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it is scarcely proper to mention the necessity of prudence and circumspection in the choice of officers. Those who are honoured with the suffrages of the brethren, should always remember that their dignity consists in an entire conformity to the laws and regulations under which they are appointed; and the members should consider, on their part, that a due submission to the constitutional commands of those who are appointed to govern, is but a conpliment to themselves..

A regular intercourse with the Grand Lodge, either by the Master and Wardens, or a discreet and well instructed representative, is of the highest consequence; for it promotes that harmony which is the cement of our society; and is the easiest way of communicating with those who are alike prepared to sympathize in all our sorrows, and participate in all our joys.

By a frequent and attentive perusal of the Book of Constitutions, and other publications of a similar nature, we shall be acquainted with the duties of our calling, and may be qualified, not

only to preserve the ancient land marks of our fathers, but to sustain and honour the most exalted offices among the brethren.

The flourishing state of Masonry in our own country, has contributed to enlarge the boundaries of social happiness; and a general knowledge of its principles and ceremonies through this jurisdiction, has, with the enjoyment of civil and religious freedom, extended the blessings of philanthropy among every class of our fellow citizens.

We take our leave of you, assuring you of our best wishes for the prosperity of your lodge. Long may you enjoy every satisfaction and delight, which disinterested friendship can afford. May kindness and brotherly love distinguish your conduct as men and as Masons. Within your peaceful walls, may your children's children be taught the wonderful mysteries of our order, and move in the vast circle of infinite benevolence. And may future generations, animated by the recollection of your exertions, transmit a benediction to their successours, like this ancient

and expressive language: "God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee; that thou mayest inherit the land wherein thou art a stranger; and thou shalt spread abroad to the West and to the East, to the North and to the South: And in thee, and in thy seed, shall all the families of the earth be blessed."

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CHAPTER XVII.

THE MANNER OF CONSTITUTING A LODGE OF MASTER MASONS.

Any number of Master Masons, not under seven, desirous of forming a new lodge, must apply, by petition, to the Grand Lodge of the state in which they reside, setting forth, That they are free and accepted Master Masons; that they are at present, or have been, members of regular lodges; that, having the prosperity of the fraternity at heart, they are willing to exert their best endeavours to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry; that, for the conveniency of their respective dwellings, and for other good reasons, they are desirous of forming a new lodge, in the town of

to be named

that in consequence of this desire, they pray for letters of dispensation, or a orrant of constitution, to empower

them to assemble, as a legal lodge, to discharge the duties of Masonry, in a regular and constitutional manner, according to the original forms of the order, and the regulations of the Grand Lodge. That they have nominated and do recommend A B to be the first Master; CD to be the first Senior Warden, and E F to be the first Junior Warden, of the said lodge; that, if the prayer of the petition should be granted, they promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional laws and regulations of the Grand Lodge.

This petition, being signed by at least seven regular Masons, and recommended by a lodge or lodges adjacent to the place where the new lodge is to be holden, is delivered to the Grand Secretary, who lays it before the Grand Lodge.

If the petition meets the approba tion of the Grand Lodge, they generally order a dispensation to be issued, which is signed by the Grand or Depu ty Grand Master, and authorises the pe. titioners to assemble as a legal lodge, for a certain specified term of time.

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