Oration

We cannot consistently call ourselves masons , unless Ave adhere and abide by the Masonic precepts , and the several injunctions laid down for our guidance . We are reminded in this Avorld of uncertainty , that a Brother may , by unfortunate

circumstances , be reduced from a fair competency to comparative Avant , or otherwise afflicted . We are taught to seek the solace of our own distress , by tending relief and consolation to our fellow creatures in the hour of their affliction . I am sure there is

abundance of suffering humanity in this world , beckoning to us for sympathy and help . Let us take every available opportunity and endeavour to fulfil faithfully those important duties that fall to us ; live to cultivate a charitable feeling

towards one another , and be ready at all times to relieve sorrow and distress . Bear in mind that the great princi p les of Freemasonry have been banded doAvn to us from time immemorial , and it behoves us , while piloting our voyage through lifeto

, preserve the ancient land marks and be guided by its beacon of light . Ever remember that Freemasonry cannot injure us , but on the contrary , if Ave strictly practise its principles , Ave may be calculated to become better men than Ave Avere

before being admitted to a participation of its secrets . Evils , whether real or imaginary , have been set against it , Avhich I Avill not at present question , but simply advocate a strict adherence to its teachings—endeavour to diffuseits genuine principles—to promote

its interests—sustain its high character , and seek a reciprocal interchange of good feeling and fellowship . For some time past , especially of late years , Freemasonry has been making great strides . It is found in every quarter of

the globe . It has Avithstood the test of ages , and endured the severest trials . Its princi ples are unchanging—its moral teaching alters not . To the long list , let me hail with pleasure the addition of the Canterbury

Kifwinning Lodge . I would empress upon all the Brethren , the necessity of being strictly guided in all their actions , by the symbolical teachings Ave are so much beholden to . The material used in the building of the temple Avas subjected to the strictest scrutiny before

being applied to the structure ; all unsound material was rejected as unfit for the work , lest it should decay to the general detriment of the building . Therefore , Brethren , be particularly careful in the construction of your Lodge .

In a place with a small population , it would be unreasonable to expect a great number of new members . But if the field is ' small , it behoves you none the less to exercise more than ordinary caution whom you admit .

Let your investigations be characterised by a Avise discretion ; ascertain the motive a man may have in view by seeking to obtain admission into our honourable and ancient order , and to become acquainted Avith its mysteries and privileges . If a candidate ' s character will bear the strictest

scrutiny—if you find him a just and upright man—a good member of societyall bis actions pervaded by a due regard to virtue and morality , then he is a fit person to admit into your Lodge , and is likely to prove a good and zealous brother ,

aud will form a stone in that superstructure , that will reflect credit on the builder . But again , if you find on investigation , that by a curious or inquisitive disposition , he wishes to obtain admission . simply to become acquainted with our secretsor to

, profit thereby in a mercenary point of view , to have a helping hand held out to him in a time of difficulty or distress—he is not a fit person to make a mason , and if admitted , Avould in all probality , bring discredit to the order . He would be better

fitted to become a member of a Benefit Society . I Avish also to point out , that if jealousy should' enter appearance , do not alloAv it to stalk through your lodge Avith impunity . Jealousy existing betAveen one lodge and another , or between individual members , is one of the greatest afflictions

which can possibly assail you . It is diametrically ojDposed to our constitution , and should be stamped out with a vigorous hand . Bear Avith one another in faults and failings . Let prudence direct you , Fortitude support youTemperance chasten

, you , and Justice be the guide of all your actions ; and , in conclusion , observe "Purity , Charity , and Fraternity , " and may we all do Avith integrity of purpose that the world may know a mason by his acts . That he may not only be held