BOOK II

General Remarks: Including An Illustration Of The Lectures; A Particular Description Of The Ancient Ceremonies; And The Charges Used In The Different Degrees

SECTION I

General Remarks

Masonry is an art useful and extensive. In every art there is a mystery which requires a progress of study and application before we can arrive at any degree of perfection. Without much instruction, and more exercise, no man can be skilful in any art; in like manner, without an assiduous application to the various subjects treated in the different lectures of Masonry, no person can be sufficiently acquainted with the true value of the institution.

From this remark it is not to be inferred, that those who labor under the disadvantage of a confined education, or whose sphere of life requires assiduous attention to business or useful employments, are to be discouraged in their endeavors to gain a knowledge of Masonry. To qualify an individual to enjoy the benefits of the society at large, or to partake of its privileges, it is not absolutely necessary that he should be acquainted with all the intricate parts of the science. These are only intended for persons who may have leisure and opportunity to indulge the pursuit.

Some may be more able than others, some more eminent, some more useful; but all in their different spheres, may prove advantageous to the community; and our necessities, as well as our consciences, bind us to love one another. To persons, however, whose early years have been dedicated to literary pursuits, or whose circumstances and situation in life render them independent, the offices of the lodge ought principally to be restricted. The industrious tradesman proves himself a valuable member of society, and worthy of every honour that we can confer; but the nature of every man's profession will not admit of that leisure which is necessary to qualify him to become an expert Mason, so as to discharge the official duties of the lodge with propriety. And it must also be admitted, that those who accept offices and exercise authority in the lodge, ought to be men of prudence and address, enjoying the advantages of a well-cultivated mind and retentive memory. All men are not blessed with the same powers and talents; all men, therefore, are not equally qualified to govern. He who wishes to teach, must submit to learn; and no one can be qualified to support the higher offices of the lodge who has not previously discharged the duties of those which are subordinate. Experience is the best preceptor. Every man may rise by gradation, but merit and industry are the first steps to preferment. Masonry is wisely instituted for different ranks and degrees of men; and every brother, according to his station and ability, may be employed in the lodge, and class with his equal. Actuated by the best principles, no disquietude is found among the professors of the art. Each class is happy in its particular association; and when all the classes meet in general convention, one plan regulates the whole; neither arrogance nor presumption appears on the one hand, nor diffidence nor inability on the other; every brother vies to excel in promoting that endearing happiness which constitutes the essence of civil society.

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