Illustrations of Masonry
by
William
Preston
Book One
The
Excellency of Masonry Displayed
Sect. 1 -
Reflections on the symmetry and proportion in the works of Nature, and on the
harmony and affection among the various species of beings.
Whoever attentively observes
the objects which surround him, will find abundant reason to admire the works
of Nature, and to adore the Being who directs such astonishing operations: he
will be convinced, that infinite wisdom could alone design, and infinite power
finish, such amazing works.
Were a man placed in a
beautiful garden, would not his mind be affected with exquisite delight on a
calm survey of its rich collection? Would not the groves, the grottoes, the
artful wilds, the flowery parterres, the opening vistas, the lofty cascades,
the winding streams, the whole variegated scene, awaken his sensibility; and
inspire his soul with the most exalted ideas? When he observed the delicate
order, the nice symmetry, and the beautiful disposition of every part,
seemingly complete in itself, yet reflecting new beauties on the other, and
all contributing to make one perfect whole, would not his mind be agitated
with the most bewitching sensations; and would not the view of the delightful
scene naturally lead him to admire and venerate the happy genius who contrived
it?
If the productions of art so
forcibly impress the mind with admiration, with how much greater astonishment
and reverence, with how much greater astonishment and reverence must we behold
the operations of Nature, which presents to view unbounded scenes of utility
and delight, in which divine wisdom is mort strikingly conspicuous? These
scenes are indeed too expanded for the narrow capacity of man to comprehend;
yet whoever contemplates the general system, form the uniformity of the plan
must naturally be directed to the original source, the supreme governor of the
world, the one perfect and unsullied beauty!
Beside all the pleasing
prospects that everywhere surround us, and with which our senses are every
moment gratified; beside the symmetry. good order, and proportion, which
appear in all the works of creation, something further attracts the reflecting
mind, and draws its attention nearer to the Divinity - the universal harmony
and affection among the different species of beings of every rank and
denomination. These are the cements of the rational world, and by these alone
it subsists. When they cease, nature must be dissolved, and man, the image of
his Maker and the chief of his works, be overwhelmed in the general chaos.
In the whole order of beings,
for the seraph which adores and burns, down to the meanest insect, all,
according to their rank in the scale of existence, have, more or less,
implanted in them, the principle of association with others of the same
species. Even the most inconsiderable animals are formed into different ranks
and societies, for mutual benefit and protection. Need we name the careful
ant, or the industrious bee; insects which the wisest of men has recommended
as patterns of unwearied industry and prudent foresight? When we extend our
ideas, we shall find, that the innate principle of friendship increases in
proportion to the extension of our intellectual faculties; and the only
criterion by which a judgment can be formed respecting the superiority of one
part of the animal creation above the other, is by observing the degrees of
kindness and good-natured in which it excels.
Such are the general principles
which pervade the whole system of creation; who forcibly then must such
lessons predominate in our assemblies, where civilization and virtue are most
zealously cherished, under the sanction of science and the arts?
Sect. 2 -
The advantages resulting from friendship.
No subject can more properly
engage the attention, than the benevolent dispositions which indulgent Nature
has bestowed upon the rational species. These are replete with the happiest
effects, and afford to the mind, the most agreeable reflections. The breast
which is inspired with tender feelings, is naturally prompted to a reciprocal
intercourse of kind and generous actions, as human nature rises in the scale
of beings, the social affections likewise arise. Where friendship is unknown,
jealousy and suspicion prevail; but where that virtue is the cement, true
happiness subsists. In every breast there is a propensity to friendly acts,
which being exerted to effect sweetens every temporal enjoyment; and although
it does not remove the disquietudes, it tends at least to allay the calamities
of life.
Friendship is traced through
the circle of private connexions to the grand system of universal benevolence,
which no limits can circumscribe, as its influence extends to every branch of
the human race. Actuated by this sentiment, each individual connects his
happiness with the happiness of his neighbour, and a fixed and permanent union
is established among men.
Nevertheless, though
friendship, considered as the source of universal benevolence, be unlimited,
it exerts its influence more or less powerfully, as the objects it favours are
near or more remote. Hence the love of friends and of country takes the lead
in our affections and gives rise to that true patriotism, which fires the soul
with the most generous flame, creates the best and most disinterested virtue,
and inspires that public spirit and heroic ardour which enable us to support a
good cause, and risk our lives in its defence.
This commendable virtue crowns
the lover of his country with unfading laurels, gives a lustre to his actions,
and consecrates his name in later ages. The warrior's glory may consist in
murder, and the rude ravage of the desolating sword; but the blood of
thousands will not stain the hands of his country's friend. His virtues are
open, and of the noblest kind. Conscious integrity supports him against the
arm of power; and should he bleed by tyrant hands, he gloriously dies a martyr
in the cause of liberty, and leaves to posterity an everlasting monument of
the greatness of his soul.
Though friendship appears
divine when employed in preserving the liberties of our country, it shines
with equal splendour in more tranquil scenes. Before it rises into the noble
flame of patriotism, aiming destruction at the heads of tyrants, thundering
for liberty, and courting danger in defence of rights; we behold it calm and
moderate, burning with an even glow, improving the soft hours of peace, and
heightening the relish for virtue. In those happy moments contracts are
formed, societies are instituted, and vacant hours of life are employed in the
cultivation of social and polished manners.
On this ground plan the
universality of our system is established. Were friendship confined to the
spot of our nativity, its operation would be partial, and imply a kind of
enmity to other nations. Where the interests of one country interfere with
those of another, nature dictates an adherence to the welfare of our own
immediate connexions; but such interference apart, the true mason is a citizen
of the world, and his philanthropy extends to all the human race. Uninfluenced
by local prejudices, he knows no preference in virtue but according to its
degree, from whatever clime it may spring.
Sect. 3 -
Origin of Masonry, and its general advantages.
From the commencement of the
world, we may trace the foundation of Masonry. Ever since symmetry began, and
harmony displayed her charms, our Order has had a being. During many ages, and
in many different countries, it has flourished. No art, no science preceded
it. In the dark periods of antiquity, when literature was in a low state, and
the rude manners of our forefathers withheld from them that knowledge we now
so amply share, Masonry diffused its influence. This science unveiled, arts
arose, civilization took place, and the progress of knowledge and philosophy
gradually dispelled the gloom of ignorance and barbarism. Government being
settled, authority was given to laws, and the assemblies of the fraternity
acquired the patronage of the great and the good, while the tenets of the
profession diffused unbounded utility.
Abstracting from the pure
pleasures which arise from friendship so widely constituted as that which
subsists among masons, and which is scarcely possible that any circumstance or
occurrence can erase, masonry is a science confined to no particular country
but extends over the whole terrestrial globe. Wherever arts flourish, there it
flourishes too. Add to this, that by secret and inviolable signs, carefully
preserved among the fraternity, it becomes an universal language. Hence many
advantages are gained. The distant Chinese, the wild Arab, the American
savage, will embrace a brother Briton; and will know, that beside the common
ties of humanity, there is still a stronger obligation to induce him to kind
and friendly offices. The spirit of the fulminating priest will be tamed; and
a moral brother, though of a different persuasion, engage his esteem; for
mutual toleration in religious opinions is one of the most distinguishing and
most valuable characteristics of the Craft. As all religions teach morality,
if a brother be found to act the part of a truly honest man, his private
speculative opinions are left to God and himself. Thus, through the influence
of Masonry, which is reconcilable to the best policy, all those disputes which
embitter life, and sour the tempers of men are avoided; while the common good,
the general object, is zealously pursed.
From this view of our system,
its utility is sufficiently obvious. The universal principles of the art
unite, in one indissoluble bond of affection, men of the most opposite tenets,
of the most distant countries, and of the most contradictory opinions; hence
in every nation a Mason may find a friend, and in every climate a home.
Such is the nature of the
institution, that in a Lodge, union is cemented by sincere attachment, and
pleasure reciprocally communicated in the cheerful observances of every
obliging office. Virtue, the grand object in view, luminous as the meridian
sun, shines resurgent on the mind, enlivens the heart, and heightens cool
approbation into warm sympathy and cordial attention.
Sect. 4 -
Masonry considered under two denominations.
Masonry passes under two
denominations, operative and speculative. By the former, we allude to a proper
application of the useful rules of architecture, whence a structure derives
figure, strength, and beauty, and whence result a due proportion and a just
correspondence in all its parts. By the latter we learn to subdue patterns,
act upon the square, keep a tongue of good report, maintain secrecy, and
practise charity.
Speculative Masonry is so far
interwoven with religion, as to lay us under the strongest obligations to pay
that rational homage to the Deity, which at once constitutes our duty and our
happiness. It leads to the contemplative to view with reverence and admiration
the glorious works of creation, and inspires them with the most exalted ideas
of the perfection of the divine Creator, Operative Masonry furnishes us with
dwellings, and convenient shelters from the inclemencies of seasons; and while
it displays the effects of human wisdom, as well in the choice as in the
arrangement of the materials of which an edifice is composed, it demonstrates
what a fund of science and industry is implanted inn man for the best, most
salutary, and beneficent purposes.
The lapse of time, the ruthless
hand of ignorance, and the devastations of war, have laid waste and destroyed
many valuable monuments of antiquity, on which the utmost exertions of human
genius have been employed. Even the temple of Solomon, so spacious and
magnificent, and constructed by so many celebrated artists, escaped not the
unsparing ravages of barbarous forces force. Freemasonry, notwithstanding, has
still survived. The attentive ear receives the sound of the instructive
tongue, and the sacred mysteries are safely lodged in the repository of
faithful breasts. Tools and implements of architecture, symbols the most
expressive, are selected by the fraternity, to imprint on the memory serious
truths; and thus the excellent tenets of the institution are transmitted
unimpaired, under circumstances precarious and adverse, through the succession
of aegs.
Sect. 5 -
The Government of the Fraternity.
The mode of government observed
by the fraternity will give the best idea of the nature and design of the
Masonic system.
Three classes are established
among Masons, under different appellations. The privileges of each class are
distinct, and particular means adopted to preserve those privileges to the
just and meritorious. Honour and probity are recommendations to the first
class; in which the practice of virtue is enforced, and the duties of morality
are inculcated, while the mind is prepared for a regular progress in the
principles of knowledge and philosophy, Diligence, assiduity, and application,
are qualifications for the second class; in which is given an accurate
elucidation of science, both in theory and practice. Here human reason is
cultivated by a due exertion of the intellectual powers and faculties; nice
and difficult theories are explained; new discoveries are produced, and those
already known are beautifully embellished. The third class is restricted to a
selected few, whom truth and fidelity have distinguished, whom years and
experience have improved, and whom merit and abilities have entitled to
preferment. With them the ancient landmarks of the Order are preserved, and
from them we learn the necessary and instructive lessons, which dignify the
art, and qualify its professors to illustrate its excellence and utility.
This is the established plan of
the Masonic system. By this judicious arrangement, true friendship is
cultivated among different ranks of men, hospitality promoted, industry
rewarded and ingenuity encouraged
Sect. 6 -
Reasons why the secrets of Masonry ought not to be publicly exposed; and the
importance of those secrets demonstrated.
If the secrets of Masonry are
replete with such advantage to mankind, it may be asked, why are they not
divulged for the general good of society? To this may be answered; Were the
privileges of Masonry to be indiscriminately dispensed, the institution would
be subverted; and being familiar, like other important matters, would lose
their value, and sink into disregard.
Is is a weakness in human
nature, that men are generally more charmed with novelty, than with the
intrinsic value of things. Innumerable testimonies might be adduced to confirm
this truth. The most wonderful operations of the Divine Artificer, however,
beautiful, magnificent and useful, are overlooked, because common and
familiar. The sun rises and sets, the sea flows and reflows, rivers glide
along their channels, trees and plants vegetate, men and beasts act, yet this
is unnoticed. The most astonishing productions of Nature on the same account
escape observation, and excite no emotion, either in admiration of the great
cause, or of gratitude for the blessing conferred. Even Virtue herself is not
exempted from this unhappy bias in the human frame. Novelty influences all our
actions and determinations. What is new, or difficult in the acquisition,
however, trifling or insignificant, readily captures the imagination, and
ensures a temporary admiration; while what is familiar, or easily attained,
however, noble or eminent, is sure to be disregarded by the giddy and the
unthinking.
Did the essence of masonry
consist in the knowledge of particular secrets or peculiar forms, it might be
alleged that our amusements were trifling and superficial. But this is not the
case. These are the keys to our treasure and having their use are preserved,
while from the recollection of the lessons they inculcate, the well informed
Mason derives instruction; he draws them to a near inspection; he views them
through a proper medium; he adverts to the circumference which gave them rise;
and he dwells upon the tenets they convey. Finding them replete with useful
information, he prizes them as sacred; and convinced of their propriety, he
estimates their value from their utility.
Many persons are deluded by the
vague supposition that our mysteries are merely nominal; that the practices
established among us are frivolous; and that our ceremonies may be adopted, or
waved, at pleasure. On this false foundation, we find them hurrying through
all the degrees of the Order, without adverting to the propriety of one step
they persue, or possessing a single qualification requisite for advancement.
Passing through the usual formalities, they consider themselves entitled to
rank as master of the art, solicit and accept offices, and assume the
government of lodges, equally and assume the government of lodges, equally
unacquainted with the rules of the institution they pretend to support, or the
nature of the trust reposed in them. The consequences is obvious; anarchy and
confusion ensue, and the substance is left in shadow. Hence men eminent for
ability, rank , and fortune, are often led to view the honours of Masonry with
such indifference, that when their patronage is solicited, they accept offices
with reluctance, or reject them with disdain.
Masonry has long laboured under
these disadvantages, and every zealous friend to the Order must earnestly wish
for a correction of the abuse. Of late years it must be acknowledged, that
Lodges are in general better regulated, and the good effects of such
government are sufficiently displayed in the proper observance of the general
regulations.
Were brethren who preside over
Lodges, properly instructed previous to their appointment, and regularly
apprized of the importance of their respective offices, a general reformation
would speedily take place. This would establish the propriety of our
government, and lead men to acknowledge; that our hours were deservedly
conferred. Till prudent actions shall distinguish our title to the honours of
Masonry, and our regular deportment display the influence and utility of our
rules, the world in general will not be led to reconcile our proceedings with
the tenets of the profession.
Sect. 7 -
Few Societies exempted from censure. Irregularities of Masons no argument
against the Institution.
Among the various societies of
men, few, if any, are wholly exempted from censure. Friendship, however
valuable in itself, however universal in its pretensions, has seldom operated
so powerfully in general associations, as to promote that sincere attachment
to the welfare and prosperity of each other, which is necessary to constitute
true happiness. This may be ascribed to sundry causes, but none with more
propriety, than to the reprehensible motives which too frequently lead men to
a participation of social entertainment. If to pass an idle hour, to oblige a
friend, or probably to gratify an irregular indulgence, be our only inducement
to mix in company, is it surprising that the important duties of society
should be neglected, and that, in the quick circulation of the cheerful glass,
our noble faculties should be sometimes buried in the cup of ebriety.
It is an obvious truth, that the
privileges of Masonry have long been prostituted for unworthy considerations,
and hence their good effects have not been so conspicuous. Many have enrolled
their names in our records for the mere purposes of conviviality, without
inquiring into the nature of the particular engagements to which they are
subjected by becoming Masons. Several have been prompted by motives of
interest, and many introduced to gratify an idle curiosity, or to please as
jolly companions. A general odium, or at least a careless indifference, has
been the result of such conduct. But the evil stops not here. Persons of the
description, ignorant of the true nature of the institution, probably without
any real defect in the own morals, are induced to recommend others of the same
cast, to join the society for the same purpose. Hence the true knowledge of
the art decreases with the increase of its members, the most valuable part of
Masonry is turned into ridicule; while the dissipation of luxury and
intemperance bury in oblivion principles which might have dignified the most
exalted characters.
When we consider the variety of
members of which the society of Masons is composed, and the small number who
are really conversant with the tenets of the institution, we cannot wonder
that so few should be distinguished for exemplary lives. From persons who are
precipitately introduced into the mysteries of the art without the requisite
qualifications, it cannot be expected that much regard will be paid to the
observance of duties which they perceive to be openly violated by the own
institution; and it is an incontrovertible truth; that such is the unhappy
bias in the disposition of some men, though the fairest and best ideas were
imprinted on the mind, they are so careless of their own reputation as to
disregard the most instructive of lessons. We have reason to regret, that even
persons distinguished for a knowledge in the art, are too frequently induced
to violate the rules to which a pretended conformity has gained them applause.
The hypocrisy is soon unveiled: no sooner are they liberated from the trammels
, as they conceive, of a regular and virtuous conduct in the government of the
Lodge, than, by improperly abusing the innocent and cheerful repast, they
become slaves to vice and intemperance, and not only disgrace themselves, but
reflect dishonour on the fraternity. By such indiscretion, the best of the
institution is brought into contempt, and the more deserving part of the
community justly conceives a prejudice against the society, of which it is
ever afterwards difficult to wipe off the impression.
But if some do transgress, no wise
man will thence argue against the whole fraternity for the errors of a few
individuals. Were the wicked lives of men admitted as an argument against the
religion which they profess, the wisest, the wisest and most judicious
establishment, might be exposed to censure. It may be averred in favour of
Masonry, that whatever imperfections may be found among its professors, the
institution countenances no deviation from the rules of right reason. Those
who violate the laws, or infringe on good order, are kindly admonished by
secret monitors; and when these have not the intended effect, public
reprehension becomes necessary; at last, when every mild endeavour to effect a
reformation is of o avail, they are expelled the Lodge, as unfit members of
the society.
Vain, therefore, is each idle
surmise against the plan of our government; while our laws are properly
supported, they will be proof against every attack of our most inveterate
enemies. Men are not aware , that by decrying any laudable system, they
derogate from the dignity of human nature itself, and from that good order and
wise disposition of things, which the almighty Author of the world has framed
forte government of mankind, and established as the basis of the moral system.
Friendship and social delights can never be the object of reproach; nor can
that wisdom which hoary Time has sanctified, be subject to ridicule. Whoever
attempts to censure what he does not comprehend, degrades himself; and the
generous heart will always be led to pity the mistakes of such ignorant
presumptions.
Sect. 8 -
Charity the distinguishing characteristic of Masons.
Charity is the chief of every
social virtue, and the distinguishing characteristic of the Order. This virtue
includes a supreme degree of live to the great Creator and Governor of the
universe, and an unlimited affection to the beings of his creation, of all
characters and of every denomination. This last duty is forcibly inculcated by
the example of the Deity himself, who liberally dispenses his beneficence to
unnumbered worlds.
It is is not particularly our
province to enter into disquisition of every branch of the amiable virtue; we
shall only briefly state the happy effects of a benevolent disposition toward
mankind, and shew that charity, exerted on proper objects, is the greatest
pleasure man can possibly enjoy.
The bounds of the greatest
nation, or the most extensive empire, cannot circumscribe the generosity of a
liberal mind. Men, in whatever situation they are placed, are still, in a
great measure, the same. They are exposed to similar dangers and misfortunes.
They have not wisdom to foresee, or power to prevent, the evils incident to
human nature. They hang as it were, in perpetual suspense between hope and
fear, sickness and health, plenty and want. A mutual chain of dependence
subsists throughout the animal creation. The whole human species are therefore
proper objects for the exercise of charity.
Beings who partake of one
common nature, ought to be actuated by the same motives and interests. Hence,
to soothe the unhappy, by sympathizing with their misfortunes, and to restore
peace and tranquility to agitated spirits, constitute the general and great
ends of the Masonic institution. This humane, this generous disposition fires
the breath with manly feelings, and enlivens that spirit of compassion, which
is the glory of the human frame, and not only rivals, but outshines, every
other pleasure the mind is capable of enjoying.
All human passions, when
directed by the superior principle of reason, promote some useful purpose; but
compassion towards proper objects is the most beneficial of all the
affections, as it extends to greater numbers, and tends to alleviate the
infirmities and evils which are incident to human existence.
Possessed of this amiable, this
godlike disposition, Masons are shocked at misery under every form and
appearance. When we behold an object pining under the miseries of distressed
body or mind, the healing accents which flow from the tongue, mitigate the
pain of the unhappy sufferer, and make even adversity, in its dismal state,
look gay. When our pity is excited, we assuage grief, and cheerfully relieve
distress. If a brother be in want, eerie heart is moved; when he is hungry, we
feed him; when he is naked, we clothe him; when he is in trouble, we fly to
his relief. Thus we confirm the propriety of the title we bear, and convince
the world at large, that BROTHER among Masons is something more than a name.
Sect. 9 -
The discernment displayed by Masons in the choice of objects of charity.
The most inveterate enemies of
Masonry must acknowledge, that no society is more remarkable for the practice
of charity, or any association of men more famed for disinterested liberality.
It cannot be said that Masons indulge in convivial mirth, while the poor and
needy pine for relief. Our quarterly contributions, exclusive of private
subscriptions to relieve distress, prove that we are ever ready with
cheerfulness, in proportion to our circumstances, to contribute to alleviate
the misfortunes of our fellow-creatures. Considering, however, the variety of
object, whose distress the dictates of Nature as well as the ties of Masonry
incline us to relieve, we find it necessary sometimes to inquire into the
cause of misfortunes; lest a misconceived tenderness of disposition, or an
impolitic generosity of heart, might prevent us from making a proper
distinction in the choice of objects. Though our ears are always open to the
distresses of the deserving poor, yet our charity is not to be dispensed with
a profuse liberality on impostors. The parents of a numerous offspring, who,
through age, sickness, infirmity, or any unforeseen accident in life, are
reduced to want, particularly claim our attention, and seldom fail to
experience the happy effects of our friendly association. To such objects,
whose situation is more easy to be conceived than expressed, we are induced
liberally to extend our bounty. Hence we give convincing proofs of wisdom and
discernment; for though our benevolence, like our laws, be unlimited, yet our
hearts glow principally with affection toward the deserving part of mankind.
From this view of the
advantages which result from the practice and profession of Masonry, every
candid and impartial mind must acknowledge its utility and importance to the
state; and surely , if the picture here drawn be just, it must be no trifling
acquisition to any government, to have under its jurisdiction, a society of
men, who are not only true patriots and loyal subject, but the patrons of
science and the friends of mankind.
Sect. 10 -
Friendly admonitions.
Having explained the principles
of the Order, and endeavoured to demonstrate the excellence and utility of the
institution, I shall conclude my observations with a few friendly admonitions
to my brethren.
As useful knowledge is the
great object of our desire, let us steadily adhere to the principles it
inculcates, check our progress, or damp our zeal; but let us recollect, that
the ways of wisdom are beautiful, and lead to pleasure. Knowledge is attained
by degrees, and cannot every where be found. Wisdom seeks the secret shade,
the lonely cell designed for contemplation. There enthroned she sits,
delivering her sacred oracles. There let us seek her, and pursue the real
bliss. Though the passage be difficult, the farther we trace it, the easier it
will become.
Union and harmony constitute
the essence of Freemasonry: while we enlist under that banner, the society
must flourish, and privet animosities give place to peace and good fellowship.
Uniting in one design, let it be our aim to be happy ourselves, and contribute
to the happiness of others. Let us make our superiority and distinction among
men, by the sincerity of our profession as Masons; let us cultivate the moral
virtues, and improve in all that is good and amiable; let the Genius of
Masonry preside over our conduct, and under her sway let us perform our part
with becoming dignity. Let us preserve an elevation of understanding, with a
politeness of manner, and an evenness of temper. Let our recreations be
innocent, and pursued with moderation; and never let irregular indulgences
lead to the subversion of our system, by impairing our faculties, and exposing
our character to derision. But, in conformity to our precepts, as patterns
worthy of imitation, let the respectability of our lives be supported by the
regularity of our conduct, and the uniformity of our deportment. Thus, as
citizens of the world, as friends to every clime, we shall be living examples
of virtue and benevolence, equally zealous to merit as to obtain universal
approbation.
EULOGIUM
Masonry comprehends within its
circle every branch of useful knowledge and learning, and stamps an indelible
mark of preeminence on its genuine professors, which neither chance,
power, nor fortune can bestow. When its rules are strictly observed, it is a
sure foundation of tranquility amidst the various disappointments of life; a
friend that will not deceive, but will comfort and assist, in prosperity and
adversity; a blessing that will remain with all times. Circumstances, and
places, and to which recourse may be had, when earthly comforts sink into
disregard.
Masonry give real and intrinsic
excellency to man, and renders him fit for the duties of society. It
strengthens the mind against the storms of life, paves the way to peace, and
promotes domestic happiness. It meliorates the temper, and improves the
understanding; it is company in fortitude, and gives vivacity, variety, and
energy to social conversation. In youth, it governs the passions, and employs
usefully our most active faculties; and in age, when sickness, imbecility, and
disease have benumbed the corporal frame, and rendered the union of soul and
body almost intolerable, it yields a fund of comfort and satisfaction.
These are its general
advantages; to enumerate them separately, would be an endless labour: it may
be sufficient to observe, that he who cultivates this science, and acts
agreeably to the character of a Mason, has within himself the spring and
support of every social virtue; a subject of contemplation, that enlarges the
mind, and expands all its powers; a theme that is inexhaustible, ever new, and
always interesting.
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