NOTE: The following material is from an original edition of the 1922 book. It composes a cut-n-paste resource, for research and quotations on the early history of women in Freemasonry. It is NOT intended to be a close reproduction of the original book. The text version of this book was Copyrighted in June, 2007 for Phoenixmasonry, Inc. by Ralph Omholt, Librarian.
WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
BY
DUDLEY WRIGHT
AUTHOR OF "THE ELEUSINIAN MYSTERIES AND RITES"
"MASONIC LEGENDS AND TRADITIONS"
"ROBERT BURNS AND FREEMASONRY"
ETC. ETC.
LONDON
WILLIAM RIDER & SON, LTD.
CATHEDRAL HOUSE, PATERNOSTER ROW, E.C.
1922
Open ye gates, receive the fair who shares
With equal sense our happiness and cares:
Then, charming females, there behold
What massy stores of burnish'd gold,
Yet richer is our art;
Not all the Orient gems that shine,
Nor treasures of rich Ophir's mine,
Excel the Mason's heart
True to the fair, he honours more
Than glitt'ring gems, or brightest ore,
The plighted pledge of love;
To every tie of honour bound,
in love and friendship constant found,
And favoured from above.
CONTENTS
PAGE
INTRODUCTION . Ix
CHAPTER
I. ADOPTIVE MASONRY . 1
II. THE FENDEURS ..12
III. EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND COUNT CAGLIOSTRO 29
IV. RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY. 38
V. RITUAL OF FREEMASONRY FOR LADIES 55
VI. WOMEN FREEMASONS OF THE PAST . 78
VII. THE ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR 100
VIII. MODERN FEMALE FREEMASONRY .. 141
IX. THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE NETHERLANDS
ON THE QUESTION . 169
A LETTER FROM THE GRAND MISTRESS OF THE FEMALE FREEMASONS TO GEORGE FAULKNER, PRINTER . 185
INDEX ... 195
INTRODUCTION
Secret societies have always held a fascination for both sexes, despite the fallacy that women cannot keep a secret. Women, it is claimed by Masonic historians and writers, have always been rigidly excluded from the ranks of Orthodox Masonry both Operative and Speculative, although, as will be seen in the course of the following pages, the barriers have been pierced on more than one occasion.
The first Book of Constitutions of the Grand Lodge of England, published in 1723, expressly stipulated that no woman should be admitted as a member of a Masonic Lodge. In this edition Dr. Anderson stated that
"the learned and magnanimous Queen Elizabeth, who encourag'd other Arts, discourag'd this; because, being a Woman, she could not be made a Mason, tho', as other great Women, she might have much employ'd Masons, like Semiramis and Artemisia."
Dr. Anderson also goes on to say:
"Elizabeth being jealous of any Assemblies of her Subjects, whose Business she was not duly appris'd of, attempted to break up the Annual Communication of Masons, as dangerous to her Government. But as old
ix
x WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Masons have transmitted it by Tradition, when the noble Persons her Majesty had commissioned, and brought a sufficient Posse with them at York, on St. John's Day, were once admitted into the Lodge, they made no use of Arms, and returned the Queen a most honourable Account of the ancient Fraternity, whereby her political fears and doubts were dispell'd, and she let them alone, as a People much respected by the Noble and the Wise of all the polite Nations, but neglected the Art all her Reign.
In an edition of the Book of Constitutions, published in 1738, Dr. Anderson gives further particulars of this incident in the following words
"Now Learning of all Sorts revived, and the good old Augustan Style began to peep from under its rubbish. And it would have soon made great progress if the Queen had affected Architecture. But hearing the Masons had certain secrets that could not be reveal'd to her (for that she could not be Grand Master) and being jealous of all Secret Assemblies, she sent an armed force to break up their annual Grand Lodge at York, on St. John's Day, 27th December, 1561. But Sir Thomas Sackville, Grand Master, took care to make some of the chief men sent Free‑Masons, who then joining in that Communication, made a very honourable report to the Queen, and she never more attempted to dislodge or distrust them, but esteem'd them as a peculiar sort of men that cultivated peace and friendship, arts and science, without meddling in the affairs of Church and State.
Queen Elizabeth is credited with being the only woman initiated into the Order of Buffaloes.
The pages of history show that in past ages
INTRODUCTION xi
women had their own secret societies. In some instances man was excluded as rigorously as woman is excluded from modern Orthodox Freemasonry. In others, men were admitted on equal, or almost equal, terms with the gentler sex.
The Eleusinian Mysteries were introduced by Eumelpus in 1356 B.C., and were founded in honour of Ceres and Proserpine, and anyone violating the Oath taken on admission and revealing the secrets to the uninitiated was punished with death. The like punishment was meted out to uninitiated intruders at the ceremonies. Into these Mysteries both sexes were eligible for initiation, and there was no age limit.
The Greek festival of the Thesmophoria held in the month of Pyanepsion (October) in honour of the goddess Demeter lasted for five days, and only women were permitted to take part in it. They had to undergo a solemn preparation for the Festival, preparation extending over nine days, during which time they kept apart from their husbands and purified themselves in various ways. The sanctuary, where the Mysteries took place, was at Kalamai. The days were spent in bathing in the sea, the Mysteries being celebrated at night. One of days was spent in fasting, when the women sat on the ground, wearing mourning attire and singing dirges. Swine were also offered in sacrifice the infernal gods. Participation in the Festival
xii WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
was limited strictly to married women who were full citizens.
Gibbon, in his History of Rome, records a female Order in the fourth century. It was customary for the Roman ladies annually to celebrate in the house, either of the Consul or Praetor, certain rites and ceremonies in honour of a goddess. In what the adoration consisted, as no man was ever permitted to be present, or even to be made acquainted with the nature or tendency of the function, it is impossible to say. At the appointed time the vestals came, and so cautious were they as to privacy that the house was carefully searched, all male animals were turned out of doors, and even statues and pictures of men were covered with thick opaque veils. The only attempt made to violate the caution of the Roman matrons at the celebration of this secret ceremony occurred during the Praetorship of Julius Caesar in 692. His third consort, Pompeia, was united to him more from policy than inclination, and notwithstanding the nuptial vow she had taken, she retained an admirer, Clodius, belonging to a noble family in the annals of that republic. Aurelia, the mother of Caesar, discovered the attachment of Pompeia, and to protect the honour of her son, by her vigilance prevented interviews between Pompeia and her lover. At the expiration of the consular year the secret festival was to be performed, as customary, in the house of Caesar, he being the chief magistrate
INTRODUCTION xiii
at that time, and to his consort belonged the right of presiding at the ceremony. This was a triumph for Pompeia, who conceived the idea of concealing her favourite in the house and gratifying his oft-expressed wish of witnessing the sacred rites. Clodius, by arrangement, disguised himself in the garb of a female and at night proceeded towards the house of his admirer. A confidential servant who was in the secret whispered to Clodius that it was her mistress's desire that he should secret in her chamber. He repaired thither, but tired of waiting he wandered into an adjacent apartment, when he was accosted. Anxious to avoid conversation, he turned away, but was followed and a demand made for his name and the reason of his presence there. As he refused to give my answer or explanation he was arrested and prosecuted at the public tribunal. The Roman criminal code had definitely affixed the punishment of death for any man to be present at the ceremony, but by reason of his influence in the Senate, the certainty of his not having attained to the most distant knowledge of the Mysteries, and his open avowal that his object was solely that he might be kv6ired with a sight of Pompeia, he was acquitted. Pompeia's indiscretion was punished by Caesar's divorcing her, assigning, as a reason, that his wife ought to preserve herself from the suspicion as well the guilt of crime.
xiv WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
With regard to the androgynous societies, L' Abbe Clavel, in his History of Freemasonry and Similar Societies, Ancient and Modern, published in 1842, says that:
"Freemasons embraced these Societies with enthusiasm as a practical means of giving to their wives and daughters some share of the pleasures which they themselves enjoyed in their mystical assemblies. And this, at least, may be said of them that they practised with commendable fidelity and diligence, the greatest of the Masonic virtues, and that the banquets and balls which always formed an important part of their ceremonial were distinguished by numerous acts of charity.
Androgynous Masonry included certain Degrees, among which may be mentioned the "Heroine of Jericho, which appears to be the most ancient, for which only the wives and daughters of Royal Arch Masons were eligible; the "Ark and Dove,The Mason's Daughter, The Good Samaritan, The Maids of Jerusalem, and "he Mason's Wife, all of which Degrees were conferred only on the wives, daughters, sisters, and mothers of Freemasons These were practised mainly in the United States of America, and their description does not enter within the scope of the present volume. It may also be mentioned that there is presumptive evidence that in days gone by women were admitted into the Order of Knights Templar.
The question as to whether or not women should
INTRODUCTION xv
be admitted into the ranks of Orthodox Freemasonry cannot here be discussed. As the author is proud to claim membership of Lodges within the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of England, any discussion on this point would be unbecoming.
In this connection, however, it may be permissible to draw attention to an article bearing on this subject which appeared in the Daily Telegraph of 14th April, 1920, in the course of which the writer said:
"One more masculine stronghold has, we are informed, fallen to the monstrous regiment of women. The Grand Lodge of French Freemasons has declared itself in favour of the admission of women to the craft. It is, of course, true that a female Freemason would not be a creature absolutely without precedent. There is respectable evidence for the initiation of a woman in that century momentous in the fortunes of Masonry - the eighteenth.
Misogynists may derive what comfort they please from the fact that the traditional woman Freemason was initiated, if anywhere, in Ireland. They can undoubtedly contend that to open the fraternity to women would be a revolutionary change of policy. That the decision of French Freemasons will have much influence on the craft in England is not probable. In France membership has been associated with religious and political opinions which are either antagonistic or irrelevant to the principles of English Freemasonry. The fact, indeed, makes the proposal to admit women gore remarkable, for hitherto women have nowhere given much support to anti‑clerical or anti‑theistic parties. Whether it portends a new orientation of the Grand Orient we will not now inquire. It would be
B
xvi WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
impertinent to offer any advice to our Freemasons on a question of the constitution of their own fraternity. The most enthusiastic feminist may be content to admit that there is justification for the existence of societies confined to one sex. Such organisations have existed from the dawn of time, and women have eagerly maintained the exclusiveness of their own. But only an obscurantist would argue that the secrets of any fraternity are endangered by the admission of women. A social system which continually increases the number of women secretaries is sufficient evidence of the folly of that ancient libel.
The splendid works of charity which are the glory of English Freemasonry may suggest that ' women would be well fitted for membership of the craft. It might be argued, on the other hand, that a society composed of both sexes, however valuable, however s pleasant, would inevitably lose some of the valued qualities of a male fraternity. Just as affectionate and devoted wives have been known to thank Providence ' for the existence of their husbands' clubs, we suspect that many women would prefer the men of their families to enjoy the delights of the Masonic Lodge alone.
Though shut from our Lodges by ancient decree,
In spite of our laws, here woman has part;
For each Mason, I'm sure, will tell you with me,
Her form is enshrined and reigns in our heart.
'Twas wisely ordained by our Order of old
To fasten the door, which entrance denies;
For once in our Lodge she would rule uncontrolled,
And govern the Craft by the light of her eyes.
WOMAN
AND FREEMASONRY
CHAPTER I
ADOPTIVE MASONRY
The origin of Adoptive Masonry is placed generally in the seventeenth century, and its author is named as the widow of Charles I of England, daughter of Henry IV, and sister of Louis XIII of France. After the death of Charles I she is said to have been proclaimed "the protectress of the children of the widow, Freemasons in those days being known as "the children of the widow. She is said to have formed a society of women, to whom she communicated certain signs and passwords.
In 1712, in Russia, Catherine the Czarina obtained from Peter the Great permission to found the Order of St. Catherine, an Order of Knighthood for women only, of which she was proclaimed Grand Mistress. This was a quasi‑Masonic body.
In the eighteenth century there were four Grand Mistresses of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, which was an emanation of early Masonry. They
2 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
were the Princess of Rochelle in Italy, the Countess of Maille and the Princess de Latour in France; and the Duchess of Wisembourg in Germany.
The Chevalier Cesar Moreau states positively that Adoptive Masonry is of French origin.
"What other people, he says, could have raised this beautiful monument of national gallantry to a sex who, in the East, are subjected to the most humiliating dependence; who, in Spain, are guarded in living sepulchres, namely, the convents; while, in Italy, this admirable half of humanity is in the same position; and, in Russia, the husband receives from the father-in‑law, with his wife, the right to flog her at his pleasure? The French know too well how to appreciate the numberless merits of this charming sex to allow themselves to be influenced by any other nation in the happiness of proving to women that they are at all times their idols, from youth to age.
Clavel has recorded a curious anecdote respecting the origin of Female Freemasonry, which Dr. George Oliver finds it difficult to credit. He says that in the year 1741, a burgomaster of Holland having heard of some grotesque exhibition, which professed to be an exposition of Masonic secrets, caused himself to be proposed for admission that he might judge of the correctness of what he had seen; and that he secretly placed his daughter at a window to be a witness of his initiation. The plan succeeded and led to the establishment of Female Freemasonry.
In 1771 the Order of Perseverance was established at Paris by several nobles and ladies. It had little of the Masonic character about it, and although, at the time of its creation, it excited considerable
ADOPTIVE MASONRY 3
sensation, it existed but for a brief period. It was instituted for the purpose of rendering services to humanity. Ragon says that there was kept in the archives of the Order a quarto volume of four hundred leaves, in which were registered all the good deeds of the brethren and sisters, and he claimed that the document remained in existence at his time. Thory says that there was much mystification about the establishment of the Order in Paris. Its institutors contended that it originated from time immemorial in Poland, a pretension to which the King of Poland lent his sanction. Many persons of distinction, and among them Madame de Genlis, were received and became its members.
The real date of the establishment of Adoptive Masonry in France, however, may be placed as 1775, when, according to M. Boubιe, who is sometimes called the "Father of French Masonry, the French ladies, not wishing to remain indifferent to the good done by Freemasons, sought to form Lodges of Adoption, so as the more efficaciously to exercise charity and goodness.
At first the Grand Orient of France did not sympathise with the formation of these Lodges of Adoption, and for some time withheld its sanction, but eventually consented to take the oversight on the express condition that each meeting should be presided over by the Master of a regular Masonic Lodge. Immediately several ladies of distinction became active members and propagators, among the number being the Duchess of Chartres, the
4 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Duchess of Bourbon, the Princess Lambelle, the Countess of Polignac, the Countess of ChoiseulGouffier, and the Marchioness of Coutebonne.
On the 11th March, 1775, the Marquis de Saisseval, assisted by several distinguished Brethren, formed the Lodge of Candour under the Constitution of the Grand Orient of France. Fourteen days afterwards ‑ on 25th March, 1775 ‑ this Lodge gave a fete d'adoption, when the Duchess of Chartres, wife of the Grand Master of the Grand Orient, was present. There was also present the Duchess of Bourbon, who then consented to accept the position of Grand Mistress of Adoptive Masonry. Her installation took place on the following day, in the Lodge of St. Anthony in Paris, when the Duke of Chartres presided in his capacity as Grand Master. Nearly a thousand persons, the elite of French society, are said to have assisted at this function. In 1801 Adoptive Masonry established itself in Holland, where it reigned until 10th June, 1810, when it was peremptorily inhibited.
The Adoptive Rite consisted of four Degrees - Apprentice, Companion, Mistress, and Perfect Mistress. The first Degree was purely symbolical and introductory, intended rather to improve the mind than to convey any definite idea of the institution. The second Degree depicted the scene of the temptation in Eden, and the Companion was reminded in a lecture of the penalty incurred by the Fall. The third Degree alluded to the Tower of Babel and the confusion of tongues as a symbol of a badly regulated Lodge, while Jacob's Ladder was
ADOPTIVE MASONRY 5
introduced as a moral lesson of order and harmony. The fourth Degree, that of Perfect Mistress, represented Moses and Aaron, their wives, and the sons Aaron. The ceremonies referred to the passage the Red Sea by the Israelites, and the Degree said to symbolise the passage of men from the world of change and discord to a pure land of rest and peace.
The officers of a Lodge of Adoption consisted of Grand Master, Grand Mistress, Orator, Inspector, Inspectress, Depositor, Depositrix, Conductor, and Conductress. The sash and collar were blue, with a gold trowel suspended. The principal officers were provided with gavels or mallets, and each member was attired in a plain white apron and white gloves. The Brethren, as distinct from the Sisters, wore, in addition to the ordinary regalia, each a sword and a gold ladder of five rounds, this latter being the jewel of Adoptive Masonry. The business of each Lodge was conducted by the Sisters, the Brethren being looked upon as assistants only. Different descriptive hangings were provided for the various Degrees. In the first Degree, four curtains divided the room into four sections. The west represented Europe; the east, Asia; the south, Africa; and the north, America. Two thrones were erected in the east for the Grand Master and the Grand Mistress; before them was placed an altar, while to their right and left were placed eight statues representing Wisdom, Prudence, Strength, Temperance, Honour, Charity, justice,
6 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
and Truth. The members sat in two rows, to right and left, at right angles to the two presiding officers ‑ the Brethren, armed with their swords, in the back rows, and the Sisters in the front rows.
The Adoptive Lodges found many opportunities for the practice of beneficence, in which, particularly, they excelled. The records of the Adoptive Lodge of Candour show that frequently collections were made for the poor and distressed. In 1777, the Duchess of Bourbon presided at a meeting of this Lodge when there was a collection for a brave soldier of the Anjou regiment who had thrown himself into the frozen Rhone and rescued two drowning children. In 1779, through the agency of members of this Lodge, a poor nobleman, without profession or resources, obtained from the King a pension and a lieutenancy. This Lodge was disbanded in 178o, in consequence of Court movements. The Quadruple Lodge of the Nine Sisters was another prominent Adoptive Lodge, which held several fetes for philanthropic purposes. In 1780 a Lodge of Adoption was formed by the Lodge Social Contract to celebrate the convalescence of the Grand Master, the Duke of Chartres. This Lodge had for its first Master the Abbe Bertolio, who was assisted by the Princess Lamballe as Grand Mistress. Among the initiates of this Lodge were the Viscountess of Alfrey, the Viscountess of Narbonne and the Countess of Maille. In common with many others this Lodge was broken up by the Revolution.
ADOPTIVE MASONRY 7
Adoptive Masonry was seized by the comprehensive mind of the first Napoleon as a means to consolidate his power, and it rose into favour again on the re‑establishment of the Empire. In 1805, the unfortunate Empress Josephine was installed Grand Mistress of the Loge Imperiale d'Adoption des Francs Chevaliers at Strasbourg, when she initiated one of her ladies of honour, Madame F. de Canisy. M. Boubιe says that at no period in the history of Adoptive Masonry was there so brilliant a gathering. It was the first occasion on which French Masonry had been honoured with the presence of a sovereign.
The Rev. Dr. George Oliver, in his Revelations of a Square, gives an interesting account of a visit he paid to a Lodge of Adoption in Paris in 1808:
"The ceremonies are conducted with the utmost decorum. We are, of course, totally ignorant of the dark room, as none but females are admitted to that penetralia, and the preparations are conducted only by females; but when they are completed, and the trials come on, the Novice is conducted through the process by a lady and gentleman together.
"On this special occasion it was thought that the Candidate did not possess sufficient fortitude to endure the trials, and she was warned that if she had any doubts as to her power of endurance she had the opportunity of withdrawing. However, she indicated that she was quite willing to proceed, and she was accordingly conducted through the usual trials of fortitude and endured them with the courage of a martyr, and even at last, when placed on the summit of the symbolic mountain, and told she must cast herself down thence into the abyss below, where she saw a double row of bright
8 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
steel spikes, long and sharp. They were real, substantial spikes, and she would have been killed if impaled thereon.
"The word was given to throw herself down, and with a suppressed shriek she made the required plunge. So unexpectedly sudden was her obedience that the guide, who had charge of the machinery, was scarcely allowed time to touch the spring before she fell recumbent at the bottom of the abyss. The machinery is so contrived that at the very moment when the final leap is made the scene changes to an Elysium of green fields and shady trees, bubbling fountains and purling streams, and beneath the velvet herbage is placed a bed of the softest down, to receive the fair body of the exhausted Novice as she falls. In the present instance the lady fainted, and lay for a time without motion, but was soon restored and tranquillised by the application of essences and perfumes, and the soft and soothing influence of delicious music.
"Being afterwards introduced into the Lodge, her constancy was rewarded by witnessing and forming a part of the most beautiful and captivating scenes I ever beheld.
Adoptive Masonry found its way into Italy, and the following description of an initiation ceremony appeared in an Italian paper, Correspondence, published in Rome, in 1862
"In a room hung with black was raised a table covered with black cloth; on the table was a skull and above it was a lamp, which shed a funereal light. Eight personages: a Worshipful Grand Master, a Worshipful Grand Mistress, a Brother Orator dressed as a Capuchin, a Brother Inspector, a Sister Inspectress, Brother and Sister Deacons, and a Sister Guarder. These dignitaries wore on their breasts each a wide violet ribbon, to which was suspended a little gold trowel. The Grand Master held a hammer which served as his sceptre and marched at the side of the Grand Mistress.
ADOPTIVE MASONRY 9
The Brethren and Sisters all wore the regulation apron and white gloves. A Candidate was about to be initiated. The Grand Master clapped his hands five times and asked one of the officers: `What are the duties of a Masonic aspirant? ' The answer was given: `Obedience, labour, silence.' The Brother Orator then took the Candidate by the hand and conducted her to the dark room, when, having bandaged her eyes, he read her a homily on virtue and charity. When the bandage was removed she found herself surrounded by the Brethren in a circle, their swords meeting above her head. After another homily, pronounced by the Grand Master, he asked her if she had well reflected before entering a Society which was unknown to her, and then the proselyte took the oath or obligation, as follows:
I swear and promise faithfully to keep in my heart all the secrets of Freemasonry and engage to do so under the penalty of being cut in pieces by the sword of the avenging angel.' The Grand Master then explained to her the signs and gave her the password of the Order. Then, taking the initiate by the hand, he gave her, in a respectful manner, the five kisses of peace, and handed to her an apron and a pair of gloves.
In 1736, Pope Clement XII launched his famous Bull against the Freemasons, and the people, becoming alarmed, formed another Society on similar lines, but one which would not subject them to the thunders of the Vatican. This Society was known as the Mopses and, according to most writers, it did not become an androgynous Order until 1776, but, in 1745, a work was published at Amsterdam entitled, Le Secret de la Societe des Mopses, which had as frontispiece a plate depicting the reception into the Order of a female, while another female sat in the supreme chair. The Lodge‑room was in the form of a square, or, 'rather, a lozenge,
10 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
seeing that the cardinal points were at the angles. During the ceremonies the Brethren and Sisters stood in a circle, intersecting the lozenge at each angle, so as to leave the officers of the Lodge without the circumference. There were four great Lights, disposed at the angles. The Master, or Grand Mopse, was placed in a great chair, or throne, before a table in the east, and the two wardens were stationed in the west. In the centre of the Lodge was a Mopse, or the figure of a mastiff, with its head towards the east. On the pictorial design of the Order were two emblems of friendship, viz. two hands joined in fellowship; and a hand holding an open purse, from which another hand was extracting the contents. An altar was placed in front of the Wardens, on which was inscribed a heart within an oval, incense being kept burning upon the altar; on each side of the altar was a hand, as if grasping the altar in love. Females were admitted to all offices within the Order, with the exception of the Grand Mastership, which was held for life by a male. Subordinate to him were the two Grand Mopses, the one a male, the other a female, each governing the Order for six months in alternate succession. The Order grew and flourished, and by the admission of women they evaded the terms of the papal denunciation. The heads of the Germanic Union countenanced the Order and extended their patronage to the scheme, and at Frankfort the Lodges were composed of persons of rank of both sexes.
ADOPTIVE MASONRY 11
In 1805 the androgynous Lodge of Free Knights and Ladies of Paris held high festival at Strasburg. Lady Dietrick officiated as Grand Mistress, assisted by the Empress Josephine. Two years later the Lodge of St. Caroline held a festival in Paris, which was celebrated with great magnificence under the presidency of the Duchess of Vaudemont. The Prince Cambaceres, then Grand Master, was present, together with many of the nobility, both male and female, including the Princess de Carignan; the Countesses de Giraudin, de Roucherolles, de Laborde, de Bondy, etc.
CHAPTER II
THE FENDEURS
The Order of Fendeurs, or Forest Masons, possessed legends claiming a high antiquity. One professed to trace the Order back to the time of Alexander the Great, which was the ground for the introduction of a Degree called the "Knight of Thebes.The Fendeurs were, in all probability, a branch of the Carbonari, or Charcoal Burners, a political league which made its appearance in the twelfth century.
There was a revival in 1747 by the Chevalier Beauchaine, when the Order became so popular that ladies and gentlemen of the highest distinction and rank considered it an honour to be permitted to join it. It had a successful career until the restoration of the monarchy, when it was disbanded.
The Chantier, or Lodge, was held in the daytime. In summer it was held in a broad garden walk, adorned with trees, and in the winter in a large room adorned with branches of trees, or hangings representing a forest and the various occupations of the Fendeurs. When the sun set on their labours, they lighted a moving transparency of the sun in the east
12
THE FENDEURS 13
and a number of coloured lamps concealed in the branches.
The seat for the Master, or Pθre Maξtre, as he was called, was placed in the east, and was a great block of wood, called the Block of Honour. In front of it was placed a log of oak, with a woodcutter's axe and two wedges, one of iron and one of wood. To the right was a large tree stump, on which were placed the Constitutions of the Order, a stone cup, and a small black loaf for every Candidate for initiation, together with an envelope containing five sous, a pair of white gloves, a russet‑coloured sash edged with green, a small gilt axe on a ribbon, a box whistle on a rosette, and a carpenter's apron. Behind the Master's seat was placed a holly bush.
To the north were placed as many blocks as there were candidates, a crown of oak leaves being placed on each block.
In the south and north were arranged in the form of a circle as many faggots as there were Fendeurs present, while bundles of wood and beds of leaves or turf were also carelessly arranged.
Two blocks of oak, before each of which was placed a large log, were in the west. Beside each log was placed a wooden axe with a long handle, as well as two wedges, one of iron and one of wood. In the centre of the Chantier were placed a number of saws, axes, wedges, with chips, branches, and leaves.
At one time, says Ragon, in his Manuel complet de la Mafonnerie d'Adoption ou Maconnerie des Dames, four huts were erected towards the east.
14 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
The but to the right of the Master was made with three poles stretched apart, and held one to another by hoops. At the point of junction was a little vessel of water. It was furnished with straw mats and became the but of Cousin Hermit, dressed as a monk. He had for seat a stool, and in front a block on which was a stone money‑box and a book of meditations. In front of the block and underneath the water was a cushion for the Candidate to hear on his knees the exhortation of the Hermit. To give proof of his charitable disposition he was told to put the five sous, which had been given him, into the money‑box. Holding the cord leading to the bucket, Cousin Hermit said: "Be washed and purged from all the filth which accompanies the Briquet and may the protecting virtue of the Fendeurs be your guide and safeguard, and at the same time he upset the water over the Candidate.
The second but belonged to Cousin, Winedresser. It was made of leaves and well covered in. At the top projected a stick which was covered with a cabbage as a sign. Inside were two tressels and a barrel of wine for the refreshment of the Cousin by order of the Master. The honour of occupancy of the third but was reserved for the most frivolous member of the company, who took the name of Mθre Cateau and the costume of a woman, with a peasant woman's mob‑cap, a jacket, a red or blue petticoat, a fichu, a white apron, and a great golden cross and heart. Near to it was a wooden stool, a bucket full of water, a board crossed over it, some
THE FENDEURS 15
linen in suds, soap, and a round stick. In front was a faggot for the Candidate, who, emerging from his washing lesson, found himself covered with soap.
The fourth but was opposite the Winedresser's. It was made of earth, and with a long and broad straw bed. The occupant of this was known as Cousin Bear.
Both men and women were admitted to the Order, and the Oath taken by a female Candidate was as follows:
"I promise and swear on my word of honour, on the symbol of cleanliness, in the presence of the Pere Maitre and the worthy cousins of this Chantier, never to betray the secrets of the worthy Cousins or Companions, and if I fail in my promise I consent to be soaked, beaten and twisted like a bundle of dirty linen; then to be cast to the bottom of the vat of the worthy and benevolent Cousin Cateau, then to be exposed for forty days in the deepest Forest, to live on acorns only, like a sow, and to be devoured by wild beasts.
The following was the ceremonial adopted in the opening of a chantier:
Pθre Maξtre: - Chief of the Wood‑yard, Cousin Elm and Cousin Oak! See if the bar is in place, the tools well sharpened, and what sort of weather it is.
Answer: - "Pere Maitre, the sun is shining to hearten us for work, the bar of the Chantier is in place, and the tools are well sharpened.
Pθre Maξtre: - Therefore we can get to work. Announce to the good Cousins that the Chantier is open.
Answer: - Cousins; I give you notice on behalf of the Pθre Maξtre that the Chantier is open.
All shout three times "A l Avantage" and then "Vive les Fendeurs. While this is being done Cousin Elm goes out and, on returning beats la douelle and whistles,
16 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
the beats and whistles being repeated by all, in turn, with the exception of the Pθre Maξtre.
Pθre Maξtre: - Cousin Oak, go and see what it is.
Cousin Elm having made pretence to go out again returns with Cousin Oak.
Cousin Elm. Good luck, Pθre Maξtre, good luck.
Pθre Maξtre. Good luck, good Cousin, good luck. Whence comest thou?"
Cousin Elm. "From the Royal Forest, Pθre Maξtre, from the Vente d' Honneur, whence come all the worthy Cousins, good comrades Hewers.
Pere Maitre: - Whom didst thou meet in the forest?"
Cousin Elm. I met good Briquets and Briquettes.
Pθre Maξtre: - "What didst thou do with them?"
Cousin Elm. I shut them up in the but under the guard of the Aspen till you should give command concerning them.
Pθre Maξtre: - Cousin Aspen, are they safe?"
Cousin Aspen. "They are, Pθre Maξtre, I answer for them to you.
Pθre Maξtre: - "Go and fetch them one by one.
All present then sing:"Strike, Hewers, strike down to the heart of the tree.
RECEPTION OF CANDIDATE FOR INITIATION
A whistle is heard outside, which is repeated by all, excepting the Pθre Maξtre.
Pθre Maξtre: - Cousin Elm, what is it now?
Cousin Elm. Some one knocks at the Chantier.
Pθre Maξtre: - "Go and see who it is.
Cousin Elm. Pθre Maξtre, it is Cousin Aspen, who brings us a Briquet (i.e. Candidate).
Pθre Maξtre: - Bring him (or her) in.
The Candidate is brought in and placed before the Pθre Maξtre, who says: "What has made thee dare to come in our forests?"
Candidate (prompted). Pθre Maξtre, the sincere
THE FENDEURS 17
desire to be received as a good Cousin, a good Comrade Hewer.
The Pθre Maξtre asks the Candidate several questions, which if answered satisfactorily, he says: "Send him flying. When this command has been obeyed, the Pθre Maξtre says: "Cry his sale. The Candidate is then made to run three times round the Chantier, while the Cousins shout :"A l' Avantage.
Pθre Maξtre: - The sale of the Briquet is cried. Is anyone opposed to the sale?"
All. "No, Pθre Maξtre: -
Pθre Maξtre: - Show him the green leaf.
The Pθre Maξtre then addresses the Candidate as follows:
"So thou desirest to be one of us!; It seems to me that thou wilt have to lower thy views, for thou seest that we are poor country folk to whom work does not give polish, but who are more sincere than courtiers. We are of one heart and one mind; work is nought to us, we are used to it. He who has done thee harm will find it changed to good. We will defend thee as thou must us in danger. Thou seest our garments, our dwelling, and our food. They show the simplicity and the uprightness of our hearts. The sun rises always serenely for us, and the earth never refuses us her gifts, sickness is ever far from us, because we drive from our huts idleness, softness, and daintiness. This, in a few words, is the condition of our Society., It is thine, if thou art resolved to live as we do. If thou feelest any repugnance thou canst say so. I will make means easy for thee to depart from this Forest, safe and sound, under a trusty guard, who will put thee in thy way.
Candidate (prompted). Pθre Maξtre , I consent to all.
Pθre Maξtre: - Let him choose a godfather."
The Candidate is then led to the various huts in turn, at each of which he is made to work. He then returns to the Pθre Maξtre.
18 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Pθre Maξtre: - Art thou content?"
Candidate. Yes, Pere Maitre: -
The Oath or Obligation is then taken.
Pare Maitre. Art thou content? Wilt thou be faithful?"
Candidate. Yes, Pθre Maξtre.
Pθre Maξtre: - Cousin Oak, let the Candidate be seated on the Log of Honour.
The Candidate is then seated on the log, crowned with ivy and flowers, given wine to drink and black bread to eat, the Cousins meanwhile singing:"Long live the Fendeurs.
The Pθre Maξtre then gives him a piece of parsley, saying:
"Respect the stem from which this springs; use the fruit sparingly and destroy it neither in root nor branch.
The plant is then put in his buttonhole, his regalia is given him, and he is instructed in the various duties of a Cousin by Cousin Oak.
THE ORDER OF FELICITY,
or, to quote its French title, L'Ordre des Felicitaires, the Order of the Happy People, is claimed by some writers, particularly Clavel, as the original French androgynous institution. Clavel, in his Histoire pittoresque de la Franc‑Maconnerie, says:
"We do not know who was its inventor; but it made its first appearance in France, and is evidently a product of French wit. The rules of this Masonry, however, were only definitely settled after 1760, and it was recognised and sanctioned by the governing body of Masonry in 1774. At first it assumed various names and rituals, which have not reached us. In 1743, it had some nautical emblems and a vocabulary; and the Sisters used to make the fictitious voyage to the Isle of Felicity, under the sail of the Brothers and piloted by
THE FENDEURS 19
them. It was then the Order of the Happy Ones, which comprised the Degrees of Cabin‑boy, Captain, Commodore, and Vice‑Admiral, and had for Admiral, or Grand Master, M. Chambonnet, its author.
The date of its institution is given variously as 1730, 1742, 1743, and 1744, and Ragon also claims that its founder was M. Chambonnet, with some other sea officers. All the emblems of the Orders together with the ritual expressions, were nautical in character. In the Oath or Obligation, the Candidate pledged himself to preserve the secrecy of the ceremonial of initiation and never to moor a vessel in any port where there was already a vessel of the Order. If the Candidate was a female, she swore never to receive a foreign vessel into port.
Woodford, in Kenning's Masonic Cyclopadia, says that the sign of the Order was an anchor suspended from three silken cords. It did not last for long owing to a quarrel which occurred in 1745 when a new society was formed. The first account of the Order seems to be given in L' Antyopophile ou le Secret et les Misteres de l'Ordre de la Felicite, devoiles; pour; le bonheur de tout l' Univers. A. Arctopolis, 1746. Its word of greeting is said to have been the Hebrew Shalom Alechem, or Peace be with you.
The Boston Evening Post of 9th January, 1743, had, in its Roman letter, the following reference to the Order:
"We hear from Avignon, that a Society composed of persons of both sexes, has been lately formed there, under the name of `Knights and Knightesses of the
20 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Order of Felicity'; and as this Society has made a great noise, by reasons of the ceremonies performed at the admission of members into it, M. Joseph de Guyon de Crochans, Archbishop of that city, has published a mandate against it, wherein he expresses himself to the following purpose:
"That he cannot conceal the extreme uneasiness he is under at the repeated and circumstantial informations that have been given him concerning this society, the design of which can neither be the service of God nor a new engagement tending to greater perfection That he leaves it to the civil magistrates to inquire whether such associations are not destructive to the real good and repose of civil society; and that he exhorts the faithful in his diocese to be upon their guard against a society so suspicious on account of the frivolous and indecent ceremonies, to say no worse of them, that are observed at the reception of its members.
The Order which, for a long time, conducted its proceedings without reproach numbered at first many noblemen and distinguished women amongst its members. Afterwards, however, the meetings became so grossly immoral in character, females being, in some cases, passed through the various degrees practically in a state of nudity, that within two years of its foundation it was dissolved, to be succeeded, in 1745, by
L'ORDRE DES CHEVALIERS ET CHEVALILLRES
DE L'ANCRE
This Order preserved the principal features of the Order of Felicity. The same four Degrees were conferred; only the passwords and regalia were changed, the anchor again becoming the jewel of the Order.
THE FENDEURS 21
THE COMPANIONS OF PENELOPE, OR THE PALLADIUM OF LADIES
Very little is known of this Order, beyond the fact that it is believed to have been established in Paris in 1740 by "seven wise men. At initiation the Candidate was conducted by two members of the Order into the centre of the Temple, where was a table, on which was a white cloth, on which were three candles around a statue of Minerva. The following obligation was taken on initiation:
"I swear and promise on my honour to keep locked within my breast the knowledge that I may now acquire and never to speak of it save to Companions of the Order of Penelope or to the Companions of Ulysses.
THE FEUILLANTS, OR DAMES PHLEIDES
were established in Brittany in the middle of the eighteenth century. The sign was made by raising the hands to a level with the eyes, the palms turned upwards, and the five fingers joined. The grip was given by shaking hands with the fingers interlaced, the shake being given three times reciprocally. The password or phrase was: "Have you gathered the roses?" to which the response was: "Also the grapes.
THE KNIGHTS AND NYMPHS OF THE ROSE
This Order was founded in Paris in 1778 by M. Chaumont, private secretary to Louis‑Philippe of Orleans, at the request, it is said, of the Duke of Chartres. It was an androgynous Order: the male
22 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
president was known as the Hierophant and the female president as the High Priestess. Men were initiated by the Hierophant and women by the High Priestess. The obligation was as follows:
"I swear and promise in the name of the Maker of the Universe, Who has the power to renew unceasingly at His pleasure His most excellent work, never to reveal the secrets of the Order of the Rose. If I prove false to my oath, may the mysteries add nothing to my pleasures, and instead of roses of delight may I find only the thorns of repentance.
The temple of intiation was known as the Temple of Love. It was decorated in a very handsome manner and ornamented with devices of gallantry. Love‑knots were traced on the floor and on the carpet which surrounded the throne of the High Priestess, on which the Candidates for initiation stood during the ceremony. The initiation ceremony was very similar to that used in the Lodges of Adoption, but the following question was asked: "What age are you?" to which the Candidate, if a male, replied "The age to love, and, if a female "The age of pleasing and loving. Perfumes were offered to the statue of Venus by the Candidate on being conducted to the altar. In 1780, there was a grand festival of the Order in Paris, when the ceremony of the initiation of a Nymph of the Rose was performed in the presence of the Duke of Chartres.
THE DAMES OF MOUNT TABOR
made their appearance in France about 1810. The professed object of this Order was to afford succour
THE FENDEURS 23
to distressed females of good character. The usual amusements at their periodic meetings were the recital of poetry, music, speeches, and, not infrequently, dancing. The Order had nine Degrees, divided into two classes, moral and historical. They were as follows: 1. Novice Ecossais; 2 (moral), Novice Mason 3 (historical), Novice Mythologist 4 (moral), Discreet Fellowcraft; 5 (historical), Biblical Fellowcraft 6 (moral), Mistress Adonhiramite 7 (historical), Historical Mistress 8 (moral), Moral Mistress; g Grand Philosophical Mistress.
THE ORDER OF LIBERTY,
of which Moses was claimed as founder, admitted both men and women. The members wore in their buttonholes a chain with a jewel representing the two tables of the Law, but, instead of the ten commandments, the jewel had two wings to signify Freedom, with the motto: Virtute dirigit alas. On the reverse side was an M for Moses, with the date 6743. The command: "Thou shalt not commit adultery" is said purposely to have been omitted from their rules.
THE ORDER OF MEMPHIS,
sometimes called the Ancient and Primitive Rite, which had the power of admitting women, was established in Paris about the year 1838 by Jacques Etienne Marconis. This Rite had originally ninety-one Degrees, but they were afterwards increased to ninety‑seven. Its success was not great and it was
24 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
merged into the Grand Orient of France in 1862. It has been worked in England within recent years, but it has now fallen into disuse. It ceased to be recognised by the United Grand Lodge of England.
THE INDIFFERENTISTS
was an Order which existed in France in the middle of the eighteenth century. Mdlle. Salle, a famous danseuse, was for a time its president. Men and women were admitted to the Order, the Rites of which were of a quasi‑Masonic character. The badge was an imitation of an icicle. The members took an oath to fight against Love, whose power they renounced.
THE SOCIETY OF THE CHAIN
was a society on the Adoptive principle, which was founded in Denmark in 1777. It founded and maintained at its own expense the Asylum for the Blind at Copenhagen, said to have been the largest and best managed of all such institutions in Europe.
Among other Orders and Societies may be mentioned: The Order of Knights and Ladies of joy, founded in Paris in 1696, under the protection of Bacchus and Venus, whose printed statutes are still in existence; the German Order of the Rose, founded in Germany in 1784, by Grossinger, on the collapse of the Order of the Rose; the Order of the Lovers of Pleasure, founded by some young officers of the French army on 25th December, 1808, a
THE FENDEURS 25
military Order said to have been much favoured by Napoleon I.
The celebrated impostor, St. Germain, gave a check to androgynous Masonry by the establishment of his great Lodge at Ermonville, where scenes of the grossest licentiousness were exhibited. Every woman becoming a member became the common property of the brotherhood, with the exception of the one appropriated by St. Germain. She was known as the virgin and alone had the privilege of not being delivered over to the Adamites, until the leader fixed his choice on some other female member of the Order.
In a modified form Adoptive Masonry still exists, but it has not flourished under the Republic and its operations have been confined, until recently, to France. The system has been rejected by the Grand Lodge of England and by most of the Grand Lodges of the Overseas Dominions. A writer in the Freemasons' Quarterly Review of 1837 was, however, very eulogistic of the movement. He wrote concerning it:
"Adoptive Masonry stands a bright monument to female secrecy and fidelity, and proves how wrong all those are who fancy a woman is not to be trusted. There is not in the whole system of Adoptive Masonry a single step with which the most ascetic moralist could find fault: on the contrary, all is pure, all is beautiful; it is the brightest jewel with which the sombre records of Masonry are spangled.
The Masonic ladies used a symbolical language at their fκtes. Thus a Lodge was called Eden;
26 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
doors, barriers; the degrees, a ladder; glasses, lamps; wine, red oil; water, white oil; bottles, pitchers.
Mr. J. S. Tuckett, in a paper read before the Quatuor Coronati Lodge, No. 2076, recently, said that the earliest effort in France was undoubtedly that of the Order of Felicity. But androgynous Societes Burlesques were by no means a new invention. L'Ordre des Egyptiens, founded at Metz about 1635, is described in the Memoires of the Abbe Arnauld; L'Oydye des Coteaux is referred to by Boileau, La Bruyere, and by Des Maizeaux in the Vie de Saint‑Evyemonde; L'Ordre de la Boisson, founded at Arignor in 1700, published its journal Les Nouvelles de l'O de la B; Le Regiment de la Calotte appeared at about the same time and added several words derived from its observances to the French language; L'Ordre de la Monche d Miel, founded by the Duchesse de Laine in 1703, possessed its Medal of Membership inscribed L. Bar. D. Sc. D. P. D. L. 0. D. L. M. A. M., of which an engraving may be found in the Recreations Numismatiques of Tobiesen, Duby, 1786. These societies had their Grand Masters, Grand Mistresses, Trinkets, Tokens, Jewels, and Medals, and exacted an oath or promise from their Candidates, but‑and this is what marked a new departure in the Order of Felicity there is no indication that they worked a ritual or conferred any Degrees. In no sense were they "Secret Societies" or even "Societies possessing Secrets, which is by no means the same thing.
THE FENDEURS 27
There were also several Orders of Knighthoods formed at various periods, most, if not all, of which had their forms of initiation and some had rituals also. The most important of these which conferred the dignity upon woman as well as men were: The Order of the Torch, though this was for women only, was founded by Don Raymond, of Barcelona, in recognition of the bravery of the women who defended Tortosa against the Moors. Members of the Order had precedence of men, were exempted from all taxes, and, on their husband's deaths became possessed of all apparel and jewels left by them. The Order of Our Lady of Mercy, founded by James I, King of Aragon, admitted women as well as men; the members spent their lives in collecting alms and redeeming Christian slaves. The Order of the Cross of Jesus Christ, or the Knights of the Militia of St. Dominic admitted both sexes; it was founded to resist the progress of the Albigenses. The Order of the White Eagle, created by Vladislaus V of Russia; the Order of St. George of Burgundy, formed for the purpose of guarding some relics of St. George the Martyr; the Order of the Bee, in France; and the Order of the Cross of the South, instituted in 1822 by Pedro I, Emperor of Brazil; while among the Orders for women only are the Order of the Celestial Collar of the Holy Rosary; the Order of the Ladies Slaves to Virtue; the Order of the Star Cross (Austrian); the Order of St. Anne (for single women); the Order of St. Elizabeth (Bavarian); the Order of Maria Louisa
28 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
(Spanish); the Order of St. Ann (Bavarian); the Order of St. Isabella (Portuguese); the Order of Louisa (Prussian); the Order of Theresa (Bavarian); while England has an Order of the Imperial Cross of India, instituted in 1878 for ladies only. In 1856 a branch of the Order of the Daughters of Jericho was inaugurated in England, but apparently had only a brief existence.
CHAPTER III
EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND COUNT CAGLIOSTRO
IMMEDIATELY after the downfall of Napoleon, societies were formed in various European countries, chiefly by exiles, for the promotion of Italian independence. Even Egypt became a centre of this propaganda, and, under the auspices of Mehemet Ali, who aspired to render himself independent of the Sublime Porte, an Egyptian rite was established under the name of the "Secret Egyptian Society. In the Lodges of Alexandria and Cairo alone, the Greek and Arab women numbered more than three hundred.
Closely bound up with this Egyptian Masonry was the celebrated unprincipled adventurer, claimed by some writers to be the well‑known Joseph Balsamo, known as the Count Cagliostro, who imposed upon our Masonic forefathers, as he did upon the rest of the world. In 1776 he was initiated into Freemasonry in the Esperance Lodge, No. 269, which was attached to what was known as the Rite of Strict Observance: This Lodge met at the King's Head Tavern in Gerrard Street, Soho, W., and was composed mainly of French and Italian Brethren.
29
30 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
His entry into the Craft was made through the friendship of Comte de Sainte Germain.
Shortly before quitting London, Cagliostro purchased some manuscripts, the property of one George Coston, who was a total stranger to him. These documents treated of Egyptian Masonry, and on these documents Cagliostro founded the system which ultimately spread to every part of the world and contributed to the notoriety of the author. In this system he promised to conduct his followers to perfection by means of moral and physical regeneration; by causing them to find the primal matter or philosopher's stone, and the acacia which consolidates in man the powers of the most vigorous youth and renders him immortal, by teaching him how to procure the pentagon, which restores man to his primitive state of innocence, forfeited by original sin.
According to another account Cagliostro was a disciple of a Jutland merchant who had lived for some time in Egypt, and who, in 1771, began to initiate candidates into the supposed ancient Mysteries of Memphis. He remained some time in Malta, though the only Mysteries he appears to have taught there were the tenets of Manes. Cagliostro certainly became one of the members of an Illuminati Lodge, established in Paris in 1781 by Savalette la Lange, other members being St. Germain, Mesmer, and Raymond. This Lodge is supposed to have been founded on the revelation of Swedenborg, and corresponded, by means of
EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND CAGLIOSTRO 31
accredited agents, with all the European branches of the Order. Two other Lodges were formed in Paris at the same time, one being aristocratic, called the Lodge of Candour; the other philosophical, known as the Nine Sisters. Like many other Lodges they secretly taught Republicanism.
In Courland, Count and Madame Cagliostro established Masonic Lodges in accordance with what they claimed to be the sublime rites of Egyptian Masonry, which Cagliostro claimed it was his mission to restore; and in Paris he prosecuted with great vigour his plans to resuscitate Freemasonry according to the Egyptian rite. A Lodge was formed first, however, at Lyons, to which was given the name of "Triumphant Wisdom, and this was regarded as the mother Lodge of the rite. Its patent was as follows:
HONOUR, WISDOM,
UNION,
BENEFICENCE, COMFORT.
"We, Grand Copt in all Eastern and Western parts of Europe, Founder and Grand Master of Egyptian Masonry, make known to till who may read this that during our stay at Lyons many members of the Lodge of the Orient and Ordinary Rite, which has adopted the distinguishing title of `Wisdom,' have expressed their ardent wish to place themselves under our rule, to be enlightened in true Masonry.
"We are pleased to accede to their wish, etc., etc.
Madame Cagliostro became Grand Mistress of the Lodge of Isis, which, in 1784, counted among its adepts some of the most prominent of the French titled women.
D
32 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
As Grand Copt, Cagliostro was solemnly adored; he was invested with the power of commanding angels, invoked on all occasions, and everything was accomplished through the force of the power which he claimed was imparted to him by the Deity. The ritual included the recitation of the Veni Creator Spiritus, the Te Deum, and certain of the Psalms of David, but in the Psalm Memento, Dontine, David, et omnis mansuetudinis ejus, the name of Cagliostro was substituted every time that of David occurred. All faiths, Protestant, Catholic, non‑Christian, were admitted, and the men who were elected to the rank and position of Master took the names of ancient prophets and the women those of Sybils.
On 7th August, 1785, there was a great ceremony of initiation in a mansion in Rue Verte, Faubourg Saint‑Honore, Paris, when thirty‑six females were admitted into the Order. Each initiate had to contribute the sum of one hundred louis, to undertake to abstain from all intimacy with mankind, and to submit to everything which might be imposed upon them. On entering the first apartment of the mansion, the ladies were obliged to disrobe and to put on a white garment with a coloured girdle. The candidates were separated into six groups of six each, each group wearing different coloured girdles. They were then conducted into a temple, lighted from the roof, and seated upon thirty‑six arm‑chairs upholstered in black satin. Madame Cagliostro, attired in white, was seated on a throne, and, when the light was lowered, she commanded the candi‑
EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND CAGLIOSTRO 33
dates to uncover the left thigh to above the knee, to raise the right arm, and to rest it upon an adjacent pillar. The Grand Mistress then delivered an oration which advocated the emancipation of womankind from the shameful bond imposed upon them by man. At the conclusion of the oration, the candidates were conducted to separate apartments, each of which opened on to the garden. There they were visited by male admirers, but, having regard to the oath taken, they refused to enter into any conversation with them and spurned all overtures, and, after a time, the thirty‑six were conducted once more into the temple. Within a short time, the vaulted roof opened suddenly and Cagliostro, seated on a golden sphere, as naked as he was born., holding a serpent in his hand, and with a flaming star on his head, descended into their midst. The Grand Mistress announced that this was the Genius of Truth, the divine Cagliostro, who had come to initiate them into the secrets of Freemasonry.
Cagliostro, or the Grand Copt, as he described himself, then ordered them to dispense with all their clothing. If they were to receive the truth, they must be naked as truth. The example of dispensing with clothing was set by the Grand Mistress and followed by the thirty‑six candidates. Cagliostro then delivered his address, at the conclusion of which he was hauled up on his golden sphere through the opening in the roof. The ladies clothed themselves and the evening terminated in an elaborate banquet, when the initiates were joined by
34 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
their male acquaintances, notwithstanding the obligations they had taken.
Cagliostro asserted that this particular brand of Masonry was instituted by Enoch and its teachings promulgated by Elijah. The sole qualification for membership was a belief in God. The Obligation taken by candidates was as follows:
"I swear before the Eternal God, the Grand Mistress, and before all who hear me, never to write or cause to be written anything that shall pass under my eyes, condemning myself in the event of imprudence and to be punished according to the laws of the grand founders and of all my superiors. I likewise promise the exact observance of the other six commandments imposed upon me: that is to say, love of God, respect for the sovereign, veneration for religion and the laws, love of my fellow‑creatures, an unbounded attachment to our Order, and an unquestioning submission to the rules and code of our ritual as may be communicated to me by the Grand Mistress.
On the initiation of a candidate, the Grand Mistress breathed on her face from the forehead to the chin, saying:
"I thus breathe upon you to cause the Truth possessed by us to germinate and penetrate within your heart; I breathe upon you to fortify your spiritual part; I breathe upon you to confirm you in the faith of your Brethren and Sisters, in accordance with your undertaking. We greet you as a lawful daughter of Egyptian Masonry of this Lodge. We desire that you be recognized as such by all the Brethren and Sisters of the Egyptian ritual, and that you enjoy the same prerogatives as they. Lastly, we impart to you the supreme pleasure of being henceforth and for ever a Freemason.
EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND CAGLIOSTRO 35
On admission each woman was presented with two pairs of gloves and a cockade. One pair she kept for her own use and the other pair with the cockade she was instructed to give to the man for whom she had the greatest regard.
The ceremony of the Third Degree was rendered with great pomp and grandeur. On that occasion a young, innocent girl, to whom was given the name of columba (dove), was introduced, and the Grand Master claimed to impart to her the power he possessed of communing with spiritual beings. These spirits, or angels, were said to be seven in number, governing the seven planets and surrounding the throne of the Eternal One, their names being Azrael, Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Ariel, Zobiachel, and Anachiel. The girl, who was clothed in a long, white robe, which was adorned with blue ribbons, and wearing a red scarf, was shut up in a tabernacle which was placed on the altar of the temple. From a window in this tabernacle she gave the replies to the questions asked her, which related generally to the fitness of the candidates for advancement to the Degree.
The emblems used in Egyptian Masonry were the triangle, the septangle, the trowel, the compasses, the square, the gavel, the death's head, the cube, the rough ashlar, a wooden bridge, Jacob's ladder, the phoenix, the globe, and Father Time.
The following advertisement from Cagliostro appeared in the Morning Herald in November, 1786:
36 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
TO ALL TRUE MASONS:
"In the Name of 9, 5, 8, 14, 20, 1, 8 [Jehovah]9, 5, 18, 2o, 18 [Jesus].
"The Time is at hand when the Building of the New Temple, or New Jerusalem, 3, 8, 20, 17, 8 [Church] must begin; this is to invite all True Masons in London to join in the Name of 9, 5, 18, 20, 18 [Jesus] the only one in whom there is a Divine 19, 17, 9, 13, 9, 19, 23 [Trinity] to meet to‑morrow evening the 3rd instant, 1786 (or 5790), at Nine o'clock at Riley's, Great Queen Street; to lay a plan for the laying the first stone of the foundation of the true 3, 8, 20, 17, 8 [Church] in this visible world, being the material representative Temple of the Spiritual 9, 5, 17, 20, 18, 11, 5, 12 [Jerusalem].
"A Mason, and member of the new 3, 8, 20, 17, 8 [Church].
Cagliostro celebrated the festival of his Order on St. John the Evangelist's day, which was the day on which, later, he was committed to a Roman prison. His reason for adopting this day was, according to his own account, because of the close affinity that existed between the Apocalypse and the workings of his ritual.
Cagliostro's practices were detected by two disguised familiars of the Inquisition at Rome, whom he had imprudently admitted into his confidence. He was condemned to death, but the sentence was ultimately commuted to perpetual imprisonment. He was sent to the Chateau St. Angelo, whence he attempted to escape by a singular stratagem. He petitioned to be permitted to do penance for his offences, and for a priest to receive his confession, which was granted. Con‑
EGYPTIAN MASONRY AND CAGLIOSTRO 37
fession being over, he requested the Capuchin to inflict the scourge; but, after a few stripes, Cagliostro sprang upon the Friar with the intention of strangling him and making good his escape in his garments. The Capuchin, however, was too quick for him and succeeded in keeping him in play until the keepers of the prison came to his assistance. Cagliostro died in the Castle of St. Angelo, and his so‑called Egyptian Masonry perished with him.
It is only just to add that a copy of the ritual of Egyptian Masonry as practised by Cagliostro and his wife, Lorenza Feliciana, is in the possession of the Universal Order of Co‑Masonry, the teaching of which is of a profound morality, containing no suggestion of any indelicate procedure as asserted by some writers.
Mr. A. E. Waite, in his recently published Encycloζdia of Freemasonry, quotes from the rituals of Egyptian Masonry in the possession of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. According to these Rituals there were three Grades or Degrees: Apprentice, Companion, and Master, the Lodge being opened with prayer in each Degree. The Adoptive Grades formed a separate branch of which Madame Cagliostro was Grand Mistress.
CHAPTER IV
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY
THE following Ritual of Adoptive Masonry is translated, for the first time, from a French document issued in 1783.
ADOPTIVE MASONRY
There is wanting in the Order of Freemasonry the pleasure of the company of the fair sex, the members of which are always an ornament to the most reputable societies. Adoptive Masonry enables Brethren to secure this signal favour.
DECORATION OF THE LODGE
The Apprentices' Carpet, on which is traced a diagram of the Lodge, is placed in the centre of the temple. On it is placed the Noah's Ark, floating on the waters; the Tower of Babel; and Jacob's Ladder. Behind the Grand Inspector is placed a table covered with a black cloth, on which a skeleton is laid. Behind the Grand Master, a little above his head, stands the Destroying Angel, holding a naked sword in his right hand and an iron chain in his left hand. By the side of the Grand Master are two stools, on each of which is placed a pan filled with rope ends, spirits of wine, and salt, wherewith to make a flame. These pans are sometimes placed on stools in the centre of the temple. By the side of the table which is behind the Grand Inspector are placed two Brethren, wearing masks which cause them to look repulsive; their hats are fixed firmly on their
38
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 39
heads and each holds a torch lighted by means of powdered sulphur and refined pitch.
ARRANGEMENT OF THE LODGE
The President of the Lodge is addressed as Grand Master, He wears suspended from his neck a blue or black cord, from the bottom of which hangs a small trowel. He wears his hat in Lodge, holds a naked sword in his left hand and a trowel in his right. Each Brother also carries a naked sword in order to form the arch of steel, referred to later on in the Ritual. The Grand Inspector is placed in the west of the Lodge; but, unlike the Grand Master, does not wear his hat. The Brethren also remain with heads uncovered throughout the proceedings, but the Sisters have their heads covered. The Grand Inspector wears a blue cord round his neck from which is suspended a small hammer. The Brethren and Sisters arrange themselves in oblong form around the Lodge, each wearing a white apron and having a small trowel suspended from a blue ribbon which is worn around the neck.
RITUAL FOR THE OPENING OF THE LODGE
Grand Master: - "Brethren and Sisters, assist me to open this Lodge of Apprenticed Adoptive Masons.(These words are repeated, first by the Sister Inspector and then by the Brother Inspector.)
Grand Master: - "Sister Inspector, what is the first duty of a Mason?"
Sister Inspector. To see that the Lodge is properly tyled to prevent the admission of the uninitiated.
Grand Master: - "Then, my dear Sister, assure yourself that this has been done.
Sister Inspector. Brother Inspector, will you see that the Lodge is properly tyled and report to me?"
The report having been given,
Sister Inspector. Grand Master, the Brother Inspector reports that the Lodge is properly tyled.
Grand Master: - "Are you an Apprenticed Mason?"
Sister Inspector. "I believe so.
40 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Grand Master: - "If you believe it, why are you not certain?"
Sister Inspector. Because an Apprentice is certain of nothing.
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of a Mason?"
Sister Inspector. To listen, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "At what time do Masons begin to work?"
Sister Inspector. At the moment of awaking.
Grand Master: - "What time is it now?"
Sister Inspector. The moment for awaking and the hour for working.
The Grand Master gives five raps on the pedestal and says:
"Sister and Brother Inspectors, give warning to the Brethren and Sisters in your neighbourhoods that this is the moment for awaking and the hour for working, and that I am about to open a Lodge of Apprenticed Masons.
This injunction having been obeyed by these Officers, the Grand Master gives a further five raps with his trowel on the pedestal and says:
"My dear Brethren and Sisters, I declare this Lodge of Apprenticed Adoptive Masons open in the name of T. G. A. 0. T. U., in the names of our lawful superiors, and in the name of this respectable assembly.
This formula having been repeated by the two Inspectors, all the Brethren and Sisters give the sign of Jacob's Ladder, clap their hands five times, and repeat five times the word "Vivant.
CEREMONY OF THE FIRST DEGREE
INITIATION OF APPRENTICES
It is essential that all ladies who present themselves for initiation should be in good health, of good repute, and that one of the Brethren of the Lodge should give a guarantee of fitness,
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 41
The Candidate must, on admission to the precincts of the temple, be placed in a darkened room, which must not be illuminated with more than one faint light, and in which a skull shall be placed in such a position that the Candidate cannot fail to observe it. She is waited upon by the last admitted initiate, who asks her if it is of her own free will and after mature reflection that she seeks admission into an Order of such high repute. These questions being answered satisfactorily she asks her if she is in good health, because she will pass through some very trying experiences, which, however, will not be in any way improper or revolting to the most virtuous person.
The Candidate is then told, as the first test of her discretion, to remain in the darkened room and not to attempt to leave. The door is then closed upon her and she is left to her own reflections for a time.
The Sister returns after an interval, when she urges the Candidate to exhibit much firmness. The left garter of the Candidate is removed and replaced by a blue ribbon of a yard and a quarter in length. Her right cuff and glove are also removed. Her money, jewels, and trinkets are taken from her, and she is informed that they will be given or sold for the benefit of the poor. The Candidate is then blindfolded, told to place her trust in God, and she is conducted to the door of the temple, on which she is told to give five raps.
The door is opened by the Brother Inspector, who asks the question: "Who knocks?"
Director of Ceremonies. "An unenlightened who seeks to be adopted by us.
The door of the temple is closed and the request, made through the Director of Ceremonies, is repeated to the Grand Master, who requests the Sister Inspector to ask the Candidate for her name, age, religion, occupation, and the name of her guarantor; and to inform the Candidate of the qualifications essential for her adoption. The Sister Inspector, on her return to the temple,
42 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
gives these particulars to the Grand Master, who asks the Brother who stands as sponsor if he knows the Candidate well and if he believes she has the necessary dispositions for admittance into the Order.
Satisfactory assurances in this regard having been given, the Grand Master says:
"Brethren and Sisters, do you consent to the adoption of Madame (or Mademoiselle) N. . . .? Do any object?"
If the answer is unanimously in the affirmative, the Grand Master says:
"Sister Inspector, give admission to the Candidate.
The Candidate, accompanied by the Director of Ceremonies and her guide, then enters and is placed in front of the Grand Master, who addresses her upon the objects of the Order into which she seeks admission. At the conclusion of the Oration he asks her
"Madame (or Mademoiselle), what is your desire?"
Candidate. "To be initiated as a Mason.
Grand Master: - "What opinion have you formed of Masonry? Tell me frankly your opinion of the Order.
The reply to this question is given by the candidate in her own words.
Grand Master: - "Are you willing to pass through the ceremonies, both moral and physical, which are a necessary condition to admission: reflect well, because there is still the opportunity for you to retire, should you so desire; but in another moment it will be too late.
Candidate. "I am.
Grand Master: - "Are you willing to make a sacrifice of your jewels for the benefit of the poor?"
Candidate. "I am.
Grand Master: - "Are you willing to submit to trials by fire, water, and blood?"
Candidate. "I am.
The Grand Master then directs the Brother Inspector to conduct the Candidate on the five mysterious journeys.
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 43
At the end of each journey the Grand Master asks the Brother Inspector if he has observed any trembling on the part of the Candidate, and at the termination of the fifth journey, the Grand Master says:
"Do you still persist in your desire;; the trials to follow are more severe?"
Candidate. I do.
Grand Master: - "Brother Inspector, cause the Candidate to advance five steps under the arch of steel.
In order to form this arch of steel all the Brethren kneel on the floor of the Lodge, raising their swords. This having been done, the Grand Master says:
Brother Inspector, cause the Candidate to pass through the trial by fire.
The Candidate is then conducted twice round the lighted braziers.
Grand Master: - "Cause her to purify herself by passing through the water.
The Candidate is then told to wash her hands.
Grand Master: - "Do you still persist in your request?"
Candidate. I do.
Grand Master: - "Will you sign this declaration in your blond?
Candidate. I will.
Grand Master: - " Brother Surgeon, do your duty.
A request is here made for mercy, which is granted by the Grand Master.
Grand Master: - "If it is still your wish to continue, listen to the words of the Brother Orator.
ADDRESS ON THE INITIATION OF APPRENTICES
Man is born with the instinct of charity and fellowship engraven in his heart; the seeds of these two qualities are sown by the paternal favour of the Creator, and man in practising these precepts, before under‑
44 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
standing the utility and necessity of a bond which mitigates the severity of our condition, sows flowers on the thorny path of our life. The first feeling of man on leaving the hands of his Creator must, undoubtedly, be that of His existence. So long as he is alone his heart has no other view; but so soon as he has beholden that charming creature which loving, powerful Nature has framed to be his companion, the germs of beneficence are
developed; he forgets, so to speak, his existence and abandons the love of himself in order to transfer it to her who waits on his pleasure.
The foundations of society were therefore laid in the Garden of Eden, and it was in that delightful sojourn, the asylum of virtue, innocence, and peace that beneficence and all the other sociable virtues were practised in all their purity by our first parents for so long as they were both contented with their strength, thinking only of enjoying the sweet fruits of their union, their happiness was without bitterness and they enjoyed in their hearts the ineffable blessings of terrestrial felicity. Unhappily evil approached very closely to the happiness. Adam and Eve were the first to discover, though too late, this sorrowful truth, by transmitting to their posterity the bitter fruits of their disobedience, curiosity, and weakness. Their hearts, like Noah's Ark, floating at the mercy of the winds on the waters of the abyss which covered the surface of the earth, yielded with like ease to any impression. Society and pride, sustained by all the other passions, ever since then have triumphed over obedience and direction, which have no other support than weakness and plunge our happiness into humiliation and misery.
This allegory of the Fall of Man through weakness and curiosity you can trace, Madame, in a striking and forcible manner in the sad condition of our degeneration, but we offer, at the same time, the means of reparation, which, though it may depend on our feeble nature, are the means we find assembled in order or admitted under the emblems which we discover when we look closely, and of which I will give you the explanation.
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 45
You see first o all, Madame, in this Lodge of Apprentices, the Ark of Noah, the Tower of Babel, and the Ladder of Jacob, drawn in picture. The Ark of Noah represents the heart of man, the eternal plaything of the passions, like the Ark floating on the waters of the Deluge; and we learn that we ought so to fortify our souls by the precepts of virtue that in the midst of this tempest we may, like Noah and his family, be saved from shipwreck. The Tower of Babel is the emblem of the pride of man who desires to oppose his weakness to the eternal decrees of Providence, and who, for the fruits of his labours, will reap only shame and confusion, from which he is not able to guard himself except by presenting the prudent heart which is the characteristic of a Mason. On the other side of the picture you will see a ladder, the meaning of which may seem to be quite mysterious. It teaches us that the means of arrival at true happiness, like to that of which Jacob dreamed and which is represented by the steps, ought to be grounded on the love of God and neighbour, just as the steps of the ladder rise upwards and connect earth with heaven. All these things are secured by the practice of caution, strength, constancy, and the precepts of Masonry. These are, Madame, the mysteries to which I would to‑day call your attention.
My heart will call to mind with the sweetest emotion this solemn day on which you were initiated, through our feeble ministrations, into the most sublime and reputable Order of Masonry. May you, Madame, spend happy days with those who, like you, ask great favours from T. G. A. 0. T. U., and may you taste a succession of pleasures as intense and as pure as those which we experience every time that we call you by the beloved name of Sister.
The Address being ended, an acclamation is made:
Grand Master: - Madame, the pleasing things which ‑you have heard have, no doubt, encouraged you to request that you may be received amongst us. If that is your desire, approach.
46 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
The Candidate is then brought to the pedestal, where she kneels.
Grand Master: - "Destroying angel, bring the chain which you reserve for incautious Masons of both sexes. Madame, I am compelled to attach this chain to you order that you may recall unceasingly that which you have promised. You wish to be admitted into a most reputable Order in which there is nothing contrary to religion, to the State, or to virtue. The firmness which you have displayed in the trials which you have undergone, the probity which you have shown, and your known virtue are sure guarantees to us of your manner of thinking: perfect this good work and be persuaded that repentance will never attend your attempt.
"Place your hand, Madame, upon this Book of Truth and repeat after me the following Obligation, which we bind you for ever to the most ancient and most reputable Order in the world.
OBLIGATION
"I................ promise, on my word of honour in the presence of T. G. A. 0. T. U. and of this respectable assembly, faithfully to guard, conceal, and retain in my heart the secrets of Masons and of Adoptive Masonry; moreover, to listen, to obey, to work, and to keep silent, under the penalty of being struck with the sword of the Destroying Angel, and of being despised and disgraced. May my mind by its virtues be rendered worthy of so reputable a Society. I promise, moreover and undertake to sleep this night with [here the Grand Master pauses for a moment] the garter of the Order as T. G. A. shall help me.
The Obligation taken, the Grand Master rises and touches the Initiate with the trowel on the right eye the right ear, the nose, the mouth, and the breast saying:
"By the power which I have received from this respectable Lodge, I receive you as an Adoptive Mason.
The Director of Ceremonies then takes away the chain. The Grand Master gives a rap on the pedestal
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 47
with his trowel, and all the Brethren take their swords in their hands.
Grand Master: - "Brother Director of; Ceremonies, conduct the newly initiated Sister to a convenient spot where she may receive her reward.
When this has been done, he says:
"What do you ask, Sister, because it is with true pleasure that I address you by the term ` Sister ' instead of that of ` Madame'?"
Answer: - "To see the light.
Grand Master: - "Brother Director of Ceremonies, you will give her the fifth rap. Brethren and Sisters to order.
The Grand Master then gives five raps with his trowel, and the Director of Ceremonies restores the Candidate to light by taking off the bandage, her face being turned towards the skeleton.
Grand Master: - Look with horror on her condition, the result of sin. Consider what she has been, what she is, and what she will become.
At this juncture the two Brethren with the repulsive masks come and stand on either side of the skeleton, their torches being aflame.
Grand Master: - Leave her to make serious reflections upon her present state so that she may pass from death to life.
After a moment the two Brethren turn her sharply round to face the East, so that she may see the splendour of the Lodge. All the Brethren are holding their swords in their hands, the points being directed towards the newly initiated.
Grand Master: - "Sister, all these swords which you see are drawn in your defence, if ever you should have cause for their assistance. Approach, Sister, to receive the insignia of the Order. This material originally scanned by Ralph Omholt, Kirkland Chapter 176, Washington.
The Brother Inspector then leads her by five steps to the Grand Master.
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48 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Grand Master: - "Brethren and Sisters, you have been witnesses of the great cautiousness of our newly initiated Sister.
The Grand Master takes from underneath the pedestal (or altar, as it is known) a crown of flowers, which he places on the head of the Initiate, as a reward for her discretion. He then hands her the apron of the Order, saying:
"This is to remind you of the candour which as a Mason you must have.
He then hands her the gloves, saying:
"The whiteness of these gloves, which are intended for you, indicate what should be the purity of your actions.
He then gives her a pair of men's gloves, saying:
"This respectable Lodge has asked me to hand you these gloves in order that you may pass them on as a present to the Mason whom you esteem most highly.
He then hands to her the garter of the Order, saying:
"This garter is of white skin and has written on it in letters of gold: VIRTUE, HONOUR, SILENCE.
Grand Master: - "Sister Inspector, take away; the blue ribbon and fasten the garter in its place.
The Grand Master then gives the Initiate the kiss of association.
Grand Master: - We have for our mutual recognition two signs and two passwords. The two words are Feix, Feax, which signify `Academy' or `School of Virtue.' The password which we adopt for mutual recognition is 'Etamie.' It signifies `Amity,' for we know that amity which has virtue for its base leads to true felicity.
The Director of Ceremonies then introduces the Initiate to the Brethren and Sisters present. When this has been done, and she has been tested in the passwords and grips by the Grand Master, her money and
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 49
jewels are returned to her by the Grand Master, who says:
"My dear Sister, we deprived you of all metals and trinkets, because they are the emblems of vices. You sacrificed them, but the Lodge is content with your submission and have charged me to return them to you, exhorting you to employ them in good works and, above all, in the relief of your Brethren and Sisters who may be in want.
Grand Master: - Brother Director of Ceremonies, conduct the Sister to the West, in order that she may listen to the Instruction.
INSTRUCTION OF AN APPRENTICE
Grand Master: - "What is the first care of a Mason?"
Answer: - To see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
Grand Master: - Are you an Apprenticed Mason?"
Answer: - I believe so.
Grand Master: - Why do you not say that you are sure?"
Answer: - Because an Apprentice is sure of nothing.
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of all Masons?"
Answer: - To obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - Where were you admitted?"
Answer: - In a place inaccessible to the uninitiated.
Grand Master: - How do you know that you are an Apprenticed Mason?"
Answer: - By that which all the most reputable Masons have.
Grand Master: - What is it that the most reputable have?"
Answer: - Two signs and two passwords.
Grand Master: - Give me the signs.
These are given.
Grand Master: - What is the significance of this sign?"
Answer: - The Ladder of Jacob.
Grand Master: - Whither does this ladder lead?"
50 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Answer: - To felicity.
Grand Master: - How do you respond to the first sign?
Answer: - "By a second, which consists of bringing the thumb and little finger to the nostrils.
Grand Master: - Give me the passwords.
Answer: - "Give me the first and I will give you the second.
Grand Master: - Feix.
Answer: - Feax.
Grand Master: - "What is the meaning of these two words?"
Answer: - They form one only and mean an Academy or School of Virtue.
Grand Master: - "What is this school?"
Answer: - Masonry.
Grand Master: - How were you received?"
Answer: - By five knocks.
Grand Master: - How were you introduced into the Lodge?"
Answer: - Blindfolded.
Grand Master: - Why?"
Answer: - In order that I might learn that before I attained to the sublime mysteries it was necessary to overcome curiosity and that I might learn the ignorance of the uninitiated when speaking of our mysteries.
Grand Master: - "How did you gain access to our mysteries?"
Answer: - "Through an arch of iron and steel.
Grand Master: - "What did this arch represent?"
Answer: - "The strength and stability of the Order.
Grand Master: - "How did you obtain access to a Lodge?"
Answer: - By knocking five times on the entrance door.
Grand Master: - Where were you received?"
Answer: - "Between the Tower of Babel and the Ladder of Jacob and at the foot of Noah's Ark.
Grand Master: - "What does this Tower of Babel represent?"
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 51
Answer: - The pride of the children of the earth which we can overcome by presenting a cautious mind, which is the characteristic of all true Masons.
Grand Master: - What does the Ladder of Jacob represent?"
Answer: - This ladder is very mysterious: the two sides represent the love of God and our neighbour, and the steps symbolise the virtues secured by a beautiful life.
Grand Master: - What does the Ark of Noah represent?"
Answer: - The heart of man agitated by his passions, as the Ark was swayed by the waters of the Deluge.
Grand Master: - What quality ought we to bring to the Lodge?"
Answer: - "A horror of vice and a love of virtue.
Grand Master: - What do you call those who are not Masons?"
Answer: - The uninitiated.
Grand Master: - How do you treat those who are not Masons, but who are worthy to be such?"
Answer: - All virtuous men and women are our friends, but we only recognise men and women who are Masons as our Brethren and Sisters.
Grand Master: - To what ought we to apply ourselves?"
Answer: - To the purification of our morals.
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of all Masons?"
Answer: - To listen, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "What is that you hear?"
Answer: - The explanation of our mysteries.
Grand Master: - What is the quality of our obedience?"
Answer: - Free and voluntary.
Grand Master: - "What is the aim of our work?"
Answer: - To make us useful and agreeable to our Brethren and Sisters.
Grand Master: - "In what are you silent?"
Answer: - In the mysteries of Freemasonry.
52 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Grand Master: - Why were you introduced by five raps?"
Answer: - To bring to our remembrance the five points of Masonry, which are the love of our neighbour, the desire of meriting the esteem of our Brethren and Sisters, the wish to oblige them, cautiousness, and obedience.
Grand Master: - What is the password?"
Answer: - Etamie, which signifies amity, in order to teach us that amity is the basis of virtue and leads to true felicity.
MANNER OF CLOSING A LODGE
Grand Master: - "At what time do we close the Lodge?"
Answer: - At the hour to rest.
Grand Master: - "What time is it now?"
Answer: - It is the hour to rest.
Grand Master: - Brother Inspector and Sister Inspector, ask the Brethren in your neighbourhoods if they have aught to propose for the benefit of the Order.
The command having been obeyed, a collection is made for the benefit of the poor and distressed. This custom is never omitted, each one contributing according to his or her ability.
Grand Master: - Brother Inspector and Sister Inspector, advise the Brethren and Sisters in your respective neighbourhoods that, seeing it is the time to rest, the hour for ceasing to work has arrived.
The Grand Master then gives the command for the Brethren to stand to order, and each Brother takes his sword in his hand.
Grand Master: - Brethren; and; Sisters,; we; have listened, we have obeyed, we have worked, and we are silent :; since this is the hour to rest, the Lodge is closed.
These words are repeated by the two Inspectors; the usual signs and acclamations are given, and each one says five times: "Vivant!"
RITUAL OF ADOPTIVE MASONRY 53
MANNER OF OPENING A LODGE
Grand Master: - At what time do Masons begin work?"
Answer: - At the moment of awaking.
Grand Master: - What is the duty of a Mason?
Answer: - "To see that the Lodge is properly tyled.
Grand Master: - "Sister Inspector, command the Brother Inspector to see that this duty is performed.
This being done, the Brother Inspector says:
"Grand Master, the Lodge is properly tyled.
Grand Master: - "What time is it?"
Answer: - The time for awaking and the hour for working.
Grand Master: - Sister and Brother Inspectors, inform the Brethren and Sisters in your respective neighbourhoods that this is the time for awaking and the hour for working.
This being done, the Grand Master gives five raps with his trowel and says
"Brethren and Sisters, in the name of T. G. A. O. T. U.; in the name of our recognised superiors; and by the power invested in me by this assembly I declare this Lodge of Apprenticed Adoptive Masons open.
The Sister and Brother Inspectors also give five raps with their trowels and say:
Brethren and Sisters, this Lodge of Apprenticed Adoptive Masons is open.
At a signal from the Grand Master all the Brethren and Sisters give the sign of Jacob's Ladder and the acclamation by saying five times: "Vivant!"
Grand Master: - "Sister Inspector, are you a Mason?"
Answer: - I believe so.
Grand Master: - "If you believe it, why are you not sure?"
54 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Answer: - Because an Apprentice is not sure of anything.
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of a Mason?"
Answer: - To listen, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "For the first proof of your obedience, Sister Inspector and Brother Inspector, request the Brethren and Sisters in your respective neighbourhoods to trim their lamps for a ceremony I propose to carry out.
These words are repeated by the Sister and Brother Inspectors, who, when all the lamps are trimmed, reply:
"Master, all the lamps are trimmed.
The Grand Master then gives the call to order. The Brethren and Sisters stand when the Grand Master gives the command to work, by saying:
"Raise your right hand to the lamp; raise the lamp, blow the lamp; quicker; blow out the lamp.
NOTE. ‑ This is the formula adopted at the drinking of toasts, the drinking of wine being known as the trimming of the lamp. In the days when this ritual was in vogue it was customary always to honour five toasts at the banquets which followed the Lodge meetings. The first was the King and Royal Family; the second, that of the Sister Duchess of Bourbon, the Grand Mistress and the Officers of the Grand Lodge; the third, that of the Grand Master of the Lodge; the fourth, that of the Sister and Brother Inspectors; and the fifth, that of the Initiates. Sometimes toasts were added for the Visitors and Sisters and Brethren in distress.
CHAPTER V
RITUAL OF FREEMASONRY FOR LADIES
The following Ritual of Adoptive Masonry differs from the preceding document. It was published in 1791, in the French language, from which it is now, for the first time, translated.
This material originally scanned by Ralph Omholt, Kirkland Chapter 176, Washington.
FIRST DEGREE
PREPARATION OF THE LODGE AND OF THE CANDIDATE
The Sisters and Brethren are convened in a spacious apartment, brilliantly lighted with wax candles, five of which are placed in the south, while five others are placed on a pedestal in the north, and arranged in such a manner as to illuminate a picture illustrating the angel expelling Adam from the Garden of Eden:
The Grand Master, wearing white gloves and apron, his breast decorated with a silver ladder pendent from a white ribbon, and holding a silver trowel in his right hand, takes his seat in the north part of the Lodge. The Grand Inspectors, wearing white aprons and gloves, are placed at right angles to the Grand Master: - One has a silver hammer and the other a miniature silver Tower of Babel, pendent from white ribbons from their breasts.
(The northern situation of the Grand Master is in accordance with the traditional belief that this is the most appropriate situation for one whose duty it is to impart knowledge.)
The Sisters and Brethren wear embroidered aprons and, during the ceremony of initiation, the former sit to right and left of the Grand Master's throne, while
55
56 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
the latter, holding white wands in their hands, arrange themselves in an oblong, from north to south, in order to receive the Candidates for initiation.
The Grand Master instructs one of the Sisters (who is assisted by a Brother), preferably the Sister who has proposed the Candidate for initiation, to see that the Candidate is properly prepared. This preparation consists first of depriving her of all jewellery and money, the intention being that she shall be reminded of the fact that intellectual worth only is considered of value by the members of the Order. A white veil is then thrown over her head and, blindfolded, she is conducted by the Brother to the entrance of the Lodge.
MANNER OF OPENING THE LODGE AND OF INITIATING A CANDIDATE
The Grand Master commands attention by clapping his hands in a peculiar manner five times, an act which is repeated by the Inspectors. Both Sisters and Brethren rise and the Grand Master addressing the junior Inspector says:
"What is the duty of every Mason?"
Answer: - To hear, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "Brethren and Sisters, may we hear and may we obey. Let us work and let us be silent.
All the members and visitors salute the Grand Master and intimate their obedience to his commands by clapping their hands five times.
The Candidate is admitted by five taps at the door, and the Brother who acts as her guide hands her over to the charge of an Inspector who conducts her round the Lodge and leaves her standing in front of the Senior Inspector, who asks the question:
"What is the cause of this intrusion?"
Answer: - "A lady desires to become a Mason.
This is communicated to the Grand Master who asks the Candidate:
"Has curiosity any share in your request?"
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Answer: - "No.
Grand Master: - "Are you willing to be rid of the prejudices common to your sex? If so, we are willing to admit you to our ranks.
Answer: - "I am.
Grand Master: - "In order that you may be enabled to persevere in those sentiments, Brethren and Sisters, assist the Candidate and conduct her to the entrance of the Temple of Virtue.
The veil is then removed and the Candidate is welcomed by the members of the Lodge who signify their willingness to admit her into their company by striking their aprons with their hands.
The Brethren with their wands then form an arch under which the Candidate passes, and advances by slow, measured steps to the pedestal. She kneels on a cushion and with her right hand placed on a Masonic apron, repeats the following obligation, word for word after the Grand Master.
OBLIGATION
"In the presence of the Creator of All, Things, and of the members of this Lodge, and by that honour, which is the distinguishing characteristic of a virtuous woman, I promise to keep strictly and truly the secrets of Masons and Masonry under the penalty of being excluded from the company of my friends here on earth and from Paradise hereafter.
The approbation of the members is intimated by the striking of their aprons with their hands. The Candidate then rises and is invested by the Grand Master with an apron and a silver ladder, and he addresses her as follows:
Grand Master: - "You are now, Madame, an initiated Mason, and as such I can entrust you with the sign, the grip, and the password. Give me the pleasure to address you as a Sister and as such to salute you with the kiss of peace.
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INSTRUCTION IN THE FIRST DEGREE
The principal part of this catechism is undertaken generally by the Grand Master or some other Brother proficient in the science, but the original intention was that every member should, in turn, take part in the answers.
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of an initiated Mason?"
Answer: - To hear, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "Are you an apprenticed Mason?
Answer: - "I believe so.
Grand Master: - "Are you not certain?"
Answer: - "It is prudent to be doubtful of everything and certain of nothing.
Grand Master: - "In what manner were you admitted into the Lodge?"
Answer: - "I was blindfolded.
Grand Master: - "For what reason?"
Answer: - "To intimate that my curiosity could not be gratified, and that I could only attain to the knowledge of the sublime mysteries if possessed of the fortitude to persevere.
Grand Master: - "Where were you received as an Apprentice?"
Answer: - "Between the Ladder of Jacob and the Tower of Babel.
Grand Master: - "What does that Ladder signify?"
Answer: - "Its meaning is mysterious; but, so far as I can understand it, I conceive that the duty of all mankind is indicated by it.
Grand Master: - "Will you explain your meaning?"
Answer: - "It is emblematic of prudence and justice.
Grand Master: - "Into how many parts is the figure divided?"
Answer: - "Five.
Grand Master: - "What are they?"
Answer: - "Two external sides and three internal steps.
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Grand Master: - "Be more explicit and inform the Lodge in what manner prudence and justice are depicted.
Answer: - "Prudence is indicated by one of the external parts, which is held to illustrate the veneration and love due to our Creator. His justice is indicated by the other side, which is also held to be symbolical of the attention and love due to our neighbours.
Grand Master: - "What do the steps indicate?"
Answer: - "The moral virtues, the practice of which will lead us to immortality.
Grand Master: - "What does the Tower of Babel represent?"
Answer: - "The pride of the children of the earth. The only preservative against that destructive passion is the inner exercise of temperance.
Grand Master: - How do you arrive at this knowledge in Masonry?"
Answer: - "Through the Arch.
Grand Master: - "What does that Arch represent?"
Answer: - "Unity and Strength.
Grand Master: - "Give the sign of an initiated Mason to your Sister.
(The forefinger and thumb of the right hand are applied to the left ear of the Sister.)
Grand Master: - "Give her the salute also. (A salute on the left cheek.)
Grand Master: - "Give me the password.
Answer: - "Amice.
Grand Master: - "What does that word denote?"
Answer: - "Benevolence.
Grand Master: - "What is meant by Benevolence?"
Answer: - Masonry.
Grand Master: - "What is worn by an initiated Mason?"
Answer: - "The symbol of Jacob's Ladder.
Grand Master: - "Whither will that ladder lead?"
Answer: - "To felicity.
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Grand Master: - "And what is the duty of an initiated Mason?"
Answer: - To hear, to obey, to work, and to be silent.
SECOND DEGREE
PREPARATION OF THE LODGE
The Brethren and Sisters who have already passed the Second Degree only are permitted to be present for the purpose of forming a Lodge for the admission of the Candidate. They assemble in a convenient room, in the centre of which is placed a tree, on which is fruit.
The only light in the room is supplied by means of spirits of wine and salt, placed on a pedestal. On the east side of the Lodge is a star; on the west a painting of death; on the north a representation of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden; while in the south is placed a buffet with wines, sweetmeats, etc.
The Officers, Brethren, and Sisters are placed in the same order as in the previous degree.
A silver chain of considerable length and a bracelet engraven with the words, Virtue and Silence, are placed on the pedestal.
PREPARATION AND INSTRUCTION OF THE CANDIDATE
The Initiate is conducted by a Brother or Sister to an ante‑room, where she is received by the Sister Inspector, who hands to her a white ribbon, which is fastened round her right arm, by means of which she is led into the Lodge. Previously to this, however, the Inspector asks her if she is willing to submit to the trial belonging to the Second Degree, that of Companion, and a reply in the affirmative being received, she is blindfolded and handed over to the care of the Brother Inspector, who notifies the fact to the Lodge by giving five shouts.
Grand Master: - "What is your request?"
Answer: - "An initiated Mason is desirous of being admitted as a Companion and offers herself voluntarily
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for the purpose of undergoing the trials necessary to attain to the knowledge of the Second Degree.
Grand Master (to Candidate). Know that in order that you may attain to this dignity to which you aspire it is essential that you display fortitude, for if the least fear is evinced by you, it may possibly cause you to be rejected. (To Inspector.) "Lead the Candidate to the pedestal in order that she may behold the danger of her situation"; (at this moment the veil is removed). (To Candidate.); "Behold the trials to which you are exposed. Travel towards the West and behold the nature of your existence and remember that the charms of beauty will not avail when your sun is set. The picture now before you is a true representation of what you must come to. May this picture never be effaced from your memory. As there is no true picture without a shadow, observe in the East a light: that is emblematical of the star of life.
The Candidate is then conducted to the pedestal. Here she is told to kneel.
Grand Master: - Have you infringed your vow as an initiated Mason?"
Answer: - "I have not.
Grand Master: - Will you persist in keeping inviolate the obligation you are about to be entrusted with, as well as the one you have taken already?"
Answer: - I hope so to do.
The Grand Master then places a silver chain round her neck, saying:
"You are not, Sister, to suppose that this chain is an emblem of slavery; on the contrary, it points to the union of friendship which, as a Companion, you are to evince for all members of the Order.
OBLIGATION
"I promise by the penalty attaching to my former vow never to speak of the secrets of this degree, to be a friend to the whole of the human race, to abstain from eating the core of apples, to wear the bracelet of the
62 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Order, to sleep with it this night, and never to reveal the secret which that bracelet implies.
The Candidate then rises and is divested of the chain and ribbon, and invested with the bracelet of the Order.
Grand Master: - Notwithstanding your vows, I anoint your lips with the seal of discretion, that being the only security in Masonry. Receive likewise this fruit, refresh yourself with it, but reject the core: you will then become One of Us.
The new Companion tastes the fruit, the members as a body saluting her with cries of "Eve.
The Grand Master then seats the Companion on his left and, giving the signal for silence, addresses her as follows:
"The silence of Masonry is as honourable as it is ancient; the password of this degree is as ancient as the Creation, and its antiquity is proved beyond the possibility of doubt. The honour, therefore, which is attached to it, which you will hereafter experience, is beyond your comprehension at present or my power to express. You ought peculiarly to rejoice in your present situation, for many have attempted to attain to the knowledge of this degree, but have been rejected, and the disappointed Candidates thus withdrawn have experienced a shame seldom known to human beings except on such humiliating occasions.
INSTRUCTION IN THE SECOND DEGREE
Grand Master: - What is the duty of a Companion Mason?"
Answer: - To obey, to work, to hear, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - Are you a Companion?"
Answer: - Give me an apple and I will prove it.
Grand Master: - How were you received as a Companion?"
Answer: - "By the anointing of my lips and by tasting the fruit.
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Grand Master: - With what were your lips anointed?"
Answer: - "The seal of discretion.
Grand Master: - "What is the meaning of this sign?"
Answer: - It is to teach us that the lips of Masons are never to be opened to reveal our mysteries except to those who, upon examination, prove to be One of Us.
Grand Master: - "What does the fruit signify?"
Answer: - It implies friendship as we all partook of the same upon our admission to this degree.
Grand Master: - As you assemble as Sisters, what is its further significance?"
Answer: - The essence of stability.
Grand Master: - "In what way?"
Answer: - In our having virtue as the basis of our superstructure.
Grand Master: - How did you arrive to the dignity of a Companion?"
Answer: - "By means of a tree.
Grand Master: - "Where was the tree?"
Answer: - In a garden.
Grand Master: - What was the name given to this garden?"
Answer: - Eden, the same as that in which Adam and Eve were placed at the Creation.
Grand Master: - In what part of the garden was the tree, to which you allude, placed?"
Answer: - In the centre of it.
Grand Master: - By what name was it called?"
_ Answer: - "The tree of knowledge of good and evil.
Grand Master: - By what was the garden bounded?"
Answer: - By a river.
Grand Master: - "What does this river represent?"
Answer: - "The stream is indicative of the rapidity of the human passions, which are to be restrained only by Masonry.
Grand Master: - What became of Adam and Eve?"
Answer: - They were expelled from the garden.
Grand Master: - For what reason?"
Answer: - For their disobedience to the commands of their Maker they forfeited their inheritance.
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Grand Master: - "What lesson is inculcated by their conduct?"
Answer: - It teaches us that should any one of us violate the vows we have taken as Companions the consequence will be that we shall be refused admission to the Order.
Grand Master: - Why is a Companion forbidden to eat the cores of apples?"
Answer: - "Because the core is supposed to be the seed of the forbidden fruit.
Grand Master: - I present you with this apple and desire that you will prove to this Lodge that you are a Companion Mason.
The Companion takes the apple, from which she abstracts the core, which she places on the pedestal.
Grand Master: - Why was the serpent introduced into the garden?"
Answer: - The serpent is an emblem of eternity as well as the symbol of the origin of evil.
Grand Master: - "Why is this emblem placed in so conspicuous a part of the Lodge?"
Answer: - "As we are at present only in a state of probation it is a monitor to us to be diligent in our vocation so that we may merit by our conduct here a greater degree of happiness beyond.
Grand Master: - Why should you be reminded of the origin of evil?"
Answer: - In order that we may recognise the necessity of seeking for happiness.
Grand Master: - "Where is happiness to be found?"
Answer: - In Masonry.
Grand; Master. "What; is; the; principal; aim; of Masons?"
Answer: - To make each other happy.
Grand Master: - What is the duty of a Companion Mason?"
Answer: - To obey, to work, to hear, and to be silent.
At the conclusion of the meeting a supper is provided, and when the Companions are seated the Grand Master
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calls upon the newly admitted Companion to rise, when he addresses her as follows:
"Before you partake of the refreshment provided in honour of your reception, it is necessary that the mysteries of the Degree to which you have been admitted should be explained to you. The representation of death is that of the state of man after his fall, owing to the lack of discretion in the female who was created to be his companion in Paradise. As the oracles of truth have declared the seed of the woman shall bruise the serpent's head, but as the day of wrath is also declared to be accompanied by a day of mercy, I therefore now cordially welcome you into this Second Degree, that of felicity, in the hope that the present company will be to you as a second Paradise. From this day we admit you to our table and request your participation in our refreshments, which are emblematical of the tree of life and of the essence of Masonry.
THIRD DEGREE
The Third Degree in Masonry being regarded as of the highest importance it is very rarely granted, and the ceremony is worked only on particular and special occasions. It is regarded as the highest indiscretion to entrust any but the most worthy with secrets and favours which are the property only of the worthiest of the sex.
The Companion who aspires to the Third Degree must be proposed at the last but one of the two Lodges preceding that when she desires to be admitted. This condition is obligatory and can on no account be dispensed with. The object of the proposition being considered at two meetings of the Lodge is to give ample opportunity for any objection against the Candidate being brought forward, and that every member of the Lodge may be made acquainted with the proposition, notice of the proposal is sent to every member of the Lodge.
At the second meeting a ballot is taken for the Candidate, and if in her favour the Grand Master
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requests the member who proposed the Companion to desire her attendance at the next meeting. If the ballot is not in her favour, the proposal cannot be made again.
OPENING OF THE LODGE
The temple in which this Degree is conferred is generally reserved for this special purpose. The tapestry and decorations, however, are of so costly a character that many Lodges have to resort to the expedient of having them represented on canvas.
The temple is brilliantly illuminated. At the north end of the room is depicted a rainbow, which extends from the eastern to the western extremities, and in the centre is a representation of the sun, encompassed by the moon and stars. On the west side of the temple Europe is represented by a lady in a very rich habit of several colours, seated between two crossed cornucopias, the one filled with all kinds of grain and the other filled with black and white grapes. She holds a miniature temple in her right hand and, with the forefinger of the left hand, she points to representations of sceptres and crowns, a horse amid trophies of arms, and a book with an owl seated above it. Several musical instruments are placed close to the picture, as well as a pallet and pencils. Adjacent is a representation of Noah's Ark, resting on a mount, with the dove entering it with an olive branch in its mouth. Jacob's Ladder, reaching from earth to heaven, with angels ascending and descending upon it, is also depicted.
Africa is represented by a blackamoor woman, almost naked, with an elephant's head for a crest, a necklace of corals and coral earrings, and a scorpion by the side of her ear. She holds in her right hand a cornucopia, while ears of corn are in her left hand. A fierce lion stands by her on one side, while a viper and a serpent are on the other.
In the east Asia is represented by a female clad in a rich embroidered vestment and wearing a garland of various flowers and fruits. She holds in her right hand
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branches with sprigs of cassia, pepper, and cloves, and in her left hand a smoking censer, while by her side is a kneeling camel. Near by is a model or picture of the Tower of Babel and an angel with a trowel in his hand preventing the sons of Nimrod from proceeding with that structure. There is also represented the town of Gomorrah in flames with Lot's wife transformed into a pillar of salt.
America is represented by a naked woman of tawny aspect, having a loose veil on her shoulders and wearing round her body an ornament of feathers of divers colours. She holds in one hand a bow; on her left is a human head pierced with an arrow, a lizard lying on the ground by her feet.
A pedestal covered with an embroidered cloth is placed in the centre of the temple. The subjects of the embroidered work are representations of the sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham, which is on the surface of the pedestal, while on the part which hangs in front of the pedestal is a picture of the pit into which Joseph was cast by his brethren. A gold salver is placed on the pedestal, which holds a silver box which encloses the form of a human heart, with tools wherewith to shape it. A red velvet cushion with gold tassels is placed on the carpet near to the centre of the saloon.
The officers of this Degree consist only of the Grand Master and his Deputy, the latter holding a naked sword in his right hand during the ceremony. The jewel of the Third Degree is a sword.
Every member on initiation is presented with a silver trowel which is worn afterwards on the left breast, and admission into the Lodge is refused unless the member displays this jewel.
The Grand Master is placed in the north part of the Lodge, the Deputy near to the pedestal, while the rest of the assembly are placed in an oblong running from north to south.
The Candidate is received in an ante‑room by the sister who proposed her, by whom she is blindfolded and conducted to the door of the temple.
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MODE OF RECEPTION
The Candidate being placed comfortably and every preparation for the ceremony of reception being made, the Deputy Grand Master commands attention and order by presenting the sword, the emblem of his office, to the Grand Master, who draws his trowel across the point.
The Deputy Grand Master then perambulates the Lodge, exacting the same compliment from every one present. After this is done he takes his accustomed seat, and when his sword has been placed in an erect position, the Grand Master declares that the Lodge is formed and that the Candidate may enter. The Candidate is conducted to the left of the Grand Master's chair, when she is informed that the dignity of this Degree is so great that she will not be blindfolded during any part of the proceedings in order that she may be fully cognizant of its solemnity. The silver ladder which is worn by the Grand Master is then taken from his breast and placed on the carpet in front of him.
Grand Master: - Sister Companion, ascend the Ladder of Jacob.
Grand Master: - "What is the position of a sister?"
Answer: - "At the summit of felicity.
Grand Master: - "Take off the Candidate's shoes and let her kneel at the altar of Isaac.
Then, addressing the Candidate, he says:
"It is in consideration of your merit that you are placed in this position, for you are about to receive the highest honour it is in our power to confer. You have become One of Us; now place your hand on this salver and be made perfect by repeating the promise to continue in your perseverance.
The sword is now taken from its position and held by the Deputy Grand Master over the Candidate's head, while she repeats the following obligation:
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"I promise in the presence of the Masons now assembled, and by the sword now held over my head, that I will not divulge the secrets of Masonry, neither what I now know nor what shall be communicated to me, in consequence of this present undertaking, except to those who have already taken this obligation.
"I promise also to protect and succour every one now present on all and every occasion, according to the ability granted to me by Providence.
"I promise these things upon my word and honour. If I fail, may shame and infamy be my portion and may I be pointed at as unworthy of the respect and esteem inseparably attendant upon worthy Masons.
The point of the sword is then presented to the Candidate and is kissed by her, when she is commanded to rise.
Grand Master: - It is required of every sister on admission to this Degree that a present be made by her to the Lodge in return for the favour conferred. You will be assisted in your choice by the Deputy Grand Master, but your own industry will, no doubt, produce the proof of your ingenuity which will be worthy of our acceptance.
The Deputy Grand Master then hands to her a box of tools and superintends the work which has been previously decided upon.
At this point refreshments are frequently introduced, after which the Candidate produces the model of a heart, which is formally examined by all the members of the Lodge.
Grand Master: - A heart has been produced. Sister, you have consummated the great mystery of Masons. The heart is the great secret of Masonry. Our science has no other object save to regulate the passions. In a state of nature the heart is cruel and ungovernable. Our art, as Masons, effects the change, and we become the reverse of that inhospitable condition. We are, as you have experienced, kind and cheerful, meek and humane. Advance and receive the reward due to your work and
70 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
skill. You are invested with this trowel as the key to the Third Degree. This will admit you to our assemblies and now, at this particular moment, demands from us our secrets. The sign of this Degree is given by drawing the trowel across the point of the sword, and then kissing the point of the sword, as at your reception. The password of this Degree is Esther.
The Grand Master then delivers the following address to the Candidate:
"Sister: Your admission into this Degree having made you on an equality with us all, it only now remains for me to describe and explain to you the symbols on the tapestry, which will conclude the ceremony of reception into this Degree. Every blessing that we enjoy is derived from the Providence of our Creator, and this Providence is fittingly depicted by the sun, moon, and stars. The rainbow which encompasses these luminaries is to remind us that vice once caused the world to be deluged and that our conduct as members of this Society is to be such as not to incur the repetition of the Divine vengeance.
"The Ark of Noah is introduced for the express purpose of proving that the faithful Mason will always be provided for, let the winds, the waves, and the storms of the world rage ever so high. A place of refuge will never be wanting for the wise, the virtuous and the good. The Tower of Babel is emblematic of the false strength of those who are deficient in the science of Masonry, and the messenger with the trowel indicates that one moment of Divine direction can put to nought and confusion the works of men. The sacrifice of Abraham is a proof that no temporal enjoyment should supersede the supreme dictates; and that when our duty requires us to act we should acquiesce willingly in the Divine will. The sleep of Jacob is a similitude of our condition after death and his after conduct of the respect due to the Creator from the sons and daughters of mortality. The city of Gomorrah in flames is presented to our view and shows the inevitable destruction of the vicious, and the trans‑
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formation of Lot's wife is at once applicable to what your position would have been had your inclinations prevented you from aspiring to this dignity. The pit into which Joseph was cast by his brethren would also have been applicable to your condition, had not your merits prevented your refusal at the ballot, for, in that case, your situation would have been like to that of Joseph, as not only would you be absent from your friends at this gathering, but you would have the mortifying reflection of knowing that you had been rejected.
"In order to demonstrate the universality of our science, representations of the four quarters of the globe are introduced. Europe is depicted as a lady in a very rich habit, and the various ornaments that surround her are emblematic of her arts and arms generally and show that she is first in point of consequence and the principal part of the world. Asia is depicted by a heroine wearing a garland of flowers and fruits, thus intimating that this quarter of the globe produces delightful things necessary for human life, as shown by the garment in which she is decked, particularly the profuseness of the rich materials in which it abounds; the bundle of spices in her right hand and the distribution of them to other parts of the world; the censer holds some of the pleasant‑smelling gum which the continent produces; while the camel is an animal peculiar to this region. Africa is represented by an almost naked woman, thus showing that the continent does not abound in materials for clothing; while the elephant's head, the lion, the viper, and the serpent are characteristic of the animals having their habitation there. America is depicted also by a naked woman, as showing the condition of the earliest inhabitants. The bow and quiver denote that the natives live by hunting; the human head pierced by an arrow indicates that many are cannibals; while the lizard on the ground is an animal inimical to the human race.
"In this manner we communicate the knowledge derived from the mode of reception of Candidates to this Degree, and thus, you will, in turn, communicate it to others,
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CATECHISM OF THE THIRD DEGREE
Grand Master: - "What is the duty of a Mason?"
Answer: - To work, to hear, to obey, and to be silent.
Grand Master: - "How long is it since you reached this Degree?"
Answer: - Seven months and more.
Grand Master: - Who assisted you in your benevolent undertaking?"
Answer: - One who was well conversant with the Degree.
Grand Master: - By what name do you distinguish him?"
Answer: - The Deputy Grand Master.
Grand Master: - Who presided in the Lodge on that occasion?"
Answer: - The Grand Master.
Grand Master: - Give further proof of your attainment.
Answer: - I know how to ascend the Ladder of Jacob.
(Reference is here made to the plant bearing that name which will be known to students of Botany.)
Grand Master: - Probably the ladder to which you refer is the ladder of the novitiate.
Answer: - The construction is materially different.
Grand Master: - Describe the ladder which you have ascended.
Answer: - The foundation is on the earth and it ascends to felicity. The rungs are at equal distance so as to form regular steps to the summit.
Grand Master: - What are the materials of which this ladder is composed?"
Answer: - Such as have existed from time immemorial and such as will exist to the end of time.
Grand Master: - "What name is given to the base?"
Answer: - The footstool of the Almighty.
Grand Master: - How many steps are there?"
Answer: - They are innumerable.
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Grand Master: - How were you enabled to take the first step?"
Answer: - "By the exercise of sensibility.
Grand Master: - "What is this exercise of sensibility?"
Answer: - "The union of souls truly noble.
Grand Master: - What principle does it teach?"
Answer: - That as I had fought and obtained happiness, so it is my duty to communicate it to others.
Grand Master: - "What enabled you to ascend the second step?"
Answer: - A conscious dignity of spirit.
Grand Master: - What name does the world generally give to this principle?"
Answer: - Honour.
Grand Master: - "What is its Masonic description?"
Answer: - "It enjoins Masons to be strictly just where no public law can compel, to fulfil our engagements in an equitable manner, and to hold as sacred the trust reposed in us.
Grand Master: - What enabled you to ascend the third step?"
Answer: - "The practice of sincerity.
Grand Master: - "In what does that consist?"
Answer: - "Not in deceit and guile, but in social wellbeing, the outcome of a generous mind.
Grand Master: - What exchange do those of a contrary principle experience?"
Answer: - They barter kindness for a shadow of joy and are deceived more than they are able to deceive.
Grand Master: - What enabled you to ascend the fourth step?"
Answer: - Experience.
Grand Master: - "Its utility?"
Answer: - The control of the passions, preventing us from judging wrongfully.
Grand Master: - "What are the effects of experience?"
Answer: - A conduct void of reproach and such as to merit esteem here and initiation beyond.
Grand Master: - What enabled you to ascend the fifth step?"
74 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Answer: - The knowledge I had obtained through the medium of Masonry.
Grand Master: - "In what manner?"
Answer: - By; the cardinal virtues which were allegorically represented in the First Degree which, when united, signify wisdom.
Grand Master: - Explain this union.
Answer: - It is impossible to exercise the practice of temperance without having a due preparation of fortitude or to be in the possession of prudence without that of justice.
Grand Master: - Having ascended the step of wisdom is it necessary to delineate the remainder individually?"
Answer: - It is not, for so soon as mortals arrive at that step, the difficulties of the ascent are dissolved and the path to felicity made clear.
Grand Master: - "What is the signification of Noah's Ark in the Deluge?"
Answer: - "It refers to the heart of man in an uncultivated state.
Grand Master: - Why did Noah build it?"
Answer: - As a refuge for himself and family.
Grand Master: - How came he to obtain the knowledge of the approaching Deluge?"
Answer: - By attendance at the Grand Lodge of Masons over which the Creator presided.
Grand Master: - "When did he enter the Ark?"
Answer: - So soon as he perceived the waters overflow the usual boundaries.
Grand Master: - "What moral does this convey to us?"
Answer: - "That it is our duty to frequent Lodges in order that the precepts inculcated there may teach us to avoid vice, which will, when true Masonry is neglected, occasion the destruction of the world a second time.
Grand Master: - "Of what material was the Ark?"
Answer: - An incorruptible wood called cedar.
Grand Master: - What lesson does the employment of this wood inculcate?"
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Answer: - That the secrets of Masonry cannot be penetrated by envy and that the malice of its enemies recoils on to the breast of its propagators.
Grand Master: - What was the form of the boards of the Ark?"
Answer: - "Every one was placed on a true level.
Grand Master: - "The intent of this form?"
Answer: - "To prove the quality of Masons and that their unity is the mainspring of their happiness.
Grand Master: - Why is the Tower of Babel introduced into the Lodge?"
Answer: - As a warning against pride, which is totally at variance with the genuine dictates of the science.
Grand Master: - "To whom did it owe its origin?"
Answer: - "The rebellious Nimrod.
Grand Master: - "What was his object in erecting so high a structure?"
Answer: - To create for himself a name among men and to make himself equal to God.
Grand Master: - How long was the building carried on?"
Answer: - "Until it pleased the Creator to frustrate his design by the introduction of foreign languages, the use of which threw the workmen out, in consequence of which they separated, left their work and travelled, and finally settled in various parts of the world.
Grand Master: - "What became of the edifice?"
Answer: - Being deserted by the human race, in process of time it became the habitation of wild beasts.
Grand Master: - "What lesson is to be derived from this incident?"
Answer: - "To give respect to the promises of God, to place our whole confidence in Him alone, to divest ourselves of false pride, and to work, having truth for our foundation and wisdom for our superstructure.
Grand Master: - Is there not a further lesson to be derived?"
_Answer: - It is that a Lodge is badly formed whenever concord and obedience are absent, and that when
76 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
such conditions prevail it will inevitably fall into confusion.
Grand Master: - What lesson is inculcated by the rainbow?"
Answer: - That harmony prevails in a well‑conducted Lodge.
Grand Master: - What does the town in flames represent?"
Answer: - "The horror which every good Mason feels at the recollection of the abominable crime that brought the fire from heaven.
Grand Master: - What does the sleep of Jacob represent?"
Answer: - "The peace and tranquillity in the breast of every worthy Mason.
Grand Master: - "Why is an Initiate deprived of light at her reception?"
Answer: - "To convey to her the darkness of the uninitiated in respect to Masonry.
Grand Master: - Why do we assemble ix Lodges?"
Answer: - Because as often as we meet we renew our friendship.
Grand Master: - "Is there any other inducement?"
Answer: - That we may communicate to each other our secrets.
Grand Master: - What is the duty of a Mason outside the Lodge?"
Answer: - To work, to hear, to obey, and to be silent.
The answers to the first and last questions in the catechisms of the three degrees should receive particular attention. They are as follows:
First: Hear. Obey. Work. Silent.
Second: Obey. Work. Hear. Silent.
Third: Work. Hear. Obey. Silent.
Hence, the primary duty of an Initiate is to hear; that of a Companion, to obey; and that of a fully-admitted Mason, to work; but of members of all Degrees, to be silent.
RITUAL FOR LADIES 77
In concluding the catechism the Grand Master demands the compliment to the sword as at the reception, and the members are dismissed with the words:
"The Lodge is perfect and may it ever so remain. As we met so let us part, with goodwill to all. We congratulate one another. Let us reverence the jewel of the Order and depart in peace.
CHAPTER VI
WOMEN FREEMASONS
The Ladies claim Right,
To come to our light,
Since the Apron they say is their bearing;
Can they subject their will,
Can they keep their tongues still,
And let talking be chang'd into hearing?
This difficult task
Is the least we can ask,
To secure us on sundry occasions
When with this they comply,
Our utmost we'll try
To raise Lodges for Lady Freemasons.
Although the Ancient Charges of Freemasonry do not admit of the admission of women into the Craft, there are authenticated instances where, as the result of accident or design, women have been duly initiated. The most prominent instance is that of Hon. Elizabeth St. Leger, or, as she afterward became on marriage, the Hon. Mrs. Aldworth, who is referred to sometimes, though erroneously, as "the only woman who ever obtained the honour of initiation into the sublime mysteries of Freemasonry.
She was a daughter of the first Viscount Doneraile. He was a very zealous Freemason, and, as was the
78
WOMEN FREEMASONS 79
custom in his time, the middle of the eighteenth century, held a Lodge occasionally in his own home, when he was assisted by members of his own family, any Brethren in the immediate neighbourhood, and any Masonic visitors to Doneraile House. This Lodge was duly warranted and held a number on the register of the Grand Lodge of Ireland.
The story runs that one evening, when a man named Coppinger was to be initiated, Miss St. Leger hid herself in a room adjoining that used as a Lodge room. This room was undergoing some alterations, and she is said to have removed a brick from the partition with scissors and, through the aperture thus created, witnessed the ceremony of initiation.
What she saw appears to have disturbed her so thoroughly that she at once determined upon making her escape; but she failed to elude the vigilance of the Tyler, who, armed with a sword, stood barring her exit. Her shrieks alarmed the members of the Lodge, who came rushing to the spot, when they learned that she had witnessed the whole of the ceremony that had just been enacted.
After considerable discussion, and yielding to the entreaties of her brother, it was decided to admit her into the Order, and she was at once initiated, and in course of time became "Master" of the Lodge.
According to Milliken, the Irish Masonic historian, she was initiated in Lodge No. 95, which still meets at Cork, but there is on record that she was a subscriber to the Irish Book of Constitutions, which appeared in 1744, and that she frequently attended,
G
80 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
wearing her Masonic regalia, entertainments that were given under Masonic auspices for the benefit of the poor and distressed. She afterwards married Mr. Richard Aldworth, of Newmarket, and when she died, at the age of eighty in 1773, she was accorded the honour of a Masonic funeral. She was cousin to General Antony St. Leger, of Park Hill, near Doncaster, who, in 1776, instituted the celebrated Doncaster St. Leger races and stakes. Two female descendants of the same family became the wives of James Anthony Froude and Charles Kingsley.
Helene, Countess Hadik Barkoczy, who was born in 1833, was the sole heiress of Count Johann Barkoczy, and being the last of her race was permitted by the Hungarian Courts to take the place of a son. She succeeded her father on his death in 1871, in the extensive Majorat of Barkoczy. In 1860 she married Count Bela Hadik, aide‑de‑camp to the unfortunate Emperor Maximilian of Mexico. With her inheritance she came into the possession of an extensive Masonic library. She was a highly educated lady, and made the Masonic literature her earnest study; and having mastered the statements concerning almost every Degree in Freemasonry, an ardent admiration for the Masonic idea was aroused. in her. She was well acquainted with some Freemasons., through whom she endeavoured to gain admittance into the Craft. Her desire was granted, and in 1875 she was duly initiated in the Lodge Egyenloseg, in Unghvar, holding a warrant from the Grand Orient of Hungary. On hearing of this
WOMEN FREEMASONS 81
glaring violation of the statutes the Grand Orient of Hungary instituted proceedings against the Brethren who had been guilty of this "breach of the Masonic vow, unjustifiably conferring Masonic Degrees, doing that which degrades a Freemason and Freemasonry, and for knowingly violating the statutes. The judgment of the Council was given at their meeting on 5th January, 1876, when all the accused were found guilty. The Deputy Master of the Lodge was condemned to the loss of all his Masonic rights and expulsion from the Order for ever; the officers to have their names struck off the lists and the other members of the Lodge to be suspended for a space of three, six, or twelve months. But still the question remained as to whether the duly initiated Countess could and ought to be looked upon as a regular Freemason and whether she could claim all the rights of a member of the Fraternity. On this point the Grand Orient of Hungary decided in their meeting held on 10th March, 1876, as follows:
1. The Grand Orient declares the admission of the Countess Hadik Barkoczy to be contrary to the laws, and therefore null and void, forbids her admittance into any Lodge of their jurisdiction, under penalty of erasion of the Lodge from the rolls, and requests all Grand Lodges to do the same.
2. The Countess is requested to return the invalid certificate which she holds within ten days, in default of which measures will be taken to confiscate immediately the certificate whenever produced at any of the Lodges.
82 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Madame de Xaintrailles, the wife of General de Xaintrailles, was a member of an Adoptive Lodge, and it is said that she was afterwards initiated into Craft Masonry. This event is said to have occurred at the close of the eighteenth century, but the whole story rests entirely upon tradition. The story is told by Clavel in his Historie Pittoresque de la FrancMafonnerie, but neither date nor place is mentioned:
"Although the rule which forbids women admission to Lodges is absolute, yet it has once been infringed under very remarkable circumstances. The Lodge of Les Freres Artistes, presided over by Bro. Cuvelier de Trie, was giving a fκte d'Adoption. Before the introduction of the ladies the Brethren had begun their ordinary work. Among the visitors who were waiting in the ante‑chamber was a young officer in the uniform of a Major of cavalry. He was asked for his certificate. After hesitating a few moments he handed a folded paper to the Senior Deacon, who, without opening it, proceeded to take it to the Orator. This paper was an aide‑de‑camp's commission issued to Madame de Xaintrailles, wife of the General of that name, who, like the Demoiselles de Fernig and other Republican heroines, had distinguished herself in the wars of the Revolution and had won her rank at the point of the sword. When the Orator read to the Lodge the contents of this Commission the astonishment was general. They grew excited and it was decided unanimously that the bearer should be admitted at once into the Order. Madame de Xaintrailles was acquainted with the decision of the Lodge and asked if she would accept the hitherto unprecedented favour. Her reply was in the affirmative. 'I am a man for my country,' she said, 'I will be a man for my Brethren.'; The initiation took place, and from that time Madame de Xaintrailles often assisted in the work of the Lodge.
WOMEN FREEMASONS 83
According to the records of the Lodge Sine6rit6 held at Klattau, Bohemia, the charter of which was recalled in September, 1780, a Women's Lodge was formed as an auxiliary, the membership of which was confined to the wives of the members of the parent Lodge. An exception to this rule was made in favour of the Baroness Chanowsky de Langendorf, who is described as "the most honest, virtuous and fairest lady. This Female Lodge worked under the name of the "Three Crowned Hearts"; but, with the exception of its by‑laws, no records of any kind concerning the activity of the Lodge have been left. A Master Mason managed the Lodge as its Master, the office of Treasurer also being filled by a Master Mason, but, with these exceptions, all the other officers were women. The by‑laws stipulated that the members should be "God‑fearing, humble, discreet, modest, honest, of righteous heart, obliging, as well as charitably inclined towards the poor. The initiation could not take place when the candidate was in delicate health. The petitions were passed upon by the Master as far as proposition fees were concerned in accordance with the petitioner's circumstances or means, while the amount of dues was fixed by the candidate herself. The underlying purpose of the Lodge was purely moral and virtuous. In addition to impressing upon the members the observance of secrecy, they were also strictly admonished to observe peace, harmony, union, and unblemished behaviour, with the exclusion of haughtiness and arrogance. They were also strictly
84 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
charged not to utter words of slander or commit defamatory acts, nor were they permitted in any circumstances to indulge in illicit love affairs. The funds of the Lodge were devoted entirely to the assistance of distressed members. The Constitutions and By‑laws of this Lodge are now in the archives of the National Museum in Prague. The formation of the Lodge contributed in no small degree to the difficulties which afterwards befel the parent Lodge, the majority of which members were army officers belonging to the Prince Coburg Regiment of Dragoons.
In 1894 (according to the Daily News of 11th July of that year) two newspapers, one at Rome and the other at Bonn, denounced a certain lady as a Grand Mistress of a Ladies' Lodge of Freemasons. As a result of this publicity a Catholic priest at Friburg, in Switzerland, refused to allow her to receive the Holy Communion, in consequence of which action she brought a law‑suit against him for damaging her reputation and demanded four hundred pounds as compensation. Her claim was, however, rejected by the Swiss Courts.
Mrs. Beaton, a Norfolk lady, it is said, contrived to conceal herself behind the wainscotting in the Lodge room, where she learned the secret of the First Degree before she was discovered, upon which she herself was, initiated. The only reference to the occurrence is to be found in A General History of the County of Norfolk (2 vols., 1829) in the following passage:
WOMEN FREEMASONS 85
"Died in St. John's, Maddermarket, Norwich, July, 18o2, aged 85, Mrs. Beaton, a native of Wales. She was commonly called the `Freemason,' from the circumstances of her having contrived to conceal herself one evening in the wainscotting of a Lodge room, where she learned the secret, the knowledge of which thousands of her sex have in vain attempted to arrive at. She was, in many respects, a very singular character, of which one proof adduced is, that the secret of Freemasons died with her.
The Palladian Lodge, No. 120 on the Roll of the United Grand Lodge of England, is said to have once numbered a woman among its members. It is a tradition of the Lodge that in 1770 a Mrs. Havard was proposed as an honorary member and was initiated in order that she might have the necessary qualification. There is, however, no record of such initiation to be found in the books of the Lodge, which was warranted in 1762.
In connection with the subject of women Initiates, mention must be made of the case of the famous Chevalier D'Eon. D6on de Beaumont, to give the name in full, was born at Tonnerre, in Burgundy, on 5th October, 1728, and in 1755 received an appointment at the Court of Louis XV. After a successful career in the diplomatic world, in 1764 doubts began to be expressed very freely as to his sex. So notorious did the matter become that between 1769 and 1777, a scheme of "Insurance on the sex of M. le Chevalier (or Mlle. la Chevalliθre) D'Eon" resulted in policies to the amount of ₤120,000 being effected.
While the discussion was at its height, the
86 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Chevalier was initiated as a Freemason in La Loge de 1'Immortalite, a French Lodge under the English Constitution, bearing the number 376 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of England. The Lodge was constituted in 1766, and its headquarters were at the Crown and Anchor in the Strand. He proceeded to the Third Degree in January, 1769, and in the same year was appointed junior Warden of the Lodge. Fearing that an attempt to kidnap him might be made by those who had effected policies on the issue, he was sheltered by Earl Ferrers at Staunton Harold, near Ashby‑de‑la‑Zouch. Earl Ferrers, in 1762 and 1763, held the position of Grand Master of England. In 1777 an action was brought by a policy‑holder against an insurance broker to recover the sum secured by the policy, when two witnesses swore that in Court that, of their own personal knowledge, the Chevalier was a woman. All doubt, however, was set at rest by D'Eon's own admission that "he" was a woman. The King of France commanded that the Chevalier should "resume the garments of her sex, and the command was obeyed. To her credit, let it be said that she never again attempted to enter a Masonic Lodge, but, after her death, there was found the manuscript of an essay on "Freemasonry and Quakerism, in which she said:
"What I say here about Masonry is not meant to win the Gold or Silver Medal, advertised in the London Courier Francais, but only to win, in my heart, a prize graven on the Masonic Compass and Triangles, each point of which, like the Trinity, rests on Truth, Virtue, and Benevolence, common foundations of Equality and
WOMEN FREEMASONS 87
Justice between brothers by birth and by Christianity, as between Brethren by Masonry, enlightened by the Sun of Truth, inasmuch as this is the Truth held by the primitive Christians of Jerusalem and Antioch. But since the Greek, Latin, Gallican, and Anglican Churches have organized themselves into formidable bodies, they deride, individually and collectively, the sombre Society of good Quakers, who are good only at whining, snivelling, and having no power among them; while the Freemasons have established themselves in worshipful Lodges, in order to laugh, drink, sing at their ease, and display benevolence towards their Brethren and Fellows dispersed over the Earth, without infringing the Laws of Moses or of the Covenant. They spread sunshine, God's consolation, and true happiness in the heart of all human beings capable of appreciating simple Virtue. The happiness of Mankind and the well‑being of the Material Worlds are to be found in Nature, Reason, Truth, Justice, and Simplicity, and not in huge bodies compiled by Philosophy and Divinity.
The story, in all probability apocryphal, is told that at the time of the promulgation of the Bull of Benedict XIV in 1751, the Empress of Austria, desiring to satisfy herself that none of her sex were admitted into Masonic Lodges, visited a Lodge in company with one of her ladies, both disguised as men. Having satisfied herself on the point, she retired.
There is a tradition attached to the Melrose Lodge that, after removing from Newstead, the meetings were held in hired rooms for some years. It is said that about this time the Lodge could boast of a lady member. This matron, a true daughter of Mother Eve, somehow obtained more light upon the hidden
88 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
mysteries of Freemasonry than was deemed ac all expedient; and, after due consideration of her case, it was resolved that she must be regularly initiated into Freemasonry. This is said to have been done with the best results‑the initiated ever remaining a true and faithful Sister among the Brethren. The lady's name is given as Isabella Scoon, and it is said that she was so impressed with the solemnity of her obligation that she ever afterwards distinguished herself in works of charity.
The following paragraph appeared in the Edinburgh Courant of 2nd December, 1772:
"A few nights ago a regular Lodge of Freemasons was held at the Star in Watergate Street, in the city of Chester, when a woman who lodged in the house, concealed herself in a press in the Lodge room in order to satisfy a painful curiosity she had a long time imbibed of discovering the reason of their secret meetings; but the ever wary and careful fraternity, making a timely and secret discovery of the place of her concealment, assembled themselves within her hearing, and after repeating the punishment which they always inflict on every person when they detect prying into their secrets, opened the press and took her out, almost dead with apprehension of what she was to suffer, which had such an effect on the humanity of the Brethren then present, that they unanimously agreed to dismiss her, without doing her any injury other than severely reprimanding her for her folly.
The Masonic Lodge held at this particular house at that time was the principal Lodge in the Chester Division of the Operative Freemasons. That body has certain officers known as "Searchers, and their duty is to search the Lodge room, together with all
WOMEN FREEMASONS 89
other rooms under, over, or adjoining the Lodge room, and the tradition is that the woman was discovered by the Searchers before the Operative Lodge was opened.
The following curious advertisement appeared in the Newcastle Weekly Chronicle of 6th January, 1770:
"This is to acquaint the public that on Monday, 1st inst., being the Lodge or monthly meeting‑night of the Free and Accepted Masons of the 22nd Regiment, held at the Crown, near Newgate, Mrs. Bell, the landlady of the house, broke open the door with a poker, by which means she got into an adjacent room, made two holes through the wall, and by that stratagem discovered the secrets of Masonry, and knowing herself to be the first woman in the world that ever found out the secret, is willing to make it known to all her sex. So that any lady that is desirous of learning the secrets of Freemasonry, by applying to that well‑learned woman (Mrs. Bell) who has lived fifteen years in and about Newgate, may be instructed in all secrets of Masonry.
The following advertisement appeared in the Publick Advertisey of 7th March, 1759:
FOR FEMALE SATISFACTION
"Whereas the Mystery of Freemasonry has been kept a profound secret for several ages, till at length some men assembled themselves at the Dover Castle, in the parish of Lambeth, under pretence of knowing the secret, and likewise in opposition to some gentlemen that are real Freemasons, and hold a Lodge at the same house; therefore, to prove that they are no more than pretenders, and as the ladies have sometimes been desirous of gaining knowledge of the noble art, several regular made Masons (both Ancient and Modern) members of constituted Lodges in this metropolis have thought proper to unite in a select body at Beau
90 WOMAN AND FREEMASONRY
Silvester's, the sign of the Angel, Bull Stairs, Southwark, and style themselves Unions, think it highly expedient, and in justice to the fair sex, to initiate them therein, provided they are women of undeniable character; for though no Lodge as yet (except the Free Union Masons) have thought proper to admit women into the Fraternity, we, well knowing that they have as much right to attain to the secrets as those Castle humbugs have thought proper so to do, not doubting but they will prove an honour to the Craft; and as we have had the honour to inculcate several worthy Sisters therein, those that are desirous, and think themselves capable of having the secret conferred on them, by proper application, will be admitted, and the charges will not exceed the expenses of our Lodge.
The following advertisement appeared in various English newspapers in the early part of 1762:
"C. LOGE C.
"Avertissement aux dames, etc. ‑ Pour vencre que les Frances Massons ne sont par telles que le public les a representιes en particulier la sexe feminine, cet loge j uge a propos de recevoir des femmes aussi bien que des hommes.
"N.B. ‑ Des dames seront introduits dans la loge avec la ceremonie accoutumιe ou le serment ordinaire et le real secret leur seront administrιes. On commencera a recevoir des Dames, Jeudy, 11 de Mars, 1762, at Mrs. Maynard's, next door to the Lying Inn Hospital, Brownlow‑street, Lond Acre. La porte sera ouverte a 6 heures du Soir. Les Dames et Messieurs sont priees de ne pas venir apres Sept. Le prix est ₤I Is.
Lady Morgan, in her Diary, published in 1859, claimed to have been initiated in a Lodge in Paris. Under a date in January, 1819, she wrote:
"Well, here I am, a Free and Accepted Mason, according to the old Irish Masonic song. When we drove to
WOMEN FREEMASONS 91
the solitude of the Rue Vaugirard, Faubourg St. Germaine, we found the court of the Hotel de Vilette and all the premises full of carriages: Belle et Bonne magnificently dressed in white satin and diamonds, with Voltaire's picture round her neck, set in brilliants, received us in the salon with a sort of solemn grace, very unlike her usual joyous
