INSTALLATION OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER OF OTAGO.

Otago Witness, Issue 664, 20 August 1864, Page 5

INSTALLATION OF THE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER OF OTAGO.

fiTLwrsday will long be remembered as a red-letter day in the Masonic calendar of O'ago, owing to its having been selected for the Installation of Irs Honor the •Superintendent — Brother the Hon. John 'Hyde Harris — as the first Provincial Grand Ma«ter of the Province of Otago under the English Constitution As may well be supposed, this event caused no little stir amongst the craftsmen, who assembled in grtat force on the occasion. Neither pains nor expense were spared in order to render the cercnvmy complete The Masonic Hall was tas'efully decorated under the skilful superintendence of the Provincial i-irand Superintendent of AVorks (John Millar, Esq., F.SA.), and it is therefore, almost superfluous to say that the arrangements were perfect. A Inndsome new cinopv — around the margin of which was inscribed the 'legend — "Holiness to the Lord '' — was erected over the Oriental chair ; and the two beautiful pillars in the west were connected by an appropriate arch bearing an inscription on either side ; — on the outer face, "Ne vile fano" and on the inner — " Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty. Other masonic mottoes, as, " Truth, Love, and Honor, 1 ' " Faith, Hope, and Charity," were displayed on the walls, which were profu'ely decorated with evergreens displayed in wreaths, and a variety of other devices, in terspereed with draped flags — banners of as universal significance as Masonry itself. We forbear a fuller description, as the Masonic authorities have ■•opened the hall for the next few days to such of the outer and popular world as de■fiire to view the now gorgeously decorated temple of the gentle craft. We may mention, however, that the hall was, for 'the first time, lighted with gas, which, we are informed, was supplied gratuitously by the lessee of the gas works. Upwards of two hundred brethren were present at 5 •o'clock, the hour appointed for the commencement of the ceremony, amongst whom were a large number of the most prominent members of society. The Irish constitution was represented by Brother O'Rafferty, Provincial Grand Master for New Zealand, and Brother M' Combe, late D.P.G.M. for Victoria ; and the Scottish •constitution by the R.W.M. and officers of •the Kilwinriing Lodge. A number of visiting brethren from other Lodges were -also in attendance.

The Commission from the Earl of Zetland, Most Worshipfivl Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of England, constituting the Masonic Province of Otago, and appointing Bro. Harris as first Provincial Grand - Master, having been read by Brother Fofman, P.G.S, the RegistrarDesignate, the solemn ceremony of consecration was then proceeded vrirh. Of course, we are not at liberty to withdraw the veil which conceals the masonic mysteries from the eyes of the uninitiated, but we may mention that the cornet wine and oil were poured forth with suitable invocations by the Worshipful Masters of the respective Lodges hailing under the English constitution. This portion of the ceremony, as also the installation of the P.G.M., and the investiture of the other officers, was conducted by Brother John Lazar, P.P.D.G.M. for the Province of South Australia — a name as well and honorably known in the masonic world as we may truthfully assert it is to society at large. To say that it was well performed i 3 but feebly to express the very excellent and faultless manner — perfect beyond all praise — in which Bro. Lazar discharged the important duties entrusted to him.

Brother Harris having been duly obligated and installed as Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, invested Brother Lazar as Deputy Provincial Grand Master. The brethren having been called upon to elect a Treasurer their unanimous choice fell on Brother W. Mills, S.W. of the Lodge of Otago. Brother Lazar then the ceremony of investiture as follows : — Province' Grand Senior Warden Bro. Sydney James, W.M. Lodge of _ tago. Provinciil Grand Junior Warden Bro. R. Nathan, W.M. Lodge 1 '' "of Dunediu. Provincial Grand Chaplain .... Bro. Oswin. Provinciu! Grand Secretary .... Bro. Garrick, P.M". •Provincial Grand Treasurer .... Bro. W. Mills, Provincial Grand Registrar .... Bco. R. H. Forman, P.M. Provincial Grand Senior Deacon Bro. Geo. Smith, P.M. Provincial Grand Junior Deacon Bro. 0. Webb. P.M. Provimial Grcnd Director of Jeremonies Bro. Hyman, P.P.D.C. Provincial Grand Superintendent j of Works Bro. J. Millar, P.S.A. Provincial Grand Organist .... Bro. West. Provincial G^and Pursuivant. . . , Bro. Joyce, W.M. Port Chalmers Marine Lodge. Grand Tyler Bro. W. Low.

PioviDcial Grand Stewards .... Bros, Daniels, P.M., Barton, Mos», P. M., Holgkins, M'Leod, and ShoiJ.

Brother Hyman officiated throughout as Director of Ceremonies, displaying great skill and tact in the administration of his onerous duties. Brother West presided at the harmonium, assisted by a most efficient choir, whose united services greatly enhanced the beauty of the ceremonies. The following is a copy of the masonic anthem adopted for the occasion : MASONIC ANTfn.VT. Thou ! wlr> art God alo.ie, Accent before t'iy thr ne Our fervent p-r.yer ! To fill with light and gra c This hou^e thy ilwelling-plac" 1 , And bless thy chosen race, 0 God draw ntat t As through th-a Univer-e All Nature's works diverse Thy prais^ acord ; Lat Faith uoon us Uiinu, Atk! Olinrity comViinp With Hopp to make us thine, Jehovah! Loro ! Spirit of Truth an-J Love! l) 3-. C au.]iug from above. Our lu-aits inQ-ime ; Till Masonry's control Shall build in one the who'e A Temple of the Soul To thy great name! At the conclusion of the ceremony several notices of motion were given, aud a vote of thanks to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Canterbury for the assistance rendered by the loan of clothing, &c, was recorded, the fraternity adjourned to the Music Hall, in Princes street, when 154 brethren sat down to a sumptuous banquet provided by Brother John Grey, and a more jovial but withal orderly and harmonious company never assembled in Otago. Ample justice having been done to the viands, the waiters were summarily consigned to the outer regions, and the business of the evening commenced. Our limits forbid us to do more than give a brief resume of the speeches, but we may say, once for all, that they were excellent in their way, beyond the ordinary run of post- prandial orations.

At the first knock of the gavel, the R.W.P G.M., who ably presided, gave the toast always placed at the head of every masonic programme — "The Queen and Craft."

This was followed by that of his Grace the Eirl of Zetland, M.W.G.M, Earl de Grey and Ripon, D.G.M., and the officers oftheGraid Lodge of England. In giving this toast the P.G.M. remarked that the various sections of Freemasonry in England, Scotland, and Ireland had always been particularly fortunate in being presided over by men of character, repu^ tation, and elevated position, to which circumstance, no les.s than to the inherent excellencies of Masonry itself, he attributed the proud position occupied by British Masons, and their avoidance of dangerous and destructive innovations.

The P.G.M. again rose to propose the next tonst, which was that of the Duke of Leinster, Grand Master of Ireland, who, he believed, occupied the position of being the only Irish Duke extant, and of having been Grand Master' of Ireland for nearly half a century — a circumstance unparalelled in the annals of Masonry.

" The Grand Master of Scotland" came next, Brother Harris saying that the Scottish Constitution had recently suffered a severe loss by the death of the Duke of Athol, a nobleman whose private virtues had endeared him to all, and whose attachment to Masonry was more than ordinarily great. As it was not yet. known who had been elected as his successor, he could not name him, but they might drink the toast with confidence, for no doubt their Scottish brethren would be careful to fill the Grand Chair with a worthy and efficient brother.

The P.G.M. then called upon the brethren to drink the health of His Excellency Brother Sir George Grey. Without trenching upon political questions — for the discussion of which a masonic meeting was especially unsuitable — be might yet venture to say that Sir George Grey had greatly the interests of Otago at heart. During his (Brother Harris's) recent visit to Auckland Sir George Grey had repeatedly expressed this feeling, and had told him how disappointed he Avas at not having been able to spare time, from the pressing duties attendant on the Maori War, to visit this Province. However, he, Sir George Grey, had promised to come to Dunedin shortly, probably about December, making such arrangements as would enable him to make a tour of the gold fields, and to be here on the First of January to open the Exhibition of 1865. (This announcement was received with loud and continuous masonic cheering )

D.P.G.M. Brother Lazar then requested all present to pledge the Pro. Grand Master for Otago. He said that it was quite unnecessary for him to enlarge upon the various qualifications which had won for Brother Harris the respect of the entire community amongst whom he had so long lived and moved. A better choice

of a Provincial Grand Master could not have been made, and he felt assured that he would not only adorn that high office, but would also adequately discharge the very important duties appertaining thereto. He especially referred to the formation of a fund of benevolence, of which notice had that evening been given — a fund which would enable them practically to carry into effect the principles of their profession as Masons. Fie (the speaker) had been instrumental in originating such a fund in South Australia, which had been the means of rendering timely assistance to many poor and distressed brethren. He concluded by calling upon them to drink the health of Bi other Harris in full bumpers.

The R.W.P.G.M. responded in a speech full of truly masonic feeling, in which he pledged him«elf to perform the duties he had that nijiht undertaken, to the best of his skill and ability. The R.W.P.G.M, then proposed the health of the D.P.G.M. for Otago, Brother Lizar. In selecting his officers he had, to the very btst of his ability, exercised the discretion vested in 'him. Probably some brethren might consider that better choice could have been made in some instances. But, however that might be, he was sure one and all would agree that, whether as regarded ability or high standing in the craft, no better officer than Brother Lazar could have been found for the office of Deputy Provincial Grand Master. No doubt if Brother Lazar had not been in Otago he (Brother Harris) would have been able to have found an equally skilful brother capable of that office amongst the numerous experienced brethren in Otago. But since he was here, his former position as D.P.G.M. for South Australia, no less than his private character, which was held in high esteem in the colony he had quitted, and which,, so far as he was able to judge, was perfectly irreproachable, together with the many proofs which he had given of his ability as a Mason, eminently qualified him for the office.

Brother Lazar replied : He scarcely knew how to thank them adequately for the high honor conferred upon him, and the kindly manner in which they had received and responded to the toast. He was pleased to see Masonry so flourishing in Otago, where there were, he believed, upwards of 500 Masons enrolled as members of the various Lodges. Now, they had a Provincial Grand Lodge, no doubt they would flourish yet more, as many of the difficulties which had previously beset Masonic progress would be removed.

" The Provincial Grand Master of New Zealand under the Irish constitution," was proposed by the P.G.M., and responded to by Brother Ollafferty.

Brother Vincent Pyke, R W.M. of the Kilwinning Lod^e, S C, rose to propose the " Provincial Grand Officers." Among=t such a galaxy of talent he knew not where to begin. The Provincial Grand Senior Warden was a tall and erect column of Masonry, and the P.G. Junior Warden was a very pillar of strength, whilst the P.G. Registrar was a host in himself. The Director of Ceremonies showed such an aptitude for his office that he seemed to have been born a Director of Ceremonies And so of all. Tne Stewards alone constituted a Masonic phalanx, and one of them at least proved that Masonry was a fixture in Otago, since it had gathered Moss. The Scottish Constitution, to which he belonged, would, he hoped soon have a Provincial Grand Lodge of their own, and he rather envied the start which their English brethren had obtained. But envy should be changed into emulation, and the two constitutions would, he wag assured, work together shoulder to shoulder for the common good of Masonry, as they had ever done in Otago hitherto. He would request them to follow up the toast with a good old Scottish fire, for which purpose Brother P.M. Mills would, if permitted, act for the nonce as Director of Ceremonies.

This request having been acceded to, Brother P.M. Mills led off the Scottish firing, which was given with considerable enthusiasm and no little joviality.

P.G.J.D. Brother P.M. Webb replied for the Provincial Grand Officers.

The following toasts then followed, in rapid succession : —

"The Lodge of Otago" — proposed by Brother P.M. Strelitz, who spoke in terms of high eulogy of the excellent manner in which the Lodge was worked. Replied to by P.G S.W. Brother James, W.M.

" The Lodge of Dunedin" — proposed by P.G. Sec. Brother Carrick, who said, that having been the W.M. of the Lodge of Otago at the time the Lodge of Dunedin was formed, he was sure the members regarded it not in the light of a secession from the older Lodge, but rather as an extension of Masonry. Replied to by the P.G. J. W. Brother Nathan, W.M., in a brief but very forcible speech.

"The Port Chalmers Marine Lodge," proposed by P.G. Registrar Brother P.M.

Forman, who drew attention to the fact that whilst the Masons of Dunedin under the English constitution, although such a numerous body, were still without a hall, the lodge cf Port Chalmers had erected a large and", commodious building in which to hold their meetings. He hoped soon to see in Dunedin a Masonic Hall worthy of the craft and of the position v»hich its members occupied. The P.G. Pursuivant Brother Joyce, W.M., responded in an exceedingly neat speech. lie hoped that Brotherly Love, Belief and Truth would ever continue to prevail amongst them.

The P.G.M. observed that an omissiou had quite unintentionally been made in the programme. When he was at Queenstown, he found that although the brotherhood there had not then been able to obtain a charter in consequence of the absence of a Provincial Grand Lodge, they had nevertheless purchased a freehold site, and erected thei eon a stone hall, snd were now nearly out of debt. He called on the brethren to toast the youngest Lodge in the Province—" The Lake Lodge of Ophir."

Brother P.M. Williamson replied on behalf of the Queenstown brethren.

P.G. Steward, Brother P.M. Moss, proposed the " Orapo Kilwinning Lodge," passing a high encomium on P.M. Brother Jame3 Mills, who threw his accustomed fervor into his masonic duties. He was glad to find that the government of the Lodge was still in able hands — those of Brother Vincent Pyke. Brother PyL'e, R.W.M., responded. The circumstance of an Englishman presiding over a bcotch Lodge was accounted for by the fact that Masonry knew neither clime nor country, creed nor color, but was as universal and a3 beneficent as the blessed light of day.

"The Past Masters of the various Lodges" was proposed by the D.P.G.M., and replied to by the P.G.S.D. Brother George Smith, P M., who said he was sorry to see so many chairs at present filled by Past Masters. Young Masons should profit by the opportunities offered to them by the Lodge of Instruction, and qualify for the Master's chair.

"The P.G. Director of Ceremonies an 2 Stewards" was given by Brother P.M. Mills, and the P.G.D.C. Brother Hymaa responded.

v The P.G. Superintendent of Works" was proposed by P.G.R. Brother P.M. Forman. The P.GS. Brother Miller, who appeared to be laboring under severe indisposition, replied in a speech combining humor with good sense.

" The Vi iting Brethren," given by P.G.S. Brother P.M. Daniels, was responded to by Brother P.M. Williamson.

Then the R.W.P.G.M. called upon the assembled Brethren to drink in solemn silence the final toast in the Masonic repertoire — " To all poor and distressed Masons.'' Ths heinaf the end of the programme, Burns' farewell to the Tarboltoa Lodge was .*ung, and the Brethren separated after spending such a pleasant evening as but rarely occurs, either within or without the Masonic circle.

Killtn'o A Hero.— Wnshoe, California, is full of editors and old newspaper men.- Every day the editor of the ' Enterprise' is astonished at hearing sonic stockbroker, merchant, mule-driver, cook and wood-sawyer, whom he had never suspected, plead guilty of having wielded the swordsubduing weapon. ' Yesterday,' says the ' Enterprise,' oi a recent date, f a trader in pigs' feet said m conversation on literary matters, "Wei!, I once run a paper myself. It was in a small village in California. I was editor, book-keeper, collector, nnd roller boy. This was well enough, but I turned story-teller -I thought 1 must have a I npj story, running through the various numbers of my papor I got along very well for several weeks. My hero was a splendid fellow — a regular love of a hero. He was to be killert. From the first he was doomed to death. But how to kill him now became the plague of mv life. The story was getting outrageously long. Every week I said, ' Now, I will kill him !' and the. next week found him alive and more of a hero than ever. Never was there a hero* possessed of such vitality. I once took him all the way down to Mexico, 'got him into a deep, dark cannon— l was now detemiiue.l to kill. But, blame the fellow ! he was always finding out some new and glorious adventure, and I hadn't the heart to kill him till it was finished. He got out of the cannon alive, and shone a hero more brilliant than before. All the trouble of getting him. into tie cannon was lost, and I had to take him to some new place to i ill him. I gave up nearly everything else, and devoted my whole time to planning; the death of my hero. In spite of the importuuities of credit >rs, I pursued him, week after week, with nnirilerous intent, yet he was such a splendid fellow tli.it I couldn't kill him. I never would have been able to give him the death stab, had not the paper busted up ; then, in the last Number, iv a fit of desperation, and at a most unsuitable time, I laid him stiff and cold in a single paragraph." ' Punctuality. -Mr ttamsden had undertaken to construct some instrument for George the Third by a certain day, but deferred the execution from time to time/ At last, the instrument was ready, and Ramsden hurried off with it to Kew, as though he were 'just in time.' His Majesty, after examiningthe instrument carefully (of which he was* really ajudgei, expi'essed his satisfaction ; and, turning gravely to Ramsden, paid him some compliments upon his punctuality. ' I have been told, Mr Itamsden,' said the king, ' that you are considered to be the least punctual man in England ; yet you have brought home this instrument on the very day that was appointed. You have only mistaken the yew.'