A Serious and Impartial ENQUIRY Into the Cause of the present Decay of FREE-MASONRY IN THE Kingdom of IRELAND.
Humbly Address'd to all the Brethren Accepted of before and since the Constitutions. To which are added, Such Instructive Remarks as may be found useful to Revive the Honour of that Antient Craft.
As likewise, by way of Appendix, will be inserted the Old and New Regulations of the London CONSTITUTIONS, by the Consent and Approbation of the GRAND-LODGE of Ireland, and Dedicated to the Right Worshipful and Right Hon. the Lord Viscount Allen, Grand Master of this Kingdom.
The Whole adorned with a Curious Copper-Plate suitable to the Order and Design.
BY FIFIELD DASSIGNY, M.D., Author of the Impartial Answer to the Enemies of Free-Masons.
DUBLIN: Printed by Edward Bate in Georges-Lane near Dame-Street. M,DCC,XLIV.
To the Most Noble and Puissant Prince TRUTH.
Dread Sir,
YOUR excellent Wisdom in distinguishing Sincerity from Falshood, in discovering the Base and Impure from the Generous and Brave, emboldens me at this Time to lay before your Feet the following Enquiry; nor will I doubt your Royal Favour, since I have endeavoured to preserve those lasting and unalterable Principles which the Subjects of your Kingdom so remarkably possess; and notwithstanding that the deepest Arts have been contriv'd, the most subtile Machinations formed to overpower and destroy your Territories, to punish and oppress your stedfast and faithful Servants, you have hitherto had the Pleasure to reflect, that all their barbarous and wicked Contrivances have met with a just Disappointment: Nay, Time, that general Depopulator of all other Provinces, hath shewn so eminent a Regard to your Government, that it hath brought to light the cruel Intentions of your Enemies, whereby you have been able to overturn their iniquitous Schemes; and as the Palm-tree, tho' depressed, with greater Glory Shone.
Thus may you live, most noble Prince, inheriting the Virtues and Honours of your Ancestors, insomuch that Tyranny, Faction, and Depravity of Nature, may at all Seasons submit, and pay due Homage to your Power. I am, Dread Sir, Your faithful Subject and Servant, The AUTHOR.
PREFACE.
No government can properly subsist without certain wholesome laws and regulations, and as our commonwealth not only pleads the pride of antiquity, but with equal justice boasts of the beauty, order, regularity, and happy disposition of its fundamental constitutions, and as the happiness of the craft also depends on a perfect intimacy with those rules handed down to us by our wise legislators, whose labours and skill, in the everlasting art of Architecture, will demand the praise and admiration of the learned brethren in future ages, I have endeavoured in the following sheets to represent some mistakes, irregularities, and unseemly transactions, which have been occasioned by the want of an acquaintance with them; nor will the brethren, I hope, take it a miss, (as I have chose Truth for my patron) that I should strictly adhere to its principles, and point out the base and impure from the generous and brave: neither is it to be wondered at, that there are some of the former disposition amongst us, since experience evidently convinces that in all sects of men some impious and turbulent spirits appear, whose unlawful actions ought rather to be exposed than concealed, that they themselves may see their evil deeds in a proper light, and turn from their iniquities: where such may be found belonging to our order, I have attempted, by cordial advice, to admonish and rouse them up from their fallen-state insomuch that they may not at any time wander from the paths of virtue, but enjoy fully with the true brethren the lasting relish of its ever-pleasing fountain. Then will they meet with the reward of their Labours, be countenanced and approved of by their lords and masters, and like profitable and worthy servants meet with a general esteem from all mankind.
The old and new regulations of the London constitutions have, by the worshipful secretary, been carefully transcribed and adapted to the regulations of the Grand Lodge of this kingdom, which will prove of general use to the brethren, who may hereafter have the honour of becoming members of that august assembly, and that my attempts to increase their wellfare may not be fruitless, but meet with the intended success, I heartily implore from him alone who is able to grant my boon, and from whom I also crave that perfectness, plenty, peace, and unanimity, may crown the brethren's days, so that this life ended, they may receive the recompense of their toils, and dwell in the presence of that immortal stone belonging to our building, even the Alpha and Omega of our redemption.
A Serious and Impartial ENQUIRY Into the Cause of the present Decay of FREE-MASONRY.
Brethren,
IT is with the utmost anxiety of mind that I have any occasion to employ my pen in representing the decay of Free-masonry; the increase of its wellfare and advancement would have been a more pleasing task to me, but as the design of the present labour is to promote the latter, I shall proceed to make the following enquiries.
First, When or at what time the craft of Freemasonry was instituted.
Secondly, The cause or motive of its Institution.
Thirdly, The qualities or principles of the Craft.
Fourthly, The benefits arising from a strict observance of the principles thereof.
In order to solve the first question, 'twill be necessary to trace antiquity, even unto its infant state, and take a view of our parent Adam in his sylvan lodge, where the Almighty Architect imprinted on the very tablets of his heart the amazing symmetry and silent harmony of Geometrical proportion; with these principles our Primogenitor readily instructed his offspring, well knowing that they were absolutely essential to the discovery of the secret powers of nature, into whose adamantine gates, when once entered, we are struck with admiration at the wisdom, strength, and beauty of its great Creator. Cain, inspired with his father's knowledge, soon erected a fair city and called it after the name of his eldest son Enoch, whose posterity daily improved in the discovery and cultivation of various arts, as the way of working in metal, the surprising harmony and modulation of sounds in musick, husbandry, tent making, and formation of structures in stone and timber. Enoch (who by gift of prophecy foretold the deluge, and that great day yet to come of final conflagration) formed two pillars, the one made of brick, the other of stone, whereon he engraved the liberal arts and sciences, in order to preserve them from the implacable fury of the mighty waters, or the irresistible force of elements on fire.
Noah and his three sons, by the skill they had in geometrical masonry, and by the power of divine inspiration, built for themselves and their families a wooden world, which saved the faithful from the impending destruction.
In Shinar's plain the masons next appeared, who fraught with vain ambitious views of forming unto themselves a name, laid the foundation of Babel's stupendous tower which they intended should reach the summit of Æther's wide expanse; but the Omniscient Power (whose edicts none dare dispute) thought it necessary to curb the pride of haughty man, and marr their grand design, for when they had rais'd the building to a prodigious height, having spent 53 years labour therein, he caused their lips to loose their usual sounds, and made each language flow in confus'd terms: yet still the faithful preserved their sacred mysteries, and formed a compact amongst themselves to hand them down to their successors, which valuable priviledges we are possessors of at this time.
The confusion of tongues did not obstruct the improvement of the royal art; for Nimrod, who founded the Assyrian monarchy, built after the general dispersion many famous cities, as Nineveh, Rehoboth, &c., upon the Tygris and Euphrates flourished afterwards many learned men, known by the names of Magi and Chaldees, who being skilful in mathematicks, preserved and adorned that excellent science Geometry, which in succeeding ages became the favourite of royalty and nobility. But of these premises the Craft will receive a clearer information in a formed Lodge. So likewise did the descendants of Shem, Ham, and Japhet in their respective colonies, viz., in Asia, Africa, and Europe, give undeniable testimonies of their masterly designs, which are sufficient vestiges to demonstrate their skill in Masonry. But of these the Assyrians and Egyptians made the greatest progress, as Babylon's stately walls and the famous Pyramids of the latter most evidently prove, and so distinguishable was the early taste and genius of that antient kingdom, that they were justly stiled two of the seven wonders of the universe.
The glorious temple of Diana at Ephesus next engages our admiration, which was finished by those excellent Master Masons Dresiphon and Archiphron, and bears the name of the third wonder; nor shall the tomb of Mausolus king of Caria be passed over in silence, which, together with the temple of Babylon, the famous light house, or tower of Pharos, and the colossus at Rhodes, claim characters not inferior to the rest.
The learned Abraham instructed his sons in the Assyrian learning, who made no great figure in Architecture while under Pharaoh's cruel yoke, or during their peregrination in the desarts of Arabia, until the inspired Aholiab and Bezaleel erected a most glorious tabernacle, which afterwards proved the model of Solomon's temple, according to the pattern which God gave Moses in the mount, who then became the Grand Master Mason of the Lodge at Israel, and imparted to the Brethren such wise charges and orders, that they daily advanced in the art of Geometry and even excelled the Canaanites; yet Dagon's temple, or the most beautiful structures of Tyre and Sidon could not equal that stupendous and finished piece, the Temple of the Eternal God, built by the peculiar influence of Heaven, under the direction of that ever memorable Prince of peace and Architecture king Solomon, Grand Master of the Lodge at Jerusalem, whose father David was deprived of that immortal honour because he was unhappily engaged in wars, and seemed fond of destruction, whereby his hands were oft polluted with innocent blood.
This gorgeous and splendid edifice, fit for the special refulgence of the Almighty Glory, must transcend the utmost bounds of our imagination, for it certainly was the most curious piece of Masonry that ever yet appeared or ever will upon earth; wherefore 'tis natural to believe, that such a beautifull structure soon engaged artists from all nations to view the excellency of the work, which was carried on by the wisdom and dexterity of the learned Hiram, Grand Master of the Lodge of Tyre, who together with the inspired Hiram abif, Master of the work, without the noise of tools, produced the most perfect pattern of Architecture the wonder and amazement of the travelling world.
Masonry, soon after the erection of Solomon's temple, became in a most flourishing condition, and the artists employed in that grand work dispersed themselves thro' all the neighbouring nations, where they instructed the free- born sons of eminent persons in this useful and liberal art, insomuch that kings, princes, and potentates, became Grand Masters in their respective territories; and being filled with the glorious spirit of emulation, they strove to excell each other in improving and advancing the Royal Art.
This wonderful model of workmanship the Temple, in 416 years after being finished, felt the dreadfull effects of war-like rage, and by the absolute and despotick power of that grand monarch Nebuchadnezar was reduced to ashes; and tho' after a general peace proclaimed, his heart relented and he studied with the utmost diligence the rules of Architecture, and raised several stately piles, yet were they vastly inferior in the sublime perfection of Masonry to the sacred and amiable Temple of God, which still remained inimitable.
In the reign of grand Cyrus the Jews, who were carried captives to Babylon, on their return to Jerusalem laid the foundation of the second Temple, but that monarch dying before it was finished, the cape stone was put on in the sixth year of Darius king of Persia, and was dedicated with joy and many large sacrifices by Zerubbabel, their prince, and general Master Mason; and tho' this stupendous fabrick came infinitely short of the elegance and order of Solomon's temple, yet as it was raised exactly upon his foundation, and according to his model, it must be allowed to be a most regular symmetrical and glorious edifice, as the enemies of the Jews have frequently testifyed.
At length the royal art was carried into Greece whose inhabitants erected several noble structures, as the citadel of Athens, the temples of Minerva, Theseus, Jupiter Olympius, with many other publick halls, palaces, forums, gymnasiums, &c, do sufficiently witness, yet did they not arrive to any considerable knowledge in Geometry until Thales Milesius, and his scholar the greater Pythagoras appeared, who proved the author of the 47th proposition of Euclid's first book; which if rightly understood is the foundation of all Masonry sacred, civil, and military.
Geometry after Pythagoras became the darling study of Greece, and many learned philosophers arose, who invented sundry propositions and reduced them to the use of the mechanical arts; nor is it to be doubted but Masonry kept pace with that science, or rather followed it in gradual improvements, until the admirable Euclid of Tyre flourished at Alexandria, under the patronage of Ptolomeus king of Ægypt, who gathered up its scattered elements, and digested into a method not yet excelled, for which laborious undertaking his name will always meet with renown, and his memory be ever green amongst us.
The next king of Ægypt, Ptolomeus Philadelphus, was a great improver of the liberal arts, as well as of all useful knowledge, who having collected the most curious library upon earth, he caused the old testament to be translated into Greek, and became an excellent Architect and General Master Mason.
We have no reason to scruple but that the African nations, even unto the Atlantic shore, did soon imitate Egypt's improvements, altho' history gives us no light therein, and travellers have not met with encouragement to discover the valuable remains of Masonry in those once renowned nations.
The learned isle of Sicily demands our remembrance, for there flourished that prodigious Geometrician Archimedes, and the antient Romans were obliged to that island, as well as to Greece, Ægypt, and Asia, for their knowledge both in the science and in the art; for when they subdued nations mighty discoveries appeared, and the eminent professors were led captives to Rome, which then became the center of learning, and of imperial power, until in the reign of Augustus Cæsar they advanced to their zenith of glory, at which time the Messiah came, who proved the great Architect of the church, and caused the uneasy multitude to taste the delicacies of lovely quiet, and to enjoy the pleasing advantages of humble peace. In this happy state the Craft had great opportunities in making improvements, and giving due encouragement to their dexterous artists whose learned scholars and pupils, but particularly the great Vitruvius the father of all true Architects, erected several sumptuous buildings, which are the standard of Masonry at this day.
Therefore it is rationally believed, that the great Augustus, who patronized Vitruvius, and promoted the welfare of the fellow Craftsmen was the Grand Master of the Lodge at Rome, as appears by the many magnificent structures of his reign, which are an epitome of the Asiatic, Egyptian, Grecian, and Sicilian Architecture; and which we often express by the name of the Augustan stile, altho' as yet we are only imitators thereof not having arrived to its perfection.
From the beginning of the world the antient records of Masons afford indisputable proofs, that when the civil powers shewed an abhorrence to tyranny and slavery, and the bright and free genius of the Craftsmen had due scope, that then above all other artists they were the favourites of the most eminent who protected them in order to carry on their grand undertakings. Nor should it be forgot that all Craftsmen, who work by Geometrical Rules of building, deserve to be called good Masons as well painters, statuaries, as stone cutters, bricklayers, carpenters, &c., tho' no age hath since been adorned with a man so well versed in cunning in all parts of Masonry, as the renowned Hiram abif.
While the Roman empire continued in its glory, the Royal art was carefully propagated, even to the Ultima Thule and a lodge erected in almost every Roman garrison, whereby they generously communicated their cunning to the northern and western parts of Europe, which had grown barbarous before the Roman conquest; there being but few remains of good Masonry before that period.
But when the Goths and Vandals, who had never been conquered by the Romans, like a general deluge overspread the Roman empire, with warlike rage and gross ignorance, few of their finished edifices escaped from being either defaced or totally destroyed.
The Asiatic and African nations, felt the weight of the same calamity by the conquest of the Mahometans, who in stead of cultivating the arts and sciences, designed to convert the world by the cruel method of fire and sword.
Thus upon the declension of the Roman empire, when the British garrisons were raised, the Angles and other lower Saxons being invited by the antient Britons to come over and help them against the Scots and Picts, who being related to the Goths, or rather a sort of Vandals, possessed with the same warlike disposition and heathenish ignorance, encouraged nothing but war until they were converted into Christianity, when they had cause to lament, tho' too late, the gross ignorance of their fathers, in the loss of Roman Masonry, which they knew not how to repair. But becoming a free people (as the old Saxon laws testify) and having a disposition for Masonry, they soon began to imitate the Asiatics, Grecians, and Romans, in erecting of Lodges, and giving encouragement to Masons, being taught not only from the faithful tradition and valuable remains of the Britons but even by foreign princes, in whose dominions the Royal Art hath been much preserved from Gothic ruins; particularly by Charles Martell king of France, who according to the old records of Masonry, sent over several expert Craftsmen and learned Architects into England, at the request of the Saxon kings, so that during the Heptarchy the Gothic Architecture was as much encouraged here as in other christian lands.
And tho' the invasion of the Danes occasioned the loss of some records, yet many venerable Gothic buildings remained; and after the Saxons and Danes were conquered by the Normans, Gothic Masonry was mightily encouraged even by William the conqueror, who built the tower of London, and many strong castles and religious edifices. His son William Rufus also built Westminster Hall, which is reputed to be the largest room upon earth.
Nor did the Barons wars or those of the subsequent Norman kings, and their contending branches, in any great measure hinder the clergy, or those who enjoy'd large revenues, from raising sumptuous and lofty buildings, for king Edward III. had an officer called the kings Free Mason, who was employed to survey all his buildings, and did erect several abbeys, &c. but for the better instruction of candidates and younger Brethren, a certain record of Free Masonry, written in the reign of king Edward IV. gives the following authentick account, viz. "That tho' the antient records of the Brotherhood in England were many of them destroyed in the wars of the Saxons and Danes, yet king Athelstan (the grandson of king Alfred the great, a mighty Architect) the first anointed king of England, and who translated the holy Bible into the Saxon tongue when he had brought the land into rest and peace, built many great works, and encouraged many Masons from France, who were appointed overseers thereof, and brought with them the charges and regulations of the Lodges preserved since the Roman times who also prevailed with the king to improve the constitution of the Lodges according to the foreign model, and to increase the wages of working Masons. That the said kings youngest son, prince Edwin, being taught Masonry, and taking upon him the charges of a Master Mason, for the love he had to the said Craft, and the honourable principles whereon it is grounded, purchased a free Charter of king Athelstan, his father, for the Masons having a correction amongst themselves (as it was antiently expressed) or a freedom and power to regulate themselves, to amend what might happen amiss, and to hold a yearly communication and general assembly.
"That accordingly prince Edwin summoned all the Masons in the realm to meet him in a congregation at York,* who came and composed a General Lodge, of which he was Grand Master, and having brought with them all the writings and records extant, which were in Greek, Latin, French, and other languages, from the contents thereof they framed the constitutions and charges of a Lodge, made a law to preserve and observe the same in all time coming, and ordained good pay for working Masons, &c.
Note originale : I am informed in that city is held an assembly of Master Masons under the title of Royal Arch Masons, who as their qualifications and excellencies are superior to others they receive a larger pay than working Masons; but of this more hereafter.
"That in process of time when Lodges became numerous, the right worshipful the Master and Fellows, with consent of the Lords of the realm, (for most great men were then Masons) ordained, that for the future at the making or admission of a Brother, the constitution should be read, and the charges hereunto annexed by the Master or Warden, and that such as were to be admitted Master Masons, or Masters of the work should be examined whether they be able of cunning to serve their respective Lords, as well the lowest as the highest, to the honour and worship of the aforesaid art, and to the profit of their Lords; for they be their Lords who pay them for their service and travel.
"And besides many other things the said record adds, that those charges and laws of Free Masons have been seen and perused by our late sovereign king Henry VI. and by the lords of his honourable council, who have allowed them, and said that they be good right and reasonable to be holden as they have been drawn out and collected from the records of antient times."
Note originale : In another manuscript more antient we read, that when the Master and Wardens meet in a Lodge, if need be, the sheriff of the county, mayor of the city or an alderman of the town, in which the congregation is held, should be made fellow and sociate to the Master, in help of him against rebells and for upbearing the rights of the realm.
Note originale : That entered apprentices at their making were charged not to be thieves, or thieves maintainers, that they should travel honestly for their pay, and love their fellows as themselves, and be true to the King of England, to the realm and to the Lodge.
Note originale : That at such congregations it shall be enquired, whether any Master or Fellow hath broke any of the articles agreed to; and if the offender, being duly cited to appear, prove rebel and will not attend, then the Lodge shall determine against him that he shall forswear or renounce his Masonry, and shall no more use this Craft, the which if he presume for to do, the sheriff of the county shall imprison him and take all his goods into the Kings hands till his grace be granted him and issued: for this cause principally have these congregations been ordained, that as well the lowest as the highest should be well and truly served in the art aforesaid throughout the kingdom. Amen so mote it be.
Now although in the reign of King Henry VI. while an infant, a certain act of parliament passed affecting only the working Masons, who had contrary to the statutes for labourers combined together not to work, but at their own prices, yet as it was supposed that such confederacies were formed in the general Lodges, they thought it expedient to level the said act against Masons, holding themselves in chapters and congregations. But when the said king arrived to man's estate, and the records and charges were laid before him and some of his lords (who then must have incorporated themselves with that antient fraternity) they were solemnly approved of as good and fit to be holden.
Note originale : Tertio Henrici VI. Cap. I. An. Dom. 1425. Co. inst. 3. p. 99.
But as there was not a single instance of the acts being put into execution in that or any other reign, the brethren continued to hold their Lodges, and thought it not worth their while to employ their noble and eminent Brethren to have it repealed; because working Masons, who are free of a Lodge, scorn to be guilty of any combination, and others accepted Masons have no concern in trespasses against statutes for labourers.
Note originale : It is to be remarked that this act was formed when solid learning was a crime, and Geometry condemned for conjuration; wherefore the ignorance of these times are so apparent, that tradition informs us that the parliament men were influenced by the illiterate clergy, who understood neither the secrets of the Craft, nor true Architecture; but apprehending that they had an indefensible right to the secrets of the people by auricular confession, were strongly disgusted that the Masons should preserve their Grand benefits and valuable priviledges from them; whereupon they represented them as dangerous to the state, and artfully perswaded the members of both houses to make an act which might reflect dishonour even upon the whole Fraternity. But the opinion of the great judge Coke clears all our doubts in regard to the statute against Masons.
Note originale : Vide Co. inst. part 3, fol. 99.
The kings of Scotland very much encouraged the Royal Art, from the earliest time down to the union of the crowns, where Lodges were kept up without interruption, whose records testify the great regard those Kings paid to the honourable fraternity, who always gave undeniable evidences of their love and loyalty, from whence sprung the old toast amongst Scots Masons, viz. God Bless the King and the Craft. This royal example was followed by the nobility, gentry, and clergy, of Scotland, who with the utmost assiduity joined in the promotion of the Craft and Brotherhood, and so great a deference was paid to that noble order, that the Grand Master and Warden received an annual stipend from the crown as also an acknowledgment from every new Brother in the kingdom at entrance, who had power not only to regulate whatever might happen amiss in the brotherhood, but also to hear and finally determine all controversies between Mason and Lord, to punish the Mason if he deserved it, and to oblige both to equitable terms; and this priviledge remained until the unfortunate civil wars, yet the great care the Scots took to preserve true Masonry proved afterwards very advantageous to England.
The learned and magnanimous Queen Elizabeth beginning her reign in troublesome times, was diffident of her subjects holding private assemblies, she therefore attempted to dissolve the annual communication of Free-Masonry, as dangerous to her government and being a woman, could not be introduced into the fraternity; but she thought it necessary to commission some noble persons to pay a visit to the Lodge at York, where being admitted, they threw aside their arms and returned the Queen a most honourable account of the antient fraternity, whereby her political fears and doubts were removed, and she let them alone as a people much respected by the noble and wise of all political nations.
Upon her demise king James the VI. of Scotland succeeding to the crown of England, (who was a Mason King) revived the English Lodges, and as he was the first king of Great Britain, he was also the first prince in the world that recovered the Roman Architecture from the ruins of Gothick ignorance. For after many illiterate ages, when learning again its drooping head uplifted, and the science of Geometry recovered its ground, the polite nations then began to discover the confusion and impropriety of the Gothick Buildings, and in the 15 and 16 centuries the Augustan stile was raised from its rubbish in Italy, by many bright Architects, but more particularly by the Great Palladio, who tho' not imitated there, was justly rival'd in England by our Great Master Mason Inigo Jones.
And notwithstanding all true Masons pay due honour to the memories of those Italian Architects, yet the Augustan stile was not revived by any crowned head before king James the first of England, who employed the said glorious Inigo Jones to build his royal palace of White-hall; and upon that king's demise his son Charles the I., being also a Mason king, intended to carry on his royal father's design according to Mr. Jones's stile, but was unhappily diverted by the civil wars, and it is allowed by all skilful Architects, that Master Jones's designs and erections are originals, and at first view discover his mighty genius in Architecture, for which he was as much honoured by the nobility and gentry of Scotland as of England.
Masonry could not help feeling the dismal effects of the wars in those times, but when the royal family was restored and a general peace proclaimed throughout the nation, it then began to flourish again, as appears by the productions of Sr. Christopher Wren and Sr. William Bruce, who followed the inimitable designs of Master Inigo Jones.
In the reign of king James the II. the Lodges of Free Masonry in London, dwindled into ignorance, for want of being duly frequented and properly cultivated; but after the revolution anno 1688, the glorious King William, tho' a warlike prince, had an excellent taste of Architecture, which is evidently proved by his carrying on the building of the two famous hospitals, Greenwich, and Chelsea, together with the palace of Hampton Court, Loo in Holland, &c., and the bright example of that prince influenced the learned of Great Britain to affect the Augustan stile, as appears by the stately edifices erected since throughout the kingdoms of England and Ireland, not only in the reign of her majesty Queen Anne, but likewise in that of King George the I. and his Royal successor, the present majesty of these Realms, whom God long preserve.
To describe the mighty influence of the Craft of Free-Masonry in every age, and in every nation since the beginning of the world, would require many volumes; but, were it expedient, it could easily be proved that the knights of Malta and many other religious orders and societies, did borrow their solemn usages from our antient fraternity, who can with the utmost truth assert that no set of men can be better instituted, more decently installed, or whose laws and charges in general have been more sacredly observed; and tho' we have maintained and propagated our concernments in a method peculiar to ourselves, which hath hitherto resisted the violent attempts of the most learned and cunning in all ages, who have by several means strove to steal our secrets from us, while neither the loss of speech or the want of knowledge in different languages could prevent us from knowing and loving one another.
Having now described the antiquity of the Royal Art, and the honours paid to the Craftsmen by the learned and noble of all ages (for the most part of which particulars I confess myself indebted to the several tracts of Historical Masonry printed both in London and Dublin) I shall proceed to enquire into the cause or motive of its institution, which will appear more plain hereafter when we take a view of the principles of the Craft, and the benefits arising from a strict observance thereof; but in the meantime shall inform you that without Masonry the world would have afforded a rude and irregular prospect, and its inhabitants liable to the severity of inclement seasons, to the raging dogstar's heat and piercing cold, to the greedy savage, whose voice in sounds, ungrateful to human ears, thro' all the forest rings, and to the daring insults and bold attempts of aspiring warriours, while by Masons art majestic piles arise to defend mankind, and nature unpolished owns its harmonious and friendly influence. By Masons art religious domes appear, where the Almighty Architect is worshipped in spirit and in truth.
By Masons art the avaritious miser opens his iron bounded breast, and feels compassion's tender warmth.
By Masons art the injurious and unruly tongue falls down before the throne of awful silence; and readily submits to her commands.
By Masons art the wings of loose desire are clipped, and the lascivious mind restrained from all immodest and unlawful bents.
By Masons art the puny fop (mankinds disgrace) rejects a vain and gaudy outside, and gladly accepts of more valuable and permanent furniture within.
By Masons art ensigns of state and princely ornaments (the nursery of pride, where ambition keeps her lofty seat) as useless toys by free born sons meet with disdain, since they can boast of a more lasting glory who are
Ennobled by the name they bear, Distinguished by the badge they wear.
Note originale : Vide Fellow Crafts song by Bro. G. Delafay, Esq.
By Masons art impartial justice her equal ballance holds, and fraud oppressive owns her gentle sway.
Since then by this noble art so many extraordinary advantages accrue, I presume it will of consequence be granted, that the wellfare and good of mankind was the cause or motive of so grand an institution (no art yet ever being so extensively useful) which not only tends to protect them from external injuries, but to polish the rusty dispositions of iniquitous minds, and to detain them within the limited and pleasant bounds of true religion, morality and virtue.
In the next place I shall beg leave to treat of the principles of the Craft, which I hope will meet with a just admiration because they are founded upon religion, morality, Brotherly-love, and good fellowship.
A Mason is obliged by his tenure to believe firmly in the true Worship of the Eternal God, as well as in all those sacred records which the dignitaries, fathers, and apostles of the church have compiled and published for the use of christians; so that no one who rightly understands the art can possibly tread in the irreligious paths of the unhappy libertine, or be induced to follow the arrogant professors of atheism or deism; neither is he to be stained with the gross errors of blind superstition, but may have the liberty of embracing what faith he shall think proper, provided at all times he pays a due reverence to his Creator, and by the world deals with honour and honesty, ever making that golden precept the standard rule of his actions, which engages to do unto all men as he would they should do unto him. For the Craft, instead of entering into idle and unnecessary disputes, concerning the different opinions and persuasions of men, admits into the fraternity all that are good and true, whereby it hath become the center of union, and hath brought about the means of reconciliation amongst persons, who without that assistance, would have remained at a perpetual variance.
A Mason, as a lover of quiet, is always subject to the civil powers, provided they do not infringe upon the limited bounds of religion and reason, and it was never yet known that a real Craftsman was concerned in any dark plot, designs or contrivances against the state; because the wellfare of the nation is alone his peculiar care, so that from the highest to the lowest step of magistracy, due regard and deference is paid by him.
But as Masonry hath at several times felt the injurious effects of war, bloodshed and devastation it was a stronger engagement to the Craftsmen to act agreeable to the rules of peace and loyalty, the many proofs of which behaviour, hath occasioned the antient kings and powers to protect and defend them. But if a Brother should be so far unhappily mistaken as to rebel against the state, he would meet with no countenance from his fellows, and tho' he could not for that crime alone be excluded the Lodge, the Brethren would keep no private converse with him, whereby the government might have cause to be jealous or keep the least umbrage.
A Mason, in regard to himself, is carefully to avoid all manner of intemperance or excess, which might obstruct him in the performance of the necessary duties of his laudable profession, or lead him into any crimes which would reflect dishonour upon the antient fraternity.
He is to treat his inferiors as he would have his superiors deal with him, wisely considering that the original of all mankind is the same, and tho' Masonry divests no man of his honour, yet does the Craft admit, that strictly to pursue the paths of virtue, whereby a clear conscience may be preserv'd, is the only method to make any man noble.
A Mason is to be so far benevolent as never to shut his ear unkindly to the complaints of wretched poverty, but when a brother is oppressed by want, he is in a peculiar manner to listen to his sufferings with attention, in consequence of which pity must flow from his breast: and relief without prejudice according to his capacity.
A Mason is to pay due obedience to the authority of his master and presiding officers, and to behave himself meekly amongst his fellows, neither neglecting his usual occupation for the sake of Masonry, nor to quarrel with the ignorant multitude for their ridiculous aspersions concerning it, but at his leisure hours he is required to study the arts and sciences with a diligent mind, that he may not only perform his duty to his great Creator, but also to his neighbour and to himself; for to walk humbly in the sight of God to do justice and to love mercy are the certain characteristicks of a real Mason, which qualifications I humbly hope they will possess to the end of time, and I dare venture to say that every true Brother will join with me in Amen.
The benefits arising from a strict observance of the principles of the Craft are so apparent, that I must believe every christian would be fond to profess and practice the same, because those principles tend to promote the happiness of life as they are founded on the basis of wisdom and virtue.
Now as it is every man's wish and design to accomplish the business of an happy life, how comes it that we see so many fall short of it? the reason I believe will appear conspicuous, when we reflect that the giddy crowd which are most numerous, open a beaten tract which their erring and mistaken followers after their mad example pursue, leaving the light of reason behind them; and as the wise Seneca justly observes it fares "with us in human life, as in a routed army, one stumbles first and then another falls upon him, and so they follow one upon the neck of another, till the whole field comes to be but one heap of miscarriages. Wherefore how careful ought we then to be (if happiness is our aim) to leave this crowd, for true felicity is not to be found there, but in a sound mind which judges aright and perseveres in such judgment, ever observing a due decorum in our actions and squaring our lives according to the dictates of right reason." And surely it may engage the admiration of some that a Craft (whose antiquity is from time immemorial, and whose qualifications are only provable by the touch-stone of true merit) should meet with contempt or fall into decay; but when daily circumstances are the evident marks of my assertions, I must with some regret lay open the irregular deeds of mistaken men, and should be well pleased that they, seeing their follies, may no longer continue in them, but rather pursue the antient land marks of our virtuous Brethren.
In the first place as our priviledges and instructions, when rightly made use of, are not only productive of our welfare on this side of the grave, but even our eternal happiness hereafter, they ought to be communicated to those alone who might improve and enhance their value; whereas on the contrary in several Lodges, too many have been fond of a trifling treat, and have sold their birthrights at a mean price even for a mess of pottage; and instead of taking a due and especial care to enquire into the reputation or character of the candidate, they have imprudently hurried him into the Craft, and that perhaps too at an age before he arrived to mature discretion, or while under bondage and servitude, contrary to the known constitutions.
REMARKS.
That this custom hath been too prevalent, I believe no one who hath been conversant with our Lodges will deny; and as it must give pain to every faithful Mason to see the sacred rules of the order profained or broke thro', I shall beg leave to acquaint the Brethren, that all persons admitted members of a Lodge should bear the character of being free in birth and from bonds, for in juvenile years it is not to be expected that any one can be capable to promote the wellfare of the Craft, which is or ought to be the real intention of introducing any member therein, who likewise ought to be without maim or defect, either in body or mind; the former being sufficient to prevent them from serving their Lords and Masters as they ought, and the latter from falling into immoral or scandalous actions, which the Craft, instead of countenancing, ever shewed the utmost abhorrence and detestation thereto.
And from the imprudence of introducing such members, various divisions and disputes have arose in Lodges, where the Brethren (instead of preserving the harmonious and friendly concord that ought to subsist amongst them) have unluckily fell into factious parties; so that unanimity, which ever will be the lasting cement of the Brotherhood, hath been dissolved.
REMARKS.
As an house divided against itself cannot stand, so likewise it is absolutely essential that every community should preserve peace and harmony as the surest foundation of its welfare; and I cannot help expressing my concern to hear of so many idle and trifling disputes as lately have happened amongst some of the fraternity, occasioned, as I must imagine, by the unfortunate and inconsiderate election of their members; the examples of whom ought highly to engage us in a strict examination of the temper, disposition, and conduct of each candidate; for one contentious man may subvert and spoil the peace and quiet of our harmless hours, and as the old Proverb alledges.
Unica prava pecus inficit omnia pecus.
One scabby sheep may infect an whole flock.
But how ridiculous do partisans concerning religion appear amongst us? Whereas the Craft tho' founded upon that solid basis will admit of no such controversies, and provided we are not all of the same opinion in matters of faith, yet ought we ever to be of one mind in matters of Masonry; that is to labour justly, not to eat any man's bread for nought, but to the utmost of our capacity to love and serve each other, as Brethren of the same household ought to do: nor can I help judging it as great an absurdity in one man to quarrel with another, because he will not believe as he does, as it would be in him to be angry because he was not exactly of the same size and countenance, &c., but the true Brotherhood are resolved never to suffer any strife to enter into the door of the Lodge upon that or any other point whatsoever.
Some years ago I had the honour to introduce to the Grand Lodge a remonstrance, setting forth the necessity of a strict scrutiny into the candidates behaviour and character, which I humbly proposed should be by their having one months notice and upon receiving such intelligence, they (as having power) should appoint two of their members nicely to examine into the requisites, and tho' that most revered and august assembly did not agree to it at that particular juncture, I cannot help believing it would greatly tend to the honour and welfare of the Craft, and prevent some complaints of which we at present have cause to make mention of; but, however, shall always be fond to leave all matters of consideration to their mature and superior judgment.
The honours due to the Craft forbids me to pass over a certain set of unprofitable labourers, who under a pretence of knowledge in the art, strive to lead astray, after their irregular method, many persons of credit and reputation.
REMARKS.
It is too well known that in this city lately hath appeared a number of mean and low spirited wretches, who, (if ever just) have turned rebels to our well formed Government, and artfully brought into their iniquitous net several unguarded men, who from me shall meet with pity instead of blame (because they knew not the truth) wherefore I shall beg leave to acquaint them, that the laws of our constitution are so agreeable to the disposition of every good man, and so easily performed, that I dare say no one can have an excuse for not obeying; but as these labourers work not to serve our worthy masters, they receive instead of the advantages accruing from our vineyard, the just reward of their actions, and in each honest breast are stigmatized with a name I here shall not mention.
These despicable traders or hucksters in pretended Masonry, every prudent Brother ought carefully to avoid holding any converse with them; but as that learned apostle, St. Paul, in his Epistle to the Thessalonians, very justly advises. Withdraw yourselves from every Brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us; for yourselves know how you ought to follow us, behaving orderly amongst you, neither eating any man's bread for nought, nor weary with well doing; but labouring night and day to raise up the fallen, not counting them as enemies, but admonishing them as Brethren.
This doctrine of our great Apostle is perfectly consentaneous with the principles of the Craft, which commands to shew the utmost abhorrence to all evil, irregular, or unjust actions, to all rude or disorderly methods of behaviour; for as it is observable that a pestilential air may endanger the health of the best constitution, so likewise may the examples of dissolute men stagger and disappoint the designs of the virtuous, yet notwithstanding that we ought to withdraw ourselves from the converse of those engaged in iniquitous practices, we are not entirely to give them up, but to pity them as unhappy and fallen men, who have strayed from the ways of truth and virtue, and who have not followed the tradition which they received from us, nor pursued the equitable dictates of our excellent and antient commonwealth, whose laws are not only easy in their performance, but agreeable to the interest of each individual, and even essential to future happiness.
Regularity, virtue and concord, are the only ornaments of human nature (which is often too prone to act in different capacities) so that the happiness of life depends in a great measure on our own election, and a prudent choice of those steps, for human society cannot subsist without concord and the maintenance of mutual good offices; for like the working of an arch of stone, it would fall to the ground provided one piece did not properly support another.
Therefore to afford succour to the distressed, to divide our bread with the industrious poor, and to put the misguided traveller into his way, are qualifications inherent in the Craft, and suitable to its dignity, and such as the worthy members of that great body have at all times strove with indefatigable pains to accomplish.
Now as the landmarks of the constitution of Free-Masonry are universally the same throughout all kingdoms, and are so well fixt that they will not admit of removal, how comes it to pass that some have been led away with ridiculous innovations, an example, of which, I shall prove by a certain propagator of a false system some few years ago in this city, who imposed upon several very worthy men under a pretence of being Master of the Royal Arch, which he asserted he had brought with him from the city of York; and that the beauties of the Craft did principally consist in the knowledge of this valuable piece of Masonry. However he carried on his scheme for several months, and many of the learned and wise were his followers, till at length his fallacious art was discovered by a Brother of probity and wisdom, who had some small space before attained that excellent part of Masonry in London and plainly proved that his doctrine was false; whereupon the Brethren justly despised him and ordered him to be excluded from all benefits of the Craft, and altho' some of the fraternity have expressed an uneasiness at this matter being kept a secret from them (since they had already passed thro' the usual degrees of probation) I cannot help being of opinion that they have no right to any such benefit until they make a proper application, and are received with due formality, and as it is an organis'd body of men who have passed the chair, and given undeniable proofs of their skill in Architecture, it cannot be treated with too much reverence, and more especially since the characters of the present members of that particular Lodge are untainted, and their behaviour judicious and unexceptionable; so that there cannot be the least hinge to hang a doubt on, but that they are most excellent Masons.
I cannot help informing the Brethren that there is lately arrived in this city a certain itinerant Mason, whose judgment (as he declares) is so far illumin'd, and whose optics are so strong that they can bear the view of the most lucid rays of the sun at noon day, and altho' we have contented ourselves with three material steps to approach our Summum Bonum, the immortal God, yet he presumes to acquaint us that he can add three more, which when properly plac'd may advance us to the highest heavens.
It is universally allowed, that the Italians are excellent Masons, and have produced to the world the most masterly designs, but I cannot be of opinion that their private usages or customs are different from the general method exhibited throughout all other nations, and I never yet could hear that there was any order in Masonry under that particular denomination of the Italic order, until this mighty Architect, or, I may rather say, extravagant climber, came to impart to his countrymen so valuable a production.
For my part I shall always profess a very great esteem for any one who shall add to the beauty of our glorious art, or by any means improve or enhance the value thereof, and were I assured that this adept had skill sufficient to demonstrate the truth of his assertion, I should pay him the utmost veneration; but until then he must excuse me from being one of his devotees, and I hope that no innocent and worthy Brother may at any time be misled by false insinuations, or foreign schemes.
In ancient times Lodges were only schools of Architecture, and the presiding Masters were generally learned geometricians, who took care to instruct their Brethren and fellows in the study of the liberal arts and sciences, and for their better government they formed such laws and general regulations as were thought necessary to maintain the harmony and well being of each particular organiz'd body, and upon the neglect of attendance of either Master or fellow (when duly summoned) a severe censure was incurred, until he could prove unto the whole Lodge that pure necessity was the motive of his absence.
REMARKS.
It is heartily to be wished that the knowledge of Geometry and Architecture, together with the rest of the sciences were the only entertainment of our modern Lodges: If so, what is often unhappily substituted in their places would not prevail as it does, neither ought a man to attain to any dignity in Masonry, without first having a competent knowledge in the liberal arts, and I am sorry to say that so few of that stamp are to be met with in the Lodges of this great metropolis, which defect is certainly owing (as heretofore observed) to the imprudent choice and introduction of their members, for every man formerly (tho' perhaps of a good and moral reputation) was not admitted into the Craft, nor allowed to share the benefits of our noble institution, unless he was endued with such skill in Masonry as he might thereby be able to improve the art either by plan or workmanship, or had such an affluence of fortune as should enable him to employ, honour, and protect the Craftsmen. I would not be understood by this to mean that no citizen or reputable tradesmen should receive any of our benefits, but on the contrary, am of opinion that they are valuable members of the commonwealth and in consequence would prove real ornaments to our Lodges; but how ridiculous is it to see daily so many persons of low life introduced amongst us (some of whom can neither read or write) and when they are admitted into the company of their betters by the assistance of Masonry, they too often act beyond their capacities, and (if the expression may be allowed) soon turn Mason mad, and under pretence of searching for knowledge, they fall into scenes of gluttony or drunkenness, and thereby neglect their necessary occupations, and injure their families, which is not consistent with the known laws, constitutions, and principles of all true Brethren.
The by-laws and general regulations of the Lodges in this city are exceedingly well calculated for the good management of the Craft, but what avails the best contrived and most salutary laws if they are not put into form, and properly executed? To pass over indiscretions is in some measure granting a sanction or approbation of them, wherefore it highly concerns our worthy Masters to let no crime remain unremarked, but duly to admonish the offender, and if he repeats his transgression, to inflict such punishments as they and the Brethren shall judge necessary.
As my intention in taking notice of these transactions, is rather to reform than offend, I hope the guilty will answer my expectation, in laying aside these evil and too much frequented practices, and instead of affording blame for my advice, will attribute it to the real cause, viz. the overflowings of my respect, love, and sincere friendship for the Craft. Tis an indisputable maxim that authority and power ever produces awe and reverence, and consequently order and regularity amongst dependants.
REMARKS.
Altho' I am well ascertain'd that our principle commanders have always been noble, learned, and wise, yet of late years we have cause to mourn at our unhappy state, in sharing so little of their converse at our solemn meetings; nor can they blame us for our concern, since experience tells us, that when we often had the happiness of their presence, the Craft was enlivened, and nothing but joy and alacrity ran through the whole; and had it not been for the vigilance, care, and constant attendance of a most worthy grand officer (whose name I need not mention, since it is imprinted in indelible characters on the breast of every true Brother in this city) the Grand Lodge would have felt almost an irreparable shock; but he, like a prudent governor, gained the hearts of his Brethren by cherishing their languid spirits, and every one rejoyced in him.
If our noble Grand Master and his deputy would make a general visitation throughout the Lodges of this city (as hath been a custom according to the constitutions at least once in the year) the Brethren would be more careful in preserving that due harmony, and just decorum, which ought to shine amongst them; for as they would not be sensible of the hour of their Lord's coming, they would always be upon the watch, and keep so strict a guard that irregularity or indiscretion would take no place amongst them, but on the contrary, the Craft would then appear in its pristine state, adorned with true and lasting glory, and its virtues conspicuously appear to all mankind. Having now described the cause of the present decay of Free-Masonry, together with some remarks, which I hope will be found useful to the Brethren shall give them the following friendly admonition, and then conclude.
As the Craft hath subsisted from times immemorial, and contains the most glorious precepts, of morality and virtue, let not the malicious world have cause to blame us for any base or degenerate actions, but let us industriously pursue the unerring rules which the Almighty Architect hath given us, let us all be united in one sacred bond of love and friendship, and if there is contention amongst us, let it be in striving who can out do each other in acts of religion, mercy, charity and all other good offices.
Let us all endeavour to deserve the following true character.
If all the social virtues of the mind, If an extensive love to all mankind, If hospitable welcome to a guest, And speedy charity to the distressed, If due regard to liberty and laws, Zeal for our King, and for our country's cause, If these are principles deserving fame, Let Masons then enjoy the praise they claim;
For Happy the innocent whose harmless thoughts, Are free from anguish as they are from faults.
FINIS.
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