|
Knights and Ladies
of the Golden Eagle - KGE
Above, is certainly one of the most impressive
Past President’s jewel, silver and gold-plate on a large purple ribbon. Most KGE
pieces follow essentially the same pattern.
The white ribbon pieces are Supreme Lodge jewels.
The large jewel is gold plated sterling and the smaller one is gold.
They were founded in 1873 in
Baltimore, Maryland and had a militaristic/Christian perspective in its rituals
and ceremonies. They worked three degrees based on events and legends
surrounding the Crusades of the Middle Ages. According to Axelrod's
International Encyclopedia of Secret Societies and Fraternal Orders the
organization went extinct sometime during the 1960s-70s, however, current
research has shown that this group is still active in three states providing
scholarships to college students. One unfortunate piece of history that
still shadows the KGE is that one of their members was responsible for the
assassination of President McKinley. The woman's auxiliary was
called the Ladies of the Golden Eagle.
Here is What
They Looked Like!
Here are a couple
of handsome
young fellows dressed in their Knights of the Golden Eagle regalia.
 \
First or
Pilgrims’ Degree
Revised June
1908
Opening
At the time prescribed for opening the Castle, the Noble Chief
clothed in the regalia of his office, will take his post and give one rap of the
gavel
Noble Chief:
The officers and brothers will clothe themselves in their appropriate regalia
and take their appointed posts. The Guardsmen will secure the Castle gates. The
Sir Herald will satisfy himself that all present are in possession of the
password and justly entitled to remain; he will also examine if all the officers
are at their posts, and report.
The Sir Herald gives the proper passwords to the Noble Chief. The
Sir Herald then receives from each member, including the Second Guardsman, the
Semi-annual and Third Degree passwords. He reports all members without the
passwords to the Noble Chief. If entitled thereto, the Noble Chief directs them
to the Sitting Past Chief for instruction. Vouching is not permissible. Visitors
must be in possession of the passwords. He also reports all posts found vacant,
the Noble Chief filling them temporarily by special appointment. The Sir Herald
then advances to his post, draws and carries his sword, salutes the Noble Chief
and say:
Noble Chief, I find all the brothers correct.
He then brings his sword to a carry,
present and returns it.
Noble Chief:
The Worthy Chamberlain will direct the Second Guardsman to present himself, and
will guard the outer gate until his return. The First Guardsman will pass the
Worthy Chamberlain out and the Second Guardsman into the Castle.
The Second Guardsman, when entering, does so in a military
manner, with sheathed sword. As soon as he arrives at the altar, he gives a
military salute and proceeds with his charge.
Second Guardsman:
Noble Chief, I await your instructions.
Noble Chief:
What is your duty, Brother Guardsman?
Second Guardsman:
To guard the outer gate; to permit none to enter without the semi-annual
password, unless by you directed, and to see that the brethren in the
ante-chamber do not disturb the opening, closing, or initiatory ceremonies.
Noble Chief:
Advance and give the password. The Second Guardsman
advances to the Noble Chief, and in a whisper, gives him the password. He then
returns, with his sword at a carry. Upon returning to the altar, he immediately
salutes—military—the Noble Chief when the latter proceeds with his charge. At
its conclusion—after the word “Castle”—the Second Guardsman brings his sword
from a salute and returns it, and them departs. Correct brother. Your
duty requires, and we expect, that the outpost of our Castle will be faithfully
guarded. The First Guardsman will pass the Second Guardsman to his post and the
Worthy Chamberlain into the Castle. Pause until the
Second Guardsman has departed and the Worthy Chamberlain has entered.
The brethren will now sing the Opening Ode.
Two raps.
Opening
Ode
Hail,
Brother Knights may we who meet
Here, with one heart agree—
Our work
perform with concord sweet
And pure
fidelity
Each in
the other’s cares take part,
With
sympathetic grace
Let love
flame in each knightly heart,
Adorn
each knightly face.
Within
these Castle walls no sound
Of discord e’er may rise—
May
faith and honor here be found,
With all
their knightly ties
Love for
one God, and love for all
Who bear
his fair impress,
Will
soothe us on this earthly ball,
And then
in glory bless.
Noble Chief:
Brother High Priest, you will now implore the blessings of the Deity upon our
deliberations.
Sir Herald:
Attention, Sir Knights; uncover.
Caps are to be removed and replaced at the word of command.
Remove with the left hand, holding the cap to the right shoulder. Members
without caps, keep their hands at their side.
High Priest:
O Lord! Thou ever merciful and ever righteous Father of Life, thou hast
permitted us to assemble together this evening, having seen fit, in Thy goodness
and compassion, to spare our lives during the week that has passed. We thank
Thee for Thy tender care, and humbly invoke Thy blessing upon our labors this
evening May peace and unity prevail during our deliberations, and may our coming
together prove a blessing. Bless, we pray Thee, our Order. Help us to enlarge
its borders, that we may become, if it is Thy will, a mighty benevolent
institution. Hear us in these petitions, crown our labors with success, and may
we ascribe to Thee all the glory, forever and ever, through Jesus Christ, our
Lord.
All respond:
Amen.
Sir Hearld:
Re-cover.
Three raps.
When directed by the Noble Chief to rehearse the duties of his
post, each officer shall rise and salute the Noble Chief, as directed iii the
diagram and instructions.
Noble Chief:
Brother First Guardsman, rehearse the duties of your post.
First Guardsman:
To guard the inner gate; to suffer none to enter who do not give the correct
raps and pass words, unless directed by you; to permit no one to pass my post
who is not clothed in the regalia of the Order; nor, under any circumstances, to
admit a brother during the opening, closing, or initiatory ceremonies.
Noble Chief:
Brother Sir Herald, rehearse the duties of your post.
Sir Herald:
To satisfy myself that all present are true and loyal brothers of our Order, and
if any be found otherwise, to report the same to you; to conduct all strangers
deemed worthy of admission into this brotherhood through the initiatory formulas
of our Order, and faithfully perform all other duties emanating from the
commands of the Noble Chief.
Noble Chief:
Brother Worthy Chamberlain, rehearse the duties of your post.
Worthy Chamberlain:
To have charge of all the secret work and properties of this Castle; to take
special care of the regalia; to receive and prepare all candidates in the
antechamber, and assist the Sir Herald in the discharge of his duties.
Noble Chief:
Brother Esquire, rehearse the duties of your post.
Esquire:
To have charge of the armor of this Castle, assist in the initiatory ceremonies,
and act as special messenger to the Noble Chief.
Noble Chief:
Brother Ensign, rehearse the duties of your post.
Ensign:
To display the banner of our Order during the opening, closing and initiatory
ceremonies, and on all formal occasions.
Noble Chief:
Brother Worthy Bard, rehearse the duties of your post.
Worthy Bard:
To preside at the organ and have charge of all musical properties of this
Castle.
Noble Chief:
Brother Master of Records, rehearse the duties of your post.
Master of Records:
To have charge of the archives of this Castle; conduct its correspondence; keep
a correct record of its proceedings; make out the semi-annual returns and
transmit the same to the Grand Castle, and faithfully discharge all other duties
prescribed by the Constitution and By-Laws, or as may be directed from time to
time by this Castle.
Noble Chief:
Brother Clerk of Exchequer, rehearse the
duties of your post.
Clerk of Exchequer:
To keep just and accurate accounts between this Castle and its members; receive
all moneys and pay the same to the Keeper of Exchequer, taking his receipt
therefor; to present my report semi-annually, and perform all other duties
required of me by the laws and regulations of this Castle.
Noble Chief:
Brother Keeper of Exchequer, rehearse
the duties of your post.
Keeper of Exchequer:
To receive from the Clerk of Exchequer all moneys belonging to this Castle,
giving my receipt therefor; to keep a true account of all funds so received, and
make no disbursements thereof unless directed by the Castle, under an order from
the Noble Chief, attested by the Master of Records, and present a correct report
semi-annually.
Noble Chief:
Brother Venerable Hermit, rehearse the
duties of your post.
Venerable Hermit:
To dwell in the solitude of yon mountain cave, keeping my lone vigil over the
tomb of our patron knight; to receive all who shall be required by you to visit
my drear abode, and teach them, from the example of the dead, lessons of eternal
fidelity to the living.
Noble Chief:
Brother High Priest, rehearse the duties of your post.
High Priest, advances to the front of the altar, opens the Holy
Book, and arranges the altar by placing on the Bible, a Cross and Crown, also
two swords, in the shape of a cross:
To invoke the
blessing of the Great Jehovah upon our brotherhood; to obligate upon this Holy
Book all who desire to wear the armor of our Order, and faithfully perform all
the duties pertaining to the post of High Priest of this Castle.
Noble Chief:
Brother Vice Chief, rehearse the duties of your post.
Vice Chief:
To occupy the second official post in this Castle; to assist you, Noble Chief,
in preserving order and decorum, aid you in conducting the initiatory
ceremonies, and have charge of the wicket.
Noble Chief:
Brother Past Chief, rehearse the duties of your post.
Past Chief:
To receive at
my post all who desire to wear the armor of our order, instruct them in the
secret signs, passwords and grips, and perform all other duties required of the
Sitting Past Chief of this Castle.
Noble Chief, rises and remains standing until the Castle is
declared open:
What are the duties of the Noble Chief of this Castle?
Past Chief:
To occupy the first official post; to preside over the deliberations of the
Castle in a faithful, dignified and impartial manner, conducting all the
ceremonies in a style comporting with the tenor of your installation vows, and
perform all the duties and requirements of your post according to the laws and
usages of this Order; all of which you are solemnly obligated to perform.
Sir Herald:
Present swords
Noble Chief:
Brother officers of ... Castle, you are expected to perform the several duties
imposed upon you by the regulations of our Order in a dignified and serious
manner, comporting with the tenor of the solemn obligations to which you gave
assent upon entering the brotherhood; and the bonds by which you are thus held
receive, if possible, additional importance from the high trust reposed in you
by your associates, in selecting you for your several official posts. Let the
religious execution of your various duties give proof of your honor, your
faithfulness, and your truth.
Two raps.
Sir
Knights and Brothers, in purity of heart, true patriotism, and brotherly love,
let us devote the coming hours to the interests of our Order and mankind. Let
dignity, true courage and uncompromising truth preside over our deliberations.
Sir Herald:
Carry swords! Officers, about face, to your posts, march.
At the command ‘march’, the officers will return to their
respective posts and face the altar.
Sir Herald:
Return swords.
The officers will sheathe swords and remain standing until the
sound of the gavel, to seat all.
Noble Chief:
Sir Knights, present the Sign of the Crusader’s Degree.
I now
declare this Castle open for the transaction of business, according to the rules
and regulations of the Order of Knights of the Golden Eagle.
Three raps.
Initiation
Noble Chief, rises; one rap:
The initiation of new members being now in order, the Worthy Chamberlain will
give the retiring sign, repair to the ante-chamber and see if there be any
candidates seeking admission into our Castle.
When the Worthy Chamberlain returns, he gives the sign of
courtesy, takes two side-steps to the left, salutes the Noble Chief with sword,
and announces if there are any candidates present. He then returns sword and
occupies his post.
Noble Chief:
The Sir Herald will give the retiring sign, proceed to the ante-chamber, return
with the roll duly signed, and report to me for further orders.
The
Worthy Chamberlain will retire and prepare the candidate for the solemn
ceremonies of initiation. The
Worthy Chamberlain, prior to retiring, gives the retiring sign.
The Sir Herald Receives from the Master of Records, a list of the
candidates who have been elected, and conducts each one (separately) into the
ante-chamber, where he reads to him the following questions contained in a book
specially provided for the purpose. If his answers be correct he will be
required to sign his name thereto.
Sir Herald:
Before you can be admitted to membership in the Order of Knights of the Golden
Eagle, you must subscribe to the following questions:
1. Do
you believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, an Eternal and Everlasting God,
and are you of the Christian Faith?
2. Are
you desirous, from pure and honorable motives, of enrolling yourself under the
banner of this benevolent brotherhood?
3. Are
you free, to the best of your knowledge and belief from every physical and moral
disability which deprives you of the means of procuring an honest livelihood?
4. Are
you willing to stand pledged through life to preserve inviolate the secrets of
the Order of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, upon the assurance that they are
consistent with the principles of Charity, Purity, and the Laws?
5. Are
you willing to stand pledged to obey all the laws emanating from the Supreme
Castle and any Grand or Subordinate Castle of this Order of which you may become
a member?
Each and
all of these questions I do, upon my most sacred word of honor, and without
mental reservation, answer in the affirmative, and as a pledge thereto do affix
my signature.
Signature to be in red ink.
Should any candidate object to signing the roll, the Sir Herald
will address him as follows:
Sir Herald:
While we regret your dissent from the preliminary questions of our Order, we
respect your candor and conscientiousness. I will now conduct you beyond the
post of the Second Guardsman.
After the candidates in waiting have all been interrogated by the
Sir Herald, and shall address those who sign as follows:
Sir Herald:
It now becomes my duty to report the result of this examination to a higher
power. I leave you for this purpose, and in a few moments will return to escort
you to the commanding officer of this Castle.
As soon as the Sir Herald re-enters the Castle, the Worthy
Chamberlain provides each candidate with a white robe and hoodwink, and sees
that they are properly adjusted The Sir Herald, on re-entering the Castle, gives
the sign of courtesy, takes two side steps to the left and salutes the Noble
Chief with sword After being responded to by the Noble Chief, the Sir Herald
returns the sword—this applies to each degree—and then presents the roll to the
Noble Chief.
Noble Chief, rises; one rap:
Sir Knights and Brothers reads name or names of
candidate or candidates, candidate elect, has testified his readiness
to comply with all the requirements of our Order in relation to the forms of
initiation, answered all the preliminary questions in a satisfactory manner,
duly signed the roll, and now seeks admission into our Castle. The Sir Herald,
Ensign and Esquire these officers arise as their
titles are announced, will give the retiring sign and proceed to the
ante-chamber to receive the stranger and conduct him to the Noble Chief of this
Castle.
When the Noble Chief has concluded his charge, the Ensign and
Esquire form on a line with the Sir Herald, proceed to the altar, give the
retiring sign, and depart in a military manner. This applies to each degree.
The procession having been formed in the ante-chamber, in the
shape of a cross—Ensign in front, displaying the banner; Sir Herald on the left,
Esquire on the right, and Worthy Chamberlain in the rear, with drawn swords—the
Sir Herald gives order “Carry swords,” blows a blast upon his bugle, and knocks
at the Castle gate.
Noble Chief, in a loud voice:
Brother First Guardsman, what means this alarm at the Castle gate?
First Guardsman advances a few paces, facing the Noble Chief,
salutes with sword, delivers charge, returns sword, and assumes his post. This
applies to each degree where the First Guardsman has a charge to deliver to the
Noble Chief:
Noble Chief, qualified Sir Knights of our Order, escorting a Pilgrim are
without, and demand admission into this Castle.
Noble Chief, two raps:
Open wide the gate and let them enter, giving him safe guidance to this post.
Let music with its sweetest strains attend them on their journey.
The procession moves around the Castle once, during which the
first verse of Initiation Ode is sung, and halts in front of Noble Chief. As the
procession approaches the Noble Chief, he arises, draws and carries sword. When
the procession halts, the Sir Herald gives command ‘right face’. The officers
and candidates assume position of company front, the Sir Herald to left of
candidate. The Sir Herald, worthy Chamberlain and Esquire salute (swords) the
Noble Chief. Ensign always salutes with right hand at same time other officers
salute with swords. The Noble Chief then salutes and returns sword, after which
the Sir Herald delivers charge (if any). All return to a carry, then form a
hollow square as follows Ensign and Esquire forward two paces and about face,
Sir Herald and worthy Chamberlain backward two paces, on a line with Ensign and
Esquire.
Noble Chief:
Stranger, you have now entered the domain of the Golden Eagle Knights, having
duly signed the articles presented for your consideration in the ante-chamber.
You have thus signified your willingness to abide by all the laws and
requirements of this Order. You are arrayed in a Pilgrim’s garb. I will explain
why this is done. No object of great good can be attained in this life unless we
assume the proper garb in which to seek it. The seeker after the immortal crown
has been beautifully represented as a Pilgrim, and not until he has proven his
faithfulness has he been clad in the armor of a Knight. So you must prove your
fidelity to our forms before you can wear the armor and claim your title of Sir
Knight. To accomplish this result, a pilgrimage you must undertake to all the
posts within this Castle realm, at each of which you will receive suitable
instruction, which will strengthen, encourage and make you faithful to the end.
You must now proceed to the sacred altar of our Castle where you will be
required to take upon yourself the solemn and binding obligation of the true
knight’s first bond—Good Faith.
At conclusion of this charge, the Noble Chief draws and carries
sword. The Sir Herald gives command ‘Attention’. Officers at this command
dissolve hollow square and assume position of company front. The line officers
present and salute the Noble Chief who answers in same manner, after which he
returns his sword. The line officers then carry swords, and the Sir Herald gives
command to left face, form cross, and march.
The procession moves once around the Castle (the second verse of
Ode being sung) and halts in front of the altar. The Sir Herald gives orders to
the Past Chief, Noble Chief, vice Chief and Venerable Hermit ‘Draw swords! Carry
swords’. The Ensign and Esquire advance to she post of Noble Chief, and salute.
The Noble Chief answers the salute of the Ensign and Esquire, when they carry
swords The Noble Chief steps into line, and the Ensign and Esquire about face
and escort him to altar This applies to each degree. The Past Chief, Vice Chief,
High Priest and Venerable Hermit, take their positions at the altar at the same
time. These movements apply to all degrees. The room is then darkened.
High Priest:
Valiant Knights, why does this procession approach the altar?
After the High Priest delivers his charge to the Sir Herald, the
latter and the Worthy Chamberlain salute, remaining at salute until the Sir
Herald delivers his charge, then carry swords.
Sir Herald:
We come, Brother High Priest, by order of our Noble Chief, to present this
Pilgrim to receive and take upon himself the vow of good faith.
High Priest:
Stranger and Pilgrim through this knightly realm! Before I proceed with the
solemn ceremonies observed by all who surround this sacred altar, it is proper
to inform you that in the various obligations and formalities imposed upon our
members, there is nothing that can conflict in any manner with your duty to your
family, your country or your God; but the bond of secrecy can be safely given by
the tenderest conscience and most fastidious prudence. After this serious
explanation, in purity of heart and honesty of purpose, do you still desire to
proceed? How say you— yea or nay? Let your answer be heard by all.
Answer
After the candidate has answered the High Priest, the Sir Herald
and Worthy Chamberlain advances to the altar and assume proper positions, as
represented in the diagram. Each member uncovers and the Vice Chief then removes
the hoodwink.
High Priest.
You will kneel. The High Priest will pause to allow
the playing of a low dirge, if desired, after which he will proceed with his
charge. When the High Priest directs candidate to kneel, the officers, except
the High Priest, kneel, resting their heads upon the hilts of their swords in a
reverential manner, and the utmost silence must prevail. The other members
remain standing. Place your left hand upon the Bible, your right hand
upon your heart, and repeat after me, in a distinct tone of voice, every word of
the following obligation
Obligation
I, ... ,
do most solemnly promise and declare, in the presence of the Supreme Ruler of
the Universe, and the brethren here assembled, that I will never reveal any of
the mysteries of the Order of Knights of the Golden Eagle—its initiatory
ceremonies, unwritten forms, signs. countersigns, passwords or grips; its
transactions, discussions or confidential charities—that have been or may
hereafter be imparted to me, to any person not entitled to receive the same; nor
will I write or indite the same upon anything, or cause or allow it to be done,
if possible for me to prevent it.
Under
the same high and sacred pledge, I also promise to assist a member of this
Order, so far as is consistent with my duty, whenever or wherever I may find him
in distress; that I will warn him of any danger which I may know to threaten
him, or any member of his family, and will fly to his aid when in need thereof;
that I will never knowingly wrong him or his, but will help him preserve the
sacred rights of his household inviolate.
I also promise to observe all the rules and
regulations required by the Constitution and By-Laws of this Castle, the Grand
Castle of , the Supreme Castle, or any other Grand or Subordinate Castle to
which I may here-after attach myself, and will abide by all the decisions
thereof so long as I remain affiliated with the brethren. All of which
obligation I now in good faith assume, and call upon the everlasting God to so
guide my heart and mind that I shall ever faithful prove to this my vow.
All respond:
Amen.
The Worthy Bard may play a low dirge, or the members sing in a
low tone, “Nearer, My God to Thee,’’ or any appropriate hymn, to the
accompaniment of the organ After which, each member re-covers.
High Priest:
Arise! When directed by the High Priest to arise,
all the officers, including the Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain, arise, the
Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain, facing each other, at the altar, at a carry
swords. Pilgrim in your journey through this Castle domain, there are
different posts that you must visit ere you reach the end. In yon mountain cave
a Hermit dwells. If your faith proves firm enough to reach that wild and weird
place, a lesson you will learn of grave import. I pray you give earnest heed to
all you see and hear, for he who dwells within that lone abode can words of
wisdom speak, and advice give, that will stir your soul to good resolves.
Proceed, and may kind Heaven bless you on your journey.
The Vice Chief adjusts the hoodwink. The Sir Herald and Worthy
Chamberlain assume positions on line with the candidate. Sir Herald gives order
to the Past Chief, Noble Chief, Vice Chief and Venerable Hermit, “Return swords,
officers to your posts, march”. The Sir Herald, Esquire and Worthy Chamberlain
do not return swords. Noble Chief is escorted to his post by the Ensign and
Esquire. They remain, until he faces them, when they salute, which is
acknowledged by him with the right hand. They then about face, and assume
position in line with candidate. (This applies to each degree) Three raps. The
procession is then reformed and marches twice around the Castle (the third and
fourth verses of Ode being sung) to the Cave. The officers, on reaching the
cave, assume position of company front. The Sir Herald gives one blast upon his
bugle.
Venerable Hermit:
Valiant Knights and weary Pilgrim, I welcome you to my drear abode, and bid you
make your wishes known. Speak!
The officers salute the Venerable Hermit, remaining at the same
until the Sir Herald has delivered his charge, when they carry swords.
Sir Herald:
From the altar of our knightly realm, by order of our Noble Chief, we come
guarding this Pilgrim, duly obligated under our solemn vow, Good Faith who
desires to see and hear what all must know who wish to wear the armor of an
Eagle Knight.
I pray
you let the hoodwink be removed.
Venerable Hermit:
Ho! Let the hoodwink be removed, and bid him look.
The Sir Herald removes hoodwink and the officers form a hollow square. The
Chapel bell strikes twelve, during which the Venerable Hermit pauses in the
recital of his charge. The chapel bell peals forth the solemn
midnight hour. All nature is hushed in death-like silence and repose. Come
forth, thou valiant, faithful knight, whose name we bear, a Pilgrim stands
Pilgrim stand
before thy tomb. Door
flies open,
revealing
scene. Pilgrim, behold the Eagle Knight, who, in his days of flesh
and blood, gave constant proof of valor such as few could boast; whose courage
was proof against all danger; whose lance, which you do see him hold fast in the
clutches of his bony fingers, was ever ready couched to uphold the cause of
right, to defend the helpless, and to save the innocent from wrong. See, now
come from his grave, he wears upon his burnished shield, as in days of yore, the
motto you must wear upon the tablet of your heart. Engrave it there, and it will
ever prove a shield and breast-plate, invulnerable to all the assaults of foes
combined of Earth and Hell. It embodies in its teachings within these walls,
eternal faithfulness to each and every duty of your life; eternal faithfulness
to your sacred vows this night assumed; strict and uncompromising adherence to
all our laws and sacred forms; careful and exact observance of all the duties
enjoined upon you by the knighthood regulations of this noble and benevolent
Order. And now, Pilgrim, in the presence of this, our patron knight of mortality
and its emblems, I conjure you by all held dear by you on earth—by your hopes of
Heaven—keep ever bright upon the altar of your heart that motto, all life’s
journey through, and rest assured in yon bright celestial world of never-fading
bliss you will wear the conqueror’s crown when the last battle is fought and the
victory won. Let the lesson you have learned this night be never banished from
your mind. But ‘tis time for you to go; the torch begins to wane; the gray
streaks of morn light up the eastern sky the lights
are turned up gradually; the time is up. Away! Away! But ever keep
the motto bright.
The Venerable Hermit retires. The Sir herald gives command
‘Attention,’ adjusts hoodwink, and then gives commands ‘Left face, form cross,
march.’ The officers then conduct the Pilgrim to the ante-chamber. As soon as
the Castle is ready, the procession re-enters in the usual manner (the Noble
Chief giving two raps), and moves once around the Castle to the post of the Vice
Chief, (the fifth verse of ode being sung). The foot and sword movements at the
post of the Vice Chief are the same as at the post of the Noble Chief.
Three raps.
Sir Herald:
Brother Vice Chief, from the Venerable Hermit’s cave we come, and present this
faithful Pilgrim, to receive from you his passport to our Past Chief.
Vice
Chief: Upon the assurance of our Sir
Herald that you have received the lesson of Fidelity in the presence of our
patron knight, I am happy to receive you at my post, and desire to congratulate
you upon your advancement thus far in the formulas of our Order. As you have
proven worthy, it becomes my duty to invest you with an emblem that will prove a
passport to the post of our Past Chief, and enable you to receive from him the
signs, counter-signs, passwords and grip of this our introductory degree. This
emblem is a golden chain. It signifies that our members are united to our Order,
and to each other, by the purest links and ties of Good Faith. Among the
ancients this token was esteemed a mark of high honor, and was only bestowed
upon those whose Fidelity reached far above the common standard. I sincerely
hope that your unflinching Fidelity will ever wear the form and semblance of
this chain, which, you see is firmly united, link to link. We could not present
to your mind a more beautiful and forcible illustration, to impress you with our
earnest desire to see each and every heart within the pale of this brotherhood
so cemented that nought but death can burst the links asunder.
Invests candidate with chain, steps back to his post,
and resumes his charge. I now desire you safe guidance to the post of
our Past Chief.
The procession moves around the Castle to the post of the Past
Chief, the worthy Bard playing a march. The foot and sword movements on
departing from the post of the vice Chief, and on arriving and departing from
the post of the Past Chief, are the same as at the post of the Noble Chief.
Sir Herald:
Brother Past Chief, I have the honor to present to you this faithful Pilgrim who
wears the passport to your post and awaits your instructions.
Past Chief:
Pilgrim, I am pleased to see you wear the emblem that enables me to grant your
desire. As you have cheerfully subscribed to all the requirements, and
faithfully received all necessary instruction, before you could be entitled to
the signs of the Pilgrims’ or Golden Chain Degree, I will proceed to instruct
you, and hope you will give most careful attention, so that you may learn them
thoroughly and never forget them:
When you
approach the outer gate you will give any alarm which will attract the attention
of the Second Guardsman, who will place his ear to the wicket and receive from
you these words.... He will admit you to the antechamber and provide you with
appropriate regalia. You will then approach the inner gate and give ... raps and
the degree passwords, which are ... one word for each rap. The gate will then be
opened, and you will enter and immediately advance to the center of the Castle,
in front of the altar, and salute the Noble Chief with this sign, ... which is
called the Sign of Courtesy, and the meaning of which is.... It will be
immediately recognized by the Noble Chief in this manner, which is the
countersign, .... Should you wish to retire while the Castle is open in the
Pilgrims’ Degree, you will advance to the front of the altar and salute the
Noble Chief with this sign ... signifying ...; the Noble Chief will answer you
with the same sign, when you will immediately retire. The Grip is made in this
manner, .... The Gavel—the emblem of authority is thus used: One rap calls the
attention of the Castle; two raps call the members to their feet; three raps
seat them.
There
are other Degrees which you will be privileged to take, which will convey you
further into the mysteries of this Order. I sincerely hope that you will favor
us with your presence every session, or as often as you can conveniently attend,
and that you will deem it a pleasure to introduce into fellowship with us those
of your friends whom you may know to be worthy.
Brother
Sir Herald, you will now remove the robe and chain,
the Sir Herald returns his sword, removes the robe and chain, and brings his
sword to a carry, after which the Past Chief continues his charge,
and conduct the Pilgrim to the post of our Noble Chief.
The procession
moves
around the Castle to the post of the Noble Chief (the Worthy Bard playing a
march ) The foot and sword movements on leaving tile post of the Past Chief and
arriving at the post of the Noble Chief, are the same as previously defined.
Sir Herald:
Noble Chief, in obedience to your command, we have given this Pilgrim courteous
escort to all our posts. He has been faithfully instructed, and now returns to
you for final orders.
Noble Chief:
Pilgrim! Brother! I hail with pleasure your safe return! Your pilgrimage is
over, and your faithfulness tonight assures us that you will prove a faithful
friend and valiant Knight. The lesson we teach in this Degree is the first
requirement of this Order of Knighthood—Fidelity. He who receives this lesson
with an honest heart and purpose, will never fail to perform the further duties
and requirements of the higher degrees of this Order, for which you will be
permitted in time to make application. And now, by virtue of the authority
vested in me as Noble Chief, I declare you proven in the Pilgrim’s Degree, and a
member ... Castle, No. ..., of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, of ...; an Order
established to cultivate and enlarge the noblest feelings implanted by the Great
Creator within the heart of man—to bind men together by the purest and most
tender cords of affection. May we each strive the other to outdo in deeds of
Charity and Love. Brother, it becomes my duty, while welcoming you to this
fraternity, to invest you with the regalia of this Degree, the colors being Blue
and Gold, signifying, respectively, fidelity and purity of motive. You will
receive this badge in testimony of your fellowship with those who are banded
together in this knighthood bond of Good Faith
placing regalia. In assuming
this, you will remember that all who wear this badge are pledged to you as
friends, united in a holy cause. You will about face.
The Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain
will also about face.
Two raps.
Sir Knights and Brothers, with becoming courtesy,
permit me the pleasure of introducing to you Brother ..., of the Pilgrims’ or
Golden Chain Degree. You will advance and bid him welcome.
The officers return swords and dissolve hollow square without
command. Three raps. Allow time for members to greet Pilgrim.
Noble Chief, one rap:
The Sir Herald will retire with the Pilgrim to the ante-chamber, and assist him
in working his way into the Castle.
Closing
Noble Chief, rises:
No further business appearing before the Castle, we will proceed to close.
Brother
Clerk of the Exchequer, I will thank you to announce the receipts of the
evening.
Brother
Master of Records, what are the expenses?
Each officer assumes his position as at opening and obeys the
commands of the Sir Herald.
Noble Chief, two raps:
The brethren will sing the Closing Ode:
Sir
Knights, while hurried by the strife
That
presses every active life,
Be ever
guarded, never dare
To soil
the armor that you wear.
‘Tis not the stain upon the sword,
But falsehood to our knightly word;
Our flag may fall, our swords may rust,
But
spotless be each brother’s trust.
Noble Chief:
The brethren will attend while the High Priest implores the blessing of Deity
upon our brotherhood.
High Priest, advances to altar, when the Sir Herald gives
command ‘Attention, Sir Knights. Uncover!’:
Guide us, O Thou Great Jehovah, during the hours that shall intervene between
this and our next session. Grant us Thy divine grace, that we may so regulate
our conduct that it may redound to Thy glory. Save us, we beseech Thee, from the
dangers that lurk around us. Permit us to live together as brothers, united by
Thy love. Sanction and assist our efforts to benefit our fellow-men, and
finally, when it is Thy gracious will to call us from the shores of time, may we
enjoy the blessings of that eternal home which Thou hast prepared for those who
have loved and served Thee faithfully on earth, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All respond:
Amen.
Sir Herald:
Re-cover. This command is given before the High
Priest leaves the altar. The High Priest then assumes position in front of his
post. Sir Herald proceeds: Draw Swords! Carry Swords! Present Swords!
Noble Chief:
Brethren, having concluded our labors this evening, let us carry with us, on
leaving this Castle, the spirit which prompted the foundation of our Order. Let
no unguardedness of speech or gesture betray us into a forfeiture of that most
solemn bond of secrecy which covers every word and every act that passes in this
Castle.
I now
declare ... Castle, No. ..., Knights of the Golden Eagle, of the State of ...,
duly closed
until our next regular session.
Sir Herald:
Carry swords! Return swords!
High Priest Closes Bible.
Noble Chief:
Brother First Guardsman, you will notify the Second Guardsman, to open the
Castle gates, and permit the brethren to retire.
One rap.
Second
or Knights' Degree
Revised June
1908
The Master of Records presents to the Noble Chief tile name of
candidates who have been elected.
Noble Chief:
Brother Worthy Chamberlain, you will approach the altar, give the Retiring Sign,
and proceed to the ante-chamber, where you will prepare the candidates for the
Knights’ Degree.
Brother
Sir Herald, you will give the Retiring Sign and proceed to the ante-chamber, and
receive from the Worthy Chamberlain the names of the candidates in waiting.
The Sir Herald receives from the Master of Records a list of
candidates who have been elected, proceeds to the ante-chamber, receives from
the Worthy Chamberlain the names of those in waiting, and compares them with
those furnished by the Master of Records, if correct, the Worthy Chamberlain
provides each candidate with a black robe and hoodwink, and sees that they are
properly adjusted. The Sir Herald then returns to the Castle gives the sign of
courtesy, salutes as in the First Degree, and says:
Noble Chief, I find in waiting Brother ..., who desires to receive the honors of
the Knights’ Degree.
Noble Chief, arises and gives one rap:
We will now proceed to confer the coveted honor upon Brother ..., who having
proved faithful and passed a fair ballot, desires to be initiated into the
mysteries of the Knights’ Degree. Brother Sir Herald, you will proceed, with our
Brothers Ensign and Esquire proceeds as in the First
Degree to the ante-chamber and escort the candidate to this post.
The procession having been formed the same as in the First
Degree, the Sir Herald gives a blast on his bugle and knocks at the Castle gate.
First
Guardsman, in a loud voice, through the wicket: Who dares to demand admission to
this Castle of the Golden Eagle Knights?
Sir Herald:
Officers of this Castle with a Pilgrim who desires to know the mysteries of the
Knights’ Degree.
First Guardsman, salutes as in First Degree:
Noble Chief, qualified Sir Knights of our Order, escorting a candidate for
Knightly honors, desire admission.
Noble Chief:
Admit them without further challenge.
The gate is opened. The Noble Chief gives two raps. The
procession enters and moves around the Castle (the first verse of the Ode being
sung) and halts in front of the Noble Chief. The foot and sword movements are
the same as in First Degree.
Sir Herald:
Noble Chief, this brother of the Pilgrims’ or Golden Chain Degree desires to
know the mysteries of our Knighthood bond, and awaits your command.
Noble
Chief: Brother and candidate, for the
honors of the Knights’ Degree, before you can receive the honors emanating from
this chivalric Degree, it becomes my duty, as Noble Chief, to inform you that
you will again be called upon to assume an obligation, both solemn and binding
in its character which requires you to preserve forever secret all that you
shall see, hear, or be instructed in. You will be expected to observe, with
conscientious care and unwavering obedience, the teachings and principles
embodied in the lessons you will receive; principles which shown forth in
splendor through the dark clouds of ignorance, superstition and vice that, in
the early days of Christianity, had well nigh become universal; principles which
reflected the God-like attributes of the human race, and warmed into a fervid
glow the noble characteristics which shed their lustre upon the heart of man,
kindled afresh the latent spark of pure religion which lay smouldering upon the
deserted altars dedicated to the worship of the true and living God, and
reviving the dying virtues of the age, taught men to emulate and display with
heroism the sweet charm of courtesy and kindness to espouse the cause of
helpless innocence, and defend the weak from the oppressor’s wrongs, making the
true and valiant Knight breathe forth the graces and adornments of a noble and
generous heart and mind.
These,
my brother, are the true principles of chivalry. And may these teachings and
symbols inspire in our hearts love and enthusiasm for all that is holy and pure,
retaining for our standard the chivalric duties of Veneration for Religion,
Fidelity, Valor, Courtesy, Charity, Temperance and Hospitality—Virtues that give
purity to enthusiasm, crush out selfishness, teach the heart to expand like a
flower in the sunshine, and smooth even the rugged brow of war.
My
brother, I assure you that nothing will be required of you that does not tend to
ennoble and refine. If you still desire to proceed, you will raise your right
hand. ‘Tis well. You will now be escorted to our altar, where, in the presence
of these valiant Knights, you will assume the solemn obligation of the Knights’
Degree.
The foot and sword movements are the same as in the First Degree.
The procession moves around the Castle (the second verse of Ode being sung), and
halts in front of the altar. Sir Herald gives order to Past Chief, Noble Chief,
Vice Chief and Venerable Hermit, ‘Draw swords, carry swords’. Ensign and Esquire
advance to post of Noble Chief, salute and escort him to the altar (same as in
the First Degree). The Past Chief, High Priest, Vice Chief and Venerable Hermit,
take their respective positions at the altar. The Castle at this time is dark.
Sir Herald and worthy Chamberlain present and salute the High Priest, remaining
at a salute while the Sir Herald delivers charge.
Sir Herald:
Brother High Priest, by order of our Noble Chief, I present this candidate for
Knightly honors, who desires to assume the solemn obligation of this Degree.
The Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain advance to the altar and
assume proper positions, as per diagram, and are handed torches. Each member
uncovers, and the Vice Chief removes hoodwink.
High Priest:
Brother, you are about to kneel before our altar, in the presence of the Great
Creator of us all, to assume an obligation on this Holy Book, whose inspired
pages speak to man and bid him seek immortal life beyond the tomb. Upon the
Bible, you see, is placed a human skull; to remind you that although you hold
that head of yours now proudly erect, yet it must surely come to this. The
sword, which you must raise aloft, is also emblematic, and serves to convey to
your mind the idea that you must fight your way through life to win valor’s
golden crown. You are clad in a robe (robes) of black—a color signifying
sorrow—denoting that the path to glory is sometimes dark and gloomy, and that
you may be frequently compelled to wear the sombre mantle of sorrow. My brother,
surrounded and impressed as you are, do you still desire the obligation of
Knighthood to assume?
Candidate answers:
I do.
High Priest:
You will kneel. The High Priest will pause to allow
the playing of a low dirge, if desired, after which he will proceed with his
charge. When the candidate is directed to kneel, the officers, except the High
Priest, kneel, resting their heads upon the hilts of their swords in a
reverential manner, and the utmost silence must prevail. The other members
remain standing. An extra sword, for the candidate should be provided, so as to
avoid disarrangement of the altar.
Point
with the index finger of the left hand to the skull. Raise aloft the sword with
your right hand, and repeat the obligation in a distinct tone of voice, so that
you may be heard by all.
Obligation
I, ..., in the presence of the Great Jehovah and
these valiant Knights, do solemnly promise and declare, without any mental
reservation whatever, that I will, while life and reason last, preserve and keep
inviolate all the mysteries of the Order of Knights of the Golden Eagle
pertaining to the Knights’ Degree; that I will ever strive, God being my helper,
to obey the teachings of this Knighthood bond; that I will wield valor’s sword
in defense of the principles of this Order or any of its members whom I may know
to be worthy ; that I will sustain, counsel and aid a brother when overcome by
the iron hand of adversity and misfortune, and will, to the utmost of my
ability, assist him in his business relations when not inconsistent with my duty
so to do; that I will, by courtesy and brotherly love, in my intercourse with my
brethren, proclaim to the world that this Knighthood bond is not a myth, but a
pure unselfish tie—a reality; and finally, with uplifted sword—fit emblem to
remind me that I must fight if I would win—I pledge my sacred word that I will
strive these duties to perform, and prove myself worthy to wear the armor of
this Degree. So help me God, and make me faithful in this my Knightly vow.
All respond:
Amen.
The Worthy Bard may play a low dirge, or the members sing in a
low tone, “Nearer. My God to Thee,’’ or an” appropriate hymn, to the
accompaniment of the organ. After which each member ‘re-covers.’
High Priest:
Arise my brother. The officers also arise, the Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain
remaining at the altar, as in the First Degree, with swords pointing toward the
candidate and torches held aloft. The High Priest
relieves the candidate of the sword, which he subsequently returns to him as the
“Sword of Faith.” May the obligation you have just taken be ever
fresh in your memory. Let not the tempter’s insiduous wiles allure you from the
path of duty. You are about to enter the dark valley of sorrow and temptation.
Take this, the Sword of Faith, and this Holy Emblem, before whose potent charm
the spirits of evil flee to their dark domain and lose their power to harm.
Remember, that soon, if you but courageous prove, you can, with valor, fight the
warfare through. Farewell! Your road for a time is dark and drear. Farewell!
When the High Priest concludes his charge, the Vice Chief adjusts
hoodwink. The Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain will be relieved of torches,
carry swords and assume position in the line with the candidate. The Sir Herald
gives order to Past Chief, Noble Chief, Vice Chief and Venerable Hermit ‘Return
swords, Officers, to your post, march!’ The Sir Herald, Esquire and Worthy
Chamberlain do not return swords. The Noble Chief is escorted to his post by the
Ensign and Esquire, as in the First Degree, who then return to the altar.
Three raps.
The Procession is reformed and escorts the Pilgrim to the
antechamber—the Ensign, Esquire and Worthy Chamberlain remaining in the Castle
and occupying their respective posts. The Castle being in readiness, the Sir
Herald re-enters with Pilgrim and moves once around the Castle, the following
chorus being recited or sung in a low tone:
“Whilst
thou art a pilgrim here,
List not
to the tempters wiles
Display
thy Cross, thy spirit cheer
Nor heed
the demon that beguiles.’’
A figure representing Satan, clothed in the garb of a Knight,
approaches, and addressing the Pilgrim, says:
Lucifer:
Mortal, I am the prince of the powers of this world. Go not with this Knight,
thy guide, but follow me. Mine is a pleasant path, bestrewn with flowers, whilst
this thou now dost travel is dark, thorny, and beset with trials, sacrifices and
tribulations. I am Lucifer. Come, give me but a lease upon thy soul, and thou
shalt enjoy pleasures unalloyed and unrestrained. Come, and I will make thee
mighty amongst the sons of men.
When Lucifer has finished, the Pilgrim (under the promptings of
the Sir Herald) displays the Cross, and Lucifer vanishes. He can enter the Cave.
The Pilgrim is then conducted around the Castle to the Cave. The chapel bell
strikes twelve, occupying time between Lucifer’s departure and reaching cave.
The Hermit is standing behind a rude altar, upon which is phaced an open Bible
and skull, with a lighted candle upon each side.
Sir Herald, presents and salutes the Venerable Hermit, then
delivers charge, and comes to a carry:
Venerable Hermit, I present you this Pilgrim, who through temptations sore has
passed unscathed. He seeks to know the mysteries of thy drear abode.
Venerable Hermit:
Pilgrim, you have been conducted to this mysterious Cave at midnight’s dark and
gloomy hour—the time best suited to receive the solemn lessons I teach. The
obligation you have assumed requires you to pass through an ordeal that will put
your boasted valor to the test. Seest yon arched gate, whereon doth hang that
shield?
Candidate answers:
I do.
Venerable Hermit:
I command thee to take this shield. Give me thy cross; thy sword retain. Advance
if thou dost dare, and strike upon that shield three blows with thy good sword.
The Pilgrim advances and strikes the shield. The gate flies open
with a loud noise, revealing figure, who speaks in a hollow tone of voice.
Fallen Knight:
Mortal, behold in me the spirit of a false and craven Knight; false to my sacred
I vows; condemned for my foul crimes, done in my days of nature to wear these
clanking chains and dwell in torments here. I once did wear the armor of an
Eagle Knight, but only to disgrace the cause. My coward heart, my deeds of
violence and wrong, my cruelty and injustice to my fellow-men, make up a
catalogue of crimes so foul that my poor soul must here, upon this lake of fire,
exist whilst countless ages roll their solemn rounds—no rest or solace know or
feel. Oh! horror! even now the fiends laugh and shriek within the hollow
chambers of my soul. Lost! lost! lost! forever lost! Mortal, thou has assumed
thy Knightly vows—take warning! betray them not. Let thy life be one of
faithfulness, valor and courteous kindness. Conquer first thyself; when that is
done, thy valor is proof against all foes. Remember, and beware! let this be not
thy doom.
At this time, Lucifer can enter on the scene, and finding that
the Fallen Knight has been uttering a warning, becomes enraged, and placing his
foot upon the prostrate Fallen Knight, raises his trident to pierce him, thus
forming a tableaux. The door then flies to with a loud noise.
Venerable Hermit:
Pilgrim, this terrific spectacle portrays to your mind the awful doom that
awaits the warrior who proves false to his vows—a traitor to the cause of right
which he has espoused—and who willfully neglects in this life the duties of a
true Knight; Fidelity to his God and his fellow man, with all the attendant
virtues recorded in his Knightly vows. This solemn, fearful scene, I sincerely
hope, will be indelibly impressed upon your memory. The lessons we teach are
full of wisdom, and proclaim, trumpet-tongued, to him who seeks to know the
mysteries of this Degree, that it is not all of life to live, nor all of death
to die. Let thy record, then, in this life be pure, that thy name may be
recorded in the great book of life.
Pilgrim,
you have shown by your conduct that you possess the requisite qualification to
entitle you to wear the armor of this Order. That qualification is Valor, the
first motto of this Degree. Nobly have you acted in facing the dangers
surrounding you in this mystic Cave; therefore you are entitled to the full
honors of Knighthood.
Brother
Sir Herald, you will remove our brother’s robe of gloom
the Sir Herald removes robe, as directed in First
Degree. The candidate returns sword and shield and give him courteous
escort hence. Farewell! Farewell!
When the Venerable Hermit has concluded his charge, the Ensign,
Esquire and Worthy Chamberlain assume position, with the Sir Herald and
candidate, at company front. The lights are then turned up. The line officers
salute and the Noble Chief gives two raps. The procession is re-formed and moves
around the Castle (the third verse of Ode being sung) to the post of the Vice
Chief. The foot and sword movements at the post of Vice Chief are the same as in
First Degree.
Three raps.
Sir Herald:
Vice Chief, this brother, having passed the ordeal of the Hermit’s Cave, desires
to be further enlightened.
Vice
Chief: My brother, the lesson taught by
me constitutes one of the principal requirements of true Knighthood, and goes
hand in hand with Valor. It is Courtesy, which is thus defined: Kindness,
Civility and Politeness. The definition Kindness is that which I now desire to
present to your mind as the second motto of this Degree. Your duty requires you
to practice the charm of courteous kindness in all your intercourse with your
brother Knights. Whenever grim visaged misfortune, with its iron grasp, seizes
upon a member of this Order, it becomes your duty to hasten to his rescue.
Whenever disease or sorrow bows down his heart with weight of woe, be thou ever
ready1 with acts of kindness and words of love, to cheer his heart;
and if thy foe should be in thy power, revenge not thyself upon him, but, by thy
courteous kindness, make him thy friend. So let thy action show to friend and
foe that this chivalric charm is as potent in its power for good as mighty Valor,
with its sword and shield.
Brother
Sir Herald, you will now conduct the brother to the altar of our Castle, where
he will be received into full fellowship.
The foot and sword movements at the post of the Vice Chief are
same as in First Degree The procession moves around the Castle (the fourth verse
of Ode being sung) to the altar The candidate will be relieved of sword arid
shield by the Floor Director, which are placed at the altar, where is also
placed a regalia, helmet and pair of spurs The Noble Chief gives two raps The
officers draw and carry swords without command. The Ensign and Esquire advance
to post of Noble Chief, salute and escort him to the altar, same as in First
Degree. The Past Chief, Vice Chief and High Priest take proper positions in
front of their respective posts, facing altar, the Sir Herald and Worthy
Chamberlain at left and right of the Vice Chief.
Noble Chief, after having returned his sword:
Brother, you are about to receive the honors of this chivalric Degree. You now
fully understand its ceremonies, as you have been clearly and faithfully
instructed—our first requirement being Fidelity; our second, Valor and
Courtesy—the three signifying with us; unwavering fidelity to our Order and its
members; unflinching valor in maintaining the principles we are obliged to
uphold; of assisting each other through the struggles and vicissitudes of life,
and by courteous kindness to strengthen and encourage each other in sickness and
sorrow. May you ever remember the warning in the Hermit’s Cave, and by your
Fidelity, your Valor, and your Courtesy, avoid the doom of the false and
traitorous Knight. Our Past Chief will now instruct you in the secret signs,
passwords and grips of this Degree.
The Noble Chief will draw, carry, present and salute the Past
Chief, who responds in same manner, both carry, arid the Past Chief returns his
Sword and delivers his charge, standing near the altar, in front of his post.
Past Chief:
Brother, at the outer gate you will proceed to work your way into the
ante-chamber as you have been instructed in the Pilgrim’s Degree, where you will
be provided with appropriate regalia, and immediately apply at the inner gate
giving ... raps and the Degree passwords, which are .... The gate will then be
opened and you will enter and immediately advance to the center of the Castle,
in front of the altar, and salute the Noble Chief with this sign ..., which is
called the sign of Courtesy and the meaning of which is .... It will be
immediately recognized by the Noble Chief in this manner, which is the
countersign, ..., signifying .... The Shield Sign, or Sign of Valor, which you
will be required to present on certain formal occasions, is given thus ...,
signifying .... The Grip is made in this manner, .... Should you wish to retire
while the Castle is open in the Knights’ Degree, you will advance to the front
of the altar and salute the Noble Chief with this sign ... signifying ..., the
Noble Chief will answer you with the same sign, when you will immediately
retire.
The Past Chief will draw and carry sword, and salute the Noble
Chief, who responds and returns his sword. The Past Chief conies to a carry. The
Sir Herald gives order, ‘uncover’ (all members do so) ‘Present swords’. It is
only necessary to knight one candidate, if there should be more than one. The
Noble Chief does not uncover.
Noble Chief:
You will kneel upon your left knee. By virtue of my authority as Noble Chief of
this Castle, I now invest you with the regalia of this Degree. Place upon your
head the Helmet of the Eagle Knights Take this, thy Shield, and these, thy
Golden Spurs, and this, thy Sword, which according to ancient custom. I present,
first giving thee three blows with its naked blade
gives three blows on the shoulder of the candidate pronouncing thee,
in the name of the Order of Knights of the Golden Eagle, a true and valiant
Knight of this Degree. Arise, Sir Knight.
In
presenting the sword of the Eagle Knights, presents
him with the sword, I desire to impress on your mind the solemn
emblematic significance with which it is endowed. In grasping its handle—the
Cross—be ever reminded of that symbol of faith, the Christianis hope and the
Christian’s trust, and ever cling with unwavering faithfulness to the first
requisite of the Christian warrior—Fidelity to God and your fellow-man. The
Blade, when forth from its scabbard drawn, will remind you of the valor and
heroism to be displayed by you in the struggles and combats of this life, in
which you must a conqueror prove to win the immortal crown. The Scabbard will
remind you that when the last battle is fought and the victory won, you can
return this blade of Valor to this its sheath, and close your eyes to sleep in
peace until the archangel’s trump shall summon you before the Immortal Chief of
the Universe to hear the joyful plaudit “Well done, thou faithful, valiant life
warrior! enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”
Be sure,
my brother, you stain not your armor. Permit not your shield to be reversed,
nor let your sword to its scabbard return whilst there is a foe to fight, or
cause of right to defend. Remember, the obligation of Valor binds you never to
fly from your enemies. With this admonition, I declare you fully armed and
equipped to maintain the doctrines and principles of our Order until death.
Sir Herald gives order:
Recover Carry swords! Return swords.
Sir
Knights, you will advance the Sign of Valor, ... Down.
The armor is removed from the candidate by the Floor
Director. You will now advance to greet with courtesy this brother
Knight, for which purpose I declare an intermission until the sound of the gavel
at my post.
One rap.
Noble Chief:
The Sir Herald will retire with the Knight to the ante-chamber, and assist him
in working his way into the Castle.
Third
or Crusaders' Degree
Revised
June
1908
Ode of the
Crusaders Degree.
Jehovah, Lord, our Shield,
May we for glory wield
Our sword and lance.
In faith our hearts unite,
With val’rous zeal to invite,
Each courteous Eagle Knight
Our cause to advance.
In Thee, oh Lord, we trust;
Let not our armor rust,
But keep it bright,
Our honor to maintain,
Our banner ne’er to shame
Thy glory ever claim
By deeds of right.
And when the crusade’s done,
The battle fought and won,
The cross laid down,
Oh, Saviour, Lord, with Thee,
In Thy blest world so free,
May we Thy glories see,
And wear the crown.
The Master of
Records presents to the Noble Chief the names of candidates who have been
elected.
Noble Chief:
Brother Worthy Chamberlain, you will approach the altar, give the Retiring Sign,
and proceed to the ante-chamber, where you will prepare the candidates for the
solemn ceremonies of the Crusaders’ Degree.
Brother Sir Herald, you will
give the Retiring Sign, proceed to the ante-chamber and receive from the Worthy
Chamberlain the names of the candidates in waiting.
The Sir Herald
receives from the Master of Records a list of candidates who have been elected,
proceeds to the ante-chamber receives from the Worthy Chamberlain the names of
those in waiting, and compares them with those furnished by the Master of
Records, if correct, the Worthy Chamberlain provides each candidate with a white
robe and hoodwink, and sees that they are properly adjusted. The Sir Herald then
returns to the Castle, gives the sign of Courtesy, salutes as in the First and
Second Degrees, and says:
Noble Chief, I find in waiting Sir Knight ..., who desires to be initiated into
the solemn mysteries of the Crusaders’ Degree.
Noble Chief,
one rap: Brother
Sir Herald, you will proceed, with our Brothers Ensign and Esquire
proceeds as in the First and Second Degrees
giving the Retiring Sign, to the ante-chamber, and escort the candidate in
waiting to the altar of our Castle.
The procession is formed in the same manner as in
the First and Second Degrees. The Sir Herald gives a blast upon his bugle and
knocks at the Castle gate.
First
Guardsman, in a loud voice, through the wicket:
who dares demand admission into the hallowed precincts of the Crusade Knights?
Sir Herald:
Officers of this Castle, with a Sir Knight of our Order, who desires to know the
mysteries of this Degree.
First
Guardsman, salutes as in the First and Second Degrees:
Noble Chief, officers of this Castle, escorting a Sir Knight, desire admission.
Noble Chief,
rising: Admit them
without delay or hindrance, and let courteous escort be given him to the altar
of our Castle, there to be duly and solemnly obligated.
Two raps.
The procession
moves once around the Castle (the first verse of the Ode
being sung) and halts in
front of the altar. The Sir Herald gives orders to all officers, except Esquire
and Worthy Chamberlain, ‘Draw swords Carry swords’. The Ensign and Esquire
advance to post of Noble Chief, salute and escort him to the altar, the same as
in the First and Second Degrees. The other officers, except the Sir Herald and
worthy Chamberlain, take their respective positions at the altar. The room is
then darkened. The Sir Herald and Worthy Chamberlain salute the High Priest,
remaining at a salute until the Sir Herald delivers his charge, then carry
swords.
Sir
Herald: Brother
High Priest, by order of our Noble Chief, I present this Sir Knight who desires
to assume the solemn obligation of the Crusaders’ Degree.
High Priest:
Sir Knight, before proceeding with the ceremonies of this Degree, are you
willing to bind yourself by a solemn obligation never to reveal any of its
secrets?
Candidate answers.
The Sir Herald
and worthy Chamberlain then advance to the altar, and assume proper position.
Each member uncovers, and the Vice Chief removes hoodwink.
High Priest:
You will kneel. The High Priest will pause to allow
the playing of a low dirge, if desired, after which he will proceed with his
charge. When the candidate is directed to kneel, the officers, except the High
Priest, kneel, resting their heads upon the hilts of their swords in a
reverential manner, and the utmost silence must prevail.
The other
members remain standing.
Place your left hand upon your heart, and with your eyes fixed upon and your
right hand pointing with its index finger to the cross, repeat after me every
word of the following solemn and binding obligation:
Obligation
I, ..., in the presence of the Supreme Ruler of the
Universe and the Crusade Knights here assembled, do solemnly and sincerely
declare, without any mental reservation or evasion whatsoever, that I will,
through life, preserve and keep inviolate all the mysteries of the Order of
Knights of the Golden Eagle, pertaining to the Crusaders’ Degree: that I will
never reveal the same, or any part thereof, to any one except to those legally
authorized to receive the same; that I will guard with fidelity the honor of a
brother, as well as that of his household; that I will make such sacrifices as
may be necessary, and the interests of myself and family will allow, to promote
the welfare of my brethren and the Order generally; and no qualified member of
this Degree shall ever call upon me for assistance and leave my presence without
help, if in my power to grant it. All of which obligation I pledge myself to
fulfill, as far as my circumstances and ability will permit, with Fidelity to
the principles of our Order; with Valor in the cause of Truth and Justice; with
gentleness of heart and courtesy of manner, trusting in the Great Chief above to
bestow whatever Honor and Glory he may see fit to give at the close of this
Knightly Crusade. So help me God, and keep me faithful.
All respond:
Amen.
The Worthy Bard
may play a low dirge, or the members sing, in a low tone, ‘Nearer My God to
Thee,’ or any appropriate hymn, to the accompaniment of the organ. Each member
re-covers.
High Priest:
Arise! The officers also arise, the Sir Herald and
Worthy Chamberlain remaining at the altar facing each other at a “carry swords.”
Brother Sir Herald, you will now conduct our newly obligated Sir Knight to the
post of our Noble Chief for further instruction.
The Vice Chief replaces hoodwink. The Sir Herald and
Worthy Chamberlain assume positions in line with the candidate. The Sir Herald
gives orders to all officers, except the Esquire and worthy Chamberlain, ‘Return
swords, Officers to your post, march’. The Sir Herald, Esquire and Worthy
Chamberlain do not return swords. The Noble Chief is escorted to his post by the
Ensign and Esquire, same as in the First and Second Degrees, who then return to
the altar (THREE RAPS.) The procession moves once around the Castle to the
antechamber, the Worthy Bard playing a slow march. the white robe is removed and
black substituted, the procession re-enters the Castle (the second verse of Ode
being sung) and halts in front of the post of the Noble Chief. The foot and
sword movements at the post of the Noble Chief are the same as in the First and
Second Degrees.
Noble
Chief: Sir Knight, before you can be
received into full fellowship with the Crusade Knights of the Golden Eagle, a
few lessons of instruction must be given you, to which we ask your serious
attention. Let these lessons sink deeply into your mind, and manifest themselves
in your life and conduct.
Brother Sir Herald, you will
conduct this candidate to the next post.
The procession
moves around the Castle (the Worthy Bard playing a dirge) to the First Scene at
the Cave, the Castle at this time being darkened. The line officers, upon
arriving at the cave, proceed as in the First Degree by saluting, the Sir Herald
removes the hoodwink, and the officers form a hollow square.
Venerable
Hermit: Sir Knight!
Brother! We beseech your serious attention to the scene before you: not for its
intrinsic beauty, but for the thoughts and memories suggested by the solemn
tomb, the mournful cross, Behold the apparent end of a life of wondrous
sacrifice—a life sacrificed for the salvation of a race which met its Saviour
with the basest in gratitude and the most inhuman treatment. Yet was it a life
of honor, unsurpassed by that of any mortal, however great. ‘Tis an honor to
devote one’s time and labor, to sacrifice one’s life, one’s all, for the benefit
of others—not always an honor in the view of surrounding men; not always an
honor in the regards of our dearest associates; but an honor in the sight of Him
whose eyes penetrate each heart and reads that which passes within its innermost
recesses, The Saviour of mankind appeared upon earth as a Sacrifice, by whose
life men might be taught to live so as to secure the approbation of the Lord of
the Universe, by whose sufferings and fearful death they might be atoned for and
blessed, man’s last enemy
conquered and an erring race brought back to the gracious smiles of the Heavenly
Father.
We teach no sectarian
doctrines; we encourage no bigotry. In this Degree we recall the life and
struggles of the Crusaders, whose grand object in life was to battle against
those Moslems who had invaded the precincts hallowed by the remembrance of a
life and death so dear, so sacred, so inexpressibly touching. They fought to
wrest that spot, if possible, from the defiling hands of the Saracen hosts, and
to plant, where waved the Crescent of Infidelity, that which was the symbol of
their own holy faith—the Banner of the Cross. But to you my brother, there
remains a grander conquest. A world is to be won from Crime and Sin, and
conquered for God and Truth; for sin holds the human heart with tighter grasp
than do Moslem hands the Holy City. The banner of evil is a far greater curse in
the sight of the Holy One of Israel than even the Crescent of Mohammed waving
over the spot where stood the Temple of the Living God. To battle against
injustice and iniquity: to wage valiant warfare against impurity and corruption
in humble or high places; to crush out of existence the monster Sin, where’er he
shows his hideous front, is a grander crusade, and to obtain victory in such a
warfare a more glorious triumph, than was ever known to the mailed warriors and
cross-bearing Knights of the earlier Christian centuries. But for this warfare
you are not fully qualified until you have won the first citadel —YOUR OWN
HEART. Fight valiantly until you have driven therefrom the foe who has so
insiduously planted thereon his hateful flag. Then, with the Cross—the emblem of
purity—and with purity of heart and purpose, you can do such mighty warfare as
will help to win this world for Good, for Glory and for God.
Brother Sir Herald, you will
conduct the Sir Knight to the next post for further illumination.
At the
conclusion of his charge the Hermit retires The Sir Herald then gives command
‘Attention,’ adjusts hoodwink, and proceeds as directed. The procession
moves around the Castle (the Worthy Bard playing a dirge) to the second scene
at the Cave—the Castle at this time being darkened. The font and sword movements
of Vice Chief and line officers at the Cave, are the same as at the post of the
Noble Chief, in the First and Second Degrees. The Sir Herald removes hoodwink
prior to formation of hollow square.
Vice Chief:
My Brother Knight! an end will one day come to this Knightly warfare, which you
have pledged yourself to wage until death, when, he who has borne the Cross
upon earth, shall enter a brighter world, that is without a shadow, without a
cloud, radiant with the brilliancy, and bright with the splendor of the throne
of God. Then when you shall have covered yourself with honor by the courage with
which you have fought, you shall lay down the armor of battle and receive the
golden crown of victory—the emblem of eternal glory—which awaits every true
Knight who here does faithful and continuous service. Remember the Degrees in
which you stand covenanted with your fellow-members; be faithful to the cause
you have espoused, and to the banner under which you stand enlisted; be valiant
in the discharge of duties you owe in the ranks of the pure and the good; be
gentle and courteous in your commingling with those around you, and endeavor to
instill into their hearts and lives those sublime principles which will make
them good and faithful Knights; let HONOR inspire your soul in all your actions,
so that you may occupy that level which is reached only by the pure and true—and
fear not. You will have your reward in that everlasting GLORY which awaits the
faithful, the valiant, the honorable Knighthood which stand in solid rank under
the banner of the Cross.
You will now be escorted to
the post of our Past Chief for further instruction.
The lights are
turned up and the candidate disrobed. The Sir Herald sheathes his sword and
removes the robe, then carries sword, and the officers take leave of the Vice
Chief, as in First and Second Degrees The procession moves once around the
Castle (third verse of Ode being sung) and halts in front of the post of the
Past Chief. The foot and sword movements, at the post of the Past Chief, are the
same as in First and Second Degrees.
Sir Herald:
Past Chief, by order of our Vice Chief, I present this Sir Knight for further
instruction.
Past
Chief: Brother Knight, feeling assured,
from the impressive scenes which have been presented for your serious attention,
that you are prepared to unite with us in hearty sympathy and co-operation, I
will now enlighten you in reference to the signs, passwords and grip of the
Crusader’s Degree.
When you approach the outer
gate, you will give any alarm which will attract the attention of the Second
Guardsman, who will place his ear to the wicket and receive from you these
words, ...; he will then partly open the gate and require of you the semi-annual
password, which is ...;
given
in a
whisper. The password proving correct he
will admit you, when you will be provided with appropriate regalia. You will
then approach the inner gate and give ... raps and the Degree passwords, which
are .... The gate will then be opened, and you will then advance to the center
of the Castle, in front of the altar, and salute the Noble Chief with this sign
..., which is called the Sign of Courtesy, and the meaning of which is .... It
will be immediately recognized by the Noble Chief in this manner, which is the
countersign ..., signifying .... Should you wish to retire, while the Castle is
open in the Crusaders’ Degree, you will advance to the front of the altar and
salute the Noble Chief with this sign ...; signifying .... The Noble Chief will
answer you with the same sign. The grip is made in this manner .... The sign of
recognition is given thus, ... signifying ...; its answer is ... signifying ...;
There are also signs of Distress—Inaudible and Audible. The Inaudible Sign is
thus given ... signifying ...; its answer is thus made ... signifying .... The
Audible Sign is ...; its answer is .... These signs, if you should be in danger
will bring to your assistance any member of the Order who may be near. The
Voting Sign is thus given .... In voting by ballot, .... The Grand Honor Sign is
given thus ... and is only to be used when receiving the Supreme or Grand
Officers on official business. The gavel
—the emblem of authority—is
thus used: One rap calls the attention of the Castle; two raps call the members
to their feet; three raps seat them. With these signs you will be able to work
your way into any Castle assembled in this Degree.
I will now recommend you to
the post of our Noble Chief for final instruction; but, before taking your
departure, listen to a few words in reference to the character of our Order:
Remember that its principles are sacred and ennobling. Let no one, by your
ballot, be admitted within our Castle Walls whose worth and merit of character
are not such that you would feel free to admit him to the privacy of your family
circle. Let our Order be an Order of Merit, an Order of Virtue, and not merely
an Order of numbers.
Brother Sir Herald, you will
resume your march and conduct this Sir Knight to the post of our Noble Chief.
The procession
moves around the Castle to the post of the Noble Chief, the Worthy Bard playing
a march. The foot and sword movements, at the posts of the Past Chief and Noble
Chief, are the same as in the First and Second Degrees.
Sir Herald:
Noble Chief, by order of our Past Chief, I present you this Sir Knight for final
instruction.
Noble Chief,
rising: Sir Knight,
after your long journey, I am pleased to greet you. I trust you are deeply
impressed with the lessons taught in the various Degrees of our Order. Remember
the vows you have taken, and may our mottoes be continually before you. And now,
my brother, stand arrayed in this, the regalia of the Crusaders’ Degree
uncovering, and may the Almighty Ruler aid
you in your grand and never-ending crusade.
Vice Chief,
rising and uncovering:
May the Lord bless thee and keep thee.
Past Chief,
rising and uncovering:
The Lord make His face to
shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee.
High Priest,
rising and uncovering:
The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee and give thee peace.
Two raps.
All,
uncovering: The
Lord preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth and even for
evermore.
Noble Chief:
Be faithful, be valiant, and full of the spirit of true honor, until the end of
the conflict, when the Supreme Chief of the Heavenly Castle shall say; “Well
done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I
will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”
Each member
recovers.
Sir Knights, I now declare Sir Knight duly proven
in the Third or Crusaders’ Degree, and a member, with this rank, of ... Castle,
No. ..., Knights of the Golden Eagle, of .... That you may give him a fraternal
welcome, I now declare an intermission until the sound of the gavel, when you
will resume your respective posts.
Officers will
return swords and dissolve hollow square without command.
One rap.
Noble Chief:
The Sir Herald will retire with the Crusader to the ante-chamber, and assist him
in working his way into the Castle.
|
