
THE HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY;
FROM
THE
BUILDING OF THE HOUSE OF THE LORD,
AND ITS PROGRESS THROUGHOUT THE CIVILIZED
WORLD, DOWN TO THE PRESENT TIME.
THE ONLY HISTORY OF ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY EVER PUBLISHED,
EXCEPT A SKETCH OF FORTY-EIGHT PAGES BY DOCTOR ANDERSON IN
1723.
TO WHICH IS ADDED THE HISTORY OF THE CRAFT IN
THE UNITED STATES AND A WELL AUTHENTICATED ACCOUNT OF THE INITIATION AND
PASSING OF THE HON. MRS. ALDWORTH, THE DISTINGUISHED AND ONLY LADY FREEMASON.
BY
J. W. S. MITCHELL, M. D.,
P. GRAND MASTER, P. G. HIGH PRIEST, AND P. E.
COMMANDER OF MISSOURI.
VOLUME 2.
PHILADELPHIA, PA.:
AMERICAN PUBLISHING HOUSE.
1858
CHAPTER I
ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
WE
think it, will be seen, when we come to detail the history of Modern Masonry,
so called, that the Encampment degrees, called Orders of Knighthood, were
invented and introduced into France about the middle of the last century ; but
as the generally received opinion is, that they are but a continuation, with
slight modifications, of the Christian and military Orders of the eleventh
century, it becomes our duty, in deference to said opinions, to present, at
least, a historical sketch of the Hospitalers and Templars of the Crusades.
But,
even at the threshold, we feel that our situation is an embarrassing one. The
reader can not fail to perceive how difficult is the task to make our sketch
both truthful and interesting, if, at every step, we are forced to feel
cramped for want of room. To collate the history of the Orders of Knighthood,
in a manner congenial to our feelings,,and to the full satisfaction of the
student of history, we should require as much space as a large volume would
afford; while such is our arrangement, and such the wish, we think, of a large
majority of our readers, that we can only claim to occupy a few pages upon
this important branch of our history. Believing that a liberal public will be
prepared to make due allowance for the circumstances under which we write, we
will proceed, as best we may, to the accomplishment of our task.
As
the acts of the celebrated false prophet Mohammed Iaid the foundation for the
original military Orders of Knighthood, it will serve the better to illustrate
our subject, to briefly notice the life and character of this remarkable man.
Readers, not given to thinking closely,.are predisposed to re. gard Mohammed
as having been the very worst man of his day. or that he acted under the
influence of a peculiar species of IQ
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
derangement. But when we remember that it is the nature of men to seek for
power, and, when attained, equally their nature to abuse it ; when we reflect
that the rise and fall of nations. in all past ages, tend to show that there
are times when the "strong men shall bow themselves," and the weaker shall
rise up and take their places; when great nations are destined to be humbled,
and obscure tribes, in their turn, wield the scepter of power‑we say that when
these things are known to follow in the train of human frailty, we shall not
be so much surprised at the wonderful power acquired by Mohammed and his
followers.
The
close of the sixth century beheld the setting star of Rome's long continued
and proud glory. True, she was not yet humbled, for Heraclius, who was Emperor
in the early part of the seventh century, made some well‑timed demonstrations,
which seemed, for a while, to plume anew the Roman eagle. By his splendid
achievements, he caused his banner to be unfurled beyond the Tigris, and had
the proud satisfaction of seeing it wave over most of the plains of Assyria,
and he was so elated with success, that lie was about laying plans for sending
the Roman eagle still further, when a new and unlooked for enemy appeared.
At the
critical period when Rome and Persia were engaged in mortal strife, Mohammed
made his appearance. He was born about the end of the sixth century, at Mecca,
in Stony Arabia, and so remarkable did his career prove, that it would seem
lie was sent into the world to scourge and humble the proud nations of the
earth.
His
biographers claim that he dewended from Kedar, the son of Ishmael, and, hence,
his followers hold that he was of the progeny of Abraham. His parents were
idolaters, as also were the tribe to which he belonged. He was left an orphan
at an early age, and was raised and educated under the direction of Aboo
Taleeb, his uncle; afterward he entered the service of Khaidjah, a rich widow,
who made him her factor, and soon after gave him her hand and fortune.
Mohammed was naturally subtle and ambitious, and this sudden acquisition of
wealth served to nerve his arm for bold and daring achievements, and,
doubtless, laid the foundation for that blood and carnage which at one time
threatened to deluge the whole of Christendom.
At the
time he made his appearance, the religion of Arabia was divided into a variety
t1 crc,eua. These were Idolators, Jews, Christians and Schismatics. Mohammod
saw, as by intuition, that a new religion could be sucäessfully introduced.
Suddenly he pretended to become a strict item, and retired Into a cave near
Mecca, where; under the cloak of religious fervor, he devised and matured his
schemes. This being done, he affected to make a confidante of his wife,
telling her that the Angel Gabriel bad made to him special revelations from
heaven. He often affected to be in a trance, and,, on such occasions,
professed to be filled with heavenly extaties, caused by his direct
communication with God's messenger. He charged his wife not to breath8 to any
human being a word, in relation to this wonderful occurreIIce, wisely
foreseeing that this was the most certain way of producing an effect upon the
ignorant multitude, whom he felt convinced would soon have, as a great secret,
an exaggerated account of his communion with heaven.
And in
this he was not mistaken, for his wife, believing the truth of all lie said,
in the joy of her heart, could not withhold the wonderful tidings from a few
particular friends, under the pledge of secrecy ; these communicated the news
to a few of their friends, and very soon it was currently reported that
Mohanitned was a prophet. As soon as he became surrounded by a few friends,
upon whom he could safely rely, he proclaimed his divine mission, clothed
himself in the richest oriental dress, covered over with emblems and
hieroglyphics. To prevent the oppoò sition of any and all creeds, he bad so
prepared his doctrines, that all were enabled to recognize the shadowing forth
of their own peculiar faith.
After
the death of Aboo Taleeb, the authorities of Mecca, having become alarmed at
the growing popularity of this impostor, proscribed him as a blasphemer, and
he was compelled to fly for safety to the city of Yatrib.
This
flight is termed in the Koran the Hejira.
The
first year of the Moslem era is A. D. 822.
After
the proscription at,Mecca, Mohammed informed his dis^iples that his,
mini.steriug angel had brought him a scimiter from heaven, to be used in
subduing all his opponents and eu m*w The_ Arabian tribes were addicted to
depredatory war1a svd, with great enthusiasm, flocked to his standard, willing
3" MODERN FREEMASONRY.
hltnrlly led whithersover he chose; and soon this unprinciy E,d impostor
became a powerful military chief, a merciless conqueror, and the scourge of
the East. Nor did blood and carnage cease with the death of him who instituted
the sword as the strong arm of his religion.
His
followers continued to wage war in all directions, not waiting for
provocation, but with the avowed purpose of compelling all to embrace the
Mohammedan faith. They invaded Palestine and Syria; took Antioch, Jerusalem,
and Damascus ; dethroned the Persian Monarch, and subdued Egypt and the whole
of Northern Africa. The islands oú Cyprus, Rhodes, Candia, Malta, and Sicily,
were invaded and brought to bow before the mighty Juggernaut.
In the
early part of the eighth century, they seemed upon the point of accomplishing
their great aim‑the subjugation of the whole Christian world.
At
this period, they carried their bloody banner beyond the Pillars of Hercules,
and founded a new empire in Spain.
But,
happily for the civilized world, the giant strides of these bloodthirsty
Infidels were checked by internal feuds, caused by a struggle for power in
their own ranks.
The
supreme authority became a fruitful source of contention and party strife,
and, as there were quite a number of Califs who claimed to be the legitimate
successors cl' the Prophet, the Moslem world was employed in deciding these
disputes, instead of unitedly subjugating foreign nations.
When
we remember that the Cross of Christ had remained planted upon the walls of
Jerusalem, for near three successive centuries, under the protection of the
Christian Emperors of Byzantium, and that, from the reign of Constantine the
Great, the Greek and Latin Christians had annually made Jerusalem their place
of pilgrimage, to obtain the remission of their sins at the Saviour's tomb; it
may be readily seen that the conquest of the Roly City, by the followers of
Mohammed, created dismay and lamentation throughout all Christian lands.
The
Mohammedans professed to reverence Christ as a prophet, but they did not
hesitate to levy and enforce the collection of a neavy tax upon the Christian
votaries who flocked to His sepulchre.
The
struggle for power between the Califs renderea d pilgrimage to the Holy Land
one of great personal dangn‑ 9m l ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
13
even those who escaped violence, were subject to encounter deprivations and
hardships on the way. A suDersitious belief pervaded Christendom that the
reign of anti‑Christ was at hand, and, during the tenth century, the whole
`Vest continued to pour forth its thousands of Palmers to the Holy City. These
pilgrims carried a staff and leathern scrip.
On
their return home, they generally carried some of the dust of Palestine, as
also the sacred palm‑bough (hence they were called Palmers), and hung it near
the altar of their Parish church, as a sort of pious trophy. For a time, the
Califs protected the pilgrims for the sake of gain, and, after their arrival
in Jerusalem they were preserved from violence for the same reason. But after
the lapse of years, even this comfort was denied them, and they were insulted
and robbed by the Infidels.
But,
the causes which led to their greatest hardships, arose from a disunion of the
Latin and Greek Churches.
This
dispute arose so high that the pilgrims found it almost impossible to obtain
shelter beneath friendly roofs, even with those bearing the name of Christian.
About
the middle of the eleventh century, some merchants of Italy undertook to
provide an asylum for the Latin pilgrims. In their commercial intercourse with
Egypt, they, by means of presents, secured the friendship of the Calif
Moustrassenbillah, and obtained from him permission to build a Latin church
within the walls of the Holy City. Accordingly a chapel was there erected near
the Holy Sepulchre, which was dedicated to the Virgin, under the title of Mary
ad Latinos.
To
this were added two hospitals, or houses of reception, for Latin pilgrims who
might be sick or destitute.
The
hospital was dedicated to Saint John the Almoner.
History informs us that this Saint John had been Patriarch of Alexandria, who,
for his deeds of benevolence, was surnamed the charitable. Hallam's Middle .dges,
informs us that " when Jerusalem first fell into the hands of the Saracens, he
sent money and provisions to the afflicted Christians, and supplied such as
fled into Egypt.
Under
the patronage of Saint John the Almoner, the Orders of Knighthood were first
established, but when they became numerous, and assumed a military character,
they removed this Saint, and thence dedicated their Orders to Saint John the
Baptist.
Soon
after the erection of the hospital, several pious pilgrims determined to
return no more to their native homes, and thence devoted themselves to the
service of the sick and afflicted wanderers, who continued to pour in from
Western Europe. This hospital was kept up mainly by alms annually collected in
Italy, by the benevolent founders. Within its walls the sick were kindly
nursed and skillfully treated, and those who had been stripped of their little
all, by the robbers with whom the road was infested, were clothed and fed, and
all who died received Christian burial.
The
Hospital of the Almoner furnished the germ, the founds; tion of the Orders of
Knighthood, whose splendid achievements; for near two hundred years, caused
them to be denominated " the sword and buckler of Christendom in the Paynim
war." The Hospitalers continued to increase in numbers, and to extend their
relief to all Latin pilgrims who required aid, until the fame of the
Institution extended over the Christian world.
For
more than sixteen years, this charitable Association was permitted, silently
and efficiently, to bestow alms, and offer relief to suffering humanity; but
then a new enemy appeared. The Turkomans, a nation of barbarians, who, by
their invincible valor;,crossed the Caspian, trade conquest of all the country
bordering on the Euphrates, and turning their attention westward, suddenly
burst upon Palestine, and, by order of Malek Shalt, the most renowned warrior
of the Si1jookian race, the Saracens were driven out of Jerusalem and the
garrison massacred. In this barbarous attack the most inhuman butcheries were
perpe.
trated.
The
Hospital of St. John was despoiled, and avarice alone saved the Holy Sepulchre
from the destroyer's hand. By augmenting the tribute to be paid by each
pilgrim, the bar barians made this the means of a valuable revenue.
In
many instances, the tribute demanded was beyond the ability of the poor
Christian pilgrims, and it is recorded that some expired at the gates of the
city; without being able to behold the Sacred pomb.
In
view of the foregoing facts, it is easy to account for the wonderful
excitement which soon after pervaded all Western Europe.
Those
who were so fortunate as to be able to ittarh the hirdshipF4 and escape the
dangers, incident to i sgb to the Holy Land, returned with an account of the
dinner in which the Holy Sepulchre was desecrated, and the n sufferings
entailed upon the pilgrims.
These
"o'er true tales" were repeated, until the very mentiorti of Palestine *Ie
Wflated to stir the blood of every Christian, and nerve %e eta of the
Christian warrior.
For a
time, the excitement ofd without even the suggestion of a remedy.
At
this sh obscure Frenchman, Peter; surnamed the Hermit, who f 'experienced the
inhuman treatment of the Turkothrew himself at the feet of Pope Urban II., and
fit His Holiness to arouse the Princes of the West to a sense of the insult,
and demand that a sufficient force be t to drive the enemies of the Crops from
the Holy Land. The Spre lent it favorable ear to the pleadings of the Hermit,
but during to lead in so great an undertaking, he encouraged the pious
enthusiast to visit the Christian countries, with a view ‑9, stirring up the
people; promising to embrace the first favor itble opportunity to give
encouragement to the scheme.
Thus
‑eh
; Pemr,
his body emaciated by fasting, traveled vi*eat ‑oevering for his head or feet,
making speeches every Vi**
he
singular humility of the man,* his holy life, his fine i
ve
all, the well‑told story of the pilgrims' aritiudesdd all Europe, till there
was scarce a man or WOMM who waa not carried away by the excitement.
In
lese Gin a year the people of Christendom were in arms, and opposition would
have been useless from their rulers, but, so far from being the etc; the
enthusiasm seems to have especially per4d the higher Tanks. In this state of
things, the Pope called A*6E Grand Councils, and had no difficulty in
inflaming the `mood: To the common people it seemed that their rulers '
>tm
slow is their movements, and thus an inconsiderato W d" ftrsbed to the
standard of Peter the Hermit, to the ri
of
ty
thousand, and besought him to lead them to the y Lind
The
majority of those had sold everything they ò For a description of the personal
appearance of Peter the Hermit, m Yuolw Si"y of da 2WkL t wwft possessed, and
esteemed it an honor to employ the last shilling in the holy cause. Husbands
deserted their wives‑wives rejoiced in the cause which led to the
separation‑widowed mothers sent forth their sons, firmly convinced that it was
the will of God Led on by the Hermit and his Lieutenant, Walter Senavier, this
rabble army reached Constantinople. Every species of vice, to which such a
multitude might be supposed to be subject, was perpetrated.
Thousands of women, mostly of the lower order, but including many of high
respectability, followed in the train. Already had intemperance, prostitution,
and almost every vice marked their progress, and rendered their approach a
source of uneasiness and alarm to Alexis, the Greek Emperor. The atrocities
perpetrated by this so called army, so disgusted the Hermit, that, after in
vain trying to reform them, he left them immediately after they entered Asia.
Walter
remained, still endeavoring to restore subordination, but all in vain. Seduced
by a false rumor, that the rich spoils of the city of Nice were to be had
without resistance, they rushed headlong, in disorder and confusion, upon the
city, when, by the preconcerted plan of Soliman, the Turkish Sultan, they were
surrounded by the Infidel army and slaughtered, almost to a man.
Thus
ended the first expedition in the Paynim war.
The
loss of this rabble army neither dismayed nor dampened the ardor of the grand
army, which was soon to follow, under proper discipline, and commanded by
Kings and Dukes.
When
this great army rendezvoused at Constantinople, and went into winter quarters,
it is said, " a more glorious army the sun never shone upon." t
The
Knights and their attendants alone amounted to one hundred thousand fighting
men; the pilgrims, bearing arms, to about six hundred thousand.$ The first
warlike demonstration of this army was against the city of Nice, where the
Hermit's army had perished.
Soliman was prepared for their reception by having thrown a numerous garrison
of Turkomans into the city, which, being strongly fortified, he supposed
himself able to cope with the Christians, and for six weeks resisted, but was
then con.
ò
Fuller.
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
t
Gibbon.
i
Ibid.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
17
polled to capitulate, or surrender, under a stipulation that the City should
be left in possession of the Greeks.
The
news of this victory gladdened the hearts of thousands at home, who had felt
deeply grieved at the inhuman butchery of the Hermit's army. And now, more
than ever, the clank of Christian steel, like a storm god, filled the air..
Western Europe was literally in arms for the Crusade. On the other side, all
the warlike tribes of Asia, as one man, rose to repel the invaders,
The
Sultans of Aleppo, Bagdad, Antioch, and Persia, levied mighty armies; but,
with a knowledge of all this, the enthusiastic Christian leaders marched
boldly on.
At
Dorylteum, a bloody battle was fought, in which four thousand Christians and
three thousand Paynim Captains were slain. The camp of Soliman was taken, and
his army disbanded. This victory was followed by the conquest of most of
Anatolia., and, thus victorious, the grand army descended into the Syrian
plains, where they found Tarsus in possession of Tancred, one of the Christian
leaders, who had approached by a different route.
At the
beginning of winter, the army of the Crusaders approached and besieged
Antioch, the once renowned capital of‑Assyria. It was surrounded by a double
wall, and garrisonad by twenty thousand veteran troops, who, for seven months,
resisted every effort of the Christian army, and fell, at last, through the
treachery of one of the inhabitants (1098). During this protracted siege, the
Christian army lost, by pestilence and famine, upward of one hundred thousand
men, and many of the eurvivors were reduced to the necessity of feeding on
carrion, and even human flesh.
Discord prevailed among the leaders, end crimes the most detestable disgraced
the Christian banner. When the Crusaders left their native homes, Jerusalem
was possession of the Turks; but the Calif of Egypt, who had soveral times
been driven from possession of the Holy City, took advantage of the approach
of the Crusaders, to send on army into Palestine,,which drove the Turkomans
from every town, and soon planted his standard again in the Holy City, This
news neither surprised nor dismayed the Crusaders.
To
them it was of out little moment whether their enemies were !A MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
the
Turkomaris or the Fatimite dynasty, and, hence, when Mostati, the Egyptian
Calif, proposed a treaty which pledged his' friendship, but provided for his
continued possession of the Holy City, and the immediate return of the
Christian army, the officers of the latter rejected the proposal with scorn,
and sent the Calif word that they would open the gates of Jerusalem with the
same keys which they had used at Nice, Tarsus, Antioch, and Edessa.
In
May, 1099, the remnant of the Christian army took up their march, and such was
the terror which their victories had produced, that they were enabled to pass
unmolested through Tripoli, Sidon, Tyre, Cwsarea. Jaffa, and Ramla, and,
finally, beheld the towers of the most famous city in the world. The ehout of
exultant joy, which burst from the lips of those in front. was taken up and
carried back upon the line, until the whole gave forth one continued roar of
applause.
The
more pious manifested their joy by casting themselves upon the ground, kissing
the earth, and moistening it with their tears.
On the
7th of June, 1099, the army of the Crusaders encamped before the walls of
Jerusalem. And here we might pause, and find lamentable cause for a sad
commentary upon the fortunes of war. The Christian army, thus far, had lost
too battle : victory had perched upon its banner, and triumph marked its
onward march, yet what was its present appearance, compared with that which it
presented in the plain of Bythynia ? Of the seven hundred thousand fighting
men, scarce twenty‑two thousand, capable of bearing arms, encamped before the
Holy City, the hope of seeing which had served to stimulate all who had left
their homes and their friends.
The
number who fell in battle was comparatively small, but disease, desertion, and
those left to hold possession of the conquered' cities, had thus reduced the
glorious army, and left to this small remnant the honor of contending for
possession of the tomb of our Saviour. At this period, Jerusalem was not the
impregnable city it had been,. when it so proudly resisted the attacks of the
sovereigns of Babylon and Rome, nor was it defended by that band of brothers
who fought in defense of the city of their fathere. From the :days of Adrian,
the Jews had been scattered over ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
19 the
face of the earth, without a home, without friends, yea, without a spot of
earth upon which they could walk in broad day, shielded by the mantle of
justice. No wonder, then, that this persecuted race. stood aloof, and,
unconcerned, beheld the bloody conflicts for the possession of the home of
their fathers. They were encouraged to take up arms for the Saracens, only by
the prospect of imprisonment and starvation.
On the
other hand, they had nothing to expect from the Christians but injustice and
stripes.
The
walls of the city included Golgotha,, Bezetha, Moria; and Acna.
Mount
Sinai, once a populous portion of the city, had long been deserted, and was
not now within the walls.
The
city was defended by forty thousand regular troops, under command of Istakur,
the most renowned General of the Calif. Twenty thousand of the Mohammedan
inhabitants also took up arms.
All
the Christians in the city were thrown into prison, including Peter Gerard,
the Superintendent of the Hospital of St. John, whose well known piety and
universal benevolence, had won for him the admiration of the Infidel
inhabitants.
To
annoy and cripple the efforts of the Crusaders, the v: ells and cisterns in
the neighborhood had been filled up, and all the adjacent timber, capable of
being used in the construction of warlike engines, was collected and burned.
The
Counts of Normandy and Flanders occupied a position northward of the city;
Godfrey and Tancred, on Mount Calvary; and Raymond, of Toulouse, to the South
of Mount Sion. On the fifth day of the seige, the first attack was made by the
Crusaders, and, so furious was the onset, that amid a storm of arrows and
fire‑balls, they broke through the first barrier, and boldly attempted to
surmount the walls of the escalade ; but the want of engines and ladders
rendered their bravery and zeal of no avail, but subjected them to be driven
back to their camp, with great slaughter: To the mortification of this defeat,
was added extreme suffering for provisions and water. So extreme was their
thirst, that many dug holes in the ground, and pressed the damp earth to their
lips. Godfrey and Raymond then selected some Genoese mariners, from Jaffa, who
built two large moveable towers out of timber brought from Lichem, thirty
miles distant.
20
NODERN,FREEMASONRF.
On the
night of the 15th of July, these towers were silently rolled to the
fortification.
Drawbridges were made to extend from the tops of the towers to the battlement.
And
now, when the sun rose upon the inhabitants of the city, they belield theso
great towers standing at their walls, crowded with chosen warriors, impatient
for orders, and an opportunity to grapple, in mortal strife, with their Moslem
foe.
The
besieged, with great fury, hurled fire‑brands against the towers, and, so
dexterously was this done, that Raymond's tower took fire, and burned so
rapidly that it.was deserted.
Godfrey had posted himself on the summit of the other, and for a time,
unaided, his bowmen maintained the battle.
" But,
at the hour," says the Monk Robert, '' when the Saviour of the world gave up
the ghost, a warrior named Letalde, who fought in Godfrey's tower, leaped the
first upon the ramparts.
He was
followed by Guicher ; Godfrey was the third, and all the other Knights rushed
on after their Chief."
Each,
as he leaped upon the ramparts, threw away his, bow and arrows, and drew his
sword, " at the eight of which, the enemy abandoned the walls, and ran down
into the city, whither the soldiers of Christ pursued them, with loud shouts."
The Moslems were pursued from street to street, from house to house, and were
indiscriminately mowed down; for such Was the panic, that no regularly
organized resistance was made.
At
about three o'clock in the afternoon, the standard of the Cross was seen to
wave in triumph on the walls.
Thus
was the Holy City rescued from the hands of Infidels, after having been
controlled by the enemies of Christianity, for more than four hun dred and
sixty years.
Here,
again, we find food for reflection.
One
would suppose that the fol!owers of the meek and lowly Saviour would, after
achieving a great victory, have the consistency to display the principles
which He taught, by showing mercy to the vanquished; but, alas for human
nature 1 it is too much the same., in both the civilized and savage breast.
The
victory of the Crusaders was, indeed, a glorious triumph; for it was acquired
under the banner of justice, and the result of that bold and daring ' Knolls.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
21
brag, which alone could have prevailed.
But
how was its brilliancy tarnished, and the holy cause disgraced, by the forn
city, yea, the brutality of the conquerors?
For
three whole days, an indiscriminate massacre was kept up, accompanied by a
licensed pillageeof the city.
Old
and young were put to the sword, and even suckling babes were inhumanly put to
death. Nor was this arrested until the Crusaders were worn down with the
fatigue of killing, after having slain ten thousand wretched and helpless
human beings.
But,
more inconsistent still, these human butchers had no sooner tired of their
work of death, than they washed the blood of their victims from their hands,
and, bare‑footed, walked to the tomb of Christ, kissing it with (as they would
have the world believe) holy fervor, and Sending up their anthems of praise,
and repentant groans to the bar of Justice.
Anon,
their enthusiasm was so hightened, that they fell at the feet of Peter the
Hermit, praising God as glorified through him.
At the
time the city of Jerusalem was taken by the Crusaders,
' a
large army was on its march from Egypt, Bent by the Calif to its succour. This
army the Crusaders routed before it reach ed the city.
The
victory secured, for a time, exemption from molestation, and the Christians
were.enabled to attend to the evtablishment of their civil and religious
institutions.
By the
feudal polity, the conquered territory was divided among the ew oommanders,
who, after taking formal possession, suffered the Moslem peasantry.to remain
in vassalage.
Godfrey is represented as being a devoted and good man, and hence one of his
first'accts was‑the institution of several new churches:
He
also mwde it his duty to visit the Hospital of St. John, which he found
crowded with wounded soldiers, and so loudly did its inmates extol the
Hospitalers, that Godfrey was moved to regard the Institution as worthy of
being sustained by substautial aid, and, accordingly, bestowed on it the
lordship of Montboire, in ‑Brabant, with all its dependencies.
His
example was followed by the principal chiefs of the Crusade.*
Thus,
in a abort time, the Hospitalers had the revenues of a great number of rich
towns, both in Europe and Asia.
0
Sutherland.
$2
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
To the
period of which we have been speaking, the Hospital of Saint John had been
simply a secular Institution, but when Gerard was made Rector, and the large
benefactions were entrusted to his care, he proposed to the brothers and
sisters the propriety of becoming a religious fraternity.
The
number of Hospitalers had now greatly increased.
Among
those who first determined to devote their lives to these charities, and took
the habit of the Order, were Raymond du Puis and Dudon de Camps, of Dauphiny,
Gastus, of Berdihz, and Canon de 14Iontaign, of Auvergne.
Others
not less pious and equally respectable followed their example, and it is
proper to remark that the Institution was well supplied with devotees before
it received the above named patrimonies.
Gerard, seeing that these men and women had formally renounced their homes and
their relations, in order to devote their lives to acts of charity, readily
imagined their happiness would be promoted by making the links that bound them
partake of the holy religion, and, therefore, proposed that they should
dedicate themselves at the altar, as the servants of the poor and distressed,
and of Christ and His cause.
His
suggestion met with a hearty approval, and, accordingly, they solemnly
renounced the world. The Brotherhood assumed a uniform habit, which was a
plain black robe, with a white linen cross of Light points, fastened on the
left breast.
Here
is the foundation upon which was finally established the great power and
influence of the Orders of Knight. hood:
No
sooner did this remarkable Brotherhood renounce the world, and take upon
themselves monastic vows, than Pope Paschal II. commenced. lavishing upon them
his favors: He confirmed all their endowments, exempted the property from
tithes, and conferred on the brethren the privilege of electing their
Superior, independent of all ecclesiastical or‑secular influence.
Thus
endowed, and thus protected by the head of the Church, it is easy to perceive
why it was that the noble band increased, and, with their increase in numbers,
wealth also increased, and their popularity became universal. Godfrey was soon
left with but two thousand infantry and three hundred horse.
The
small remnant of the once large army returned to Europe, and such w+ts their
account of the battles, and the ORDERS of KNIGHTHOOD.
2s ;
mphs,
that a new zeal filled Christendom with martial qhamor. New companies of
Crusaders were formed everyImbere,and resolved to make the attempt to reach
the Holy ,.City, and strengthen the hands of Godfrey.
Multitudes of pilSr mp abandoned their homes, and, headlong, bent their way to
*e tomb of Christ.
From
the character of this motley crowd, it could but be expected that a large
number 'would reach Jerusalem, worn out with fatigue, and totally pennyless,
and hpace the Hospitalers found constant employment in mitigatò their
suffering.
These
Palmers, on their return home. far and wide an account of the charitable deeds
of the Hospitalers, and so universally were they beloved, that, ere
long,olmost every Province in Christendom had given the Hospital manorial
rights.
Being
thus enriched, the Rector erected a fine'ehurch on the _ spot which tradition
stated was the retreat of Zacharias, the father‑ of John the Baptist, to whom
he dedicated it.
He
also ‑ increased the buildings necessary for the Hospitalers.
But
his master‑stroke of policy, was to. connect the Institution more closely with
the countries from which it had received endowtpents; to which end, he
established subordinate Hospitals, or Commanderies, in"many of the maritime
Provinces of the West. here is the origin of the term Commanderies, and of the
sub erdinate Institutions of charity.
They
were so situated, that ey were of inestimable value to the Palmers who were ou
their pilgrimage to‑ the Holy Land.
Here
they found an asylum hem want and penury, and guides to ‑conduct‑*them on "
their, 'gay, and guard them from the enemies of the Cross.
Of
these subordinate Commanderies, we may mention the houses of St: Miles, in
Provence; Tarento, in Apulia ; Messina, in Sicily, and Seville, in Andalusia.
These Commanderies were severally protected, and granted special privileges by
the successive P Godfrey lived to govern Jerusalem but little more than one
year, and was succeeded by Baldwin, his younger brother, who, not having the
pious scruples of his predecessor, assumed the title, and was proclaimed the
first Christian King of Jerusalem. Baldwiu's reign was, literally, eighteen
years of warfare..Bv a~ MODERN FREEMA30NRt.
his
valor and warlike skill. he greatly extended the Christian possessions. During
an expedition to the frontiers of Egypt, ~n 1118, he fell a victim to the
fatigues of war, and, like hig brother, his remains were consigned to a tomb
in the church of the Holy Sepulchre, an honor bestowed upon none but Latin
kings in after time.
About
this period, the venerable (,lerò.rd died, and the Hoapitalera unanimously
elected Raymond du Puis as their Chief.
With
this Chief originated the military character which, in after years, so
distinguished the OTdere of Knighthood. Raymond was tried in courts and camps,
and when he came to rule over a band of religious friars, whose lives ,were
pledged to deeds of benewlence and pure bereeftcence, he became discontented
with the simple robe of the Hospftaler, and, thez~afore, favored the project
of uniting the duties of the monk with those of the soldier.
For
this purpose, he gave. to the Fraternity a martial Constitution, which bound
the Brother= hood to defend the holy places, and, soon after, it was eo
amended, as'to require them to wage perpetual war against the enemies of the
Cross. The condition of things, when Raymond was elected Chief, seems to have
justified hie plans ; for, all ovw tire country, regularly organized bands of
robbers, onsaposed of 5aracena, were to be met with, who watched every
opportunity to fall upon Christian pilgrims, and deprive them of their littla
~ll.
The
Tnrkomans were ever on the watch for a favorable opportunity to rush upon,and
destroy the unfortified Christian towns, and massacre the inhabitants.
On.
the other hand, the Egyptians neglected no opportunity to harraas the
Christians; from which,, it will be seen that the Latins had no respite, and
it is not wonderful that even the Hoapitalera were willing to take up arms in'
defence of the holy cause.
They
did not abandon their. attention to the sick and wounded, but voluntarily took
an obligation to be ready, at all times, to leap into .,heir saddles, and, at
the point of the lance, to repel. their enemies.
Raymond organized the Hoapitalera into three classes.
The,
5rst class was composed of men of patrician ancestry, and high military
station ; ~ the second of priests ; and the. third of sere ing men.
The
first class, he termed Knights of Justice, wta ODDn8 OF KNIGHTHOOD.
25
rpointed to bear arms, and who enjoyed all the dignities p(kder. The priests
were divided; the one part, to perreligious services in the field ; and the
other, to attend to iW dufe&
There
was still another class, called Sergena, itf Knights, who served either in the
field or hospital, as k,.,be necessary.
This
class, afterwards, acquired great ,md added much to the military renown of the
Orders of ` iaimdidate could be received into the first class, unless he
~W‑t#at he was of noble descent.
At the
introduction dk
ther,hetook the monkish vows of obedience, poverty, cbasfpy, and the Knightf,
in addition, bound themselves to with their swords, the Christian banner.
The
banner John had a white cross on a red field, and it was agreed spy Knight who
should abandon it, or otherwise dishonor Botherhood. in the Paynim war, should
be publicly deprived Fps antis and his‑knightly habit.
J~wh
ww the prevailing enthusiasm for military glory in the f ..was,. that, ere
long, the ranks of the devoted Knights trowded with young men of high birth
and fortune, from fr1t;istiau land.
The
Brotherhood could no longer claim osed of Latins, and, for the better
regulation of the division of the Order was made to suit seven different viz :
of Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy, Arragou, and Germany.
7'~a
ifrst fame acquired in battle by the Knights was at the O*pg of Antioch, in
bloody battle against the Turkomans r
nR in
1119.
0ant
this period,* Hugh de Paynes, Geoffrey de St. Omer, iothee gentlemen of
France, formed the praiseworthy keWording protection to the Palmers, on their
pilgrimage 4t #lie Holy Land.
They
imitated the Hospitalers &log their Association consist of both military and
religFor several years these nine Knights, destitute of protection from the
head of the Church, continued 0 i pilgrims, and guard them against the
assaults of m
et of
Father Hay given the origin of the Templare in 1117.
26
MODERN
FREEMABONRY.
rocbers, etc.
So
obscure were they, that, for several years, no new members joined them, but
true to their solemn vows, they continued, with unabated zeal, to devote
themselves to the assistanae and protection of the unprotected small companies
of Palmers.
The
fact of their union and their zealous devotion to so praiseworthy an object,
reached the ears of the King, and, finally, those of the Pope, and they were,
by both, encouraged to persevere.
The
Pope gave his sanction to their desire, like the Hospitalers, to constitute
themselves a military Order. Thus, from this Association of nine poor and
friendless men, sprang the Knights Templar, who, for more than twq centuries,
equaled, and, in many respects, rivaled, the Hospitalers in power and
influence.
The
Hospitalers encouraged this new Association, granted it means, and, in various
ways, assisted to give it character and permanency.
The
members of this new Order were originally called Soldiers of the Pilgrims.
They
wore a white mantle over their military dress, as their distinctive insignia,
to which was afterwards added a red cross (a symbol of martyrdom), emblazoned
on the left breast. Their helmets, in token of humility, had no crest, and
their beards remained uncut.*
Their
banner was of white linen, striped with black, and ornamented with a red
cross.
Hugh
de Paynes, the founder, traveled over a great part of Christendom, in order to
make known the objects of the Association, and add to the members.
On his
return, in 1129, he brought with him three hundred young men of noble
families.
The
Constitution of the Templars, as did that of the Hospitalers, required
chastity and obedience‑"and the Ancient Templars are said to have been so
outrageously virtuous, that they held it a tempting of Providence to look a
fair woman in the face, and scrupled to kiss their own mothers."t
From
the foregoing historical facts, our Companion Sir Knights will be %ble to
gather some truths, which should have due weight in considering the ancient
usages of the Order. We shall not undertake to advise a change in the present
dress or regalia of the Order, and certainly not to introduce our ancient
brethren'@ Ces Mill.' liirnry 4( Cbtvank
t
Southerland ORDIRS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
‑dread
of lovely woman, but we would like to see Sir Knights ‑vtisfied with a regalia
approximating more nearly to that Vueiently used.
There
seems to be no definite understanding as ''the proper dress of a Knight
Templar when on parade.
We
have seen hats and plumes, chapeaux and plumes, of all shapes emd colors, and
yet we find that, as a token of humility, our aacient brethren wore no plume
or crest of any kind upon their belmets. Why, then, should we seek to do so?
The first important support given to this new Association, came from the
thaoas Bernard Clairvause, who ably advocated the second *asade.. He gave his
special patronage and personal influence $a behalf of the Templars, and was
the means of greatly enrich ing their treasury, and adding to their ranks.
There
were many `gentlemen who, not willing to devote themselves to the servile
daties of the Hospital, were nevertheless inclined to devote themselves to the
cause of the pilgrimage, and these preferred to join the Templars, as theirs
was more strictly a military Order.
Before
the second Crusade, the Templars had repeatedly distinguished themselves in
battle ; indeed, there existed a generous Avalship between them and the
Hospitalers, and, in no instance, were either known to shun danger or falter
in battle. On the watrary, the Brotherhoods were always foremost in battle,
and ss[o wonder that they were soon regarded as the strong arm in The Paynim
war.
The
second Crusade was mainly furnished by France and Germany, and consisted of
upward of two hundred thousandwe can not say men, for certain it is that a
part of these soldiers, in the second Paynim war, were ladies. There were
bands of high born dames, headed by Eleanor, of Guienne, the toneort of the
French King.
These
modern Amazons put on military insignia, and appeared in the parades, but
history has ‑failed to award them any further distinction in arms. For this,
liowever, an apology might be found by the women's rights party of the present
day, as, it might truly be said, that but iew laurels were won in the second
Crusade, even by the veteran 'seldiers.
In the
few noted battles in this Crusade, the Hos ‑pitalers and Templars most
distinguished themselves.
Conrad
SH
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and
the French King, who had the united forces, besieged Damascus, and, but for
treachery, occasioned by a wrangle for authority over it when taken, the
Brotherhood world have achieved a victory. The treachery spoken of was the
work of the Latin Christians of Syria and Palestine, who had learned that
Conrad and the King of France had determined to give the government of
Damascus to the Count of Flanders, Thierri Soon after the failure of the
siege, the two leaders of the army became disgusted with the conduct of the
Christians of Syria and Palestine, and, with the remnant of their followers,
returned to their homes. having done but little more than " march up the
hills, and then march down again." Raymond Du Puis had been Grand Master of
the Hospitalers near forty years, and had never yet seen his Knights flee in
battle.
In
1158, the greatest battle since the taking of Jerusalem, was fought on the
plains of Putaha, between the Turkomans and Christians. This was the last
witnessed by the venerable Grand Master and here, too, he was permitted to
behold the undaunted bravery of the Brotherhood, and the victory of the
Christian army, after the fall of six thousand Turkomans.
Raymond Du Puis died in the sanctuary of his Order, A.D. 1160,'beloved by all
Knights and Christians. ‑ Auger De Bulben, a Knight of Dauphiny, succeeded
Raymond, by the unanimous voice of the Brotherhood, who lived to fill the
office but about three years.
The
next Grand Master was Arnaud De Comps.
He was
advanced in years when his brethren chose him as their head, and lived but a
short time, and was succeeded by Gilbert De Sailly.
Down
to this period the Hospitalers and Templars had moved on in harmony, hand in
hand, in all battles. But the King of Jerusalem, having conceived a plan for
subjugating . Egypt, mainly with a view to the immense treasure to be thus
gained, applied to the Hospitalers and Templars to second his scheme,
promising to share with them the spoils.
The
Grand Master of the Hospitalers readily gave his consent, but his will was
subject to the Council or Chapter.
This
body was much divided, for it had to be admitted that the contemplated in
vasion had no connection with their duties, either as Christian 29 sights or
Hospitalers, but the temptation was too strong to ~It3'egisted, and the
majority decided in favor of the invasion at the King. Large sums were
borrowed to meet the expenses, *#d the Grand Master proceeded to hire
mercenaries, until his force became a formidable one in numbers. The Templars
Vtwmptly spurned the bribe tendered them, as the cause was in no way connected
with their duty, and, moreover, because the !invasion would be in direct
violation of a treaty signed by the A'ing, and approved by the Hospitalers and
Templars. This Wcwdition of Amaury, the.Kipg, proved a total failure, as he
bean deceived and out‑maneuvered by the Turkoman and ptian commanders. The
expedition returned in 1169. The afad Master, Gilbert, became so universally
unpopular, because 4( faise reasons which he had used to obtain the consent of
the Council to this unfortunate expedition, that he was forced to resign his
office.
Gastus
was next chosen Grand Master of the Hospitalers, but his government lasted
only a few months, vW Joubert, of Syria, was chosen as his successor.
About
this time, their enemies had made such inroads upon the Christian possessions,
that the King of Jerusalem became alarmed, far fear of the total expulsion of
the Christians from Palestine, sod sent out an able messenger to beseech the
Western Princes to; send another Crusade; and historians say that he left his
.kjAgdom under the care of the Hospitalers and Templars, conjglutly, and
repaired to Constantinople to solicit the immediate aid of the Emperor Manuel.
And now a new enemy appeared, in the person of an Armenian Prince, Milon by
name, who, according to some historians, is represented as having been a
Templar, while others speak of him as an apostate Hospitaler, who renounced
his covenant, to prosecute a claim he had to the ,Aomeignty of his country. It
seems that the Latins had favored * pretensions of another aspirant, and this
so incensed him spinst the entire Christian band at Jerusalem, that he sought
tW most dastardly means of revenge. He entered into a league with the
Infidels, and proceeded to overrun the Principality of Autioeh with fire and
sword, and soon appeared on the frontiers of Judea. This apostate Knight
practiced greater cruelties than wan the Turkomans.
Against the Hospitalers and Templare ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
31
feeling indignant at the impudent request, and the unwise course pursued by
the King, ran upon the envoy and slew him with hit sword. The King was enraged
at this conduct, and demandel of the Templars that Du Mesnil be instantly
given into his hands. This the Templars refused to do, alleging that their
guilty brother could only be tried by their own laws, and the head of the
Church, at Rome.
This
answer of Odo, the Grand Master of the Templars, was in strict conformity with
the privileges granted by the Popes of Rome, nor was it givers with a view to
shield the murderer, for he was already in irons, awaiting his legal trial.
But
this defiance of kingly power was not likely to find favor in palaces, and
certainly not in the one at Jerusalem, for, in defiance of Odo's will, the
King took Du Mesnil and threw him into prison, from which it is not likely he
would have escaped, but for the death of the King, which soon after occurred,
1173.
Amaury
was succeeded by his son, Baldwin IV., who was not only under age, but a
sickly and indolent youth. Raymond, Count of Tripoli, was appointed regent
until the King arrived of age.
This
Prince bad several battles with Saladin, in the first of which he won a great
victory, and caused his enemy to make his escape upon the back of a dromedary
; but his triumph was of short duration, as he suffered a terrible defeat at
Jacob's Ford, on the Jordan.
In
this battle the entire Christian army fled, except the Templars and
Hospitalers, 'who alone maintained the battle, and, being so few,
comparatively, they were mowed down, neither seeking or receiving quarter. The
Grand Master of the Hospitalers, Joubert, now in his old age, was covered with
wounds, and bravely fought until he saw nearly all his Knights perish, and
then threw himself into the Jordan, and succeeded in swimming across it.
The
Grand Master of the Templars was borne down and captured by the enemy. Saladin
offered to exchange him for one of his relations, but the fearless Grand
Master refused the proposition, alleging that it would disgrace the Order, who
were pledged to conquer or die;
░‑)r
their head to set the example of surrender with the hope of being exchanged.
It is said, that in this battle, a Templar, named James De Maille, mounted on
a white horse, ,32
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
fought
so bravely, that the Saracens gave him the title of Saint George, and hoping
thereby to acquire his great courage, actually drank his blood.
The
disasters consequent on this defeat were well nigh fatal to Christianity in
Palestine. The Christian army was disbanded, the whole country was overrun by
the barbarians, the King was an inefficient, sickly monarch, .Ioubert was
incapable of service by reason of his wounds and great age, and Odo, the Grand
Master of the Templars, was in close captivity. Tinw were both Orders without
a leader. In this eitiemity, the venerable Grand Master of the Hospitalers,
over‑estimated his physical powers, by throwing himself at the head of a few
chosen Knights into the castle of Margat, to defend it from a strong force
sent against it.by Saladin.
The
defense made by the Knights covered them with honor, as did all their battles.
The otd Grand Master beheld the ramparts strewed with the bodies of his brave
Knights, and, yet, true to the pledge of the Order, lie spurned the demand to
capitulate.
At
this the enemy became enraged, made a desperate attack, and succeeded in
carrying the fortress.. 3oubert, though courting death, was compelled to
behold the last of his companions hewn down at his post, and then found
himself a captive, tb be thrown into a dungeon, where he was cruelly deprived
of the very necessaries of life, and thus terminated his illustrious life, in
1177.
The
Order elected Roger De Moulins, a Norman Knight, as his. successor.
About
this time, a series of misunderstandings and petty quarrels rendered the
military Orders nearly as hostile to each other as they were to the Infidels.
Christian charity and true piety no longer held together the bonds of union,
but instead thereof a spirit of rivalry, fed by a desire for office and
distinction, created jealousy and hatred, until the cause which they had sworn
to mantain was in danger of being lost. For remedy the King appealed to the
Pope, who, well knowing that the welfare of Palestine depended mainly upon the
united efforts of the Orders' of Knighthood, issued an order commanding them
to abandon their feuds, and sign an article of recon,iliation, based upon
their pledge to mantain the cause of ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
39
fanity in Palestine, etc., which they reluctantly obeyed, kh, for a time,
restored harmony, but afterward seemed to redpen and make wider the breach.
in the
period above to the year 1186, every thing bad ned unsettled in the kingdom
whose crown thus changed New efforts had been made at the Courts of France
Ingland for a new Crusade, with but partial effect, and the dealers and
Templars continued to wrangle about place. !1611' the storm, so long
threatened, burst upon the kingdom. had succeeded in making a traitor of the
Count of Trit d, being thus aided by a willing tool at Jerusalem, marcharmy,
composed of chosen men, into Palestine, in 1187, Wd siege to Acre.
The
Grand Masters of the Hospitalers ~Wd:Templars threw themselves into the
fortress with a strong 'ready of Knights, who now seemed to forget their
quarrels, and unite for the safety of the kingdom.
The
commanders deteruipned to give battle to Saladin, and, accordingly, marched
out '`ore day, and fell upon the sleeping enemy.
For a
time, conZ3 and confusion took possession of the Saracens, and tory seemed to
declare in favor of the Christians, but the ttan presented himself in the
midst of his panic‑stricken ldiers, and, by his well known voice, rallied them
in battle y: The Knights, to a man, fought bravely and well. The d Master of
the Hospitalers repeatedly charged 'the enemy skill and courage. but, at last,
his horse received a deadly and, and fell, with his rider under him. The
Hospitalers, ig him fall, formed around his body, which thus became the centre
of mortal conflict between Christian and Saracen.
The ~OodT
of the brave De Moulins was found buried under a pile of "dead, chiefly
Turkomans and Saracens.
He was
interred at with the honors of the Order, lamented by all the nation. ier, of
Syria, Grand Prior of England and‑Colonel Gem I of the infantry of the Order,
succeeded to the Grand chip .
To
avert suspicion, Raymond, the traitor, proposed to Saladin ;tte should attack
his own possessions, and accordingly laid Tiberias.
The
town fell into the Sultan's hands. but Princess, being ignorant of her
husband's treachery, retired s 34
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
with
the garrison into the castle, and made preparations for resolute defense.
These
facts were communicated by Raymond to the King, urging, at the same time, a
large force to defend the important place.
The
King adopted his perfidious advice, drained all his fortresses of the troops
for their defense, and croa ded his ranks. with citizens and peasants, who
were totally ipor. nt of war, and, thus prepared, took the field.
The
traitor occupi;,d a. prominent position in this army.
On
arriving near the po: ition of Saladin, Raymond prevailed with the King to
select a position where he knew water could not be procured:. Within . wenty‑four
hours, the King discovered his error, by perceiving that lie must either have
water or suffer a defeat,and he ordered an attempt to be made to force a
passage to the river. The Templars, with their accustomed bravery, volunteered
to lead the van, ankrushing upon Saladin, they charged the Saracen line with
so much effect that it was immediately broken.. But, at this eventful moment,
when it was made the duty of the Count of Tripoli to follow and support the
charge, the traitor turned his‑back and fled. His command returned to their
former position, and thus the Templars were left at the mercy of the enemy,
and were all slain or made captives.
The
Christians, having failed to make a passage to water, were compelled to pass
another night, suffering the torments of thirst. All discipline was lost sight
of, and, in this condition, Saladin attacked them, and, with very little
resistance, annihilated the entire army.
The
carnage is represented as being dreadful, as the Infidels showed no quarter,
and the life‑blood of thirty., thousand Christians ran in currents among the
rocks.
Among
the captives taken by Saladin were the King, the Grand Master of the Templars,
and a. great number of Lords. The Grand Master of the Hospitalers, after
performing many feats of valor, and seeing the battle irretrievably lost, cut
lxi& way through the enemy and fled to Ascalon,and soon after died.. Saladin
spared the lives of all except Reginald De Chatillon who was not improperly
put to death, as he had certainly con ducted himself with less humanity than
the great majority of barbarian commanders. It, is worthy of remark, that
Saladin was not only one of the wisest, but, we. drink, the very best.
OHDSES
OF HNIG$TBOOD.
35 $Wton
with whom the Christians had to contend.
Deeds
of lsevolence and acts of kindness and. mercy were performed by k 1m;
all
occasions, and these traits of character, together with his sense of stern
justice, were witnessed on the occasion above Referred to, While he demanded
of Reginald De Chatillou immediately to renounce his religion, and struck his
head off on 11ie‑refusal, he did not do so without reminding him of his
crimes. He further exhibited his noble traits, by sparing the lives or his
other captives, without exacting a. similar indignity. They wore *at prisoners
to Damascus.
The
kingdom of Jerusalem seemed now to be drawing rapidò 1~ to a close.
The
King and the principal nobility were in captivity, and the military Orders
were nearly extinct.
The
remnant of the Hospitalers met, it is true, to choose a Grand Master, to fill
the place of their venerable Chief, who fell at the battle of Tiberias ; but,
so far from hearing wringing, for elfice, that of Grand Master was no longer
an object of competition, but so evidently pregnant with hardships and perils,
that the Brotherhwid, with difficulty, prevailed upon Ermengurd Daps to accept
it, which he did, under a solemn conviction that and his companions were only
left the privilege of seeking an honorable death, and which, he hoped, would
occur before the final fall of Jerusalem. This Grand Master was installed in;
1187.* Soon after the events above recorded, Saladin, who had. Rot been
inactive, but continued his conquests, laid siege to Jerusalem, which was now
defended: by only a few thousand Christians, a great portion of whom were
followers of the Greek Church, end, therefore, hostile to the Latin rule. The
Queen, seeing no hope, offered to capitulate, but Saladin, knowing the
weakness of her forces, rejected her proposition, and. declared that, if the
city did not immediately surrender, he would scale the ram ‑ ports, and avenge
himself by an indiscriminate massacre of the the inhabitants, upon whose
skirts still hung the Moslem blood shed by Godfrey, of Bouillon.
This
answer fired the Latins to desperation, and, to a man, they determined to die
in defence "One or two historians say thatlis installation took place !n 1151.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
37
‑the Christian temples to be broken, " and the Patriarchar which had
originally been a magnificent mosque, built the Calif Omar, on the ruins of
the former Temple of lomon, was carefully purified with rose‑water, and again
ted to infidel rites." :After being compelled to admire the character and
liberal ng of Saladin, we are surprised to learn that he descended klJielow
his high reputation for wisdom and religious toler to order the great cross
which surmounted the dome ;fee, L'ttitriarehal church to be torn down, and,
for two succesxWe, to be dragged through the streets of the city.
*ad
now, after near a century of war and bloodshed, in the Christian world bad
more or less participated, the ,Sepulchre was once more in possession of the
MohamIone, and nowhere in Palestine did the Christian Cross apas' a rallying
point to its followers, except at Antioch, &,.and Tyre; and very many Of the
fugitives‑from Jernsw xWding their cause as forever lost, left the country and
iu the West.
0
6utherland.
CHAPTER II.
Tsa
lose of aerusalem, it is, said, so wrought open the fags of Pope Urban III.,
that he fell a prey to grief.
Dismay
and sorrow pervaded Europe. The Cardinals at Rome repounced all temporal
pleasures, and declared 'themselves and 'flocks as unworthy to wear the name
of Christians, so lax
as the
Holy City remained in possession ‑of the barbarians ; but these loud
professions of piety and valor, were afterward proven to be professions only,
for when William, of Tyre, besought their personal services in another
Crusade, they could only be inducted to recommend others to,engage in it.
Philip
II., of Prance, and Henry II., of England, agreed to settle their
diffictilties, and unitedly enter upon a new Crusade, for the deliverance of
the Holy Land from Mohammedan rule, and measures were forthwith adopted to
raise the means for fitting‑ out a largo force. Before the expedition was in
readiness, Henry died, and was succeeded by his son, Richard I., who was
afterward known as Coeur de Lion.
He
immediately took steps to carry out the plans of his father, in furtherance of
the Crusade.
Frederick Barbarossa, of Germany, and about seventy of the Princes of his
empire, entered heartily into the enterprise, and, indeed, all Christendom,
Spain excepted, took part in the new Crusade, the Christian communities alone
w thholding their contributions, under the pretest that they should not be
taxed to carry on wars, it being their business to pray for the prosperity of
Christian arms.
The
Crusaders commenced arriving at Acre in 1190, and famine began its work of
destruction in the. Christian ranks. Here originated a new Order of
Knighthood. The German Crusaders, finding that famine and disease were
carrying off their brethren‑in‑arms, knew not where to look for relief. About
this time, a company from Bremen and Lubeck arrived OBDSRS OF KNIONTHOOD.
38
‑and feeling compassion for their countrymen, who were from Alisease,
aggravated by exposure, benevolently Çortuth iplan :of making a large tent
from the sails of the ship tbiatlont'the sick were nursed and cared for by
those who vAuKamed their services, and thus originated the Teutonic. &4w of
Knights, which was confined to the Germans. By an oiiitttvf Pope Celestine,
dated February, 1192, this new Order required to frame its laws after those of
the Knights Hosso far. as related to benevolence, and after the Templars.
ug
military operations.
This
Association was known IM, title of the Teutonic Knights of St. Mary, of
Jerusalem. Awiirdrass wns:a white mantle bearing a black cross, trimme& with
gold.
e'
King of France arrived before Acre, which had been beedged by the forces
raised by the lute King of Jerusalem, amposed of newly arrived Crusaders, and
the then military DrdwL
The
King of France did not see proper to make ail ANvoWt to :take the city, until
the arrival of the King of Engjwi4which.took place on the 8th of June, 1191),
who soon after nguished'himself by his bold
acing,
whence he was styled Awa on hearted King.
Mainly
owing to his skill and braver* AL*ondactiRg the attack, the city capitulated
on the 18th of and the standard of the Cross was once more raised in ,tiatnaus
city.
But
glorious as this conquest was esteemed `0 tua ,dearly purchased, as it is
computed that more than one `Imadred thousand Christians perished before the
walls, ‑mainly is famine spa# disease.
Hospitalers, since the fall of Jerusalem, had held theirr rid quarters at
Margat, but now they substituted Acre. Their mod master baying died, they
elected Godfrey de Duisson, aged Knight, in 119:1.
Tire
taking of Acre constituted the only achievement of im, ittanoe effected by
this Crusade, for, soon after it, Philip of aeturned to his kingdom, and
desertions continued to Uo. ~&e ranks of Richard, until he was left powerless.
$ut
‑shad :quite z sufficient force to retake Jerusalem, and, burning desire to
'do ,sa. had approached within. a day's march 4 ‑tile city, and Saladin,
feeling his inability to hold ovt 4A
MODERN
FREEMASONRY against him, was revolving in his own mind the terms of capi.
tulation, when, from some cause, a panic fell upon the Christian army, which
being composed of volunteers, Richard was not able to restrain them from a
determination to abandon the country, and return to their homes. And thus
terminated the third Crusade. Richard, on his return to the West, was thrown
into an Austrian prison, and soon after died.
Scarcely had the Christians deserted Palestine when Saladin sickened and died,
beloved by his people and respected by his enemies.
Indeed, it may be truly said, that the character of no Christian, engaged in
the Paynim war, stands out more resplendently than that of Saladin, who,
though a barbarian in name, possessed all the wisdom and virtue of the most
refined of his age.
Grand
Master Duisson died, and was succeeded by Alphonso, of Portugal, 1202. This
Grand Master undertook to reform the habits of the Knights so far as to
confine them to poor and spare diet, and otherwise to enforce obedience to his
will in all things, which rendered him unpopular, and he was compelled to
resign.
He was
succeeded by Geofrai le Rot, a Frenchman, 1203, who found the Order resting on
their arms because of the six years' truce, signed by Richard and Saladin.
But a
failure in the Egyptian crops was producing universal distress in Palestine,
and thousands were dying of famine daily.
It is
said, at this period, the Hospitalers possessed principalities, cities, towns,
and villages, both in Asia and Europe, and held, within Christendom, no less
than nineteen thousand manors.* The Templars had also large possessions,
though nit equal in value to those of the other Order.
And,
now that Palestine did not require their united services in the field, their
ancient jealousies were renewed, which led to several battles, and peace was
only finally restored by the interposition of the Pope.
About
.'this time, another Hermit, or Bernard, made his appearance, in the person of
Fulk, a priest of Neuilly. By this man's cunning, the spirit of chivalry,
which had only subsided in Europe, was revived, and soon a large number of '
Manor, as here used, signifies the tillage of a plow and two oxen.‑MATasw Aum
ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
41 Ir
em and men of renown assumed the insignia of the Cross, and. .ph.cing
themselves under Boniface, engaged to prosecute another Crusade to the Holy
Land. This Crusade engaged the Doge of Venice to transport them by sea to St.
Jean d'Acre, but not being able to pay the sum agreed upon, entered into the
employment of the Doge, and fought his battles, and afterwards hired to a
Greek Prince to do likewise, and thus the Crusade, while it won, as well as
wore the name of the fifth Crusade, was, nevertheless, not a Crusade to the
Holy Land.
In
1206, both the King Lusignan and his consort died.
On
their death, Mary, daughter of Isabella and Conrad, of Tyre, succeeded to the
crown.
Palestine being thus again destitute of a king, and the Christians, being
convinced that nothing short of an able and efficient Prince could preserve
order within, and prevent attacks from without Palestine, sent to the King of
France, requesting that he would name a proper person to espouse the Queen.
The
Sovereign nominated John, of Brienne, a noble Knight of Champagne. The
Christians of Palestine built their hopes high upon this union, not doubting
the ability of their chosen champion to bring with him a large and disciplined
army, but, with his utmost exertions, he was only able. to take with him three
hundred Knights. But his fame as a warrior, was of itself a host, and,
immediately after espousing the young Queen, lie mounted his war steed,
determined to signalize his honey‑moon by deeds . of valor on the frontier of
the enemy.
But
his efforts were vain, as the Sultan was able to bring against him a force
which he had not the power to resist. For a remedy, he represented to the Pope
the deplorable condition of the Christian cause in Palestine, and besought his
aid. The Pope summoned the Princes of the West to meet him in Council, but
various causes prevented obedience to this mandate until June, 1215, when a
deputation from almost every monarch is Christendom, together with a great
number of priests, assem. `bled at Rome.
The
result of this Council was a unanimous determination to send out another
Crusade.
Andrew, King of Hungary, was the first leader to unfurl his banner.
Joined
by the chivalry of Austria and Bavaria, he embarked, with his fol lowers, in
Venetian vessels, having despatched an invitation to 42 MODERN FREEMASONRY.
the
Grand Master of the Hospitalers to meet him in Council at Cyprus.
The
Grand Master, attended by his officers, accord ingly obeyed this invitation.
The
King manifested the highest veneration for the courage and warlike skill of
the Hospitalers, and, at his request, was received as a member of the Order.
In giving testimony afterwards in behalf of the Knights of Saint John, the
King said : " Lodging in their house, I have seen their feed daily an
innumerable multitude of poor; while the sick were laid in good beds, and
treated with great care, the dying were assisted with an exemplary piety, and
the dead were decently buried.
In a
word, this noble militia are employed sometimes, like Mary, in contemplation,
at other times, 'like Martha, in action ; and thus ‑consecrate their days t(,
deeds of mercy, and to a maintenance off constant warfare against the infidel
Amalekites, and the enemies of the Cross." The King of Hungary remained with
the Crusaders but little more than three months, and though having done but
little for the cause, he returned home, leaving the Christian army destitute
of a great leader. But this misfortune was soon remedied by the arrival of
William, Count of Holland, who broub rt with him quite a large addition to the
Crusaders.
In a
Grand Council called by the King of Jerusalem, it was determined to turn their
arms against Egypt, and, first, to attack Damietta, the strongest
fortification in that country.
Landing near the mouth of the Nile, they debarked, 1215.
In
this action the Knights distinguished themselves by being al*ays foremost in
encountering danger.
After
long and continued efforts, made with the,most enthusiastic zeal, a machine,
invented by the German Crusaders, was brought to bear against the town, and
the post was taken. At this timelarge reinforcements arrived in the camp of
the Crusaders, and, at their head, was Cardinal Pelagius, a proud, overhearing
priest, as Legate from the Holy See.
_
Grieved at the straightened condition of his favorite city, Saphadin
terminated his reign, by dividing between his sit eldest sons his dominions.
Damietta fell to the portion of Coradine, who set his heart upon its delivery,
and, being urged on by the same spirit of chivalry which bad actuated his
father, he no 'sooner learned the improbability of his being ‑ible to o8D')M
oX XNIGRTsOOD.
43
Ahrow assistance into the garrison, than he commenced negotialions, and, in
his zeal fertile sufferers within, he offered to give I`he Christians
Jerusalem, Thoran, and several other cities, and Ao restore the Holy Cross,
which his uncle Saladin had taken at Tiberias. The King and the Grand Master
of the Hospitalers inclined to accept the offer, but the Legate Pelagius
imjected it, and his arguments prevailed with the council.
At
'last, after a siege of seventeen months; the city was taken ; and tye‑witnesses
tell us that it wore the appearance of one vast l 'tomb‑more than eighty
thousand men having perished, and the 'few who were left were so reduced by
famine, that they had 'barely strength to crawl from door to door. This
victory was Poon after avenged by the enemy, who so hemmed in and sur. rounded
the Legate, with water let out of the river, when lie had 'been seduced to a
given place, that, no means of escape effering, Ire agreed to restore the
captured city.
Thus
terminated this unfortunate Crusade.
The
Knights of St. John expended, in this expedition, about eight thousand
byzantines in the public service, and yet they did not entirely escape the
tongue of slander, as it charged them with appropriating to themselves some
temittances from Europe‑all which, however, they triumph. aomtly proved to be
false.
In
1222, a Grand Council was held at Ferentino, in 'the 10ampagna di Roma. This
Council was attended by the Pope, the Emperor Frederick II., grandson of
Barbarosa, John de '$rienne, King of Jerusalem,‑ the Patriarch of that city,
the Legate Telagius, Guerin De Montaigu, Grand Master of 'the $ospitalers, and
Deputies from the Templars and Teutonic Orders.
Frederick, who was not inclined to bow very obsequioasly to the Holy See, was
induced to take' an interest in' the cause of Palestine, by a promise of
marriage to Violante, only daughter of the King, and heiress to the crown of
Jernsatem.
Thus
bethrothed, he promised to lead, within two years, ample forces to expel the
Infidels from the Holy Land.
But
1here is good reason to believe that the Emperor was better Oessed with the
"pomp and circumstance of war," than with 4he 'hardship and dangers of the
battle‑field, for he made ,acuses, and delayed this promised expedition four
years, and ,44
MODERN
FREEILA$O1RY.
then,
being overtaken by a storm at. sea, had a, fit of ague, and, rider the advice
of his physician, put into the first harbor, where he remained inactive, until
the naturally ill temper of Pope Gregory IX. was so excited, that he publicly
excommunicated ,him. This holy curse was, in those days, fatal to every
prince, .for all. believed they were doing, God's service, to treat with
contempt prince or peasant, against whom the thunders of the Vatican had been
poured out.
The
churches were closed, Lent .was proclaimed, and the people were prohibited all
indulgences and pleasures, and Frederick found himself to be the occupant of a
throne, without the obedience of his subjects.
This
Prince .boldly stood out against the tyrannical mandates of the Pope .for a
long time, but was finally compelled to supplicate for mercy.
During
all, this time, the Christians of Palestine were in a deplorable condition.
Living
under a truce, the military Orders were out of their element, as it were, and
were wrangling with each other.
The
reinforcements sent by Frederick were insufficient, and the Grand Master of
the Hospitalers, being most of the time in Europe, they were without a leader
in whom . they had confidence.
In
1228, after his excommunication, Frederick arrived at St. Jean d' Acre, where
it was not known that he was under the holy curse, but the Pope was not tardy
in sending a dispatch with this intelligence, when the Hospitalers and
Templars, always obedient to the Holy See, refused to follow his standard. But
Frederick had the friendship of the Teutonic Knights, and, with the forces he
could command, unfurled his banner, and took up his march. The Hospitalers and
Templars could not hear the Christian war‑cry and remain inactive, and, hence,
were soon found following, under pretense of protecting the probable retreat
of Frederick's army.
This
Prince knew well the importance of the friendship of these Orders, and soon
compromised with them, by agreeing that all orders should be issued in the
name of " God and Christendom." Thus were the Knights reconciled, by
withholding the name of Frederick from all orders, though known to be issued
by him. This army entered Jaffa without opposition; and commenced rebuilding
the fortifications. But intelligence soon reached Frederick ORDF'IG9 OF
KNIGHTHOOD.
that
the deadly hatred of the Pope was being displayed against him, by an attack
upon his Italian dominions.
Frederick had, through his agents, sought a reconciliation with the Pope, but
His Holiness spurned all overtures, and made war against his authority. This
unholy war of Christian against Christian, by order of the great head of the
Christian Church, caused all Europe to stand aghast, and especially did all
Christendom look with horror upon this deadly strife, when they beheld the
merciless butcheries perpetrated to avenge personal hatred.
Frederick finally entered Jerusalem in triumph, but here Ira was compelled to
behold the extent to which a blind worship of the edicts of the Pope was
capable of leading ; for now he was to be crowned King of Jerusalem, but there
was no one who dared place the crown upon his head, and he was compelled to
take it from the altar of the Holy Sepulchre, and place it upon his own head,
and request the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights to pronounce an eulogium.
Here
follows some testimony, greatly reflecting upon the honor and integrity of the
Hospitalers and Templars. A plot was laid for the purpose of delivering up the
Emperor into the hands of the Saracens ; and, though historians differ in
their version of its origin, the weight of testimony tends to prove that the
Pope was at its foundation, and that he commanded the Knights to perpetrate
the dastardly deed, in order that he might be .rid of his enemy.
Certain it is, that information was communicated to the Sultan of Egypt, that
the Emperor was about to return to Italy, and, immediately before his
departure; he would visit Jordan, in order to bathe in its sacred waters, and
suggested that a band of Saracens be sent to intercept and put him to death,
or make him a prisoner.
But
the Sultan; proving himself to be more of a Christian, Infidel as he was; than
the head of the Church and his sworn followers, received the proposal with
abhorrence, and promptly sent the treacherous epistle to the Emperor.
This
noble act of Coradine led to the most happy results, as it produced
negotiations, and, finally, a ten years' truce, and, straage to say, the terms
were altogether in favor of the Christians, which must have resulted more
froni 46
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
a
sympathy felt by Coradine for the Emperor, or. account of the malignant
persecutions of the Pope, than from any fear of the Christian army. By this
treaty, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Tyre, and Sidon. were restored to the
Christians, with full liberty to rebuild their fortifications. Equal
privileges, both civil and religious, were guaranteed to Christians and
Mohammedans within the Holy City, and all that was reserved exclusively to the
Mohammedans, was the Mosque of the Temple, with the court and enclosure, where
they believed their Prophet commenced his nocturnal journey to heaven.
No
sooner did Frederick return to Europe, than his personal influence decided in
his favor the war which the Pope had waged against him. But the moment the
head of the Church was whipped at his own game, he availed himself of his
imperial prerogative to wreak his vengeance, by adding to the excommunication
of Frederick a bull, which absolved the sub jects of the Emperor from all
allegiance to him as their lawful prince..
This
crowning act of Iwly meanness at. once had the effect to humble Frederick, and
cause him to supplicate for mercy.
Frederick, being now otherwise occupied, failed to send assistance to his
subjects in Palestine, and he ceased to feel or care for the country, and, but
for the supervision the Hospitalers and Templars exercised over the country,
the very order of society, necessary to its existence, would have been
destroyed.
In
1230, the Grand Master of the Hospitalers died,. and w4b succeeded by Bertrand
De Texis.
During
the Grand Mastership‑ of Texis, a serious dispute arose between the Bishop of
Acre and the Hospitalers,. in relation to tithes. The Bishop was foiled at
home, and an appeal to the Pope. still further condemned his cause, and
justified the course of the Knights, whereupon, this malignant priest
instituted a catalogue of charges against the Brotherhood, of a most. serious
character. He charged, before tho Pope, ,that the Knights were false to their
vows of chastity; kept loose women in their houses;, protected robbers, murder
em and heretics. and altered the wills of those who died ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
47
under their care, etc., etc.
These
charges were most probably as false as were the principles of the Bishop who
made them. but such testimony of their truth was furnished, as induced the
Pontiff to believe them true, for he dispatched an order, threatening
punishment, unless speedy reformation was produced. It is rather singular that
we can find nothing on record, going to show that the truth or falsehood of
these charges were ever established by investigation, and thus, with the
generally upright conduct and consistent morals of the military OrderR,
tending to prove them entirely groundless, we are not permitted so to declare
by any court of inquiry.
In
1231, Bertrand De Tesis died, and ‑was succeeded by Guerin De Montacute.
In
1236, Montacute died, and was succeeded by Bertrand De Comps.
Palestine, being now deserted by the Emperor, and notbeing subject to his
representatives, was divided against itself. In all these disputes, the
Hospitalers and Templars were found to be in opposition to each other.
Their
ancient jealousies were always revived when they were resting upon their arms.
In
short, it would seem, from the history of these Orders, that their noble
bearing and high moral integrity were best seen on the battle‑field. The
Hospitalers were no longer the humble attendants upon the sick, but arrogant
tyrants, under the influence which their immense wealth bestowed upon them.
The
Templars, though not so wealthy, were, nevertheless, possessed of large
estates, and they, too, had become slaves of their passions. At this period,
had not the Sultans of Egypt and Damascus been at variance, Palestine could
have been easily overrun and conquered ; but both these Sultans were striving
for the friendship of the Knights, and, hence, neither was inclined to make
war upon the Christian possessions.
Indeed, so feeble had been the forces of the Latin Christians from the days of
Saladin, that, at almost any time, Palestine could have been wrested from the
followers of the Cross, had there been concert of action between the
Mohammedan rulers.
About
this time, another effort,was made in Western Europe to get up AM another
Crusade into the Holy Land.
The
truce 'a
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
which
had been sinned by the Sultan of Egypt and the Emperor Frederick had expired,
and the Sultan, hearing of the contempla ted Crusade, determined to drive the
Latins out of Jerusalem. Soon after, the vanguard of the seventh Crusade
landed at Acre, under command of Thibald, Count of Champagne. The Infidels
allowed them to reach Ascalon without opposition, but, near Gaza, they were
completely defeated by an inferior body of Saracens, and Thibald returned in
haste to Europe.
The
Earl of Cornwall, brother of Henry III., King of England, arrived soon after
Thibald's departure. Cornwall brought with him the chivalry of England, and
boldly advanced to Jaffa. where lie was met by an envoy from the Sultan of
Egypt, with a proposition for a new truce. This led to a treaty, whereby it
was stipulated that Jerusalem should become entirely a Christian city ; that
the Christians should possess all the villages betweeu the capital and the
coast, and that they should be at liberty to fortify all the restored posts.
To this treaty the Hospitalers gave their assent, but inasmuch as they had
refused to sign the one previously entered into by the Templars, the latter,
influ enced by spleen, refused their approval of this.
This
produced great confusion, for, notwithstanding there were two truces, one of
the Orders continued at war with the Sultan of Egypt, and the other with the
Sultan of Damascus, and these two Sultans being at variance, there seemed but
little hope of terminating the matter by amicable negotiations.
But
whatever feelings animated the bosoms of the jealous Knights, all Christian
hearts were once more rejoiced to behold the insignia of the Cross, from the
Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea. Priests now returned in swarms to the city of
Jerusalem. The churches were cleansed and reconsecrated, and the Hospitalers
expended everything in their treasury, and levied contributions from other
Command cries, in order to insure the rebuilding of the fortifications.
Grand
Master Bertrand de Comps died in 1241, under the following circumstances : The
Turkomans having invaded the territories of the Prince of Antioch, lie
entreated the assistance of the military Orders, and the Grand Masters of the
Hospitalars and Templars promptly responded to the call, led their Knights to
the scene of war, and gave the Infidels battle. In this bloody ORDERS OF
KNIGHTHOOD.
49
Conflict, both armies fought with intrepid valor.
Indeed, the Infidels fought so resolutely, that the Grand Master of the
Hospitalers became enraged, and threw himself headlong into the midst of the,
enemy's squadrons. .This daring act was mainly instrumental in defeating the
enemy, but the Grand Master came forth so wounded, that he survived but a
short time.
t The
Chapter chose, as, the nest., Grand Master, Peter de Ville.
bride.
I'G
CHA"PTRR 11r.
THE
Christian population of the Holy City had uow increased to about six thousand,
but the rebuilding of the walls advanced but slowly. Thus defenceless, the
Korasmians, a savage people from the shores of the Caspian, who had been
driven from their deserts by the arms of the Moguls, now, like an avalanche,
poured into Palestine, in 1243.
These
" Parthian shepherds" practiced their peculiar Pagan rites, and were equally
hostile to Christians and Mohammedans, and Christians and Mohammedans saw it
to be alike their interest, to unite and drive back this threatened tornado.
of merciless beings; but their combined efforts were vain.
Had
Malek Kamel, the late wise and generous Sultan of Egypt, lived, it is quite
probable that the result would have been different; but his successor,
Nogemadin, stood aloof.
Feeling himself secure, he cared little for his brethren of Aleppo and
Damascus, and still less for the fate of the Christians of Palestine.
He not
only refused to take part in the struggle, but, professing to have some cause
of complaint against the Templars, hb communicated with the' Korasmian
leaders, and informed them of the defencelessness of Jerusalem.
The
Korasmians had been driven, with merciless barbarity, from their homes, and,
with no less barbarous feelings, they aought a new home, careless in what
direction it might be found, or at what expense of blood. Barbacan, their
Chief, no sooner received this information, than, at the head of twenty
thousand horse, he speedily entered Palestine, before the Christians were
aware of his intentions.
The
military Orders, as we have intimated, were generally quarreling in time of
peace; but the war‑cry of the Cross united them as brothers. They were now the
only hope for the defence of the Holy City, and they at once saw that
resistance would not only be vain, but, finally, fatal to the ir habi. tants,
and, therefore, all were enjoined to evacuate the city, and ORDERS OF
KNIGHTHOOD.
5 1,
repair to Jaffa.
The
Knights went not to Jaffa ; but, taking to the open country, prepared to seek
a favorable opportunity to give the enemy battle.
Some
of the inhabitants of the city, who could not bring themselves to consent to
leave it, threw up some temporary defences, and determined to remain. The
Korasmians found no difficulty in overcoming this feeble opposition, and,
entering the city, sword in hand, spared neither age nor sex.
That
they might celebrate their victory with still more massacres of defenseless
human beings, they replanted the Christian standards upon the towers, and,
thus deceived, many re. turned, as they thought, to their houses and their
friends, onl~ to be butchered by the barbarians.. The Holy Church of Cal= vary
was profaned by these barbarians, and, that they . might seem less merciful
than the wild beasts of` the forest, they 001lec'ted, and drove to the Holy
Sepulchre, a crowd of old men; nuns, and helpless children, and there
massacred them, as if for pastime.
We
pause, at this point in our history, to contemplate, as we may be permitted,
the wonder‑working mysteries of divine Providence. If we turn our thoughts
back, and behold the, pride and pomp of the various armies sent forth from all
Europe, for no other purpose than to win, by their blood and treasure,
possession of that spot of ground where, it is supposed, one* rested the body
of our Saviour; if we undertake to enumerate the millions of lives sacrificed,
in order to keep up the show of Christian devotion, and more firmly to
establish the divine and temporal supremacy of the head of the Church, and,
above all, if we remember that the whole originated in a deep laid scheme to
bring the world under subjugation to the See of Rome, we shall wonder less why
it was that the splendid military achievements of kings and princes were made
to vanish into nothingness, before a wild, unknown, and unlooked for bafld of
barbarians, at a time when Christendom was beginning to regard the Holy Land
as permanently and peaceably in possession of the nominal friends of the
Cross. Can we believe that, if the cause of the Crusaders, concocted and put
on foot by the Pope, had been the cause of Christ and His holy religion, tha
God of battles wpuld have permitted twenty thousand strangeM 59
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
without opposition, to enter the Holy City, never more to be regained or
occupied by a Christian people? Well might Fuller, after recounting the
thrilling incidents connected with its history,, exclaim:‑" Sleep, Jerusalem,
sleep in thy ruing; at this day of little beauty and less strength: famous
only for what thou hast been." After the fall of Jerusalem, the Sultan of
Egypt sent a body of troops to cooperate with the Korasmian leader, while tl+e
Sultan of Damascus gave assistance to the Christians, at, the earnest
solicitation of the Knights. Thus situated, the Koranmian strength was
numerically much the greatest, and yet the Christians gained several inferior
victories, till,, at length, at the urgent solicitation of the Patriarch, who,
for the time, laid aside his holy calling, in order to give aid to military,
operaò tions, it was determined to hazard a general engagement. All. things
being, ready, the war‑cry, was heard, and the Christians_ went into the fight
with high hopes of victory, tbough the enemy stood five to one in the field;
and to render this inequality much greater, no sooner did the battle rage
with. fierce. ness than, through fright or treachery, the troops sent by the
Sultan of Damascus broke ground and fled.
Thus
deserted,. 'out not dismayed, the Christians stood their ground, and fought
valiantly for two whole days.
Hospitalers and Templars vied with each other,: to be, foremost in the battle,
and, by their prowess; the field was strewn with the slain of their enemies:;,
but their lances were too few, to penetrate the dense barriers= continually
being filled up and presented against them, and, finally, borne down by the
might of numbers, the Christian; Knights, one. by one, yielded up their lives
at the foot of their banner.
The
Grand Master of the Hospitale A, the Grand. Master of the Templars, and the
Commander of the Teutonic Knights, each and all fell valiantly fighting at the
head of their companions, and there escaped only thirty‑tree Templars, sixteen
Hospitaler#, and three Teutonic Knights.
This
disastrous and bloody battle was fought on the sew coast, near Gaza, 1244, and
well nigh completed the ealwnidep of the Holy Land; for it almost annihilated:
these valiant band& of military Knights, who from the. days of Godfrey htwl
,
ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
`SH
the bulwark of Palestine‑the strong arm of tire Paynim war. "The little
remnant who escaped the Infidel massacre
░threw
themselves into Acre, where the Hospitalers chose William De Chateauneuf as
their Grand Master.
:Scarcely had the refugees recovered from exhaustion, and before they had time
to seek reinforcements, or even to organize for defence, the Korasmians, with
their Egyptian allies, encamped before Acre, at the same time that they
invested ‑Jaffa. Sir Walter de Brienne, the Lord of the latter city, had been
taken captive in the late battle, and now, in order to :strike terror into the
hearts of the inhabitants; and induce them to yield without an effort, the
Korasmians showed him, sitting ,on a gibbet.
But,
to the surprise of his enemies, lie earnestly addressed his soldiers,
beseeching them to put no faith in the promises made to them.
This
magnanimous daring was not punished by his immediate death, but he was
reserved for even a worse fate, in an Egyptian dungeon.
Here,
again, we would pause in wonder and astonishment, xt `the handiwork of divine
Providence. After the entire chivalry of Europe had, for near one hundred and
ninety years, contended manfully and successfully against the united powers;
of the East, for possession of the Holy Land, an obscure tribe of barbarians,
unknown in the annals of warfare, indeed, scarcely heard of as inhabitants of
the earth, suddenly burst upon the Syrian deserts, march to, and, almost
without a blow, take possession of the Holy City, despoil and desecrate every
venerated relic, and then, with irresistible force, devastate and destroy
wherever in Palestine they directed their course.
And to
render this mystery the more remarkable, this very people had scarcely
accomplished the seemingly destined object of their mission, when a fatal
spell appeared to fall upon them.
They
bad scourged the Latin Christians ; but, in turn, a still more fatal scourge
was pending over their own heads. Domestic quarrels arose in their camp,
deadly feuds ensued, and, man to man, they were seen in mortal combat.
Like
locusts they had suddenly overrun the Syrian deserts, and when they bad
strip.. ped the country of its beautiful foliage, they commenced devour, ing
each other.
And
still a greater number fell by the hands 54
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
of the
Syrian peasants, who, finding all organization and concert of action abandoned
by these barbarians, pursued and destroyed them wherever they wandered over
the country. So fatally did the two causes above named operate upon the
Korasmians, that before the final expulsion of the Latin Christians from
Palestine, this tribe of barbarians were annihilated, for, from that period,
their existence is not known‑their name is scarcely mentioned in the history
of the world.
The
Patriarch of Jerusalem and his Bishops laid before Pope Innocent IV. the facts
of the desolation of that City, and depicted the horrid massacre of the brave
champions, in such terms as moved to tears his counselors, and they united in
beseeching the Pope to summon, once more, the Christian nations to. send out
another Crusade to the Holy Land. While Jerusalem wa^ being taken. and the
Christian banner down‑trodden, the banner of St. John was waving triumphantly
against the Moors in Spain, and the Tartars in Hungary ; and, even before the
news of the fall of Jerusalem was known, the western nations were agitating
the eighth Crusade; and, though their enthusiasm was not so wild as in former
times, a Council at Lyons decided that a Crusade should be preached throughout
Christendom.
Nor
was that preaching in vain, when the eloquent speakers depicted the sufferings
and inhuman slaughter of the followers of Christ, at the verge of the tomb of
our Saviour.
Louis
IX., of France, a Prince of the best virtues, having pious notions, partaking
of extravagance, while suffering under a painful sickness, made a vow to visit
the Holy Land with an army, if God would restore him to health.
As
soon as this was known, his three royal brothers, the Counts of Artois,
Poitiers, arid Anjou, and also the Duke of Burgundy, with numerous friends,
announced their determination to follow him.
When
the King assumed the Cross, he threw off all pomp, exchanging the royal purple
for the pilgrim's habit.* The military Orders were everywhere encouraged by
the prospect of efficient aid, and they drew from the European Bi*ry of St.
Lore&, by Joinville.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
55 Prf
Ties their men and treasure ;but three years elapsed before the King of France
was prepared to take the field.
0a the
12th of June, 1248, Louis went in procession to the Abbey of St. Dennis, where
the Pope's Legate, in solemn form, delivered to him the Oriflamme,* with the
Palmer's scrip and staff. Having made his mother, Blanche, regent of his
kingdom, he embarked.for Cyprus, and arrived at that place on the 28th of
August.
In
consequence of the slow arrival of his forces, Louis was detained at Cyprus
eight months, during which time he was piously engaged in advancing the
Christian cause. Through his influence, a reconciliation was effected between
the Hospitalers and Templars, who had imbibed some little jealousies; and now
that they were once more on good terms, they consulted Louis as to the best
manner of effecting the liberation of those members of their respective
Orders; held as captivesby the Sultan of Egypt, and, it is said, the propriety
of entering into amicable arrangements with the Mohammedan Prince; which
proposition, Louis, in his Christian zeal, rejected with disdain.
This
incident, unimportant as it may seem, gave rise to a charge of grave
importance against the Templars. Though the proposition, if made at all, came
equally from both Orders, yet the enemies of the Templars, only, effected
anything. They charged that the Grand Master of that Order was a secret ally
of the Sultan, which bad been entered into, by each opening a vein and causing
their blood to mingle in the same bowl. We have examined with some care for
proof of the truth or falsehood of the above allegation, and have to confess,
that we are still left in doubt.
On the
one hand, we know that the Templars had ever been governed by that well nigh
inhuman law, which made it their duty to abandon any member of the Order, who
would suffer himself to be taken alive by the enemy from which it would seem
unreasonable to suppose they would, on the occasion referred to, not only
depart from this' law; but also propose an alliance with their bitterest
enemy. On the other hand, we find nearly all the writers, including Joinville,
teem to favor‑the truth of the charge,
Fuller
tells as. that the Oriflamme. the banner of St. Deanis.
v 50
MODERN: FREEMA&MY.
custom
of giving sanctity' to' treaties, by suffering; the blood of the parties to
flow into the same bowl, belonged to the Infidel nations‑that they were 'in
the habit of mixing the blood,, mingled with'wiiie,'and drinking it as a
sacred ‑libation. The Knights Templar, of the present day, think they have
strong reasons for believing, that this,` or a very, similar =custom, was
practiced by the 'Order' 'itself, and, therefore, suppose it to be of
Christian origin.
Louis,
at length;'haaing received all his forces and supplies, accompanied by his
Quoen and the Princes Charles and Robert, made ready to spt sail for the
Paynim coast, on Trinity Sunday, 1249: And what a'spectacle was there
presented l eighteen hundred sails dotting the seas of Cyprus, ' within full
view. France had been almost depopulated, and its treasuries exhaust ed, to
gratify the pious King.
Sixty
thousand men were here being led by that wild and misguided zeal which had
been enkindled, mainly, by designing Popes, and had already cost Christendom
millions' upon millions of treasure, and thousands upon thousands of lives.
About
a week after he set sail, Louis, clothed in complete armor, and overshadowed
by the Oriflamm, leaped upon the shore of Egypt, and gave battle to the enemy,
who wero there ready to receive him. This battle was of short duration, but
though the Christians were victorious, it was not without a hard struggle, and
the loss of many valuable lives.
At
Damietta, near where he landed, Louis was ‑joined by the two Grand Masters of
the military Orders, from Acre, at the head of a band of chosen Knights; and,
also, by Longespee, the fellow‑crusader of Cornwall, who, on this occasion,
suffered his earldom to be confiscated. rather than obey his King, and remain
at home. 'Louis called a Council, and, while the older and more experkence4
soldiers recommended ,an attack upon Alexandria, and 'a cautious movement
onward, he yielded to the advice of his brother, Count of Artois, ‑backed by
some young and impetuous Barons, and marched direct for Grand Cairo. On their
march they found no inhabitants, or appearance of the enemy, until they came
near Massoura, when five hundred Egyptian horsemen came forward, and reported
ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
ST
themselves as deserters from the Mohammedan army.
The
wing received them without suspicion, and made guides of them. detachment of
the Templars, having advanced a considerable try ahead of the main army, the
Mamalukes suddenly drew 'heir swords and charged them with fury.
But
the Knights were not to be intimidated by Saracen war‑shouts ; they rallied
4tronnd their intrenid Grand Masters, and bravely kept their ground until
reinforced, when the Mamalukes were slain to ~a ~lnan.*
The
King came up with the enemy, encamped on the '.ink of the Asbmoum Canal, which
was too deep to ford, and ‑the attempted to throw a bridge across it, but the
enemy set fire to and burned the timbers as fast as they were put up.
At
lftngth, an Arab yielded to a large bribe, and pointed out a 'lord, which the
Count of Artois begged leave to secure.
The
King, fearing to trust entirely to so rash and headstrong a `leader,
hesitated, but, finally, agreed to it, on condition that Knights of the
Hospital and Temple should take the van, Abe Count pledging himself to go no
further until the main "srmy came up.
At the
head of fourteen hundred Knights and ''lao hundred English Crusaders, under
the celebrated Longespee, the Prince threw himself into the ford, and, though
they were "stet on the opposite bank by three hundred Egyptian horse, they
passed the ford with but slight loss. ‑ But no sooner was this effected, than
the Count forgot his pledge, and, in despite 'of the warning of the Knights,
pursued the fugitives to their `tintrenchment, and entered pellmell.
A
panic seized the enemy, `who supposed the whole Christian army were upon them,
Iastily fled, and, even the garrison of Massoura, threw open its gates, and
joined their countrymen.
The
Prince, carried away `by his success, instantly proposed to the Grand Masters,
to ':proceed at once to storm the town. The Knights entreated '‑him to pause
until the main army came up, urging that, as soon ~as the Saracens should
discover their small number, they would tally in full force, and cause them a
disastrous defeat.
The
'Prince answered: " I now see that it is not without reason that the Knights
of the Temple and Hospital are accused of favoring Camden.
troops
to oppose the approach of the King.
And
now com menced the work of slaughter.
The
inhabitants of the town, perceiving the small number of the Christians, openly
attacked them in the streets, and stones, arrows, and Greek fire were showered
down upon them from the tops of the houses.
It is
Eaid that the Count, seeing all was lost, repented of his harsh language, and
cried out to Longespee : "Fly, fly, for God fights against us."
The
English Earl replied: " God forbid that my father's son should fly from the
face of a Saracen ;" and, though unhorsed and wounded, he dashed into the
thickest of the fight, and gave up his gallant spirit on a pile of the slain.
Only
three Templars, four Hospitalers. and three Teutonic Knights survived. The
Grand Master of the Hospitalers was captured, and the Grand 11Saster of the
Templars, with the loss of an eye, and covered with wounds, cut his way
through the enemy, so exhausted from loss of blood, as to be barely able to
reach the King;* who, enraged at the account of the battle, charged the
Egyptian army in,person, and was ever to be seen in the thickest of the fight.
The
Grand.Master of the Templars, in this onset, received a wound in the other
eye, which terminated his life.
The
Christians and Saracens each claimed the victory of this battle ; but, be this
as it may, it was fatal tt the Christians.
The
Saracens cut off all communication between the Christian army and the coast ;
the air became pestilential, from the unburied slain, and a fatal disease was
added to famine. Louis was contemplating a retreat, when the Saracens burst
into his camp, and commenced a general slaughter of the sick and helpless.
The
King, though laboring under disease, seized his battle‑axe, and rushed to the
scene of conflict.
Sir
Godfrey Sergines finally withdrew Louis, and carried him to a village, where
he was afterward taken prisoner, together with the Counts of Anjou and
Poitiers, and nearly all his followers who remained alive.
Louis
ransomed himself and his army, by the payment of about sixteen thousand livres,
and a ten years' truce was agreed to ; and the King, with the remainder of his
army departed thence, 1250, to Acre, where he remained about ò 7otnville.
‑t'3O
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Four
years, 'not being willing to return to France without accomplishing something
for the cause of Christianity. During his stay at Acre, lie received a message
from the Old Man of the Mountains, who sent two of his Assasins to demand the
usual tribute, or safety bribe. These messengers stated that Frederick, of
Germany. Andrew, of Hungary, the Sultans of Egypt, and many other monarchs,
had paid it, knowing that their lives were, at all times, in the hands of the
old Chief, and that Louis must either pay or obtain the Old Man's exemption
from the tribute, . ivliiclt lie was bound to pay to the Grand Masters of the
Temp Tars and Hoapitalers.
On
being asked why they did not sacrifice the Grand Masters, they replied that if
a Grand Master be slain, anctlier would, at once, spring up, and nothing would
be effected.
The
King refused to pay, or negotiate with the messengers, but referred them to
the Grand Masters, who declared !hat their characters as deputies alone saved
them from being thrown into the sea, and ordered them to return, and tell
their Chief that, if lie did not make satisfaction to the King, for the
insult, within fifteen days, the Knights of the two Orders would see to his
chastisement.
Within
the time, a present of a shirt and a ring, was sent to the King, as a token of
friendship and protection.
In the
four years Louis remained at Acre, we find nothing which can satisfactorily
account for that sojourn from his kingdom. True, he rapaired the
fortifications of that city, and rebuilt two or three at the neighboring
towns, and left some. troops and money with the Syrian Christians ; but, in
all that transpired during this, or the second Crusade, made in his old age,
we find nothing, save a wild zeal'for the Church, calculated to give him
character or renown.
He
almost beggared France, by draining its treasure, and made thousands of widows
and orphans, by, the lives which lie sacrificed in the Paynim war ; but we are
left in doubt Whether either, or both, called for his canonization.
Palestine being without a king, the Grand Masters of the two Orders were now
in unlimited power, and none were better qualified for the trust, lead there
been the proper good feeling subsisting between the Orders themselves ; but,
unfortunately, ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD. ò
61
while they knew that. party feuds, among the Syrian Chris. `1ksns, were at the
foundation of the most of their troubles, and, NW.the kingdom of Jerusalem
could not be maintained, except. 1W concert of action, still were, they ever
ready to burst out in.. open, quarrels, superinduced by a jealous watchfulness
as to pre"dency, and an ambitious desire each felt to obtain superior military
renown.
When
engaged against the common enemy,.
wire
ever united, and equally invincible; but no sooner : they resting under a.
truce or treaty, than their quarrels "ld be renewed, leading often to bloody
conflicts between.
s *liridual
Knights, and, sometimes, skirmishes,. or hard fought "`4attles between
detachments. In 1259, a battle was fought by. 0 the distinguished Knights of
both Orders, and, so desperate. was the conflict, that, though the Hospitalers
proved victorious; it. was not accomplished until the last Templar had fallen.
Before the Templars could gather, from their European Comò manderies, a
sufficient force to avenge this defeat, their attention was called off by a.
demand for their united efforts against the enemy. In this year, the Grand
Master of the Hospitalers, William De: Chateauneuf, died, and was succeeded'
by Hugh De Revel.
Shortly after his installation, Pope Alexander IV. gave authority to this
Order to wear a black cloak (clamydes nigras) hospital, and a red tunic and a
white cross‑ in: camp, to. disdaguish them from the"Serving Brothers,"* and
further honornd diem, by giving their Commander the title of Grand Master.
Bendocdar, the Mamaluke. who defeated' Prince Robert, and Bnally captured
Louis, made his wary to the Egyptian throne ,means of superior talents, aided
by assassination, and com, seneed his reign by invading Palestine. He
demolished the churches at Nazareth, and fortress of Mount Tabor, and then
hwested the. Castle of Assur (1265), where ninety chosen Hoe.
tilers
were among the defenders.
Bendocdar, finally took the Castle, but not until. he was compelled, in the
breach,. to walk over the dead body of the last of the Christiansä for every
fell doing battle.t In 1266,.the Knights‑.of the Temple met a similar fate:
Aft .
ò
Sebastian Pao&
t
Vertot.
62
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
ravaging all that country around, Tyre, Tripoli, and even to the vicinity of
Acre, Bendocdar laid siege to Saphet, which made a brave defense, but, at
length, the Prior of the Temple, who was Governor, seeing that resistance
could no longer be maintained, agreed to capitulate on condition that his
Knights, and other troops, six hundred in all, should have safe convoy to a
Christian station. But, as soon as their arms were surrendered, Bendocdar very
cooly informed them, that they had the liberty of choosing between conversion
to Islamism and death.
The
Prior at once chose death rather than apostacy, and such was the decision of
all.
Bendocdar, maddened with with their firmness, ordered the Prior to be flayed
allve, and a general slaughter of the others ensued.*
Thus
were the Templars in Palestine, once more almost totally destroyed. Bendocdar
followed up his triumphs, reduced Jaffa, the Castle of Beaufort, and marched
to Antioch, which great city, through fear, threw open their gates to the
merciless barbarian who rewarded their cowardice by putting to death seventeen
thousand, and carried into slavery one hundred thousand.
He
then besieged Karac, occupied by the Knights of St. John, who refused all
offers of capitulation, and the Sultan finally entered the city over their
remains.
In
1271, Louis, King of France, raised another army, larger than his first, with
the hope, in his old age, of retrieving his character as a military chieftain,
by driving the Infidels from Palestine. Prince Edward, of England, agreed to
join him in Leis the ninth and last Crusade;, but Louis' mighty, army never
reached the Holy Land. Edward having withdrawn from Louis, very soon after the
Crusade took up its march, carried his little force of one thousand men
directly to Acre.
His
arrival inspired new hope in the hearts of the Christians, and,
notwithstanding the small force, the Sultan became uneasy, and withdrew his
troops, apprehending that Edward, a descendant of ‑ Ceeur‑de‑Lion, would
snatch from him his well‑earned laurels. Edward attacked and retook Nazareth,
and put the enemy to Right, but stained his name with unwonted cruelty to his
ò Mills' Hint. of tlu Gtirumdat.
prisoners.
Sickness attacked his army, and he himself, suffering with disease, narrowly
escaped three several efforts of a hired assassin, who, by a false tale,
gained admittance, and thrice wounded him with a poisoned dagger, when the
Prince dashed him on the floor, and, with the same dagger, stabbed him to the
heart.* The Princess Eleanor, Edward's consort, it is said, saved his life by
sucking the poison from his wound.
Edward
assisted the Knights in obtaining a ten years truce with the Sultan, and, with
his followers, returned to England.
And
now we behold Palestine deserted by every Christian monarch, and left solely
to the defense of a little broken band of Hospitalers and Templars. Thus
situated, the two Grand Masters, availing themselves of the truce, started
together to Europe, hoping to induce the Western Princes to send aid to the
Holy Land.
Gregory %. then filled the Chair of St. Peter, and the Grand Masters found him
using all his influence to stir up another Crusade.
He
summoned a Council, which met at Lyons, on the 2nd of May, 1274, when it was
determined again to arouse Christendom to raise another Crusade.
Two
emperors and two kings pledged themselves to this Crusade. and great hopes
were entertained for the result, but before any thing was accomplished Gregory
died, and with him the enterprise.
The
Christians in Palestine thus left unaided, were, to a great extent, at the
mercy of the Infidels, who soon found reason to ‑declare the ‑truce violated,
and at an end, and, sending army after army, Bendocdar and his successor took
place after place, until, in 1278, Acre alone remained in possession of the
Christians, and it became filled with refuges, from all parts of Palestine.
About this period Henry IT., of Cyprus, was de. olared King of Jerusalem; and
he obtained a truce, which deferred the downfall of the last Christian
possession in Pales4ine. The Grand Master of the Hospitalers now visited Rome.
and appealed to the Pope, Nicholas IV., for si3, and obtained Sfteen hundred
men‑the scum of all the lta::an States, why proved to be but a band, of
robbers. Acre being already 0 Fuller's Holy ‑Par.
6+
]LODERAI
FREEIKAS"YY.
crowded with a disorganized population, the introduction of thaws, base
soldiers tended but to add to the disorder, and hasten ita, downfall. Strange,
that at this, the most critical, it', indeed. not the most desperate period of
the, Christian cause, the Chris,, tians themselves could not be brought to
submit to a sound and rational government, but, instead, there were no less
than seven, teen tribunals, all claiming superior control.* The troops
furnished by the Pope, soon displayed their true, character, by making
marauding excursions upon the Moharw; melon settlements, and thereby, gave
cause to the Infidels to declare the truce violated.
The
Sultan, however, demanded only a reasonable indemnity, which the Grand Masters
earnestly urged the propriety of granting, but there was, in truth,. no
organized head to whom the appeal could be made with success, and the Sultan
was driven to make preparations for. a renewal of war, and soon raised a
mighty army. But on his march he was poisoned by his Lieutenant‑General, and,
upon his death‑bed, enjoined. it apon his son, Khalil, to reduce Acre.
Qn the
5th of April, 1291, Khalil, with an army of sixty. thousand horse, and one
hundred and forty thousand foot, sar. rounded the city, the last that.
Christian chivalry was destined to behold.
Many
of the inhabitants fled to the vessels in the bay.
By
acclamation, Peter De Beaujeq, Grand Master of the Templars, a Knight of.
known ability and valor, and " who had grown old in the command of armies,"
was called to the corn, mand.
The
first effort of the Sultan was to bribe the Grand Master, but his. advances
were met with so much scorn by the old Knight, that he very soon learned that
if he entered the city at,all; it must be by force,
And
now the last stronghold of the Christians in Palestine is attacked by an
overpowering force: Again and‑ again, the Grand Master sent out a sortie,
until the very. atmosphere became tainted with the blood of the Saracens,
slain by. the matchless skill and, indomitable valor of the Chris. %tan
Knights; but all in vain, for the enemy were too, numeroge to be conquered or
driven back by the few thousand Ghrisuanq.
'
Fa11er ORDEii3 OF KNIGHTHOOD.
The
Sultan, sure of his power and ultimat6 'success, slowly moved forward his
works. He burrowed under the fortifie*~ Lions, threw down towers,‑among which
was the Cursed Tower, which was looked upon as the chief defense of the city.
In this tower the King of Cyprus commanded'his Islanders; and maintained a
desperate conflict until night came on, but then lie prevailed on the Teutonic
Knights to take his'p'.ace,and adopting the safest personal argument known to
the soldier, viz., He who fights and runs away, May live to fight another
day," Basely deserted his post, drew off his men, fled to the ships, and
sailed for Cyprus.
Next
morning the horns of the Saracens announced a renewal of the assault. The
Teutonic Knights, though basely deserted, defended the breach with
irresistable fury, but, like chaff before the storm they were swept away by
the numerous foe.
And
now they are being overpowered, the shout of the Saracens is heard,
proclaiming their triumph, but, at this critical moment, the Marshal of Saint
John flew to the rescue of the German Knights, and, so impetuous was the
united charge, that the Saracens were driven back through the breach, leaving
it almost choked up with the slain.
On the
following day these scenes of blood and carnage were acted over again. Phalanx
after phalanx of the Saracens were broken, but, as if careless of human lives,
the Sultan ordered forward another and another, until the Knights were
exhansteA with the slaughter of their enemy.
Night
parted the combat ants again. The next morning the Infidels made an assault
upon that portion of the fortifications where the two Grand Masters fought,
who knew how desperate was the conflict, and fought as if they were seeking
only an honorable grave.
Nor
Were the Saracens less brave, but, ‑eeming determined to rival the renowned
Knights, they often selected man for man, and died, shoulder to shoulder.
But
the work of death was telling rapidly upon the smaller force‑the Knights were
sinking down, one by one, until the living were so few that they could not
hope for victory.
And
now the brave Marshal of the Hospitalers has fallen in the breach, seeing
which, the Grand Mast u a 05 BA
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
of the
Templars turned to the Grand Master of Saint John, and exclaimed: "We can hold
out no longer! The day is lost unless you make a diversion against the enemy's
camp, and allow us time to refortify our post." Calling on a few chosen
lancers to follow him, John De Villiers leapt into his war‑saddle, and, with
five hundred horse, he dashed out of the city, into the open plain.
But
the Sultan was prepared for every emergency ‑his cavalry soon drove back the
detachment, and, on reenterò lng the city, he learned that the Governor, Peter
De Beaujeu, had fallen by a poisoned arrow, that the flower of his Knights
lead fallen, and that the Saracens were victorious everywhere: The Grand
Master, seeing further efforts to be vain, turned his attention to the safety
of the little band who crowded around ‑trim, ready to do and die at his
bidding.
He,
with his few remaining followers, fought their way to the deck of a vessel.
Three hundred Templars, who endeavored to do the same, were surrounded by an
overwhelming force, and they threw themselves into the Tower of the Temple;
determined to perish in its ruins.
After
several days of brave resistance (when they knew the very foundations of their
retreat had been sapped), they agreed to evacuate it, on condition that they
should have an `honorable departure, and that on insults should be offered the
Christian women ; but, no sooner were the gates thrown open, than the
agreement was violated by the Mamalukes, in their brutal insults to the women
; and again the Templars drew their swords, and fought their way (shielding
the women) back .nto the tower, which, being sapped, could not bear their
weight, and, falling with a crash, buried the combatants and women in the
ruins.
And
now commenced the last sad tragedy.
Palestine had long since become the world's bloody ground ; but Palestine had
never witnessed the bloodshed and carnage of Acre. Sixty thousand persons
either perished in the city, or were carried Into slavery.
It is
recorded, by the Monkish historians. that the Nuns of the Convent of Saint
Clare cut off their noses, and disfigured their faces in various ways, in
order to render them. Selves ob;ects of disgust ‑to the Saracens, hoping,
thereby, to escapo their insults; and truly did they so disgust the ORDERS OF
KNIGHTHOOD.
!67
Xamalukes, that they instantly slew them. ' Many of the citizens 4sttempted
to. escape by sea ; but a storm was raging, and they peiished in the waves.
Thus
terminated a war that had lasted one hundred and Ainety‑four years, then, and
now, called the "Holy War;` "a war," says Fuller, " for continuance, the
longest; for money spent, the costliest; for bloodshed, the cruelest; for
pretences. ,the most pious ; for the true intent, the most politic the world
ever ,Saw." After the fall of Acre, the Sultan razed the fortifications of
;every city on the coast, with the view to deter the Christians from another
attempt to invade Palestine. The military Orders were reduced so low, that
they made no attempt to maintain a position in Palestine. The remnant of the
Order of St. John took refuge in Cyprus, as the nearest Christian town to the
country they had sworn never to abandon to the Infidels. The few remaining
Templars finally assembled in the same town. The Teutonic Knights retired to
Prussia, without hope of ever' again seeing the Holy Land.
Pope
Nicholas IV. had made no effort to render assistance to the inhabitants of
Acre; but, no sooner did he receive ,an account of its fall, and the expulsion
of his follower than he commenced operations for the purpose of stimulating
the Western Princes to send another Crusade to the Holy Land. But in two
centuries of incessant wars, during which the plains of Palestine had been
copiously fertilized with Christian blood, having grown wise by long
experience, they could no longer be moved by the insidious appeals of the
Papal throne. The East, too, was equally averse to any further sontention for
a spot of ground, of no direct value to the Greek, or the Armenian schismatics.
The
King of Cyprus assigned to the Templars and Hospi3alers, as a place of
retreat, the town of Limisso, and the Grand Master of the Hospitalers, John De
Villiers, summoned all ]knights, who were dispersed throughout Christendom, to
repair to his banner; and, in answer to this call; the Commanders throughout
Europe sent forth their Chevaliers, who poured into Cyprus, burning with a
desire for revenge. The Knighto ' 1IA~bERir FRNEM'A86NRr.
called
a Chapter, and this Council determined that, while‑ the Brotherhood would
'continue to protect the pilgrims, who still, continued to visit the Holy
Land, their method of doin; so,' and the more effectually to annoy the
Saracens, would be to 'become a sea‑faring Society, and operate, especially,
on the Mediterranean.
The
Kings of. England and Portugal took t' he ground that the property which the
military Orders held within their respective dominions, belonged to them only
upon the condi tion that they 'continued to hold possession of the Holy Land,
and, tlrereforep as the ;Knights had deserted that country,, their ' property
was confiscated.
Pope
Boniface VIII., who had 'reached the Papal ‑throne by a series of crimes and
artifice's, 'thundered forth his menaces, and thus procured a revocatioih "of
the acts of confiscation.
The
Orders becoming strong in numbers, the King of Cyprps became alarmed, least
they, should become as powerful as they had been in Palestine, and, there.
fore, forbid them the privilege of purchasing land in his dominions; and
further required that they should, in common with his subjects, pay a poll
tax.
The
Pope attempted to drive him from hi*positiory by threats ; but he persisted in
his course.
'
About this time, a quarrel arose between Boniface and Philip ,the Fair, King,
of France, about the Papal supremacy, and, in an evil' hour, the Templars
promised that, in the event of an open' rupture, they would sustain the Pope.
This
so incensed the king against the Templars, that he resolved upon their
destruction.
Boniface soon after died, and his successor lived but a short time.
And
now Philip succeeded in placing upon the Papal throne, a vile instrument,
Bertrand De Gat, who, in 'order to obtain the influence of the King, and thus
secure his election, basely pledged, himself to ‑the ‑performance of six
articles, one of which was not named until after his electi‑)n, and which
proved to be the total extinction of the Templark This corrupt and soulless
Pope, Clement V., was entirely wil`Iing to` thin proposition,, as, by it, he
would obtain half the "property held by the Templars. Philip instituted
charges ' against the Templars, accusing them of the blackest crimes,
"whereupon, the Pope summoned the two Grand Masters to ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
Fq air
before him, 1306, under a pretense that he wished to ‑CpnAilt them, in
relation to a new Crusade. The Pope's letter ~' reached the Grand Master of
the Hospitalers, on board of his tree:, at a time when he was taking important
steps to get p"session of Rhodes, and he wrote, excusing himself, to the
‑,Fops. , But Jacques De Molai. Grand Master of the Templars, gbeyed the
summons. In his train, he carried sixty chosen $nights, and one hundred and
fifty thousand florins of gold, thud a quantity of silver, amounting to twelve
horse loads.
The
grand Master met with a kind and honorable reception, not pnly from the Pope,
but the King also, who had not yet matured Peir plans.
The
Templars had left Cyprus without intending yo return, being annoyed by the
exactions of Henry ; and it is quite probable that the Grand Master intended
to establish himself and the Order in France, as his treasure was sent to the
house of the Temple, in Paris.* Not yet having a justifiable pretext, Philip
could not effect his diabolical designs against the Templars, and, for several
years, we hear but little of them, and nothing of their military achievements.
The
Hospitalers made a descent upon Rhodes, and, by their intrepid valor,
conquered and took possession of that island, stud there established their
independent government. After The reason of the Templars leaving their
Fellow‑Knights at Cyprus, ie nowhere ;tstisfactorily explained; but, from allò
the facts, we are inclined to believe that they disapproved of the conclusions
of the Council held at Cyprus, by order of the Grand Master of the Hospitalers.
The Templars were, for the most part, composed of men descended from the best
families of every Christian people; they ‑lod knowmnotidng, of a seafaring
life, and if they foresaw that the Hospitalers sonld. only maintain ,their
independent existence as a maritime Society, by looking prizes at sea. it is
not improbable that they revolted at the idea of becom ing rovers, corsairs,
or pirates.
And
this suggestion was strengthened by the 1ket that, though they were everywhere
taunted with their inactivity and supine ,'rise, they never after united
witb,tbe Hospitalers, even in an expedition against elite Infidel&
In
short, it appears that, when the Templars could no longer act In concert with
the Crusaders, and meet the enemies of the Cross on land, the ffreat object of
the organization ceased ; and, while they declined less honorable ;,::
employment, preferred to stand aloof, hoping that the time would coat. whop
thay could again take the field, sustained by the voice and means of the
Christian Mdoas.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
Ift
‑‑that they sacrificed human beings to an idol which they worshiped‑that they
had roasted a Templar's bastard and drank his blood‑that they had sold the
Holy Land to the Infidels, and, in short, that " their houses were stained
with every damnable sin." Thus armed with the testimony of a wretch, who would
not have been believed on oath, under other circumstances, Philip urged the
Pope to execute the secret article. The Pope, by this time, seemed anxious, if
possible, to avoid its fulfillment, he having become more securely seated upon
his throne, and feeling somewhat more independent of the King's power, he
promised, however, that, if the Knights were found guilty of the charges,
their property should be taken from them, and set apart for aho purpose of
redeeming the Help Land'.
The
Pope's answer by, no means satisfied this blood‑thirsty and unprincipled
Monarch. He denied the right of the Pontiff to determine the matter, and sent
secret instructions to all his governors to arm themselves on the 12th of
October, 1307, and, on the following day, all the Templars in France were
thrown into prison. The King selected his confessor, his Chancellor, and a man
named Plesian: all men who were willing to do his bidding, right or wrong, as
a council to try the Knights.
This
news created great astonishment throughout Christendom; for, though the Temple╗
load become unpopular, because of their supineness, they had not 1mu suspected
with being guilty of the crimes charged against thW.
The
Pope, feeling that he would be sustained by public pentiment, addressed a
letter to Philip, reproaching him with. osurping the privileges of the Holy
See, and demanding that tho Templars and their effects should be delivered
into his Wds.
Philip
answered, that " God abhorred nothing so mach as, the backwardness the Pope
showed in cooperating with him ie the prosecution," etc.
Pope
Clement was startled by the toss of this reply, and, remembering that Philip
treated his predecessor, Boniface, with contempt, and plucked his beard in
Italy, brought himself to a compromise with the King, wherein Wwas agreed that
the prisoners, though guarded l'y the King's 0 Fuller.
ME 49
subjects. should be kept, nominally, under the orders of the J?ope., This
state of (things produced great excitement throughout Europe, and yet, Edward
II., of England, was the only Monarch who made any effort in behalf of the
persecuted Templars. On receiving a letter from Philip, proposing that he
should suppress the. Order in his kingdom, and confiscate their possessions,
he regarded the charges as totally incredible calumnies, and wrote to the
Kings of Portugal, Castile. Arragon, and Sicily, beseeching them to, treat
with caution the rumors set forth against the Knights:
But
the Pope, being now again an instrument in the hands of Philip, issued an
edict, reiterating the charges, and commanding Edward to imitate the King of
France, by placing the Templars,aad their goods, within his kingdom, in safe
keeping.
Edward
could stand forth boldly against the injustice and fPluimanity of kings, but
he lacked the courage to disobey the elandates of a Roman Pontiff.' All the
Templars in England were thrown into prison, and the persecution extended to
Ireland, gcotland, and ‑Vales, but nowhere were they so barbarously treated as
in France.*
The
Templars'were thrown into prison in the dead of winter, and not only deprived
of their religious habits, but of tke visits of the priests, and every other
comfort gnd consolation.
Every
stratagem was resorted to, by the King's order, to Induce the Knights to
confess the charges true, promising release and honorable exemption, and such
as would not be thus suborned, were put to the torture, and such shrieks and
groans were heard to issue from all the prisons in France. as would have moved
to tears any other than a brute in human form. Many who were put upon the rack
died, proclaiming the innocence of the. Order, but all were tortured in the
presence of others, who,: when called upon to confess, trembled at the ceiWnty
of being torn, piecemeal, and, relying upon the promise of exemption,
criminated themselves and the Order. The Pope examined‑ seventy of these in
person, to whom he read a real or pretended letter from Jacques.De Molai,
admitting several of MODERN FREEMASONRY.
ò
NP.ay. .
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
7$ the
charges, and exhorting all others to do the same, and, in this trap, they were
caught. But before the work was completed, the Pope and King were put to a
stand, by the announcement that many who had confessed their guilt had
repented, and now scorned the pardon, which, for a time, the dread of torture
had induce? them to seek, by black falsehoods.
These
were sent te. Paris, where it was announced that they had renounced Christ,
and, on the 12th of May, 1310, fifty‑four Templars were burned alive, by slow
fire, in the city of Paris, every one of whom died asserting the innocence of
the Order.
The
Grand Master, De )itolai, was brought forth in chains, and asked if he had any
defense to offer, when he replied:
" I am
a plain soldier, more skilled in war than in forensic subtlety, and,
therefore, can not undertake the defense of the Order, or the Knight, as an
advocate ; but, in any Knightly way, I should be proud, to maintain their
innocence, in the face of the whole world."
He
then asked permission to hire counsel, but was told that heretics were not
entitled to such a privilege.
They
then read over a confession, to which he had affixed his name, but so altered
by ioterlining, as totally to change its very character.
On
hearing it read, he declared that the three Cardinals who had subscribed it,
deserved that death which the Saracens and Tartars visited .upon liars.
The
Pope and King, being uncertain how the ful. 5lknent of their designs would be
received by the civilized .world, delayed final action, and industriously
employed the ,time in raising an excitement against the Order; but, finally,
the King determined to bring the matter to a close, and held a Council with
the Pope, at Vienna, in November, 1311.
At
this Council, there were three hundred Bishops, and one of the most singular.
facts in the persecution is, that only three of these ..were willing to yield
to the known wishes of the Pontiff and .Philip; but openly and firmly
maintained that this illustrious ,Order of magnanimous Knights, who had stood,
for near two centuries, one of the bulwarks of Christendom, shc ild not be
swept away without being heard; but, alasl though united, they were powerless
when opposed by a bigoted dotard, occur eying the Chair of St. Peter, and a
dastardly King, bent; on the wnmplishment of his fiendish ends.
After
six months, sport 74
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
in an
effort to bring over the Bishops, without effect, the Pope rose suddenly, and
said that, "since they would not gratify his den: son, the Sing of France, by
passing a judicial sentence against the Templars, the Papal authority should
be brought to bear." Thus was the fate of the Order decided.
Thus
did two men bring to condign punishment, a class of men, the very meanest of
whom was a less disgrace to Christianity, than either the Pope or King.
And,
at once, it was easy to be seen what had been at the foundation of this
inhuman persecution.
Had
the Templars possessed no wealth, history would never have had occasion to
record the events of a persecution against them. No sooner did the Pope make
known his decision, than the question was sprung: " What shall be done with
the princely possessions of the Order?" The King and his partizans were in
favor of establishing a new Order in France, to whom this property should be
given.
The.
Pope, seeing this would be a total loss to him, and knowing that the
Hospitalers, or, as they were now called, the Knights of Rhodes, had become
pliant subjects in the hands of Papal authority, took ground in favor of
giving the whole property to them, which was, in effect, retaining it in his
own hands.
A
majority of the Council sus. tsined his views, and Philip was thwarted by the
very moLu he had used to carry out his bloody design.
In the
following year, 1313, the Grand Master Jacques De Molai ; Guy, Grand Prior of
Normandy, brother to the Prince of Dauphiny ; Hugh De Perale, Grand Prior of
France, and the Grand Prior of Acqòiitain, were finally arraigned before a
commission appointed by the Pope, at Paris.
The
persecutors, seeing that the sympathies of the people were in favor of the
Templers, were anxious that these, the most renowned Knights, should make a.
publio confession of their guilt, and, to insure this, promises of favor were
_ held out the more willingly, because it was known that the fires that had
been kindled all over France, to burn the Templars. had shocked and disgusted
all Europe. The prisoners were placed on a scaffold, exposed to public view,
and in sight of a pile of faggots, which, they were told, should be made to
con emne them, if they did not adhere to their previous confessions ORDERS OF
KNIGHTHOOD.
is An
address was delivered to the people, discanting upon the wickedness and
abominations of the Order, and, when condieded, the prisoners were called upon
to confirm the charges i+t the hearing of the multitude. The Priors of France
and Aoquitain obeyed; but when the Grand Master was permitted, he sl:ook his
chains, advanced to the margin of the scaffold, and st the top of his voice,
exclaimed : " It is but just, in this terrible day, and, in the last moments
of my life, that I should expose the iniquity of falsehood, and make truth to
triumph.
declare, then, in the face of heaven and earth, and to my own eternal
confusion and shame, that I have committed the greatest of crimes; BUT IT HAS
BEEN ONLY IN ACKNOWLEDGING THAT THE ATROCIOUS CHARGES SO IMPLACABLY URGED
AGAINST THE ORDER TO WHICH I BELONG, HAVE A SHADOW OF JUSTICE. I MADE THAT
d1ONFESSfON TO SUSPf7ND THE TORTURES OF THE RACK, AND MOLLIFY KY PERSECUTORS.
I KNOW
THAT THIS RECANTATION WILL SUBJECT WE TO NEW TORMENTS ; BUT THE HORRIBLE SIGHT
THEY NOW OFFER VO MY EYES, CAN NOT INTIMIDATE ME TO CONFIRM MY FIRST DEPARTURE
FROM THE TRUTH BY A SECOND LIE. LIFE HAS ALREADY BECOME HATEFUL TO ME, AND, ON
A CONDITION SO INFAMOUS, I BOORN To RETAIN IT.
WHAT
GOOD PURPOSE WOULD IT SERVE ME, TO PURCHASE A FEW MISERABLE DAYS, BY THE
CONFIRMATION OF 12E BLACKEST CALUMNIES ?" iF The valiant old Knight would have
spoken longer, but the minions of the Pope dreaded the consequences, and
stopped him. Guy, Grand‑ Prior of Normandy, made his recantation in equally
strong terms, and they were both burned alive on the slime pile of faggots, on
the same. ground now occupied by a statue of Henry IV.t The Grand Master said
he deserved death for bavina, in a moment of weakness, stained his name with a
falsehood, and with his latest breath he maintained the innocence of the
Order.
Megeray states that it was generally said at the time, that, when Jacques De
Molai was stifling in the flames, he cried out: " Clement, thou unjust judge
and bar. barous executioner, I cite thee to appear, in forty days, before *e
judgment seat of God."
It is
probable that this story way 0 QertoL t Mills.
B
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
not
circulated until after the,death of the Pope, which occurred soon after De
Molai's death.
Thus
perished the last Grand Master of the military Order of the Temple, beloved
and venerated, not only by his followers, but by the great body of the people,
who gathered up and preserved his ashes. And thus passed.away the most
renowned, as well as the most noble, band of Christian warriors the w('rld
ever saw ; for while in valor they fully equaled the Hospitalers, they
surpassed them in all that constitutes the higher, the nobler, and
praiseworthy principles of the soldier, the Christian,. avid the man.
Throughout all Europe, Portugal alone excepted, the Templars, met a similar
fate, through the influence of the Pope, who desired that his servile
instruments, the Hospitalers, should be placed in possession of their large
estates, who disgraced themselves, and dishonored the cause they espoused, by
accepting' wealth, filched from their comrades‑in‑arms by the foulest murders.
And,
to this day, historians consider the question as unsettled, whether the
Templars were guilty or innocent of the charges alleged against them. This we
think strange, indeed, for when the character of the charges is considered,
and when we remember the high birth, and the irreproachable character of I the
families from whom all the leading Templars descended, it is next to
impossible to suppose them capable of acting as was charged, for, while it
might be believed that they had degenerated, and may have adopted some of the
superstitions of the Infidels, it is absurd to charge that they had denounced
the Christian religion, and spit upon the Cross of Christ ; and, be`side, awe
would take the dying declaration of the Grand Master, especially as it was
given, accompanied by self‑condemnation, ‑; against the hired testimony of
thousands of the Pope's minions. That the Templars had become proud, arrogant.
idle yea, drunk ards, if you will, we may admit, but that they proved recreant
to their trust, mean and dishonorable‑Never! never! This merciless persecution
annihilated the Templars as a military Order, but the high moral principles,
which had ever an;mated the Brotherhood lived in the hearts of the remnant wti
escaped.
p2I)EIts OL KNIGHTH00h.
?fi In
Portugal, where the fulminations of the Pope failed to v+tuch them, the
Templars were only required to change their rune from the Order of Knights
Templar to that of Soldiers of‑Christ.
It is
generally believed by Templars of the present 4ay, that De Molai, seeing his
end drawing nigh, and feeling satisfied that the Templars who might escape
would not be 1pertnitted to meet and elect a Grand Master, appointed his
successor. That appointment was necessarily kept a secret from the world, and,
hence, we have not been permitted to know on whom, it fell, but the archives
in the Temple at Paris, and Che preservation of their rituals, banners etc.,
in Portugal, Move, as some believe, that the original Institution has been
pieserved and kept up.
At
Stockholm, in Sweden, there is an Encampment of Knights Templar, claiming that
Peter D'Aumont was the Knight appointed by De Molai, and that they have ever
kept up, and continued their organization; and they produce a list of Grand
Masters from D'Aumont to the present day; but we have no 'proof that this
organization has ever been acknowledged to possess the merits claimed, except
by the Masonic, system of Vriet Observation.* In France, The Order of the
Temple claim that John Mare Iarmenius was the Knight appointed by the Molai,
and in proof of their having kept up the original organization, they show a
list of Grand masters down to the present da‑.ò.
We can
see no good reason for denying a continuance of the &eiety, as claimed, for,
after the death of the Pope and Philip, land especially after the Templars'
wealth had been given to the Hospitalers, there were none so interested
against them as to ‑reader the organization either impracticable, or
dangerous, buc "it is preposterous to suppose that each are right in their
,claim to the Grand Master appointed by De Molai ; indeed, there is no
satisfactory proof that any such appointment was made, nor are we informed of
any important end to be attained :4y, keeping up the organization, for even
before the death of De Molai, no reasonable hope was entertained, that the
services Gourdin of s. C.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
79
views we entertain, of the claims of Baldwin Encampment, at Bristol.
The
Order of Knights Templar was set on foot in 1119, by Hugh De Payens, Godfrey
De St. Omer, and seven other gentlemen of France, having for their object, to
give escort and protection to the Palmers. In 1129, the founder, Hugh De
Payens, returned from a tour through Europe, with three bun dred recruits, all
from the noblest families.
Fulk,
Count of Anjou, was among the first benefactors of the Order ; he died in
1141, leaving two sons, Baldwin and Almeric.*
The
Encampment, afterward established at Bristol, adopted the name of the first of
the above Princes, who was one of the best and bravest kings of Jerusalem.
Previous to this period, we have no evidence that Encampments and Commanderies
were gcncra'.ly established throughout the Western Kingdoms. Those who joined
the Knights repaired to Palestine, and remained there, performing religious
and military duty.
In
1182, a Crusade was preached throughout England, stimulated by commissioners
from both military Orders, but, as yet, we have no account of the
establishment of Encampments there.
In
1189, Henry II., of England, yielded to the popular cry for the Paynim War,
and raised thirty thousand foot, and five thousand horse, intending to lead
them in person in the third Crusade, but his death occurring, elevated his
son, Richard IL, to the throne. Richard, being filled with all the enthusiasm
of the age, and being ambitious to distinguish himself in t'_ie field against
the Infidels, proceeded to carry out the p''‑ans of hij father, set sail from
Dover, passed into Normandy, and joined Phillip Augustus on the frontiers of
Burgundy, and proceeded to Cyprus, where he remained until the spring of 1191,
and finally landed at Acre on the 8th of June.
Richard remained 1n Palestine about two years, during which period he
distinguished himself by being foremost in every battle, courting dxnger so
fearlessly, that, by common consent, he won the apeltzion of Ceeur‑De‑Lion,
the justice of which title may be infer:W by the fact, that when a remnant of
the ninth and last 10 1
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Crusade, consisting of but two hundred men, reached the Hole Land, they struck
terror into the heart of the enemy, for a tint" aplely because they were
commanded by a Planta‑'em‑t‑a descendant of the lion‑hearted King. Ceeur‑De‑Lion
left Palestine in the spring of 1193,* and, if we consider the time of his
imprisonment in Austria, his sickness and death, it brinus fully to that
period when we know the Templars had i)ecorne possessed of immense estates in
all the Christian nations, and nowhere were their possessions so valuable as
in England.
Wn
argue, then, that it is reasonable to conclude that Encampments k,were
established in England, as. claimed by Baldwin Errcaur),ment, near the close
of the twelfth century, for the purpose or lgoking after, collectinä, and
transmitting the proceeds of their landed estates.
These
encampments were situated at Bristol, Bath, and York, and the Grand Commandery
was held at London, presided over by the Grand Prior, who soon after occupied
a seat in Parliament, and exercised an immense influence in the councils of
the nation.
When
the persecutions of Philip the Fair broke out,Edward !I., of England, openly
espoused the Templars' cause, proclainrlng their innocence C'%f the foul
charges, and wrote letters to the Kings of Portugal, Arragon, and Castile,
urging then to be on their guard against the inhuman machinations of the
French King. Thus did he leave on record the highest testimony of the standing
and noble bearing of the English Templars.
What
though he afterward became alarmed for the safety of his crown. and meanly
truckled to the command of the Pope, by throwing into prison the very men lie
had defended, neither his high position, nor the cringing partiality of his
biographers, could weaken the strength of his testimony, nor remove the odium
which must ever attach to his name, by reason of his dastardly conduct toward
those he knew to be. innocent o░
crime, and his superiors in virtue.
The
Encampments at York and Bath long since discontinued their meetings, and
became extinct. Baldwin Encampment, therefore, with much seeming propriety,
claim that they are the ' Hovedem ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.
81 fi
and
only original organization of the Orders of Knightt, "A‑‑A. ;;hiesd.
But
the Grand Conclave, a modern Institution, claims `
st the
Encampments at York and Bath, before they dissolved, f‑reefed all power and
authority in said Conclave, and, therefore, Mend for supremacy over the Order
in England and Wales.
We
incline to the opinion that, if Ancient Templarism exists aywhere (which we
doubt) we may expect to find it in ildwin Encampment.
We
have been induced to give thus much of the history ,9‑the military Orders of
Knighthood, in deference to the opin0a of those who think that Templarism, of
the present day, is tvontinuation of those Orders. . We have already said that
‑41e regard nothing as Masonry except Ancient Craft Masonry, aud, if this
position be correct, it will seen that neither the ancient nor modern Orders
of Knighthood, can have any claims to be considered as forming a part of, or,
in any way, hold legitmate connection with Freemasonry. History tells us how,
and for what purposes, the Knights of St. John the Almoner, Knights Templar;
and Teutonic Knights were organized; and ~history also tells us what their
forms and ceremony of intro" duction were. We know they first banded together
for purPOses of pure benevolence, superinduced by that ardent and Founded
zeal, which so remarkably characterized the Chris 4an nations, for near two
hundred years.
We
know that the ony of introduction consisted mainly of solemn oaths Btu
dedicate their lives to the cause of the Almoners to the ~Aoly Land, and when
they assumed, not only the habit of the r":aaonk, but also of the military,
they bound themselves to die a
use of
the Christian religion; in all which we can see appearance of Freemasonry,
nor,have we the slightest testi01ony that they, themselves, ever laid claim to
a connection #h our Order.
Ancient Templarism was strictly a Roman olic Institution, requiring its
members to believe in the *th, divinity, vicarious death, and resurrection of
Christ, as `God, man, the Saviour of the world, the second person in the
f'Aiorable Trinity. And hence, in the days of the Crusaders, even Abwe
Christians who believed in the doctrines of the Greek ;`0rurch, were not
admitted into the Brotherhood.
6 82
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
We are
pleased to see that Bro. Godrdin, of South Carolina, whose learning and
research have tended in an eminent degree, to enlist the attention of the
Knights Templar of the United States to a true history of their Order, has
influenced the General Grand Encampment to set on foot an investigation,
which, we sincerely hope, will result in the full development of facts. But we
do not think, with Bro. Gourdin, that a visit to France, England, or Italy,
will enable him, or any other writer, to show the legitimate descendants of De
Molai, for the simple reason, that we do not think the organization was kept
lip anywhere.
It is
true that in Paris may be seen, probably, the very banners of the Crusaders,
and many other relics of the ancient Orders of Knighthood, but this no more
proves the continuous existence of the organization, than do the relics
exibited by the modern Druids establish their legitimate descent from the
ancient Society of that name.
We
love to plod on through the mouldering pages of by‑gone days, and pluck from
oblivion the gems of ancient lore, but we dare not magnify wolehills into
mountains, for the sake of gratifying the marvelous propensities of the age.
Had
the ancient Orders of Knighthood been connected with Freemasonry, the
historians of the day would have known and published the fact. Had the
organization of the Templars continued down to the present day, the fact could
be clearly shown. We do not,say that an organization, claiming to be Templars,
descended from the old stock, did not participate in the battle of
Bannockburn, nor do we deny that organizations can now be found laying claims,
as Baldwin Encampment does, to an uninterupted continuance, from the days of
the lion‑hearted King ; but when it appears that, for a long period of time,
nothing is known of Ancient Templarism, we should, with hesitation, admit that
the Templarism of the eighteenth century, which suddenly made its appearance
as an appendage of Freemasonry, and claiming to constitute a part and parcel
of it, is truly entitled to be regarded as of ancient origin.
We
know that the rituals and teachings of the Rose ‑~degree, as practiced in the
Scotch Rite, are essentially the same as the rituals and teachings of the
Templar's degree, as prao‑ ORDERS OP KNIGHTHOOD.
$S
heed in the United States. We know that some of the first, aye, the very first
Encampments established in the United States, were instituted by Consistories,
or Councils of the Scotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted ; and we apprehend that
when all the facts are known, it will be found that Templarism, of the present
day, dates back no further than to Chevalier Ramsey, in 1740, and that
Encampments were established in the United States by the same Deputy
Inspectors General who planted here Rose ‑j‑ Chapters, and Consistories of
Princes of the Royal Secret.
We
regret that a want of room has compelled us thus briefly to throw out hints,
in place of entering into an investigation and exhibition of the proofs upon
which our opinion is based.
Encampments are now established in nearly all the States of this Union. In a
State or Territory where there is no Grand Encampment, nine Sir Knights may
petition the General Grand Encampment in Conclave, or either of the first four
officers in vacation, for a warrant, which, when issued, runs until the next
meeting of the General Grand body.
In
States where Grand Encampments exist, the authority, in like manner, emanates
from those bodies.
The
Grand Encampments meet annually, and the General Grand Encampment meets
triennially.
The
Encampments are authorized to confer three degrees, viz., Red Cross Knight,
Knight Templar, and Knight of Malta, or St. John, of Jerusalem, but, so far as
we have been able to learn or appreciate them, there are, in fact, but two
degrees: The degree, so called, of Malta, or St. John, of Jerusalem, crept in,
we suppose, by means of a bungler, who, not knowing enough of the ritual to
confer it properly, satisfied himself by simply adding a few words in the
ceremony of dubbing, and thus, by the addition of a few signs and words, but
imperfectly understood, constituted a Knight Templar also a Knight of Malta,
and so the matter stands to this day.
We may
be asked to explain how a union was effected between Freemasonry and this
foreign Institution, and though we can not be positive, we think it fair to
suppose that it was forced upon Masonry much as was the Illuminati in France
and Germany. Encampments have ever confined the Orders of Knighthood to those
who were in possession of Ancient Craft 81
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Masonry, which, together with the name assumed by the Encampments, viz.,
Christian Masonry, tended to produce a quiet, acquiescence, in this assumed
alliance, without pausing to inquire into its propriety. All the Modern Rites
make Ancient Craft Masonry their foundation ; not, perhaps, because of any
attachment or partiality to the principles taught by our Order; but to lead
Masons on to a toleration of the various systems, well knowing that any, the
most ridiculous, or dangerous doctrines, may be taught under the banner of our
Institution, weighed in the scales of long centuries without condemnation.
Scotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted, now struggling for that power in the
United. States, which it has long since attained in France, and elsewhere in
Continental Europe, attempts to do nothing, save under the cloak of
Freemasonry.
They
confer no degrees, except upon Master Masons, and though they claim the
original right to confer all the degrees in Masonry, we suppose it would be
difficult, yea, impossible for them to show, that they had acquired that right
in a constitutional or Masonic manner. All these foreign degrees have been
insidiously palmed on Freemasonry, and ignorance of their character and
history, but especially a careless inattention to the claims of Freemasonry,
to be kept and transmitted, pure and uncontaminated with foreign institutions,
have thus far caused the brethren to lose eight of the importance of standing
aloof from all and every other association. We do not object to the Encampment
degrees, if given to Christians as an association, outside of, and unconnected
with Masonry. They are properly Roman Catholic degrees, originally designed,
we suppose, to unite the members of the Church, and all Catholic families, by
strong ties of fraternal interest and obligation, to arrest and put a stop to
tho alarming conversions being made to the Protestant religion in the
eighteenth century; and though the degrees, as given in the United States,
have passed out of their hands, and have been so modified, as to suit our
locality, it does not and can not justify us in giving consent to, much less
encourage, the application of the name of Freemasonry to them, as, by so
doing, we sanction a union where none cau properly exist, and practice a fraud
upon the world, by calling that Freemasonry which has no Masonry in it.
ORDERS
OF KNIGHTHOOD.
85 We
think Freemasonry teaches every moral virtue inculcated by the Holy Bible. We
think the system. as a whole, and in all its parts, is perfect‑perfect beyond
the inventive genius of man.
It can
suffer no alterations without material injury, and can amalgamate‑with nothing
without su$ering corruption. The Christian religion is alone its superior, and
yet, an amalgamation with that, even were it possible, would tend to destroy
its identity, and mar its usefulness.
We
think Freemasonry maintained its purity more than twenty‑seven hundred years,
and, to us, it seems that the blush of shame should mantle the cheek of that
Mason, who can openly declare that a newly invented system of degrees is
capable of adding to the beauty, much less to the exemplification, of the true
teachings of our venerated Order. It is a lamentable misfortune that
innovations were ever attempted, but it is passing strange that those
innovations ever found favor with the true Craftsmen.
Day by
day, we are made to feel the evil consequences of the innovations spoken of.
The duties of the Lodge room are too often neglected by those who are led
captive by the allurements of high‑soxnding titles, in the so called higher
degrees.
The
manifestations of lukewarmness for the simple but solemn duties of
Freemasonry, creates heart‑burnings, jealousies and dissensions, destructive
of the best interests of the Craft.
If
these are evils now perceptible, while yet true Freemasonry is in the
ascendant‑‑‑if these are the consequences of the first hundred years of these
higher degrees, who will predict the end? We will add a sketch of the early
history of the Encampments in the United States,‑‑and close this Iiranch of
our history.
The
first Encampments of Knights Templar, established in this country, were
located at New York City and Stillwater, in the State of New York, but we have
not been able to learn either the date of their establishment, or by what
authority they were planted. We know, however, that they were in existence
prior to 1797, for in May, of that year, an Encampment was established in
Philadelphia, and the records of that, shows the previous existence of the two
former Encampments. It is known that other Encampments were established in
this country i1 86
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
by
Consistories, and also by the mere authority of a Deputy Inspector General,
and, therefore, we conclude that the first Encampments of Knights Templar were
planted under the authority of the Ineffable or Scotch Rite.
In
1802, a few Knights met in Providence, Rhode Island, and, without any
authority whatever, resolved themselves into an Encampment. In 1805, a
Convention was held in Providence, composed of Delegates from the Encampments
in New York City, Stillwater, and Albany, N. Y.
Encampments Nos. 3, 13, and 24, of Maryland, and two Encampments in
Massachusetts, one of which, situated in Boston, was an Encampment of the Rose
‑}‑.
This
Convention resolved itself into a Grand Encampment.
In
1812, the above named Grand Encampment resolved itself into a General Grand
Encampment, and made its Constitution to correspond ; and, in 1816, it again
resolved itself into a General Grand Encampment of the United States of
America, and again remodeled its Constitution, and provided for the estab
lishment of State Grand Encampments. This is the General Grand Encampment
which now meets triennially, at such time and place as is designated by that
body and the General Grand Chapter.
This
National Grand body of Templars disowns and denounces all Encampments which do
not hold under her, either directly or through State Grand Encampments.
The
regulations for the establishment of new Encampments are very similar to those
for the government of Chapters. Each State Grand Encampment issues warrants
for new Encampments within the State, when petitioned for by eleven Sit
Knights. In Territories where there is no Grand Encamp ment, the General Grand
body issues warrants; the prie, is ninety dollars for a dispensation, and ten
dollars additiotui rò, a warrantor charter.
st ha
id, an ;e, rk 3, 1uof nd ‑If on en,nd zb ral me nd nd Let its ell ip'5it iP'
CHAPTER IT.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
Fxox a
careful examination of the history, legends, and teachings of Freemasonry, the
author feels authorized in saying. it is not a cunningly‑devised fable, but a
great system of ethics, teaching the doctrine of one living and true God‑the
Author and Upholder of all things‑that it was instituted by King Solomon, to
whom God gave superior wisdom, and had as its great leading object, not only
the perpetuation of the knowledge of God among the Jews; but, by opening its
doors to a select few of all nations, thus spread and communicated that
knowledge of the great I AM, which bad been lost to the heathen nations ; that
it has been faithfully accomplishing its mission, in the subversion of the
Heathen Mythology, and slowly, but surely, wending its way through evil, as
well as good report, from generation to generation ; and, though there is a
period of about seven hundred years, when its history, in common with the
history of the world, is but dimly discernible, the traditions and legends of
the Order tend most clearly to show that, though we do not now find it clothed
in all the lovely simplicity of its primitive purity, it is sufficiently pure
to prove its identity and importance. It is believed that we can go nowhere to
find the embodiment of its principles and rituals so nearly perfect, as that
afforded by the long and careful investigation of the Grand Lodge of England,
from 1717 to 1723 ; and, certainly, that it is not safe to rely upon a modern
Institution to supply any portion of its body or members, which may have been
lost during the middle or dark ages: and, especially, if it shall appear that
the latter had its origin with those who used it for political and sectarian
ends.
If the
fact ‑was not notorious, it would seem strange to believe that Freemasons can
now be found, who openly proclaim theabsurdity of the traditions and doctrines
of Ancient Craft 88
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Masonry, and, at the same time, contend that Masonry, in its pure rituals and
teachings, may be found in the so called Scotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted.
Seeing
that this Modern Society has wormed its way, until, by its fascinations, it
has banished from some portions of Continental Europe every Lodge of Ancient
Craft Masonry ; and, believing that untiring efforts are being made by many of
the leaders of this system, to plant its standard throughout this country, the
author believes it to be his duty to give his readers opportunity of judging
of its claims to popular favor, by giving its origin, history, and teachings.
But, important as the subject is esteemed to be, a condensed sketch is all
that can be given here.
To
guard against evil surmises, the author deems it proper to state that, in
1847, the Rt. Rev. Bro. Walker, then an Episcopal minister at Chicago, and
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, invited, or called a Convention
of Royal Arch Masons, from that and the surrounding States. To this Convention
Bro. Walker exhibited his authority, given him by the Grand Council of New
York, over which Bro. J. J. J. Gougas presided. The author was invited to
deliver a public address to said Convention ; and, during his visit, Bro.
Walker, in the presence of the late Bro. Barnes, communicated to him all the
degrees of said Scotch Rite.
When
he received the 33rd, and the charges appertaining, he respectfully, but
firmly denounced the whole, as inconsistent with, if not opposed to
Freemasonry ; whereupon, Bro. Walker, very properly, withheld from him such
documents as, otherwise, he would have been entitled to. And now, he is told
by the brother who claims to have:written and delivered said authority, that
Bro. Walker transcended his powers.
Be
this as it may, the recipient feels no sort of concern, as he has never sought
or desired intercourse with the Society, but he confesses that, with the
imperfect knowledge of the degrees as communicated, he did seek and desire to
know more of their history.
So far
as the teachings of the Scotch Rite are concerned, the author feels that no
censure should attach to him, should he hint at them, as derived from the
ritual, as said ritual may be seen by any one, in almost SCOTCH BITE, ANCIENT
AND ACCEPTED.
89 any
of the cities of the United States.
Premising, boa ever, that no startling exposures will be made‑certainly fewer
than if he had never taken the degrees, he will at once enter upon the
history.
In
1740, Chevalier Ramsey, a Scotch nobleman, and a strong adherent of the
Stuarts, gave his celebrated lectures in Paris and *Bourdeaux, concerning the
origin and objects of Freemasonry. Taking the three degrees, and subdividing
them into numerous parts, he concocted degrees for those parts, and made his
philosophic lectures explain each, to suit his purposes. He established a
Lodge, which he called Harodim, but the French Masons, generally, styled it a
Lodge of the Scotchman's Rite Masonry ; and, finally, it assumed the imposing
title of Perfect and Sublime Masonry.
Bro.
Le Blanc De Marconay, then Grand Orator of the Chamber of Deputies in the
Grand Orient of France, thus writes, in 1853 " The first Lodge known in France
was constituted in 1725, by the Grand Lodge of England, in the York Rite.
"
Until 1756, the Grand Lodge in France bore the title of English Grand Lodge of
France. It was only during this year that it took the name of Kingdom, and,
until this time, French Masonry practiced but three degrees, viz., the
Symbolic, entitled Apprentice, Companion, and Master.
" It
was about the year 1758, that the Ineffable degrees were introduced into
Masonry‑they were not practiced by the Grand Lodge, but by an authority named
the Supreme Council of Emperors of East and West, and had no more than
twentyfive degrees, the last degree of which was Prince of the Royal Secret.
" It
was in the year 1761, that Stephen ‑Morin received, in France, the power to
propagate the Ineffable degrees in America. He received only twenty‑five
degrees, and, with them, the title of Inspector General, which title was given
him, in his patent, not as a degree, but a function, which he was to etercisb
in America." Ragon in his Othodoxie Maconnique, says 11 The Council of East
and West was formed in Paris, in 90
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
1758.
It
consisted of twenty‑five degrees, divided into seven classes.
" The
Council was formed from the ruins of the Chapter of Clermont. formed in 1754,
by the Chevalier De Bonnville.
" On
the 27th of August, 1761, a patent of Deputy Inopector General, was given to
Stephen Morin (a Jew), by the Council of Emperors East and West. Stephen
Morin's business c<dled him to St. Domingo, where he intended to propagate the
Rite of Perfection.
The
Council of Emperors never imagined, for a moment, that such an audacious
juggler as he was, would take possession of the Rite, to make a profit out of
it.
They
never dreamed that he would not only make it an article of traffic, but that
he would remodel and modify it at Charleston, South Carolina, and introduce it
forty‑three years afterward into Paris, surcharged by eight new degrees, and
all attested by the illustrious Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, who was
never received in the Ancient and Accepted Rite, and had all the higher
degrees in horror‑he opposed them during his whole life.
"
September 21, 1762.
The
Council of Emperors of East and West, and the Council of Princes of the Royal
Secret, at Bordeaux, drew up the regulations of the Masonry of Harodim, or
Masonry of Perfection, in thirty‑five articles.
" A
new Council was also erected called Knights of the East.
"
August 17th, 1766.
The
Grand Lodge of France, in which the Council had its Chamber, and was in union
with the same, being dissatisfied with the arbitrary and unmasonic proceedings
of Stephen Morin, annulled his patent, recalled his power and placed the W.
Bro. Martin in his place.
They
state that, considering the carelessness and the various alterations introduc^d
in the Royal Art by W. Bro. Morin, her late Inspector, the W. Grand Lodge
annulled the brief of Inspector, granted to Bro. Morin, and deems proper, for
the good of the Royal Art, to cause him to be replaced by W. Bro. Martin,"
etc.
As
Bro. Yates and others, who hold in veneration the Grand Council at Charleston,
take the ground that Stephen Morin received his patent from a Convention of
Sublime Masons, and van of :tor Icil led ,ite for tke ver fir, 3n, Lrd ted Io
gad his nd at Im, SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
81 not
from the Grand Lodge, and, therefore, the recall of that patent by the Grand
Lodge, in 1766, was illegal ; and as the proof is at hand for the final
settlement of this question, the following extract is inserted "To the G. 0.
T. G. A. 0. T. U. and under the will and pleasure of H. Most S. H. 111. Bro.
Louis, of Bourbon, Count of Clermont, Prince of the blood, Grand Master, and
Protector of all the Lodges.
" At
the East of a place well lighted, and where dwell Peace, Silence, Concord,
Anno Louis 5761, and according to the Christian Era, August 27, 1761.
" Lux
ex tenebris veritas, concordia fratrum.
" We,
the undersigned, Substitutes General of the Art Royal, Grand Wardens and
Officers of the Grand and Sovereign Lodge of St. John, established at the
Grand East of Paris, and we, Sovereign G. Master of the G. Council of the
Lodges of France, under the protection of the Sovereign Grand Lodge, under the
sacred and mysterious numbers, do hereby declare, certify, and ordain to all
BB. Knights and Princes, spread throughout both hemispheres, that, having
assembled by order of the Deputy General, President of the Grand Council, a
request, to us communicated. was read at our sitting.
"'That
our dear Bro. Stephen Morin, Grand Elect Perfect, formerly Sublime Master,
Prince Mason, Knight and Sublime of all the Orders of the Masonry of
Perfection, member of the Trinity Royal Lodge, etc., being about to leave for
America, and wishing to be enabled to work regularly to the advantage and
improvement of the Art Royal, in all its perfection, may it please the Sov. G.
Council, and the Grand Lodge to grant him letters patent for constitutions.
Upon the report which has been made to us, and being acquainted with the
eminent qualities of Bro. Stephen Morin, we have, without hesitation, granted
this satisfaction for the services which he has always rendered to the Order,
and the continuation of which is to us guaranteed by his zeal.
'░
Wherefore, and for other good reasons, after approving and ennfirmintr Bro.
Morin in his designs, and wishing to give him testimonies of our gratitude, we
have unanimously constituted 8$
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and
instituted him, and, by these presentg, do constitute and institute him, and
we do give full power and authority to said Bro. Stephen Morin, the signature
of whom stands in the margin of the presents, to form and establish a Lodge
for the purpose of receiving and multiplying the Royal Order of Freemasons, in
all the Perfect and Sublime degrees, to take due care that the general and
particular statutes and regulations of the Grand and Sovereign Lodge be kept
and observed, and to admit therein none but true and legitimate BB. of Sublime
Masonry.
" To
regulate and govern all the members which may compose his said Lodge, which
lie is authorized to establish in the four parts of the world, whither. he may
arrive, or where he may dwell, under the title of Lodge of St. John, and by
sur name, Perfect Harmony.
"
Power is, hereby, to him granted, to select such officers as he may think
proper, to help him in the government of his Lodge, to whom we command and
enjoin to obey and respect him ; we do command and ordain to all Masons of
regular Lodges, spread all over the earth, and of whatsoever dignity they
might be, we request and enjoin them, in the name of the Royal Order, and in
presence of our most Ill. G. Master, to recognize, as we do ourselves hereby
recognize, our dear Bro. Stephen Morin as Worshipful Master of the Perfect
Harmony Lodge, and we commission him as our Inspector, in every part of the
New World, to rectify the observance of our laws in genò eral, etc., and, by
these presents, we do institute our dearest Bro. Stephen Morin, our Grand
Master Inspector, authorizing him, and giving him full power to ,establish
Perfect and Sublime Masonry in every part of the world, etc., etc.
"We,
therefore, request the brethren, in general, to grant to said Stephen Morin,
such aid and assistance as may lie in their power, and we do require him to
act in a similar manner toward all the brethren, members of the Lodge, or such
as he might have admitted or constituted, or whom lie might hereafter admit
and constitute, in the Sublime degrees of Perfection, which we grant him, with
full power and authority to make Inslxctors wheresoever the Sublime degree has
not been SCOTCH BITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
93
established, as we are well satisfied with his great information and capacity.
" In
testimony whereof we have delivered him these presents, signed by the Deputy
General of the Order, Grand Commander of the White and Black Eagles, Sublime
Prince of Royal Secret, and by us, Grand Inspectors, Sublime Officers of the
Grand Council and of the Grand Lodge, established in this capital, and we have
hereunto affixed the hand seal of our 111. Grand Master H. R. H., and that of
our Grand Lodge and Sovereign Grand Council.
" At
the Grand East of Paris, A.L. 5761, or of the Christian Ira, August 27, 1761.
(Signed)
CHAILLOU DE JOIVILLE, Deputy Gen. of the Order, etc. PRINCE DE ROHAN, Master o
f the Grand Lodge, etc. LACoRNE, Deputy Grand Master, etc. SAVALETTE DE
BUC%OLY, Grand Keeper of the Seals, etc. TAUPIN, Prince Mason.
BREST
DE LA CHAUSVE, Grand Elect Prince Mason.
11 By
order of the Grand Lodge.
(Signed)
DAUBERTIN, Grand Elect, etc." If the foregoing document be genuine, and this,
it is thought, never has been questioned, the following facts are evolved 1.
That in 1761, Louis, of Bourbon, Count of Clermont, Prince of the blood, was
Grand Master and Protector of all the Lodges in France, and that Chaillou De
Joiville, was his Deputy, and not the Deputy of Frederick the Great.
2..
That the body granting powers to Stephen Morin was the Sovereign Grand Lodge,
holding in its body the Sovereign Grand Council, and that said act was done by
the united and unanimous concurrence of the officers and members then present,
of both bodies.
3.
That Stephen Morin's authority authorized him to constitute a Lodge of
Perfection, wherever he might sojourn, and 94 MODERN FREEMASONRY.
u Bro.
Ragon continues required it to take the name of Perfect Harmony, and regard
him as its Worshipful Master.
4.
That the Masters of all regular Lodges, throughout the world, were commanded
and enjoined to regard Stephen .florin as Worshipful Master of Perfect Harmony
Lodge.
5.
That, in 1761, a union and fusion had been effected between the Grand Council
and Grand Lodge, as the instrument declares the Grand Inspectors to be "
officers of the Grand Council, and of the Grand Lodge." 6. That Stephen
Morin's authority had the seal of His Royal Highness, Louis, of Bourbon, and
not that of Frederick the Great, as head of the Order, nor is any allusion,
whatever, made to that Monarch.
7.
That, whatever may be thought of the union and fusion, above alluded to,
Stephen Morin's authority is ordered by the Grand Lodge, and, therefore, it is
proper to suppose the Grand Lodge acted with full authority, five years after,
when it annulled the patent, and recalled the power granted to him "in 1761."
1",f, "The Council of Emperors of East and *West, strengthen themselves by
recruiting men of low station, for whose money they made them Prince Masons. A
certain number of Princes of the Royal Secret formed their Supreme Council of
Prince Masons, and the dignitaries of this Council took the title of Grand
Inspectors General. January 22, of this year, the Council of Emperors East and
West, issues a circular, stating that it takes the title of the Sublime
Scottish Mother Lodge of the Grand French Globe, Sovereign Grand Lodge of
France.
"This
Council would be a rival to the Grand Lodge of France, and, in consequence,
crushed herself‑she fell asleep 1781.
Thus
goes out the Rite of Harodim.
"In
1784, from the broken remains of the Council of Emperors East and West, and
the Council of the Knights of the East, there arose, with the assistance of
many brethren of the high degrees, and officers of the Grand Lodge of Franca,
a Grand Chapter General of France.
yard
the i as nt nd e e d SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
95 "On
the 27th of February, 1786, the Grand Chapter General of France united with
the Grand Orient of France by treaty ; by which it will be seen that the Grand
Orient has thus gathered in its hands, all the powers of the several
authorities, and has thus become the sole possessor, and the immediate
successor to the founders of the Rite of Perfection, of the Consistory of
Princes of the Royal Secret, and of all the Scottish System, Ancient and
Accepted, which was practiced, not only in the Council of the Emperors East
and West, but also in the Scotch Consistories of Bourdeaux, known under the
title of Sublime Scotch Mother Lodge, and which was conferred on Stephen Morin
in 1761, and recalled in 1766.
"
Stephen Morin, on his arrival in St. Domingo, commenced the propagation of his
Masonic work in the Rite of Perfection, consisting of twenty‑five degrees. He
also created Inspectors, R hich title did not designate the arbitrary powers
and prerogatives that some silly writers have supposed, but merely the power
of constituting Lodges.
He
also, notwithstanding tho annulling of his patent,. and his recall in 1766,
went on constituting Chapters and Councils, in different parts of America.
Between 1766 and 1782, the Revolution progressed in the Island, and the Rite
of Perfection slumbered.
But,
in 1783, it awakes with thirty‑three degrees, for, in that year, Morin and his
coadjutors erect, in the city of Charleston, S. C., a Grand Lodge of
Perfection, but the Prince Masons of Charleston, not satisfied with the Rite
of Perfection, consisting of twenty‑five degrees, erect eight‑degrees more,
making, in all, thirty‑three degrees, and on their own authority, without any
Masonic legal right whatever, constitute themselves the Supreme Scotch Council
of the French Possessions in America.
"In
1797, John Mitchell, Frederick Dalcho, EmanuelDe La Motte, Abraham Alexander,
and Isaac Auld, are the five persons who create a Supreme Council of the 33rd
degree in Charleston.
" fn
1802, the Count De Grasse Tilly received the 33rd degree in Charleston, and
returned to France in 1803, and reported himself as the Supreme Chief of the
33rd degree, which, at this time, was not known in France." 1,1 MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Bro.
Le Blanc De Marconay says The Ineffable degrees were formerly practiced in
France, and continued to be so practiced, viz., from 1761 to 1804. Then Bro.
Count De Grasse Tilly, who had taken the 33rd degree in the Grand Council of
Charleston, brought them to France as a novelty, or curiosity‑not with the
title of Ineffable degrees, as of the Rite of Perfection, under which title
they had always hitherto been known, viz., the twenty‑five degrees, but under
that of ncotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted.
"The
administration of the Scottish Rite was adopted in France, by the Grand
Orient, only in the year 1810‑11, after the fall of the Empire. Until then,
this rite had been under the jurisdiction of a particular administration, not
recognized by the Grand Orient, but which administration possessed the right
of conferring the same from 1799, by virtue of various treaties, entered into
by that body with the Grand Orient." The administration to which Bro. Le Blanc
De Marconay alludes is, most likely, a Consistory ; but, if so, his account of
the time of its establishment does not agree with that fixed by Bro. Ragon,
and, as the latter writes from the records for publication, his account is
most probably correct.
He
says "On the 19th of December, 1804, the Grand Orient declares that,
henceforth, it possesses all the rites ; and, on the 22nd of same month, the
Supreme Council of the 33rd degree was erected, and provisionally organized at
Paris." Thus, it would seem, that Count De Grasse Tilly carried Scotch Rite
Masonry into France in 1803, instead of 1799, and that, in 1804, the Grand
Council was established. Bro. Ragon further says "Joseph Serneau, a jeweler,
initiated by Stephen Morin into the Rite of Perfection, in St. Domingo, and
forced to leave on account of the insurrection of the blacks, goes to the city
of New York, in 1806, and founds, in 1807, a Supreme Consistory, which is
recognized by the Grand Orient of France, in 1812." The history of the above
named Grand Consistory is vsriously stated by good men. in the city of New
York, swayed, most likely, by their party prejudices. On the ono SCOTCH RITE,
ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
97
hand, Serneau is represented as a bad man, who, without any authority
whatever, established his Consistory, and, by the assistance of a few others,
inveigled De Witt Clinton into it. While, on the other hand, it is said that
Serneau had precisely the same authority which Morin had, and, certainly, as
much: authority as any Inspector General appointed by said Morin ;, that any
other view of the subject would only prove that there never was a legal
Consistory established in the United States. And, it is further contended,
that De Witt Clinton was regularly made the second officer in the Grand
Consistory, and soon became the actual Commander; that said Consistory gave
the degrees to many eminent men, De Witt Clinton presiding ; that all the
degrees were conferred on Lafayette, and, as a mark of distinction, Clinton
resigned his office, a..d made him Commander, during his sojourn in the United
States; that Clinton resumed the command on the return of Lafayette to France,
and continued its Acting Grand Officer until h6t death, in 1828.
Bro.
Ragon continues "In 1812, some Masons, having received the 33rd degrem in
America, and, joined by some other Masons in Paris, erect a, rival Supreme
Council in Paris, under the title of Council; )f America, of which the Count
De Grasse Tilly was Grand Commander.
" On
the 5th of August, 1813, De La Motte (a Jew), Treasurer General of the Grand
Council of Charleston, founds a Supreme Council in New York City, of which
Daniel D. Tompkins is made by him Most Puissant Sovereign Grand Commander;
Richard Riker, Samson Simson, J. J. J. Gougas, and M. L. M, Peixotto, members
of the same. This Council continued its operations in New York but a short
time, and then went to sleep." The reader may remember that, about the time
above alluded to, two great rival political parties existed in New York,
headed by De Witt Clinton, on the one side, and Daniel D. Tompkins, on the
other, and, whether tr‑ie or false, rumor then said that this rival Council
was designed to forward the inter,eat of Tompkins, and thus counteract the
influence which, the old Grand Council gave to Clinton.
14 r.
95
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Lc
Blanc Dc Ma,rconay says " From 1807 until 1912, there was, in New York, only
one Lod`iro (Atilier) of thirty‑two degrees, of which Bro. Serneau was Grand
Commander. It was about this time that Bro. Sernea.u founds a Supreme Council
of thirty‑three do‑rces, which obtained the acknowledgement of the Grand
Orient of France, in 1822." Bro. Ragon says "In blay, 1821, a union and fusion
took place between the Supreme Council of France, and the Council of America,
in Paris. " In 1828, the regular Supreme Council of New York, of whicli Hon.
De Witt Clinton was Grand Commander, went to 'sleep, in common with all the
Masonic bodies'in that re‑ion.
" In
1832, the Count De St. Laurent comes to New York, and reorganized the Supreme
Council of De Witt Clinton, deceased, and Flias Hicks was then Grand
Commander. It was duly constituted, and proclaimed by the title of the United
Saprente Council 33rd." The Supreme Council of the 33rd degree, Ancient and
Accepted Rite, of France, is entirely separate from the Grand 'Orient. It was
established, as stated, in, 1811, united to the rival Council of America in
1821, and continues now in existence, in Paris, separate from, but in
acknowledgment and cor respondence with the Grand Orient.
Thory
was its defender, and opposed to the Grand Orient, while Ragon was the
de"'fender of the Grand Orient, and opposed to the Grand Council.
In the
United''States, each of the above bodies have their 'friends, and each have
their opposes. The Charleston wing holds the Grand Orient in derision, charges
it with assuming control of the Scotch Rite, without authority‑that it is
truly ‑',a, Grand Lodge of Modern, or French Rite Masonry, and should ‑confine
itself to that Rite.
The
old Grand Council of New York contends that, by the treaties here referred to,
the Grand Orient has 4‑ally obtained control of all the Rites, and, so far as
the Scotch Rite is concerned, it is sufficient to say that, even the Grand
Council of Fr nee admits her legal right to take charge of said system.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
Bro.
1,, 131a.nc Dc Marconay says The regular Supreme Council of New York
(possessing, in 1807. only thirty‑two degrees), since 1812, omnipotent for the
3rd. passed, in succession of time, from the 111. Bro. De Witt Clinton to 111.
Bro. Hicks, and, finally, arrived in the Grand Commandery of Ill. Bro. Henry
C. Atwood.
'As
for the Snpreine Council of Louisiana,. thus it is : It was established by the
Supreme Council of New York, in 1813, first as a Grand Consistory of Princes
of the Royal Secret. This Consistory was confirmed, in 1833, by the United
Supreme Council of the Western Hemisphere (the same Supreme Council that
created it), and. in 1835, it took the name and title of Supreme Council of
33rd. and founded a power for Louisiana which was admitted to the
correspondence and acknowledgment of the Grand Orient of France, in 1842."
About 1851, Bro. John Gedge, Grand Master of Louisiana, who had previously
written and published a historical account of the Scotch Rite degrees,
denouncing their claims to Masonry in the strongest terms, took charge of a
Consistory, under authority from the Grand Council at Charleston, which new.
Consistory soon took precedence in public favor, or, more properly, with the
American Masons of New Orleans; and, in 1855; the old Grand Council yielded up
its right to that jurisdiction.
Whatever may have been the motives which induced said surrender, it is
certainly too late now to inquire, and any attempt to reestablish it must be
regarded as illegal. True, it may be justly said, that the Charleston Council
established a Consistory there illegally, because the ground had been, and was
occupied, but as one wrong can not justify another, the friends of the old
Grand Council can not be justified in an effort to resuscitate the old (which
would be impossible), or establish a new one.
From
all. the facts referred to, and others which may be stated, the following
objections may be urged against Scotch Rite Masonry 1. That if the Ancient and
Accepted Rite. in its first three degrees, or elsewhere, teaches, essentially,
the same truths thut 100
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
are,
and ever have been taught by Ancient Craft Masonry, then are they not
necessary, nor can there be any legal authority for this new system of
administering them.
2. If
they are essentially different, either in ritual or doo. trine, from Ancient
Craft Masonry, then are they falsely called Masonic degrees, and should be
denounced by good and true Masons.
8.
That if the Scotch Rite has taken charge of, and subdivided Masonry into
various parts, and instituted a degree for each part, the founder or founders
have violated their plighted faith to Ancient Craft Masonry, by a bold attempt
to make innovations in the body of Masonry, and that to tolerate, encourage,
or practice those degrees, is to sanction those innovations and justify
violated vows.
4.
That the degrees of Perfection were originally political and sectarian.
5.
That while the Exalted degrees in the Scotch Rite were, originally, and, if
properly conferred, are still strictly Christian degrees, and exclude all but
Christians, there is proof that they have been, and still are, given to Jews,
Infidels, and even revilers of Christ's holy mission.
6.
That no legal authority can be shown for the introduction of the Rite of
Perfection, or Scotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted, into the United States.
7.
That Frederick the Great never had anything to do with the system of
Perfection, or Scotch Rite Masonry.
8. If
all, or any part of the foregoing charges are true, then should no one who
believes in the teachings of Ancient Craft Masonry; no one who can not
sanction innovations in the body of Masonry ; no one who believes that Masonry
should have nothing to do with politics or religion ; no one who believes that
the Grand Lodge system of 1717 should be sustained ; and, certainly, no friend
to Christianity, should tolerate, much less encourage, the propagation of said
degrees.
To the
first charge, it is only necessary to say that all Scotch Rite Masons admit,
nay, they claim as a reason why Ancient Craft Masons should not object to
them, that the three first degrees are essentially the same; and thus are we
plainly asked SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
101 to
admit that a Society, having the very germ of its origin as late as 1740, or,
at farthest, 1650, has the right to administer the first three degrees of
Masonry, though no Grand. Lodge authority is sought for to legalize the
assumed right. In short. we are asked to admit that it was in the power of
Chevalier Ramsey to take charge of Masonry, institute a new formula for it,
remodel and change, as he pleased, the ritual, and that now, this new system
has not only equal, but paramount claims to be cultivated.
What
answer should the honest Mason make? Can lie do less than denounce, disown,
and repudiate the attempt at innovation ? ‑Suppose our friends, the Odd
Fellows, were to adopt the three first degrees of Masonry, as a part and
parcel of their system of degrees, and suppose they were to administer them
precisely as they are given in our Lodges, could we, dare we recognize them as
legal Masonic degrees? But we shall see, before the close of this article,
that Scotch Rite Masons do more than ask us to acknowledge and recognize their
first three degrees.
The
second charge conditionally embraces a self‑evident truth, and, therefore,
need not be commented upon; and the same may be said of the third charge. In
noticing the fourth charge, that the degrees were originally political and
sectarian, it will appear necessary, in the absence of positive proof, to
present the highest presumptive testimony.
It is
the opinion of some writers, that the Ineffable degrees were instituted in
Scotland, immediately after Cromwell caused Charles I. to be beheaded, and
while Charles II. was an exile in France, and that the association had for its
leading objects, first, to restore the Royal exile, and second, to bind all
Roman Catholics never to change their religion. The Reformation in England,
Scotland, and Wales had progessed so rapidly as to alarm the Pope and his
adherents, seeing, as they did, that without some well‑planned and combined
effort, the supremacy of that Church would be forever lost in the kingdom of
Great Britain, if, indeed, the force of example did not spread through out
Europe.
To
meet the emergency, and to arrest the conversions to the Protestant faith, it
was deemed proper to form a seeret Society, which, while it gratified the
initiates with a 102
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
great
amount of tinsel and show, in a very imposing ceremony, accompanied with
high‑sounding titles, and the investment of V.reat powers, especially to the
standard‑bearers, also bound the recipients by a solemn oath, never to change
heir religion. This Society, it is said, was secretly organized throughout the
kingdom. That they adopted Freemasonry as a model, but, instead of the
teachings and legends of the third degree, known ‑to every MaEter Mason, they
taught that, under the symbol of the Lost Wot d, thhey were to understand the
murder of Charles I., which Word could be restored and brought to lialht by
the restoration of the son of the murdered King to the throne of England, and
the reestablishment of the Roman Catholic religion.
Bros.
Nichola and Bode felt themselves authorized to 'relieve this was the origin
and true version of Freemasonry. Scltroder, also, took this view of the
subject, and says that the siguification of the whole ceremony of the third
degree goes to show its origin and teaching, as above stated.
But we
have no reliable testimony, going to show the institution of the Ineffable
degrees, until Chevalier Ramsey visited France, about 1740. That the Society,
when first, known in France, was a political. As well as Roman Catholic
Institution, is, we think, beyond all reasonable doubt ; the ritual of the
degrees, even as .they are now used, and especially the old copies, go to
establish this fact; .and, certainly, it may, with truth, be said that,
previous to the days of Ramsey, no charge of intermeddling in politics or
religion had ever been sustained against Ancient Craft Masonry but to show
that the. Jesuit Priest, Barruel, was correct in charging that Masons in
France had connected themselves with :the Illuminati and Jacobin clubs, and
were instrumental in fomenting the Revolution of 17239, the open declaration
of Bro. Ladabat, of Louisiana, is given here. In defending the old Grand
Council at New Orleans, in 1853, lie says " French Masonry is not nonsense!
It
works!
The
world is full of its wonders ; and if the ideas of Liberty and Equality are
now in the heart of all Europe, it is French Masonry we must thank for it.
.
.
.
.
.
She
(France) waged war with Old aristocracy, priestocracy, and kingoeracy.
She
stood alone is the midst of the globe, fought against all the nations of
SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
103
world combined against her, and forced into them Freemasonry; that i.,‑,
LIBERTY, EQUALITY, and, ultimaIcly, FRATERNITY.
The
French armies have carried into every land of Europe, the ideas which had been
matured by French Afasonry." Here is plainly set forth they ery doctrines, the
very teachings of Weishaupt, the founder of the Illuminati. He sets out with
tli~ broad basis, that the enlightenment of the people‑thd masses‑will lead to
the downfall of all kings, all priests, all religions, and establish upon
their ruins, Liberty and Equality: Bro. Ladabat seems resolved not to be
misunderstood, as lid proceeds to quote from. Barruel, to prove that this
great credit can only be claimed for French Masonry, as Barruel, in hit
denunciation of Masonry, exempts English Freemasonry, as hd declared that
Masonry, in England, never interfered in politics: Nor is Bro. Ladabat alone
in his views of the political charge= ter of Scotch Rite Masonry, though he
is, perhaps, more open and manly in his proclamation.
Bro.
Albert Pike, of Louisiana,;, in an address before his Grand Lodge, in
February, 1858, iii speaking of Scotch Rite Masonry, says "It is the preacher
of LIBERTY, FRATERNITY, and EQUALITY. 0 And he enters into detail, sh0wing
that it advocates and preaches " a decent and well regulated Liberty, a sober
Fraternity, and political Equality." Again Bro. Pike says: " Masonry was made
to be the ORDER OF THE PEOPLE.
1l`t
has ever exerted its influence on the side,of civil anti religious liberty ;"
and then presents the following extract as the motto of Scotch Rite Masonry "
` Devotion to the interest of the people; detestation ff Tyranny; haired for
the rights of Free Tho"ht, Free Speech, and Fred+ Conscience; implacable
hostility to Intolerance, Bigotry, drroggnce and Usurpation; respect and
regard.for labor, which makes hunidtil nature noble; and scorn and contempt
for all monopolies, that minister to insolent and pampered luxury.' " Here we
have a published account of the objects and ends or the Scotch Rite, Ancient
and Accepted.
It was
instituted 11br the people, in opposition to tyrants.
It is
intended to fl‑*e4 15 104
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
the
mind of man from religious restraints‑from the dogmas of all religions, and as
it was made for the "dear people," "it holds in scorn and contempt all
monopolies that minister to intolerant and pampered luxury," that is to say,
all royal families tnd liereditory claimants of power; to all priests and
ministers, who monopolize the high places, and live in luxury, on the sweat of
the poor laborer. Now all this sounds well in the ear of a n American, but
this motto is not given as the motto of a politieal club, but is sent forth by
a brother Mason, as the true motto of Freemasonry, while the members of the
Order have proclaimed, far and near, that it has nothing whatever to do with
politics, or religion, that it neither teaches monarchy, anar chy, nor
republicanism.
It
neither teaches the right divine of the Pope, the temperal powers of the
Bishop, nor the freedom from all the religious restraints of Priests and
Churches. Scotch Rite Masonry, then, was not only political and sectarian, in
the beginning, but it is still so, as shown by its ablest advocates.
From
the best light available, it appears to be probable that Ramsey subdivided the
degrees of Masonry, or, rather, added thereon, a set of degrees, which he
termed philosophic explanations of true Masonry. That, in addition to these
explanatory degrees, lie, in conjunction with the Jesuit Priests of France,
concocted one or more strictly Christian degrees, and almost as purely Romish,
for the very hangings and imagery representations, from Christ's body to the
Cross, portray the forms of worship o6 that Church alone.
The
Rose Croix, is the great Christian degree of the Scotch Rite, which has been
remodeled to furnish the Templar's degree of the United States, but in doing
this the original Rose Cross was not given up, but is now practiced by the
said Scotch Rite, either in its original purity, or under.various
modifications, to suit persons and localities.
We do
not know how many degrees were invented by Ram. sey. Some writers say he
instituted but three, and that they were by him intended, not as innovations
upon Masonry, but to ridicule the pomp and show with which he found Masonry
incumbered in Paris, and that he succeeded so far beyond of `it in. ies rs, at
an tito 0th rm B. f.
t I
SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
105
his intention, in pleasing the show‑loving French, that they adopted the
Scotchmau's Rite Masonry, in lieu of that which they had received from
England. Be this as it may, it appear+, that Ramsey's Masonry went to sleep
for a time, as, for several years, we hear nothing of it, until it reappears
under the guardianship of De Bonnville, who was regarded as Ramsey's
successor, and then we find it under the name of the Masonry of Harodim, or
Ineffable Masonry, and soon after, the Sublime Masonry of Harodim. and had
twenty‑five degrees, the Prince of the Royal Secret being the last. And here
it is that we find the Rose Cross, representing the crucifixion, burial,
ascension, pas. cover, libations. etc., and all exhibited and explained so
pleilosophtcaUy, that they were made acceptable to all, whether Jew, Chris
tian, or Infidel.
Though
this may seem to be a charge difficult to sustain, the facts force the mind to
believe its truth. It is true, that these degrees have been so often modified
and changed, to suit purposes and localities, that scarcely any one charge
will strictly apply to all.
In
1823, the Grand Council, over which De Witt Clinton presided. issued a
circular, bearing his signature, denouncing the Charleston Council, because
they conferred the higher degrees‑the Christian degrees‑upon Israelites, while
the Grand Consistory of New Orleans, the creature of the very same Council,
held that there was nothing to exclude the Jews from taking them.
In
this work, there is no intention or desire to recur to the particulars of the
party quarrels which have ever marked the footsteps of this new system of
secret degrees, called Alasonic, both in France and America; certain it is
that, while these quarrels have tended to bring reproach upon Masonry, because
of the assumed title, they have, nevertheless, tended to expose and lay bare,
not only the teachings, but the very rituals of the Order, copies of which are
to be found, not only in the breasts of the good and true, but in black and
white, and often differing as widely from each other, as does the ritual of
Odd Fellowship from that of Masonry; but it is believed that, in every part of
the world, the Scotch Rite retains the leading features of the Rose Croix
degree, and, therefore. it is everywhere,appurently, a purely Christian
degree, greatly more impressive and theatrical 106
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
than
the Templar's degree is, as given in the Eneampruents of this country ; and
yet, how abundant the proof, that the bitterest enemies of Christ, and the
very blasphemers of His holy name, are deemed fit subjects to take that, and
all the other Christian degrees. If we go to France and begin with Voltaire,
who, if we may believe the account published by Bro. Mackey, in the first
number of his JJIasonic .Miscellany, was received into the degrees with almost
shoutings of praise, certainly with speeches in which lie was complimented and
thanked, as the great and efficient means of freeing the minds of millions
from the thraldocn of superstition. We might pass from Voltaire down to
Lafayette, and it would be difficult to find a single prominent Scotch Rite
Mason, who was a true believer in any branch of orthodox religion.
And
how much better is it in the United States?
Who
are its leaders, and what are their religious sentiments?
It is
known that many good Christians have taken the degrees in this country, but,
generally, they gradually and silently absent themselves from the Lodges and
Consistories; but as it would be improper to be personal; other proofs will be
referred to.
We
have seen, in the early part of this work, and alluded to the fact in this
article, that Weishaupt was a great fanatic, and claimed to be the founder of
a system of infidelity, so wisely arrant,ed, as finally and speedily to banish
all religion, save the religion "of Reason, of Liberty, and of Equality."
Weishaupt adopted French Masonry as the groundwork of his system, and
permitted none but Masons to enter his asylum.
It is
known that the Charleston Council contends, and has ever done so that Scotch
Rite Masonry is indebted to Frederick the Great, of Prussia, for the
institution of a part of the degrees, and for, at least, the ratification of
the fundamental law for their government.
Now,
we admit that all this does not amount to proof positive that the Charleston
brethren regard the system as teaching anti‑Christian principles, but we leave
it to the candid read^r to say, whether such an inference is not legitimate,
for we dare not charge that they are ignorant of the fact that Frederick was
as much opposed to Christianity as his relig ious teacher, Voltaire himself.
No
one, who has read the various SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
107
biographies of that Monarch, can believe that lie would have lent his name or
aid for the propagation of any system or theory, having even the appearance of
Christianity.
It is
known that Stephen Morin, who brought the Rite of Perfection (including the
Rose Cross) to this country, Ryas a Jew, and, therefore, an enemy to
Christianity. It is known that nearly all the Deputy Inspectors General,
appointed by him, were Jews ; and the same may be said of the acting Deputies,
for fifty years after.
We
proceed to give the names of as many of the early Inspectors as we can call to
mind, viz., De La Motte, Abraham Alexander, M. M. Hayes, Isaae Do Costa, Col.
John Mitchell, and Frederick Dalcho, were severally appointed for South
Carolina. henry Frankin, for Jamaica; Solomon Bush, for Penntiylvania ; Barend
M. Spitzer, for Georgia; A. Forst, for Virginia.
Of the
foregoing, we think Bros. Mitchell and Dalcho, alone, were not Jews.
In
speaking of Do Grasse Tilly, Bro. Radon says "According to the Count's own
showing, Morin conferred the degree on Frankin (a Jew), Frankin rave it to
Moses flays (a Jew), Hays gave it to Berend D1. Spitzer (a Jew). These had a
reunion in Philadelpliia, in 1781, and gave it to Moses Collen (a Jew), Cohen
gave it to Isaac Lalang (a Jew), and Lalang conferred it upon Count Dc Grasse
Tilly." Cohen also gave the degree (or, more properly, the appointment of
Deputy Inspector) to Abraham Jacobs (a Jew), who, in 1802, initiated eight
brethren in Savannah, Georgia. and opened a Sublime Lodge. From 1802 to 1810,
Jacobs movements are not known to us, but about the period last named, we hear
of him in the city of New York, and, certainly, not under the most favorable
circumstances. Whatever may bethought of the legality of the old Consistory of
New York, it will hardly be denied that it was occupying the ground, and doing
work, and yet Jacobs conferred the whole of the degrees, or as many as lie
himself possessed, upon nineteen brethren in New York, in violation of the
known laws of the Cousistory. We are told that Jacobs excused himself by
taking his novitiates to Trenton‑sixty, miles away from the Consistorv‑‑ò
before he could conscientiously complete the degrees.
But,
after li 108
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
all,
we do not know that Jacobs (a poor man, who must needs live by his wits, for
he would not go. to hard labor) is much more censurable than was the old Grand
Council of New York, in planting a subordinate in Charleston, knowing the
ground to be occupied, or than the Grand Council of Charleston, in planting a
subordinate in New Orleans, under similar circumstances.
In
1802, the Grand Lodge of South Carolina evinced some dissatisfaction, if not
distrust, at the establishment of a new system, called Masonic, in that
jurisdiction ; whereupon the Grand Council appointed a Committee, consisting
of Frederick Dalcho, Isaac Auld, and F. De La Motte, who, on the 4th of
December, of that year, issued a circular, historical and explanatory of said
new degrees. In this document are to be found many curious things, among which
are tire following " It is well known to the Blue Master, that King Solomon
and his royal visitor were in possession of the real and pristine word, but of
which lie must remain in ignorance, unless initiated into the Sublime degrees.
The authenticity of this word, as known to us, and for which our much
respected Master died; is proven to the most skeptic mind. from the sacred
pages of holy writ, and the Jewish history, from the earliest time.
Dr.
Priest ley, in his letters to the Jews, has the following remarkable pas sage,
when speaking of the miracles of Christ: `and it Iraq been said by your
writers, that he performed his miracles by means of some Ineffable name of
God, which he stole out of the Temple!"' We learn, from the foregoing, 1. That
King Solomon, and Hiram, King of Tyre, were in possession of the pristine
word, of which the Master Mason of Ancient Craft Masonry must remain in
ignorance, unless lie consent to be initiated into this new system of Masonry,
by whose founders the great and hidden mysteries of Masonry have been brought
to light. The honest truth is not admitted, that this new system subdivides
the degrees of Masonry, and abstracts from tire Master's degree that full and
complete explanation of the pristine word, and all the legends of Masonry
which were given to the Master Mason, until after this trew t needs s much f
New no. tile harlessimilar d some a new ou tho ~derick 4th of !xplan. found
lomon ristine nitiatlrd, as ied, is holy 'riest e pas t l: as es by f the re
in n of s lie by )nry ;ted, and e xn ry lew SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT ANI1
ACCEPTED.
109
system, or so much of it as relates to the Royal Arch, was introduced into
England by the coined influence of Ramsey and Dermott.
2. We
learn that if the extract from Dr. Priestley means anything, it is used here
to leave the impression on the mind that the charge made by the Jews against
Christ was true ; that He did perform His miracles by means of this pristine
word, the Ineffa611e name, which He stole from the Temple. And this is the
true Masonic Institution, teaching Ancient Craft Masonry in the first sixteen
degrees, and Christianity in the remainder 1 It is true, that what is
infidelity with one, may be esteemed good religion with another, as the one or
the other may be influenced by a self‑erected standard of truth.
If the
Holy Bible is true only in part, then is it not infidelity, in part, to deny
its truth, and the Charleston Committee may not be charged with favoring
infidelity.
But
if, as we suppose, the Bible is true, as a whole, and in all its parts, it
sounds like blasphemy, to us, to indorse the truth of the charge made by Dr.
Priestley.
If
Christ was an imposter, it may not be wrong to charge Him with theft and a
juggling use of the stolen word, but if he was the Son of God‑God‑man‑what
must be thought of the manner in which the Committee use the words of Dr.
Priestley ? Again, the Committee says : "Another very important discovery was
made in the year 5553, of a record in Syrian characters, relative to the most
remote antiquity, and from which it would appear, that the world is many
thousand years older than given by Mosaic accounts‑an opinion entertained by
many of the learned." From the above extract, we are left to suppose the
Committee attached to this wonderful discovery, the existence of satisfactory
testimony that the Bible is not true, at least, so far as Moses is to be
esteemed an author. We know that some learned men do believe that the world is
older than the Bible represents it to be, but we have yet to learn that this
theory is in accordance with the Bible.
From
published documents and the rituals, we know that Scotch Rite Masons represent
the Rose Cross degree and that lieu
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
of
Kadosh, as teaching Christianity.
In the
former, the crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and passover, are
represented ; and, yet, we find among the recipients, Jews, Moliammedans, and
1 ufidels, of all grades ; and this is made to appear consistent, by having
the degree philosophically explained, and the philosophy of French T‑lasoury
is very flexible and expansive. For example, if it fits the taste, or, so
called religion, of the initiate, all the representations of Christ and His
institutions are philusophicady explained to mean any and everything, but the
divine mission, divine mediation, divine death, divine ascension, and His
divine laws, are explained to mean only that Christ was a good man, and
offered good temporal laws, philo sophically considered, for the government of
mankind.
While,
with the Voltaire branch of this system, it is more openly taught that these
representations of Christ and His sufferings, are made to show the fallacy of
the doctrines of Christianity. Then, again, there are those who profess to be
Christians, and practice piety, who take a medium course. Within the last
forty‑eight hours, one of the most distinguished Scotch Rite Masons in the
United States, in conversing upon this subject, exclaimed, " What, pray, has
the divinity of Christ to do with Christianity."
Such
as lie would doubtless hold that Christ was a creature of God, a man, mortal
as are all men, commissioned by God to do and perform certain temporal things;
vii., to prea%h the Gospel, establish Churches, and give laws for their
temporal government.
Thus
it will be seen that these Exalted and Sublime Christian degrees are made
palatable to all.
In one
of the Lodges, perhaps the 28th degree, " Old Adam presides as Chief
Commander," and the Lodge is made up of beings, called "Perfect Angels," but
so philosophical are these degrees, that it would be esteemed an evidence of
downright ignorance to hint at the seeming impiety of such a representation as
this.
The
Rose ‑}‑, under various rite‑about eighty in nunibereven been tacked on to
Ancient of Knight Templar, and though it is not here recognized, or names, is
practiced in every known to the world. It has Craft 3fasonry, under the title
recited ; Lans, conthe ive. the ons but Tnliat iloile, ily ty. nd St to th st
s e 0 SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT ARID ACCEPTED.
ill
claimed to be a part or parcel of Masonry, it assumes that aspect before the
world, because none are admitted to the Orders of Knighthood but Freemasons.
As practiced in the United States, the Rose Croix, or Templar's degree, is
only given to those who believe in the divinity, vicarious death, ascension,
and mediation of Christ, but the Rose Croix, or Templar's degree, in the
Scotch Rite, is given. as is seen, to the professors of any religion, or of no
religion, and certainly to Lnti‑Clii‑istians.
The
author hopes not to be misunderstood.
lie
does not Dpposc this new system of Masonry, so called, because it does .wt
teach Christianity; on the contrary lie has ever contended that Masonry has
nothing directly to do with Christianity, or any other sectarian religion‑that
the only religion it has, is the belief in one God‑‑Jehovah.
But he
holds that it would be quite as foreign to Masonry to teach anti‑Christianity,
as to become a Christian sect ; and lie sincerely believes, that while in the
Rose +, and Knight of Kadosli, the image worship of our Saviour is taught,
Jews and Infidels are permitted to enter, and trample under foot the doctrines
Ile carne to promulgate. This blow hot and blow cold Christian Masonry is
either too grossly blasphemous, or too philsophically refined, to amalgamate
or hold fraternal ties with Ancient Craft Masonry.
And
can these objections to the higher degrees of the Scotch Rite be considered
out of place, when it is remembered that they claim to have "the original
right," not only to administer the three degrees in Masonry, but to govern and
control all Masonry. It is true that the Grand Council at Charleston said, in
1802 "The Sublime Grand Lodge, sometimes called the Ineffable Lodge; or the
Lodge of Perfection, extends, from the 4th to the 14th degree inclusive, which
last is the degree of Perfection.
The
Sublime Masons never initiate any into the Blue degrees, without a legal
warrant obtained for that purpose from, a Symbolic Grand Lodge." Was this true
when it was spoken ? if so, wonderful strides after power have since been
taken ; for, throughout Continental Europe, indeed, everywhere that Scotch
Masons have obtained the ascendency, they have not applied to a Symbolic Grand
t12
MODERN
FREEMASONR .
Lodge,
but their Consistorics‑about which Symbolic Masons know nothing‑have issued
authority, established Lodges, and worked the degrees in the Scotch Rite. This
has been done in New Orleans; and, so far as their system may be right and
proper, they acted correctly, and more manfully than the other wing, who, for
popularity, abstain from taking charge of Symbolic Masonry, so far as the
three degrees, but, at the same time, openly declare their "original right" to
do so.
The
Charleston Council, having obtained a foothold, and becoming more bold, or
more grasping, than she was in 1802, declares end proclaims, in 1845, that "
In deference to the Constitutions of the York Rite, practiced in this country,
it waives its rights and privileges, so far as they relate to the first three
degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, which, long before the establishment of any
Supreme Council in this hemisphere, were under the control of Symbolic Grand
Lodges." The Northern Grand Council, under J. J. J. Gougas, reiterated this
proclamation. Now this waiving of power over Ancient Craft Masonry, or,
rather, that part of their Craft Masonry which they call the first three
degrees, stands in a tljreatening attitude, warning us that they have the
original right to confer all the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry‑that they
have only waived that right‑aye, and they will continue to waive it, provided
we will harken to their advice and dictation.
These
conditions were very plainly set forth in a printed communication, sent to the
Grand Lode of Louisiana, by the Consistory at New Orleans, in February, 1858.
What then is the condition of Ancient Craft Masons, made in what we esteem
true Masonic Lodges, legally constituted by warrants from Grand Lodges? If we
ask whence their authority for taking charge of Freemasonry, under new
rituals, new degrees, new doctrines‑no, not new doctrines, but antiquated
doctrines, remodeled for modern uses 1 we shall be answered variously,
according as the local body has obtained its authority.
In
France, we shall be told the original power was derived from Chevalier Ramsey,
modified and improved by De Bonnville, the Chapter of Clermont, and, finally,
the finishing touch is dur to DUB Lad in Lad her rmme .'he ing res ticas ry,
icil .Ld erLnry ng Per Iv it, ed ie is In In ~g %V y. n n e 0 SCOTCH RITE,
ANCIENT ANI) ACCEPTED.
113
Std:hen Morin. Ask in Scotland, where it is claimed the., degrees were
practiced long before the days of Ramsey, and the Grand Lodge tells us that
this now system was never heard of there, until a communication was read from
an AmericAu Council, to which she replied in substance‑"depart front: us, we
never knew you, we do not wish to know you." Ask;, one arm of the American
Society, and they will give much the,. same history that is afforded in
France, and refer us to the Grand Orient for further light.
Ask
the other arm, and they, will, tell you that the Grand Orient is not good
authority for‑, facts; and reason very clumsily to sustain false
positions‑that, the degrees originated in Scotland, at some remote period, noQ
now to be ascertained‑that Ramsey carried them from Scotland:' to France‑that
afterward, Frederick the Great, added to andperfected them, and condescended
to make laws for then: government.
Ask in
Prussia, and we are told that Frederick the Greet, was never more than a
Master Mason, and that, the degrees of Perfection, or Scotch Rite, never was,
and is not now known there. And yet, by this mammoth innovator, we are told
weò Must enter, with them, into a concordat of mutual agreement, and, mutual
defense, and, in default of such concession, it is. plainly intimated that
they will no longer feel under obligar tions to waive their right to control
the first three degrees;;; and, the logical deduction is, that if we will,
not, throw open, the door of the Masonic Sanctum Sanctorum, we shall be
regarded as interlopers, money‑changers, and desecrators of the sacred Temple,
and, as such, though we be found kneeling at the alters of our fathers, we
shall be ejected, to make place for, those who have the original right to
occupy it.
In
vindication of the sixth charge, viz., that no legal authority. can be found
for the introduction of the Scotch, or Rite of Perfection, into the United
States, we have only to recapitulato., some facts already stated, viz., that
all the Councils and Consistorles, now in existence, or which once existed,
have, and do trace their authority to Stephen Morin, and as no Council or,
Consistory is claimed to have been established before 1783, iit; Wows that
none existed here until. mure than twenty years,, a 114
)(ODERN
FREEMASONRY, after Morin's power and authority ceased to exist.
His
patent was issued in 1761, and annulled in 1766.
Bro.
Giles F. Yates tells us that a Sublime Lodge of Perfection was " established
in Albany, in 1767," by Henry A. Frankin, one of the Deputies of Stephen
Morin, and if Frankin received his authority from Morin, before the recall of
his patent, it would seem that this Lodge, and this alone, was legally
planted.
But,
after all, it is of but little consequence whether any, or all the Councils,
Consistories, or Lodges were regularly established, because, whether legal or
illegal in their origin, all irregularities have been healed by one of the two
great fountain‑heads of France. Every Council or Consistory ever planted in
this country (if it lived long enough to open up a correspondence), has been
ratified and acknowledged, either by the Grand Council or Grand Orient of
France, and as they themselves recognize each other as legal Masonic bodies,
we must acknowledge that. Scotch Rite Masonry, in the United States, is as
legally practiced as it is in France.
The
seventh charge, that Frederick the Great never had any thing whatever to do
with this system of Perfection, or Scotch Rite Masonry, may, it is thought, be
readily sustained. Tne author thinks he has read every respectable biography
of Frederick the Great, written or translated, in the English Ian guage, and,
without the fear of successful contradiction, he asserts, that nowhere is his
name mentioned in connection with any other than the three degrees given in a
Symbolic Lodge. And is it at all probable that his connexion with these
degrees ryas as important and public as is stated, and that the fact escaped
the notice of all his biographers, especially as we know that some of them
were minute in their details? They all tell us of his Initiation, Passing, and
Raising in a Symbolic Lodge, and some of them very plainly intimate his want
of admiration for Freemasonry.
Lord
Dover kept and published an account of almost everything Frederick did or
said, from his rising in the morning to his retirement at night, and yet, not
a word of his connection with this Rite.
It has
been so long and so often stated, in this country, that Frederick the Great
was the Sovereign Grand Inspector General of both hemispheres Gt e d a n s s
SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
115
and the author of the Secret Constitutions, etc., etc., that, for aught we
know, it may be thought rash in us to deny their truth ; but all we ask, is an
opportunity to present a moiety of the testimony that might be brought
forward, and we think it will be seen that, while it must be admitted that
Frederick the Great had quite as many sins of his own to answer for as the
heart of his bitterest enemy could desire, it will yet be made appear that he
did not lend his name to make innovations in the body of Masonry. The time
selected for him to mature the system is singularly unfortunate, as a moment's
reflection will satisfy every historian, that at no period of his wars was he
so incessantly occupied with his armies, as in 1762'ò and Dr. Dalcho tells us
that " the higher Councils and Chapters could not be opened without his
presence, or that of his substitute, whom he must appoint." Stephen Morin
claimed that his authority to confer the higher degrees emanated from
Frederick, and the following extract will show (if true) that this Monarch
wore his Masonic honoys a long time, and still they escaped the notice of
every historian of his day. The Charleston Grand Council says "On the 1st of
May, 1786, the Grand Constitution of the 33rd degree, called the Supreme
Council of Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, was finally ratified by His
Majesty the King of Prussia, who, as Grand Commander of the Order of the
Prince of the Royal Secret, possessed Sovereign Masonic power over all the
Craft. In the new Constitution, this high power was conferred on a Supreme
Council of nine brethren in each nation, who possess all the Masonic
prerogatives, in their own districts, that His Majesty individually possessed,
and are Sovereigns in .Masonry." By what authority the foregoing statements
were made, does not appear, but it is most likely that they were the invented
tale of Morin ; certain it is, that not a line or sentence of it is sustained
by any historical record. Bro. Albert Pike, who is an open and devoted friend,
and holds allegiance to the Charleston Council, said, in his address to the
Grand Lodge of Louisiana, in February, 1858, that he did not believe Frederick
the Great had 11G
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
anything to do with those degrees; but we offer testimony from the
fountain‑head in Prussia, as conclusive upon this su'l,tecL The following is
the original translation of the.,document., hi 6t10 Oerman language, deposited
in the Grand_ East, of France, :.
" To
Bro. Le Blanc De Marconay, Esq., of New York MOST LEARNED BROTHER:‑We thank
you very much for your obliging letter of May 25th, and for the information
ii, contains about, the situation of the Art Royal. in America.
You
wish to receive from us 1. A notice concerning the establishment, the
progress, and. the actual situation of Masonry in our East.
" 2.
The. Tableaux which were printed by the
supreme authorities, and particularly the,Lodges thereto belonging.
3. A
copy of the publications which took place.
`░
In order to comply with your wishes, it would be necessary far you to cover
the expenses by a credit, as they are far above our means.
But to
satisfy you as much as it is in our power, without, exceeding the limits of a
letter, and, as a token of our gratitude toward you for the interesting
information you have com municated to us, we will only say, that our National
Grand Lodge has been founded under the auspices of Frederick the Great, first
:'Mason and Grand Master of his Empire, on the 13th of September, 1740. She
has now ninety‑nine daughter Lodges, and is composed of the representatives of
said Lodges but she is not in the dependency of any other foreign Lodge, and
exists only under the protection of our august King, who: confides entirely in
her as authorized Mason, first, free, legislative, and administrative. `She is
the center of all her daughters, who are devoted to her.' " Concerning the
opinions prevailing among you, we inform you that Frederick the Great is
partly the author of the system, adopted by our Lodge, but that he never
interfered with her affairs, or prescribed any laws to the Masons over whom
lie: extended his protection throughout his estates.
The
Grand Lodge, as far. as she is concerned, confines. leer jurisdiction to the
Blue degrees of St. John.
A
special.
SCOTCH
RTTE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
Committee, composed of members elected by the brethren. and "called Supreme
Interior East, directs the works of the highor degrees, which do not exceed
seven.
_ "
The Scotch Lodge of this Interior East, presided by a 'superior Scotch Master
Mason, spreads over all the Scotch Lodges, united with the Lodges of St. John,
and forms 'a total kith them all.
,"We
recognize, as a superior authority, the old Scotch Directory, which is formed
by elections in the Grand Lodge. " Such is the state of things. and all that
is rumored gmoug you about the prescriptions and ordinances of Frederick the
Great, had of a superior Senate, stands on no ground whatever: "Independent of
this Grand Lodge, we have, in Berlin, two'bther Grand Easts; equally
recognized, and provided with royal privileges, as well as this one, to wit:
The National Grand Lodge of Germany, the Grand Royal York Lodge of Friendship.
Each
one has a certain number of der~endip$ Lodges, and it is a national law that
none can exist, in this kingdom, unless it be the dependent of, or united
with, these three Lodges.
" We
recognize these two Lodges as true and regular Masonic Lodges, and we live
with them in perfect harmony, notwithstanding the difference of usages and
forms existing between us.
" We
hope that these informations will suffice, and we are ready to continue, with
pleasure, our correspondence, and tp enter into more strict intercourse with
the Grand Lodges of your country. We can even send you full powers and
authority, if our letter be insufficient, and we expect your further advice.
`' We
salute you with esteem and fraternal love, by‑three times three.
"Berlin, August 17, 1833.
" The
old Scotch Directory of the National Grand Lodge b the three Globes.
(Signed)
"
POSELGER, National G. Master. `' KOLGE, Sen. Warden.
"
MAZTORFF. " DALLEMANN. " DIEDERICHS. BERTINARD." * See Appendix, page vu.
,118
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
The
Grand Lodge, Royal York, of Friendship, follows no other system but that of
Festler, which has but nine degrees ; and the National Grand Lodge of Germany
is governed by the system of Zinnendorf, which has but seven degrees. We see,
then, that the three Grand Lodges of the kingdom, working in different Rites,
have not, collectively, as many degrees as the Rite of Perfection originally
had ; and it is known that many of their degrees are the same, differing only
in ritual.
How
idle, then, to attribute to Frederick the Great the authenticity of any
portion of the Scotch Rite degrees, or of instituting laws for their
government.
Both
Ragon and Marconay deny the existence of any Secret Constitutions, and as the
Grand Councils in this country hail from France, it would seem that Bro.
Marconay is right in paying . " If the Scotch Rite must be known, interpreted,
vindicated. and observed, it must be through and by the Grand East of ,France,
which is the oldest, authority‑the stock and tradition of said, Rite." Bro.
Pike, in his address before the Grand Lodge of Louis iana, in February, 1858,
claims that Scotch Rite Masonry originated in Charleston, and claims that the
Charleston Couii 'cil is, of'right, the governing power.
He
takes the ground that the addition of eight degrees to the Rite of Perfection
changed that Rite, and justified the assumption of a new name‑that this change
took place at Charleston, and the name Scotch Rite, ‑Ancient and ./accepted,
was added‑that from Charleston the higher degrees, the eight additional ones,
and the new name of the new Rite, was sent to France, and hence the Charleston
Council is the mother of the Rite.
And,
certainly, so far as the addition or cumulation of the eight degrees are
concerned, Bro. Pike's statements are confirmed by the French writers, but the
difficulty in sustaining the claim set up in behalf of the rights of the
Charleston Council, are, 1. That the Council itself did not claim to have
added the degrees, or to constitute a new rite, on the contrary, they, de
novo, set up the claim that the additional degrees and laws for their SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
110 ‑
government, came to them from Frederick the Great ; and this doctrine has been
manfully maintained by that Council, from its origin to the present day.
And,
2. If the Sublime Masons of Charleston originated the Scotch Rite, in 1801,
that Rite could not have a code of laws, made specially for its government,
before the rite was known, viz., in 1801 ; and yet, not only the Charleston
Council, but Bro. Pike himself, contends that the Constitution claimed to
ha‑Te been ratified by Frederick, in 1786, is, and ever has been, the
paramount law'of the Scotch Rite, Ancient and Accepted. It must be apparent,
then, that the claim to the institution of the Rite, in Charleston, is not
sustained, as it would be incon, sistent to suppose that Frederick the Great
ratified a code oú laws for the government of a Society, fifteen years before
than Society was instituted.
.
Having
now introduced as much testimony as seems to bd necessary to elucidate our
subject, it may be proper to say a few words as to the credibility of the
witnesses. And first of Bro. Ragon, whose book, Orthodox .Masonry, has been
long before the world, and, so far as we know, has been held in high
estimation, as a truthful, though partisan work. He, as stated, was the
prominent defender of the Grand Orient of France, and opposed to the Grand
Council.
Bro.
Thory, on the other hand, was the defender of the Grand Council and opposed to
the Grand Orient.
The
brother who translated the extracts we have used front Ragon, says that the
facts and dates are corroborated by Thory, but as we have no translations from
the latter, we could noti use him as a witness.
` Bro.
Le Blanc De Marconay received the Scotch Rite de‑i green, in the old Grand
Council of New York, removed to Paris and was received a member, and made
Grand Orator of the Chamber of Council and Appeals. The report from which we
have extracted, was not at the time adopted by the Grand Orient, nor do we
know that it has been since; but it was made in his official capacity, and
though it might not be illiber~ al to charge that he would be influenced by a
partiality for they 120
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Council in which he had been Exalted. his facts must be credited when, as they
are, in conformity to those published by Ra;goo. The author has had no means
of stating the number and places of meeting of the Lodges and Consistories,
established at various periods by the old Grand Council of New York, or the
Grand Council of Charleston, but from a Tableau, printed by the De Witt
'Clinton, or old Grand Council of New York, in 1820, it may be seen, that they
had planted a Consistory is New Orleans, La., one in Newport, R. I., one in
Philadel hia, Pa., and one in Charleston, S. C. This publication bears, the
written signature of De Witt Clinton, as Presid^nt c`_' the Council, and the
signatures of the other officers.
2nd it
is but rair to suppose the Charleston Council had been, and continues to be
quite as industrious in planting subord nates. .On the Foe hand, the De Witt
Clinton Grand ' Council has ever demounced the Grand C^.:ncil of Charleston
and its subordinates, and has been sustained in doing 3o by the Grand Orient
of France.
On the
other hand, the Charleston Grand Council and its subordinates, have evo3r (at
!east, since 1813) denounced the De Witt Clinton Council, and with it the
Grand Orient of France, and have been aided in doing so by the Grand Council
France. This quarrel has become so embittered in the Ulnited States, that now,
if one will patiently listen to, and besieve all the statements made, lie
would be forced to believe that w honest and honorable man ever occupied any
prominent station with either party. Be this quarrel among them. It has
already had the effect to lay open to dissection the so called Scotch Rite
Masonry, and if the dissection shall ever be made by a skillful operator, the
whole system will stand forth a ghastly Skeleton of that political and
religious machine, erected by Jesuitical machinations, to batter down the
Protestant altars, and erect upon their ruins that mammoth system of image
7ror ship, upheld and sustained by the divine right of Popes, Kii.aa and
Priests. This may seem strong language. but is the picture overdrawn? To every
Christian, whether Catholic or Protestant, who has sat in a Chapter of Rose
‑}‑, and seen the free worked, an appeal is hereby made.
Does
not the whole ceremony tend to prove, most conclusively, that it was
institutes SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
121 !n
the manner, and for the purposes stated in this article? Why are two Crosses,
with a Rose, veiled in the Sanctuary, and suddenly exposed to view when the
Chapter is opened ?
Do
they not portray a portion of the Catholic worship ?
Why,
in }gassing these fi +, are you compelled to bow and make a Romis'i Yign to
them? Is it not a part and parcel of the Catholic worship?
What
means the drawn dagger and the solemn vow `that accompanies it? Are you not
thereby pledged to spill your heart's blood in defense of the Catholic
religion?‑the Catholic, because it is evident that was the religion which the
founders of this degree made all its recipients swear never to vcleunge.
What
means the Holy Font of the Rose +?
Is it
'not a basin of water made holy by the mummery of priestcraft?
What
means the Passover and Libation, if they are not used as the most solemn
manner of renewing your
covenant and plighting, soul and body, in defence of the Christian feligion
But, after all, the most important and momentous question leas yet to be
propounded, and it would be but justice to the cause of truth, were it
publicly answered: " What means the ceremony of breaking the bread, and
drinking the wine?"
Do
they not constitute a representation of the Lord's Supper?
It
will, doubtless, be denied, by some Scotch Rite Masons, that the Sacrament is
administered in a Rose ‑{‑ Chapter, because in some localities this portion of
the ceremony, as we are informed, has been stricken out or changed, but we are
authorized to say, that in the French Rose + Chapters, this ceremony is
regarded to be the true ordinance, as efficient and holy as when administered
by the Apostles.
They
hold that all who have taken the Sacrament in a Rose + Chapter are ordained
priests, having, thereby, full power to administer it to others‑to anoint with
holy unction, bury the dead, and do all other things which are lawful and
proper in ordained ministers of the Gospel.
The
reader has, perhaps, shuddered at the thought, that the foregoing may be true,
and that there is a society of men in Christendom, who, under the cloak of
teaching morality and virtue, thus trifle with the holy ordinances of God.
The
author is aware that he runs the risk of raising a strong ff 122
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and
influential opposition, not only to this article, but because of it, to the
sale of his work ; but if, in consequence of his plain manner of laying bare
the truths, as he understands them‑it the performance of a duty, unpleasant,
indeed, but no less a duty, which he owes to his brethren and the community at
large, must cause the labor of a long life to be regarded as worse tLan
useless, and the fruits of that labor, the favorite work of his life, to fall
still‑born, he will not be deterred from his course.
It is
no answer to the objections urged against Scotch Rite Masonry,.dncient and .dccepted,
to be told that this Rose Chapter, and that Rose ‑}‑ Chapter, do not work the
degrees according to the ritual here hinted at, because, as before stated,
various changes have been made, but it is here asserted that the
representations made are, to the full, to be found in the old rituals in this
country, and the essential portion of them must be used by all Chapters, who
work the degrees, or they, have violated their vows and changed their
religion.
But
the misfortune is, that, for the most part, the degree is not worked, but
communicated, and the recipient may not know, or be able to fathom the whole
scheme.
And
now, brethren of the old and true school Masonry, are you prepared to
amalgamate, or enter into compacts with this Society, who claim to have the
Ancient and Accepted Masonry, and who profess to hold in their body the
Sovereigns of all Masonry? We have seen the heart‑burnings, discord, and
confusion introduced into the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, by the union and
fusion of Scotch Rite, and Ancient Craft Masonry, in 1833.
We
have seen that, wherever, on the Continent of Evirope, the Scotch Rite has
been introduced, every effort has been made, and generally, with success, to
root out and superceed the Masonry of our fathers. Must this revolutionary
system continue?
Can
Freemasons, good and true, admit that ;t is in the power of men to make
innovations in the body of Masonry ?
Can
intelligent and consistent Freemasons admit, that it is lawful and proper to
practice Freemasonry, by a new and modified system ?
If
there is a reality in Masonry, there can be but one Masonry, one system, one
ritual, one teaching, SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
123
one code of fundamental law; and if that Masonry, that system, that ritual,
that doctrine, and that code of laws, which have been transmitted to us
through the Grand Lodge of En 0 land, be essentially correct, can we, dare we
regard any other as legal and proper ? Can we lose sight of the fact, that if
the Scotch Rite teaches Masonry at all. it is an innovation upon the body of
Masonry.
Through the instrumentality of Chevalier Ramsey, a few Jesuit. Priests, and
Lawrence Dermott, we have now tacked on to Masonry a series of degrees,
amounting to nine in this country, some of which are purely sectarian, purely
Christian, and from which we are compelled t.o exclude the true descendents of
the twelve tribes‑the founders of Masonry; and shall we further degrade
Freemasonry, by adopting a system of thirty‑three degrees, openly and boldly
proclaiming, as they do, that, though of modern origin, they teach true
Freemasonry, and have the original right do do so ? What would become of our
solemn engagements to permit no innovations? What would become of that system
of Grand Lodge government universally adopted since 1711 ?
We are
all pledged not to recognize, as a brother, any one who has not been made in a
legally constituted Lodge ; and, since 1717, Lodges can be made legal only by
authority of Grand Lodges. It is true that the Grand Lodge of France
accommodates all applicants, whether of the Symbolic, Scotch, or Modern Rite,
but if our old and beloved Order has been down‑trodden there, shall we, too,
bow the knee, and yield obedience to this unblushing innovator ?
Does
it justify' us in legalizing these innovations, by being told that this new
system prevails extensively throughout Continental Europe, and we have
recognized Masons made there?
Nay,
this oft repeated tale of electioneering for the Scotch Rite, is but a poor
apology for the violated faith of those who have solemnly promised never to
make or tolerate innovations, and who, having taken the Scotch Rite degrees,
must know them to be so.
If
France has lost the Freemasonry planted there by the Grand Lodge of England,
and if South America has never known any other than Stephen Morin's Masonry,
does it follow that the Masons of the United States, of Scotland, England,
Ireland, Prussia, etc., etc., 124
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
ihali
desert t,ieir post, and, in a 'dastardly manner, surrender tie Venerable
Temple of Masonry to an Institution, young in ears, but old in schemes for
change, and more remarkable for high‑sounding titles than a uniform system of
morals Were it practicable to institute a world's Convention, instructed and
clothed wish power to bring Masonry back to its primitivi; purity, or if this
were not practicable, at least to that simplicity which distinguished it
throughout the days of Sir Christopher Wren, and down to that period when
Ramsey and Dermott entered the Holy of Holies, and stole away many of its
sacred and valued jewels, future ages would applaud and venerate their deeds,
for then we should have all of Freemasonry in three degrees, and all the
historical and traditionary lore, which, by the American system, is given in
nine degrees, would be communicated to the Master Mason. But so long as this
desirable end is beyond our reach, it is to be hoped there will remain a
chosen few, who will rise proudly above the fascinations of high‑sounding
titles, and the allurements of power sup. posed to be vested in Sovereign
Grand Inspectors General of Freemasonry, and stand forth resolved to permit no
more interferences with the rituals and teachings of our Order.
If the
American subdivision, requiring nine instead of three degrees, or Dermott's
four degrees must continue, let us not tax our descendants with the expense
and mystifications of a new and enlarged system, interspersed with Masonry,
Egyptian philosophy, Paganism, Christianity, and anti‑Christianity. Nay,
rather let us plant our standard on the outer walls of of Ancient Free and
Accepted Masonry, the only Freemasonry ever known, and, as its Virgin banner
floats in the breeze, let passers‑by behold its motto: "REMOVE NOT THE
LANDMARKS SET BY YOUR FATHERS." When about half of the foregoing article on
Scotch Rite Masonry had been set up for stereotyping, we remembered and
referred to an able and learned lecture upon the legends of the third degree,
from the pen of Bro. T. S. Gourdin; of South Carolina, which we published in
the Signet, in 1852. As we then stated, Bro. Gourdin is the first writer after
whom we have rea 1, whose opinions corroborate our own, in relation to the
SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
126;
oä~jects and, ends of Freemasonry, and as his article will go fate
f4,.elucidate,the subjects connected with the Scotch Rite, :i,ncient i sn
Accepted, we take the liberty of giving it in fall, though, . iiii regret we
lead not first, asked permission of ifs author, sell; uoy beg, liis acceptance
of our reasons, above stated, aa, 4!ir. apology: I THE. HISTORICAL REFERENCE
OF THE LEGEND OF THR THIRD DEGREE.
BY
THEODORE s. WURDL21i, w. Il. of IAndmark Lodge, No. 76. Uiarleston, a. Q " In
the wide field of Masonic investigation, there is, perhaps,, Ip subject which
leas been the. theme of so much discussion, as. tip true historical reference
of the legend of the third degree. And it is almost vain to hope that these
differences of opinion gill ever be reconciled. I shall, however, endeavor
briefly to, present some of the various views entertained upon this `vexed
question.' '` Many brethren in Europe suppose this legend to be as a#ronomical
allegory. In their opinion `the Masters degree represents the autumn, this
last, season, when the sun ends his,. epurse, and, like the Phoenix, which was
the type, dies to be reborn from,his ashes. It represents mature age, the
epoch of. life., when man reaps the fruits of his labors and of his studies.
Ixs,emblem is, the tracing‑board, on which are delineated the plans‑‑that is
to say, the lessons of morality and of exper‑, ience, the duties of the Fellow
Crafts and the Apprentices."* "The evil principle, which has been represented
in all the. appient fables as a jealous prince, ravisher of the power of his,
chief, whom lie pursues unceasingly, and at last kills,.t is here. symlbolized.
The twelve persons who play so important a part (French Rite) in this degree,
are supposed to refer to the twelve signs of the Zodiac through which the sun
travels.
The
three. inferior signs, the signs of winter: to wit, Libra, Scorpio, and e
(burs 1'hilosophique et Interprelatif des Initiations Anciennm el Modernes,
par d. IL. Qagon, p. 153.
Paris
: Berlandier.
t lbid,
p. I tit.
126
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Sagittarius, about the middle of autumn occupy these three points in the
heavens, in such a manner that the first is found on the decline, or to the
West, the second at its right ascension to the South, and the last begins to
appear in the East, which is represented by the East gate, where the sun dies
in Sagitiò tarius.
It is
reborn immediately, or recommences a new year in Capricornus.*
`The
sun can not depart from our universe, or from the temple of nature.'
Observe the course which the sun makes, `whether on the first day of spring,
if we suppose this star taking up his abode in the sign of Aries, or on the
last day of his triumph at the summer solstice, or, finally, the day before
his death, which takes place in Libra, whither he descends to the horizon by
the western gate ; if, then, we go back upon the sphere, and examine the
position that Aries takes in the East, we see near him the great Orion, his
arm raised holding a club in the attitude of striking ; to the North we see
Perseus, with a weapon in his hand; and in the attitude of a man ready to
inflict a deadly blow.
From
this moment his inclination toward the southern hemisphere appears so prompt,
that it resembles a fall ; behold him then cast into the tomb; will he
reappear, will he be restored in accordance soith our prayers?
It is
this uneasiness which is suppcsed to have overcome the first men, which is
represented by the search.`h
The
catastrophe `viewed in the figurative or allegorical sense, is, like the
suffering of Osiris, of Adonis, of Atys, or of Mithras, an act of the
imagination of the astronomical priests, whose object was to depict the
absence of the sun from the earth, in order to represent, by this
circumstance, the triumph of the evil principle, or darkness, over light, or
the good principle."
If we
1Qok toward the western horizon, when the sun sets in Aries, we will
distinguish around this constellation, ` Perseus, Phaeton, and Orion,
surrounding in this manner the constellations which adorn the heavens, in this
position ;. and, we will remark, to the North, Cepheus, Hercules and Bootes ;
and to the East will appear Centaurus, Serpentarius, and Scorpio.'1
"The six days which elapse, are supposed
to be
`still a Mid, p. 147.
t
Ibid, p. 163.
1
Ibid, p. 163.
1
Bid, pp. 163‑64.
SCOTCH
RITE, 1NCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
12,7
dontinuation of the same clcstial theme ; for these six days are the
representation of the six months which the sun passes in the inferior signs,
before reappearing in the East, in the sign of dries, or the mediatorial lamb.
And the discovery which is made on the seventh day, is a symbol of the
resurrection of the sun, which actually takes place in the seventh month after
his passage into the inferior signs‑a passage which his disappearance has
caused to be considered as his death, or as his descent into hell (loci inferi,
lower regions).'* "''The degree of Master,' remarks Bro. Ragon, `retraces to
us allegorically the death of the solar god. Whether we only consider this god
as the physical sun, dying in winter, to reap pear, and to be resuscitated in
spring, at Easter‑that is to say, at his passage into the mediatorial lamb‑and
to restore life to nature ; or, as the philosopher, we see only a figurative
commemoration, an emblematic painting of Chaos, from the bosom of which issues
forth the eternal light; or whether (what amounts to the same thing) the
putrefaction expressed by the word
,
apparent death of the body, but in exhaustiblo source of life, by which the
germ in spring receives its development.' " ` When in December the winter sun
appears to leave our climate to reign over the southern hemisphere, and seems
to us to descend into the tomb, Nature, then, is the widow of her husband‑of
him from whom she receives each year her joy and her fecundity. Her children
mourn; justly, then, do the Masons, pupils of Nature, who, in the degree of
Master, describe this beautiful allegory, call themselves the children of the
ò Ibid, p. 158.
John
Fellowes, A.M., after citing from Dapui's (L'Origine de tons les cultes) an
account of one of the Pyramids
of
Egypt, supposes that the fourteen days alude to the period before the Spring
Equinox (the precise period at which the Persians celebrated the revival of
Nature), when the sun would cease to cast a shade at midday‑and that it would
not again cast it till fourteen days after the Fall Equinox (Bxpasition of the
Hy8teries, etc., of the Ancient, FgWians, Pythayoreans, and Druids, p. 297.
New
York: 1835).
And,
in another place, he seems to think that the fourteen days refer to the
gradual diminution of the Canary light, during the fourteen days that follow
the full moon (Ibid, p. 296) The fourteen days comport with the allegory of
Osiris and Isis (Ibid, p. 306).
12$
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
widow
(or of Nature), as upon the reappearance of the goal. they become the children
of light.'* "All this is very beautiful l but is it true ?
I fear
that our brethren of the `Rite Moderne' have strained matters a little, in
order to give to this degree an astronomical signification. But of this
hereafter.
"Bro.
George Oliver, D.D., one of the greatest Masonie writers,of the present age,
on the other hand, rejecta entirely the astronomical signification of the
Master's degree.t
Put he
is also opposed to a literal interpretation of its legend $
`The
historical foundation of the legend of Speculative Mae‑)nry,' lie observes,
1
` I am persuaded had a spiritual reference to something of a higher and more
supernal character‑sometHng coui.ected with our best and most valuable
interests, both in time and eternity‑even to the unhappy fall of our first
parent:, to which the penalty of death was attached, which all mankind, unite
in deploring.
. . .
It
referred also to their restcration, to life and holiness, by the promise of a
Mediator, and a resur rection from the dead.
Thus,
then, it appears that the h‑storlcal reference of the legend of Speculative
Masonry, in all ages of the world, was to our DEATH IN ADAM, and LIFE IN
CHRIST. What then, was the origin of our tradition? Or, in other words, to
what particular incidents did the legend of initiation refer aefore the flood
? I conceive it to have been the offering and assassination of Abel, by his
brother Cain, the escape of the murderer, the discovery of the body by his
disconsolate parents, and its subsequent interment, under a certain belief of
its final, resurrection from the dead, and of the detection of Cain by.
Almighty vengeance.' This interpretation, though ingenious, is purely
speculative. It is impossible for us to say to what historical event the origi..
nal legend of our Order referred ; but we think that w e may sgfely assert
that the present legend does not refer to the death, of Abel.
ò
Ibid., p. 164.
t .The
I?istoricd Landmarks, etc., I. p. 181, Note 86, by. Richard Spencer. Ion :
1845.
t
Ibid. pp. 154 aad 170.
1
Ibid, pp. 170‑72‑73.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
129
"Our learned brother then adds:*
` This
incident, I conceive, was the archetype of the legend of Osiris and Typhon, in
the Spurious Freemasonry, as well as any traditionary relations of a s'milar
character among ourselves.
In
each case, we find an assassination, a loss, a discovery of the body, and a
rising to a more decent interment, as in the original legend of Abel.
And it
is a curious coincidence, that tire Messiah, of whom Abel was a legitimate
type, in like manner, suffered a violent and unmerit=ed death‑was concealed
for three days within the bowels of the earth‑raised Himself triumphantly from
the tomb of transgression‑and triumphantly ascended to take possession of His
seat in heaven, while His betrayer inflicted summary punish, ment on himself
by becoming his own executioner.
Ile
hanged himself in Aceldama, and, falling headlong, lie burst asunder in the
midst, and all his bowels gushed out ; and there he lay, a spectacle to all
mankind.' "`I admit,' be continues,t `that this interpretation of a well known
legend may appear overstrained, as it is novel ; but, on a reference to the
general construction of the Order, it appears to me the most rational metbod
of preserving its consistency. The types and allegories of Freemasonry are
illustrative of the sacred truths of religion ; but they embrace those points
of doctrine only which are common to all mankind, and it is to exemplify these
doctrines, and to make them conducive to the practice of morality, that the
details of our consecutive degrees have been arranged.
"`1.
The candidate is taught ]low, under the theocracy of the patriarchal
dispensation, the worship of God consisted in a few simple rites of devotion,
which were accepted according to the sincerity of the devotee ; and hence
religion was merely the practice of morality, based on the love of God, and
His promise of reconciliation to His creatures.
"`2.
The candidate is passed on to a view of the Mosaic disponsation, shadowing
forth a Cliurch triumphant, when the fullness of time should come. And when
the theocracy ceased, and a regal government began, the candidate was shown
(in Hietorieal Landmarks, Vol. L, p. 171
t
Ibid, p. 177 9 136
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
the
details respecting the erection of the Temple), to the l aiddle chamber.
There, as a Fellow Craft, lie was entitled to penetrate, but, no farther‑a
type of a more glorious revelation pf the divine Shekinah was represented in
the two famous pitJjLps, and their spherical crowns, which were placed at the
entrance of the porch.
" ` 3.
He is raised to a higher and more comprehensive vicar of the beauties of the
system, by a scenic display of the resur1Rection from the dead ; and is
introduced into the Sanctum Ra,nctorum, where lie beholds the ark and
propitiatory, over! ehadowed by the true Shekinah, which in a former degree wa;;
only indicated by a symbol. This is a type of the Christian dispensation,
which was established by that Sublime Being, of vhom the Jewish Shekinah was
the glory or radiant appearance ; and, therefore, it was with manifest
propriety that the :resurrection was shadowed forth in this substituted
degree, Veeause in no preceding religious system was that doctrine fully
;revealed and exemplified.' `Such,' says this distinguished brother,* ` are my
opinions of the origin and application of the .legend which forms the
mechanism of the third degree of Masonry ; but I am bound, in candor, to add,
that there are veasonable objections to the hypothesis.'
In
this I concur with liim, viz., that there are reasonable objections to his
theory con cerning the origin of the legend.
Many
of these will, doubtless, lndtantly present themselves to the minds of those
brethren who have paid the slightest degree of attention to our core monies.
I
shall, therefore, merely remark, that if the present legend refers to the
death of Abel, it has been most strangely perverted; indeed, so much so, that,
from it alone, one could never arrive at a knowledge of the fact that there
ever lived ~uph a person as Abel ? With the moral interpretation of the third
degree, above mentioned, we feel satisfied. But as this is not the subject of
our essay, we will not dwell upon it.
" Our
late talented brother, William Hutchinson, whose leg ters, originally composed
for the use of the Barnard Caetle òHistorloal Landmarks. Vol. 1., p 181.
Note
36.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
131 ‑Wge,
of Concord. over which he presided for several oucceeive years, were first
published in the year 1775, under the .unction of the Grand Lodge of England,
also believes that $be three degrees refer to the three dispensations, viz.,
the Patriarchal, the Mosaic, and the Christian.* He, however, supposes the
third degree was instituted since the death of Christ. Confidently does he
assert that ` the ceremonies now *pown to Masons prove that the testimonials
and insignia of .ihe Master's order, in the present state of Masonry, were
devis#4 within the ages of Christianity ; and we are confident that there are
not any records in being, in any nation, or in any ;lapguage, which can show
them to be pertinent to any other ;pystem, or give them greater antiquity.'t
And,
in endeavoring to account for the origin of Freemasonry in England,‑he speaks
,of 'the propagators of the Christian doctrine, who brought with them the
principles of the Master's Order, and taunht the converted those sacred
mysteries which are typical of the Christian faith, and professional of the
hope of the resurection ,of the body, and the life of regeneration.'$
And
again, he says:
` The
members of our Society at this day, in the third ‑ptage of Masonry,
acknowledge themselves to be Christians'' the vail of the temple is rent‑the
builder is smitten‑and we are raised from the tomb of transgression.' II
And,
in another place: `Thus the Master Mason represents a man under the ,Christian
doctrine, saved from the grave of iniquity, and raised to the faith of
salvation.'
1
"The late Rev. Bro. Frederick Dalcho, M.D., who was for many years the Grand
Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of this Mate, seems in some measure to have
adopted the opinion of the learned author last cited ; but he differs from him
in this while Bro. Hutchinson supposes that the third degree alone was
instituted within the ages of Christianity,l( Bro. Dalcho oelieves that the
three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry were unknown before the the time of
Christ.
' I
have long been of The Spirid N. MCraonry, by Wm. Hutchinson. New Edition
London: Id43 p. 155.
f
Ibid, p. 164
t
Ibid, p. 203.
O
Ibid, p. 57
1
Ibid, p. 159:
11hid,
p. 16$‑64 1,32
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
opinion,' says he, * `Tlsstt Freemasonry was unknown until after the Christian
era. There are evidently so many allusions in Masonry to the Trinity, and
otlici‑ doctrines of the Cliristiai+ revelation, that it requires but little
reflection to discover the allegory.'
After
admitting that ' the origin of the Society, however, as an institution
distinct from other associations, is involiedin impenetrable obscurity; and,
notwithstanding the learning and zeal of many industrious Masons, it will, I
fear. forever remain unknown ;' 'h he declares that `neither Adam, nor Noah,
nor Nimrod, nor Moses, nor Joshua, nor David, nor Solomon; nor Hiram, nor St.
John the Baptist, nor St. John the Evangelist, belonged to the Masonic Order,
however congenial their principles may have been.
It is
unwise to assert more than we can prove, and to argue against probability.
Hypoth
esis in history is absurd.
There
is no record, sacred or profane, to induce us to believe that these holy and
distinguished men were Freemasons, and over traditions do not go back to their
days. To assert they were Freemasons, may " snake the vulgar stare,' but will
rather excite the contempt, tlsan the admiration oú the wise.
"And,
in support of his position, lie advances the following extraordinary argument
: 'If St. John was a Freemason. then it is impossible that Solomon should have
been one, because his Lodges could not have been dedicated to St. John, who
was not born until a thousand years sifter the first Temple was built,
therefore, there would have been in St. John's day what there was not in
Solomon's, which would be contrary to our known principles. And besides, if
both these personages were Freemasons, then we have the evidence that Solomon
was the greater Mason of the two, and our Lodges should be dedicated to him
instead of St. John.
But if
Solomon "was a Freemason, then there could not have been a Freemason in the
world, from the day of the creation down to the building of the Temple, as
must be evident to every Master Mason.'$ " Now, I would ask, if this weak
attempt at argument would ò An Akin= Itaon, etc. Charleston, S. C.: 1822,
p.10.
Note.
+
Ibid, p.5.
Note.
I
=bid, p. 5.
Note.
SCOTCH
KITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
133
become the youngest member of our Order?
After
admitting that lie is ignorant of the origin of our Society, lie asserts that
our traditions do not, as they pretend, go back to the time of Solomon. As
regards the dedication of our Lodges, no one would have ever dreamed of the
objectio>l, that they could not have been dedicated to St. John before his
birth‑that,is to say, to St. John in. fWuro.
The
learned Doctor appears to have been ignorant of the fact, that Jewish Masons
still continue to dtflicate their Lodges to Solomon, as .formerly ; while
Christian Masons dedicate them to the two St. Jollus‑for reasons known to
every Entered Apprentice. I wish some equally skillful brother would
demonstrate, to our satisfaction, the truth of that part of Dr. Dalcho's
proposition, which he pronounces to 'be evident to every Master 11ason.' We
should feel, under great and lasting obligations to him for enabling us to see
tire light. And these are specimens of `the scientific and explanatory notes,'
which, in the opinion {unanimously expressed) of the 3(. W. G. Lodge of
Ancient Froemasons of South Carolina, ` will be found highly interesting and
instructive to the Fraternity, and calculated to promote tire respectability
of the Order among those who are ignorant of its principles.' "I will add one
more instance of the numerous mistakes which our late worthy brother committed
is discussing the scientiio beauties of Freemasonry. In that most remarkable
Masonic production which it has ever befallen us to read (his Oration
delivered on the 21st March, 1803), he declares that our legend is `founded on
tile grossest errors of accumulated ages,' t and complains that a word is
demanded which the neophyte has never received.
I deem
it a sufficient answer to to this, and all similar statements contained in
that address, to remark, that our Rev. l3rother seems entirely to have lost
sight of the dramatic character of the degree.
But
Bro. Dalcho professed to be, a learned man, and a very bright Mason.
Indeed, it was at one time the fashion of tire brethren in this State, to
regard the author of the 'scientific' notes to the Ahiman Rexon, as the 11dd.
Sanction. Jnne 28th. 5825 (1821). t Dalchds Orations, p. 43.
134
MODERN
FREEbfASONR7f.
fourth
great light of the Order.
Is it
then at all Furprising that our sublime mysteries should, in the hands of such
an expositor, have sunk, not only in the eyes of the profane, but also in the
estimation of the bretliren?
And
this is the ittevitalk result oú placing men in situations which they are
incompetent to fill. ' "But to return to the subject of our essay.
Aeeotding to the Rite of Misraim, Jubal, Tubal Cain, and other distinguished
Masons of that day, determined to construct a sacred place: 'The tradition oú
the Order,' says Bro. Mare Bedarrido, 'gives the details of this Holy
sanctuary, and of the events which occurred during the lengthy period of its
ebnstrtictif (Seven. y ears), as well as of the mournful lass, and of the
immortal memory of the celebrated Hario‑Jubal‑Abi, occasioned by the
perfidy,of the, infamous Hagana, Iiakina, and Haremda.
After
this sad and unhappy
event,
the worthy patriarch, Tubal Cain (seventh mortal descendant of Adam in the
direct line), was charged with the general diredtidn of the works of the
secret place, which was finished with pomp and mao,nificence, to be the
depository of the documents containing tire secrets of nature, the dogmas, and
the scientific part of dvr sublime Institution.' 'I'Others,' says Robert
Ragon,t' explain the degree of Mw ter by circumstances relative to the tragic
end of Charlog L, forgetting that these symbols of death were, by all
antiquity, received in Chaldea, in Syria, in Persia ; thett they hart e moral
signification which we explain, and a physical gignificatittn interpreted by
the phenomena of Nature. Tertullidn speaks of them, on the subject of Eleusis,
and the sixth book of 1Eneifl describes them with tke accuracy of a ritual.'
"` As for those who ascribe this degree:' ebntirios the same learned author,'
to the tragic end of the Order of the Temple, they are ignorant of the
historical documents which mention the Masons before, during, and after the
Order of the Templb.
ò De
L'Odre Mag. de Mismim Benard et comp.
Paris:
1845.p.24.
t Quma
da Initidim. etc.. p.141.
Note
1.
t For
a very inter òatlng account of this , Innovation, see S'aal"tii and {{'warn
iltbmnie MeacdRrny, Charleston, S. C.: 1850. p. 5.
SCOTCH
RITE: ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
1Sl1
We possess Masonic degrees practiced by the Templar1
three hundred years before their tragic end.' Time will not permit me to
notice all the different intcrpretatibna given‑by friends and by foes‑to this
truly subliW agree.
But 1
can not think of laying aside the pen, irithont mentioning the theory of
Barruel (one of the most virulWA enemies to our Order), who deduces our origin
from the itnpoeò tar Manes, the founder of the Basilidean sect of Christian&:
`In the degree of Master,' lie says, `everything dohotes mourn0 and sorrow.
The
Lodge is hung in black, iii the middle ii sarcophagus resting on five steps,
covered with A phll. Around it the Adepts, in profound silence, inonrin the
death of a man whose ashes are supposed to lie in this tomb. This mkit ig at
first said to be Adoniram, then Do Molay, whose death is to be Avenged by that
of all tyrants.
The
allegory is rathor inauspicious to kings; but it is of too old it date not to
hd anterior to the Grand Master of the Temple.
The
whole dt. this Ceremonial is to be found in the aihcient ihysWries of the
disciples of Manes.
This
eras the ceremony Which tliCy calldd Bema.
They
also assembled round a sarcophagus, "resting dtt five steps, decorated in like
manner, and rendered great liondra ib him whose ashes it was supposed to
contafti.
$ut
they Overt, all addressed to Manes.
It was
his death that thdy celebrated , and they kept this feast precisely at the
period *lieu the Chr'r* tistis celebrated the death and resurrectlof of
Christ.' *
F All
history asserts that Manes was adopted by the vtidOW to whdid Budda,
Scythian's disciple, fled for refuge ; aid that the here siarch inherited all
the riches he left her.'t
This
interpret&ti6n is sufficiently ridiculoius to suit the purposes df its author.
It id a gufcient answer to the misreproseiitatioiis of the learAi . bbe; td
state that he says that lie was initiated iv thbut an ff: B.
This
assertion at once stamps him an impostor.
"The
general belief of Masons, At tho present day is, that ''offer the union of
Speculative and Operative Uas6iiffy, and when the Temple of Solomon was
completed, a legend of sublime and symbolical meaning was introduced into the
2 Sat. Jae., p. 401
f I6
id, p. 408.
n.
136
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
system, which is still retained, and consequently known to all Master Masons.'
" The principal objection to this opinion, so prevalent among the brethren,
or, in other words, to a literal interpretation of our legend may, we think,
be reduced to the following six ,.grounds " 1. That tile presumption is, that
the Chief Architect was 1 present at tile dedication of the Temple. t " 2. And
that lie afterwards returned to Tyre, and was the jLdviser and principal
confident of Hiram, its King; and is said to have made the famous
circumnavigation of Afnica, which is mentioned by Herodotus, and other
authors, as a most wonderful undertakin(r. $ "3. That it would scarcely have
been adopted by Solomon to consecrate the memory of his humble associate,
however, his .virtues and services might merit the continued respect of the
brethren of all ages and times, because the naked fact, even if ‑it were true,
would have afforded a very poor apology for the basis of an Institution which
was destined to extend to every nation of the earth, and to endure.forever. It
would have been surpassed in ingenuity of invention, as it was in splendor of
3isplay, and the imposing effects of its machinery, by the legend :)f the
Spurious Freemasonry, relative to the death and resurrection of Osiris or
Bachus. I '~ 4. That our tradition is corroborated by neither sacred nor
profane history.1
"5. The repeated, allusions to Christianity embodied in the third degree. (a)
" 6. The similarity between our legend and that of the ancient heathen
mysteries, proves that they must have had a common origin. The latter being
solar allegories, the former must be a solar allegory also.1 " The
first,olilection is predicated upon the following texts of scripture: 1 Kings
vii. 40, 51 ; 2 Chronicles iv. 11, v. 1. The 2 Oliver's Elise. Landmarks. p.
169.
t
Ibid, p. 154.
f lbid,
p. 154.
‑
(1
Ibid, p. 170.
1
Dalcho's Oradoas. (a) On this ground Bro. Hutchinson has based his
arguments.‑Spires,/ Nowry.
1f
Ragon, Court dear Anilialioru; p. 158.
SCOTCH
HITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
137
prgument is most clearly stated by the Rev. Dr. Oliver * in the following
words "' I am decidedly of opinion that our tradition is merely wllegorical,
for there can be no doubt but the Chief Architect was present at the
dedication of the Temple. Thus we frA that "Hiram made an end of doing all the
work that lie had made Kin‑ Solomon for tile house of the Lord."
(1
Kiugs vii. 40.) Lest this plain intimation should be perverted, the above
chapter enumerates all tile wonderful works of Hiram, wad, in tile last verse,
which is in the same connection with his luakiur an end of all of his work, it
is said, "so was ended all the work that King Solomon made for the house of
the Lord."
Then.
according to the sacred writer, the very next thing was the dedication of the
Temple.
To
place the fact of IIiram's being alive at the finishing of the Temple beyond
all doubt, it is said (2 Citron. iv. n)," And Hiram finished the work that he
was to make for King Solomon for the house of God."
And
again in the first I verse of the next chapter, " thus all the work that
Solomon made for the house of the Lord was finished."' "I admit that the Chief
Architect lived to complete the Temple. The passages of Scripture above cited
fully prove it. Indeed, the old traditions of Masonry expressly declare this
to be tile fact. They say "' The Temple of Jehovah being finished, under the
auspices of the wise and glorious King of Israel, Solomon, the Prince of
Architecture, and the Grand Master Mason of his day, the Fraternity celebrated
the cape‑stone with great joy ; but their joy was soon interrupted by the
sudden death of their dear and worthy Master, Hiram Abiff; nor less was the
concern of King Solomon, who, after some time allowed to the Craft to vent
then sorrow, ordered his obsequies to be performed with great 'solemnity and
decency; and buried him in the Lodge, near the Temple, according to the
ancient usages among Masons, and long mourned for his loss.
"'After Hiram Abiff was mourned for, the Tabernacle of Moses and its holy
relics being lodged in tile Temple, Solomon, 2Ilia. landmarks, p. 166.
Note
2.
1138
MODERN
PgEkKASON$I'.
in a ,oncral
assembly, dedicated or consecrated it by solemn prayer and costly sacrifices
past number, with the finest music, vocal and instrumental, praising Jehovah,
upon fixing the Holy Ark in its proper place, between the Cherubim ; when
Jehovah filled his own Temple with a cloud of glory.'* "` We have an old
tradition,' says the Rev. Dr. Oliver, t 'delivered dawn orally, that it was
the duty of II A. B. to superintend the workmen ; and that the reports of his
officers were always examined with the most scrupulous exactuos3. At the
opening of the day, when the sun was rising in the East, it was his constant
custom, before the commencement of labor, to go into the Temple and offer up
his prayers to Jehovah for a ltlessing on the work. And, in like manner, when
the sun was setting in the Vilest, and after the labors of the day were
closed, and the workmen had left the Temple, lie returned his thanks to the
Great Architect of the Universe for the harmonious proted tion of the day.
Not
content with this devout expression of his feelings, he always went into the
Temple at the hour of high twelve, when the men were called off from labor to
refreshment, to inspect the work, to draw fresh designs upon the tracingb6 ard,
if such were necessary, and to perform other scientific . lots‑never
forgetting to consecrate his duties by solelnfn prayer. These religious
customs were faithfully performed for the first six years in the secret
recesses of his Lodge, and for the last year in the precincts of the most holy
place. At length, on the very day appointed for celebrating the cape‑stone of
the building, he retired, as usual, at the meridian hour, and did not return
alive.' " $ut, because lie was prosont at the completion of the Temple, it by
no means follows as a necessary consequence that he wa1
ptòesent at the dedication of it. Oti this point, the Scripturio tire silent,
and we are entirely dependent on our traditions‑ The Constitutions of the
Ancient and honorable. Frak╗Wy
or Free and Am‑#a Masons, containing their History, Charges. Regulations,
etc., colliroted and digested by order of the Grand Lodge, from their old
records, faithful traditions, &ad Lodge hooks, for the use of the Lodges, by
chines Anderson, D. D. A neir edition carefully revised and continued to the
present time. pp. 24, 25. London printed for G. Kearsly, Ludgate street, 1769.
t 2
Kist Landmarks, p. 151.
Note
30.
SCOTCH
AITE, ANC1I:NT AND ACCEPTED.
130
ilehich expressly assert to the contrary.*
The
Scriptures dS riot mention what space of time elapsed between the completion
and the dedication of the Temple.
Not
are we to suppose that the sacred writers intended to give us an account of
the manner In which the Israelites passed every moment, nor even every day of
their time.
To
read history, written after this Fashion, would be a herculean task, which one
could never accomplish, though lie were to live to be as old as Methuselah.
It is.
therefore a fair presumption to suppose that several days, or even weeks,
perhaps, necessarily intervened between the completion and the dedication of
that superb structure, in order that those to whom the business was intrusted
might have sufficient time to make the preparations requisite for the
appropriate cclebration of the latter event‑a celebration which certainly was
in a style of splendor commensurate with the magnificence.of that edilice,
which was to be the peculiar abode of the only true god.
And
the circumstances mentioned in our tradition might Well have occurred during
that interval.
W e
know not on what ground the presumption is raised, that the Chief Architect,
after the dedication of the Temple, returned to Tyre, and was the adviser and
principal confidant of Hiram, its King. unless it be the silence oú the sacred
historians concerning his fate ; and shall, therefore, postpone the
consideration of this question until wo discuss the fourth objection. We are
aware, however, that 13r'o. Marc De Bedarride is opposed tb us on this point,
for lie says t that `Solomon, fully satisfied with all that Hiram Abilt had
prepared for the embellishment df the Temple of God, congratulated him and
loaded him with tnvors.
Hiram
Abi1t returned to the bosom of his family (tA Tyre; we presume), where lie
passed, without a cloud, the rest o1 his days in ,opulence.' " 1 laving never
enjoyed the exquisite happiness of being ins dated into the sublime mystet‑ies
developed in the ninety degrevr of the Rite of Misraim, we know not by what
authority this as. wrtiotn is supported.
Not
does Bro. Bedarride condess,end ò &uthern and We+fete Mamie Muxetlany, 1. p.
285. t Ills L'Ordre Mae. de Misraim. 1. p. 118.
140
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
to
inform us from what source lie derives this piece of ;‑‑fi.rmation. But we do
know that the G. 0. of France (who has always been remarkably liberal in her
views) refused, in ISO, to acknowledge this Rite.* We also know that it has
been asserted that it was invented and brought to maturity by two Jewish
Masons called
Bedarride t (but this Brother Mare Bedarride
stoutly deuics), $
and
doubts
are
entertained whether it be so old as the commencement of the present century:
II " It is unnecessary for us to endeavor to refute the last clause of the
second ohjoction, inasmuch as our learned brother who proposed it confesses,
with 'his usual candor, that lie has no confidence in it. 'This,' says lie,1
`is evidently an anachron ism, for this expedition was performed during the
reign of Nechus, King of Egypt, many years afterwards.' " We admit, that after
so great a lapse of time, it may at first appear incredible, that Solomon
should have endeavored `to consecrate the memory of his liumble associate ;'
but we think that, upon mature reflection, this, the third ol>,jection to a
literal interpretation of our legend, will also readily disappear. Let us for
a moment, in imagination, place ourselves in the situation of Solomon, and see
how we should have acted under similar circumstances.
"'The
Temple was not only the most magnificent building of the age, but it was the
only earthly house of the ever‑living God‑of 'I'. G. A. O. T. U., who
vouchsafed, in an especial manner, to dwell therein ; thereby declaring his
approbation of that edifice, and of the motives which prompted the erection of
it. Surely the architect who planned that elegant structure, and made all the
holy vessels for its service‑‑that architect who surpassed all others of his
day in knowledge and wisdomthat architect who, even in that barbarous age,
equaled (at least) the most skillful of our times, was deserving of all honor
and praiso I
For to
what man, in this the nineteenth centw‑y, ò Ragon, Gbnrs des Gtilialions, p.
344.
Note
1.
t 2
Oliver 'A //isl. Landmarks. p. 76.
t JJe
L'Ordre Mae. de Maraim, p. 8.
1
Oliver's Rat. Landmarks,‑p. 76.
1
Mid, p. 154.
Note
38.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
eim
the description in Holy Writ given of Hiram, with anv degree of truth be
applied?
` A
cunning man, endued with understanding, .
.
.
skillful to work in gold and in silver, in brass, in iron, in stone, and in
timber, in purple, in blue and .n fine linen, and in crimson ; alsa to grave
every manner of graving, and to find out every doN,'ce which may be put to
hirn.' " If we believe in the truth of the Old Testament at all, it seems to
us that we must believe that, to use the language of the venerable Book of
Constitutions,f ` this inspired Master was, 'without question, the most
cunning, skillful, and curious workman that ever lived, whose abilities were
not confined to building Only, but extended to all kinds of work, whether in
linen, tapestry, or embroidery , whether considered as an architect,
sculpture, founder, or designer, separately or together, lie equally excelled.
From his designs, and under his direction, all the rich and splendid furniture
of the Temple, and its several appendages, were begun, carried on, and
finished.' "If.. then, this be a faithful description of the intellectual
attainments of our ancient Grand Master (and we have no reason to doubt it),
is it at all surprising‑nay, is it not highly probable, that Solomon, who,
though the wisest of his nation, had found his equal, if not his superior, in
the chief architect of the Temple, being reduced to the necessity of changing
the original legend of Masonry, should have endeavored, with that generosity
which is the peculiar characteristic of noble minds, to immortalize the name
of one who had served him so faithfully and so well?
Why,
this is what all nations have endeavored to do for their benefactors.
This
is what we still endeavor to do‑not only for the truly great and good, but
even for the humblest and least deserving of our relatives, as the tombstones
in our churchyards daily testify.
The
great and the good, in all ages, and among every people, have been glorified,
canon~ed, or deified.
The
only difference is this, that Solomon has. accomplished his object more
effectually than some others. Another proof of his wisdom I
He has
erected to the memory 2 Chrmidea ii. p. 13,14.
tBool
of Cbnotitutions (Anderson), p. $0.
142
MODERN
FREEN4SONI4Y.
of his
unfortunate friend an imperishable monument in tht+ hearts of the brethren‑a
monument which will outlast all others now on the face of the globe‑‑a
monument which can be destroyed only with the whole human race 1 And was it
not noble?‑was it not right? " That our legend would have been surpassed in
ingenuity of invention, as it was in splendor of display, and the imposing
effect of its machinery, by that of the spurious Freemasonry relating to the
death of Osiris or Bacchus, is no argument against its truth. The chief
difference between the mode in which the false systems of religion and the
true one inculcate their doctrines, is this : the former appeal to the senses,
while the latter addresses itself to the judgment‑that faculty which places
man so far above the brute creation.
'1 'he
former endeavor to retain their followers. in `captivity by acting upon their
imagination and their fears‑‑while the latter, despising the meretricious
ornaments of falsehood, seeks to display tile truth in all her naked
loveliness.
" Even
so it leas been with Freemasonry.
Tie
spurious systems attempted, by the ingenuity of their fables. to mislead the
judgment‑by the richness of their decorations, to dazzle the eye‑by the
splendor of their ceremonies. to captivate tile fancy‑by the power of their
maciduery, to excite terror in tile mind of the votary ; and, finally, to
cause the Victim to prostrate himself before the altar of error, instead of
before that of truth.
"Not
so the true system.
She
lias no pampered priests to support in idleness, no vanity to gratify, no cud
to gain, save that of acquiring and preserving a knowledge of tile truth. Slie
seeks neither by the splendor of leer decorations to lure tire unsuspecting
into leer embrace, nor by false terrors to enslave the weak.
No,
she addresses herself to us as rational beingsas men whom the omniscient
Father of the universe has endowed with reason and powers of reflection.
Slie
abliors the fetters of XperAition, and points out the way of troth.
In
letters (it flame she proclaims that truth, whioli is the same yesterday,
today, and forever.
And
this is effected by means of a sublime allegory, founded on fact, and narrated
in a plain, but highly impressive manner.
To a
well‑regulated mind, the remarkable SCOTCH RITE. ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
143
simplicity oú our legend certainly constitutes one of its chief merits.
"The
fourth ground (by some deemed an insuperable objection) I consider one of the
strongest arguments in favor of the truth of our tradition.
"The
Scriptures do not inform us what became of the Chief Architect of the Temple ;
but they relate, in two different places,* the circumstances connected with
the death of Adoniram, who was by no means so distinguished a man as H. A. B.
Either the writers of the holy books did know what became of H. A. B., after
the completion of the Temple, or they did not. If we suppose that they did not
know what became of him, their silence is sufficiently accounted for. But this
supposition is altogether inconsistent with probability. So great a man as the
Chief Architect of the Temple could hardy have left Jerusalem without the
people being cognizant ol the fact.
Nor
could he, after having successfully accomplished so arduous and glorious a
task, have lived in obscurity at Jerusalem.
" We
are, therefore, reduced to the alternative of admitting that the authors of
the first book of Rings, and the second book of Chronicles, did know what
became of the architect.
If he
returned to Tyre, why do they not say se ?
Did he
continue to live in Jerusalem?
Then,
why are they silent?
But,
he nei',her returned to Tyre, nor continued to live in Jerusalem. Why, then,
do they not tell us what became of him ?
Surely, not because he was too insignificant a personage to be again noti:ed
by the historian!
But
rather from conscientious motiveo; or, perhaps, in obedience to the direct
command of Solomon, who, intending to make use ol facts which had but recently
occurred, as the basis of a new degree, and desirous of perpetuating the i
ecollection of the virtues of his friend, determined to intrust their
preservation, orally, to a chosen few.
Our
traditions supply this link in the historical chain. ,kpd, when rightly
viewed, there is nothing improbable or unnatural in them.
On the
contrary, the circumstances are such 0 1 Kings xIi. 18; 2 Chronicles:. 18 144
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
as
were very likely to have occurred, when we consider the vast number of workmen
assembled at the building of the Temple. and the almost infinite variety‑ of
dispositions and tempers with which our three Grand Masters had to contend.
`The true stress of tradition lies in an appeal to the common sense of all
mankind. It is a reliance upon the testimony of men. considered as men, and
not of persons of this or that people or persuasion, actuated by principles
implanted in that nature, which the whole species partake of, and not
influenced by the power of such as are peculiar to any community or
religion.'* " ` On this prihciple,' says the reverend brother whom wo have so
often cited,and for whoscopinionwe entertain the highest respect, `have the
traditions of Masonry been transferred from father to son, along with the
knowledge of God's eternal existence and the immortality of the souUt " `
Ancient traditions,' observes another learned brother,$ `have often afforded
occasional assistance to history, by stepping in to supply the want of
existing monuments and records ; and, even at this time, in remote countries,
where letters are little, if at all known, common tradition hands down past
events with an artless sincerity, sometimes wanting where such events are
liable to be perverted for indirect purposes. But Masonic tradition stands
upon much firmer ground ; the chief bond of connection among Masons, in all
agc3, having been FIDELITY.
It is
well known that, in former times, while learning remained in few hands, the
ancients had several institutions for the cultivation of knowledge, concealed
under doctrinal and ritual mysteries, that were sacredly withheld from all who
were not initiated into a participation of the privileges they led to, that
they might not be prostituted to the vulgar.
Among
these institutions may be ranked that of Masonry ; and its value may be
inferred from its surviving those revolutions of government, relitr ion, and
manners, that have swallowed tip the rest. And the traditions of so venerable
an Institution, claim an attention far superior to the loose oral relations or
epic songs of any uncultivated people whatever.' Stanhope's Boyle Led.
t
Oliver's Andigrsitim of Frctmaaonry p. 1. t North. Gbnd., Part 1. Chap. 1.
'
SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
145
"The evident allusions to Christianity embodied in the third degree, we
respectfully submit, do not prove, as Bros. Hutchin. non and Dalcho suppose,
that it was invented within the ages of Christianity. If the Christian
religion, as is generally believed by learned divines of the present day, is
destined to overshadow the earth, and take the precedence of all other systems
of worship, we presume *at it will result from the fact of its being founded
in truth.
If,
then, it be founded in truth, it can not be a new system of religion.
But it
must be the original ,,system, or rather a development of the original system
of religion, established in the beginning by JEHOVAH Himself.
There
cats not be a system of religion which is true at one period of the world, and
false at another.
For
God, the Author of religion, is unchangeable.
He is
the same from all eternity.
To
give laws to‑day, and to repeal them to‑morrow, would be an inconsistency
which, though excusable in human legislators, is utterly at variance with the
omniscience of Deity.
As,
therefore, to suppose Him to be inconsistent with Himself, would be an insult
to His majesty, so it is equally an insult to suppose that He has ever
radically changed the original plan of salvation‑or, in Masonic language, that
He has ever altered a landmark thereof.
" If,
therefore, Masonry really is what she professes to be, the. handmaid of
religion,' we must expect to find clear and repeated i allusions to that
religion of which she is the humble handmaid, viz., the true religion ;* the
religion established in the beginning. And in this we are not disappointed ;
for the proofs are evident to every reflecting mind.
" It
is true that Ancient Craft Masonry requires merely that we should conform to
those general principles of natural religion in which all men agree ; and
wisely, for her object is to unite the human race in one sacred band of
brothers, ` among whom no contention should ever exist, but that noble
contention; "If Masonry, or its idolatrous substitute, be considered under the
worst and most forbidding forms, it invariably preserved the moral dogmas and
institutes of each national religion. It is true that false religion produced
false Masonry ; and the latter, faithful to the principles by which it was
supported, proceeded na Nrtkt‑r than an idolatrous worship would sanction.'
Oliver's Sigm and äprods.
Sherwood, Gilbert k Piper.
London: 1837.
Preface, p. Al.
10 246
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
or
rather emulation, of who can best work, or best agree."' But having commanded
dais, she offers to instruct those who are willing to learn ; and, by a
sublime allegory, points out the salvation. And this she does in so clear a
manner, that even the dullest among us can not fail to comprehend her intent.
" But
if the allusions to Christianity be deemed an argument against the antiquity
of the Masonic Institution, they must be equally so against the antiquity of
the Mosaic dispen. sation ; and, indeed, against the mysteries of all nations
; for. the Mosaic dispensation was merely typical of the Christian, and even
in the heathen mysteries, it seems there are to be found allusions to the
system of Christianity.t And yet who will lye found mad enough to assert that
either the Mosaic system, the Egyptian, Eastern, Persian, Eleusinian, Bacchic,
Tyrian, Celtic, British, Gothic, or American mysteries, were invented since
the death of Jesus of Nazareth?
With
what propriety, then, can it be said ` the ceremonies now known to Masons
prove that the testimonials and insignia of the Master's order, in the present
stage of Masonry, were devised within the ages of Christianity ?' " 6. Others
have argued that the similarity between our legend and that of the ancient
heathen mysteries, prove that they must have a common origin ; and, hence,
that as the latter were solar allegories, the former must be a solar allegory
also.$ "While I admit the premises (because it is foreign to my purpose here
to discuss the question), I deny the conclusion.
" I
believe that the original object of Freemasonry, like that of the ancient
heathen mysteries, was to preserve a knowledge of the true God, the omnipotent
Creator of heaven and earth‑and to inculcate that reverence which is due to
His most holy name. In the early ages of the world, the masses, following the
evil propensities of their nature, began to worship the M. M. degree.
Crone'
Chart, p. 36.
T On
this subject we recommend to the brethren that erudite and highly inrn'nctive
work, entitled,The history of Initiation, by Rev. Geo. Oliver, D.D. Riche std
$pedeer : London ; and also Warburton's Divine Legation, Book If.
4 This
appears to be the argument of M. Ragon. burs den Initiations, p. 137.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
147
shadow instead of the substance‑the creature instead of the Creator. `
Whatever produced a lively impression on the ‑senses ; whatever excited
pleasure or pain, astonishment, admiration, or alarm ; whatever banished evil
or secured good; the elements, the phenomena of nature, animals, stones,
vegetables, mountains, rivers, and forests, became objects of worship.
Imagination, acting on the hopes and fears of ignorance, invested brute matter
with intelligence and active power; and, as inanimate substances were supposed
to contain within themselves certain occult virtues, they formed the
divinities of fetishism.'* "Next followed Sabaism,orAstro‑Theology.
The
sun; moon and stars, which were at first regarded merely as symbols of the
Divine power, in course of time themselves became objects of adoration.
"And,
finally, those men who had in any way distinguished themselves during
life‑either by their virtues or their vices‑.when dead, were glorified as
heroes, and then worshiped so gods. This is heroism‑the third and last variety
of ancient heathenism.
"Ignorance, superstition, and crime raged throughout the earth ; and truth
fell a victim to their machinations. In this deplorable state of affairs, the
enlightened few who still preserved a knowledge of the truth, united together
for the ,purpose of mutual improvement and instruction in the sublime
doctrines of religion.
The
multitude, being the children of darkness, could not bear the light.
The
philosophers‑for so I shall call these religionists‑of the early ages of the
world were forced to conceal their doctrines under the vail of alle. gory. Had
they made public their views, they would have been denounced as atheists, and
have met with persecution even unto death.
Hence
arose those institutions known among the ancients as the Mysteries.t
In
these secret assemblies the philosophers instructed those who had proved
themselves worthy, by having undergone long and dangerous trials, in a
knowledge ;of the true God, and in those principles of religion which had been
revealed by Him in the beginning.
Religious and Profane Antiquity, by Jonathan Duncan, B.A.
Chap
I., p. 1.
t
warburton remarks, that it was an universal opinion that the heathen m y&
teries were instituted pure.
L48
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
"Among
their esoteric doctrines there was one, at least, which is of the utmost
importance to man‑the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, and the
immortality of the soul. This doctrine, universally taught in the Ancient
Mysteries, was alway:! illustrated by a beautiful legend, which was
susceptible of two interpretations‑the historical and the moral; or
allegorical. The probability is, that as all the various mysteries were
derived from a common source, the legend was originally the same in all.
But,
in the course of time, it varied in different countries. And this diversity in
the historical interpretation of the legend was occasioned by many local
circumstances, such as the religion, occupations, manners, customs, and habits
of each nation ; until, at length, the original legend, became amalgamated
with the history of that divinity to whom the mysteries were, at first, only
ostensibly dedicated.
And as
in most countries, the sun, from the infinite blessings which it bestows upon
animal and vegetable nature, was, by the people, worshiped as the chief
god‑the author and giver of life and light‑so it is not at all surprising
that, in those countries, the legend of the mysteries should, in process of
time, come to be considered typical of the supposed revolution of that great
luminary around the earth.
"The
moral interpretation of the legend, however, was preserved for a much longer
period.
But,
at length, the mysteries became perverted.
Originally the temples of virtue, they became the dens of vice. The moral
interpretation of their legend was forgotten ; and the votaries abandoned
themselves to every species of vice and crime, alleging, in extenuation of
their conduct, the examples set them by their‑gods.
The
Almighty declared vengeance against their abominations‑and earthly legislators
were forced to supress them.
Such
was the spurious Freemasonry of the ancients.
" But
let us return to genuine Freemasonry.
I
shall not here discuss the question whether the present system be, as the Rev
Dr. Oliver supposes,* the mother whence the various systems sprung, or, as my
esteemed friend, and highly gifted brother ' Metoq of Initiation, p. 13, Note.
S~gns
aad Symbols, Preface, xiii. Lect. xii~ pp. 224, 235, Sect. l‑3.
SCOTCH
RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
149
Dr. A G. Mackey, contends,* it is the offspring of a union oetween tt.e 7yrian
mysteries and the Jewish religion; but will merely state that, from the
construction and design of our Order, it must necessarily, from the period of
its first organization, have had~a legend of death and the resurrection.
With
out such a legend, the Order would not be Masonic.
And I
conceive that this legend must also necessarily have been embodied in the
third degree.
Owing
to the antiquity of our InE5 and the absence of written records, it is
impossible for us to say what was the original legend of Freemasonry, or, in
other words, what legend it was the original intention of our three Grand
Masters to transmit to their descendants. But, after the completion; and
before the dedication of the Temple, certain circumstances occurred which made
it necessary that Solomon should create a new degree. In other words, he
substituted a new degree for the original one ; and this apparent violation of
a Landmark (if our Order can properly be said to have had any Landmarks at so
early a period of its history) was fully justified by the peculiar
circumstances of the case. Of two evils, he wisely chose the least.
Nor is
it an objection to this view to say that, according to our own traditions,
there were employed at the building of the Temple three thousand three hundred
Overseers, or Master Masons ; for these three thousand three hundred Master
Masons may not have had authority to do that which, our tradition asserts, was
expressly, restricted to the three Grand Masters.
"I am
aware that some minor objections have been urged against the truth of our
legend.
These
I shall not attempt to discuss.
It is
proper that we should keep our essay, as well ourselves, within due bounds.
But I
think, that I have shown, as clearly as the cirumstances of the case will
admit " 1. That the presumption is, that the Chief Architect was not present
at the dedication of the Temple.
"2.
That he did not afterward return to Tyre.
"8.
That it is natural, and highly probable, that Solomon ò Southern and Western
Masonic Muedlany, II., p. 105.
150
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
should
have endeavored to consecrate the memory of his humble associate.
" 1.
That though our tradition is corroborated by neither sacred nor profane
history, it is not `founded on the grossest errors of accumulated ages ;' but
that, on the contrary, it is substantially worthy of credence.
5.
That, the allusions to Christianity, in the third degree, do not militate
against its antiquity.
"6.
That from the similarity between the legends of the heathen mysteries and
Freemasonry, admitting the former to' be solar myths, it does not necessarily
follow that the latter is a solar myth also.
x In
conclusion, therefore, I respectfully submit that, substantialdy, the
incidents related in the legend of the third degree, are to be understood as
historical facts." Sincerely believing, as we do, that the Scotch Rite,
Ancient and Accepted, is incapable of exemplifying any principle in Masonry,
not as clearly taught by Freemasonry itself ; and that it is, and ever has
been a foreign incubus upon our Order, which every true Craftsman should aid
in throwing off, it is to be expected we will present the highest order of
available testimony, tending to show the correctness of our views ; and to.
this end, we know of no witness so likely to be credited as one who deservedly
stands at the head of Scotch Rite Masonry, as its most learned and
accomplished teacher and expounder. These remarks will explain our motives and
serve as an apology‑if apology be needed‑for transferring to our pages the
follow ing, which appeared in our journal, in March, 1853.
It may
be proper to add that we do this the more willingly, because, in our review of
the learned author, we give him the benefit of his views, loth for and against
Scotch Rite Masonry MACKEY vs. MACKEY.
Immediately after returning from the South, our attention was called to a
remarkable article in the last September number of the Masonic Miscellany,
upon the subject of York and Scotch Rite Masonry, from the pen of the editor.
To our
surprise SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
151
and_ regret, we find that no notice has been taken of it by, our
cotemporaries. While we cheerfully admit, that it is our duty, as a Masonic
editor, to expose and denounce error in the theory or practice of Masonry,
come from what quarter it may, we can not but think it rather hard that our
brethren of the press should seemingly avoid a fair proportion of the responsi
oility.
It is
exceedingly unpleasant to us to find fault with any of the little Spartan band
engaged in battling for the cause of Masonry, but it occasionally happens that
we are driven to this necessity in the performance of our duty. Sincerely
believò ing this to be our unenviable position in relation to the article
above referred to, we proceed to insert it entire, and to subjoin such remarks
as, in our judgment, are imperiously called for.
Bro.
Mackey says THE YORK RITE AND THE SOUrCH R"E.
" The
extension, within the last few years, of the Scotch Rite, and its favorable
acceptance by many of the most distinguished members of the Fraternity, are
circumstances thathave awakened, in the minds of some over zealous brethren, a
fear that it may encroach upon the prosperity of the York Rite, and, perhaps,
at length, in places, extirpate it. But all such fears are utterly
groundless‑they arise altogether from a misconception of the nature and design
of the Scotch Rite, and are to be best combated by a candid explanation of the
history and character of that Rite.
" It
is admitted (at least by all English and American Masons, and, probably, would
be by all impartial writers, of every other country), that the York Rite is
the most ancient, the, most authentic, and the most simple, as well as
consistent, of all the Masonic Rites. But, as it originally existed, it
presented to us only the three degrees of what are emphatically called
`Ancient Craft Masonry,' namely, the Entered Apprentice, the Fellow Craft, and
the Master.
The
more modern definition is, that these include the Order of the Holy Royal
Arch.
In all
probability, we might almost safely say, that, without doubt, the, Royal Arch,
at one time, constituted a part of the Master's degree, and, that, about the
middle of the last century. it was, torn from its .appropriate place, as an
historical illustration of, 152
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and
emendation to that degree, and made a distinct and separ rate one. Be this as
it may, it can not be denied that the Ancient York Rite consisted only of
three degrees, with the Royal Arch as in some way supplementary.* The
intermediate degrees of Mark, Past, and Most Excellent Master, and the
additional ones of Royal and Select Master, and of the Red Cross Knight, and
Knight Templar, have nothing whatsoever to do with the York Rite, properly so
called.
The
Mark, Royal, and Select Master were originally honorary degrees of the Scotch
Rite, were intrgduced by the possessors of that Rite into this country, and
were, until recently (comparatively speaking), under the jurisdiction of that
Rite.
We
have abundantly shown, in some of the earlier numbers of this journal, that
what are now called the' Council Degrees,' or those of Royal and Select
Master, emanated from the Supreme Councils of the Thirty‑third, and we
published, in a very late number, a copy of a warrant of constitution for a
Mark Lodge, in the city of Charleston, in 1802, granted by the administrators
of the Scotch Rite.
It is,
probably, to Webb that the York Rite is indebted for the adoption of the Mark
degree, as well as that of Most Excellent Master, into a series of degrees.
The
Past Master's degree, as it is called, is not so much a degree as a ceremony
of installation, and constitutes no part of the distinctive Rite.
" The
Knight of the Red Cross, every Prince of Jerusalem knows, has been borrowed
from the Scotch Rite, and the Knight Templar and Knight of Malta are degrees
of chivalry, independent of all rites.
" We
thus, by divesting the York Rite of these meretricious ornaments, with which
we think it has not very wisely been laden, reduce it to the three primitive
degrees of the Ancient Temple, to which we are permitted to add the
illustrative history of the Royal Arch.
ò ‑1
The Grand Lodge of Scotland confines what it calls' St. John's Masonry' to
these first three degieca, without any reference whatever to the Royal Arch,
which is not acknowledged by that body. But it must be evident to the scholar
that, unless the Royal Arch be inAcded, the Masonic legendary history to not
complete." SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
153 "lt
is, then, at this point that the Scotch Rite comes forward, to continue the
series of instructions, which every student of Masonry is obliged to listen
to, if he desires a thorough knowledge of the science to which he is devoting
his investigations. The Scotch Rite, it is true, has also its three primitive
degrees; out they are no longer practiced by its possessors. Still, even these
degrees are more consonant with the same degrees of the York Rite, than those
of any of the other rites.
" A
York Mason, then, having arrived at the Master's degree, and finding an
`hiatus valde deglendus'‑a something missing, and yet greatly to be desired‑a
synopsis, rather than a full history of important circumstances, in which he
has, by this time, become most interested, seeks further light, by receiving
the degrees of the Scotch, or Ancient, and Accepted Rite. He is already a
Master Mason, under the York Rite, and he proceeds, by taking the 4th, 5th,
6th, and so. on, to the 14th degree, in the Lodge of Perfection, to obtain an
abundant mass of traditionary knowledge, all of which illustrates the
unfinished or :mperfect legend which he had already received.
He
does not, oy this, lose his reverence or respect for the York Rite.
On the
contrary, by this augmentation of knowledge, he finds his admiration
increased.
Many
things which he had previously looked upon as trifles are now shown to be
matters of importance‑many things which were formerly wholly inexplicable, he
now fully comprehends‑and many things which once seemed to be discrepancies,
militating against each other, and destroying the harmony of the system, are
now found to be reconcilable, as consistent parts oú `one stupendous whole.'
With
the brief expositions of the York Rite, he was as a spectator passing through
a gallery of paintings, without a guide.
The
pictures, emanating from the pencils of the first masters, delight his taste
and warm his imagination ; but, ignorant of the subjects thus delineated, his
judgment is unsatisfied, and the impressions made upon his heart and mind are
transitory.
But
the Scotch Rite comes to the assistance of the unsatisfied Mason, as a '
catalogue raisonnee' does to the wanderer among the pictures, and, by its
copious legends, its more minute traditions, and Its new detail of
circumstances, it leads him thoroughly to 154, MODERN FREEMASONRY.
understand, to appreciate, and, of course, to admire, what had been before
incomprehensible, or, at least, unsatisfactory. "Proceeding still farther, the
15th and 16th degrees make' him acquainted with many circumstances of Masonic
history which were not preserved in the York Rite, and which are yet of so
much importance, as to be essential to a full exposition of Masonic history.
" In
the 17th and 18th degrees, still more brilliant light darts its rays into his
mind, Masonry begins to present him with a holier and purer symbolism, and he
returns again to the York. Rite, to wonder that in its simplicity he did not
see its admir‑. able adaptation to the solemn explanations of the Rose Croix.
" From
this degree to the Thirty‑second or Sublime Prince of: the Royal Secret, be
finds in the.pbilosophical degrees an abundance of material for wholesome
reflection, and many sublime teachings of truth and morality, all founded on
the early lessons lie had received, during his initiation into the first
principles of Masonry, in the York Rite. The instructions of, these higher
degrees are not, it is true, so essential to the ful, understanding of the
Masonic system ; but they are sufficiently interesting to claim attention and
reward the investigation of the Masonic student.
" In
all this we see no antagonism to the York Rite‑not even a generous rivalry‑but
rather a coincident pursuit of the same great object : the investigation of
Masonic truth. The Scotch Rite, as now .practiced, begins from the Master
Mason. None but Master Masons of the York Rite can become Scotch Rite Masons,
and, therefore, the two Rites mutually aid and illustrate each other.
The
York Rite furnishes the solid foundation ; the Scotch supplies the beautiful
superstructure. Hence, our illustrious brother, Henry Udal, one of the
Sovereign Inspectors and Members of the Supreme Council of England, at a
meeting of that body, in June last, very truthfully said, that `the system of
Sublime and Ineffable Masonry does not encroach upon, or interfere with Craft,
or Symbolic Masonry.' " We repeat, that the Scotch Rite is not antagonistic to
the York Rite, but is subsidiary to it. And we are not willing to rest the
truth or value of this assertion on our own unsupported SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT
AND ACCEPTED.
155
tutbority.
Dr.
Frederick Dalcho, one of the leading members of the Sec tch Rite in this
country, in an address delivered as far back as the year 1803, before the
Sublime Grand Lodge of Perfection, at Charleston, thus defined the relations
between ,‑he two Rites "'The Sublime Masons* view the Symbolic system with
reverence, as forming a test of the character and capacity of the initiated.
They are bound, by their laws, to support and cherish the original principles
of that Institution ; and they watch, with a jealous eye, all who appear
disposed to profane it. It is the door of their sacred Temple, through which
all must pass to arrive at perfection. They are equally interested in the
splendid establishment of those degrees, and in the union and happiness of
their members.' "We have made these remarks, because, as we have already said,
we have understood that some well‑meaning, but mistaken brethren have been
opposed to the extension of the Scotch or Ancient and Accepted Rite, from the
fear that it would interfere with the success of the York Rite. We desire to
see these objections removed, because we sincerely believe that it is only by
a united study of both Rites, that a Mason can expect to become thoroughly
learned in his profession.
A true
Masonic scholar must listen to the instructions of both ; he must investigate
the legends and traditions of both ; and he must collate and compare the
history and the philosophy of each with the other.
Without diligent union of both Rites in his researches, he must always remain
a disciple rather than a master in Israel ‑‑his learning will, after all, be
rather foolishness than wisdom, and his draughts at the fountain of Masonry
may wet his lips, but will never satiate his thirst. And we all recollect the
maxim of Pope, that A little learning is a dangerous thing; Drink deep, or
taste not the Pierian spring.' 11 The Mason whose knowledge is confined to the
York Rite, will be apt to entertain narrow and insufficient views of the 11
This is a title, technically used to designate those members of the Scotch We
who have advanced as far as the 14th degree." 15B
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
sublimity of the Masonic system.
Let
those views be enlightened and enlarged, by a zealous study of the Scotch
Rite, and, in reply to every cavil, let us say: 'In our Masonic studies we
belong to the Scotch Rite; in our Masonic allegiance we belong to the York
Rite."' In the foregoing, Bro. Mackey sets out by saying that the fears
entertained by some over zealous brethren, that Scotch Rite Masonry will
encroach upon the prosperity of the York Rite, are to be best combated by a
candid explanation of the history and character of that Rite, from which we
were led to hope that he was about to give us, what we have never seen, a true
history of that so called Masonic Rite; but we regret to say, the author
leaves us quite as much in the dark, upon this subject, as we were before.
We
have elsewhere stated, that there are no Rites in Masonry; that Masonry is a
unit; a great system of ethics, complete in itself, and that everything
differing from it, or which was originally no part of it, is not Masonry at
all, the assumed name to the contrary notwithstanding ; but, for the sake of
convenience, we may, on the present occasion, recognize the term Rites, in
noticing the position assumed by Bro. Mackey.
In the
second paragraph, the author asserts, truly, that originally Masonry consisted
of only three degrees, including the Holy Royal Arch.
Now,
this being admitted, and granting, as he does, in another place, that Masonry
was instituted by King Solomon, we ask, in all seriousness, whether any system
of Rites, subsequently instituted, can be considered part and parcel of the
original? But, not feeling it to be our duty to pursue this subject here, we
beg to call attention to the singular statement made in the paragraph referred
to, that the degrees of Mark, and Royal and Select Master "have nothing
whatsoever to do with the York Rite, properly so called." We had supposed,
that the degree, now called Mark Master, teaches and inculcates that which was
originally taught and inculcated in the Fellow Craft; in short, that it was
made up of the better half, torn, imprope░ly,
from the Fellow Craft degree, by modern innovvktoT s. who left, in its stead,
what is now called the second SCOTCH RIT". ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
157
motion, which did not, originally, and, consequently, does not now, constitute
any part of Masonry, properly speaking. But whether our views, in this
respect, are true or false, we are certainly not mistaken in saying that Bro.
Mackey is the first intelligent Masonic writer, to venture the assertion that
the Mark degree has nothing to do with Freemasonry, or, as he says, the York
Rite ; and what is even more remarkable, the author does not agree with
himself. From an address delivered by Bro. Mackey, on the 27th of December,
1850, and published in the suceeding number of the .Miscellany, we make the
following extract "The degree of Mark Master, which is the fourth in the
Masonic series, is historically consitl'ered of the utmost importance, since
we are informed that, by i* influence, each Operative Mason, at the building
of the Temple, was known and distinguished, and the disorder and confusion
which might other wise have attended so immense an undertaking, was completely
prevented." In the address from which the foregoing is taken, the author
emphatically asserts that "the whole system of Freemasonry is divided into
seven degrees," and he includes the Mark as one of them: How Bro. Mackey will
justify himself in contradicting, in September, 1852, what he asserts as true
in December, 1850, we are unable to conjecture.
Since
the speech above referred to was delivered, the brother has discovered that
the Grand Council of the Thirty‑third, at Charleston, did, as early as 1802,
issue a charter for a Mark Lodge, and as we know he is engaged in an effort to
plant Scotch Rite Masonry in the several States, it may be that his preference
for that Rite is leading him to claim for it as much of Ancient Craft Masonry
as it can obtain the control of.
If the
fact that the Grand Council issued a charter for a Mark Lodge, proves that the
Mark degree belongs to the Scotch Rite, the fact that the Grand Council, at
New Orleans, the Supreme Grand Council of France, and the Grand Orient of
France, have issued charters for Lodges of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft,
and Master Mason, equally proves that these degrees also belong to the Scotch
Rite; and, especially when we remember that the Grand 158
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Councils at New York and Charleston, not long since asserted that they had the
original right to control Ancient Craft Masonry, but waived that right in this
country, because Symbolic Masonry was under the control of Grand Lodges when
the Scotch Rite was introduced here.
We are
not surprised that the admirers of Scotch Rite Masonry, so called, should seek
to get under their control all the degrees of Craft Masonry, for, if we are
not misinformed, the Secret Constitutions of that Rite require this at their
hands, and we can not conceal the fact, that occurrences have transpired,
since December, 1850, which may have had a powerful influence in producing
this "presto change" in Bro. Mackey.
In the
article of September, 1852, Bro. Mackey calls all the degrees now given, as
belonging to Ancient Craft Masonry, except the first three, "meretricious
ornaments," while, in his address of 1850, he makes the number to consist of
seven, and forcibly illustrates the appropriateness and importance of each, in
the system of York Rite Masonry.
Bro.
Mackey alludes to an article published by himself, claiming that the Grand
Council of the Thirty‑third, at Charleston, introduced into this country the
degrees of Royal and Select Master. If the reader will turn to a report to the
Grand Chapter of Vermont. from the pen of Bro. Tucker, in which the author
takes up this subject, and, we think, proves that the assumption of the editor
of the Miscellany i9 without a shadow of foundation, these degrees having been
cultivated in the United States long before the Charleston Council was
established.
In his
speech of 1850, Bro. Mackey admits that " the substance of the degrees is
contained in the Royal Arch" Therefore, to ne consistent in his claims, he
should come out as have some other Scotch Rite advocates, and claim that the
Royal Arch also belongs to the Scotch Rite.
But we
proceed to notice a still more remarkable theory, attempted to be propagated
by Bro. Mackey.
In
September, 1852, he gravely tells us that the brother who cultivates no more
than the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, is as a " spectator passing through
a gallery of paintings urithout a guide," whereas, if he will, in addition,
tako SCOTCH‑ RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
159
the Scotch Rite degrees, all things will be explained.
Verily, if this be true, we shall feel prepared to agree with the
distinguished brother, in saying, as he does, in his speech of 1850, that "
Masonry is a progressive science."
Can it
be possible that a batch of trumped up degrees, some of them claimed to have
been instituted by Frederick the Great, in the last century, some of them by
somebody else in the seventeenth century, are capable of explaining any
seeming mysteries in the great system of Freemasonry,‑ which, according to
Bro. Mackey himself, was instituted more than twenty‑eight hundred years ago ?
Should we, for the sake of argument, grant that these Scotch ,Rite degrees are
Masonic degrees, we have Bro. Mackey's admission that they are of modern
origin, compared with the York Rite.
And
does he expect his readers to believe that modern Masonry is capable of
resurrecting those legends of Ancient Craft Masonry, which may have been
buried in the rubbish of the dark ages? Can he believe himself that these lost
legends were found by Frederick the Great, or Chevalier Ramsey ?
But
why should we spend time in racking our brain to find out what Bro. Mackey
really believes, when we have it in our power to prove, by Bro. Mackey
himself, that he does not believe his own teachings to be true.
From
the memorable speech of 1850, we make the following extract "Among us, and
perhaps three‑fourtbs of the Masonic world, where the right of Ancient York
Masonry is practiced, the whole system of Freemasonry is divided into seven
degrees, which receive the name of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master
Mason, Mark, Past, and Most Excellent Master; and, finally, of ,the Holy Royal
Arch.* Within these seven degrees, are included all that is really and
essentially necessary to be known of the science, the philosophy, and morality
of Masonry.
Other
degrees, indeed, there are above and beyond these.
They
are, however, but illustrative and explanatory, and, by Masonic students, may
be, and often are, very advantageously cultivated, "' 1 have not here inserted
the degrees of Royal and Select Master, because I ba,7e always contended, and,
I think, elsewhere proved, that they belong to the Scotoh and not the York
Rite. With us, their substance is contained in th4 Royal Arch Degree." 160
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
for
the purposes of laudable curiosity and intellectual improvo ment, just as the
metaphysician might study the subtile, but now exploded dialectics of
Aristotle, or the theologian amuse himself with the visionary disquisitions of
Thomas Aquinas.
"To
these seven ancient and universal degrees of. Masonry which, like the seven
prismatic colors of the rainbow, contain, within themselves, the whole
substance of light, we shall, on this occasion, confine our investigation."
How very full, clear, and explicit is the foregoing.
There
is no hanging back, no doubt entertained, nor even a difficulty suggested.
Will the reader mow turn back and read again what the author says about the
importance of the Scotch Rite degrees, in a later paper.
There
he tells us that the Mason, " without this diligent union oú both Rites in his
researches, must always remain a disciple, rather than a master in Israelhis
learning will, after all, be rather foolishness than wisdom, and his draughts
at the fountain of Masonry may wet his lips, but will never satiate. his
thirst ;" and, to enforce this idea, he quotes from Pope, " A little learning
is a dangerous thing," etc., and, finally, as a cap‑sheaf, he adds : "The
Mason whose knowledge is confined to the York Rite, will be apt to entertain
narrow and insufficient views of the sublimity of the Masonic system." And
yet, in 1850, he emphatically proclaims that "all the degrees above and beyond
Ancient Craft, or York Rite Masonry are to be ` cultivated for purposes of
laudable curiosity, as are the exploded dialectics of Aristotle, or as the
theolologian would amuse himself with the visionary disquisitions of Thomas
Aquinas."'
In one
article he condemns the student of Masonry to a life of ignorance, unless he
acquires a knowledge of the Scotch Rite degrees, while, in the other, he tells
him that the " seven degrees of universal Masonry, like the seven prismatic
colors of the rainbow, contain, within themselves, the whole substance of
light."
What,
then, are we to infer are the teachings of the editor of the Miscellany ?
Why,
that the wisdom of the brother who possesses the whole substance of light in
Masonry, is mere foolishness, while he who penetrates " above and beyond,"
obtains a knowledge of the exploded doctrines‑the shadow of Masonry‑‑thereby
becomes a 4' Master in Israel." SCOTCH RITE, ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED.
161 We
feel that further comment from us would be wasting the time of our readers,
and shall, therefore, hasten to close.
It is
known to the readers of our writings that we are among those " well‑meaning
brethren," who fear an effort is being made to bring Ancient Craft Masonry
under the control of that trumpery yclept Modern Masonry, or Scotch Rite
Masonry. We have shown that the Grand Council of, France, and the Grand Orient
(Grand Lodge) of France, have succeeded in gaining control over Craft Masonry.
We have shown. that the Grand Council of New Orleans, under the sanction of
the Grand Orient of France, for many years controlled the Grand Lodge of
Louisiana, and openly declared that, by the Secret Constitution of the Order,
every Grand Council is recreant to' its solemn obligations, who fails to make
an effort to exercise control over all the degrees in Masonry.
We
have shown that the Grand Councils of New York and Charleston, openly
proclaimed the"original right" to control the three first degrees in Masonry,
and only waived that right, because they were under the Grand Lodge system
when Scotch Rite Masonry was introduced into this country, and, lastly, we
think it will now appear that Bro. Mackey, an officer of the Grand Council of
the Thirtythird, at Charleston, has put up a finger‑board, so plainly indexed,
that even the wayfarer in Masonry cannot be misled thereby.
We
grant that our "little learning" in Scotch Rite Masonry may be considered a
dangerous thing. It might have been better that we had never known anything
about the degrees, for we have just learned enough to be able to join in with
Brn. Cross, and others. in declaring the whole thing to be a mere imposition,
a trumpery of high‑sounding titles, a system of degrees fit only to be
cultivated, as Bro. Mackey declares, "as the theologian would amuse himself
with the visionary disquisitiona of Thomas Aquinas." Long before Bro. Mackey
used the foregoing language, he occupied a prominent position in his Grand
Council, and was generally looked upon as its champion ; he can not,
therefore, plead ignorance of the teachings of the Scotch Rite.
ii
CHAPTER V.
EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES IIND KE MASONRY.
tw the
early part of this history, we undertook to show that M: scurry originated at
the building of King Solomon's Temple, and we promised, at a proper time, to
treat separately of the Egypt:an Mysteries, and give our reasons for supposing
they had no connection with, nor any well‑defined likeness to Freemasonry.
That
we shall be able to give satisfaction to all, we do not indulge the slightest
hope. Nor do we expect that we shall be able even to meet the expectations of
those who feel inclined to examine the subject for themselves.
For,
were we ever so well qualified to meet and combat the visionary theories of
some modern writers, who would make Masonry the receptacle of a heterogeneous
mass of principles, as dissimilar as were the supposed contents of Pandora's
box, the space which we have allowed ourself would be too limited for the
accomplishment of the end.
If,
therefore, we shall be able to enlist the attention, and call into action the
services of those whose higher qualifieations fit them to mature and finish,
what we aim only to set on foot, we shall have accomplished all we hope for:
We know we are undertaking a herculean task; for the simple reason that, as
far as we are informed, our views of Masonry, though strictly in accordance
with its traditions, and similar to those entertained and taught in the Lodge
room, by nine‑tenths of the Masons in the United States, and, probably, in
England, Scotland, and Ireland, we are not sustained by the conductor of any
Masonic journal, or historian. We arrogate to. ourself no higher powers of
penetration than are possessed by others, and hence, if our views are found to
be more correct than theirs, we can only account. for it by supposing that, to
the aeglect of other duties, we have seen proper to dex ote more EGYPTIAN
MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
16.'3
,,.me to the investigation of this particular subject, than has euited the
interest or taste of others.
We
have been readh% most of our life.
For
thirty years we have been a student of Masonry, and deeply interested in its
history ; and, we can truly say that, whatever our views may be, they are
emphatically our own, and we have never paused to inquire whether they were
popular or unpopular.
We
have never admitted that any man was too exalted to be in error, nor have we
supposed a man too humble and obscure to do his own thinking, to arrive at the
truth.
Claiming to occupy a position with the class last referred to, we do dare to
attack the opinions of the exalted, when, in our judgment, those opinions tend
to do harm, and if this seeming presumption should occasionally excite the ire
of a little mind, who, for the lack of ability to make an argument, chooses to
blow off his extra steam by means of illnatured epithets, we shall try to
pity, rather than censure him.
Most
historians have set out by declaring Masonry to have originated in the garden
of Eden, or with the immediate descendants of Adam. This hypothesis they
attempt to establish 'by assuming (falsely, we think,) that Masonry was
originally purely Operative, and hence, the first builders of tents or huts
are set down as Masons. Now, whether those men were Masons, as the term is
usually applied to certain mechanics, we will not be at the trouble to
inquire, but that they had formed themselves into a Society, and that the
Society of Masons, or Freemasons, we utterly deny.
But,
having examined this subject, at length, elsewhere, we will not further pursue
it here.
The
class of writers above referred to, fail to find proof that Adam was a Mason,
in any sense, while in the Garden of Eden. And, by the way, there is more
evidence that Eve was a Mason, for she certainly commenced a very important
branch of mechanical labor, and as her material, fig leaves; was not of the
test, we have a right to suppose she was a skillful operative. But our learned
historians pass over this event, and make a bold dash to show that the
Egyptian Mysteries were Masonic Mysteries, that the Egyptian Secret Societies
were Masonic Societies, under another name.
Though
we think there is not a single testimony which tends MODERN'FREEMASONRY.
to
date Masonry at a period anterior to the Temple, we shall proceed to notice
such as have been relied on, and, inasmuch as some of our readers may not be
familiar with the history of the Egyptian Mysteries, we shall proceed with
some prelimi‑' nary remarks, as introductory to the main question at issue.
Until
the latter part of the seventeenth century, the fabulous accounts of the
heathens, except so far as the divinity of their gods was concerned, were
received as so many revelations of truth; but the bold and energetic writers
who sprung up about that time, and who so effectually exposed the fallacy of
the Heathen Mythology, that, since their time, every branch of history has
been somewhat rationally viewed, except that which refers to Masonry, and to
the Church of Rome. The members of the Roman Catholic Church, who undertake to
write its history, still retain all the mummery of the days of bigotry and
superstition.
They
still tell us the most fabulous and ridiculous stories that were ever penned,
and anathematize us if we can not, or do not believe them to be holy truths.
We are
asked to believe that blood has continued to issue, periodically, for hundreds
of years, from certain walls, thereby affording evidence that God's anger is
periodically enkindled for crimes there perpetrated, in the days of primitive
Christianity.
We are
asked to believe that a transparent liquid, in a sealed vial, is made to turn
to blood, that the world may, thereby, know the true descendants of Peter have
power of Jehovah to work miracles.
We are
asked to believe that relics of our Saviour are still in possession of the
Church, and that those who will bond down and worship them, accompanied with
certain donations of money, shall receive absolution from their sins.
We are
asked to believe a thousand tales, no less ridiculous than these, in order to
prove that the holy Church of Rome is the only refuge from the vengeance of an
offended God.
Protestant Masons sneeringly point to these bold and unblushing schemes,
intended to impose on the credulity, and alarm the fears of the ignorant and
priest‑ridden Roman Catholic people, and yet many of these very Protestants
will gulp down even more ridiculous and mischievous stories, told of the
history and principles of Masonry.
EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES IINLIKE.MABONRY.
IfiS
The Roman Catholics have no where attempted to vitiate, or set at naught the
Word of God, so far as to make religion consist in a knowledge of either of
the arts or Sciences; while, by a Protestant divine, we are asked to believe
that geometry is Masonry, and that Masonry is the true religion.
Now,
men who are paid for writing this worse than nonsense, can be excused only on
the ground that money is of more value to them than the simple truth.
Is it
enough to tell us that the author is an eminent divine ,of England? Is it
enough to say he is a man of learning? Why, can not learned men, even beyond
the waters, have some weak points? òCan not they write a romance, "founded on
facts," and call it history? We are not inclined to quarrel ‑with any one,
whose taste runs that way, for worshiping great men, and their errors, so long
as he is willing to worship alone; but when he seeks to induce others to bow
down to his Moloch, his efforts become of public interest, and must be
publicly met, by those whose business it is to guard the public 'against
error.
It is
a singular fact, that the same class of writers who hold that Freemasonry
originated from, or originally constituted the Egyptian Mysteries, are loudest
in denouncing the bare suggestion that the true religion originally formed
part or parcel of the Pagan Theology, and yet, if the likeness of two things
is to be taken as evidence of their identity, we think it would not be
difficult to show that there is a greater resemblance between the religion of
the heathens and that of the. Mosaic Dispensation, than there ever was<between
the Egyptian Mysteries and Freemasonry. He, who is at all familiar with
ancient history, can not fail to notice a striking likeness in the religious
observances of the Hebrews, to those practiced by ' nations given over, by all
Christendom, to the grossest idolatry We know that a very convenient method is
resorted to, in ‑order to account for the resemblance, by the use of the hack'
neyed saying, that the existence of a counterfeit proves the existence of the
genuine, and that wherever the likeness spoken of exists, whether in the
manner of worshiping their gods, their reliance upon their oracles. and
auguries, or any of their 166
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
peculiar rituals, are but counterfeits of the usages and ritual@ of the true
religion.
Now,
while we think that, aside from the foregoing reason, it would not be
difficult to show that the idolatry of the heathens, and the religion of the
Christian, did not spring from the same great law‑giver, there is much more
testimony, going to show the original identity of these two systems of
religion, than there is to prove the original identity of Masonry and the
Ancient Mysteries.
It is
contended that the indispensable use made of the Bible by Freemasons, by no
means proves that Masonry originated with Moses, or even at a period so late
as the days of Solomou, but that it does somekoto show that the Hebrews, who
systematized and perfected Freemasonry, had preserved and did imitate the
usages of the more ancient nations. The learned antiquarians, for the last
hundred and fifty years, have wisely undertaken to penetrate the Egyptian
Mysteries, by endeavoring to trace out and interpret the words and symbols
used in those days; and though we are constrained to say that many of the
definitions given us are far‑fetched and uncertain, yet, granting them all to
be correct, we think they wholly fail to prove that Freemasonry was ever part
of, or had its origin in the Egyptian Mysteries.
It is
true, that the heathens did, as now do the savages of the forest, use the
pictures of animals, etc., to express their meaning and wishes, but a slight
examination will show how little reliance can be placed in our knowledge of
their application to specific things.
It is
known that the descendants of Ham, who were left in Lower Egypt, discovered
that the overflowing of the Nile was preceded by an annual wind, blowing from
North to South. They further discovered that the overflow was preceded ay the
appearance of a brilliant star, showing itself only for a bhort space of time,
between the dawn and the rising of the sun. Regarding it, therefore, as a
warning messenger, seat specially to bid them prepare to fly to the higblands,
they called it Tayant (the dog) ; they also called it Anubis (the barker). And
hence, they resorted to the use of a painting, representing EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES
UNLIKE MASONRY.
lfi'l
1k dog, and this symbol, exposed in public places, under parties ular
circumstances, and at particular periods, serve(l to apprise the inhabitants
that the Nile Star had made its appearance, and all must remove from the
Delta. But, surely, it will not be contended that whenever the symbol of a dog
was represented, the same meaning was attached to it. On the contrary, it was
sometimes used to denote fidelity, or friendship, or as a warning against
danger of any kind. And so, in reference to the symbols used in the Egyptian
Mysteries, it will not do, arbitrarily to select the meaning of a symbol;
suited to a preconceived opinion or theory, and jump to the conclusion that,
because, in some cases, it was designed to signify that particular thing,
therefore, it was always so used in the Mysteries.
If
this method be adopted, very many and contradictory things may be shown, and
we think this method has been resorted to, by those who have undertaken to
prove that Masonry was identical with, or derived from the Egyptian Mysteries.
The
representation of the blazing star is used in our teachings of the principles
and ends of Freemasonry, and we suppose it is designed simply to commemorate
the recollection of the blazing star, which pointed out the birth‑place of our
Saviour, and zoe think it has been introduced into our Lodges since the event
to which it refers. We know there are men, learned men, who are not satisfied
to claim so littlt for that symbol, but who, with marvelous, penetration, have
discovered that the, blazing star of our Lodge room is the symbol of the
dog‑star oU the Egyptians, and designed to teach us prudence, and to warn us
from all evil.
Thus
it will be perceived, that he who desires to give us a romantic account of
Freemasonry, and prove, thereby, that it originated at some point, too remote
for the ken of human thought, will find it convenient to study Heathen
Mythology, and draw largely from its rich storehouse of unexplained and
unintelligible symbols.
The
overflowing of the Nile, if it did not give birth to, tended, in a powerful
degree, to the study of astronomy, for so important was it, that the people
should be correctly informed of the signs which indicated the approach and
receding of the waters.
168
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
that
men, the best qualified, were employed, and paid from the .public treasury, to
discover and portray those signs ; and hence, the early attention of the
Egyptians to the movements of the heavenly bodies. As letters were unknown,
symbols were resorted to, to give expression to ideas, but it will be seen
that it was utterly impossible to use a distinct symbol to reprevent each
idea, as such a language would have proved more aurthensome than that used by
the Chinese, inasmuch as the ,Egyptians resorted mainly to the pictures of
animals, instead of arbitrary characters, therefore, their symbols were made
to represent general ideas, made special by the time of use, or the
surrounding circumstances.
The
monitors of the present day contain the symbol of the Mosaic pavement, to
represent human life, checkered with good and evil. Now, the Egyptians,
doubtless, had a method of representing , the. same thing, but it would‑
require more than ordinary credulity, to believe that they used the Mosaic
pavement at the introduction of the Mysteries, long anterior to the days of
Moses. In like manner, though symbols were used by the Egyptians, and are now
used by the Masons, it neither proves that the Egyptian Mysteries and Masonry
were originally identical, nor that the one is derived from the other. It
seems to us somewhat singular, that learned brethren, who trace Masonry back
as far as they can find anything to liken even one of its principles or
symbols to, lose sight of the fact that, for the last hundred years, men have
been successfully introducing additional degrees and additional symbols into
Masonry.
An
eminent divine,* in a late article in the Union, has undertaken to show that
the degrees of M. Master, Past Master, atnd, M. E.; Master, were actually
instituted and practiced at the building of King Solomon's Temple, as separate
and distinct degrees, and for separate and distinct purposes. While we as
firmly believe that the Mark Master's degree was originally part and parcel,
yea, the better half of the Fellow Craft's degree, and that the second section
of the Fellow Craft degree, 0 Rev. Salem Town.
EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
169 u
now given, is of modern invention, introduced at the time of the subdivision,
to fill the vacancy thus created.
We
believe the Past Master's degree, or, as New York has it, the Installation
Ceremony, was introduced by Lawrence Dermott, and without having, then or now,
even a well‑defined resemblance to Masonry. And as for the M. E. Master's
degree, we can only say that, if the writer above referred to is correct, in
supposing it was given at the building of the Temple, we shall be forced to
the conclusion, that the shadow existed autscedent to the substance, for the
event, which the degree is designed to commemorate, had not then transpired.
We think these degrees, above the third, were unknown until after the present
system of Grand Lodges was established, and, even at this day, they are not
recognized in any country where Ancient Craft Masonry has been preserved in
its purity.
Neither Eng. land, Ireland, nor Scotland recognizes them as having any
legitimate connection with Masonry, and, if given at all, they are given as
side degrees. We mean, of course, to except the Mark Master's, or Mark
degree., from this category.
We
introduce the subject here, to show that the ancient degrees have been
subdivided, and new degrees added, dignified with the name of Masonry, which
do not bear the landmarks of purity ; and to say that, if degrees have been
added, it is fair to suppose additional symbols have also been introduced, and
meanings attached to them that were unknown to the Ancient Egyptians, and for
three thousand years thereafter. Will any one say, that the Ancient Egyptians
used two perpendicular parallel lines, to represent St. John the Baptist, and
St. John the Evangelist? Could the Egyptians have used symbols to represent
the five orders of architecture, before they were invented?
Could
they have given us the representation of the forty‑seventh problem of Euclid,
before it was discovered, and before Euclid, or Pythagoras, lived?
It
must be borne in mind that most of the symbols to be found in our monitors,
distinctly point us to the events which transpired at the build. ing of the
Temple, and we must regard it as ridiculous, to sao they are but the symbols
of the Egyptian Mysteries.
We are
referred to the point within a circle, as conclusive 171
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
evidence that Masonry and the Ancient Mysteries were identical, because the
ancients used the circle to represent the Divinity; and yet, strange to say,
the same writers say nothing about the balance of the same picture, and,
especially, the two lines representing Christianity.
In the
Mark Master's degree our emblems all refer to Solomon's Temple. In the Past
Master's degree, we are pleased to say, there is not a single emblem that does
not belong to the preceding degrees‑‑the inventor being satisfied to work off
his novelties in the way of ceremony alone.
Every
emblem in the M. E. Master's degree refers to the events which the R. A.
degree is intended to commemorate, and the same may be said of the Royal and
Select degrees.
But
who can fail to perceive that, even in the R. A. degree, a symbol has been
introduced which has no sort of connection with the events, either upon which
the degree was founded or intended to commemorate. What connection has the
appearance of the Angel of the Lord to Moses, in a burning bush, with the
destruction of Jerusalem and the captivity of the remnant of the Jews?
None
whatever.
We can
not find even an apology for this symbol in the place it now occupies, save
that it serves to fill up a certain time necessary for half learned officers
to prepare for the ceremony which follows in the ritual of the degree, and as
far as the use made of the symbol in the lecture, as now given, is concerned,
we regard it as very like the second section of the F. C. degree; it serves to
divert the mind of the candidate from the true purposes and intent of the
degree, until they take the two R. and S. degrees, which have been improperly
taken from the R. A., including the true R. A. lecture.
That
the symbols which have been introduced and added, in modern times, are made to
teach useful moral lessons, will not be denied, but we can not, therefore,
rely upon them as constituting _ Ancient Landmarks in Masonry.
On the
contrary, we think if the student of Masonry will ascertain what Ancient Crall
Masonry, in its primitive purity, was intended to portray of accomplish, it
will not be difficult to define the appropriate symbols.
It is
no proof that, because a symbol is now found in our Lodges, representing a
particular thing, that, therefore, it EGYPTIAN MYST8RIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
11ò1
has always been used for the same purpose.
Nearly
all the side degrees, of which we have any knowledge, have a tradition
attached to them, running back to various periods, as best suited their
inventors‑some to the days of Moses, some to Abrat:am, some to Noah, and one
or two go into the Garden of Eden. the degrees of Oddfellowship have a
tradition quite as ancient as those of Masonry, and will it be said,
therefore, that. Odd fellowship is as old as Masonry ? The Egyptians
attributed to the moon great power over the 4ements, and, neat to the sun, as
being the cau‑e of the overflow of the Nile, and hence they called her Isis,
the Queen of Heaven, the excellent one. And, finally, from a habit of
attributing divine powers to the sun and moon, they came to look upon them
first as man and woman, and then god and goddess.
The
sun was called Osiris, the conqueror of Typhon, the ruler of the winds; and,
anon, he was called Jupiter, Ichor, etc., etc.
Isis,
in like manner, was called the wife of Osiris, and, anon, she was worshiped as
the mother of Jupiter, and, finally, the mother of all the gods.
Yea,
the contradictions did not stop here, for she was called the sister of
Jupiter, and, finally, the daughter of Jupiter.
Diana
of the Gauls and Romans, the Artemis of the Greeks, was sometimes a
terrestrial deity, then the moon, and then the queen of hell. The crescent and
the full moon, which she was supposed to wear over her head, caused her to be
taken for the moon.
And
then the time between the last phases and the appearance of the new, was
supposed to be occupied in visiting the lower regions, the country of the
dead.
Now
all these errors are owing to the fact that very many attributes and powers
were imputed to the moon, and as no symbol could be constructed to represent
all of them, the true symbols were metamorphosed to represent either, and, by
turns, all the attributes.
We see
that we cannot identify the use now made of a symbol in our Lodges, with the
use made of it by the ancient Egyptians.
It is
quite evident that the Egyptians, not being able to calculate the movement of
the heavenly bodies, entertained fears, at each change, or disappearance of
the moon from the earth, that she would not again return, hence, so overjoyed
were they on the appearance of the new moon, that after they 172
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
,bad
deified Osiris, or the man in the sun, and Isis, tIA6 woman, or queen in the
moon, they instituted a festival called the feast of the new moon, and men of
known probity were selected to repair to the tops of the mountains to discover
the first appearance of the Hecate, and then, with all speed, convey the glad
tidings to the people, on the arrival of which, the festivities commenced. The
Hebrews, it is known, pursued a similar course. Dr. Adam Clark, in his history
of the ancient Israelites, makes the following statement "The moment in which
the conjunction between the sun and moon is made, can only be known by
astronomical calculations, because she does not then appear ; and as the
Hebrews were little skilled in this science, they began their months at the
first phasis, or first appearance of the moon, which required no learning to
discover. This was an affair in which the great Sanhedrim were concerned, and
the different phases were planted upon the hall in which they assembled.
It
belonged to them to choose men of the strictest probity, whom they sent to the
tops of the neighboring mountains, and who no sooner perceived the new moon,
than they came, with all speed, even on the Sabbath day itself, to acquaint
the Sanhedrim with it.
It was
the business of that council to ascertain whether the moon had appeared, " and
to declare it ; which was done by pronouncing these words ,The feast of the
new moon! the feast of the new moon! and all ,the people were informed of it
by the sound of the trumpets. To which ceremony David alludes when he says:'
Blow up the trumpets in the new moon, in the time appointed on our solemn
feast day.
We
marvel at the credulity and superstition of the Egyptians and Hebrews, and yet
are we. at the present day, doing more than looking through a glass darkly?
Are we not almost as credulous and as superstitious as the ancients were? How
many still believe in the divine power of the moon ?
Why,
more than half the agriculturists of Europe and America believe that certain
vegetables must, in order to a good yield, be put into the earth at the right
time of the moon.
At
least one‑third, including ò Psalms lei. a, a EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE
MASONRY.
173 a
fair proportion of the intelligent people, make prayers and supplications to
the new moon‑we mean mentallv, of courseand not a few pour out their
supplications in song or verse, for wives, husbands, sweethearts, and friends
; while still another clas3 go so far as to ask the " dear, kind new moon " to
send them good crops, riches, and fame. Is it, then, remarkable that men are
to be found catching at the most ridiculous theories upon which to build up a
temporary notoriety, or by which to `4 put money in their purse."
Nor is
a love of the marvelous, confined to the skeptic, or the pedantic collegiate,
but rather is the hot bed in which it germinates to be found bighly~cultivated
in the gardens of ministers of the Gospel, or those educated for the Church
ministry.
Why,
only a few years since. this farò seeing class of men had the sagacity to
discover that the then probable downfall of the Ottoman Empire was the
fulfilling of the prophecy that the river Euphrates should be dried up. And is
it not true that a large proportion of the ministers are among the first to
encourage the visonary theories of the day ?
Go to
your minister, if you want a lecture upon Phrenology, Mesmerism, or
Clairvoyance, as newly discovered sciences.
Go to
your minister, if you wish to hear a song of praise to Number Six, and the
miraculous powers of the medicines of steam doctors, or if you wish to hear
the mystification of cause and effect, and the delectable theory of the divine
power of indivisible particles upon the human system, through the agency of
the great science of Homeopathy.
And we
will not vouch that advocates can not be found, in the same quarter, for
spiritual knockings.
We
know it is generally considered indelicate to speak thus of this class of
reverend gentlemen, but we beg to say that they are not over delicate in
portraying the faults of lay members, and the sins of outsiders.
We
admire and venerate the ministry, but we think they figure much more
efficiently in the pulpit, than they do in adopting every wind of doctrine in
relation to the occult sciences, or in giving encouragement to jugglers and
impostors, or, last, though not least, in writing romances, dignified by the
name of history. Who but this class of men have thrown Masonry into ridicule,
by claiming for it an age coeval with the, world, and the attributes, powers,
and excellencies of the true v 174 MODERN FREEMASONRY.
religion ?
We
feel that we have a right to say that the opinions of such men, in relation to
subjects outside of their callifig, should be adopted with caution,
notwithstanding the high sounding title of D.D. may be attached to their
names.
The
ancient Egyptians, during the early part of their feasts, publicly bewailed
their losses, and then, in order to show gratitude to the gods, they brought
forth symbols representing the divine favors, or gifts they had received ;
hence, for an abundant harvest, they loaded a figure with fruits, vegetables,
bread, or corn, pitchers of wine, etc., etc.
Many
of these articles were thrown upon horns with which the figure was furnished.
This
is, doubtless, the origin of the cornucopia, or horn of plenty, and as the
horns represented the wild goat, it is probable this is the origin of the
vulgar impression, prevalent, to some extent, at this day, that candidates for
initiation into the several secret societies are required to " ride the goat."
But,
admitting the same symbol is now used to represent plenty, that was so used by
the Egyptians, or, what is more correct, the same that was afterward used by
the Greeks, viz.,‑‑one horn of the goat in the hand of a human figure‑is it to
be inferred from these that Freemasonry was identical with the Ancient
Mysteries? It must be borne in mind that the use of this symbol has not been
preserved by Masons only, but by nations also.
The
pitcher of wine was used by the ancients to represent an abundant vintage, but
where is the corn and oil ?
In the
dedicatory ceremonies, Masons use corn, wine, and oil, and, in some cases, in
England, salt also, only one oú which articles seems to have been used in the
festivals of the Egyptians.
But
suppose they were all used, it is quite as reasonable to suppose the Masons
have borrowed them from the ancients, as that they were Masonic emblems at
that day. But we had supposed that the Masons did not even borrow them from
the Ancient Mysteries. Sing Solomon sent to Kiug Hiram a present of many
measures of corn, wine and oil, etc., in testimony of his gratitude for the
important assistance rendered him in building the Temple. This gave birth to
that long and uninterrupted friendship which marked the lives of those two
great men.
We
believe these articles were used at ‑the dedication of the Temple to
commemorate EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
175
that‑eveut, and Freemasons have ever since taken pride in perpetuating it.
The
Egyptians carried in their processions a small chest, which at first contained
a great variety of symbols, representing abundance. Afterward it seems their
mysteries were founded upon the great secrets which were pretended to have
been found in that chest. And here again some modern writers have made the
wonderful discovery that the representation of the Ark of the Covenant, used
by the Freemasons, is nothing more nor less than the mysterious chest of the
ancients. Verily, one would be led to suppose that these brethren would attach
much higher consequence to the Heathen Mythology than to the Holy Bible; for
every Royal Arch Mason knows, and the world has a right to know it (for it is
no secret), that the small chest carried in our processions, is a
representation of the Ark of the Covenant; and used in our Chapter ceremonies
to represent, and perpetuate the memory of an important event which transpired
at the building of the first, and also of the second Temple, and there is not
the slightest testimony, that the mysterious chest of the Egyptians ever had
any connection with any of the Masonic ceremonies.
Although we are compelled to be brief in our remarks upon the Ancient
Mysteries, we feel it to be our duty to introduce some facts, going to show
that no sort of reliance can be placed upon the Heathen Mythology; and, in
connection therewith, attempt to show that the symbols of the ancients,
whether Egyptian, Phoenician, Grecian, or Roman, were so numerous and so often
changed, that they can not be properly classified, or fitly applied to the
explanations of our symbols of the present day. We take, for example, the
fourth key of ancient symbolical writings, viz., the figure of a man with a
dog's head, sometimes carrying a pole with a serpent wound round it. The
representation of this symbol, about the time of the rising of the dog‑star,
was to admonish the people to leave the low lands to escape the overflow. To
this figure they gave the same name as that before given to the star, viz.,
the barker, or Anubis.
They
also called it Tayant, the dog ; and still another name, viz., Serapis, the
man‑dog.
Here
are three meanings for the same symbol, 176
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and,
in this case, as in nearly all others, the T,%ptians soon h. t g3 siglit of
the original meaning and design of the symbol, and imagined the name given to
each was the name of a deity, and assigned to him a place of power. Serapis,
at first, was only the figure or symbol of the dog‑star, or rather, one of the
divine attributes of the star ; but, in a little while, they imagined that the
serpent twined around his rod, and gave him great and miraeulous powers over
diseases, and he was not only supposed to be a real being, but a doctor of
medicine, and, finally, a god of medicine. The invention of letters was
likewise attributed to him., And here we see that the same figure is made to
represent three gods‑Serapis, the man‑dog; Tayant. the dog‑star; and Anubis,
the barker; while, originally, it was intended simply to inform the
inhabitants that the dog‑star waa about to appear, when the overflow would
commence.
With
the Romans the representations of the figure of Bacchus were, at first, to
keep before the people important events ; second, to admonish the people of
what was best to be done in future ; then he was the symbol of mourning, or
crying to the gods ; then Bacchus was the god having power over wild beasts,
etc., etc., and the people prayed to him for protection ; and, again, among
many other divine powers, he was the god of wine. Under all the various divine
attributes of Bacchus, religious festivals were instituted, resembling, from
what we can gather, the Roman Catholic processions of the host, and the
general impression seems to be, that this ceremony, like most of the mummeries
of the Roman Church, was derived from the heathens ; but that they have been
greatly improved upon is very' clear, for there are certainly more pomp and
pretended mystery in the ceremonies of that Church, than were attempted by the
heathens ; and we may add, that wherever they have the power, a disregard of
those ceremonies is much more severely punished, than was ever done by the
heathens. What man, in a Catholic country, be he Papist or Protestant, Greek
or Mohammedan, dare refuse to kneel while the host is passing on the street ?
Hercules, the sun, or a god in the sun. was believed by the ancients to have
had a battle with the enemies of Atlas, and, finally, succeeded in relieving
him of the heavy burden somehcw EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
177
huproperly placed upon his shoulders, which, originally, only meant that the
sun, or god of the sun, had thrown hot rays upon. the tops of the mountains,
and melted the snow, so that agriculture could be carried on by the assistance
of Atlas, or the principles of the earth. And the symbols of three golden
balls, now used by pawnbrokers, are derived from the repratentation of a tree,
having golden fruit, which was used by the ancients to represent their
succcessful commerce with other nations; but no one, at this day, would be led
to believe, on seeing the three golden balls at a pawnbroker's office, that
the ~imate was largely engaged in commerce.
The
Egyptians held the feast of Osiris, or Isis. or Horux, at the beginning of the
year, which, as we have stated, was governed by the dog‑star ; but as there
were six hours in each year which they failed to provide for, they found that,
is four years, the feast would come one day too soon for the rising of the
dog‑.star, and as; in this feast, they were desirous to appease and honor all
the gods having power over the productions of the soil, etc., they determined
to continue their feasts as they began, and once in every fourteen hundred and
silty years, they would have held their feast on every day of the year, and
all the gods were thus equally honored, and hence it was that, every four
years, their symbols of the feast were changed to suet the ,seasons, or the
presiding deity of that paa.ticular day. And thus, in process of time, each
day was supposed to be the birthday of some one or move of the gods.
But
the figure of Bacchus was multiplied into various gods besides the three we
have named, there was Camillus of the Ileturians, the Mercury of the
Phoenicians, the Hermes of the Greeks, and the Jamus of the Satins ; all these
were represented at various times, and in the different countries, by
different figures. A:uubis was sometimes represented as holding in his hand .u
large purse, which gave great joy to the people, as they then felt sure of
prosperity, and hence was Anubis called Mercury the cunning detder.
On
some occasions, Anubis was represented with large hawk's wings, to signify
that the Nile would rise .sufficiently high to overflow :and enrich the earth
; and here the name of Anubis was changed to Dvedalu~, and soon D.cedalvs 12
178
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
was
known, or believed to be a great architect, the inventor of the square and
compasses. So that, for the sake of consistency, we think those modern
writers, who trace Masonry back to the Ancient Mysteries, should instruct
their readers that the true symbol to represent the origin of Masonry, and the
tools of the Craft, is a large pair of hawk's wings.
Now,
the Cabiri, whom Dr. Oliver represents as having been so celebrated as Masons,
are nothing more than the three principal figures of the Egyptian ceremonies.
òThey were carried into Phoenicia, and there received the name of Cabiri ; the
first was called Axicros, the all‑powerful; the second, Axiokersos, the
fecundatm‑; and the third, Axeokersa, the fecundatrix. To the latter figure
they also gave the name of Casmilus, or she who beholds deity ; and, we think,
other names were given to the other two, and hence, they finally made not only
six figures out of the original three, but deified them all ; indeed,
historians do not agree as to the number of the Cabiri‑some say there were but
three, while others contend, with much plausibility, that there were six, and
all from the same parentage.
The
Nile generally covered Lower Egypt, or the Delta, three months in the year,
cutting off all land communication with the neighboring cities, and,
occasionally, there was distress in some or them. In order to communicate with
each other, they introduced barks, or small sailing vessels, the symbol of
which was the flying horse.
Finally, three of these figures were used to represent the three months oú
alms‑giving, or assistance to the distressed, and were called the Pegasus, and
nine other figures were made to represent the nine months of prosperity, when
the land was free of water.
These
were called the muses, or gods of the months or prosperity, who were headed by
Apollo, who foretold future events through his inferior gods, each one of
`which represented a particular month, and what the earth would bring forth
for the people in that month.
Now,
for aught we know, there may be some new side degrees, or even some among the
French degrees, called Masonic, whirl. have emblems resembling those above
referred to, but there is no sort of resemblance between those symbol's and
any belong tm to Ancient Craft Masorry.
EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
179 We
have stated, and here repeat, that we can place no sort of reliance upon the
records of the ancients, as handed down to us, and we are sorry to say, the
aid which we have received from writers who have lived since the middle, or
dark ages, is but little more satisfactory. Take, for example, the history of
the reign of Semiramis, as detailed in the early part of our history,
emanating from the pen of Herodotus, and compare it with Strabo, Diodorus
Siculus, and others, who have written since, and it will be found that they
make this celebrated Queen live at various periods, from two thousand two
hundred, down to seven hundred years'before Christ, thus showing a difference
of fifteen hundred years ; and, although each author gives us'a detailed
account of the Queen's reign, her character and habits, it is, at least, most
probable that no such Queen ever lived at all. We know that it was the custom,
in the days of Noses, to call a tribe or family by its original head or
founder.
Ninevah was called Ninees ;, the people of Judea were called Judah ; it was
said that Israel dwelt in tents, etc., etc.
Now,
we know that the ancient Babylonians assumed the name of Semarien, which, we
are told, signified a dove, and W. Powel informs us that the title Semiramis
was as often used to mean the same thing.
If,
then, it be admitted that the ancients, in speaking of the battles and
victories of Semiramis, mean to give an account of the achievements of that
nation of people, it at once enables us to reconcile the different arid,
otherwise, contradictory accounts given by different writers; for the
Babylonians occupied a position among nations quite as long a period as that
referred ' to, viz., from two thousand two hundred down to seven hundred years
before Christ.
But,
if we admit that such errors, as above referred to, originated in a
misconstruction of terms, we are bound to admit that the whole history of the
ancients, as handed down to us, is fabulous and unsatisfactory.
How,
then, shall we arrive at anything like a correct knowledge of the original
meaning of the symbols of the ancients ?
If we
rely upon the poets of Greece and Rome, they differ widely from each other,
and throw the whole into impenetrable mystery. We learn that an instrument
resembling the letter T was used for measuring the Nile, and, again, we find
it in the hands of the 180
MODE$x
FREEMASONRY.
same
people, transformed into a cross the,posses"sion of which was supposed to be a
sure guaranty against evil. The cross, ''therefore; was worn as a charm around
the neck, which supertctition, it is said, descended to the Catholics, and is
still held in seat veneration by them, although its reference is now made to
the Cross of Christ. They have, however, found a spell more potent than the
cross; via., a few verses called the ‑gospel. Home tells us that the
Egyptians, of the present day, use as a a‑emedy against a disease, a charm
from a priest, trade up of wme passage in the Koran. We ask, now; .if there
is, or ‑ever was, anything in Masonry which addresses itself to the super
stition of its members ?
What
Mason, of common sense, could bbelieve that a verse; or quotation from the
Bible, coming through the hands of a priest; would work miracles upon the body
or oul of any man ?
And
yet, this is quite as reasonable as to òbelieve that the Ancient Mysteries and
Masonry were identical, and, especially, if we rely upon the statement of
Herodotus, that the Ancient Mysteries constituted a secret theology, which
never could be known to any but the initiated.
And,
indeed; there are many reasons going to show that the original Egyptian
Uysteries have never been handed down to as, or, if they have, 'they have been
so adulterated and mixed up with the thousand . changes and additions which
were perpetually going on, that ‑'it is now impossible to designate the
original.
We are
led to believe, from a careful examination of several of the most prominent
writers, that, at an early period, ‑after ,the original signs and symbols had
been misconstrued and misapplied, and false theories and histories were
introduced, that the wisest and 2best ‑men instituted a secret Society, for
the ,praiseworthy purpose of bringing back the people 'from their ,idolatry.
We think it will not be difficult to show that this could only be done
secretly, and, finder the most solemn vows ,to withhold the facts from the
world. We know the belief that the names of the original figures and emblems
were the names of distinguished and powerful individuals, and celestial gods
became so universally popular, that no man would have been emitted, publicly,
to teach the fallacy of that doctrine, nor was it safe to do 'so, even through
a secret society, until the EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
MI
mind of the candidate was fully prepared for the change, by a long probation,
trial, and preparation. That the initiated wage entrusted with but little at a
time, and that this was necessary, under the circumstances, we have good
reason to believe; but that all who gave satisfactory evidence that they could
be trusted and would prove faithful, were fully instructed that the gods they
worshiped were but imaginary beings, originating ii. the names of mere
symbols, introduced and originally used to signify the heavenly bodies, which
were supposed to exercise an influence upon the earth, the water, the air, and
the productinns of the earth, we have good reason to believe ; and, hence, the
opinion became prevalent, first with the initiated, and the4k with the people
generally, that the true religion was only to be mown through the medium of
initiation into the Mysteries: The Egyptians were prone to run to extremes,
and those who were made wise by the priests, by an introduction into the
secret Society, very soon arrived at the conclusion that, not only was a
knowledge of the true religion taught in the Mysteries, but that God required
every one to be initiated, an4 that those who entered would be blessed, both
temporally and spiritually, and that all who failed to withstand the
probation, or who were deemed unfit for initiation, were under the curse of
God, and should be despised by all men.
From
this extravagance it was but a step, and a very popular one, too, to intros
troduce, even into the Mysteries, a plurality of gods, and attach to each the
powers of omnipotence, in a limited sphere.
Man
has, in all ages, been prone to fall in love with mysteries, and magnify their
importance.
The
more mysterious and difficult to be understood the religion taught, the more
followers it will have, with the ignorant and uneducated.
Our
superstition is much more easily excited into action than our reasoning facul
ties, and, hence, it is more easy to believe what we can not understand, than
to arrive at the truth, by simple testimony, within the reach of all.
The
priests first taught, it is believed, many of the primitive truths, but soon
after permitted the introduction of other things, which comported with the
superstitions and passions of the people, and, hence, the origin of the
greater and lesser Mysteries of which we read.
Tle
greater 182
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
and
lesser religions of the Eleusinians were nothing more than the degrees of
knowledge, acquired by initiation and progress in the secret Society. As soon
as the popular corruptions were introduced, the same care in selecting
subjects was no longer necessary ; for all could enter, and have their
passions indulged with the worship of as many gods as they chose, while, to a
select few, was reserved the right of advancement to the greater Mysteries,
and, hence, was it supposed, finally, that the priests alone were entitled to
know the greater Mysteries, or religious truths. And thus, is it thought,
originated the superstitious and ridiculous idea, that Roman Catholic priests
were alone qualified to expound the Scriptures, and comprehend the will of
God.
We may
be asked, if wise and good men instituted the Egyptian Mysteries for the
purpose of disabusing the minds of the people, and calling them back to the
worship of the true God, what motive could have induced their successors to
suffer popular errors to enter, when it was completely within their power to
prevent it Y To this we answer, that these very Mysteries were soon made a
source of revenue to the priesthood, and, finally, on many occasions, to the
government; and To be able to draw largely from the pockets of the people, the
Mysteries had to become popular, and it could not be so to the great mass,
except by pandering to their passions, and feeding their credulity.
Having
said thus much, with a view that our readers who Dave not given their
attention to Heathen Mythology, may have some idea of the origin of the
Ancient Mysteries, we can only express our regret that we could not,
consistently, say more, as a bare outline or sketch seldom gives satisfaction
to the inquir. ing mind. But, as it can not be expected that we would enter
largely upon the history of the ancients, in a history devoted to the Masonic
Society, we indulge the hope that all who desire pore light upon this subject,
will adopt a course of reading to that end.
We
shall now attempt to show, as far as we can, in what the ancient Egyptian.
Mysteries were made to consist, after they were corrupted, and proceed to
trace their introduction into EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
183
other countries, and the alterations made in each.
And,
as our opinions, in many respects, differ from all others who have written
upon the subject, and as our object is, that the Fraternity shall no longer
adopt the wild and visionary theories of any man, however high his standing,
we indulge the hope that a spirit of inquiry will be aroused, and that before
our brethren undertake to endorse errors which must bring our Institution into
ridicule, they will read, and think, and reason for them selves.
That
our views will be pronounced incorrect, in many particulars, we do not at all
question.
But,
if the simple and unadorned truth shall be the result of the exposure of our
errors, we shall rejoice that we have written to so good a purpose.
The
great abundance of the harvest in Egypt, and, especially, in the Delta, very
naturally led to a direct intercourse with the surrounding nations. It seldom
happened that either the Arabians, Syrians, Greeks, or Canaanites, were not
compelled to draw their supply, or make up a deficit in their crops, by,
drawing on Lower Egypt.
The
traffic in corn, therefore, became a regular business, especially with the
Phoenician mderchants, who occupied the coast, near Libanus, and who were a
much more commercial people than the Egyptians. In their intercourse, it is
but reasonable to suppose, they examined into the Egyptian polity, and learned
the powerful influence which the Mysteries everywhere exercised over the
temper and morals of the people, a knowledge of which was thus carried into
their own country, and, ere long, the Mysteries were there introduced.
The
abundance of the crops was very properly attributed to the overflow of the
Nile, and as it never rained in Phoenicia, they naturally fell into the views
of the Egyptians, that the overflow was sent directly by God, as a peculiar
gift to the inhabitants.
In
token of their gratitude for this D:vine interposition in their favor, the
Egyptians represented it in all their public festivals, by the figure of their
god, that is, tree sun, or Osiris, with a river pouring out of his mouth.
The
Phoenicians traveled all over the then known world, and it is most probable
that the Mysteries were by them introduced into other nations, where they were
readily receives and MODFRN FREEMASONRY.
encouraged ; first, because the public ceremonies were fascinating and
imposing in their nature ; and, secondly, because of the known prosperity of
the Egyptians, who attributed that prosperity to their religious observances
of the Mysteries.
Some
writer has very appropriately remarked that Egypt was the cup containing the
original poison of idolatry, and the the Phoenicians are the people who, by
traveling all over the world, have presented this fatal cup to the greater
part of the western nations.
It is,
we believe, generally admitted, that although the Mys. teries of the different
countries assumed different names, as best suited the condition or tastes of
the people, Ceres, of Sicily and Eleusis, is the same as the Egyptian Isis,
and yet the same public ceremonies were not observed. In Egypt, the Mother of
Harvests bewailed her husband, while, in the other case, she lamented her
daughter; and so it will be seen that the Athenian, and all other Mysteries,
differed outwardly from the Egyptian; and, it is equally fair to suppose,
quite as many differences existed in the secret ceremonies.
Historians tell its that in the mysteries of Ceres, at Eleusis. the ceremony
of initiation commenced with a most horrid darkness, lightning,,and imitation
of thunder‑claps, and other frightful representations ; after which, quiet was
restored, and four persons magnificently and mysteriously dressed, were to be
seen. The most brilliant of the four was dressed so as to represent the Ruler
of the Universe, and was called the Hierophant, the expounder of holy things.
‑rhe second was the f ambeau bearer, and somehow referred to the sun. The
third, the adorer, represented the moon ; and the fourth, messenger of the
gods, or Mercury.
Both
Plato and Cicero preface their laws by calling on all men to exercise an
unwavering belief in the gods, and their power over man.
" Let
those," says Cicero, " who approach the gods be pure and undefiled ; let their
offerings be seasoned with piety, and all ostentation of pomp omitted; the god
himself will be his own avenger on transgressors. Let the gods, and those who
were ever reckoned in the number of the celestials, be worshiped and those,
likewise, whom their merits have raised to heaven, EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE
MASONRY.
1S$
web as Hercules, Bacchus, 1Psculapius, Castor, Pollux, and Romulus. And let
chapels be erected in honor to those qualities, by whose aid mortals arrive
thither, such as reason, virtue, piety, and good faith." It should be borne in
mind, that, in the Pagan worship, each god was entitled to both public and
secret honors‑the latter were performed only in the Mysteries, and to which
honor but fear were admitted, compared with the multitude who were merely
initiated_ Warburton tells us, that " the first and original Mysteries, of
which we have any sure account, were those of Isis and Osiris, oÇ Egypt; from
thence they were derived by the Greeks, under the presidency of various gods,
as the instructor thought most for his purpose ; Zoroaster brought them into
Persia; Cadmus and InachuB into Greece, at large ; Orpheus into Thrace ;
Melampus into Argos ; Trophonius into Bceotia ; Minos into Crete; Cyneas into
Cyprus; and Erechtheus into Athens. And as, in Egypt, they were to Isis and
Osiris, so, in Asia, they were to Mithras ;
in
Samothrace to the mother of the gods; in Bmtia to Bachus ; in Cyprus to Venus;
in Crete to Jupiter, in Athens to Ceres and Proserpine ; in Amphisa to Castor
an l Pollux ; in Lemnos to Vulcan ; and so to others in other places, the
number of which was incredible." As introductory to these Mysteries, we find
the origin of the Roman Catholic confessional; every applicant was required to
confess, to the Hieropliant, every wicked act that he had committed during his
whole life.
Hence,
as we are told, the consciousness of his parricide deterred Nero, who murdered
his mother, from attending the celebration of the Eleusinian Mysteries, while
in Greece.
All
applicants were taught that initiation into the Mvsteries drew the soul from
earth, and earthly things, and united it t<r the gods. The initiated took a
solemn oath to commence and lead a life of strict piety, and they entered upon
the discharge of this duty, by a course of the severest penance, very similar
to that practiced, at the present day, by the Roman Catholic Church.
This,
the ancients thought, would purge the mina AÇ ò Sea Warburton's Divine Lgaatdm
V Now.
186
MODERN FREEMASONRY.
its
natural defilements ; and the doctrine was openly proclaimed, that none
entered the Mysteries who were not thereby placed under the immediate
protection and blessings of the gods, while all who failed, or omitted to
enter, were, and ever would remain, under the curse of the gods. This differs
from the Roman Church, only so far as that the latter brings heretics under
the curse of but one God. It is not more wonderful, therefore, that a
superstitious and imbecile people should madly rush forward, and seek
admission, than that an intelligent and cultivated people, of the present day,
should openly proclaim damnation to all who fail to enter the Roman Catholic
Church. The Pagans thought initiation quite as necessary as the Christians do
baptism, and they initiated women and children as willingly as they did men,
and in this they, were consistent, notwithstanding it clearly shows that these
religious services bear no relation to Freemasonry.
But
the Masonic historians have imagined that, inasmuch as the initiates into the
Ancient Mysteries were dressed in white garments, they must have been Masons,
or Masonry must be derived from them, for our Initiates wear white aprons. The
reason here, for the conclusion drawn, is so manifestly inadequate that we do
not think it necessary to do more than to notice it.
Doubtless, our readers have been expecting us to tell them, not only in what
the ceremonies of those great Mysteries consisted, but to explain the doctrine
taught in them. This much, we confess, some modern writers have undertaken to
do, and we are not inclined to charge them with doing so, without seeming
authority, but we wish to say that there is no evidence that the ceremonies or
doctrines were ever divulged, only so far as the poets have done by metaphors,
inuendoes, and that sort of reference to the secrets, which could be
understood only by the initiated, which description of expose is becoming
quite too fasb ionable with Masonic writers, at the present day.
We are
left to, hints, dropped in the various writings of the Greeks and Romans, for
an explanation of the internal arrangements of the Mysteries, but there is
much testimony going to show that the greater Mysteries exposed and condemned
the Pagan EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
18T
doctrine, or polity of the plurality of gods, and the worship of (lead men as
ascended deities. But what was the peculiar doctrine taught, as being true, in
reference to the great first cause, and the final destiny of the souls of men,
is not so clearly inferrable, though the weight of testimony goes to prove
that one God, supreme and all‑powerful, was the faith taught by those
Mysteries ; but, we are not left at liberty to suppose their doctrine stopped
here, but that they supposed the Great Ruler employed subordinate deities, in
the government of the world. Clemens says : " The doctrines delivered in the
greater Mys teries are concerning the Universe.
Here
all instruction ends. Things are seen as they are ; and nature, and things of
nature, are given to be comprehended."
And
Strabo says: " The secret celebration of the Mysteries preserves the majesty
due to the divinity, and, at the same time, initiates its nature, which hides
itself from our senses."
And,
in another place, he clearly makes philosophy to be the object of the
Mysteries.
An
anecdote, generally credited, is handed down to us, which, if true, throws
much light upon the object of the Mysteries ; but even this does no more than
prove'their opposition to the worship of dead men, and the numerous imaginary
gods. The story runs thus: After Alexander of Macedon acquired unlimited away,
and his power was everywhere respected or feared, he demanded of one Leo,
chief Hierophant of Egypt, the object of the Mysteries, and fear induced the
priest to comply with his demand, and‑he stated.that the Mysteries taught that
Faunus, and 1Eneas and Romulus, Hercules, ~Esculapius, Castor, Pollux, etc.,
who were worshiped as gods, were nothing more than mortal men, who had
distinguished themselves on earth, but who had lived and died like other men,
having no claims to be worshiped as deities.
The
Mysteries were communicated in groves or caves.
The
cave is represented as presenting to the candidate a most hideous appearance.
A yawning mouth, partially filled with huge stones, and surrounded by a black
and gloomy lake. The ground beneath the candidate trembled, or a rumbling
noise issued from beneath his feet, the mountain tops began to quake, and dogs
were seen to howl through the woods, all which wag is$
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
thought to be produced by the approach of the goddess of divine power, or
Eleusis.
Procul,
0, procud, este profani‑' Hence, O, hence, ye profane," exclaimed the
prophetess, and plunged into the cave. The candidate and his conductor then
advanced through thick darkness, in the desolate halls and realms of Pluto.
The candidates were in exercise for three or four days, passing from one
horrid representation to another; but this was not all, they were thrown into
the river Styx, and left to their own efforts to get out, which was a
difficult and dangerous task, having to cross a wide extent of water. They
were then tortured with the sword and fire. , They were made to pass through
flames ; in short, the most inhuman tortures and fatigues were imposed, and in
many instances, the candidates sunk in despair under them. It is stated that
Pythagoras narrowly escaped with his life, in submitting to the ceremonies.
All
Masonic writers, who date Masonry back to the Mysteries, contend that the
Pythagorean school was a Lodge of Freemasons; and this is necessary to their
theory, for, if the Egyptian Mysteries constituted Freemasonry, then was Pytha
goras a Mason, for, no one doubts that the Pythagorean Mysteries were the
Egyptian Mysteries, altered and added to as suited his purposes.
The
applicants for the Pythagorean Mysteries were subject, first, to three years
abstinence from all food and drink, save what was necessary barely to sustain
lifo, and to clothing of the coarsest kind, added to which, were such
exercises as were most difficult to perform.
Next,
he sentenced them to three years' silence, and to teach humility, he subjected
them to a course of contradiction, ridicule, and contempt, among the initiated
; to restrain avarice, he required his disciples to submit to voluntary
poverty : he deprived them of all control over their own property, by cast ing
it all into a common stock, to be distributed to all, according to the
judgment of proper officers. During the whole of this probation, his disciples
were not permitted to see their great master. but heard his lectures from
behind a screen.
To the
lower grads of his disciples, he explained his doctrines or Fee verg.‑Aa lib.
vi., v. 258 et seq.
EGYPTIAN JIYSI'ERIE UNLIKE MASONRY.
189
philosophy mainly by symbols, but to those who became true or confirmed
followers, he fully, explained all the Mysteries. His doctrines, as we have
elsewhere stated, consisted of a mixture of 6,11 religions then known.
Ile
taught that there existed one great God, which is the universal mind, diffused
throughout all things, the source of animal life, the cause of all motion,
that, in eubstanoe, it was like unto light, incapable of pain, invisible, and
to be only known by mind.
The
air was supposed to be filled with demons‑heroes, who produce ,sickness or
health at their pleasure, and who had the power to forewarn man of future
events, by visiting his mind, through the medium of dreams.
He
believed there was one great Soul. controlling :innumerable lesser souls, that
these soule passed through all the gradations of animals, from man to the
beast, from the beast down to the animals below, and then back again; iz ghott,
his was the doctrine of metempsychosis, or transmigration of souls.
One of
the greatest mysteries of Pythagoras, was the symbol of the letter Y, the use
of which, it is said, was never divulged but writers, since his time, have
thought he derived the symbol from the Pagan fable of the triple path, or
forks of the road to the infernal regions, one leading to the Elysium, and the
other, to Tartarus ; and, it will be seen, that the letter fitly makes the
representation designed, the one passing up to the left, " the broad way that
leads to death," and the other, narrow and straight,; but it does not fully
meet the description of the two roads spoken of in the Bible, for neither of
them is provided with a straight gate.
We
have said thus much of the Eleusinian Mysteries, barely for the purpose of
giving the reader some general idea of all the Mysteries, as practiced in
ancient times ; for, notwithstanding they assumed different names in different
countries, and were altered and changed, in order to render them popular, yet
it appears the great features of all were the same. Imperfect as is the
knowledge of the Ancient Mysteries, as transmitted to us, still i t there
enough sczttered through the writings of the Greek and Roman philosoph" aid
poets, to render the subject an interesting one.
Indeed, the lustnry of the Jews can not be properl,v 190
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
understood without some acquaintance with the Mysteries, for Josephus tells
us: " The high and sublime knowledge which the Gentiles, with difficulty,
attained, in the rare and tempo.arp celebration of their Mysteries, was
habitually taught to the Jews, at all times, so that the body politic seems,
as it were, one great assembly, constantly kept together, for the celebration
of some sacred Mysteries." Another author says: "The whole Mosaic religion was
an initiation into Mysteries, the principal forms and regulations of which
were borrowed, by Moses, from the secrets of the old Egyptians." It must be
admitted that the doctrines or teachings, as well as the habits of the Essenes
and the Druids, were so different from the Elusinian, and other Pagan
Mysteries, that in them we find some reason to believe they did not spring
from the Egyptian Mysteries, notwithstanding there are some strong points of
resemblance.
When
Julius Caesar invaded England, the Druids were found 'to be a Society of
priests. The Britons and the Gauls were a superstitious people, and priests
are numerous everywhere, in proportion to the amount of superstition of the
people.
Strabo
tells us that the Britons and Gauls entertained the belief that the more
Druids they had on the Island, the more plentiful would be their crops, hence
it follows that this Society was generally popular and influential.
The
Druids of England, the Pamphylia of Egypt, the Liberalia of Rome, the
Gymnosophists of India, the Chaldeans of Assyria, the Magi of Persia, the
Ceres of Greece, and all others, tauglit two sets of doctrines. The one
catered to the tastes and predilections of the people, and imposed but few
restraints upon initiates, and, hence, all persons, men, women, and children,
could be admitted, but the greater Mysteries were confined mainly to the
priests.
The
secret doctrines of the Druids are not well known, even to this day. Nearly
all our information is derived from the Greek and Roman writers, who, it is
probable, were not themselves well informed in relation to them. The weight of
testimony however, is, that from the Roman invasion, A.D. 55, to EGYPTIAN
MYSTERIES IINLTRE MASONRY.
191.
the
arrival of the Saxons, A.D. 449, the Druids taught, in their greater
Mysteries, the doctrine of one God, as did the
Brah
mins of
India,
and who took a solemn oath to keep this doctrine a profound secret from the
world.
It is
stated that the Druids also taught a knowledge of the creation, and the
primitive innocence of man, his fall, etc., and some say they pretended to
know the history of the creation, and fall of angels, the universal deluge,
and foretold the destruction of the world by fire ; in short, that the
doctrines of the Druids were very much the same taught by Moses, in the holy
writings.
It is
quite evident that they taught the immortality of the soul, as this doctrine
they were allowed to publish to the world, as a means of stimulating the
people to brave deeds, in defence of their rights, and the rights of their
nation.
But
the most learned writers of Greece, as well as Cxsar and Diodorus, assert that
the Druids taught the Pythagorean doctrine of the transmigration of souls.
Other
writers say that the ductiine of transmigration of souls was publicly taught
by the Druids, in order to suit the popular views of the people, but that, in
the greater Mysteries, they taught that the souls of men were placed in a
circle‑tlae circle of courses‑that if the possessor prefers good in this
world, death will transmit his soul into the circle of felicity ; but, if the
man prefers a wicked course in this life, his soul, after death, will be
returned to the circle of courses, and take its turn in getting a new
habitation.
No
secret society, of which we have an account, after all, did so much harm by
their teachings, as did the Druids, by means of their teaching that ignorance
was the mother of devotion. This doctrine tended to minister to the mercenary
desires of those priests ; for in proportion to the ignorance of the people,
would be the demand for the assistance and guidance of the learned ,and holy
priesthood. It is even asserted that such was the secret doctrine of the
Mysteries everywhere, but that the Druids were the first to make it public.
This
is said to bo the reason why so many fabulous tales of terror were invented by
the ancients, for if it be admitted that all men were in danger of coming
under the curse of the gods, and that the priests had power to intercede and
restore them to favor, and procure for 192
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
them
temporal and eternal blessings, it will readily be sm that the priests could
exact any tax, within the power of the people to pay, for instructions, etc.
The
doctrines of the Druids were, doubtless, sang by their poets, who were in
great favor with the people. These poets had public stands erected, from which
they read their effusions, :teaching that the gods enjoined them all to be
united in defense of their country, that all who died in battle would be
blessed and carried to Elysium by the gods; but that all who pursued the
opposite course, should have their souls transmitted to the meanest beasts,
there to be punished.
The
sun was one of the most prominent deities of the Druids. To do honor to this
god, they formed a circle of stones on an eminence, and, within this
consecrated circle, ‑kept the holy fire. Near to the temple dedicated to the
sun, they erected a similar one of smaller dimensions, in honor to the moon,
another of their gods. They worshiped a greater number of deities than did any
of the ancients; indeed, every river, lake, rivulet. mountain, and valley, had
its divinity, or genii.
One of
the public ceremonies of the ancient Britons, was a source of great ,profit to
the priests. They offered sacrif ces of the best animals that were used by
them as food, to appease the gods.
He who
sinned was compelled to make a sacrifice, and this he could not do without
purchasing the privilege of the priests. The most perfect animal was slain,
one‑third of it consumed on the altar, one‑third was given to him who had
:purchased the .privilege, and the other third was reserved ~to the priest.
But,
ere long, this species of sacrifice did not answer all the craving
propensities of the priests, but a doctrine was engrafted into the laws of the
Druids, that nothing but the life of ,man could atone for the life of man,
and, under this creed, the blood of human beings was freely poured out as
offerings to their gods; and when they had no criminals, they did not hesitate
to slaughter the innocent, especially upon the approach of war, 'nr at the
request of any wealthy individual, backed by a priest. The ancient Britons
believed that their laws were the gift of the gods, and as the Druids were the
only persons capable of EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
understanding and explaining those laws, all controversies were determined by
them ; in short, all power was in their hands, the ruling sovereign being
ruler only nominally. A violation of the laws was not an offense against the
ruler or the government, but against heaven, or the gods, consequently, the
Druids could alone determine the punishment due to crimes. And any against
whom the Druids fulminated their anathemas, were deprived of all religious
privileges, and held in detestation by the people. Never did the Popes of Rome
possess more unlimited sway, in this particular, than the Druids of England.
The
Druids forbade the dedication of houses as places of worship, and, therefore,
held their meetings in groves, planted in the deepest recesses, for that
purpose. The oak was venerated by them, and their groves consisted mainly of
that tree, and a few others, esteemed for some miraculous powers. The place of
meeting was protected by a pile of stones, laid one upon another, or thrown
together, leaving but one entrance, which was guarded, to prevent the
admission of strangers.
The
most remarkable of these temples, and most resembling a house, is Stone‑henge,
spoken of in the early part of this history, and which is, probably, still
standing.
The
power and influence of the Druids continued unimpaired until the Roman
influence grew in strength, when that strength was exerted against them. in
every form, until, finally, the Druids were deprived of all offices, and many
of them fled to Caledonia and Hibernia, where they sustained themselves for
many years.
We
make the following extracts from the Edinburgh Encydopcedia: "The garments of
the Druids were remarkably long, and, when employed in religious ceremonies,
they always wore a white surplice.
"They
generally carried a wand in their hand, and wore a kind of ornament, encased
in gold, about their necks, called the Druid's egg. Their necks were likewise
decorated with gold chains, and their hands and arms with bracelets they wore
their hair very short, and their beards remarkably long.
11 The
Druids had one Chief, or Arch‑Druid, in every nation, who acted as Higb
Priest, or pontlfex maximus.
They
had absolute authority over the rest, and com manded, decreed, punished, etc.,
at pleasure.
He was
elected from among the most eminent Druids, by a plurality of votes.
"They
worshiped the Supreme Being, under the name of Esus, or Hesus, and We symbol
of the oak i and had no other temple than a wood or grove, where sU 1194
)LODERN
FREEMASONRY.
their
religious rites were performed. Nor was any person permitted to enter tbA
sacred recess, unless he carried with him a chain, in token of his absolute
dependence on the deity.
1' The
consecrated groves, in which they performed their religious rites. were looted
round with stones, to prevent any persons entering, except through the
passages left open for that purpose, and which were guarded by some inferior
Druids. to prevent any stranger from intruding into their mysteries. These
groves were of different forms, some quite circular, others oblong, and more
or lesstapacious, as the votaries in the districts to which they belonged were
mor. or less numerous." 'The Society of Druids, of the present day, decorate
their rooms with chairs, tables, pedestals, etc., made of oak, in its rude
state, as taken from the forest, and many use festoons of oak leaves upon the
walls, and they carry in their processions oak leaves, from which it might be
inferred they held to the doctrines of the ancients ; but, we imagine the only
veneration now given to the oak, is for the purpose of holding in remembrance
the places where the ancient Druids held their meetings. Certainly, it can not
be supposed, that there is an organized society in the United States, holding
the doctrines of the Pagan Theology. We have good reason for believing that
the Society oú Druids, of the present day, make no pretensions to religion
whatever, but, like most other secret societies, have their peculiar manner of
teaching and enforcing morality, truth, virtue, and benevolence.
These
remarks are made, not from any knowledge of the internal regulations oú that
Society, but from an acquaintance with some of its members, who would not, we
are sure, remain connected‑ with them, if the doctrines of the Ancient Druids
were taught. Indeed, we doubt whether there are any secret societies in the
United States, to which men of contrary politics or religion are admitted, who
do not teach, and undertake to practice morality. It is possible for any
number of men of precisely the same views in politics, to band themselves
together, and, in secret conclave, concoct plans for extending their
influence, and increasing their numbers ; and the same may be done by
religious sectarians ; but, in either case, their members must be confined to
men who are known firmly to entertain the same views, before their application
would be considered.
But
how ridiculous, how idle, yea, how silly, to charge Freemasons, EGYPTIAN
MYSTERIES UNLIKE Y ISONRY.
195
Oddiellows,,ions of Temperance, Druids, or any other society, known to receive
members of all religions, and regardless of their politics, with being
combined together for irreligious, immoral purposes, or for the accomplishment
of political ends. Every man of common sense should know that such an attempt
would speedily lead to the downfall of such society ; for men,, entertaining
views radically at variance, would feel it to be their duty to denounce the
Institution, as dangerous in its tendency.
We are
told, by nearly all writers upon Masonry, that the world is being more
enlightened, and more enlarged and liberal views are being entertained; that
the enemies of Masonry have gone to the tomb of the Capulets ; and so they
have, but how long before another swarm of fanatics will rise up, and, with
equal boldness, assail an Institution they can not control ? Intolerance is
incident to man's nature, and fanaticism is like an epidemic‑periodical.
It is
true, that the able journals, which have recently made their appearance, are
doing wonders in digpelling darkness from the minds of those who are, or have
been, ignorant, but honest.
But we
dare not hope our future is all sunshine; no, we shall have enemies whenever
bigotry can use, or abuse our Institution advantageously.
We
have stated that the original ceremonies, and the secret teachings of the
early Egyptian Mysteries, have not been handed down to us, and, though we may
rationally infer what were the great objects designed to be accomplished by
them, much of the proof depends upon mere conjecture ; and hence, each writer
may exercise great latitude in drawing his deductions. It is, however,
conceded, on all hands, that the Persian, Grecian, and Roman Mysteries were
transplanted from the original, modified or enlarged to suit the peculiar
notions and tastes of the people among whom they were introduced.
We
think we have shown that there is no well‑defined likeness between the early
Egyptian Mysteries and those of Freemasonry, as far as a knowledge of the
former has come down to us; but, as much more is known of the Persian and
Grecian Mysteries than of the original of Egypt, and, as these were in their
full tide of prosperity at the very period to which we data 196
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
the
origin of Freemasonry, viz., at the building of the Temple of Solomon, it
becomes our duty to lay before our readers as many of the leading traits in
those Mysteries, as will enable the well‑informed Mason to draw his own
deductions. And, we are free to admit, that if it shall be found that the
secret Institutions of Zoroaster, Pythagoras, or any others of that period,
present a true type of Freemasonry, as taught by our traditions, we shall be
compelled to admit that our opinions have been ill founded, and our theory
fallacious; it will readily be seen, however, that we can not, in a work like
this, enter into an examination of the peculiarities assumed by each nation,
in the practice of the Mysteries. That they were all but a continuation of the
Polythean doctrines of the ancient Egyptians, is clearly shown by the great
number of gods worshiped, and the religions taught, as also in the forms and
ceremonies of initia tion.
Therefore, for the sake of brevity, we shall select the Persian Mysteries, to
exemplify our position, and to expose some of the absurdities of modern
teachers in Masonry.
We are
induced to select the Persian Mysteries, because we think more of their
secrets have been exposed and published than of any other.
As the
Mysteries taught by Zoroaster will constitute thesubject of this sketch, we
wish it understood that we allude to the Zoroaster who lived about the time of
the destruction of the Temple, without pausing to inquire whether he had a
predecessor of the same name, who also gave tone to the Persian religion. Nor
shall we stop to answer whether the soul of Zoroaster was eaten by a cow, in a
bunch of mistletoe, and passed through her milk to the mother of the great
philosopher; suffice it to say, that
Zerdusht, as he was called by the Persians, or Zoroaster, as he is called by
the Greek writers, did actually live, and that he was the greatest
philosopher, as well as the most consummate impostor of his day.
Some
authors tell us that Zoroaster was a Jew by birth ; that he was thoroughly
educated in the Jewish religion ; that he was a student of the Prophet Daniel,
and, perceiving the great fame of his master, arising as well from his
learning as from the gift of prophecy, Zoroaster left no effort untried to
equal EGYPTIAN MTSTERIE8 UNLIKE MASONRY.
197
him ; but as he had not the gift of prophecy, lie attempted to rise to
distinction by turning his attention to the study of magic, as ta.nght by the
Chaldean philosophers. This reckless abandonment of the true faith, for
sinister motives, induced Daniel to banish him, and forbid his return to Judea
; and, .hence his flight to Ecbatana. Whether this account of his early life
is true or false, is not important to our present purpose, it being
sufficiently established that he did, at Ecbatana, set himself up as a great
magician, and exhorted the people to abandon some of the peculiarities of the
Sabian worship, for the more ancient and sublime Magian religion.
Zoroaster had been initiated into the Mysteries of the surrounding nations,
and, being deeply learned and well skilled in all the peculiar superstitions
and tastes of the Persians, he was eminently fitted to establish a new sect,
out of the more fascinating portions of the various forms of worship.
Nor
was it long until he was surrounded by hundreds, who were ready to become
followers, even before knowing his doctrines ; being sufficiently captivated
by a representation of something new and mysterious.
The
Persians, like the Druids, worshiped in the open air, being persuaded that the
great and little deities filled all space, and could not be honored by a
worship confined within the walls of a building, at least, if the building was
covered. The Persians worshiped the sun, or fire, as the supreme being, and
hence the sacred fire was kept burning on the tops of high hills. As
Zoroaster's new system required secret apartments, in which the ceremony of
initiation should be performed, it became necessary to remove this prejudice
against covered buildings, and very soon he satisfied all that the sacred fire
might be better preserved in round towers, erected for that purpose, having an
aperture at the, top for the smoke to escape.
The
buildings, thus erected, represented the universe, and as fire was kept
constantly burning in them, God's residence was supposed to be in them, in an
especial manner.
Zoroaster, having first prepared the minds of the people, retired to the
mountains of Bokhara, where he found a cave, and proceeded to enlarge and
ornament it with astronomical devices, and solemnly dedicated it to Mitbras,
the third, or mediatorial deity, whom tho 198
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
Persians supposed was an inhabitant of the cave.
In the
roof, or top of this grotto, Zoroaster represented the sun, by means of the
most dazzling brilliants. Around the sun were represented the planets, in
burnished gold.
Four
globes,. composed of gold, brass, silver, and iron, were also represented,
together with many of the heavenly bodies; and all richly decked with gold and
brillant gems, so that the room, or cave, when lighted, presented a most
dazzling and brilliant appearance, and especially to the initiate, for the
lamps, we are told, were so constructed as to emit a thousand different shades
of color.
In the
centre of the cave was a large fountain of water, to supply the different
chambers, for the purpose of ablution and purification.
The
sum necessary to fix and ornament this splendid grotto would seem incredible
to us of the present‑ day, but it must be remembered that, at the period of
which we write, there was immense wealth fn the hands of many Persians; and
for no purpose was it so lavishly expended, as for ornamenting and enriching
buildings;. and great ostentation and show was nee, essary, in order to the
speedy accomplishment of the ends had in view by Zoroaster. But, long before
this wonderful grotto was finished, Zoroaster had it reported abroad that he
had been received up into the third heaven, and had conversed, face to face,
with the supreme being, who revealed to him the true worship, and instructed
him to return and teach it to his fellowmen, in order that they might escape
the wrath and vengeance of the gods.
He
stated that the supreme ruler was surrounded by a flame of fire, which, being
in accordance with the religion of the Persians, was, readily believed ; and,
as soon as he was prepared, candidates were in waiting, ready and willing to
consecrate their lives to the study of philosophy, under his guidance and
instruction. The Persian philosophy rapidly acquired fame, and all who desired
to acquire a knowledge of it, sought initiation at the Mitbaric Cave, or
Zoroaster's Grotto. Great numbers came from the most distant countries, and
some authors tell us that Pythagoras visited this great philosopher, and was
initiated into his Mysteries ; others, again, go so far as to say, that
Pythagoras was long a student under Zoroaster, and to him was mainly indebted
for the extensive fame whieb EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
I" he
afterward acquired.
The
public lectures of Zoroaster went very popular and numerously attended, and in
these was the superior wisdom or craft of the philosopher perecptible ; at
least it so appears to sensible men of this day.
He so
lectured as to show an intimate knowledge of all the religions of the day, and
to prove to the minds of his audience that the true worship had been lost, and
remained concealed from the knowledge of men, until God revealed it to him;
but he only threw out hints, such as were calculated to leave his audience
anxioaa to acquire a thorough acquaintance with the true worship,, which could
only be obtained by initiation into hits Mysteries, The candidate was prepared
for initiation by a gr.,at numW of lustrations with. water, fire, honey, etc.
Some
writers tell us there were as many as eighty degrees, or parcels of
probationary trials, ending with about two months of fasting aid silence, in
the gloomy caverns of Mithras.
Now,
reader, you who are acquainted with the mysteries and ceremonies of Masonry,
pause and inquire‑ whether there is aught in all this bearing any well‑marked
affinity to Freemasonry. But we have not told the one‑half. The candidate was
not only required to fast without a murmur; but he was required to submit to
extremes of cold and heat, and have his body lacerated with stripes, and other
more refined cr.tel. ties of torture ; and, if we may believe some of the mog
learned writers, rendered probable by modern diseoveriee at human bones in
these grottos, hundreds who; entered as ew‑didyates for initiation, were
unable to withstand the inhuman rrtunes; and were never heard of more; others,
who succeedee in, passing through the ordeal, came forth with their intellects
e throned.
It is
not remarkable, therefore, that those who passi A` through courageously, and
came forth unscathed, should looked upon as superior beings, and under the
direct protection of the gods, and as being entitled to a knowledge of the
greater Mysteries.
The
candidate, having performed his probation, was conducted; to the cavern of
initiation. He. was crowned with olive, anoint.' ed with oil, and clothed with
enchanted armor. Thus;aceoutir4 he was‑ placed in charge of his guide, who was
dressed so as to 200
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
represent a monstrous griffin‑a great bird, whose history, according to the
Persian Mythology, resembled that of Phoenix. This monster man‑bird was armed
with talismans, that he might successfully make battle with the evil spirits,
ever on the road of mortals to a state of perfection and holiness.
The
candidate was introduced into an inner chamber, and purified by fire and
water. He was next conducted to an immense precipice, from which lie was
permitted to behold an immense and, apparently, bottomless vault, into which
he seemed destined to be thrown, and which he was told was but a faint
representation of the infernal regions, through which he was called upon to
pass, or, failing in this, must be doomed to the everlasting curse of the
gods. In strict silence, his guide now conducts him through the difficult and
dangerous windings of the cavern.
The
gloom, and profound silence which reigned, gave him ample opportunity for
meditation, if, indeed, his mind was in a frame for thought.' Anon, he
perceives flashes of light, emanating from the holy fire, which served,
momentarily, to illumine his pathway, and then leave him in darkness tenfold
more dark than before.
Sometimes this light would burst upon his head, and dazzle by its brightness ;
and now he is terrified by the barking of dogs, the roaring of lions, and the
angry yelling of the most ravenous wild beasts.
Enveloped in the olaukness of darkness, knowing not what evil should next
befall him, unable to see, and incapable of directing his way of escape, he is
hurried along in the direction from which the: howling of wolves and the
roaring of wild beasts had proceeded and, upon a sudden opening of a door, he
finds himself in a den of wild and angry beasts of prey.
Here
there was light enough to enable him to discover the forms of his antagonists;
his snide here. breaks silence to urge him to sum up all his courage, tend
boldly defend himself, and now he is fiercely attacked, amidst the most
deafening uproar, by lions, tigers, dogs, etc., and it mattered not how much
bravery and presence of mind he was able to command, he was not permitted to
escape without wounds, both painful and dangerous.
Of
course, all these wild beasts, as represented, were members of the Society,
and so clothed and practiced in their arts, as to counterfeit tht EGYPTIAN
MYSTERIES UNLIKE MASONRY.
201
appeal ante and roarings of the different animals.
From
this apartment, the candidate was dragged into another, where, once more,
intense darkness and profound silence reigned. Presently, a distant, rumbling
noise is heard, proceeding from the caverns of the grotto ; as he proceeded,
the noise became louder and more distinct, until, peal on peal, the
thunder‑claps shook the foundation of the cavern, and seemed to threaten the
very walls of the mountain. The lightning's vivid glare, in sheets of burning
tire, again excited his terror, and enabled him to behold in the distance,
groups of avenging genii, threatening to destroy any who might trespass upon
their dominions.
Thus
were these, and similar scenes and dangers, passed through, until the
candidate was literally exhausted by fright, wounds, or fatigue, and being no
longer capable of encountering toil and danger, he was conducted into another
apartment, splendidly illuminated, perfumed, and, like an enchanted grotto,
filled with the most bewitching strains of music.
At
this point, the guide explained the ceremony through which he had passed, and
so encouraged him, that he was soon willing to renew his journey. At a signal
given by the guide, three priests, or men dressed so as to represent them,
made their appearance, and one of them, fixing his long and steady gaze upon
the candidate, put a serpent into his bosom, and a private door was thrown
open, from which issued lamentations, and howlings of agony and despair. The
candidate, upon ‑looking :u, beheld innumerable beings undergoing the torments
of the damned in hell.
From
this spectacle, the candidate was conducted through winding passages, down and
up flights of stairs, and, finally, he was admitted into the sacred grotto, or
Elysium. This sacred hall was beautifully illuminated, and, on entering, the
ear of the candidate was saluted by strains of heavenly music, and his eyes
beheld Archimedes, seated on a throne of burnished gold, who, according to
Herodotus, was crowned with a diadem, ornamented with mistletoe boughs. Around
were seated the dispensers of the Mysteries.
Here
the candi. date was received with the congratulations of all; obligated to
keep secret from the world the ceremonies through wb:eh he had passed, and was
presented with a great number of amulets and 201 2112
MODERN
MERMASONRY.
talismans, to guard and protect himself from the assaults of big enemies, and
to serve as a shield from danger to his person or property. He was taught that
the divine light passed into the initiated, in a peculiar manner, unknown to
all others, giving knowledge which could be acquired in no other way.
He was
taught that the sacred fire was a portion of the divine essence, and should be
worshiped accordingly. He was taught that Ormuzd created the world at six
different periods.
First,
the heavens ; second, the waters ; third, the earth ; fourth, vegetables ;
fifth, inferior animals ; and sixth, man‑the latter being both man and bull.
That
man lived in a state of purity for many ages, but was at laat poisoned by
Ahriman, who lived in darkness. and was the author of all evil ; that man so
multiplied upon the earth, that he eventually rebelled against his Creator.
Ormuzd presumed to give him battle, but was eventually overthrown and
subjugated. To counteract the evil of man, another pure being was created,
and, like the former, was both bull and man; this was Mithras, by whom, with
three others, a flood of waters was produced to purify and cleanse the earth.
A
mighty wind finally stayed and dried up the waters, when an entirely new germ
sprang from the earth, which produced the present race of mankind.
It
further seems that this‑ doctrine did not inculcate the idea that man was
cleansed from the original sin by the re‑creation, hut, on the contrary, that
Ormuzd created six benevolent gods, and Ahriman the same number of evil
spirits, who waged war against each other, and valiantly strove for the
mastery of the world. This doctrine is not entirely unlike the religion of the
Jews, who believed that God‑ delighted in vengeance, by punishing his enemies,
and hence, believing themselves to be under His peculiar protection and favor,
they believed they were doing God's service, to pray to Him to send a curse
upon their enemies, even to destroy them.
But.
then, again, the Mysteries of Mithras differed very widely from the religion
of the Jews, for, according to the lectures of Zoroaster, the evil spirits
finally succeeded in gaining control of one‑half the year, or than contending
gods compromised by an equal division of the time of sovereignty, and hence
arose the seasons.
The
benevolent EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES UNLIKE YASONBY.
gods
took control of spring and summer, or rather, in conw quence of their love for
the human race, they produced spring and summer, and sent forth all the
blessings consequent upon the heat and moisture thrown by them upon the earth.
Man, by their influence, was enabled to cultivate the soil, and lay up a rich
harvest, and provide raiment to guard against the venge. ful influence of the
evil spirits, who, as soon as their reign commenced, destroyed vegetation,
sent evil winds, and endeavored to destroy the whole human race by cold, or,
failing in this, to punish them to the full extent of their power.
Again,
Zoroaster taught that day was sent‑ by the benevolent spirits, and night by
the evil spirits.
Maurice tells us that one of the emblems held in the highest veneration by the
followers of Zoroaster, was a representation of this perpetual warfare between
the benevolent and malignant gods.
The
emblem was two serpents, each striving to get pos session of an egg.
Zoroaster taught that the world had been seven times created and destroyed.;
that the good spirits would create, and the evil spirits destroy, and that, so
violent were their efforts against each other, at times, that their anger
shook the whole world, and if the Dives, or evil ones; gained the aseenò dency
for a moment, they caused the earth to open and swallow up the human race.
We
might fill a volume in detailing the thousand wild and incoherent, teachings
of this wonderful impostor ; but we think enough has been said to give the
reader a very correct idea of the Persian :Mysteries; yea, we think we have
said enough about the Heathen Mythology and its teachings, to enable every
well‑informed, unprejudiced, and candid reader to answer the question‑Is there
any welfdefined testimony going to slow the Mentity of Freemasonry and the.
Ancient Mysteries ? We do not think there, is evon such a resemblance between
Masonry and the Persian Mysteries, as will justify us in turning back to
dissect and draw comparisons. We think they are at direct variance, in every
important feature, and believing our readers are quite as capable as we are to
perceive this truth, we will not insult their understanding, by asking them to
read use less comments.
If it
be said that Masonry is :_ot now what it 204
MODERN
FREEMASONRY.
once
was‑that it has been changed and improved upon since the dark ages, then, we
answer, all our traditions are false, and our teachings in the Lodge room a
base imposition upon the initiated. We claim, with confident boldness, that
the principles of Masonry have never chanced. We hold that all the essential
teachings of Freemasonry are the same now as when Masonry was instituted, and
such are the avowed opinions of all who undertake to work and lecture in our
Lodges, and we must regard it as remarkable that we have one set of opinions
growing out of our only reliable history, the traditions of Masonry, and
another set of opinions founded upon the romance of those who attempt to place
its history end its ends greatly beyond and outside of our traditions.
There
is not a page, nay, there is not a line upon record, either in the sacred or
profane writings, going to show either the antiquity, or the principles upon
which our Institution was founded.
Our
tra ditions tell a " round, unvarnished tale of truth."
There
is nothing in them that is marvelous or difficult of belief.
They
are simple, plain, and easily understood.
There
is no appearance of resemblance to the Heathen Mythology to be found.
Freemasonry is, and ever has been totally unlike any one of the secret
societies of the ancients.
We are
reminded that it may be said we have, in this conneotion, omitted to review
the claims set up in behalf of the Essenes, as being originally the Masonic
Society, by another name, but those who have been readers of our history will
remember that, in our first pages, we somewhat freely alluded to this subject,
and we do not feel called upon to recapitulate what we there said. We
willingly repeat what we have admitted more than once, that the Essenes bore a
much nearer resemblance to Masonry than either of the ancient societies ; but
a further truth should not be lost sight of, viz., that the Essenes were
strictly a religious sect.
It is
true that morality and virtue constituted a part of the teachings of the
Essenes ; and it is equally true that morality and virtue are taught . by all
the orthodox religions societies of the present day, but the cardinal teaching
of all is the true worship of God and redemption from sin.
Morality and virtue are taught, as a means of reaching EGYPTIAN MYSTERIES
UNLIKE MASONRY.
205 a
higher and more glorious aim, and, with all the retirement and peculiarities
of the Essenes, morality was taught by them as a preparatory step to the true
worship, as they understood it. A,nd can it be said that Freemasonry ever was
a religious Sotiety ? Do our traditions permit us to believe it ? In Craft
Aiasonry there is not a charge or lecture that claims for it moro than a
system of ethics.
Its
cardinal principles are morality and virtue.
If the
doctrines of the Essenes were no moro than the doctrines of Masonry, then
should we deny our traditions and make religion the cardinal principle of the
Order.
We
have wondered and inquired why it is that intelligent men, who having
qualified themselves to preside over Lodges, and deliver such instructions as
our traditions have handed down to us, and who expect initiates to believe
them honest men, can step out of the Lodge room, and claim that Masonry is
something entirely different. In the Lodge room they give us a ritual which
refers to Solomon's Temple. There, too, the traditions all go back to the
Temple only, and yet, out of doors, they will teach that Masonry is as old as
the world ; that it is the Heathen Mythology ‑. and then, again, that it is
the true reli(rion.
Brethren, " let well enough alone."
God
has appointed a place for the worship of His creatures ; nor has He left it in
doubt as to where that place is.
He has
given a written law, to which we are at liberty to go and learn, not only the
place, but the means set apart for the accomplishment of that great end.
If He
had intended the Lodge should be the ):lace, He would have said so.
If the
Masonic, or any other society had been appointed by Him for the true worship,
He would have declared it in His holy law.
It is
not enough to tell. us that Solomon only remodeled Masonry, unless it can be
shown that Masonry previously existed, and in what it was made to consist. It
is but a paltry begging of ancient robes, with which to clothe our Order, to
infer the existence of Masonry in ancient times, only because the ancients had
secret societies, and professed to teach the _true religion in them; and we
have furnished proof that no higher order of evidence can be found.
CHAPTER YI.
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
BEFORE
the investigation of the subject, directly indicated by the heading, it may be
proper to call attention to some facts, only hinted at, heretofore, in
speaking of the persecutions of Masonry. There may be some persons, even
members of our Order, who know so little of its history, as to believe that,
until the days of William Morgan, no attempt was ever made to gull the
ignorant, and prejudice the public mind against Masonry, by pretended
revelations of its marvellous and uricked mysteries. This supposition is far
from being true.
We
have, attached to the lecture of theFellow Craftdegree, a traditional account
of an attempt having been made, in the early part of the tenth century, to
bring Masonry into disrepute, by a pretended expose of all the rituals of the
two first degrees.
If
this tradition is to be relied on, pretended Lodges were formed at most of the
beer shops and brothels in London, when and where Masons, so called, were made
as a matter of amusement, at the trifling cost of a treat for the club.
This
practice, however, was improved upon by some of the more shrewd keepers of
taverns.
Some
of these dispensed with the farcical portions of the ceremony, made up a
solemn ceremony, pretended to be dealing in pure Freemasonry, and charged, for
the degrees, a very respectable fee ; and, in some of these pretended Lodges,
a few respectable men were received, and were induced to believe they became
members of the Fraternity, in due and ancient form.
This
latter class, on finding themselves deceived and imposed upon, represented the
facts to the Grand Master of Masons, who was induced to call a Convention at
York, in 926, when and where eiuch notice was taken, and such action had, as
served to expose the impostors, and effectually put down all clandestine
Lodges, headed by man of any respectability or character for ANTI‑MASONRY IN
THE UNITED STATES.
207
honesty. This manuscript revelation was styled Jachin and Boaz, which was
occasionally revived, and used for purposes as above mentioned, until the
close of the seventeenth century, when we lose sight of it until 1812, when it
makes its appearance, as the wonderful discovery of an unknown author, who
discovered all the secrets, signs, grips, and words of the two first degrees,
by examining the papers of a deceased friend who was a Freemason. To this
edition of Jachin and Boaz, was added the tirade of abuse and
misrepresentations of the Abb6 Barruel, in relation to Masonry, Illuminism,
and other secret clubs, already noticed, at length, in this history.
We
suppose this book of 1812 (quite a large volume, now in our possession), was
published either by Barruel himself, or some other equally unprincipled Jesuit
priest, for the same cunning, the same procaution that was displayed by
Barruel, is clearly perceptible in this, viz., both admit that Masonry in
England was never amenable to the charge of crimes charged against it.
elsewhere; that elsewhere it was opposed to a monarchy, and, therefore,
dangerous to the divine right of kings, while, in England, it was under the
patronage of the crown, and nearly all the nobility. But this publication,
like the papers of Barruel, which the reader must remember, were written in
England, while he was a refugee from justice in France, appealed to the
religious fanaticism and mushroom patriotism of the royalists of England, to
assist in crushing an Institution which everywhere, but in England, was
opposed to a monarchy, and which, even in England, received members from among
the opponents of the holy Church, and, therefore, enemies of the Christian
religion ; yea, and more than this, the learned Abbd takes the ground that
while, as Englishmen, it is possible for them to believe that the Church of
Rome has not the right to proscribe all others, all English Protestants were
bound, as friends of the British Government, to denounce the Masons, because
they dared to receive those also who were not members of, or friends to the
established Church of England.
Had
the Parliament of England condescended to stoop to the low and contemptible
political trickeries resorted to, in many instances, in the United States, it
is quite likely that a LOS
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE JNITED STATES.
similar excitement would have been produced by the reading of this publication
of Barruel. But the Parliament of England sent for no papers or persons. There
were many members of tlia: `,jody who were Masons, and while they declared
their willingness to vote for a law denouncing Jacobin Clubs, the Illuminati,
etc., they willingly and proudly bore testimony to the purity of Masonry, and
its exemption from interference with religion or politics.
These
declarations of honorable men were believed by those who were not Masons, and
upon whose statements the Society of Masons was exempted from the operation of
the prohibitory la‑v, and thus was a quietus stamped upon the writings of
Barruel and Robinson ; and the same influences were afterward brought to bear
upon the Jachin and Boaz, of 1812.
W e do
not say but that the book was sold, anal yielded a fortune to its unprincipled
maker.
" Some
books are lies f'rae end to end." And still meet with more ready sale than
those that chronicle the truth ; but we do undertake to say that this book
influenced the opinions of none in England whose opinions the Masonic Society
cared for ; and we further say that, after its publication, Masonry flourished
more in that quarter, than eyeä before.
But
the immediate cause of all opposition to Masonry is traceable, originally, to
the Catholic Church. It is a fact, never until recently denied, and
susceptible of the clearest proof, that Masonry was ever under the patronage
of the Church ; that Bishops and Priests were at its head ; that Popes were
lavish of their favors in its behalf, so long as architecture was exclusively
in the keeping of the Society of Masons ; but when their trade as builders
passed into other hands, the wonderful discovery was made that Masonry was
opposed to Christianity, because it admitted members who were not Romanists ;
because it did not teach the divine right of the Pope; and because it
tolerated its members in withholding its secrets from the secret confessional
; and last, though not least, this secret conclave cc ndemned it because it
was a secret Society.
It is
a fact that the Church of Rome never treated an enemy with mercy or
forbearance, and once enlisted in hostile array against our ANTI‑SABORRY IN
THR ITNIM 6TATAS.
204
tmtitution, it soon sent forth its ansethemas, and, down to tha pt *nt day, no
opportunity has been neglected to bring it into disrepute, or, where the power
existed, to crush it to the earthä Atrd how is it at the present time ? Do we
find, at this enlightened day, wisdom, and piety, and honesty enough in the
Church to sbstain from all interference with an Institution which they either
kn6,#v nothing about, or, knowing; its principles, basely misrep rrsft them ?
No,
their opposition is not abated ; their hatred of a Soeiety which they can not
suborn, and whose membero # ey can not bend to their own will, its net
quenched ; they tike openly where they dare, and everywhere it the loweal h
reling encouraged, by the hearts of the Church, in tire eiraul* Con of the
lowest and most scurrilous abase.
Anti‑Masonry, therefore, will continue to exist; and we wood* not at this,
for, doubtless, the members of that Church are to hmiest in their opinions as
are the members of other Churehes, and as Masonry never will, never can be
brought under subjeo. tion to that, or any other Church; and as its toleration
of freedom of thought is directly at war with the teachings of that Church, it
is utterly impossible that a reconciliation can take. Place.
We
have said that the Jachix
Rots,
of 1813, exercised m influence against Masonry, that its' tnetabers cared for
; buts fanny of our readers will be eurprised to learn that the woAdor‑ Al
revelations of William Morgan, in 1826, which so horrifidd! s large moiety of
the American eiitisme, was nothing more norless than a reprint of JaUn and
Boas, of 181‑2. Of thk; however, we shall say more anon. We have not yet
spoken d' the ttib*st rational, or, apparently, reasonable objections to Froo
ry; and, that it may be clearly understood, we must turn and examine its
origin ; and especially is it our duty o 4o this, because the influences
refistred to very naturally arrayed tuany very respectable men against M
excellent Institution.
About
the middle of the seVeniemtth century, a Sooietfw. myling itself " The
Rodierueitus," & Brothers of the H ffrota, was instituted in Germmy, miade up
of visionary chm. Ms, *ho soon became very 'riume
, and
were quite as.
'eurst~agant
ilk their oltiima to e k
aledge
6f miracles, as. s& 14 210
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
the "Liveforevers"
of the nineteenth century.
We
hope we shall not trample the toes of any brother, in writing truthfully about
the Rosicrucians ; for, admitting the Rose Cross degree of the so called
Modern Masonry to have originated as above, five suppose it has been modified
somewhat, to suit the times.
We
know not whether, in the great batch of degrees given to us, we received the
Rose Cross, but, certain it is, we know something of its teachings, and we
claim the right to give to our readers the authenticated facts touching the
history of the Rosicrucians. The members of this Society claimed to'be ;earned
philosophers, in search of the alchemy oú life, and the ‑"Philosopher's
Stone." These enthusiasts, or impostors, pretended to be in possession of many
great and valuable secrets, by the use of which they could transmute certain
base metals into pure gold ; prolong life through an infinitude of years; make
the old grow younger, until, in the bloom of youth, they were prepared for
eternal life, and perfect felicity on earth.
The
Rosicrucians were strictly a secret Society ; they lived so completely in
retirement, that they acquired the name of The Invisible Brothers.
Some
are of opinion that Illum,inism origin ated with the Rosicrucians.
Of the
Illuminati we have already spoken at length, in noticing the writings of
Barruel and Robinson, but we may add here, that if we follow them from their
‑first appearance in Spain, in 1575, to their introduction into France, in
1634, to their revival in Germany by Weishaupt, in 1774, and, finally, to
their exposure, growing out of a quarrel . among themselves, in 1787, and
their supposed connection with the Jacobin Clubs, in the early part of the
French Revolution; and along with this train of observation, if we inquire
after the enemies of Masonry, we shall find them employed in pointing out the
anti‑religious views of Illuminism, and attributing these infidel principles
to the Masonic Society. It was openly avowed by Dr. Weishaupt, that Illuminism
was opposed to civil governments, contending that an enlightenment, by educaò
tion, of the masses; would do. away with the necessity of pens, laws, and make
reason the God to be worshiped; and, as the Illuminati were understood to be a
secret Society, it was not ,.very unnatural for very many weak‑minded or
mischief‑making ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
211
persons to identify Masonry with Illuminism ‑, and thus it was that, by many,
they were esteemed as being one and the same thing; although it was then, as
now, susceptible of proof, that, while Illuminism made war upon the Bible,
Masons worshiped only through its inspired pages; that, while Illuminism
desigped the pulling down all civil governments, Masonry taught and required
its members to live peaceable citizens, obedient to the government under which
they lived, eschewing religion and politics as subjects for discussion in
their Lodges. But, after all, with shamefacedness, we are called upon to
admit, that there is some respectable testimony going to show that, during the
French Revolution of 1798, the Illuminati, and Jacobin Clubs, each exercised a
pernicious influence over some of the Masonic Lodges of Paris. Indeed, it
seems probable that these political and anti‑religious Societies, not only
sent their mewoers into the Society of Freemasons, but, in a few instances,
they obtained control of the Lodges, and thus arose the seemingly well founded
charge, that Masonry and Illuminism walked 1land in hand, not only in
overthrowing the government, but to the end that anarchy and misrule should
crown their efforts. As heretofore stated, true Freemasonry never; was
connected with Illuminism ; but that system called Scotch Rite, or Ineffable
Masonry, was.
Barruel, who had been shorn of his ecclesiastical powers, And driven from
France, seized upon these truths for his starting point, and unblushingly
added thereto such false charges as served his purpose, all tending to show
that the Masons acted in concert with the political clubs. To his work
followed a pamphlet, by Robinson, who held office, and was willing, if 1}m
could, to move heaven and earth, in order to curry favor with the royalist
party, by whose smiles he received his bread. Both Barruel and Robinson were
men ot learning and talents, and, consequently, well calculated to wield an
influence in society, ; while Prichard, who wrote about the same time,
attracted but little attention, although he did not propagate one falsehood
‑for every ten of the other two above named.
We do
not think, it necessary to name some twenty publications, which appeared at
different periods, claiming to expose the secrets of Freemasonry.
iA
114
'fH9 nAirgb &Aflk.
^&‑ ..
‑_'‑ii‑_..,‑_~ W116 6d, __. _the _d.n *ddr 6,i6 A portion of flib citiibiis of
this fre6 dfid Tidppy Mild.
W~
visions of the other, will continue to brood over tba hind, itfifti t AN‑Tj‑*AfkO‑XRY
IN TPF VNITPP STATES.
318 01
tlie fiendish bittqrnw with which it was conceived, We !!*vp the w, qrld to ,
judge from the present condition of 4q, _pry Ibropgbout the lp.Lnq. And 4s we
would not p~up ~ 4 pjngfo I#yrpl from the brow of the great American fanatic,
iye p
‑
,fully give to his memory t4e benefit of lids ponpluqing Tp .
lie
says : ~'FQr rqy feeble contributions tq effect this haply matipp, your
approving voice is *. R.
~recipus
record." We .shall now proceed to give g liist,Fy o
of the
AnieFic*o qu.4dp against Vf c were 4 N4sqxi long before the l4ppg#p Witeipep
oft 1 we endeavored to learn the kcY7 PpL this w bible.
What
there were men, then living, qpabke Q pj?F ‑V lel tj4p mystery in ;which the
whole affair so" bpeg" jpy,91yR qq got ba doubted, but such was Vie excited qj
p,
efyerW ,ate of the public mind, that no man dared m
11 p t
limed truth,
Wedistiqcdy remember, that sp profitable ,did its k,zcqmp p be suspected of
having been pqwFned in t4e 041he,Oqu of Morgan, provided they would abjure
gAsqury., that ppi dame Armlyd and cqpfcsse4 their ptqtiqjpatiom in t14‑
4iabg4e9q, who failed tq‑ be 4elieved, from the simple fact fat p4r y *qrq
known to ~ at another point when the a4due‑f,w p tioq~ place, 4rk4 did not
.even hear of it for several days afar. Tlioep were days when villainy was
popular, and when villa* were jargely rewar4eq, provided, only, tha; t4q could
,8at4f.90rily prove that they were, or hadbeen, in* tand intr ut4,
Ag"fivillains.
And
this state of things in New York, and f4 ,
. p W.
7 p9pnding country, .deterred all who were qpaliAe4, frpp, giviT% tp,the
public q, true version of the 490r, and, indee v‑9 49u4 ybeth,e;r very many of
the best qxpp did not bmo4 sq 4ewijOgreq by 0 .e thpusano contradictory
statements, 04t they! *ibed opinions much rpr from ~b
those
9 trgtb,
. than
did h Thq lived . remote from the scene, and free . &qW the ;effects .of t4p
excitement.
NVithin the last twenty years, we have, pr~fbably, conversed with fifty New
York mesops,Wb professing t9 know all about ~hp 4qrgap affair, ;Lnd we
solemnly
that
#,9 two of tbem agreed q to the fActg,
F!‑om
all which, V# qqAplude that the opinion of each had been firmed frop tho
different and ,contradictory ,tumors of t4 day. Within the 4,0 V4
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
seven
years, we met a brother of apparently good standing as a Mason, and every way
a gentleman, who assured us, that he met and conversed with Morgan, in some
town in Asia. Within' the last five years, we have been in correspondence with
quite a number of intelligent men in the North, with a view to elicit all the
information possible, preparatory to this history,. and now, that we have
received assistance from various quarters, Ve‑ are, perhaps, as well prepared
as we ever shall be, to offer our readers that which we regard as the most
reliable, though' wee much regret not having a promised sketch from the able
pe`n of Bro. King, of the Masonic Union. We think the follow= iris, furnished
us by Bro. L. V. Bierce, of Akron, Ohio, is as correct a history of
anti‑Masonry in the United States, as any that will ever appear; indeed, with
our knowledge of the facts elicited; and the stories told at the time, we are
free to say, we think it may be safely relied upon as authentic, so far as it
goes.
It is
proper to say, that this sketch was forwarded for the purpose of furnishing us
the groundwork only for this branch of our history, but it is no affectation
to say, that we find the article from Bro. Bierce as perfect, if not more so,
in every particular, than we could make it, and, therefore, with a tender of
our hearty thanks for his contribution, we give it without alteration " The
origin of this mighty affair is clearly ascribable to a certain Col. Miller,
an editor of a paper, possessed of respectable talents, a great deal of
cunning, familiar with all the artP of designing men, free from all religious
scruples, and, of course, ready to hoist sail to a breeze from any point of
the compass. Embalrassed in his circumstances, inattentive to business,
intemperate in his habits, he saw, by intuition, the use that might be made of
Morgan, and an anti‑Masonic excitement. Like many other ambitious demagogues,
of waning popularity, who have since joined in the excitement, he had
everything to hope, and nothing to fear from an excited state of the public
mind.
' ~░
The proposition, was made to Morgan, to write a book on Freemasonry, which
Miller, for want of other employment for his press, was to publish. Both of
them being as destitute of cash as of moral principles, could not raise the
funds necessary ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.'
215
fur the publication of the work, and were obliged to take others into the
copartnership. These others were John Davids and Russel Dyer.
"That
the public might not know the objects, or credit to' which the intended work
was entitled, on the 13th of March, 1826, they subscribed and swore to the
following affidavit 'We, and each of us, do hereby most solemnly and sincerely
promise and swear, upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that we will
never divulge, during our natural lives, communicate, or make known, to any
person or persons, in the, known world, our knowledge, or any part thereof,
respecting, William Morgan's intentions (communicated to us) to publish ‑ a
book on the subject of Freemasonry, neither by writing,' marking,
insinuations, nor any way devisable by man. Sworn and subscribed this 13th day
of March, 1826.' "This secret oath was the germ, the root out of which grew
the party to `put down secret combinations, and prohibit unlaw ful oaths.' "
On the 5th day of August following, Miller, Davids, and' Dyer, executed to
Morgan a bond for five hundred thousand dollars, conditioned for the payment
of one‑fourth part of the' sum, which should be received on the sale of said
book. On, the 7th day of August, two days after the said bond was executed,
and the contract completed, Morgan, from the conduct of his partners, became
dissatisfied, and suspicious of their designs, and addressed them the
following note " AUGUST 7,1526.
11GEN,Tr.EMFN:‑My note of this morning has not been answered‑further evasion
or equivocation I will not submit to‑acknowledge you are not gentlemen, or I
will crpose you in twelve hours, unless you do as you agreed to do.
I am
not a child‑if you suppose I am, you are mistaken.
I am a
man, and will not suffer myself to be imposed upon‑you have not acted as
gentlemen‑ I am Sorry to. be be compelled to say it‑every part of your conduct
has been mysterious, and why so Y
My
first impressions were, you are not honest men‑therefore, I wish to settle,
and have no more to do with you.
If
either of you feel hurt, call on me, as gentlemen, and I will give you any
satisfaction you wish.
"
WILLIADI MORGAN.
" On
the 14th of August, a copyright was taken out for the purpose of preventing
others from publishing the said work; but the publishers were well aware that
an excitement, lib
ANTI‑MASONRY IN Inr 1INITHD STATES.
was
necessary to attract public attention to the intended publi cation, or it
would fall, still‑born, from the press. Accordingly on the 8th of September, a
pretended attempt was made by forty or fifty persons, in disguise, to burn the
office of Miller, when the work was in a state of forwardness. What adds to
the singularity of this affair, is that Miller, on the day previous to this
pretended attempt to burn his office, had collected several b@rrels of water,
and placed them, probably by presentiment of tho approaching danger, near the
place where the fire was cyommunieated, so that it was extinguisbed without
any m4terial damage.
About
this time, Miller says, a stranger arrived from Canada, whom Miller took into
his employ in publishing the hook, and, whom he soon after discovered to be a
Mason iu disguise, whose object it was to parloin the work.
"
These stories were sent ahroaB, garnished with the appearante of truth, and
effected the object for which they were intended‑,‑that of prodwing an
exeitelnent.
"But
we would ask any candid person, if they can believe t4 Jiaaons would have
gone, is a body of forty or fifty, to burn, or pull down a building, in a tl
ly settled village? If they can believe that Miller would have teak" an entare
stranger into company, in publishing a book that required the secrecy of oath?
Those, who believe it snaat possess a gullibility th*t would not strain at the
narration of Munchause , or choke with the roe's egg of Sinbad the Sailor. It
requires a ,etrete4 of credulity beyond the ordinary gift, to believe
otherwise t that the whole was a concerted scheme of Miller, Davids, Dyer, 4ud
their confederates, to attract public attention to their intended book, or
prevent this second edition of Jachin. #nd Reaz from experiencing the fate "t
befell the first, which? ,dropped, stillborn, from the press, for want of an
excitement to hwing it into laytice. * '',Soou after the pretended attep~pt to
pull down and barn Miller's printing office, Morgan was arrested for steaHaag
a shirt and cravat, but, as the evidence was that he borrowed *em, and never
returned them, ,he .was acquitted.
.
'be
wrier, do~ibt
e,
g~lgaler 4 ;Priah~rd's pvblioq$ion of Tityhus odd Bgrs, in 1ò12.‑7he AiAor.
A:M‑NARfJSRV
1N THE UNITED 8TA'TES.
217
Iutmediately after his discharge from this arrest, lie was committed to prison
for debt, where he remained till the next day, when the debt was paid by one
Lawson, and he was dis eharged.
On his
discharge, lie was seized, put into a carriage, and carried to Fort Niagara,
where he was left in the care of one Giddings, keeper of the Fort, and,
notwithstanding the testimony of Giddings‑notwithstanding the various printed
and oral declarations, that Morgan has been seen living, and found dead, all
authentic grounds, on which to trace his fate farther, entirely fails.
"'That
there were some Masons, dupes of Miller, Davids, gard Dyer, concerned in this
transaction, there is no doubt‑but that any considerable portion of the
Masonic body knew of it, approved of it, or sanctioned it, can not be believed
by any one who is not a willful bigot to' his own opinions.
"As
soon as the outrage was known, all the Masons concern' ed in it, who did not
renounce, were zx‑pelled. `The Grand Royal Arch Chapter, in which one hundred
and ten subordinate Chapters were represented, disclaimed all knowledge, or
appro cation of the affair.'
De
Witt Clinton, then the highest Mason in the Union,* and Governor of New York,
offered a reward of two thousand dollars for the apprehension of the
perpetrators, and calling on all officers, civil and military, to assist in
detect, ing, and bringing them to justice.
'`Wliether
it was the consurnmttion of a scheme concerted by Morgan, Miller, Giddings and
their vonfederates, to cause an excitement, and,Morgan is still living to
enjoy his share of ;the profits of the work‑or whether the fears of Morgan,
expressed in his letter of August 7, were well founded, and has life fell a,
sacrifice to the avarice of his partners, is not, and probably never will be
known.
The
plot was now consummated. Giddings, into whose custody Morgan was traced,
immediately renounced Masoary, and expiated the crime of participation in the
abduction, by disclosing tt& he knew of the part acted by others, and as much
as he pleased of that acted by himself; but has never disclosed ò De Witt
Clinton was as high, Init not higher than eeveral others.‑‑T& Authpp 218
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE IINJTED STATES.
what
was the fate of Morgan, after lie was left in :iis custody in the Fort. He who
had never known a conscientious feeling, was all at once, as conscientiously
'desirous to become what, in common parlance, is known by the name of State's
evidence,, and to attach to his confederates, whom he and Miller had duped
into the transaction, the most atrocious guilt, for an act, in which, by his
own confession, lie had the chief share'‑but so notoriously bad was the
character of Giddings, that, notwithstanding the excited state of the public
mind, the court had firmness enough to reject him as unworthy of credit.
His
pattieipation in the profits of Morgan's hook, and the flood of Giddings'
anti‑Masonic Almanacs, which deluged the country, affording a speculation to
the retailers of Giddings' morality, show his occupation since, and afford, at
least, a strong presumption of his being concerned, originally, with Miller,
Davids, and Dyer, in the speculation.
"
Meetings were now called, and generally attended, not for political purposes,
or to proscribe Masons who were not concerned in the transaction, but to
detect the guilty, and bring the perpetrators to punishment. Those concerned
were ferreted out, and as they were but actors previous to the grand drama
performed by Giddings, they were convicted of a conspiracy only. He, the‑
grand mover, and spring of the whole performance, in consideration of his
expiatory renunciation and subsequent labors in the cause of prosecution, was
absolved, and stands a monument of atheism, villainy, and political
antiMasonry.
"By
this time, the excitement had arrived at the pitch desired by Miller,
Giddings, and their confederates. Their books 'fell like, rain drops' from the
press, costing, probably, ten cents, and which the excited public appetite
swallowed, to a surfeit, for some time, at the price of one dollar.
The
Bible, tract, and Webster's Spelling Book, hardly afforded equal occupation
for the press.
'The
most malignant and improbable falsehoods and slanders, which, at any other
time, would have returned with vengeance to plague the inventors, in the
present state of the public feeling were received with implicit faith.' "'
Demagogues, and broken down politicians, now saw the ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE
UNITED STATES.
219
affair was ripe for their use, and they, accordingly, took it in keeping.' The
whole Masonic Fraternity were denounced as murderers, and traitors to their
country ; and every anti‑Mason, from ',Niyron Holle'y down to Thurlow Weed,
became regenerated from moral and political transgression, and were stamped
ure patriots.
"Solomon Southwick, who, in 1822, defrauded the Albany Post Office of
$6,000‑who was ever a bankrupt in principle, as well as in property, in 1826,
by the pure spirit of anti‑Masonry, was transformed, renewed, and qualified
for Governor of New York. Bankrupts in politics became patriots‑atheists
became moralists‑anti‑Masons of every school became genuine republicans t
"Never was the public frenzy so high, or infatuation so general. All that was
necessary to ensure public approbation was to come out, acknowledge a
participation in Morgan's abduction, renounce Masonry, and publish some `new
light' on a subject which had already been enlightened by the anti‑Ma. sonic
worthies, until it was enveloped in total darkness.
So
prevalent, and so contagious was this confessing mania, and so high the
premium offered for false acknowledgments, that 'there were not wanting
persons who, carried away by the insanity of the times,' sought a martyr's
fame, by confessing' themselves guilty of the murder of Morgan.
`A
certain R. H. Hill, came forward in the papers, and 1. with a most imposing'
Solemnity, confessed himself guilty of having murdered Morgan. The poor man
supplicated the mercy of God and man, as one' sure of the gallows.'
He
attracted notoriety, which like the object of other Morgan confessions, was
his wretched motive, and was imprisoned, but could not gain a martyr's fame by
being hung.
There
had been so many true confessions, each contradicting the other, that a jury,
on oath, would not believe him.
"
Bigots in the Church now laid hold of it, to advance their cause, and
strengthen their power. Masonic members, who had ever `walked worthy of their
high vocation,' were excommunicated, unless they would renounce. Ministers,
against whom the breath of slander had never been heard, were dismissed,' 420
ANTI‑MAS0;7RY TN THE PN[TEU aT4TF* Churches divided, and the members
scattered.
All
vliq felt JA their duty to `live in peace with all men,' to seek the spiriokgl,
welfare of mankind, and not to engage in party
1torfes,
w;grp excozgmunicated; and none but those who could roll forth t thunders of
anti‑Masonry, and pour oft the vials of wrath Q.a their flocks, were allowed
to minister at the Altar of Peace.
"
Although the pretended attempit to destrow filler's o ice, purloin the
unpublished work, and carry off A4organ, had prodqó,ed the effects desired,
yet politióians, whose 9hly hope was is that law of Nature, that 'in an
excited state of the vygter xlre fifth ,rises,' saw that something was
necessary to prevent ilk suWlding. `Warrants were accordingly issped, and tFi
rs'. instituted without numbers 1‑and each succeeding day brougl44 to light a
new brood of stories of violence, blp9d, ,and murder.' All these, however, had
relation to persons who stood unmoyed ~y the storm that raged around them,
Whilq Giddings, and X11 who would acknowledge themselves guilty, and join in
the persecution of Masons, remained unmolested, and were embraced as worthy
members of the anti‑Masonic crusade. While exarninations were going on before
a Grand Jury, handbills were pasted on the courthouse door, ,calculated to
inflame their minds against the ;accused, and prevent a fair and impar
exami4,ation. And,`while a famous trial, at which one hundred witnesses were
present, was in progress, a rumor Nvas set n,,#,9.9f that Morg4n'g body land
been found, and would be present qLt the trial.' All megns were resorted to,
to keep ,up the feveri4 excitement, and prevent a candid and impartial
expression of toe public mind.
"A.
Committee was appointed to examine, and make report of e h patters, relatdng
to the affair, ;p they thought proper; laps Whose real object was to prevent a
return of. dispassion urination.
TAey
`hired a vessel,' chartered boats, and c9,nstructed instruments for raking the
bed of the Niagara river, and xL part of JAke Ontario, which was efectually
done, but nothing was .di~agvered of Morb .u. The eearch w‑ as wh aud,~,‑,~,"~
sut useless, a,Ad the public mind again liegAa? to return to i,tp a quiet,
when,,qn Pie 7th of October, a bódy wgs found ,ou toe shores of Lake Ontario,
which appeared to have been left A*"‑RA16ITkT
11V fUt DN1ftb ftA3tg.
291
tfidre by the eurf.
Being
highly putrid, it was, art3r the usala itiquft, hdfied.
But it
afforded too good a 8uhjeet for tie titer feA1ess spirits, that no* had charge
oÇ the feitfnwilt, eftdiu lbng undisturbed.
"It
sotid eptead through the dountry that it ivss 1ldotga*'g C bdy. Some of the
master‑spiting; from Batavia and R,dehesitet, s it+aired to the spot;
disinterred the body, and Mrs. Mofgan *&1
Wught to identify it with that of her husbaud. Frdtn itA pntridit~, at ttie
time, all identity of bblot bf ebunteriaricd *M &ite.
In no
rdspdet, eitcept ift the night, hair, *ethi and dtM, cold it be identitled
with a.rtt other pefsbn. In no ote of theft regpet‑M did it beat the 1e9A
fbsfbldht;e to' Mdfgaf. The digs#, by Mrs. Morgan's own coffdssiiti; Wilt
(tilt AA 0iA Motgan wore when lie disappeared, the'r`e were Mligioug tfddis
ifi the poclkeis; and Morgan was not a pbtson whti carried tradtt Bet a Jury
must again be called, to pronottfde, if possible; this eddy Mofgan~s.
The
flrst witaess galled, swore that Morgan h
double
teeth all round, and that the1
}red also ; and he also a4bre to tnhny other circumstances of identity between
this eddy and Morgah's.
Thir"teen other Witnesses sivotd to the kiiffid general bffedt.
Mrs.
korgau also swore that Mr. Morgaii had double teeth fill round ‑ that titvo of
hig teeth vbefe *ahtiltg, and one "split =‑ to which eir6uthstWide the
witnesses svaotb this body arisiafied: ‑"The Jury, composed of twenty‑three
persons; kbsctibbd tb a verdict that this was Motgaii's body, and that he
bathe to 'his death by drowning.
`` All
doubt was now removed froth the public rhino, and the Multitude flodked to the
funefal pfboession. The body this f"dved, with great parade, tb Bathviit,
who're a funeral disdbui"se was pronounced, for the seine purpose; lord with
mush the 9Wb effect, as that of Mark Aiitdiiy over the body of CWs0. The body
Was agent intetred as that of Morgan, and the cry of vengeance a'g'ainst
Masons *as nd* oil the breeze; and the glibst of Mofgan yeas said to be
Abroad: " Fame, with tier ten thdutahd totrgubs, vvfts now btisy, afd fttry
tongue `'vas pttt in rdquisltion, tut, unfortuflately fat this Wftb ivi$hed to
creltte ail finnat&R1 egdit#tfiidtit, tlhd iep6t 222
ANTIòMASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
the
story to the real widow of the drowned man.
A Mr.
Munroe, of Upper Canada, left his home for Newark, and was drowned in the
Niagara.
A
description of the clothes found on the supposed Morgan, induced Mrs. Munroe
to believe it was the body of her drowned husband, and, in company with other
relatives, she repaired to Batavia, where this ill‑fated body, which could not
rest in the earth, was again disinterred.
An~other inquest was called, and the real truth of the case, that this was the
identical Timothy Monroe's body, and not Morgan's, was established by that
kind of evidence that can not fail to establish undoubting conviction in every
rational mind.
These
inquisitions are astonishing proofs of how much testimony is affected by
strong prejudices, public excitement, and popular ieelin, .
A
great number of particulars, specified on oath by the second Jury, proved to
be not as specified by this third examination.
Particularly, it was proved that Morgan was wholly bald on the forehead, and
never wore whiskers.
That
Morgan lead double teeth all round‑this body had not.
That
Morgan had lost two teeth; and a part of a third. only‑this body had lost
five.
What
put the matter out of all question, was, that Mrs. Munroe specified, before
seeing them, certain articles of dress, which she had made with her own hands,
and which were found to. be as she, described them.
All
doubt was now dispelled from all minds, except such as were determined not to
be convinced.
" The
excitement caused by this pretended discovery of Morgan was now destroyed, by
its being discovered to be founded ‑on a hoax ; or, what was worse, on
testimony swayed by preju;,dice, or, warped by interest and popular frenzy.
But it had .answered the purposes for which it was intended, that of.
inflaming the publio mind at the election of that fall, and the t)ody of
Munroe, was sent back to Canada, with the heartless farewell of Thurlow Weed,
the Apostle of anti‑Masonry, that ' ae was a good enough .Morgan until after
the election.' `‑ The failure of all the projects hitherto devised by the
lead. ers of political anti‑Masonry, did not dishearten them‑bank;rupt in
principles, and stale in politics, they saw that, without s6a unusual
excitement, they could never rise in political power, ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE
UNITED STATES.
223
,and if they failed in producing one, they could sink no lower . in popular
esteem.
They
had, therefore, everything to hope and nothing to fear.
Undismayed by defeat, unblushing in exposure of their late projects, untiring
in exertions, and unlimited in expedients, nothing was too low for their
grasp, or too high for their ambition.
Scarcely was one project defeated, before another was in operation, or one
false clamor exposed, beforo the public attention was excited by another.
" The
attempt to pull down Miller's office, had been satisfactorily shown to be the
work of Miller and his confederates, to ,raise an excitement‑‑the story about
the Canadian Mason, no reasonable person ever believed‑the discovery of Morgan
had turned out to be a hoax‑the funeral procession, requiem, and ,interment at
Batavia, were known to have been solemnized over Timothy Munroe‑and all the
previous projects had now besome stale, and incapable of producing the desired
excitement. New expedients were, therefore, resorted to, and new materials
furnished, to keep up the fire around this political cauldron. Every Mason of
standing, no matter what his cliaracter, must ,have the seal of ignominy put
upon him, by being accused of participating in Morgan's abduction, while
Giddings and Miller, the real projectors, actors, and finishers of the whole
plot, were hugged with a fraternal embrace, by those pretending to be
searching for the conspirators. Ordinary prosecutions had, by this time, lost
the novelty that at first made them the objects of political excitement, and a
stronger potion must, accordingly, be prepared for the public appetite.
Col.
King, formerly a member of the New York Legislature, a man of unblemished
reputation, highly respected where known, resided near LewisJon, at the time
of the abduction, but soon after received the appointment of Sutler at
Cantonment Towson, situated on the Kiamesia. a high branch of Red river, on
the borders of Texas, and removed to that remote station.
He was
a fine victim for the sacrifice, and the pursuit, capture, and return, through
almost all the Western States, with him as a prisoner, would afford employment
to some of the worthy leaders of the cru,sade, as well as be calculated to sow
the fruitful seed of anti;Masonry in those States, through which they might
pass.
224
ANTI‑MA961VAAY IN f IIJ tiMTki) STAB " Among the rumors; it wad; abcotditigly,
reported that he if6 concerned in the abduction, and had fled to this remote
egti+& lishment, a fugitive from justice.
Those
ofcets, appointed by the authorities of New York; t'epaired to that distant
stati6fi ih pursuit of the pretended cri)niaal. Public excitement wits again
on tiptoe. The rank and respectability of Col. Kifig, the romantic pursuit
instituted, and the reported guilt of the accused, served again to enliven the
expiring ashes of diseoM, and give political gamesters, who had ventured their
all on too hasatd of the excitement, another hope of suedess.
" The
pursuers arrived at the Cantonment, but the report W arrived before them; and
Cal. King, for the defence of his chfilu neter, was on his way to New York.
The pursuers, adcordifgly, made their way in the same direction, and the
parties aceotisplished this wild goose chase of about four thousand miles, in
dearly the same time. It is easy to conjftfi`e the feelings 6f Col. King's
slanderers, on finding him, not a prisoner, but standing fearless and erect
among them for the purpose of Andicating his Character, and returning the
Vengeance, prepaf'd for himself, on the heads of his abcusers,
But he
did not live to Measure the reward of their guilt upon them.
He
died 96611 after his return, whether a vidtim of dlseaee, of of anti‑Masodic
vengeance, is not, and probably nevet Will be, satisfackify known.
`░
Thus ended this situgular part of this singular a$air. Mill: from a poor,
degraded, abandoned profligate, by means of tire excitement, had become Clerk
of the County Court. Tracy ha+d ;got e seat in the Legislature=Spongier;
Special Council‑Tbnflow Weed, a standing witnds9‑and Solomon Southwick, the
privilege of running for Glovernor: Northon, another of the leaders, had got a
snug goat in Congress, tot; which, to use his oven words, lie
░
owed Hilly Morgan many thanks, as hell would have frozen oter before he would
have been elected, if it lfhd hot been for the dkeiteinent.' " Such success
did blue‑light fcddrals, acid warn=out pblitWhih have in New York, in riding
on the bitaitembiit into offcb, thM . they how began to use it as an article
of eitpoft; and it more or less extensively bpread in gevekal of thb Stateb.
It
AIZTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
226
denounced first the system and then the men, as unfit for others, and unworthy
of any countenance.
It not
only denounced tlu men, but also denounced all that would not denounce them.
New
York set the example, ~and some disappointed office‑seekers, in Pennsylvania,
closely followed.
At
what was termed a ` State Convention,' at Harrisburg, in an address to the
public, they said: ` It will not be sufficient to withhold public. favor from
Freema sons alone‑a!l their partisans should receive the same measure o f
justice.
They
have even less claims upon public ,favor than the sworn Fraternity themselves.
Timid
and time‑serving neutrality is more degrading to its votaries, and more
dangerous to the public, than open and magnanimous error !' "'Those who had,
heretofore, pretended that it was the Institution of Masonry that they were
coudenmninn‑‑and the members of it, to be punished for an outrage, pretended
to have been committed by them, having, by their professions, drawn many into
the political arona, here come out and avow their plans, and declare
themselves a political party, and denounce those who are not Masons, but who
will not promote the schemes of this new Jacobin club, with still greater
vengeance than they do the Masons. Neutrality is a crime still greater than
Masonry, and all who will not support anti‑Masonry, in its aspirings for
office, must be disfranchised.
The
question was no longer `are you a Mason?'‑but, ` will you join the crusade of
antiMasonry, and denounce all who will not?'
If you
will not, you, yourself. must be denounced as having `even less claims upon
the public, favor than the sworn Fraternity themselves.' Such was ever real
anti‑Masonry which an intelligent community was called on to support‑and such
was it avowed to be. Not to put down Masons or Masonry, but to re6roanir.e an
old and defeated party under a new name, and again bring into power those men
who were consigned to contempt, for their endeavors to distract the republican
party, and ruin their country in the second War of Independence." Thus our
brother brings the history of anti‑Masonry down to that period when it ceased
to be sufficiently attractive to answer the purposes of designing politicians.
For.
soon after the period to which he last referred, the more sober and thinking
is 2░G
ANTI‑31ASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
men,
even of the party whose interests were now somewhait dependent upon the
continuance of the excitement, began to withdraw themselves from an active
particiliation in the tirade of abuse and misrepresentation, which had so long
been hurled against our Institution, and its unflinching, high‑minded, and
honorable members. The anti‑Masonic party suffered signal defeats in various
quarters, and, hence, the noisy stump orators who lead suddenly sprung up like
so many brainless lnush rooms, received their quietus, and it is said to be
susceptible of proof, that a very large proportion of them found the reward of
their labors in drunkard's graves. But now that political anti Masonry was
dead and buried in its own original corruption, our younger readers will be
surprised to learn that anti‑Masonry passed into other hands, to be used for
other purposes.
We
shall briefly speak of its new keepers, and follow it until its shadow can no
longer be seen.
It is
sometimes fearful to contemplate the effect of popular excitement, when whole
communities are brought under its sway.
Were
we permitted to see only the wild an(] visionary fanatic, carried headlong
into the whirlpool, we might safely hope, that the sanative influence of the
more sober and thinking portion of society, would soon correct the evil ; but.
when we are compelled to behold some of our ablest statesmen, and also the
most pious Christians, bowing in humble adoration to the soulless and
senseless juggernaut, the spectacle becomes heart. sickening to those who can
stand aloof, and endeavor to regard man as the "noblest work of God." If the
Morgan excitement lead been the first popular frenzy ever known, we might feel
inclined to believe that some great and momentous cause was necessary, to
produce such :n commotion, but we have seen that the delusions of New England
witclicraft, were even more wonderful than those of Morganism ; for, in the
former case, the most revolting murders were perpetrated, under the legal
cognomen of trial by judge and jury. .‑ And the causes which superinduced all
this, were even more destitute of a foundation, in truth, than was American
anti‑Alasonry.
That
Dlorgan was abducted, we think is very certain, but ive are not at all certain
that many of those who shouted long and loud for vengeance ANTI‑3IASONRY IN
THE UNITED STATES.
227
upon an innocent and unoffending Society, would not themselves have engaged in
the abduction of a certain class of human wings, if, by so doing. they could
have made it as profitable as lid Miller and his associates, in the Morgan
affair.
Soon
after the political anti‑Masonic party was defeated, politicians. even of the
lowest grade abandoned this hobby, and, by many, it was supposed, that no set
of men had any further use for it; but, such was not the fact, for there
immediately sprung up a set of traveling mendicants, and ministers of the
Gospel, who, jointly and severally, undertook to wield it for the
accomplishment of their nefarious ends. We have ever held in great veneration
the ministers of the Gospel, whenever and wherever we have found them acting
within their legitimate sphere, but, as a class, we are, forced to believe
that they are more liable to be swayed to and fro, by every species of
quackery, than any other set of intelligent men. We know there was a time,
even in this country, when ministers were among the first to pick out and
denounce certain members of their own Church, as bona fide witches, and so
very blinded were they, by popular opinion and new theories, that they
proceeded to testify against them before a court of justice, and then calmly
witness their execution, by drownir_g, without the least remorse of
conscience, because they honestly believed they were doing God's service. We
know it is said that this thing took place in a superstitious age, and we are
not inclined to doubt it, but we do doubt whether the present age is not
equally so.
What
but superstition could induce an educated man to believe that the ten
thousandth of a thing was more powerful than the thing itself?
That
while it is admitted that a drop of laudanum, mixed with a tablespoonful of
water, administered to an athletic man, would produce no perceptible effect,
the same quantity dropped into a hogshead of water, and a tablespoonful of the
mixture, given to the same man, would most powerfully operate on the whole
system? What but superstition is it, for an educated man to believe that, by
some hocus pocus, certain persons have the power to see, with the "mind's
eye," through the scull bone, and, in this manner, read newspapers and
letters?
What
but superstition is it, to, 228
ANTI‑YASQNRY'
IN THE UNITED STATES.
believe that one human being can think for, or control tie thoughts of
another? In short, what but the merest dream of superstition is it, to believe
that the spirit of the dead may be brought to rap on, or under a table, for
the amusement qf living beings ?
And,
if we except the avowed skeptics, we think, in no class of men will there be
found so large a number of advoeates for the truth of all these things, as
among the teachers of the Gospel.
Nor is
it less remarkable, that this credulity, or superstition, when it once takes
hold of a man's mind, is much more difficult to eradicate, even by the most
positive proof of trickery, than it is to fasten upon the mind another and
still greater deception. The author learned how to read, as did Miss Lumis,
with a pair of kid gloves tied over his eyes, but, because he was not
fortunate enough to learn all the other tricks, lie could never shake the
faith of any one who believed in clairvoyance.
IIe
has recently learned flow to make the raps, on or under the table, and can
make any spirit called for, say just what lie (the author) pleases, and yet,
he has never been able Ao convince any believer in " spirit‑rapping ". that it
was all a trick, simply because we could not tell flow certain other things
were done.
But we
have charged that ministers have largely aided in the promulgation of these
delusions; and, we may very properly be asked why this is so, as no one will
be inclined to attribute improper motives to this estimable class of men.
We do
not know that we can account for the fact in any other wV, than by supposing
that the studies, the thoughts of ministers are generally narrowed down to the
subjects directly embraced in their avocation ; and whenever, by any exciting
cause, their thoughts are called off, and directed to other subjects, clothed
in mystery, they are liable to forget the platform on which they have stood,
and fly in search of the merest phantoms of the brain.
Certain it is, that this class of men were the cause of disturbing the peace
of society to a more alarming extent, in the Morgan affair, than did the
political anti‑Masonic party. When Bernard, Stone, and their satellites, took
possession of anti‑Masonry as a religious hobby, Churches were made to
resemble the Spanish Inquisition !
Christians r were denounced, not so much, because they were Masons, but
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED STATES.
2ft
because they would not denounce, abuse, and anathematize all other Masons, who
did not renounce Masonry 1 The rreligioup fanatics published books and tracts,
denouncing the Society of Masonry, not because it was believed, at the time of
said publi. cations, that the Society, or any respectable member of it, was
concerned in the abduction of Morgan, but, carried away by popular tumult,
these ministers, honestly, perhaps, persuaded .themselves that the
developments growing out of the Morgan expose, proved the Institution to l*
corrupt and dangerous to the cause of Christianity, and like the Jews, who
made unto themselves laws, subversive of the laws of God, forgetting the
attribute of mercy, desecrated the pulpit and the altar, by preaching
anathemas, and praying for curses upon an Instita‑tion about which they either
knew nothing, or knowing, falsely represented.
And,
as a class, where are the ministers now? Masonry has outlived their
opposition, and triumphed over their curses. The Institution is better known,
and more highly esteemed than at any former period ; and although there have
been no new developments in its favor, and the religious tracts are still in
being, the ministry, as a class, have wheeled right about, and very generally
sought initiation, and are now loudest in their praise of Freemasonry.
It is
a law of our nature, that an excess of feeling, whether of joy or grief, can
not be long kept up; the mind, like the pendulum, may be made to vibrate from
one extreme to the other, but finally, it must find its equilibrium. Even
those Churches in the North, the most noisy against Masonry, though supported
and sustained by their ministers, were compelled to yield to the public demand
for peace and quiet, from the turmoils of the anti‑Masonic tirade. We have
still another evidence that the ministers of the Gospel, as a class, are
liable to be carried away by popular excitement, It is a fact, susceptible of
the clearest proof, that now when Masonry is in the ascendant and universally
popular, ministers of the Gospel are writing books to prove that Freemasonry
is either the true religion, or so intimately connected with it, that it would
seem an effort is made to introduce Masonry as a now creed in Christian faith.
When public sentiment would no longer tolerate the Chureb 2110
ANTI‑31ASONILY IN THE UNITED STATES.
tirade
against Masonry, there sprung up a set of little, dirty lazy, sap headed,
unprincipled, renegade Masons, who, n(A hay. in‑ succeeded in working
themselves into public employment, determined to make merchandise of their
treachery, and thus put money in their purses. This little band of
contemptible parasites, unwittingly did more to put to shame the cause of
anti‑Masonry, than any other overt act of individuals. Had these vagabonds
understood human nature a little better, and taken time by the fore‑lock, they
might, indeed, have made fortunes by conferring degrees, and lecturing on
Masonry ; but they did not commence their farcical exhibitions, until the
people had become tired of the subject, tired of excitement, and hence, these
traveling impostors first excited the ridicule, and nest the contempt and
scorn of all decent men.
Thus
anti‑Masonry died.
And
now that we can calmly look back upon the past, behold the present, and
contemplate the future, we are constrained to acknowledge that " whom God
loveth He chasteneth." The number of unprincipled men found to be members of
the Fra .
ternity during the excitement, proves how far the Lodges ‑ad departed from the
well known rules of the Society.
Desirious only of numbers, it would seem, Lodges became careless of con
sequences, and admitted men whose presence was a disgrace to that, and would
have been to any other moral Institution.
For
this neglect of our sacred duty, our Order has received a chastening,. which
caused the good and true to return to their post of duty, and guard well the
outer door to the Lodge room. This having been done, it is manifest to all,
that never, since the days of Solomon, has Masonry been so prosperous a.4 now.
From
the foregoing facts, every reader will be able to draw his own deductions as
to the guilty party. Every reader, we trust, is desirous of arriving at the
truth, and as it is the business of a historian to assist in the
accomplishment of this end, it becomes our duty to give to the world the
conclusions to which we have arrived, and some of the reasons which have
intiuena ed our opinions.
In the
first place,.we take occasion to say that it is extremely ridiculous to
suppose any Freemason, of the least intelligence, ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED
STATES.
231
and the smallest particle of moral honesty, ever did, or ever will, attempt to
take the life of a man, because of any attempt he ever‑ did, or ever can make,
to divulge the secrets of Masonry. And, most certainly, the republication of
the book called Jachin and Boaz, could excite only the laughter or contempt of
every' good Mason. We may, and should feel contempt for the man who would thus
endeavor to speculate on the credulity of the public, but more than this would
be uncalled for, and would not be sanctioned by either the principles or rules
of our Order. Let as suppose that the world believes that Jachin and Boaz, as
republished by Morgan, and the additions made thereto by Ber= nard, Stone,
Allyn, and others, contain a revelation of the secrets of Masonry, what then?
They have done but little Tuore than did Prichard, and divers others.
Nearly
every word that these celebrated American authors published, had been pul}'
lished before.
And,
after all, do they give us a single sentence, line, or word, that tends to
show it is a Mason's duty to mur=der a man for revealing the secrets?
Certainly not.
And
tlius far, we admit, they have done the Institution justice, for, we assert,
upon the veracity of an author and a man, that there is not a word of the
kind, either in the written or oral rituals; from the Entered Apprentice, to
the Royal Arch, from the Royal Arch to the Knights Templar, from the Knights
Templar to the 33rd degree of Modern Masonry.
On the
contrary, so far from tolerating murder, or any other crime, the whole teach=
ings of‑Masonry denounce everyspecies of vice and immorality: And we speak
only the simple truth, in saying that if it could be possible to make the very
existence of Masonry depend upon_ the commission of a murder, the Society
would be compelled to denounce and expel the brother who perpetrated the deed
though it were known the murder saved the Order from ruin.; But that we know
the power of public excitement, we should' feel surprised that any sensible
man, not a Mason, should ever' have relied upon the professed developments of
the renouncing Masons ; because, according to their own showing, they could
not, and did not make the expose, without, themselves, committing wilful and
base perjury. Who dare believe a man on oath, who violates, voluntarily, an
oath, voluntarily made, in order 232
ANTI‑MASONRY IN THE UNITED RTATES.
to
give testimony? And how much less credence should attach to their statements,
when it is self‑evident that their object was to make money by the perjury ?
We need not say that the memory of such men will go down to posterity with the
detestation and scorn of all good men.
But if
it be possible to conceive of a wretch, whose name should be transmitted to
future ages as the assassin of the nineteenth century, it is lie who could
make such a publication, and, in order to increase its sale and profits,
assassinate, in a brutal and unprovoked manner, his accomplice and partner in
crime.
That
we can point to such a monster, we sincerely believe; and though, if living,
the mark of Cain may not be upon his head, we think the day is coming, when
all will be able to see through his cunningly devised schemes, fix his guilt
upon him, and consign his name and memory to the merited scorn of mankind.
That
William Morga.n was murdered, we sincerely believe, and that one or more
Masons were concerned, and participated in the hellish deed, we have no reason
to doubt. But for what purpose? Was it to defend, or protect Masonry from the
influences of a book, a copy of which could be had for a few pennies, in
nearly all the book stores in England and America? No; but for the sole
purpose of putting money in their purse t What if rumor did say that Morgan