Carr , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . j and J . R . Fletcher , Tyler . Visitors : Bros . H . Hill , Stwd . 2144 ; W . Booth , 2144 j and J . Carter , 1009 . The Iodsre was onened and the minutes of the nrevious meetinc read and ronfirmpd ;
The ballot was then taken for Mr . A . Oughterson , which proving unanimous , he was initiated t > y Bro . j . Irlam , P . M ., in a most able and finished manner , Bro . J . Schofield , S . W ., giving the charge in his usual excellent style . " Hearty good wishes " having been expressed by the visiting brethren , the lodge was closed .
Plucknett Lodge , No . 1708 . A very pleasant installation meeting was held in connection with this Iodge at the Woodside Hall , North Finchley , when Bro . W . J . Batho , who has had a very successful year of office as W . M ., installed Bro . R . G . Minton as his successor . Amongst the members present were Bros . W . J . Batho , W . M . j R . G . Minton , S . W . j F . W . Freeman , J . W . j G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas . j J . E . Overed , P . M ., Sec . j J . Grisdale , S . D . j T . H . Palmer , J . D . j Geo . Hooper , Org . j C . A . Batho , Stwd . j Geo . Samuel ,
P . M . ; S . A . Graddage , P . M . ; W . J . Janes , P . M . ; C . Woodrow , P . M . j C . Plowman , P . M . j and E . Holland , P . M . Visitors : Bros . J . C . Winkfield , P . M . S , A . G . D . C . j E . B . Tellepen , 1 754 j H . Bold Atkinson , W . H . Cranshaw , and D . Cory Wright , 357 j Hy . Caldipole , W . M . 2331 j R . F . Martin , 266 5 j S . L . Martin , 2665 ; the Rev . S . B . Mayall , Chap . 22 S ; Stanley Wildash , 1 S 1 S ; L . J . Aylward , 24 S 7 j F . E . Wrigley , 73 j S . W . Reddall , P . M . 1 G 79 J E . T . Holloway , A . P . Little , and F . Hughes , P . M . 192 ; C . Pastorell , 19 S 7 j Percy Sloper , S j H . Comfort , 1572 j H . Sylvester , 2331 ; S . H . Jenks , S . W . S , P . G . Stwd . j D . Fairmaner , S . D . 73 j W . W . Lee , P . M . j and
others . After the opening of the Iodge and the disposal ot formal business Bro . Robt . G . Minton was installed as W . M .-by Bro . Batho , I . P . M ., who rendered the ceremony in 3 very excellent and impressive manner . The following officers were invested : Bros . F . W . Freeman , S . W . j J . Grisdale , J . W . j G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas . j J . E . Overed , P . M ., Sec . j T . H . Palmer , S . D . j W . Hollis , J . D . j W . J . Boyce , i . G . j M . C W . Woodrow , P . M ., D . C . j G . Hooper , Org . j C A . Batho and G . Hook , Stwds . j and Proctor , P . M ., Tyler . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented to the I . P . M ., Bro . Batho , and suitably acknowledged , after which the lodge was closed .
A well served banquet followed , the Stewards , Bro . C . A . Batho and G . Hook , doing their best to ensure the comfort of all present . The usual toasts followed , the W . M . first proposing " The Oueen and the Craft " and " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M . " In proposing "The Grand Officers , " the W . M . said he must strike a note of
mourning and regret , for by the lamented death of Lord Lathom Masonry had sustained a severe loss , and his dignified figure would appear no more in the councils of the Order . In Earls Amherst and Warwick they had feelings of thankfulness to have those in high quarters ready to come forward . Every question coming before the Grand Officers was weighed and . considered , and the brethren had confidence in the councils ot th Order .
Bro . J . C Winkfield , A . G . D . C , returned thanks , and endorsed the words of the W . M . relative to the late Pro Grand Master . The junior officers had very little to do , his own duties being reduced to a minimum . He considered a great debt of gratitude was due to the Grand Stewards , who were scarcely ever given a tribute of praise , for their services . He had enjoyed the pleasure of visiting that distinguished lod ^ e , for the I . P . M ., Bro . Batho , was a member of his own " red apron " lodge—the British , No . —and would in due time attain the distinction of a G . Steward .
Bro . W . J . Batho , I . P . M ., in submitting the toast of " The VV . M ., " said it would require very few words from him . They knew the W . M . well and knew he had the whole of the ritual at his fingers' ends . What he had done that evening was but a small portion of the ritual and the brethren who would be present at future meetings would have a treat . He ( the I . P . M . ) had seen the VV . M . initiated and had seen him go through all the offices , with the exception ot one , in a manner creditable to himself and the lodge . They were exceedingly fortunate to have such a VV . Master , and the members and visitors would wish nim a happy and prosperous year of office .
Bro . R . G . Minton , W . M ., thanked the I . P . M . and brethren for the cordial reception given the toast . He was proud indeed to attain thc chair and would use his best endeavours to main the reputation of the lodge . "The Initiate " was next honoured , after which theW . M . proposed "The Installing Officer , " referring in eulogistic terms to the successful year of office of Bro . Batho , I . P . M ., who had by his excellent working of the ritual and his endeavours in the cause of Masonic Charity set an example which would be difficult for his successors to follow . Bro . W . J . Batho , I . P . M ., in an excellent speech , thanked the VV . M . and brethren for the support accorded him during the past year .
" The Visitors " was acknowledged by Bros . Rev . S . B . Mayall , 22 S , and Dudley Corry Wright , 357 . Bro . Plowman , P . M ., the senior P . M ., replied on behalf of "The Past Masters , " and Bro . G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas ., for " The Treasurer and Secretary . H "The Masonic Charities " was given by the W . M ., who said the brethren last year sent up about about £ 350 and he hoped they would always continue to support them . " The Officers " and the Tyler ' s toast concluded a very successful evening . The musical programme was exceptionally good , the following artistes assisting : Bros . W . J . James and E . Hollands , Messrs . R . Carrodus , Will Ballard , A . M . and S , Mott , and Bro . G . Hooper , Org .
Lodge La France , No . 2060 . AN INTERESTING GATHERING OF ANGLO-FRENCH MASONS . The first meeting of the year of this lodge was held at the Regent Masonic Hall , Cafe Royal , on Monday , the iGth inst . There was a full attendance of brethren over whom Bro . Henri Leon Mondehare , W . M ., presided . After the initiation of three candidates , the lodge adjourned to the banqueting hall , where an excellent dinner was served .
The customary loyal and Craft toasts having been duly honoured , a most enjoyable concert followed , to which contributed Madame Mondehare , Miss Margery Dyer , Mile . Lulu Barlet , and Mr . W . J . Dyer . In the course of the proceedings a message was received from the brethren of the St . Peter's of Westminster Lodge , No . 1537 , who were holding their session in an adjoining room , to the effect that they would be glad to make the acquaintance of the brethren of La France Lodge . Amidst the greatest enthusiasm and the usual ceremonial the members of St . Peter ' s were introduced . It is interesting to state
that a great number of them were cither of Canadian extraction speaking the French tongue or descendants from old Huguenot families like their W . M ., Bro . R . St . A . Roumieu , G . S . O . W . Mention must also be made of the fact that several of the speeches of the visiting brethren expressed the hope that a better understanding should exist between the English and French nations and a speedy entente tordiale effected . Prior to the closing of the proceedings , which lasted until midnight , the brethren of St . Peter ' s Lodge heartily joined in singing the " Marseillaise , " to which La France replied by intonating " God save the Queen . "
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Craft Masonry.
the grand muster of Grand Lodge , and not only every member of that august body but even' Mason regretted Lord Lathom ' s loss . A more genuine man never existed and when in Grand Lodge he had always carried enthusiasm with him . The maxim , " The King is dead j long live the King , " however , held good in their case as in others , and Lord Amherst was now their Pro Grand Master . He felt sure a more proper selection could not have been made . With regard to Earl Warwick and the other officers , they were all " good men and true " and did their work well . ( Applause . )
The toast of "The W . M . " was enthusiastically received , and in presenting it Bro . Newton said he felt sure it would be received with acclamation in the good old lodge . He regretted their W . M . had not occupied his present position 12 months earlier , because he would have made them a splendid Past Master to help them over their difficulties . Bro . Griffiths had now been installed in the chair of that old lodge , and he ( the speaker ) felt sure their W . M . considered it a great honour to , occupy that position . He trusted the brethren would give him a year of office that no predecessor had
experienced , for they had got a good man , who was also a faithful one . In addition to those excellent qualities , he was a good-looking man —( laughter)—and , Masonically speaking , a young one , who had made his mark in the Iodge . He called on the officers who had been elected to serve him well and give him plenty to do . He also trusted the lay members would always keep in view the welfare of the old Iodge , and support their W . Master in such a manner as to make his year of office both a successful and record one . The toast having been heartily honoured ,
The W . M ., in reply , expressed his obligations to the I . P . M . for the many nice things he had been pleased to remark of him . While feeling somewhat disconcerted at the novelty of his position , he was bound to say how proud he felt in attaining the ambition of every aspiring Mason . What with the sage counsel and advice from the brethren on his left and the assistance of a goodbody of officers , he was assured of having a good year . ( Cheers . ) The next toast was equally well received . It was that of " The I . P . M ., " and the W . M . in submitting it , said Bro . Newton was a very old and valued member . He had
, done the Iodge yeoman service years ago , both as Master and Secretary , and when a little difficulty occurred last year , he solved it by accepting the office of Master a second time . Unfortunately , soon after that Bro . Newton was taken ill and unable to attend their meetings , although they all knew he was with them in spirit . As a little acknowledgment of his splendid services to the lodge , as well as testifying to thehigh esteem they all had for him , he ( the W . M . ) was entrusted to hand him a diamond ring , suitably en ? raved . In presenting Bro . Newton with that little memento he hoped his health
would be speedily restored , and that he would live for many years to come . ( Applause . ) Bro . Newton , in reply , expressed his thanks for the honour done him , as well as for the handsome present . The gift would be greatly appreciated , not so much on account of its intrinsic value , but as illustrating the feeling of esteem in the minds of the brethren towards himself . As he might not have many more opportunities of addressing them , he would like to say a few words to the younger members . He was made a Mason 58 years ago , and , notwithstanding that length of time , well remembered the feeling
which came over him with regard to Freemasonry . After being initiated he found something beyond the mere ritual , for he experienced a feeling which was positively a delight . They were able to make friendships which could only be obtained in such societies , and these often proved of a lasting character . He regretted not being able to do all he could have wished during the second time he served the office of Master , but the sole cause was ill-health . Prior to that he had always done his best to promote the interests of the lodge , and what had just taken place was a proof his services had been appreciated . It
had always been his pleasure to take an active part in the Institutions belonging to Freemasonry , more particularly to that branch whose members could not help themselves . He commended all the brethren to assist those Institutions as much as possible , and concluded by hoping the good old Sincerity Lodge would go on and prosper . So long as they had a W . M . and officers as were then in the Iodge it would never go under . ( Applause . ) "The Past Masters" were next toasted , and the W . M ., in calling on the brethren to duly honour the same , remarked he was sure he would be expressing the views of
these present when he thanked Bro . Bayley , P . M ., for the able manner he had performed the installation ceremony that evening . It had been most excellently done , and had been greatly appreciated . Their lodge was fortunate in possessing a goodly number of Past Masters , and while such was the case , they need not fear it would decrease in popularity . The toast having been cordially received , Bros . Magee , P . M . j Harvey , P . M . j and Bayley , P . M ., briefly replied , each taking the opportunity of congratulating the Master on being at the head of the lodge . In reply to the toast of "The Masonic institutions , " Bro . J . P . Rogers , P . M .,
P . G . S . B . Devon , who most generously gave £ 10 10 s . to Bro . Derby ' s list , contended it was a most important one , for it dealt with the three cardinal points of the Craft to which they were identified . It was not by his wish that mention had been made of what he had done with regard to Bro . Derby's list . He had been identified with other Charities besides Masonic ones , and it was perhaps to that fact the Worshipful Master had considered him fit to respond to the toast . One great thing about their Craft was its democracy , for it enabled prince and peasant to sit down together . They could all
congratulate themselves on the position of the Masonic Charities , which were in a high state of efficiency and prosperity , Some 15 or 20 years ago neither the Boys' nor Girls ' were doing the duty expected of them , but everything was now changed . On every hand they heard of the efficiency and good work done . With regard to the old people , their Institution was , to his mind , the best of the three , and he was pleased to think they had that year got a good representative in the Sincerity Lodge to forward its interests . "The Visitors '" toast was replied to by Bro . Cunnington , who expressed the
pleasure all the guests experienced at being privileged to witness the beautiful ceremony of installation as enacted that evening . The popular and energetic Secretary , Bro . C . H . Webb , P . M ., acknowledged in cordial terms the manner in which the toast of '' The Treasurer and Secretary " had been proposed and received . Bro . C . Lacey , their Treasurer , like himself , was always anxious to further the interests of the Sincerity Lodge , and so long as hc ( the speaker )
was spared he was quite willing to serve the brethren in the same way as he had now done for so many years past . ( Applause , ) Bro . J . W . Derby , S . W ., in responding for " The Officers , Present and Past , " announced , amid considerable applause , that his list for the forthcoming festival amounted to upwards of £ 129 , and , from an intimation he had just received , that sum would shortly be considerably augmented .
The Tyler ' s toast brought to a termination a most ] instructive ) and enjoyable evening . The musical programme , prepared by the VV . M ., was of a highly delightful character , all the artistes being of exceptional quality j and , without appearing invidious by specially mentioning names as being superior to others , no one would grudge the hearty reception accorded that clever boy , Master Crook , solo soprano singer at the Italian church . The other singers included Bros . J . W . Derby , Graham , F . Cheesewright , Mr . T . Crook , and Mr . W . Keast .
Blagdon Lodge , No . 659 . On the iyth instant , the first regular meeting under the presidency of the recentlyinstalled VV . M ., Bro . A . A . Askwith , was held in the new Masonic Hall , Beaconsfieldstreet , Blyth . There was a large attendance of members and visitors , including the following Provincial and other officers : Bros . Wm . Robson , P . M ., P . G . S . B . j Edward Forster , P . M ., P . P . G . Std . Br . j John Tweedy , P . M ., P . P . G . S . of W . j R . T . Guthrie , ' . M ., D . C ; and others .
After the confirmation of the minutes and other preliminary business had been transacted , Mr . John VV . Tinning—the courageous coxswain of the Blyth lifeboat , which recentl y upset during the prevalence of a north-east gale , along the north-cast coast , whilst going to the rescue of a vessel in distress off the port , and then swam ashore in ? ' mpestuous sea with one of the crew , who lost his life by the disaster—was initiated ,, v tne VV . M ., after which ceremony Bros . W . Wood and E . Arkle were duly passed to the Degree of a F . C . by Bro . lohn Tweedy , P . M ., P . P . G . S . of W . The W . M . then noved
that a letter of sympathy be forwarded to the Duke of Northumberland , expressing the deep regret of the members of the Blagdon Lodge on the death of his father"j ** l-race the late Duke—at Alnwick Castle . The W . M ., in moving the resolution , made special reference to the great interest the Duke—then Earl Percy—took in Freeasonry in the Province of Northumberland , he having for many years occupied the position of Provincial Grand Master , and installed his successor—the Right Hon . Sir watthew White-Ridley , Bart ., M . P . —who still holds that position . The resolution was r "' } . unanirnously , the Secretary , Bro . Geo . Graham , being instructed to forward such « "ution to the Duke at once . The meeting shortly afterwards terminated .
Craft Masonry.
Wiltshire Lodge of Fidelity , No . 663 . The annual meeting of the above Iodge was held at the Masonic Hall , Devizes , on the 17 th inst . Bro . F . Rendell , J . W ., was installed as W . M . for the ensuing year by Bro . VV . J . Baldwin , the outgoing VV . M ., assisted by Bro . T . C . Hopkins , P . M . The new W . M . appointed and invested his officers as follows : Bros . W . J . Baldwin , I . P . M . j D . Owen , S . W . ; H . Ash , I . W .: F . S . Hancock , P . M ., Treas . ; T . C . Hopkins .
P . M ., Sec ; VV . R . C Sudweeks , S . D . j G . T . Smith , J . D . j H . J . Johnson , P . M ., D . C . j H . B . Coles , Org . j M . K . Sloper , I . G . j H . Courteen and A . J . Randell , Stwds . ; and W . G . Pike , Tyler . After the lodge was closed , the brethren adjourned to the annual banquet at the Bear Hotel , and spent a very pleasant evening .
De Grey and Ripon Lodge , No . 1161 . The regular meeting was held in Freemasons' Hall , Manchester , on Wednesday the iSth inst ., when there were present Bros . H . M . Massingham , W . M . ; J . Schofield , S . W . j O . M . Jones , I . P . M . ; J . Irlam , P . M ., Treas . ; S . Richards , Sec ; J . T . C Blackie , S . D . j J . Broumhill , J . D . j J . M . Moss , P . M ., Org . ; A . E . Bentley , I . G . j S . L . Lewis , P . M . j E . Loobell , P . M . j C . G . Balls , R . G . Thomas , G . I .
Critchley , W . Clewlow , S . Dixon , J . A . R . Ashwoode , P M . j R . Dotlin , P . M . j B . Carr , P . M ., P . P . G . D . C . j and J . R . Fletcher , Tyler . Visitors : Bros . H . Hill , Stwd . 2144 ; W . Booth , 2144 j and J . Carter , 1009 . The Iodsre was onened and the minutes of the nrevious meetinc read and ronfirmpd ;
The ballot was then taken for Mr . A . Oughterson , which proving unanimous , he was initiated t > y Bro . j . Irlam , P . M ., in a most able and finished manner , Bro . J . Schofield , S . W ., giving the charge in his usual excellent style . " Hearty good wishes " having been expressed by the visiting brethren , the lodge was closed .
Plucknett Lodge , No . 1708 . A very pleasant installation meeting was held in connection with this Iodge at the Woodside Hall , North Finchley , when Bro . W . J . Batho , who has had a very successful year of office as W . M ., installed Bro . R . G . Minton as his successor . Amongst the members present were Bros . W . J . Batho , W . M . j R . G . Minton , S . W . j F . W . Freeman , J . W . j G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas . j J . E . Overed , P . M ., Sec . j J . Grisdale , S . D . j T . H . Palmer , J . D . j Geo . Hooper , Org . j C . A . Batho , Stwd . j Geo . Samuel ,
P . M . ; S . A . Graddage , P . M . ; W . J . Janes , P . M . ; C . Woodrow , P . M . j C . Plowman , P . M . j and E . Holland , P . M . Visitors : Bros . J . C . Winkfield , P . M . S , A . G . D . C . j E . B . Tellepen , 1 754 j H . Bold Atkinson , W . H . Cranshaw , and D . Cory Wright , 357 j Hy . Caldipole , W . M . 2331 j R . F . Martin , 266 5 j S . L . Martin , 2665 ; the Rev . S . B . Mayall , Chap . 22 S ; Stanley Wildash , 1 S 1 S ; L . J . Aylward , 24 S 7 j F . E . Wrigley , 73 j S . W . Reddall , P . M . 1 G 79 J E . T . Holloway , A . P . Little , and F . Hughes , P . M . 192 ; C . Pastorell , 19 S 7 j Percy Sloper , S j H . Comfort , 1572 j H . Sylvester , 2331 ; S . H . Jenks , S . W . S , P . G . Stwd . j D . Fairmaner , S . D . 73 j W . W . Lee , P . M . j and
others . After the opening of the Iodge and the disposal ot formal business Bro . Robt . G . Minton was installed as W . M .-by Bro . Batho , I . P . M ., who rendered the ceremony in 3 very excellent and impressive manner . The following officers were invested : Bros . F . W . Freeman , S . W . j J . Grisdale , J . W . j G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas . j J . E . Overed , P . M ., Sec . j T . H . Palmer , S . D . j W . Hollis , J . D . j W . J . Boyce , i . G . j M . C W . Woodrow , P . M ., D . C . j G . Hooper , Org . j C A . Batho and G . Hook , Stwds . j and Proctor , P . M ., Tyler . A Past Master ' s jewel was presented to the I . P . M ., Bro . Batho , and suitably acknowledged , after which the lodge was closed .
A well served banquet followed , the Stewards , Bro . C . A . Batho and G . Hook , doing their best to ensure the comfort of all present . The usual toasts followed , the W . M . first proposing " The Oueen and the Craft " and " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M . " In proposing "The Grand Officers , " the W . M . said he must strike a note of
mourning and regret , for by the lamented death of Lord Lathom Masonry had sustained a severe loss , and his dignified figure would appear no more in the councils of the Order . In Earls Amherst and Warwick they had feelings of thankfulness to have those in high quarters ready to come forward . Every question coming before the Grand Officers was weighed and . considered , and the brethren had confidence in the councils ot th Order .
Bro . J . C Winkfield , A . G . D . C , returned thanks , and endorsed the words of the W . M . relative to the late Pro Grand Master . The junior officers had very little to do , his own duties being reduced to a minimum . He considered a great debt of gratitude was due to the Grand Stewards , who were scarcely ever given a tribute of praise , for their services . He had enjoyed the pleasure of visiting that distinguished lod ^ e , for the I . P . M ., Bro . Batho , was a member of his own " red apron " lodge—the British , No . —and would in due time attain the distinction of a G . Steward .
Bro . W . J . Batho , I . P . M ., in submitting the toast of " The VV . M ., " said it would require very few words from him . They knew the W . M . well and knew he had the whole of the ritual at his fingers' ends . What he had done that evening was but a small portion of the ritual and the brethren who would be present at future meetings would have a treat . He ( the I . P . M . ) had seen the VV . M . initiated and had seen him go through all the offices , with the exception ot one , in a manner creditable to himself and the lodge . They were exceedingly fortunate to have such a VV . Master , and the members and visitors would wish nim a happy and prosperous year of office .
Bro . R . G . Minton , W . M ., thanked the I . P . M . and brethren for the cordial reception given the toast . He was proud indeed to attain thc chair and would use his best endeavours to main the reputation of the lodge . "The Initiate " was next honoured , after which theW . M . proposed "The Installing Officer , " referring in eulogistic terms to the successful year of office of Bro . Batho , I . P . M ., who had by his excellent working of the ritual and his endeavours in the cause of Masonic Charity set an example which would be difficult for his successors to follow . Bro . W . J . Batho , I . P . M ., in an excellent speech , thanked the VV . M . and brethren for the support accorded him during the past year .
" The Visitors " was acknowledged by Bros . Rev . S . B . Mayall , 22 S , and Dudley Corry Wright , 357 . Bro . Plowman , P . M ., the senior P . M ., replied on behalf of "The Past Masters , " and Bro . G . J . Austin , P . M ., Treas ., for " The Treasurer and Secretary . H "The Masonic Charities " was given by the W . M ., who said the brethren last year sent up about about £ 350 and he hoped they would always continue to support them . " The Officers " and the Tyler ' s toast concluded a very successful evening . The musical programme was exceptionally good , the following artistes assisting : Bros . W . J . James and E . Hollands , Messrs . R . Carrodus , Will Ballard , A . M . and S , Mott , and Bro . G . Hooper , Org .
Lodge La France , No . 2060 . AN INTERESTING GATHERING OF ANGLO-FRENCH MASONS . The first meeting of the year of this lodge was held at the Regent Masonic Hall , Cafe Royal , on Monday , the iGth inst . There was a full attendance of brethren over whom Bro . Henri Leon Mondehare , W . M ., presided . After the initiation of three candidates , the lodge adjourned to the banqueting hall , where an excellent dinner was served .
The customary loyal and Craft toasts having been duly honoured , a most enjoyable concert followed , to which contributed Madame Mondehare , Miss Margery Dyer , Mile . Lulu Barlet , and Mr . W . J . Dyer . In the course of the proceedings a message was received from the brethren of the St . Peter's of Westminster Lodge , No . 1537 , who were holding their session in an adjoining room , to the effect that they would be glad to make the acquaintance of the brethren of La France Lodge . Amidst the greatest enthusiasm and the usual ceremonial the members of St . Peter ' s were introduced . It is interesting to state
that a great number of them were cither of Canadian extraction speaking the French tongue or descendants from old Huguenot families like their W . M ., Bro . R . St . A . Roumieu , G . S . O . W . Mention must also be made of the fact that several of the speeches of the visiting brethren expressed the hope that a better understanding should exist between the English and French nations and a speedy entente tordiale effected . Prior to the closing of the proceedings , which lasted until midnight , the brethren of St . Peter ' s Lodge heartily joined in singing the " Marseillaise , " to which La France replied by intonating " God save the Queen . "