MASONIC.

Auckland Star, Volume XXIX, Issue 135, 9 June 1898, Page 2

MASONIC.

LODGE ARA, NO. 1-TNSTALLA

TION CEREMONY.

One of thejnost successful Masonic reunions held iirthe Masonic Hall, Princesstreet, took place last evening, the occasion being the installation of Brother J. M. Laxon as Worshipful Master, and the ollice bearers for the ensuing year. Some 200 brethren were present. Tho Grand Lodge was well represented, as was also the other city and suburban lodges. After the introduction of visiting ■ Lodges, the Lodge was opened in the 2nd and 3rd decrees to receive R.W. Brother T. L. Murray,D.G.M., R.W. Brother Alfred Bartlett, District Grand Superintendent, and Grand officers. Tho Worshipful Master Elect was then duly installed. The presentation of working tools was made by Brothers W. F. Gilles, W.M., Lodge Wav uku, No. !10, and F. Knight, W.M., Lodge Auckland, No. 37. The address to Worshipful Master was given by R.W. Brother T. L. Murray, D.G.M., and tho addresses to Wardens and Brethren by R.W. Brother Alfred Bartlett and \i. W. Brother A. S. Russell, P.D.G.M., respectively. The retiring Worshipful Master was presented with a valuable jewel, subscribed for by members of the Lodge, and a handsome, large-sized shield, enclosed in a rich gold frame, and containing the photographs of the officebearers of the past year. The shield bore the following inscription :—" Presented to Brother Murdoch McLean by the officers of Am Lodge, No. 1, as a memento and mark of esteem on the completion of his year of ollice aa Master. Auckland, Juno Bth, 1803." The W.M. acknowledged the kindness which prompted the gift iv appropriate terms. Tho following ollice-boaters were then duly installed :--

I P.M., M. McLean; 5.W.,0. Nicholson; Treasurer, W. R. Robinson, P.M. ; Secretary, A. Bartlett, P.M. ; Chaplain, Rev. A. Mitchell; Director of Ceremonies, S. 0. Hauna, P.M. ; Organist, W. J. Cousins, P.M. ; Senior Deacon, IS. It, Davis ; Senior Steward, W. Alrev; Junior Steward, Robert M. Ku-.-c'll ; Tyler, Charles Crazier, P.M. The Junior Warden, Keys. H. U. Dcwsbnry, was absent, having been called away on urgent business, and the Junior Deacon elect was also unable to be present through illness. After several congratulatory speeches by visitors, the interesting proceedings terminated by the sinfjin^ of the closing hymn, '•Onward, Brother Masons." The brethren then assembled in the spaciousdining-hall, and partook of a uumpluous banquet, prepared and served by Brother King, Pom fonby, and his assistants. Several appropriate toasts were given and duly responded to, and during the intervals songs, instrumental nieces, and recitations were rendered and deservedly appreciated. The company separated after .singing "Auld Lang Syne.'