MASONIC.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9106, 14 July 1888, Page 6

MASONIC.

LODGE AHA "AT HOME."

An " At Home " to celebrate the installation of officers of Lodge Ara, I.C, was held in the ball-room, Freemasons' Hall, last night, and proved to be in every respect one of the most enjoyable gatherings that has been held «n the hall. Some time ago Lodge Ara decided to hold their installation at high noon on St. John's Day, and subsequently hold an "At Home" instead of the timenonoured banquet, in order that the lady riends of the brethren might have an opportunity of enjoying themselves. It was tried last year, and proved such a pronounced success that it was determined to follow the same course this year. Accordingly the installation of Brother C. C. McMillan as W.M. of Lodge Ara, and the investment of his officers, took place on Monday, the 25th of June, at noon, and last night the event was celebrated with great eclat. The hall was beautifully decorated with flags and banners, interwoven between fern fronds, and interspersed through the hall—east, west, and south — were the Masonic em- £ letns .>. , WQ ile over the entrance - door beautifully set off in fern surroundings was the motto, " Welcome to Ara Lodge. The lower portions of the walls, and all the brackets were resplendent with camellias and other flowers, and two large mirrors at the east end of the hall duplicated the spectacle. I here was a large gathering, too large, indeed for the capacity of the hah, ana the only discomfort felt was want of room; but this was cheerfully borne. The brethren of the craft were in their regalia, & n( l principal amongst, them were Brothers G. P. Pierce, P.G.M., I.C. ; Brother Lodder, D.D.G.M., E.G. ; and Brother M. Niccol, D.P.G.M., S.C. All the Masonic Lodges were fully represented, and the glittering regalias effectually set off the neat and elegant dresses of the ladies. Altogether the scene was a very bright and cheerful one. Brother G. H. Powley ably performed the duties of M..C. The music was provided by a_ well-selected string band, consisting o f piano, violin, bass, and cornet, supplied by Mr. Borthwick. An excellent supper was provided in the ante-room by Brother Robson, of the Commercial Dining-rooms.