waters of Jordan, in which the soul, leprous with sin and defilement, can wash and be made whole. We should encroach on the attributes of Deity -we should touch with profane hands his altar, and offer strange fire thereon, did we assert such claims. But does Masonry arrogate too much to herself, when she does claim to be a moral teacher and reformer? Her mission is a noble one; it is not yet ended. When the promised period shall arrive, of universal peace and harmony-when the lion and the lamb shall lie down together, and a little child shall lead them-when a united Hallelujah shall swell from all voices, "Glory to God and the Lamb," when the sword shall be turned into the plowshare-and the spear into the pruning hook, and sighing and suffering shall forever cease-then and not till then will her mission be ended, for sin and misery shall be known no more.

It has also been urged against Freemasonry that she is clothed in mystery. Well, and what then? Do the objectors not know that life itself is a mystery? Are not the operations of nature all mysteries? Are not Death and Immortality the greatest of mysteries? What finite being pretends or expects to comprehend them, until time shall change for eternity? Doubtless, for a wise object the Almighty has so ordained it. If the whole excellence of Masonry consisted in strange, mysterious ceremonies, the argument against her utility might be good and valid. But her secrets are but the keys to her treasures, and we offer them to all, on one condition only, that they be found worthy-an unblemished character and a spotless reputation are the requisites for their possession. Neither wealth nor exalted station gain for their possessor a more ready entrance within our portals than humble poverty accompanied by true merit. We know no distinction of rank or position. The prince and the peasant meet here on a perfect equality.

We have our secrets-they are necessary for our self-preservation. As Masonry is universal, so her language is universal. It is essential that we should be enabled to recognize each other without the possibility of being deceived; and we are enabled to do so by this universal language. Publish it to the world-make it common to the virtuous and the vicious, and you at once destroy its utility, and by making it familiar and easily attained, insure its destruction. It is to this very mystery that Masonry owes its perpetuity and universality; for it is, perhaps, a weakness in human nature, that men are charmed by mystery. Empires have risen and fallen-whole nations have passed away into comparative oblivion-yet Masonry still stands beautiful and vigorous. The wild winds of kingly despotism,

and the surges of popular fury have beaten against her, but in vain; for she was founded on a rock.

She has, in all ages, been the pioneer of civilization and refinement. The philanthropist has ever found her a willing assistant, and the missionary has often been indebted to her for support. Circumnavigate the globe, and you can scarce touch a spot where the genial influences of Masonry are not seen and felt. In the frozen regions of the North, and the sunny lands of the South, throughout the broad expanse, from East to West, her banner is floating. Like the Baptist, she has been the great forerunner-fitting the untutored mind for the reception of greater truths by teaching her own pure principles-proclaiming everywhere through her mystic rites, "Prepare ye in the desert a highway for our God."

Brethren of this United Order-the Union which has for years been the earnest wish of all true Masons, is now consummated; we, who have been divided are now one. Together we are to walk within the porches of the temple-together to tread the Mosaic pavement. Let us not forget that we have a work to perform while the day lasteth—as the stones were brought ready fashioned from the quarries of Zaradatha, fitted and prepared for the builder's use, so our minds are to be prepared in these our earthly sanctuaries, and made as living stones for that spiritual building, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Oh! let us, above all, cherish the spirit of unity-let us keep bright and glowing the spirit of brotherly love-that golden circle which, in its magic circle, links heart to heart.

When the Grand Master had concluded another ode was sung and the proceedings of the meeting closed with a prayer by the Rev. Salem Town, Grand Chaplain. Then as one body, the brethren left Tripler Hall and appeared in public in a single procession, marching down Broadway to the City Hall, thence by way of Chatham street to the Bowery, crossing Union Square to Broadway and thence back to the hall, which had meanwhile been prepared for the banquet with which it had been arranged the memorable proceedings of the day were to close.

We quote in full M. W. Bro. Finlay M. King's report of that "function," as its long list of toasts and sentiments must be regarded as curious, and its event testifies to the solidity of the union which had that day been con

summated. The one theme for. modern Masons to wonder at, in connection with the banquet, is how it was possible even in the enthusiasm and loyalty which then prevailed, for any brother to drink to all the toasts and still retain a clear idea of his surroundings, or, after it was all over, to be able, unassisted to discover his home in the labyrinth of New York. But as we can find nothing to show that the proceedings broke up otherwise than with the utmost decorum we must conclude that the brethren of 1850 had stronger brains and sturdier legs-if they drank to all the toasts than the brethren of the present year of grace could show under the same circumstances. Brother King's report says:

The coup d'œil of the vast dining room was at once picturesque and imposing. At about 5:30 o'clock the holders of tickets were admitted, and as soon as seated the Grand Master gave three blows of the gavel, commanding the brothers to rise, when the worthy Grand Chaplain offered a brief prayer, and then the work of supper commenced.

When full justice had been done to the plentiful repast, the Grand Master announced the first regular toast:

I. Grateful hearts for every blessing. [Music by Adkin's Band.]

The toasts were all received with the regular salute of the Order, which is done by a measured clapping of hands by all the brothers to the number of nine quick strokes.

The second toast was then drank:

2. The day we celebrate and all who honor it. [Music-March from Belisario.]

3. Our sister Grand Lodges, and their representatives present. [Music-Auld Lang Syne.]

4. The President of the United States. [Hail, Columbia!]

5. The Army and Navy of the United States. [The Star-Spangled Banner.]

6. The Union-one and indivisible. [This was received with loud and prolonged cheers. MusicHail, Columbia!]

7. The Empire State, divested of prejudices against our Ancient Institution, she will be found foremost in the ranks of the Masonic jurisdiction. [Home, Sweet Home.]

8. Woman-Our good angel in prosperity, our solace in adversity-ever the Mason's care. [Six

cheers-Music: "Here a Health to All Good Lassies."]

Dr. Powell, Grand Secretary, then read a letter from the Grand Master of the District of Columbia, B. B. French. It was closed by a sentiment from St. Paul:

"But as touching the brotherly love, ye need not that I write unto you; ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another." [Music-Masonic Ode.] Toasts from Washington (D. C.), Grand Lodge officers:

Grand Secretary Powell then read the following sentiment from Deputy Grand Master David McComb:

May Masonic Union in the Empire State, be the happy harbinger of Union throughout the United States:

A Union of lakes, a Union of lands,
A Union of States that none can sever,

A Union of hearts with Union of hands,
American Union forever.

Which was received with nine cheers. [MusicMasonic Ode.]

The next toast was from Senior Grand Warden Ezra Williams:

The Purple Banner.-We rejoice that our brethren of New York have once more adopted it as their ensign-may they never cease to feel the lesson it Masonically inculcates.

Then came a toast from Junior Grand Warden Samuel Yorke:

The old landmarks and the ancient Constitution of Masonry-a "good man and true" will never remove the former nor pervert the latter.

Toast of the Right Worshipful Grand Secretary, Charles S. Frailey:

The Grand Lodge of the State of New York.A Masonic Temple built by and under the charge of Master Workmen. The occurrences of this day attest its wisdom, strength and beauty. [MusicOgden Polka.]

Toast of Grand Treasurer Robert Clarke:

May the Union this day consummated, be long continued in peace and prosperity; may brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue cement you.

Toast of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, Philip Swigert, Esq.:

The Union of the brethren under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge with the Grand Lodge of New York: May it continue as one happy family, when all discord shall cease and all contentions be forever buried and forgotten. [Music.]

The next toast was from James Evans, Grand Master of Virginia:

Obedience. An essential to that peace and harmony characteristic of our beloved institution, happily acknowledged and consummated in the act of Union and Affiliation of St. John's Grand Lodge of New York, to the only recognized head of Masonry in that State. We most cordially extend the right hand of fellowship to their members, and cheerfully welcome them to the great body of Masonry throughout the world.

The Grand Master then proposed:

The health of Henry C. Atwood, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York a master workman in the Masonic Temple. [This brought down the heartiest cheers.]

Brother Atwood responded in brief terms. He had cause to be proud of the position he now held, and was truly grateful for the honor which had been done him by the Grand Master-the more so as he had done so little to deserve such distinction. He referred to the commencement of the St. John's Grand Lodge, and remarked that it grew from almost nothing at all. He rejoiced that the union had been effected, and warned all brethren from ever again raising the standard of discord. The banner of the late St. John's Grand Lodge has been entrusted to an honorable brother, and he had received it untarnished. Mr. Atwood hoped that no circumstance would ever call it or one like it out again. He concluded by offering a toast to every true and faithful member of the Order.

This toast having been drank with all the honors, Grand Master Atwood then gave:

The Grand Lodge of the State of Delaware and her representatives. [Music-Oh, Lady Dear.]

Past Grand Warden Camp responded to this toast in a short speech. He closed by offering the following:

The Queen of Charity-Jenny Lind, entitled to the degree of the Heroine of Jericho. [Music-Welcome to America.]

The next toast was:

Wm. H. Milnor-The head and front of the Unity Fraternity in New York-may health, happiness and prosperity attend him. [Nine cheers.]

The Grand Master replied, referring generally to his own course in regard to the differences heretofore existing in the Order. He was rejoiced with the present union, and hoped that it would never end. As Grand Master he begged the good offices of his brethren to assist him in his duties. He gave: The Union which we have this day celebratedMay the bright eyes and warm hearts which it has brought never be dimmed or made sorrowful.

Received with all the honors and three cheers. [Music "Bold Soldier Boy."]

Right Worshipful Robert Macoy offered the health of Past Deputy Grand Master Oscar Coles, of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.

His sentiment was received with all the honors and three cheers.

Brother Coles appropriately replied. He gave in conclusion

"Masons-May we never allow another link to be broken."

The Grand Secretary, Dr. Powell, read a volunteer toast-offered by Right Worshipful Bro. Ma

coy:

"The Masonic Press-The defender of Masonic rights and liberties."

Finlay M. King, of Auburn, editor of "The Masonic Union," responded to the toast.

Grand Secretary Powell then read the following toasts in rapid succession, all which were received in a mass:

By Jos. C. Pinckney-The Press of New York city.

By Nelson Wolcott-The Past Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge State of New York, Charles F. Lineback-a faithful Recorder in the Masonic Tem

ple.

By Joseph C. Pinckney, Senior Warden of Independent-George E. Marshall, Chairman of Committee of Arrangements-his untiring energy in attending to the duties assigned to him, demands this public acknowledgment.

By J. B. Munn: The True Masonic VirtuesUnion, Friendship, Brotherly Love and Charity. "Behold, then, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity."

By the Right Worshipful Past Grand Secretary, Chas. F. Lineback: The Rights and Privileges of the Craft, sustained by the fundamental principles and cardinal virtues of our Order-Immutable Truth, Justice, Charity, and good will to all.

By W. Holmes, Jr., Grand Warden: The Day and the Glorious Consummation we celebrate-may its annual return witness our gratitude to our Supreme Grand Master, who in place of Disunion has given Brotherly Love, and in place of Confusion, Order and Harmony.

By a Brother from New Haven: Lebanon Lodge, its Officers and Members-its members, once rejected, now accepted-may it be emblematic of the Sprig of Cassia that never dies.

The Union of the States, the Union of the Grand Lodge-those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.

To the Memory of the late Rev. Dr. Milnorthough dead he yet speaketh to us.

Brother Gen. John S. Darcy, Past Grand Master

of the State of New Jersey, and the Brethren now absent in California-may the Lord have them in His keeping, and return them to us in safety. The Grand Lodge of the State of Connecticut. To this Brother Atwood arose, and gave: Connecticut, and all sister States that unite in supporting the banner of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.

The Band played, and the whole audience sung "Auld Lang Syne," as the meeting came to an end. It is said that 1,000 brethren were present at the banquet, and as all the Lodges in the State were requested to observe the day of union with a special observance of some sort it may be said that the occasion was one of general rejoicing among the fraternity of the State. With it all the bitterness of the past thirteen years passed away and the Grand Lodge had no more loyal or devoted Lodges

on its roll than those which were transferred to it from that of St. John's Grand Lodge. But two little matters remained to be done to complete the union-both had been overlooked before-and they were attended to on the following meeting of the Grand Lodge. One was the recognition of the right of Past Masters of the St. John's Lodges to a vote in the Grand Lodge, and the other was the removal of the former vote of censure which had been passed upon Past Grand Masters Darcy and Munn for their share in the organization of the Atwood body. Under the circumstances no other course could be pur

sued, but in the case of Darcy especially, no vote of censure was ever more heartily deserved. .

HE necessary proceedings attending the schism of 1837 took up naturally most of the time of the Grand Lodge in that and the following year and need not be referred to here except for the purpose of stating that the warrants of York and Silentia Lodges were forfeited and a new warrant ordered issued to the brethren of Benevolent Lodge who had not "gone out." The latter, however, was not needed, for, so far as we can see, all the members of the Lodge soon followed their leaders into the Atwell fold. Albion Lodge, then No. 107, had passed a resolution at one of its meetings compelling each of its visitors, before entering to sign a declaration that he acknowledged "the Grand Lodge in the State, of which Morgan Lewis is Grand Master, to be the only Grand Lodge of and in the State," and when this was brought before the Grand Lodge it not only indorsed it but recommended that similar action should be taken by all the Lodges.

Probably no period in the history of the Grand Lodge was more turbulent, more discouraging, than the one included in this chapter, and yet it was during it that much of the legislation and much of the enterprise which afterward carried the craft to its present high standing, its present wonderful condition of prosperity, was conceived, thought out and placed upon the statute book. The period saw for a time two Grand Lodges standing out in opposition to its edicts and claiming

precedence over it in point of regularity, but the period also saw it continue on its way, conscious of the sympathy and support of its sister Grand Lodges, calmly carrying out the objects of its mission, holding aloft in all its integrity the banner of Masonry, quietly legislating for the future as well as for the present as if certain that in time the storms would blow over, the shower of vituperation cease, and it would again become the recognized standard bearer of a loyal and united craft.

In 1839 the death was announced of Past Grand Master Van Rensselaer. The removal of this man, however, could hardly be construed as in any sense a loss to the Grand Lodge. He had been useful to it inasmuch as the prestige of his name had brought it up to the dignity it had enjoyed under Livingston and Clinton. This certainly was a laudable and useful purpose, and there is no doubt that his influence was potent in bringing about the reconciliation of 1827. This, in reality, was the extent of his service. To the business of the craft he paid but little attention, and unfortunately the time when he was inducted into the Grand Mastership and the whole of the time he held it-the prevalence of the Morgan lunacy-was one that required constant work and some show of statesmanship on the part of the executive head of the craft. That work and that exhibition of statesmanship were not brought to bear on the crisis by him. Probably he did not realize the true drift of things or feel called upon to