for which the simple desire to associate is often the only assignable motive. Our motives are more complex; but undoubtedly our association does represent this amongst other principles which govern men's actions.

The next principle which I think we represent, is the love of antiquity, and the desire which is natural to man to connect himself with that venerable name. How powerful this principle may become, we may judge by the struggles which so many nations of the earth have made to devise fables to account for their origin, and sum up their history far beyond the limits of authentic record.

Perhaps we, too, may have our fabulous history. I do not by any means intend to deny the justice of the claim to our almost primeval existence, which our excellent Chaplain has this day made for us in that sermon, the piety and eloquence of which have so much delighted us. But we may let that pass-it is a bone for the learned to pick; and we plain men may be content to dwell within the region of real history, and mark with pleasure the traces which are there found of our continuous existence, more ancient than that of any institution to be found in Europe, the institution of Religion alone excepted. This claim to antiquity is our own, and we have reason to be proud of it.

Now for the proof:-From the commencement of Gothic architecture, down to the period when it ceased to be original and became imitative, that is, down to the latest characterised style, belonging to any particular period (that of the Tudors,) the most indisputable evidence exists that Freemasonry accompanied it throughout the whole course. This evidence is first documentary, then from facts of a kind to which I will presently allude, and both these branches of proof are amply supported by tradition. The documentary evidence is to be found in the archives of many of our Cathedrals. In those of Salisbury for example, the actual contract made with a company of Freemasons, ex nomine, is still preserved; and innumerable instances might be quoted where companies of Masons, who could be no other than Freemasons, were brought from abroad to supply their art in the construction of our Churches. But supposing that every fragment of this paper or parchment were destroyed, we have still remaining a set of imperishable records attesting the fact, that all the sacred architecture of Europe (at least) was in the hands of an associated body of architects who acted together in the closest concert, and imposed their own rules on all who practised their Craft.

Tradition tells us that a body of this kind existed under the name of Freemasons, and I never yet heard it surmised that there was any other society capable of producing its effects, and sharing in its honors and reputation. Had there been any, history must have noticed it. The concert of which I speak, is proved by the marvellous uniformity of style which prevailed in different places, but at the same time.

Why did the Saxons and Normans always build short heavy columns, surmounted by cushion-like capitals and round arches, with the zig-zag mouldings of which we have many examples in this country? Why did the race which followed pass to the other extreme of lightness, make their windows lance-shaped, and introduce their peculiar ornament, the shark's tooth? Why did the architects under our three first Edwards, use wider openings with flowing tracery, and heavy crockets and firials? And why at last did all these styles give way to the minute and elaborate ornaments of our Sixth and Seventh Henry? There is but one answer to all these questions, and it is this:—

That these results are not mere coincidences of thought, the accidental agreements of different minds, in different places, nor are they the steps of regular progress in the art itself, gradually developing its resources. If it were so, we should not find at a very early period, so perfect a structure as that of Salisbury, than which there exists nothing which so forcibly shows the skill and daring of the architect. Let any one stand immediately under that stupendous spire, and then look about for the supports on which it rests, he must be struck with the extraordinary courage of the mind which could conceive such a project, and the skill and science which executed what appears to be so vast a design.

Then if the succession of styles to which I have alluded was not the effect of chance, nor the progress of art, there remains I think but one conclusion, that there existed all along some great corporation presiding over the architecture of each period, and teaching authoritatively the lessons of its own science, that it possessed the confidence of kings and nobles, and gave the impress of its own mind to the sacred edifices of its time. If no claim to this position can be set up by any other body, it follows that that corporation was no other than that which we jointly and feebly represent; and those who regard antiquity will esteem Freemasonry for the share which it has had in some of the greatest achievements of very remote times. The examples which I have given are all taken from our own country; but the argument need not stop here. Professor Whewell has shown that the architecture of France and Germany partakes of the same characteristics as our own; there have been at certain periods slight deviations of style, but they were transient, and the agreement was sooner or later restored.

The last topic on which I shall trouble you with any observation relates to our representative character, in connection with architecture itself, as an instrument of civilization, and on this I will be very brief. If we have a claim through our forefathers to some connection with the architecture of the middle ages, we stand in the same relation as to the sentiments which belong to it. We all know how much arts and science have contributed towards the improvement of mankind, and that the sense of beauty either with respect to the external or moral world, has been a powerful agent of refinement. I do not mean to infer that taste is virtue, or that arts and science and literature are in themselves morality, but they soften the mind, and prepare it to receive the lessons of virtue, and finally lead it on to better and nobler impulses. I dare say there may be men so constituted that they can stand before the portico of St. Paul's, and look up at its dome without emotion; but I would fain believe that they are exceptions to the common run of mankind, and certainly they are aliens from our Brotherhood. No, my Brethren, we are not so framed. We, I trust, relish the great productions of our art. We know that amongst the guides which have led on the human race from the semi-barbarism of the middle ages to the refinements of the present time, architecture has a place; and it has been so much the more a trustworthy guide, because all its noblest aspirations have been devoted to the service of Him who is the Great Architect of the Universe. In his works we read his wisdom, his power, and his benevolence; in His temples made by men's hands, we read the piety and devotion of souls which He had warned with his love, and enlightened with his fire, to do Him honor. These men were our founders: on us has fallen the task, however faintly and inadequately we perform it, to shadow out their past history, and never let us forget the duty which we owe to their Fame and their Memory."

In the course of the speech of Sir Charles Lemon on the subject of Masonry, he gave the following interesting statements. It happened last year that, travelling in Poland, the worthy P. G. M. was induced to visit a very ancient Jewish Temple, built in the year 600 A. C., and which is now preserved in the same state in which it was originally built and ornamented. On examining the ornaments inscribed on the various parts of the building, the worthy Baronet discovered that the greater proportions of them were the same as the Masonic Emblems now in use among the Fraternity. On being introduced, the Chief Rabbi of the Establishment, recognized the sign of the worthy P. G. M., and acknowledged the same. This is another Proof of the antiquity of the Order.

ADDRESS,

Of Br. N. W. JONES, W. Master of St. John's Lodge, 723, Antigua, W. I.

Brother Senior and Junior Wardens, and Members of this Lodge :-The time prescribed by our constitution having arrived, for my secession from this Chair, affords me the opportunity of offering my sincere acknowlegments to the Brethren of this Lodge, for the kindness and urbanity which I have received during the period I have had the honor of presiding over it as Master.

It will be a source of pleasing reflection to me, on my retirement from the duties of this Chair to know, my humble endeavors have merited your approbation; whilst it is my proud consolation to feel, that my utmost ability has been exerted for the good of Masonry and the welfare of this Lodge.

I cannot omit this opportunity of congratulating the Lodge on the success which has attended the efforts of the few individuals who, but some short months past, zealously strove to re-establish this our Ancient Order after a repose of so many years-and when I see around me the result of their exertions, and honorable accession which has since then been made to our ranks, I cannot but gratefully offer my acknowledgment of praise and thanksgiving to the Grand Architect of the Universe for past favors, and humbly solicit he may continue to support and adorn our Order by every accession of worth and merit.

My anxiety for the welfare of this Lodge, prompts me to offer a word in season to all, on their future proposing of Members.

Much as I rejoice in the rapid augmentation of our Lodge to its present strength, I would respectfully remind you, that the stability of our Lodge does not rest on its numerous strength, not on loose or ill arranged materials; but as the GRAND LODGE is supported by Heavenly Wisdom, Power and Beauty, so must our Society be built up on the well-arranged materials of respectability, morality, and intelligence. It is on this basis and these excellencies, that its purity and duration depend.

Be not anxious then to add to the NUMBER of your Craft, but rather be careful to select such as will cement your Lodge by their moral and social virtues; and as Members of this our valued and ancient Fraternity, reflect an honor to their admission among us.

It will be my pleasing duty of inducting into the Chair, this evening, the worthy Brother, whom you have unanimously elected to preside over you. This pleasure is much enhanced by my personal knowledge of his worthiness, his zeal and assiduity in the cause of Masonry, and the steady discharge of those duties of the Lodge, which have been committed to his care-such worthiness inspires the confidence, that as Master of this Lodge, he will not fail in the more important trust now reposed on him.

Let me remark, however, that these duties, enormous in themselves and involving a heavy responsibility on the Master of a Lodge, are rendered comparatively light by the zealous co-operation of every individual; and whilst its requirements are binding on all, it imposes a more particular exaction of punctuality and attention on the part of the officers in the discharge of their relative duties-without their assistance, the most strenuous exertions of a Master will be rendered abortive.

In retiring from the more prominent duties of this Chair, it will not, I trust, be inferred, that I have relinquished all anxiety for the welfare and prosperity of the Lodge-having been instrumental in its organization, I cannot but feel a parental regard and solicitude in every thing which may tend to the advancement of its true interest-I beg to assure the Lodge that my humble ability shall as heretofore be exerted in every way that can be useful or promote so desirable an end.

I have to apologize for having trespassed so long on your time.

Commending you to the care and protection of the Grand Architect of the Universe, may he cement us in the Bond of Brotherly love and union-and during this our mortal career, so direct us to walk, as men professing the name

of GoD, and by his precepts fit us as living Stones for that TEMPLE not built with hands eternal in the Heavens.

SUPPRESSION OF DUELLING.

THE following has been on hand sometime, and should have been attended to at an earlier day. It is not, however, too late for the purpose for which its publication has been requested, which is, to call the attention of the Grand Lodges throughout the country, to the object contemplated by it. The Brother communicating the Circular, believes that it is in the power of the Fraternity to do much towards the suppression of the evil complained of. In this belief we

concur

Extract from the Minutes of Mississippi Lodge, No. 57, Masonic Hall, Rodney, Mississippi, April 12th, A. D. 1845. A. L. 5845.

The following Preamble and Resolutions were, upon motion of W. Br. C. B. New, unanimously adopted :

"WHEREAS, The great prominent precepts of Masonry, are designed to impress on the mind the fact of the existence of an Almighty God, to whom we are all responsible for every act; and moreover intended to teach us our duties to Him, and our obligations to love and serve our fellow beings. Seeing He is the perfection of all holiness, and that immorality is an abomination in His eye, as Masons, if we aspire to deserve His approbation, we should imitate His holy example and obey His Divine Laws. Hence, regarding His holy word as the great light of Masonry, we dare not disobey its commands, without incurring His displeasure, and proving to the world the hypocrisy of all our professions. In the great Light of Masonry, the Book of Life, God has declared, in the most solemn manner, "Thou shalt not kill," it becomes therefore the duty of every Mason, not only to refrain from the shedding of human blood, but to prevent others from falling under the condemnation of the Divine Law:

"AND WHEREAS, in our opinion Duelling is not only a violation of this sacred law, but the result of an abandonment of all the principles, precepts and examples of our ancient fathers, as transmitted by the traditions of successive ages.

"Therefore be it Resolved, That this barbarous relic, the offspring of the savage custom of 'trial by combat,' being neither a test of courage nor a fair adjudication of questions at issue, should be discouraged by all true and worthy

Masons.

"Resolved, That as Masons we hereby promise to use every means in our power to abolish this false 'code of honor,' and do now call upon our Brethren throughout the Union to aid us in effecting this desirable end.

"Resolved, That it shall be the duty of every Mason, when he hears of any difficulty between Masons, or between a Mason and citizen, which may result in any hostile meeting, to report the same to the Master of this Lodge; upon which information the Master shall appoint a committee, he being at all times a standing member of the same, whose duty shall be to bring about, by any honorable means, a pacific termination of the affair-failing in this, they are hereby commanded to have the parties arrested by an officer of the law.

Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing Preamble and Resolutions be transmitted to the Most Worshipful Grand Master, with a request that he will order the same to be laid before the Subordinate Lodges of this State, and the Grand Lodges of other States, and urge upon all their adoption."

GIVEN under my hand and the seal of the Lodge aforesaid, at the
Masonic Hall, in Rodney, this 18th day of April, in the year of

[SEAL.]

our Lord 1845, and in the year of Light 5845.

C. B. NEW, W. M. Miss. L. 56.

CORRESPONDENCE.

Sparta, Tenn., 28th July, 1846. C. W. MOORE, Esq.-R. W. Sir and Brother :-I noticed, in perusing a late number of your excellent Magazine, a communication from a Brother, a member of Solomon's Lodge, No. 74, Lafayette, Ala., dated 23d May, 1846, describing the prosperous condition of that Lodge, and in which he says many other good things which meet my cordial approbation.

There is, however, one clause in his address which seems to me to be exceptionable, and which, I think, our Brother, upon mature reflection, would not have written; a belief of which is well calculated to lead astray our young, enthusiastic Brethren. He says:-"I love Masonry for its principles, and I do honestly believe, that a man who will endeavor to discharge his Masonic duties, will do to rely upon, while travelling through this world of sorrow and temptation, and be prepared for admission into that Celestial Lodge above, where he will forever be at refreshment."

So far as Masonic principles are concerned, it should be the delight of every Brother to study, love and practice them in their lives. I have, however, yet to learn, that the Masonic is a religious institution.

I am persuaded that the terms, "Celestial Lodge above," and "where he will forever be at refreshment," are metaphorical expressions. The first means the Kingdom of Ultimate Glory, in the presence of God; the latter, that, in that Kingdom, we shall enjoy the rich reward consequent on an obedient and well spent life in the service of God; into which Masonic principles, abstractly considered, can never prepare the soul to enter.

That Masonic principles are inseparably connected with Christianity, I am free to admit; but what is Speculative Freemasonry? It is a beautiful system of moral science, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols"-whose benevolent principles "are founded on the immutable laws of Truth and Justice." These, however, alone, can never save the soul of man.

A man may, in the common acceptation of the term, be a good Mason; but a man cannot be a Christian, without possessing an additional qualification of heart, which we find abundantly taught in the Holy Scriptures, which as Masons, we profess to receive as the gift of God to man, for the rule of his faith and practice, and which are always open in our Lodges, and thus continually exhibiting to our view the whole duty of man, in every relation of life.

I am sorry that such opinions as those objected to, should be believed and propagated by any of my Masonic Brethren. After the dissemination of so much light, it is strange to me that any Brother could for one moment, entertain an opinion (as I think) so erroneous, and which is calculated to bring reproach upon our beloved Institution.

I have been a Mason for upwards of twenty years; have endeavored to study Masonry as a science, by every means in my power to obtain, from the degree of Entered Apprentice to that of Select Master, inclusive; and as yet I have not found the position successfully maintained any where, that abstract Masonic principles, aside from the doctrines of the Christian religion, requiring an absolute change of heart, can possibly save the soul of man.