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 PARLIAMENT 
 
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 HOUSE 
 
 SELECT COM/VIITTEE ON 
 FRIENDLY SOCIETIES 
 
 =1 REPORT
 
 [/'' 
 
 CAPE OF GOOD HOPE. 
 
 REPORT 
 
 OF THE 
 
 SELECT COMMITTTEE 
 
 APPOINTED TO CONSIDER AND EEPOPvT ON 
 
 rRIENDLT SOCIETIES. 
 
 Ordered hy the House of Assembly to he printed. 
 
 1881. 
 
 IjAPE TOWN: 
 SAUL SOLOMON & CO., STEAM PRINTING OFFICE. 
 
 1881. 
 
 A. C-'FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.
 
 
 REPORT 
 
 OP THE 
 
 SELECT COMMITTEE on the subject of FRIENDLY 
 SOCIETIES, appointed by Orders of the House, 
 dated the 30th March and the 58th April, 1881, 
 with power to take evidence and call for papers, 
 and to report thereon, according to the Resolution 
 of the House adopted last session ; consisting of 
 Messrs. Stigant, Walker, Mackay, .Hockley, 
 J. Ayliff, and Dr. Matthews. 
 
 Your Committee beg to report that, acting upon the 
 authority given to them by your honourable House, 
 they entered upon their duties during the session of 
 last year, and then obtained the vwa voce, evidence of 
 several competent witnesses, which has thrown much 
 light upon the constitution and working of the associa- 
 tions popularly known as Friendly Societies. It was 
 felt, however, that, inasmuch as the testimony thus 
 obtained referred onl}^ to those societies which have 
 been conducted in or near to Cape Town, it was 
 desirable that information should be obtained from other 
 parts of the Colony. 
 
 2. Accordingly, with the permission and on the 
 authority of your honourable House, the Government 
 were requested to circulate through the several districts 
 of the Colony a series of questions bearing upon the 
 subject under inquiry, which the Colonial Secretary 
 promptly forwarded to such j)ersons as would be likely 
 to answer them, and your Committee have now to 
 acknowledge that, by the agency of these circulars, the 
 evidence in their possession has been considerably 
 supplemented. 
 
 3. On their re-appointment during the present session, 
 your Committee carefully considered the evidence that 
 
 /57A<^yA
 
 It" REPORT OF COMMITTEE. 
 
 liad been placed before them, and, after deliberation, 
 they have arrived at the following conclusions, viz.: — 
 
 i. That there are in existence within the Colony a 
 large number of well-organized societies, having 
 
 ir5 
 
 for their object the relief of members suffering 
 from sickness, and assistance to families <^f 
 deceased members, and these societies havo 
 produced satisfectory results, 
 ii. Many of these societies are affiliated and in close 
 alliance with certain great and influential 
 societies established in the mother country, from 
 whence they have obtained their charters and 
 the excellent general rules by which they are 
 managed. There is, therefore, close relationship 
 between the parent societies and these colonial 
 branches ; but it is clear — and in the view of 
 some it is considered to be unfortunate — that the 
 provisions of the Imperial Friendly Societies, Act 
 have no legal effect within the boundaries of the 
 Colony, 
 iii. It has been represented somewhat lU'gently to 
 your Committee that the work accomplished by 
 these societies in fosterine; and encourafrin^^ 
 provident habits, as well as in mitigating the 
 evils of sickness and privation among the work- 
 ing classes, has been of great public benefit, and 
 entitles them to the very favourable consideration 
 of the Government and the Legislature, and it has 
 been urged that there should be legislation here 
 on the lines of the existing laws of England, 
 which several intelligent and experienced ineii 
 insist should be compulsorily applied to all 
 colonial .societies. It is impossible to den}^ that 
 there is much force in these claims, and, while 
 your Committee cannot recommend any arbitrary 
 interference with their free action, and the rules 
 now obtaining for their self-govonmieiit, it does 
 appear exjDedient and proper that the Legislature 
 should place at the dis])osal of the several Colonial 
 Friendly Societies such provisions corresponding
 
 REPORT OF COMMITTEE. 
 
 to those of the Imperial Act as the circumstances 
 of this country would appear to require. 
 
 4. Your Committee, therefore, now recommends that 
 Parhament should pass a measure providing an effective 
 but economical system for the registration of Friendly 
 and Benefit Societies, additional audit of their accounts, 
 complete periodical returns of their assets, liabilities, and 
 general condition ; also for the uninterrupted tenure and 
 protection of their property : and that these advantages 
 should be available to all proper!}'' constituted societies 
 that elect to take the benefit thereof. 
 
 J. AYLIFF, Chairman. 
 
 Committee-rooms, House of Assembly, 
 12th May, 1881.
 
 VII 
 
 PEOCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEE. 
 
 Proceedings of the Select Committee on the subject of 
 Friendly Societies, appointed by Orders of the House 
 of Assembly, dated 30th March and 28th April, 1881, with 
 power to take evidence, call for papers, and to report there- 
 on, according^ to the Resolution of last session ; the Com- 
 mittee consisting of Messrs. Stigant, Walker, Mackay, 
 Hockley, J. Aylifp, and Dr. Matthews. 
 
 Wednesday, 5tli April, 1881. 
 
 PRESENT : 
 
 Mr. Walker, I Mr. Ayliff. 
 
 „ Mackay, [ 
 
 Resolved, — That Mr. Ayliff be the Chairman of this Com- 
 mittee. 
 
 Read Order of the House, dated 30th March, 1881, appoint- 
 ing this Committee. 
 
 Read report of the Select Committee on Friendly and Benevo- 
 lent Societies, dated 23rd July, 1880. 
 
 Read resolution of the House of Assembly, dated 28tli July, 
 1880, " That the report be forwarded to Government, with the 
 recommendation that steps be taken during the recess to elicit 
 the opinions of persons interested in Friendly Societies on the 
 points stated in the proposed circular attached to the report." 
 
 The replies received from various persons to the questions 
 submitted in accordance with the resolution of the 28th July, 
 1880, were laid on the table. ( Vide A. ) 
 
 Mr. Walker moved that the questions, schedule of replies, and 
 replies be printed. 
 
 Agreed to. 
 
 Adjourned till Tuesday, the 12th April, at 10 a.m. 
 
 Tuesday, 12th April, 1881. 
 
 present : 
 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 
 Mr. Walker, | Mr. Mackay. 
 
 Clerk reported that the questions, replies, &c., contained in 
 Annexure A would not be printed for two days. 
 
 Adjourned till Wednesday, 20th April, at 10-30 a.nu
 
 Vlll PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEE. 
 
 Wednesday, 20th April, 1881. 
 PRESENT : 
 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Cliairman), 
 
 Mr. Hockley, | Mr. Mackay. 
 
 Clerk reported that the Annexiire A had not yet been printed. 
 Committee adjourned to Wednesday, the 27th April, at 9*30 
 a;.m. 
 
 Wednesday, 27th April, 1881. 
 
 present: 
 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 
 Mr. Hockley, Mr. Mackay. 
 
 „ Walker, 
 
 Resolved, — To request Dr. Matthews to attend at next meet- 
 inof to give evidence. 
 
 Adjourned till to-morrow at 10 a.m. 
 
 Thursday, 28th Apr?!, 1881. 
 
 PRESENT : 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 Mr. Hockley, I Mr. Mackay. 
 
 „ Walker, 
 
 Resolved, — To examine Dr. Matthews, M.L.A. 
 
 Dr. Matthews, M.L.A. , examined. 
 
 The Committee deliberated. 
 
 Adjourned till Thursday, the 5th May, at 10 n.m. 
 
 Thursday, 5th May, 1881. 
 
 PRESENT : 
 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 Mr. Stij^ant, \ :Mr. Hockley, 
 
 Mackay, j Dr. Matthews. 
 
 Read order of the House, dated the 28tli Aj)ril, appointino; 
 Dr. MatthcAvs to be a member of the Committee. 
 Tiie Committee deliberated. 
 Adjourned till Thursday, the 12th May, at 10 a.m.
 
 PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEE. IX 
 
 Thursday, I2th May, 1881, 
 
 PRESENT : 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 
 Mr. Stigant, 
 „ Mackay, 
 
 Mr. Hockley. 
 
 Clerk laid upon the table : — 
 
 Letter from the Colonial Secretary, dated the 9th May, for- 
 warding a letter from the Civil Commissioner of the Cape, dated 
 the 6th instant, forwarding further replies to Circular. 
 
 Resolved, — That the enclosures to the Civil Commissioner's 
 letter be returned as requested. 
 
 The Committee deliberated. 
 
 The Chairman moved : That, in the opinion of this Committee, 
 the several associations now being conducted in this Colony, 
 popularly known as "' Friendly Societies," deserve the consider- 
 ation and assistance of the Government and the Legislature. 
 
 Agreed to. 
 
 The Chairman then moved : This Committee is further of 
 opinion that Parliament should pass a measure providing an 
 effective but economical system for the registration of such 
 societies, additional audit of their accounts, complete periodical 
 returns of their assets, liabilities, and general condition ; also for 
 the uninterrupted tenure of their property ; and that these 
 advantages should be available to all properly constituted 
 Friendly Societies that elect to take the benefit thereof. 
 
 Discussion ensued. 
 
 Mr. Stigant moved as an amendment : To insert the word 
 " compulsory " before the Avord " registration," and to omit all 
 the words after the word " property " to the end, upon which the 
 Committee divided : — 
 
 Ayes, 1. — Mr. Stigant. 
 
 Noes, 3.— Messsr. Mackay, Hockley, T. Ayliff. 
 
 The amendment accordingly negatived. 
 
 The motion was then put, and the Committee divided: — 
 
 Ayes, 3. — Messrs. Mackay, Hockley, and T. Ayliff. 
 
 Noes, 1. — Mr, Stigant. 
 
 The motion accordingly agreed to. 
 
 The Chairman then submitted the following draft report : — 
 
 Your Committee beg to report that, acting upon the authoiitv 
 given to them by your honourable House, they entered i:pon 
 their duties during the session of last year, and then obtained the 
 viva voce evidence of several competent witnesses, which has thrown 
 much light upon the constitution and working of the associations 
 l^ropularly known as Friendly Societies. It was felt, hoAvever, 
 A. G— 'SI. FEIENDLY SOCIETIES. 2
 
 PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEE. 
 
 that, inasmuch as the testimony then obtained referred only to those 
 societies Avhich have been conducted in or near to Cayje Town, 
 it was desirable that information should be obtained from other 
 parts of the Colony. 
 
 2. Accordingly, with the permission and on the authority of 
 your honourable House, the Government were requested to circu- 
 late through the several districts of the Colony a series of ques- 
 tions bearing upon the subject under inquiry, which the Colonial 
 Secretary promptly forwarded to such ])ersons as would be likely 
 to answer them, and your (Committee have now to acknowledge 
 that, by the agency of those circulars, the evidence in their posses- 
 sion has been considerably supplemented. 
 
 3. On their re-appointment during the present session, your 
 Committee carefully considered the evidence that had been 
 placed before them, and, after deliberation, they have arrived 
 at the following conclusions, viz. : — 
 
 i. That there are in existence within the Colony a Jarge 
 number of well-organized societies having for their object 
 the relief of members suffering from sickness and assistance 
 to families of deceased members, and these societies have 
 produced satisfactory results. 
 
 ii. Many of these societies are affiliated and in close alhanca 
 with certain great and influential societies established in 
 tlie mother country, from whence they have obtained their 
 charters and the excellent general rules by which they 
 are managed. There is, therefore, close relationsliip 
 between the parent societies and these colonial branches ; 
 but it is clear — and in the view of some it is considered 
 to be unfortunate — that the provisions of the Imperial 
 Friendly Societies' Act have no legal effect within the 
 boundaries of the Colony. 
 
 iii. It has been represented somcAvhat urgently to your Com- 
 mittee that the Avork accomplished by these societies, in 
 fostering and encouraging provident habits, as well as in 
 mitigating the evils of sickness and privation among the 
 working classes, has been of great public benefit, and 
 entitles them to the very favourable consideration of the 
 Government and the Legislature, and it has been urged 
 that there should be legislation here on the lines of the 
 existing laws of England, which several intelligent and 
 experienced men insist should be compulsorily applied 
 to all colonial societies. It is impossible to deny that 
 there is much force in these claims, and, while your Com- 
 mittee cannot recommend any arbitrary interference Avith 
 their free action, and the rules now obtaining for their 
 self-government, it does appear expedient and proper tiiat 
 the Legislature should place at the disposal of the several
 
 PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEE. XI 
 
 Colonial Friendly Societies such provisions corresponding 
 to those of the Imperial Act as the circumstances of this 
 country would appear to require. 
 
 4. Your Committee, therefore, now recommends that Parlia- 
 ment should pass a measure providing an effective but economical 
 system for the registration of Friendly and Benefit Societies, 
 additional audit of their accounts, complete periodical returns 
 of their assets, liabilities, and general condition; also for the 
 uninterrupted tenure and protection of their property ; and that 
 these advantages should be available to all properly constituted 
 societies that elect to have the benefit thereof. 
 
 After discussion. 
 
 The Draft Eeport was adopted, and the Chairman instructed 
 to report accordingly.
 
 MINUTES m EVIDENCE. 
 
 COMMITTEE ON FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 
 Thursdmj, 2Sth April, 1881. 
 
 PRESENT : 
 
 Mr. J. Ayliff (Chairman), 
 
 Mr. Hockley, 
 ,, Walker, 
 
 Mr. Mackay. 
 
 Dr. Matthews, M.L.A., examined, 
 
 1. Chairman.] You are a member of the House of ■y^J;^^., 
 Assembly for Kimberley ? — Yes. ' m.l.a. ' 
 
 2. You are also a medical practitioner in Griqualand ^p^.j7"^g^;i. 
 West? — Yes ; I am a doctor of medicine, and have been 
 practising in Kimberley for the last ten years. 
 
 3. Has your practice and occupation brought you 
 into connection in any way with friendly societies ? — It 
 has. 
 
 4. Will you kindly tell the Committee how ? — I am 
 medical officer to two lodges of Odd-Fellows, two lodges 
 of Foresters, two lodges of the coloured population, and 
 to the Roman Catholic Society of St. IMary's. 
 
 5. And do these several societies appear to be in a fair 
 degree of prosperity ? — They are very prosperous indeed. 
 
 6. You mentioned the Foresters and the Odd-Fellows. 
 I suppose these are conducted in connection with the 
 parent societies in England ? — Yes ; with the Manchester 
 Unity, and the Odd-Fellows and Foresters with the 
 orders as estabhshed in England. 
 
 A. 6— '81. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. B
 
 2 MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN HEFOKE THE 
 
 Dr. 7. You understand those societies to be affiliated with 
 
 m.l!a.'' the societies in Enghind ? — Certainl}'. The}- appeal 
 AprulTlssi .^loii^e in any difficult matter. 
 
 8. Can you say whether the societies you refer to 
 have had mmiy opportunities of assisting men while in 
 sickness and distress? — AVell, as regards the lodges at 
 the Diamond Fields, the population being a young 
 jDopulation, composed to a great extent of men in the 
 prime of life, there has been ver}'- little sickness indeed. 
 
 9. So that we are entitled to assume that their funds 
 are accumulating '? — Yes. It is only a period of five 
 years since they were established at the Fields, — in 
 1875, I think. 
 
 10. Have j^ou had any opportunities of going into the 
 details of the working of these societies, so as to enable 
 you to tell the Committee whether they are generally 
 conducted in the same way as the societies here in the 
 Colony ? — I have looked into the working of ihe societies 
 there, but only in connection with their affiliation to 
 English societies. I have been led, however, to undei-- 
 statid that they are conductel at the Fields on the 
 same principles as in this Colony, and the officers 
 there are all men who have originally come from this 
 Colony. 
 
 11. And I suppose the probability is that the accounts 
 are kept, audited, and reported from time to time in the 
 same way as they are in this Colony ? — Yes ; I should 
 think so. 
 
 12. Have you had any opportunities of ascertaining 
 how their capital fund is invested ? — Yes. The oldest 
 lodge of Odd-Fellows, the Pioneer Lodge, has funds in 
 the bank, and I think it has also invested its surplus 
 funds in building a hall, which is remunerative, as it is 
 let out when not wanted by the lodge. 
 
 13. Would you from your experience say that you 
 consider that to be a sufiiciently secure investment for 
 the funds ? — That is a point upon which I should like 
 further information from the Fields, first as to whether 
 this hall was built out of the funds of the lodire, or 
 whether it was an extra building fund ; but I know it 
 was paid for purely out of the funds of the lodge, aad 
 was not u limited liability company of the members.
 
 ^;ELEOT COMMITTEE ON FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 6 
 
 14. Mr. Walhcr.'] Is the amount of the fund deposited ^j^^l^^,.^ 
 in the bank upon fixed deposit ? — Partly fixed and m.l.a. ' 
 parti J" not. ^ April 28, issi. 
 
 15. Chairman.'] Have you ascertained whether the 
 members of these societies are at all desirous for any 
 sort of legislation by the Parliament? — Yes. I may 
 say that, previous to my coming down here, the subject 
 was discussed, and they all seemed to agree that 
 Government supervision would be a good thing. 
 
 16. Did you ascertain whether they were in favour 
 of the passing of an Act of Parliament here on the lines 
 of the Friendly Societies' Act of England? — The 
 majority would like that. > 
 
 17. Are you able to say wdiether they would wish 
 that an Act of that kind should be made applicable to 
 the societies here compulsoril}-, or wdiether it should 
 be optional with them to come under its operations or 
 not,? — The majority would rather it were compulsory, 
 and I am certainly in favour of a compulsorj^ Act 
 myself, on the ground that otherwise many men would . 
 be liable to loss who join societies on the strength of 
 the character of officers who they know to be honest, 
 but who, unfortunately, sometimes turn out rogues. 
 
 18. Mr. Hockley.] Should that Act, do you think, have 
 a retrospective effect? Would all existing societies have 
 to come under it ? — I think so. 
 
 19. Chairman.'] But don't you think it should be left 
 to the discretion of the societies to decide whether they 
 will be- governed by such an Act or not ? Is it not rather 
 an interference with their freedom to say that they 
 must necessarily be brought under it? — No ; because 
 these societies are generally formed for the benefit of 
 men who trust in the officers very implicitly, and con- 
 sequently their interests want looking after. 
 
 20. Would you still hold that view even if you were 
 shown that compulsory application does not obtain "in 
 England ? — Yes ; I should in this country, especially in 
 Griqualand West, where the population is termisd by 
 
 some people rather migratory. 
 
 21. Suppose it were provided that there should Ik- a 
 Government audit by some outsider, and suppose furthei' 
 that the arrano-oment were made thnt the societies
 
 4 MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE 
 
 i>i-- slioTild bo bound to publish yeavl}'^ or half-yearly state- 
 Mi!!. ' ments ol their financial condition, don't you think that 
 Apriil^lssi. ^^'Cfuld meet the requirements of the case ? —No. I think 
 that the societies ought to be registered, and that a 
 Government officer should examine the books and 
 accounts half-yearly or yearly to see that the funds 
 correspond with the entries in the books. 
 
 22. And I suppose you would go further, and say that 
 you would like to see all their property secured by good 
 investments ? — Yes ; that ought to be done. 
 
 23. And it is your opinion that the members would 
 not look upon such an arrangement as an undue inter- 
 ference with their liberty ?— I should not think so ni}^- 
 self, and the members with whom I conversed previous 
 to my leaving did not think so. Of course they would 
 still have their own laws and their own bye-laws, which 
 would not be interfered with ; it would be merely to see 
 that they could not possibly be robbed by careless or 
 fraudulent officers. 
 
 24. Do you consider that the funds of these societies 
 are adequate to meet the demands of members under 
 ordinary contingencies of sickness and want? — They are 
 based upon calculations and actuaries' tables which have 
 been found to work well, and so far as Griqualand West 
 is concerned, as I have said before, the sickness, on 
 account of nearly all the members being young men, is 
 so small that the funds are very rapidly increasing. 
 
 25. Do 3^ou think that the societies should make 
 arrangements contemplating a possible emergency, such 
 as the existence of an epidemic ? Would that be fairly 
 within their range ? — I don't think so. At any rate it 
 would not be applicable in Griqualand West, for I think 
 with one or two of the lodges there, if half the members 
 were to die in one year the funds could pay for them. 
 
 26. Have you observed that the case often arises 
 that one man is a member of several societies ? — Yes, 
 
 27. Do you consider that this is at all open to 
 objection ? — I should think it objectionable in some places 
 where a man might malinger and make more out of the 
 different societies by being sick than he could earn if he 
 were well. 
 
 28. Such an evil as has been pointed out to this
 
 SELECT COMMITTEE ON FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 5 
 
 Committee as beino' very probable to occur in the pr. 
 Colony ? — Yes ; but it does not pertain to (jriqualancl m.l.a. 
 West, because I believe the sick pay is something like Apiii28,i8si. 
 30s. a week, and the men who are members of these 
 societies are, many of them, most of them in fact, 
 mechanics who are earning from £7 to £9 a week, and 
 consequently it would not pay them.* If a man were a 
 member of live societies it would not pay him to feign 
 sickness. As medical officer I hnd that in at least one- 
 third of all the cases that I see in connection with these 
 benefit societies, the men do not accept the benefit of 
 the societies further than in getting the medical attend- 
 ance ; that is to say, at least from one-third to one-half- 
 will make the society a present of the sick pay, and 
 that of course tends to improve the funds. Only the 
 other day I attended a man whose sickpa}^ came to £32, 
 and he made a present of it to the society. 
 
 29. Mr. Hockley.'] From different societies ? — No •, 
 from one society. 
 
 30. Clittirman?^ 1 understand you to say that, being 
 medical officer, you are also a member of these societies, 
 and you are entitled to attend the meetings ? — Yes ; 
 with the Odd-Fellows and Foresters the doctor of the 
 lodge must be a member. 
 
 31. Have you had opportunities of examining the 
 system according to which their accounts are kept ? — I 
 have had no particular op]3ortunity, but I know that 
 some members will pay up three or four months in ad- 
 vance. There are men making £1,500 a year who will 
 belong to these societies. The majorit}^ of them join 
 in order to avoid the possibility of a medical account, 
 which may easily come to from 40 to 100 guineas. 
 
 32. You said something just now about the coloared 
 population in Griqualand West. Did I understand you to 
 say that the coloured population also joined together in 
 these friendly societies ? — Yes. There is one lodge, called 
 the St. Cyprian's Society, which has about thirty-eight 
 members, and there is another society, called the 
 Mechanics, which has about thirty members, and they 
 carry on business with their lodges in the most admirable 
 
 . manner. 
 
 33. Mr. Walker.] These are all coloured people ?— Yes.
 
 b MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE 
 
 , Dr. 34. What class of coloured people ? — They are of all 
 
 M.L.A. colours. 
 April 28, 1881. ^^* -^^i"' Machay.'] Does that include what are termed 
 
 native strangers, besides Kafirs. Fingoes, Sec. ? — No •, 
 
 they are colonial coloured peoj^le, 
 
 36. Chairman.''^ Are these societies of coloured people 
 conducted independently, or are thej?" associated with 
 any cliurch or other organization? — They are not joined 
 with any church, but they have corresponding branches 
 in -the Cape Colony. 
 
 37. Mr. Walker.'] There is a St. Cyprian's Lodge at 
 Port Elizabeth ? — Yes ; I believe so. 
 
 38. Chairman.] And a Mechanic's Lodge also ? — Yes. 
 
 39. Mr. Walker.] Do you find that any of the abori- 
 gines come into these societies ? — No ; they are ton 
 shifting in their habits, and while settled they live on 
 their masters' compounds. 
 
 40. Mr. Macluay.] So far as you are aware, have there 
 been any malversations of accounts or moneys? — I have 
 heard of onlj/^ one such case. 
 
 4L Are you aware what system is adopted for re- 
 ceiving money and accounting for it? — I have some- 
 times gone to a lodge on lodge-nights and have seen 
 money paid in. This money is afterwards paid into the 
 bank by the treasurer. 
 
 42. Is it received b}^ the treasurer and paid in by 
 him ? — Yes. 
 
 43. What check is there on him ? — I think the Noble 
 Grand, as he is termed, checks the receipt of money, and 
 then all large accounts are paid by cheques, v/hich are 
 signed by two or three officers of the lodge. 
 
 44. Have you thought in what way you would have 
 Government supervision ? Would you have the accounts 
 passed by the civil commissioner ? — I think the civil 
 commissioner, as a rule, has too much to do, and that it 
 would be better to have a Government officer appointed 
 entirely for the purpose. 
 
 45. But that would be an expensive affair ? — It 
 depends upon the number of lodges there ai-e in the 
 country, and how the charge of supervision should be 
 divided among them. 
 
 46. Mr. Walker.] Is the audit of these accounts carried
 
 SELECT COMMITTEE ON FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 7 
 
 on by members of the society, or do they have accoiin- b.-. 
 taiits for that work ?— Not accoimtants, as far as I know. ^m.lT'' 
 That may be subject to correctiou, but I beHeve I am . T7~,co. 
 
 • 1 , "^ ' Apia 2a, 1881. 
 
 rio:ht. ' 
 
 47. Chairm.an.] You seem to suggest the establish- 
 ment of a department for registering, inspecting, and 
 examining the transactions of these societies ? — Yes. 
 
 48. How could that be made to work ? The depart- 
 ment must l)e located at some one place, say here in 
 Cape Town. Now how could the officers stationed here 
 effectively perform their functions in respect to societies 
 at Kimber] cy ? 
 
 49. Witness.'] Is there not a Government Inspector of 
 0\\Q^\^^ — Chairman.] Not now. 
 
 50. Witness.'] Of course there would be a certain 
 amount of central work, but the best way to arrange for • 
 this inspection would be, in my opinion, to have ap officer 
 appointed for the purpose like a bank inspector. 
 
 51. Chairman.] Would not that be attended with very 
 heavy expense ? Tlie Colony is large, and these societies 
 are spread all over a very large area, and if the Govern- 
 ment officer is to examine the accounts of every one of 
 them the examination would be attended with a great 
 deal of expense ?— 1 don"t think it would weigh hej?vily. 
 Suppose you gave a man of that description £l,000"a 
 year and he paid his own tni^-elling expenses, there would 
 be a number of lodges to contribute towards it, and when 
 distributed out in that way the amount to be paid by 
 each lodge would be very trifling. 
 
 52. Do you think the lodges would be willing to pay 
 this ?— I don't think they would object. 
 
 53. Mr. Walker.] You think that if the money were 
 raised in that way it would be a very insignificant 
 charge on each lodge ?— I think go. Yon niight let 
 each lodge pay in proportion to the number of its 
 2nembers. 
 
 54. Chairman:] You are referring now particularly to 
 the duties of an inspector, but don't you think that there 
 would be several very important duties which could 
 only be properly performed by a central office, such as 
 registration, examination of the rules, and of the proposed 
 amendments to rules ?•— Yes.
 
 8 MINUTES or EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE 
 
 Mtutiictro ^^' ^^^o^^lc^ ^^^ those functions necessitate the estah- 
 M.L.A."' lishment of an officer at some central place ? — The 
 April 28, 1881. inspecting duties would not occupy the whole year, and 
 it is not veiy often that rules are amended, c^^c, so that 
 the inspector would be able to sjDend one month out of 
 every three in the inspecting work in different divisions, 
 taking one or more particular divisions in one mouth of 
 the quarter, and so on. 
 
 56. Mr. Walker.] It would take up one man's time 
 pretty well '? — Yes ; but these sort of lodges are not in 
 small villages ; they are all at places that are tolerably 
 accessible. . 
 
 .57. Chairman.'] Do you think that the contributions 
 towards the salary of such an officer as you speak of 
 should be made yro rata according to the number of the 
 members of each lodge ? — Yes. 
 
 58. But apparently the societies at Kimberley are in 
 a very much more prosperous condition than many of 
 the societies here in the Colony. Would you still apply 
 the same rule for contributions ? — Yes ; I think so. 1 see 
 no reason why it should not be applied. 
 
 59. And you don't think it woukl unduly cripple small 
 and poor societies ? — I think it would come to such a 
 very small amount per annum — the maximum of what 
 a society would have to pay would be about £10 — and 
 really that is not very much. 
 
 , GO. Mr. Walker.] I suppose the best way would be to 
 charge so much a head, say a fehilhng or two shilJiugs a 
 year ? — Yes. Of course without statistics it is difficult/ 
 to say exactly, but if you had a proper return of the 
 number of individuals who are members of the different 
 lodges you would at once see what would be a fair 
 proportion. 
 
 61. Mr. Hochletj.] The numbers are constantly alter- 
 ing. The returns would need revision every year ? — 
 Yes. 
 
 62. j\Ir. Mackay.] If the charge were per head, but 
 not if each society contributed (he same sum? — Not so 
 frequently. This is merely an idea of my own which I 
 submit for the consideration of the Committee.
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 [ A. ] 
 
 Return in compliance with a resolution ad )pted on tlie 28tli 
 July, 1880, hy the Honourable the House of Assembly, as 
 follows, viz. : — " That the report of the Select Committee on 
 Friendly Societies be forwarded to Government, with the 
 recommendation that steps be taken during' the recess to 
 elicit the opinions ofpersons interested in Friendly Societi' s."* 
 
 ENCLOSURE TO CIRCULAR (PARLIAMENTARY) 
 No. 17, DATED 19th AUGUST, 1880. 
 
 Questions to be submitted to Persons interested in 
 
 OR ACQUAINTED AVITH THE FrIENDLY SOCIETIES OF 
 
 THE Colony. 
 
 1. Be good enough to stale what friendly societies you are 
 associated with ; whether you hold any, and what, offices in con- 
 nection therewith ? 
 
 2. Have you informed yourself sufficiently of the nature of the 
 rules of the friendly societies in your district to enable you to 
 form an opinion as to their working, and whether they have 
 secured the objects for which they Vk^ere established ? 
 
 3. How many members compose the societies, respectively, to 
 which you now refer ? 
 
 4. Please state how contributions are made to (he fund^^, and 
 what capita] sum has accumulated in these several societies, 
 stating each separately ? 
 
 5. Describe the process of paying in contributions, stave the 
 number of officers through who.5e hands the money passes, and 
 what limits there are to the control which they have over the 
 funds ? 
 
 6. Do the rules usuall)^ provide for sufficient protection against 
 defalcation or loss, and is guarantee or security furnished by any 
 of the officers ? If so, state how ? 
 
 7. How are the societies' funds invested and secured ? 
 
 8. How are the securities protected ? 
 
 9. Describe the process of keeping the accounts of the 
 society ? 
 
 *Only such communications as contain replies to the questions submitted are 
 here printed. 
 
 A, 16— '80. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. I
 
 11 APPENDIX. 
 
 10. "What audits are made, by whom, and how often ? Are 
 these sufficieut ? Can you recommend any, and what, improve- 
 ment y 
 
 11. In your opinion can these audits be more effectually made 
 by members of the society, or by qualified accountants, not 
 being members ? 
 
 12. Have the societies to which you now refer sustained any 
 losses of money ? If so, Avhen, and to what cause do you attri- 
 bute the loss ? 
 
 13. Do you consider the funds now held by these societies 
 sufficient to meet possible demands by members, according to 
 the average rate of death and wickness ? 
 
 14. Would they be sufficient in the event of an epidemic or 
 some other extraordinary fataUty amongst members? If not, 
 what do you recommend ? 
 
 15. Assuming that the " Friendly Societies' Act of England" 
 provides for the appointment, by Government, of a registrar, 
 the ricrht to register a society in his office, to file a copy of rules 
 with him, give him power to object to such rules, also power 
 to audit the accounts and examine the assets and securities, and 
 Inquire into the working of a society ; gives societies power to 
 hold land in the name of trustees, to sue and be sued in the 
 name of tvastees ; provides for giving societies preferent claim 
 in case of the insolvency of a defaulting financial officer, and 
 protection r.gain-t the misapplication of funds ; compels societies 
 to render annually to the registrar statements of receipts and 
 expendiluve, funds, and effects, and every five years to furnish 
 a report on the condition of the society, with a valuation of 
 Basse's and li djihties, and fixes pcnaliies for breach or contra- 
 vention of t];c provisions of the Act; do you consider that a 
 similar or analagous enactment should be passed in this Colony? 
 
 16. In ca?e you should be of opinion that the provisions of 
 that Act are too elaborate and likely to be too expensive, do 
 you consider that there shaold be any legislation at all in the 
 fdlrecion of any of those provisions? and what other subjects in 
 connection with friendly societies do you think should be 
 legislated upon ? 
 
 17. Sup'pcse you favour legislation and the appointment vf a 
 i-eoistrar or auditor, Avith the necessary subordinate officers to 
 act at remote i)laces, do you think that the various societies in 
 the Colony would be willing be contribute the funds requisite to 
 pay salaries and expenses? 
 
 18. In case you answer tlie precedmg in the affirmative, please 
 state how much money you think should be annually contributed 
 to these fnnds, and how should an assessment in respect thereof 
 be made uj'oa the members? 
 
 19. in case you favour registration, should it, in your opinion, 
 be compulsory or o])tional ? 
 
 20. Do vou think that compulsory registration would be re-
 
 APPENDIX. Ill 
 
 garded by the societies as an arbitrary interference with their 
 liberties ? 
 
 21. Suppose the Government directed the various civil com- 
 missioners of the Colony to cause effective audits of accounts and 
 examination of affairs of the various friendly societies in their 
 districts to be made, do you think that the requirements of the 
 societies would be sufficiently met ? 
 
 22. Do you think that the courts of justice of the Colony 
 should have jurisdiction in any disputes or matters usually settled 
 by the members of the societies under their rules ? If so, should 
 it be for hearing and deciding these matters in the first instance, 
 or only by way of appeal ? 
 
 23. Be good enough to furnish any other information or sugges- 
 tions relative to the subject under inquiry, especially as to what 
 legislation (if any) you consider necessary for the protection ot 
 friendly societies.
 
 IV 
 
 APrENDIX. 
 
 Schedule of Replies received through the several Civil Comiuis;sic neis to 
 Circular 17 of 1880, respecting Friend'y Societies. 
 
 No. 
 
 division. 
 
 Date of Civil Com- 
 missioner's Reply. 
 
 Xature of Pioiily. 
 
 1 
 
 Aberdeen 
 
 Dec. 13, 1880... 
 
 Nil Return. 
 
 2 
 
 Albany 
 
 Dec. 18, 1880... 
 
 Eeply, dated 15tb Deeeuiber, 1880, 
 from Secretny Eastern Province 
 Lodge "Odd-Fellows," Gra- 
 ham's Town. 
 
 
 
 Mar. 8, 1881... 
 
 Reply of Albany BretI.ern Ber.eilt 
 Society Graham's Town. 
 
 3 
 
 Albert 
 
 Mar. .5.1881... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 4 
 
 Alexandria 
 
 Sept. 17, 1880... 
 
 ^■il. 
 
 5 
 
 Aliwal North ... 
 
 Sept. 21, 1881 .. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 6 
 
 Barkly (Wodehouse)... 
 
 ... ..." 
 
 Nil. 
 
 7 
 
 BarkIy(GriqualaudW.) 
 
 Mar. 12, 1881... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 8 
 
 BatliuVst 
 
 Dec. 15, lb80 .. 
 
 Reply, dated loth Derend)cr, 1880, 
 from Secretary Couit No. 6 141 
 of Ancient Order of Foresters, 
 Port Alfred. 
 
 9 
 
 Beaufort West 
 
 Dec. 29, 1880... 
 
 Reply, dated 30th September, 1880, 
 from Secretary to " Odd- Fellows' 
 Lodge," Beaufort West. 
 
 10 
 
 Bedfoid 
 
 S pt. 13, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 11 
 
 Bredasdorp 
 
 Sept. 8, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 12 
 
 Caledon 
 
 Dec. 14,1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 13 
 
 Calvinia 
 
 Sept. 21, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 14 
 
 Cape 
 
 Feb. 22, 1881... 
 
 Reply, dated 20th December. 1880, 
 from W. T. Hawthorn, a mendier 
 of " Carnarvon " Lodge of Free- 
 masons. 
 
 Reply, dated 21st December, 1880, 
 from Jlr. Johan Jansen, Cape 
 Town. 
 
 15 
 
 Cfirnarvon 
 
 Sept. 16, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 IG 
 
 Cathcart 
 
 Sept. 9, 1880 . 
 
 Nil. 
 
 17 
 
 Clanwilliam ,. 
 
 Sept. 9, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 18 
 
 Col sberg 
 
 Sept. 13, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 19 
 
 Cradock 
 
 Oct. 21, 1880... 
 
 " Odd Fellows" Society decline to 
 answer the questions submitted 
 to them. 
 
 20 
 
 East Loudon 
 
 Dec, 14, 880... 
 
 Enclosing reply, dated 29t]i October, 
 1880,' froili Past Provincial 
 Grand Master, Kaffrarian Dist- 
 rict, Independent Older of Odd- 
 FclIowF. 
 
 21 
 
 Fort Beaufort 
 
 Dec. 13,1880... 
 
 No replies have lieen n ceivcd from 
 any fii', ndly socitti' s. 
 
 22 
 
 Fraserburg 
 
 Sept. 9, 1880... 
 
 Reply from J. C. Gie, member of 
 Ii dependent Order of Good 
 Templars, dated 21 st Sept(Mnl>cr.
 
 APPENDIX. 
 Schedule of Replies received, &c. — contmnaJ. 
 
 Xo. 
 
 Division. 
 
 George 
 Graaff-Pieinet 
 
 Hanover 
 Hay ... 
 Herbert 
 Heiscliel 
 
 29 Hope Towa 
 
 Humansdorp 
 
 Jiinsenville 
 
 Kin''' William's Town 
 
 Kinibcrley 
 Knysna 
 
 Kouigha 
 
 Ladisinitli 
 
 Malmesbury 
 
 Date of Civil Com- 
 missioner's Eeply. 
 
 Oct. 14, 1880. 
 Oct. 11, 1880. 
 
 Sept. 9, 1880. 
 Mar. 3, 1881. 
 Feb. 20, 1881. 
 Dec. 15, 1880. 
 
 Oct. 2, 1880.. 
 
 Sept. 8, 1880 
 Dec. 14,1880. 
 
 Nov. 18, 1880. 
 
 Mar. 5, 1881. 
 
 Oct. G, 1880. 
 
 Sept. 9, 1880. 
 Sept. 13, 1880 
 Dec. 6, 1880. 
 
 Nature of Reply. 
 
 Reply from Archdeacon Fogg. and 
 President of S. Mark's Benefit 
 Society, George, dated 12th Oct. 
 Grand Mason of " Loyal Yictoria" 
 Lodge of '■ Odd-Fellows," 
 Graaff-Reiaet. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Secretary to Lodge of Independent 
 Order of Good Templars reph . 
 dated 14th December, 1880. 
 
 Reply of Secretary " Nil Despe- 
 randum" Lodge, Independent 
 Order of Good Templars, dated 
 28th September. 
 
 Nil. ; 
 
 Reply of Mr. J. Birch, J.P., dated 
 3rd November, 1880, and of tlie 
 Civil Commissioner, dated 13th 
 December. 
 
 Reply of Treasurer, " Kaffrarian 
 Good Intent" Lodge I.O.G.T., 
 dated 4th October. 
 
 Reply of Past Provincial Grand 
 Master of 'Odd-Fellows," and 
 Past Chief Ranger of •' Fores- 
 ters," King William's Town. 
 
 Alexander Duncan's reply, dat' d 
 4th October, 1880 Is a member 
 of " Odd-Fellows' " and " Fores- 
 tors' " Friendly Societies. 
 
 Reply of the Kaffrarian District 
 Independent Order of Odd- 
 Fellows. 
 
 None yet received. 
 
 Reply (2oth September) of Deputy 
 Grand Worthy Chief Templar 
 of the " Hope of Knysna " 
 Lodge I O.G.T. 
 
 Rcp'y of Mr. T. Horn (Freemason), 
 dattd 13th September, 1880. 
 
 Reply of Mr. B. Mortimer, d^ted 
 ISth September, 1880. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Reply of Mr. J. S. de Villiers, S.cre- 
 tary Lodge St. John's (Masonic), 
 dated 6lli December, 1880.
 
 VI 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 Schedule of Replies received. &c. — continued. 
 
 No. 
 
 Division. 
 
 Date of Civil Com- 
 missioner's Reply. 
 
 Nature of Replj'. 
 
 38 
 
 Middelburg ... 
 
 Sept. 10, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 39 
 
 Mossel B.ay 
 
 Dec. 9, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 40 
 
 Murray sburc ... 
 
 Dec. 13, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 41 
 
 Namaqunland 
 
 Mar. 2, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 42 
 
 Oudtshoorn 
 
 Sept. 7, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 43 
 
 Paarl 
 
 Dec. 8, 1880 .. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 44 
 
 Piquetberg- 
 
 Oct. 14, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 45 
 
 Port Elizabeth 
 
 Dec. 20, 1880... 
 
 No replies as yet. 
 
 46 
 
 Prince Albert 
 
 Sept. 11, 1880... 
 
 Nil 
 
 47 
 
 Queen's Town 
 
 Mar. 2, 1881 .. 
 
 Reply of Committees of Catbcart 
 Lodge I.O.G.T. 
 
 48 
 
 Richmond 
 
 Nov. 9, 1880.. 
 
 Reply of Treasurer, Richmond 
 Friendly Society. 
 
 49 
 
 Eiversdale 
 
 Oct. 7, 1880... 
 
 Reply of Mr. Morkcl, a member of 
 Independent Order of Good 
 Templars. 
 
 50 
 
 Robert&on 
 
 Oct. 11, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 51 
 
 Simon's Town 
 
 Oct. 11, 1880... 
 
 Reply of Rev. W. M. M. Wilshere, 
 President of St. Francis Church 
 Friendly Society, dated . 
 
 
 
 
 Reply (3rd January, 1881) from 
 
 
 
 
 Rev. Canon Baker, Kalk Br.y. 
 
 52 
 
 Somerset East 
 
 Dec. 14, 1880... 
 
 Reply of Mr. A. Cruickshank, mem- 
 ber of "Odd-Fellows' " Friendly 
 Society. 
 
 53 
 
 Stellenbosch 
 
 Dec. 8, 1880... 
 
 Reply of President of Stellenbosch 
 Ouderlinge Vereeniging, dated 
 13th October, 1880. 
 
 54 
 
 Stockenstrom .. 
 
 Sept, 9, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 65 
 
 Stutterheim 
 
 Sept. 15, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 56 
 
 Swellendam ... 
 
 Oct. 1, 1880 .. 
 
 Nil. 
 
 57 
 
 Tarka 
 
 Oct. 18, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 68 
 
 Tulbagh 
 
 Sept. 29, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 59 
 
 Uitcnliagc 
 
 Jan. 3, 1881... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 60 
 
 Uniondale 
 
 Sept. 16,1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 61 
 
 Victoria East... 
 
 Jan. 3,1881... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 62 
 
 Victoria West 
 
 Dec. 10, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 63 
 
 Willowmore ... 
 
 Sept. 18, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 64 
 
 Wodeliouso 
 
 Sept. 13, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 65 
 
 1 
 
 Worcester 
 
 Oct. 12, 1880... 
 
 Nil. 
 
 Coloninl Sccretfiry's Oflice, 
 24th March, 1881.
 
 APPENDIX. Vll 
 
 Replies to Queries of Parliamentary Circular. 
 
 Loyal Eastern Province L( dge, 
 Albany District, Graham's Town, 
 
 December 15, 1880. 
 
 1. I am a member of the Eastern Proyince Lodi^e of Odd- 
 fellows' Manchester Unity Friendly Society, and of snch lodge 
 am permanent or paid secretary, and have been for five con- 
 secutive yeard. 
 
 2. I have, and fully believe that by the working of the lodge 
 the object is attained for which it was eitablished. 
 
 3. The annual return issued by our parent society is best 
 able to answer this query, for Ave have members in every known 
 quarter of the world. 
 
 4. Contributions are made by fortnightly and annual pay- 
 ments. The accumulated capital of this society can only bo 
 arrived at by reference to the voluminous reports, returns, and 
 statistics furnished by our parent society each year to the 
 Imperial Government, 
 
 5. Payments are made payable fortnightly, and are paid to 
 the secretary, and by him to the treasurer, the amount paid each 
 night being notified in open lodge and entered on the minutes of 
 proceedings. 
 
 6. The rules provide against defalcations or loss by its half- 
 yearly audit of all accounts, books, &c. ; security is given by bond 
 by the secretary and treasurer. 
 
 7. In first mortgage on landed property and secured by bond. 
 
 8. Securities are protected by fire policies, &c. 
 
 9. Accounts of the lodge are kept in a nightly receipt book, 
 pence book, fine book, cash book, and a balance statement book. 
 All these books contain an epitome of each lodge night's receipts, 
 and show balance Avith the amount as stated in minute book. 
 The system of keeping the accounts is clear and intelligible, 
 and may be understood, by the most illiterate. This system is 
 uniformly adopted by the Manchester Unity Friendly Society. 
 
 10. Audits are made half-ycarl}', or if lodge requires, may 
 order one at any moment. Books and accounts are audited by 
 three of our own members, duly elected in open lodge. At buch 
 audit the outgoing and incoming officers are all present to satisfy 
 themselves that all is correct. These audits in my opinion are 
 sufficient, and cannot recommend any imjDrovement on the system. 
 
 11. In my opinion these audits can be done as Avell by our own 
 members as by any official appointed to such duties, for this 
 reason, that we number amongst us some of the most qualified 
 actuaries and accountants that the present age can boast of, and 
 as a whole our members are conversant Avith the system adopted 
 to keep lodge accounts or books.
 
 Vlll Ari'ENDIX. 
 
 12. This lodge lias not sustaiued any loss duriug its sixteen 
 years' existence; ou tl>e rontrary it has amassed considerable Avealtli 
 in the shape of" funds and lodge buildings. 
 
 13. I do, but if it so liappened that any lodge in connection 
 with the unity -was taken short of funds throug-h no fault of its 
 own, then tlie inatter is taken up by the district bianch of the 
 order, and by them referred to the board of directors, who gene- 
 rally pL.ce the matter right. 
 
 14. I consider our funds quite sufficient to cover any emergency 
 in case of an epidemic. For instance, at the present tune there are 
 thirtj -three members of this lodge at pr(sent engaged in the war 
 in Basutolond, and each of these are insured in our lod!;e, in case 
 of death £2o, and in sickness 21s. per week. This lodge has sus- 
 tained through the death of yeomanry at Kalabani its pro rata 
 share of £75 ^ £50, and thus consider that as we are but a 
 friendly society we should receive friendly consideration at the 
 hand-; of Government and be recouped a portion of this sum. 
 
 15. I do not consider that the Friendly Society Act of Eng- 
 land at all applicable to this Colony, and much doubt if any 
 simi'ar measure would w^ork here, at any rate in connection 
 Avith this ordtr, for we are fully secured by our general laws, &c. 
 
 16. The main principal urging legislation is to legalize our 
 transactions, promises, &c., and for trustees to be sued and sue 
 upon all matters on behalf of tlie lodge. 
 
 17.1 am not in favour of the Government appointing a registrar 
 or auditor, and am fully convinced that no lodge would sanction 
 any of its funds being disbursed or paid away as salaries to such 
 officers. 
 
 19. Compulsory registration would not act. 
 
 20. I do. 
 
 21. Government, through the civil commissione s, could do 
 no better than we do at present. 
 
 22. I do not think it advisable to make every dispute a matter 
 for judical adjustment ; but, as we are at present, our rules 
 gives us a miniature, magistrates,' judges', and supreme courts ; 
 also courts of a])peal, where cases or appeals are heard and de- 
 cided upon by some of the most learned men of the day, and 
 this without the great loss of time and enormous expense incurred 
 in bringing matters before our Government courts of law. 
 
 23. I consider that if Government were to introduce a Bill 
 legalizing all friendly societies, and thus opening uj) the way 
 foi' further enactment, then each lodge or society, as it thought 
 jtroper, might avail itself of the Act and become registered, in a 
 somewhat similiar manner as the Limited Liabilty Act. These are 
 my own views as a member of ihc lodge, and it m.ay not be 
 taken a? granted that this is the feeding of each member ; some 
 are in favour of an Act, but the majority are against it. 
 
 Fv. J. COGAN, Secretary E.P. Lodge.
 
 APPENDIX. IX 
 
 Albany Brethren Benefit Society, Graham's Town, 
 respectfully tender the following answers to the questions 
 submitted by the Colonial Government, which have been 
 passed at a full summoned meeting of members, held 7th day 
 of February, 1881 : — 
 
 1. The Committee appointed by the members of the Albany 
 Brethren Benefit Society, Graham's Town, to consider the ques- 
 tions propounded by the Government, having for its objects a 
 Friendly Society Act: — Brother O. Estment, President; G. 
 Tinkler, Vice-President ; Brother Wm. Tomlinson and C. Porter, 
 Trustees ; Geo. Shaw, Perm. Secretary. 
 
 2. The above society has worked well and prospered for over 
 fifty (.50) years and fully carried out the object for Avhich it 
 was established. 
 
 3. One hundred and twenty (120) members with twenty (20) 
 honorary members. 
 
 4. Contributions monthly at 2s. per month. 
 5 Through the president and two trustees. 
 
 6. We consider there is ample protection, as the officers may 
 be called to account at any meeting night by a single member 
 through ihe president. 
 
 7. By deposits in the society's name, not being at the disposal 
 of the officers, 
 
 8. Under a charter of the Government of Soutli Africa. 
 
 9. Tliey are kept by the permanent secretary of the society. 
 
 10. Two auditors elected annually, and are audited quarterly. 
 We deem that quite sufficient. 
 
 11. Certainly; the members would soon find out if anything 
 was going wrong, hiving a better knowledge of the working of 
 the socie y than a stranger. 
 
 12. None whatever. 
 1.^ Fully. 
 
 14. VYe presume there will, from the experience of past fifty 
 (50) years. 
 
 15. We do not consider it requisite, as the Albany Brethren 
 Benefit Society is constituted under the colonial law can sue 
 and be sued in any legal court of the Colony. 
 
 16. Legislation might be necessary in the different societies 
 in England, but not in a local society under the law of the 
 Colony. 
 
 17. The expense of legislation would be detrimental, and be a 
 tax upon our members, which would tend to diminish our 
 numbers, and, further, prevent new members from joining. 
 
 18. Cannot lorm any opinion. 
 
 19. Certainly optional. 
 
 20. We presume it would be arbitrary. 
 
 21. Not more so than at present, as the working of the society 
 business can prove for fifty (50) years. 
 
 a. 16— '80. FKIEFDLY SOCIETIES, 2
 
 X APPENDIX. 
 
 22. We believe that the courts of justice in this Colony have 
 full power over our society, being a local one. 
 
 WM. TOMLINSON. 
 CHARLES PORTER, 
 O. E. ESTMENT, 
 G. TINKLER, 
 GEO. SHAW, Secretary. 
 
 Answers to Enclosure to Colonial Office Circular 
 . (Parliamentary; No. 17, of the I9tii August, 1880. 
 
 1. I am a member of the '"'Ancient Order of Foresters" 
 Friendly Society, and am financial secretary of the local 
 branch of that society at Port Alfred. 
 
 2. Yes. 
 
 3. Thirty-six financial, and thirteen honorary members. 
 
 4. Each financial member has to pay Is. ])er week ; namely, 
 fourpence to the sick and funeral fund, fourpence towards the 
 medical expense fund, and fourpence towards the manageniGnt 
 expense fund. Honorary members pay Is. per month to>vards 
 the management ex])ensG fund, 'i'he accumulated capital of 
 our branch amounted to £261) Os. 7id. on the 30th June, 1880, 
 the last time of auditing the books. This sum has accumulated 
 since the year 1875. 
 
 5. Contributions are paid fortnightly. They are paid through 
 the secretary to the treasurer, who must place the same to the 
 credit of the society in the Standard Bank of British South 
 Africa, so soon as may be convenient thereafter. 
 
 6. Yes ; the secretary gives security for £20, and the 
 treasurer for £100. 
 
 7. The surplus fund of our society are placed in the Standard 
 Bank as fixed deposits, bearing interest at the rate of 5 per cent, 
 per annum. 
 
 8. Nil. 
 
 9. Our society contributes to three separa'e and distinct funds ; 
 namely, the " Sick and Funeral Fund," the " Medical Expense 
 Fund," and the " Management Expense Fund." Each fund 
 is ke23t separate and distinct, and no money can be applied to any 
 other purpose than that for which it was contributed. 
 
 10. Our books are balanced and audited every six months, 
 namely in January and July of each year. The auditors are 
 elected by the members at the last meetings in the months of 
 June and December, and commence their labours so soon as the 
 half year has closed. In my opinion these audits are quite 
 suflficient. 
 
 11. In my opinion these audits can be made as eftectually by
 
 APPENDIX. XI 
 
 members of a society as could be done by qualified accountants 
 not being members ; for members of friendly societies a are, as a 
 rule, very cautious in selecting theii auditors. If societies were 
 compelled to engage the services of a qualified accountant, it 
 would in a great many cases not only be a great inconvenience, 
 but it would also be very expensive, and in many cases be 
 beyond the means of friendly societies. 
 
 12. Our society has not sustained any loss of money since its 
 existence from 1875. 
 
 13. Yes; I consider them quite sufficient. 
 
 14. No, they would not. I would recommend that societies 
 should make provisions in their rules that, in case of an 
 epidemic or some other extraordinary fatality amongst the mem- 
 bers, the whole of the funeral money be not paid at one time, as 
 at any ordinary death ; but that it be paid in instalments of, say, 
 threej six, nine, or twelve months ; and that societies at 
 once make a levy upon its members to miake up the requisite 
 amount ; and that, should a portion of the members refuse to 
 contribute towards such levy, the trustees ought to have power 
 to enforce the same, by appealing to the court of resident 
 magistrate in the division, and such court ought to have power 
 to compel such members to contribute their share toward such 
 levy to ensure the stability of friendly societies. 
 
 15. I believe that the Friendly Societies' Act of England 
 would be too stringent and expensive in its application in this 
 Colony. 
 
 16. I am of opinion that there ought to be a Friendly 
 Societies Act passed in this Colony, having for its objects the 
 appointment of a registrar, the right to register a society in 
 his office, and file a copy of rules with him, and give him power 
 to object to such rules. It should also give friendly societies 
 power to hold laud in the name of the trustees, to sue and be 
 sued in the name of the trustees ; it should also provide for 
 giving societies preferent claim in case of the insolvency of 
 a defaulting officer, and protection against the naisapplicatiou 
 of funds ; it should compel societies to render amaually to the 
 registrar a statement of receipts and expendit,ure, funds, and 
 effects ; and to furnish a report every five years on the condi- 
 tion of the societies ; and fix jjenalties for breach of contraven- 
 tion of the provisions of the Act. 
 
 17. I do not think that the various friendly societies in this 
 Colony would willingly contribute the fund requisite to pay 
 salaries and expenses if the Friendly Societies' Act of England 
 were introduced into this Colony ; it Avould bear very heavily 
 upon thinly populated districts. But I am led to believe that 
 if the various civil commissioners or distributors of stamps in 
 the Colony were appointed assistant registrars, and certain fees 
 charged for registration, &c., nearly all friendly societies in this 
 Colony would avail themselves of the provisions of such an Act.
 
 xn ArrENDix . 
 
 18. Ill my opinion this scliome Avould be too expensive for 
 friendly societies to enleriain. In some districts, Avlicre there is 
 only one society, tlic burden of pnying salaries, &('., for the 
 officers of tliat disti-iet would fall u])nn that one society alone, 
 "which unaided could not exist under those circumstances. 
 
 19. In my opinion registration should be optional here, as in 
 England ; but to encourage and foster registration societies not 
 registered sliould be excluded from the provisions of the Act 
 altogether. 
 
 20. I believe that compulsory registration would be regarded 
 by the societies as an arbitrary interference -with their liberties. 
 
 21. I think if the vaiious civil commissioners in the Colony 
 were appointed assistant registrars, through whom friendly 
 societies could registe ■ and file a copy of rules for transmission 
 to the registrar, and to act for and on behalf of the registrar in 
 their respective district-, that the requirements of friendly 
 societies in this Colony would be sufficiently met. 
 
 22. I do not think that courts of justice should interfere or 
 have jurisdiction in any disputes or matters usually settled by 
 the members of the societies under their rules, for in every case 
 where a society fails to fulfil or neglects to carry out tho pro- 
 visions of its contract with a member^ such member has always 
 power to seek redress in a c )ur: of law. 
 
 23. I think provisi n ought to bo made prohibiting friendly 
 societies from expending their funds ; except those purposes 
 for which the money was contributed. For instance, if a society 
 possesses two distinct fund^, they ought to be prohibited from 
 making use of money belonging to one fund for ])urposes of the 
 other under pretence of b a-rowing the same, and that it will be 
 refunded, which is selih m or never done. 
 
 CHAS. A. WAGNER, 
 
 Sec. Cuurt No. 6,141, A.O.F. 
 
 Port Alfred, 15th December, 1880. 
 
 Answers to Circular (Parliamentary) No. 17, dated 
 19TII August, 18S0. 
 
 1. I am a member of the Manchester Unity Independent 
 Order of Odd-fellows' Friendly Society, and have bsen so for 
 .sixteen years. I hold no office at present, but have, during the 
 ])eriod stated, filled almost every office in the lodge and district 
 branch, my nresent standing being that of a past provincial 
 grand master. 
 
 2. I have studied the rules of the society I am connected Avith. 
 
 3. The lod^e of which [ am a subscribing membei", the 
 Kaflfrarian Lodge No. 5,210, has one hundred and seventy
 
 APPENDIX. Xlll 
 
 members. The KafFiarian district, in which I am a past officer, 
 is composed of eleven lodges, with an agg-regate membership of 
 six hundred and fifty. 
 
 4. Contributions are made fortnightly, at the rate of tenpence 
 halfpenny per week. The accummulated funds of the KatFrariau 
 Lodge is about two thousand six hund ed pounds. 
 
 5. C( ntributions are paid on lodge nights by the members to 
 the secretary, who, at the close of the proceeding?, hands the cash 
 received to the treasurer, who must place the same in a local 
 bank within forty-eight hours after receipt. Where the rules 
 are well enforced and the business manage i properly, these officers 
 have a very limited control over the funds. On the other hand, 
 where the members are careless ;md inattentive, the secretary 
 has a dangerous power over the funds, more in respect to the 
 money being paid in by members than as regards the expenditure 
 of the lodge. 
 
 6. The rules do gen* rally provide sufficient protection against 
 loss or defalcation when fairly and carefully administered. Security 
 is seldom furnished by any of the officers. The rules of the 
 Manchester Unity provides that bonds should be given by the 
 secretary and treasurer. This precaution is f equently neglected, 
 and owing to the provision-- of the Engli-li •■ Friendly Societies 
 Act" not extending to this Colony the bonds have been held to 
 be useless. 
 
 7. The funds of the lodge of which I am a member are invested 
 in landed property, firdt mortgage, and the b:ink. 
 
 8. The securities are held by trustees appointed by the lodge, 
 and are chiefly deposited in the bank. 
 
 9. Payments are received from the members, and entered into 
 a lodge night receipt book, under the different headings, such as 
 "Sick; an*l Funeral Fund," "Management Fund," &c. A 
 similar entry should be made on a card held by the member, and 
 initialled by the secretary. This c -institutes the member's receipt. 
 
 This excellent protection is much neglected I regret to say, and 
 is the cause of loss to members and the society. From the 
 " Lodge Night Receipt Book " the payments are entered into 
 a book named a " Pence Roll," which contains the names of 
 every number, and is ruled so as to show every weekly payment, 
 and when regularly posted shows at a glance the member's 
 posi ion. Thee is also a '' Cash Book " showing receipts and 
 disbursements. There are several minor books, such as " Fine 
 Book," " Proposition Book," all of which, when carefully written 
 up by honest and trustworthy officers, constitute an exceedingly 
 simple and effective system of keeping the accounts. 
 
 10. The audits are made half-yearly by two or more members 
 of the lodge. They are not in my oi>inion sufficient, but often 
 of the most slipshod and perfunctory character, by members 
 selected often for their very unfitness, who sign balance sheets 
 and books as correct upon the verbal information offered by the
 
 XIV APPENDIX. 
 
 officer whose accounts are being audited. I would recommend 
 tliat the auditors when composed of members of the society 
 together witli the secretary and treasurer sliould rnalvc a de- 
 claration to the correctness of the linanciul statement audited be- 
 fore a justice of the peace, who should sign the statement and 
 " Cash Book." 
 
 11. I &m in favour of half-yearly audits by memberd of the 
 society, with an annual audit by a qualified accjountant, not a 
 member. I think this would give coulidence to many members 
 Avho are unable to attead regularly. 
 
 12. I cannot state positively as to actual loss of money sus- 
 tained, although I have a sti-ong and well-grounded suspicion 
 that such has been. 1 attribute the loss to worthless audits and 
 the carelessness of members, where smart and unscrupulous 
 secretaries have manijmlated the figures, and in one case with- 
 held or made away with important books and necessary docu- 
 ment?. 
 
 13. I consider the funds ample and sufficient for all proj-jcr and 
 possible demands, when the rules are judiciously administered, 
 as the rates of coulribution and payments are based upon the 
 English tables of sickness and mortality, which are much higher 
 than in this part o( the Colony. 
 
 14. I think the funds woidd be quite equal to a very c(m- 
 siderable epidemic or fatality in any one locality, owing to the 
 excellent principle of the Odd-Fellows' Friendly Society, which 
 spreads the burden over a large area at a pro rata charge per 
 member. 
 
 15. I am strongly of opinion that there should be a "Friendly 
 Societies Act " passed in this Colony, affording legislative pro- 
 tection and recognition, but nothing so elaborate as the English 
 Act, I am in favour of the appointment of a registrar, with 
 the right to register the rules of societies in his office, to file a 
 copy of the rules in his office, with power to object to any rides ; 
 also power to audit the accounts and examine the assets and 
 liabilities and securities, and inquire into the Avorking of a 
 society ; to compel societies to I'cnder annually to the regis- 
 trar statements of receipts and expenditure, funds and effects, 
 with a triennial valuation of assets and liabilities, together with 
 the power of fixing penalties for breaches or contravention of 
 the Act. 
 
 17. I am of oi)inion that there would be no reasonable objection 
 on the i)art of friendly societies to contribute towards the ex- 
 penses of a registrar's department, but certainly not to bear all 
 the cost of Avorking such an establishment, Nor do I think it 
 Avould be either just or equitable that they should bear the entire 
 burden. These societies for the most part are worked gratui- 
 tously, and in most cases confer great benefits upon the localities 
 where they are established by inculcating i)rudcnt and 2)rovident 
 habits, and thus tending to avert poverty, pauperism, and crime.
 
 APPENDIX. XV 
 
 aiding tlie state to bear responsibilities which would inevitably 
 fall upon it. These invaluable services should be reciprocated 
 by the greater portion of the expenses of the registrar's depart- 
 ment being paid out of the general revenue. 
 
 18. My answer to the foregoing question being of a modified 
 character, I am not in a position to say definitely how much should 
 be contributed. The assessment could easily be made, so far as 
 the Odd-Fellows' Society is concerned, through the district lodges, 
 at a ■pro rata amount per member good on the books at the last 
 annual return. 
 
 19. Registration should in my opinion be compulsory, or it 
 would be wortliless 
 
 20. I do not think compulsory registration would be regarded 
 as an arbitrary interference, so far as my experience goes, nor 
 should it be by well-di?posed members. 
 
 21. I certainly do not think that the requirements of friendly 
 societies would be met by the method propo':'ed in this question. 
 I would much i)refer that nothing at all should be done than 
 such an alternative. Civil commissioners in most districts, and 
 chiefly where friendly societies exist in centres of i^opulation, 
 have their hands quite full enough with their legitimate work, 
 and the chances are the proposed duties would be left to 
 subordinates, with neither the interest nor capacity to perform such 
 functions satisfactorily. The plan in my opinion is utterly 
 Utopian. 
 
 22. I do not think the courts of justice in the Colony should 
 have jurisdiction in disputes arising out of the rules of these 
 societies. The rule.; and practice of the Odd-Fellows' Society 
 provides admirably for the settlement of all matters of this kind 
 by committees of arbitration, a])peals to the lodge, district, and 
 board of directors. I much prefer that it should remain so. If 
 such a power as suggested Avere given, even to appeal only, it 
 would I fear lead to frivolous and vexatious litigation, detrimental 
 to the progress and best interests of such societies. 
 
 General Remarks, 
 
 I have expressed my opinion strongly in favour of immediate 
 legislation, with tlie establishment of a registrar's department. 
 My idea is that the Odd-Fellows' Societ}', and I believe other 
 societies, which are at present affiliated to parent institutions in 
 England, should ultimately sever the connection, and set up on 
 their own account. This would be the first step towards that 
 object, which will take time '.o miiture. I don't advocate separa- 
 tion on any revolutionary or republican theories, but simp'y that 
 I believe colonial business in the shape of appeals, &c., must be 
 little other than a nuisance to the boards in England. It involves 
 immense trouble to llie colonial authorities, and the result is 
 dilatory and unsatisfactory. 
 
 Whatever legislation is adopted should, in the first instance, be
 
 Xvi APPENDIX. 
 
 as simple as Is compatible with efficiency. A few years' practical 
 experience would ?uggest the necessary improvements, when a 
 more conclusive and consolidated Act might with advantage be 
 passed. 
 
 I am decidedly of ojanion that in the true interest of friendly 
 societies, no one should be allowed to join more tliau one. The 
 result ot my observation is that joining more than one leads to 
 questionable practices subversive of the true uses of such institu- 
 tions, aud iu many cases creates an unhealthy and prejudicial 
 rivalry. 
 
 T. C. HENDERSON, 
 Past Provincial Grand Master, 
 KafFrarian District, 
 Independent Order ol Odd- Fellows, F.S.,M.U. 
 East London, 29th October, 1880. 
 
 Good Templar. 
 
 Answers to Enclosure to Circular (Parliamentary) 
 No. 17, OF 19TII August, 1880. 
 
 1 . Independent Order of Good Templars. Treasurer to a lodge 
 at Simon's Town for a few months. I liuve ceased to be a member 
 of that particular lodge bv my having left the district. 
 
 2. Cannot very well give an opinion. 
 
 3. About twelve, it being still young. 
 
 4. Entrance quarterly, and degree fees, which are very low. 
 
 5. Two; the secretary and treasurer; the latter making a 
 payment only when authorised, in writing, by the Chief Tempi ia\ 
 
 6. Security has to be given by the treasurer, to be approved 
 of by the loc'ge. 
 
 7. Simply to pay the working expenses of the lodge, ;ind sums 
 Avould be granted, by a vote of the majority of the members, for 
 any charitable purpose. 
 
 9. A simple debtor and creditor account, the disbursements 
 being supported by vouchers. 
 
 10. By the financial committee, consisting of three members 
 of the lodge. 
 
 11. At present, yes. Should the accounts become complicated 
 as the society progresses, I would suggest that provision be 
 made for the appointment of two or three non-members to per- 
 form the work. 
 
 12. No. 
 J3. No. 
 
 16. The followirg provisions should be made by the legislature 
 for the protection of friendly societies: — 
 
 Power to hold land, and sue and be sued, in the name of 
 Irustees ; compelling societies to publish a statement, say every
 
 APPENDIX. XVll 
 
 two yearSj in a local paper or tlie Gazette, of the aifairs of the 
 society, to be signed by the treasurer and secretary, or some 
 other officers, who must be held punishable by the Act for 
 publishing a wilfully false statement ; and protecting the society, 
 or a committee appointed for the purpose, in a bond fide inquiry 
 into the moral character or acts of a member contrary to the 
 rules of the society by proclaiming the same privileged. 
 
 2 . Yes. 
 
 22. No. 
 
 J. C. GIE. 
 
 Fraserburg, 21st September, 1880. 
 
 No^62.] 
 
 Civil Commissioner's Office of Cradock, 
 
 21st October, 1880. 
 Th3 Honourable Colonial Secretary, 
 Cape Town. 
 
 biR, — With reference to Circular No. 17, 1880, I have the 
 honour to report that there is cnly one friendly society in 
 Cradock, OdJ-FelloAvs, and in reply to my app'ication to the 
 chief of the society, to whom I sent a copy, I w?s informed 
 that they decline to answer any questions connected with their 
 society. 
 
 I have, &c., 
 
 JAMES AYLIFF. 
 
 Answ^ees to Parliamentary Circular No 17, respect- 
 ing Friendly Societies. 
 
 1. I am president of the St. Mark's Benefit Society, George. 
 
 2. I am well acquainted with the rules of the St. Mark's 
 Benefit Society, but not with those of any other friendly 
 society in this district. 
 
 3. There are forty-one (41) members of the St. Mark's 
 Benefit Society. 
 
 4. Each member pays Is. 6d. monthly. The accumulated 
 capital of the society amounts to £3 1 0. 
 
 5. The monthly payments are made directly to the treasurer 
 by each member at the monthly meetings of the society. The 
 treasurer pays the allowances to the sick members through the 
 visiting officers of the society, and invests accumulated capital 
 according to the instructions which he receives from the society. 
 
 6. No provision is made in the rules agninst defalcation or 
 loss. 
 
 7. The society's funds are invested in bank deposits and loans, 
 bearing interest. 
 
 a. 1G— '80. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 3
 
 Xviii APPENDIX. ii 
 
 I 
 
 8. The securities are not protected. ^ i 
 
 9. The accounts are very simple. There is one ledger in 1 
 •which the monthly subscriptions are entered on one side and the 
 })ayments to sick members on the other side. Ouce every three 
 months the ledger is balanced. 
 
 10. The treasurer's accounts are audited every three months 
 by auditors appointed by the society. 
 
 ' Ih These accounts are so simple that there is no dilBculty 
 in their being audited by members of the society without 
 professional assistance. 
 
 12. The St. Mark's Benefit Society has sustained no losses. 
 
 13. Yes. 
 
 14. Yes. 
 
 15. Yes, if the machinery for carrying out the Act ^vere 
 connected Avilh the local magistrate's office, as is the Govern- 
 ment Savings Bank. 
 
 16. See answer 15. 
 
 17. I think that for the sake of the security which Govern- 
 ment inspection would afford friendly societies would be willing 
 to pny something. 
 
 18. I think that one per cent, of the annual income of the 
 society might be paid out of the general fund for this purpose. 
 
 19. Compulsory. 
 
 20. No. 
 
 21. See answer 15. 
 
 22. By wav of appeal. 
 
 P. P. FOGG, 
 Archdeacon of Geora:e. 
 October 12, 1880. 
 
 Answers to Questions contained in Enclosure to 
 Circular (Parliamentary) No. 17, dated 19tii 
 August, 1880. 
 
 1. Manchester Unity of Odd-Fellows, Grand Master of Loyal 
 Victoria Lodge, Graatf-Keinet, and Past District Secretary. 
 
 2. Have been connected with said society for upwards of ten 
 years, interested myself in its working, consider that its objects 
 have been satisfactorily met. 
 
 3. About 2,000 belong to the society throughout the Colony, 
 of which Graaff-Reinet has one lodge (recently established), 
 numbering forty numbers. 
 
 4. Entrance fee one to five guineas, eighteen to thirty-six years 
 of age ; subscription Is. weekly ; additional annual contributions 
 2s. to 7s. 6d., twenty-four to thirty-six years of age; unable to 
 state sum accumulated in Colony; Graaff-Reinet about £75. 
 
 5. Fortnightly, in open lodge ; secretary and treasurer, latter 
 banking all moneys excepting £10 ; money drawn en signature of 
 chairman and treasurer.
 
 APPENDIX. IX 
 
 6. N"o ; bond of treasurer for £20 is only protection. 
 
 7. Deposits in bank-3 or first mortgage of property. 
 
 8. Lodge trustees. 
 
 9. Two separate funds, sickness and death, and management 
 purposes. 
 
 10. Members appointed by lodge half-yearly. Yes. None. 
 
 11. The audits cannot be more effectually made than at 
 l)resenf. 
 
 12. None. 
 
 13. Yes. 
 
 14. Quite sufficient. 
 
 15. Not in its entirety. 
 
 16. Yes ; that a magistrate should register the rules, that the 
 society should have the power to hold land and other property 
 in name of trustees, that the society sliauld have preferent claim 
 in case of the insolvency of a defaulting officer, that the society 
 should have protection against (he misapplication of funds by any 
 of its officers. 
 
 17. No ; such officers are not required. 
 
 19. Optional. 
 
 20. Yes. 
 
 21. See answer to question 11. 
 
 22. Yes ; but in cases of appeal only. I would respectfully 
 suggest that these circulars be sent to the different societies in 
 each district, that they may have an opportunity of giving their 
 views (as a body) on this subject. 
 
 Hcrschel, 1 4th December, 1880. 
 
 D. B. Hook, Esq., C.C. and E.M., Herschel. 
 
 Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letter 
 of yesterday's date, and hasten to reply to certain queries 
 contained in Parliamentary Circular No. 17, dated 19th August, 
 1880. 
 
 1 . The only friendly society I am associated with is that of 
 the " Independent Order of Good Templars." I hold the office of 
 secretary to my lodge. 
 
 2. Our lodge, " Traders' Hope," has had and still has many 
 difficulties to contend with by what I may call a chronic state of 
 warfare, yet it has tended to secure the object for which it Avas 
 founded, by the introduction of comparative sobriety amongst a 
 class whose isolated condition in life, with few or no other 
 restraining influences, led at one time to frequent diurnal and 
 nocturnal orgies, and as a natural sequence an ill condition 
 morally, physically, and financially. 
 
 3. Our lodge averages from 1 6 to 20, but total membership 
 throughout the Colony, Free State, and Griqualaud West is many 
 thousands ; exactly I cannot state.
 
 XX APPENDIX. 
 
 4. This lodge is self-supportino- by a quarterly subscription 
 from each of its members, and is from time (o time so adjusted 
 as merely to meet its taxes to the grand lodge and other 
 working expenses. Some of our lodges have considerable sums 
 accumulated, but such sums are the private property of lodge. 
 
 5. Subscriptions, paid in quarterly, collected by the financial 
 secretary, -who funds them with the treasurer. Ihe latter finds 
 security on ai)pointment to office^ and only disburses on an order 
 from the Chief Templar. 
 
 6. Answered by No. 5. 
 
 7. As each lodge sees fit to do with its own. 
 
 8. I presume the law courts are open to them as any private 
 individual. 
 
 9. Minute, financial secretary, treasurer, and ether record 
 book are kept. These are submitted to the lodge either at each 
 meeting or quarterly, usually the latter. 
 
 10. Answered by No. 9. Are all-sufficient, and cannot ?ee 
 where an improvem.ent may be mad:. The several gi-aiul lodges 
 keep accounts on a wider basis, Avhicli include all lodges in 
 their jurisdiction. 
 
 11. Each lodge watches its financial position with a jealous 
 eye, and can usually produce a well-qualified accountant. I do 
 not believe the order will allow of its records being audited by 
 any other than a member. I may be wrong in this though. 
 
 12. Never any moneys that have been actually funded. I 
 speak of my own lodge, but believe my reply applies to all. 
 
 13. Ti)e order itself makes no provision for these exigencies; 
 the mere fact of " sobriety" invariably places man above them. 
 There are however institutions indirectly connected with the 
 order that aim at relieving distress. 
 
 14. Cannot say, as I do not belong to the benefit institu- 
 tion. I believe that subscribers are, according to their contribution, 
 guaranteed so much weekly or monthly, as the case m-a}^ be, in 
 the event of illness or interment. 
 
 15. Personally I consider that such an " Act" would benefit 
 us, but our several grand executives are more qualified by 
 experience and in the general working of the order at lari:e to 
 reply to this question. I must therefore refer you to them. 
 
 16. Answered by No. 15. 
 
 17. Answered by No. 15. 
 
 18. Whatever expenses attend the carrying out of the Act, 
 should one be passed, would be met I think l^y a " special" tax, 
 to be imposed by the grand executive in council. 
 
 19. Answered by No. 15. 
 
 20. I do not think so. It in no way interferes with our private 
 work and objects. Some might view it as the " thin end of the 
 wedo-e," but this I should consider a narrow one. The fact of 
 " registration by Government" gives us a certain voice and status 
 in the country which avc otherwise should not have.
 
 APPENDIX. XXI 
 
 21. Ausweved by No. 15. 
 
 22. No. We have our final coui't of appeal iu the " Right 
 Worthy Grand Lodge" of America. 
 
 23. None. 
 
 I have, &o., 
 
 H. JNO. GORE CLOUGH, 
 Worthy Secretary, Traders' Hope, Herschel. 
 
 Nil Desperandum Lodge, 
 
 JSeptember 28, 1880. 
 
 Sir, — In reference to your official notice I beg to inform you 
 that the Independent Order of Good Templars is not a friendly 
 society, as members are not required to pay any more than what 
 will defray the necessary expenses ; neither is it a benefit 
 society, as members who require pecuniary assistance are relieved 
 by voluntary subscription. On that account I am authorized to 
 state that no more definite information will be given on the 
 subject. 
 
 Hoping the reply will be so far satisfactory, 
 
 I remain, &c., 
 
 ANDREW D. MURRAY, 
 
 Secretary, 
 
 Jericho, 3rd Ncveuiber, 1880. 
 
 To J. J. Watson, Esq., R.M. and C.C., 
 Jausenville. 
 
 Sir, — In reply to your letter of the 24th of September, enclos- 
 ing circular asking a number of questions with respect to 
 friendly societies, I beg to state — 
 
 1. As far as I am aware tliere are no friendly societies in the 
 district of Jansenville, and I have had no connection Avith ;iny 
 since I lived in London forty years ago ; therefore I cannot 
 answer these questions seriatim. 
 
 2. With regard to No?. 15 and 16, I do think some legislation 
 ought to take place so as to protect the individual members 
 
 from the peculation and embezzlement of the officials ; so much of 
 it having taken place that the English Parliiunent were at last 
 obliged to interfere, but I do Uiink that Act might be simplified 
 for this Colony. 
 
 19. Registration should be compulsory. 
 
 20. They ought not so to rou-ard it.
 
 XXll APPENDIX. 
 
 21. I believe so, provided the civil commissioner made a 
 report to the Government and it was publislied. 
 
 23. ] have no more suggestions to mike about friendly societies, 
 but I have frequently had it u2)on my mind about public 
 subscriptions. I do think there woukl be a law compelling a 
 debtor and creditor account to be published I believe a good 
 deal of roguery is going on, and the public are often imposed upon. 
 I therefore seldom subscribe. 
 
 I have, &c,, 
 
 JOHN BIRCH, J.r. 
 
 I 
 
 Friendly Societies' Cikculak No. 17, 1880. 
 
 Civil Commissioner's Office, Jansenville, 
 
 13th December, 1880. 
 
 1. None. 
 
 2. No. 
 3. 
 
 4. Unable to state. 
 
 5. Unable to state. 
 
 6. Unable to state. 
 
 7. Unable to state. 
 
 8. Unable to state. 
 
 9. Unable to state. 
 10. Unable to state. 
 1 1. Unable to state. 
 
 12. Unable to state. 
 
 13. Unable to state. 
 
 14. Unable to state. 
 
 15. Consider the members should be consulted as to their 
 wishes in this respect. 
 
 16. Members would be the best to point out any defect in 
 manngemenb and suggest modifi(;ations. 
 
 17. Application as to contribution towards expenses might be 
 made to the officers of societies. 
 
 18. 
 19. 
 
 20. Unable to state. 
 
 21. Being unacquainted as to the manner in which aftaiis are 
 conducted cannot say. 
 
 •22. Some societies might object to any interference by courts 
 of law. 
 
 23. Unable to make any suggestions. 
 
 J. WATSON, C.C.
 
 APPENDIX. XXlll 
 
 Answers to Questions Contained in "Enclosure to 
 Circular (Parliamentary) No. 17, dated 19th 
 AuausT, 1880." 
 
 King William's Town, 4tli October, 1880. 
 
 E. A. Judge, Esq. C.C. and R.M. 
 
 1. The only society with which I have any immediate con- 
 nection is the " Independent Order of Good Templars," in which 
 I hold the office of treasurer to the Kaflfrarian Good Intent 
 Lodge. My knowledge of other societies, though accurate at 
 far as it goes, is of an acquired and hearsay character. 
 
 2. Yes ; as far as may be learned by an outsider. 
 
 3. The lodge of Odd-Fellows in King William's Town num- 
 bers about|200, the Foresters about sixty, the Sons of Temperance 
 about sixty, of good standing. 
 
 4. According to age, the initiation fee, and what ia called the 
 annual fee, vary in individual cases from 2s. to 7s. 6d. In other 
 respects the contributions are uniform. This refers especially 
 to the Odd-Fellows and Foresters, the present capital accumu- 
 lated by the Odd-Fellows being £2,000 and that of the Foresters 
 £600 in King William's Town. 
 
 5. Fees are paid by members individually on lodge nights to 
 the secretary, who enters every item in a book kept for tint 
 purpose. The proceedings are also entered in a minute book, which 
 is read out to the lodge. The secretary's book is signed also 
 by the treasurer, who deposits, or is supposed to deposit, the en- 
 tire sum, duly received by him trom the secretary, in one of the 
 local banks, elected by the lodge, as described with many minor 
 details m the bye-laws of each lodge. 
 
 6. Hardly so. Between reluctance in '-'going to Lnv" and 
 law expenses there are many impediments to ultimate satisfaction. 
 Members are often elected to office, and not being paid for their 
 time do not give proper attention to their work ; these may re- 
 fuse to pay cost of bonds. 
 
 7. In tlie Odd-Fellows on mortgage of property, in the 
 Foresters in one of the local banks. They talk of investing on 
 mortgage, 
 
 8. "a lawyer employed by the societies looks to this matter. 
 
 9. Instructi<-ns for this purpose generally come from the head 
 or central office, and its board of directors ; that of the Udd 
 Fellows is in Manchester, that of the Foresters 7noves annually. 
 
 10. The audits are made half-ye rly by auditors appointed 
 from among the members. These are, I should think, sufficient 
 {vide next question). 
 
 11. It is possible, all things considered, that greater impar- 
 tiality would be secured by the independent audit of an " out- 
 sider." Perhaps the usual audits, I meau the usual custom of
 
 XXIV APPENDIX. 
 
 audits, might a':lvautageoiisly be supplenieuted by occasional audits 
 of an outsider. 
 
 12. There have been such losses, and at least one conviction 
 before the resident magistrate in my recollection. The officer 
 had erred through neglecting to put the money in the bank. Ihe 
 particulars 1 do not know. 
 
 13. Quite suthcient. I have never heard an intelligent opinion 
 to the contrary. Members invariably talk of surplus. 
 
 14. Of course there are imaginable epidemics for Avhich har.lly 
 any provision would be sufficient, but any ordinary or usual 
 fatalit3^ could be met and remedied by the existing provisions. 
 
 15. Legislation, above all things, whether by new laws or adap- 
 tation of the '• Friendly Societies' Act of England," would give 
 our societies here an efficiency and an importance unknown 
 before. 
 
 16. Independent of the provisions being "too elaborate," &c. 
 (which m;iy not be the ca^e), aspecid adaptation of them to this 
 country, and having special allusion to this country as S^uth 
 Africa, would prevent endless discontent and disunion, and do 
 good in many ways. 
 
 17. The ap|)ointment of such an officer with his subordinates 
 would beyond question do good, and give an additional import- 
 ance to the work. But I almost despan- of seeing the various 
 societies unanimous in paying the expenses. Some would, no 
 doubt. 
 
 ly. This could only be decided by capitation tax, -which iu 
 turn would greatly depend on the number of members in good 
 standing. From any present point of view it is rather an open 
 question. 
 
 19. Compulsory beyond doubt. Oj)tional registration Avould 
 very soon fall into disuse. 
 
 20. With soni', very likely, it would ; but not wltli the better 
 informed, whose number and opinions would idtimately pre- 
 ponderate. 
 
 21. This would indeed be an imju'^vement if n difficulty would 
 not arise in making such a step consistent with the ada])tation 
 before alluded to, but if either plan would be inconsistent with 
 the other, I should jn-efcr seeing the adaptation give way at 
 present. 
 
 22. In extreme cases of course it would be well to have the 
 courts of justice to fall back upon, but such apj^eals would be few 
 in the be.'iiniing, and gradually more so. Litigious mcmbeis as a 
 rule are unpojnilar, and the majority would sooner suffer some 
 inconvenience than to go law. 
 
 23. What I have said here refers to the Odd-Fellows and 
 Foresters chiefly, as, m ith exception of the '•' Sods of Temperance," 
 they are the only friendly societies in King AVilliam's rown. 
 Other societies, (jrangemen, Freemasons, Good Templars, &c., 
 arc not friendly societies iu the meaning of the accompanying
 
 APPENDIX. XXV 
 
 paper. As stated already I am not a member of these soclctieSy 
 but I kn »AV so much of their working otherwise that this may 
 not make any material difference. 
 
 S. CRUIKSHANKS. 
 
 1. Associated with the Odd-Fellows (Manchester Unity) and the 
 Ancient Order of Foresters, and have fulfilled the duties of nearly 
 every ofhce in connection with both. Am a Past Provincial 
 Grand Master in the former and a Past Ranger in the latter. 
 
 2. Have from the offices held by me, and the particular 
 facilities afforded during a district lodge and court secretary- 
 ship of over ten years, been able to make myself thoroughly 
 acquainted Avith the rules, as well as the general working of these 
 societies, and have no hesitation in saying that when energetically 
 Avorked and judiciously managed they fulfil the objects for 
 which they are established. Failures have occurred within my 
 knowledge, but these were invariably to be traced to laxity in 
 the management and a departure from the rules of society itself. 
 
 3. The Odd-Fellows and Foresters each number over half a 
 million of members in different parts of the world. Tlie local 
 branches number respectively Odd-Fellows about 150, Foresters 
 about 60. 
 
 4. In both the societies before mentioned tlic mode of payment 
 is nearly alike as regards contribution to the management fund; that 
 is, there is a certain uniform payment per member per week, Avhile 
 the payments to the sick and funeral fund are entirely different 
 in the two societies. In the Odd-Fellows there is a graduated 
 scale of entrance fees, rano-ino; from 21s. at ei<i;hteen years to 
 105s. at the age of thirty -five, the periodical payments of mem- 
 bers being uniform, 2s. per month, with what is called an additional 
 annual contribution for members who join at the age of twenty- 
 four and upwards ; this ranges from 2s. to 7s. 6d. per annum. *Iq 
 the Foresters tlie entrance fees range from 10s. at eighteen to 25s, 
 at thirty -five, the periodical payments being graduated from Is. 
 lid. to 3s. 3d. per lunar month, no one being admissible after the 
 age of forty. 
 
 Note. — I may here say that the general laws of both societies 
 now provide for graduated scales of payments, but the Odd- 
 Fellows' society was established here before this rule was made 
 compulsory. It must be distinctly understood that from the 
 sick and funeral fund only sick pay and funeral benefit cati 
 legally be paid, medical attendance, medicine, and all other 
 expenses being defrayed from the management fund. 
 
 5. Each member is provided with a card, upon Avhich is entered 
 each payment made by him, and which serves as a receipt as 
 against the society. At the time of payment the amount paid is 
 
 A. 16— -so. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. ^
 
 XXVI AITENDIX. 
 
 entered on this card and initialled by the officer receiving it 
 (financial secretary), and the amount is entered in the lodge night 
 receipt book. At the close of the evening's busiaess this is totalled, 
 and the amount handed to the treasurer for deposit in the bank, 
 the treasurer at the time signing the receipt book. The sum is 
 at the same time entered on the minutes of the night's proceedings; 
 all payments being made by cheque, signed by three of the 
 officers, who are not authorized to sign unless the account or 
 item has j)assed the lodge. All the funds are practically under 
 the control of the court so soon as they have been placed in the 
 bank. 
 
 6. Sufficient protection is afforded by the rules against defal- 
 cation, provided they are carried out. The rules also provide 
 that security shall be civen by the secretary and treasurer. But 
 this is virtually a dead letter, owing to the expense to be incurred 
 in passing a security bond, the officers being honorary and 
 interchangeable or renewable every six months. Members 
 would not be found to fulfil the duties if security bonds were 
 insisted on, and to i>ay for these out of the funds would be a 
 constant drain to be regarded in the light of an extravagance. 
 
 7. In the Odd-Fellows the principal part of their funds has been 
 invested on first mortgage, in the Foresters by way of fixed 
 deposit at 5h per centum per annum. But steps are now being 
 taken to invest the latter on first mortgage as opportunities 
 occur. 
 
 8. Bonds are kept by the society's bankers in a box having two 
 difterent keys, which are iu possession of two of the trustees, and 
 can only be withdrawn by resolution of the lodge, or in casi-S of 
 emergency by order of the three executive officers thereof, which 
 action must be reported at next meeting and confirmed. This It^st 
 method is seldom acted upon. 
 
 9. The amou'its entered in the lodge night receipt book (5) 
 are afterwards divided and carried to the account of the several 
 funds to M'hich they belong, corresponding to the usual day- 
 book and ledger account in mercantile afiairs. Books for the 
 purpose are supplied from headquarters in England, thus 
 ensuring unilormity in the keepiog of accounts. 
 
 10. Audits are made every six months at the change of officers 
 by two or more members (generally three) elected at a sum- 
 moned meeting (the last in each term) at these audits. The out- 
 going and incoming officers and the treasurer must be present 
 under ])enalty of a fine. I consider them quite sufficient. 
 
 11. The last answer sufficiently answers this. 1 ni'iy add, 
 however, that the rules do not prohibit the a])polntinent of out- 
 siders, if considered necessary. 
 
 12. No actual loss has to my knowledge been incurred by 
 either of our local societies. Some years since the Foresters 
 prosecuted one of its officers for fraudulently misapplying its 
 funds. This was by reason that the officer referred to, the treasurer
 
 APPENDIX. XXVll 
 
 being absent at the close of the meeting, took away the night's 
 receipts, and failed to hand it over to the treasurer. The money 
 was, however, made good to the lodge a'terwards. 
 
 13. Yea. In support of this I may say that in 1874 I made a 
 valuation of the assets and liabilities of the Kaffrarian Lodge, 
 ('Odd|Kellows'!, which showed a considerable surplus ; so much so 
 that the board of directors in England, to whom it was in due 
 course submitted, authorized an increase in the sick benefit of 
 either 20 or 25 per cent.j I am not sure Avhich. Last year I made a 
 valuation of Court Royal Oak (5,836, Foresters), which showed 
 a surplus, althougii the calculations were based upon an increased 
 rate of benefit which did not come into operation for some months 
 alter u-ards. 
 
 14. Even in the case of an epidemic, unless it was extraordinarily 
 wide spread ; for this reason, that lodges are usually formed 
 into districts, in which several lodges combine to distribute per 
 capita the death liability, and all lodges have a moral claim, if 
 not a legal one, to assistance from the general body, provided they 
 can show that their contributions have been proportionate to the 
 benefits allowed and the funds proj^erly administered. As an 
 instance (only one out of hundreds), after the Abercarne 
 Colliery explosion, which caused the district an expenditure of 
 £700, in addition to their usual liabilities, assistance was rendered 
 from many districts and courts, and at the annual meetirg of the 
 High Court a grant ot £100 was unaminously granted from the. 
 general funds. 
 
 15. 3Iutatis mutandis I do. 
 
 16. Or that an Act should be passed making the provisions of 
 the English Friendly Societies' Act applicable to the members of 
 such societies in this Colony as are registered under it at home, 
 in the same manner as if they were in Great Britain. This 
 would allow the governing bodies of such societies to have a legal 
 right to enforce their laws without at all disturbing the present 
 machinery by which they are ruled. 
 
 17. Certainly not. The good which such societies do for the 
 community fully entitle them to any protection the State can 
 afford, and as the sum necessary to maintain an officer and his 
 staff would not be large, there can be no doubt but that Parlia- 
 ment would readily vote it. 
 
 18. Of course societies would have to pay for any service 
 rendered them, or for aiy proceedings rendered necessary by 
 their default (see also sec. 36 of Act 38 and 39 Victoria, chap. 60). 
 
 i9 and 20. Optional. At the same time the benefit of registration 
 should be so real and apparent as to make it the interest of all to 
 bring themselves under the protection of the law. Until the advan- 
 tages of registry are appreciated some branches will most likely 
 deem it an interference if forced on them, as was the case with 
 many influential societies at home. Not but that my opinion is 
 in favour of registration, but just as children, sometimes even
 
 XXVlll ArrENDIX. 
 
 those beyond the age of pupila2;e, dislike to take physic, even 
 though it be for the benefit of their health, just so some so- 
 cieties svould kick against a measure if attempted to be forced on 
 them. 
 
 21. I cannot think that this plan \vould answer at all. The num- 
 ber of officers, and the different ideas each would entertain of their 
 duties, would certainly cause confusion. Nothing in my opinion 
 would answer the purpose so well as one head. With a small 
 but efficient staff the work to be done would then be thoroughly 
 understood, the different peculiarities of each separate society 
 discriminated, added to which the officers ol the socieiies, many 
 of whom are men of" education and talent, and have given no little 
 of their time and brains to tlie working of their lodges, would 
 have some one to whom they could look up to, and in whom there 
 would be confidence. 
 
 22. Both the societies to which I belong provide for a hearing, 
 and two subsequent appeals. If these are fairly conducted there 
 can be no need lor judicial interference, and the rules of both 
 these societies provide that the decision of the highest court of 
 appeal " shall be final and binding." The practice of these courts 
 is to afford substantial justice without a slavish adherence to 
 forms ami precedents. Besides the machinery provided in the 
 rules is simple and inexpensive. I think the provisions of sec. 22 
 of the Friendly Societies' Act, 38 and 39, Victoria, chap. 60, most 
 fair. 
 
 23. I thinlc that in replj^ to the several quostions above, 1 have 
 expressed my opinion, leaving little or nothing to be added. I 
 may, however, sum up and say I believe legis'ation is necessary. 
 That it should be for the protection and benefit of friendly 
 societies. Tliat the English Friendly Societies' Act should be 
 the basis of such legislation. That as many privileges as are 
 possible sliould be accorded to all registered societies which non- 
 registered ones should n^jt possess. 
 
 RICHARD SMITH, 
 P.P.G.M., Odd-Fcllows, 
 P.C.R., Foresters. 
 
 Replies to a Series of 23 Questions on Friendly 
 Societies, Submitted to Me by the Civil Com- 
 missioner of King William's Town, 1st Uctober, 
 
 1880. 
 
 1. I am a member of the Independent Order of Odd-Fellows, 
 Manchester Unity, and the Ancient Order of Foresters. Iii the 
 former I have held almost every office in lodge, also the office 
 of ProvinciaHirand Master, and Provincial Corresponding
 
 APPENDIX. XXIX 
 
 Secretary of the KatFrarlau district, which has charge of all the 
 lodges in the Eastern Province (except Graham's ToAvn and 
 Port Elizabeth), Orange Free State, and the Diamond Fields. 
 I am at present an auditor in theKafFrarian Lodge No. 5,210. In 
 
 the local Foresters' Conrt No. , I have also held almost 
 
 every office ; am a Past Chief Ranger ; have often discharged 
 the duties of Auditor, and am at present one of the Court Trustees. 
 
 2. From my ofhcial connection with the court h^dge and dis- 
 trict I have had many opportunities of acquauting myself with 
 the woiking of the societies, as also of forming an opinion upon 
 said working, and whether they secured the objects they were, or 
 are, established for. With few exceptions the societies referred 
 to have secured tlie objects for which they were established. Cases 
 of individual lodges could be mentioned, where they have either 
 collapsed, or hang out such a sickly existence that it were better 
 for all concerned that they should be closed. These cases are 
 attributable to local causes, and might have been prevented. 
 
 3. The Foresters and Odd-Fellows are members of a great 
 unity, numbering between 500,000 and 600,000 members. The 
 local lodge of Oild-fellows number about 200 members. The 
 Foresters' Court, of more recent introduction here, contains some 
 50 or 60 members. 
 
 4. Payments are made by members in the Foresters' Court 
 by a graduated scale, according to age, with one uniform initia- 
 tion fee. With the Odd-Fellows, the initiation fee is graduated, 
 and the contributions uniform, with an additional annual contri- 
 bution, varying from 2s. at ages between 24 and 27, to 7s. 6d. 
 between 35 and 36 years. The capital sum accumulated in the 
 
 iccal (.'dd-Fellows' lodge is upwards of £2,000, and in the 
 Foresters' Court upwards of £600. 
 
 5. In the two societies here the process of payment are identical 
 in each case. The contributions are paid to the secretary on lodge 
 night<, by that officer enter, d in a book for the purpose, as also, 
 at same time, on a card (called pence card), retained by the 
 member, and is held by him as his receipt for moneys paid. At 
 the close of the lodge proceedings the aggregate amount of 
 money received is entered on the minutes. It is then handed to 
 the treasurer, who signs the secretary's book ; and this latter 
 officer is supposed to depo-it the amount so received in the local 
 bank, with wdiich t"ne lodge or court has elected to deal. The 
 time within which he is suppo-ed to do this is laid down in the 
 bye-laws. I have used the word supposed advisedly, as within my 
 personal knowledge the amomits of several lodge nights have been 
 retained in the hands of treasurers in direct opposition to the en- 
 actments of their bye-laws ; so that practi'jally there is no control 
 over the money when it is placed in treasurer's hands, and by 
 him retained ; it is only after it has been deposited in the bank, 
 that safeguards are thrown round it, by making it necessary to 
 have two or three signatures to the cheques before moneys can
 
 XXXn APPENDIX. 
 
 ■would be willing to i'ontrIl)iite Ihe funds necessary to pay salaries 
 and expenses ; nor do I tliink they should be called upon to do 
 so any more than are the schools, tkc, called upon to pay 
 expenses of the iSuperintendent-Gcneral of ICducatinn and liis 
 staff; or th© farmer.-* to ymy cxjienses (salary) of tlie Colonial 
 Veterinary Surgeon. The principle is wrong, and unless this 
 question (;an be dealt with, and provision made for giving effect 
 to it, al^ is done in Great Britain and Ireland, from a tSate point 
 of vieWj I i-hould prefer to sec legislation deferred till such time 
 as this would be done. While objecting to the general principle 
 suggested in the question, I do not object, but consider it would 
 be only fair and reasonable that where societies required special 
 services they should pay ft)r the same. 
 
 18. Assuming that I Avas in favour of the latter portion of pre- 
 vious question, which I am not, it would be an impossibility to 
 say how much should be annually contribu'ed, as the amount 
 required would first have to be ascertained, then the number 
 of members in good standing belonging to the various societies 
 haAing ascertained this, it would be an easy matter then, by im 
 position of a poll tax, lo raise the necessary amount. 
 
 19. I am of opinion that in case of every friendly society in 
 the Colony, registration should be compulsory. 
 
 20. I do not think that compulsory registralion would be re- 
 garded by the thinking portion of the societies as an arbitrjry in- 
 terference Avith their liberties. On this, as well as on other 
 matters, there Avill always be diversity of opinion, and, Avhile I 
 I believe those Avho take the trouble to think, and ap])reciate the 
 results likely to accrue from registration would not be opposed 
 to its being made compulsory, yet there is a very large per- 
 centage of the members of friendly societies Avhose interest in 
 them scarcely go beyond their piying theii" contributions and 
 receiving the benefits. These may regard outside interference as 
 infringing on the " liberty of the subject," but I can hardly con- 
 ceive a society objecting unless afraid to bring its condition and 
 transactions to the light of imj)artial investigation. 
 
 21. Were the Government to dii-ect the various civil com- 
 missioners as suggested in this question, it would be a ste[) in the 
 right direction, and a considerable inqorovcment on the existing 
 
 ■ state of things, but in my opinion A^ould not meet the 
 requirements of the various friendly societies by a long way. I 
 think the Act modified to colonial requirements, as suggested [)re- 
 viously, Avould be the only satisfactory measure to adopt. , 
 
 22. In local societies haA'ing no court of appeal outside the 
 local bodies. I tliink the courts of justice sliouhl be open to thcni 
 as courts of appeal ; but in societies s,uch as the Odd-Fellows and 
 Foresters, having at least two courts of a])peal outside the local 
 lodge or court, this affording every reasonable guarantee to ap- 
 pellants that their case will receive fair and impartial considera- 
 tion, 1 think obviates the necessity of a further comt of appeal.
 
 APPENDIX. XXX.111 
 
 Hence I would not have the courts of justice of the Colony open 
 to these or others similarly provided, 
 
 23. The foregoing questions suggest all that I can think oi at 
 present, and the answers contain my opinions as they aro at 
 ])resent formed. Should anything noteworthy suggest itself, or 
 should I see cause to alter or modify the opinions now ex})res3ed, 
 I shall take the liberty of further communicating with you, as I 
 am much interested in this important matter. 
 
 ALEX. DUNCAX. 
 
 Ayliff-street, King William's Town, 
 4ih October, 1880. 
 
 Report of Committee Appointed to Fkame Axsavers 
 TO Questions asked for in a Circular Received 
 FROM the Civil Co3Imissioner Respecting Friendly 
 Societies. 
 
 Present : Past Grands, A. Duncan, D. Thomas, L. II. King, 
 J. Newing, M. O'Hara, X.G. ; A. M. Kerr, Elec. Secretary"; 
 and R. V. Jegan, Perm. Secretary. 
 
 1 . Committee consisting of the past and present officers of 
 the Loyal Kaffrarian Lodge, No 5,210, Independent Order 
 of Odd-Fellows, Manchester Unity Friendly Society. 
 
 2. We have. Generally, we consider that the Odd-Fellows 
 Society has secured the objects for which it was established, 
 although in some instances individual lodges have collapsed, 
 which may be attributed to local causes. 
 
 3. The society to Avhich we belong, viz., the Odd-Fellows, 
 number in the unity 531,000, the Kaffrarian district 650, and 
 the Kaffrarian Lodge 200. 
 
 4. Contributions are made in cur society by uniform fort- 
 nightly payments, the initiation fees being graduated according 
 to age. Our lodge has an accumulated fund of over £2,600. 
 
 5. The contributions are paid to the secretary on lodge nights, 
 who enters the same in his lodge night receipt book, and also 
 upon the member's card, which is retained by the member, and 
 constitutes his receipt for the same. The amount received is, at 
 the close of the lodge, minuted in the minute books and handed over 
 to the treasurer, who signs the secretary's book. It is then 
 deposited in one of the local banks by the treasurer as early as 
 l)racticable. 
 
 8. The rules provide for the officers through whose hands the 
 money passes to give security bonds for small amounts, but the 
 same are rendered inoperative on account of the expense that 
 would be entailed in legalising such bonds. 
 
 7. Upon first mortgage of landed property. 
 
 a. 6— '81. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 6
 
 XXXIV APPENDIX. 
 
 8. 'I he secuiities or bonds are kept with the lodg-e's bankers, 
 and can only be taken ont in i:)resence of two trustees. 
 
 9. The accounts are kept in tlie pence books, or ledger, lodge 
 night leceipt book, or day book and cash book. 
 
 10. The audits are made every six months; the auditors 
 elected from the members of the society. 
 
 Jl. We consider tbat the annual audits ought to be made by 
 independent auditors not being members, and that the half-yearly 
 auditors ouglit to be continued as at ])resent. 
 
 12. In our local lodge we have sustained no losses of money. 
 
 13. The contributions make ample ])rovi-ion to meet all 
 possible legitimate demands or liabilities. In our local lodge luve 
 proved more than ample. 
 
 14. Tiii- Avould depend entirely upon the extent of the 
 epidemic. 
 
 15 and 16. Generally, yes , adapted to local requirements. 
 
 17 and 18. We are in favour of legislation as described, but we 
 consider that effect sliould be given to the same as in 
 England by Government. 
 
 19. We consider that it should be compulsory. 
 
 20. No ; we do not think that compulsory r gistration would 
 je regarded ;is arbitral y. 
 
 21. We consider that the Act modified as before stated would 
 be much more satisfactory. 
 
 22. We consider that our society being amply provided with 
 courts of appeal that the C( urts of justice should not be opened 
 to them. 
 
 23. The Friendly Societies' Act makes ample provision, if 
 adopted, for the pi election of societies. 
 
 (Signed) .^r. 0'HAII'\, Chairman. 
 
 King William's Town, 
 
 3l5t Octob'-r, 1880. 
 
 True copy : 
 
 M V. J. Egan, 
 
 Perm. Secretary. 
 
 Answers to Questions submittf-d to Me as Head of 
 THE Order or Good Te^mtlars ix this Division. 
 
 1. The Independent Order of Good Templars is the only s-^ciety 
 that I am associated with. I am a member of the Hope ff 
 Knysna Lodge, in which I hold the office of secretary. I also held 
 the office of Deputy Grand Worthy Chief Templar in said lodge. 
 
 2. I have informed myself sufficiently of the nature of the 
 rules of the society to which I belong to en .ble )ne to fortn an
 
 APPENDIX. ^XXV 
 
 Opinion ms to its working. The chief characteristics of our order 
 are total abstinence from all intoxicating liqa n-, and the absolute 
 ])rohibition of the manufiicture, importation, and sale of intoxicat- 
 ing drinks; and, therefore, until we have secured the objects for 
 which our order was established we cainiot say we have been 
 wliolly successful. 
 
 3. I believe the number of members belonging to the Indepen- 
 dent Order of Good Templars to be about 750,000. The Hope of 
 Kujsua Lodge hns sixty members at the present tim\ 
 
 4. Contributions are made quarterly, but as our order is free 
 from the liabiaiies imposed by the benefit system, there U no 
 necessity for accumulating fun'Is. Enough to piy the current 
 expenses of the lodge is all that is required. 
 
 5. At the commencement of each quarter every member is 
 l)Ound to pay a fixed sum into the hands of the financial secretary. 
 At the close of each meeting that officer pays over all moneys 
 received to the treasurer, and takes his receipt for the same. The 
 financial secretary and treasurer are the only officers through 
 wh>se hands the money passes, and they have no power over it 
 beyond its ^afe keeping. The treasurer cannot pay out any money 
 only on written order of both the presiding officer and secretary. 
 
 G. Tlie rules of our order provide sufficient protection against 
 d fa'cation or loss. The treasurer has to piss a bond f >r the safe 
 keej'ing of all mon-'ys that may come into his hand? during his 
 term ol office. He has ;o find two sureties ajipioved of by the 
 two cliief officers of the lodge. The Lidge fixes the amount of 
 the bond from time to time as they think fit. 
 
 7. As I have before slated we; have no accumulated funds, 
 therefore have nothing to invest or secure. 
 
 8. I consider the last answer suffic"ent for que-tions 7 and 8. 
 
 9. The financial secretary is bound to keep just and true 
 accounf-s between the lodge and its members, creilit the amounts 
 received, and at" the end of each quirt er he is bound to furnish a 
 full report of all moneys received. The treasurer is bound to 
 keep a correct accnint of all moneys received from the financial 
 secretary and of all moneys expended. Every item of both receipts 
 and expenditure must be entered in books kept for that, purpose. 
 
 10. At the commencement of every quarter the lodge appoints 
 a finance committee, consisting of three members, qualified to 
 audit the accounts. The accounts are audited at the close of 
 each quarter, and I consider them sufficient. 
 
 11 In my opini >n these audits can be more effectually made 
 by members of the society. In expressing this opiiion, I refer 
 to tlie Order of Good Templars only. I am not ijrepared to 
 express an opinion relating to any other society of which I am 
 wholly unacquainted. 
 
 12. I have never heard of the Order of G od Templars ever 
 having sustained any losses of money through dishonest officers 
 or otherwise.
 
 XXXVl APPENDIX. 
 
 13. I coDsIder the funds held by the Order of Good Templars 
 sufficient to meet all pcssible demands. 
 
 14. As I have before stated our order is ron-beneficiary, and 
 1 here- fore have no accumulated funds, but in case of distress, 
 si( kness, or death amongst our members, assistance is rendered 
 by voluntary contributions among' our members. 
 
 15. In my opinion ihe Order of Good Templars does not come 
 ■within the meaning of the Friendly Sccieties' Act. As we have 
 no accumulated funds -we have nothing to protect, and should 
 such an Act be passed in the Cdony it -would, in my opinion, 
 have a very injurious effect upon Good Tcmplary. 
 
 16. I am not jirepared to express an opinion on friendly 
 societies in general, but, so far as Good Templary is concerned, 
 the only legislation required by that body is more stringent laAvs 
 relating to trade in intoxicating liquor. 
 
 17. I do not favour legislation and the appointment of officers 
 lo interfere with the various societies. In my opinion it is cal- 
 culated to do mere harm than good. 
 
 18. I return a negative answer to the jireceding questions. 
 
 19. I do not favour registration in any form. Compulsory 
 registiation in my opinion would be obiecled to by any society. 
 
 20. I do. 
 
 21. I think the Order of Good Templars does not require any 
 interference on the part of Government. Our own legislative 
 body is competent to frame such laws as will tend to the Avelfare 
 of our order and g-uard it against all losses. 
 
 22. Only by way of appeal. 
 
 23. I am not in a position to furnish any other information or 
 suggestions relative to the subject under inquiry. 
 
 WM. PAGE, D.G.W.C.T., 
 Hope of Knysna Lodge, I.O.G.T. of Knysna. 
 
 Knysna, 13th September, 1880. 
 
 To J. J. Jackson, Es({., Civil Commissioner, &c., 
 Knysna. 
 
 Sir, — I leg to acknoAvledge receipt of letter, dated 9th instant, 
 with enclosed circular, and in answer thereto have to state : — 
 
 1. That I am a Boyal Arch Freemason under the constitu- 
 tion of the Grand Lodge of EnoJnnd, and Knight of the Rose 
 Croix under the constitution of the Grimd Lodge of the Neiher- 
 liiuds : a'so late Master and Past Master of Lodge No. 883, under 
 Grand Lodge of England, and formerly working and in being at 
 Knysna, but at present in abeyance. 
 
 2. Am not aware of any friendly societies in the district, with 
 the cxcejition of the Good Temj)lars' Lodgr, and am totally un-
 
 APPENDIX. XXXVll 
 
 acquainted with rules and regulations, or whether it is a benefit 
 society. With respect to the remaining sections of the circular 
 am quite unable to answer them, belonging only to the Order of 
 Freemasonry, who have their own laws and charter granted in 
 the reign of George the III., and which up to date believe have 
 never been altered. Our charities, schools, almshouses, and 
 benevolent funds are all under the management of the Grand 
 Lodge of Engh'iud, and the Provincial Grand Masters of the 
 Colonies, to whom all disputes are refcred. 
 
 I have, &c,, 
 
 THOMAS HORN. 
 
 Lodge " St. John," Malmesbury, 
 
 6th December, 1880. 
 
 Geo. Rex Duthie, Esq., Civil Commissioner, 
 Malmesbury. 
 
 Sir, — I have been instructed by the Lodge " St John "to 
 acknowledge your favour of the 9th October, enclosing printed 
 circular requesting certain information with respect to friendly 
 benefit societies in ibis Colony, and respectfully beg to submit 
 that £ll Masonic benefits and charities, being purely voluntary, 
 do not come within the scope or meaning of the abovementioned 
 circular. In the hope that the above Avill be deemed satisfactory. 
 
 I have, &c., 
 
 J. S. DE VILLIERS, Secretary. 
 
 Answers to Circular No. 17, 1880. 
 
 L The Richmond Friendly Society. I am secretary, treasurer, 
 and manage everything relating to the society, in conjunction 
 with two members of committee. 
 
 2. I know the rules, and have found they have secured the 
 objects for which they were formed, 
 
 3. There are twenty-seven members. 
 
 4. By a monthly payment of one shilling. Capital in hand 
 £45 7s. 2d. 
 
 5. Contributions are paid into my hands. I place them in the 
 l)ank. The committee order payments to members. 
 
 6. There is no security given by any officer. 
 
 7. At interest in Standard Bank. 
 
 8. No protection.
 
 XXXVill APrKNDIX. 
 
 9. ICacli memljci- has bis pass bo >k, into whic'i subscriptions 
 arc entered upon ])ayment, and the society has a book >vli -re all 
 sinus are entered. 
 
 10. T :uidit tlie accounts by the appointment of audit ^rs. 
 1!. (Qualified accountants, not being niembers. 
 
 12. Have had no losses. 
 
 13. Until now we have sufficient, but if Jieavy sicknesse-^ came 
 on I ;mi nfraid not. 
 
 14. I think the aj)pointraent of registrar v/ould be of gr-. at 
 service. 
 
 15. I do I'.ot thing anything, 
 
 19. I St ould say compulsory. 
 
 20. No. 
 
 H. S rOFFELS. 
 
 Answers to the Enclosed. 
 
 1. A member of the "Independent Order cf Good Tem])iars." 
 
 2. I am sufficiently informed of the niture of the rules ';f the 
 Independent Order of Good Tempi irs in the Ca, e DistJ'ict to 
 enable me to form an opinion as to their working. 
 
 3. As (o members composing this society, I am not sure fo 
 the whole u>la\. Ilav.; several lodges, some sixty members, some 
 fifty, some thirty, &c., &c. 
 
 4. Contributions are made by quarterly fees for pass-word 
 and building fund. 
 
 5. ]Moncy is handed through the treasurer, lodg;; d'. puty, and 
 financial secretary. 
 
 6. The rules we have we abide by, and v.o other rules can be 
 enforced except by a Good Temp'ar. 
 
 7. The funds are secured by each treasurer of every lolge, 
 
 8. ^so securities are required, as we trust one another. 
 
 9. The keeping of accounts .-'re kej)! b\- the secretary and 
 tieamrer o! every lodge. 
 
 10. Adults are made by a pro])osal and a vote of the lodge he 
 or she is proposed in ("and is strongly i-ecommendod as to the 
 insidious disease ( f strong drink). 
 
 2-\ The Independent Order of Good Te nplars does not re- 
 (|L ire any judicial acts whatever, as we settle disputes, &c.. Sec, in 
 our grand ludge once a year. 
 
 This is the Di'itish side, not the America".. There arc i.wo 
 .sides, Biitish and American. 
 
 Iso farther information can be given. 
 
 I icmain, &c., 
 P. II. II. W. MOPvKEL, Kivcrsdale
 
 appendix. xxxix 
 
 Answers to Inquiries in Eeply to Circular Xo. 17^ 
 DATED August 19rn, 1880, in re Friendly Societies. 
 
 1. I am President of the St. Frauces' Chui'ch Fiieudly Society, 
 of wbicli I enclose a jrinted copy of rules. 
 
 2. There is a Wesleyan Frieudly Society, and a branch of the 
 Newlands Friendly Society now independent. I believe they are 
 in o'ood working order. 
 
 3. St. Frances' Churcli has about 30 members. 
 
 4. St. Frances' Church Society his been in existence one year, 
 and h;!s a balance of £30 in hand. I have no information as to 
 tlie funds of "^ther societies. 
 
 5 to 7. At present we have oidy three stewards and a president, 
 Avho for awhile is acting secretary and treasurer, ].)cnding the 
 increase of members. Funds aie invested in Savings' Bank 
 monthly. 
 
 8. Pi intecl accounts issued. 
 
 10. Public audit by members. 
 
 11. Ultimately in tiie case of other societies it might be well to 
 hive accountants. 
 
 12. No. 
 
 13. Yes. 
 
 14. I ho; e so. 
 
 15. Yes-j decidedly. 
 
 16 Yes. 
 
 17 I consider Government sh:)uld do this through existing 
 officers, as a matter aifecting the well-being of the Colony; other- 
 wise the rates of payment would have to be increased, but it 
 should be remembered that the existence of such societies saves 
 the Government from support of paupers. 
 
 19. Compulsory. 
 
 20. No ; because for their protection, and this should be clearly 
 stated, not inquisitorial on the part of Government, but for safe- 
 guard of members. 
 
 21. That is what I have suggested in reply to No. 17, 
 
 22. To avoid useless and trivial litigation I should advise by 
 way of apiical. 
 
 23. I think to encourage such societies the Government might 
 associate the work with the district doctors, and offer some such 
 encouragement, either in the way of drugs, or supj)ort of cottage, 
 hospitals, as would lead to self-existence on the [)art {>f the poor 
 to guard against contingencies, and so ultimately the Gover;nnent 
 would save. They might a'so offer to take chnrge of investments 
 over £100 at a certain percei tage equal to orjinary r ite-j of 
 interest as guardians thereof. 
 
 H. G. G. W[LSIII!U<:, 
 
 Colonial Chaplain, Simon's Town.
 
 xl Al'I'ENDIX. 
 
 Kalk Bay Rectory, 
 
 3rcl January, 1881. 
 J. Vr.n (ler Iviet, Esq., C.C., &c., 
 Simon's ToAvn. 
 
 Sjk, — Not having any friendly society in my parish, I did 
 not rei)ly to the Government Circular No, 17, dated August 
 ISth, 1880, at the time; hut 1 made inquiries on the subject of 
 the ininisttrs of other denoniinations, and found that nothing 
 worthy of the name of such a society existed in the place. 
 
 I beg to offer my opinion upon one or two of the questio is : — 
 
 15. I think the provisions of the Act referred to are too 
 elaborate for this Colony ; but tliat some legislation is necessary 
 to comjiel societies to render annual statements of accounts, &c., 
 to some Government othccr, 
 
 16. I think it should be compulsory on every so?,iety to secure 
 a sufficient number of members to prevent insolvency before 
 commencing any pecuniary operations. 
 
 17. I do not think the various societies in the Colony would be 
 willing to supply the funds re({uired by a registrar. 
 
 19. Registration should be compulsory, 
 
 21. I think the requirements of the societies now existing 
 would be sufficiently met l)y audits made under the direction of 
 the civil commissioners. 
 
 22. I think that the courts of justice of the Colony shou'd hear 
 oases connected with these societies, by way of appeal only. 
 
 I have, &c., 
 
 J AS. BAKER, Rector of Kalk Bay, 
 Canon of St. George's. 
 
 Office of the Civil Commissioner, 
 
 Somerset East. 
 
 Alexander Craicksliuuk examined. 
 
 1. 1 belong to Odd-Fellows, Manchester Unity, and am Trea- 
 surer to Union. 
 
 2. Yes. 
 
 3. Twenty-nine or thirty members. 
 
 4. By weekly contributions of lO^d. each member. The capital 
 is about £150 on fixed deposit. 
 
 5. INIembers meet fortnightly, and pay then or quarterly. 
 Treasurer and secretary. The funds are vested in the hands 
 of trustees, who have to give security for amount. 
 
 6. Returns are sent quarterly of receipts and disbursements to 
 the district gran;I lodge. Trustees give one hundred pounds 
 sterling.
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 xl 
 
 7. On fixed deposit in Standard Bank. 
 
 8. By tiaistees. 
 
 9. By management and sick and funeral fund. 
 
 10. Auditors appointed by lodge ; cannot recommend improve- 
 ment. 
 
 11. No.' 
 
 12. No. 
 
 13. Yes. 
 
 14. Funds would be sufficient. 
 
 15. Tiiink that Act of Parliament woidd be beneficial. 
 
 16. Am not in a position to state now. 
 
 17. I am of opinion that it would be beneficial. 
 
 18. £100 a year. 
 
 19. Left optional. 
 
 20. I do. 
 
 21. Yes, I think so. 
 
 22. Yes, I do ; by means of appeal. 
 
 23. Not at present in a position to state what legislation is 
 necessary. 
 
 13th October, 1880. 
 
 1. I am associated with the Stellenbosche Onderlinge Ver- 
 eenigiug, of which I am the president. 
 
 2. Yes ; I have sufficiently informed myself with the rules, and 
 I can say that they have fully secured the objects for which they 
 were established. 
 
 3. My society composes of one hundred and twelve members. 
 
 4. When a member is admitted to the S.O.V. he pays an 
 entry fee according to his age, and also a weekly contribution of 
 ninepence. The capital sum of the society is, from October 
 1875, to September, 1880, the sum of five hundred and fifty 
 pounds sterling. 
 
 5. The S.O.V. has a weekly meeting to receive the weekly 
 contributions. The treasurer receives the money from each 
 member, while the secretary enters it separately in his book. Each 
 member has also a kind of receipt book in which the secretary 
 must write down what the member pays. At the end the secretary, 
 treasurer, and vice-president each enters the whole amount paid 
 in by each member into their separate books. The treasurer 
 must deposit in the Stellenbosch Commercial Bank ihe next day 
 the money received the previous "night. He (the treasurer) has to 
 show the receipt of the bank at the following weekly meeting, to 
 the president, vice-president, secretary, and ten members (making- 
 out the committee), so that they might see whether the money 
 is correct. No money is to be drawn from the bank, or paid out 
 in case of sickness or death, without a written order from tiie 
 society, signed by the president, vice-presideut, secretary, 
 treasurer, and two tylers. 
 
 A. tJ— '81. FKIJENDLY KOCiElIiJtJ, ^
 
 xlii 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 . 6. Our rules provide for sufficient protection against loss. 
 
 7. The funds of the S.O.V. is fixed in the Stellenbosch 
 Commercial Bank. A sum of about tAveuty ])0unds sterling is 
 ahvays kept on floating deposit in case Ave might require it for 
 death or sickness. 
 
 8. There is no guarantee or security furnished by any officer, 
 therefore Ave elect neAv officers every six months out ot our own 
 niemberfs. None of them are paid for the Avork they d©. 
 
 9. The accounts of the society is kejit in a very simple Avay, 
 so that each member can understand it. 
 
 10. Three auditors are elected quarterly, Avho audit the books. 
 A quarterly report is given to all the members about the state of 
 the society. I think they are quite sufficient for our society. 
 
 11. The audits can be more effectually made by our own 
 members. 
 
 12. When the society Avas a few months old, about five years 
 ago, it lost three pounds sterling. Mr. Morom, Avho Avas then 
 secretary, had three; pounds sterling in possession (in case Ave 
 might have required it for death or sickness), Avhen his house 
 caught fire, by Avhich he lost everything he possessed, including 
 the sum of three pounds sterling of the society. Since then avo 
 made a rule that no officer shall keep money in his possession. 
 
 13. I consider it quite sufficient. 
 
 14. Oar rulcji are, that if such a kind of disease breaks out 
 amongst our members all money paid to members Avill be made 
 half. 
 
 Concerning the other questions, I was obliged to call for a 
 special meeting of all the members to ask their opinion. I nuist 
 say that there is not a single member Avho is in favour of registra- 
 tion ; they say that tliey can manage their business very avcII. 
 
 (Signed) P. D. FEBKUARY, 
 President of the Stcllenbosche Ondcrlinge Verecniging. 
 
 [ No. 371. ] 
 
 Kimberley, March 17, 1881. 
 To tlie Civil Commissione r, Kimberley. 
 
 Sir, — I am in receipt of a circular from your office, requesting 
 information as to friendly or benefit societies. 
 
 I reply I have to state that the society of Avhich I have the 
 honour to be G.W.C.T., viz., the Independent Order of Good 
 Temj)lars, is not a benefit or friendly society, but an association 
 for the purpose of rescuing persons from the poAver of intoxicating 
 liciuors, and of doing aAvay with tlie sale and use of alcoholic 
 beverages, as the cause of a very great part of the misery, poverty, 
 and crime Avliich is tu be ibund in our coiuitry.
 
 APPENDIX. xliii 
 
 The only contributions levied on our members are for the pur- 
 pose of providing sufficient funds for each lodge to pay its 
 necessary working expenses. 
 
 I have. &c., 
 
 THEO. SCHREENEE, 
 
 G.W.C.T. ofthel.O.G.T. 
 
 FoiiT Beaufort. — Report of Committee formed to 
 ■ Frame Answers to Government Circular No. 17, 
 OF 19tii August, 1880. 
 
 1. Fort Beaufort and Victoria Brethren Benefit Society. 
 Present : Present and past officers. 
 
 2. We have. Up lo the present the society has secured the 
 object for Afhich it was formed. 
 
 3. This society is entirely a local one ; has only forty-five 
 members. ' 
 
 4. Contributions made monthly ;, capital has accumulated. 
 
 5. Contributions are jiaid to secretary, and by him to trustees, 
 who deposit the money secured in the local bank. 
 
 6. Yes. 
 
 7 and 8. Fixed deposit. Local bank. 
 
 9. Accounts are kept in night receipt book and cash book. 
 
 10. Half-yearly, by members of society. 
 
 11. To be continued as at present. 
 
 12. Have sustained none. 
 
 13. Have always been sufficient to meet liabilities. 
 
 14. According to extent of epidemic. 
 
 15 to 23. Being a local society, with only a comparatively 
 few members, do not think it would be to our benefit to alter our 
 present system. 
 
 Fort Beaufort. — Report of Committe Appointed to 
 Frame Answers to Government Circular No. 17, 
 dated 19th August, 1880. 
 
 1. Present : Past officers, Loyal E. Star Lodge Independent 
 Order of Odd-FelloAvs. 
 
 2. We have. Generally we consider the Odd-Fellows' Society 
 has secured the object for which it was established. 
 
 3i The Odd-Fellows' Society numbers about 530,000. 
 
 4. By fortnightly payments, entrance fees being graduated 
 according to age. 
 
 5. Coutributioug arc paid to the secretary on regular lodge
 
 Xliv APPENDIX. 
 
 nights ; the amount being entered in the night books, pence book ; 
 also entered on members' card ; paid by secretary over to 
 treasurer, who deposits in the local bank. 
 
 6. Rules provide for security being given. 
 
 7 and 8. Fixed deposit in local bank. 
 
 9. Accounts are kept in pence book, lodge night receipt book, 
 and cash book. 
 
 10. Half-yearly, by members elected by society. 
 
 11. Continued as at present. 
 12; None. 
 
 13. Yes. 
 
 14. Depend entirely upon extent of epidemic. 
 
 15 and 16. If made to suit local requirements, yes. 
 17 and 18. Cannot say. 
 
 19. Optional. 
 
 20. By many it would be thought too harsh. 
 
 21. Friendly Societies' Act modified would be far more satis- 
 factory. 
 
 22. Being amply provided with courts of appeal, courts of 
 justice should not be opened to them. 
 
 23. Friendly Societies' Act, altered to suit Colony, would be 
 ample.
 
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